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Beaches · Lesser Poland, Krakow

Zalew Nowohucki

A boating lake in socialist-realist Krakow

  • VibeQuiet and local
  • DistanceAbout 9 km east of Main Market Square
  • Rating★ 4.1
  • Best seasonMay-September
  • DifficultyEasy
  • TransportTram from the centre to Nowa Huta; about 30 minutes

Zalew Nowohucki is a reservoir at the edge of Nowa Huta, the planned socialist-realist district of eastern Krakow. The shoreline has a promenade, a wide lawn used for picnics, a children's playground and a marina where people rent pedal boats and kayaks. Swimming is not officially designated here, so most visitors come to walk, cycle and paddle rather than bathe.

Reservoir in Nowa Huta with a promenade, boat hire and picnic lawns.

Zalew Nowohucki is a reservoir at the edge of Nowa Huta, the planned socialist-realist district of eastern Krakow. The shoreline has a promenade, a wide lawn used for picnics, a children's playground and a marina where people rent pedal boats and kayaks. Swimming is not officially designated here, so most visitors come to walk, cycle and paddle rather than bathe.

Practical information for Zalew Nowohucki · Last updated September 2026
Distance About 9 km east of Main Market Square
Getting there Tram from the centre to Nowa Huta; about 30 minutes
Difficulty Easy
Best season May-September
Address ul. Ptaszyckiego, 31-979 Krakow

Amenities

  • Promenade
  • Pedal-boat and kayak hire
  • Playground
  • Cafe kiosks

Good to know

Best for
Walks and paddling
Water
Calm reservoir; swimming not generally permitted
Facilities
Boat hire, Playground, Paths, Kiosks

Location

ul. Ptaszyckiego, 31-979 Krakow

50.0706, 20.0274 View on map

Highlights

  • Pedal-boat and kayak hire
  • Lakeside promenade and cycle path
  • Easy combination with a Nowa Huta visit

Tips for visiting

  • Check signs before entering the water, as swimming is not generally permitted.
  • Combine the lake with the socialist-realist architecture of Plac Centralny.
  • Bring insect repellent for summer evenings.

When to visit

May to September

Accessibility

Paved promenade suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in Zalew Nowohucki?

The reservoir is mainly for boating and walking; swimming is not generally allowed unless signs say otherwise.

How do you get there from the centre?

Take a tram towards Nowa Huta; the ride from the centre takes about 25-30 minutes.