Plan the perfect summer escape in Krakow! Explore the city’s best swimming spots – from cliffside pools and city lakes to water parks and thermal baths.
July 24, 2023
Where to Cool Off in Krakow – Lakes, Pools and Water Parks
When temperatures soar in Krakow, both locals and visitors look for ways to cool down. Beyond its historic streets and cultural landmarks, the city offers a surprising variety of water attractions perfect for summer. Whether you're into lakes with sandy beaches, outdoor pools, or full-scale water parks, this guide will help you find the perfect spot to relax, swim, and soak up the sun.
Quick overview:
Zakrzówek – modern cliffside swimming pools
Bagry Lake – beach, kayaks, volleyball
Kryspinów – sandy lakeside, family-friendly
Przylasek Rusiecki – peaceful nature escape
Wandziak’s Pool – classic city pool in Nowa Huta
Aquapark Krakow – perfect for rainy days
Energylandia Water Park – biggest open-air water park in Poland
Chochołowskie Thermal Baths – year-round hot spring relaxation
Visit Energylandia – the largest theme park in Poland and one of the best amusement parks in Europe. Enjoy a full day of thrilling rollercoasters, family attractions and themed zones – with ticket-only or transfer options available from Krakow.
Important: The discounted ticket is based strictly on height, not age. It is available only for visitors up to 140 cm in height. All participants over 140 cm – regardless of age – must purchase a regular ticket.
Duration: 8h - 9hSkip-theLineTransportation included
Take a Zakopane tour from Krakow and enjoy a full-day escape to Poland’s most famous mountain destination, located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. This experience combines spectacular scenery, free time in Zakopane and the flexibility to choose how you spend your day.
Admire panoramic views from Gubałówka, explore the town at your own pace, visit a traditional highlander shepherd’s hut for an oscypek cheese tasting, and optionally relax in the thermal pools of Chochołów.
Duration: 7h - 11hSkip-theLineTransportation included
Explore Krakow in a fast, comfortable, and eco-friendly way with a Krakow City Tour by electric golf cart. This sightseeing tour is a great introduction to the city, especially for first-time visitors or travellers with limited time who want to see the highlights without long walks.
During the ride, you will explore key areas of Krakow, including the Old Town surroundings, Kazimierz – the historic Jewish district, and parts of Podgórze, where the famous Schindler’s Factory was located. A professionally prepared audio guide provides historical context and helps you understand the city’s past and character.
This electric car tour allows you to see more in less time while staying comfortable in all weather conditions, making it an easy and practical way to start exploring Krakow.
Duration: 1h - 2hAudio GuideTransportation included
Since 2023, Zakrzówek has become one of the most unique swimming destinations in Poland. The former quarry has been transformed into a set of five beautifully designed pools of varying depths, perched above the turquoise waters. Facilities include changing rooms, showers, outdoor gyms, and a lakeside café.
The area around the water is also ideal for scenic walks among dramatic cliffs and forest paths. There are very few official parking spots nearby, so it's best to take public transport – bus stop: Norymberska or Kobierzyńska.
Note: Access is limited to 1000 people at a time – visit early!
Zakrzówek: "Aerial view of Zakrzówek with the newly opened swimming pools"
Visit Energylandia – the largest theme park in Poland and one of the best amusement parks in Europe. Enjoy a full day of thrilling rollercoasters, family attractions and themed zones – with ticket-only or transfer options available from Krakow.
Important: The discounted ticket is based strictly on height, not age. It is available only for visitors up to 140 cm in height. All participants over 140 cm – regardless of age – must purchase a regular ticket.
Duration: 8h - 9hSkip-theLineTransportation included
Take a Zakopane tour from Krakow and enjoy a full-day escape to Poland’s most famous mountain destination, located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. This experience combines spectacular scenery, free time in Zakopane and the flexibility to choose how you spend your day.
Admire panoramic views from Gubałówka, explore the town at your own pace, visit a traditional highlander shepherd’s hut for an oscypek cheese tasting, and optionally relax in the thermal pools of Chochołów.
Duration: 7h - 11hSkip-theLineTransportation included
Explore Krakow in a fast, comfortable, and eco-friendly way with a Krakow City Tour by electric golf cart. This sightseeing tour is a great introduction to the city, especially for first-time visitors or travellers with limited time who want to see the highlights without long walks.
During the ride, you will explore key areas of Krakow, including the Old Town surroundings, Kazimierz – the historic Jewish district, and parts of Podgórze, where the famous Schindler’s Factory was located. A professionally prepared audio guide provides historical context and helps you understand the city’s past and character.
This electric car tour allows you to see more in less time while staying comfortable in all weather conditions, making it an easy and practical way to start exploring Krakow.
Duration: 1h - 2hAudio GuideTransportation included
Located in the southern part of Krakow, Bagry Lake features a sandy beach, water sports rentals (kayaks, SUPs, pedal boats), volleyball courts, and picnic zones. It’s a favorite spot for active locals and families.
Getting there: take a tram or bus to Mały Płaszów. There is no official parking, and finding a spot near the lake during summer can be difficult.
Bagry Lake: "Sunset view of the serene Bagry Lake without people"
Kryspinów Lake: A Day Trip Classic
Just 20 minutes from Krakow, Kryspinów offers everything you need for a beach day: clean water, long stretches of sand, food stalls, and water activities like windsurfing and banana rides. It’s one of the region’s most popular summer destinations.
How to get there: tram or bus to Salwator, then transfer to Kryspinów or Kryspinów Zalew. Several private paid parking lots are available nearby; the official parking is small and also paid.
Kryspinów Lake: "Aerial shot of Kryspinów Lake with its sandy beach and clear water"
Przylasek Rusiecki: Nature and Tranquility
Surrounded by forest, this lesser-known spot is a local gem. Swim in clean, calm waters or enjoy a quiet picnic in the shade. With fewer crowds than Kryspinów, it’s ideal for those seeking relaxation.
To get there: take a tram or bus to Czyżyny Dworzec, then seasonal recreation line LR2. There is a paid parking lot in the area, but space is limited in high season.
Przylasek Rusiecki: "Scenic view of Przylasek Rusiecki with floating platforms on the water"
Energylandia Water Zone: All-Out Fun Near Krakow
The Water Zone at Energylandia in Zator is Poland’s biggest open-air water park. It features thrill rides, wave pools, kids’ zones, and a tropical vibe. In addition to its water attractions, Energylandia is famous for its adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters, where you can cool off while racing through the air at breathtaking speeds. It's perfect for thrill-seekers and families alike, and an ideal option for a full-day summer adventure from Krakow.
You can join an organized tour from Krakow or take a train to Zator. For drivers, there's a large paid parking area on-site.
Visit Energylandia – the largest theme park in Poland and one of the best amusement parks in Europe. Enjoy a full day of thrilling rollercoasters, family attractions and themed zones – with ticket-only or transfer options available from Krakow.
Important: The discounted ticket is based strictly on height, not age. It is available only for visitors up to 140 cm in height. All participants over 140 cm – regardless of age – must purchase a regular ticket.
Duration: 8h - 9hSkip-theLineTransportation included
Take a Zakopane tour from Krakow and enjoy a full-day escape to Poland’s most famous mountain destination, located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. This experience combines spectacular scenery, free time in Zakopane and the flexibility to choose how you spend your day.
Admire panoramic views from Gubałówka, explore the town at your own pace, visit a traditional highlander shepherd’s hut for an oscypek cheese tasting, and optionally relax in the thermal pools of Chochołów.
Duration: 7h - 11hSkip-theLineTransportation included
Explore Krakow in a fast, comfortable, and eco-friendly way with a Krakow City Tour by electric golf cart. This sightseeing tour is a great introduction to the city, especially for first-time visitors or travellers with limited time who want to see the highlights without long walks.
During the ride, you will explore key areas of Krakow, including the Old Town surroundings, Kazimierz – the historic Jewish district, and parts of Podgórze, where the famous Schindler’s Factory was located. A professionally prepared audio guide provides historical context and helps you understand the city’s past and character.
This electric car tour allows you to see more in less time while staying comfortable in all weather conditions, making it an easy and practical way to start exploring Krakow.
Duration: 1h - 2hAudio GuideTransportation included
Nowa Huta’s only outdoor pool is a no-frills spot with clear water, close to Nowohuckie Lake. It’s a great alternative if you want a quick dip without leaving the city.
Take a bus to os. Zielone or a tram to Struga. Next to the pool is the beautiful Zalew Nowohucki Park, perfect for relaxing on benches or grabbing some street food. Parking is very limited, usually on nearby streets.
Wandziak's Pool: "Clear water of Wandziak's outdoor pool in Nowa Huta without people"
Aquapark Krakow: Slides, Saunas and Indoor Fun
This massive indoor facility offers pools, saunas, jacuzzis, and multi-level slides. Perfect for families or rainy days.
Exterior view of Aquapark Krakow showing the exciting water slides
Chochołowskie Thermal Baths: Relaxation with a View
About 100 km from Krakow, these thermal baths are open year-round. In summer, enjoy the beach zone and slides. In winter, warm up in outdoor pools with panoramic views of the Tatras.
Reachable via organized tours, or by taking a train or bus to Zakopane and then a local bus to Chochołów. Parking is included in the entrance fee.
Panoramic view of Chochołowskie Thermal Baths with the Tatra Mountains in the background
Final Tip
Most places on this list are accessible by public transport or car. For the most relaxing experience, try to go early in the day or on weekdays. Looking for more ideas? → What to do in Krakow when the heat strikes
Take a Zakopane tour from Krakow and enjoy a full-day escape to Poland’s most famous mountain destination, located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. This experience combines spectacular scenery, free time in Zakopane and the flexibility to choose how you spend your day.
Admire panoramic views from Gubałówka, explore the town at your own pace, visit a traditional highlander shepherd’s hut for an oscypek cheese tasting, and optionally relax in the thermal pools of Chochołów.
Duration: 7h - 11hSkip-theLineTransportation included
Visit Energylandia – the largest theme park in Poland and one of the best amusement parks in Europe. Enjoy a full day of thrilling rollercoasters, family attractions and themed zones – with ticket-only or transfer options available from Krakow.
Important: The discounted ticket is based strictly on height, not age. It is available only for visitors up to 140 cm in height. All participants over 140 cm – regardless of age – must purchase a regular ticket.
Duration: 8h - 9hSkip-theLineTransportation included
Duration: 8h - 9h
Skip-theLine
Transportation included
Audio Guide
