Krakow Preserved

Highlights

• Eexcursion to Auschwitz-Birkenau
• Visit the castle, royal chambers and cathedral
• Enjoy a traditional Jewish-style dinner with music and performers in the old Jewish district of Kazimierz.

What's this trip about?

Krakow lost its medieval position of Polish capital in 1609 and this consequent loss of importance restricted later development and allowed its ancient centre to remain unspoilt and largely spared the ravages of the Second World War. Much of the wealth of Krakow flowed from the 1,000 years of operation of the Wieliczka Salt Mines, whose salt sculptures are a unique feature of the underground caverns. In the 20th century Poland suffered from both German and Communist occupation and a small area not far from Krakow juxtaposes two sites which could be said to represent the good and evil of this period. One is the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. The other is Wadowice, birthplace of the late Pope John Paul II, who was for many a symbol against Communist rule and is now a saint. His birthplace is a museum. He also lived and studied in Krakow during the Nazi occupation and later became Bishop.

What's excluded

• Travel insurance, optional excursions, tipping, any government taxes or compulsory charges introduced after publication.

Accommodation