Karolina & Samuel

Travel

1. Where should I fly into?

Krakow airport is the closest. There are several flights a day from Stansted, Luton and Gatwick to Krakow, as well as direct flights from several US airports.

2. How do I get to/from Jabłonka?

Public transport options are limited so we will be providing two coaches from Krakow airport to accommodation in Jabłonka on Friday 23rd July (one leaving at 2pm and one leaving at 9pm). Please let us know in your RSVP if you intend to take one of these coaches. Similarly we'll provide a return coach at 3pm on Sunday 25th July back to Krakow airport. If you don't fancy the specified coach slots, then your best option is to rent a car from Krakow airport and do the very straightforward hour drive yourself.

3. What happens if my flight is delayed?

Let us know as soon as possible. For shorter delays (up to 45 mins) the coach will wait. For longer delays, we will assist with alternative transport or accommodation, and will share a day-of contact number.

4. When should I travel?

Unfortunately the trip will likely require a day or at least half a day of annual leave (sorry). We would recommend flying to Poland on the morning of Friday 23rd July, then fly home afternoon/evening of Sunday 25th July. Obviously you may wish to extend your stay in Poland!

5. Can I take public transport to Jabłonka?

The last resort would be public transport. There is a local bus from Krakow central bus station to Jabłonka that runs every 2 hours. Please ask us for further details.

6. How do I get around Jabłonka, Podwilk or Chyżne?

The villages themselves are walkable but we will be providing all essential travel from your provided accommodation to/from the church and reception. Note that on Sunday all shops will be closed in the villages.

Accommodation

We have already reserved accommodation for all guests traveling to Jabłonka and plan to cover the cost of Saturday night, leaving guests to cover the cost for the Friday night. The cost for a room will be around £30 per-person per-night. Once RSVPs have been received, we'll allocate rooms and confirm each guest's accommodation in June 2027. If you wish to extend your stay beyond the two nights pre-booked, please let us know.

Option 1: Amel Orawa, Podwilk

Will be allocated to guests planning to stay for the Sunday BBQ, as this is where we will be hosting it. Lodge style accommodation for up to 36 guests. Check-out by 11am with breakfast provided on Saturday only. Google Maps.

Option 2: Miejsce Chyżne

Located on the same site as the wedding reception with space to accommodate remaining guests. A mixture of hotel style rooms and small apartments, with breakfast included at the hotel. Check-out by 11am with breakfast included everyday. Google Maps.

Things to Do

If you are making a longer trip of it, here are a few ideas ranging from a relaxed afternoon to a full day in the mountains.

City break

Kraków

We got engaged in Kraków, and would highly recommend the Czartoryski Museum and wandering the Old Town. Two to three days would be plenty. Plan a visit.

Underground adventure

Wieliczka Salt Mine

A backup wedding venue option (if we were minted) but definitely worth a day trip from Kraków. Visitor information.

Mountain town

Zakopane & the Tatras

A popular mountain destination - great views, traditional food and lots of hikes. Check park information.

Full-day hike

Babia Góra

About a 20-min drive from Jabłonka. It is a reasonable hike (2 hours up) so you need to: take suitable footwear, layers, water and check weather conditions before setting out. National park updates.

Relax

Chochołów Thermal Baths

Recover from the celebrations in warm indoor and outdoor thermal pools with views towards the mountains. There are family, spa and sauna areas. See the thermal baths.

Scenic day trip

Niedzica & Lake Czorsztyn

Visit storybook Niedzica Castle on the lake, enjoy the mountain scenery and combine it with a walk or drive through the Pieniny region. Castle information.

Polish Weddings

A Polish wedding is generous and built for stamina. Expect a long-running celebration with plenty of food, music and invitations to join the dance floor. General advice for foreigners from Instagram. Traditions vary by family, but you'll definitely encounter:

A welcome with bread & vodka

When we arrive at the reception, we will be welcomed with bread, salt and vodka. This traditional greeting wishes the newlyweds prosperity, resilience and a joyful life together.

Food, then more food

Dinner is not a single sitting. Hot dishes, cold plates, cake and late-night food arrive in waves throughout the reception, so pace yourself and leave room for the next course. Instagram

Toasts, “Sto lat” & “Gorzko!”

You will hear Sto lat—a song wishing the couple a long life—and plenty of celebratory toasts. Guests also chant Gorzko, gorzko! (“Bitter, bitter!”), calling for the newlyweds to kiss and sweeten the moment. Soft drinks are available but vodka is traditional... Spontaneous singing is standard - songbooks will be provided.

Wishes & envelopes

Guests traditionally take a moment to congratulate the newlyweds and share their wishes for married life. This is also when cards are given, often with a monetary gift tucked inside an envelope rather than a boxed present.

A full dance floor

We'll have a DJ and smattering of group dancing. The Poles will often dance in couples so don't be afraid to join in! The music will be played in sets with breaks for food and yet more vodka. Instagram

A late finish

Polish receptions rarely wind down early. Food and dancing continue well into the night—ours is planned to finish at around 5am—so comfortable shoes and a little stamina are needed.

Jabłonka, Podwilk and Chyżne

Wedding Schedule

Guest Check-In

Airport Transfer 1

Airport Transfer 2

Church Ceremony

Reception

Bedtime

Poprawiny (After-Party)

Airport Transfer