Extra Day in Krakow or Warsaw - Which would you choose?
 

I am taking a trip to Poland at the end of September/first week of October that at this point in planning would allow me to spend an extra full-day in either Krakow (starting point and first 4-5 full days of trip) or Warsaw (last 5-6 full days of trip and point of departure). I am torn as to which city to choose for the bonus day........ thoughts? My plan is to use those two cities as my bases and do train/car/autobus day-trips beyond sightseeing in the cities themselves........ definitely on a leisure vacation and plan to return again someday, so I don't feel the need to race around the country to try and "see it all". Any input would be appreciated!!!

no brainer - KRAKOW ... 2-3 days for warsaw be more then enough ...

I agree with PeterB -- another vote for Krakow

Hi; We all think Krakow is worth an extra day. There are many day trips that can be taken. See www.inyourpocket.com/ for a download of each city. Click on the city and then 'instant' for youe download. Dick

Krakow. Beautiful city.

Yes, Krakow, great city. Lots of sites

A dissenting vote for Warsaw as a city: there are plenty to see and to do there. Medieval Krakow is more interesting, but is is small, 4 days there is enough.
However, as a base for day-trips Krakow wins. Wieliczka salt mine IMHO is very interesting and it alone will take a day.

Hi; You could add Auschwitz as another day trip from Krakow. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/auschwi...entration_camp Dick

Well, you have to be mentally prepared to visit Auschwitz, the impression is so strong. Maybe depends on the personality, but he place is horrifying.

Hi; Consider going to Auschwitz. It's a reminder to 'never forget' and needs to be seen. Dick

I haven't been to Warzaw, so I cannot compare. However I like Krakow very much. The old town is a beauty, very walkable and has some excellent restaurants. The salt mine is not to be missed.

My trip report at http://www.sitestory.dk/rejser/krakow2007/indexe.htm may give you some ideas about what to do and see in Krakow. Have a nice trip!

Eric

Since you already have five days in Warsaw, I'd vote for Krakow as well, particularly as the base for day trips. It's also a great city to just relax in, although Warsaw has nice cafes and parks as well. Here's my trip report for a little more info: http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...-july-2006.cfm

Hi; If you are in Warsaw on a Sunday, see if the Chopin Concerts are still being held. Usually free, at 1pm in a 'rose garden'. Dick

Another vote for Krakow. You can do day trips to the salt mines and Auschwitz, as noted by others. Each would justify its own day. Krakow is lovely,and IMHO more to see there than rebuilt Warsaw.