The Remuh Synagogue and the adjoining cemetery combine history, spirituality and the unique atmosphere of historic Kazimierz. The synagogue dates back to the 16th century and is connected to Rabbi Moses Isserles, known as Remuh; the cemetery (kirkut) contains tombstones from the 16th–19th centuries. This is not just another point on the map of monuments — it is an important site for Jewish memory and a valuable source of the city's history. A visit here offers a quieter, more reflective view of Kraków's past than the busy Main Square.
In practice, keep a few simple rules in mind: the synagogue functions as an active house of prayer and the cemetery is a place of worship and respect — keep quiet, show respect, and dress appropriately. For families with children it’s a great chance to tell simple, age-appropriate stories about Kraków’s multicultural past.
The synagogue is associated with Moses Isserles, an eminent 16th-century rabbi and scholar. After several reconstructions the building retains elements of its historic interior and is one of the few places in Kraków where regular Jewish services still take place.
The Remuh Cemetery was established around the mid-16th century. After 20th-century restoration work hundreds of matzevot were revealed — today you can see over 700 gravestones. Fragments of damaged stones were used in the surrounding wall, creating a kind of "wall of memory."
When planning your visit, check opening hours in advance: the synagogue and cemetery are often closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays — this is a common source of disappointment for visitors, so it’s safer to come on a weekday or Sunday.
1. Wawel (Castle and Cathedral) – the heart of Poland’s royal history; stroll the hill and enjoy the view over the Vistula. - 2. Main Market Square and St. Mary’s Basilica – a vast medieval square with the Cloth Hall and the trumpet call from St. Mary’s tower. - 3. Kazimierz – the former Jewish quarter with an unforgettable atmosphere, full of cafés, galleries and historic sites, including the Remuh Synagogue. - 4. Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory – a powerful account of Kraków during World War II. - 5. Cloth Hall and the National Museum – art and the market traditions of the Square. - 6. Planty Park and a walk between the city gates – a relaxing green belt around the Old Town. - 7. Kościuszko Mound or Krakus Mound – panoramic viewpoints for lovers of cityscapes. - 8. Historical Museum of the City of Kraków (townhouses by the Square) – local stories and legends. - 9. Jagiellonian University Botanical Garden / the Zoo – a good option for families to get away from cobbled streets. - 10. Szeroka Street and the Remuh area – where history meets modern life: cafés, small galleries and boutique shops.
This shorter list helps plan a route: if you have one day, focus on the Market Square, Wawel and Kazimierz; if you’re traveling at family pace, leave more time for café breaks and playgrounds.
Choose a morning or late-afternoon slot — there are fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures. Keep in mind that entrance to the cemetery is usually through a small square in front of the synagogue, which can make bringing a stroller awkward; consider a baby carrier or a lightweight folding stroller that’s easy to carry upstairs.
Tell a short, simple story before you enter: children are more comfortable when they know what to expect. Instead of complicated dates, talk about the people who lived here, old crafts, and that this is a place of memory — keep it simple and respectful.
Check opening hours before you go — the synagogue is often closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. It’s helpful to have a short guided narrative (or a small map) to point out the main spots quickly and avoid stretching the visit beyond the children’s patience.
Kraków has many family-friendly spots where dessert becomes part of a pleasant afternoon. Here are recommended places that combine good reviews with family amenities:
- Famiga (Old Town / near Starowiślna) – a club-café with a children’s corner, activities and a menu adapted to little ones; ideal for ice cream and homemade cakes. - LikeKonik (All Saints’ Square) – a club-café with a playroom, regular activities and a special kids’ menu; great for a relaxed dessert. - Poranki (Kazimierz) – a popular place serving waffles and desserts, with child-friendly options and a cozy interior. - Muhabbet (Kazimierz) – a spot with interesting cuisine that often offers sweet options, a good stop after a walk through Kazimierz. - Vis a Vis (Podgórze) and other traditional cafés – if you’re after classic cakes like cheesecake or apple pie in a snug setting. When you prefer ice cream, look for small local parlors in Kazimierz and the Old Town — they often serve natural flavors and have shorter lines than the busiest tourist outlets.
- Reservations: popular cafés can be full at weekends — booking a table (if possible) saves time and stress. - Kids’ menus and allergies: many places offer simple desserts for children (pancakes, waffles, ice cream), but if someone has allergies inform the staff — they’ll often recommend safe options. - Cost: a dessert with a drink in a popular café on the Old Town usually costs around 20–40 PLN per person; when budgeting, add a little for snacks for children. - Play breaks: combine dessert with a short stay at a playground (for example near the Planty or smaller playgrounds in Kazimierz) so kids can burn off energy before the next walk.
1. Arriving on Saturday to a functioning synagogue or cemetery — result: closed entrance. Instead, choose a weekday or Sunday. - 2. Lack of respect for a place of memory — don’t sit on gravestones, don’t make loud noise, and avoid touching historic tombstones. This is first and foremost a place of worship. - 3. Not preparing for narrow passages with a stroller — if comfort matters, bring a light stroller or carrier. - 4. Photographing thoughtlessly — photos are generally allowed, but avoid photographing people during prayer or moments of concentration and always be discreet. - 5. Expecting crowds (or no crowds) at any given time — Kraków has a tourist season (spring–autumn), so plan ahead to avoid long queues at the most popular attractions.
Is the Remuh Synagogue open to tourists? Yes — but with caveats: it functions as an active house of prayer and has set visiting hours; it may be closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.
Can I enter the cemetery with a stroller? Entrance is possible, but the terrain and narrow passages may make maneuvering a large stroller difficult. A carrier is better for infants.
Is special clothing required? There’s no formal tourist dress code, but modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) is appreciated out of respect for a place of worship.
Are there entrance fees? The synagogue may charge a small fee for visits during certain hours; many practical details are available at local tourist information points.
- A memorial spot and a free place by the aron ha-kodesh: inside the synagogue there is a memorial area connected with the figure of Remuh and the traditions of the local community. - "Wall of stones" made from matzevot: fragments of damaged gravestones were incorporated into the surrounding wall — a visible symbol of history and restoration. - Kazimierz’s culture is hybrid: walking along Szeroka, Miodowa or Jakuba you’ll see traces of Jewish, Polish and contemporary cultural life all in one place.
If this guide helped you plan your visit — share it with friends or on social media so others can use the practical tips. If you want to explore Kraków more deeply and prefer to visit with someone who will tell anecdotes and tailor the route to your family, consider booking a private guide with Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Zwiedzanie Krakowa). Enjoy your visit and many sweet breaks with the children in Kraków!
