We begin our journey from Malopolska, where one of the oldest and most beautiful abbeys in Poland - the Benedictine Abbey in Tyniec - is located. Located on a limestone hill above the Vistula River, just 12 km from the center of Krakow, it offers not only an extraordinary spiritual experience, but also breathtaking views. To reach the abbey, it is best to use public transportation from Krakow (lines 112 or 901) or come by car (parking available). The abbey is open to the public every day, but hours may vary depending on the season, so check the website for up-to-date information: http://www.opactwotynieckie.pl/. Admission tickets cost about £30 per adult (as of 2024). The abbey also has a cafe and a store selling Benedictine products, making it an ideal place for families with children.

The next point on our itinerary is the Abbey of the Benedictine Sisters in Staniątki, located about 20 km from Kraków. It is the oldest Benedictine abbey in Poland, more than 800 years old. Access to the abbey is by car or public transportation from Krakow. Sightseeing is only possible with a guide, and tickets are 'every grace'. Note that part of the abbey is not open to the public, but the church itself at the abbey is always open. There is free parking at the abbey, making the visit easier for families with children.

Moving to Silesia, we can't miss the Pocyster Monastery and Palace Complex in Rudy. This place impresses not only with its architecture, but also with the beautiful park that surrounds it. To reach Rudy, it is best to use a car, as public transportation can be limited. The complex is open to the public, and there is also a restaurant serving delicious meals. It's an ideal place for a family picnic or a walk in the park. Note the numerous bike paths in the area, which can be an added attraction for active families.

Each of these places offers unique experiences and an opportunity to learn about Poland's rich history. When planning your visit, remember to dress appropriately (shoulders and knees should be covered) and to maintain silence and respect for these spiritual spaces. For children, it is advisable to prepare in advance historical trivia or educational games related to monastic life, which will make the visit more interesting. Also remember to bring comfortable footwear, water and snacks, especially when visiting the vast monastery complexes.

Continuing our journey, we head to central Poland, where the Cistercian Monastery of Sulejow awaits us. This unique place, located at 13 Opacka Street in Sulejow (97-330), combines history, spirituality and modernity. Access is by car (free parking) or by bus from Piotrkow Trybunalski. The monastery is open to visitors daily, and there is also the Podklasztorze Hotel, offering accommodation within the historic walls. Ticket prices range from PLN 15 to 25 (as of 2024). Families with children may find the educational workshops organized by the monastery particularly interesting, so it is worth checking the current offer at http://www.cystersi.sulejow.pl/.

Our route leads further south, to the Abbey of the Cistercian Fathers in Szczyrzyc. This place, although lesser known, impresses with its authenticity and tranquility. Located in the Beskid Wyspowy (Szczyrzyc 1, 34-623), it is ideal for families looking for a holiday away from the hustle and bustle of cities. Access is by car or bus from Krakow (about 50 km). The abbey is open to the public, and an additional attraction is the opportunity to purchase products made by the monks, including the famous milk from cows grazing on the Szczyrzycki meadows. Admission is free, but it is worth leaving a voluntary donation.

The next stop on our route is the Cistercian Abbey in Wąchock, located at 14 Church Street in Wąchock (27-215). This place is famous not only for its beautiful Romanesque architecture, but also for its museum dedicated to the struggle for independence. Access is by car (free parking opposite the abbey gate) or by train to nearby Skarżysko-Kamienna, and from there by bus. Tours are guided at full hours, and a ticket costs about PLN 25 per adult (as of 2024). There is also a cafe on the abbey grounds, where you can relax and sample local specialties.

We end our journey at the Post-Cistercian Abbey in Krzeszów, which is a true pearl of Silesian Baroque. Located at 1 John Paul II Square in Krzeszów (58-405), it is easily accessible by car, and for those arriving by public transportation - by bus from Kamienna Góra. The abbey offers an extensive audio-guided tour, which is great for families with children. A normal ticket costs PLN 31 (as of 2024). It's worth planning a full-day visit to fully appreciate the beauty of the place and enjoy the restaurant offering home-cooked meals.

When planning a visit to these places, remember to dress and behave appropriately. For children, it is advisable to prepare small tasks or games related to history and architecture, which will make the tour more engaging. And don't forget your camera - each of these places offers countless opportunities for beautiful photos. In case of a longer stay, consider staying overnight near the abbeys, which will allow you to explore in peace and fully experience the atmosphere of these unique places.

Our journey through Poland's most beautiful abbeys would not be complete without a visit to Greater Poland, where two unique places await us: Cistercian Abbey in Ląd and the Post-Cistercian Monastery Complex in Gościków-Paradyż.

The Cistercian Abbey at Ląd, located on the DK48 in Ląd (62-405), is a true pearl of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Access is easiest by car, but you can also take a bus from Konin or Slupca. Visits to the abbey are only with a guide at specific times (usually at 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00), which is worth checking in advance at https://nmpsdb.pl/. An entrance ticket costs about PLN 25 per adult (as of 2024). A special attraction for children can be climbing the observation tower, which offers a beautiful view of the area. It is worth remembering that the last section of the stairs is quite steep, so be careful.

After the tour, you can relax in the monastery's gardens, which are a great place for a family picnic. The Warta River is also nearby, making a short trip to the water possible. For families with children, we recommend bringing blankets and snacks to fully enjoy the atmosphere of the place.

The next point on our route is the Pocyster Monastery Complex in Gościkowo-Paradyż, located at 3 Gościkowo Street in Świebodzin (66-203). This place, although less known, impresses with its monumental architecture and beautiful surroundings. Access is most convenient by car, but you can also take a bus from Zielona Góra or Swiebodzin. The tour is guided, and the ticket price is voluntary (what a favor). It is advisable to check the tour hours in advance at http://www.paradisus.pl/.

On the monastery grounds there is an extensive park with benches, fruit trees and a pond, which creates ideal conditions for family recreation. An attraction for the youngest can be feeding the ducks in the pond or searching for interesting plant species. On weekends, masses are held here (Saturday at 17:00, Sunday at 11:00), which can be an interesting spiritual experience for the whole family.

When planning a visit to these abbeys, there are a few practical things to keep in mind:

1. attire - be sure to dress appropriately and modestly, especially when visiting the churches.
2. Time - it is advisable to set aside at least 2-3 hours for each abbey in order to visit and enjoy the atmosphere in peace.
3. Meals - restaurants may not be available near the abbeys, so it is advisable to bring provisions with you.
4. Cameras - taking photos is allowed in most places, but it's always a good idea to check with your guide.
5. Comfortable footwear - sightseeing often involves walking on uneven, historic surfaces.

For families with children, we recommend preparing small tasks or games related to the history and architecture of the abbeys, which will make the tour more interactive and interesting for the little ones. This could be, for example, counting certain architectural elements or looking for specific symbols.

Visiting these unique places not only gives visitors an insight into Polish history and culture, but also an opportunity for reflection and tranquility. Each of these abbeys offers a unique experience, combining spirituality, art and natural beauty. This is an ideal option for a family roadtrip that will leave unforgettable impressions and enrich us with new knowledge and experiences.