Poland in 17 Days: From Historic Cities to Mountain Retreats
This 17-day journey through Poland takes you from the cultural heart of Kraków to the Tatra Mountains in Zakopane, the vibrant capital of Warsaw, and the Baltic charm of Gdańsk, all connected by efficient train travel.
- 1Kraków
- 2Zakopane
- 3Warsaw
- 4Gdańsk
Day 1: Arrive Kraków
Begin your Polish adventure in Kraków, settling in and exploring the grandeur of its Main Market Square, Europe's largest medieval town square.
Highlights
- Arrive at Kraków John Paul II International Airport (KRK) and take the SKA1 commuter train to Kraków Główny, a 17-minute journey.
- Walk 15 minutes from Kraków Główny to the Main Market Square, soaking in the historic atmosphere.
- Discover the historic townhouses and monuments lining the square.
Day 2: Explore Kraków
Dedicate your day to exploring Wawel Hill, home to the magnificent Royal Castle and Cathedral, symbols of Polish history.
Highlights
- Visit Wawel Royal Castle, exploring its state rooms and historical significance.
- Discover Wawel Cathedral, the historic Gothic site where Polish kings were crowned and buried.
- Enjoy views of the city from Wawel Hill.
Day 3: Explore Kraków
Delve into Kraków's rich Jewish heritage in Kazimierz and reflect on history at Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory.
Highlights
- Wander through Kazimierz, the historic Jewish district known for its synagogues and courtyards.
- Visit Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory, an immersive museum presenting Kraków under Nazi occupation.
- Experience the layered history and unique atmosphere of Kazimierz.
Day 4: Explore Kraków
Uncover Kraków's medieval past beneath the Main Square and enjoy a leisurely stroll through Planty Park.
Highlights
- Explore the Rynek Underground Museum, revealing medieval streets and artifacts beneath the Main Square.
- Take a relaxed walk through Planty Park, the leafy ring replacing the old city walls.
- Consider trying Obwarzanek Krakowski, Kraków’s iconic ring-shaped bread, from a street stall.
Day 5: Kraków -> Zakopane
Journey south to Zakopane, Poland's mountain resort, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Krupówki Street upon arrival.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Kraków Główny to Zakopane, a journey averaging 2h 14m.
- Tickets for this train journey start from €32.
- Stroll along Krupówki, Zakopane's main pedestrian street, lined with historic villas and local culture.
Day 6: Explore Zakopane
Ascend Gubałówka for breathtaking panoramic views of the Tatras and delve into local culture at the Tatra Museum.
Highlights
- Take the funicular up Gubałówka for broad Tatras panoramas and sunset views.
- Visit the Tatra Museum Main Building, covering Podhale history, art, ethnography, and natural heritage.
- Enjoy a hearty Kwaśnica, a traditional sauerkraut soup, a classic highlander dish.
Day 7: Explore Zakopane
Embark on a hiking adventure in the Tatra Mountains from the Kuźnice area and admire the distinctive Jaszczurówka Chapel.
Highlights
- Start a hiking route from Kuźnice, the mountain district and transport hub leading into the Tatras.
- Visit Jaszczurówka Chapel, a distinctive masterpiece designed in the Zakopane Style.
- Consider trying Oscypek, smoked sheep’s milk cheese, a signature mountain product.
Day 8: Zakopane -> Warsaw
Travel from the Tatra Mountains to Poland's capital, Warsaw, and begin your exploration along the historic Royal Route.
Highlights
- Take a train from Zakopane to Warszawa Centralna, with an average journey time of 5h 23m.
- Train tickets for this route start from €60.
- Discover the Royal Route, a ceremonial path connecting royal landmarks and palaces.
Day 9: Explore Warsaw
Step back in time in Warsaw's meticulously rebuilt Old Town and explore the historic Royal Castle.
Highlights
- Wander through Warsaw’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, rebuilt after World War II.
- Visit the Royal Castle, a rebuilt royal residence showcasing state rooms and Polish history.
- Admire the Warsaw Barbican, a compact medieval landmark linking the Old and New Towns.
Day 10: Explore Warsaw
Gain profound insights into Polish history at the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews.
Highlights
- Explore the Warsaw Uprising Museum, an immersive experience on the 1944 uprising.
- Visit the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, an award-winning museum with a superb core exhibition.
- Consider trying Pierogi, Polish dumplings, a beloved staple in Warsaw milk bars.
Day 11: Explore Warsaw
Enjoy a tranquil day amidst the beauty of Łazienki Królewskie Park and its iconic Palace on the Isle.
Highlights
- Stroll through Łazienki Królewskie, a historic royal park with gardens and peacocks.
- Admire the Palace on the Isle, a key architectural highlight within the park.
- Relax by the Chopin Monument and enjoy the park's serene atmosphere.
Day 12: Warsaw -> Gdańsk
Head north to the Baltic coast city of Gdańsk, where you'll settle in and explore the iconic Long Market and Neptune's Fountain.
Highlights
- Board a train from Warszawa Centralna to Gdańsk Główny, a journey averaging 3h 37m.
- Train tickets for this journey start from €9.
- Wander through the Long Market, admiring colorful townhouses and the famous Neptune's Fountain.
Day 13: Explore Gdańsk
Immerse yourself in the profound history of the Second World War and the Solidarity movement in Gdańsk.
Highlights
- Visit the Museum of the Second World War, an award-winning museum with immersive exhibitions.
- Explore the European Solidarity Centre, a major museum on the Solidarity movement and the fall of communism.
- Walk along the Motława River Embankment for classic harbor views.
Day 14: Explore Gdańsk
Discover Gdańsk's architectural marvels, including St. Mary's Church and the historic Crane, while enjoying the riverside views.
Highlights
- Ascend St. Mary's Church for panoramic views over the historic center and admire its grand Gothic interiors.
- See the medieval Crane (Żuraw), a symbol of Gdańsk’s port history on the Motława River.
- Stroll along Long Lane (Ulica Długa), lined with ornate facades.
Day 15: Bookable day trip from Gdańsk to Sopot
Enjoy a refreshing day trip to the coastal resort of Sopot, famous for its pier and vibrant main street.
Highlights
- Take an early train from Gdańsk to Sopot (earliest departure 00:02), with tickets starting from €2.
- Walk along Sopot Pier, Europe's longest wooden pier, offering scenic sea views.
- Explore Bohaterów Monte Cassino Street, Sopot's lively pedestrian promenade, before taking a bus back to Gdańsk (latest departure 23:53).
Day 16: Explore Gdańsk
Delve into Gdańsk's amber heritage at the Amber Museum and spend time exploring the city's charming historic streets.
Highlights
- Visit the Amber Museum, showcasing exceptional collections of amber art and historic pieces.
- Wander through Gdańsk's historic streets, discovering hidden gems and local shops.
- Enjoy fresh Baltic Fish, a central part of Gdańsk’s coastal food culture.
Day 17: Depart Gdańsk
Enjoy some final moments in Gdańsk for souvenir shopping before heading to Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport for your departure.
Highlights
- Take advantage of any last-minute souvenir shopping in Gdańsk's historic streets.
- Travel to Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN), located 12 km northwest of the city center.
- Access the airport via train (30 min with transfer at Gdańsk Wrzeszcz) or bus line 210 (40 min) from Gdańsk Główny.
