Exploring Kazimierz is a must while in Kraków. Set on the bank of the Vistula River, just south of the Old Town, Kazimierz is an area bustling with history, artistic expression and an unmistakable bohemian charm.
Still the heart of Jewish life in Kraków, Kazimierz has over the last few decades also transformed into the city’s coolest neighborhood.
From cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old synagogues and trendy cafes to colorful street art and lively nightlife, Kazimierz truly is the perfect blend of old and new.
I used to live in Kazimierz and it’s still where I prefer to stay when I’m in Kraków. So let me show you how to have the best time in Kazimierz, including the top things to do, some hidden gems and all the best restaurants.
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Article overview
History of Kazimierz
Kazimierz, once an independent town founded in the 14th century by King Casimir III the Great, has a rich and complex history.
It became a thriving center of Jewish life by the end of the 15th century, following the decree that relocated Krakow’s Jewish population to this area. For centuries, it was a vibrant hub of Jewish traditions, education, and commerce, coexisting alongside its Christian neighbors.
However, the onset of World War II brought dark times to Kazimierz. The Jewish community was forcibly relocated to the Ghetto across the river in Podgórze, and the once-bustling district fell into neglect and disrepair during the communist era.
It wasn’t until the 1990s, spurred by the global attention from Steven Spielberg’s film “Schindler’s List,” much of which was filmed in Kazimierz, that the area began to experience a renaissance.
What you can expect in Kazimierz today
Today, Kazimierz is the coolest and most dynamic district in Krakow, blending its historic roots with a modern, bohemian flair. The vibe is young, fun and artistic.
Incense fills the air along with the smell of mouthwatering food from market stalls and food trucks. I promise you will not go hungry here. I feel like I gain 5 kilos every time I visit, there are just so many great places to eat.
The area is a magnet for both locals and tourists alike, drawn by its eclectic mix of old and new. You will see crumbling facades next to modern buildings and towering churches next to historic synagogues.
Walking through the center of Kazimierz, you will still encounter members of the Orthodox Jewish community next to tour guides chilling in their buggies. I just love the contrasts here!
Kazimierz’s transformation is a testament to its resilience and ability to reinvent itself while still honoring its past.
How to get around
Kazimierz is best explored on foot due to its relatively small size and the abundance of attractions packed into the charming streets. You can also rent an electric scooter or bike or book a guided tour.
From Krakow Airport to the city center, you can take the bus, train, taxi or private transfer. Coming from other places in the city you can use the tram to reach Kazimierz, the main stops include Miodowa, Plac Wolnica and Stradom.
Is Kazimierz safe?
Yes, Kazimierz is generally considered safe. Like any urban area, it’s always wise to exercise common sense and take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
The neighborhood is well-patrolled by local police, and its popularity as a cultural and nightlife hub means that there are usually plenty of people around. I feel comfortable walking around, even after dark.
After living here on and off for more than 5 years, and visiting countless times since, I have never felt unsafe or had anything happen.
Top things to do in Kazimierz
Here are some must-see and must-do experiences in Kazimierz. You can easily do most of this in one or two days.
Walk around without a plan
The best thing to do in Kazimierz is to just walk around and see what you find and where you end up.
Wander through the narrow streets and discover hidden courtyards, many of which house charming cafes, boutiques and art installations. I have walked these streets too many times to count, and I never get tired of it.
Szeroka Street: This is the heart of the Jewish Quarter with synagogues and restaurants. It’s a great place to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy some traditional Jewish cuisine.
Plac Nowy: Some would call it an eyesore and some call it the heart of Kazimierz. Nevertheless, Plac Nowy features a daily market where you can find anything from antiques and fresh produce to used bras and stuffed animals. Yes, really.
This is also where people come for Zapiekanka, a popular Polish street food, from one of the many stalls surrounding the square. And where you’ll find several of the best restaurants in Krakow.
Wolnica Square: Once the main market square of Kazimierz, Wolnica Square is a great place to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the surrounding historic architecture. Come December it turns into one of Krakow’s Christmas Markets.
🌟 Limited on time? Get the most out of your day in Kazimierz with this highly-rated 3-hour walking tour. I know the guide is very knowledgeable and makes it interesting with stories from his own family!
Explore the synagogues and churches
One of the first things you see when arriving in Kazimierz is towering churches on every block. Yes, I mean every block. Then you see the many synagogues scattered in between. Here are some of the main ones I recommend you visit, or at least admire from the outside:
Old Synagogue: The oldest synagogue building in Poland, now a museum showcasing Jewish history and culture.
Tempel Synagogue: This 19th-century synagogue is known for its stunning neo-Renaissance and Moorish Revival architecture and often hosts concerts and cultural events.
Isaac Synagogue: This 17th-century synagogue is the largest in Krakow and is known for its beautiful Baroque interior.
Corpus Christi Basilica: This impressive Gothic church, founded in the 14th century by King Casimir III the Great, features a richly decorated Baroque interior and is one of the most important churches in Krakow.
St. Catherine’s Church: A stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 14th century. Dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, it boasts an impressive interior adorned with intricate stained glass windows, soaring vaulted ceilings and beautiful altarpieces.
Visit the museums & cultural happenings
Here are the main museums you can explore in Kazimierz:
Galicia Jewish Museum: Is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Jewish heritage of Galicia, a historical region that encompasses parts of modern-day Poland and Ukraine.
Old Synagogue Museum: Houses a branch of the Museum of Krakow, focusing on the history and culture of Krakow’s Jewish community. Exhibits include religious artifacts, historical documents that chronicle the life and traditions of Jews in Krakow from the medieval period to the present day.
Ethnographic Museum: Located in the former Town Hall of Kazimierz on Plac Wolnica, the Ethnographic Museum of Krakow offers an insight into Polish folk culture. The museum’s extensive collection includes traditional costumes, household items, crafts, and religious artifacts.
Museum of Municipal Engineering: Housed in a former tram depot and showcases the technological and industrial history of Krakow. It covers a range of topics, including the development of public transportation, the history of printing and the evolution of everyday technologies. My favorite museum in Kazimierz.
Jewish Culture Festival: As I’m writing this in late June or early July, the annual Jewish Culture Festival, featuring concerts, workshops, and cultural events, is in full swing.
Attend a Klezmer Concert: Experience traditional Jewish music by attending a Klezmer concert at one of the local venues, such as Klezmer Hois, Ariel and Dawno Temu Na Kazimierzu and sometimes in Isaac Synagogue.
Schindler’s List filming locations
Visit various locations used in Steven Spielberg’s film “Schindler’s List,” which brought global attention to the area.
- Szeroka Street: This historic street served as a backdrop for several scenes, capturing the essence of the Jewish quarter with its preserved synagogues and old-world charm.
- Isaac Synagogue: The exterior of this 17th-century synagogue was used in the film to depict the vibrant Jewish community before the war.
- Józefa Street: Known for its picturesque facades, this street was featured in scenes illustrating the daily life of Kazimierz’s Jewish residents.
- Wolnica Square: This former market square was transformed into a set, showcasing the area’s pre-war vibrancy.
- The Old Synagogue: Its exterior was used to evoke the deep historical roots of the Jewish community.
- Plac Nowy: This central square was depicted in scenes that highlighted the communal and commercial life of Kazimierz before the onset of World War II.
- Meiselsa Street: The buildings on this street provided a realistic backdrop for scenes showing the Jewish ghetto’s cramped living conditions.
- Tempel Synagogue: The stunning interior of this synagogue was featured in scenes that underscored the cultural and spiritual life of the Jewish community.
- Kupa Synagogue: This synagogue’s exterior was used to represent the religious and communal gatherings of Kazimierz’s Jewish population.
Have a picnic next to Vistula River
This is one of my absolute favorite things to do in Kazimierz. I try to take a stroll along the Vistula River, which borders Kazimierz, every morning. The riverside paths offer scenic views and are perfect for a relaxing walk or bike ride.
I also love to grab so food and have a little picnic by the river, which is why I always bring a sarong or blanket to Krakow. Just before writing this, I enjoyed a gourmet pizza from Pizzatopia while watching butterflies feast on the wildflowers and the boats go by. Oh the joy!
I can also recommend the poké bowls from Oké Poké Krakow and bagels from Bagelmama. And another spot great for a picnic is the lawn just north of Wawel Castle.
If you’re visiting with your partner, you can hang a “love lock” on Father Bernatek’s Bridge that connects Kazimierz with Podgórze. Or just marvel at the view from up there.
Check out boutiques and galleries
Kazimierz is home to a variety of unique boutiques and shops where you can find handmade jewelry, vintage clothing and other one-of-a-kind items. There are no big chains in sight here.
Paul’s Boutique Record Store is one of the most popular ones, selling both new and pre-owned vinyl. There are also galleries on almost every street where local artisans showcase and sell their work.
I love to get a little drawing or sculpture as a souvenir instead of buying something with “Krakow” on it from one of the tourist shops on Rynek. Yesterday my sister bought a terracotta blazer from Inspiro Vintage and a bracelet from a vintage jewelry shop.
Hit the town
Kazimierz is known for its vibrant nightlife. Start your night at popular bohemian bars like Alchemia and Singer for a unique and lively evening experience. Then continue to Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa or Kochanka Shotbar, two places specializing in shots. Both very affordable.
Entropia is also a great place for a unique drink. They infuse different alcohols depending on the season with everything from dried figs to caramel. On weekends they also have a DJ playing into the early hours.
When you’re all hyped up, follow the music. Kazimierz is so small that you will hear where the best party is going on. Finish your night with a Zapiekanka from Plac Nowy with the locals.
If you’re traveling alone, join this bar crawl. It’s the perfect way to meet people to continue the evening with!
Street art in Kazimierz
The street art in Kazimierz serves as a visual dialogue between the past and the present. Many murals pay homage to the Jewish heritage, depicting scenes from daily life, historical figures and symbols of Jewish culture.
One of the most iconic murals is called “Judah”, created by Israeli artist Pil Peled. Commissioned for the 2013 Jewish Culture Festival it depicts the face of a child with a lion’s mane, symbolizing the strength and resilience of the Jewish community. Today it is the backdrop of Judah Food Market, a little square of food trucks.
At Bawół Square you can see one of my favorite murals in Kazimierz, honoring the Bosak family who used to live there for hundreds of years. It was created for the 24th Jewish Culture Festival in 2014 by artist collective Broken Fingerz. The choice of black and white was made intentionally to create a more somber feel aligning with the sad backstory.
One of the newest murals in Kazimierz, on a large building in Plac Nowy 1, is inspired by the legend of the “tree that cannot be cut down”. It was created by the Krakow-based fashion brand Medicine in collaboration with the 101 Murals for Krakow Foundation.
Though Kazimierz’s street art scene is not limited to the Jewish Culture. The district also boasts contemporary works that address social issues, pop culture and other abstract concepts.
Best guided tours in Kazimierz
🌟 I already mentioned the Kazimierz only walking tour above, but if you also want to explore the Jewish Ghetto and Schindler’s Factory, I recommend this popular 5-hour tour. You will learn so much in a short space of time, it is emotional but also very interesting.
The tour is available in English, German and French, so make sure you choose the right option.
🥟 Krakow is my favorite foodie city in Poland, so no visit to the city is complete without a food tour. This half-day tour covers both the Old Town and Kazimierz where you’ll get to sample 13–14 different foods, with vodka and craft beer included. I loved this one!
🍻 This bar crawl is the perfect way to discover the nightlife scene in Kazimierz. It’s a great way to meet other people, I stayed after the tour ended with some of the people I met. You will experience some of the most interesting bars and pubs in Kazimierz, and get access to an open bar and VIP entry.
Best restaurants in Kazimierz
Hamsa Hummus & Happiness Israeli Restobar: Located on Szeroka Street, Hamsa is one of my favorite restaurants in Krakow offering Middle Eastern flavors in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It is known for its fresh and flavorful hummus, served with warm pita bread, and an array of other Israeli dishes like shakshuka, falafel, and grilled meats.
ZAZIE Bistro: On Józefa Street, ZAZIE Bistro brings a touch of Parisian charm to Kazimierz. This French-inspired eatery is renowned for its elegant yet unpretentious dishes, from classic escargots and coq au vin to crème brûlée.
Alchemia: Set in the heart of Kazimierz on Estery Street, Alchemia is an iconic bar that encapsulates the bohemian spirit of this historic district. Known for its eclectic decor, Alchemia features dimly lit rooms adorned with vintage furniture, antique mirrors and quirky art pieces. In addition to craft cocktails, they also serve simple but tasty dishes like burgers, pancakes, salads and sharing plates.
Nova Resto Bar: Located just off Plac Nowy, Nova is one of those places where I always bring friends and family. The menu is extensive but everything I’ve had over the year has been tasty. From tartare and soups to platters and pasta, no one will go hungry here.
Wrega: Another popular spot on Józefa Street, Werga is known for its charming atmosphere and hearty Polish cuisine. The highlight of Wrega is the outside seating area, a tranquil courtyard adorned with lush plants and trees that bloom in the spring.
Find more options in my Krakow Restaurant guide.
Where to stay in Kazimierz
I have stayed in my fair share of hotels and apartments in Krakow over the years. And as mentioned above, Kazmierz is my favorite area because of the cozy atmosphere and plethora of great bars and restaurants. I love walking around, also in the evening.
In Kazimierz, I prefer to stay in apartments and one of my favorites is the Premium Queen’s Apartments on Augustiańska Street. The building is clean and beautiful and has a 24-hour manned reception. I really like how spacious the rooms are and the well-equipped kitchens. Cleanliness is also great, which is not always the case in this city.
Another one of the best apartments in Kazimierz is this one called Deluxe Vintage. Just walking into this building makes me happy, it is so beautiful. And the apartment itself is nicely decorated with herringbone floors, wooden accents, red velvet chairs and a terrazzo bathroom. The bed is also super comfortable and there’s a balcony.
If you prefer the comforts of a hotel, my absolute favorite is Hotel M29. Their breakfast is the best I’ve had in Krakow, and I love the decor in the restaurant and common areas.
And with that, I hope you have an incredible time in Kazimierz and Kraków!
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