School Trips to Krakow
Our school trips to Krakow provide students and teachers with valuable learning experiences that will transform their perspective on history, psychology and religious studies. Although World War destruction and years of communist rule caused substantial damage to Poland’s heritage, the ancient royal city of Krakow is still renowned for its cultural significance, and it is home to some of the most symbolic sites of 20th-century history.
The benefits of educational trips to Krakow
During educational trips to Krakow, you students will be fascinated and inspired by the thousands of iconic buildings comprising exceptional Gothic architecture, such as the stunning Wawel Cathedral and St. Mary's Basilica. The city’s medieval charm offers a unique opportunity to explore Poland’s rich cultural and historical heritage, from the vibrant Main Market Square to the impressive Royal Castle.
Students will also have the chance to delve into Krakow’s fascinating past at museums like the Oskar Schindler Factory and the National Museum. They can also tour the Kazimierz Jewish District, which formed the Krakow Ghetto, and the poignant Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, gaining surreal insights into what life was like under Nazi occupation during the Second World War.
With a perfect blend of history, art, and culture, Krakow is an unforgettable destination that brings classroom lessons to life.
Highlights of Krakow school trips…
Krakow school trips offer you a chance to explore the city’s wonderful selection of historical sites, areas of cultural significance, and truly breathtaking sights steeped in art and architectural brilliance. We’ve compiled a list of trip highlights that previous groups have loved. Check them out below.
- Galicia Jewish Museum
- Cloth Hall
- Auschwitz-Birkenau
- Wawel Royal Castle
- Oskar Schindler Museum
- Wieliczka Salt Mine
Book your next school trip to Krakow, Poland!
On a school trip to Krakow, the possibilities are endless, catering to a wide range of subject areas and interests. Below you will find further information on potential places to visit, as well as the opportunity to browse by specific subjects.
When booking your college or student trip to Poland with us, our experienced Tour Consultants can guide you to make the right choices by recommending appropriate educational visits and/or activities.
Contact EST today to discover how we can help you organise school tours to Krakow.
Top Visits in Krakow, Poland
Waterpark and IMAX Theatre
After a day of discovery, students can unwind and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon at Krakow’s popular Park Wodny Waterpark, one of the largest in Poland. With multiple indoor pools, exciting water slides, wave machines, and lazy rivers, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge.
For a more immersive experience, combine the visit with a trip to the IMAX Theatre, where educational documentaries or blockbuster films can be enjoyed on a giant screen—ideal for mixing learning with leisure.
Day Trip to Zakopane
Take your students on a memorable day trip to Zakopane, a charming town nestled at the foot of the Tatra Mountains (100km south of Krakow). Known as Poland’s winter capital, Zakopane offers stunning alpine views, traditional wooden architecture, and a taste of highlander culture.
In warmer months, enjoy scenic walks, funicular rides, or a visit to the bustling Krupówki Street. In winter, it’s an ideal spot to introduce students to snow sports or simply soak in the magic of the mountains.
Galicia Jewish Museum
Located in the Jewish district of Kazimierz in Krakow, the Galicia Jewish Museum is a photo exhibition that documents the lives of Jewish people and shows Jewish culture and life in Polish Galicia.
History students on a school trip to Krakow can gain valuable insights into the history of Jewish culture, traditions, and life in the region. It provides a unique opportunity to understand the impact of World War II on Jewish communities in Poland.
Popular Krakow Itinerary
Day 1
| Morning |
Check in to UK airport for your flight to Krakow. |
| Afternoon |
Arrive, transfer to your accommodation and check in. Head out on a guided walking tour of the city. |
| Evening |
Enjoy a meal in a local restaurant. |
Day 2
| Morning |
Visit to the Galicia Jewish Museum to meet a Holocaust Survivor. |
| Afternoon |
Guided visit of the Salt Mines. |
| Evening |
Local folklore evening excursion with dinner, music and dancing. |
Day 3
| Morning |
Visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp. |
| Afternoon |
Wodny Waterpark. |
| Evening |
Evening meal and fun activity. |
Day 4
| Morning |
Guided tour of Schindler's Factory. |
| Afternoon |
Transfer to Krakow airport for return flight home. |
| Evening |
Arrive UK, onward travel to school. |
Top Tips from Our Travel Experts
"Krakow is a beautiful city with very friendly residents who create a safe and hospitable atmosphere. Exploring the dark, emotional history of the area is a must for anyone who visits. A half-day visit to Auschwitz/Birkenau is our top essential suggestion as well as meeting with a holocaust survivor which is an amazing opportunity. However, this if not always possible, so instead we can sometimes offer a meeting with a sympathiser who assisted the Jews during the war to give their unique first-hand historical account. If visiting in the winter, be prepared it is very cold and you do spend a lot of time outdoors and even in the summer at the Salt Mines, which is a must see, you will need a coat as 15 degrees all year round down there. In the evening bowling and water parks are cheap evening activities and in winter going to an ice hockey game is a fun night out."
View our TOP Subject Specific Visits
Krakow Psychology Trips
Krakow History Trips
Krakow Religious Studies Trips
What We Can Offer You
Knowledge and Experience
- We continually invest in our teams product and destination knowledge to be able to offer you the best advice and support when planning your tour.
- We create itineraries are bespoke and individual to your needs
- FREE teacher inspection visits so you can feel completely secure when leading your group
- We're only a phone call away 24/7 whilst you are on tour
Safety and Assurance
- We are assured and founder members of the School Travel Forum.
- Our Learning Outside the Classroom accreditation ensures we have your safety at the heart of everything we do and ensures the highest possible safety standards.
- Externally verified Safety Management System
- Risk assessment guidance and advice
Financial Security
- Our ABTA membership ensures that we offer you and your parents the best financial protection available.
- All flights sold in our packages are covered under our ATOL licence providing further peace of mind
- Committed to sustainable and responsible educational travel. Working to offset carbon emissions, reduce deforestation and provide wildlife habitats.
Krakow Gallery
Krakow Town Center
Cloth Hall
Wawel Dragon
Educational Trips To Poland FAQs
What kind of educational value can students expect from school trips to Poland?
Educational trips to Poland provide a range of valuable learning benefits for students and teachers. Some of the educational benefits include:
Historical Insight: Students get the opportunity to immerse themselves in Poland's rich history, particularly during significant events like World War II and the Holocaust. Visiting historical sites like Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wawel Royal Castle allows them to witness history firsthand.
Cultural Understanding: Poland's diverse cultural heritage, especially in places like the Galicia Jewish Museum and the Cloth Hall, offers students a chance to learn about different traditions, customs, and ways of life.
Psychological and Sociological Studies: Educational trips often include interactions with Holocaust survivors, which can form the basis of valuable case studies for students studying psychology and sociology.
Architectural Appreciation: Krakow's architecture, showcased at places like the Wawel Royal Castle, presents students with the opportunity to explore exceptional Gothic and Renaissance structures, appreciating the art and craftsmanship of the past.
Holocaust Education: Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Oskar Schindler Museum allows students to learn about the Holocaust, fostering empathy and promoting tolerance and understanding.
Geological and Industrial Understanding: Exploring the Wieliczka Salt Mine gives students insights into the geological formations, mining practices, and the significance of salt mining in Poland's history.
Enhanced Research Skills: Engaging with historical exhibits and sites encourages students to conduct research, analyse information critically, and gain a deeper understanding of the past.
Global Awareness: Experiencing a different culture and historical context broadens students' global perspectives, making them more aware of international issues and fostering cultural sensitivity.
Memorable Experiences: Educational trips provide students with lasting memories, fostering enthusiasm for learning and a desire to explore other cultures and historical sites in the future.
Are the planned itineraries suitable for all stages of education?
We specialise in providing educational trips to Iceland for KS3-KS5 students, helping them get ready for any potential exams following in line with the current curriculum.
Are students safe on school trips to Poland?
As one of the best choices for school tours to Poland in the UK, safety for your students is crucial to ensuring we’re running a successful trip, we always vow to keep your students safe. We are Learning Outisde The Classroom Badge holders ensuring the highest possible safety standards. We also have an externally verified safety management system to achieve this.
