Areas for leisure and active recreation in Kraków and Malopolska
Kraków is one of the most beautiful cities in Poland, admired not only for its historic architecture but also for its abundance of green spaces and opportunities for active leisure. The most iconic recreational spot is Błonia – a vast 48-hectare meadow located almost in the very heart of the city. This world-class landmark offers stunning views of the Old Town, Las Wolski forest, and Kościuszko Mound. The city’s famous mounds – Krakus, Wanda, Tadeusz Kościuszko, and Józef Piłsudski – are integral to Kraków’s landscape, serving as tourist attractions and popular spots for walks and outdoor events.
Adjacent to Błonia lies Jordan Park, one of Kraków’s most beautiful parks, featuring numerous sports fields and walking paths. Surrounding the Old Town is the green ring of Planty, a unique garden stretching for 4 kilometers and covering 21 hectares – perfect for a relaxing stroll in the city center. Nature lovers will also enjoy the Botanical Garden of the Jagiellonian University, the oldest in Poland, and the Zoo in Las Wolski, a traditional leisure destination for locals.
In recent years, Kraków has expanded its green infrastructure with new spaces such as Aleksandry North Park in Bieżanów-Prokocim – a forest enclave with walking paths, hammocks, and relaxation zones – and Tetmajer Park in Bronowice, featuring a pond and activity areas. Park Złocień has also been modernized, and more green investments are underway.
Another gem is Zakrzówek, considered one of Kraków’s natural wonders. Formed in a flooded limestone quarry, it is surrounded by picturesque Twardowski Rocks. In summer, visitors flock to Kraków Beach on the Vistula River – a modern complex with sand, sun loungers, volleyball courts, and even a pool on a moored barge. For a truly unique experience, take a ride in the tethered viewing balloon near the Vistula Boulevards, which rises to 185 meters and offers breathtaking city panoramas.
Kraków is also a city of sports. TAURON Arena Kraków – the largest entertainment and sports hall in Poland – along with Cracovia Stadium and Henryk Reyman Stadium, hosts world-class events. The city has added hundreds of new sports fields, modern halls, and swimming pools, with more projects in progress. Kraków regularly hosts major events such as the Tour de Pologne and European and World Championships in disciplines like volleyball, handball, and canoe slalom. Running events are a hallmark of the city, including the Cracovia Marathon, Royal Half Marathon, and the unique Three Mounds Run.
For relaxation and wellness, visit Swoszowice Spa, famous for its sulfur-rich mineral waters ranked among the most unique in Europe, or enjoy elite leisure at golf courses in Ochmanów and Paczółtowice. In winter, Małopolska becomes a hub for winter sports, with Carpathian slopes attracting both seasoned skiers and beginners.
Kraków is bike-friendly, with an expanding network of cycling paths, contraflow lanes, and bike racks, as well as a city bike-sharing system. Beyond the city, Małopolska offers scenic cycling routes such as the Eagles’ Nests Trail with medieval castles and the Błędów Desert, Niepołomice Forest, and the Vistula Valley Greenways route leading all the way to Vienna. The region is also developing the Carpathian Bicycle Trail, the longest in Poland, spanning about 800 km and following a historic trade route.
Kraków and Małopolska are destinations where everyone can find something to enjoy – from peaceful walks in lush parks to thrilling sports events and cycling adventures through stunning landscapes. This is a region that inspires activity and discovery every day.