In the heart of Kraków lies one of the city’s most atmospheric districts — Kazimierz, where centuries of history blend seamlessly with modern culture and everyday life. Originally an independent town and later the center of Jewish life in Poland, this area is now filled with narrow streets, synagogues, cafés, galleries, artisan shops, and some of the best restaurants in the city.

Walking through the neighborhood, visitors can feel layers of history intertwined with contemporary culture. Old tenement houses, hidden courtyards, and historic synagogues stand alongside colorful murals, art installations, and lively cafés. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the Main Square, it offers a unique and vibrant experience.

History

Founded in 1335 by King Casimir the Great, the district once functioned as an independent town. In the 15th century, a large Jewish community settled here, creating one of Europe’s most important centers of Jewish religious and cultural life. The heart of the area was Ulica Szeroka, surrounded by synagogues, prayer houses, shops, and residences. Many historic buildings still survive, including:

• Old Synagogue – one of the oldest surviving synagogues in Poland
  
• Remuh Synagogue & Cemetery – a rare historic Jewish cemetery dating to the 16th century
  
• Tempel Synagogue – known for its beautiful interior and cultural events
  
• Isaac Synagogue – a stunning 17th-century synagogue with atmospheric stone interiors

During World War II, Jewish residents were relocated to the ghetto in Podgórze, and much of the neighborhood fell into decay. Its revival began in the 1990s, partly inspired by the filming of Schindler’s List, transforming the area into a vibrant cultural hub.

Kazimierz Today

Kazimierz is now one of Kraków’s cultural hotspots. It hosts the Jewish Culture Festival, one of the most important events of its kind in the world, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

The district’s cafés and restaurants fill the streets with life — from Middle Eastern dishes to modern Jewish cuisine, craft beers, and dessert cafés. At night, the area transforms into a lively social hub.

Street art also plays a key role here: murals and artistic installations decorate the walls of old buildings, making Kazimierz one of the most photographed areas in the city.

What to See and Do

1. Stroll through narrow streets: explore ul. Józefa, Miodowa, and Św. Wawrzyńca
   
2. Visit the synagogues and museums: learn about centuries of Jewish heritage
   
3. Enjoy local food: from traditional Jewish dishes to contemporary fusion cuisine
   
4. Explore Plac Nowy: try famous zapiekanki and visit weekend flea & vintage markets
   
5. Discover street art: including murals by Polish and international artists
   
6. Relax by the river: take a walk to Father Bernatek Footbridge and the Vistula boulevards
   
7. Join local events: concerts, cultural evenings, guided tours, and festivals
   

Notable Places

Plac Nowy
The social heart of Kazimierz — full of food stalls, cafés, and late-night pubs. Famous for Kraków’s iconic zapiekanki.

Street Szeroka
A historic street lined with synagogues, restaurants, and monuments — perfect for slow exploration.

Remuh Cemetery
One of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe. A peaceful, atmospheric place full of symbolic tombstones.

Galicia Jewish Museum
A modern museum focusing on Jewish heritage through photography, exhibitions, and personal stories.

Father Bernatek Footbridge
A scenic pedestrian bridge linking Kazimierz with Podgórze, decorated with acrobatic sculptures.

Practical Information for Visitors

Kazimierz is located just 10–12 minutes on foot from the Main Market Square.

How to get there:
On foot: a short walk from the Old Town
By tram: stops “Miodowa”, “Starowiślna”, or “Plac Wolnica”
By bike: easy access via bike lanes and river boulevards
By car: limited parking; best to walk or use public transport

Why Visit

Kazimierz is more than a historic district — it is a living story of Kraków. A place where past and present coexist: synagogues, old courtyards, and memorials sit beside creative spaces, modern cafés, music venues, and art galleries.

It is a neighborhood full of character, contrasts, and emotion — a space that reflects centuries of Jewish heritage, wartime history, artistic revival, and today’s vibrant city life. Kazimierz offers visitors an authentic, dynamic, and deeply meaningful experience.