Back to PolandPoland

Published on December 20, 2025

7-Day Poland Itinerary: Krakow, Warsaw & Gdansk

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day journey through Poland, exploring three of its most vibrant cities: Krakow, Warsaw, and Gdansk. This itinerary blends rich history, stunning architecture, and profound cultural experiences, perfect for first-time visitors seeking to discover the heart and soul of this remarkable country.

Poland offers an incredible tapestry of experiences, from ancient royal cities to modern metropolises rebuilt from ashes, and a coastal gem with a powerful maritime legacy. This itinerary is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of what makes Poland so unique, ensuring you travel efficiently while maximizing your exploration time.

Getting Around Poland

Traveling between Krakow, Warsaw, and Gdansk is efficient and comfortable thanks to Poland's excellent train network. High-speed intercity trains connect these major cities, offering scenic views and a stress-free way to cover distances. Booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended.

Your 7-Day Poland Adventure: A Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Krakow & Old Town Charm

Begin your Polish adventure by arriving in Krakow, often considered Poland's cultural capital. After checking into your accommodation, immerse yourself in the city's enchanting atmosphere by exploring its historical center.

  • Afternoon:Start at the magnificent Rynek Główny(Main Market Square), one of Europe's largest medieval squares. Admire St. Mary's Basilica with its hourly trumpeter and explore the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), perfect for souvenir shopping.
  • Evening:Enjoy traditional Polish cuisine at a restaurant within the Old Town.

Day 2: Krakow's Royal History & Jewish Quarter

Dive deeper into Krakow's rich past today, exploring its royal heritage and the poignant history of its Jewish quarter.

  • Morning:Visit Wawel Royal Castle and Cathedral, perched atop Wawel Hill. Explore the state rooms, royal apartments, and the impressive cathedral, the coronation site of Polish monarchs.
  • Afternoon:Wander through Kazimierz, the historic Jewish Quarter. Explore its synagogues, charming streets, and independent galleries. Consider a visit to Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory, which now houses a powerful museum detailing Krakow's wartime history.
  • Evening:Experience the vibrant nightlife and unique eateries of Kazimierz.

Day 3: Day Trip to Wieliczka & Auschwitz-Birkenau

Today is a day for profound reflection and awe, visiting two UNESCO World Heritage sites just outside Krakow. This can be a challenging but deeply moving day.

  • Morning:Descend into the Wieliczka Salt Mine, an extraordinary underground world of chapels, sculptures, and chandeliers carved entirely from salt.
  • Afternoon:Visit Memorial and Museum Auschwitz. This solemn experience offers crucial insight into a dark chapter of human history. Guided tours are highly recommended for understanding the site's significance.
  • Evening:Return to Krakow, allowing time for quiet contemplation.

Travel Tip:Tours to both Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz-Birkenau often depart from Krakow and can be booked as a combined full-day excursion, making logistics much simpler.

Day 4: Travel to Warsaw & Old Town Revival

Bid farewell to Krakow and take a morning train to Warsaw, Poland's dynamic capital. The journey typically takes around 2.5-3 hours.

  • Afternoon:After settling in, head straight to Warsaw Old Town. Remarkably rebuilt after wartime destruction, it's a UNESCO site that perfectly exemplifies Polish resilience. Explore the Royal Castle, the Old Town Market Place, and St. John's Archcathedral.
  • Evening:Enjoy dinner in the charming Old Town, perhaps trying Żurek (sour rye soup) or traditional pierogi.

Day 5: Warsaw's Modernity & Green Spaces

Explore Warsaw's contemporary side, its significant museums, and beautiful parks.

  • Morning:Visit the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, an award-winning museum that tells the 1000-year history of Jewish life in Poland.
  • Afternoon:Relax and stroll through Łazienki Park, Warsaw's largest park. Admire the Palace on the Isle and the Chopin Monument.
  • Late Afternoon:For panoramic views of the city, ascend to the observation deck of the Palace of Culture and Science, a controversial but iconic landmark.
  • Evening:Experience Warsaw's vibrant culinary scene in districts like Praga or Powiśle.

Day 6: Travel to Gdansk & Waterfront Wonders

Today, take a morning train north to Gdansk, a stunning port city on the Baltic Sea, known for its Hanseatic architecture and pivotal role in modern European history. The train journey typically takes 3-4 hours.

  • Afternoon:Explore Gdansk Old Town(also known as the Main City). Walk along the Long Market (Długi Targ), admiring the colorful merchant houses, the iconic Neptune's Fountain, and Artus Court.
  • Late Afternoon:Stroll along the Motława River embankment, past the historic Crane (Żuraw), and explore Mariacka Street, famous for its amber stalls.
  • Evening:Enjoy fresh seafood or traditional Polish dishes at a riverside restaurant.

Day 7: Gdansk's Legacy & Departure

Delve into Gdansk's significant contributions to European history and enjoy its coastal charm before your departure.

  • Morning:Visit the European Solidarity Centre, a powerful museum dedicated to the Solidarity movement, which played a crucial role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe.
  • Late Morning (Optional):Take a short trip to Westerplatte, where World War II began, or head to Sopot beach for a refreshing walk along its famous pier.
  • Afternoon:Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot before heading to Gdansk Lech Wałęsa Airport for your onward journey.

Practical Tips for Your Poland Trip

  • Best Time to Visit:Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is popular but can be warmer and busier.
  • Accommodation:Poland offers a wide range of accommodation, from budget-friendly hostels to boutique hotels and luxury options. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in peak season.
  • Food:Don't leave Poland without trying pierogi (dumplings), barszcz (beetroot soup), bigos (hunter's stew), and obwarzanek (Krakow bagel). Each city has its own culinary specialties.
  • Currency:The Polish Złoty (PLN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller purchases or local markets.
  • Language:Polish is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants in major cities.
  • Stay Connected:Consider purchasing a local SIM card for easy access to maps and information.

This 7-day itinerary provides a comprehensive yet manageable overview of Poland's most iconic cities. From Krakow's medieval splendor to Warsaw's resilient spirit and Gdansk's maritime heritage, you'll leave with a deep appreciation for this fascinating European destination.