The Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in Kraków-Łagiewniki is one of the most important places of devotion in Poland, attracting pilgrims and visitors from around the world. For groups, a trip from Zakopane can be a great addition to your program - the drive is relatively short (about 2–2.5 hours one way depending on conditions) and the visit offers the opportunity to take part together in prayer, Mass and to hear a short talk about the history of the site.
A well-planned visit lets you combine the spiritual dimension of the trip with logistical comfort: reserving a place for the coach, arranging the time of a talk or Mass and allowing time for individual prayer.
Groups register with the sanctuary using a registration form provided by the pilgrims office. The form asks for arrival date, number of people, age composition, contact details of the organizer and any special requests regarding talks or Masses.
Remember that submitting the form is not an automatic confirmation - wait for an email confirmation or call to make sure the arrival time and arrangements are confirmed.
Entrance to the basilica and chapels is generally free, but some additional services can require a fee (for example tours organized by external providers, special events or paid exhibitions). If you want an official talk or a guided visit inside the sanctuary, you should arrange it in advance - talks are usually conducted by the sisters and must be scheduled ahead of time.
On arrival groups should report to the monastery gate or to the information point located below the Chapel of the Passion. This is standard procedure and helps the sanctuary staff receive the group according to the earlier registration.
Talks for groups are held in Polish and, after arrangement, may be offered in other languages. Times for such meetings should be agreed by phone or email so the staff can prepare supervision and a room.
Organizational note: on Mondays, except public holidays, the chapel that houses the miraculous image and the tomb of St. Sister Faustina may be unavailable until about 12:00 due to cleaning and maintenance - include this in your schedule to avoid disappointment.
When planning a trip from Zakopane, allow realistic travel time and breaks - traffic near Kraków and when entering the city can lengthen the journey. There are coach parking spaces near the sanctuary, but for large groups it is worth asking in advance about parking and possible reservation of a spot for the coach.
If the group wishes to stay overnight in Kraków, consider accommodations close to Łagiewniki - there are pilgrim houses and guesthouses that offer group rooms (2–4 beds), meals and facilities. Book accommodation and meals in advance, especially in the pilgrimage season and on weekends.
Besides the basilica itself, plan time for a walk around the sanctuary grounds and to visit nearby sites of devotion - right next to Łagiewniki is the John Paul II Centre with exhibitions related to the life of the pope, which is often a valued addition to a pilgrimage program.
If the group has more time you can combine the visit to Łagiewniki with a short stay in Kraków city centre - the Main Market Square, Wawel and atmospheric cafes make a good complement to the spiritual side of the visit.
For groups looking for reliable places to eat we recommend choosing restaurants and cafes in Kraków that accept group reservations and offer menus suitable for larger parties. Booking in advance will make service easier and reduce waiting time.
If you prefer something local and quick after the pilgrimage part, consider well-rated restaurants in Kraków city centre - this is also a good way to unwind and integrate the group after a full day.
Failing to register the group in advance - this simple oversight can spoil the whole plan. Always fill in the registration form and wait for confirmation or contact the sanctuary by phone.
Arriving on Monday morning without checking access hours - the chapel may be closed then. Schedule the visit for later in the day or choose another day if entering the chapel with the image is a priority.
Assuming an external guide will be able to give an official tour - in Łagiewniki official tours inside the sanctuary are led by the sisters; external guiding services must be arranged separately and treated as an additional option.
Do groups need to buy tickets? - Entrance to the sanctuary is free, but early registration is required if you expect a talk or special assistance.
How do you register a group? - The quickest way is via the pilgrims registration form; alternatively contact by email or phone. Wait for confirmation of acceptance.
Are there size limits for groups? - This depends on the date and program; for very large groups the sanctuary asks for earlier arrangements to ensure adequate service.
Is the sanctuary accessible for people with reduced mobility? - The modern building and facilities take accessibility into account, but inform the sanctuary about any special needs before arrival.
Short talks and meetings for groups are often available in Łagiewniki - these are a valuable addition to the visit, especially if the group wants to learn about the history of the sanctuary and the devotion to St. Sister Faustina.
Logistical tip: if you plan to return to Zakopane the same day, leave some buffer time for slower travel toward Kraków and potential traffic jams.
Finally - always carry a list of participants and the organizer's contact details; with larger groups this is the best way to quickly resolve small issues on site.
A well-organized trip from Zakopane to the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in Łagiewniki can be a moving and peaceful highlight of your program - the key points are early group registration, arranging talks and considering practical aspects: coach parking, daily schedule and possible accommodation.
If you found this text helpful, share it with friends or on social media - it may make organizing a successful trip easier for someone.
If you would like the trip to be led by an experienced private guide - Małgorzata Kasprowicz - please contact via the ZwiedzanieKrakowa website; contact details are available there.
