POLAND

The following are the heritage sites, grouped into recommended gateway cities. This may help in planning on the logistics (travel and accommodation) of your journey.

KRAKOW (KRK)

Kraków, Poland’s former royal capital, is a medieval masterpiece that escaped World War II largely intact. The city centers on Rynek Główny, Europe’s largest medieval square, featuring the iconic Cloth Hall and the bugle call of St. Mary’s Basilica. High above the Vistula River, Wawel Royal Castle stands as a symbol of national identity. The vibrant Kazimierz district remains a cultural heart, blending Jewish heritage with a bohemian café scene. A culinary hub, Kraków is famous for pierogi and obwarzanek (pretzels). With its major international airport, the city serves as the vital base for exploring the Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz-Birkenau.