Poland Travel Guide
- Everything you need to know for your trip to Poland-
Poland, officially the Republic of Poland, is a beautiful country in Central Europe, dividing into 16 administrative provinces, covering an area of 312,696 square kilometers (120,733 sq mi). The country is full of history, nature, art, and beauty. If you want to experience all in a country, make sure to put Poland on your bucket list.
Why Visiting Poland?
Poland, a captivating gem nestled in the heart of Central Europe, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty for travelers to explore. With 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranging from the pristine Bialowieza Forest to the picturesque Old Towns of Warsaw and Krakow, and the stunning medieval churches, there is no shortage of breathtaking attractions to discover.
As you embark on a culinary journey through Poland, you’ll be delighted by the delicious flavors of pierogis, borscht, bigos, pączki, shrink, and makowiec, which can be enjoyed at charming local eateries or elegant restaurants. Best of all, Poland is an affordable destination that caters to budget-conscious travelers without sacrificing quality experiences.
So, why visit Poland? The answer is simple: for its incredible blend of history, culture, cuisine, and affordability that makes it an irresistible destination for all types of travelers.
Poland is not only one of the most historically rich countries in Europe, but it also offers a vibrant nightlife that party enthusiasts will love. With countless medieval sites to explore and remarkable museums, such as the Warsaw Rising Museum and POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, history lovers will find Poland an ideal destination.
After a day of exploring the country’s historical treasures, immerse yourself in Poland’s incredible nightlife scene. Poles know how to party, and there’s always a reason to celebrate. If you’re seeking a destination with beautiful nightlife, Poland is the perfect choice for you.
Poland Top Destinations
Best Time to Visit Poland
Spring (March-May)
Temperature: -1 °C (30.2 °F) / 19 °C (66.2 °F)
Features
The weather in early spring is cold. In late April and May, the weather starts getting warm. Generally, spring is one of the best times for visiting Poland.
Tips
Avery attractions in spring are fantastic. However, Białowieża Forest has the best view in spring. Visiting how nature and animals awake can be fascinating!
Summer (June – August)
Temperature: 11 °C (51.8 °F) / 23 °C (73.4 °F)
Features
Summer is the peak season for visiting Poland, and tourist spots like the Baltic sea, mountains, and Masurian Lake District, are packed with tourists.
Tips
Like spring, you need to visit as many attractions as you can during this time. However, Inowrocław, Bialowieza Forest, Tatra National Park, Copernicus Center in Warsaw, etc., are highly recommended.
Autumn (September – November)
Temperature: 0 °C (32 °F) / 18 °C (64.4 °F)
Features
Autumn is the most beautiful season in Poland, as many believe. The weather is lovely during these three months, and the colorful landscapes will definitely fascinate you!
Tips
Visiting Tri-City (Gdańsk, Gdynia, Sopot), the Hel Peninsula, the islands of Uznam and Wolin, etc., are highly recommended in autumn.
Winter (December – February )
Temperature: 2 °C (35.6 °F) / -4 °C (24.8 °F)
Features
Winter in Poland is either snowy and cold or windy and rainy. Ensure to bring warm sweaters, winter coats, hats, gloves, sturdy boots, and thick socks.
Tips
Zakopane, Bukowina Tatrzańska, Kołobrzeg, Spała, Giżycko, and Białowieża are the best recommended destinations in Poland for winter.
Best Poland Tours
Things to Do in Poland
Poland is a country rich with natural elements and filled with history. The Medieval structures and the buildings of WW II are among the most prominent sites with more traces of centuries of history among them. More than that, this country is filled with art and the beautiful culture of the Polish people. Make sure to dedicate enough time to this country. There are only 10 of its most important things to do here, but there is much more to see and discover.
Get Stunned Inside the Wieliczka Salt Mine
One of the oldest attractions of Poland is the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and exploring its chambers is among the top things to do. This Salt Mine has been active since the 13th century and mining until 1996. Centuries of mining activity did not end in 1996. Afterward, it has become a UNESCO Heritage Site and a museum, and a cultural center. Prepare to do a lot of walking in the Wieliczka Salt Mine as it goes deep in the ground and has a lot of rooms and furniture. Everything in the Wieliczka Salt Mine is made with salt, and all of it is in an artistic detail as it is the result of generations of workers working and living inside the mine.
See the Living Quarters of the Teutonic Knights at Malbork Castle
Another marvelous structure of 13th century Poland is the Malbork Castle. The Malbork Castle, like many other castles of this country, is like the stuff of fairytales. The history of this beautiful Malbork Castle is that the original building was a much smaller military fortification of the Teutonic Knights. Then, over the years and after centuries of occupation, the structure was expanded into the Malbork Castle of today. Most of the Malbork Castle is well preserved through the ages, and the rooms inside the fortifications, as just as they were when they were built. The small amounts of repairs were only made to keep the Malbork Castle in shape for future generations to marvel at this 13th-century religious order’s base.
Travel to Masurian Lakes and Rent a Boat
The history of Poland is a rich area of the country, but a stroll into the rich nature and the Masurian Lake is also a great idea. Masurian Lake is especially recommended as the road trip to the lake district is just as fun as the boat ride on the waters. Visiting the Masurian Lake will also offer several beautiful elements of the country in one go, including the flowers, green trees, an amazing lake, and all the surrounding environments and lovely animals near Masurian Lake. Going to the Masurian Lakes is a great adventure and a memorable experience, one that will require a camera to take pictures of all the beauties of Poland.
Explore the Tatra National Park and Go Hiking in the Tatra Mountains
Tatra National Park and Mountain is another natural marvel of the country, ideal for a hiking trip with another beautiful lake with a view of the mountains in the distance. There is a wide range of outdoor activities in the Tatra National Park, just waiting for seekers of adventure. It is possible to get a horse carriage or hike all the way to the Tara Mountains. By doing this, you can enjoy the beauties of the trail as well as any possible destination in this vast and amazing part of Poland. But keep in mind that visiting the Tatra National Park can take a lot of time. Despite taking time and the difficulty, in the end, it will be worth it.
Walk Among the Historical WW II Remains of Auschwitz-Birkenau Camps
Auschwitz-Birkenau Camps are a grim part of the history in Poland, yet they are a must-see part of the trip to this country. Countless people lost their lives as prisoners in these hundreds of buildings inside the Auschwitz-Birkenau Camps. It may be difficult for most people to explore the walls of Auschwitz-Birkenau Camps, where innocent people were held prisoner and then executed. But still, its memory remains for everyone to see the cruelty of the Nazis and remember a history that should never be repeated in the future. Make sure to go to this historical site and pay your respects to the lost souls of Auschwitz-Birkenau Camps.
Relax on the Sands of Hel Peninsula
The name may be similar to Hell, but Hel Peninsula is actually like a paradise. Hel is the best place for beach lovers and people who seek to relax during their trip to explore a country. The shores of Hel lead to villages and can be suitable for numerous water and beach activities. The simplest things to do in Hel are walking or just relaxing and listening to the sound of the waves. To make it romantic and even more enjoyable, this amazing place also has some cafés and restaurants with some delicious seafood and other enjoyable things to eat.
Visit the Streets and Buildings of Gdansk Old Town
Gdansk is a town out of time with beauties left from the Medieval times; all the to the present. It is truly a place you have to let go and explore all the parts of town that you can. Gdansk began as a center of trade and commerce but turned into much more while keeping its historical and cultural beauties. Above all else, be sure to check out the exotic architecture of the buildings, houses, shops, as well as sites, and stroll in the streets to discover all of Gdansk.
Marvel at the Wawel Castle and Enjoy the Art Inside it
Wawel Castle is another one of the amazing Medieval buildings of Poland that must be visited. But going to Wawel Castle is not just for the architecture and history. It is also a grand museum for pieces of art from centuries of Poland’s history. The structure and beauty of Wawel Castle are considered as an icon of the country as it is a famous place among locals and travelers alike. Exploring the exterior and the interior of the Wawel Castle is recommended with as much time as possible. Be sure to see and explore all the fairytale elements of this UNESCO Heritage Site.
Discover the Beauties of Lazienki Park
Lazienki Park is a vast and amazing urban park right at the center of the city. This site is filled with gardens and buildings that were originally designed for the enjoyment of nobles alone. But the Lazienki park is now a public place full of galleries as well as gardens, buildings, and pavilions. To make it even more attractive, there will also be performances held in the theater along with free piano concerts near the foot of Frederic Chopin’s statue. Walk around the Lazienki Park of Poland to relax or enjoy the art and architecture of this site.
Lear More of Poland’s History at the Warsaw Rising Museum
The Warsaw Rising Museum is the display of unity and courage of Polish civilians that resisted the occupying Nazis in 1944. The Warsaw Rising Museum is dedicated to the massive uprising of thousands of people that were poorly equipped yet had an unbreakable spirit to fight against a powerful enemy. The complex of the Warsaw Rising Museum is filled with images, clips, and other recordings about this brave movement that teaches people how to resist oppression.
What to see in Poland
Local Transportation in Poland
Bus
Buses are the most popular means of transportation in Poland’s cities since they are very convenient and can access any city point.
Metro
Warsaw is the only city in Poland equipped with a metro system. However, even in Warsaw, the metro is not a very comprehensive mode of transportation.
Tram
Many major cities of Poland offer tram transportation. Trams usually complement other forms of transportation in the larger cities of the country. Make sure to assess whether you require a separate pass or ticket to your destination.
Taxi
Like other eastern European countries, many taxi drivers may scam you. As a general rule, it’s better not to take taxis in Poland. Otherwise, you need to be careful.
Intercity Transportation in Poland
Air
Flight and airlines are the best ways of getting around the country if you have no problem with the prices. LOT Polish Airlines is the national company of Poland, offering great flights to the major cities of the country.
Train
The train is the best way to get around in Poland since it’s cheap, convenient, and usually on time. For intercity trains, you can get the tickets online and get help in English.
Bus
Traveling by bus is the best and cheapest way of moving between cities of Poland. The cities in Poland are very well connected by the bus network.
Flight Deals to Poland
Poland Travel Costs
| Accommodation (daily on average) | |
|---|---|
| Budget | €10 – €20 |
| Mid-Range | €26 – €52 |
| Luxury | €72 – €143 |
| Food (daily on average) | |
| Budget | €5 |
| Mid-Range | €11 |
| Luxury | €28 |
| Transportation (daily on average) | |
| Budget | €1.80 |
| Mid-Range | €5 |
| Luxury | €9.5 |
| Intercity Transportation (daily on average) | |
| Budget | €7 |
| Mid-Range | €18 |
| Luxury | €48 |
| Entertainment (daily on average) | |
| Budget | €3 |
| Mid Range | €6.50 |
| Luxury | €21 |
| Alcohol (daily on average) | |
| Budget | €1.80 |
| Mid-Range | €4 |
| Luxury | €9.5 |
| Daily Costs On Average | |
| Budget | €18 |
| Mid-Range | €46 |
| High-End | €124 |
Best Hotels in Poland
Find the best hotels in Poland using our best price search engine, or go with one of our All-inclusive tours with 4 Star hotels included. You can book our guaranteed hotels for your extra accommodation; before or after your tour days.
Poland Travel Tips
Polish is the official language in Poland. It’s always recommended to learn some basic phrases. If they laugh at your pronunciation, don’t be sad because it’s a sign of friendship there.
Tap water is safe in Poland, but the older generation doesn’t believe so. Therefore, make sure not to do it in front of others.
Kissing on the hand is an old-school greeting. However, in Poland, it’s still popular when an older gentleman greets you. in the young generation, a simple handshake and a kiss on the cheek is more popular.
Polish people believe that “Guest in the house brings God to the house,”. Therefore, if you accept a Polish invitation, expect to be fed until your stomach is bursting!
If you are invited to a Pole house, always take your shoes off, unless they explicitly tell that you can leave on.
Emergency Calls
| Emergency Number | |
|---|---|
| 999 | Ambulance |
| 998 | Fire Brigade |
| 997 | Police |
| 986 | Municipal Police |
| 981 | Road Assistance |
| (22) 94 84 | Warsaw public transportation information |
| (12) 91 50 | Cracow public transportation information |
| (22) 650 39 43 | International flight departure information |
| (22) 650 42 20 | International flight arrival information |
Currency & Money Tips
The official currency in Poland is abbreviated to zł and pronounced zwo-ti, divided into 100 groszy, which are abbreviated to gr, with denominations of 10zł, 20zł, 50zł, 100zł and 200zł, and coins in 1gr, 2gr, 5gr, 10gr, 20gr and 50gr, and 1zł, 2zł and 5zł. It’s known as a stable currency
ATMs & Credit Cards
ATMs are available everywhere in the cities and towns, accepting major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard. You need to have 4-digit PIN code. Also, make sure to inform your bank about your travel not to get blocked.
Exchanging
The best rate for exchanging money is for banks and ban ATMs. Also, there are ubiquitous, which are exchanging offices located in travel agencies, train stations, post offices, and department stores. They are usually open between 9am and 6pm on weekdays, and to 2pm on Saturdays, but some open longer and a few stay open 24 hours.
Food & Drink (Polish Food)
The food and drinks of Poland are always good, but there is something about their food that always tastes extra delicious during special events. It is like love can somehow become extra important in the ordinary recipes for their dishes. They seem to taste much better in the holidays and events, but a word of warning: their traditional dishes are addicting all the time! Be sure to try new things while in Poland, and share the experience with the rest of the travelers. Their tasty cuisine has a lot more to offer than the items on the list, but be sure to try these ten recommendations a try before anything else.
Bigos (Cabbage & Meat Stew)
Bigos is a very popular and loved part of Polish cuisine that is very healthy and rich in meat and vegetables. It is also known as the hunter’s stew as it was culturally the food people brought for long journeys or hunting. Bigos includes different kinds of meat, sausages, mushrooms, and lots of spices. Depending on where you try Bigos, there might be some other additions to this, all of which will be rather sour and spicy. The process of making Bigos takes a lot of time, sometimes even up to three days, but they are worth the effort and the wait. Make sure to try Bigos whenever in Poland, and if possible, try it with some Vodka!
Pierogi (Polish Dumplings)
Pierogi or the Polish Dumplings are the comfort food of Poland that have existed in this country form the 13th century. The original recipe probably traveled all the way from the east, but it has been modified to the preferences of the locals. You can find all kinds of fillings for the Pierogi, but perhaps the most popular ones have meat, mushrooms, fruits, and vegetables. There are other variations as well, which is wise to ask the recipe before ordering. Do not let that dissuade you from trying them as the Pierogi are amazing things to eat and usually served for special occasions.
Kotlet Schabowy (Breaded & Fried Pork)
It is funny how hard times of food shortage can sometimes lead to the creation of amazing national dishes such as the Kotlet Schabowy! After the second world war, due to shortages, people began farming pigs, which in the end resulted in making Poland one of the biggest exports of quality pork! Kotlet Schabowy is simple yet very delicious food served with potatoes and cabbages. And if you do not want to try pork, Kotlet Schabowy also has a version made with chicken meat, which is not the same but still tasty. If you love meat, Kotlet Schabowy is a must-try whenever in Poland.
Polish Rye Bread
You will have to eat lots of bread with the Polish dishes, therefore, be sure to try them with the Polish Rye Bread. There is nothing special about it, but somehow this Rye Bread makes a lot of difference in the taste and loveliness of a meal. Try them while freshly baked, and the Rye Bread becomes one of your favorites with any dish.
Kielbasa (Sausage)
Kielbasa is always a favorite for locals and tastes great to tourists. Kielbasa and all kinds of sausages in Poland are amazing as they can taste great even when they are served with little else. Just a piece of bread, mustard, and some beer, and you have a delicious meal. Kielbasa is so popular that even cafés and other eateries serve it in most areas. Kielbasa or other kinds of sausages are definitely recommended to all travelers; unless they are vegetarian.
Golonka (Pork Knuckles)
Golonka is another combination of pork and cabbages but one that never gets old and always tastes great. It can make a great memory as one of the best-slow-cooked pork knuckles you have ever had! The meat in Golonka just falls from the bones as you eat, and it will melt in your mouth while releasing its marvelous flavor. Make sure to try Golonka along with any of its side dishes, as this dish is food to die for.
Gołąbki (Cabbage Roll)
Gołąbki is a traditional healthy and tasty dish of Poland that all the locals love. Gołąbki is made with minced meat, rice, onions, and vegetables and wrapped in a white cabbage leaf. There are other variations for the fillings, which are all nice, but the traditional version is most popular. The Gołąbki is also served with some tomato or mushroom sauce to add a bit more flavor to the already delightful taste. But be sure to try the homemade version or the ones made in more expensive restaurants. It takes skill and good ingredients to make the best Gołąbki that is so loved.
Naleśniki (Polish Pancakes)
The Naleśniki or the polish version of pancakes is a bit thinner, filled with cottage cheese, and comes with all kinds of fruits and jams. Naleśniki can be served with extra cream and sugar, or it can come with meat and vegetables. Whatever you like, Naleśniki can be just the thing you are looking for. It tastes amazing and can be a favorite for all tastes.
Gulasz
Gulasz was originally invented in Hungary, but it now exists in all of Europe and Poland! The Polish recipe is a bit modified and has potatoes, fried onions, vegetables, and lots of different peppers. Both the meat inside the main dish and all the side dishes of Gulasz are tasty, making it one of the top things to try while traveling.
Borsch (Beetroot Soup)
Borsch or beetroot soup is the ideal starter that is always present during special events like Christmas. It is not loved by all, due to its unique taste, but be sure to give it a try for yourself and then decide if it is good or not. Borsch has several versions all of which are rooted in the original and traditional recipe of this food. But do not let it fool you, Borsch can be found almost anywhere you travel, even if it is not loved by all the people.
Mobile & Internet
The best company for buying SIM card in Poland is Orange. However, there are other companies like Play, Plus, and T-Mobile as well, but the best ones in terms of coverage across the country are T-Mobile and Orange.
How to buy?
There are many ways to buy SIM cards in Poland, such as in supermarkets, street kiosks, gas (petrol) stations, and official company stores. Be aware that registering by passport or national ID card is mandatory now.
Costs
The Orange offers different packages, such as:
30 zloty (~8 USD)
- · Unlimited domestic calls and texts
- · 15GB of data
- · Valid for a month.
- · Package includes SIM card, and a small amount of extra credit.
Holidays & Festivals
| Name | 2021 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1-Jan | 1-Jan |
| Epiphany | 6-Jan | 6-Jan |
| Easter Sunday | 4-Apr | 17-Apr |
| Easter Monday | 5-Apr | 18-Apr |
| Labor Day / May Day | 1-May | 1-May |
| Constitution Day | 3-May | 3-May |
| Whit Sunday | 23-May | 5-Jun |
| Corpus Christi | 3-Jun | 16-Jun |
| Assumption of Mary | 15-Aug | 15-Aug |
| All Saints’ Day | 1-Nov | 1-Nov |
| Independence Day | 11-Nov | 11-Nov |
| Christmas Day | 25-Dec | 25-Dec |
| Second Day of Christmas | 26-Dec | 26-Dec |
Shopping in Poland
Polish handicraft
The most valued souvenirs in Poland are Polish handicrafts. The gold and silver metalwork in this country is outstanding. The colored glass vessels with silver lids can be a fantastic gift for your loved ones
Popular ceramics
Polish ceramics are very popular around the world. The color of these objects reminds us of the Russian patterns used to decorate tableware and items for the home. Ceramic coffee sets, vases, and urns are a must when you want to buy souvenirs.
Amber
Baltic amber is one of the most popular souvenirs from Poland, known worldwide due to its quality, used in jewelry and different artisan crafts. Find the best types in Gdansk and Warsaw.
The Wawel dragon
If Krakow is in your itinerary, make sure to buy Wawel Castle and its dragon. It can be a fantastic gift for your children.
Slipper Wear
Polish slipper wears are very warm, with wool interiors leather outside. If you need such goods, there is no better place to buy them than in Poland.
Drinks
Krupnikas is the most famous Polish liquor internationally. To make this drink, Honey, aromatic herbs, and various spices are used.
