Poland 6 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Warsaw
- Start your journey in the capital city, Warsaw. Visit the Royal Castle, Wilanów Palace, and Old Town (Stare Miasto). Don’t forget to try traditional Polish cuisine at Zapiecek or Piekarnia pod Bloniem.
- Activity: Evening Chopin Concert at Lazienki Park.
- Things to Know: Warsaw was nearly destroyed during WWII and has been beautifully rebuilt since then. English is widely spoken in the city.
- Transportation: Warsaw’s public transportation system is efficient and easy to navigate. Taxis are also readily available.
- Visa Requirements: Schengen Visa is required for many non-EU citizens. Check your visa status before travel.
Day 2: Auschwitz-Birkenau (Oświęcim)
- Visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a poignant reminder of the Holocaust. Book guided tours in advance for a more enriching experience.
- Activity: Relax at Wieliczka Salt Mine in the afternoon.
- Things to Know: Dress appropriately for the museum visit. It can be emotional and impactful.
- Transportation: Trains run regularly from Warsaw to Oświęcim. Renting a car is also an option.
Day 3: Kraków
- Explore the historic center of Kraków, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Wawel Castle, St. Mary’s Basilica, and Kazimierz district.
- Activity: Climb up to Wieliczka Salt Mine if you missed it on Day 2.
- Things to Know: Kraków is known for its vibrant nightlife. Try traditional Polish vodka (żubrówka) at a local bar.
- Transportation: Trains run frequently between Oświęcim and Kraków. Taxis are also available but can be expensive.
Day 4: Wieliczka Salt Mine & Schindler’s Factory
- Spend the morning revisiting the Wieliczka Salt Mine, then head to Schindler’s Factory in the afternoon.
- Activity: Enjoy a traditional Polish dinner at Pod Aniołami or Szara Kazimierz.
- Things to Know: Schindler’s Factory is now the Museum of the History of Polish Jews (POLIN). It provides valuable insight into Jewish history and culture in Poland.
- Transportation: Taxis or trams can be used to travel between attractions within Kraków.
Day 5: Zakopane & Tatra Mountains
- Travel to Zakopane, the winter capital of Poland. Explore the picturesque town and hike in the Tatra Mountains.
- Activity: Gondola ride up Gubalowka Hill for panoramic views of the mountains.
- Things to Know: Zakopane is a popular ski resort during winter, but it’s also beautiful during other seasons.
- Transportation: Buses run regularly from Kraków to Zakopane. Renting a car or taking a guided tour are other options.
Day 6: Return to Warsaw/Departure
- Depending on your return flight schedule, you might have time to explore more of Warsaw or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
- Transportation: Take a train back to Warsaw and head straight to the airport for your departure.