11-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Poland and Slovakia With Itinerary from Krakow to Zakopane, Kosice, Bratislava, and Banská Bystrica

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Poland and Slovakia has in store for you! You will be staying in Krakow for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Wawel Cathedral makes a great addition to your morning plans. This notable church is a stunning place to see in Krakow. Continue your discovery at Wawel Royal Castle National Art Collection, a grand castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Krakow, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Old Town Market Square In Krakow. This globally renowned public square offers an enchanting encounter with Krakow. Next, make your way to St. Mary's Basilica to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Kraków Barbican, a beloved historical landmark that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory, a captivating museum in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Krakow.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Poland's delectable cuisine at one of Krakow's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Zalewajka, a popular restaurant in Krakow. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Krakow at Szynk, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Talerz. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Krakow tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pijalnia Czekolady E.wedel, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Beergallery - Luxury is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Eszeweria is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Poland and Slovakia. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Zakopane in Poland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Zakopane where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Zakopane may take around 1 hour 53 min. Upon your arrival in Zakopane, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Świecący Napis Zakopane, an increasingly popular art installation that everyone visiting Zakopane should see. Next, head to Krupówki. This enchanting street is one of the most popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Mostek Na Krupówkach, an instagrammable street popular among locals as well as travelers. The Great Krokiew is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this popular sightseeing destination before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Krakow and set your GPS to Zakopane. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 53 min. Upon reaching Zakopane, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Giewont, a frequently visited mountain range known for its serene features.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Zakopane of your choice.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Zakopane. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Poland in a new light.

Savor the flavors at Karczma Zapiecek, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Burger i piwo Zakopane beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Pub Cafe Seagram's. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zakopane tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Legenda Nietoperza, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cafe Piano Zakopane offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zakopane.

As the night falls in Zakopane, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Poland and Slovakia, you’ll soak in the magnificence Kosice in Slovakia. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kosice, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kosice, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zakopane to Kosice may take around 2 hours 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kosice, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

East Slovak Museum is an often recommended museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to The Singing Fountain, a romantic art installation that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by St. Elisabeth's Cathedral, a history-steeped church.

Košice Zoo is a beloved zoo we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Kosice.

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Kosice's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Make sure to reserve a table at Jekyll&Hyde cafe bar, an iconic dining spot in Kosice. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Staromestská Piváreň, a popular restaurant in Kosice. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Villa Regia, a hidden gem nestled in Kosice. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like New Chicago - Veselá Krčma, known for its lively atmosphere. Suzan Club is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cuba Libre Rum & Cigar House Košice offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take in the ambiance of Kosice as this day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Poland and Slovakia. Today's main destinations are Old Town in Slovakia, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bratislava. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Upon reaching Old Town, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Most Snp (ufo Tower), an underrated observation deck in Old Town. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, St. Martin's Cathedral, Bratislava. This worthwhile church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Michael's Gate is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant historical landmark in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the locally appreciated Church Of St. Elisabeth and discover what makes this church unique.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Bratislava. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Slovakia's delectable cuisine at one of Bratislava's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Don’t miss out on dining at Reštaurácia Divný Janko, a top-rated dining destination in Bratislava. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Loft Hotel Bratislava, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Reach Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bratislava this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Dungeon Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Kollarko, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Nebra. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Wake up to day 8 of your extraordinary road trip through Poland and Slovakia. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Old Town in Slovakia. With 1 night left in Bratislava, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Old Town is brimming with adventures.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Old Town.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Upon your arrival in Old Town, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Slovak National Theatre is an often recommended performing arts theater we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Primate's Palace, an eye-catching palace that’s well-regarded in the area.

While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Bratislava Castle, an enchanting and truly unique castle.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Devín.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Devín Castle. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Poland and Slovakia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Bratislava.

Savor the flavors at Falkensteiner Hotel Bratislava, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Apollo Hotel Bratislava beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bratislava Flagship. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bratislava tonight.

Take in the ambiance of Bratislava as this day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your multi-country road trip to look forward to!

On day 9 of your multi-country road trip across Poland and Slovakia, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Selce in Slovakia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Banská Bystrica, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bratislava, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Selce. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 9 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Lyžiarske Stredisko Selce. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the ski resort before you continue to your next stop.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Banská Bystrica may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Banská Bystrica, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Mestský Park Banská Bystrica, a locally appreciated park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Banská Bystrica Castle, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.

Next, explore Hodinová Veža, yet another often recommended place to see in the area. After the monument, make time to go to St Francis Xavier Cathedral. This photogenic church is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Museum Of The Slovak National Uprising, a curiosity-inducing museum you won’t want to miss.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Banská Bystrica. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Banská Bystrica. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Dine in style at Bašta restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Koliba boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Limone Bistro & Wine. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Banská Bystrica.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Jazz Art Café Mefisto, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Wine Bar "u Kemov", a bar catering to every mood and preference. Inn Club & Café likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Žehra in Slovakia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Krakow, your home for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Žehra.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Žehra. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 58 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Spiš Castle, an interesting castle known for its respected features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Žehra, you’ll hit the road in the direction of District of Levoča. This drive usually takes around 16 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Košická Brána, an intriguing monument in District of Levoča. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Basilica Of St. James, Levoča. This up-and-coming church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Snm - Spišské Múzeum is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most heritage-rich museum in the region.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Krakow. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Krakow boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Enjoy a delicious meal at House of Beer, a top-rated dining destination in Krakow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Free Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gospoda Koko. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Krakow this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Trzcina Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Omerta is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mr. Black is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Poland and Slovakia! Enjoy your evening in Krakow to the fullest!