Tour Suggestion
Day 1: ARRIVAL WARSAW
Welcome to Poland! Upon our arrival, a friendly English-speaking tour guide will meets us and escort us to our comfortable motorcoach and take us straight to Warsaw's city center. We will embark on a delightful walking tour of the Old Town, where we will explore the Basilica of St. John the Baptist, Warsaw's oldest church. Our journey also takes us to St. James Church, a place of significance - it was here that St. Faustina made her inaugural trip to Warsaw. During our explorations, we will visit Lazienki Park, catching a glimpse of the Palace on the Water (from the outside), the splendid summer residence of Poland's final monarch. Following our adventures, we settle into our hotel for a peaceful night's rest. Dinner is served, and we stay overnight in Warsaw.
Day 2: WARSAW - NIEPOKALANOW - CZESTOCHOWA
After checking out of our hotel, we have the opportunity, time permitting, to visit St. Stanislaw Kostka Church. Here, we explore a special exhibition dedicated to Blessed Father Jerzy Popieluszko, a courageous figure tragically murdered by the communists. In 2010, Warsaw witnessed the beatification ceremony of Father Popiełuszko, honoring his legacy.
Our journey then leads us to Niepokalanow, where we marvel at the Chapel of St. Maximilian Kolbe and delve into the serene atmosphere of Niepokalanow Sanctuary and the Franciscan Monastery. Later in the afternoon, we reach Czestochowa, one of Europe's most revered pilgrimage destinations. Here, we embark on a tour of the Jasna Gora complex, a stronghold that bravely withstood numerous attacks from formidable Swedish forces during the religious conflicts of the 17th century. The Black Madonna housed within is known as the “Queen of Poland” and stands as the nation’s enduring symbol. We explore the Pauline Monastery, home to priceless treasures, including the Miraculous Icon. This site held a special place in the heart of Saint John Paul II, who made frequent visits here throughout his lifetime. The day concludes with a hearty dinner, and we settle in for the night in the surrounding area.
Day 3: WADOWICE - AUSCHWITZ - KRAKOW
Our day commences with a visit to Wadowice, the hometown of Pope John Paul II. We explore his childhood home, now transformed into a museum, and the Church of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary where he was baptized, gaining insights into the early life of this revered figure.
Our journey then takes a solemn turn as we proceed to Auschwitz, the infamous Nazi concentration camp where unimaginable atrocities unfolded. Here, we pay respects in the cell of St. Maximilian Kolbe and visit the Martyrdom Museum, a poignant reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust that serves as a tribute to its victims.
Continuing our pilgrimage, we make our way to Krakow, where we check into our hotel. The evening brings a comforting dinner, and we settle in for the night in Krakow.
Day 4: KRAKOW - DIVINE MERCY SHRINE - HAVE NO FEAR CENTER
Today, we delve into the rich history of Krakow, one of Poland's oldest cities and its first capital, all of which is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our exploration takes us through the enchanting Old Town, where we marvel at the iconic Wawel Hill featuring the historic Wawel Castle (admired from the outside), the awe-inspiring Cathedral, and the magnificent St. Mary's Church. Additionally, we stroll past landmarks such as the Cloth Hall, City Hall Tower, Kanonicza Street, which was once home to Pope John Paul II during his time in Krakow, and the Collegium Maius, where he pursued his studies.
Following a delightful lunch at our leisure, we embark on a personal visit to the Divine Mercy Shrine in Lagiewniki, a place intimately connected to Saint Faustina, the revered Apostle of Divine Mercy, where she lived and eventually passed away. Our journey continues with a visit to the Have No Fear Center, a testament to the enduring legacy of St. John Paul II.
The evening unfolds with dinner at your leisure, allowing you to savor the local flavors. We spend the night at our hotel in Krakow.
Day 5: KRAKOW – KALWARIA - OLOMOUC - VIENNA
This morning, our journey takes us to the renowned Shrine in Kalwaria, often referred to as the "Polish Jerusalem," a site of profound spiritual significance. After a spiritually enriching experience, we pause for a delightful lunch in Olomouc, nestled in the heart of the Haná mountain region. Olomouc's main square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is adorned with historical buildings and surrounded by a tapestry of beautiful churches, bearing testament to the city's enduring history as a stronghold of the Catholic Church in central Europe.
Our travels then lead us to Vienna, where we settle into our hotel. Later, we are conveniently transferred to the city center, allowing you the freedom to enjoy dinner at your leisure, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this magnificent city.
Day 6: VIENNA - SALZBURG
Following breakfast and hotel check-out, our day begins with an enchanting sightseeing tour of imperial Vienna, a city steeped in the musical legacies of Strauss and Mozart, and renowned as one of the world's most picturesque destinations. Our exploration takes us to Karlsplatz, graced by the Church of St. Charles Borromeo and Otto Wagner's Stadtbahn pavilions, showcasing Vienna's architectural splendor.
After a delightful lunch, we head onwards to Salzburg. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and then head into the city for a captivating 1-hour walking tour, immersing ourselves in the cultural charm of Salzburg. Subsequently, you have the evening at your leisure, allowing you to savor a delightful dinner in the city. We later return to the hotel for a peaceful overnight stay in Salzburg.
Day 7: SALZBURG – MUNICH
Following breakfast, our day commences with a visit to St. Ehrhard Church, offering a moment of reflection and spiritual connection. We then embark on a brief excursion to Maria Plain, further enriching our cultural and historical understanding.
Continuing our journey, we make our way towards Munich, where a relaxing evening awaits us. A comforting dinner is served, providing the perfect end to the day. We spend the night in Munich, recharging for the adventures to come.
Day 8: OBERAMMERGAU AND ETTAL
Today, we embark on a captivating excursion to Oberammergau, renowned worldwide for its iconic Passion Play, a remarkable event staged every decade by dedicated community members. Originating in 1634, this authentic portrayal vividly captures the final week of Christ’s life, performed on an outdoor stage by villagers who meticulously prepare for their roles over many years. You'll have leisure time to explore the charming woodcarver's village, immersing yourself in its artistic heritage, and visit the enlightening Oberammergau Museum.
Later in the afternoon, our journey continues to the splendid Ettal Monastery, a place of serene beauty and historical significance. Here, we indulge in a guided tour of the monastery's brewery, delving into the craft and tradition behind their renowned brews.
As the day draws to a close, we return to Munich for a restful overnight stay, reflecting on the enriching experiences of the day.
Day 9: MUNICH
Immerse yourself in the charm of Munich, the vibrant capital of Bavaria, during a captivating city tour. Our exploration takes us to the iconic Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), a symbol of Munich characterized by its towering twin onion-domed steeples. We also visit the renowned Asamkirche, Munich's most famous church, and the lively Marienplatz adorned with its whimsical clock, a true testament to the city's historical splendor. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon to explore the city at your own pace. Tonight, we gather for a delightful and lively farewell dinner at a local restaurant, creating cherished memories together. We spend our last night in Munich.
Day 10: RETURN TO USA
After a satisfying breakfast, we are seamlessly transferred to the airport for our homeward-bound flight, carrying with us the unforgettable experiences of our journey.
Copyright program and pictures: © APPINA TRAVEL GmbH
Package price 2024 with 4-star hotels:
Minimum 30 full paying participants:
€ 1,749.00 (USD 1,889.00 / CAD 2,499.00) per person in double / twin room
€ 2,149.00 (USD 2,314.00 / CAD 3,064.00) per person in single room
Minimum 25 full paying participants:
€ 1,839.00 (USD 1,984.00 / CAD 2,629.00) per person in double / twin room
€ 2,239.00 (USD 2,409.00 / CAD 3,194.00) per person in single room
Minimum 20 full paying participants:
€ 2,049.00 (USD 2,214.00 / CAD 2,929.00) per person in double / twin room
€ 2,449.00 (USD 2,639.00 / CAD 3,494.00) per person in single room
Minimum 15 full paying participants:
€ 2,489.00 (USD 2,689.00 / CAD 3,559.00) per person in double / twin room
€ 2,889.00 (USD 3,114.00 / CAD 4,124.00) per person in single room
The given prices are not valid during exhibitions, fairs, congresses, events or holidays. All prices are subject to availability. Valid for leisure groups only. Rates are based on an exchange rate of EUR/USD 1.08 // EUR/CAD 1.43. In case of changes, we obtain the right to adapt the rates.
