Poland 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Warsaw

  • Morning: Arrival at Fryderyk Chopin Airport (WPW). Get familiar with the city by taking a stroll along the Royal Route (Trakt Królewski) which connects some of the city’s most significant historic landmarks: The Royal Castle, Palace on the Isle, St. Anna’s Church, and the University of Warsaw.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum to learn about one of the darkest periods in Polish history. Then, take a leisurely walk in the Lazienski Park.
  • Evening: Explore Praga district, known for its vibrant street art and nightlife. Try some local cuisine at Zapiecek or Podwale.
  • Things to know: Warsaw is a relatively safe city, but it’s always good to be aware of your surroundings, especially in the evening. The official currency is the Polish złoty (PLN).
  • Visa Requirements: EU/Schengen citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Citizens of other countries should check their local embassy for requirements.
  • Transportation: Warsaw has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro (Warszawa Centrum - M1). Taxis are also widely available.

Day 2: Krakow

  • Morning: Take a train or flight to Krakow. Check into your hotel and start exploring the Old Town (Stare Miasto), listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit St. Mary’s Basilica, Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), and Main Market Square.
  • Afternoon: Visit Wawel Castle to see the royal chambers and the Sigismund Bell. Take a short walk to the nearby Wawel Cathedral.
  • Evening: Explore Kazimierz, Krakow’s former Jewish quarter, filled with colorful houses, trendy bars, and vibrant street art. Have dinner at Pod Norenami or Mleczna 10.
  • Things to know: Krakow is known for its nightlife, with many clubs and bars staying open late into the night.

Day 3: Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mine

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the notorious concentration camp, to learn about its history and the Holocaust. It’s a sobering experience that requires respect and sensitivity.
  • Afternoon: Head to Wieliczka Salt Mine, one of the oldest in the world. Take a guided tour to explore the underground chambers and salt sculptures.
  • Evening: Return to Krakow and spend your evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying some traditional Polish cuisine or exploring more of the city’s nightlife.
  • Things to know: Both Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine are about an hour’s drive from Krakow. It’s recommended to join a guided tour for the best experience.

Day 4: Zakopane & Tatra Mountains

  • Morning: Take a bus or hire a car to Zakopane, a picturesque town nestled in the Tatra Mountains. Spend the morning exploring the traditional wooden architecture and local crafts at Krupówki street.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing (in winter), or horseback riding in the Tatra National Park. Remember to stay on marked trails and respect the natural environment.
  • Evening: Return to Zakopane and enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, such as Pod Karczem or Chata pod Jaszczurami.
  • Things to know: The Tatra Mountains can be cold and wet, even in summer, so pack appropriate clothing. It’s also good to check the weather forecast before your visit.