Did you know that Zakrzówek is more than just “Kraków’s Croatia” and photos of turquoise water? This former limestone quarry hides cliffs, patches of rock overgrown with wild plants, viewpoints and a network of paths that connect easily to lesser-known corners of Podgórze. If you’re after a walk, photographic frames without crowds and a few local curiosities — it’s worth turning off the main route and discovering Zakrzówek from the side guides rarely show.
Zakrzówek is a flooded limestone quarry located in the Dębniki/Podgórze district. Limestone gives the water its characteristic turquoise hue, and the vertical walls lend the place a raw, almost “maritime” feel. In the past the stone was quarried for building materials; today parts of the quarry are a natural enclave and a recreational area close to the city centre. After revitalisation the area was opened to residents as a park with marked paths and viewing zones, but some parts have retained a wild, untamed character.
Twardowski Rocks — rocky escarpments and overgrown nooks, great for a short walk and unusual photo backdrops.
Piers and bathing basins — even if you don’t plan to swim, the piers and platforms offer different viewpoints on the reservoir and cliffs; visit at morning or evening when the light is soft.
Diving sites and the “underwater story” — the quarry bottom hides sunken objects (a unique attraction for divers), which adds mystery and draws local diving communities.
Viewpoints and benches on the cliff edges — several smaller viewpoints let you capture panoramas of greenery with the city in the background. These are good spots to rest away from the main tourist flow.
Kopiec Krakusa (Krakus Mound) — a small hill in Podgórze with historical atmosphere and a pleasant city view; an excellent sunset spot after a walk at Zakrzówek.
Forts and historic remains — the area includes traces of fortifications and old infrastructure that add a historical layer to the walk; it’s worth peeking down side paths.
Liban Quarry and the surroundings of Podgórze — just a short walk beyond the heart of Zakrzówek you’ll reach landscapes that have appeared in film scenes tied to the city’s history.
Quiet Podgórze corners and Rynek Podgórski — a short stroll from Zakrzówek takes you to atmospheric streets with local cafés and restaurants, without the crowds of the Main Market Square.
Walks and picnics — ideal for families and couples; bring a blanket and snacks, and remember to follow park rules.
Photography — the contrast of white limestone, turquoise water and greenery makes for excellent shots, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Diving — Zakrzówek is popular with divers, but this activity requires proper qualifications and knowledge of local rules; do not dive alone in unmarked places.
Climbing and rock exploration — the rocks around Zakrzówek attract climbers and boulderers; use designated routes and proper protective equipment.
Getting there: the easiest way is by tram toward Dębniki (stops near ul. Norymberska / Twardowskiego) or a short taxi ride from the centre; parking nearby is limited.
Bathing season and regulations: in recent years Zakrzówek has been organised and partially operates as a bathing area with designated basins and piers; during season there are set lifeguard hours and specific rules for using the bathing area. Always check current rules before entering the bathing zone.
Prohibitions and fines: swimming where prohibited, jumping from rocks and ignoring lifeguard instructions may result in fines; authorities patrol the area and enforce rules for visitor safety.
Queues and entry system: on the busiest days access to the southern piers can be limited—bands or entry systems are sometimes used. To avoid queues, come early in the morning or choose a less popular side of the reservoir.
Trying to swim outside designated hours or areas — it’s not worth risking a fine or your safety; use only official zones.
Being unprepared for uneven terrain — wear comfortable shoes; some paths are steep and rocky.
Arriving in full sun without a plan B — at peak times spots to lie down or access piers can be full; have an alternate walking route in Podgórze or plan a café stop.
Start: tram stop near ul. Norymberska. Walk the park path along the Zakrzówek cliffs and stop for a photo at one of the viewpoints.
Mid-route: descend to the piers (if open) and take a short coffee break at a nearby café by Zakrzówek or in Podgórze.
Second part: walk to Kopiec Krakusa, take a quick climb to the top for a city view, then return via Rynek Podgórski with a stop for a snack at a local restaurant.
Alternative option: extend the walk toward Liban Quarry and see the cinematic remnants and historic points along the way.
At Zakrzówek itself a small seasonal café usually operates with a basic menu: coffee, ice cream, sandwiches and desserts — a convenient option during a park walk.
Within walking distance in Podgórze you’ll find several well-rated cafés and restaurants serving local and modern dishes; if you care about top reviews, check current local listings before you go and choose a place recommended by residents.
For a more refined culinary experience after sightseeing, head toward Kazimierz or deeper into Podgórze, where local cuisine blends tradition with modern trends.
Can you swim at Zakrzówek? Swimming is organised in designated basins and during the season when the bathing area and lifeguards operate. Outside the season or outside marked zones swimming is prohibited and may be penalised.
Is entry to Zakrzówek paid? Some park paths are freely accessible, but in peak days access to certain zones (for example southern piers) may be limited and require a ticket or wristband — check current rules before your visit.
Is Zakrzówek suitable for children? Yes, but keep children close and use supervised zones; the terrain can be uneven, so watch the little ones and bring appropriate footwear.
There are sunken objects at the bottom of some parts of the quarry visible to divers — an unusual attraction many visitors don’t know about.
The best light for water photos is often in the morning and late afternoon — if you want a clean frame with few people, visit before 10:00 or after 17:00 in summer.
If you want to avoid queues for the piers, look for less-trafficked paths in the northern part of the park — they often offer equally nice views without the crowds.
If this article makes you want to discover Zakrzówek at a relaxed pace with a knowledgeable local guide, contact Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz) — a private guide who knows these areas well and will gladly prepare a route tailored to your expectations. You can find contact details and private tour options on the guide’s page.
If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media to help others discover a less obvious side of Kraków. Thank you and enjoy your walks around Zakrzówek!
