Pope John Paul II Route Day Tour | AB Poland Travel Kraków
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves light walking and standing during museum visits
Overview
Tracing the journey of Pope John Paul II through southern Poland, this day tour from Kraków visits his birthplace, significant pilgrimage sites, and cultural landmarks. Experience history, faith, and local flavor in one accessible trip.
Pope John Paul II Route – Wadowice, Łagiewniki and Kalwaria Zebrzydowska Day Tour from Krakow
6 hours • All ages
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating journey through the life of Pope John Paul II in Poland. Visit his birthplace, explore his family home museum, and see the historic Basilica where he was baptized. Experience the rich heritage of Wadowice, savor his favorite cake, and discover significant pilgrimage sites, all in one memorable tour.
*During this tour you will follow the traces of the Polish Pope beloved all over the world. *
All Ages
About
While in Poland don’t miss your chance to visit Wadowice, the birthplace of Karol Wojtyla (Pope John Paul II). You will visit his home, later converted into a museum. Inside the house “where it all began” you may see a rich collection of his family memorabilia. The exhibition contains a variety of possessions such as furniture, an oven, a table, personal belongings, etc. Just next to Pope’s family house you will see the Basilica of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary from the 15th century, where Karol Wojtyla was baptized. On the wall, you can find the picture of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. The Pope prayed daily in front of it. Then, you will visit the secondary school and Saint Peters Church, built to express gratefulness for electing Karol Wojtyla in the Papal conclave and saving his life in 1981. After sightseeing, you will taste “kremowka”, the favorite cake of young Karol.
This tour starts in Krakow. You will be picked up by our English-speaking driver from your hotel or the designated meeting point (see FAQ section below). You will visit Łagiewniki, Wadowice and Kalwaria Zebrzydowska. You will come back to Krakow in the afternoon. The entire tour will last around 6 hours.
The departure time is estimated, to be confirmed before the tour by email.
Highlights
- Wadowice – Pope’s home town
- Tour inside Family Home of John Paul II
- Unesco heritage site – Monastery in Kalwaria Zebrzydowska
- Main pilgrimage destination in Krakow – the sanctuary of the Divine Mercy in Lagiewniki with a new Centre of John Paul II
What's included
- Group transportation by minibus/bus
- Pick up from your hotel or the designated meeting point in the Old Town (see FAQ section below)
- Group guided tour in English (or other languages if requested in advance)
- Entrance fees
Adventure Tips
Book Hotel Pickup in Advance
Confirm your pick-up location in Kraków when booking to ensure a smooth start to your tour.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sites include historic streets and pilgrimage grounds requiring moderate walking on uneven surfaces.
Bring Weather-Appropriate Layers
Polish weather can shift quickly; prepare for sun, rain, or chill, especially on outdoor paths in Kalwaria Zebrzydowska.
Respect Religious Sites
Dress modestly and maintain quiet reverence in basilicas, sanctuaries, and chapels along the route.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common swallows seen circling the basilica grounds
- Red squirrels scurrying through wooded areas near Kalwaria Zebrzydowska
History
The Baroque monastery at Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, founded in the early 17th century, was designed as a pilgrimage counterpart to Jerusalem’s Via Dolorosa.
Conservation
Efforts are made to preserve the natural surroundings of the pilgrimage routes, encouraging visitors to respect the quiet landscape and avoid littering.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kraków
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for walking on historic pavements and pilgrimage paths.
Light rain jacket
Protects against unexpected showers common in spring.
spring specific
Layered clothing
Allows adjustment for cool mornings and warmer afternoons.
fall specific
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Helpful during sunny summer days especially outdoors.
summer specific