Krakow
The realities of the Nazi occupation are truly brought to life by a trip to Krakow, especially Auschwitz. Underpin the teachings of the horrors of war and provide students with a better understanding of the persecution of the Jews.
Curriculum Links:
Linked to History KS4 & KS5 (Nazis and The Holocaust)
PLACES TO VISIT
Auschwitz-Birkenau
60km from Krakow is the site of the largest Nazi concentration camp used during World War II. The museum provides one of the most memorable lessons in Modern European History.
Old Town, Krakow
This is where most visitors will begin their tour of the city, and where many of the key landmarks are to be found. It is full of ancient buildings and narrow streets which have lost none of their character.
Krakow Royal Castle
A visit to the castle can include exhibitions in the State Rooms, Treasury and Armoury.
Old Town Square (Rynek Glowny)
This is where Krakow had the largest town square in medieval Europe. The hub of the city since the 13th century, its spectacular landmarks include the gothic St. Mary’s Church, the Town Hall Tower and the Cloth Hall.
Kazimierz
In the old narrow streets of the eastern half of Krakow’s Kazimierz district you will still find a unique atmosphere of the Jewish past of this area.
Wawel Cathedral
Also known as the Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaw and Vaclav, the present cathedral is the third to stand on the existing site.
St. Mary's Church, Krakow
The largest church in Krakow is not only famous for its altar carved by Veit Stoss, but also the bugle call played every hour from the tower window.
Schindler's Factory
This modern museum is housed in the former administration building of the factory owned by Oskar Schindler, and tells the story of Krakow under Nazi Occupation.
Galicia Museum
Located in the heart of Kazimierz, Krakow’s Jewish quarter, this museum was established by British photographer Chris Schwarz to commemorate the victims of the Holocaust and to celebrate the Jewish culture of Galicia.
Podgorze
It was in Podgorze (as featured in ‘Schindler’s List’) that the Jewish population from Kazimierz was moved into the Jewish ghetto. From 1941 until 1943, Krakow’s estimated 60,000 Jews were packed into an areaof 20 hectares, often squeezing four families into one flat.
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Located 15km from Krakow is this World Heritage Site. The world’s oldest continuously operating company has been mining here since the 13th century.
A two hour guided tour will take you through 20 chambers on different underground levels.
Wawel Hill
Situated overlooking the city and river, it is the prime location for the city’s Cathedral and Royal Castle.
PLACES TO STAY
Hotel Wyspianski
Hotel Wyspiański is a 3-star, 231-room hotel located in the heart of Krakow, Poland, just a 5-minute walk from the Main Market Square. Known for its central location near Planty Park and Old Town, it offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a 24-hour reception. The hotel is convenient for sightseeing, shopping, and transportation, including proximity to the central railway station.
Hotel Wilga
Hotel Wilga in Kraków is a 3-star hotel offering comfortable, functional accommodation, often cited as a solid, budget-friendly option near the city center. The hotel features an on-site restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine and international dishes, including grilled items and desserts, providing a convenient dining option for guests.
Hotel Regent
Located in the historic Jewish district.
• Relatively small hotel with 39 rooms
• Students in 2-3 bedded en suite rooms
• Staff in twin en suite rooms
• Meeting room available
Itinerary Example
4 day by air
DAY 1: Fly from the UK to Krakow with transfer to your accommodation. Time for sightseeing on arrival subject to flight schedule.
DAY 2: Morning guided walking tour of the city. Afternoon free for independent sightseeing.
DAY 3: Guided coach excursion to Auschwitz-Birkenau (included in tour price).
DAY 4: Time for further sightseeing subject to flight schedule. Coach transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.