My next trip to Europe is probably a few years away, but I think it will include the Rick Steves Best of Eastern Europe in 14 Days tour. If it’s still structured the same way at that time, my one concern is what seems like a short amount of time in Kraków. In addition to what’s included in the itinerary, I’m interested in Pope John Paul II sites and the Schindler Museum. From anyone who has been on that tour, how much John Paul II did you see on the walk when you first arrived and during the group events the next morning? I’ve read past threads, and it sounds like there’s time to get to and see the Schindler Museum during the free time in the afternoon, but probably not enough time to add something like John Paul II sites. Thoughts about how much John Paul II is included?
Posted by
Morrison, CO, USA
893 posts
We took the tour 3 years ago. Most of us went to the Schindler museum on the free time. Our guide, Etelka, helped us by calling some vans that we all shared. Plenty of time for the museum. Sorry to say I can't answer about the John Paul II sites. It was not at the top of our priority list. I can tell you that we really enjoyed Krakow and the people were great!
I really recommend this tour, it's one of our favorites out of 7!
Have a great trip!
Mimi
Posted by
akron, ohio
503 posts
I took this tour in the Fall of 2016. On one of the mornings touring, we walked by John Paul II home and it was pointed out to us. I'm not sure how many JP II "sites" there are to see, but you would have to do anything else on your free afternoon. I recall having two free afternoons so, theoretically, you could do both. On one of the free afternoons, the offer to visit the underground salt mines where the carvings etc are was extended to the group. Some went, some did not. The other free afternoon was on your own with no additional activity offered. That is when many from the group went to the Schindler Museum. We were there for several hours and, honestly, I could have spent more time there. You are correct, the time in Krakow is not enough, but that is the RS philosophy, see enough to wet your appetite to come back. It's a wonderful tour and you will be very glad you chose to go.
Posted by
Washington DC Region, USA
7054 posts
This has nothing to do with the tour, but if you're interested in John Paull II sites, don't overlook Wadowice (his birthplace).
Posted by
OP
28 posts
Thanks for the replies. I’m sure I will enjoy that tour and am looking forward to it. I read something about the sites in Wadowice, and if I was going to Krakow on my own would probably make time for it.