Kazimierz, Kraków – What to See? Top Attractions of the Historic Jewish Quarter

Why is Kraków’s Kazimierz a must-see?

Kazimierz is Kraków’s oldest Jewish district (14th c.) and has been part of the city since the 19th century. The blend of a medieval street plan with trendy cafés and vibrant street art makes Jewish Kraków irresistible to both history buffs and night-life lovers.

Kraków Kazimierz map – how to get there and where to start your visit

• Getting there: 5 min by tram (lines 3 or 24) from the Main Railway Station to the “Miodowa” stop.
  
• Kazimierz market square: your landmark is Nowy Square with its round food hall.
  
• Route of Jewish monuments: Wolnica Sq → Szeroka St → Remuh Cemetery → Józefa St → Schindler’s Factory.
  
• Download the interactive Jewish Quarter map (PDF + Google Maps) for mobile – link in the article footer.
  

History of Kazimierz – from royal town to the heart of Kraków’s Jewish quarter

Founded in 1335 by King Casimir the Great, Kazimierz began life as a separate town on an island between branches of the Vistula. With its own walls, town hall and markets it flourished as a trading centre in Lesser Poland, known today as Old Kazimierz.

15th–16th c. – the “golden age” and birth of the Jewish quarter

• 1495: King John I Albert ordered Kraków’s Jews to relocate to Kazimierz.
  
• A walled Jewish district arose around Szeroka Street and the Old Synagogue—still the oldest in Poland.
  
• The Renaissance saw a boom in crafts, Hebrew printing and scholarship (Rabbi Moses Isserles “Remuh”).
  

19th c. – incorporation into Kraków

After a branch of the Vistula (the “Old Vistula”) dried up, Kazimierz was linked by land to Kraków (1800) and officially annexed in 1802. The walls came down and new squares appeared: Wolnica Square and the Jewish Square (today’s Nowy Square).

1939-1945 – war and annihilation

German occupation destroyed Jewish life. In 1941 residents were forced into the Podgórze ghetto; today’s Schindler’s Factory and Ghetto Heroes Square are lasting memorials.

Post-war neglect and modern revival

After 1945 the district languished, but Spielberg’s Schindler’s List (1993) drew global attention. Since the 1990s Kazimierz has been rejuvenated: restored tenements, booming cafés, street art and the annual Jewish Culture Festival that attracts thousands. Today Kazimierz is a living museum and Kraków’s premier cultural hotspot.

Kazimierz Kraków – what to see? TOP 15

Where to eat in Kazimierz?

• Kazimierz zapiekanki – the classic mushroom-and-cheese baguette or vegan twists.
  
• Jewish cuisine: try Ariel (Ashkenazi classics) and Hamsa (Israeli mezze).
  
• Józefa Street is a coffee-lover’s paradise with specialty roasters.
  

Beyond Kazimierz – nearby fun

Inside a historic townhouse at 6 Floriańska St you’ll find 15 attractions—Infinity Room, Glass Maze, Upside-Down House, Kids’ Playroom and more. Perfect for families or a rainy day, with 10 % off when you buy tickets online (Gold & Platinum packages).

Events in Kazimierz you shouldn’t miss

Themed walks in the Jewish quarter

• Four Synagogues in 90 min: Tempel → Remuh → Kupa → Izaak
  
• Kazimierz by night: bar-crawl along Estery, Miodowa and Bożego Ciała Streets
  
• In Schindler’s footsteps: Ghetto Heroes Sq → Schindler’s Factory → Lipowa St
  

FAQ – what’s worth seeing in Kazimierz, Kraków?

Only 2 hours?

Nowy Square, Szeroka Street, Old Synagogue + a zapiekanka.

Is Kazimierz safe at night?

Yes—busy and lively; follow normal precautions.

Where to buy House of Attractions tickets?

Online is cheapest and confirms instantly.

Most photogenic spot?

The junction of Józefa and Wąska Streets with the “Judah” mural.

Kazimierz is a vibrant mix of history, art and entertainment. From medieval synagogues and iconic zapiekanki to the ultra-modern House of Attractions, there’s something for everyone. Plan a full-day visit, secure your tickets and maps in advance, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Kraków’s Jewish district!