Spotlight on Krakow: Remembrance and resilience in Poland’s historic centre
A city rich in historical significance and cultural depth, Kraków is an excellent option for a school trip, and one that offers students several invaluable learning experiences. Whether exploring the haunting memories of the Holocaust at Auschwitz, delving into Poland’s religious heritage at St Mary’s Church, or walking through the storied streets of the Kazimierz District, Kraków provides a powerful educational backdrop that supports a number of curricular objectives.
With such a diverse array of attractions, organising a school trip to Kraków may seem overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be. In this blog, we’ll equip you with the essential tools to plan an effective and budget-friendly itinerary. We’ll outline the key learning objectives, highlight free and enriching activities, and provide an overview of typical expenses, ensuring you’re fully prepared to lead your students on an enriching journey through one of Europe’s most compelling cities.
Learning objectives covered by a Kraków school trip
History
With its unsettled past telling a thousand tales, Kraków provides an ideal platform for students to immerse themselves in European history and learn how Poland overcame adversity to become the thriving country it is today. To fulfil GCSE learning objectives and offer a deeper understanding of the Holocaust, groups can also visit the Auschwitz concentration camp – the largest and most notorious of its kind – and pay tribute to the 55,000 Jews who perished there during the Second World War.
Religious Studies
One of the last profoundly religious societies in Europe, Poland is a natural choice for a religious studies school trip. In Kraków, your group can assess the medieval significance of St Mary’s Church, also home to the world’s oldest Gothic altarpiece, and learn about Jewish life in Poland throughout the Kazimierz.
Both of these incredible school trips are further enhanced by an airport meet & greet and a local representative – included in the tour price – who will support you and your group throughout your trip with accessing attractions, restaurants, and during activities.
Free things to do in Kraków for schools
Kraków offers a wide variety of free and educational activities that are suitable for school groups. These options should offer a balance of cultural, historical, and recreational experiences for students – without breaking the budget.
Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)
Visit one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) and St. Mary's Basilica.
Wawel Hill and Wawel Castle (Exterior)
While entry to the interior of the castle requires a fee, the grounds of Wawel Hill are free to explore. Students can see the impressive architecture, visit the Wawel Dragon statue, and enjoy views of the Vistula River.
Old Town (Stare Miasto)
Take a guided walk through Kraków's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is rich in history, with beautiful buildings, churches, and monuments at every turn.
St. Mary’s Basilica (Kościół Mariacki)
Enter the basilica to admire its stunning interior, including the famous wooden altarpiece by Veit Stoss. Entry is free during regular service hours, making it a great place to learn about religious art and history.
Planty Park
Encircling Kraków’s Old Town, this park is a peaceful place to relax and provides a perfect setting for discussions about Kraków’s history.
Kazimierz District
Explore the historic Jewish quarter of Kazimierz, known for its synagogues, Jewish cemeteries, and vibrant cultural scene.
Barbican and City Walls
The Barbican is a fortified outpost once connected to the city walls, and a great place to learn about Kraków’s medieval defences. The exterior and surrounding area are free to explore.
Ghetto Heroes Square (Plac Bohaterów Getta)
This poignant memorial in the Podgórze district is dedicated to the Jewish residents of the Kraków Ghetto during World War II, and serves as a significant reminder of those lost during the Holocaust, as well as Kraków's wartime history.
Vistula River
Take a leisurely walk along the Vistula River, which offers beautiful views of Wawel Castle and the surrounding area. The perfect place to relax and enjoy Kraków’s natural beauty, the river serves as an excellent backdrop for your group photos.
Remember to check the opening hours and any specific guidelines for these attractions, as policies may change.
How much do every day items cost in Kraków (2024)?
At time of writing (August 2024), 1 Polish zloty = approximately £0.20. Check the latest exchange rate for an accurate estimate of your expenditure before you travel.
- Single ticket on local buses & trams in Zones 1&2: 4-8 zł (approximately £0.80-1.60)
- Coffee: 14.15 zł (approx. £2.81)
- Burger and fries in a fast food restaurant: 35.00 zł (approx. £6.95)
Ready to book your school trip to Kraków?
Kraków school trips offer an unparalleled opportunity to engage students in profound historical and cultural studies, covering topics such as European history, religious studies, and the impact of the Holocaust. With its many free attractions and affordable everyday costs, Kraków is a versatile destination that caters to a range of budgets. By immersing your students in Kraków’s vibrant culture and complex past, you’ll provide them with an educational experience that promises to leave a lasting impact.
To find out more about our school trips to Kraków, or enquire about booking a school trip, please call us on 01273 648248. You can also fill out our webform, and our school trip experts will get back to you as soon as we can.
