Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Krakow on a walking tour through the captivating Old Town and the lively Jewish Quarter of Kazimier. As one of the most culturally significant cities in Poland, Krakow is renowned for its abundance of picturesque streets and striking landmarks, just waiting to be explored on foot.
Embark on a journey that takes you through the bustling Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz, where you will be immersed in the fascinating stories that shaped this area. You will also wander through the enchanting Old Town, marvelling at the stunning St. Mary’s Basilica, the historic Cloth Hall and observing the intricate details of the city’s landmarks.
Along the way, our experienced guides will share interesting facts and medieval legends surrounding Krakow’s rich history.
This walking tour provides visitors with an engaging and informative experience as they explore the charming streets and squares of the Old Town and bustling Kazimier Jewish Quarter.
Table of Contents:
Walking Tour Overview
Old Town
The walking tour of Krakow’s Old Town begins at the medieval city walls in Planty Gardens, where visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture of the Barbican and St. Florian’s Gate.
As they make their way to the Main Market Square, they will hear fascinating legends about St. Mary’s Basilica and admire the historic Cloth Hall.
Continuing towards the university district, tour participants will have the opportunity to see the oldest academic building in Poland.
Kazimierz
In the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz, the walking tour explores the rich history and culture of this vibrant neighbourhood.
Time-tight travellers can enjoy a half-day tour that showcases both the Old Town and Kazimierz, taking them along cobbled streets and charming alleyways inaccessible to bus tours.
Key highlights of the Kazimierz tour include Plac Wolnica Square and the bustling Jewish quarter, where visitors can soak up a more personalised experience of Krakow.
During the tours, guests will learn about Krakow’s medieval legends and rich history from knowledgeable guides, with opportunities to sample traditional Polish desserts and beverages.
Taking a walking tour is an excellent way to immerse oneself in the beautiful city of Krakow and fully appreciate its historic Old Town and colourful Kazimierz district. Read also The Story of Krakow’s Kazimierz District
Historical Landmarks
Wawel Royal Castle
Wawel Royal Castle is a crucial historical landmark in Kraków, Poland. This castle, situated on Wawel Hill, has played an essential role in Poland’s history, having been the residence of Polish kings for centuries.
Upon its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List, the castle’s significance was further solidified.
Boasting magnificent architecture, it houses Wawel Cathedral, which was the coronation site for many Polish monarchs.
Cloth Hall
Located in the heart of Market Square, Cloth Hall stands as another notable landmark in Krakow. Initially built in the 14th century for textile trading, it now serves as a modern shopping centre.
The Cloth Hall boasts beautiful Renaissance architecture, thanks in part to a complete restoration in the 19th century.
Today, one can find various vendors selling traditional Polish souvenirs and handicrafts.
St. Mary’s Basilica
St. Mary’s Basilica is a striking Gothic church surrounded by the Planty park in Kraków.
The basilica’s exterior is richly adorned with spires, gargoyles, and stunning sculptures, while its interior houses a breathtaking wooden altarpiece and notable carvings. St. Mary’s Basilica’s impressive trumpeter tradition is a must-see when visiting the church, where a trumpeter plays the famous Hejnał mariacki from the taller tower every hour.
Old Synagogue
Situated in the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz, the Old Synagogue is an essential historical landmark and a testament to Kraków’s rich Jewish heritage.
Established in the 15th century, the synagogue is the oldest surviving example of Jewish religious architecture in Poland.
Today, the Old Synagogue operates as a museum showcasing the customs, traditions, and history of the local community.
Barbican
The Kraków Barbican (Polish: Barbakan Krakowski) is a distinctive, circular fortress in Kraków that once served as a defensive structure for the city.
Built in the late 15th century, it is one of the last remaining examples of medieval fortifications in Poland.
The Barbican is known for its unique design and red brick exterior, reflecting the gothic-style architecture prevalent during its construction. It now hosts numerous cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
Town Hall Tower
In the city’s bustling Market Square stands one of Kraków’s most iconic landmarks, the Town Hall Tower.
This 70-meter-tall tower was once part of the larger complex of Town Hall buildings, which, unfortunately, no longer stand today.
With a rich history dating back to the 14th century, the Town Hall Tower’s architecture combines elements of gothic and renaissance styles.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck or explore the Hipolit House – a historical museum located nearby.
Cultural and Architectural Highlights
Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter, known as Kazimierz, is a historically significant area in Krakow. It showcases a rich Jewish history that spans centuries and boasts a variety of architectural styles.
The boutique and cafe-laden streets provide a vibrant atmosphere for exploring. Some notable sites in this area include the New Jewish Cemetery, the Isaac Synagogue, and the Old Synagogue.
The Old Synagogue, a nearly 500-year-old institution, represents one of the oldest examples of Jewish architecture in Poland.
Jagiellonian University
Founded in 1364, Jagiellonian University is the second oldest university in Central Europe. Its rich history and beautiful architecture make it a must-see attraction on a walking tour of Krakow.
The main campus consists of several impressive buildings, such as the Collegium Maius, which is the oldest building on campus, featuring Gothic architecture.
The university has played a significant role in Krakow’s history and has educated notable figures such as Copernicus and Pope John Paul II.
Wawel Hill
Wawel Hill is a culturally and historically significant site in Krakow, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. At the top of the hill, you’ll find the majestic Wawel Castle and the Wawel Cathedral.
The Wawel Castle, which dates back to the 11th century, has been influenced by various architectural styles throughout its history, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. Within its walls, you’ll discover treasures such as ancient tapestries, artworks, and artefacts.
Adjacent to the castle, the Wawel Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral houses royal tombs and serves as the final resting place for several Polish kings and national heroes.
A walk around Wawel Hill provides a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Krakow.
Food and Local Experiences
Market Square
In the heart of Old Town lies the bustling Market Square, a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a taste of Krakow’s rich culinary scene.
Here, you’ll find a plethora of regional delicacies and traditional Polish dishes, such as pierogi (dumplings), placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes), and kiełbasa (sausage).
As you wander through the square, be sure to indulge in a zapiekanka – a local favourite consisting of a sliced baguette topped with sautéed mushrooms and cheese.
In addition to savouring the delicious food on offer, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Market Square.
As the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, it’s an ideal location to learn about the city’s rich history and architecture.
Jewish Quarter Kazimierz
Exploring the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz provides visitors with a range of authentic food and cultural experiences.
The area features numerous traditional Jewish restaurants and bakeries, serving delectable dishes such as cholent (a slow-cooked stew), latkes (potato pancakes), and bagels.
As you walk through the atmospheric streets, make sure to visit the Old Synagogue, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture and the oldest surviving Jewish building in Poland. Alongside its historical significance, the Old Synagogue now houses a museum dedicated to preserving the memory of the city’s Jewish community and their contributions to Krakow’s heritage.
Beyond its culinary and architectural offerings, Kazimierz is known for its vibrant street art as well as small galleries and artistic workshops. Read also article The Best Street Art and Graffiti in Krakow
This unique fusion of history, art, and cuisine ensures that visitors to the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz are treated to an unforgettable sensory experience.
Booking the Tour
Tickets
Tickets for the Walking Tour of Old Town and Kazimierz can be found on various booking websites like Get Your Guide or Viator.
These platforms allow travellers to book online with free cancellation and skip-the-line access, making the experience seamless and convenient.
Get Your Guide
Get Your Guide is a popular platform for finding guided walking tours in Krakow. It offers both public and private tours of Old Town and the Jewish Quarter Kazimierz.
By booking through Get Your Guide, visitors can gain insight into the city’s history and important sites from knowledgeable tour guides.
Guided Walking Tours
Guided walking tours of Krakow Old Town and Kazimierz provide an in-depth experience of the city’s stunning architecture, legends, and historical sites.
Some of the notable stops include Main Market Square, St Mary’s Basilica, Wawel Royal Castle, Planty Gardens, Barbican, and St. Florian’s Gate.
Tours typically last around 3 to 6 hours and cover approximately 5 km, offering a comprehensive view of both districts.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Before booking a walking tour of Old Town and Kazimierz, it is useful to check TripAdvisor reviews.
These reviews offer insights into the quality of tour guides, essential tips, opinions on the tour’s value, and recommendations for specific walking tour providers.
Visitors can then make a more informed decision on which tour best suits their interests and schedules.
Remember, gratuities for tour guides are usually not included in the ticket price, so consider leaving a tip if the guide’s services were satisfactory.
Read also articles:
Nearby Attractions
Pieniny National Park
Pieniny National Park is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and offers a variety of outdoor activities.
Established in 1932, the park encompasses an area of over 23 square kilometres, featuring stunning landscapes, unique flora and fauna, and picturesque hiking trails.
Some notable highlights include:
- The Dunajec River Gorge, a scenic spot perfect for rafting or kayaking
- Trzy Korony, the highest peak in Pieniny, offering breathtaking views of the surroundings
- Numerous well-marked walking and cycling paths
Tatra Mountains
The Tatra Mountains, located in southern Poland, are the highest mountain range in the Carpathian Mountains.
This beautiful and diverse landscape provides ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring its natural wonders such as:
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- Morskie Oko, a famous alpine lake with crystal-clear waters
- Giewont, a legendary mountain peak with a distinctive silhouette
- Zakopane, a popular resort town on the Polish side of the Tatra Mountains
Ogrodzieniec Castle
Ogrodzieniec Castle, situated on the highest limestone hill in the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland, is a magnificent example of medieval fortress architecture.
This impressive 14th-century structure provides visitors with a glimpse into the past and features:
- Intricate and well-preserved Gothic architecture
- Great views of the surrounding landscape from the castle’s vantage points
- Periodic historical reenactments and events
Chocholow: Thermal Baths
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Chocholow’s thermal baths are an excellent choice.
This modern facility draws water from nearby natural hot springs and offers a range of amenities, including:
- Numerous indoor and outdoor pools with varying temperatures
- Spa and wellness treatments such as massages and facials
- A children’s play area and family-friendly activities
For more details read detailed article Chocholow: Thermal Baths
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The walking tour of Old Town and Kazimierz typically takes about half a day to complete.
The duration may vary depending on the pace of the group and the time spent at each sight.
What makes it interesting?
The walking tour covers both the Old Town and the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz, which are rich in history, culture, and architecture.
The tour takes you through cobbled streets and picturesque alleyways, giving you an authentic experience of Krakow’s past and present.
Why choose a walking tour of Old Town and Kazimierz?
A walking tour allows you to explore the city in a more intimate way compared to bus tours, as it provides access to narrow streets and hidden gems that buses cannot reach.
Moreover, it offers the opportunity to learn about the city’s history and culture from knowledgeable guides.
What sights are included?
Some of the main sights included in the walking tour are St. Mary’s Basilica, Kraków Cloth Hall, and St Florian’s Gate in the Old Town.
In Kazimierz, you will visit synagogues, churches, street art venues, and important squares such as Plac Wolnica.
Are there breaks during the tour?
Yes, there are usually breaks during the walking tour to allow participants to rest, take pictures, and explore the sights on their own.
The exact schedule may depend on the specific tour provider and guide.
Any tour guide available?
Many walking tours of Old Town and Kazimierz offer guided services, where knowledgeable local guides provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and significance of the places you visit.
These guides often speak multiple languages to cater to international tourists.
