Krakow , Poland

Jewish Krakow Walking Tour

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(294 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Poland was once a home to one of the largest Jewish communities in the world and a center of this thriving civilization was Kraków. Its historical Jewish district is a jewel of Jewish art and architecture. A place where 7 ancient synagogues, that amazingly survived the destruction of World War II and the Holocaust, stand witness to the test of time.

During our tour we will discover the historical context of the local Jewish community, talk about the death and destruction of World War II but also witness the amazing Jewish culture’s revival in contemporary Kraków.

Please note that booking this tour you will be joining our general pay as you wish tour (tour in which it is up to the guest how to reward his or her guide). In this case the amount you pay covers the reservation fee and the guide's payment. If you wish to join a smaller, private tour let us know and we will organise it for you!

Available options

Jewish Krakow Walking Tour

What's included

A thoroughly constructed-narrative

Local expert guide

Detailed itinerary

Introduction; the oldest synagogue in Poland, architectural details, the meaning for the community (outside)

The main street of the Jewish Quarter, the most important people coming from it.

Stop 3

The private praying house built for the most significant rabbi of Krakow.

Stop 4

The revival & nightlife of the Jewish Quarter.

The hidden courtyard, “Schindler’s List” site and the real story behind the movie.

Stop 6

The main square of the WWII ghetto and the area of the district created by Nazis.

Stop 7

The place of living of the only one non-Jewish ghetto inhabitant, who became an eyewitness of Nazi regime crimes. (outside)

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

11 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

283 reviews

5★

267

4★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. If the tour takes place outside and the weather conditions may pose a threat to the life and/or health of the participants, the Guide has the right to shorten or end the tour.

A maximum of 35 people per tour

Please note that booking this tour you will be joining our general pay as you wish tour (tour in which it is up to the guest how to reward his or her guide). In this case the amount you pay covers the reservation fee and the guide's payment. If you wish to join a smaller, private tour let us know and we will organise it for you!

Meeting point

We meet on the stairs in fron of the Old Synagogue, on the main street on the Jewish Quarter

Important notes

• Please note that booking this tour you will be joining our general pay as you wish tour (tour in which it is up to the guest how to reward his or her guide). In this case the amount you pay covers the reservation fee and the guide's payment. If you wish to join a smaller, private tour let us know and we will organise it for you!
• Start time: Participants are expected to show up 5 min before the start time. If you are late, your reservation will be cancelled and we cannot guarantee your spot.
• Look for a guide with a yellow umbrella.

About Krakow

Krakow, the former capital of Poland, is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture. It's home to the Wawel Royal Castle, the historic Main Market Square, and the largest medieval old town in Europe. Krakow's vibrant arts scene, bustling nightlife, and proximity to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine make it a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

Wawel Royal Castle

This iconic castle was the residence of Polish kings and a symbol of Polish statehood. It offers a glimpse into Poland's rich history.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours 30-50 PLN (€7-12)

Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)

One of the largest medieval town squares in Europe, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Wieliczka Salt Mine

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring underground chambers, chapels, and sculptures carved out of salt.

Historical/Adventure 4-5 hours 89-139 PLN (€20-32)

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

A poignant and sobering visit to the largest Nazi concentration camp, now a memorial and museum.

Historical/Educational Full day 70-100 PLN (€16-23)

Kazimierz District

The historic Jewish quarter with a rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and charming streets.

Cultural/Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pierogi

Dumplings filled with various ingredients like meat, cheese, potatoes, or fruits.

Dinner Can be vegetarian or vegan

Obwarzanek

A type of bread ring, similar to a bagel, often sold by street vendors.

Snack Vegetarian

Zapiekanka

A Polish street food consisting of a half-baguette topped with mushrooms, cheese, and various condiments.

Snack Can be vegetarian

Schabowy

A breaded pork cutlet, similar to schnitzel, often served with potatoes and cabbage.

Dinner Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tatra Mountains Skiing in Zakopane Spa and wellness treatments Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting museums and galleries Attending concerts and performances Boating on the Vistula River Skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Krakow for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and tourists.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Polish
Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Polish Złoty (PLN)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Krakow is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.
• Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs.

Getting there

By air

John Paul II International Airport Krakow-Balice • 11 km from city center

By train

Krakow Glowny, Krakow Plaza

By bus

Krakow Main Bus Station, Młocińscy Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Krakow's tram system is efficient and covers most of the city. Trams are comfortable and frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Stare Miasto) Kazimierz Nowa Huta Zakrzówek

Day trips

Wieliczka Salt Mine

14 km from Krakow • Full day

Explore the underground chambers, chapels, and sculptures carved out of salt in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

70 km from Krakow • Full day

Visit the largest Nazi concentration camp, now a memorial and museum, to learn about the Holocaust.

Zakopane

100 km from Krakow • Full day

A picturesque mountain town known for its stunning scenery, hiking trails, and skiing opportunities.

Festivals

Krakow Jewish Festival • June or July (annual) Krakow Film Festival • May (annual) Krakow Christmas Market • December (annual)

Pro tips

Use the Krakow Card for unlimited public transport and free entry to many attractions.
Visit the Wawel Dragon statue and make a wish by placing a coin in its mouth.
Try traditional Polish dishes like pierogi and żurek at local restaurants.
Explore the Kazimierz district for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
Take a day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz-Birkenau for a deeper understanding of Polish history.