Yes — many mums enjoy summer events along the Vistula, and Wianki is a beautiful, folkloric attraction. You should, however, approach it with a plan: consider what stage of pregnancy you are in, whether you have any health restrictions, and how well you tolerate crowds and heat. If your obstetrician has no objections, with the right preparation you can attend the event and have a good time.
Remember that every pregnancy is different. If you tend to faint, have high blood pressure, gestational diabetes or other issues, talk with your doctor beforehand and agree on a plan for what to do if you feel unwell during the event.
Wianki traditionally take place around the summer solstice (June) and attract large crowds — it’s worth planning in advance exactly where along the boulevards you want to be and how quickly you can leave the crowd if needed.
If you want to avoid the biggest crowds and long standing, plan to arrive earlier — during the daytime and the early evening the boulevards are usually much calmer than during the concerts and the event’s peak.
Consider picking a spot closer to the upper part of the boulevard or on the outer edges of the event zones — these areas usually have easier walkways, more benches and simpler access to streets, trams and taxis, so you can get out of the crowd faster if needed.
Avoid standing without a place to sit for long periods. If possible, come with a companion who can help you if needed (for example, bring water, sit with you on a bench).
Water (lots of water). Hydration is essential — carry a bottle and sip regularly. On hot days plan for extra fluids.
Small snacks: fruit (e.g. watermelon, grapes), yogurt, nuts — something light to boost your energy. Avoid heavy, greasy foods and raw food from mobile stalls if you have doubts about hygiene.
A hat and sunscreen (SPF) — sun protection is important for expectant mothers. Lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics will be more comfortable than tight, synthetic garments.
Comfortable shoes, ID, maternity card/brief medical info (e.g. your doctor's phone), a fully charged phone and a power bank, basic medicines, tissues, plasters and a folded map of exit routes.
A small folding cushion or mat — to sit more comfortably on the grass or a bench. For a longer stay a comfortable place to rest is priceless.
Take frequent short breaks to sit and rest. Don’t stand in one spot longer than feels comfortable.
Keep cool: cool your neck with a damp cloth, use shade when available; if it gets very hot consider a short return to your hotel or a place with air conditioning.
If the music is very loud and it bothers you (especially later in pregnancy), use light earplugs or stay a bit farther from the stage.
Make sure someone with you knows where the nearest medical point is and where you will meet if you get separated.
The Vistula boulevards have stretches with benches, access points and rest areas, but parts of the space may be temporarily closed due to works (for example construction of a footbridge in the Kazimierz area). Check municipal announcements about possible disruptions before you go.
At larger events the city usually strengthens public transport and there may be mobile toilets and information points — as soon as you enter the area, note the nearest toilets and FIRST AID points.
If you have limited mobility, choose the upper, more paved pedestrian routes instead of narrow stairs or steep descents to the lower boulevard. When planning your route, consider potential detours and road works.
During Wianki public transport in Kraków is often reinforced — trams and buses may run more frequently. For a pregnant visitor it is usually most comfortable to use public transport or taxis rather than trying to park in a crowded city centre.
Avoid standing for a long time in queues at stops without seating. Plan your return in advance: which line and direction to take and where the nearest accessible stop is.
If you come by car — remember that streets can be closed and there may be detours on event days; parking near the boulevards can be difficult. It’s good to know alternative drop-off points and a taxi number.
Crowds can be stressful and dangerous when they get very tight. If you feel it’s getting too cramped — move aside and find a calmer spot. Carry a note or wear something that indicates you are pregnant (for example a band or a card in your wallet) — this shortens explanations in an emergency.
If you experience symptoms such as severe dizziness, contractions, bleeding, strong abdominal pain, loss of consciousness or signs of dehydration — report immediately to the nearest medical point or call for help. In Poland the emergency number is 112.
If the situation is serious and hospital care is needed, the University Hospital (Emergency Department) in Kraków is a main facility with an emergency room and obstetric care — it’s a good idea to have the address and contact saved in your phone just in case.
Pregnant women are more vulnerable to overheating and dehydration. On hot days avoid staying in direct sun during peak hours (usually between 10:00 and 15:00), drink regularly and eat light meals.
If you feel sudden weakness, nausea, dizziness or a very fast heartbeat — stop activity, move into the shade and drink water. If symptoms worsen, contact medical staff.
Carry cooling wipes or a small spray bottle — they quickly lower temperature and improve comfort.
Avoid alcohol and heavily caffeinated drinks. Alcohol is not recommended during pregnancy, and coffee or energy drinks can increase dehydration.
Choose well-known food stalls or eat beforehand at a place you trust. Light, fresh meals are better than heavy fried food.
If you have gestational diabetes — bring small snacks, your glucometer (if you use one) and schedule breaks to check your glucose according to your doctor’s advice.
Make a simple plan: who will be with you, how you will get back, where to meet if separated, and which contact numbers are saved in your phone. Tell your companion about alarm symptoms and how to reach the nearest help quickly.
Save in your phone the location of the nearest large hospital with an emergency department in Kraków (address and ER phone), and the emergency number 112. A helpline for the university hospital can be useful for peace of mind.
If the forecast for the event day predicts heat or heavy rain, or if your well-being changes — consider postponing attendance to a quieter day of the festival (Wianki often include several days of events) or watch parts of the program from a distance (for example short walks along the boulevard instead of standing all night).
And most importantly: listen to your body. If something tells you to rest — rest. Wianki are meant to be enjoyed for the tradition and atmosphere, and your and your baby’s comfort and safety come first.
Q: What is the emergency number in Poland? - A: 112 is the general emergency number.
Q: Do I need to speak Polish to get help? - A: Medical teams in major events and hospitals often have staff who can handle basic English; it’s still sensible to save a short note in Polish with your condition (e.g. "Jestem w ciąży" — "I am pregnant") and your doctor’s phone number.
Q: Is tap water safe? - A: Tap water in Kraków is generally safe to drink; carry a bottle to refill and avoid dehydration.
Q: Where to rest if I need quiet? - A: Look for quiet stretches of the upper boulevard, benches near side streets, nearby cafés with seating or your accommodation — plan these refuges before arriving.
Practical tip: charge your phone fully, share your location with your companion during the event, and consider a small medical card in English and Polish with your pregnancy week and any important medical notes.
