Vistula river and there are scenic walks along its shore where you can take in the views of the Royal Castle or nearby monasteries. Kazimierz has become synonymous with Jewish heritage.  For over centuries Kazimierz was a haven for Jews fleeing persecution in other parts of Europe. Until the outbreak of WWII an almost orientalatmosphere reigned in the Jewish section of Kazimierz, and Jewish religious and artistic culture flourished.  While the traditional Jewish culture was irrevocably destroyed during the Second World War, seven synagogues miraculously survived and serve as important reminders of, and links to, Kazimierz's rich historic past.

Once a sleepy, dilapidated district, Kazimierz has experience a rebirth in recent years:  Christian and Jewish monuments have been lovingly restored and the streets are filled with a myriad of colorful and moody cafes and bars.  Two beautiful, but melancholy Jewish cemeteries and Poland oldest synagogue are located here, along with numerous museums and the church dedicated to Poland's patron saint Stanislaw.  It's now the home of Europe's largest Jewish cultural festival (June/July) and this is where Steven Spielberg filmed much of Schindler's List. During the summer you can enjoy sipping a beer or coffee under the stars in dozens of romantic outdoor cafes and if you get the munchies you can always order a zapiekanka (a Polish style french bread pizza) at nearby all-night kiosks.  During the winter you can admire the swirling snow while sitting warm and cozy in dark, moody bar and try a hot beer with fruit syrup and cinnamon (it sounds strange but it's a local drink and you'll love the way it makes you feel on a cold,wintry day). These are just a few of the delights that await you during a visit to Kazimierz, and Krakow's main market square is always just a 10 minute walk away.