Portrait of Poland

Today's included sightseeing tour with a Local Guide is an excellent introduction to Warsaw. Magnificently reconstructed after WWII, Warsaw is a rich tapestry of nearly every European architectural style, from Gothic to Neoclassical, with wide, modern avenues in striking contrast to the narrow lanes of the old section. Continue to Gdansk on the Baltic Sea, one of the most important Hanseatic cities in the 14th and 15th centuries. Today's Distance: 261 mi/ 420 km (B,D)

Among the most important shipping ports in Northern Europe, Gdansk (formerly known by its German name, Danzig) is the birthplace of "Solidarity," the Polish trade union that revolutionised Polish modern politics. On the included city tour this morning, your Local Guide will explain the city's past and present. Spend some time exploring on your own, or join the optional excursion to the town of Malbork, founded in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights. Visit its Gothic Marienburg Castle, one of the most striking fortified castles in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B,D)

First stop today is medieval Torun on the Vistula River, birthplace of renaissance astronomer Copernicus and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your Local Guide will introduce you to the many captivating highlights, including the starowka (Old Town) with the ruins of a 13th-century Teutonic Knights' castle, as well as many samples of Gothic architecture. Head west to Poznan, one of the country's oldest cities and a part of Polish history for the past 1,000 years. This afternoon, discover the main attractions on your included city sightseeing tour with a Local Guide. Today's Distance: 2305 mi/ 370 km (B,D)

Stop at Jasna Gora in Czestochowa for a guided visit of the Monastery that withstood the repeated onslaughts of overwhelming Swedish forces during the religious wars of the 17th century. Since then, its Black Madonna has been venerated as the "Queen of Poland" and has become the country's national symbol. Continue to Krakow. Today's Distance: 304 mi/ 490 km (B,D)

Dating back to the 7th century, Krakow is revered by many as Poland's most beautiful city. It was the country's capital for over 500 years. On your included guided tour, see the Market Square, the Jewish Quarter, Wawel Hill, and visit the Cathedral. Continue exploring on your own or book an optional visit to the spectacular Wieliczka Salt Mines, a subterranean maze of tunnels and chambers-some of them richly decorated. This evening, consider joining an optional traditional dinner. (B)

Get a breath of fresh mountain air today on the included excursion to Zakopane. Located in a picturesque valley at the base of the Tatra mountain range, Zakopane has developed into a beautiful, pristine resort. Typical of this area are the highland wooden houses, cafes, restaurants, and the local shops on Krupowski Street. Enjoy a little hiking or browse around the small market for authentic souvenirs. Return to Krakow. Today's Distance: 137 mi/ 220 km (B,D)

Encounter sobering history this morning on your visit to the Auschwitz concentration camp, a chilling reminder of the Holocaust. In the afternoon, continue to Warsaw. Tonight's optional dinner is a great way to round out your fascinating adventure in Poland. Today's Distance: 249 mi/ 400 km (B)

Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

Encounter sobering history this morning on your visit to the Auschwitz concentration camp, a chilling reminder of the Holocaust. In the afternoon, continue to Warsaw. Tonight's optional dinner is a great way to round out your fascinating adventure in Poland. Today's Distance: 249 mi/ 400 km (B)