Day Trips from Krakow (Poland)

5x Best day tours from Krakow and excursions in Poland

All information about tours, activities and excursions in the area around Krakow. Tips for activities such as Auschwitz tours and day trips to the Wieliczka Salt Mine can be found here:

5x Day Tours from Krakow

The city of Krakow is the ideal base for exploring more of Poland. The country is also known for its beautiful landscapes and from Krakow you can easily visit highlights such as the Wieliczka Salt Mine, the Tyniec Monastery on the Vistula River, the beautiful mountains around Zakapone or take a major excursion to Auschwitz-Birkenau. Below I have listed the 5 best day trips from Krakow for you based on excellent reviews and personal experiences:

1. Excursion Auschwitz-Birkenau

^{An excursion from Krakow to Auschwitz}

^{Visit Auschwitz and Birkenau on a day tour}

A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau from Krakow is a moving experience that tells the tragic history of the Holocaust. Located approximately 70 kilometres from Krakow, Auschwitz was the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp during World War II. Today it is a memorial and museum, offering visitors the opportunity to remember and understand the horrors of this period. A tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau usually includes a tour of both the original Auschwitz I camp and the larger Birkenau, also known as Auschwitz II.

2. Day trip to Wieliczka Salt Mine

^{The beautiful salt chapel of the Wieliczka Salt Mine}

^{Excursion to the Wieliczka Salt Minen}

A day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Minefrom Krakow offers a unique and fascinating experience. Located just 15 kilometres from the city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest and most famous salt mines in the world. During your guided tour of over 2 hours, you will descend into an underground labyrinth of passages, impressive salt sculptures and beautiful chapels, the largest and most impressive of which is St. Kinga's Chapel. In operation for over 700 years, the mine offers a glimpse into the history of salt mining and showcases the artistry of the miners. This excursion is an unforgettable addition to your stay in Krakow.

Warning: The Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland receives around 1.7 million visitors a year, so it's highly recommended to book your tour in advance. Please choose one of the three options below:

1. Guided Tour Only Wieliczka Salt Mine (more info and bookings)
2. Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour + Transport from Krakow (more info and bookings)
3. Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour + Auschwitz-Birkenau from Krakow (more info and bookings)

3. Zakopane

A visit to Zakopane from Krakow offers a refreshing escape to nature, just 100 kilometres south of the city. Known as the "winter capital of Poland," Zakopane is nestled at the foot of the Tatra Mountains and offers breathtaking scenery all year round. In winter, it is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, while summer invites you to hike and explore the mountainous surroundings. The charming village is also known for its traditional wooden architecture and thermal baths. You can choose from 2 different types of excursions:

1. Excursion Zakopane + Thermal baths (more info and bookings)
2. Excursion Zakopane + Cable Car (more info and bookings)

4. Kościuszko Mound

^{Visiting Krakow's Kościuszko Mound}

^{Kościuszko Mound}

A visit to Kościuszko Mound is only 4 kilometers from the city center of Kraków. This artificial hill, built in honor of the national hero Tadeusz Kościuszko, offers panoramic views of Kraków and the surrounding areas. The mound, which was built in the 19th century, is surrounded by a historical fortress and museums that highlight Kościuszko's struggle for freedom (more info and tickets)

5. Tyniec Monastery

Situated on the banks of the Vistula River, Tyniec Monastery is a perfect day trip 12 kilometers from Krakow. Founded in the 11th century, the Benedictine monastery is the oldest monastery in Poland and offers an impressive mix of history, spirituality and architecture. Tyniec can easily be reached from Krakow by bike, car or boat, making the trip extra special. Upon arrival, you can explore the monastery, take a guided tour or enjoy the beautiful views of the river.

6. More Day Trips from Krakow

Looking for more day tours around Krakow? Wadowice, the birthplace of Pope John Paul II, is a must for those interested in religious history. The museum in his former home offers insight into his life and influence. For nature lovers and adventurers, Dunajec river rafting is a perfect choice. This tour takes you through the picturesque Pieniny Mountains, past impressive cliffs and forests. Energylandia, Poland’s largest amusement park, is just an hour’s drive from Krakow and offers a day full of excitement and fun. With rides for all ages, from rollercoasters to water parks, it’s an ideal destination for families and adrenaline seekers.