- Travel by local trains and buses to link up each destination
- Explore some of Poland's most iconic cities
- Book additional excursions such as Auschwitz-Birkenau or the Weiliczka Salt Mines
- Round off in the recreation capital of Poland; Zakopane
Essential Poland
Ideal for independent travellers, this tailor-made tour uses local trains and buses to get to the heart of Poland’s historic highlights.
Explore the incredible cities of Gdansk, Warsaw and Krakow at your own pace, wander the medieval streets of Torun - one of Poland’s oldest cities - and breathe in the fresh alpine air in scenic Zakopane at the foot of the stunning Tatra Mountains.
Our “Essential” holidays are ideal for those who like to explore under their own steam, safe in the knowledge their accommodation and travel arrangements are taken care of by us.
Tour Itinerary
Fly to Gdansk. On arrival transfer to your hotel for a two night stay.
Situated in the eastern part of Poland’s Baltic coast, Gdansk’s history is intrinsically linked to its role as Poland’s largest seaport. Many foreign influences including Scottish, Dutch, German and Scandinavian are in evidence and rows of Flemish Mannerism gabled merchants’ houses form the city’s characteristic skyline. Enjoy a free day at leisure, perhaps visiting the Town Hall - remodelled from Gothic to Renaissance style in the 16th century - or taking a stroll along the riverfront where the Polish Maritime Museum adjoins the immense Zuraw medieval crane. (B)
Take a train (approx. 3 ½ hours) to Torun for an overnight stay. One of the oldest cities in Poland, the medieval area was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Witheight centuries of history to uncover, a free day to explore this walled Gothic town on the Vistula River provides myriad options; admire St. Mary’s Church, the Cathedral of St. John and the Town Hall, and be sure to try some of the delicious local gingerbread. (B)
Take a train (approx. 2½ hours) to Warsaw, Poland’s vibrant capital in the heart of the country. (B)
Completely destroyed in WWII, this incredible city has risen from the ashes to become an energetic, cultural capital, where development never seems to stop. Discover the painstakingly restored Old Town with its baroque Royal Castle or perhaps visit one of the city’s excellent museums such as the Chopin Museum, housed in stunning Ostrogski Palace. Search for antiques and bric-a-brac at the huge Bazar Na Kole market or pay a moving visit to the site of the WWII ghetto. (B)
Take a train (approx. 3 hours) to Krakow and check in to the hotel for two nights. (B)
Spend a day exploring Krakow’s historical delights. Stroll the maze of medieval streets lined with enchanting Gothic and baroque architecture, explore imposing Wawel Castle where the Royal Chambers house an impressive collection of furniture and art or perhaps visit Schindler’s factory - now a museum documenting life in the city under Nazi occupation. In the evening enjoy a live music performance at an Old Town jazz club or head to the bohemian Kazimierz district where the many emerging bars and cafés have brought this former Jewish suburb back to life. (B)
Take a coach (approx. 2 ½ hours) or train (approx 2 hours 20 mins) to Zakopane at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. (B)
Enjoy a free day at leisure to soak up the alpine scenery of Zakopane. Perhaps embark on one of the many well-marked walking trails in Tatra National Park or in the winter months, take to the piste and make use of the plentiful snow in Poland’s winter sports capital. Return by bus or train to Krakow for the final evening. (B)
Transfer to the airport for your return flight. (B)
Pricing Information
Price Includes
- Return international flights between the UK and Poland
- All airport taxes and security charges
- Three/four-star hotels with breakfast*
- Meals as specified (B= Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
- Train tickets: Gdansk to Torun, Torun to Warsaw & Warsaw to Krakow, Krakow to Zakopane return
- Private arrival transfer in Gdansk
- Private departure transfer in Krakow
Price Excludes
- Transfers between hotels and railway/bus stations
- Departure transfer
- Optional excursions
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Price Notes
This is an example itinerary staying at our favourite three-star hotels, accompanied by a guide price. If you would like alternative options staying in four or perhaps five-star hotels, or if you have a higher or lower budget than the guide price, please ring one of our travel specialists on 0207 666 1290 and we can tailor this trip to suit your precise requirements.
For single room supplements and solo travellers please contact us for prices
Tour Route Map
- Poland, Gdansk
- Poland, Torun
- Poland, Warsaw
- Poland, Krakow
- Poland, Zakopane
- Poland, Krakow
Tour Accommodation
Image Gallery
Reviews
All well organised and clearly explained. Everything worked wonderfully - an amazing holiday.