2-Week Journey Through Central & Eastern Europe: History

14 Day Tour of Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest and Krakow

Overview
Trip Map
Itinerary
Inclusions
Reviews

14 Days 13 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Cultural Exploration

WWII History & Communist Era

See the best of Central Europe on this captivating journey through five iconic cities: Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, and Krakow. The well-rounded trip offers a unique perspective on the region’s fascinating history, including the impact of WWII, while also allowing you to enjoy three scenic city river cruises. Explore famous sites like the Charles Bridge, Schönbrunn Palace, and Wawel Castle, with private guided tours in each city. You'll explore with ease and learn about the region’s rich culture, stunning architecture, and vibrant Jewish heritage with the help of the detailed itinerary guidance provided in Go Real Travel's mobile app.

Visit Berlin’s Jewish Museum and see Checkpoint Charlie and remains of the Berlin Wall.
Stroll across Prague’s Charles Bridge and wander the courtyards of its famous castle complex.
Experience the opulent architecture and lush gardens of the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna.
Cruise along the Danube River in Budapest, passing under stunning bridges and illuminated monuments.
Explore Krakow’s magnificent Wawel Castle, a symbol of Polish royal history.

Visit Berlin’s Jewish Museum and see Checkpoint Charlie and remains of the Berlin Wall.
Stroll across Prague’s Charles Bridge and wander the courtyards of its famous castle complex.
Experience the opulent architecture and lush gardens of the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna.
Cruise along the Danube River in Budapest, passing under stunning bridges and illuminated monuments.
Explore Krakow’s magnificent Wawel Castle, a symbol of Polish royal history.

The Brandenburg Gate

Historic Landmarks

The Berlin Wall

Historic Landmarks

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

National Museum

Museums & Galleries

Central Market

Street Markets

Castle Hill

Castles & Chateaux

Old Town

Architecture

Must see sights

The Brandenburg Gate

Historic Landmarks

The Berlin Wall

Historic Landmarks

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

National Museum

Museums & Galleries

Central Market

Street Markets

Castle Hill

Castles & Chateaux

Old Town

Architecture

Starting from

$2875

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

Not included

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Start

Travelers

Preferred Hotel Stars

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Trip Map & Itinerary

Enable/Disable Map Scrolling

Click to See Map

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

To Be Determined

Airport Transfer by Taxi or Train

Flying into Berlin you will arrive in the brand new Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the south of the city. Taxis are available at the airport, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Berlin is by train. The Airport Express train delivers you to Berlin's main station (Hauptbahnhof) in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi.

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

To Be Determined:

Airport Transfer

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

TV Tower & Old Berlin

Late Afternoon:

Courtyards of Berlin

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

To Be Determined

Airport Transfer by Taxi or Train

Mid-Day/Afternoon

The TV Tower and Berlin's East German & Medieval Legacies

The Television Tower and its surroundings in Alexanderplatz are Berlin's main architectural monument to the former East Germany. Despite the high-rent stores and offices that now fill the buildings, you can still detect quite a bit of that old communist character. Somewhat ironically, you'll find the medieval Nikolaiviertel, the oldest residential area of Berlin, just a few steps away. You'll also find nearby the Marienkirche (Berlin's oldest parish church), the displaced Neptune Fountain, the Red Town Hall, statues of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, and the massive Loxx model railway that even non-model train enthusiasts will gasp at.

Late Afternoon

Exploring Hidden Courtyards & Jewish History

With booming 19th-century population growth, nearly every unoccupied space in Berlin was filled by tenement buildings surrounding small courtyards. The Spandauer Vorstadt neighborhood possesses some of Berlin’s most beautiful courtyards, the Hackesche Höfe, as well as other courtyards which better recall the crowded conditions of industrial Berlin. Here you can discover the partially reconstructed New Synagogue, the former site of the Jewish cemetery, and many hidden reminders of a once vibrant community.

Day 2

Berlin

Day 2

Berlin

Day 2

Berlin

Day 2

Berlin

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Highlights of Berlin Guided Walking Tour

On this 3 hour tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Berlin and help you understand what makes this city so unique. Sites visited will include the boulevard Unter den Linden, the Gendarmenmarkt, Check Point Charlie, remnants of the Berlin Wall, Potsdamer Platz, the Holocaust Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Berlin's Most Iconic Sights

Many of Berlin’s most iconic symbols are found within a short walk of each other. Most famous of all is the Brandenburg Gate. First built as a symbol of peace, it became a symbol of division during the Cold War. A few steps away stands the Reichstag, which was destroyed in the climax of World War II but which has been beautifully rebuilt with a glass dome. Meanwhile, the modernistic Sony Center also symbolizes a revitalized and rebuilt Berlin. Also close by is the sobering Holocaust Memorial, with its more than 2700 concrete slabs creating an ominous impression of loss. Just beyond it is another reminder of Germany's darkest period - the site of Hitler's bunker during the seige of Berlin.

Late Afternoon

Checkpoint Charlie and the Jewish Museum

The best-known Berlin Wall crossing point between East Berlin and West Berlin during the Cold War, Checkpoint Charlie was the main gateway between the two Berlins for most non-Germans. Next to it is the Mauermuseum recounting the history of the Berlin Wall, while a few hundred yards away is the Topography of Terror depicting the history of the Nazi regime. Nearby, the Jewish Museum explores the fascinating history of Germany's Jewish heritage in a striking modern building - uneven floors, empty spaces, and sharp zig-zags reflect its turbulent experience in Germany.

Early Evening/Evening

Cruise on the River Spree

The Spree is a 250 mile long river that flows through the German states of Saxony and Brandenburg. But it’s best known for its final stretch where it drifts through the city center of Berlin, flowing under more bridges than in Venice and passing the Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom), the Reichstag and the Charlottenburg chateau. Taking a cruise, whether for an hour or half the day, offers a wonderful way to see the city in a relaxed manner.

Day 3

Berlin to Prague

Day 3

Berlin to Prague

Day 3

Berlin to Prague

Day 3

Berlin to Prague

Morning

Stroll the Kurfürstendamm in West Berlin

In the 1920's the elegant, tree-line boulevard known as the Kurfürstendamm was the center of Berlin's nightlife and leisure scene, attracting writers, film stars, and artists. WWII left it in ruins, and today at the end of the boulevard you'll discover a chilling reminder of that destruction: the purposefully unrecontructed remains of the Memorial Church. During the Cold War, the Kurfürstendamm and its surroundings were central to West Berlin's revitalized identity. This was perhaps best symbolized by the famous KaDeWe, the gigantic department store which served as a symbol of market capitalism lodged in the heart of the Iron Curtain.

Mid-Day

Wander the Tiergarten and Climb the Victory Column

Once the hunting ground of the Prussian kings, the Tiergarten is Berlin’s most famous and expansive park. It is a wonderful escape from urban stress located in the very center of the city. You will discover beautiful forests, fields, and ponds, all easily reached through an extensive and well maintained network of trails. Some of Berlin's favorite beer gardens are also located in the park.

4:10 PM

Taxi Transfer or Public Transport to Main Rail Station

Most trains depart from Berlin Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. It is well connected by public transport, including U-bahn, S-bahn, and bus, making it relatively easy and often fastest to reach by public transport. However, if traveling with bags, you may prefer the convenience of taking a taxi, Uber, or private transfer. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest. If you are staying in central Berlin and are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have time to catch your train.

17:16 - 21:36

Rail Journey to Prague

Your scenic journey should take about 5 hours. The first couple hours bring you to the state capital of Saxony, Dresden. You will then enter an area known as Saxon Switzerland, which is filled with fascinating rock formations. You'll even pass beneath the imposing Fortress Königstein, which towers above the narrow river valley. After crossing the border into the Czech Republic, the beautiful scenery continues as you enter what is now known as Bohemian Switzerland. You'll then follow the Elbe and Vltava rivers through the pretty Bohemian countryside until reaching Prague.

9:36 PM

Arrival & Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Prague Main Station (Praha hl.n.) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that the easiest way to reach your hotel may be by public transport. Taxis are available but are known for taking advantage of tourists. However if you prefer the convenience of not carrying your bags on public transport, they are an option. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber and Bolt Taxis are also available for those with the app.

Day 4

Prague

Day 4

Prague

Day 4

Prague

Day 4

Prague

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Prague Castle & Royal Route Guided Walk

On this charming guided walk, you will explore the Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in all of Europe. To reach the castle you will trace the Royal Coronation Route and cross the Charles Bridge, whose “speaking stones” reveal the amazing and often cruel history that occurred there. Your tour guide will then take you either through the castle courtyards and into the dramatic St. Vitus Cathedral in the center of the castle complex, or through the upper part of the castle district around the oversized palaces of the old Catholic nobility and the top of the Castle Steps for incomparable views over the red rooftops of the Little Quarter.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Prague Castle and the Castle District

Prague Castle is the most visited destination in Prague, and for good reason. The castle's history stretches back over a 1000 years, and it has served as the seat of government for Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic. The castle sits impressively perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing a breathtaking and romantic view.

Late Afternoon

Stroll through Petřín Park

Petřin Park is Prague's most prominent park, as it is located on the side of a large hill overlooking the city. The park is filled with cherry orchards, beautiful forests, and lawns, and is crisscrossed by numerous paths as well as the medieval Hunger Wall built by Emperor Charles IV. At the top of the park is an Eiffel Tower-like observation tower which provides an unobstructed view of the city.

Early Evening

Exploring the Little Quarter

The Little Quarter is a quaint yet lively quarter of Prague tightly nestled on the slope and riverbank beneath the Prague Castle. It is filled with the homes of medieval and renaissance nobility who wanted to live as closely as possible to the castle. Picturesque side streets, beautiful churches, and impressive Baroque architecture all abound within the Little Quarter.

Day 5

Prague

Day 5

Prague

Day 5

Prague

Day 5

Prague

Morning

Discover the New Town

Despite being 700 years old, the New Town (Nové Město) is the youngest of the original five independent towns that made up Medieval Prague. The heart of New Town is one of the three original markets around which the town was planned, Wenceslas Square. Not fully given over to tourism like the Old Town, the New Town combines a historic atmosphere with the daily commercial and social life of locals, making it a great place to get a taste of the real Prague.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Visit Prague's Jewish Quarter

Jews have lived in Prague since its beginnings in the 10th century and have endowed it with a rich heritage. The ghetto was created in the 12th century, as Jews were forced to live separately from Christians. Despite persecution, the community prospered, but sadly, only a small minority survived the Nazi occupation. A lasting legacy remains, including synagogues, architecture, and a fascinating cemetery.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Wanderings in the Old Town

A visit to the Old Town transports you to an entirely different era. A labyrinth of twisting cobblestone lanes and alleys surrounds Old Town Square, which has been Prague's municipal center since the Middle Ages. The square is lined by magnificent churches and imposing Renaissance palaces. As you wander through the Old Town, you discover numerous other delights, including several beautiful churches, a plentiful supply of cozy cafes and pubs, and an outdoor market dating back to the Middle Ages.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Vltava River Cruise

Embark on a captivating evening river cruise in Prague on the Vltava River, where the city's historic landmarks come alive under the soft glow of twilight. Glide past Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town while enjoying a glass of bubbly or a gourmet dining experience with fine wines. This enchanting journey offers a unique perspective of Prague's beauty, creating memories against the backdrop of the city's sparkling lights.

Day 6

Prague to Vienna

Day 6

Prague to Vienna

Day 6

Prague to Vienna

Day 6

Prague to Vienna

Morning

Vyšehrad Fortress; a Favorite of the Locals

The castle of Vyšehrad was the seat of Bohemia's kings from the 11th to the 12th centuries. Due to its strategic position on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and Prague, it became an important army garrison in the 17th century, and it was transformed into a fortress with huge walls, gates, and ramparts. Walking along these ramparts will offer you wonderful views of the city and river. The interior of the fortress is now given over to a pleasant and quiet park which is a favorite of locals.

11:45 AM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Prague Main Station (Praha hl.n.) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that the cheapest and sometimes fastest way to reach your hotel may be by public transport. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app. Information on finding your departure platform is provided in the itinerary mobile app.

12:45 - 16:49

Rail Journey to Vienna

Your scenic journey to Vienna should take about 4 hours. After departing Prague, you will first pass through the rolling countryside of central Bohemia. You will then enter an enchanting region of deep forests and river valleys, followed by the wine-growing region of southern Moravia, and then approach the border to Austria. The passage over the border is interesting when you consider that it used to be a closely guarded and heavily garrisoned no man’s land during Communism. The countryside is relatively flat by Austrian standards but quite pleasant, with a mix of fields, forests, and small lakes. As you enter Vienna, you will pass over a series of islands, forest, and canals as you cross the Danube River.

4:49 PM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Vienna's Main Station (Wien Hbf) station, but if coming from the west, you may be able to get off at the west station, Wien Westbahnhof, which may also be closer to your hotel. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. Taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Early Evening/Evening

Hip Vienna; the Naschmarkt and Museum Quarter

The centuries-old market known as the Naschmarkt and its surroundings are a great destination for those who love shopping, art, cafes, and nightlife. With a population of students and young professionals this area is one of Vienna’s youngest, and not coincidentally, it’s most hip and bohemian. Even the nearby Museum Quarter is happening, as it's abuzz with activity even well after its outstanding museums have closed.

Day 7

Vienna

Day 7

Vienna

Day 7

Vienna

Day 7

Vienna

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Guided Walk through Vienna's Inner City

This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna's early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Experience the Imperial Vienna

Discover the very heart of the Habsburg Empire that once covered most of central Europe. Within the vast Hofburg Palace complex, which was once home to Austria’s emperors and their administrators, you will find palaces, museums, a famed riding hall, the Austrian national library, and much more. The State Opera House and other major monuments are also nearby. Majestically stunning, the buildings and squares of Imperial Vienna still evoke awe in the observer even if the Empire they were built for is now long gone.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Exploring Vienna's Inner City

When the Viennese say they are going “into the city”, they are talking about the Inner City (Innere Stadt). The Inner City corresponds to Vienna’s original medieval city, which was once surrounded by defensive walls that stood where the Ringstrasse (Ring Street) now runs. A warren of medieval alleyways crowded into the protected space between the walls, creating a dense network of pedestrian streets that remains to this day.

Early Evening/Evening

An Evening out in the Wine Village of Grinzing

Nothing better symbolizes the Viennese love of “gemütlichkeit” (roughly translated as coziness) than the wine villages and vineyards which hug the gentle slopes beneath the Vienna woods. They are home to wine taverns known as Heurigen. The most famous of the wine villages is Grinzing, which is easily reached from the city center by tram. Despite its closeness to the city center, a visit to Grinzing seems to transport you to the countryside, as quaint cottages and cozy old farmhouses create a charming village atmosphere.

Day 8

Vienna to Budapest

Day 8

Vienna to Budapest

Day 8

Vienna to Budapest

Day 8

Vienna to Budapest

Morning

Tour the Schönbrunn Palace

The magnificent Baroque palace of Schönbrunn is most famously associated with Empress Maria Theresa, who lived here surrounded by 16 little archdukes and duchesses who also happened to be her children. On your tour of the palace, you will see how Maria Theresa and other past imperial residents lived. No visit is complete without a stroll in the vast gardens surrounding the palace.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Visit the Karlskirche & Belvedere Palace

Two of Vienna's greatest architectural treasures lie just beyond the Ring Street - the Belvedere Palace and the Karlskirche (St. Charles's Church). Often missed by visitors, these Baroque wonders represent Austria at the peak of its prestige and power and deserve to be on every visitor's list.

4:40 PM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Vienna Main Station (Wien Hbf) station. If traveling to the west though, there is a good possibility you will leave from the west station (Wien Westbahnhof). Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

17:40 - 20:19

Rail Journey from Vienna to Budapest

The scenic journey to Budapest takes a little less than 3 hours. Even though separated only by a political border, the look and feel of the natural setting changes between Austria and Hungary. It is interesting to consider that the border area used to be a closely guarded and heavily garrisoned no man’s land. During Communism, any Hungarian civilian entering this area risked being shot and killed. Today you will pass empty stations and checkpoints.

8:19 PM

Private Transfer from the Budapest Rail Station

Upon your arrival in Budapest, your driver will meet you on the platform. He will be carrying a sign with your name on it. The driver will drop you off at your hotel. This is a private transfer. The price of the pickup is already included in your itinerary cost so you will not have to pay the driver. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.

Day 9

Budapest

Day 9

Budapest

Day 9

Budapest

Day 9

Budapest

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Best of Budapest: Half-Day Walking Tour of Highlights & Hidden Finds

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Budapest Castle and the Castle Hill

The historic Renaissance and Baroque architecture of Buda's hilltop Castle District make it feel like a quaint step back in time. Indeed, in the little squares and narrow lanes of the Castle District, you will find the heart of historic Hungary. Numerous points in the Castle District also provide breathtaking views over the Danube and the Pest side of the city.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Exploring Central Pest

In Central Pest you will discover the beating heart of the city, with grand apartment houses and art nouveau architectural gems. No visit to Budapest is complete without seeing its highlights, including St. Stephen's Basilica, which dramatically rises above the city, and the Chain Bridge, which regally spans the Danube.

Early Evening/Evening

Szechenyi Baths, Vajdahunyad Castle, Zoo, and Heroes' Square

The Széchenyi Baths are the largest and the most popular of all the city's baths. With eighteen indoor and outdoor pools and impressive neo-Baroque architecture, the baths make for an unforgettable visit. Nearby, you will find the fascinating Vajdahunyad Castle, a delightful zoo, and the monumental Heroes’ Square, which tells a 1,000-year old tale of Hungarian history.

Day 10

Budapest

Day 10

Budapest

Day 10

Budapest

Day 10

Budapest

Morning/Mid-Day

Andrássy Avenue & the State Opera House

The wide, tree-lined Andrássy Avenue is Budapest's most prominent street, and is lined by imposing neo-Renaissance palaces and buildings. It is home to the breathtakingly beautiful State Opera House, making it the musical heart of Hungary. You will also find the superb House of Terror museum, which focuses on the horrors inflicted by 20th century totalitarian regimes.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Visiting the Jewish Quarter

Budapest was once the site of one of Europe's largest and most vibrant Jewish communities and contains the world's second largest synagogue – the Dohány Street Synagogue. A visit there is an impressive reminder of the wealth and influence the Jewish community in Hungary once possessed. A small but vibrant Jewish population still inhabits the Jewish Quarter today.

Late Afternoon

Váci street and the Central Market

The Central Market Hall is a mezzanine shopping arcade first opened in 1897. Today the Central Market teems with activity like small shops and stands offer a remarkable assortment of goods, including fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, fish, flowers, and Hungarian specialties. There are also many souvenirs available on the second floor of the market.

Early Evening

Evening Cruise on the Danube

The Danube River defines Budapest, as it divides the metropolis into two distinct city environments - Buda and Pest. It is spanned by a succession of stunning bridges which are best appreciated from the water. An evening river cruise is a relaxing way to soak in the beauty of the city, as you enjoy a drink or meal, and watch as the brightly-lit buildings cast reflections on the water.

Day 11

Budapest to Krakow

Day 11

Budapest to Krakow

Day 11

Budapest to Krakow

Day 11

Budapest to Krakow

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Shuttle Transfer from Budapest to Krakow through Slovakia

A private transfer with door-to-door service is certainly the most convenient way to travel. Unfortunately, there are no good train or bus connections between the cities, so while private transfers are expensive and not-so-carbon-friendly, they are the best option in this case. The 7-8 hour journey to Krakow takes you through the breathtaking landscape of mountainous Slovakia. While some of the route is along major highways, much of it will be along winding mountain roads, allowing you to experience the dramatic landscape, and see off the beaten path sights such as the dramatic Orava Castle.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Exploring Krakow's Old Town

Krakow's Old Town is the part of the city once contained within the historic Medieval walls. While the walls are now mostly gone, you will still discover a rich heritage of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The Market Square is one of the largest and most breathtaking town squares in all of Europe. The two most famous attractions on the Market Square are St. Mary's Basilica and the Cloth Hall.

Day 12

Krakow

Day 12

Krakow

Day 12

Krakow

Day 12

Krakow

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Walking Tour of Krakow's Historic Center

On this three-hour guided walking tour, you will discover the history and legends of old Krakow and gain an excellent overview of the city. The many layers of the city will be revealed to you as your guide points out medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. You will learn about not only Krakow's glory days many centuries past but also about its more recent struggles during Nazism and Communism oppression.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Tour Wawel Castle, the historic heart of Poland

Krakow's dramatic castle is situated on top of Wawel Hill, a limestone hill rising above the Vistula River and the city. During the earliest days of Polish history a castle was built here and throughout the Medieval and Renaissance era, it was home to the country's kings. The kings were also coronated and then buried in the castle's beautiful cathedral, making the castle arguably the historic heart of Poland.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Explore Kazimierz and its Jewish Quarter

The district of Kazimierz was once home to one of Europe's largest and most influential Jewish communities. This tiny area became the cultural center of European Jewry, drawing immigrants from around Europe. It was filled with synagogues, Jewish schools, and printers, and was home to famous scholars such as Rabbi Moses ben Isserles. While most of its residents were tragically killed in the Holocaust, they left behind a rich and fascinating historical legacy to explore.

Early Evening/Evening

Concert or Other Cultural Event in Krakow

As a cultural center of Poland, Krakow's music offerings punch well above their weight for such a small city. It also possesses several nice concert halls and theaters. The Slowacki Theater, for instance, is one of the most beautiful venues in Europe. The city supports its own talented philharmonic and opera companies, and numerous smaller concerts cater to both locals and visitors. Poland has an especially rich folk arts tradition, meaning visitors can also enjoy performances of folk music and dancing.

Day 13

Krakow

Day 13

Krakow

Day 13

Krakow

Day 13

Krakow

Morning/Mid-Day

Visit to the Schindler's Factory Museum and the Former Ghetto

During World War II Oscar Schindler saved the lives of more than 1,100 Jews by employing them in his enamelware factory in Krakow. Until recently still used as a factory, the building now houses one of Europe's most impressive new museums. It tells not only the story of Schindler and the Jews he protected, but of the wider experience of Krakow during World War II.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Excursion to the Communist Suburb of Nowa Huta

Nowa Huta was an entirely pre-planned socialist-realist city, intended as an ideal showcase of Communism. This self-guided walk takes you into the heart of Nowa Huta, from its monolithic and oppressive, yet admittedly impressive central square, to its small neighborhood streets and quiet courtyards. You will also have the option to try a dining experience mostly unchanged from Communist times and see how daily life is lived here.

Day 14

Depart Krakow

Day 14

Depart Krakow

Day 14

Depart Krakow

Day 14

Depart Krakow

To Be Determined

Transfer to Airport by Taxi or Train

Krakow has one main airport, Kraków John Paul II International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. The most affordable and fast way to reach the airport is by train. The regional train takes less than 20 minutes and leaves directly from the main station in central Krakow. Your hotel can also arrange a reliable taxi or if you have the app, Uber is also a good option. You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and 45 minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with over 2 hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

Click to See Details

2-Week Journey Through Central & Eastern Europe: History

14 Day Tour of Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest and Krakow

$2875

Secure Your Customizable Trip Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Trip Map & Itinerary

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Airport Transfer by Taxi or Train

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.