Poland: From the Baltic to the Carpathians
Poland: From the Baltic to the Carpathians
10 Days Starting in Gdansk, Poland and ending in Krakow, Poland
Visiting: Gdansk, Warsaw, Zamosc, Lancut, Bieszczady Mountains, Krakow
Tour operator:
Tour code:
PBC
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Poland, from the Baltic coast to the Carpathian Mountains. This tour invites you to explore the historic cities of Gdansk, Warsaw, and Krakow, each offering a unique glimpse into Poland's rich past. Marvel at the grandeur of Malbork and Lancut Castles, and wander through the charming UNESCO town of Zamosc. Experience the natural beauty of the Bieszczady Mountains with a scenic hike, and delve into history with visits to Schindler’s Factory and Auschwitz-Birkenau. Culinary enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to craft traditional Polish Pierogis in a hands-on workshop. With a small group size and expert guides, this cultural adventure promises an intimate and enriching experience, all while supporting sustainable travel initiatives. Enjoy premium and superior accommodations, and travel comfortably by minibus and train, ensuring a seamless exploration of Poland's diverse landscapes and heritage.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tour Starts In Gdansk
Location: Gdansk
Accommodation Name: Sadova Hotel or similar
Lying along the Baltic coastline of northern Poland, the city of Gdansk provides the starting point for this fascinating adventure. An important trading port since the Middle Ages, it still retains much of the architectural grandeur and elegance that once defined its importance as a member of the medieval Hanseatic League. The suggested group flight arrives early evening.
Day 2: Gdansk: Maritime City
Location: Gdansk
Accommodation Name: Sadova Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast this morning we will take a tour of the historic heart of the city, in the company of a local guide. A major maritime hub that once lay at the crossroads of trade between northern and western Europe and the countries that lay to the east and south, Gdansk’s waterfront is filled with countless architectural gems and delightful old merchant’s houses. We’ll take a stroll along the Royal Way and the ‘Long Waterfront’, before paying a visit to the famous setting of the Amber Museum to learn of its significant place in Polish history and culture.
Day 3: Gdansk - Malbork - Warsaw: Teutonic Castle & Train Journey
Location: Warsaw
Accommodation Name: Polonia Palace Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departing Gdansk this morning we head next towards the grand Teutonic Castle of Malbork, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is without doubt one of Poland’s finest fortresses. Built in the 13th century by German Teutonic Knights following the conquest of Old Prussia, the castle became the largest Gothic building in Europe and, even today, is considered the largest castle complex in the world by land area. After a chance to discover something of its medieval art and artefacts, we then take a train on to the city of Warsaw, Poland’s historic capital and largest city.
Day 4: Warsaw: Old & New City
Location: Warsaw
Accommodation Name: Polonia Palace Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
A morning tour of Warsaw’s Old Town affords us an opportunity to explore a city that was built from the ashes of the Second World War. A vibrant mix of the old and the new, the city has reinvented itself as the country’s centre for culture, science and business and its Old Town has been beautifully reconstructed to faithfully represent its historic origins. At its heart lies the Market Square, whose narrow, cobblestone streets fan out to encompass the medieval walls of the old city, as well as St John’s Cathedral and the Royal Castle. This afternoon has then been left free to enjoy some personal exploration.
Day 5: Warsaw - Zamosc: Renaissance Town
Location: Zamosc
Accommodation Name: Senator Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Turning to the south east this morning our journey takes us next towards the Ukrainian border and the city of Zamosc, another of Poland’s remarkable UNESCO Heritage settings. Described as the perfect example of a late 16th century Renaissance town, Zamosc was designed by the architect, Bernando Morando and was modelled on the Italian theory of an ‘ideal city’. A striking blend of Italian and central European architectural traditions, Zamosc retains many of its original fortifications and characteristically distinctive buildings. We will discover the historic city centre on our tour today.
Day 6: Zamosc - Lancut - Ustrzyki Dolne: Aristocratic House
Location: Lancut
Accommodation Name: Mietowy Aniol or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
On a journey of architectural and historic treasures, today is the turn of Lancut Castle, one of Poland’s most beautiful aristocratic houses. Built in the French Neo-baroque style, its pavilions and farm buildings sit amidst enchanting parkland that is laid out in the early English landscape style. Filled with numerous works of art and home to an impressive collection of horse-drawn carriages, it was once considered one of the most luxurious residences anywhere in continental Europe. After our visit we then continue on to Ustrzyki Dolne, located in Poland’s south-eastern corner, where we spend the next two nights.
Day 7: Ustrzyki Dolne: Hiking In The Bieszczady Mountains
Location: Bieszczady Mountains
Accommodation Name: Mietowy Aniol or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Crossing the extreme south-east corner of Poland, the Bieszczady Mountains form part of the outer edge of the Eastern Carpathians. Part of the Bieszczady National Park, these spectacular peaks provide the backdrop for a breath-taking hike that will take us up to the summit of Holica (761m) this morning. The hike will take some three hours in total and the start of the trail up leads us through forested pathways, to where an observation platform presents us with some wonderful panoramic views across the Carpathians.
Day 8: Ustrzyki Dolne - Malopolska - Krakow: Unesco Wooden Churches
Location: Krakow
Accommodation Name: Hotel Rubinstein or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
From Ustrzyki Dolne we turn west this morning, heading towards the city of Krakow and the final leg of our journey. The road takes us by way of some quite contrasting diversions today, as we stop to visit the unique Paraffin Oil & Gas Industry Museum at Bóbrka, as well as the captivating wooden churches of Malopolska (Southern Lesser Poland). Outstanding examples of medieval church-building traditions, these stunning UNESCO churches include the Parish of St Michael the Archangel in Binarowa and the Roman Catholic Church of All Saints in Blizne. Day’s end then sees us in Krakow, where we spend the next two nights.
Day 9: Krakow: Old City & Pierogi
Location: Krakow
Accommodation Name: Hotel Rubinstein or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Escaping much of the damage inflicted on other parts of Poland during World War II, Krakow’s charming medieval heritage survived much of the war intact. Boasting the largest Market Square in Europe, the city’s historic centre is home to a stunning array of architectural gems including the Cloth Hall, St Mary’s Church and the Jagiellonian University. Our tour of the city today will also include a visit to the famous setting of Schindler’s Factory Museum, before we later immerse ourselves in a pierogi cookery workshop, where we will learn to make Poland’s famous dumplings.
Day 10: Morning Visit To Auschwitz - Return To Krakow Where Tour Ends
Location: Krakow
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning provides an opportunity to pay a visit to the nearby setting of Auschwitz-Birkenau, a site synonymous with the horrors of the Holocaust and the brutality of the Nazi regime. A powerful memorial, its barracks, gas chambers and exhibits provide us with a poignant and unforgettable reminder of a dark chapter in human history, along with the chance to reflect on the hope for future generations. We then return to Krakow for some free time and the end of the tour. The suggested group flight departs in the evening.
What's Included
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MEALS
9 breakfasts and 2 dinners are included in the tour.
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TRANSPORT
Transportation is provided by minibuses and train.
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GROUP SIZE
The tour accommodates a maximum of 12 participants.
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CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
Contributions to climate and community projects are included for all bookings.
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EXPERT TEAM
The tour includes the full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate.
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ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation includes 6 nights in premium and 3 nights in superior accommodations.
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ENTRANCE FEES
All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary are included.
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FITNESS RATING
The tour has a low to moderate fitness rating.
What's Not Included
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Visas & Travel Insurance
Visas and travel insurance are not included in the cost of the tour.
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Tips
Tips are not included and are always optional, with guidance provided in the pre-departure information documents.
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International Flights
International flights are not included, but an obligation-free quote for flights originating in the UK can be provided.
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Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are not included unless arriving/departing on the suggested group flights.
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Beverages & Personal Costs
Beverages and any costs of a personal nature, such as laundry and souvenirs, are not included.
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ExcludedItem
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras.
As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently across Poland using minibuses and trains, providing a seamless and scenic journey from the Baltic coast to the Carpathian Mountains.
Accommodation
Enjoy a comfortable stay with 6 nights in premium accommodations and 3 nights in superior accommodations, ensuring a blend of luxury and comfort throughout your journey in Poland.
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Key Aspects to Consider
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, however, please note there will be walking tours in the cities and we have included a 3 hour hike which includes some uphill sections in the mountains. There are two nights in more simple, characterful accommodation and some rooms do have shared bathrooms. Polish food is hearty and there is a strong emphasis on meat so whilst vegetarians can be catered for it may not have much variety.
Travelling Solo
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip. On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour, however rooms are limited in the mountains and depending on the make-up of the group it may be necessary for some solo travellers to share on these two nights. If this is the case on your departure you will receive a partial pro-rata refund of the single supplement.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
Insurance
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses minibuses and trains for transportation.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 12 people.
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Are entrance fees included in the tour package?
Yes, all entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary are included.
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 6 nights in premium accommodation and 3 nights in superior accommodation.
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Is there a cooking activity included in the tour?
Yes, there is a pierogi cookery workshop where participants can learn to make traditional Polish dumplings.
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 9 breakfasts and 2 dinners.
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Is there a hike included in the tour itinerary?
Yes, there is a hike in the Bieszczady Mountains, which includes a 3-hour trek to the summit of Holica.
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What is the fitness level required for this tour?
The tour has a low to moderate fitness rating.
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Will there be a tour leader or guide during the trip?
Yes, the tour includes the full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2002
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Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?
In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
1 Select your preferred date
Monday - Wednesday
Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 14, 2026Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Wild Frontiers allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 90 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wild frontiers charges.
Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 50 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.