Did you know that Kazimierz was for centuries a separate town, founded by King Casimir the Great, and only later became part of Krakow? This close proximity of Wawel and the former Jewish town creates a unique space where the royal residence and traces of the centuries-long presence of the Jewish community stand almost face to face.
Kazimierz became the centre of Jewish life after the Jewish community was moved to this area at the end of the 15th century. Over the centuries synagogues, cemeteries and religious institutions were established here, some of which have survived to this day. After the tragic events of the 20th century the district underwent many changes, but the memory and material traces of Jewish Krakow remain strongly present — both in monuments and in local culture (music, festivals, cafés).
A walk linking Wawel and Kazimierz helps you understand the city’s historical layers — from medieval royal power to the everyday life of the former Jewish town. It’s an ideal route for visitors who want to explore with class: thoughtfully, respectfully and eager to understand the context.
Suggested comfortable route: start at Wawel (1.5–2 hours) — Castle, Cathedral and courtyards. Then head to Kazimierz — you can walk or take a short tram ride. Once in Kazimierz plan 2–3 hours for the main points: Szeroka Street, the Old Synagogue, Remuh Synagogue and cemetery, the Tempel Synagogue and Plac Nowy.
Recommended order: Wawel in the morning (to avoid crowds), a coffee or lunch break near the Planty or already in Kazimierz, and reserve the afternoon for a relaxed walk through Kazimierz’s streets and possible visits to museums or synagogues. In the evening consider staying for dinner — Kazimierz has a rich gastronomic and cultural offer.
If you only have a few hours, pick priorities: at Wawel visit the Cathedral, the State Rooms and the courtyard; in Kazimierz visit the Old Synagogue and the Remuh cemetery and stop at Plac Nowy to try local snacks.
Old Synagogue — one of the oldest preserved sites of Jewish culture in Krakow; it’s worth seeing its interior and the exhibitions that tell the story of the city’s Jewish community.
Remuh Synagogue and Remuh Cemetery — a place of special spiritual and historical value; the cemetery, with many old tombstones, is one of the most moving sites in this part of Krakow.
Tempel Synagogue and Izaak Synagogue — different architectural styles and social roles these buildings played over the centuries; visiting interiors helps you understand the religious and cultural daily life of former residents.
Plac Nowy and Szeroka Street — Plac Nowy is known for its market and famous zapiekanki; Szeroka Street was the heart of historic Jewish life, where important monuments and restaurants are located. The Jewish Culture Centre and the New Jewish Cemetery (Miodowa Street) are other points worth adding to your list.
Visits to synagogues and the Remuh cemetery usually require an entrance fee or a small donation — it’s useful to have some cash on hand. Opening hours may vary seasonally, so check them before your visit or plan to go in the morning/early afternoon.
Dress and behaviour — remember to show respect in places of worship and at cemeteries: speak quietly, avoid flash photography where it’s prohibited and do not walk on graves. In some synagogues men are expected to cover their heads — often kippot are available to borrow on site.
Shoes and pace — cobbled streets and narrow passages call for comfortable footwear. Don’t try to cram too many visits into one day; it’s better to explore slowly and soak up the atmosphere than to rush from point to point.
Plac Nowy — the market atmosphere and the famous zapiekanki (Polish baguette-style open toasties) are a must-try for many visitors. It’s a quick, local warm snack often chosen between sightseeing and dinner.
Restaurants and cafés — around Szeroka Street and the surrounding area you’ll find many places serving cuisine inspired by Jewish and Middle Eastern traditions, as well as classic cafés and bars. These are good spots to rest and taste local flavours.
If you prefer something more intimate — choose a small café or bar on one of the side streets of Kazimierz; the atmosphere in these places often feels more authentic than on the main thoroughfares.
Confusing Kazimierz with Podgórze — many people assume places associated with the film Schindler’s List and parts of the ghetto are in Kazimierz; some of these sites are in neighbouring Podgórze. If you want to see exhibitions related to the film’s story, plan a separate visit to Podgórze.
Visiting only at night — Kazimierz is lively after dark and has great restaurants, but the district is also worth experiencing during the day — that’s when you can better appreciate the architecture and visit monuments.
Lack of respect at places of memory — common mistakes include loud behaviour, walking on graves and inappropriate photography. Keep silence and sensitivity, especially at cemeteries and in synagogues.
Are the synagogues open to tourists? - Yes, many synagogues are accessible to visitors, but hours and admission rules vary. Check current information before travel or ask your guide.
How much time do I need to see Kazimierz? - For a basic introduction 2–3 hours is enough; for a relaxed visit including entries to monuments and a meal, plan 3–5 hours.
Is it worth combining the visit with Wawel? - Definitely yes. Wawel and Kazimierz tell complementary stories of Krakow, and visiting both gives a fuller picture of the city.
Kazimierz was once a separate town with its own walls and self-government — not just a “district” in the modern sense. That makes it unique on the map of European Jewish centres.
The Jewish Culture Festival in Krakow has been held since the early 1990s and is one of the oldest events of its kind in Europe — it draws musicians, artists and audiences from many countries.
Contrary to popular belief, not all places connected with World War II history and the film are in Kazimierz — some of them are in nearby Podgórze, which can surprise visitors who rely only on tourist maps.
If this guide was helpful, share it with friends or post it on social media — you’ll help others better plan their visit to Krakow.
If you would like to explore Kazimierz and Wawel with a guide who will show the places with knowledge, sensitivity and passion, consider booking a private guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details and contact are available at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. We wish you a beautiful, respectful and inspiring visit to Krakow!
