Overview

Krakow is a city of stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. Once Poland’s royal capital for 500 years, it is home to over 6,000 historic buildings, one of Europe’s largest medieval squares, and a deep historical legacy shaped by its royal past, religious heritage, and tragic 20th-century events.

• Walk through Rynek Główny, Krakow’s breathtaking medieval square.
• Visit the Wawel Castle, home of Polish monarchs.
• Explore St. Mary’s Church, with its iconic Gothic altar and famous trumpeter.
• Learn about Copernicus, who revolutionized astronomy from Krakow’s university halls.
• Take an optional tour to the Wieliczka Salt Mines, a subterranean wonder.
• Reflect on history at Auschwitz and Birkenau, preserved as a powerful memorial.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Krakow

• Arrive in Krakow and transfer to the centrally located four-star Novotel.
• The hotel features modern comforts, a bar, restaurant, indoor swimming pool, and fitness facilities.
• Enjoy your first evening soaking in the atmosphere of the Old Town.

Day 2: Exploring Krakow

• Guided walking tour of Krakow, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
• Visit Rynek Główny, the stunning medieval main square:
  • See the Cloth Hall, a 16th-century trading post now home to artisan stalls.
  • Enter St. Mary’s Church, where light filters through magnificent 14th-century stained glass.
  • Hear the trumpeter’s call, a tradition dating back centuries.
• Explore Krakow’s fortifications, including the Florian Gate.
• Visit Jagiellonian University, where Copernicus once studied.
• Tour the Wawel Castle District, a seat of power for centuries:
  • Walk through the Royal Palace and its stunning Renaissance courtyard.
  • See Wawel Cathedral, the final resting place of Polish kings.
  • Admire the Treasury and Armoury, filled with royal relics.
• Optional afternoon tour to the Wieliczka Salt Mines, a UNESCO-listed underground labyrinth with chapels carved entirely out of salt.

Day 3: Auschwitz & Birkenau

• Morning visit to Auschwitz and Birkenau, preserved as a museum and memorial.
• Guided tour through the original Auschwitz camp, witnessing its haunting exhibits.
• Visit Birkenau, the vast extermination camp, with its infamous watchtower.
• Return to Krakow in the afternoon, where you have free time to:
  • Explore the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz), known for its synagogues and cafés.
  • Stroll through the Planty Park, a green belt surrounding the Old Town.
  • Visit one of the city’s museums or art galleries.

Day 4: Return Flight

• Transfer to the airport for your return flight home, concluding a journey through one of Europe’s most fascinating cities.

Accommodation Highlights

Novotel Krakow Centrum (4-star), Krakow

• Prime location, within walking distance of the main sights.
• Modern amenities, including indoor swimming pool, fitness center, bar, and restaurant.

Optional Experiences

• Wieliczka Salt Mines – Descend into an underground world of carved salt chapels and sculptures.
• Classical Music Concert – Enjoy an evening concert in one of Krakow’s historic churches.
• Kazimierz Jewish Quarter Tour – Discover the rich Jewish history and cultural revival of Krakow’s former Jewish district.