krakow ww2 tours

PRIME TOURS

WORLD WAR II IN KRAKOW | Private Tour

TOUR ID T/055

TOTAL DURATION ca. 5 hrs

AVAILABILITY every day

NO. OF PERSONS from 1 to 7 or 8+

TOUR TYPE private, door-to-door

Follow the traces of a harrowing history...

Between 1939–1945 Krakow was under German Nazi occupation. Learn about this tragic period and visit all the most important sites related to the Second World War in Krakow: the Jewish Ghetto with the Eagle's Pharmacy , the Schindler’s Factory Museum , the former Plaszow Labour and Concentration Camp and the original Gestapo Prison .

Follow the Remembrance Route and visit the most important sites related to the Second World War in Krakow with our knowledgeable licensed city guide.

You will start visiting with the main square of the Old Jewish District in Kazimierz where Jews lived in Krakow for hundreds of years. You will see the restored centre of the Jewish Quarter with the synagogues that the Nazis converted into storehouses. In 1941 all Jews living in Krakow had to move to the ghetto that was established by the Nazis in the district of Podgorze. Visit of the former ghetto is the next item of that tour. You will see the main square of the ghetto and the famous ghetto Pharmacy – the Eagle's Pharmacy . The former pharmacy building houses a modern museum, re-opened in March 2014, with the exhibition devoted to the history of  the Ghetto.

Afterwards, you will proceed to t he former Oskar Schindler’s Factory. The museum established in 2010 in the original Factory’s administrative building is devoted to the history of WW II in Krakow. The unforgettable and touching multimedia exhibition entitled ‘ Krakow under Nazi Occupation 1939-1945 ’ presents the wartime history in a very modern and accessible manner. According to thousands of visitors this museum is definitely one of the best venues they have ever seen.

Visit to another memorial site – the former Plaszow Labour and Concentration Camp – is the next item of this tour.

At the end we will take you to the exhibition established at Pomorska Street where was the Gestapo headquarters located during the WW II. You can see the original cells of the Gestapo prison, where Polish people, who fought for Polish freedom and independence, were tortured and murdered. There are original inscriptions and prayers on the walls that have been written by the prisoners.

Pomorska Gestapo Prison , along with Oscar Schindler’s Factory and the Eagle Pharmacy , creates the Remembrance Route. These three points on the map of Krakow are the three complementary stories about the Second World war and the time that came afterwards.

PRIVATE CAR TOUR

620  PLN | 131 EUR

3  pax

480  PLN | 101 EUR

4  pax

400 PLN  | 85 EUR

5  pax

330 PLN  | 70 EUR

6  pax

295  PLN  | 62 EUR

7  pax

280  PLN  | 59 EUR

8 or more           Contact us

All prices shown are

TOUR DETAILS

• Hotel pick up
• Transportation by private comfortable car
• English speaking licensed city guide service
• Entrance fees to the Eagle Pharmacy, Schindler’s Factory and Gestapo Prison Museum
• Old Jewish District in Kazimierz
• Jewish Ghetto from WWII
• Eagle Pharmacy
• Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory
• Plaszow Labour and Concentration Camp
• Pomorska Gestapo Prison
• Drop off at the hotel

By taking this private tour by car you have a guarantee of being taken back and forth directly and in a full comfort. We do not do group transfers by large buses where people are sometimes driven around the city for one hour collecting other tourists before leaving Krakow.

For this tour we provide comfortable, air conditioned and spacious cars to be exclusively at your disposal. We are fully licensed for tour and transportation services. All our drivers speak very good English.

You are more than welcome to contact us in case of any inquiry. We will give you all additional information you need, and will organize your tour according to your requirements.

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WORLD WAR II IN KRAKOW Private Tour

World War II Tour of Krakow®

• 9.70 / 10 316 reviews | 3,750 travellers Thank you Luis for providing your knowledge clearly, which is many. 10 Ricardo Jesus
• Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the service starts
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Travel back in time and discover some of the Polish city's most important historical sights on this  World War II Tour of Krakow . Learn what life was like during this dark period of history.

Description

After meeting at St. Mary's Basilica in the centre of Krakow at the indicated time, we'll begin our  World War II history tour of the Polish city.

How did the Nazi occupation of Krakow unfold? What happened in Krakow during the Second World War? What was life like for the inhabitants of the city during this time? We'll delve into the history as we explore its most important monuments.

Crossing Florianska Street , we'll reach Market Square , a significant site that witnessed both celebrations and public executions. Such was its importance during this period that the square was even named after Adolf Hitler during the Nazi occupation.

We'll visit some of the most important buildings during the Nazi occupation , such as the building where the Ordnungspolizei was based. We'll also discover some of the places where the Armia Krajowa, or Polish resistance, fought the Nazis.

Next, we'll head to the Collegium Novum , where our guide will tell you about one of the darkest episodes of the Second World War in Krakow. During our tour, we'll also stop at one of the Gestapo prisons and see the Katyn Cross , one of the symbols dedicated to the suffering of the Polish people.

We'll end our World War II tour of Krakow at the Grunwald Monument 2 hours after meeting.

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

When to book?

You can book up until 36 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

Cracovia Histórica Tours Show more

Corporate name: Francisco Nogueira Martinez Cracovia Histórica Tours

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities .

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 3 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point, where does the activity end.

St. Mary's Basilica

Grunwald Monument

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Auschwitz Tour from Krakow

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Krakow Combo: Auschwitz and Salt Mine Tour

World War II Tour

Tour highlights.

While it is true that Warsaw, the Polish capital, was bombed and destroyed during the development of World War II, the city of Krakow did not have the same fate; a curious event, since two relatively close cities geographically lived two very different experiences. Krakow occupied a privileged place within the organization of the Nazi government, which allowed the architectural structure of the city to remain virtually intact and hardly suffered damage. However, the suffering and consequences of the war were noted in the citizens of this beautiful city.

We invite you to join us in the story about the dark history that this dream city hides. Moments in history where the diverse Jewish community in Krakow suffered the initiatives of one person, Adolf Hitler, who pointed to the Jews as guilty and attacked them directly with their actions. The last consequences of this policy were the mass deportations to the ghetto that formed on the other side of the Vistula River, separating the Jews from their homes and routines. We will visit the old Gestapo barracks on Pomorksa Street, the infamous Hitler Square and we will talk about the Oskar Schindler factory, located in the old Jewish ghetto.

You will witness how the power of conviction of one person led to the mass deportation of Jews by expelling them not only to the ghetto, but also to the concentration camps, as Auschwitz was at the time.

With the arrival of the Soviet army, the city is liberated from the Nazi yoke, whose anti-Semitic policies marked the history of the city and, in particular, of a Jewish community that lived this stage in agony and plunged into hunger, pain and sadness .

• History of Krakow during the German occupation.
• University of Krakow and education during the war.
• Villa of Oskar Schindler.
• Katyn’s Cross in Memory of Victims.
• Terror Museum (Pomorska Street 2)

Meeting point

In the Market Square, in front of the Town Hall tower.

Other tours you’ll love

Free Tour Krakow – Old Town

Kazimierz Tour: The Jewish Quarter

Krakow Craft Beer Tour

Privacy overview.

Krakow: World War 2 Tour

Absolutely best tour to take in Krakow if you want to learn most important facts about warfare in Poland during World War 2 . It is also a great addition to Auschwitz tour because it will give you a wider perspective of those cruel times. Poland was the country where it all began and where fierce fighting lasted all the time. After German invasion on 1st September 1939 and Russian Soviet Union invasion on 17th September 1939, Polish state moved underground creating definitely most sophisticated underground state system in Europe during World War 2 which included active authorities, political parties, courts, intelligence, press and first of all an army ready to fight the occupying forces. That is why we organize this guided tour within premises of the Home Army Museum in Krakow where you will be able to see many interesting exhibitions and discover the history of World War 2 in Poland from its very beginning to the end. You will also hear incredible story of Witold Pilecki – Polish soldier who volunteered to Auschwitz in order to gather intelligence and later escaped informing the world about the Holocaust for the first time.

During the tour you will see:

• original battle uniforms of Polish soldiers
• different types of weapons used during World War 2 including bayonets, firearms and grenades
• reconstructed Vicker tank, V2 rockets and fuselage of British Halifax bomber
• original newspapers printed by underground printing house
• exhibition dedicated to women soldiers
• original prisoner uniforms from Auschwitz Concentration Camp
• exhibition dedicated to Council to Aid Jews – secret organization which purpose was to aid the country’s Jews and find places of safety for them in occupied Poland
• original reports from Auschwitz written by Polish soldiers who escaped from Auschwitz concentration camp describing the true situation of prisoners which were sent to Allies countries by Polish Underground Army

Tour itinerary:

• meeting our guide at 10:00 a.m. by the entrance to Vienna House Andel’s Cracow Hotel ( 3 Pawia Street )
• short walk (approx 10 min) to Home Army Museum with assistance of our English speaking guide
• 1,5 hour guided tour in English with our guide inside the Museum focused on World War 2 stories

Whole tour lasts up to 2 hours

We offer regular group tours of World War 2 theme in Krakow and also private tours on request

Regular tour is available every day except Saturday *on Sundays tour starts at 11:00 a.m.

Price: 80 PLN per person

What is included?

• assistance of our English speaking guide during whole tour
• entrance tickets to Home Army Museum
• up to 1,5 hour sightseeing tour with our English speaking guide

Private tour is available every day (except Saturday) and it includes your hotel pick up at chosen time

Private tour is also available in other languages (not only in English) – Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, German and Russian

• 450 PLN per person (1 person)
• 240 PLN per person (2 persons)
• 170 PLN per person (3 persons)
• 140 PLN per person (4 persons)
• 120 PLN per person (5 persons)
• 110 PLN per person (6 persons)
• 100 PLN per person (7 persons)
• Contact us (8 persons or more)
• hotel pick up and drop off at chosen time
• private return transfers between your hotel in Krakow and Home Army Museum
• assistance of our private guide in chosen language during whole tour
• up to 1,5 hour sightseeing tour with our private guide in chosen language

Choose number of participants

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Our special programmes are aimed at people who are both interested in the history and culture of Poland and at the same time would like to have a truly enjoyable stay. We want to show you the most beautiful and important places in Kraków and its environs in such a way that you not only visit those splendid sites, but also savour their unforgettable ambience. 

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ul. Rakowicka 1/14, 31-511 Kraków

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World War Two in Krakow : Jewish Quarter Free Tour

World War Two in Krakow: Jewish Quarter & Krakow Ghetto Free Tour

Welcome to our award-winning World War Two in Krakow: Jewish Quarter & Krakow Ghetto Free Tour!

One of our most interesting and compelling tours takes you to see the 700-year-old history of Jewish Quarter Krakow & the former World War Two Jewish ghetto.

From its roots as an independent Royal City, Kazimierz became the centre of Jewish life in Poland. Learn the history of this fascinating area. Before discovering how it was changed irrevocably by the arrival of World War Two in Krakow .

On this 2.5 hour tour, you will visit the Old Synagogue and the heart of Jewish quarter Krakow. You will learn about historical local figures like Helena Rubenstein. Before turning your attention to World War Two in Krakow. We visit the former Krakow ghetto and the empty chairs holocaust memorial.

We discuss the Nazi occupation, as well as well-known figures like Oskar Schindler. We visit the Krakow ghetto wall and Schindler’s List filming locations .

You will also learn about Kazimierz since the war. We look at how this once-forgotten part of Krakow is now a revived hub of street art and great food.

Your city break isn’t complete without a visit to Jewish Quarter Krakow .​

Meeting Point: In front of St. Mary’s Basilica (Krakow main square)- Rynek Głowny 4. Time: 15.30 everyday Duration: 2.5 hours​

Make sure you’re on the right tour. Look for the Plain Blue- City Walks Krakow umbrellas!​

*If you’re running late, catch up with us at 15.55 outside Hamsa restaurant in Kazimierz: (Szeroka 2.)

Jewish Quarter Krakow- Free Walking Tour Highlights

• Krakow Old Synagogue
• Remuh Synagogue
• Schindler’s list film location
• Former Krakow Ghetto
• Krakow Ghetto Wall
• Empty Chairs memorial
• History of Kazimierz
• Nazi Invasion
• World War II in Krakow
• Ghetto Pharmacy

Meeting Point

When: Everyday at 15:30 (late meeting point at Hamsa, Szeroka 2)

Where: in front of St.Mary’s Church in Krakow Old Town (Main Square- Rynek Glowny 4)

How Long: 2.5 hours

Look out for our guides with the Blue City Walks Krakow umbrellas!

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SCHINDLER’S FACTORY TOUR

Select tour date:

Choose your type of tour:.

Choose your option:

Oskar schindlers factory tour - discover the history of the famous schindlers list, private car schindler tours with a shared or private guide.

Our private guided Schindlers Factory tour takes about 2 hours. We offer door-to-door pickup and drop-off , private, modern car and friendly, English-speaking tour leader/driver . We will set up the pickup time based on the hour you have requested and fit it into the entry time options to the Museum to make It as comfortable for you as possible. In the Museum, you can either join our shared guided tour or book a private guided tour . Private guided tours need to be booked at least 8 days in advance. You can also book the transportation only – if you have your own tickets. The sightseeing takes about 1.5 hours. The expert will explain everything about the Museum’s exhibitions and introduce you to the historical background of wartime in Krakow. You can also combine this tour with our other services: a one-day Schindler’s Factory tour with Auschwitz-Birkenau or Wieliczka Salt Mine . After the tour, we will drop you off at your hotel in Krakow.

Our special bonus for this Tour

If You decide to book our  Tour, we have got something extra for you. Each day at 19:00, we organise an Evening Walking Tour , which you can join completely for free. It starts at the Jan Matejko Square under the “Grunwald Monument”. You will meet our professional city guide there, who will show you the best of Krakow Old Town. You will walk down the Royal Route and finish under Wawel Castle near the Dragon Monument. It takes about 1 hour. You can participate in this tour on any day of your visit in Krakow.

Shared Guided tour of Oskar Schindler’s Factory

Our guided Schindler’s Factory tour takes about 1,5 hours . The meeting point is at the entrance of the Schindler’s Museum , located at Lipowa 4 street, where you’ll meet with our professional local guide. The closest tram stops are Plac Bohaterow Ghetta and Zabłocie . You can also leave your private car on one of the streets surrounding the museum. Our guide will be at your disposal during the whole tour. The expert will explain everything about the museum’s exhibitions and introduce you to the historical background of wartime in Krakow. You can also combine this tour with our other services: a one-day Schindler’s Factory tour with Auschwitz-Birkenau or  Wieliczka Salt Mine.

If You decide to book our Tour, we have got something extra for you. Each day at 19:00, we organise an Evening Walking Tour , which you can join completely for free. It starts at the Jan Matejko Square under the “Grunwald Monument”. You will meet our professional city guide there, who will show you the best of Krakow Old Town. You will walk down the Royal Route and finish under Wawel Castle near the Dragon Monument. It takes about 1 hour. You can participate in this tour on any day of your visit in Krakow.

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Oskar Schindler's factory tour with Krakow Direct

Visiting Oscar Schindler’s Factory -travel back in time and learn the famous Schindler’s List. Touching experience guaranteed and at the same time professional service, comprehensive transport from the center of Krakow and English-speaking guide. The Schindler Factory Museum was established in Oskar Schindler’s original enamel factory. The factory prospered during World War II, and for many Jews, it was the only place where they could survive the war and avoid the Holocaust. The Schindler’s Factory Museum tour allows you to learn about the history of Krakow and its inhabitants during World War II. The main exhibition entitled “Krakow under Nazi Occupation 1939-1945” is mostly interactive and presents a comprehensive and chronological history through historical photographs, multimedia presentations, documents, testimonies, and short films.

What is an organized Schindler’s factory tour like?

A tour of the Schindler’s Factory with a guide telling interesting facts in both Polish and English takes about 1.5 hours. The meeting point is at 4 Lipowa Street, where you will meet our professional licensed guide. You can the nearest streetcar stops are Plac Bohaterow Getta and Zablocie. You can also leave your private car on one of the streets surrounding the museum. However, it is most convenient to opt for an organized tour including comprehensive transportation offered by Krakow Direct. Why wander around the city and worry about parking? Let’s skip the line and book your Schindler’s Factory tour on our website. Our guide will be at your disposal throughout the tour. An expert will explain everything about the museum exhibitions and the historical background of the wartimes in Krakow. This tour can be combined with our other services: a day trip to the Schindler’s Factory with Auschwitz-Birkenau or the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Schindler’s List and Nazi Occupation

A trip to Schindler’s Factory is a must during your stay in Krakow. Regardless of whether you’re following the trail of World War II history or want to learn about Krakow’s recent past, the Schindler’s museum is a place you absolutely must visit. A Schindler’s Factory tour should be an obligation for everybody, that shows how cruel was the Second World War and how people had to help each other. If you are going there with your children, it will be better if you leave them in your hotel. Guides to advise factory tours for those who are over 14 years old.

If the situation arises that you have to postpone your guided tour, there is no problem. Inform us 24 hours in advance and take advantage of the free cancellation. You can book your ticket for the next time in Krakow city and take part in Schindler’s Factory tour with Krakow Direct.

Who was Oskar Schindler, and how did the Oskar Schindler’s Factory come to be?

Oskar Schindler was a German industrialist and owner of an enamelware factory in Krakow, which he bought in 1939. He employed mainly Jews because they worked for free. Soon, however, not economic reasons, but goodwill and deep concern for the fate of his Jewish employees, influenced Schindler’s decision to protect them. Oskar Schindler used his personal connections in the Nazi party and the German authorities to ensure the relative safety of his workers. Oskar Schindler lost almost all of his wealth on bribes he gave to Nazi officials to protect as many Jews as possible.

Cultural works based on the history of the Schindler’s Factory

His actions became widely known through Steven Spielberg’s 1993 film Schindler’s List. Its title refers to a list of 1,200 names of Jewish prisoners in the Plaszow concentration camp. Schindler saved them under the pretext of transferring them as his employees to a new factory. Thanks to “Schindler’s List” 1200 people were saved from certain death. For his actions, Oskar Schindler was recognized by Israel as Righteous Among the Nations.

It also produced a Booker Prize-winning novel that should become a must-read! The list is absolutely good. The list is life. There is a reason Thomas Keneally received one of the most prestigious awards for it… And without the book, there would certainly be no film. It is worth seeing this movie Schindler’s List before visiting Schindler’s Factory or read a book. It will be easier for you to imagine a difficult situation for all Jews. Licensed english- speaking guide will tell you all interesting things during these few hours, but it is better to have knowledge from different sources.

Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum tour

During the Oskar Schindler Factory Tour, you will hear a thrilling story about the war in Krakow. You will learn what life was like for Poles, Jews, and Nazi officers, and how the Jewish ghetto was created and then blown up. The 45 interactive exhibition rooms will take you back in time, presenting a rich collection of documentary photographs, films, and multimedia presentations. There are also works of contemporary art symbolizing the ethical dilemmas and attitudes of the war period and the struggles of everyday life. The Schindler Museum was established in Oskar Schindler’s original factory. Schindler was a man who dedicated his life to a greater cause and saved about 1000 Jews during the occupation. His fascinating story will also be mentioned during the tour. The last room of the Schindler Museum contains the names of all the people who survived the Holocaust through Oskar Schindler’s efforts. The exhibits at the Schindler Museums are mostly interactive. Therefore, a guided tour is optional. However, it is possible to book a guided tour in any language available. Visitors typically spend about 1.5 hours at the Schindler Museum. The exhibits are not considered shocking, so there are no age restrictions.

Organized tour to Schindler’s Factory- reservation

The Schindler Factory tour is a guided group tour. You will meet your guide in front of the museum. The duration of the entire tour of the Schindler’s Factory is about 1,5 hours. The tour of Schindler’s Factory can be booked even one day in advance. However, for larger groups, we recommend booking at least a few days in advance, to skip the line. It may also be difficult to book a guide on such short notice. This walking tour is really crowded.

Schindler’s Factory tour- payment and tickets

Two payment methods are available. You can pay online when you book our services, or you can pay in cash with the guide. If you choose to pay the guide, please note that they do not have credit card terminals. We prefer payments in Polish zloty. However, if necessary, we accept euros, pounds, and US dollars. Our driver will convert the foreign currency amount according to the average exchange rate. The rest is given in Polish zloty. To make the most of your stay in Krakow, you can combine a visit to the Schindler’s Factory with a trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau or the Wieliczka Salt Mine. This will save you time and trouble. Please contact us for details.

Is a Schindler’s Factory tour suitable for children?

The museum’s official website encourages you to visit if your child is at least 14 years old. It is not particularly scary, but it is a sad story and some younger viewers may not know how to interpret or understand it.

Where is Oskar Schindler’s Factory located?

Schindler’s Factory is one of Krakow’s biggest tourist attractions. It was an enamel factory during the Second World War. Dotted throughout the museum is the language of several signposts that are supposed to describe the event. However, we found that there are not many of them, and it is a bit frustrating. To get the most out of this visit, we recommend booking a guided tour. The address of the museum is 4 Lipowa Street in the Zablocie district. If you’re using public transportation, you’ll need to head to the stop at Ghetto Heroes Square. It is about 550 meters from the place you are going to visit. If you wish to take advantage of the tour offer with personal hotel pick-up and transportation, please let us know when you make your reservation.

In terms of Jewish culture, the Galicia Jewish Museum in Krakow at 18 Dajwor Street is also worth a visit. This museum is increasingly well known and respected around the world as a local center for Jewish art with regular art and music events open to the public. The museum has also become a forum for interreligious and intercultural dialogue.

Explore the culture at the Schindler’s Factory tour- guided tour

A guided tour with Krakow Direct around Oskar Schindler’s Factory will take you to different atmospheres, showing you what city life was like at different times during the war. You will see rooms where a different story is presented in each one, a Soviet propaganda factory, a professor-student house, a university room, and workstations. You will also know how the enamel factory was working during the Nazi occupation. At Schindler’s Factory tour, our guide will lead us along the walls of the museum, where there are exhibits and reconstructions that allow us to remember World War II and the difficult period the Jews lived through. Schindler’s Factory Museum is a place where every patriot should be, and this guided tour is the best way to see that.

Exploring WWII in Krakow: Museums & Memorials You Shouldn’t Miss

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Krakow is popular with tourists for its beautiful architecture, charming old town and immense food scene. And Krakow is beautiful; that is undeniable, especially in terms of its architecture. I would say only the old towns of Prague and Tallinn come close to rivaling it. Krakow’s old town has Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic buildings to spare. And Krakow has some world class museums.

But there is a dark side to Krakow’s tourism, as well. This history isn’t hidden: it is the focus of several popular Krakow museums, as well as some less visited sites. 

We are, of course, talking about the Holocaust. This dark history is a huge part of Krakow’s tourism industry. For example, of the 9.6 million tourists that visited in 2018, over 2.15 million went on to visit Auschwitz, which is located approximately 75 km (46 miles) outside of Krakow.

Being dark tourists, we were also keen to explore this macabre history during our short stay in Krakow. The Holocaust has always been of particular interest to me. Arguably, it is one of the main events that got me interested in dark tourism to begin with.

It is important to note that the suffering of the Polish people did not stop after WWII ended. Nevertheless, this article will only focus on Krakow museums and sites related to WWII, the Holocaust and the Nazi occupation.

If you are particularly interested in communism in Krakow, head to the communist museum in the proletarian model city of Nowa Huta. Unfortunately we didn’t make it out there, however we’ve heard nothing but good things. Check out this fantastic itinerary for 3 days in Krakow for more info on Nowa Huta and how to get there.

What you’ll find in this post: 1. A Really Brief History Lesson 2. WWII Dark Tourism Day trips from Krakow 2.1 Auschwitz Concentration Camp 2.2 Wieliczka Salt Mine 3. WWII Memorials and Museums in Krakow 3.1 Kraków-Płaszów Concentration Camp 3.2 Schindler’s Factory 3.3 Remnants of Ghetto Wall 3.4 Eagle Pharmacy 3.5 Ghetto Heroes Square Memorial 3.6 The Cross of Katyń 3.7 2 Pomorska Street 3.8 Martyrdom Monument shot on 20 October 1943 3.9 Wojtek the Soldier Bear Statue   3.10 Kazimierz – Krakow’s Jewish Quarter 4. Walking Tours

A Really Brief History Lesson

After taking over the city on 6 September 1939, the Nazis declared that Krakow was now the capital of the General Government. This was a newly formed territory of occupied states controlled by the Nazis.

In fact, under the newly appointed Governor General, Hans Frank, the Germans went so far as to have Krakow declared an ancient German city. This was followed by renaming all the streets with German names and spreading propaganda stating that scientific evidence existed to prove Germany’s claim to the city.

Rebranding Krakow as a Nazi capital kept the city safe – while cities like Warsaw were almost razed to the ground.

But that doesn’t mean the city and the people of Krakow did not suffer at the hands of the Nazis. The entire Jewish population was walled off in Krakow’s Jewish Ghetto. Additionally, throughout the war, most of Krakow’s Jewish occupants were transferred out to various concentration camps such as Płaszów, and nearby Auschwitz. Many even ended up as far as Terezín , which was often used as a transfer camp.

WWII Dark Tourism Day Trips from Krakow

Typically we would save day trips for the end of a list. However, since Auschwitz, the number one WWII – and dark tourism – site in the world is also one of the most popular day trips from Krakow , it seemed pertinent to start there.

Both of these sites will eventually be getting their own posts, so I won’t go into much detail here.

Auschwitz Concentration Camp

Auschwitz is considered to be the worst Nazi concentration and death camp. It is estimated that of the 1.3 million people who passed through its gates, at least 1.1 million died there during WWII.

Auschwitz was actually a complex comprised of around 40 concentration and extermination camps. The main three camps were Auschwitz I, Auschwitz II-Birkenau and Auschwitz III-Monowitz. Today, visitors are able to see Auschwitz I and Birkenau.

The camp was established in 1940, not long after the Germans invaded Krakow. Initially only the army barracks of Auschwitz I were converted, and used to hold political prisoners. But before long, it had expanded into something much more evil.

In 1947, a museum was founded on the site by the state of Poland; and in 1979, it was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

It is a difficult trip, but an important one to make – even if you’re not all that interested in dark tourism or history. If you want to go on a tour of Auschwitz, there are plenty of options .

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wait, what? Yes, the charming Wieliczka salt mine, full of stone carvings of dwarves and delicious, delicious salt has a tie to the Holocaust.

Essentially, during WWII the Nazis transported Jewish prisoners from nearby concentration camps and ghettos to work in the mines. They weren’t actually doing mining – at least not on a large scale. Rather, the Nazis were using Wieliczka to manufacture weapons since the cavernous underground mines provided a modicum of secrecy and protection from outside forces.

Apparently the mines were originally staffed by Germans during WWII, but when an errant bullet killed an officer, they decided it was safer – for the Germans – to force the Jews to do the labour.

We loved the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and it was actually one of our highlights of 2018 . If it sounds like your cup of tea, why not arrange one of these tours !

Fun Fact: I’m obsessed with salt – including the history of salt – and one of my favourite facts about Krakow is that salt was so once so important it was used as a major form of currency. At one point you could buy an entire village with a block (we’re obviously talking a large block and quite a while ago). Oh, if only that were still true…

WWII Memorials and Museums in Krakow

Kraków-płaszów concentration camp.

Millions of people from around the world travel to Krakow to visit the museum at Auschwitz. Yet few know that the remains of another Nazi Concentration Camp can be found in the outskirts of Krakow itself.

Granted, not as much remains of Płaszów. It was completely destroyed by the Nazis in 1945 to erase any evidence of their crimes. But remnants of its past still exist.

Like several of the KL concentration camps, Płaszów was initially established as a forced labour camp. Many of the Krakow Jews were sent there following the liquidation of the Krakow Ghetto in March 1943, and it was quickly converted into a concentration camp.

Płaszów is actually the camp depicted in Schindler’s List , and under Amon Göth, life in the camp was horrific. Göth was considered to be exceptionally sadistic. He was known for shooting prisoners at random from his living quarters, which sat above the camp. Another favourite torture pastime of his was setting dogs on people.

His ethos towards the Jews was that if one person fought back, all would suffer. The inmates of Płaszów lived in constant fear of Göth, and of all the Nazis.

However, today it is a nature reserve and visitors can walk around the site and see remnants of the camp. Important places are well marked by information plaques. There are also several memorials to the victims, as well as Göth’s house and a former barracks.

While filming Schindler’s List, Steven Spielberg built a replica of the camp in the nearby Liban Quarry. We wrote more about both Płaszów and the Liban quarry in our post on off the beaten path things to do in Krakow .

Location: Abrahama 30-962, 33-332 Kraków (considered the main entrance, but the site is huge and has several entrance points) Opening Hours: 24 Hours Cost: Free!

Related: The Heydrich Terror Memorial in Prague

Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory

Schindler’s factory is one of the most popular Krakow museums for tourists. It’s so popular that you have to book in advance .

In case you’re unfamiliar with Schindler, here’s a quick overview:

Oskar Schindler was an Austrian born German, and a member of the Nazi party. He made a living by manufacturing weapons for the Nazis during WWII.

He is also credited with saving the lives of 1200 Jews, whom he employed to work in his factory, and whose freedom he bought in doing so. Schindler spent every penny he had to save the Jews at his factory. Although he is not the only member of the Nazi party to be honoured as Righteous Among the Nations, he was the only one to be buried on Mount Zion in Jerusalem.

Today the factory has been converted into a museum (two, actually, as the MOCAK is housed in part of the factory, as well). The museum tells the story of Schindler and the Schindler Jews, as they are called.

But it also tells the story of life in Krakow under the Nazis (especially within the Krakow Ghetto), the propaganda being broadcast, and the extraordinary lengths people went to in order to survive.

Location: Lipowa 4, 30-702 Kraków Opening Hours: It varies by season. It’s honestly easier to check their website . Cost: It was 24 PLN (≈ $6) for adults when we visited, however you can also get a combined ticket with Pomorska Street and the Eagle Pharmacy – check their website for more information. It is free on Mondays – but book early as these slots go fast!

Remnants of the Krakow Ghetto Wall

Shortly after Krakow was annexed by the Nazis and declared to be part of the newly formed General Government, Hans Frank proposed removing 50,000 Jews from Krakow’s Jewish Quarter. 

Between May 1940 and August 1940, a mass expulsion scheme was legislated. The program was considered voluntary, despite the fact that it was forced relocation. Nevertheless, any Jews that opted to leave were permitted to bring all of their possessions and relocate anywhere within the General Government territory.

By 15 August 1940, over 23,000 Jews had voluntarily evacuated from Krakow. Following this date, all relocations were involuntary. By 25 November 1940, no more Jews were allowed to enter Krakow, and the forced evacuation of over 40,000 Krakow Jews was initiated.

On 20 March 1941, the Krakow Ghetto was established, walling off a section of the city. Around 16,000 Jews were forced to resettle into a space previously home to no more than 3,000.

Conditions within the ghetto were harsh, and residents were not allowed to leave without special permissions. The ghetto was permanently guarded on the outside by the German police force, as well as Polish and Jewish police.

From 13-14 March 1943 the ghetto was liquidated and all the inhabitants were transported to concentration camps – namely Płaszów, Auschwitz and Bełżec.

Over time, most of the ghetto wall has been destroyed and torn down. However, remnants remain and can be found between the Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory Museum and the Eagle Pharmacy.

Location: Main remnants located at 30 548, Lwowska 29, 30-548 Kraków & near the Benediktkirche located at Porucznika Antoniego Stawarza, 33-332 Kraków Opening Hours: 24 Hours Cost: Free!

Eagle Pharmacy

The Eagle Pharmacy operated by Tadeusz Pankiewicz was the only chemist allowed to operate within the Krakow Ghetto. Pankiewicz was also the only non-Jewish Pole permitted within the ghetto.

The Nazis did not want the pharmacy there, but ultimately let it remain open while the ghetto was in operation. Nevertheless, Pankiewicz risked his life on numerous occasions in order to help save the Krakow Jews.

The pharmacy was an incredibly important place. It was the only place those interred within the ghetto walls could go for medical assistance. But it also became a place where residents could meet to discuss revolutionary ideas.

Tadeusz Pankiewicz and his assistants Aurelia Danek, Helena Krywaniuk and Irena Drozdzikowska helped ghetto residents smuggle food and other items between the ghetto and the outside world. In the final days of the Krakow Ghetto, they were also entrusted with valuables by those being involuntarily deported.

We thoroughly enjoyed the Eagle Pharmacy. It is very interactive and although small, it is full of fascinating information. Be aware this is another one of the most touristed museums in Krakow, but nowhere near as busy as the Schindler Factory Museum.

Location: Plac Bohaterów Getta 18, 33-332 Kraków Opening Hours: Monday 10:00 to 14:00; Tuesday – Sunday 9:00 to 17:00; closed ever 2nd Tuesday of the month Cost: It was 9 PLN (≈ $2) for adults when we visited, however you can also get a combined ticket with the museums of Pomorska Street and the Schindler Factory – check their website for more information. Admission is free on Mondays.

Ghetto Heroes Square Memorial

Just outside of the Eagle Pharmacy is a striking memorial of 33 bronze chairs in an open space.

This memorial symbolises those imprisoned in the Krakow Ghetto, and the Krakow Jews whose lives were lost throughout the Holocaust.

Apparently the memorial is quite controversial, with a main criticism being that it is unclear what the chairs represent. Indeed, many people who pass by the memorial sit on the chairs, or pose with them. It is likely they have no idea what they represent.

However, if one is aware of their meaning, you can guess at their significance. After all, art is subjective.

To me, the chairs represent the belongings that will never again be used as their owners are dead, the meals never again eaten; the lives extinguished.

Location: Plac Bohaterów Getta 30-001, 30-547 Kraków Opening Hours: 24 Hours Cost: Free!

The Cross of Katyń

From April to May of 1940, an estimated 22,000 Poles were massacred throughout the Soviet Union by the NKVD. Around 14,000 of those murdered were Polish soldiers or police officers. The rest were educated civilians who were deemed to be dangerous nationalists and counterrevolutionaries.

It is called the Katyn Massacre due to many of the graves being found within the Katyn Forest in Russia. However, there were several execution sites. The main three execution sites were Katyn Forest, and the Kalinin and Kharkiv prisons, all within the former Soviet Union.

The mass graves were unearthed in 1943 by the Nazis. Suspicions were immediate cast on Stalin and the NKVD. But for many years after the war, the USSR refused to admit responsibility and instead pointed the finger at the Nazis, insisting they had murdered them in 1941. It wasn’t until 1990 that Mikhail Gorbachev not only officially acknowledged the tragedy, but denounced the actions of the NKVD, as well as the ensuing government cover-up.

We have a whole post covering the Katyn Massacre and the Katyn Museum in Warsaw if you would like to know more.

Location: In front of the church of St Giles, Grodzka 67, 30-001 Kraków Opening Hours: 24 Hours Cost: Free!

2 Pomorska St reet

Clearly I have a thing for former gestapo prisons. Much like the Mausoleum of Struggle and Martydom located at the former Szucha Prison, Pomorska Street was the dark tourism highlight for me in Krakow.

2 Pomorska Street was used by the Nazis as a gestapo prison throughout WWII. Prisoners were interrogated, tortured and locked up in the cells beneath the building. Although it is unknown exactly how many Poles were held prisoner at Pomorska – or even how many died there – over 600 inscriptions have been found on the cell walls.

The Pomorska museum is divided into two parts: the permanent exhibit entitled People of Krakow in Times of Terror 1939-1945-1956 and the cells.

I was impressed with the permanent exhibit, which details the horrors inflicted on those interred within. The stories of many brave individuals are told throughout. As are the crimes of their captors. 

Following WWII, it is believed that Pomorska was still in use as a prison by the NKVD (Soviet secret police). So part of the permanent exhibit is also about the atrocities perpetrated on the Poles by the Soviets.

The other part of the museum is the prisoner cells. These can only be viewed with a member of staff. Although the cells are not always open, they are opened up regularly throughout the day. A member of staff will come get you when the cells are being opened up.

Definitely do not miss the cells, but be aware they are heartbreaking. Hundreds of messages are etched into the walls. Some merely say the names of prisoners, some are prayers.

Location: 2 Pomorska Street, 30-039 Kraków Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 to 17:30 Cost: It was 9 PLN (≈ $2) for adults when we visited, however you can also get a combined ticket with the museums of the Eagle Pharmacy and the Schindler Factory, check their website for more information. Admission is free on Tuesdays.

Martyrdom Monument for those shot on 20 October 1943

About a five minute walk from Pomorska Street is a small monument inside a lovely park. If you didn’t know it was there, you probably wouldn’t give the monument much notice.

There is a bench just in front of the monument, so visitors can take time to sit and reflect.

To be honest, I was unable to find anything specific about the event this monument is memorialising. No matter what I researched, nothing popped up for this particular date. If someone does know anything about this event, please let me know.

In some ways, though, the fact that I could find countless other massacres and tragic events on many other days containing 20, October or 1943 just goes to show how much senseless murder was happening at this time.

The text reads:

In Polish: “Miejsce uswiecone meczenska krwia Polakow walczacych o wolnosc Tu dnia 20 Pazdziernika 1943 hitlerowcy rozstrzelali 20 Polakow”

In English: “A place sanctified by the blood of Poles fighting for freedom Here on October 20, 1943, the Nazis shot 20 Poles”

Location: Aleja Artura Grottgera 16, 30-034 Kraków Opening Hours: 24 Hours Cost: Free!

Wojtek the Soldier Bear Statue

Wojtek was a Syrian Brown Bear who served with the Polish Army through WWII. In 1943, he was purchased as a cub at an Iranian railway station. Although he was purchased, the officers felt as though they jad adopted Wojtek and promised to take care of him.

Needing to secure him rations, transportation and accommodation, the Polish II Corps officers had Wojtek enlisted as a soldier. He started off as private, but was eventually promoted to corporal. His main role was to carry weapons for the troops.

Apparently he was a big fan of drinking beer and eating cigarettes.

After the war, Wojtek was moved to Edinburgh and he lived out his days at the Edinburgh Zoo. In addition to journalists, many of his old Polish army buddies would visit regularly. They often tossed him cigarettes to eat.

In 2013, statues commemorating Wojtek were erected in both Krakow and Edinburgh.

Although Wojtek is considered a hero – and he is – I can’t help but be sad for him. While the officers looked after him and treated him like a buddy – albeit a dangerous one in chains – it really just feels like animal cruelty to me. They may have felt like they were saving him when they bought him, but I’m pretty sure feeding him cigarettes and beer wasn’t much better for him. Wojtek died in 1963 at the age of 21 – which is not a particularly long lifespan for a brown bear.

Bears are fairly important in Polish history. There are several hidden – and not hidden – throughout Warsaw, as well. This was actually one of our favourite unusual things to do in Warsaw.

Sadly, we missed out on seeing Wojtek the Soldier Bear Statue and pay our respects. But you can bet it’s on my list for next time!

Location: Jordan Park, Aleja 3 Maja 11, 30-062 Kraków Opening Hours: Everyday 6:00 to 20:00 Cost: Free!

Related: Animals in War Memorial and other dark tourism sites in London

Kazimierz – Krakow’s Jewish Quarter

Much like the Jewish Quarter in Prague , Krakow’s Jewish Quarter was once an epicenter of Jewish culture. By the time the Nazis invaded Krakow, there were over 65,000 Jews living in Kazimierz.

Today, only a few thousand Jews remain in Kazimierz.

The community is rebuilding, but scars of the past can be found throughout the neighbourhood. Have a wander around and enjoy the street art, grab a bagel at Bagelmama , and head into a few of the historical sites that celebrate and share the history of the Krakow Jews.

A few sites of note:

Galicia Jewish Museum: Many of the museums in Krakow have something about the struggles of the Jews throughout WWII. And so does the Galicia Jewish Museum. However, this museum also celebrates Jewish life and culture in a way none of the others do. If you want to know more about Jewish life and history in Krakow – and Poland in general – definitely check this place out.

The Old Synagogue: The name is apt, as it is the oldest remaining synagogue in Poland today. Like many synagogues, the Old Synagogue was pillaged during WWII, and all of the art and Jewish relics were looted. Stripped of its Jewish identity, the building was then used throughout WWII as a munitions storehouse. In 1943, 30 Polish hostages were executed against the synagogue wall. Today it has been converted into a museum, a branch of the Historical Museums of Kraków, and tells the story of Krakow’s Jews.

The Remah Synagogue: Another important synagogue that survived the war, though it, too, was looted and used as a warehouse. Additionally, many of the Remah Cemetery graves were also destroyed during WWII. After the war, the remaining fragments were used to create a “Wailing Wall” which is also covered in inscriptions in honour of those who perished during the Holocaust.

Bonus: Walking Tours

We love a good walking tour – especially one focused on dark history. There are many available in Krakow, especially if you’re looking for something WWII based. Many of these tours will cover a lot of the places we’ve already discussed (though not all!). But they are great if you’re short on time, or prefer to get your history in the form of oral history. 

Or, maybe you just need to take a break from your Krakow museums whirlwind tour. Trust me, I know how exhausting museum-hopping can get. And if the weather is nice, getting some fresh air can do wonders.

We recommend Walkative (not sponsored, we’re just big fans of walking tours!), which do free tours for Holocaust Traces in Krakow, WWII in Krakow, and Jewish Krakow. Please note that while these are free, it is customary to tip afterwards.

Walkative also have a paid Communist Krakow tour, which takes you out to Nowa Huta.

Last but not least, we absolutely loved the Macabre Krakow Tour. No, this doesn’t have anything to do with WWII, but if you’re at all interested in another dark side to Krakow, this is for you. From serial killers to vampires (okay, with a little Nazi history thrown in), this tour was absolutely brilliant!

Have you visited Krakow? Did you learn a lot about its wartime history? What was the most memorable part of your stay? Let us know in the comments below!

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Dagney McKinney

American by birth, miniature by design. I moved for the first time when I was 18 months old, and I haven't stopped since. If I'm not wandering the planet, you can find me seeking out the hottest food possible or reading a good book and/or listening to a podcast in some quiet, remote alcove. I'm a classic introvert with a penchant for Camelidae, salt and underground spaces.

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TOUR GUIDE KRAKOW

...because krakow is worth a visit., krakow during world war 2.

During World War II Krakow was the headquarters of the Nazi General Government. The Nazis decided that they would not live side by side with Jews, let alone share streets or whole apartments with them. For this reason the Krakow ghetto was established by hitlerite occupational authorities in the district of Podgórze in 1941. It was created for the Jewish population and it was one of the 5 biggest ghettos established in the territory of the General Government during World War II. The pre-war Jewish population in Krakow counted from 60 to 80 thousand people. 17 thousand of them were supposed to move to the ghetto. Its area was relatively small, around 20 hectares. It enclosed 15 streets (or parts of them) with 320 houses. The district was initially fenced off with barbed wire. Later a high wall was erected around the area. The top of the wall was ornamented with semicircles resembling matzevas, Jewish tombstones. Nowadays a fragment of the wall remains extant in ul. Lwowska (Lwowska St.). A commemorative plaque is attached to the wall.

There were 4 gates leading to the ghetto. All were guarded by the Nazi military police and Polish Navy-Blue Police. Windows looking out to the "arian" part of the city were walled up. Jews living in the ghetto had to cope with severe overcrowding. 17 thousand people were squashed in the area where 3,5 thousand people had lived.

Crossing the ghetto boundaries without a permit was punished by death. Both, Jews who tried to escape from the ghetto and Poles who helped them risked their lives. Tadeusz Pankiewicz was one of those who helped the Jewish population. He was a pharmacist and the only Pole who didn't leave the district when the ghetto was established. He ran a pharmacy there before the war and during the years of the ghetto’s existence. The pharmacy was called "Apteka Pod Orłem" (Pharmacy Under the Eagle). Jews who were in danger could always find a rescue there. During the Second World War, Tadeusz Pankiewicz was the only non-Jew who voluntarily stayed in the ghetto. In recognition for his actions, Jad Vashem awarded the pharmacist the honorary title "Righteous Among the Nations". Nowadays there is an exhibition in the pharmacy that presents the person of Tadeusz Pankiewicz and history of the ghetto.

The ghetto existed 2 years, until 1943. During that time massive resettlement actions were carried out with the purpose of removing those unfit for work and deporting them to concentration camps. The ghetto was liquidated on 13 and 14 March 1943. Only the fittest among those deported to the Płaszów labour camp survived. The camp was created by German authorities 3 kilometres south of the ghetto. Two Jewish cemeteries were destroyed for that purpose. Part of the camp was situated in that area and matzevas coming from the ruined tombs were used to build roads and served as wall bases for the barracks. It is estimated that around 150 thousand people worked in the camp, and they were later deported to concentration camps. Around 10 thousand inmates were killed in the Płaszów camp. Virtually nothing remained from the camp. All documents and evidence of crime were destroyed by the Nazis before the end of the war. Very few buildings remain extant. Amon Goeth's, the camp commandant's house is one of them. He and the history of the Płaszów camp, as well as the Krakow ghetto are featured in a well-known film by Steven Spielberg, "The Schindler's List" that was made in Krakow. When visiting the Jewish district, the ghetto, or the former labour camp, one can recognize places and particular scenes that were shot in those locations.

Stories of Poles and Jews living in Krakow during the Second World War are also presented in the exhibition "Krakow under Nazi Occupation 1939-1945". It can be seen in the former administrative building of Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory at ul. Lipowa 4 (4 Lipowa St.) Oskar Schindler was the one who saved over 1000 Jews. During the visit to the museum we will learn about the city and stories of its inhabitants captured in photographs, documentaries, multimedia presentations and the accounts of the witnesses to the history.

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World War Two in Krakow: Jewish Quarter & Ghetto Free Tour

Overview of the tour in Krakow

Join City Walks Krakow as we delve into the 700-year-old history of Kazimierz. On this 2.5 hour tour, you will visit the Old Synagogue and the heart of the Jewish quarter. Discuss the Nazi occupation during World War Two and visit the site of the former Kraków ghetto and the Empty chairs memorial. You will also learn about the area's post-war communist history and see how this once forgotten part of Kraków is now revived at every turn. No trip to Kraków is complete without a visit to the Jewish Quarter. Although everyone is welcome on our free tour, we recommend that groups of more than 10 guests contact us in advance to book a private tour.

This activity includes:

• St. Mary's Basilica
• Old Synagogue
• Guided Tour

Meeting point

St Mary's Church

Please meet us in front of St Mary's Basilica at 15:30 in the Old Town main Square (it's the big church next to Hard Rock Café). We walk to the Jewish Quarter together from there. Look out for our guides with the Blue Umbrellas that say City Walks Kraków.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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WWII Poland and Germany Tour

If you can only take one trip take the Poland Tour. All of the guides were very knowledgeable about the places and things we saw. The hotels were a mixture of old world and new. The people of Poland are hard working and very friendly. The food was outstanding.

– John Rice

The first shots of WWII rang out in Gdansk, Poland on September 1, 1939. Five years later the Warsaw Uprising commenced on August 1, 1944 and lasted for 63 days as the Polish resistance Home Army fought valiantly to liberate Warsaw from Nazi Germany.

Our WWII Poland and Germany Tour begins in Gdansk, which is also the site of another historic push for freedom — the Solidarity movement led by electrician Lech Walesa. We will then begin to wind our way on to Ketrzyn, Warsaw, Krakow, Auschwitz, Zagan, and Berlin, where some of the fiercest battles of the war were fought.

Guests who have traveled on this tour before rave about the charm of these historic cities and towns, the warmth of the people in this part of the world, and the many outstanding restaurants, some of which are located in beautiful buildings that date back to the last century. As always, you can expect an unimpeded history study.

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• Gdansk:  Begin in Gdansk at Westerplatte where the Polish garrison withstood German naval, artillery and infantry assaults for seven days in the war’s first action
• Hitler's Wolf's Lair:  Walk through the eerie remains of Hitler’s Wolf’s Lair hidden in the pine forests of NE Poland.  Here he masterminded his eastern front operations and survived the 1944 assassination attempt
• Warsaw:  Tour Old Town Warsaw completely rebuilt after the city was destroyed and the Warsaw Rising museum, tribute to the courageous 1944 battle that lasted 63 days
• Krakow:  Visit 1000 year old Krakow and the Royal Castle and the Schindler Factory and Museum before entering through the “Arbeit Macht Frei“gates of Auschwitz, the international symbol of the Holocaust
• Stalag Luft III:  Visit Stalag Luft III where the “Great Escape” took place allows us to see the barracks and the remnants of tunnels Tom, Dick and Harry dug by the Allied airmen.
• Berlin:  In Berlin we stand where the final surrender took place at Karlshorst, as well as see the Reichstag and the  chilling Topography of Terror Museum. Not far from the Brandenburg Gate we experience the height of the Cold War at the Checkpoint Charlie Museum straddling what was East and West Berlin.

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1 in the air.

Flights to Gdansk guests depart the United States for Gdansk, to arrive the following day.

DAY 2 Gdansk

The world has focused on the Polish city of Gdansk twice during the last century. The first shots of WWII rang out here in 1939, and in 1980 the Solidarity movement led by electrician Lech Walesa began its confrontation with the Communist government in the shipyards. The focus of our tour will begin here in Gdansk as we set the stage for our upcoming tour.

The tour will officially start with a Welcome Reception and dinner where participants can get acquainted. We will have a briefing and overview of our upcoming tour and the key sites we will visit.

DAY 3 Gdansk

Westerplatte: In1939, the Polish garrison of 182 soldiers withstood German naval, artillery and infantry assaults for seven days in what was the first military action of WWII. Here we will view the massive monument to the Heroes of Westerplatte and visit the small museum nearby in what was Guardhouse No 1. The concrete walls are still pocked by enemy gunfire. The Wisloujscie Fortress, originally constructed in the middle ages stands here as a sentinel for the harbor. Over the years architects upgraded the fortifications to enable resistance to modern weaponry. We visit the Polish Post Office where armed postal workers and boys scouts held off German militia and armored attacks before surrendering.  They then faced summary execution.

From here we will go to the Gdansk Shipyard and Solidarity Monument to visit the site were the movement to topple communism began.  The nearby Museum documents the beginning of the movement, the years of Martial Law in Poland, and the ultimate victory over a failing system.

DAY 4 Ketrzyn

The Old Town of Gdansk, completely rebuilt after WWII, features a marketplace, ornamentally decorated town houses and numerous monuments along the Royal Way. Perhaps the most famous is the Neptune Fountain, the symbol of the city. We will see this as well as tour the Historical Museum in the old town hall. Its ornate rooms and collections offer insight into the history of the city and an ideal starting point for the Old Town.

After lunch we will depart for Ketrzyn, the site of Hitlers Wolfs Lair. Built in the pine forests of the Masurian Lake District, the headquarters had 50 bunkers, a complete power system, and an airstrip and railroad terminus. Once camouflaged and surrounded by mine fields and razor wire, the ruins offer a glimpse into the sinister nerve center of Hitlers eastern operations. The Wolfsschanze was the setting for the failed plot to assassinate Hitler in July 1944.

DAY 5 Warsaw

After an early breakfast we will depart for Warsaw. En route, we will stop at Grunwald, the scene of Europes largest medieval battle. In 1410, the Allied forces of the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania decisively defeated the Teutonic Knights. This victory drastically changed the balance of power in central Europe.

This area also was the location for the battle of Tannenberg in 1914 between Germany and Russia. It was one of the key battles of WWI, and it put the Romanov Empire on the slippery slope to oblivion.

We arrive in Warsaw in the early evening. Tour members will be able to relax or explore the Old Town and environs.

DAY 6 Warsaw

We begin our visit with an exploration of the Polish Military Museum. An array of weaponry, uniforms, paintings and historical collections tell the story of Polish armed forces from the Middle Ages to WWII. Permanent exhibits include The Defense in 1939, and The Polish Army in the East 1943-45. Afterwards we visit the site of the infamous Jewish Ghetto and the Path of Remembrance, which includes the Umschlagplatz where the Nazis loaded deportees onto cattle cars for resettlement in the east. We continue to the Jewish History Institute and finish the day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

We finish the day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We will visit the Old Town (Stare Miasto) and the main square. The people of Warsaw used architectural drawings and artists’ renderings to completely rebuild and restore this area after the devastation of WWII. We also will tour the Royal Palace at Plac Zamkowy (Castle Square). Here King Zygmunt III took up residence in 1611 and made Warsaw the capital of the Polish Commonwealth. His statue, with a cross in one hand and a sword in the other, stands in the center of the square.

DAY 7 Warsaw

In the morning we will go to Modlin Fortress on the outskirts of the city. Napoleon’s engineers constructed the fortress in the early 1800’s.  Years later it became the scene of the last of Polish forces to fall to the Germans in 1939. The surrounding structures and museum afford a view into a little known chapter of this period of WWII. After lunch we will go to the Warsaw Rising Museum. Here we will see the exhibits that describe the history of Poland during the war. The actual Rising of the Polish Home Army against the Germans in 1944 is the main feature. The Home Army of some 40,000 soldiers and citizens battled the Nazis and their reinforcements fiercely for 63 days. They waited in vain for support from the Red Army, but the Soviets refused. In a rare tribute to their enemies, the Nazis granted the Polish combatants POW status.

DAY 8 Krakow

We board the train for Krakow immediately after breakfast. Upon arrival,  we walk up Wawel Hill to the Royal Castle. The Poles erected the first buildings here in the year 1000, including a stone cathedral. Redecoration in the Italian Renaissance style occurred in the early 16th century. Here also are the Royal Tombs, where most of Poland’s monarchs are buried, as well as a few national heroes. Perhaps most notable is Thaddeus Kosciusko, Polish patriot and hero of the American Revolution. Kosciuszko is considered the father of West Point and American artillery In the evening we can enjoy and explore downtown Krakow.

DAY 9 Krakow

Today we will go to the Kazimierz district, the old Jewish neighborhood, which is home to the museum and the Isaac Synagogue. Afterwards we will cross the Vistula River to what was the Jewish Ghetto. We will see the museum housed in what was once the only pharmacy in the Ghetto and the Enamel Utensil Factory run by Oskar Schindler on Lipowa Street. His efforts to save a group of prisoner-workers became the main subject of the film Schindler’s List. Today it is a museum that many say is one of the best documentations of WWII and the holocaust in Poland. After lunch we will visit the Polish Home Army Museum. Although the exhibits show Polish military history for the last 100 years, the emphasis is on the struggle and resistance against the Nazis in WWII. Polish pilots were vital in the Battle of Britain, so we will take in the Polish Aviation Museum with more than 100 aircraft at its airfield. 

DAY 10 Krakow, Oswiecim, Wroclaw

This morning we will depart for the international symbol of the Holocaust, genocide and terror: Auschwitz. We will see the Main Camp and Birkenau and you will experience the eerie chills of the admonition "Arbeit Macht Frei" (Work Makes You Free) above the gates. We will leave in the afternoon and spend the night in Wroclaw. 

DAY 11 Zagan

After breakfast and a morning tour of the old town of Wroclaw (Breslau) we will leave for Zagan where The Great Escape of book and film fame took place. Here at Stalag Luft III, 80 imprisoned airmen escaped through a 111-meter tunnel. Thus began a colossal manhunt throughout the entire territory of the Reich. Only three escapees were completely successful, while 50 of the 73 others were captured and executed. We will see the monument to the escape and visit the Museum of Allied Prisoners of War Martyrdom.

DAY 12 Berlin

We will depart immediately after breakfast for Seelow Heights. As the massive three pronged Soviet advance converged upon Berlin, General Georgi Zhukov pitted his one million men and more than 3000 tanks against the German defenses on the Oder River. We see the Red Army command bunker and observation posts, German defense trenches and the first Soviet T-34 tank to cross the Oder. After stopping at the cemetery we proceed to Berlin.

DAY 13 Berlin

This morning we pass the Brandenburg Gate on the way to the nearby Reichstag. The Nazis paraded through the gates to celebrate their assumption of power in 1933. The famous fire that same year at the Reichstag enabled the Nazis to blame enemies of the state and embark on their official reign of terror. You can still see graffiti left by Red Army soldiers in 1945. We move on to the Soviet Memorial and then a remnant of their post-war legacy, Checkpoint Charlie. This is the well-known Cold War crossing point between East and West Berlin.

DAY 14 Berlin

On our final day, we will visit Karlshorst where the final surrender took place.  The room where the documents were signed is still intact.  We then see the the Topography of Terror which chronicles the history of Nazism, before ending the day at the Reichstag.   That evening we will return to our hotel for a farewell dinner.

DAY 15 Flight home

A transfer will be offered to the Berlin International Airport.

• August 30 - September 13, 2024 - Waitlist Only!
• August 30 - September 13, 2025

Recommended Reading

A Traveller's History of Poland by John Radzilowski

Tour Includes

• Daily lectures by historian, Mark Bielski or Chris Anderson
• On-the-ground Tour Manager taking care of logistics
• 13 nights in 3- or 4-star hotels, including all hotel taxes, porterage (where available) and service charges
• Touring by first class air-conditioned motor coach
• 14 breakfasts, most dinners, some lunches and a welcome reception
• All entrance fees to museums and attractions

Activity Level

There is a fair amount of walking on this tour, including on cobblestones, gravel paths and inclines. Certain parts of the tour require mobility. Call Company Director Mark Bielski at 504-821-9283 for a fuller explanation and any questions.

Photo Gallery

• Chris Anderson
• Mark Bielski, Ph.D., Director

TRIP COST $7,190

Prices are per person based on double occupancy. For a single room please add $1,900.

Our Guests’ Reviews

There are 7 reviews for ' WWII Poland and Germany Tour '. Add your review

Amazing Trip Back Into Time

This is the second trip that my wife and I have taken with Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours. We had the pleasure of having Chris Anderson as our Historian and George Luz, Jr. as our Tour Manager for both trips. They are the best in the tour business! I never knew much about Polish history before this trip. Chris did an incredible job of taking us back into time and showing us how Poland’s history was closely tied to World War II and why Hitler had a deep hatred toward Poland. The trip was like pieces of a puzzle that Chris put together for us throughout the tour. Today’s Poland is amazing and beautiful with wonderful people – I admire them greatly. Over the centuries Poland was beat down time and time again, but they have come back even stronger. Amazing country! We loved this trip! A side note: My wife had a stress fracture in her leg for the entire trip and our drivers (Klaas and Lucas) were so gracious and caring – they always made sure the wheelchair was available for us to use. Both men were wonderful – and great drivers too!

This profoundly moving tour dramatically expanded my understanding of WWII in Europe, particularly the often over-looked (by Americans) heroism and resilience of the Polish people. Bookended by visits to the sites where the war began (in Gdansk) and ended (in Berlin), the tour included many of the most iconic locations of WWII. Highlights for me were: seeing the Polish Post Office building in Gdansk; walking through the ruins of Hitler’s bunker at the Wolf’s Lair; visiting the “Mila 18” memorial in Warsaw; contemplating the Holocaust at Auschwitz-Birkenau, and studying the large-scale battlefield where a million Russian soldiers broke through to Berlin. Other stops were more contemporary, such as the Gdansk shipyard and the Berlin Wall. Along the way, our tour leader Chris Anderson and several local guides did an outstanding job of describing exactly what we were seeing and placing it in historical context. Chris cares deeply about the history and meaning of the war, which helped to make this trip an unforgettable experience.

Fantastic trip w/ the Best Guide in the Business!

Just got back from the Poland portion of this trip (led by Chris Anderson) and it was an absolute great time. Between the nice hotels, nice bus, nice driver, excellent itinerary, but most of all, the best guide in the business in Chris Anderson, it was a top notch, unparalleled tour. Chris is not only knowledgeable but passionate about history and understands the sacredness of the locations that we visited, and this passion comes through in the way he explains things. In addition to Chris, SAHT brings in local experts at Gdansk, Wolf’s Lair, Warsaw castle, and Krakow, among others. They are well versed in their areas of expertise and deliver stories and knowledge with an energy that conveys how important these areas are to them, and to history. The hotel stay at the Hotel Zemek Ryn is an interesting one as a 15th century castle turned four star hotel is an interesting transformation. Even though it took me a little bit to feel comfortable, I hope this stays on the itinerary as it is one of the aspects that make this tour unique and special. Overall, it is a great tour and well worth it. I also met some very nice and interesting people. Highly recommend!

Having visited most of the battlefields of Western Europe, this trip allowed me to round out my experience by visiting other battlefields of Eastern Europe.

Historical content seemed to flow well and really helped to understand the history of Poland and Germany….took time to talk to everyone in the group and include everyone in different discussions.

Mark was more than knowledgeable, presented details in context of where we were and what we were experiencing, with an excellent sense of humor. Kept things organized, moving and relevant.

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World War Two Tours of Poland

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World war 2 history tours of poland in the company of expert guides, warsaw uprising & expanded wwii in poland, the “great escape” tour of southern poland, multi-day krakow history tour, your historian & guide, damien stewart, hosted by psychologist and historian damien stewart, these wwii tours in poland guide you through poland's storied past.

Damien’s passion for the story of Poland during the Second World War has developed beyond the creation of Poland at War Tours and become a professional pursuit.

The Cipher Bureau: Polish History Blog and Tips for Travel in Poland

16 of the greatest world war two films, 5 must-visit historical sites in poznań, poland, 5 must-visit historical sites in warsaw, poland at war tours invites you to join us in a deep exploration of the history of wwii as it occurred in poland. during our tours we will explore the occupation of poland, the holocaust, and remarkable actions of polish resistance. the ethos of poland at war tours is to honour victims, celebrate heroes, but most importantly never forget..

It is hoped that through greater understanding of this history, humanity will stand together and state clearly, “Never Again!”.

Introduction to Poland at War Tours

Poland at war tours | ww2 "never again".

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World War II in Kraków

The time of the German occupation of Krakow is considered to be the most difficult period in the history of the city. It was a time of darkness but also a time of true heroes. A time of courage, fear and betrayal, when even the simplest decision could bare grave consequences. A time that lives in us thanks to the stories of our parents and grandparents.

On this tour we will learn about the Nazi plans towards the Poles and understand how they repressed their victims. We will also talk about the citizens of Krakow and their attitudes towards the Germans.

That’s true – Kraków didn’t have an uprising and the city wasn’t demolished, but resistance movement still had it’s part during WWII. Join the World War 2 in Kraków FREE walking TOUR and learn more!

During the tour you will see:

• Katyń wooden cross
• St. Michael’s prison
• Gestapo headquarters
• bomb shelters (Park Krakowski)

Brilliant tour

Big Tom is a story teller that makes history interesting with all the nuance and intrigue. His passion for his city and history was clear from the start. He helps one to understand the complexity of past occurrences, without being judgemental. Highly recommended!

Very informative tour

I believe my guide was Pavel. He was very know and made the tour both informative and interesting. Walkative tours have been excellent in Poland and this is no exemption. It’s horrific history, but something we can never forget.

The best tour I've ever had

I’ve had Walkative tours in several cities in Europe. This one was the very best by far. Our guide Tomasz (or Big Tom) was not only very well informed of the facts, but actually introduced small details that made the whole tour come alive, touch your soul and leave a deep mark in there, almost 80 years after the end of a war that changed the world.

I’d like to wish Tomasz that his dream comes true: to create a new tour about Krakow’s unknown “James Bond” hero he told us about. I wish I could remember his name and do some further research about him, but I was so absorbed by Tom’s captivating narration that I forgot to make a note.

Once again, thank you for the most touching, educational and informative walking tour I’ve ever experienced anywhere in the world. You made me understand the psyche of both sides, in a way that only a historian who truly comprehends history between the lines can.

100% recommended.

I would appreciate it if Walkative could ask Big Tom to get in touch with me as I would be very interested in remembering the name of the Resistance hero he talked us about. Thank you.

Unforgettable tour! Highly recommend!

Mateusz is a great guide! He’s knowledgeable and he organized the tour nicely. He also introduced a lot about Polish movies connected with this history.

We appreciate to have this chance learning the city’s story from a local.

We’ll recommend our friends to join if they plan to visit Krakow!

Amazing tour

Thank u was absolutely amazing the guide was so informative and gave a totally different perspective would highly recommend.

This tour is also available as a Private Tour.

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'Iconic' WW2 aircraft open to tours at Plattsburgh International Airport

Two pieces of American history are coming to the North Country — and you can see them for yourself.

As part of its Flying Legends of Victory Tour, the Airbase Arizona Flying Museum, a unit of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF), will land two symbolic WW2 warplanes at Plattsburgh International Airport from July 8 to 14.

One of the featured planes, the iconic B17 Flying Fortress dubbed "Sentimental Journey," flew missions in the Pacific Theater beginning in 1944. Eventually, it retired to training, testing, air-sea rescue missions, and firefighting before being meticulously restored by the Commemorative Air Force, according to a recent press release.

"Maid in The Shade," the more advanced B-25J bomber featured in the event, flew 15 combat missions over Italy and Yugoslavia in late 1944. In the post-war period, it trained crewmen and sprayed insects before extensive restoration.

The two planes, the B-17 Flying Fortress "Sentimental Journey" and the B-25J "Maid in The Shade," will be open to the public for ground tours at Plattsburgh International Airport Friday through Sunday from 2-6 p.m.

Out of the 12,000 units manufactured during the United States' WW2 mobilization, the release notes that the B-17 "Sentimental Journey" is one of only five in the world still flying.

READ MORE: 'Iconic' WW2 aircraft open to tours at Plattsburgh International Airport

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