POLAND

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.

RZESZOW (RZE)

Rzeszów is a rapidly growing city that balances its historical roots with its status as Poland’s “Aviation Valley.” It serves as the vital logistical hub for the southeast. Visitors enjoy the charming Old Town Market Square with its underground tourist route—a labyrinth of medieval cellars—and the impressive Lubomirski Summer Palace. As the starting point for any Bieszczady adventure, Rzeszów offers a high quality of life, excellent Podkarpackie cuisine (like Proziaki flatbreads), and a welcoming, less-crowded alternative to Kraków.