Poland Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and cultural customs of Poland through this comprehensive travel guide. Learn more here.


Introduction to Poland

Poland is a country situated in Central Europe. Known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, Poland has been the center of numerous political events, including the fall of the Iron Curtain. Although Poland is a relatively underrated tourist destination, it is an excellent travel choice for those who are looking for a combination of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant culture.

List of Places to Visit in Poland

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Poland is home to numerous museums and historical places, showcasing the country’s history, art, and culture. The most popular cultural attractions in Poland include the following:

  • Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial
  • Wawel Castle
  • Main Market Square
  • Royal Castle, Warsaw
  • Saint Mary’s Basilica
  • Jewish Museum and Synagogue

Natural Attractions of Poland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Poland boasts some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes, including beautiful national parks, forests, lakes, and mountains. Below are some of the best places to explore nature in Poland:

  • Tatra Mountains
  • Biebrza National Park
  • Bieszczady Mountains
  • Masurian Lake District
  • Białowieża Forest
  • Dunajec River Gorge

Hiking/Biking Routes of Poland

Poland is an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The country offers numerous trails and paths, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the most popular hiking/biking routes in Poland include:

  • Orla Perc Trail, Tatra Mountains
  • Foothills of Bieszczady, Bieszczady Mountains
  • Green Velo Trail
  • Kampinoski National Park
  • Sopot-Władysławowo Trail

Best Things to Do in Poland: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of activities and tours in Poland. From cultural tours to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this country. Here are some of the best things to do in Poland:

  • Take a walking tour of Krakow
  • Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine
  • Attend a Chopin concert in Warsaw
  • Go on a river cruise along the Vistula River
  • Explore the Gdansk Old Town
  • Enjoy a beach holiday in Sopot

Week-Long Itinerary for Poland

For those who have a week to spare for their Poland trip, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1 - Arrive in Krakow and explore the Old Town. Day 2 - Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial. Day 3 - Take a day trip to Zakopane and hike in the Tatra Mountains. Day 4 - Explore Wawel Castle in Krakow. Day 5 - Travel to Warsaw and visit the Royal Castle. Day 6 - Take a walking tour of Warsaw’s Old Town. Day 7 - Relax and enjoy a beach holiday in Sopot.

Food and Drink Scene of Poland

Polish cuisine is a blend of Eastern European and German influences. The food is hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to please. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Poland:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pierogi - Dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Bigos - A hearty stew made with various meats and sauerkraut.
  • Zurek - A sour rye soup served with potatoes and sausage.
  • Kielbasa - A traditional meat dish, usually served with mustard and horseradish.

Local Beverages

  • Vodka - Poland is known for its excellent vodka production.
  • Piwo - Poland has a rich beer culture, with many local breweries.
  • Kompot - A traditional fruit drink made from boiled fruit.

Where to Stay in Poland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Poland has a wide variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the most popular places to stay in Poland:

  • Hotel Polonia Palace, Warsaw
  • Radisson Blu Hotel, Krakow
  • Bachleda Luxury Hotel, Zakopane
  • Hostel Deco, Gdansk
  • Smocza Jama, Wroclaw
  • Skipper Holiday Resort, Sopot

What to Buy in Poland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Poland is famous for its handmade products, including pottery, amber jewelry, and wooden toys. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Poland:

  • Polish pottery
  • Amber jewelry
  • Traditional wooden pencils
  • Wycinanki paper mache products
  • Handmade textiles and handicrafts

Local Culture and Customs of Poland

Poland has a unique culture and customs, which are a blend of Eastern European and Western influences. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Poland:

  • Poles place a high value on family, history, and tradition.
  • Polish people are hospitable and friendly, but they also value privacy and personal space.
  • Etiquette demands that you greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact during conversation.
  • Dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting churches and other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Poland

The best time to visit Poland is between May and September when the days are warm and sunny. June and July are the peak tourist seasons in Poland, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices during these months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Poland

Do:

  • Try to learn some basic Polish phrases.
  • Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home.
  • Remove your hat when entering a church or other religious site.
  • Tip 10% in restaurants if the service was good.

Don’t:

  • Do not speak loudly in public places.
  • Do not litter or smoke in public places.
  • Do not forget to bring a gift if invited to someone’s home.
  • Do not forget to pay attention to the table setting during a formal dinner.

Safety and Health

Safety in Poland

Poland is a relatively safe country for tourists. However, as with any country, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips for staying safe in Poland:

  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.
  • Avoid dark alleys at night.
  • Be cautious when using ATMs and exchange offices.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings while in crowded places.

Health in Poland

Poland has a good healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals available. However, visitors are advised to purchase travel insurance and to keep their necessary medications with them at all times.

Getting to Poland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Poland

Some of the major airports near Poland include:

  • Warsaw Chopin Airport
  • Krakow John Paul II International Airport
  • Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport
  • Wroclaw Copernicus Airport

Bus Stations Near Poland

Poland has an excellent bus system, with numerous national and international connections. Some of the major bus stations in Poland include:

  • Warsaw West Bus Station
  • Krakow MDA Bus Station
  • Gdansk Bus Station
  • Wroclaw Bus Station

Other Options

Other options for getting to Poland include trains and car rentals.

How to Get Around in Poland

Poland has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. Taxis and car rentals are also available in all major Polish cities.

Where to Go Next from Poland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are numerous nearby destinations and excursions to explore after visiting Poland. Some popular options include:

  • Prague, Czech Republic
  • Vienna, Austria
  • Bratislava, Slovakia
  • Berlin, Germany
  • Budapest, Hungary

Conclusion

Poland is a country full of surprises, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food, Poland is an excellent travel destination. From the bustling cities to the pristine natural landscapes, Poland is an undiscovered gem waiting to be explored.