Free Jewish Quarter Tour Krakow

Visit Krakow’s oldest synagogue, discover the Jewish Quarter's origins and the role of King Casimir the Great.
Hear about the devastation unleashed during the Holocaust as you pass by the Ghetto Heroes Square.
Learn about Oskar Schindler and his acts of tremendous bravery and defiance.

FAQ

The Jewish Quarter of Krakow is now a hive of small art galleries, vintage shops, and cool bars. It’s also the area where, before the Second World War, Jewish people had settled since the 12th century. Join the Free Jewish Quarter Tour and discover the hidden history of this area, which has rediscovered itself after the devastation and heartbreak of the Holocaust. This tour has been designed by local guides who are passionate about their city, and will take you on an emotional journey through the history of the Jewish community. You will hear about King Casimir III the Great, under whose rule the Jewish community prospered, the challenges they faced over the centuries, and also the hopes for a better future.

During the Jewish Quarter Free Tour, you will explore all the highlights of this must-see area. Along the way, you will hear stories of famous Polish Jews and learn about the Jewish diaspora. At the entrance of the Kazimierz, the old Jewish district, you will find the Izaak Synagogue, established in 1644 with funds from the banker Isaak Jakubowicz. It is considered to be the most beautiful synagogue in the city. From here, you can navigate the winding maze of streets until the Stara Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in Krakow. Prior to the German invasion, it held huge religious importance to the community. However, due to the terrible events that occurred there, it is now no longer kosher and has become a museum.

In the Ghetto Heroes Square, you find out how this busy market square was transformed into a scene of horror during the Nazi occupation. Today, the square features a poignant art installation of 33 chairs. Each chair represents 1,000 lives. It serves as a moving and stark reminder that most Cracovian Jews never returned home. Nearby is the Oskar Schindler Factory Museum, one of the heroes who risked their lives defying the Nazis. Such as Tadeusz Pankiewicz, the owner of the Pharmacy Under the Eagle, who refused to close his pharmacy after it became part of the ghetto and saved countless lives. This tour is a must-have experience on any trip to Krakow, so book your seat today!