Pilsudski Mound is the highest of Kraków's mounds and one of the city's most beautiful viewpoints - from its summit you get a wide panorama of Kraków, and on a clear day you can even see mountain ranges. It's a great spot for a short outing from the city, a picnic, or photos at sunrise or sunset. Entrance to the mound is free, but remember you cannot drive a car directly up to the monument itself.
The mound is located in Wolski Forest - which in practice means: peace and nature on one hand, and few public parking spaces directly at the entrance on the other. If you arrive by car, where you park will determine how long you need to walk and whether the walk will be pleasant or tiring. On weekends and during peak season free spots disappear quickly, so it’s worth planning your route in advance.
The most convenient and commonly recommended places to park are the lot by the entrance to the Zoological Garden and the parking on Bielany by Aleja Wędrowników. The ZOO parking is paid but gives you the shortest walking route to the mound. The Bielany lot is a good alternative - from there several forest trails head toward the mound and other attractions in Wolski Forest.
There are also parking spaces lower down on Leśna Street and free options a bit further in Wola Justowska - in that case expect a longer walk through the forest. In practice this often means from 20 to 40 minutes on foot depending on where you start.
Practical tip - if you value a short approach, it’s better to pay for the ZOO parking and follow the red trail than risk searching for a roadside spot in uncertain conditions. Arriving early in the morning or outside peak hours greatly increases your chances of finding a space.
The shortest and most recommended trail starts from the parking/stop by the ZOO - this is the red trail, easy and well marked. From that point to the mound it’s about 1.5–2 km one way, roughly 25–35 minutes of walking depending on pace. Along the way you’ll enjoy a pleasant forest microclimate and pass open glades ideal for a short rest.
You can also approach from the Bielany side or via Panieńskie Rocks, combining the walk with other attractions of Wolski Forest. Those routes are usually more varied and offer better photo opportunities, but they typically add time to the walk.
If you want to combine a visit to the mound with the city centre, a convenient option is to leave the car at a Park-and-Ride lot or near Galeria Krakowska and take a bus toward the ZOO. Bus lines serving the ZOO area will let you off close to the Wolski Forest entrance, which saves time and the stress of parking in the forest.
For people staying on the Old Town, the best choice is usually to switch to public transport or walk to Galeria Krakowska and take a bus. This is often faster than circling around to find a parking space near the forest.
If your base is the Old Town and you want to leave the car close to the Market Square, consider the underground car park at Galeria Krakowska - a convenient location by the Main Railway Station, from which you can walk or take public transport to most Old Town attractions.
Other practical places include parking by the National Museum (al. Mickiewicza) and multi-storey car parks or parking zones outside the immediate Old Town if you want to avoid the most expensive or difficult access areas. Park-and-Ride options (for example at tram loop terminals) let you leave the car outside the centre and quickly reach the heart of the city.
Trying to drive directly to the mound or entering areas where driving is prohibited often ends with a fine or a tow. Don’t plan “shortcuts” on forest roads - they are steep and not adapted for tourist traffic.
Parking in forbidden spots on narrow streets around the forest risks towing or fines. On weekends don't leave valuables visible in the car - tourist areas can attract opportunistic thieves.
Also avoid visiting immediately after heavy rain - some forest paths and slopes can be muddy, and parts of stairs or paths slippery.
Pilsudski Mound is not only a viewpoint - it is also a place of national remembrance; during its construction soil from battlefields was brought to the mound. While walking in the area you'll often encounter traces of history and memorial sites.
Near the mound there are several recreational glades, a playground and a sports field - a good choice if you come with family and want to combine the views with some relaxation on the grass.
Remember that Wolski Forest is more than the mound - it is an extensive complex with interesting rock formations, walking paths and multiple viewpoints, so you can plan a whole day discovering the surroundings.
Can I drive a car onto the mound? No - there is no car access to the mound itself. You must leave the car at designated parking lots and walk.
How long is the walk from the ZOO parking? At a normal pace about 25–35 minutes one way (approx. 1.5–2 km).
Is there an entrance fee to the mound? No, entry is free and the mound is accessible around the clock.
When is the best time to visit the mound? The best light for photos is at sunrise and sunset, and the quietest times are outside weekends and outside late-afternoon peak hours.
If you are returning to the Old Town after your outing, choose well-reviewed cafes and restaurants around the Market Square or near Galeria Krakowska. In the centre you will find classic cafés with traditional atmosphere as well as modern places serving local cuisine. Pick venues with good reviews to reduce the risk of disappointment with taste or service.
If you plan to spend more time near the mound or Wolski Forest, consider small cafes and bars in the Salwator and Wola Justowska areas - those places often offer a calmer atmosphere after an active day outdoors.
Plan your parking ahead, check the weather forecast and choose shoes with a grippy sole. Bring water and something to eat, especially if you are visiting with family. Allow extra time - a forest walk can take longer than a map suggests, depending on fitness and weather.
If you find this guide helpful, share it with friends or on your social media - it may save someone the hassle of parking and help plan a better day in Kraków. If you prefer to explore Kraków comfortably with local knowledge, consider the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz - details are available on the Zwiedzanie Krakowa website. Good luck and enjoy the views!
