Krakow: Old Town, Jewish Quarter & Ghetto Bike Tour New Bikes

Summary

Ride Krakow’s stories from medieval gates to Schindler’s Factory

You’ll ride through Krakow’s Old Town on a comfortable Dutch bike with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. Expect to taste zapiekanka in Kazimierz, pause at Ghetto Heroes Square, and hear legends by Wawel Castle. The pace is easygoing—plenty of stops for photos or just taking it all in—and you’ll end up feeling connected to the city in ways you didn’t expect.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly toppled over right outside St. Florian’s Gate — not my most graceful start, but our guide Kuba just grinned and adjusted my seat. The bikes are actually brand new (mine still smelled like rubber), and the basket was big enough for my rain jacket and those random pastries I bought at Planty Park. We set off weaving through the Old Town, bells chiming somewhere above us, and I kept thinking how the cobblestones felt under the wheels — kind of bumpy but in a good way, like you’re really there.

Kuba had this knack for pausing in just the right spots — like when we stopped near Jagiellonian University and he pointed out where Copernicus supposedly sat. The air was cool and sharp that morning, and I swear I could smell fresh bread drifting from somewhere. He told us the dragon story by Wawel Castle (I won’t spoil it), but his sound effects made a couple of us laugh out loud. We coasted down to Kazimierz next, which surprised me — I expected something somber but it’s all color and chatter now, with cafes spilling onto sidewalks and kids chasing pigeons.

Plac Nowy was buzzing with people lining up for zapiekanka — this sort of Polish baguette-pizza thing. I tried to order one in Polish; the vendor smiled politely but definitely corrected my pronunciation (twice). Then we rolled into Ghetto Heroes Square, where things got quiet fast. It’s just empty chairs as a memorial, nothing flashy, but standing there you feel this weight settle in your chest. Kuba didn’t rush us at all; he just let everyone sit or walk around until we were ready to move again.

The last stretch took us past Oskar Schindler’s Factory — gray sky overhead, river nearby — and then back through Planty Park where everything smelled green after last night’s rain. My legs were tired but not sore; honestly, I still think about that moment rolling under those old trees as people walked dogs or sat reading on benches. It wasn’t perfect (my chain slipped once), but maybe that’s what made it feel real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bike tour of Krakow's historic sites

• Get fitted and briefed on bikes
• Cycle through medieval main market
• See Cloth trade hall and town hall tower
• Visit St. Mary's basilica
• Explore Jagiellonian University
• Hear story of the Dragon monster
• Stop at Wawel hill and castle
• Ride along scenic bike lanes
• Visit Kazimierz Jewish Quarter
• Try local snack at Plac Nowy
• See streets from Schindler's List film
• Visit Ghetto Heroes Square and Pharmacy
• Stop at Oskar Schindler's Factory
• Ride through Planty Park
• See medieval fortifications at Great Barbican
• Visit St. Florian's Gate

Top questions

How long is the Krakow bike tour?

The bike tour lasts about 3.5 hours and covers roughly 12 kilometers (7.5 miles).

What areas does the Krakow bike tour visit?

The tour visits Krakow Old Town, Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz), WWII Ghetto area, Planty Park, Wawel Royal Castle, Jagiellonian University, Plac Nowy, Ghetto Heroes Square, Oskar Schindler's Factory, Great Barbican, and St. Florian's Gate.

Are bikes provided on this Krakow tour?

Yes, new 2023 Dutch bikes with comfy seats are included; e-bikes are also available.

Is lunch included on the Krakow bike tour?

No lunch is included but you can buy snacks like zapiekanka during stops such as Plac Nowy.

Is this Krakow bike tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and moves at a relaxed pace with frequent stops.

Does the Krakow bike tour run if it rains?

Yes—rain ponchos are provided if necessary so you can still enjoy the ride.

Are children allowed on this Krakow bike tour?

Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a brand new Dutch bicycle (or e-bike if you prefer), guidance from a local expert who shares stories along every stop, rain poncho if needed for sudden weather changes, plus all local taxes covered so you can focus on riding—not logistics.