History Trip to Krakow School Trips

Sweet Chariot

A history school trip to Kraków is extremely useful in assisting students to comprehend the inhumanity and horrors of the Holocaust. A visit to the Nazi concentration camps or death camps is essential and the notorious Auschwitz is just a short drive away from the city.

The Wielicza Salt Mine was built in the 13th century and is one of the oldest salt mines in Europe. In medieval times salt was incredibly valuable and this mine was one of the largest and most profitable in the world. During the tour, you will go 150m below ground level to striking chapels, ballrooms, large caverns and passages all carved in the salt rock.

Visit the original factory building of the German industrialist, Oskar Schindler and learn about the amazing story of this Nazi Party member, who saved the lives of over 1,200 Jewish factory workers.

Teacher Checklist

green tick Risk Assessments
Inspection Visits
Free Places for Teachers
ATOL Licence
WYSE Travel Foundation
Tailor your trip

Example Itineraries for our 2026 trips

Day 1
Arrive in Krakow
Schindler museum Tour

Day 2
Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour
Guided city tour including St Mary’s Church
Talk from holocaust survivor at Galicia Museum

Day 3
Auschwitz museum tour
Free time in Krakow

Day 4
Return Flight to UK

Which Curriculum Subjects do we cater for?

Cultural

As the former capital of Poland for centuries, Krakow boasts a stunning medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with the largest medieval market square in Europe. On this trip you can see Wawel Castle, the former seat of Polish monarchs, and St. Mary's Basilica with its famous altarpiece. A trip to Krakow exposes students to Polish culture, traditions, and perspectives, broadening their understanding of Europe and its diverse heritage.

History

Click to read full text A history trip to Krakow offers a powerful and multifaceted educational experience. Krakow provides a direct and emotional connection to the events of WWII. A visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, located nearby, offers a sobering and essential understanding of the Holocaust. Within Krakow itself, sites like the former Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz), the Ghetto Heroes' Square, and Oskar Schindler's Factory provide further context to this period. a history trip to Krakow provides a unique opportunity for students to encounter significant historical events and cultures firsthand, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the past and its impact on the present.

Languages

Being in Krakow provides a fantastic opportunity for full immersion in the Polish language. Students will be surrounded by native speakers, encouraging them to practice their listening and speaking skills in real-life situations, from ordering food to asking for directions. Krakow boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. A language trip can be combined with visits to historical sites like Wawel Castle, the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz), and potentially even the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, providing a deeper understanding of Polish heritage and context for the language.

What size groups do we cater for?

15+ students

Who are Sweet Chariot?

With over 25 years’ experience in school group tours, Sweet Chariot organise a wide range of bespoke tours and trips to suit every need. We are a member of the School Travel Forum and Learning Outside the Classroom accredited.