Poland's Tantalizing Trio
This sample 10-day (9 nights) itinerary covers Krakow, Warsaw, and Gdansk. You'll journey from Northern to Central Poland, with stops in three of the country's most vibrant and welcoming cities. From the port city of Gdansk to chic, modern Warsaw, and the towering cathedrals and wide-open squares of Krakow, you'll be charmed by the wonders of this incredible country. All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea of what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.
One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Your local JayWay contact (who you will meet in person) is available by phone and email throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.
3 Nights in Krakow
3 Nights in Krakow
3 Nights in Krakow
Krakow may not be the largest city in Poland, but it is by far the most popular with travelers. Less industrial than Warsaw, Krakow was once Poland’s royal capital, and unlike the rest of the country, came out of World War II with its gorgeous architecture mostly unscathed. One glance at the city’s perfectly preserved and restored Old Town and it will be abundantly clear why Krakow is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. This compact historical district houses the largest square in Europe, where you can stroll, shop from the market, and sample some tasty Polish delicacies. Krakow’s cultural life is rich and there are more than enough classical and jazz concerts to attend during your stay. Just walk through Old Town any evening and you’ll find warmly lit cafes, restaurants and bars. Some of the most prominent sites in and around the city are linked with the grim, albeit highly important historical facts, as evidenced by the memorials in the Jewish Kazimierz district and the Auschwitz concentration camp located nearby - chilling and vivid reminders of World War II. You can also explore Poland’s natural wonders from Krakow, with visits to the atmospheric Wieliczka Salt Mine, and the Tatra Mountains all comfortable day trips.
Krakow may not be the largest city in Poland, but it is by far the most popular with travelers. Less industrial than Warsaw, Krakow was once Poland’s royal capital, and unlike the rest of the country, came out of World War II with its gorgeous architecture mostly unscathed. One glance at the city’s perfectly preserved and restored Old Town and it will be abundantly clear why Krakow is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. This compact historical district houses the largest square in Europe, where you can stroll, shop from the market, and sample some tasty Polish delicacies. Krakow’s cultural life is rich and there are more than enough classical and jazz concerts to attend during your stay. Just walk through Old Town any evening and you’ll find warmly lit cafes, restaurants and bars. Some of the most prominent sites in and around the city are linked with the grim, albeit highly important historical facts, as evidenced by the memorials in the Jewish Kazimierz district and the Auschwitz concentration camp located nearby - chilling and vivid reminders of World War II. You can also explore Poland’s natural wonders from Krakow, with visits to the atmospheric Wieliczka Salt Mine, and the Tatra Mountains all comfortable day trips.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Krakow
Upon your arrival to Kraków Airport, our driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals and will take you to your accommodation in Krakow. The journey should take about 30 minutes.
Settle in and Enjoy
If you've just arrived, before starting on tours, head out and get a feel for this unique city. If you're staying near the main square ("Rynek,") take a leisurely stroll, visit the Cloth Hall, and have a coffee with a view at Cafe Szal. If you start near the Kazimierz district, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Starka restaurant. Either way, let yourself get charmed by Krakow.
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Krakow
Exploring Krakow
Today you’ll be getting a feel for the story of the city with a private tour with a local expert. There's much to discover as you walk the famed Royal Route through the city's heart, on this tour filled to the brim with historical facts and anecdotes. You'll wander from the Barbican and St. Florian's Gate to the spectacular hilltop royal Wawel Castle, visiting the Main Square with its Cloth Hall and St. Mary's Basilica along the way.
Explore Krakow's Jewish Legacy
Discover the atmosphere and the spirit of Jewish life in Krakow. Before WWII, Jews made up 25% of Krakow's population, helping create the city's unique identity. Delve into this heritage by seeing some of the most significant sites related to Jewish culture and life. Kazimierz is Krakow’s most unique neighborhood, combining its heritage as the Jewish Quarter with a more recent reinvention as the city’s bohemian headquarters. You can also explore food and music at the Klezmer Hois, where you can enjoy a three-course authentic Jewish meal, complete with a live Klezmer band.
Kazimierz Highlights of Jewish Heritage Private Tour
This three-hour excursion will show you some of the most important sites of Jewish culture in Krakow. These include seven synagogues (you'll go inside two of them), Helena Rubinstein House, "Schindler's List" film locations, and much more. We invite you to learn about the 800 years of Jewish history and discover what the Jewish community was before, during, and after the war.
Jewish Dinner and Klezmer Concert in Kazimierz
In the heart of Krakow’s former Jewish district Kazimierz, you will find one of the most well-established restaurants in the city named "Klezmer Hois". Inside the sixteenth century building awaits for you an artistic and culinary offer referring to the pre-war Jewish Kazimierz. We invite you to discover the taste of Jewish cuisine and the charm of klezmer music.
Day 3
Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Krakow
Auschwitz-Birkenau Group Tour
See in person the place where some of the most gruesome atrocities of World War II were carried out. Auschwitz was the biggest Nazi concentration and death camp in occupied Europe. On July 2, 1947 Memorial Museum was created on its site by an act of the Polish parliament. Situated about an hour from Krakow, the Auschwitz Memorial Museum is included in UNESCO's World Heritage List.
Wieliczka Salt Mine Group Tour
This Salt Mine is one of the oldest in the world and was established in the 13th century. Today salt is no longer mined in Wieliczka, but this original underground complex is preserved in a great condition, making it a world-class monument. This astonishing place was recognised in the UNESCO’s World Cultural and Natural Heritage List due to its breathtaking underground chambers carved entirely in salt. Wieliczka Salt Mine tours rank among the most popular day trips from Krakow and draws attention of over one million visitors each year.
Day 4
Day 4 - Traveling to Warsaw by Train
You'll be heading north to Warsaw today. There are frequent trains between Krakow and Warsaw, one every two hours or so. We will provide train tickets with seat reservations based on your preferred departure time and arrange for a transfer from your accommodation to the train station. The journey takes about 3 hours. If you'd like to take your time while enjoying more privacy, we can also organize a private transfer with stops along the way in Lodz or Czestochowa. It makes the journey longer but adds a visit to your choice of these remarkable destinations.
You can upgrade your transfer
Warsaw by Private Transfer with a Tour in Lodz
Upgrade for an additional cost
3 Nights in Warsaw
3 Nights in Warsaw
3 Nights in Warsaw
Warsaw, the capital of Poland and its largest city, has bounced back from the devastation of World War II, reconstructing the historic center, and earning UNESCO World Heritage status in the process. This is a bustling metropolis with a charm that’s distinct from other cities in Poland. Here you’ll find art museums and theaters galore, with lively performances and exhibitions throughout the year, as well as frequent festivals of all sorts. The culinary scene here is top-notch, with several well-respected restaurants offering classics of Polish cuisine and modern masterpieces from European gastronomy. Warsaw has distinct neighborhoods that are perfect for exploring on foot, but it’s also fun to get an appreciation for the size of the city by being chauffeured. You can explore different layers of Warsaw’s history, from World War II to its Jewish heritage and communist past. You’ll definitely want to sample the local cuisine while you explore the city, and there’s no shortage of opportunities to do so, from street stalls to fine dining. When you’re ready to go farther afield, the region surrounding Warsaw offers gorgeous lakes, castles and other notable cities and villages. There is no shortage of ways to enjoy your time in this vibrant city.
Warsaw, the capital of Poland and its largest city, has bounced back from the devastation of World War II, reconstructing the historic center, and earning UNESCO World Heritage status in the process. This is a bustling metropolis with a charm that’s distinct from other cities in Poland. Here you’ll find art museums and theaters galore, with lively performances and exhibitions throughout the year, as well as frequent festivals of all sorts. The culinary scene here is top-notch, with several well-respected restaurants offering classics of Polish cuisine and modern masterpieces from European gastronomy. Warsaw has distinct neighborhoods that are perfect for exploring on foot, but it’s also fun to get an appreciation for the size of the city by being chauffeured. You can explore different layers of Warsaw’s history, from World War II to its Jewish heritage and communist past. You’ll definitely want to sample the local cuisine while you explore the city, and there’s no shortage of opportunities to do so, from street stalls to fine dining. When you’re ready to go farther afield, the region surrounding Warsaw offers gorgeous lakes, castles and other notable cities and villages. There is no shortage of ways to enjoy your time in this vibrant city.
Day 4
Day 4 - Arrival in Warsaw
When you arrive at the Warsaw train station, a driver will meet you there and take you directly to your accommodation in the city center.
Views and Foods
If you've just arrived, we suggest visiting the Krakowskie Przedmiescie, a famed street that forms the northern end of the Royal Way. Here, you can climb to the top of the St. Anna's Church Bell Tower, which provides an amazing view of the Royal Castle and the Old Town. After this not insignificant exercise (there are 150 steps to climb), treat yourself to a nice dinner at the nearby U Fukiera restaurant. Through delicious Polish cuisine, you'll start immersing yourself in the local culture. Smacznego!
Day 5
Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Warsaw
Classic Warsaw Private Tour by Communist Minibus
Understand Poland's History Through its Key Museums
Day 6
Day 6 - Your Second Full Day in Warsaw
Majdanek and Lublin Private Day Trip
Visit the place that is very much different than Auschwitz or Dachau. It’s the most complete witness of the terrifying Holocaust. Silent, with no crowds and rush. You might get a feeling, that it was just abandoned and left intact (which is true). After paying respect to the victims of war at Majdanek, you will be able to change scenery and stroll around a beautiful old town in Lublin - One of the premier cities in Eastern Poland.
Evening Warsaw Private Tour by Communist Minibus
On board of the communist minibus, your guide will take you through 20th century city: you will find the original parts of pre-WWII Warsaw and hear the story of the communist country and unknown Praga district. Experience Warsaw at night to try to understand it while looking at it from another angle or just enjoy your time while your guide takes care of your needs!
Day 7
Day 7 - Traveling to Gdansk by Train
Today you will make your way to the Baltic coast and the city of Gdansk. We will provide 2nd class tickets with a seat reservation but there is an option to upgrade to 1st class if you prefer. We'll also arrange for a driver to take you from your accommodation to the train station.
You can upgrade your transfer
Gdansk by Private Transfer with a stop in Torun including a Private City Tour (in a Luxury Vehicle)
Upgrade for an additional cost
3 Nights in Gdansk
3 Nights in Gdansk
3 Nights in Gdansk
Gdansk has a rich and volatile history, due mostly to its position at the mouth of the Vistula River on the Baltic Sea. That has been bad news for the city’s inhabitants throughout history, but today it’s good news for visitors. With its rare blend of historic architectural styles from varied cultures, Gdansk offers reminders of Polish, Prussian, and Napoleonic rulers. While some of the city recalls Poland, other parts will remind you of Amsterdam and other port cities from the north of Europe. You’ll have a great time exploring all the various corners of the city on foot, but there’s much more to do here than just look at interesting buildings. Old Town and Westplatte are two areas you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to pay a visit to Long Market, where you can find many local arts and crafts. And outside of the city, Malbork Castle is one of the most popular day trips. History will come alive for you here as you explore the different tours and museums on the castle grounds. Or you could go a little farther afield with a tri-city day trip including visits to Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia, all of which have a unique charm that’s even more impressive when compared with the other nearby cities.
Gdansk has a rich and volatile history, due mostly to its position at the mouth of the Vistula River on the Baltic Sea. That has been bad news for the city’s inhabitants throughout history, but today it’s good news for visitors. With its rare blend of historic architectural styles from varied cultures, Gdansk offers reminders of Polish, Prussian, and Napoleonic rulers. While some of the city recalls Poland, other parts will remind you of Amsterdam and other port cities from the north of Europe. You’ll have a great time exploring all the various corners of the city on foot, but there’s much more to do here than just look at interesting buildings. Old Town and Westplatte are two areas you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to pay a visit to Long Market, where you can find many local arts and crafts. And outside of the city, Malbork Castle is one of the most popular day trips. History will come alive for you here as you explore the different tours and museums on the castle grounds. Or you could go a little farther afield with a tri-city day trip including visits to Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia, all of which have a unique charm that’s even more impressive when compared with the other nearby cities.
Day 7
Day 7 - Arrival in Gdansk
When you arrive at the Gdansk train station, a driver will be waiting to take you to your accommodation.
Walk the Royal Way
Follow in the footsteps of kings by taking the Royal Way through the center of the city, from the Green Gate to the Golden Gate. This route will take you down Ulica Dluga and Dlugi Targ, the "Long Lane" and "Long Market," along which many of the city's landmarks are arranged. It offers the most direct way to get to know and fall in love with Gdansk.
Day 8
Day 8 - Your First Full Day in Gdansk
Gdansk Old Town Private Tour and Westerplatte by Public Boat
This tour combines in a great way all the important sites that Old Town in Gdansk has to offer, with a relaxing boat ride to the Westerplatte - the historic site where World War II broke out on September 1, 1939. After seeing and learning about historical landmarks such as Golden Gate, the picturesque Long Street, Mary's Street, the Fountain of Neptune, you will enjoy a sail up the Motlawa canal, past the Gdansk shipyard the birthplace of The Solidarity movement, to the Westerplatte peninsula.
The Museum of Solidarity
Next to the entrance of the Gdansk Shipyard, where the movement that overthrew Polish communism was born, you'll find the impressive new European Solidarity Center. This museum is devoted to the Solidarity movement led by Lech Walesa and features film screenings, sound recordings, and interactive exhibits.
Day 9
Day 9 - Your Second Full Day in Gdansk
Malbork Castle Private Tour
We invite you to discover this 13th-century Teutonic castle located near the town of Malbork. It is undoubtedly one of the greatest and most significant monuments in Poland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about the history of the Teutonic Order and explore the largest castle in the world measured by land area.
Where the Rich Came to Play and Sleep
Day 10
Day 10 - Departure Day
Our driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to Gdansk Airport in plenty of time for your departing flight.
What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Krakow
Warsaw
Gdansk
package excludes:
- Flights to and from Europe.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
JayWay will work with you to create the trip of your dreams! From Zakopane to Krakow, Warsaw and Gdansk - and the many small towns in between - we had a wonderful time!
Visited : Poland
Itinerary : Zakopane, Krakow, Warsaw, Kazimierz Dolny, Bialowieza, Mikolajki, Torun, Gdansk
Rating :
It was so relaxing to know that we were being taken care of, while still being so personal and ""on our own"" instead of with a big group. The worst part was when we were around groups of other Americans that were so demanding and unaware that they were the strangers there.
Visited : Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Netherlands
Itinerary : Helsinki, Tallinn, Parnu, Riga, Klaipeda, Vilnius, Warsaw, Krakow, Amsterdam
Rating :
JayWay Travel's preparation with all the tours, transfers, guides, restaurant suggestions made this trip so stress free! Every detail of the plans were perfect.
Visited : Poland
Itinerary : Krakow, Poznan, Gdansk
Rating :
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