Most interesting way to get from London to Katowice/Krakow?
What’s the most intriguing way to travel from London to Katowice/Krakow?
I’ll be heading to London soon and am eager to explore more of Europe. Right now, I’m not focused on the typical tourist spots; I’m mostly interested in discovering off-the-beaten-path experiences.
I plan to travel light with just one bag and have plenty of flexibility in my itinerary.
One key destination on my list is Auschwitz, as I want to pay my respects to the victims of the Holocaust. I’m brainstorming interesting travel options to get there.
I have an International Driving Permit, and I’m considering taking a train from London to Germany via Belgium, then renting a car in Germany to explore a bit before making my way to Poland. I assume I’ll need to rent a car in Poland as well, is that correct?
I’d love to hear your thoughts on pace, potential routes, and any advice or warnings you might have!
That sounds like a fantastic journey! Traveling from London to Katowice/Krakow offers several interesting routes and ways to explore Europe. Here are some suggestions and thoughts on your plan:
Train to Belgium and Germany: Starting with a train from London to Brussels is a great idea. You can then take a train to major cities in Germany like Cologne or Düsseldorf, which will be your base for renting a car. Germany has a well-maintained road system that makes driving enjoyable.
Car Rental in Germany: Renting a car in Germany is straightforward, and you can definitely explore regions like the Black Forest, Bavarian Alps, or even cities like Nuremberg along your route to Poland. If you plan to drive across borders, make sure the rental company allows it and check insurance coverage.
Route to Poland: Consider driving through regions like Silesia or visiting the picturesque towns along the way, such as Wroclaw. Wroclaw is known for its beautiful Market Square and unique architecture.
Rental in Poland: You can rent a car in Poland, but if you cross into Poland with the German rental, confirm the policy with your rental company. Otherwise, renting in Poland is also easy with many options available in both Krakow and Katowice.
Time and Pace: Since you have flexibility, take your time and enjoy the scenic routes. You might want to spend a couple of days exploring Germany before heading to Poland. Map out your stops, but also give yourself freedom to wander off the beaten path.
Auschwitz Visit: It’s wonderful that you’re planning to visit Auschwitz. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, as they can sell out. Consider taking a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the site’s history.
Stern Warnings: Be mindful of local driving laws and regulations in each country. Always keep an eye on the speed limits, especially in Germany where there are autobahns with no speed limit but strict rules in place. Additionally, ensure your insurance covers international travel; you don’t want to run into issues.
Overall, you’re setting up for a memorable experience filled with exploration and respect for history. Safe travels!