Plac Bohaterów Getta is today a quiet, meaningful place in the Podgórze district — the heart of the history of Kraków’s ghetto, the prewar community and sites of memory. In about three hours you can calmly see the most important points: the Eagle Pharmacy (Apteka „Pod Orłem”) museum, take in the layout and atmosphere of the square, walk toward MOCAK and Schindler’s Factory, and finish in the trendy Zabłocie area with food and coffee. This is a great plan for visitors who have little time but want to experience important and varied sides of Kraków.
If you plan to visit during commemorative events, remember that the annual March of Remembrance for the liquidation of the ghetto usually takes place around mid-March; other family or running events are sometimes organised with the square as a start or finish, but most runs are short distances (for example ~5 km) rather than long multi-hour races.
First 30–45 minutes: start right at Plac Bohaterów Getta. Take a moment to understand the space: the monument, the layout of the square and the historical context. It’s worth visiting the Eagle Pharmacy (Apteka „Pod Orłem”) — a small, moving museum dedicated to the role of Tadeusz Pankiewicz and everyday life in the ghetto.
Next 45–60 minutes: walk to MOCAK and Schindler’s Factory — a stroll that shows the transformation of industrial Zabłocie into a contemporary art hub. MOCAK offers rotating exhibitions, and the factory grounds and surroundings help tell the story of the district’s history and revival.
Last hour: relax in the Zabłocie area — choose a food hall (for example a multi-concept hall) or one of the well-rated nearby restaurants. This is the perfect time for coffee, dessert and a short recap of the walk. If you’d rather keep moving than sit, head to the Vistula riverbanks — the Boulevards are a pleasant option for a quick rest with a river view.
The March of Remembrance marking the anniversary of the ghetto liquidation is held annually in March and traditionally starts at Plac Bohaterów Getta. This is a commemorative event attended by residents and visitors.
In recent years there have also been sport-and-education events, such as remembrance runs, that use the square as a start or finish — these are often shorter distances (e.g. 5 km) combining sport with historical education. If you want to take part in a run, check the date and registration rules before you travel. Don’t expect the square to be a venue for long-distance training sessions — most local activities are shorter and many municipal events take place nearby.
Also be aware of seasonal changes to traffic or construction works — during larger infrastructure projects access to the square and tram lines may be altered.
Plac Bohaterów Getta is in an easily reachable part of Podgórze. There are nearby tram and bus stops and Kraków Zabłocie railway station within walking distance. Public transport is usually the most convenient option — check current timetables and buy an MPK ticket (mobile apps work well).
If you plan to visit museums (the Eagle Pharmacy, MOCAK, the Schindler’s Factory branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Kraków), check opening hours in advance — seasonal exhibitions and hours may change. On weekends and during peak season queues can be longer, so allow some extra time.
For visitors with limited mobility: some venues and public spaces in Podgórze are accessible, but you may encounter high curbs and sections of historic paving. Check accessibility information for each site you plan to visit.
Zabłocie is now one of Kraków’s most interesting gastronomic neighbourhoods — from food halls with multiple concepts to restaurants that focus on local ingredients. The area hosts places that combine good quality with reasonable prices — a food hall is a fast option if you’re in a group and everyone wants something different. Emalia Zabłocie and similar venues in revitalised industrial spaces offer solid dishes and a pleasant atmosphere.
A few practical tips: pick venues with high ratings and many reviews — that’s the safest way to find consistent quality. If you want something quick, look for nearby cafés and patisseries — coffee and cake after the walk is a great way to close a three-hour route. Remember to reserve a table for larger groups or for later evening slots.
If you’re curious about the local food scene, stroll Zabłocie’s streets — you’ll find new concepts and food trucks; it’s a good chance to try something off the usual tourist track.
The Eagle Pharmacy (Apteka „Pod Orłem”) during the war was a place that provided real help to ghetto residents — it is not only an exhibition but a story about people who acted in extreme conditions. Many parts of the display were created or expanded thanks to local cultural initiatives.
The Zabłocie district has undergone a big transformation in recent years: from industrial grounds to a place of art, dining and housing. It’s a good example of how urban space can be repurposed while keeping traces of its history.
The city has been carrying out small projects to tidy the square — recent plans included planting and organising greenery to balance the site’s role as a memorial with everyday public use.
Underestimating the time needed for museum visits and then rushing through the square — plan 30–45 minutes for the Eagle Pharmacy and at least 45–60 minutes for MOCAK/the surrounding area. It’s better to allow more time than less.
Showing a lack of respect during remembrance ceremonies — if you encounter a march, ceremony or gathering, keep quiet and avoid disturbing the event. Do not take photos during official parts of ceremonies.
Confusing Podgórze with Kazimierz — they are different faces of Kraków. Podgórze (Plac Bohaterów Getta, Zabłocie) has its own history and character, distinct from Kazimierz; both are worth visiting but require different expectations and approaches.
Is Plac Bohaterów Getta safe? Yes — it is a memorial place and normal tourist traffic is common. Use ordinary precautions with personal belongings as you would in any tourist area.
How long does it take to visit the Eagle Pharmacy? Usually 30–45 minutes is enough for a calm visit and a moment of reflection.
Are there toilets on the square and where to eat? There are cafés and eateries nearby in Zabłocie; museums and larger sites (MOCAK, Schindler’s Factory branch) have visitor toilets. Pop into a local venue if you need a quick bite.
Dress comfortably and show respect for the character of the place — Plac Bohaterów Getta is more than an attraction; it’s a space of memory. Take a moment for silence and reflection.
If you’d like to explore the topic in depth with a guide, feel free to contact private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — information about tours and contact details can be found on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Custom routes are available to match different interests and time limits.
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