Kraków is a city where different cultures have coexisted for centuries — in particular the Jewish presence was strong and visible, especially in Kazimierz. A walk through that part of the city and the memorial sites in Podgórze and Płaszów helps to understand a chapter of the city’s history that photos alone cannot convey. You don’t need to spend a fortune to feel the atmosphere, see the main monuments and visit a few museums — a good plan and a few practical tricks are enough.
In this article you’ll find suggestions for must-see places, tips on how to sightsee cheaply, a list of recommended eateries (both budget-friendly and well reviewed), some surprising facts and a short FAQ to help you avoid common mistakes when visiting.
Kazimierz — the former Jewish district is best discovered on foot. On Szeroka Street, Józefa and around Plac Nowy you’ll find many synagogues, museums and memorials as well as atmospheric cafés and small restaurants. A self-guided walk is the cheapest and often the most satisfying option.
Old Synagogue (ul. Szeroka) — one of the oldest and most important buildings related to Jewish culture in Kraków. It houses a museum branch presenting Judaica and telling the story of the local community.
Remuh Synagogue and cemetery — a place with a special atmosphere; next to the synagogue there is an old cemetery with gravestones dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries. This is a space that calls for quiet and respect; it’s worth spending a little time here.
Plac Nowy and the Okrąglak — the culinary heart of Kazimierz where for little money you can try the famous zapiekanki and other street treats. It’s also a good place to rest after walking.
Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory (Zabłocie/Podgórze) — a key site to understand the occupation period in Kraków and the fate of the city’s Jewish community. The museum is very popular, so it’s wise to book timed-entry tickets in advance.
Ghetto memorial sites in Podgórze and the grounds of the former Płaszów camp — memorable outdoor spaces that can be visited at little or no cost. A walk there invites reflection and provides historical context away from the city bustle.
Walking and self-guided routes: the cheapest option combines on-foot exploration of Kazimierz (Szeroka, the Old Cemetery, Plac Nowy) with a short tram ride to Zabłocie/Podgórze. Most points of interest can be seen from the outside without paying admission.
Timed-entry tickets: if you plan to enter Schindler’s Factory or other popular museum branches, buy a timed-entry ticket — it not only saves time but is often the only realistic way to get in without long waits.
One-hour plan (if you’re short on time): buy a timed ticket to Schindler’s Factory for a 45–60 minute visit, then take a short walk around Podgórze (Plac of the Ghetto Heroes, fragments of the wall) — alternatively focus only on Kazimierz and Plac Nowy if you prefer the neighborhood atmosphere.
Choose early morning or late entries outside peak hours to avoid crowds. Weekends and summer are busier, so plan ahead.
Check opening hours and ticket rules — some places close on certain days or require group registration. Ticketing policies can change, so verify details before your visit.
City cards and transport tickets: trams and buses are cheap and fast; if you plan several rides in a day, consider a day pass. Walking reveals the most details, while short tram trips link more distant points (for example Kazimierz and Zabłocie).
Dress and behavior: memorial sites require appropriate conduct — maintain silence, take photos discreetly and avoid flash, and show respect for the space. When visiting cemeteries and memorials remember to dress modestly and act respectfully.
Plac Nowy — the quickest and cheapest snack option: zapiekanki in the Okrąglak are a classic local experience that won’t hurt your wallet.
Budget but well-rated options: numerous inexpensive places in Kazimierz serve pierogi, bagels and quick street dishes; choose eateries with good reviews and reasonable prices rather than random stalls.
A few recommended and well-rated spots (book ahead when busy): Przystanek Pierogarnia — traditional pierogi at friendly prices; Mleczarnia — a cozy café with light meals; Hamsa — popular Middle Eastern cuisine; Starka and Zazie Bistro — trusted places with solid reviews (mid-range prices).
Tip: to save money, eat lunch outside peak hours (roughly 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM) when many restaurants have shorter queues and faster service.
In Kazimierz many architectural details and inscriptions survived hidden or were built into later renovations — look beyond the major sites for small plaques, tombstones embedded in walls or fragments of old gravestones.
The old Remuh Cemetery and nearby spaces hold gravestones from several centuries — this place connects authentic history with the daily life of the city and often surprises visitors with its quiet presence.
Some synagogues, like Remuh, still hold services — this is a living community, so when planning a visit keep in mind prayer days and holidays when access can be limited.
Trying to see “everything” in a single day — it’s better to pick a few places and take your time than rush and remember little. Set priorities.
Not checking photography rules — some interiors prohibit photos or flash; in memorial spaces photograph discreetly.
Lack of respect at memorial sites — loud talking, climbing on monuments or ignoring rules is not only inappropriate but also spoils the experience for others.
Do I need to hire a guide to see Jewish sites in Kraków? No — many places can be visited independently, but a guide adds context and helps connect historical facts. If you prefer deeper stories and saving time in museums, consider a short guided tour with a knowledgeable guide.
How much does entry to Schindler’s Factory cost and is it worth it? Schindler’s Factory is one of the key exhibitions for understanding occupied Kraków; due to its popularity it’s best to buy a timed ticket in advance — it’s an investment in time because you can avoid long waits.
Is visiting the Remuh Cemetery free? Some paths and areas around the cemetery can be viewed without a fee; entering certain museum spaces or interiors may require tickets. Always show respect and keep silence.
A budget-friendly, content-rich day plan: morning walk through Kazimierz (Old Synagogue, Remuh Synagogue, Plac Nowy — a quick zapiekanka), then a short tram trip to Zabłocie and a timed-entry visit to Schindler’s Factory, finishing with a walk through Podgórze memorial sites or a relaxing stop at a café.
If you decide you want to explore with someone who knows the topic well and can tailor the route to time and budget, consider booking a private guiding service with Małgorzata Kasprowicz - an experienced local guide familiar with Jewish Kraków.
If this guide helped you — share it with friends or on social media so more people learn how to discover Jewish Kraków affordably and respectfully. Have a good trip and thoughtful sightseeing!
