Zakrzówek is one of the most beautiful spots in Kraków — limestone cliffs, turquoise water and scenic viewpoints attract whole families. At the same time, it is an area with clear rules for using the bathing area and, during the season, is patrolled by public services. In the summer season the bathing area is often supervised by lifeguards and the number of people using the piers is limited, so it’s worth checking opening hours and current rules before you go. Good preparation and awareness of the rules significantly increase comfort and safety for a trip with children.
In recent seasons city services and the police have increased interventions around Zakrzówek — this has involved both order-related offences and responses after serious incidents. This is a reminder that the place combines natural beauty with risk if someone ignores bans, jumps in prohibited places or disregards lifeguards’ instructions.
In practice for families this means: use the designated swimming zones when they are open and supervised, keep children close, agree on simple safety rules before entering the bathing area and have a plan in case someone gets separated.
Zakrzówek offers more than just the bathing area. Walking paths in the park, viewpoints with panoramas of Kraków, benches and picnic spots make it a good choice for a family day outdoors. For older children the visible rock faces and the old quarry workings can be an attraction — but stay on safe viewpoints and do not approach cliff edges.
Some parts of the area are adapted for year-round recreation: walking alleys, fitness zones and running paths. If you plan a longer stay, bring a blanket, simple snacks and water — on hot days children tire faster and need more frequent cooling and hydration.
If you plan to swim or play by the water, decide in advance where you will position yourselves on the piers and agree on a meeting point in case someone gets separated. For little ones it’s useful to have wristbands with the caregiver’s phone number.
The bathing area has set opening hours and a period during which lifeguards are on duty — outside supervised times swimming is prohibited. Lifeguards signal safety status with flags and sound signals; their instructions are mandatory and must be followed.
There is a limit on the number of people using the piers and individual basins at the same time; other prohibited behaviours include: jumping from piers outside designated spots, swimming after consuming alcohol, barbecuing or lighting fires, bringing animals (except guide dogs) and using diving equipment in public zones. Children up to a certain age (for example up to 12 years old) should be under adult supervision — this is a standard safety requirement.
Organisers and site managers may also introduce capacity limits for safety reasons; if the limit is reached, entry can be temporarily paused. This is a common way to manage crowds on the hottest weekends.
Agree on clear rules before entering the bathing area: stick to the designated zone, do not wander away from adults and do not go into the water without adult permission. It’s a good idea to nominate one person responsible for watching the children for a given period and rotate short shifts so nobody gets overly tired or distracted.
For weaker swimmers, life jackets or arm floaties are useful — make sure they are certified and fit well. Don’t rely solely on inflatable toys. Always carry a basic first-aid kit, sunscreen and spare water and snacks.
Set a meeting point and a simple way to identify a child (wristband with a phone number, a bright clothing item), especially on busy days. Photographing the place where you left your belongings and the lifeguards’ station number can also help in emergencies.
Around popular city attractions you can encounter small scams and dishonest practices that affect tourists and families. The most common issues are pickpocketing, distraction techniques aimed at stealing items from bags, and people offering “help” in exchange for payment. Keep a healthy distance from those offering unofficial services or asking for money.
Avoid leaving valuables unattended — a phone or wallet in a backpack by the water is an easy target. Carry documents and cash in an inner pocket or in a waist pouch under clothing. If someone offers paid “storage for belongings” or a “special parking spot,” ask for an official receipt or decline if the person pressures you.
When parking, pay attention to official signs and parking meters. Avoid private “parking attendants” who ask for cash without issuing a receipt; if in doubt, park in an official lot or where payments go through city apps.
One of the most serious mistakes is ignoring bans on swimming outside designated areas. Jumping from unmarked cliffs and swimming without supervision carry real danger. Don’t take risks just for a “better photo.”
Another mistake is leaving children unsupervised, especially near water or in crowded places. Even a brief lapse in attention can end in a stressful situation. Rotating supervision and agreeing clear play rules are good practices.
Tourists also often underestimate the problem of littering and inappropriate behaviour; trying to drink alcohol in prohibited areas or smoking near the piers can prompt intervention by services and spoil relaxation for other visitors.
Can you swim with small children? Yes, but only in designated zones and under constant adult supervision. For the youngest children it’s worth using a life jacket and limiting time in the water.
Are dogs allowed? In most cases animals are forbidden in the bathing zone; exceptions apply to guide dogs. Always check the latest information on site.
Is there an entrance fee? Often entry to the bathing area is free, but there can be limits on the number of people and charges for parking or extra services; check current notices before your planned visit.
Around Zakrzówek you’ll find many places that are perfect after a day outdoors — from cafés to restaurants with regional and international cuisine. A good practice is to choose venues with high ratings and positive family reviews, especially when you travel with children.
If you plan to stay overnight, pick accommodation with family-friendly amenities: family rooms, cots for infants, on-site breakfasts and easy access to attractions. When booking, check recent guest reviews and photos to make sure the standard meets your expectations.
If you’d like, we can recommend a few popular spots and reliable addresses — tell us your budget and food preferences and I will prepare a short list with descriptions.
Zakrzówek is a former quarry; its characteristic steep banks and deep water are remnants of limestone extraction. That’s why in some places the bottom is very deep and dangerous for casual swimmers.
There are points used by divers and specialist groups — but it’s not a place for amateur cliff jumps or diving without proper equipment and permits. During the season lifeguards and services are very alert to people breaking rules on jumping and diving.
On hot weekends visitor numbers can be very high, so the city and services apply limits and order controls; in certain situations entry may be temporarily restricted.
When planning a visit with children, remember the basics: check opening hours and whether lifeguards are on duty, bring spare water and sunscreen, don’t leave valuables unattended and agree on a simple supervision plan. With these steps, a day at Zakrzówek will be safe and enjoyable.
If you found this article helpful — share it with friends or on social media. If you prefer exploring with a guide, you can use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz (details are available on the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com website). Have a great trip!
