Choose the route before choosing the length. Count transfer days and hotel changes explicitly. The goal is a workable rhythm for prayer and visits, not the greatest number of cities on the brochure.
Poland · YOUR QUESTION, ANSWERED
How many days should I allow for a Poland pilgrimage?
Kraków alone supports four to five destination days: the Old Town churches, the Divine Mercy Sanctuary at Łagiewniki (5 km from the center), Wadowice (50 km, about 1 hour), and the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial (70 km, with a standard 3.5-hour guided visit) each need most of a day. Adding Częstochowa (140 km north) adds one day as a round trip or two with an overnight. A typical air-inclusive Poland pilgrimage from the U.S. therefore runs 8–10 days including flights.
Related questions, answered
How should I plan a short Poland pilgrimage with an older parent?
Plan five nights in Kraków with no hotel changes, one shrine per day, and a car or coach rather than public transport for an older parent. Łagiewniki and the John Paul II Sanctuary are step-free with level access and a 10-minute walk between them; Jasna Góra is a 2 to 2.5 hour drive each way, so make it a full day with a guided tour booked in English through the Information Centre; Wadowice is a one-hour drive with a museum that has an elevator. Keep Auschwitz-Birkenau, 3.5 hours of walking on gravel, optional. Choose a hotel with an elevator confirmed in writing and schedule a rest after lunch.
Source: Jasna Góra Information Centre: reservations and guided tours
Sources & further readingDivine Mercy Sanctuary, Kraków-ŁagiewnikiJasna Góra Monastery
Official sources cover institutional information. Suggested pacing and itinerary choices are planning guidance. Check current arrangements for your travel dates.