Poland in 7 Days: Unveiling the Charms of Kraków, Warsaw, and Gdańsk 🇵🇱

Poland in 7 Days: Unveiling the Charms of Kraków, Warsaw, and Gdańsk 🇵🇱

Monika Kasprzycka
Embark on a thrilling week-long journey through Poland's most captivating cities—Kraków, Warsaw, and Gdańsk. This guide takes you to the heart of Poland's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Discover iconic landmarks, indulge in the country’s best culinary delights, and experience unforgettable moments as you explore these three must-see destinations. Whether you're wandering through Kraków's medieval streets, soaking in Warsaw's modern energy, or enjoying Gdańsk's coastal charm, this guide ensures you won't miss a single highlight of your Polish adventure.
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Kraków

Must see

Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau
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The Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum is a haunting yet essential visit that offers a profound glimpse into one of history's darkest chapters. This solemn site preserves the memory of the millions who suffered during the Holocaust. Walking through the preserved barracks, gas chambers, and poignant exhibits, visitors are reminded of the immense human tragedy that unfolded here. A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau is a powerful experience that honors the past and underscores the importance of remembering and learning from history.
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Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory
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Schindler's Factory Museum in Kraków provides a poignant and immersive look into World War II and the Holocaust through the lens of Oskar Schindler's extraordinary efforts. Housed in the former enamelware factory where Schindler saved over 1,000 Jewish lives, the museum features powerful exhibits on wartime Kraków, the impact of Schindler's actions, and the broader history of the Holocaust. Enhance your visit with a walk through the streets of Kraków's Podgórze district, where the Jewish ghetto was located during the war. This trip deepens the experience by offering a vivid sense of the historical context and the profound legacy of Schindler’s humanitarianism.
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Wieliczka Salt Mine
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The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a mesmerizing underground world where centuries of history are carved into salt. As you descend into this UNESCO World Heritage site, you'll explore a labyrinth of tunnels, stunning salt sculptures, and grand chambers, including an awe-inspiring chapel made entirely of salt. 💡 Fun fact: The mine's tunnels stretch over 180 miles—long enough to reach from Kraków to Warsaw! This unique blend of natural wonder and human craftsmanship even hosts underground concerts and events, making it a must-see destination for a journey unlike any other.
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Wawel Royal Castle-State Art Collection
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Wawel Castle, perched majestically on the Vistula River in Kraków, is a symbol of Poland's rich royal heritage and architectural splendor. This historic castle complex, which served as the residence of Polish kings for centuries, features grand chambers, intricate Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and the impressive Wawel Cathedral. Explore the Royal Apartments, the Crown Treasury, and the Dragon’s Den while uncovering the castle’s fascinating history. Enhance your visit by strolling through the surrounding Wawel Hill area, where you can absorb the grandeur of Poland’s past and enjoy stunning views of the city and river.
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✨ Experiences

Balon widokowy
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Experience Kraków from a breathtaking new perspective with a panoramic hot air balloon ride. Soar high above the city to enjoy stunning, 360-degree views of Kraków's historic landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and the majestic Vistula River. As you gently float above the city, you'll gain a unique vantage point on the beautiful architecture and vibrant green spaces that define Kraków. This unforgettable adventure offers a serene and exhilarating way to take in the city's beauty from above.
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Beernarium Piwne Spa Kraków
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Indulge in a unique relaxation experience at Kraków's beer spa, where wellness meets brews. Soak in aromatic beer-infused baths that combine the soothing properties of hops and barley with traditional spa treatments. Enjoy a luxurious soak while sipping on a refreshing craft beer, all in a setting designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. The beer spa offers a relaxing retreat from the city, blending relaxation and indulgence in a truly memorable way.
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🍽️ Foodie's corner

Restauracja Smakołyki
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Polish, homemade food with a view of the Kraków Planty, just a three-minute walk from the Main Market Square. Don’t cook—come for lunch at Smakołyki. Our menu features traditional Polish dishes such as bigos, flaczki, and golonka. You’ll also find pierogi, żurek, liver, and other homemade delights.
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Gąska Polish Restaurant
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The restaurant specializes in Polish cuisine and in particular: goose meat, potato pancakes.
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Stradomska 12 Modern Polish Cuisine
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Lokalna Restauracja Polska
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Szara Gęś w Kuchni Restaurant
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NOAH
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A restaurant offering Israeli cuisine, built on the concept of small sharing plates. These plates, as the only source of color, bring vibrancy to the otherwise monochromatic interior of the restaurant. Vegetarian and meat dishes are balanced here, allowing for a diverse and satisfying feast. The owners of NOAH emphasize that classic Jewish dishes are merely a starting point for them. The main role on the plates is played by ingredients sourced from local suppliers and farmers.
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Warsaw

Hotel Bristol, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Warsaw
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Hilton Warsaw City
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Must see

Polish Vodka Museum
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Embark a 70-minute tour as you learn about the history of Polish Vodka presented by a qualified guide. Discover 4 interactive galleries in the Vodka Museum in Warsaw's Praga district.
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POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews
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Discover the 1000-year old history of the Polish Jews through a variety of exhibitions and interactive installations.
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Museum of King Jan III's Palace at Wilanów
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Enjoy a guided tour of Wilanów Palace, one of the most impressive monuments of Warsaw, and the historic summer residence of the Polish monarchs.
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Royal Łazienki Park
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With a history dating back to the 17th century, Royal Łazienki Park is one of Warsaw’s most culturally rich green areas. Developed by Poland’s last king, Stanisław August, it’s home not only to striking landscapes but also a number of architectural treasures, like the immensely picturesque Palace on the Isle. Thanks to its awe-inspiring natural sights, as well as its numerous museums and artistic events, Łazienki – as it is often simply called – figures amongst the capital’s most popular destinations.
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Palace of Culture and Science
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Discover Warsaw's Palace of Culture and Science during this guided tour with skip-the-line privileges to the viewing terrace.
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The Warsaw Rising Museum
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When you cross the threshold of the Museum, you immerse yourself in the dramatic history of the Uprising, filled with heroism and sacrifice. It is not only a collection of exhibits, but also a journey through the city of the Uprising. Every step is a meeting with the insurgents who faced the impossible. When you go to the Warsaw Uprising Museum, you open the door to history, whose heroes wrote it, fighting for freedom and homeland, creating a story that lasts in the hearts and souls of each of us.
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✨ Experiences

PIEROGI & MORE warsztaty kulinarne
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Make your trip to Poland complete by learning to make pierogi, delicious Polish dumplings that become popular across the world.
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Chopin Salon
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Enjoy a glass of wine in a pre-war Warsaw salon, directly opposite the National Museum, and embark on a magical adventure into the enchanting world of Chopin's music and art.
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🍽️ Foodie's corner

Restauracja Źródło
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Reimagined traditional dishes & natural wines
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Bibenda
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❗️Best for lunch Contemporary, brick-lined eatery with a patio offering wine, cocktails & seasonal small plates.
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N31 Restaurant & Bar
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Willa Biała
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Restauracja U Wieniawy
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Gdansk

Hotel Recommendation

Hilton Gdańsk
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Must See

Neptune's Fountain
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Neptune's Fountain in Gdańsk is an iconic symbol of the city's maritime heritage, standing proudly in the heart of the Old Town. This stunning bronze statue of the Roman god of the sea, crafted in the early 17th century, represents Gdańsk's deep connection to the ocean. Surrounded by historic architecture, the fountain is a favorite spot for visitors, offering a perfect blend of art, history, and legend in one of Poland’s most picturesque settings.
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Museum of Gdańsk - Main Town Hall
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The Main Town Hall in Gdańsk is a magnificent Gothic-Renaissance building that dominates the city's Old Town. Once the seat of Gdańsk's powerful city council, it now houses the Historical Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich past. Climb the tower for stunning panoramic views of Gdańsk, and admire the beautifully restored interiors, including the grand Red Hall. The Main Town Hall is not just an architectural gem, but a symbol of Gdańsk's historical significance and cultural heritage.
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Stary żuraw portowy
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The Stary Żuraw (Old Crane) in Gdańsk is one of the city's most distinctive landmarks and a testament to its maritime legacy. Dating back to the 15th century, this massive wooden crane once served as a vital tool for loading cargo and erecting ship masts along the bustling waterfront. As the oldest surviving port crane in Europe, it now stands as a fascinating piece of history, offering visitors a glimpse into Gdańsk's vibrant past as a major trading hub. The Old Crane is a must-see for anyone exploring the historic charm of Gdańsk.
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St. Mary's Church
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St. Mary's Church in Gdańsk, one of the largest brick churches in the world, is an awe-inspiring example of Gothic architecture. This monumental structure, towering over the city, can accommodate over 25,000 people and features an impressive interior with intricate stained glass windows, historic paintings, and a magnificent astronomical clock. Climb the church’s tower for breathtaking views of Gdańsk and immerse yourself in the rich history and spiritual significance that St. Mary’s has held for centuries. It's a must-visit landmark that reflects the grandeur and resilience of the city.
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Museum of the Second World War
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The Museum of the Second World War in Gdańsk is a powerful and comprehensive institution dedicated to the global impact of the war, with a special focus on Poland's experience. The museum's modern design contrasts with its somber exhibits, which guide visitors through the origins, horrors, and aftermath of the conflict. Through immersive displays, personal stories, and historical artifacts, the museum offers an in-depth exploration of the war's human and political dimensions. Located in the city where World War II began, this museum is an essential visit for anyone seeking to understand the profound effects of the war on the world.
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Katedra Oliwska
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Oliwa Cathedral in Gdańsk is a stunning masterpiece of Gothic architecture, renowned for its remarkable organ and serene atmosphere. Nestled in the picturesque Oliwa Park, this historic cathedral dates back to the 12th century and features a beautifully ornate interior with baroque elements, including altars, chapels, and intricate artwork. The highlight is the grand pipe organ, famous for its impressive sound and intricate design, often showcased in mesmerizing concerts. A visit to Oliwa Cathedral offers a blend of spiritual tranquility and architectural beauty, making it a must-see in Gdańsk.
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✨ Experiences

Westerplatte
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A cruise to Westerplatte offers a unique way to explore one of Poland's most significant historical sites. Departing from Gdańsk, the scenic boat ride takes you along the Motława River, passing the city's iconic landmarks before reaching Westerplatte, the site where World War II began. As you approach, the imposing Westerplatte Monument comes into view, standing as a tribute to the Polish soldiers who defended the peninsula. The cruise provides not only beautiful views but also a deeper connection to the history and heroism of this pivotal location.
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Gdansk: City cruise on a historic Polish boat
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Gdańsk City Sights & History
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🍽️ Foodie's corner

TYGLE Gdańskie restauracja polska Gdańsk Chmielna
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At Tygle, chef Michał Stężalski mixes continental cuisine with Kashubian ingredients. This is where you come for crayfish, which are a very regional product. So we have everything that is good from the field and a lot of good from import. Duck breast in liquid foie gras borders on classic French cuisine, but the Silesian dumplings and kaszanka served alongside are very much native. This is what this restaurant is all about—playing with the product at its best.
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ELIKSIR Restaurant & Cocktailbar
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For almost a decade, the focus has been on truly local products and food pairing. Food is paired not only with wine, but also with cocktails. You can take advantage of this when ordering both à la carte dishes and the tasting menu! Recently, the restaurant introduced a flawless non-alcoholic pairing. On the plates, you can find a lot of regional treasures, which are extensively and exhaustively described on the menu.
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Pierogarnia Mandu Gdańsk Śródmieście
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Pierogi are nothing more than a filling enclosed in dough. There are almost an infinite number of types of filling, which is why pierogi are a dish that never gets boring and is present in many cultures and cuisines of the world, such as in Korea, where pierogi are called "Mandu". Hence the name of this Gdańsk restaurant. Although Korean pierogi are served in the "Mandu" restaurant, they are just one of many, over 40, types of pierogi produced and served to customers in this establishment.
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Villa Eva
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If you want to try Gdańsk cuisine based on local ingredients accompanied by perfectly matched wine from a local vineyard, make a note of this place
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✈️ Return

3:00 pm - 7:40 pm

10.742 PLN - Business Class

1:30 pm - 6:15 pm

3.150 USD - Business Class

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Monika Kasprzycka
Hi, I’m Monika—a globetrotter with an insatiable curiosity for the world! My journey has taken me from a year-long exchange in the vibrant heart of Bogotá, Colombia, to studying in the charming cities of Austria and Germany and living in the cultural melting pot of Malaysia for six months. I’m not just a traveler; I’m a seeker of stories, a lover of languages, and an explorer of flavors. Whether savoring street food in a bustling market or diving into a new culture, I’m all about uncovering the hidden gems that make each place unique. Join me as I share the adventures, tastes, and tales that fuel my wanderlust ✨✈️
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