Kazimierz is one of the most atmospheric parts of Kraków, but its charm comes with cobbled streets, steps and narrow passages. If you plan to walk with an older person, it’s worth preparing a plan: where the nearest accessible toilets are, which places have easy entrances and where you can stop for coffee or a quiet rest. This guide will help you plan a route so that visiting is more comfortable and enjoyable for seniors.
Jan Matejko's House (Floriańska Street 41) is a small historic museum connected with the life and work of one of Poland’s greatest painters. The place keeps the authentic atmosphere of his studio and preserved objects worth seeing, but there is one important thing to remember: the branch is not accessible for wheelchair users. In practice this means steps and narrow passages that may make entry difficult for people with mobility problems.
If a senior has limited mobility, consider seeing Jan Matejko's House only from the outside (the façade, the relief with the painter’s palette) and using the museum’s virtual tour options, or plan alternative nearby stops instead.
In central Kraków and around Kazimierz you’ll find both public toilets managed by the city and toilets in museums or cafés. When planning a route with a senior, remember a few reliable locations: the Planty (several access points around the Old Town), the Main Market Square (Sukiennice) and the boulevards along the Vistula. Near popular tourist sites there are often toilets in larger museums and centres — but not all of them are adapted for reduced mobility.
In practice it’s useful to have a map on your phone showing toilets and to plan breaks every 60–90 minutes — especially when you’re with an older person. If you need an adapted toilet, look for terms like “toilet for people with disabilities” or “accessible toilet.”
Before you buy tickets, check the accessibility information for the venue. Not every historic townhouse-museum has lifts, ramps or adapted restrooms, even if the exhibition is small. In the case of Jan Matejko's House keep in mind the limitations that result from the building’s historic structure.
If the museum offers a virtual tour or an online version of the exhibition, that can be a great solution for people who can’t cope with stairs — they can still get the atmosphere of the place without facing architectural barriers.
Plan short stretches of walking and frequent stops — benches and café terraces in Kazimierz are perfect for resting.
Choose routes that avoid the most uneven cobble stones — a slightly longer, more modern street can be safer than a narrow historic alley.
Pack a small first-aid kit, a bottle of water and some snacks. Older people are more likely to feel temperature changes and sudden fatigue, so short breaks help keep energy up throughout the day.
If the senior has difficulty moving, check in advance about side-door access or contact venue staff — sometimes staff can help find the easiest entrance.
Kazimierz offers many places with different atmospheres: from cosy cafés to well-reviewed restaurants. If comfort for a senior matters, choose venues with seating on the ground floor, without high thresholds and with comfortable chairs.
Popular venues often recommended by visitors include Starka (traditional cuisine in Kazimierz), Hamsa (Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food) and the cosy cafés around Nowy Square. These places combine good food with friendly service and often allow table reservations, which can help when comfort is a priority.
If you plan a meal with a senior, reserve a table in advance and let the staff know you need a convenient spot (near the entrance, without steps).
Assuming “the centre always has accessible toilets” — not all small museums or cafés have adapted restrooms. It’s always worth checking beforehand or asking.
Not planning breaks — a long walk without rests can be tiring; schedule stops and meals at places where the senior can sit and recover.
Ignoring weather and surface conditions — rain makes cobbles slippery, and hot weather requires more frequent rests and extra water. Good shoes and a lightweight jacket are must-haves.
Does Jan Matejko's House have an accessible toilet? - Historic townhouses like Jan Matejko's House usually have architectural limitations; before visiting it’s worth contacting the institution or considering an exterior visit combined with virtual materials.
Where can I quickly find an accessible toilet in the centre? - There are public toilets around the Planty and the Main Market Square, and larger museums sometimes have facilities — it’s helpful to have a map or an app that shows them.
Are there benches and places to rest in Kazimierz? - Yes, along main streets and squares you’ll find café terraces and public benches; plan a break every hour to keep the walk pleasant.
Many visitors don’t realize some museums offer private or quieter entry hours for people who need a calmer experience — it’s worth asking about this possibility.
If the senior likes photography, suggest spots with comfortable seating and nice light (for example around the Remuh Synagogue or quiet corners near Józefa Street) — this makes visiting less tiring and more relaxing.
On colder days, venues with a fireplace or a warm interior (some cafés in Kazimierz) are a great way to recharge between sights.
Visiting Kazimierz with an older person can be a wonderful experience if you plan the route with comfort and frequent breaks in mind. Check entrance and toilet accessibility at places you want to visit, use virtual tours where buildings don’t allow easy entry, and choose well-rated venues with friendly staff.
If you liked this guide, share it with friends or on social media — you’ll help others plan a better trip. If you’d like to explore Kraków with the support of a private guide, you’re invited to contact Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available via Zwiedzanie Krakowa. Enjoy your walk!
