Did you know that for centuries Kazimierz functioned almost like a separate town and was for a long time one of the most important centers of Jewish life in Poland? Today it is one of the most atmospheric districts of Krakow — full of historic sites, intimate streets, synagogues, squares with cafés and places of memory. This article will help you plan a walk, point out the 10 most important spots and give practical information useful while exploring. We’ll be practical, friendly and — most importantly — focused on what’s really worth seeing and where to eat well.
Kazimierz brings together many layers of history: medieval beginnings, centuries of Jewish community life, the destruction of World War II and a modern cultural revival. It’s worth strolling slowly here — many small details are waiting to be noticed.
Below you’ll find a list of 10 key places, practical tips, recommended places to eat and a walking route you can complete in about 2–4 hours.
1. Old Synagogue (Szeroka Street) - one of the oldest prayer houses in Poland, today a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow. The interior and exhibits tell the story of Krakow’s Jewish community. It’s a great place to start exploring the district.
2. Remuh Synagogue and Remuh Cemetery (Szeroka Street) - a small but historically important 16th-century synagogue. Directly behind it is the Jewish cemetery (kirkut) with gravestones going back centuries, including the grave of the famous Rabbi Moses Isserles (Remu). This is a place of remembrance of prewar Jewish life in Krakow.
3. Tempel Synagogue (Miodowa Street) - a neo-Romanesque building, later than some of the other prayer houses, with a more 'open' interior; its rear area often hosts colorful umbrellas and small cultural events. The Tempel is also a venue for events during the Jewish Culture Festival.
4. Kupa Synagogue (Józefa Street / Old Kazimierz area) - a baroque synagogue, interesting architecturally and connected to the prewar community. Its history shows how varied the functions of Kazimierz buildings have been over the centuries.
5. Church of Corpus Christi - a beautiful Renaissance-Baroque church with an interesting history and rich interior; worth a visit to see the contrast between Catholic monuments and the Jewish spaces of Kazimierz.
6. Skałka Church (Basilica of St. Michael and St. Stanislaus) - located above the Vistula, associated with the cult of St. Stanislaus. Important both historically and for the views — the area around the basilica offers nice panoramas of Wawel and the river.
7. Plac Nowy - one of the most recognizable spots in Kazimierz: a square with the distinctive circular pavilion and lots of cafés and stalls serving the iconic zapiekanka. A great place to take a break and watch district life.
8. Plac Wolnica - the historic square that was the heart of the old town of Kazimierz. Today it’s a meeting place, venue for markets and outdoor events; it’s surrounded by interesting tenement houses and cafés.
9. Austeria Bookshop and antique galleries - Kazimierz is also an artists’ quarter: small galleries, antique shops and atmospheric bookshops worth visiting if you like souvenirs with character and literature about local history.
10. Father Bernatek Footbridge (pedestrian–cycle bridge over the Vistula) - a walk from Kazimierz brings you to a bridge with pleasant views of the river, Wawel and the old city walls; it’s a great spot for photos at sunset.
For centuries Kazimierz was an enclave of Jewish culture and religion; only after World War II was the community drastically reduced. In the postwar period the district fell into decline, and over subsequent decades experienced a renaissance: restored synagogues, galleries, cafés and festivals brought it back to life. Today Kazimierz combines memory and everyday life: historic prayer houses stand next to lively bars and restaurants, and on the streets you’ll see both tourists and locals. It’s a place best visited with respect and curiosity.
Keep in mind that many synagogues and memorial sites are not only attractions but also places of worship and remembrance. Observe silence and show respect, and follow rules that apply in sacred places. If you visit on Friday afternoon or Saturday, check opening times in advance because some prayer houses hold services and may not be open to visitors.
If you want a deeper experience of Jewish culture, look for events from the Jewish Culture Festival, concerts, exhibitions and chamber music performances that animate Kazimierz, especially in summer.
- Time: allow about 2–4 hours to calmly see the main sites; if you want to enter museum rooms and synagogues, set aside a full day.
- Opening hours and tickets: many synagogues charge admission and have limited opening hours. On Saturdays (Shabbat) some sites are closed. Before visiting, check current opening times on official institution pages or local information sources.
- Dress and behavior: wear modest clothing in places of worship; men may be asked to put on a kippah (skullcap) at the entrance. Respect places of remembrance — do not sit on graves or use them as picnic spots.
- Getting there and parking: Kazimierz is an easy walk from the Main Market Square or reachable by public transport. Parking in the center is paid and can be difficult — consider underground parking or using tram/bus options.
- Accessibility: some historic sites have limited accessibility for people with disabilities due to the age of the buildings; if you need accommodations, check with the site manager in advance.
Kazimierz is a mecca for good food with a varied offer — from small stalls selling zapiekankas at Plac Nowy to restaurants serving Jewish, Mediterranean and Polish cuisine. A few trusted suggestions:
- Hamsa - a popular spot with Yiddish and Mediterranean influences; known for hummus, falafel and a friendly atmosphere.
- Starka - a restaurant serving Polish dishes in a refreshed, intimate setting; a good choice for a longer lunch or dinner.
- Plac Nowy 1 (zapiekanka stall) - an iconic place for a quick local snack: the open-faced sandwiches served here have attracted locals and visitors for years.
- Cafés and bars: Kazimierz has numerous cafés and moody bars (for example the well-known Alchemia) — perfect for a break between sightseeing or an evening out.
Remember that in summer it’s wise to reserve tables at popular restaurants and expect larger crowds in the evening. If you want authentic flavors of Jewish cuisine, look for places that include dishes inspired by the local Jewish culinary tradition.
Start: Szeroka Street (Old Synagogue) - then Remuh Synagogue and cemetery - head toward Tempel Synagogue (Miodowa Street), walk to Plac Nowy for a break (zapiekanka or coffee) - circle Plac Wolnica and visit nearby galleries and bookshops (for example Austeria) - continue to the Church of Corpus Christi and Skałka Church - finish the walk on Father Bernatek Footbridge with views of the Vistula and Wawel.
The route is flexible: if you want to enter synagogues, add time for tickets and possible queues. On hot days bring water and sun protection; in cooler months wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing.
If you have more time, combine the walk with a visit to museum branches of the Museum of Krakow or go toward Podgórze to see the Oskar Schindler Factory Museum and broaden the historical context of the city.
Are the synagogues open every day? - Not always. Many prayer houses have varying hours and are sometimes closed on Saturdays due to services. Check current hours before you go.
How much time do I need to visit Kazimierz? - For a basic route with entry to a few places plan 2–4 hours; to explore the district at a relaxed pace, including a meal and museum visits, reserve a full day.
Is Kazimierz suitable for families with children? - Yes. Kazimierz is a walkable district with many child-friendly spots (shorter walks and places to eat). Remember to explain the significance of memorial sites to children and maintain respect in cemeteries and synagogues.
Do I need a guide? - You can explore on your own using this article as a plan, but a guide will provide more details and stories. For deeper historical context tailored to your interests, consider booking a personalized tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
Kazimierz is best explored on foot and without hurry: stop in bookshops, peek into narrow alleys, try local flavors and let yourself be surprised by small galleries. Remember to show respect at places of remembrance and for the local community. Whether you’re interested in history, food, music or photography — Kazimierz has something to offer every visitor.
If you’re planning a visit and would like a tailor-made walking plan, routes with breaks or culinary recommendations for a particular day of the week or season, visit zwiedzaniekrakowa.com where you can find more tips and help planning your trip. Enjoy your visit and happy discoveries in the charming corners of Kazimierz!
If you’d like, I can now prepare a short ready-to-use walking itinerary with times and transport tips matched to how many hours you have and which month you’re visiting — tell me how long you’ll be in Krakow and which month you’ll come.
