Poland

Poland is a wonderful destination with a rich history and plenty of family-friendly activities. Here's a suggested 8-day itinerary for your trip:

Day 1: Arrival in Warsaw

• Arrive in Warsaw, the capital city of Poland, after a direct flight from Chicago.
• Check into a family-friendly apartment-style hotel in the city center.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Old Town, including the Royal Castle and Market Square.
• Enjoy a traditional Polish dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Warsaw

• Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum to learn about the city's history during World War II.
• Explore Łazienki Park, a beautiful green space with a palace and gardens.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the Vistula River and enjoy the views.
• Have dinner at a milk bar, a traditional Polish cafeteria.

Day 3: Krakow

• Take a morning train to Krakow, a charming city known for its historic Old Town and Wawel Castle.
• Check into an apartment-style hotel in the city center.
• Visit the Main Market Square and St. Mary's Basilica.
• Explore the Wawel Royal Castle and Cathedral.
• Enjoy a traditional Polish dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 4: Krakow

• Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with underground chambers and sculptures made of salt.
• Explore the Kazimierz district, known for its Jewish heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
• Have dinner at a local restaurant serving Jewish cuisine.

Day 5: Zakopane

• Take a day trip to Zakopane, a picturesque town in the Tatra Mountains known for its wooden architecture and outdoor activities.
• Explore Krupówki Street, the main pedestrian promenade in Zakopane.
• Take a cable car ride to the top of Gubałówka for panoramic views of the mountains.
• Enjoy a traditional highland meal at a local restaurant.

Day 6: Gdansk

• Take a morning train to Gdansk, a port city on the Baltic coast known for its historic architecture and maritime heritage.
• Check into an apartment-style hotel in the Old Town.
• Visit the European Solidarity Centre to learn about the history of the Solidarity movement.
• Explore the Long Market and the Neptune Fountain.
• Have dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the Motława River.

Day 7: Gdansk

• Take a boat tour of the Westerplatte Peninsula, where World War II began.
• Visit the Museum of the Second World War to learn about the impact of the war on Poland.
• Explore the Oliwa Park and Cathedral, known for its beautiful organ concerts.
• Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 8: Departure

• Spend the morning exploring any remaining sights in Gdansk.
• Transfer to the airport for your direct flight back to Chicago.

I hope this itinerary gives you a good overview of what Poland has to offer for a family-friendly trip. Enjoy your travels!