Itinerary

Day 1 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Depart U.S. / Fly overnight to Poland

Depart from the U.S. for Warsaw. The particulars of your arrival overseas are detailed with your flight itinerary and airline tickets.

Day 2 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Arrive Warsaw / Begin your Trip Extension

Upon arrival at the Warsaw Airport, a VBT representative will meet you outside the customs area in your arrival terminal and help you transfer by private car or van (approximately 30 minutes) to your hotel in Warsaw's city center. The representative will be holding a VBT sign. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and explore the city. Tonight, choose a local restaurant for dinner on your own.

Please note: If you arrive early, your hotel room may not be available until 1 p.m. You may store your luggage with the Reception Desk. If you are traveling from the West Coast, your arrival in Warsaw may not be until late in the evening.

VBT provides you with City Information in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Warsaw during your stay.

Day 1 of AIR PACKAGE Depart U.S. / Fly overnight to Warsaw

Depart from the U.S. for Poland. The particulars of your arrival overseas are detailed with your flight itinerary and airline tickets.

Day 3 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Warsaw

Stroll the streets of charming Warsaw and explore the city independently today. Walk through the Old Town, which despite its name and look was rebuilt only in the past decades. Visit one of Warsaw's world-renowned museums, including the National Museum, the largest in the country, or spend an afternoon at the stunning baroque Wawel Castle; its strategic location on a hill affords splendid views over the capital and its river. Later today, you might head to Kazimierz, the former Jewish ghetto and the city's most bohemian district where you can shop, relax and enjoy delicious Polish cuisine. Tonight, dinner is on your own in Warsaw.

Day 2 of AIR PACKAGE Arrive in Warsaw

Upon arrival at the Warsaw Airport, claim your luggage and clear customs. VBT's local representative will meet you outside the customs area in your arrival terminal and will be holding a VBT sign. Your representative will help you transfer (approximately 30 minutes) to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and explore the city. Choose a restaurant for dinner on your own.

Please note: If you arrive early, your hotel room may not be available until 1 p.m. You may store your luggage with the Reception Desk. If you are traveling from the West Coast, your arrival in Warsaw may not be until late in the evening.

Your hotel is conveniently located in Warsaw's Old Town. Depending on your arrival time, you can stroll along the many cobblestone streets and explore the most beautiful part of Warsaw.

VBT provides you with City Information in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Warsaw during your stay.

Day 4 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Warsaw / Join VBT Air Package guests

After breakfast, continue exploring Warsaw. Dinner is on your own tonight. Air Package guests arrive throughout the day.

Day 1 of BIKE TOUR All guests meet in Warsaw / Meet Trip Leaders / Warm-up ride / Welcome reception

At 8.45 a.m., all guests meet the VBT representative at the hotel in Warsaw and transfer with her to Pulawy (approximately 2.5 hours, including a stop on the way). Our hotel in Warsaw is the Mamaison Hotel Le Regina Warsaw (address: Koscielna 12, 00-218 Warsaw – phone + 48 22 5316043). Make sure your luggage is tagged with VBT yellow tags. Meet your Trip Leaders upon arrival in Pulawy. Please meet your leaders dressed in cycling clothes and ready for biking. If you have brought your own pedals, please have them ready to give to your Trip Leaders.

If you are so delayed that you will miss the morning transfer, then we suggest you take a train to Pulawy. Trains from Warsaw Central train station to Pulawy's Miasto station operate every couple of hours and cost approximately 50 Polish zloty (about $19 USD). From the Pulawy's Miasto train station, take a taxi (approximately 30 mins) to your hotel in Kazimierz Dolny. Cost of the taxi is approximately 65 Polish zloty (about $25 USD).

If you are delayed for any reason, please contact the hotel in Kazimierz Dolny. The hotel staff will pass your message on to your VBT Trip Leaders.

We will have lunch on our own upon arrival in Pulawy. After lunch, our Trip Leaders will hold a safety and bike-fitting session followed by a warm-up ride. Our easy warm-up ride today will take us along the banks of the Vistula River and into the quaint riverside artist village of Kazimierz Dolny.

Tonight we get to know our fellow travelers on the villa's terrace overlooking beautiful flower gardens. Here, we enjoy a welcome dinner, a typical Polish barbecue prepared by our hosts, weather permitting of course!

Day 2 of BIKE TOUR Browse the weekly Farmer's Market / Ferry across the Vistula River / Cycle to Janowiec Castle / Visit to an artist studio

After breakfast this morning, we walk with our Trip Leaders to the town square where we will shop for today's picnic. Enjoy the array of fresh fruits and vegetables in season and the numerous stalls of antiques, paintings and souvenirs. From here we will ride along the Vistula River to a small ferry which will transport us to the other side. After alighting on the opposite bank, we cycle to the nearby ruins of the 16th century Janowiec Castle. After a short visit at your leisure, join your Trip Leaders for a picnic lunch on the castle's lawn. The afternoon is yours to further ride through the beautiful countryside. If you prefer, return to the hotel to enjoy the pool and spa or to explore the charming streets of Kazimierz Dolny.

This evening we enjoy a reception at one of the town's artist studios and learn why Kazimierz Dolny has become a favorite setting for artists over the generations. Dinner is on your own tonight; you'll find several options including a unique Jewish-themed tavern that serves old-fashioned cooking with a kosher twist.

Day 3 of BIKE TOUR Lunch in a Baroque Palace / Pastoral ride to Sandomierz / Underground Merchant Cellars

This morning, we shuttle south to the starting point of today's ride. After a morning spin, we stop for lunch at one of the most beautiful residences in Poland, a richly ornamented late-baroque palace built in the mid-18th century. After lunch we ride to our hotel, located just outside the 14th-century gates of Opatowska – entrance to the picturesque town of Sandomierz.

Sandomierz' location on the banks of the Vistula River made it a prominent town on the medieval trade route that was formed between the Middle East through southern Russia and the Ukraine into central Europe. During our included walking tour we visit the underground merchant cellars that lay below the town square. As our tour comes to a close, our local guide will point out several restaurant options for dinner on your own. After dinner, our hotel is an easy stroll away.

Day 4 of BIKE TOUR Loop rides through the “Tuscany of Poland” / Cooking demonstration and mead tasting

We set out today with rides through the surrounding countryside – and discover why this region is often called the “Tuscany” of Poland. Country roads lead us through fields and past orchards. The variety of fruits will astonish you -- cherries, apples, pears, apricots, peaches, and more grow in this fertile basin. We return to Sandomierz for lunch on your own and further exploration of this interesting medieval town. This afternoon, you may continue cycling these lovely roads, or relax at our hotel or at a café in town.

This evening we meet the family that owns our hotel for a cooking demonstration. Using fresh fruit from the orchards you passed today, they will demonstrate how to make a traditional dessert from an old family recipe. After dinner we sample a local favorite – Sandomierski mead. This is a traditional mead, brewed only in this region of Poland for over one thousand years.

Day 5 of BIKE TOUR Transfer to Niepolomice Royal Castle / Cycle through the Niepolmice Forest / Cycle to Wieliczka

This morning we shuttle to the beautiful Niepolomice Forest. The name Niepolomice derives from the Old Polish niepolomny, which meant “impassable,” but today we'll ride lovely paved roads through this sylvan landscape. The forest consists of six nature reserves; the largest is home to the European bison. After our easy ride we arrive in the lovely town of Niepolomice for lunch on your own and the option to visit the Niepolomice Royal Castle. Originally built in 14th century Gothic style as a hunting lodge, it was later rebuilt in late Renaissance style. This afternoon, you may take our longer riding option from Niepolomice to our hotel, located in the town of Wieliczka.

This evening is yours to explore Wieliczka. Stroll through the beautiful town and its park and enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants on your own.

Day 6 of BIKE TOUR Loop rides to neighboring towns / Tour of Wieliczka Salt Mines with Polish Vodka tasting / Farewell dinner

Our ride today takes us to some of the neighboring towns and into the countryside surrounding Wieliczka. We return to the hotel for lunch on our own. After lunch enjoy an afternoon ride or simply wander into Wieliczka to visit some of the sites.

This evening we descend into the Wieliczka Salt Mines for a private tour of the fascinating chambers and tunnels created over the centuries. The mine continuously produced salt from the 13th century until just recently and is one of the oldest salt mines in the world. It was placed on the original UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. One of the highlights of the tour will be the “Underground Salt Cathedral of Poland” where everything is carved from salt – including the chandeliers. During our tour, we enjoy a Polish vodka tasting in one of the underground chambers.

In the evening, we gather for a festive farewell dinner at our hotel where we will dine on creations of the renowned chef.

Day 7 of BIKE TOUR Train to Krakow / Walking tour and horse and carriage ride in the Old Town / VBT No-Air Package ends

We have a later start to our final morning. Enjoy the extra time to return to the Salt Mines and attend Mass in the underground cathedral or simply relax before meeting the group to walk to Wieliczka's train station and begin our short journey to Krakow. Our guide will meet us in Krakow and escort us on a walking tour of the Old Town and a horse and buggy ride to our final hotel, the Hotel Amadeus.

VBT No-Air Package guests: Your luggage will be waiting for you at the Hotel Amadeus in Krakow after our included walking tour. Our tour will end at approximately 1 p.m. at the Hotel Amadeus. You should not plan on flying out of Krakow any earlier than 3:30 p.m. Travel time to the airport from the Hotel Amadeus is approximately 30 minutes.
Krakow's main train station is a short 20 minute walk from the Hotel Amadeus or approximately 5 minutes by taxi.

VBT Air Package & Post Trip Extension guests: VBT provides City Information included in your Final Travel Booklet containing recommendations for afés, restaurants, museums and transportation. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Krakow.

Day 8 of AIR PACKAGE Depart for U.S.

After breakfast this morning, transfer to the Krakow airport (approximately 30 minutes) for your departing flight.

*Please note: For guests with early-morning departures, breakfast at the hotel may not be available. Please check with the Front Desk to verify the times that breakfast is served.

**Please note: VBT recommends that you check your transfer time in your “Transfer Reminder.” VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport will be at your own expense.

Day 1 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Begin your optional extension

Continue your independent exploration of Krakow today.

Day 2 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Krakow

Continue your independent exploration of Krakow today.

Day 3 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Depart for U.S.

After breakfast this morning, transfer to the Krakow airport (approximately 30 minutes) for your departing flight.

*Please note: For guests with early-morning departures, breakfast at the hotel may not be available. Please check with the Front Desk to verify the times that breakfast is served.

**Please note: VBT recommends that you check your transfer time in your “Transfer Reminder.” VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport will be at your own expense.

Poland: Cycling through the Old World 2012

Pre and Post Trip Extensions

Pre-Trip Extension

Warsaw 2012 - 2 nights for only $245

Warsaw, Poland’s capital is a charming city where lovingly rebuilt post-war architecture blends seamlessly with original gems, especially in its historic Old Town. Each impressive building in Warsaw stands proudly as a reminder of the city’s glorious days and its turbulent past. Explore Stare Miasto, the picturesque Old Town meticulously reconstructed brick by brick at the end of World War II. Visit the lavish and imposing Royal Palace, former residence of Polish Monarchs. Take a stroll through the lovely Royal Laziernki Park with its impressive monument to composer Frederic Chopin and his everlasting music.

The Mamaison Hotel Le Regina Warsaw is conveniently located in Warsaw’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Right outside your door, you can take a step back in time and admire the resurrected merchant houses, and experience the shops and markets that cater to the local residents.

Available only with the Air Inclusive Package.

Note: Single supplement for this extension is $195.

Post-Trip Extension

Krakow 2012 - 2 nights for only $245

One of Poland’s true gems and prominent cultural and religious centers, Krakow delights visitors with its charm, architectural masterpieces and lively atmosphere. Take a walk through Rynek Glówny, the Old Town, with its marvelous medieval buildings and world- renowned museums. Immerse yourself in the country’s glorious history during a visit to the stunning baroque Wawel Castle and its walled citadel. Mingle with locals in Kazimierz, the former Jewish ghetto and the city’s most bohemian district where you can shop, relax and enjoy delicious Polish cuisine.

During your stay, there’ll also be time to visit numerous historical sites outside the city. At Auschwitz, get a sobering firsthand account of the events that unfolded here. Or visit the peaceful town of Wadowice, birthplace of Pope John Paul II.

Hotel Amadeus is located in Krakow’s Old Town on a quiet street, just steps from the Main Market Square.

Available only with the Air Inclusive Package.

Note: Single supplement for this extension is $145.

Accommodations

Mamaison Hotel Le Regina Warsaw

One of the most unique of Warsaw’s hotels, the upscale deluxe Mamaison Hotel Le Regina is also among the best hotels in Poland. Set within the historic Mokrowski Palace, the hotel is a destination in its own right. It is conveniently located in Warsaw’s restored Old Town.

Expertly blending historic charm with chic and modern interior design, this romantic Warsaw boutique hotel offers excellent facilities, comfortable surroundings and top-class accommodation. It has all the amenities you would expect from one of the most esteemed hotels in Poland, and it’s all within reach of the central train station and airport.

Krol Kazimierz

Hotel Krol Kazimierz is a beautiful property located in the heart of Kazimierz Dolny. Each room is tastefully decorated and offers the comforts of a modern hotel in a very refined atmosphere.

Hotel Sarmata

This quaint family-owned hotel has all the charm of a stylish Polish inn and is surrounded by a large park with an inviting summer garden. It is ideally situated just 200 meters from the Opatowska Gate, the entrance to the city’s Old Town. Hotel Sarmata features a sauna and a Jacuzzi. All of its spacious rooms have free Wi-Fi, LCD TV and a laptop safe box. Guests can relax at an on-site wine bar with a selection of over 150 wines. Front desk staff is available 24 hours a day and can arrange laundry and ironing service.

Hotel Grand Sal

The Hotel Grand Sal, located in the picturesque St. Kinga Park, occupies an impeccably renovated structure that once housed the Salt Baths of the Wieliczka Salt Mines. Lavish and cozy at once, the building dates to the turn of the 20th century, and was refurbished to mirror the detail and style reflected in archival materials. Its interiors emphasize the hotel’s intimate connection with the mines. And stylized furnishings and high-quality fabric create a warm and refined atmosphere. During your stay, you’ll have easy access to the adjacent Mikołaj Daniłowicz entrance to the mine shaft. Each room features climate control, satellite TV, telephone, safe, Wi-Fi, hair dryer, cosmetics made from Wieliczka salt, and a private bath with shower.

Hotel Amadeus

Hotel Amadeus is located in a historic 16th century Townhouse. It is situated in the oldest part of Krakow, a few steps from the Market Square on a quiet stretch of Mikołajska Street. The hotel offers a unique ambiance, with stylish Baroque interiors reminiscent of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s times. The hotel attracts numerous celebrities from cultural, artistic and political circles.

Rating Level

Easy

This tour offers easy terrain throughout the trip and is ideal for beginning cyclists. There are longer options with slight hills for the more experienced cyclists.