How to Plan Your Krakow World War II Private Tour

Krakow is a beautiful city that’s rich in history, but during World War II, it played a crucial role in the outcome of the war. Being the center of the Nazi invasion of Poland, this city suffered a lot of losses and damages during that critical period of history. However, the resilient spirit of Krakow allowed it to bounce back and become Poland’s cultural and intellectual capital.

If you’re planning a visit to Krakow, one of the things you shouldn’t miss is a private World War II tour. This way, you can get a more personalized experience, have control over your departure time, and get a convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to plan your Krakow World War II Private Tour.

Overview

The Krakow World War II Private Tour is a 5-hour walking tour that takes you to some of the most significant World War II locations in Krakow. This private tour offers you the flexibility to choose your departure time and make requests on the attractions you’d like to spend more time at.

The tour includes visits to the following historical locations:

Kazimierz District

This district, initially founded to promote religious tolerance, was home to the Jewish population of Krakow during World War II. Our guide will take you to the several Jewish historical sites, including the Old Synagogue, Rema Cemetery, and Temple Synagogue.

Oskar Schindler’s Factory

Oskar Schindler’s Factory is a museum dedicated to the wartime experiences of Krakow residents during the Nazi occupation. The factory was run by Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved over 1,200 Jewish workers from deportation.

WWII Gestapo Headquarters on Pomorska Street

This building was used by the Gestapo, the German secret police, for interrogating and torturing prisoners. It’s now a museum that serves to remind people about the atrocities committed during World War II.

The Ghetto Eagle Pharmacy Museum

The Ghetto Eagle Pharmacy Museum is a small pharmacy that played an important role during the Holocaust. Its owner supplied medicine and helped Jews escape the Krakow ghetto.

What’s Included

The Krakow World War II Private Tour includes an experienced licensed private guide who will be with you throughout the 5-hour tour. You’ll also get private transportation by comfortable air-conditioned car or minivan if the sites are not within walking distance.

Additionally, all entrance fees to the sites listed above are included in the tour price, and so is pickup and drop-off at your hotel.

Meeting and Pickup

For this tour, multiple pickup points are available for your convenience. You can select a pickup location that’s most convenient to your hotel. Start time can be confirmed with the local provider in advance, and the tour is available daily from 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM.

Booking the Tour

You can book the Krakow World War II Private Tour through Viator, a reputable travel website that offers thousands of tours and activities around the world. Booking is easy, and once you’ve made your payments, you’ll receive an email confirmation within 24 hours.

Book the tour here.

Tips for the Tour

To get the most out of your Krakow World War II Private Tour, we recommend that you:

1. Wear comfortable shoes as some of the locations involve walking
2. Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun
3. Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout the tour
4. Respect the cultural and religious significance of the locations we will visit
5. Ask questions of your guide to learn more about the history and culture of Krakow.

Conclusion

A visit to Krakow is incomplete without a visit to its historical World War II sites. By planning your Krakow World War II Private Tour with this blog post, you can make your travel arrangements and booking with ease. Remember to be respectful of the historical sites, and take time to learn about the remarkable stories of Krakow during World War II.

An Insider’s Guide to Krakow

Krakow is a charming city in Poland that is rich in history, culture, and tradition. It is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an authentic European experience. While the city is mostly known for its World War II history, there is so much more to discover beyond the conventional tourist spots. Here is an insider’s guide to Krakow, covering some hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

While the city’s most famous attraction is the Wawel Castle, there are several hidden gems that you must experience while in Krakow. First, visit the Cloth Hall Market in the Main Square, which has been in use since the Renaissance period. This market is a great place to buy handmade crafts and souvenirs from local craftsmen. You can also explore the historic streets of Kazimierz, the Jewish quarter, which is home to charming synagogues, antique shops, and cozy cafes.

Another hidden gem that is worth exploring is the Planty Park, a picturesque green space that surrounds the city’s Old Town. This park offers a peaceful respite from the bustle of the city and is a perfect location for a picnic or a relaxing walk.

Dining Spots

Krakow is known for its hearty and comforting traditional Polish cuisine. Pierogi, oscypek, and kielbasa are some of the city’s most famous dishes. While there are numerous restaurants that cater to tourists, we suggest trying out the local food joints where you can immerse yourself in Krakow’s food culture. Bar Mleczny Pod Temida (Milk Bar) is one such place where you can try classic Polish dishes at affordable prices.

If you are looking for a unique dining experience, head over to Nowa Prowincja, a restaurant that was once the meeting spot for Krakow’s intellectuals. This restaurant has a cozy and intimate ambiance, and you can enjoy delicious food while listening to live music.

Cultural Experiences

Krakow is a city that loves to celebrate its culture and traditions. It hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Festival of Krakow Composers, the Jewish Culture Festival, and the Pierogi Festival. These events offer a glimpse into the city’s heritage and are an excellent way to experience the local culture.

Another cultural experience that you cannot miss is visiting the National Museum, which has a vast collection of art and artifacts from Poland’s past. The museum’s collection includes works of famous Polish artists, historical treasures, and a collection of items from the World War II era.

Local History

Krakow has a rich and fascinating history that goes beyond the World War II era. One example is the story of King Kazimierz the Great, who transformed Krakow into a prosperous city with a thriving Jewish population. His legacy can still be seen today in the historic synagogues and monuments that dot the city’s streets.

Another story from Krakow’s past is the tale of the legendary Wawel Dragon. This mythical creature was said to live in a cave beneath the Wawel Castle and terrorize the city. The legend has inspired various works of art, including a statue of the dragon that breathes fire.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those who want to explore Krakow beyond the conventional tourist spots, we suggest visiting the Oskar Schindler Factory Museum. This museum tells the story of Krakow’s Jewish population during the World War II era and the role of Oskar Schindler in saving over a thousand Jewish lives.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is visiting the Tyniec Abbey, a historic Benedictine Monastery located on the outskirts of Krakow. This monastery dates back to the 11th century and is home to a beautiful church, a museum, and a bookshop.

In conclusion, Krakow is a city that has much to offer to the curious traveler. With its delightful cuisine, rich history, and numerous cultural experiences, Krakow is a destination that will leave a lasting impression. So, if you are planning your next trip to Europe, add Krakow to your list and experience this charming city for yourself.