Yes — it is possible to visit the most important sites and get a sense of the atmosphere of former communities in two days if the route is well planned. In practice it's best to split the program into one day dedicated to Kazimierz (synagogues, old cemeteries, the photography museum, atmospheric courtyards and Plac Nowy) and one day focused on Podgórze and places of memory (Schindler’s Factory, the Ghetto Heroes Square, the Eagle Pharmacy, and the area of the former Płaszów camp).
This article explains how to organize such a plan for a group of 7–30 people, what to remember when booking, which places are worth including and how to avoid common organizational mistakes.
Start your day in the heart of the former Jewish quarter. Key points to visit are the Old Synagogue (ul. Szeroka 24) — now a museum branch with an exhibition devoted to the history of Kraków's Jews — and the Remuh Synagogue with its adjacent historic cemetery (ul. Szeroka 40), where the oldest gravestones date back to the 16th century. These places require a calm, respectful approach.
A few steps away is the Galicia Jewish Museum (ul. Dajwór 18) with a permanent photography exhibition and an educational program — a great place to give the group historical and artistic context. Plan at least 60–90 minutes here, especially for groups interested in photography and personal stories.
A walk through the side streets of Kazimierz leads to Plac Nowy — a good spot for a break. Recommended and well-reviewed places in the area where it's worth reserving tables for groups: Hamsa (Israeli/Middle Eastern cuisine), Ariel Restaurant (Jewish cuisine with klezmer concerts) and the atmospheric Mleczarnia (café/pub with a garden). For groups it's advisable to reserve in advance, especially at weekends.
Dedicate the second day to Podgórze and the story of the district's inhabitants during World War II. Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory (ul. Lipowa 4) is one of the most important sites — the exhibition presents the occupation context of Kraków and the fates of its residents. Tickets for this branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Kraków are often released in advance (online sales), so groups should reserve entry well ahead of time.
Nearby is the Ghetto Heroes Square with its characteristic memorial installation, and within close walking distance — the Eagle Pharmacy (Plac Bohaterów Getta 18), a branch of the Museum of Kraków, which tells the story of Tadeusz Pankiewicz and everyday life in the ghetto. This is an intimate and moving place — plan a short, reflective visit.
If your group has more time and wishes to deepen the subject, you can visit the area of the former Płaszów concentration camp and the Płaszów Museum. These sites are emotionally intense, so prepare participants for a heavier dimension of the visit.
Groups of 7–30 are easy to manage on foot, but when planning allow for walking pace, frequent stops and time for museum entries. For the comfort of participants plan a maximum of 3–4 longer indoor visits (museums/interiors) over the two days and keep the rest as walks and short stops.
Many venues have limits on the number of people per tour and requirements for booking a guide or rent-audio sets. Schindler’s Factory often sells tickets online well in advance (it’s wise to reserve 4–12 weeks ahead), and smaller exhibitions (Eagle Pharmacy, Galicia Museum) may require prior group notification. Even if you plan visits on weekdays or outside peak season, check opening hours and availability beforehand.
For groups larger than a dozen consider renting a portable sound system (tour-guide system) — it helps the guide and improves information reception, especially in crowded or noisy places.
In places of memory and in cemeteries we ask for the utmost respect: maintain silence, take restrained photos (avoid flash where it is forbidden) and do not touch historic objects. Some synagogues are still used for worship — Remuh holds regular services and may be closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays, so check availability before planning a visit.
Remember that some exhibitions related to the Holocaust are emotionally powerful. For school or corporate groups it is worth informing participants in advance about the nature of the displays and leaving space for questions and reflection.
1) Not booking tickets for Schindler’s Factory and popular museums — this leads to long queues or no available spots. Book tickets online and confirm group bookings in advance.
2) Failing to plan meal breaks for the group — on weekends restaurants in Kazimierz fill up quickly; reserve a table or choose a place with a group menu.
3) Ignoring restrictions at places of memory — some sites limit the number of people per group or require an additional guide. Ask about rules and any extra fees early on.
4) Misjudging the group's pace — plan alternatives (shorter visits, more breaks), especially if the group includes people with limited mobility.
- In Kazimierz you’ll find spots that look like typical cafés from the outside but house small exhibitions or galleries with Judaica inside. Short stops in such places add local colour to the route.
- The Eagle Pharmacy is not just an exhibition about Pankiewicz — it also contains a multimedia section with archival recordings that help visitors connect with the story of life in the ghetto.
- Not all important commemorative details are on official maps — local residents and the guide can point out small plaques, hidden graves or film locations that enrich the walk.
How many kilometres will we walk? Depending on the planned route — count on 6–10 km on foot over two days, including breaks and museum visits. This is a moderate distance; comfortable shoes are recommended.
Are synagogues open on Saturdays? Not always — some, like Remuh, are active as places of worship and may be closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Always check opening hours beforehand.
Do groups pay more? Some museums offer group tickets or discounts, others charge an extra fee for guided group tours. In practice you should calculate costs individually and add potential fees for a guide and audio sets.
How do I ensure silence and order in the group? Set ground rules at the start of the tour: short announcements, breaks for questions, and in places of memory emphasise quiet and reflection.
The most convenient places to stay are Kazimierz (close to evening events and a short morning start) or the Old Town (easy transport links and proximity to many attractions). For groups of 7–30 reserve accommodation in advance and check availability of group breakfasts.
For meals, book trusted restaurants in Kazimierz in advance — Hamsa, Ariel and Mleczarnia are experienced in handling larger groups with prior notice. If you want a dinner with klezmer music or a cultural programme, reserve several weeks ahead.
Two days are enough to create a full, emotionally balanced story of Jewish Krakow — from everyday traces and traditions in Kazimierz to places of memory in Podgórze. The key is good logistics, early bookings and a guide who can combine facts with sensitivity.
If you want the visit perfectly organized and tailored to your group — I invite you to use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. If this article helped you, please share it on social media or send it to friends planning a trip to Kraków!
