Holiday Magic in Poland
28th December – 3rd January 2026
Itinerary Overview: Day 1 – Departure – Wadowice – Zakopane
We will meet at Malta International Airport at 4:00 am to join our tour leader and complete check-in formalities for our 06:00 am flight to Krakow. Upon arrival in Krakow, we will travel to Wadowice, the birthplace of Pope John Paul II. It was here, at 7 Koscielna Street, that Karol Wojtyła was born on May 18, 1920, and spent his early years until 1938, when he moved to Krakow for his university studies.
We will visit his family home, now a museum that houses a collection of personal belongings and memorabilia offering insight into the Pope’s early life. After the visit, there will be time to browse for a meaningful keepsake in remembrance of this beloved Saint.
We then continue our journey to Zakopane, where we will check in at our hotel. Once we settle into our rooms, we will join our tour leader for an orientation walk and later unwind after a day filled with travel and discovery.
Itinerary Overview: Day 2 – Tatra National Park – Morskie Oko – Thermal Baths
After breakfast, we set off for a memorable excursion to Tatra National Park. Our journey begins with a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride through the magnificent Tatra Mountains, taking us along forested trails and winding alpine paths that showcase the region’s natural beauty.
At the end of the ride, we will enjoy a short walk to reach the stunning Morskie Oko — a pristine, crystal-clear lake nestled deep within the mountains. While there are two lakes in the vicinity, our focus will be on the larger one, celebrated for its peaceful and picturesque surroundings. There will be ample time to take in the tranquillity of this enchanting location, with the option to enjoy a light snack or drink while soaking in the breathtaking views.
Following this serene experience, we will return by carriage to rejoin our coach and make our way back to the hotel for some relaxation.
Later in the day, we will visit the nearby termal baths — the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate. After enjoying our time there, we will return to the hotel to rest after a full day of exploration and relaxation.
Itinerary Overview: Day 3 – Krupowki Street – Gubałówka – Slovakia – Bachledova Valley
After breakfast, we begin the day with a pleasant walk along Krupowki Street, Zakopane’s vibrant pedestrian thoroughfare lined with charming shops and local eateries. From there, we continue to Gubałówka funivia (optional to purchase onsite), a popular hilltop offering scenic views of the surrounding Tatra Mountains.
Later, we embark on a new adventure as we cross the border into Slovakia, adding an international touch to our journey. Our destination is the picturesque Bachledova Valley, nestled in the heart of nature. Those who wish may take a scenic cable car ride up Spisska Mountain to experience the renowned Tree Top Walk — a wooden path that winds through the treetops and leads to a spectacular observation tower.
From the top, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Belianske Tatras and the surrounding forests — an unforgettable experience in one of Slovakia’s most stunning natural settings. You will have time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
After descending via cable car, we will meet our coach and return to the hotel to rest and relax after a day of discovery and scenic beauty.
Itinerary Overview: Day 4 – Krakow – Wieliczka Salt Mines – New Year’s Eve
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will check out and begin our journey to Krakow. Along the way, we will make a remarkable stop at one of Poland’s most iconic sites — the Wieliczka Salt Mines, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
Here, we will descend underground to discover a fascinating world carved entirely out of salt. Over the centuries, miners have transformed this space into a labyrinth of chambers and tunnels filled with extraordinary salt sculptures, chapels, and monuments. We will explore three levels and 20 halls that showcase the artistry and history of this unique site.
After the visit, we will continue to Krakow, where we will check in at our hotel. One everyone has settled into their rooms, we will meet with our tour leader for a short orientation walk to get acquainted with the surroundings.
In the evening, we will gather back at the hotel for a festive New Year’s Eve dinner. Afterwards, those who wish can join the locals to celebrate and ring in the New Year together.
Itinerary Overview: Day 5 – Vistula River Cruise – Łagiewniki Hill – Krakow City Tour
After breakfast, we begin our day with a scenic cruise along the Vistula River, offering a unique perspective of Krakow’s historic landmarks and picturesque skyline.
Following the cruise, we travel to Łagiewniki Hill, a place of great spiritual significance. Here, we will visit the impressive Sanctuary of Divine Mercy, established with the support of Pope John Paul II. We will also explore the chapel and former residence of Saint Faustina, where the original and venerated image of the Divine Mercy is displayed. This serene and sacred site offers a meaningful moment of reflection. We then return to the hotel for a short rest.
Later in the afternoon, our tour leader will take us on a guided walking tour through the historic streets of Krakow, revealing its rich heritage and architectural charm. In the evening, we will have the chance to explore the city’s enchanting Christmas Markets, where festive stalls, seasonal treats, and handcrafted gifts await. Once the visit is complete, we will regroup and return to the hotel to rest after a full and inspiring day.
Itinerary Overview: Day 6 – Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Visit
After breakfast, we will visit one of the most significant and moving historical sites in the world — the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camps. Accompanied by an experienced guide, we will gain a deeper understanding of the tragic events that took place here during World War II.
As we walk through the barracks and preserved grounds, we will witness the stark conditions in which thousands of men, women, and children were imprisoned. The visit includes the gas chambers and crematorium — a solemn reminder of the countless innocent lives lost.
This deeply emotional and educational experience serves as a powerful tribute to the memory of those who suffered and a reminder of the importance of remembrance.
After the tour, we return to the hotel, where you will have some free time to rest.
Itinerary Overview: Day 7 – Krakow – Free Time – Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, we will check out and prepare for our return journey. Before departing, our tour leader will accompany us to Galleria Krakowska — the city’s largest shopping mall, conveniently located near the hotel — where you will have some free time for any last-minute shopping or souvenirs.
Alternatively, you may choose to spend your remaining time enjoying the charm of Krakow’s main square, soaking in the atmosphere of this vibrant and historic city.
Once everyone has gathered, we will transfer to the airport to check in for our flight, which is scheduled to depart at 16:15 hrs.
Tour Pricing and Inclusions:
| Adult in a single room | €1580 |
| Adult in a twin/double room | €1350 |
Price Includes:
- Ryan Air flight – Malta-Krakow-Malta
- Luggage 20kgs and a small backpack
- Accommodation:
- Czarny Potok 3* hotel or similar in Zakopane
- Hotel Mercure Kraków Stare Miasto 4* in Krakow
- Daily breakfast
- All excursions as mentioned in the itinerary
- All transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to:
- Pope Museum
- Tatra Park including carriage ride
- Salt Mines
- Auschwitz – Birkenau
- Service of a Maltese speaking Kercem A’ Tours tour leader
- Insolvency Fund Certificate
Price does not include:
- City Tax
- Dinners
- Thermal bath €25
- Bachledova Tree Top walk (this will be done if the weather is in our favour)
- River cruise €20
- New Year’s Eve 4 course dinner €75
NB. The itinerary may be subject to slight adjustments due to unforeseen circumstances that may occur.
The booking is confirmed upon payment of €550 deposit.
Payments can be made with a cheque made payable to Kercem A’ Tours, via bank transfer or by cash. Card payments are also accepted over the phone.
For bank transfers kindly issue the payments to the following Bank Account details:
Kercem Ajax FC. A/C TOURS
Account Number: 40023111554
IBAN: MT09VALL22013000000040023111554
Account Currency: EUR
With bank transfers please make reference to the tour and provide your full name. Eg. Poland – MR AND MRS VELLA