Krakow: Guided Tour of the Jewish Ghetto

Krakow’s Jewish Ghetto holds a significant and somber history, one that’s brought to life through a guided tour. Led by knowledgeable experts, the experience immerses visitors in the personal stories and resilience of the Jewish community during World War II. Participants explore key sites like Ghetto Heroes Square, uncovering the profound impact of the Holocaust and gaining a deeper understanding of this poignant chapter. Though a heavy topic, the tour’s objective approach and focus on the community’s enduring spirit offer a thoughtful, thought-provoking journey into the past. For those seeking to honor the lives lost and celebrate the unbreakable human will, this guided tour provides an impactful and memorable experience.

Key Points

• The 1-hour guided walking tour provides an informative and immersive exploration of Krakow’s Jewish Ghetto and Podgórze district.
• The tour highlights the historical significance of the Jewish community’s resilience and the impact of the Holocaust in the region.
• Visitors can witness Ghetto Heroes Square, the site of Jewish deportations, and view remnants of the original ghetto wall.
• The knowledgeable guide offers a deeper understanding of the Jewish history and the experiences of the displaced community.
• The tour offers an affordable and accessible way to learn about this important chapter of Krakow’s past.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The guided walking tour of Krakow’s Jewish Ghetto and Podgórze district provides visitors an opportunity to explore the historical significance of this area.

The tour lasts for an hour and is available in English, German, French, and Polish. Priced at just €10.27 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore this important part of Krakow’s history.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the reserve now and pay later option.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can expect an informative and immersive experience exploring the remnants of the Jewish Ghetto, which still preserves the legacy of this dark chapter 75 years after the war’s end.

Historical Significance

Podgórze district, the site of the Jewish Ghetto during World War II, preserves the legacy of this dark chapter 75 years after the war’s end. This area holds immense historical significance, as visitors can witness Plac Bohaterów Getta (Ghetto Heroes Square), the site of the deportation of Jewish residents, and view the remaining pieces of the original ghetto wall, a revered monument.

The Jewish history of Krakow is etched into the very fabric of this district, a testament to the resilience and perseverance of the community in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through this guided tour, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact of the Holocaust on the city and its people.

Experiences and Highlights

Visitors can walk past buildings where thousands of displaced Jews lived in cramped conditions during this guided tour. They’ll also learn about the Jewish history of Krakow from a professional guide and visit the historic Under the Eagle pharmacy, a symbol of resilience amidst the war.

The tour offers a poignant glimpse into the past, allowing guests to witness the Plac Bohaterów Getta (Ghetto Heroes Square), the site where Jewish residents were deported. Participants can also view the remaining pieces of the original ghetto wall, a revered monument that stands as a testament to the strength and endurance of the Jewish community.

Through this immersive experience, visitors gain a deeper understanding of Krakow’s complex and tragic history.

Meeting Point

Participants will look for a guide with an excursions.city sign at the entrance to the Schindler Factory Museum to begin the guided tour of Krakow’s Jewish Ghetto and Podg??rze district. This meeting point is conveniently located, making it easy for tour-goers to find their guide and start the exploration of this historically significant area. Once gathered, the group will set off on a journey to uncover the legacy of the Jewish Ghetto, gaining insights from a knowledgeable professional guide.

Meeting Point Details
Location	Schindler Factory Museum Entrance
Guide Identification	excursions.city sign
Tour Start Time	As scheduled
Duration	1 hour
Group Size	Small, intimate

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Feedback

The guided tour of Krakow’s Jewish Ghetto has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with an overall rating of 5 out of 5 based on a single review.

Customers have praised the personal tour experience, describing it as great. The tour provides an in-depth exploration of the Podgórze district, where the Jewish Ghetto was located during World War II.

Visitors can witness the historical significance of sites like Ghetto Heroes Square and view remnants of the original ghetto wall, a revered monument. The knowledgeable guide shares the Jewish history of Krakow, enriching the experience.

Jewish History of Krakow

Krakow’s Jewish community has a rich and complex history that dates back centuries, spanning periods of both prosperity and persecution. At the start of the 20th century, Krakow’s Jewish population was one of the largest in Europe. However, this vibrant community was devastated during the Nazi occupation, when the German authorities established the Krakow Ghetto. The area was the site of immense suffering and the deportation of tens of thousands of Jews to the Auschwitz concentration camp. Though the horrors of the past remain, the Jewish history of Krakow continues to be honored and memorialized through sites like the Ghetto Heroes Square and the Under the Eagle pharmacy.

Period	Jewish Population	Significance
Start of 20th Century	One of Largest in Europe	Vibrant Community
WWII Nazi Occupation	Krakow Ghetto Established	Immense Suffering
Post-War	Sites Memorialize History	Resilience Honored

Ghetto Heroes Square

One of the most poignant stops on the guided tour is Plac Bohaterów Getta, or Ghetto Heroes Square, which serves as a somber reminder of the tragedies that unfolded in Krakow’s Jewish Ghetto during the Nazi occupation.

This square was the site of the deportation of thousands of Jewish residents to the Płaszów concentration camp and ultimately to the Auschwitz extermination camp.

Today, the square features a memorial monument with bronze figures, symbolizing the suffering and resilience of the Jewish community.

As visitors stand in this historic space, they’re invited to reflect on the immense human cost of the Holocaust and honor the memory of those who perished.

Resilience Amidst War

Amidst the horrors of war, the historic Under the Eagle pharmacy stood as a symbol of resilience for Krakow’s Jewish community. This revered institution, located within the confines of the city’s former Jewish Ghetto, embodied the unwavering spirit and determination that enabled many to endure the immense suffering inflicted upon them during the Nazi occupation.

Led by pharmacist Tadeusz Pankiewicz, the pharmacy provided a safe haven, offering not just medical aid but also emotional support and a glimmer of hope to those trapped in the ghetto. Its courageous staff risked their lives to assist their Jewish neighbors, smuggling food, medicine, and even false documents to help people survive.

The pharmacy’s legacy stands as a testament to the human capacity for compassion and resistance, even in the darkest of times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Children Given a Discount on the Tour?

The tour’s pricing information does not indicate whether children receive a discounted rate. The details provided focus on the tour’s general cost, duration, and availability, without specifying any age-based pricing differences.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, as it takes place on flat, paved walking paths through the district. However, visitors should check with the tour operator for any specific accessibility requirements prior to booking.

Can I Purchase the Tour Tickets On-Site?

Yes, customers can purchase the tour tickets on-site. The tour operator offers a "Reserve now & pay later" option, allowing customers to reserve their spot and pay upon arrival.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. It’s likely a small group tour, allowing for a personalized experience with the guide. Exact group sizes may vary depending on demand and available guides on the day of the tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?

For this walking tour, visitors don’t need to bring any special equipment. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The tour guide will provide all necessary information and lead the group through the historic sites.

The Sum Up

The Krakow Guided Tour of the Jewish Ghetto provides a poignant and immersive experience, exploring the powerful history and resilience of the Jewish community during the Holocaust.

Through personal stories and visits to significant sites, this affordable tour offers a thought-provoking reflection on one of the darkest chapters in history.

This makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in preserving and honoring the past.

You can check if your dates are available here: