If you're wondering how to get to know Kazimierz best — its history, places of memory, culinary corners and an atmosphere buzzing with culture — you've come to the right place. This text was created to help you plan a visit to the Jewish district in a friendly, practical way. I'll tell you what to see, how a guided walk typically goes, and what practical things to know before you head out.
Kazimierz is a neighborhood full of stories: from medieval roots and historic synagogues, through tales connected with Jewish culture, to contemporary café life and music. Touring with an experienced guide helps connect facts with context and feeling so that this place truly speaks to you.
This article is written with people in mind who are planning a walk with guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — a licensed Kraków guide. You'll find a description of the route, Małgorzata’s guiding style, practical information (duration, prices, tickets) and an FAQ that answers the most common questions. All in a light, informal tone to prepare you for a successful day in Kazimierz.
Ready? Let's start!
- Deeper context. Walking the streets is enjoyable on its own, but a guide will show you how to read the traces of history and tell stories about the people and events that shaped the neighborhood.
- Emotional perspective. Places of memory and historic sites gain meaning when you learn the stories of their residents and fates; a guide will help you understand these stories sensitively and thoughtfully.
- Time saving. The route is planned to see the most important spots without wandering — ideal if your time in Kraków is limited.
- Tailored to the group. The walk can be adapted to the age, interests and pace of participants — from family-friendly routes to more in-depth historical versions.
A guided tour is not a lecture but a conversation: questions, curiosities, anecdotes and moments to pause. It’s also convenient — the guide will help with museum tickets and entries where needed.
The route can be modified depending on time and the group's preferences, but classic stops on a Kazimierz walk include:
- Szeroka Street — the historic heart of the Jewish quarter, once the scene of daily religious and commercial life.
- Plac Nowy (New Square) — a lively market square with its distinctive round structure and a rich street-food scene plus places to rest.
- The Old Synagogue — one of the key memorial and museum sites in central Kazimierz.
- Remuh Synagogue and Remuh Cemetery — an intimate place with a special atmosphere, important for the memory of the local community.
- Tempel Synagogue, Izaak Synagogue and the High Synagogue — examples of the architectural variety and religious history of the district.
- The New Jewish Cemetery (near Miodowa Street) — a green, moving space of remembrance.
- Galicia Jewish Museum and sites connected with the film "Schindler's List" — if the group wishes, elements related to World War II and the memory of Kraków’s Jewish community can be included.
Along the way we also visit lesser-known nooks, courtyards and places that create Kazimierz’s atmosphere — those small discoveries are often what participants remember most.
Małgorzata has worked as a licensed guide in Kraków since 2012. Her guiding style combines solid knowledge with humor, anecdotes and questions that invite the group to participate. Her stories engage both adults and children — she has a lot of experience with school groups and families.
In practice this means:
- narration rich in curiosities and local “flavors” that you won’t always find in standard guidebooks;
- attention to the emotional dimension of places of memory — respect and carefully chosen words when telling difficult stories;
- flexible pace and program — the route can be shortened or extended depending on the group's needs;
- practical support: help buying museum tickets and using audio headsets when the group is large.
Małgorzata has experience guiding very diverse groups — from children to seniors and international guests — and always aims to make every participant leave feeling they learned something valuable and had a pleasant time.
Duration: the most common options are 2, 3 or 4 hours. Two hours is a good choice if you want to see the main spots; 3–4 hours allow for deeper exploration and visits to additional sites.
Approximate prices for private tours (small groups, Polish language):
- 2 hours: around 350 PLN.
- 3 hours: around 450 PLN.
- 4 hours: around 550 PLN.
Tours in English are usually a bit more expensive (for example, 2 hours around 450 PLN).
For larger groups (over 35 people) prices are often calculated per person — contact in advance to arrange a precise offer.
Additional costs:
- entrance fees to museums and synagogues are usually not included in the guiding price and are paid separately; the guide will help with purchasing tickets and inform you about current rates.
- audio-guide sets or headset rental are available to improve audibility in crowded moments — rental typically costs a few PLN per person.
Keep in mind that prices and details may change, so it’s best to confirm current terms when booking.
- When and what time: best times are mornings or weekday afternoons — then Kazimierz is less crowded. If you plan an evening walk, be ready for a change of character: more music and nightlife, and less quiet around monuments.
- Clothing and footwear: comfortable shoes — cobblestones can be uneven. In summer bring water and a hat; in winter dress warmly, as narrow streets can funnel cold drafts.
- For families with children: the route can include elements and tasks for the little ones to make the walk more engaging and feel shorter for them.
- Photography: most places can be photographed. Inside museums and synagogues there are photography rules — the guide will inform you on site.
- Accessibility: some monuments and courtyards have architectural barriers. If you need full accessibility, mention it when booking and the route will be adjusted.
Payment and practical note: most museums, cafés and restaurants accept cards, but small street vendors may be cash-only. It’s good to have some cash on hand for snacks or market purchases.
Are tickets to synagogues and museums included? - Usually not — the price covers the guiding service. The guide can help buy tickets and will tell you current rates.
How long is a standard Kazimierz walk? - Typically 2–3 hours. Two hours cover the main points; 3–4 hours allow for deeper visits and museum entries.
Is the tour suitable for children? - Yes. Routes are adapted to the age of participants and led in an engaging way.
Does the guide talk about difficult topics like World War II and the Holocaust? - Yes, but always in a measured and respectful manner. If someone in the group has concerns, this can be discussed before the walk.
Are tours available in other languages? - Yes, tours in English and other languages are possible — please arrange this when booking.
Where is the usual meeting point? - Often in central Kraków, for example the Main Market Square by the Adam Mickiewicz Monument, or another convenient spot agreed with the guide.
- Start with breakfast or coffee at Plac Nowy — it’s a great way to feel the rhythm of the neighborhood before the walk.
- Don’t be afraid to get briefly lost among the courtyards — the most atmospheric spots are often hidden there.
- If you’re interested in Jewish and Israeli cuisine, ask the guide for recommendations of local cafés and restaurants — it’s a lovely addition to the walk.
- For nicer photos without crowds, request a morning slot or a weekday.
Remember: Kazimierz is a living district, not an open-air museum. Alongside history you’ll find contemporary culture, music and gastronomy — their mix gives the walk a unique flavor.
Booking is usually done through the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com website or by phone/email — when booking, provide the date, preferred time, approximate number of participants and any special needs (e.g. accessibility, children’s ages, language).
After confirmation the guide will contact you to agree on the meeting point and any route details — this is a good time to request particular stops (for example, an extra museum visit).
On the day of the tour: arrive a few minutes early, bring an ID, wear comfortable shoes and, if you plan to enter museums, bring cash or a card for tickets (the guide will assist with purchases, but it’s good to have payment ready).
If the weather is bad, the route will be adapted — more time will be spent indoors and in museums. The guide always has a plan B.
Kazimierz is one of Kraków’s most multilayered districts: history, memory, culture and everyday life intertwine naturally here. A walk with a local guide like Małgorzata Kasprowicz gives a chance to explore these threads in an organized, empathetic and engaging way.
If you want your stay in Kraków to taste like a story rather than just a checklist of sights — choose a walk that combines knowledge with warmth and humor. You’re invited to book and to discover Kazimierz together — places full of memory and life.
