Jul 2 2026 - Jul 6 2026

Explore the royal city of Krakow, descend into a stunning underground world of salt, and shop for iconic Polish pottery on this unforgettable trip with Army Outdoor Recreation!

From your comfortable, centrally-located hotel, you are just a short walk from the heart of this beautiful city. The trip begins with a stop at the famous pottery factories in Bolesławiec, where you can shop for unique, hand-painted ceramics. Once in Krakow, the adventure continues with tours of both the Old City and the incredible Wieliczka Salt Mines, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you will discover stunning chapels, lakes, and intricate sculptures all carved from solid rock salt. You will also have ample free time to discover Krakow’s own treasures, from the magnificent Wawel Castle to the vibrant and beautiful Main Market Square.

From underground marvels to royal castles, this popular trip to Poland has it all. Reserve your space today with Army Outdoor Recreation!

Price, on or prior to Monday, March 30:

• Double Occupancy: $699 per person
• Single Occupancy: $849

Price, on or after Tuesday, March 31:

• Double Occupancy: $799 per person
• Single Occupancy: $949
   
• Registrations on or after Tuesday, May 12 are subject to availability. Hotel rebooking fees or other price supplements may apply. 
   
• One child under 11 in triple room with two paid adults: $579
• Children under 2 on existing bedding or crib in double or single room: $299
   
• Family rooms on request based on individualized requirements and hotel availability.

Trip Includes: 

• Round trip tour bus transportation to Krakow
• Pick up at your choice of Pulaski or Smith Barracks
• Free on-post parking
• 3 overnights at ibis Styles Krakow Centrum*** or equivalent
• Daily hotel breakfast
• Guided tour of Krakow
• Guided tour of Wieliczka Salt Mines
   
• Pay in US Dollars
• All profits support your local Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs

What to Bring:

• Comfortable, weather appropriate shoes and clothing
• Credit/Debit Card or Polish Zloty
• Power Banks (ODR cannot guarantee charging capability on 3rd party contracted busses)
• Military ID and Passport 

Departure: 

• 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 2 from Wagon Wheel Theater, Smith Barracks
• 9 p.m. on Thursday, July 2 from Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation, Pulaski Barracks, bldg. 2905

Return: Late Monday Evening

Any required paper or electronic travel documentation is the personal responsibility of each traveler. 

Estimated Itinerary

Thursday: Overnight Ride to Poland

Settle into your seat and relax as your comfortable private coach whisks you from your starting point at either Pulaski or Smith Barracks to Krakow. Don’t forget the essentials for your overnight ride! Blankets, pillows, power banks, snacks, and drinks will all help make your journey to Poland more enjoyable.

Friday: Pottery Shopping in Bolesławiec & Arrival in Krakow

Your Polish adventure begins with a shopper's paradise. We'll visit the famous pottery factories in Bolesławiec, where you can buy iconic, blue-glazed Polish ceramics directly from the source. Find the perfect hand-painted gift or a new kitchen treasure, famous for its durable quality and traditional "peacock's eye" motifs. After you've found your pieces, we continue to Krakow and check into our modern, centrally located hotel. The evening is yours to dive into the city's culinary scene. You could find a traditional Polish restaurant for your first taste of pierogi or a hearty bowl of zurek soup in the nearby Old Town.

Saturday: Free day in Krakow | Optional Salt Mines Excursion

Saturday begins with our included guided walking tour of Krakow's Old Town. You'll see the exterior of the Royal Wawel Castle, learn the legends of St. Mary's Basilica, and get acquainted with the history of this beautiful city.

This afternoon you will take an unforgettable journey underground to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. While visiting the salt mines can be physically demanding, your effort will be rewarded with the breathtaking sight of an underground lake and countless intricate statues—all carved by hand from the living rock salt. Your visit begins by descending a 380-step wooden staircase, and the entire tourist route includes approximately 800 steps and over 2 kilometers of walking. While an elevator returns you to the surface, the initial descent is entirely on foot. Put on your sneakers and get ready for some cardio!

Sunday: Free Day in Krakow

Today is entirely yours to immerse yourself in the culture of Krakow. You could return to Wawel Hill for an in-depth tour of the Royal Private Apartments or the stunning Cathedral. Alternatively, lose yourself in the bohemian atmosphere of Kazimierz, the historic Jewish Quarter, where historic synagogues now stand alongside trendy cafes and art galleries. Many visitors also choose to arrange a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. Numerous local tour operators in Krakow offer guided day trips to this deeply impactful site. Or, you could simply pull up a chair at a cafe in the vast Main Market Square, listen for the hourly bugle call from the tower of St. Mary's Basilica, and treat yourself to a memorable horse-drawn carriage ride through the Old Town.

Monday: Return to Germany

After breakfast, you will start your return journey to Germany, filled with memories of royal castles and underground wonders, arriving back at your starting point in the evening.