Day 1-3: Krakow, Poland

Day 1: Explore the City

Views inside of St. Mary’s Basilica in Krakow, Poland

For many people traveling to Europe will bring a significant time change upon arrival. From New York, Karakow Is six hours ahead. I always like taking the first day to rest and explore the city if I feel up to it.

Within the main square, Rynek Główny, you can find the beautiful church Of Saint Mary’s Basilica. This was the first church I was able to visit in Eastern Europe, and it didn’t disappoint. Its towering walls were filled with intricate patterns and designs of gold and blue. The altar featured many gold statues and stained glass patterns, making this a truly beautiful site to take in.

Where should I stay in Kraków?

Krakow is a very affordable city with many hotels offering great prices. We chose to stay near Krakow Old Town, which provided convenient access to the city Square and other landmarks like the Wawel Royal Castle.

For a recommendation on where to stay, Try the Cracow Old Town guesthouse. It is a bed-and-breakfast that offers cozy rooms with a TV, desk, and Wi-Fi.

Click here to book your stay at the Cracow Guesthouse

What’s it like in Krakow?

One of my favorite parts of Kraków was the old medieval architecture seen throughout the city. The city square was bustling with street musicians, horse-drawn carriages, and historic landmarks. 

Krakow also has a nightlife scene that is very unique and features underground bars that feel like secret hideaways. There are also cozy cafés scattered around the city that feature coffee and pastries to enjoy as you explore all that Krakow has to offer.

Getting around Krakow?

During our trip, we mostly walk to all of our destinations. When exploring landmarks within the city, it is easiest to get to your destination on foot.

If you are planning on going on an excursion, you will most likely use a scheduled taxi or bus. 

Krakow is that it is very affordable. If you want to use an Uber or rideshare service, you can expect to pay a fraction of what you pay in the United States!

Where to eat in Krakow

For a dinner that offers local Polish cuisine that won’t break the bank, try one of the restaurants situated on the edge of the main square. These restaurants offer a mix of Polish food and other varieties in case you are picky.

During our trip, we were able to score a dinner for four with a bottle of wine for under $50. We tried a local restaurant that featured traditional Polish dumplings. Paired with some beer, it made for one of the best meals that we had during our time in Eastern Europe!

Day 2: Visiting an Unforgettable Past

Visit the Holocaust Museum

Train tracks leading to Auschwitz Birkenau

Situated about 2 hours from Kraków is the historic site of Auschwitz Birkenau. Touring this memorial was a very sobering and humbling part of our trip. 

Birkenau served as a concentration camp during World War II and was operated by Nazi Germany from 1940 to 1945. Now, the site is preserved as a memorial and museum, dedicated to the memories of millions who suffered there.

Today you can take a guided tour, available in multiple languages that offer a comprehensive understanding of the history and significance of the site. It is truly a humbling experience to learn about what occurred at Birkenau during the 20th century.

During the tour, you will see museums, exhibitions, barracks, ruins, and memorial sites. One exhibit included photographs and personal belongings of victims and documents. It provides an intimate look into the lives of those affected.

There are also barracks where prisoners were housed and the train tracks that brought people into the camp. Various plaques around the camp honor the victims. Some are more preserved, while others remain as ruins to show the extent of the destruction. 

If you are into World War II history or simply want to learn more about some of the most important events that happened during our humanity, make sure to take this tour.

Click here for a guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau with a Ticket & Transfer from Krakow.

Day 3: Board the Train and Head to Berlin

Along the way to Berlin, there are various murals and graffiti art to look for

Part of day three will be spent traveling to the next city, Berlin.

You could start your morning by grabbing coffee and a pastry at a local shop. Then take some time to make sure you have everything packed and ready to get to your next destination.

Getting tickets to Berlin.

Navigating the train system in Europe can be a little confusing for the first time. 

Here are some tips to make sure your train travel goes smoothly during your trip.

Always check online to see if tickets are available for purchase. When traveling by train in Europe, I always start by looking to see if the tickets are available to purchase online. This can eliminate a lot of headaches from having to wait in line to purchase a ticket at the last minute at the train station.

If tickets are not available online, the website will say to buy your tickets in person. If this is the case, you will want to head to the train station as soon as you arrive at your destination to buy tickets for the next destination.

For example, when arriving in Berlin, you can check ahead to see if tickets from Berlin to Amsterdam should be bought in person or online. 

You can purchase train tickets from Kraków to Berlin here.

Day 4-7: Berlin, Germany 

Pro tip: by this time, my small variety of clean outfits was dwindling, and laundry was ready to be washed. When I took this trip, it was entirely out of one carry-on suitcase, and a small backpack. For laundry, I made sure to check for laundromats where I could wash my clothes for cheap. Do some research and head to a laundromat instead of paying insane prices to wash each piece of clothing. It will save you more than €30.

Where to stay in Berlin:

The Hotel Amano is conveniently located directly next to the Hauptbahnhof bus station in Berlin. It offers quick and easy access to public transportation to make it easier to get around the city, and the price won’t blow your budget.

The average cost per night at this hotel is 100 euros/night.

Amenities that come standard at the Hotel Amano are a coffee machine, desk, flatscreen TV, soundproof windows, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers a rooftop bar to relax and enjoy a drink under the night sky of Berlin.

Day 4: Exploring a World War II Museum

Heading to the World War II Museum in Berlin, Germany

One of the themes that was prominent throughout Eastern Europe was observing some of the remnants of World War II. Berlin was the epicenter of Germany’s political and military operations during the war, and the city played a crucial role throughout the conflict.

The Berlin story bunker is a significant historical museum located in A World War II-era area shelter in Berlin. It offers an in-depth exploration of Berlin’s history, with a focus on the rise of socialism and the impact of the war on Germany in the world.

The Berlin Story Bunker is situated at Schöneberger Straße 23a, near the Anhalter Bahnhof station in Berlin. The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Check the official website for any updates or changes to operating hours. Admission includes access to all exhibitions within the bunker. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through the museum’s official website. 

Day 5: Brandenburg Gate and Other Monuments

Posing in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin Germany

The second full day in Berlin is spent exploring some of the historic sites within the city. The first stop is the Brandenburg Gate.

This gate is one of Berlin‘s most iconic landmarks and is a symbol of both the city and Germany as a whole. It was built between 1788 and 1791 and commissioned by King Frederick, William, the Second of Prussia as an entrance to the Hunter den Linden, a prestigious Boulevard that led to the Prussian Palace. 

During the Cold War, the Brandenburg Gate stood behind the Berlin Wall, symbolizing the division between East and West Berlin. It became a potent image of the city’s separation and its reunification after the wall fell in 1989.

The Brandon gate is situated near Pariser Platz and is easily accessible by public transportation. 

Next, stop at the Reichstag Building, which was right near the Brandenburg Gate. This building served as the home of the German Federal Parliament and has a significant history and architecture.

The building was heavily damaged during World War II during the battle of Berlin in 1945. In 1992 a major renovation was carried out that preserved the building’s historical exterior. A glass dome was added to the top of the building, symbolizing transparency in the government.

Visiting the Reichstag building is free, but online registration is required to ensure security and the number of visitors. 

There are guided tours available that provide insight into the buildings, history, and workings of the German Parliament. You can also go up to see the dome For some of the best views in Berlin.

After visiting the Reichstag building, head to the Berlin Wall. This landmark speaks for itself.

The wall physically divided East and West Berlin for nearly 30 years and is an iconic symbol of the Cold War. 

The wall was constructed on August 13, 1961, and featured barbed wire fences, towers, and concrete walls. The construction of the wall came without warning, catching many Berliners by surprise.

 Many family, friends, and colleagues were separated with no chance to say goodbye. The wall stretches 96 miles around Berlin and can be seen in the city as a reminder of the importance of unity and democracy.

Day 6: Enjoying Some Nature in the Tiergarten

A duck and his goose companion in the Tiergarden

The Tiergarten is one of Berlin‘s most famous parks. It covers over 500 acres in his right in the heart of the city. It’s known as Berlin’s green lung and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of the city.

The Tiergarten is filled with blooming flowers and greenery and comes alive with locals enjoying the sunshine and outdoor activities: the park hosts, various events, such as the Berlin Marathon and Love Parade. You can also see different wildlife in the park, including squirrels, birds, and rabbits. 

There is also a café, Cafe am Neuen See,  where you can enjoy traditional German food and outdoor seating with views of the water.

Day 7: Train Ride to Amsterdam

Once it is time to head to Amsterdam, there are a couple of different options for booking your train ride.

The fastest direct Intercity (IC) trains operated by Deutsche Bahn cover the distance in approximately 5 hours and 50 minutes. There are typically 14 direct trains per day, providing flexibility in scheduling.

Tickets start from €38 when booked in advance.  Purchasing tickets on the day of travel may result in higher prices, so it’s advisable to book ahead. 

Tickets can be purchased through Deutsche Bahn’s official website or other reputable platforms like Rail Europe and Trainline. Many booking platforms offer mobile applications for easy ticket purchases and schedule checks.

Both First and Second Class options are available, with First Class offering additional comfort and services. Trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and dining cars or trolley services for snacks and beverages.

There are no strict luggage restrictions, but it’s advisable to travel with manageable bags for ease of movement.