Krakow: What to see? If you’re asking yourself this question, the answer is simple: Kazimierz. This historic district is the soulful heart of the city, where centuries of Jewish heritage meet the vibrant energy of modern-day Poland. To help you navigate its cobblestone streets, we’ve prepared a ready-to-follow walking plan for the Jewish Quarter in Krakow, focusing on the most iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Today, Kazimierz is famous as Krakow’s trendiest neighborhood, bustling with artistic cafés and legendary pubs. However, behind the lively façade of the Stary Bazar lies a deeper story. In this guide, we take you on a journey back in time, following the footsteps of former residents to discover the true spirit of the historic Jewish Quarter. Join us as we explore the most atmospheric corners of the city, where history still whispers from every corner.
📍 Kazimierz: Traveler’s Essentials 2026
- ⏱️ Time needed: 3–5 hours for a main walk; full day for museum enthusiasts.
- 👟 Best way to explore: On foot. The streets are narrow and often cobbled.
- 🌙 Nightlife & Vibe: One of the most popular spots for nightlife in Poland! The district never sleeps, and you’ll meet travelers and locals from all over the world in its countless bars and clubs.
- 🥯 Must-try food: Zapiekanka at Plac Nowy or traditional Jewish cuisine on Szeroka Street.
- 🕍 Synagogue Tickets: Most sites cost around 10–18 PLN. Look for combined tickets to save money.
- ⚠️ Important: Remember that synagogues and Jewish museums are closed on Saturdays (Sabbath) and religious holidays.
- 🚗 Parking: Very limited and expensive. We recommend leaving your car at the Hostel Retro parking or using public transport (trams 3, 8, 10, 13, 24).
- 💡 Pro-Tip: Visit on a Monday to take advantage of free admission to the Old Synagogue (Museum of Krakow).
Contents
- History in a Nutshell
- Kazimierz Krakow Nightlife
- Schindler’s List Filming Locations
- Szeroka Street
- Helena Rubinstein’s Birthplace
- Remuh Cemetery & Synagogue
- The Synagogues of Kazimierz
- Okrąglak at Plac Nowy
- Where to Stay in Krakow
- FAQ – Visiting Kazimierz
History in a Nutshell: When Kazimierz was a Rival to Krakow
You might be surprised to learn that for over 400 years, Kazimierz was not a district, but a completely separate city from Krakow.
- The King’s Vision: Founded in 1335 by King Casimir III the Great, it was named Civitas Kazimiriensis in his honor. The King wanted to create a powerful center for crafts and trade that would rival the neighboring capital.
- The Island City: Originally, Kazimierz was practically an island, separated from Krakow by a now-dead branch of the Vistula River.
- Growing Fast: In 1340, the town expanded by incorporating the village of Bawół (near today’s Szeroka Street), and massive defensive walls were raised to protect the King’s new investment.
This independent spirit is still felt today in the district’s unique layout and atmosphere, which differs significantly from Krakow’s Main Market Square.
Kazimierz Krakow Nightlife – Cafés, Restaurants and Alternative Bars
The historic district of Kazimierz is not only famous for its Jewish heritage and historic synagogues. Today, it’s also the heart of Krakow’s alternative culture and nightlife scene. As evening falls, the streets fill with locals, students, artists, and travelers looking for a relaxed atmosphere, great food, and unique bars.
Here are some of the most interesting cafés, restaurants, and alternative venues you can find while exploring Kazimierz.
Café Culture in Kazimierz
Kazimierz is full of atmospheric cafés, many of them located in historic townhouses and hidden courtyards.
One of the most iconic places is Alchemia, a legendary café-bar known for its candlelit interior and slightly mysterious atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to start an evening in Kazimierz.
Another popular spot is Cheder Café, inspired by Jewish culture and traditions. It’s famous for excellent coffee, Middle Eastern flavors, and a quiet courtyard.
If you prefer something more modern, Kolanko No 6 is a favorite among students and digital nomads. The relaxed vibe and affordable breakfasts make it one of the most popular cafés in the district.
Restaurants Worth Visiting
Kazimierz is also a fantastic place to try both traditional Polish cuisine and modern international dishes.
A legendary address is Hamsa Hummus & Happiness Israeli Restobar, known for its colorful Middle Eastern dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
For those looking to taste authentic Polish food, Starka Restaurant is often considered one of the best restaurants in the district. The menu focuses on traditional Polish recipes and house-made flavored vodkas.
Another great place is Plac Nowy 1, a stylish venue located right next to the lively Plac Nowy.
Alternative Bars and Nightlife
If you’re interested in Krakow nightlife, Kazimierz is definitely the place to be.
One of the most famous nightlife spots is Singer, a bar where old sewing machines serve as tables. The interior feels like stepping into a different era, and the atmosphere becomes lively late in the evening.
Another iconic venue is Eszeweria, known for its candlelit rooms, vintage furniture, and artistic crowd.
For live music lovers, Harris Piano Jazz Bar and Alchemia often host jazz concerts and cultural events.
Street Food at Plac Nowy
No visit to Kazimierz would be complete without stopping at Plac Nowy, the lively center of the district. In the middle of the square stands a round building known as the Okrąglak, where you can try one of Krakow’s most famous street foods — zapiekanka, a toasted baguette with cheese and various toppings.
It’s cheap, delicious, and considered by many locals to be the ultimate late-night snack in Kazimierz.
Schindler’s List Filming Locations in Kazimierz
For many international visitors, Kazimierz is also closely associated with the famous film Schindler’s List, directed by Steven Spielberg. Although the story takes place in Krakow during World War II, a large part of the movie was actually filmed in the streets of Kazimierz, which preserved the authentic atmosphere of the old Jewish quarter.
Walking through this historic district, you can still recognize several locations that appeared in the film. For movie fans, visiting these places is like stepping into scenes from one of the most powerful historical films ever made.
Szeroka Street – The Heart of the Jewish Quarter
One of the most recognizable filming locations is Szeroka Street, the historic center of the Jewish quarter. In Schindler’s List, this street was transformed into a bustling pre-war Jewish marketplace.
Today, Szeroka Street is one of the most atmospheric places in Kazimierz. Historic synagogues, cafés, and restaurants line the square-like street, making it a great place to pause and imagine what life here looked like before the war.
The Old Synagogue
Another important filming location is the Old Synagogue, one of the oldest surviving synagogues in Poland. The building appears in several scenes of the film and today houses a branch of the historical museum dedicated to Jewish culture in Krakow.
Remuh Synagogue and Cemetery
Just a short walk away is the historic Remuh Synagogue and the adjacent Remuh Cemetery. Although the cemetery itself was not heavily used as a filming location, the area around it strongly reflects the atmosphere shown in the movie.
Plac Nowy and the Surrounding Streets
Some of the surrounding streets near Plac Nowy were also used during filming to recreate the everyday life of Krakow’s Jewish community before World War II. The narrow streets and historic buildings of Kazimierz made it one of the most convincing locations for Spielberg’s production.
Today, the district is lively and full of cafés, galleries, and restaurants, but many corners still preserve the historical atmosphere that made it such a perfect setting for Schindler’s List.
For travelers interested in history, cinema, and culture, exploring Schindler’s List filming locations in Kazimierz adds another fascinating layer to discovering this remarkable part of Krakow.
Oskar Schindler’s Factory
One of the most important historical sites connected with Schindler’s List is Oskar Schindler Factory. The factory was established in 1937, and from the very beginning it produced enamelware products.
In 1939, the factory was taken over by the German industrialist Oskar Schindler, whose efforts to save Jewish workers during World War II later became known around the world. Thanks to his actions, more than a thousand Jewish people were protected from deportation and certain death.
Today, the historic building is part of the Museum of Krakow. In 2007, it was transformed into a modern museum dedicated to the history of Krakow during the German occupation between 1939 and 1945. The exhibition at Lipowa Street 4 presents everyday life in the city during World War II through photographs, documents, and immersive displays.
Oskar Schindler Factory Museum
📍 Lipowa 4, Krakow
Opening hours:
- Monday: 10:00 – 14:00
- Tuesday – Sunday: 9:00 – 18:00
- Closed on the first Tuesday of each month
Ticket prices:
- Regular ticket: 32 PLN
- Reduced ticket: 28 PLN
- Family ticket: 64 PLN
⚠️ Important: Admission is free on Mondays, which makes it a popular day for visitors.
Szeroka Street: The Historic Heart of Kazimierz
Don’t let the name fool you – Szeroka is not a typical street, but a massive, elongated square that served as the representative center of the town. Walking here feels like stepping into a 16th-century postcard, lined with synagogues, grand townhouses, and centuries-old history.
What to look for on Szeroka Street?
- The Landau House (No. 2): At the northern end, you’ll find this impressive late-18th-century townhouse. It’s one of the finest examples of local architecture, preserving original vaulted rooms and historical details.
- The “Island” of History: The square stands on the grounds of the former village of Bawół, which became the soul of Jewish life in Krakow shortly after 1335.
🕯️ The Legend of the Cursed Wedding
Just opposite the Remuh Synagogue, there is a small green plot with a dark mystery. Local legend says a wedding party was held here years ago. The guests ignored the Rabbi’s warnings that the Sabbath was beginning and continued to dance.
The Rabbi, offended by their lack of respect, supposedly cursed the house. It collapsed into the ground, burying everyone inside. For centuries, the plot remained walled off as a grim warning.
The Reality: While the legend is haunting, historians suggest the site was likely a separate cemetery for victims of an epidemic – traditionally buried away from the main graves.
💄 Helena Rubinstein’s Birthplace: Where Beauty Met Marketing
At 14 Szeroka Street, you’ll find a modest, inconspicuous townhouse marked with a commemorative plaque. This was the childhood home of Chaja Rubinstein—later known as Helena Rubinstein, the “Queen of Cosmetics” and one of the richest women in history.
The Self-Made Myth Rubinstein was a master of branding long before the term existed. While she lived here in a simple house, she later told the global media she grew up in a “spacious mansion on the main square” and came from a family of wealthy doctors. She knew that in the beauty industry, the story is just as important as the product.
“There are no ugly women, only lazy ones.”
— Helena Rubinstein
The Miracle Cream The legend of her empire began with a small jar of face cream supposedly given to her by her mother. Helena claimed her mother used it on all eight daughters every night to ensure they grew up beautiful. Whether true or not, this “miracle cream” became the foundation of a global empire that started right here, in the heart of Kazimierz.
Remuh Cemetery & Synagogue: A Journey into the Soul of Kazimierz
Located just steps away from the Old Synagogue, the Remuh Cemetery (established in 1535) is one of the oldest and most significant Jewish burial grounds in Europe. For anyone exploring the Jewish heritage in Krakow, this is an absolute must-see.
The Miracle of Moses Isserles
The cemetery is the final resting place of Moses Isserles (Remuh), a world-renowned rabbi and philosopher. While the Nazis turned the cemetery into a dumping ground during WWII and destroyed most tombstones, the grave of Remuh remained almost untouched. For many, this was a modern miracle.
Today, you’ll see thousands of small stones and notes (kvittelach) left on his grave by pilgrims from all over the world. The inscription on his tombstone says it all:
“From Moses to Moses, there has been none like him in Israel.”
Practical Tips for Visitors
- 🧢 Head Covering: Out of respect, men must cover their heads. While some sites provide kippahs, it is highly recommended to bring your own hat or cap to ensure entry.
- 🤫 Atmosphere: The cemetery is small and solemn. It’s common to see people in deep prayer—please keep your voice down and respect their privacy.
- 📷 Photography: Photos are generally allowed, but avoid taking pictures of people praying.
The Remuh Synagogue
Though small, this is one of only two active synagogues in the city and the only one with regular services. Built in the 16th century as a gift from a wealthy merchant to his son (the famous Rabbi Remuh), it remains the beating heart of the local community.
| Feature | Details |
| Address | Szeroka 40, Krakow |
| Summer Hours | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| Winter Hours | 10:00 – 16:00 |
| Closed | Saturdays & Jewish Holidays |
| Admission | 10 PLN (contribution for maintenance) |
The Synagogues of Kazimierz: Jewish Heritage in Krakow
The district of Kazimierz is home to several remarkable synagogues that survived centuries of history. These are the most important Jewish Quarter Krakow attractions that you should include in your walking plan.
1. Tempel Synagogue (Synagoga Tempel)
Located at the corner of Miodowa and Podbrzezie, this is the most “modern” and eclectic of the group (built 1860–1862).
- The Style: A mix of Neo-Renaissance and Moorish elements.
- Inside: Look for the stunning stained-glass windows and the black marble Tablets of the Ten Commandments above the entrance.
- Pro-Tip: Check if it’s open – it frequently hosts concerts and events.
2. Old Synagogue (Stara Synagoga)
As the oldest preserved synagogue in Poland (15th century), this is the “Grand Dame” of Kazimierz. Today, it serves as a branch of the Museum of Krakow.
- Architecture: Originally Gothic, later rebuilt in Renaissance style by Italian architect Mateo Gucci.
- 📍 Address: Szeroka 24
- 🎟️ Tickets: 18 PLN (Regular), 14 PLN (Reduced). Free admission on Mondays!
3. High Synagogue (Synagoga Wysoka)
The name comes from its unusual design: the prayer hall is located on the upper floor. This was a rare solution in Central Europe, similar to synagogues in the Venetian Ghetto.
- Current state: It houses a fascinating bookstore and cultural space – a great place to pick up books on Jewish history.
4. Kupa Synagogue (Synagoga Kupa)
Also known as the Hospital Synagogue, it was built in 1635. The word “Kupa” refers to the community fund that financed its construction. Historically, it was the place of worship for the district’s poorer residents.
5. Isaac Synagogue (Synagoga Izaaka) – The Most Beautiful
Located at the corner of Kupa and Izaaka streets, this was once the wealthiest synagogue in the city. Founded in 1638 by merchant Isaac Jakubowicz, it’s famous for its arcaded porch and beautiful stuccoes.
📜 The Legend of the Treasure
Why was Isaac so rich? Legend says he dreamed of a treasure hidden under a bridge in Prague. He went there, but a soldier told him he also had a dream… about a treasure hidden in the stove of a man named Isaac in Krakow. Isaac rushed home, dismantled his stove, found the gold, and built this magnificent synagogue!
Okrąglak: The Iconic Round Building at Plac Nowy (Okrąglak)
If Kazimierz has a heart, it’s beating right here at Plac Nowy. In the center of the square stands the Okrąglak – a circular building from 1900 that is as mysterious as it is delicious.
- A Dark Past: Before WWII, this was a ritual poultry slaughterhouse leased to the Jewish community. During the occupation, the Germans turned it into a market hall.
- The Zapiekanka Legend: Today, the Okrąglak is the capital of zapiekanki – Poland’s famous open-faced toasted baguettes. Trying one here is officially one of the best things to do in Kazimierz Krakow.
- Vintage Vibes: On weekends, the area around the building transforms into a flea market where you can hunt for antiques, old coins, and quirky Soviet-era relics.
🥖 Pro-Tip: Which window to choose?
You’ll see dozens of windows selling zapiekanki. While everyone has their favorite (like Endzior), the truth is that the atmosphere of eating it standing in the middle of the square is what matters most. Look for the shortest queue… or the longest, if you want what’s “legendary!”
Where to Stay in Krakow: Handpicked Accommodations
Finding the right place to stay in Krakow can be tricky, but we’ve tested these spots ourselves. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly base or a stylish apartment, here are our top recommendations near the city center and Kazimierz.
1. Hostel Retro – Our Personal Favorite (Budget-Friendly)
We usually choose Hostel Retro during our visits to Krakow. It offers a classic hostel standard at a very decent price, which is a rare find in such a popular city.
- The Best Part: The location is unbeatable. You can see the Vistula River and Wawel Castle from the windows, and Kazimierz is just a short walk away.
- Parking: A huge advantage is the private parking lot – a lifesaver in Krakow’s crowded center.
- Ideal for: Travelers who want an affordable, clean base for intensive sightseeing.
2. Boho Lofts by LoftAffair – Stylish & Central
If you want to truly “feel” the vibe of Krakow, Boho Lofts offers stunning, stylish apartments in the heart of the historic city.
- The Comfort: Each loft features a fully equipped kitchen (fridge, stovetop, coffee machine), a comfortable seating area with a sofa, and even a washing machine.
- The Vibe: High-end interiors with a boutique feel, perfect for a romantic getaway or a longer stay.
3. Starowislna 77 – Great Value for Money
Located on one of the most famous streets leading straight to Kazimierz, Starowislna 77 offers excellent quality for a reasonable price.
- Facilities: Each unit comes with a kitchenette, private bathroom, and free toiletries. It’s a great middle-ground between a hostel and a luxury hotel.
- Location: You are right in the middle of the action, with the best street food and monuments just steps away.
FAQ – Visiting Kazimierz & Jewish Quarter Krakow
Is the Jewish Quarter in Krakow worth visiting?
Absolutely. Kazimierz is the soulful heart of the city, offering a unique blend of centuries-old Jewish heritage and a vibrant, modern lifestyle. It’s a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the authentic atmosphere of Krakow beyond the Main Market Square.
What are the best things to do in Kazimierz Krakow?
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Kazimierz Krakow, you should definitely explore the historic synagogues on Szeroka Street, visit the Remuh Cemetery, and try the legendary zapiekanka at the Okrąglak on Plac Nowy. Don’t forget to wander through the narrow streets to find hidden Jewish memorials and charming cafés.
Krakow: What to see in the Jewish District?
When wondering Krakow: What to see, make sure to prioritize the Old Synagogue, the High Synagogue, and the family home of Helena Rubinstein. A walk through the Jewish Quarter in Krakow is like a journey back in time, where every corner tells a story of the city’s rich cultural past.
Can I visit the synagogues in Kazimierz?
Yes, most synagogues in the historic Jewish Quarter are open to visitors. Places like the Tempel Synagogue and the Old Synagogue (which houses a branch of the Museum of Krakow) are accessible for a small fee. Remember that they are often closed on Saturdays and during Jewish holidays.
How much time do I need for a walking tour of Kazimierz?
To see the main Jewish Quarter Krakow attractions, you should reserve at least 3 to 4 hours. However, if you want to soak in the atmosphere, visit the museums, and enjoy a meal at Plac Nowy, we recommend spending a full afternoon and evening here.
