What to do in Kraków in 2025: Park Jordana and where to eat lunch nearby

What to do in Kraków in 2025: Park Jordana and where to eat lunch nearby
Private Tour Guide in Krakow - Margaret Kasprowicz

Margaret Kasprowicz

Why plan a visit to Park Jordana?

Park Jordana is one of Kraków’s green gems: more than 20 hectares of varied recreational space designed for families, active visitors and anyone looking for a quiet moment. In the park you’ll find wide meadows ideal for picnics, several playground areas for children, sports fields, a skatepark, a climbing wall and a concert shell where outdoor events are often held. The park borders the Błonia — a huge city meadow that gives a real feeling of open space and frequently hosts fairs and outdoor events.

For many visitors this place blends nature with the city character of Kraków: you can reach it by tram, escape the noise of the Old Town for a while and spend a few hours in the shade of old trees. The park works equally well for a short stroll, an active afternoon with a ball, or a family day with a grill or picnic basket.

If you plan to visit Park Jordana, note that in recent years seasonal stalls and food trucks have appeared nearby, and city institutions organize picnics and workshops — a great way to join the local atmosphere and try some street food specialties.

What to see and how to spend your time — ideas for different visitors

For families: several playgrounds located across the park, a water play area and a small cycling town for kids guarantee smiles. Near some facilities you’ll also find tables and play surfaces for the youngest children, which gives parents a chance to rest.

For active visitors: tennis courts, football and volleyball fields, a skatepark and walking and running routes. In summer there are often open exercise sessions — functional training or morning runs. You can also bring a bike or rollerblades and circle the area of the Błonia.

For those seeking quiet: shaded paths and secluded clearings offer space for reading, working on a laptop outdoors or simply watching birds and trees. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times if you want a calmer atmosphere.

Jordanówka and food points in the park — what’s changing and what to expect

The iconic Jordanówka pavilion has undergone planning for renovation and modernization in recent years. The city plans to restore this spot’s café or dining function after the renovation so that the former pavilion can serve residents and visitors year-round. This is good news for guests, because after revitalization Jordanówka is expected to become a convenient rest point in the heart of the park.

Meanwhile, smaller food points, seasonal stalls and food trucks operate in the park — a great option for a quick lunch, coffee and dessert without leaving the green area. If you prefer a more classic sit-down meal, you’ll find solid restaurants and trattorias around the park and on the Błonia, some of which are listed below.

It’s worth checking opening hours for permanent venues (especially outside the high season) — some spots operate seasonally, while the renovated pavilion may introduce a year-round schedule.

Where to eat lunch near Park Jordana — tried and tested places

Trattoria Cichy Kącik (by the Błonia) — recommended if you’re looking for a comfortable, family-friendly place with Italian cuisine and a summer garden. A large terrace and a menu focused on Italian classics make it a good option for a Sunday lunch after a walk. The place is child-friendly and often welcomes groups.

Cafés and restaurants along al. 3 Maja and in the immediate area — around Park Jordana you’ll find several pleasant cafés and outlets offering lunch sets. These places typically serve homemade soups, seasonal dishes and quick lunches for city visitors.

Food trucks and seasonal stalls — if you want a quick, tasty and informal meal, check the street food zones at weekends. The offer varies — from burgers and world cuisines to dessert stands.

If you plan to eat at a well-regarded venue, it’s wise to reserve a table in advance — Kraków is popular and good places can be full during lunch, especially on weekends.

A few practical tips (parking, getting there, what to bring)

Getting there: Park Jordana is well connected — trams and city buses serve the Krowodrza and Błonia area. A walk from the city centre takes only a few minutes, so if you’re staying near the Market Square consider walking.

Parking: there are parking spaces in the area, but during peak hours and outdoor events finding a place can be difficult. If convenience matters, plan your visit outside busy hours or use public transport.

What to bring: a picnic blanket, a water bottle, sunscreen in summer and comfortable shoes. For families — extra snacks for children and outdoor toys. If you plan to attend a concert or event, check the organiser’s schedule in advance.

What to avoid — common tourist mistakes and how to skip them

Assuming everything will be open year-round — some pavilions and seasonal stalls operate only in warmer months; always check opening hours before heading out.

Confusing the Błonia with Park Jordana — the two areas neighbour each other and form a continuous green belt, but they have different characters. The Błonia are large meadows ideal for spreading a blanket; Park Jordana offers more infrastructure for children and sports.

Searching spontaneously for a restaurant at lunchtime without a reservation — good venues can be full; make a reservation or have a Plan B such as a nearby bistro or a food truck.

FAQ — quick answers every tourist should know

Is Park Jordana paid? - No, the park is open to visitors free of charge.

Can you have barbecues in the park? - In designated places and during organised events organisers indicate barbecue rules; check current city regulations before lighting a fire.

Are there toilets and baby changing facilities nearby? - In the park area you’ll find service points and seasonal stalls; for permanent sanitary facilities it’s best to check a map of the area or ask staff at nearby outlets.

A few local curiosities and small surprises

Park Jordana is not only playgrounds — it’s a historic place established in the late 19th century as an example of urban recreation focused on physical education and public access to green space. The park still preserves fragments of old trees that give it the character of a former landscaped park.

In season, outdoor events can completely enliven the space — from concerts and ecological workshops to food festivals. If you happen upon such a day, you’ll feel a local atmosphere quite different from a quiet stroll.

Not obvious: nearby investments related to pavilion modernization (for example Jordanówka) may change the gastronomic offer in coming seasons — it’s worth watching local announcements if you plan to visit more often.

If you’d like, share — and… use the local guide

If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it’s the best way to help others plan a pleasant day in green surroundings.

If you prefer a personalised tour or would like a local to guide you around Park Jordana, the Błonia and the surrounding area with restaurant recommendations tailored to your preferences, consider booking a private guide, Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Contact details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.

Good luck with your planning and enjoy your meal — Kraków has plenty of green spaces and great flavours, you just need to choose your perfect day.