Poland: A Journey Through Past and Present

Day 1: Exploring Warsaw's Music and Greenery Morning: Arrival at Warsaw Chopin Airport: We begin our day by arriving at Warsaw Chopin Airport. After clearing customs and collecting the luggages, we make our way to the hotel together. You can arrange for airport transfer services or take a taxi, which is readily available at the airport. We meet at our hotel/apartment. Afternoon: Lazienki Park (Łazienki Królewskie): In the afternoon, we head to Lazienki Park, also known as the Royal Baths Park. It's a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Stroll through the park's beautifully landscaped gardens, picturesque bridges, and tranquil lakes. As we explore Lazienki Park, we make sure to visit the Chopin Monument, a tribute to the famous Polish composer Frédéric Chopin. The monument is a focal point for music enthusiasts and a serene spot for reflection. Evening: Open-Air Piano Concert: Lazienki Park hosts open-air piano concerts near the Chopin Monument on Sundays. It's a delightful way to immerse yourself in the music of Chopin in a beautiful setting. Optional Dinner: Dinner in Lazienki Park: After the concert (or if there isn't a concert scheduled), we can have dinner at one of the nearby restaurants. Lazienki Park offers several dining options, allowing us to savor both Polish and international cuisine.

Day 2: Exploring Krakow's Touristic Places Morning: Bus Ride from Warsaw to Krakow: We start our day by taking a comfortable bus ride from Warsaw to Krakow. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, so make sure to have some snacks and entertainment for the trip. Afternoon: Arrival in Krakow: Upon arrival in Krakow, we head to our hotel/apartment to check-in and drop off our luggages. After settling in, we're ready to explore this charming city. Rynek Glowny (Main Market Square): We begin our Krakow adventure at Rynek Glowny, one of Europe's largest medieval town squares. Here, you'll find the magnificent St. Mary's Basilica with its stunning altar by Wit Stwosz and the iconic Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), which is perfect for souvenir shopping. Wawel Castle: We walk to Wawel Hill, where you'll discover Wawel Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We explore the historic castle grounds, visit the Royal Cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views of Krakow from the hill. Evening: Optional Dinner in the Old Town: After our day of exploration, we enjoy a traditional Polish dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Old Town. Krakow is known for its delicious cuisine, so we will make sure to try dishes like pierogi, kielbasa, and more. Optional Evening Activity: Krakow by Night: If we have energy left, we take a stroll through the beautifully illuminated streets of Krakow's Old Town in the evening.

Day 3: Full Day Auschwitz and Birkenau Tour from Krakow We start our day early by departing from Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau. We arrive at Auschwitz I, the former Nazi concentration camp. We will join a guided tour, which is essential for understanding the historical context and significance of the site. We will witness the chilling remnants of the Holocaust, including photographs, personal belongings, and the haunting gas chambers and crematorium. Lunch Break: After our visit to Auschwitz I, we will take a break for lunch. Afternoon: Departure for Auschwitz II-Birkenau: After lunch, we'll proceed to Auschwitz II-Birkenau, located a short distance away. Birkenau was an extermination camp and is an integral part of the Holocaust history. We will visit the railway ramp, the remains of the barracks, and the memorial. After the tour, we'll return to Krakow. We'll use this time to process your emotions and thoughts from the day's visit. Please note that visiting Auschwitz and Birkenau can be emotionally challenging due to the heavy historical context. It's essential to approach the visit with respect and reverence for the victims and survivors of the Holocaust.

Day 4: Full Day Warsaw We start our day early by taking a comfortable bus ride from Krakow to Warsaw. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, so make sure to have some snacks, entertainment, and a good book for the trip. Upon arrival in Warsaw, we head to our hotel/apartment to check-in, drop off our luggages, and freshen up for the day ahead. Late Morning: Old Town (Stare Miasto): We begin our exploration in the heart of Warsaw by visiting the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We wander through the charming cobblestone streets, admire the colorful facades of the buildings, and take in the historic atmosphere. We make sure to see the Royal Castle and Sigismund's Column. Optional Lunch: We can enjoy a traditional Polish lunch at one of the restaurants in the Old Town. We can savor dishes like pierogi, barszcz (beet soup), or placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes). Afternoon: Depending on our scedule we can visit Copernicus Science Centre, Museum of Fryderyk Chopin and we can take a Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour. Optional Evening Activity: Chopin Concert: If you're a music enthusiast, we can consider attending a Chopin concert in Warsaw. The city is proud of its famous composer, and we can experience his music in various venues across town.

Day 5: Departure from Warsaw Chopin Airport We begin our last day by checking-out from our accommodation. Many hotels offer airport shuttle services, or you can book a taxi or use public transportation. We wish you a safe journey home or to your next destination, and we hope you carry fond memories of your time in Poland with you.