Zakrzówek is one of the most picturesque and at the same time least obvious spots in Krakow: a flooded former quarry with turquoise water, white rock faces and expansive viewpoints that looks like a miniature "Krakow Croatia." It’s a great place for a walk, photography and relaxing away from the city noise, while still being close to the centre. The reservoir is impressively deep (reaching several dozen metres), which also makes it interesting for divers and nature lovers. For visitors, the main attractions are the walking routes around the lake, viewing platforms and the nearby Skałki Twardowskiego.
Zakrzówek has undergone revitalisation and now functions as an urban park with marked trails and recreational infrastructure. In the summer some areas can be very busy, so if you’re after quiet and empty photo frames it’s worth planning your visit outside peak hours.
Fun fact: rare species of butterflies and birds have been spotted around Zakrzówek, and the post-quarry landscape creates unexpected viewpoints from which, on a clear day, you can see parts of the Old Town and Wawel.
The easiest way to get to Zakrzówek is by public transport - trams and buses toward Dębniki stop nearby; a practical stop to aim for is Norymberska. The walk from the stop to the trail entrances usually takes a few to several minutes depending on your starting point. If you come by car, keep in mind parking is limited and can fill up quickly in summer.
If you want a peaceful walk and the best light for photos, choose early morning on a weekday or late afternoon outside weekends. On summer weekends the area around midday can be very crowded - you may encounter queues, regulated entry or limited space on the viewing piers. It’s a good idea to check seasonal opening hours and bathing-zone rules, because some areas have restrictions and lifeguards on duty.
For shorter visits consider combining Zakrzówek with a walk to the nearby Skałki Twardowskiego or a route toward Wawel - it’s a great way to see different faces of the city in one day.
A walk around the reservoir offers many perspectives: from high cliffs and vantage points to wooden piers close to the water surface. It’s an excellent spot for a picnic, wildlife watching and landscape photography. For active visitors there are hiking trails, outdoor exercise spots and seasonal water activities organised in designated zones.
If you’re interested in diving, Zakrzówek is known for good water clarity and significant depth - several dive schools and clubs operate in the area and run courses. For safety reasons swimming in unmarked places is prohibited or discouraged - respect the signs and the lifeguards’ instructions during the season.
Take care of safety: do not go off marked paths and viewpoints, keep children away from rocky edges, do not enter the water outside designated zones and bring drinking water and a hat - shaded spots can be limited on hot days.
After a walk at Zakrzówek it’s worth planning a meal at one of Krakow’s recommended and well-rated places. The suggestions below work if you want something special - most are loved by both locals and visitors.
Ranny Ptaszek (Kazimierz) - an iconic spot for breakfast and brunch, known for generous portions and a friendly atmosphere. Expect queues at peak times, but many guests say it’s worth the wait.
Hummus Amamamusi (Kazimierz) - an excellent choice for lovers of Middle Eastern flavours; their hummus plates and small dishes are highly rated and the venue has a cosy character.
Kolanko No. 6 (Kazimierz) - a restaurant with a traditional, Polish feel; a good place for a hearty, home-style meal throughout most of the day.
Cafe Camelot (Old Town) - a charming café ideal for coffee and dessert after a stroll through the Old Town; a great option if you want to combine a Zakrzówek visit with the city centre.
Cafés and small bars around Kazimierz and Dębniki - if you’re looking for a quick lunch or dessert near the route from Zakrzówek, check local cafés and bistros on Kazimierz streets; many have excellent reviews and serve fresh, seasonal dishes.
If you prefer something very close to Zakrzówek, look for small food stalls and seasonal kiosks around the park - convenient for a quick snack or drink before continuing your walk.
Thinking Zakrzówek is only a bathing spot - it’s also a wonderful place for walking and nature observation. If you’re going mainly for photos or relaxation, check which parts are accessible on foot and which viewpoints are open.
Trying to swim outside designated zones - this is not only dangerous but often forbidden. Always respect bans and lifeguards’ announcements.
Arriving at midday on a summer weekend without a plan B - piers and beach zones fill up fast. Prepare an alternative walking route or visit earlier or later in the day.
Not preparing for sun and not bringing water - on sunny days some parts of the trails are exposed and dehydration is easy. Take water, sunscreen and a hat.
Morning option (quieter, more time for photos) - take a morning tram, walk around the Zakrzówek reservoir, pop by Skałki Twardowskiego, then head to Kazimierz for a late breakfast/brunch (Ranny Ptaszek or Hummus Amamamusi) and spend the afternoon in the Old Town or by Wawel.
Afternoon option (for those who want to combine activity and food) - arrive before noon, have a quick picnic or snack at Zakrzówek, walk toward Dębniki or Kazimierz and finish with dinner at a well-rated restaurant (Kolanko No. 6 or another recommended place).
Evening option (romantic) - walk the viewpoints at sunset and then enjoy dinner in a cosy café or restaurant in Kazimierz.
Can you swim at Zakrzówek? The official bathing area operates seasonally during set hours and in marked zones; outside those times swimming may be forbidden or unsafe. The safest option is to use supervised areas and follow park notices.
Is Zakrzówek accessible for strollers and people with reduced mobility? Some paths and piers are designed to improve access, but the terrain also includes steep sections and stairs. If you need full accessibility, check specific entrances in advance or plan a shorter, flatter route.
Are there toilets and food outlets nearby? The park and its immediate surroundings have a limited network of small food outlets and facilities; you’ll find a much wider choice of restaurants and cafés in Krakow centre and Kazimierz. It’s a good idea to plan a coffee or meal in one of the recommended cafés or restaurants after your walk.
Share this guide with friends planning a visit to Krakow - Zakrzówek is an ideal spot for a short escape from the city bustle and a great complement to a classic tour of the Old Town and Kazimierz.
If you’d like to explore Zakrzówek and the surrounding area with someone who knows the best routes, shares local stories and tailors the program to your pace, consider booking a private guide - Małgorzata Kasprowicz offers personalised tours and more information is available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
Have a great visit, lots of beautiful photos and delicious culinary discoveries in Krakow!
