Explore Warsaw’s reconstructed Old Town and the Royal Castle to get a feel for Poland’s history — castle exhibitions typically open 10:00–17:00 (check seasonal times).
Choose POLIN for Jewish history or the Uprising Museum for 20th-century history; both usually open 10:00–18:00 and give deep context to Warsaw’s story.
Settle into your hostel/Airbnb (choose listings that mention parking if you need it) then enjoy dinner in the Old Town — try local modern Polish bistros or the atmospheric Stare Miasto restaurants.
Quick breakfast at the hostel/Airbnb or motorway café, then load the car and head south on the A2/S8 toward Kraków; expect about 3.5–4.0 hours driving without long stops.
Stroll Europe’s large medieval square and, if open, visit St Mary’s Basilica for the altarpiece; basilica open typically 10:00–17:00 but check seasonal times.
Walk the castle complex and cathedral exterior; state rooms have set opening hours (usually 09:00–17:00) — buy tickets online if you wish to enter interiors.
If you choose the memorial, depart early to reach Auschwitz for a guided tour (booked in advance). The museum opens early and guided tours are strongly recommended.
If you prefer the salt mine rather than Auschwitz this morning, visit the UNESCO-listed Wieliczka Salt Mine — guided tours usually run from 07:30–17:00 and last ~2–3 hours; prebook to guarantee times.
Set off early for the longer drive to Prague (approx 6–7 hours depending on route and border traffic); pack snacks and water and allow time for rest stops and petrol.
Spend the afternoon exploring the castle precinct, cathedral and medieval lanes — main complex usually open from about 09:00 to 17:00; book tickets online for quicker entry.
Have a hearty breakfast, confirm motorway vignette needs (Austria requires e-vignette for motorways) and head south to Vienna; drive time is around 3.5–4.5 hours depending on traffic and stops.
Visit the cathedral and walk the historic main shopping streets for a first taste of Vienna’s atmosphere — cathedral typically open 06:00–22:00 (tower access separate).
Tour the imperial apartments and walk the palace gardens and Gloriette; palace hours usually 09:00–17:30 (seasonal variations) — prebook your tickets for the ‘Grand Tour’ if interested.
Attend an evening concert in one of Vienna’s halls — book tickets in advance for the Staatsoper or Musikverein (performances typically 19:00–20:00 onwards).
Relax in the famous outdoor and indoor thermal pools — baths are usually open early until late (often to 22:00 or later) and are perfect to unwind after driving.