Visiting Kazimierz and taking a trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the most rewarding pairings near Krakow: from the atmospheric streets and the multicultural history of the district to the underground chambers carved from salt.
This plan lets you experience two very different sides of the city and region — the warm cafés and mezze above ground and the cool, monumental Chapel of St. Kinga below — while still enjoying good food. Below you’ll find practical routes, specific restaurants and tips that make organizing the day easier.
Option A - Wieliczka in the morning, Kazimierz in the afternoon and evening: leave Krakow early, visit the Salt Mine (the tourist route usually takes 2–3 hours), return to the city and finish the day with dinner in Kazimierz. This is a good choice if you want to avoid the biggest crowds underground and enjoy the evening atmosphere in the district.
Option B - Kazimierz in the morning and before noon, Wieliczka in the afternoon: start with a walk along Szeroka Street, Nowy Square and the synagogues, have lunch at one of the local restaurants, then head to Wieliczka. This variant suits visitors who prefer to explore underground later in the day when surface crowds may be lower.
When planning your route, allow time for breaks — coffee, dessert and a little shopping. It’s worth booking Wieliczka tickets and an evening table at popular places in advance.
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site; some of its oldest parts date back to the Middle Ages, while the salt deposits formed millions of years ago.
On the tourist route you’ll see impressive chambers, salt sculptures and the famous Chapel of St. Kinga. A commonly noted fact is the steady temperature in the public parts of the mine — bring a light extra layer because it can be cooler underground than on the surface (a thin jacket or sweater is recommended).
The standard tourist route usually takes about 2–3 hours; there are also shorter or longer options and miners’ routes for those who want a more active experience. It’s a good idea to reserve tickets and time slots in advance, especially in high season and on weekends.
Kazimierz is a district with a strong multicultural history: synagogues, Wolnica Square, Szeroka Street, Nowy Square and the characteristic Estery and Józefa streets make a perfect walking route.
Where to eat — examples and the character of each place (different styles, different budgets):
Hamsa — known for Middle Eastern mezze, great for sharing at a larger table and for trying hummus, falafel and roasted vegetables.
Starka — Polish cuisine with a creative touch; a cozy place for meat dishes and traditional flavors.
Nolio — Neapolitan-style pizza and simple pastas; a great option when you want something quick and reliable.
Youmiko Sushi — precise rolls and fresh combinations; perfect for lovers of Japanese flavors.
Plac Nowy 1 — a spot with simple, tasty dishes, often chosen by people who want an informal atmosphere and good value.
For breakfast consider cafés that serve shakshuka, challah or toasts — Kazimierz has many pleasant coffee spots to start the day.
Kazimierz offers many plant-based options — hummus, roasted vegetables, salads and vegetable appetizers appear on many menus. Restaurants increasingly mark gluten-free items, and in Middle Eastern places pita can often be swapped for an alternative.
If you have special dietary requirements, mention them when booking — many kitchens are happy to make simple modifications.
You can reach Wieliczka by train, bus or car — the trip from central Krakow is short, but allow extra time for travel and possible traffic in peak season.
For Wieliczka bring a light warm layer, comfortable shoes and a water bottle. There are stairs and a fair amount of walking underground, so comfort matters.
In Kazimierz it’s often wise to reserve a table for the evening. If there’s no table available, ask about the bar or high tables — sometimes those are the best seats for watching the street.
Payments — most places accept cards, but it’s useful to carry some small cash for stalls or tiny cafés.
Parking — space is limited in the very center; if you drive, consider a garage or parking a few streets away and walking in.
Not booking Wieliczka tickets and popular dinner spots — places fill up in season. Plan tickets and tables ahead.
Dressing "for summer" before descending — even on warm days it’s cool underground; too-light clothing will make the visit less comfortable.
Trying to see everything in a very short time — it’s better to see fewer things well and include breaks for food and rest.
Assuming you’ll find fully kosher food on every corner in Kazimierz — the district offers many dishes inspired by Jewish and Israeli cuisine, but a full kosher offer can be limited.
Wieliczka is not just tourist chambers — underground there are many artistic sculptures and chapels made of salt, including the impressive Chapel of St. Kinga.
Kazimierz preserves traces of centuries of cultural coexistence — as you walk, notice places of worship from both traditions located close to each other, which gives the district its unique character.
How long does it take to visit Wieliczka? The standard tourist route usually lasts about 2–3 hours.
Do I need to buy Wieliczka tickets in advance? In season and on weekends it’s definitely worth booking ahead to avoid long lines.
Is Kazimierz safe in the evening? Yes — it’s a popular tourist district; as everywhere, use normal precautions and watch out for pickpockets in crowded places.
Is it worth combining sightseeing with tasting the local cuisine? Definitely — food is an important part of the Kazimierz experience and a great way to pause between activities.
If this article helped you plan your day, share it on social media or send it to friends — good routes are worth recommending!
If you’d like a stress-free, tailor-made visit, consider the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Contact details and the offer are available on the guide’s website.
