The Galicia Jewish Museum, located in the heart of Kazimierz on ul. Dajwór, is more than a memorial to Holocaust victims — it’s a space that presents the richness of Jewish culture in Galicia. Across nearly 1,000 m² you’ll find the permanent photographic exhibition “Traces of Memory,” rotating shows, a bookshop, an education room and a café — all in a restored industrial space in Kazimierz. The museum runs an active education programme, workshops and remembrance projects that can meaningfully complement a visit to this part of the city.
A visit to Galicia is rewarding for both history buffs and anyone who wants to understand local cultural contexts. If you’re travelling with your uncle, plan a relaxed visit — the museum has places to sit and the displays are presented in an accessible, multi-layered way that encourages conversation and reflection afterwards. (Museum address: ul. Dajwór — it’s useful to save it in your notes before you travel.)
The museum is also involved in commemorative projects, for example educational initiatives for schools and social actions that remember children and communities affected by the Holocaust. For many visitors it becomes a moment to pause and talk — which makes a visit fit well into a calm, reflective Kraków itinerary.
If your time is limited, focus on a few highlights that offer varied experiences: Wawel with its cathedral, the Main Market Square and the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Church (the trumpet signal and the option to climb the tower), Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory in Zabłocie, Kazimierz with its synagogues and atmospheric cafés, MOCAK for contemporary art lovers, the Planty and Royal Route for pleasant walks, the Wieliczka Salt Mine as a half-day or day trip outside the city, Nowa Huta for those interested in socialist-realist architecture, and Auschwitz-Birkenau as an important site of remembrance — if you choose that trip, plan a full day and book in advance.
When travelling with your uncle, try to combine nearby sights — for example, visit Wawel and the riverside boulevards in the morning, enjoy a relaxed lunch, then stroll through Kazimierz with an afternoon visit to Galicia. Avoid trying to squeeze everything in; it’s better to see fewer places at a calm pace than to rush from one spot to another.
One practical tip: buy tickets online for the most popular museums and exhibitions — this saves time and stress, and some venues sell entry for specific time slots.
Plan your time: allow 60–90 minutes for the permanent exhibition and extra time if you want to browse the bookshop or join a workshop. The museum also organises themed events — check the programme for your dates before you go.
Accessibility and pace: museums in Kraków, including Galicia, offer facilities for visitors with limited mobility, but if you’re travelling with someone who has special needs it’s worth asking in advance about specific arrangements (lift, seating areas). Wear comfortable shoes and schedule coffee breaks — short rests help a lot on a long day of sightseeing.
Conversation and context: Galicia’s displays combine photographs, objects and educational materials — take a moment to talk about what you see. If your uncle has personal memories related to the history, invite him to share them — these conversations are often the most valuable part of the visit.
Which neighbourhood to choose depends on priorities — ease of getting around, quiet at night, and atmosphere. The two most popular options are the Old Town (centre) and Kazimierz. The Old Town offers shorter walks to Wawel and the Market, many hotels with lifts and services, while Kazimierz provides a more intimate atmosphere and proximity to museums like Galicia — note, however, that Kazimierz can be livelier at night because of restaurants and bars.
If comfort and high ratings matter, consider centrally located hotels that combine convenience and location to make sightseeing easier with short walks. Look for properties with spacious rooms and easy lift access. For limited mobility, choose hotels with rooms on lower floors or with elevators and clearly described accessibility features.
Quieter alternatives: if night noise is a concern, consider neighbourhoods that are pleasant for walks but calmer in the evenings — Podgórze or the Kleparz/Salwator area. When booking in Kazimierz, request a room facing the courtyard. Always read recent reviews and check whether the hotel offers facilities important for seniors (for example 24-hour reception, nearby pharmacy, breakfast served on site).
Dining: after a busy day of sightseeing it’s worth choosing reliable, well-reviewed places. Around the Market Square there are restaurants serving traditional Polish cuisine in a comfortable setting — good options for a meal with an older family member. In Kazimierz you’ll find atmospheric cafés and restaurants offering local and international dishes; many have comfortable seating and a quieter atmosphere in the early afternoon.
Accommodation: if you’re looking for highly-rated hotels in a central location, consider properties that offer a higher standard and easy access to attractions. When booking, pay attention to reviews on bed comfort, room quietness and the quality of breakfasts — these are the factors that most influence seniors’ comfort after a full day of activities.
Reservations and adjustments: when booking, note any special needs (lower bed, room near the lift, no stairs) — many hotels will make small adjustments to improve comfort. If possible, choose a reservation with free cancellation in case plans change.
Trying to see “everything” in too short a time — this leads to fatigue and frustration, especially when travelling with an older person. Plan realistic stages of sightseeing with rest breaks to enjoy the trip.
Not checking ticket rules and opening hours — many museums sell entry for specific time slots. Buy tickets online when possible and check the cancellation policy. This is especially important at popular sites that limit visitor numbers.
Choosing accommodation without considering a senior’s needs — lack of an elevator, noisy surroundings or a long walk to public transport can make a stay difficult. Before confirming a reservation check facilities and ask for additional information.
Is Galicia suitable for older visitors? Yes — the exhibitions are organised accessibly, the museum offers places to rest and the educational programmes are designed for different age groups. If mobility is limited, confirm specific accessibility options in advance.
How many days should I allow to visit Kraków with my uncle? For a relaxed pace I recommend 3–4 days to see the main sights without rushing. If you plan trips to Wieliczka or Auschwitz, add an extra day for each of those excursions.
Where is best to eat after visiting Galicia? Kazimierz has many tried-and-tested cafés and restaurants — from places serving traditional Polish dishes to spots with Jewish and international cuisine. Choose a venue with comfortable seating and easy access if you’re travelling with someone who needs help moving around.
The Galicia museum is not only a static exhibition — it’s an education and cultural centre that regularly runs events, workshops and remembrance projects. For visitors interested in history, it’s a great complement to time spent in Kazimierz and on Wawel.
If you’d like a short, relaxing walk, head to the riverside boulevards along the Vistula in the late afternoon — a peaceful way to finish the day and a good backdrop for conversations after a busy visit.
A small trick for staying in Kazimierz: when booking ask for a room facing the courtyard — you’ll gain quiet while remaining close to cafés and museums.
If this guide was useful, share it with friends or on your social profiles — it might help someone planning a trip to Kraków with a close relative.
If you want a personalised itinerary, assistance with bookings or guiding tailored to your uncle’s needs, consider booking a private guide from ZwiedzanieKrakowa — Małgorzata Kasprowicz offers tailored services and can help make the visit comfortable and meaningful. Good luck with your planning and enjoy your stay in Kraków!
