Krakow & Lesser Poland, Poland

Lesser Poland concentrates Kraków's Wawel Castle and largest medieval market square in Europe, Auschwitz-Birkenau's preserved camps, the Wieliczka Salt Mine's underground chapels, and the Tatra Mountains 100km south.

Highlights

When to Visit

May-Jun

Kraków's Rynek Główny terraces back in service, Lajkonik festival on the eighth Thursday after Easter, and the Tatra hiking trails clear of snow at lower elevations.

Jul-Aug

Kraków Jewish Culture Festival end of June into early July, Pierogi Festival mid-August, and Tatra mountain trails at peak with the Krupówki promenade in Zakopane packed.

Sep-Oct

Tatra autumn colour through October, Kraków's planty park ring turning gold, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine pleasant for the underground walking circuit year-round.

Nov-Mar

Christmas market on Rynek Główny through Advent, Zakopane ski runs December-March, and Auschwitz visits possible year-round but emotionally heaviest in winter snow.