Krakow at sunset can be spellbinding — the golden light falls on Wawel, the Vistula and the red roofs of the Old Town. For many expectant mothers it’s a perfect moment for a gentle walk and memorable photos. It’s important to plan your route with comfort in mind: choose even, comfortable surfaces, avoid long staircases, and check for toilets and benches along the way. A few simple preparations will make the evening pleasant and safe.
Below I list specific sunset spots worth visiting, point out which parts of Wawel and Nowa Huta may be difficult for pregnant visitors, and suggest where to eat and how to schedule your time so you don’t return to the hotel exhausted. If you want a quick recommendation — choose the Vistula Boulevards or the Nowa Huta Reservoir: flat, with benches and easy transport access.
A new exhibition called “Międzymurze” opened at Wawel in 2025 — an underground route that presents the layered historic walls of the hill, its geology and elements of the Wawel legend. The route runs near the Złodziejska Tower and the Dragon’s Den and can be fascinating for those interested in archaeology. Its opening in May 2025 makes it a fresh attraction for the tourist season.
At the same time, the underground character means a few factors to consider when pregnant: sections with uneven flooring, stairs or narrow passages, and generally lower temperatures than outside (basements tend to be cooler). Because of this, many underground routes have accessibility limitations — if you are pregnant, ask in advance about the route layout, the number and type of stairs, and the possibility to leave the route if you become tired. In practice, it’s often better to book a shorter route or skip the underground section in favor of outdoor views if you are in an advanced pregnancy.
If you plan to visit Wawel in the afternoon and stay for sunset, remember to book tickets in advance and allow time for rest — the Wawel courtyard and the ramparts offer places to sit and nice views without stairs, so they are often a better choice than the underground sections.
Vistula Boulevards — a universal choice: a flat, wide promenade with benches and several piers offering shots with Wawel reflected in the Vistula. Good public transport access, and the route can be shortened or lengthened depending on how you feel.
Bernatek Footbridge (Kładka Ojca Bernatka) — a short, striking pedestrian bridge connecting Kazimierz with Podgórze. Short distance, a lovely panorama of the Vistula and Wawel, and easy access to nearby benches. It’s a great spot for silhouette photos at sunset without a long walk.
MOCAK terrace and Zabłocie area — for lovers of modern aesthetics. MOCAK offers a café area and a small garden where you can rest before continuing along the Boulevards. Check the opening hours of the café before your visit.
Nowa Huta Reservoir (Zalew Nowohucki) — an excellent alternative in Nowa Huta: paved walking paths, benches, piers and a brine graduation tower. This spot works well if you need flat routes, easy access and a peaceful atmosphere away from Old Town crowds.
Kopiec Wandy — a small mound near Nowa Huta with a local viewpoint. For those comfortable with a short ascent it can offer a nice frame; however, paths can be unpaved and occasionally steep, so avoid it in advanced pregnancy or only walk up to the benched viewpoint.
Wawel Hill (the Ramparts) — if you want the castle view without steep climbs, choose the flat sections of the ramparts and the courtyard. This classic shot doesn’t require going down to the underground areas.
45-minute suggestion: an easy walk from Kazimierz to the Bernatek Footbridge, a short stop on the bridge for photos, return along the Vistula Boulevards and coffee in one of the nearby cafés — a short, scenic route with many places to rest.
90-minute suggestion: a gentle loop Kazimierz → Bernatek Footbridge → Podgórze (short stop for the panorama) → Vistula Boulevards (sunset) → return to Kazimierz for dinner. Plan breaks every 20–30 minutes to sit and drink water.
Recommendation: bring a bottle of water, a light extra layer (it can get cooler by the river in the evening), comfortable shoes and a small first-aid kit with any essential medicines you use.
Transport: a short tram ride or taxi will reduce fatigue. Many stops in the center and Nowa Huta are close to the suggested places, so you can limit walking. If you prefer to avoid crowds, choose times before 18:00 or a little later when some tourists have dispersed.
Toilets and rest: plan regular breaks — the Boulevards and surrounding areas have public resting spots and cafés, and around the Nowa Huta Reservoir you’ll find paved alleys and benches. Always carry your insurance card and a charged phone.
Underground sections and stairs: avoid the Dragon’s Den and underground parts that require steep descents if you have any pregnancy discomfort. Underground exhibitions can be cooler and damp — if you get cold easily or tire easily, choose outdoor viewpoints instead.
Ticket reservations: for the new Wawel exhibitions and other popular attractions it’s better to reserve in advance to avoid queues. If waiting will be long, ensure you have a place to sit.
Companion: if possible, bring someone with you — they can help with bags, take photos and support you if needed.
Cafés to visit after a walk: Camelot Cafe (a cozy, atmospheric spot near the Old Town), Massolit Bakery & Cafe (great pastries and strong coffee) and Karma Coffee (good roasts and comfortable interiors). These places have solid reviews and are convenient for a short rest after a walk.
Restaurants for a relaxed evening: if you want to celebrate or dine comfortably after sunset, consider Restauracja Szara on the Main Market Square — known for consistent quality and a higher standard of service. Reserving a table will make the evening more pleasant and help avoid queues.
Accommodation: if you want minimal walking, choose a hotel near the Old Town, Kazimierz or the Nowa Huta Reservoir — then short trips for photo sessions will be quick and comfortable. Look for hotels with elevators and late check-in options.
Trying to hit every spot in one evening — result: fatigue and less successful photos. It’s better to pick 2–3 places and enjoy the moment.
Wearing uncomfortable shoes for the sake of a good frame — always prioritize comfort! Choose stable footwear that helps you feel safe on uneven parts of the Boulevards or near the mounds.
No plan for getting back after dark — trams and taxis run, but after a long day it’s wise to have planned safe transport to your accommodation.
Can I visit “Międzymurze” while pregnant? - Yes, unless your doctor advises otherwise, but note the route is underground, sometimes uneven and may include stairs. If unsure, contact staff before buying tickets and opt for a shorter or outdoor viewing route.
Are the Vistula Boulevards and Bernatek Footbridge safe for pregnant women? - Yes, they are among the most comfortable sunset spots: flat, with benches and easy return options to the center.
Can I have a maternity photoshoot in public places? - Yes, many amateur photos are taken on the boulevards and bridges. If you plan a professional session (equipment, tripods), check local regulations for that spot, choose a less busy time and consider having an assistant for safety and convenience.
The sunset over the Vistula reflects beautifully not only at Wawel — small piers and steps down to the water create intimate reflections you don’t often see in typical tourist shots. Look for these spots on the Boulevards between bridges.
In Nowa Huta consider the Nowa Huta Reservoir instead of climbing large mounds — it’s a flat, renovated area with a graduation tower and piers that produce calm, pleasing sunset frames, and the paths are comfortable even for those who prefer to avoid uneven ground.
If you want a photo with Wawel in the background, think about a low-angle shot by the riverbank — the reflection in the water and the silhouette of the cathedral often create a more cinematic effect than a shot from above.
If this article helped you plan a calm, safe evening in Krakow while pregnant — share it with friends or on social media so other expectant mothers can benefit.
If you prefer to explore with individual support, consider booking a private guide: Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz) can prepare a route tailored to your pace, help with reservations and ensure comfort throughout the walk. See the Zwiedzanie Krakowa website for details.
Good luck and enjoy beautiful Krakow sunsets — may they be peaceful and safe!
