The Father Bernatek Footbridge is one of those Krakow spots that combines simple pleasures: a walk above the Vistula, great photo opportunities and the close proximity of two very different districts — Kazimierz and Podgórze. Opened in 2010, it quickly became a symbol of urban romance thanks to its steel arches with sculptures of “human-acrobats” and — for years — thousands of love padlocks.
Recent years brought changes: padlock panels were removed during renovations and the city has been working on a more permanent symbol of love, like the idea of a “lovers’ bench.” This is a great moment to see the place in a slightly different light than the usual online postcards.
Start: Plac Wolnica. A short walk along Mostowa and up onto the footbridge (about 5–7 minutes).
On the bridge allow 10–15 minutes for photos: silhouettes of the acrobats, the Vistula panorama and detailed shots of the arches.
Return along the Kazimierz riverbanks to Plac Nowy or ul. Miodowa (15–20 minutes). Finish with coffee and cake at a nearby café.
Kazimierz: Plac Wolnica → Mostowa → the footbridge (10–12 minutes to the bridge).
Podgórze: Rynek Podgórski, St. Joseph’s Church, the Ghetto Heroes Square — planned stops for photos and short observations (25–30 minutes).
Return along the Kazimierz side riverbanks, finish near ul. Szeroka or ul. Miodowa — perfect for a light meal or dessert.
The “human-acrobat” figures on the footbridge arches are a small photographic signature — standing in the middle of the bridge you can easily capture them as silhouettes against the sky.
On the Kazimierz side: the quieter nooks of ul. Miodowa and Plac Wolnica — here you’ll feel the intimate atmosphere of the district; check side streets for small cafés and studios.
On the Podgórze side: Rynek Podgórski and the Ghetto Heroes Square — short walks across the square give a contrast between Kazimierz’s historic charm and Podgórze’s raw urban fabric.
The riverbanks: reflections, runners and cyclists add dynamics to frames; shortly after rain the pavements create attractive mirror-like reflections.
For years the footbridge was a place where lovers attached padlocks with initials; over time their number became a technical and aesthetic problem.
Authorities removed many padlocks during renovation works. Residents and visitors suggested hundreds of ideas for reusing the collected locks — from recycling to artistic forms.
As part of renovations the city proposed alternatives, including the concept of a special bench as a lasting urban symbol of love instead of mass padlock displays. For this reason you should not expect to be able to attach a new padlock or throw keys into the Vistula — that custom has transformed for safety and aesthetic reasons.
Middle of the bridge: ideal for silhouettes with the acrobats in the background — best light is 45–60 minutes before sunset.
Morning 8:30–10:30: few people, calm frames and soft light; choose morning for quiet.
Riverbanks: long leading lines and the Kazimierz panorama; just after rain the streets and paths give lovely reflections.
Słodki Kazimierz (ul. Bożego Ciała) — a café-patisserie well rated by visitors, with a wide selection of desserts and cakes; a great stop for dessert after a Kazimierz walk.
Massolit Books & Café (Kazimierz) — a bookshop-café known for its cozy interior and vegan options; good cakes and a relaxed atmosphere for reading and resting.
Charlotte (Plac Szczepański) — a French-style bakery and café praised for viennoiserie and tartes; a fine option if you want a Parisian café vibe near the Main Market.
Cukiernia Pod Arkadami and Gateau (various locations) — traditional cakes and classic recipes if you prefer cheesecake or apple pie in a familiar, trusted style.
Cukiernia Zatorscy — a recommended patisserie with solid reviews, good for a quick slice or take-away desserts.
Clothing and shoes: comfortable footwear — the route has many short stretches and cobblestones; winds over the Vistula can be strong so bring a light jacket.
Time: if you only have a moment — pick the 45-minute loop; if you like a slower pace and want to visit Rynek Podgórski, reserve 90 minutes.
Traffic: the bridge is shared by pedestrians and cyclists — watch for bikes, especially during renovations or narrow passages.
Weather: after rain the streets give great reflections, but watch for slippery surfaces.
Money: smaller cafés don’t always accept every card type — it’s useful to have a bit of cash.
Arriving by car “for a moment” — Kazimierz and the surrounding area are busy; it’s better to use public transport or walk in.
Planning the walk for midday in high season — if you want empty frames, avoid the afternoon peak and weekend evenings.
Assuming padlocks are still accepted — many padlocks have been removed and the city promotes alternative commemorations.
How long is the footbridge? About 145 meters — long enough to feel the river beneath your feet and capture several different frames.
Can you attach a padlock? Currently it is not recommended — many padlocks were removed during renovations and the city is working on permanent symbols instead of mass attachments.
Is the bridge accessible for strollers and people with reduced mobility? The bridge has a flat pedestrian structure, but temporary works have sometimes caused disruptions. It’s always a good idea to check the status of works before your visit.
How much time do you need to fairly explore both districts? A good photographic loop is 45–90 minutes; if you want to visit museums or many cafés, plan for half a day.
If you liked this idea for a short Krakow walk, share the article with friends or on your profiles — it will help anyone planning a quick and pleasant afternoon in the city.
If you prefer to explore with someone who knows these places inside out, consider the private guiding services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details and available dates are listed on the local tour site. Enjoy your walks and delicious desserts!
