06/08/2026
Too hot to explore Kraków? Save this guide to the best parks, cool indoor spaces and waterside spots where you can escape the summer heat🥵
🌳 In the Shade of Greenery🌳
1. Jordan Park
A large green park located close to the city centre, with plenty of space to relax, walk or sit under the trees. It is a good option for families, although not every part of the park is shaded during the hottest hours of the day.
2. Bednarski Park
One of Kraków’s most charming parks, filled with mature trees, shaded paths and quiet places to rest. It is usually less crowded than Planty Park and offers a peaceful escape from the busy city centre.
3. Wolski Forest
A perfect choice for a longer walk surrounded by nature. Deep inside the forest, the temperature feels noticeably cooler than in central Kraków. It is best visited in the morning or later in the afternoon.
4. Planty Park
One of the easiest places to escape the sun without leaving the city centre. The park surrounds Kraków’s Old Town, and its dense tree canopy provides plenty of shade, especially near Wawel Castle, Poselska Street and the Barbican.
🏛️ In Cool Indoor Spaces🏢
1. Rynek Underground Museum
One of the best places to visit during the hottest part of the day. The exhibition is located beneath Kraków’s Main Market Square, allowing you to discover the city’s medieval history while taking a break from the summer heat.
2. Museums
The National Museum, MOCAK and Schindler’s Factory are excellent choices for a hot afternoon. Apart from their exhibitions, they offer a comfortable alternative to spending several hours walking around the sun-baked Old Town.
3. Cinemas
A cinema is always a reliable option when the temperatures become uncomfortable. Besides large multiplexes, Kraków has several atmospheric independent cinemas.
One of them is Kino KIKA, a small arthouse cinema in the Podgórze district, known for its carefully selected programme and intimate atmosphere. Many international films in Polish cinemas are screened in their original language with Polish subtitles, so foreign visitors can often enjoy films in English or another original language. Always check the language version in the current programme before booking.
4. Churches in the Old Town
The stone interiors of St. Mary’s Basilica, the Franciscan Church and the Dominican Church can provide a short break from the heat. Remember that these are active places of worship, so visitors should dress appropriately, remain quiet and respect their religious character.
💦 By the Water🏝️
1. Zakrzówek
One of Kraków’s most spectacular summer locations, famous for its turquoise water and limestone cliffs. It can become extremely crowded during hot weekends, so arriving early is strongly recommended. Swimming is allowed only in designated areas.
2. Bagry Lagoon
Bagry is a popular recreational area with a beach, a supervised swimming zone, water-equipment rental and sandy sports courts, including areas suitable for beach volleyball.
Around the lagoon, visitors can also find seasonal food stands, places selling drinks, snacks and ice cream, as well as the atmospheric HORN Tavern, overlooking the water.
Bagry is also home to HORN Kraków Sailing Club, which has its own marina and sailing facilities by the lagoon. Sailing courses, events and regattas are regularly organised here.
It is a great place to spend several hours, but during the hottest weekends it is worth arriving before midday.
3. Przylasek Rusiecki
A quieter and more spacious alternative located farther from the city centre. It is a good choice for visitors looking for a more relaxed atmosphere away from the busiest urban beaches. Before travelling, check the current status and opening rules of the designated swimming area.
4. Kryspinów
Located approximately 12 kilometres west of central Kraków, Kryspinów is one of the area’s most popular summer bathing spots. It offers sandy beaches and a supervised swimming zone, although it can become very busy on sunny days. Entrance and parking fees may apply.
Other Reservoirs and Waterside Areas
Kraków also has several other places where you can relax near the water.
Nowa Huta Reservoir is particularly good for a walk rather than swimming. It has walking and cycling paths, green spaces, a small urban beach, sports facilities and a public graduation tower. It is an excellent option for a slower afternoon away from the crowded Old Town.
🧂 The Coolest Trip Near Kraków 🧂
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Located just outside Kraków, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the best places to visit during the hottest summer days. The temperature along the Tourist Route remains at approximately 17–18°C throughout the year, so bringing a light jacket or sweatshirt is recommended.
Krak Tours organises trips from Kraków to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and we still have several available places in August. Visit our website to check the available dates and book your tour♥️
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