Krakow - the jewel of Poland

Krakow is without doubt one of the most beautiful cities you will ever see, ranking with Prague and Vienna as one of the real architectural gems of central Europe. 

The city first came to prominence nearly 1,000 years ago when it became the royal capital of Poland. It remained so for 500 years, spanning both the Middle-Ages and Renaissance period. The castle evolved to become the sumptuous Royal Palace and was the centre of ancient trade routes to the orient and Baltic. This, together with salt (that vital commodity, which it possessed in abundance) ensured its immense prosperity, and the result is the amazing collection of palaces, aristocratic buildings and works of art that you see today.

Krakow is far from just a collection of buildings, its atmosphere is vibrant, alive and timeless with the past and present beautifully intertwined. Being the ‘Oxbridge’ of Poland, the continuation of so many traditions, talented street musicians and older Krakovians dressed in traditional costume, these simply add to the peaceful and very real ambience of the city.

As you amble your way through traditional markets, there will be energetic cobblers hard at work and barbers skilfully shaving their clients “cutthroat-style”. All of this is a way of life rapidly disappearing. 

Poland and Krakow in particular have always been very religious and it is impossible to mention the city without including the Catholic Church. In 1978 the unknown Archbishop of Krakow was elected Pope Jean-Paul II, the highest office of Catholicism, in what was at the time officially an atheist country. There is no doubt this fact unified the country, helped the Polish people to throw off the yoke of communism and led to a surge of self-confidence and optimism that is so evident today.

Fully escorted price includes:

• Return flights to Krakow
• Return transfers from Krakow airport to your hotel
• Three nights bed and breakfast at a centrally located four-star hotel
• Guided walking tour of the medieval city
• Visit to the castle district, home of the Royal Palace
• Visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau (see day three)
• Services of experienced tour manager

Please click here to view prices for specific departures.

Prices based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement of £100 per person. Optional insurance available at a supplement.

Follow this link to view a sample Krakow tour itinerary.

Further information & booking:

Please click here to request your Krakow brochure, or alternatively please call 01283 523423.

This holiday is operated by, and your resulting contract will be with Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, DE14 1SP, fax: 01283 742301, ABTA V4744 ATOL 3430 protected, a company wholly independent of The Mirror Group Limited.