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15 Best Cities to Visit in Poland

Despite having undergone so much suffering and destruction during the Second World War, Poland remains a fascinating placesto explore. Magical old towns with their cobbled streets and beautiful architecture sit next to communist-era buildings and delightful Gothic churches.

Fantastic restaurants can be found wherever you go and there is an abundance of lively nightlife spots throughout the country. With beautiful mountains on offer, as well as lovely seaside resorts, the diverse landscapes that surround the best cities in Poland add yet more possibilities to visitor’s itineraries.

Once home to a thriving Jewish population, Poland’s cities are now home to poignant memorials and monuments to the victims of one of the biggest tragedies of the 20th Century, with many visitors heading to sites such as Auschwitz to pay homage to and learn about the atrocities of the past.

15. Olsztyn

Founded in the 14th Century, Olsztyn has a long and varied history, as is evidenced by its picturesque Old Town. Wandering through the cobbled streets past delightful old buildings is a relaxing way to spend your time, and there are numerous sites alluding to the days when it was ruled by Prussia.

An important city in the area, Olsztyn has all the usual facilities and services on offer for a city of its size. Often overlooked by tourists, most people who head here use it as a base from which to visit other attractions in the region.

14. Zakopane

Lying on the lower slopes of the Tatras, Poland’s most famous mountain resort is a great place to visit if you love the outdoors. However, due to Zakopane’s fantastic hiking and skiing, it can get a bit too crowded in the high months of both summer and winter.

Well worth a visit though, lovely wooden villas can be found around the city, and the picturesque setting only adds to Zakopane’s charm. Due to its lovely features, many artists, poets, writers and painters used to head here for inspiration.

13. Bialystok

The largest city in Podlasie, Bialystok’s proximity to Belarus means that it has a captivating mix of both cultures present within its confines. Born out of the textile boom, the city was once a much more diverse place to visit – its various languages and cultures inspired the creation of Esperanto.

Sadly, the Nazis destroyed much of Bialystok and murdered half of the population, putting an end to this intoxicating mix of peoples. Now, historical sites are understandably scarce, although it is a friendly and welcoming place to stop by. Many people use Bialystok as a base from which to explore the nearby national parks.

Having become a city relatively recently, Gdynia’s development only really took off once the government built a deep-sea port here in the 1920’s, so there is a very Modernist feel to the architecture here.

With a very long seashore, Gdynia has some lovely promenades and waterfronts to enjoy, as well as the fantastic beaches themselves. The second largest Polish port, there is some great nightlife on offer, as well as some sumptuous restaurants to check out.

A popular seaside resort, Sopot attracts the rich and famous with its elegant villas, posh restaurants and pounding nightlife. Formerly a fishing village, its packed and overdeveloped seafront now obscures the relics of the past, but you can still find traces of what it used to be like hidden around the city.

Lying on the Baltic, Sopot has some nice beaches. In summer, droves of people head here to enjoy all the pleasures on offer.

10. Szczecin

Lying between Berlin and Gdansk, this busy port city has an eclectic mix of different architectural styles and is seldom visited by non-German tourists. Although renovations are ongoing, Szczecin is falling apart a bit – old art nouveau mansions now lie side by side with modern glass shopping malls, derelict buildings and empty plots.

The city center has lots of shopping and dining options and its large student body and busy port mean that there’s a youthful vibe in town.

The third-largest city in the country, Lodz’s industrial past , coupled with German occupation and communist rule, has resulted in grim and decaying streets and buildings. Hope is at hand, however, as a massive renovation program has led to shopping malls and business centers springing up among the ruins of the past. A nice pedestrian street is now running through the heart of the city.

This mix is fascinating to witness, and you can find some hidden gems scattered around the old industrial warehouses. For visitors interested in Jewish history and heritage, the city’s monuments and cemetery are now a sad and poignant reminder of Lodz’s once-thriving Jewish population.

8. Katowice

A relatively new city, Katowice owes its current standing to its location at the center of fourteen cities in its region of Poland, and the industrial boom of the 19th Century. Consequently, it is a commercial and cultural center within the region, although it lacks historical sites due to its relatively recent emergence.

With lots of restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from, as well as some interesting cultural sites, Katowice is well worth a visit and has great transport links to the surrounding area.

While not the prettiest place in the world, Lublin has more than enough to justify a visit to the city. Heavily bombed in the Second World War, the post-war communist era buildings give Lublin a slightly drab look, although there are some nice town houses to be found here and there.

The largest city in the southeast of the country, there are lots of bars, restaurants, cafes and clubs, as well as a number of cultural attractions which are worth a visit. Once nicknamed the ‘Jewish Oxford,’ as it was a thriving Jewish center of learning, Lublin still has a number of interesting sights relating to its Jewish past, despite the horrors of WWII – which tragically put an end to this rich cultural heritage.

Located on the Vistula, this lovely city is an absolute delight to wander around – its peaceful streets seem a world away from more popular tourist destinations in Poland. A walled city, Torun’s Gothic old town has some fantastic architecture for visitors to view.

Unlike many cities in Poland, it thankfully emerged relatively unscathed from WWII. Tucked away amidst its winding streets you’ll find lovely atmospheric bars and restaurants, as well sights and images related to two of Torun’s claims to fame – Nicolaus Copernicus, who was born here, and the famous gingerbread that originated from the city.

Buzzing with energy and a youthful feel, Poznan is a fun city to hang out in. The capital of Wielkopolska, its old town has lots of great historical sites to visit, as well as some fantastic museums.

The city’s large student population means that its restaurants, bars and clubs are full of life, while the trade fairs that are hosted in Poznan attract a different clientele entirely. From here, there are great transport links from which you can explore the surrounding region.

A charming place to visit, Wroclaw’s diverse influences have resulted in a unique look and culture to the city. With Austria, Bohemia and Prussia all having had an impact on the city’s development, the architecture reflects Wroclaw’s past, as evidenced by the spectacular Rynek market square.

Located on the Odra River, Wroclaw has a plethora of bridges and lovely parks lining its banks, which make it a picturesque place to relax – the delightful Cathedral Island is definitely worth stopping by.

The fourth-largest city in the country has a lively arts and culture scene, with lots of festivals and events taking place here throughout the year. With a large student population and bustling nightlife scene, Wroclaw has everything you could want in a city.

Unlike any other city in Poland, Gdansk’s tumultuous history has resulted in a unique identity and look. Due to its large port, wealthy merchants coming here to trade left their mark, while its strategic location meant it was once fought over by Teutonic Prussia and Poland.

Consequently, there are a lot of diverse architectural styles on show, and the post-WWII reconstruction of Gdansk only added to this. A popular destination, its cobbled streets are lined with delightful old churches and elegant buildings, while interesting museums lie side by side with shops, restaurants and cafes.

You can kick back and relax at some of the lovely beer gardens, or take a boat cruise from the port. From here, you can easily explore other places along the Baltic coast.

Almost completely destroyed in the Second World War, the city’s old town has been painstakingly restored to some of its former glory. A mishmash of different architectural styles, Gothic churches, fantastic museums and modern edifices can be found among the drab grey concrete buildings of the communist era.

With some lovely parks and diverse neighborhoods to wander around, Warsaw has many different sides to it. The nation’s capital is a fun and interesting place to explore, with a plethora of great, cheap restaurants, bars and clubs for visitors and locals alike to indulge at.

For a great view of Warsaw, head to the top of the domineering Palace of Culture and Science that towers over the tiny buildings below.

An atmospheric place to visit, Krakow’s gorgeous Old Town is mesmerizing – delightful churches and old buildings line its picturesque squares. In fact, it has the biggest market square in Europe, in the shape of Rynek Glowny. A popular tourist destination, the former royal capital has lots to see and do , with Wawel Castle being just one of the highlights.

See also: Where to Stay in Krakow

Myriad restaurants and bars can be found throughout the city. There are endless options for great nightlife here if you get tired of exploring its historical sites and fantastic museums. The former Jewish quarter with all its synagogues is somber to walk around, and many tourists visit Krakow to take a trip to Auschwitz – a haunting yet important experience.

Map of cities in Poland

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17 Best cities in Poland to Visit in 2024

17 Best Cities in Poland to Visit: Exploring Polish Cities and Towns in 202 4

Are you overwhelmed with countless recommendations and struggling to decide on the best cities to visit in Poland?

I understand the pressure of planning a trip and being unsure where to start. It can be overwhelming.

Fear not, I will provide you with a well-researched, carefully curated list of the top cities in Poland that cater to various interests, making your decision-making process easier and your trip to Poland a memorable experience.

In my travels, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to visit each of the 17 cities mentioned in this article, not just once, but several times. My most recent journey through these beautiful Polish cities was just last summer.

I’ve seen firsthand how each city boasts its own distinct character.

Each of the pictures that you see, I’ve taken with my own camera, so you can see firsthand how beautiful the cities are.

And as someone who has a family home in Poland, and has explored the nooks and crannies of Poland over more than three decades, I can confidently say that Poland has amazing cities and no matter which you choose, it will be an unforgettable travel experience.

So before we dive into all the cities, let me share some personal insights and experiences that showcase. . .or just click on the table of contents so you can jump to one of the cities quickly.

Why You Should Visit Poland

First, Poland’s history is unparalleled.

Poland has seen its fair share of ups and downs, but it has always managed to bounce back. It has been invaded, occupied, and partitioned but has been unwavering in its perseverance.

The architecture in the cities speaks loudly of Polish history.

One of my favorite experiences is strolling through the well-preserved streets of Krakow, a city that has witnessed over a thousand years of history.

Not too far from Krakow, we have places such as Wieliczka, an underground salt mine where visitors can walk through original tunnels used by salt miners.  

Or Auschwitz-Birkenau , a place that is still haunting, and a place that I am visiting again due to its deep and dark history to my family.

You have the resilient beauty of Warsaw, which rose from the ashes of World War II, and leaves a lasting impression.

I was particularly moved by my visit to the Warsaw Uprising Museum.

And as a self-proclaimed outdoor enthusiast, I am always blown away by the breathtaking landscapes that Poland has to offer. 

This country has a diverse array of natural wonders, from the snow-capped peaks of the Tatra Mountains, where I enjoyed some thrilling hikes, particularly to my favorite mountain lake, Morskie Oko.

Or trips to the pristine beaches in Sopot along the Baltic Sea that provides a perfect spot for a relaxing day, especially in the summer. Three cities in one day anyone?  

And who can forget the enchanting Białowieża Forest? 

I am heading there again this summer, as I absolutely love this part of Poland.

Exploring one of Europe’s last and largest primeval woodlands was a truly unforgettable experience. 

Poland is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with countless opportunities for adventure.

And it has to be mentioned that, I can’t help but rave about the mouthwatering Polish cuisine I’ve had the pleasure of eating my whole life. 

With hearty dishes like pierogi (dumplings), placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes), and żurek (sour rye soup), Poland knows how to satisfy your taste buds. 

As a dessert lover, pastries like pączki (Polish doughnuts) and sernik (cheesecake) hit your sweet tooth, though my favorite is kremowka. (I even have a favorite bakery for this in Tarnow!).

Trust me, your stomach will thank you for visiting Poland!

Poland is a destination that truly has it all. Its fascinating history, awe-inspiring landscapes, and scrumptious cuisine make it the perfect place for an engaging, adventure.

Poland Cities Map

I created a Polish cities map for you, with all 17 cities I discuss, marked in red.

17 Poland Cities to Visit

Narrow streets, green spaces, modern infrastructure, and cobblestone old towns, are just a few of the characteristics that help describe the list of Poland cities.

From popular destinations to smaller cities, this Poland cities list will capture it all.

So without further ado, let’s see what our 17 best cities in Poland are:

1. Kraków: A Poland City Full of History

Kraków is hands down one of my all-time favorite cities to visit in Poland, boasting a rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking sights. 

This is the city I continuously return to, as it never gets old. It is arguably, one of the most beautiful cities in Poland and one of the most visited places in Poland.

From the moment you step foot in the city, you’ll be swept away by its atmosphere.

Nestled in the heart of the city is the picturesque old town, and the largest central square in Europe, Rynek Glowny, and a top ten Krakow must-see destination.

Sukiennice cloth hall is located right in the middle and today, you can wander inside to see all the shops that line both sides as you stroll through the middle.

It’s some of the best shopping in Krakow for souvenirs all in one place. 

Some of the most famous things Poland is known for such as amber is sold here. I always add an amber piece to my collection, with a ring being my latest addition.

The square is lined with cozy cafes and savoring delectable bites in local restaurants.

The city’s Jewish Quarter and the former Jewish Ghetto memorial –  are powerful and poignant reminders of a dark chapter in the city’s history.  

Krakow is also the best place to stay in Poland to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau, the most famous concentration camp of the Second World War.

There are tours available from Krakow , or you can drive or take public transportation from Krakow to Auschwitz on your own.

If you’re an art and history enthusiast, you’ll be captivated by the city’s impressive churches, museums such as the National Museum in Krakow, and galleries, each offering a unique glimpse into Poland’s rich past.

The crowning jewel of Kraków is undoubtedly the majestic Wawel Castle, the once royal residence of Polish kings and queens and one of the best places in Krakow to learn about the city’s history. 

But Kraków isn’t just about history – the city’s vibrant nightlife scene is not to be missed. From lively bars and clubs to quaint cafes, there’s always something happening after the sun goes down.

In a nutshell, Kraków is an incredible city that offers a little something for everyone, which is why I rank it as the #1 best city to visit in Poland.

👉I recommend this hotel in Krakow!

2. Gdańsk: Visiting Poland’s Baltic Coast

Gdańsk, in my experience, is one of those hidden gems in Poland that deserves way more attention than it gets! 

The city is located on the Baltic coast and boasts a unique fusion of Polish and Prussian culture and a fascinating history that spans over a thousand years.

These tiny whimsical statues have been popping up around the city since 2005, and there are now hundreds of them!

This was my kids favorite city. The abundance of gnomes, and the gnome hunting opportunities are endless.

The bustling Market Square is one of my go-to spots, where you can sip coffee in one of the many cafes.

There are also a few lovely and very lively pubs.

Wroclaw is situated in the Lower Silesia province, in other words, it’s in the southwest corner of Poland.

This is also the closest city to a host of castles such as Ksiaz Castle, where you can easily get a day trip from Wroclaw , and underground bunkers such as the World War II underground Project Riese .

As the fourth-largest city in Poland, Wroclaw boasts an impressive 100 bridges, numerous rivers and islands, and a well-deserved nickname as the “Venice of the North.”

The city’s role as a major science center, home to one of the country’s largest universities and over 600 start-up companies, was an intriguing aspect I discovered during my visit.

Other unique attractions include Centennial Hall and St. Mary Magdalene Church.

As far as the best day trips from Wroclaw, there are a number of tour companies that can take you from Wroclaw to Auschwitz Birkenau or even to Auschwitz and Krakow .

The region around Wrolcaw has so many castles and ruins in the area. 

There is so much to explore in the region, particularly in the south where you’ll find dozens of castles and ruins.

In the southwest, you’ll find mountains and parks, and in the northwest, the Polish pottery city Bolaslawiec and of course, more castles.

I adore Wroclaw.  I find it to be vibrant,  immersive, and amazing for further exploration. It’s one of my favorite cities, particularly as a base to explore other areas in this region.

👉I recommend this hotel in Wroclaw!

4. Zakopane: A Mountainous City in Poland 

I love Zakopane. It’s in southern Poland, the very southern tip, right there near the mountains and it’s so beautiful! 

It is in the Tatra Mountain Range, which has a ton to see and explore.

The Tatra Mountain range is one thing Poland is famous for as it is a ski destination for the surrounding countries.

Many say the Tatra Mountain Range is the most beautiful palace in Poland.

I’m an outdoor (and an indoor) person (I’m both in their own way;), so this city tops as one of my favorite cities to visit in Europe for outdoor exploration. 

It’s also one of the top destinations on the list of Polish cities worth visiting in 2024.

Did you know that it’s one of Poland’s go-to cities for wellness and spas?

The city has a unique wooden architectural style known as “Zakopane Style,” which combines local folk art with Art Nouveau elements. 

The intricately carved designs on the wooden villas and chapels throughout the city make for some great photographs. I’ve taken quite a few myself.

More than once, I’ve witnessed one of Zakopane’s cultural events, including a traditional folk music and dance performance by the local highlanders, Górale. 

They dress in colorful, traditional attire and showcase their talents, mainly through dancing. You can find their attire in stores along Zakopane’s main street, Krupówki.

You’ll also find one of my favorite cheeses here in abundance: Oscypek, a local smoked cheese made from sheep’s milk.

Polish people have a love-it-or-hate-it relationship with this cheese. I’m in camp LOVE IT.

One of my favorite nearby places to visit is Morskie Oko. This is a lake hike I’ve done three times now, as it never gets old.

By foot, it’s about a two-hour trek uphill. Or you can also catch a carriage ride quite a ways up.

At the top, you are rewarded with a jaw-dropping view of a turquoise lake surrounded by towering mountain peaks.

Zakopane in winter is even better.

Skiing and winter activities galore.

This is a winter gem many people don’t know about, and the prices are great.

Zakopane really is an enchanting haven with awe-inspiring landscapes and a relaxing atmosphere in one of its many spa-focused hotels. 

This makes Zakopane one of the best cities in Poland to visit.

👉I recommend this hotel in Zakopane!

5. Szczecin: A Poland City Bursting with Charm and Culture

Szczecin is on the Oder River in northwest Poland. This was one of the last cities I visited on my latest Poland road trip.

It has a prime location near Germany, the Baltic and while it’s nestled in the northwest corner, the city provides opportunities to see a lot in the area.

Szczecin is actually located in a very beautiful part of Poland.

The Zachodniopomorksie region is gorgeous with a lot of coastline and wooded areas in the area.

Szczecin itself has a Gothic Old Town Hall. The city’s National Museum’s exhibitions offer a deep dive into the city’s history and culture. 

Szczecon’s Philharmonic Hall, is a stunning contemporary glass structure resembling ice crystals.

The leafy Central Cemetery or the “Garden of the Dead”, has a remarkable central chapel and poignant monuments to WWII victims. 

You can also visit underground Szczecin, a former bomb shelter built in the 1940s, which offers an intriguing war-themed tour. 

The city’s contrasts are inspiring.  It has art nouveau mansions standing side by side with modern steel and glass structures. 

Then you have Neogothic architecture and Neo-Renaissance buildings by the Oder River. 

And finally, you come across buildings that look like they are from New Orleans with tenement houses.

Szczecin has an interesting street design.

The main inspiration draws from New York’s urban street design, with right angles and block squares.  The second inspiration is thought to come from Georges Hausmann and his Parisian street design.

If you’re looking to explore beyond Szczecin, Berlin is less than a 2-hour drive and you have Wolinski Park Narodowy in the north, and Pezino and Swidwin Castles as day trips.

Finally, Szczecin’s waterfront is a spectacular place to hang out in the summer. There is a beach, an amusement park in the summer, dozens of food trucks and festivities throughout the summer months.

With its diverse architectural styles, rich cultural experiences, and compelling mix of old and new, Szczecin is a must-visit city.

👉I recommend this hotel in Szczecin!

BEST CITIES IN POLAND

6. warsaw: best city in poland (voted in 2023).

The capital and the largest city in Poland.

History, culture, and undeniable energy of a modern city.

It was also the top European capital city destination for 2023!

Let’s see why that is.

First things first: Warsaw’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it deserves the title for one of the best cities in Poland to visit!

If you stroll down its cobblestone streets, imagine a completely destroyed city.

I can’t help but appreciate the amount of work that went into restoring the city’s architecture.

Old Town is among my favorite places to walk around because you can see the history from over 100 years ago.

Up to 85% of Old Town was destroyed during World War II and the city was determined to rebuild, and a fine job they did. The restoration took until the mid-60’s .

The final building to be restored, the Royal Castle, is a must-visit in Warsaw. I spent several hours here, as the painting collection is extensive. The temporary exhibitions are also beautiful, the one I last saw was a Nicholas Copernicus exhibition.

Wilanów Palace and Lazienki Park are also must-sees for their grandeur and historical significance. Lazienki Palace is a perfect backdrop for photos and I loved walking around the extensive gardens around. I even found a little Japanese Garden within the park.

Palac Kultury is one of the most prominent buildings in Warsaw and the area in front provides great opportunities for some photo ops. I sent up a tripod and as able to capture the entire building

✨ TIP : Tilt the angle of the DSLR or phone camera at a slightly upward angle from the ground to capture the full building✨

Don’t forget to visit Market Square – it’s a lively spot filled with quaint cafes.

One of Warsaw’s most unique features is its turbulent history, particularly during World War II.

The Warsaw Uprising Museum, one of the best places to visit in Warsaw, and the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, are poignant reminders of the city’s past and its resilience. 

I have been to both, and think they are both worth visiting.

The city’s vibrant arts scene is another reason to visit. The Warsaw International Film Festival, showcases the best in global cinema, and the annual Warsaw Summer Jazz Days, are an absolute blast for music lovers.

Now, let’s talk about day trips. 

Warsaw does have tour companies that can take you to Auschwitz Birkenau for the day from the city. 

If that’s too far, you can visit Treblinka Concentration Camp nearby. Tours to Treblinka are easy from Warsaw.

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of visiting at least one of these places – they serve as powerful reminders of the atrocities that occurred during the Holocaust and will leave a lasting impact on anyone.

Warsaw is a captivating city that truly has it all.

Its rich history, stunning architecture, and its lively arts scene are worth a visit to the city.

And you can easily take unforgettable day trips from Warsaw.

The city has something for everyone.

Its modernism makes it easy for someone who wants to visit Poland while experiencing a large city vibe.

👉I recommend this hotel in Warsaw!

7. Bialystok: Among the Best Places to Visit in Poland for National Parks 

Bialystok is located in the Podlasie region, which is heavily forested, and naturally lends to two of Poland’s popular national parks, Bialowiezy National Park and Biebrza National Park. 

This region of Poland has the country’s lowest population density, mainly due to the natural landscapes and untouched forests.

The city once thrived as a center of textile production and was home to various languages and cultures – it even inspired the creation of Esperanto a constructed international auxiliary language ! 

Bialystok is home to Bialystok Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe. Branicki Palace is located in this city and is arguably considered the “Polish Versailles.”

I liked visiting Branicki Palace as the outdoor space was large and had a beautiful fountain and greenery around.

The nearby Biebrza National Park offers breathtaking scenery that you won’t want to miss. I climbed to the top of its tower and as able to take in the surrounding views.

✨ TIP : I don’t recommend using the telescope on the tower, the closeup is blurry and you can only see the trees ✨

Bialystok is one of the best cities in Poland for its vicinity to so many parks.

The Bialowieza National Park is the only protected national park where you will find the largest free-roaming population of European bison, one of Poland’s informal national animals .

Bialystok offers a variety of accommodations, from hotels and apartments to hostels, catering to every budget.

Moreover, its location makes it a great base for exploring the surrounding areas such as the Pentowo, a small farm-stead in Tykocin known for its stork population.

Trust me when I say that Bialystok is an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Poland that you’ll definitely want to experience for yourself!

👉I recommend this hotel in Bialystok!

8. Sopot: One of the 10 Best Places to Visit in Poland for Beaches

Sopot is part of the TrojMiasto (tri-city), alongside Gdansk and Gdynia. 

As one of three Poland beach cities, the white sand and clear waters make Sopot the go-to beach city.

The city is much more compact than Gdansk and it exudes a more beachy and vibrant atmosphere.

The longest wooden pier in Europe, stretching over 650 meters, offers an unparalleled view of the beach and is the perfect spot to unwind and soak up some sun.

I liked walking the pier as it reminds me of one of those movies you see, where you have someone hanging out on a pier and all of a sudden having an inspirational “aha” moment.

Anyhoo, I also stumbled upon the quirky Krzywy Domek in Sopot.  It’s known as the Crooked House, which resembles something out of a Gaudi fever dream.

The city is most famous for the Sopot International Song Festival with this event being the largest of its kind in Europe after Eurovision. 

The city also boasts a range of museums and galleries, such as the Sopot Wax Museum and the City of Sopot Museum.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn about Sopot’s burgeoning tech sector, which draws ex-pats and professionals from all over Europe.

It has a dynamic atmosphere adding to the city’s charm and diversity.

If you want to head out on the water, there are plenty of boat tours that take you on the Baltic, or you can rent some kayaks and hang out in the water for the afternoon.

If you want a budget-friendly beach destination, Sopot is the place to go.

👉I recommend this hotel in Sopot (it’s the hotel in the picture)!

9. Torun: A City in Poland Famous for Copernicus

Nestled on the Vistula River, Torun is a charming city that’s perfect for exploring on foot.

This is one of my favorite ‘smaller cities’ in Poland.

I enjoy strolling the city through its narrow streets, or should I say “narrow street” which is an actual location in Torun that has become popular for its tight quarters.

Torun is home of Poland’s unique gingerbread and the birthplace of Nicholas Copernicus. 

As a result, Torun has quirky attractions, including the Museum of Gingerbread and even a Leaning Tower of Torun. They’re both fun places I liked exploring.

Architecture buffs will appreciate the buildings from the 13th and 14th centuries, making it one of the best cities in Poland for old architecture.

The city’s striking Gothic architecture, including churches, city gates, and castle ruins, is awe-inspiring. 

The iconic Teutonic Castle ruins are located here as well as St. John’s Cathedral from the 14th century.

Torun’s market square is one of the oldest in Europe and a place to explore.

I eventually learned about Torun’s past as a defensive stronghold and commercial hub, which made sense in hindsight.

Torun has a range of options for all budgets. 

I recommend the boutique Copernicus Torun Hotel, which is close to some of the city’s top attractions and only a few steps away from the Old Town Hall.

👉I recommend this hotel in Torun!

10. Poznan: One of the Top Cities in Poland for Trade and Culture

Poznan, located in western Poland, is a city that I’ve found to be filled with charm and history. 

From the colorful Old Market Square to the charming Croissant Museum. Poznan has an array of beautiful Renaissance-style buildings and fascinating museums.

One of my favorite experiences in Poznan is witnessing the city’s famous mechanical goats. 

Every day at noon, a crowd gathers beneath the Town Hall clock to watch these charming creatures emerge and butt heads 12 times. 

It’s a delightful, quirky tradition that truly sets Poznan apart. Last time I went, there were A LOT of people.

And of course, a must-visit attraction is the Croissant Museum.  You’ll learn about the history of the St. Martin’s Croissant and even have the chance to make one yourself. 

The hands-on experience is informative and tasty! I went into an English tour and our guide was hilarious, and played one or two fun jokes on audience members.

Poznan’s history is also worth exploring. The Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, located on Ostrow Tumski island, is an impressive example of Gothic architecture and the burial site of Polish kings. 

I also recommend a visit to the fascinating Imperial Castle, which houses art galleries, and cafes, and hosts various events throughout the year. 

One thing Poznan also does well is green spaces.

Poznan has some lovely green spaces to explore. I particularly enjoyed my time at Lake Malta, an artificially created lake and a popular spot for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, kayaking, and rowing.

The latter sees quite a few events take place during the warmer months.

A  stroll down the picturesque streets of Jeżyce, filled with beautiful pre-war architecture, charming cafes, and colorful street art should be part of everyone’s walking and sightseeing, I enjoyed my time here.

Poznan has the dual ability of offering water and land activities,  making this city a great option for those who love to do both, or simply want a variety of things to do and see.

👉I recommend this hotel in Poznan!

11. Lublin: One of Poland’s Best Cities for Historical Adventures

In the far east-central part of Poland, you will find Lublin, another city that doesn’t get much attention but absolutely should. I was inspired by this city. It’s a must visit.

Cobblestone streets of Old Town, medieval architecture, and a palpable sense of history around every corner of the city.

The Lublin Castle is a stunning fortress with roots dating back to the 12th century.

You can explore the castle’s chambers and admire the Gothic-style Holy Trinity Chapel.

You can’t help but feel transported back in time. 

The Street Art Festival, held annually in the city, is an event that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in experiencing Lublin’s thriving art scene firsthand.

There are paintings on buildings everywhere in the city, making it quite vibrant and pleasant to stroll through. It really is one of the best cities in Poland for street art.

There is a Lublin Underground Trail that takes you through a labyrinth of medieval cellars and tunnels beneath the Old Town. 

Visitors can climb up the Trinitarian Tower to get epic views of Lublin and the surrounding areas.  It’s worth heading up there if you’re in town. This is where I was able to take the picture you see above.

Lublin is also a city that commemorates its past, and a visit to the Majdanek State Museum is a sobering yet essential experience. 

This former Nazi concentration camp is located just outside the city. The museum offers a wealth of information and serves as an important memorial to those who suffered and perished there.

I visited when it was extremely hot, but appreciated that you could drive a car further in.

Given that Lublin is one of the few large cities in the far east, it serves as a good base city for exploring the surrounding area such as Roztocze National Park or Lake Zemborzycki reservoir near the city.

👉I recommend this hotel in Lublin!

12. Katowice: A Must-See Destination Among Polish Cities to Visit

A vibrant and progressive city, Katowice doesn’t usually make it a top place to visit.

But why is that?  The city is post-industrial, is more modern, and doesn’t have the historical flair most other Polish cities have.  I’ve visited it a few times already, and appreciate what it has to offer.

Its primary focus was industry but the city has been transforming and expanding, especially within its cutting-edge Cultural Zone. 

Music lovers, rejoice! The city offers an eclectic music scene, from jazz to opera, and hosts an array of music festivals throughout the year. 

The popular OFF alternative music festival takes place here every year, and it is no doubt, one of the most popular Polish music festivals in the country. This is a great reason to come to Katowice and I highly recommend it.

Katowice has an interesting history as well as it was once known for the coal mines in the area.

Nikiszowiec, a district that was once a separate city, is located right on the outskirts and the architecture is fascinating, with deep brown brick with red adorning the windows. This was my favorite place to visit, and I spent quite a bit of time wandering the streets.

Coal mining is still in the city with the functioning Wujek Coal Mine in operation.

Truthfully, the city’s transformation from an industrial hub to a cultural hotspot offers an intriguing narrative that should not be overlooked.

Go to Katowice to discover tradition overlap with innovation.

👉I recommend this hotel in Katowice!

13. Lodz: The Best City in Poland for Unique Museums

Lodz is an intriguing mix of industrial heritage, German occupation, and communist rule. 

As a former textile industrial center, one of the city’s attractions is the Central Museum of Textiles , which organizes workshops and showcases its collections through special exhibitions.

Łódź is also home to what was once one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in the world, Lodz Jewish Cemetery.

It served as a burial site during World War II, and the Germans forbade stone grave markers instead, burials took place with low cement or metal bed frames .

Nearby, Lodz is also a former Jewish ghetto from World War II. I visited and there was an aboveground tunnel that you can enter, as it subsists as a small museum.

Lodz has reinvented itself as a creative hub.

Museums such as the Book Art Museum, and a museum dedicated to the city’s twentieth-century sewers, give Lodz a leg up on interesting museums in Poland.

The main street, Piotrkowska Street, boasts beautifully renovated 19th-century buildings. I find this to be a nice area to stroll through.

Lodz certainly provides a wealth of experiences to satisfy your curiosity.

👉I recommend this hotel in Lodz!

14. Gdynia: One of the Best Places in Poland to Visit on the Baltic Coast

The third tri-city, this one has to be included if you end up visiting Gdansk or Sopot.

Gdynia is one of the best cities in Poland for good reason.

A relatively young city in northern Poland, emerged in the 1920s and 30s with its sleek modernist buildings, apartment blocks, and amenities, offering a contemporary vibe that attracts visitors looking for a laid-back getaway. 

Some of Gdynia’s must-see attractions include ORP Błyskawica, Dar Pomorza, Skwer Kościuszki, the Naval Museum, Kamienna Góra, Gdynia Beach, Orłowo Pier, Motor Museum, and the Museum of Gdynia. 

I find that visiting between May and September offers the best weather for exploring because it gets chilly on the coast during the winter and spring especially.

Gdynia has also earned the title of “freedom city” since the first free elections in 1989, making it a fantastic destination for those eager to immerse themselves in Poland’s rich culture and history. 

Gdynia has unique attractions, a gorgeous coastline, and a vibrant nightlife that make it worth visiting.

Plus pairing it with the other two tr-city cities allows you to hit all three in one go.

👉I recommend this hotel in Gdynia!

15. Bydgoszcz: A Beautiful Place in Poland with Picturesque Canals 

A city between two rivers, the Vistula and Oder rivers, Bydgoszcz is in a unique spot.

During my visit, I was impressed by the city’s strong academic presence, which includes Kazimierz Wielki University of Bydgoszcz, the University of Technology and Life Sciences, and the Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz.

For music and theater enthusiasts, the Pomeranian Philharmonic concert hall and the Opera Nova opera house are must-sees that offer captivating performances.

One thing that strikes me about Bydgoszcz is its unique blend of attractions.

You have the Gothic cathedral and the Brda River, and the charming Mill Island.

I enjoyed visiting the quirky Museum of Soap and History of Dirt!

The city’s trendy bars and restaurants, coupled with its affordable accommodations, made my stay all the more enjoyable.

Bydgoszcz’s strategic location, close to Warsaw and Gdansk, and its easy access to the Noteć, Warta, and Elbe rivers make it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding regions.

Bydgoszcz has something for every traveler, and I can’t recommend it enough for a unique and unforgettable Polish adventure.

👉I recommend this hotel in Bydgoszcz!

16. Tarnow: A Perfect Base for Exploring Poland Towns

I have to mention Tarnow, where my family owns a home. It absolutely deserves a spot on the best cities in Poland list.

It is tucked away in the southeastern region of Poland, an hour east of Krakow.

Tarnow is a mid-size Polish town, and it has well-preserved Renaissance and Gothic architecture.

The central square has a 14th-century Town Hall, as well as a city museum.

There is also one long main road that starts at the main city basilica, which then connects up the hill, to the walking area to the left, and another basilica at the top and onto the main central square. 

I always enjoy strolling on the main street as it also has one of my favorite bakeries, Tatrzanska.

Tarnow is also a good midway location for anyone who is flying into either Rzeszow or Krakow. It’s right in the middle between both cities, making it a good base city for anyone looking for a smaller Polish city.  

One of the famous Polish cities, Zalipie, is a short drive away. This city is known for its painted houses and attracts many tourists throughout the year.

Other nearby small towns are also worth exploring. Many of which famously have only one road into and out of town.

Tarnow has an interesting history.

The first train to Auschwitz came from Tarnow, and some of the older residents I have spoken with still remember this.

There is also a Jewish cemetery in town, as well as other poignant reminders of Poland’s history.

👉I recommend this hotel in Tarnow!

17. Karpacz: One of the Best Towns in Poland

Karpacz is a charming town that serves as a little retreat. It is one of the best places to visit in Poland during winter, as it is known as a popular winter ski town. 

This Polish town is in the heart of the Karkonocze Mountains also knowns as the Giant Mountains.

The highest peak, Sniezka Mountain is among Poland’s most renowned gems.

The Wild Waterfall and the Wang Temple are two places of interest in Karpacz. Interestingly, the Wang Temple was brought to the town from Norway in the 19th century and is Poland’s only stave church .

Karpacz is actually home to several luxurious spas and wellness centers.

Due to this, there are quite a bit of services available in the area including soothing massages, thermal pools, and holistic treatments.

The town’s tranquil atmosphere and picturesque setting make it one of the best places in Poland to unwind and recharge.

👉I recommend this hotel in Karpacz!

Quick Recap: 17 Poland Cities Worth Visiting

1. krakow: the jewel of poland city names.

Discover the beautiful Poland city of Krakow, famous for its medieval architecture and rich history.

One of the best cities in Poland for culture enthusiasts.

Some of the best day trips from Krakow include Auschwitz-Birkenau, Wieliczka Salt Mine, and Zakopane, each offering a different perspective on Poland’s rich history and beauty. 

2. Gdańsk: The Baltic Pearl

Experience Gdańsk, a coastal city on the Poland cities map known for its unique charm and maritime history. A top destination among Poland cities.

3. Wrocław: The City of a Hundred Bridges

Explore Wrocław, a picturesque city famous for its colorful market square and whimsical gnome statues. One of the best cities Poland has to offer.

4. Zakopane: Gateway to the Tatra Mountains

Visit Zakopane, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking the beauty of the Tatra Mountains. A must-see among the largest cities in Poland.

5. Szczecin: The Maritime Capital

Discover Szczecin, a Poland city boasting a rich maritime history and beautiful green spaces. A unique addition to your visiting Poland itinerary.

6. Warsaw: The Resilient Capital

Experience Warsaw, Poland’s capital city, and a symbol of resilience. A fascinating mix of history and modernity, and one of the biggest cities in Poland.

7. Białystok: The Green City

Explore Białystok, a Polish city known for its lush parks and diverse cultural heritage. A hidden gem among cities of Poland.

8. Sopot: The Elegant Seaside Resort

Unwind in Sopot, a charming coastal town offering sandy beaches and a vibrant nightlife scene. A relaxing escape in the tourism of Poland.

9. Toruń: The Birthplace of Copernicus

Visit Toruń, a historic town in Poland famous as the birthplace of astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. A must-see for history and science lovers.

10. Poznań: Top Cities in Poland for Trade and Culture

Poznań, is one of the major cities in Poland known for its vibrant arts scene and bustling market square. 

11. Lublin: The City of Inspiration

Lublin, is one of the best cities to visit in Poland, with a range of colorful buildings, various architectural styles, and lively art and music scenes.

12. Katowice: The Industrial Heartland

Katowice one of Poland’s biggest cities for industry, is experiencing a cultural rebirth. The Silesian museum is a must-see. Katowice is also the center for many well-known businesses.

13. Łódź: The City of Creative Energy

Visit Łódź, a city known for its creative spirit and impressive revitalization projects. A unique destination in Poland famous for its artistic atmosphere.

14. Gdynia: The Modern Maritime City

Discover Gdynia, a bustling port city offering a mix of modernity and maritime history. A gem among the best city Poland has to offer.

15. Bydgoszcz: The Little Venice of Poland

One of Poland’s major cities, Bydgoszcz is known for its canals, making it one of the more cool places in Poland to visit in Poland. Nothing like taking a water tram along its unique canals.

16. Tarnów: A Historic and Charming Polish Gem

Tarnów, is a city known for its well-preserved architecture. A perfect base between two major cities and international airports. 

17. Karpacz: A Serene Mountain Escape

Karpacz, is a charming mountain town offering stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rejuvenating experiences. An enchanting retreat in Poland’s Karkonosze Mountains.

Best Cities in Poland: FAQ’s

Where is the most beautiful city in poland.

The most beautiful city is subjective.  Many people consider Krakow to be quite beautiful, as its Old Town and surrounding areas have been well preserved.  It has a rich history and is a stunning city to visit.

What is the best city to stay in Poland?

This depends on your interests, but Krakow and Warsaw are accessible, making it easier to fly into from an international destination. 

What are the top five best cities in Poland?

The top 5 cities vary but at the moment, Krakow, Gdansk, Wroclaw, Zakopane, Szczecin are fantastic cities to visit and offer an array of things to do and see.

What is the most charming town in Poland?

There are many. Kazimierz Dolny has been cited as having beautiful Renaissance architecture and picturesque streets to walk through.

Is Warsaw or Krakow better?

Both Warsaw and Kraków have unique charms; Warsaw is modern and vibrant, while Kraków is historic and picturesque.

What is worth seeing in Poland?

It is Worth seeing: Auschwitz-Birkenau, Wrocław’s Market Square, Krakow Old Town and Wawel Castle, Gdańsk’s Old Town and seashore, and Zakopane’s Tatra Mountains.

What are the most underrated cities in Poland?

Szczecin, Bydgoszcz, Lublin, Bialystok, Poznan are a few underrated cities that don’t get as many visitors as some of the major cities.

What are the best holiday places in Poland in the summer?

For the summer, the Baltic Coast is a great option.  The Tricity area of Gdansk, Gdynia and Sopot are ideal places to stay and are among the best beach towns in Poland.  Wroclaw and Torun are great bases to stay for visiting numerous castles in the area.

What are the best cities to visit in Poland in the winter?

In the winter, one of the best places to visit in Poland in winter is Zakopane in the Tatra Mountain Range. This area is amazing for skiing and outdoor winter activities that are hard to beat.  It is one of the more famous cities in Poland as it is well known for winter sports.

What are the biggest cities in Poland?

In order of population, Warsaw, Krakow, Lodz, Wroclaw, Poznan Gdansk, Szczecin are the biggest cities in Poland .

What is the cleanest city in poland?

Poznan has been cited for its cleanliness and eco friendly initiatives.

What time of year is best to see Poland?

The best time to visit Poland for fewer crowds is late spring (May-June) or early fall (September). However, for festivals and weather, summer in Poland is ideal.

How many days are enough for Poland?

Poland is quite large and depending on which cities you plan to visit, anywhere from 7-21 days, if you plan on covering most of the country.  Two weeks is a good amount of time to hit the major cities and explore them for a few days.

What are 3 important things Poland is known for?

Poland is famous for its rich history, delicious food, architecture, pottery, amber and a mix of other things.

What language is spoken in Poland?

The official language of Poland is Polish.  It’s good to learn how to say certain phrases like hello in Polish before visiting.

What is the most visited site in Poland?

Auschwitz-Birkenau, the former Nazi concentration camp, is the most visited site in Poland.  This site can be reached on your own from Krakow , or by organized tour from Warsaw , Wroclaw and Krakow .

What attractions can be found in the cities of Poland?

Main attractions in Polish cities range from historical sites, museums, churches, to modern art galleries and shopping centers.

How do the cities of Poland compare to other cities in Europe?

Polish cities have their charm, deep history, varied architecture, and most importantly, affordability compared to many popular European destinations.

What is the transportation like in the cities of Poland?

Transportation in Polish cities is well-organized with buses, trams, and trains, making it easy to explore.

Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the cities of Poland?

There are 17 UNESCO sites in Poland . This includes Kraków’s Historic Centre, Warsaw’s Old Town and Auschwitz-Birkenau.

What are the best cities in Poland for nightlife? 

Krakow and Warsaw top the list for nightlife. Nightlife in Polish cities offers bars, clubs, and cozy cafes to suit various tastes.

What are the best cities in Poland to live in?

For a mix of history, Krakow.  For a diverse population and modern flair, Warsaw.  For beaches, Sopot, Gdynia or Gdansk. 

What is the food like in the cities of Poland?

There are great dishes to be tried in Poland. Food in Polish cities is hearty and delicious, with dishes like pierogi, placki ziemniaczane, and żurek.

What are the top tourist attractions in the cities of Poland?

Top tourist attractions include Wawel Castle in Kraków, Warsaw’s Royal Castle, and Gdańsk’s St. Mary’s Church.

What is the average cost of travel to the cities of Poland?

The average cost of travel in Polish cities is relatively affordable, with budget options for accommodation, food, and attractions. Food is relatively inexpensive as are accommodations.

Final Thoughts: The Best Cities In Poland to Visit

Our rundown of the best cities in Poland is only the beginning. 

Travelers looking to explore the country will find plenty of the best places to see in Poland, from historic sites to natural wonders. 

The best cities to visit in Poland from this list include Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk, but that doesn’t mean we have covered them all.  

There are plenty of charming towns in Poland as well.

If you want to know about the top must-see places in Poland, you have Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Wawel Castle in Krakow, and the Białowieża Forest-these would be my top three.

When it comes to the most beautiful city in Poland, this can be subjective.

If you love architecture, you have many Polish cities to choose from. 

For painted houses, the small town of Zalipie will be nice to visit.

For beaches and sea, the Baltic Coast cities should be at the top of your list.

One of the most beautiful places in Poland, without a doubt,  includes the Tatra Mountains in the south.

But in reality, there are many nice places in Poland to visit, with each place having its own allure. 

For nightlife enthusiasts, the best cities in Poland for nightlife are Warsaw, Krakow, and Wrocław. 

These cities not only have great nightlife but also offer a diverse range of attractions and experiences. 

For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, hidden gems in Poland like Morskie Oko near Zakopane or the beaches in Torun can be excellent choices, providing unique and authentic experiences.

When it comes to accommodations, the best place to stay in Poland varies depending on personal preferences and budget.

Krakow and Rzeszow both have international airports and are good bases for discovering southern Poland.

However, my personal preference of some of the best places to stay in Poland includes hotels in Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw.

And, without a doubt, castle stays including Czocha, Moszna and Ksiaz Castle, all of which I have stayed at, I would highly recommend.

With so many amazing cities and destinations to choose from, the best city in Poland ultimately depends on individual preferences and interests.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or nightlife seeker, finding which of the best cities in Poland is suitable for you comes through experience. 

Why not just pick one and go visit?

Then come back and let me know what you thought.

Poland Travel Planning Guide

🚑 Should I buy Poland travel insurance?

100% YES – With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD amount per day, you have peace of mind with a plan from  Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest nameS in travel insurance.  It’s quick and simple to use.

🚙💨  Should I rent a car in Poland?

Yes- Renting a car in Poland is one of the best ways to see the country!  I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks both international companies and local Polish companies, so you get the best rates.

📲  Will my phone work in Poland?

Maybe- It depends on your company, but traveling abroad can get costly depending on who you’re with.  If you don’t have coverage for Europe, you can get access to an eSim with unlimited data with Airalo .

🎫  Do I need a visa for Poland?

Likely Not  — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Poland; but check here  to see if you do need a Poland travel visa. For U.S. citizens , you can stay up to 90 days without a visa.

READ MORE POSTS ABOUT TRAVEL, CULTURE AND FACTS IN POLAND

• Best Krakow to Auschwitz Tours
• Best Tours to Auschwitz from Warsaw You Can’t Miss
• What is Poland Famous For: Amazing Things Poland is Known For
• Krakow to Auschwitz: A Complete Guide
• How to buy PKP Intercity Tickets Online
• Best Polish Vodka from Poland-Your Complete Guide to Polish Vodka Brands
• Invaded But Invincible: How Many Times Has Poland Been Invaded
• Summer in Poland: Discover the Best Places to Visit
• The National Flower of Poland: Exploring the Significance of the Red Poppy
• Poland National Animal: An Intriguing Backstory
• Good Morning in Polish & Useful Polish Phrases 

Diana is the founder of Travels in Poland. She is Polish-American and has lived on and off in Poland for over three decades. She has a family home in Tarnow, Poland and continues to travel extensively throughout Poland, providing her knowledge and expertise to other travelers.

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10 best cities in Poland to visit

Poland may not be on top of many people’s bucket lists as a top European destination but it should be. The best cities in Poland to visit stretch from the Tatra Mountains in the south to the waters of the Baltic Sea in the north.

From a country that suffered deeply in WW2 to a now emerging destination with the largest amount of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Central Europe, Poland’s best cities are an interesting mix of attractions, history, and culture.

Places to stay in Warsaw:

Places to stay in kraków:, places to stay in zakopane:, best places to stay in wroclaw:, best places to stay in rzeszow:, best places to stay in lodz:, best places to stay in poznan:, best places to stay in gdansk:, best places to stay in lublin:, more reasons to visit poland, why should you visit poland.

Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk are popular Poland cities to visit but do not stop there. Poland is a beautiful country with many interesting tourist destinations. While it is known for its heartbreaking past there is so much to discover when you visit Poland.

Sightseeing in Poland is easy with many organised tours, free walking tours and public transport within the cities in Poland . The best Polish cities will have you out exploring attractions all day

Food is also a great way to experience Poland’s biggest cities. From hearty, filling meals to their world-famous dumplings and pierogi, you will find a delight while you are touring the best cities in Poland.

Where are the best cities in Poland?

The best cities in Poland to visit for tourists are the capital cities of Warsaw, Krakow, Poznan, Wroclaw, Rzeszow, Bialystok, Lodz , Lublin and Gdansk. These Poland cities offer a variety of activities and attractions that are sure to please tourists of all ages when you visit Poland.

Best cities to visit in Poland – Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital is a must-see in Poland, it is a city rich in history and culture. It’s a popular tourist destination in Poland for those interested in learning more about the country’s past.

There are many museums and historical sites to visit in Warsaw, as well as restaurants and shops to enjoy. Warsaw is also home to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of clubs and bars to choose from. For many, Warsaw is at the top of the best cities in Poland to visit with its World War II history and diverse architectural styles. The best city breaks in Poland must include Warsaw.

Best things to do in Warsaw: Warsaw Old Town, Warsaw Castle , Palace of Science and Culture, POLN Museum, Warsaw Uprising Museum. Warsaw food tour.

Things to see near Warsaw: Treblinka Concentration Camp

Making your trip to Warsaw hassle-free is paramount, and getting the best accommodation in Warsaw for your vacation to Poland is extremely important. Below are plenty of options for your holiday in Warsaw.

• Sofitel Warsaw Victoria
• PURO Warszawa
• NYX Hotel Warsaw
• City Centre Apartment
• Cooee Apartments
• Studio Kopernik
• Oki Doki Hostel
• Safestay Hostel
• Chillout Hostel

Planning to see more in Warsaw?  Use our epic 2 day Warsaw itinerary

Poland’s best cities – Krakow

One of the best places in Poland to visit is the historic city of Kraków , renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Krakow, the former royal capital, is an amazing city to visit in Poland.

There is so much to see and do in this Polish city, you could easily spend a week or two exploring Krakow and everything it has to offer visitors.

The Krakow Old Town is absolutely beautiful, and it’s easy to get around on foot. There are also plenty of interesting cultural sites, churches and other historical sites to check out.

Kraków once the capital of Poland is also home to some great places to stay , restaurants and bars. If you’re looking for a fun city with a lively nightlife scene, Krakow is one of the best cities in Poland to visit.

Best things to do in Krakow: Wawel Castle , Market Square, Kraków Old Town , St Marys Basillica, Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory , National Museum in Kraków.

Best things to see near Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Wieliczka Salt Mine

Krakow is often considered the best place to visit in Poland due to its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Finding the best accommodation in Krakow is easy .

There are so many options for budget travel all the way to luxury travel in Krakow . Below we have some great accommodation options in Krakow for your trip to Poland.

• PURO Krakow Kazimierz
• Hotel Unicus Palace
• Metropolitan Boutique Hotel
• Turquoise Apartment
• Apartment Rakowicka
• Florianska PopArt Apartment
• Jordan Guest Rooms
• Evergreen Hostel Krakow

Read more: The best day trips from Krakow to Auschwitz

Zakopane – best cities in Poland

Zakopane is a town located in the southernmost region of Poland. Nestled in the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane is a popular tourist destination for people looking to enjoy the outdoors. No matter what the season there are so many options when you visit Zakopane.

Visitors to Zakopane can enjoy hiking and skiing in the winter, and sightseeing and swimming in the summer . Zakopane is also known for its traditional Polish culture and cuisine, making it one of Poland’s best cities in any season.

The best things to see in Zakopane: Tatry National Park, Gubalowka Cable Car, Krupowki Shopping Street, Zakopane Ski Jump, and The Tatra Museum.

In Zakopane, you will find one of the most unique accommodations in Poland. Traditional wooden houses are dotted through the city as well as ski chalets and amazing hotels.

• Grand Hotel Stamary
• Aries Hotel and Spa
• Hotel Wersal
• Apartment Zakopane
• Vacation Home duzy
• Brzozowa Apartment
• Guesthouse Benita
• Szarotka Pension
• Good Bye Lenin Hostel Zakopane

Best Poland cities – Wroclaw

There are plenty of things to see and do in Wrocław. The lovely old town of Wroclaw with its cobbled streets is a particularly beautiful area, with a lovely cathedral, historic town square and river running through it.

The colorful buildings are featured on many postcards and are a picture-perfect backdrop when you visit Wroclaw.

Be sure to check out the statues of the gnomes – small, gnome-like creatures that are said to bring good luck, which are spread out around the city, which is a great free activity in Wroclaw. The city centre is home to many bars and restaurants in the area, making it one of the cool places in Poland

Best things to see in Wroclaw: Market Square, Cathedral of St John the Baptist, National Museum, Aquapark Wroclaw, Museum of Contemporary Art, Gnome statues

Things to see near Wroclaw: Ksiaz Castle

Wroclaw accommodation is easy and there are many that have great access to all the best tourist attractions in Wroclaw.

• Novotel Wroclaw City
• PURO Wroclaw Stare Miasto
• The Granary – La Suite Hotel
• Market Square studio
• Apartment W Starym Sadzie
• Apartment Róży Wiatrów
• Boogie Deluxe
• Mleczarnia Hostel
• Babel Hostel

Discover more: Chase the infamous gold train with a visit to Ksiaz Castle

Best Poland cities – Lodz

Lodz, the third-largest city in Poland, is a major cultural centre. Located in central Poland, Lodz is a city that is well worth a visit on your trip to Poland. While it may not be as well known as some other Polish cities, Lodz has a lot to offer tourists.

The city’s history dates back to the fifteenth century, and there are plenty of historical sights to see such as The Old Town with its Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Lodz is also home to a number of museums and art galleries including The Manufaktura, a large open-air museum. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy along Piotrkowska Street.

Things to do in Lodz: Central Museum of Textiles, Lodz Zoo, Herst Palace Museum, Fala Aquapark, Lodz Ghetto, Lodz Museum of Independence. Manufaktura, Palace of I. Poznański, Old Town walking tour

Things to see near Lodz: Uniejów Thermal Baths,

On your vacation to Lodz, there are numerous places to stay. Chose the best Lodz accommodation for your stay with the options below.

• PURO Lodz Centrum
• Double Tree by Hilton
• Stare Kino Cinema Residence
• Cosy Studio Lodz
• Red Brick Apartment downtown Łódź
• New apartment Wroblewskiego
• Hostel Umed
• Royal Aparthotel Piotrkowska

Want to take Poland home with you?  Here are all the best Polish souvenirs you should consider

Poznan – Best cities in Poland

Poznan, located in western Poland, is a city with plenty of history and culture to offer visitors. The Old Town Square is an amazing location, while The Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul is the oldest cathedral in Poland.

There are many museums and the beautiful Poznan Royal Castle to explore, as well as lively nightlife and plenty of restaurants serving up traditional Polish cuisine. Poznan is also a great base for exploring the rest of Poland, with easy access to both the Baltic Sea and the mountains making Poznan one of the best cities in Poland.

Things to do in Poznan: Poznan Royal Castle, Poznan City Tour , Poznan Croissant Museum, Citadel Park, Museum of Armoured Weapons, Poznan National Museum.

Poznan is one of the top tourist destinations in Poland so you will find a wealth of accommodation for your stay in Poznan.

• Hampton By Hilton Poznan Old Town
• PURO Hotel Poznan Stare Miasto
• Park Inn by Radisson Poznan
• Poznań Garbary
• Balcony Apartment Poznan
• Apartment Niedziałkowskiego
• La Guitarra Hostel
• Blooms Boutique Hostel
• Cinema Hostel & Apartments

Poland city breaks – Gdansk

One of the best places in Poland to visit is the charming city of Gdansk. Gdansk is a city in northern Poland on the Baltic Sea and is the capital of Pomerania Voivodeship. Gdansk’s historical old town and its architecture are notable tourist attractions. The city is well known for its amber, which can be found in jewellery and other items throughout the city.

Gdansk is a popular Baltic coast tourist destination in Poland, with attractions including the Gdańsk Old Town, Main Square, Town Hall, Artus Court, and Neptune’s Fountain. There are also plenty of churches and other historical sites to see in Gdansk one of the best cities in Poland.

Things to do in Gdansk: Museum of the Second World War, Neptune’s Statue, Pier in Sopot, Guided tour on a boat , The Amber Museum, Crane, the Branch of the National Maritime Museum, and Wisłoujście Fortress.

Things to see near Gdansk: Malbork Castle , Stutthof Concentration Camp

Making your trip to the Polish port city of Gdańsk hassle-free will ensure a wonderful trip to Poland. Getting the best accommodation in Gdansk for your vacation to Poland is extremely important. Below are plenty of options for your holiday in Gdansk .

• Hotel Amber
• PURO Gdansk Stare Miasto
• Fama Residence Old Town Gdansk
• Apartment Wybickiego
• Luxury Chmielna Apartment City Center
• Gdansk Riverview Apartment
• Mamas & Papas Hostel
• Grand Hostel
• Szafarnia 10 Bed & Breakfast

Looking for some extra fun in Poland?  Check   out one of these amazing festivals in Poland

Beautiful cities in Poland – Lublin

Lublin, Poland is a city that is rich in history and culture. There are many attractions and sites to see in Lublin, which makes it a popular destination for tourists. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Lublin include the Old Town, the Lublin Castle, and Kosciuszko Park. Lublin makes a great Poland holiday.

The Old Town is a historic district that is full of beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets. The Lublin Castle is a medieval castle that was once used as a fortress. Kosciuszko Park is a large park that features gardens, ponds, and a zoo.

There are also many other attractions and sites to see in Lublin , including the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the Holy Trinity Church, and the New Jewish Cemetery. Lublin is one of the best cities in Poland to visit.

Things to see in Lublin: Lublin Castle, Majdanek Concentration Camp, Crakow Gate, Lublin History Museum, Lublin Walking tour, Lublin Open Air Village Museum

Things to do near Lublin: Chelm Calk Mines

Finding the best accommodation in Lublin is easy. There are so many options for budget travel all the way to luxury travel in Lublin. Below we have some great accommodation options in Lubin for your trip to Poland.

• Wieniawski Hotel
• Hampton by Hilton Lublin
• Ibis Styles Lublin Stare Maistro
• Apartamenty Polonia
• Zamkowy Apartament
• Premium Village Apartment
• Rodmos Hostel
• iroom Lublin

Bialystock – Poland cities

If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination to explore in Poland, then Bialystock, Poland is worth considering. This small town is located in the southeast of the country and is home to a number of tourist attractions and things to see making it one of the best cities in Poland off the beaten track.

The most famous landmark in Bialystock is the Historic Old Town, full of winding streets, colourful buildings, and ancient churches making it one of the best places to visit in Poland

You can also visit the Bialystock Zoo, which is one of the oldest zoos in Europe, or take a trip to the nearby Biebrza National Park for some beautiful natural Polish scenery. There are also a number of restaurants and bars in Bialystock where you can sample traditional Polish cuisine.

Things to do in Bialystok: Branicki Palace, Army Museum in Bialystok, Kosciuszko Market Square, Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed, Jurajski Park Dinozaurów, City Walking Tour , Eat traditional foods

Things to see near Bialystok: European Stork farm, Tykocin, The Biebrza National Park

Best places to stay in Bialystok:

Easily find all the best accommodations in Bialystok from the selection below.

• Best Western Hotel Cristal
• Hotel Podlasie
• Hotel Aristo
• Apartament Bakossa Białystok
• Kamienica Zamenhofa
• Hostel Bialystok Centrum

We hope this article from us here at Poland, Travel Expert on all the best city break destinations in Poland has encouraged you to book a trip to Poland. While Krakow is widely regarded as the best city to visit in Poland all of the above-mentioned places are top cities in Poland.

We are sure you will enjoy your vacation in many Poland towns and cities and find many things to do along the way. Anything from Luxury Poland Vacations to budget holidays can suit everyone in the major cities of Poland.

Poland Travel Expert   is your ultimate guide to all things Poland. Your next trip to Poland will not be complete without our detailed Poland guides, Poland itineraries and Poland travel tips.

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Author Bio: Mark Wyld

Mark Wyld is a Father, husband, traveller, and writer at Poland Travel Expert and other blogs. I have accumulated a wealth of experience over multiple visits to Poland. Thanks to our friends in Poland, we stay connected to the nation’s pulse, ensuring that our content is up to date with our first-hand experience. The information on this website is backed by genuine expertise.

Wander-Lush

16 Best Cities in Poland for Travellers: Classic Destinations & Underrated Alternatives

Poland has one of the most diverse arrays of cities in Europe – from charming old towns that hark back to the prewar era, to industrial centres that are emerging as new hubs for culture and the arts.

Divided up and ruled by Prussia, Russia and Habsburg Austria at various points in its history, Poland and its urban centres reflect the diverse and at times complicated history that has shaped the nation into what it is today.

With 47 cities in Poland with a population of more than 100,000 people, there is certainly no shortage of opportunities for a city break. Whether you’re planning a food-focused trip, looking to bask in beautiful architecture and photograph Poland’s pretty pastel rowhouses, or you want to find an urban gateway to Poland’s incredible nature, there is something out there for you.

This list brings together 16 of the very best cities in Poland for travellers and what to see, do, eat and explore in each one.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

The best cities in Poland for travellers

Warsaw is best known as the capital and largest city of Poland – but what makes it such a fascinating place to visit is how its history is reflected in the architecture.

The city has an atmospheric old town together with communist-style buildings. In addition, Warsaw is the birthplace of both Chopin and Marie Curie.

If you’re tossing up whether to visit Warsaw or Krakow (up next on this list), keep in mind that the capital has a charming old town, too.

Warsaw suffered significantly during WWII when 85% of the city was destroyed. Whilst wandering around what is today a UNESCO-listed old city it is amazing to think that not that long ago, the colourful houses, churches and squares were mere ruins.

After exploring the old town, visit the Fryderyk Chopin and Marie Curie museums to learn more about two of Warsaw’s most famous residents.

The final place on your list of must-visit sites is the Palace of Culture and Science. This building was a present from Stalin and its architecture will remind you of Poland’s communist past. Love it or hate it, it is the second tallest building in Warsaw. Ride the lift to the 30th floor for panoramic views out over the city.

The one restaurant to try before moving on to Warsaw’s lively bar scene is Reforma Urban.

Stay at: SleepWell Apartments Nowy Świat , stylish and affordable self-contained apartments in the city centre.

Recommended by Kristin from Scotland Less Explored

The second-largest and most-visited of Poland’s cities, Krakow (Kraków) leads most travellers’ wish lists. Formerly the nation’s capital, Krakow’s history goes back to the 7th century when the first settlement was established on Wawel Hill. Four-hundred years later, Wawel Royal Castle and the Old Town that unfurls at its base was named as one of the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Old Krakow is a playground for lovers of history, architecture and culture. Starting from the northern end, entering through the iconic St. Florian’s Gate, travellers are led down gridded streets and curled side alleys, with gorgeous plazas and churches dripping in ornamentation at every turn. Don’t miss St. Mary’s Basilica or the Cloth Hall, Krakow’s famous 13th-century Renaissance-style market arcade.

After visiting Castle Hill – either touring some of the many separate museum rooms, or simply walking the perimeter of the castle walls and taking in the panoramic views – head to Kazimierz, the old Jewish quarter.

You could quite easily spend an entire afternoon hopping between the historic cafes and cute pastry shops, rummaging through antique and vintage clothing shops, and visiting some of the many museums and synagogues dedicated to documenting the legacy of Krakow’s Jewish community.

Stay at: Fragola Apartments in the Old Town, with unparalleled views of the Cloth Hall and Rynek Glowny, Krakow’s main square.

Located in the very northwest of Poland, close to the Baltic Sea and the border with Germany, Szczecin isn’t a very popular city to visit. Yet it should be, as it has an interesting history and there are plenty of cool things to do in Szczecin .

The city was returned to Poland only after World War II (after almost 900 years), and even if it was severely destroyed during the war, you can still find many remnants of its German past.

Today, the centre of Szczecin is a peculiar mix of architecture, buildings that survived the war (or were rebuilt after), and modern-ish structures. The biggest attraction of the city is the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle, originally from the 14th century, where you can visit the interesting museum or climb the tower to admire the panoramic view.

Fun fact: This is also where Catherine the Great, the famous 18th-century empress of Russia, was born and grew up.

Another impressive place you can’t miss in Szczecin is the Chrobry Embankment, one of the most interesting and monumental urban and architectural complexes dating from the beginning of the 20th century.

Across the Odra River, you will find Lasztownia Island. It was a closed area until recently and is now being reinvented. If you are a fan of architecture, you need to see the Philharmonic building, named the most beautiful modern building in Europe in 2015.

Don’t leave Szczecin without trying pasztecik, a deep-fried dough served with various stuffings (meat or vegetarian). It’s nothing fancy, more like a local delicious snack that Szczecin is known for.

Stay at: Moxy Szczecin City for its central location and cool design.

Recommended by Kami from Kami And The Rest Of The World

Bialystok (Białystok) is one of the most underrated cities in Poland. It is located in the remote northeastern corner of the country, close to the border with Belarus. As a result, the city has a unique blend of Polish, Belarusian, Lithuanian, and Jewish influences.

Although far away from the tourist crowds there are enough things to do in Bialystok to make it well worth a visit.

Bialystok has a rich historical past, with roots dating back to the 14th century when it developed into a wealthy trading town. Its multicultural heritage is still reflected in its beautiful architecture, cuisine and cultural traditions .

First of all, there is the beautiful Old Market Square where you can see colourful merchant houses as well as a number of old churches. Visit the beautiful Baroque Branicki palace that is also known as the Versailles of Poland.

To learn more about the city’s recent past, visit the excellent Sibir Memorial Museum which covers the deportation of the Poles to Siberia under Soviet occupation.

Białystok’s culinary scene reflects its history and is also a fusion of Polish, Belarusian, and Lithuanian flavours. The city is known for its hearty regional dishes, such as potato pancakes and pierogi (dumplings). The best restaurant to try the local food is Babka .

Stay at: Nowy Swiat Leza for a clean and modern apartment in the centre.

Recommend by Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Poznan (Poznań) is a lovely Polish city to visit as many of the buildings in the Old Town have been restored to their original glory, making the Old Market Square in particular very colourful and unique. The Town Hall is in the centre of the square, and at 12 noon every day, the clock tower’s  goat statues butt heads.

Goats are the symbol of Poznan, and the goat sculpture in plac Kolegiacki is a popular spot for photos, especially if the goats have been dressed up in football scarves or other clothing to celebrate a particular event in the city.

The best things to do in Poznan include the Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Mary Magdalene and St. Stanislaus, with its pink exterior and stunning Baroque interior. Cathedral Island is home to the Cathedral and several museums, as well as the impressive Srodka Mural, which depicts Poznan as it used to be, including colourful shops and houses, and a cat on the rooftops.

The horseshoe-shaped St Martin’s Croissant is a local speciality, and make sure you gorge on delicious Polish dumplings at Na Winklu which has a selection of baked and boiled pierogi to try.

Stay at: PURO Poznań Stare Miasto , a lovely hotel on the edge of the Old Town, walking distance to the main attractions in Poznan. It has everything you need for a fabulous stay in Poznan, including free bike hire.

Recommended by Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

Most foreign visitors don’t think much of this little city as they pass it on the train to Gdansk from Poznan. However, Gniezno was the first capital of the Polish nation, and is closely connected to its founding legend.

Little remains from that period apart from Gniezno Cathedral which sits atop Lech Hill and overlooks the Old Town. The cathedral and its museum are full of artefacts that will remind you of its place in history and religion – kings were crowned and buried here, and the relics of St Adalbert, the country’s patron saint, lie in a silver reliquary in front of the altar.

Gniezno is a great base to explore the historic Piast Trail that it is on. My highlight has to be the remains of a civilisation that was at least as old as the Romans in Biskupin to the north. Half of the site is a bunch of stumps scattered across the marsh, depicting how the site was discovered in 1933. The other half, though, features reconstructed wooden fortifications, watchtowers and longhouses.

The houses display panels about the story of the site, its excavation, and how Iron Age people possibly lived. In addition, there are outdoor stations where visitors can buy crafts and try their hand at making them, and one can also cruise the lake.

To Gniezno’s west is Ostrów Lednicki, where you need to take a boat to see what remains of a fortress complex from the time of Mesko I. There is also an open-air museum featuring some of the oldest Polish windmills and timbre buildings, transplanted from other villages in the region.

But most of all, I enjoyed the small town vibe of Gniezno, with a good mixture of places in the Rynek that locals and not just tourists would go to, and it feels very safe in general. 

Stay at: Dobry Browar Apartments for its convenient location in the Old Town, smartly appointed rooms and the craft brewery downstairs, which is also my restaurant recommendation after you’d had your fill of milk bar staples. There are both food and beer options that would suit those looking for something familiar (burgers and pilsners) and also the adventurous (different steaks tartare and barrel-aged porters).

Recommended by Nicholas from Rambling Feet

The city of Gorlice , located in southeastern Poland, might be on the small side with its 30,000 inhabitants. However, it packs a lot into a small area and has witnessed some very important moments in history.

The most famous recent event is the Battle of Gorlice , also known as the Gorlice–Tarnów offensive, which took place outside the city in 1914 and forced Russia to retreat during WWI.

In the Gorlice area, crude oil has been a subject of exploration since the 16th century when it started seeping from the ground. The kerosene oil lamp was invented in Gorlice, and the city takes great pride in this invention. Thanks to that, Gorlice is referred to as the ‘City of Light’, and there are numerous corresponding monuments and a yearly light show, typically held at the end of September, to celebrate.

When visiting Gorlice, make sure to explore the city centre, climb to the top of the city hall tower, and then venture out to explore more of the area.

Pay a visit to the Magdalena Mine just outside the city to learn more about oil mining. There are numerous wooden churches in the area, such as the one in Owczary. You can also visit the cemeteries of fallen soldiers from World War I, with Cemetery No. 123 being the largest and even a UNESCO site.

Plus, if you’re interested in the unique Lemko culture in this part of Poland (and also Slovakia and Ukraine), stop by the village of Losie for the lovely open-air museum. My personal favourite place is Gorlicka Golgota, a great sunset spot with a chapel. It’s simply picture-perfect.

For a satisfying meal, visit the restaurant U Polki i Allana, which focuses on traditional meals with a modern twist.

Stay at: Dark Pub Hotelik , a highly-rated accommodation option right in the centre of Gorlice. In the same building, partially underground, there is a great traditional restaurant.

Recommended by Veronika from Travel Geekery

Katowice might lack the pretty pastel row houses and cafe-fringed squares that Poland is synonymous with. But this industrial city in the south, the capital of the Silesian Voivodeship, is both beautiful and fascinating in its own way.

Coal mining is what first put Katowice on the map, and precipitated the city’s boom in the mid 19th century. At the industry’s peak more than 50 mines were working in the wider Katowice area, including several in the very heart of the city centre.

As Poland has transitioned to green energy, these mines have gradually been sunsetted. Katowice has quite brilliantly repurposed several of the old mining shafts, turning them into museums and cultural spaces.

Must-sees in Katowice include the Culture Centre, which is set inside an old mine, and the Wilson Shaft Gallery. The latter is located in Nikiszowiec , one of several historic districts in Katowice that was purpose-built to house miners and their families. The charming red brick architecture is a photographer’s paradise.

Market Square and downtown Katowice has a cluster of modernist buildings, all well sign-posted with descriptive plaques, interspersed with historical monuments such as the you General Education Liceum. Some of the best restaurants in Katowice are located here, dishing up hearty Rolada, Silesian potato dumplings, and other regional delicacies.

The Spodek, a UFO-shaped entertainment venue, the imposing Silesian Insurgents’ Monument , and the mammoth Superjednostka, one of Poland’s largest residential buildings, all vye for your attention.

Stay at: Hornigold w Zielonej Kamienicy , for simple but homely apartment rooms close to the railway station.

Gdansk, one of the most beautiful Polish cities

Often overlooked by tourists , the historic Gdansk (Gdańsk) is one of the top cities in Poland where you can soak in the Polish culture, cuisine, and charm.

The main attraction is Gdansk Old Town as it is one of the most historic city centres in Europe . This is where the striking monument of Puerta Dorada or the Golden Gate stands. Home to attractions such as the Amber Museum, the Polish Maritime Museum and the Long Waterfront, Gdansk Old Town is brimming with things to do. Piwnica Rajców, located in the cellar of Artus Court in Gdansk’s old town, is highly recommended for its Polish Craft Beer.

Gdansk is dotted with different points of interest. The Museum of the Second World War will introduce you to the turbulent history of Poland. St. Mary’s Church is where you can explore one of the world’s biggest Gothic brick buildings.

Visit the former military area of Westerplatte where the Battle of Westerplatte happened, marking the start of the Second World War. Spend some time in the heart of nature at Oliwski Park. This 10-hectare French-style garden is worth adding to your Gdansk itinerary.

Stay at: Puro Gdansk Stare Miasto , located in the heart of Old Town.

Recommended by Lavina from Continent Hop

Wroclaw (Wrocław) is a very charming, vivid city in Poland famous for its colourful tenement houses. Although it’s the third biggest Polish city, it’s still very cosy with many green spaces. Wroclaw is a place where the old is intertwined with new, both beautiful and shabby.

An interesting fact about Wroclaw is that it only became part of Poland again in 1945. Before that, for 610 years, it was part of various countries including the Kingdom of Bohemia, the Kingdom of Hungary, the Habsburg Monarchy of Austria, the Kingdom of Prussia, and Germany.

There are so many great things to do in Wrocław , from hunting for dwarfs, to strolling Wroclaw’s main square, visiting the Sky Tower for amazing city views, chilling at Neon Side Gallery, visiting Ostrow Tumski (Cathedral Island), and chasing after unique street art.

Wroclaw is also a heaven for foodies, with a great selection of restaurants, pubs and cafes. Some of the best are VaffaNapoli, Ragu Pracownia Makaronu, and Folgujemy.

Stay at: Ibis Styles Wroclaw Centrum , a not-too-expensive option for a stay in the city centre. It is located in a great spot near bus and tram stops, around 15 minutes on foot from the old town.

Recommended by Sonia from Happy Little Traveler

Torun (Toruń), an old university town , is located in northern Poland between Gdansk and Warsaw on the banks of Vistula river. It is a city with rich history and tradition going back to medieval times.

Torun Old Town is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, hence the best way to explore is by wandering the labyrinth of small streets. It is the birthplace of the world-famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, which is why his statue and house (Dom Kopernika) is located here. To learn more about his studies and life, as well as his contributions to modern astronomy, visit the Torun Observatory (Planetarium).

Torun has plenty of Gothic buildings, including the impressive Cathedral of St. John and two monumental churches: the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin and St Jacob’s. Visiting these gems of Gothic architecture is like walking back in time.

Like many Gothic towns, Torun was once protected by high city walls. Today there are still reminders of them around town, with several city gates as well as the remains of Teutonic Castle and Torun’s own Gothic Leaning Tower.

Travellers will also be interested in visiting the Explorer’s Museum and the Museum of Modern Art.

There are plenty of restaurants serving Polish cuisine in Torun – we recommend Kuranty and Pierogarnia Stary Torun (for Polish dumplings).

Stay at: Hotel Spichrz to step back in time in the 18th century granaries and former burgher tenement houses.

Recommended by Ela & Beata from Stunning Outdoors

We visited Lodz (Łódź) on our sabbatical around Europe and found a city that has a great history producing textiles, but is now reinventing itself with a young and exciting arts scene. It reminded me in many ways of Manchester in the UK.

To see the best of both worlds, visit the Manufaktura complex , an old five-storey spinning mill that now houses museums, art galleries, shops, and restaurants. If you’re into history, specifically visit the Lodz Textile Museum where you can explore the evolution of the area’s cloth trade.

Piotrkowska Street is a must-see. Europe’s longest pedestrian street, it is lined with historic buildings, trendy boutiques, cafes, and bars. The Museum of Art showcases contemporary and modern art, while the Museum of Cinematography highlights Lodz’s heritage on film.

For dining, try Anatewka, a Jewish restaurant that serves traditional dishes including Challah.

Stay at: Vienna House by Wyndham Andel’s Lodz , a boutique hotel with a heritage ambiance housed in a former textile mill inside the Manufaktura complex.

Recommended by Ben from The Sabbatical Guide

Lublin, located in eastern Poland, is a city rich in history that bears the imprint of its diverse past in its architecture, cuisine, and people. The city served as a significant centre of Jewish life and culture before World War II, and its Old Town is one of Poland’s most beautiful architectural displays.

When travelling to Lublin, remember that the city is very walkable, so pack comfortable shoes. English is not widely spoken among the older population, but younger locals and staff in tourist areas usually have a good command of the language.  It is a good idea to learn the basics however, such as how to say good morning in Polish and other greetings.

A visit to Lublin Castle, an impressive medieval fortress with a museum showcasing local art and history, is a must. Lublin’s Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets and vibrant buildings. Be sure to visit the Krakowska Gate, an iconic symbol of the city.

Outside the city, a visit to the Majdanek Concentration Camp Museum is a moving and powerful experience. For anyone not able to make it to Auschwitz, Majdanek equally showcases the atrocities committed during WWII.

Back in the city, Mandragora is a recommended spot for Jewish-Polish cuisine. Try their traditional dishes such as pierogi in a cosy setting.

Stay at: Hotel Alter , a 5-star hotel located in the centre of town that is accessible to the main sites while also being comfortable and cosy. 

Recommended by Diana from Travels in Poland

Kielce, one of the best cities in Poland for nature lovers

A city for nature lovers, Kielce in Southern Poland is not large, but its proximity to several nature reserves makes it the ideal base for hiking, canoeing and caving. The city itself is worthy of a few days of your time: Thanks to its compact size, visiting most of the interesting attractions is possible on foot or city bike.

Be sure to plan a visit to Castle Hill. The palace and cathedral located there are very impressive. A walk around Market Square and Sienkiewicza Street is another obligatory activity. This is the perfect place to grab a meal at one of the outdoor cafes.

Kielce is most famous for its geological attractions. Around the city you will find as many as five nature reserves. Be sure to plan a visit to at least one. Staying with the geological theme, you must also visit the Geo Education Centre, where you will set off into the fascinating world of the prehistoric sea.

You will find many restaurants in the city. If this is your first visit to Poland, be sure to try pierogi.

Kielce is located within the Swietokrzyskie UNESCO Geopark. A short distance from the centre you will find castles, caves (e.g. Paradise Cave ), bicycle and canoe trails, and many other interesting outdoor activities.

Stay at: The Grand Hotel , located right next to the pedestrian zone within easy reach of the centre.

Recommended by Jakub from tymrazem

Located on the Lyna River and set amongst some of the country’s most picturesque countryside, Olsztyn might be small and relatively unknown compared to more popular destinations in Poland. But it is still worth a visit. This historic city and capital of the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship has a long backstory as one of the most important settlements in the region.

Highlights of a visit to Olsztyn include the Gothic Olsztyn Castle and the St. James Pro-cathedral, which dates back to the 14th century. Discover the city’s connection to Nicolaus Copernicus at the Warmia Chapter Castle , which is not just a museum, but also serves as a venue for art exhibitions, films, concerts, and other cultural events.

Don’t miss a walk through the picturesque medieval Old Town that is the city’s centre of social and cultural life. Adventurous travellers will enjoy exploring the abundance of nearby outdoor activities that include hiking, biking, and boat tours on the lakes in the area.

Despite being a small city, Olsztyn offers easy access to Poland’s other major cities and more equally cheap destinations in Europe .

Stay at: Przystań Hotel & Spa for its beautiful location on the shores of Lake Ukiel.

Recommended by Rai from A Rai of Light

Czestochowa

Located in Silesia between Lodz and Katowice, Czestochowa (Częstochowa) is another Polish city with a rich history and culture. Between 1815 and WWI, the area was controlled by Russia. Therefore, some of Czestochowa’s culture and traditions are linked to the Russian Empire.

Czestochowa city is known for the famous Pauline Monastery of Jasna Gora. Founded in 1382 by thePauline Monks who came from Hungary following the invasion of Wladyslaw, the monastery has huge cultural and religious significance. It has been a destination for pilgrims for decades. Follow in their footsteps and climb the 519 steps to the top of the tower – the tallest tower church in Poland.

History buffs should not miss Ratusz Town Hall. It contains an exhibit dedicated to the former Polish President, Lech Kaczynski , who died in a plane crash in 2010. The display includes books, paintings, medals and glassware that belonged to the leader.

Stay at: Apartamenty Nowa Kamienica for all the convenience of an apartment hotel with excellent amenities in a central location.

Recommended by Ossama from Awesome Traveler

More ideas for Europe

• The best cities and towns to visit on the Danube , highlights of Europe
• Europe by train , itinerary inspiration for hitting the rails
• The best winter road trips in Europe , Poland and beyond
• Underrated wine destinations in Europe , top picks for wine lovers
• Off-beat city breaks in Europe , where you can escape the crowds
• The best day hikes in Europe , from the Alps to the Dolomites

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25 Charming Cities and Towns to Visit in Poland

We’ve been to Poland 5 or 6 times already. Each time we are enchanted by the cool towns and natural wonders we see there. Many cities in Poland are charming, have a rich history and  stunning architecture.  They should definitely get many more tourists than they do. I felt like they are highly underrated. Not that this is necessarily a bad thing as a tourist, as you don’t have to clump with thousands of other tourists. But I think they are still not well known internationally. Otherwise, they’ll be on everyone’s bucket lists.

No matter if you’re planning a city break, a road trip to Poland or you’re just looking for a stop-over on your way to other destinations, here’s a list of the best cities and towns to visit in Poland . You might have already heard of the beauty of Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw, but this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Best cities and towns to visit in Central Poland

Warsaw – the capital of poland and one of the best cities to visit.

No list of the best cities to visit in Poland would be complete without Warsaw, its capital. This was also our first contact with Poland almost three years ago. Needless to say that it charmed us. Its UNESCO World Heritage historical center, museums, green spaces, neat appearance, delicious restaurants and lively atmosphere determined us, not only to return to Warsaw once more, but also to discover other parts of Poland.

Despite the elegant city center we see today, Warsaw had a difficult past. During the World War II, 85% of the old town was destroyed. After the war, even if the authorities thought about moving the capital city, the people returned to Warsaw and started to rebuild what they could. Warsaw was the capital “rechosen” by the people and the authorities, seeing this, decided to take part in this general efforts. The historic center was rebuilt from scratch following drawings and photos. The beautiful buildings we see today are perfect replicas of the originals, at least on the outside. On the inside, there are normal post war apartments. This became the first reconstruction to be included on the UNESCO list heritage list.

In order to learn more about the most significant moments in its history, one of the best things to do while in Warsaw , is a visit to the Royal Castle of Warsaw. Music enthusiasts can visit Chopin Museum, while science lovers should add Marie Curie Museum to their itinerary. If you only want to listen some pieces of Chopin’s work, just sit on one of the 15 musical benches scattered around the town and enjoy.

Lódz – the Phoenix bird of Poland and one of the best cities to visit

Lódz is not one of those postcard-pretty towns, cute and neat, where you suddenly feel transported back in medieval ages. It’s industrial, edgy, grim and quite modern.

In the pre-war era, the city evolved as the most important textile manufacturing hub in continental Europe, a “Polish Manchester”. But a lot of factories were owned by Jews. During the second World War they were closed into a ghetto and forced to work for the Germans, until they became too old or weak and were sent to concentration camps. Lódz struggled to recover since then. Its economical decline brought it the nickname “Grey Lódz”.

But during the last decades, paint and imagination transformed it into a cool and creative city. Crumbling walls have been covered with bold colorful murals. Derelict factories and cotton mills were transformed into entertainment areas, with loft apartments, restaurants, pubs, shops and clubs. The main word that can describe Lódz is repurpose. Manufacktura, the conversion of a vast textile factory into a shopping mall, became the symbol of this.

Lódz is also the birth place of Polish cinematography. Famous directors as Roman Polanski and Andrzej Wajda were schooled here. Wajda even directed a film about the textile industry in Lodz. The city even has its own Walk of Fame, part of the main pedestrian street, Piotrkowska.

Bydgoszcz, built along the banks of the River Brda, is also known as Polish Venice . Visitors will be pleasantly surprised by its red-brick buildings, great food scene and laid-back atmosphere.

As Poland’s biggest inland navigation center, water defines the city. The best thing to do while visiting Bydgoszcz is to take a Water Tram Trip. This is a fun way to see the town and get acquainted with its main sights. In the Old Town, the solar-powered boats pass through a 100 years old lock. On the way, one can admire the Opera and the marina.

Back on foot, walk along the streets of the old town to the pretty Bydgoszcz Market Square. When you feel ready for a change of scenery, cross the river to Mill’s Island, the locals’ favorite green oasis. On your way there, don’t miss the Man Crossing the River, the city’s most famous sculpture, dangling over the Brda River.

The unique Museum of Soap and the History of Dirt will take you through the history of hygiene and soap manufacturing process. You can even make your own soap in their workshop.

Torun hasn’t been bombed during WWII. Therefore, it owns one of the best preserved medieval town centers in Poland. UNESCO already recognized its historical value and added it to the world heritage list. The heart of the town is its Old Market Square, that dates back to the 13th century. In the middle of it, there’s the brick-built red building of the Town Hall with a Clock Tower, the most known landmark in the city. As an important medieval stronghold, Torun had two lines of defensive walls. Long parts of them, as well as nine of the gates and towers still stand today. As an interesting fact, one of them is leaning, just like the one in Pisa, but without any crowds.

The city is also the place of birth of Nicolaus Copernicus, the great astronomer that placed the sun at the center of the galaxy for the first time. Torun is proud of this connection and references to him can be seen all around the town. If you want to learn more about him, a visit to his memorial house should be on your list.

Torun also gave the world pierniki, a traditional kind of spiced gingerbread. In fact, no one should leave the city without attending an workshop and learn hands-on how it is prepared. This is really fun and for sure one of the best things to do in Torun . If you can’t have enough gingerbread, maybe you would like to try some variations, like gingerbread beer, vodka or ice-cream. Anything is possible.

The small city of Gniezno was once the first capital of Poland. Although it has lost most of its past glory, it still retains an unique charm. Its double-towered brick Gothic Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is the main sight in town. This stands on the spot of an older Romanesque one destroyed by the Teutonic Knights in the 14th century. A complete tour also includes the crypt, the basement with the ruins of the previous cathedral and the tower, for wonderful views over the town.

Besides having a great historical and religious significance, Gniezno is small and pretty. A walk around its narrow streets and the Old Market feels relaxing. The rolling hills, lakes and parks that surround it, make Gniezno one of the best destinations in Poland  to relax and enrich your knowledge of the country at the same time.

Best cities and towns to visit in the south of Poland

Krakow – the cultural capital of poland and one of the best cities to visit.

Krakow is Poland’s former capital and second largest city. But it is also the main tourist hub in the country. The city attracts visitors with its history, impressive architecture and leisure activities. Although I liked Warsaw more, I can’t deny that Krakow has its own value and unique vibe.

Krakow’s Old Town was included in the UNESCO world heritage list. Wander around the Market Square and listen to the trumpeter in St. Mary’s Basilica. Admire the Cloth Hall and visit the underground museum. Then head towards the Jewish quarter, the former Krakow Ghetto, now the bohemian neighborhood. Visit Oscar Schindler’s factory to find out about the real facts behind “Schindler’s list” movie. Climb up Wawel’s Hill to see the castle where the Polish kings resided for almost 600 years and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Poland’s cultural capital is also a great base for day trips. The most popular ones are to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration center or the world’s oldest functioning salt mines in Wieliczka. The Tatras and wonderful Zakopane are also close enough for a day-trip, even if I’d allow more time for that specific area.

Zakopane is the perfect base to explore the Polish side of the impressive Tatra National Park. No trip to Zakopane is complete without taking the funicular or hiking up Gubalówka hill. From there you get the best views over the Tatras, while lying on a artificial beach or having a picnic. If you want to see even more of the area, take the scenic cable car to Kasprowy Wierch or hike to Morskie Oko, an emerald-green mountain lake.

Back in the center Zakopane, stroll along Krupówki Street, the busiest street in town. It is full of souvenir stands, restaurants, bars and stands selling the famous local cheese, oscypek. It comes in all kinds of flavors and forms. One can even have them grilled with cranberry jam (it’s tastier than it sounds). Just try the ones that appeal to your senses!

Zakopane is also close to many thermal spas. There’s even one in town. We chose Chocholowskie Baths, in a close by village with wooden houses and loved it. Zakopane is the perfect choice for a relaxing weekend. You can combine skiing or hiking, depending on the season, with charming spas and recharge your batteries.

Rseszow is a quiet small town in Podkarpackie province, in Sandomierska Valley. It has an amazing old market square overseen by the beautiful building of the town hall. The city is also home to the Museum of Bedtime Cartoons. You might not be accustomed to Poland cartoon characters, but they even run them there, so that you can understand better. One can also learn how older cartoons were made and how much work was involved. In Rseszow, visitors can also take a guided tour of its underground tunnels that starts in the old market square. Lubomirski Palace, dating back to the 18th century, is another jewel of the city.

Katowice was until recently mostly an industrial city, rarely visited by tourists. Lately, it has emerged as a cool destination, with museums, monuments, a neoclassical cathedral and modern architectural pieces. The city is also an UNESCO city of music, hosting many local and international festivals, as well as a guitar museum and a concert venue that resembles an UFO.

Start your trip with a visit to the Silesian Museum, where you can learn more about the history of the region. Furthermore, this sits on a former coal mine. In summer, chill out at Three Ponds Valley, a real oasis in the urban jungle, with beaches, cycle paths and live music.   No matter the season, make sure to take a stroll in the Niszkowiec suburb, a 100 years old workers’ district with brick buildings, shops, street art and surprising architecture.

Krosno is one of the less known destinations in the south of Poland, but it still has a lot to offer. Besides a beautiful town center with a market square, tower and Lutheran church, it is home to an old glass factory. Visitors can now tour its grounds, find out how glass is produced, see some of the most valuable pieces ever produced, true works of art, and even make their own souvenir out of glass. Non-polish speakers can also take the tour with an audio guide and the guide of the group will answer to the questions they might have.

Best cities to visit in the east of Poland

Back in the 11th century, Sandomierz was one of the three royal seats in Poland . Its administrative importance decreased after the Swedish siege, a major fire that almost destroyed it and the two world wars.

However, it still is an important religious center in the country. Nicknamed “Little Rome”, Sandomierz spreads on seven hills and has no less than four churches only in the old town. The most significant of all is the Cathedral Basilica of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. Just as the Italian capital, it also has a network of underground tunnels and cellars that can be visited. In fact, the terrain under the center of the town is just like the Emmental cheese and efforts are made to save it from collapse.

The heart of the city is its Market Square, unique due to its slope. It is surrounded by beautiful centuries old houses and dominated by an impressive town hall. Sandomierz once had massive defensive walls with four gates. Out of these, only Opatowska Gate survived. From the top of it, visitors can admire the old town and Vistula river from above. Don’t leave the town without tasting the local delicacies, toffees and artisanal cider.

Zamosc is one of the most interesting and beautiful towns in Poland, also on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It was first established in the 16th century as the ideal town, according to the Italian theories of the times. The heart of the town is the town hall with a clocktower located in the old market square. In Renaissance style, as most of the surrounding colorful buildings, and with winding stairs, it’s the most Instagrammable spot in Zamosc. One can also climb the tower of the Cathedral of the Resurrection and St. Thomas the Apostle to check out the old town from above.

Lublin is one of the largest cities in Poland, at the same time having a rich and long history. However, it doesn’t feel crowded, maybe because it’s on the country’s eastern side, far away from the popular Krakow.

The city was once an important trading hub, with entrance gates, cobbled stone streets and pastel-colored merchant houses. Many of them can still be seen today in the old town, including two of the impressive gates. Even if Poland lost a lot during the WWII, and most of Lublin’s Jewish population perished, the old town of Lublin was left intact.

Just beyond the city gates, on the outskirts of the old town, visitors can check out Lublin Castle or go shopping on Krakowskie Przedmieście street. Because of its past, Lublin was always a multicultural city and this can also be seen in its cuisine. In the market square one can find, among others, Armenian, Italian or Jewish restaurants.

Kazimierz Dolny

Less than one hour by car from Lublin, on the right bank of Vistula, lies Kazimierz Dolny, one of the most picturesque small towns in Poland. Its golden era was in the 16th and 17th centuries, when the grain trade on the Vistula was in full bloom. As the trade declined, its economic development froze. Thus the town kept its Renaissance appearance. Charming tenement houses surround an old market square having at the center a well with a black wooden roof. The hills and the castle make for great viewpoints.  During the last centuries it attracted more and more artists and became a popular holiday destination. Its cobblestone alleys are full of tiny galleries and painters selling their work on the streets. A cruise on the Vistula will offer the opportunity to admire the city from the water as well as an amazing sunset.

Bialystok is another one of eastern Poland’s hidden gems, with a lot to offer. During its long history, the city was a part of the Russian Empire and Lithuania. Even today, it’s close to the borders with Lithuania, Belarus and Ukraine. Bialystok was influenced by all of them and this can be seen in its architecture, culture and cuisine. The most important sights in town are the market square and Branicki Palace. Do not miss the garden behind it, especially in summer. It’s one of the most beautiful castle gardens in Poland, in my opinion. You might also be intrigued to find out that this is the place where the inventor of Esperanto, the easiest language in the world, lived.

Best cities to visit in the north of Poland

Giżycko is a small town in northeastern Poland, sandwiched between Mamry Lake and Niegocin Lake. It’s a popular destination for domestic tourists in summer due to its location in the heart of Masuria. Giżycko also has its own historical monuments, including a 14th century Teutonic castle, Boyen Fortress, the most visited landmark in town, and a water tower converted into a museum and cafe. It attracts lots of water sports enthusiasts, but for the less adventurous ones, there are also plenty excursions one can take around the lakes. The most popular one crosses three lakes and passes under 3 bridges. Giżycko’s marina is beautiful and lively and there’s a never-ending line of restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from. Giżycko is also home to one of the two hand-operated swing-bridges in Europe. That’s something that shouldn’t be missed.

Mikolajki, also known as the “Pearl of the Masuria”, is located on the shore of the largest of the Great Masurian Lakes, Sniardwy. It is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Polish people. Sailing enthusiasts might have already heard of it, as many regattas are held there each summer. Even if you don’t sail, it’s a real pleasure to walk around the busy marina, full of yachts and luxury boats. There are also a few taverns selling local cuisine, beer and entertaining their customers with traditional music. The town can also be used as a base to discover the beauties of the lakes and Masuria. Although, truth be told, for this reason I’d prefer Glzycko and save Mikolajki for a romantic evening.

The youngest and most modern of the three Tri-Cities was only founded in the 20th century. Gdynia is great for water lovers and sailing enthusiasts. In the port, one can go aboard two ship-museums. Dar Pormorza is a former sail training ship built in 1909 that has served in Germany, France and Poland and now rests in the harbor of Gdynia. ORP Błyskawica (Lightning) is the oldest preserved destroyer in the world, used by the Polish Navy during WWII. This no ordinary ship, as it has been decorated with the highest military order for gallantry in Poland, Virtuti Militari. One can also visit the National Marine Fisheries Research Institute, the Museum of Emigration and the Gdynia Aquarium.

Sopot is a small seaside resort town between Gdansk and Gdynia. Its sandy beaches, sparkling waters and exclusive atmosphere have attracted royals and rich people for centuries. Nowadays, this tiny paradise is also available for the common people. Lay on the beach and relax. Going on a short walk, you’ll get to see the longest wooden pier in Europe, Monte Casino pedestrian street and the Crooked House, a glass building with the most unusual shape you’d expect in this seaside and quite traditional looking town. In the evening, the resort at the Baltic Sea turns into a crazy parties spot.

Gdansk is one of the best known destinations in Poland due to low-cost flights, its rich history and lively atmosphere. In the shipyards of this port city, the Solidarity movement was born. This would defeat communism and its founder, Walesa, later on would become the president of Poland. As the country’s main seaport, it’s also home to a comprehensive Maritime Museum. Another museum that’s worth a visit is the Museum of the WWII. Gdansk was not directly affected by the war, but somehow it became home to some of the best exhibits connected to the war and the Holocaust.

The old part of the city stretched along the Royal Route, that dates back to the 17th century. For a few moments you might think you’re in Amsterdam . Some of the structures that were preserved are the city gates, many Dutch renaissance style houses of the ex-wealthy merchants and the prison’s tower. As the capital of amber, or Baltic Gold, shops selling the fossilized tree resin line the streets. Gdansk is also home to the largest brick church in the world, St. Mary’s. Apart from its history and architecture, Gdansk has a great atmosphere, that you should enjoy while hanging with the locals for a beer at the river.

Best cities to visit in the west of Poland

Wroclaw is the fourth largest city in Poland and my all times favorite. One of the best things to do in Wroclaw is to wander its streets and try to find as many dwarfs as possible. From gardeners to monks, photographers or cyclists, there are already hundreds of them all around the city. Try to spot them around corners, on sidewalks and on lampposts. The roots of this movement go way back and are connected to communism, but today the small statues define the city. While looking for them, you’ll also spot the other main attractions of the town.

The heart of the city is the beautiful 13th century market square with its city hall and St. Elizabeth’s Church. But the city also has a Cathedral Island, the streets of which are still lit by old traditional gas lamps. Wroclaw is also home to the Centennial Hall (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

Karpacz is a small town, perfect for escaping the hustle of the big cities on a relaxing weekend. The area is popular among hikers, as the town is surrounded by Karkonosze National Park, a place of outstanding natural beauty. Two peaks are the most popular and can also be reached by funicular, Sniezka, 1603 m high and Kopa, 1377 m high. In winter, Karpacz turns into a winter wonderland for sport lovers. After a long day skiing or snowboarding, nothing works better than a glass of hot mulled wine in one of the traditional local taverns called karczma. Another hidden gem is the Wang Church from the 12th century, built in a style similar to the Viking structures.

Poznan – one of the best cities to visit in the west of Poland

Poznan is the perfect city for a city-break in Poland. It has a gorgeous old market square, a variety of museums, beautiful parks, cozy cafes and its own local delicacy, St. Martin’s croissant. Like many of the old towns in Poland, the one of Poznan has also been destroyed during WWII, but was beautifully rebuilt and now thrives. Every day the two most important characters in town, two goats, gather people around the town square for a small show.

Besides the old town hall and the market square, some of the places that should not be missed are St. Stanislaus Parish Church, Ostrów Tumski cathedral, the Imperial castle and Lake Malta. For an unique experience, take part in a workshop and learn how to prepare the local sweet treat, St. Martin’s croissant. It’s so special that bakeries must have a special certificate to make and sell them as such.

Swinoujscie

Swinjoujscie is a port city and holiday resort destination at the Baltic Sea. Its visitors can enjoy the islands with gently slopping beaches or its 170 years old Spa Park. Nowhere in Poland will you find a place of such exceptional insular character. Out of the 44 islands and islets, only 3 are inhabited, Uznam, Wolin, Karsibór. For the best views over the area, head to the tallest structure on the Baltic Sea, Wolin Island’s lighthouse. Karsibor Island is a paradise for bird-watching. The specific of Swinjoujscie, variety of landscapes and surrounding nature make it one of the best cities in Poland for an unforgettable holiday or city-break.

Szczecin is a small coastal town with a mix of cultures and architectural styles. Located at the German border, this city is not unknown to Germans and domestic tourists. Szczecin is located on the Oder, including several large islands between its branches. It is one of the cities that joined Poland only recently, after the WWII, according to the Potsdam Agreement. Until then is was a part of the Kingdom of Prussia and then of the German Empire. The city hides an impressive complex of underground bunkers and tunnels from the WWII. Part of the network is available for tourists on two thematic tours, World War II and Cold War. Visitors can also check out the Ducal Castle, home of the dukes of Pomerania for more or less 500 years.

Most of the charming cities on the list we’ve visited on our two weeks road trip in Poland, city-breaks or on our way to other destinations. In Warsaw and Krakow we’ve already been twice, but still feel like we’ve barely scratched the surface. Zakopane made us return, just to see the Tatras from Gubalowka again. Wroclaw was love at first sight. I know that when thinking of a holiday, especially a longer one, people tend to overlook Poland. Many still think of it as gray and plain, but it has some of the most beautiful medieval towns in Europe, some original, some not, but all of them valuable and charming. Besides, its variety of museums and landscapes will satisfy even the most curious or fastidious tourist. Give it a chance now that the crowds are still missing!

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The 17 Best Cities to Visit in Poland | 2024 Edition

If you follow travel news like me, you may have notice that Warsaw, the capital of Poland, was recently awarded the prestigious honor of most attractive tourist destination in the European Best Destinations contest of 2023. Not only did Warsaw win this competition, voted on by travelers around the world, but it received a record number of votes. Maybe this competition is what gave you the idea to come to Poland. However, Poland is so much more than just Warsaw (although Warsaw is pretty swell).

As a university student at the University of Warsaw, I have also had the opportunity to branch out and explore other parts of the beautiful country that is now my home. And it has yet to disappoint. Even the cities that I was told where “grungy” or “not really cool” have all had their charm! And Poland, being such a large country, has a city for everyone to visit.

In this blog, you will find 17 cities. One thing is certain, from gothic architecture, to buzzing nightlife, to beautiful nature, there is a Polish city calling to every person who comes to Poland. Find yours below!

Best Cities in Poland: The Classics

These cities, in my opinion, are the most important cities of Poland. They are the largest cities, and thus also have the most to do. They have history, architecture, nightlife, food, culture, and nature sprinkled in too. They are good cities to serve as your base of operations for exploring other parts of Poland. And due to their size, I will cover them in more detail than other cities on this list.

Planning to visit Poland soon?

🛫 Booking flights to Poland: For booking flights, we love to compare prices on Expedia and Kayak .

🛏️ Booking hotels in Poland: When looking for hotels, we recommend using Booking.com and Hotels.com . We stayed at a couple of hotels in Poland and liked the following ones:

• Sofitel Warsaw Victoria (Warsaw)
• Hotel GEM (Wrocław)
• INX Design Hotel (Krakow)

⛪Booking tours in Poland: Viator is a great platform for finding tours and excursions to join.

🛣️ Renting a car in Warsaw: Discover Cars is the platform we use when renting a car in Poland.

Kraków is the most visited destination in all of Poland. While it may not have the influence and size of its northernly sister Warsaw, there is a reason that is the most popular city amongst tourists. The history of the city supplies ample opportunities to learn about the progression of Poland as a nation. The city also has its fair share of beautiful buildings, parks, and a bustling nightlife. Kraków’s proximity to other popular tourist destinations also makes is a great home base for further travel in Poland .

To start, the key part of visiting Kraków is visiting the Old Town and the monumental Rynek Głowny , the heart of Kraków. Most of Kraków’s most popular sights will be found in the pedestrian streets of the Old Town, and the nightlife. The heart and soul of the town square is St Mary’s Church , a beautiful dual-towered building that is the guardian of the city. Every hour on the hour, there is a trumpet performance from the upper tower, to commemorate the city guard of years passed who was tragically killed in one of the many wars that Poland endured. Additionally, relatively affordable cafes (although more expensive than other parts of the city) line the square, and are a perfect place to grab a coffee and pastry, and enjoy the sights and sounds of other tourists.

The Old Town has many interesting museums to visit. First visit the Princes Czartoryski Museum . This museum holds one of Poland’s treasures, this being the painting “Lady with an Ermine,” attributed to Leonardo DaVinci. But the museum also has many Polish artists as well, and one can spend many hours admiring the art within its regal halls. Returning to the town square, another interesting museum is found below the thousands of people passing through. The Rynek Underground Museum tells the story of Kraków while you walk amidst subterranean tunnels, and see evidence of civilizations past.

However, the most important figure in Kraków’s history would be the Wawel Royal Castle . Sitting prettily on the top of a hill overlooking the Vistula River, hundreds of years of Polish history happened within its walls, when Kraków used to be Poland’s capital. There are a variety of exhibits to choose from, and lots of history to be perused. After completion, walk down to the riverbanks and visit the Smok Wawleksi, a dragon statue that breathes fire, and along the Kraków Avenue of Stars.Nearby Kazimierz , the Old Jewish Quarter of Kraków, is also a must visit. Here you will find restaurants, bars, and history. This is where the locals relax, so get your authentic Krakówian experience here.

Kraków also has several beautiful parks to visit. Planty surrounds the Old Town, and is a perfect place to get some shade and find a nice bench to sit on. Henryk Jordan Park supplies a British botanical garden experience without having to leave Poland. Bielańsko-Tyniecki Landscape Park supplies opportunities to hike, and also a city view from the top of Piłsudski’s Mound . Finally, for a really unique experience, visit the old quarry Zakrzówek , where you can enjoy still blue waters and beautiful cliffs.

Kraków is also a great place to make day trips. Nearby unique attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mines . Take the stairs down into the salt caverns, and learn about the industry that helped make Poland rich, and also see the wonders of an underground church made entirely of salt. Also, nearby Kraków is Energylandia , one of Europe’s most impressive theme parks. For a more somber experience, head west to Auschwitz Concentration Camp , and reflect on the terrible tragedies of World War II.

Warsaw, as Poland’s capital has much to offer for visitors! You can easily spend anywhere from two days to a week exploring what it has to offer. With so many things to do, it can be overwhelming to decide what to visit. As a resident of Warsaw for the last seven months, I will supply my “novice expert” insight on the sights that are must see in Warsaw.

A good place to start is the center of Warsaw. Here you can find the Palace of Culture and Science, a building with a much-discussed history, and is disliked by many Poles. The main interest to tourists it the ability to take an elevator to the top and get a stunning view of the impressive Warsaw skyline. Many people do not realize that Warsaw has so many skyscrapers, and the best way to appreciate them is from above, such as the recently completed Varso Tower , the tallest building in the European Union.

The other important part of the city is the Old Town and the Royal Route . First, walk through the beautiful Saxon Gardens , and make your way to the University of Warsaw. From here, you can take a route through the rebuilt Old Town, past the Presidential Palace , the Royal Castle , and St John’s Church . Once to the Old Town Square, you can eat some Polish cuisine, buy a souvenir, and take lots of pictures. In the winter, this area becomes a public ice-skating rink, with lights and trees adorning the rebuilt buildings.

Other important sights in Warsaw are its many museums. The most beautiful is the Wilanow Palace , a beautiful yellow and white palace full of art and history, with a stunning garden surrounding it. During the winter, it houses a festival of lights that is a perfect place for a romantic evening with that special someone. Other museums of interest include the Warsaw Uprising Museum , telling a sad tale of a WWII atrocity, the National Museum of Warsaw , housing art and history, and the Chopin Museum , for those music lovers interested in learning about and listening to Poland’s most famous musician.

Warsaw is also a city of parks, with 25% of Warsaw being green spaces. The most famous is Łazienki Park , a huge park in southern Warsaw home to beautiful palaces and forums, as well as swans and peacocks. Other beautiful green spaces include the unique rooftop gardens of the University Library , which supply beautiful views of the Vistula River. Also, consider visiting Park Wodny Moczydło , a personal favorite of mine. Here you will find a duck pond, and most importantly, an artificial hill with a view of the city skyline, and benches and hammocks to relax on.

While Warsaw’s location provides it as a key location to traveling through Poland, there are not as many easy day trips as in Kraków. Some you could consider are visiting the green spaces outside the main city boundaries. Visiting Kampinos National Park , which is reachable by city bus, allows for all-day hikes and bike walks through sand dunes, marshes, forests, and other environments, and you might even see a moose on this trip! To the east, Mazowiecki Landscape Park supplies an opportunity to travel through lush forest, and even stop for a drink at a bar in the middle of the forest! Finally, one can visit Kabaty Woods in Warsaw’s southern reaches, a park full of summer barbeques and even the ability to ride off-road bikes if you have them!

Gdańsk-Sopot-Gdynia

Yes, I admit I am cheating, because this is three cities, not one. However, these three cities all meld together, and are sort of a tri-city urban area. Thus, it is easy to visit all three if your first destination of choice is Gdańsk. And Gdańsk is certainly a wonderful city, my favorite city in Poland to visit.

The most beautiful part of Gdańsk is certainly its Old Town . The Beautiful St Marys Church supplies views of the long market street, the Neptune Market and the canals that border the eastern edge of the Old Town. This is a good place to walk around and get lost, eat some food (I recommend Pierogarnia Mandu ), or find a bar to get a drink at. Also check out the Town Hall , which also supplies a view of the city, and supplies a history of the city of Gdańsk. There is also an occasional concert using the massive carillon placed in the bell tower.

Gdańsk is also a city of history, as a former free city on the Baltic, and all a starting point of WWII and the Polish Solidarity Movement during communist Poland. Visiting the Solidarity Museum and the WWII Museum is a good place to start. Also, visit Westerplatte , the site of the very first battle of WWII. Oliwski Park also supplies history, as a beautiful park that previously housed an important abbey when Gdańsk was not part of earlier iterations of Poland.

Another important part of this area is the Baltic Sea, without which Gdańsk would not be an important city in history. There are many beautiful sandy beaches to enjoy. In Gdańsk proper, Jelitkowo might be the most popular. However, the most popular beach in the Tri-City is Sopot , the second of the three cities. Here you will find shopping, dining, places to drink on the sandy shores, and the Sopot Pier .

Continuing further north brings you to Gdynia . Gdynia is often overlooked, but is has a few nice sights as well to add to your Tri-City trip. First, visit Orlowski Cliff, a perfect place to take a quick hike and nice pictures of the sea below and swim. In Gdynia center, take the funicular to the top of the city hill for city and sea views! Additionally, you can wind your way through the city streets looking for the many murals that exist on the sides of buildings. Finally, visit the Gdynia Pier to enjoy entertainment, and an aquarium.

If you are looking for a day trip from the Gdańsk area, consider a visit to Wydma Lacka , the mysterious rapidly-shifting sand dunes of northern Poland found in Słowiński National Park . These dunes move on average 10 meters (32 feet) per year, due to the strong winds from the Baltic Sea and are slowly devouring everything in its path, including the pine trees that flank its east side. This is a must see if you can make, as there just are few other places quite like it.

Wrocław is the largest city of the historical region of Silesia, is also one of Poland’s oldest major cities, and its placement at the juncture of the historic kingdoms of Poland, Bohemia, Hungary, Prussia, and the Habsburgs makes it lush with history. It is also a charming city found on the banks of the Oder River, with the quaint islands and charming bridges crisscrossing its winding route.

Wrocław is more of a traditional European city than other Polish cities, with a variety of architecture and art waiting to be explored! The Centennial Hall is such an example, an early example of concrete architecture, built by the Germans in the early 1900s. Other styles that have resulted in Wrocław icons was the brutalist style, such as the Toilet Seat Buildings . Additionally, a visit to the leaf-covered National Museum harkens to the ivy-covered buildings mostly found in England. While there is plenty of other modern architecture in Wrocław, you can also see the classic old style of buildings in the town square, and other parts of the city.

As with most major Polish cities, the Town Square is an important sight of the city, with food and commerce branching off from this central point. It is likely you will walk through here multiple times on your trip. Nearby is the heart of the city, the Oder River . One can spend all day exploring the islands and bridges of the river. The most famous bridges include Trzebnicki Bridge, Grunwald Bridge, and Tumski Bridge , which was traditionally a bridge for lovers, covered in locks. Crossing from the Town Square takes you to the other old-style buildings of the city, in Ostrow Tumski , with the 13th century Church of St John, the Baptist the most prominent example.

However, perhaps the most fun part of Wrocław is the art installments around the city. Specifically, the famous dwarfs of Wrocław are beckoning for tourists to find them! First installed in 2005, there are hundreds of dwarfs in the city that can be found taking part in various activities. If you spend a decent amount of time searching for them, you just might find that you have seen more of the city then you could have imagined. Another art feature of Wrocław is Galeria Neon Side , a trendy place to grab a drink with Soviet era neon sides hung on the brick walls. Wrocław is full of art, and you cannot go wrong with what you choose to search for!

The easiest day trip from Wrocław is visiting Książ Castle . This castle is the third largest castle in Poland, and attracts over 300 thousand tourists annually! And for good reason. The over 400 rooms of the castle have gaudy adornments, artwork, and other antiques, although much has been restored due to invasions by the Germans and Soviets respectively. Finally, the view of the river below is stunning, and makes any hassle to get there more than worthwhile!

Trendy Destinations in Poland

While the earlier four cities may be the most visited cities in Poland by foreigners and Poles alike, these cities are more popular amongst Polish people. That is not to say that there are not international tourists visiting these destinations. Just less so than a city like Kraków especially. These cities are also slightly smaller, and thus are doable in a day or two as an addition to the larger cities of Poland.

Zakopane is Poland’s Swizz Ski Resort, without the exorbitant prices of Switzerland. Located in the far south of Poland in the Tatra Mountain range, the tallest subrange of the famous Carpathian Mountains, this small town has everything you want for you winter delights. But it is also a delightful place to visit during the summer. And while the great outdoors is certainly the main draw of Zakopane, there is also a unique culture of the highlander people of Poland that is also of interest. Just beware that people in Zakopane are a bit more unwilling to speak English as in other Polish cities.

The main attraction is of course the mountains. There are many winter slopes to ski and snowboard on nearby to the city. Generally, there is the opportunity to take part in every winter sport available. However, during the summer, these ski slopes open up to outstanding hiking! The most popular is a moderately easy hike to Morskie Orko , which will get your daily cardio in as you arrive at the stunning like surrounded by mountains. For the more adventurous and experienced, Orla Perć , or the Eagle’s Perch, takes you above the lake for even more stunning views.

If you want the mountains without the workout, another possibility is taking the cable car to Kasprowy Wierch . Located at a very high flat spot in the Tatras, right on the border with Slovakia, the views are some of the best you can get in this part of Europe. Just be warned that the line for the cable car can get quite long in the summer, so advance tickets are highly recommended. If this sounds too scary, there is funicular within Zakopane that is much tamer, and still gives good views of the river valley where Zakopane is found.

The other entertaining part of Zakopane is the culture! Firstly, for you foodies, Zakopane produces a wonderfully tasty cheese called oscypek. Oscypek is a smoked cheese made of sheep’s milk that can only be found here, and often has intricate designs cut into its side. Have it with a side of cranberry jam, and you have just had a Polish essential! The other unique cultural aspect of Zakopane is the architecture. Zakopane has its owned named architecture, a unique mixing of wooden building styles. To learn more about the artist who coined this style, and also painted under the influence of hard drugs such as peyote, visit the Muzeum Stylu Zakopiańskiego im. S. Witkiewciza for perspective.

Poznań, in my opinion, is the most underrated city in Poland. However, it is still widely visited due to its placement at the center of Poland, within shorter train rides from Warsaw, Gdańsk, Wrocław, and Berlin. Poznań is a bustling university town with lots of action, and spending a few days here is a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the beautiful sights Poznań has to offer.

I sound like a broken record at this point, but the key sight in Poznań is the Old Town and the Town Square . Currently under construction, the cobblestone streets and breathtaking buildings are still worth a visit! This is also the part of town where much good food and drink is. But, make sure to wonder down some side streets too! These will take you to the Royal Castle , whose placement on a hill supplies view of the city below, and also to the Basilica of Mary Magdalene and St. Stanislaus , which I thought looked like it came from a painting. Also, take a walk to Kolorowa for delicious ice cream!

Of course, living like the students is a fun way to visit Poznań. Start by enjoying a picnic on the banks of the Warta River . Although narrow and shallow, its wide banks supply the perfect opportunity for spring and summertime activities, and when I visited it was packed. Additionally, grab a bite to eat and party at Nocny Targ Towaryzki , a cool outdoor market with food trucks and bars with a younger crowd. Additionally, get your beer on and visit the Lech Brewery , one of Poland’s largest, and tour the facilities and try the famous Polish beer !

Finally, Poznań has beautiful nature to enjoy, with this nature centered on Lake Malta . This lake is the summer hub of activities, with a wide walking and cycling path surrounding it, small thrill rides, crew competitions, and bars. Additionally, on a colder day, visit the Poznań Palm House to warm up and admire the exotic plants and animals inside, and then take a walk in Woodrow Wilson Park just outside. Finally, take a trip to Citadel Park , to see old military forts, and relax on the large lawns available within its area.

Toruń is a UNESCO world heritage site city not far from Poland on the Vistula River . The biggest draw is its classic gothic architectural style that makes for an entertaining walk through. It is also the home of famous astronomer and scientist Nicolaus Copernicus (bet you did not know he was Polish!). These two reasons make Toruń an interesting visit.

Toruń is also one of Poland’s oldest towns, and thus has an Old Town and a New Town , with the New Town built in 1264! Walking through this part of town will take up most of your day. Must visits include the 13 th century Town Hall , found in the Old Town, as well as the beautiful brick gothic-style St John’s Cathedral . Additionally, visit the Teutonic Castle Ruins for a glimpse into the city’s past, as well as the Castle Walls , and the oddity of the Leaning Tower of Toruń (which is much smaller than its counterpart in Pisa). If you want the best view of the city though, head across the river for a beautiful landscape view of the city, which is especially stunning around sunset.

If you came to Toruń for Copernicus, Toruń has a few offerings for you. First, you can visit his non-to-scale monument in the Old Town, although his discoveries were certainly more massive than this monument. Additionally, you can visit the Nicolaus Copernicus Museum , and learn more about his life and studies. Finally, you can visit the Planetarium , and get to experience what Copernicus was doing when he made his foundational discoveries.

Olsztyn is a smaller town found in the wild north of Poland, about 2.5 hours away from Gdańsk and Warsaw by train . It is worth a visit mostly because it is the gateway to Masuria , the lake region of Poland. Masuria is home to thousands of lakes, including Poland’s biggest. Thus, you can be sure to enjoy every type of lake recreation known to man, including sailing, kayaking, riding a Jet ski, and paddleboarding. Additionally, you can camp and hike in the forests surrounding the lakes, or you can stay in some of the lavish resorts available if that is more your style. Key Masurian lakes include Śniardwy, Mamry, Jeziorek, and Niegocin .

But, the city itself also has offerings for visitors. The town is part of the Brick Gothic route, and thus has many gothic buildings, such as the Warmia Castle and St James Cathedral . Additionally, within the city limits, there are much nature to be enjoyed, such as the four main lakes within the city limits, Trackie, Skanda, Kortowskie, and Ukiel . These lakes supply the same entertainment as those in Masuria without having to leave the city limits.

Lublin is a mid-sized city found nearby Warsaw, that is also one of Poland’s cheapest cities. There is much to do within Lublin, but also Lublin can serve as a great base for day trips, especially to other smaller cities named in this list. Day trips that can be taken from Lublin include Zamość, Zalipie, Kazimierz Dolny, and the outdoor paradise of Polesie National Park . For the later, expect long walks through bogs with the Polish sun beaming overhead, and sights of otters, elk, beavers, and bats at night.

But, Lublin proper has much to offer for tourists. Going to Lublin will likely take you to the Old Town , where you can find Lublin Castle, Dominican Abbey, the Cracow Gate , and the Crown Tribunal , all older sights that tell a tale of Lublin’s important to eastern Poland, which used to entail parts of Ukraine and Belarus. Additionally, Lublin is a city of museums! The most somber is Majdanek State Museum , which tells a sad tale of genocide during WWII. Additionally, a visit to the Outdoor Open-Air Village takes you back in time, and allows you to experience how Polish people used to live hundreds of years ago.

Underrated Cities in Poland

This section has a few brief words about some cities that are often ignored when visiting Poland. The downside with most is that the tourism infrastructure is not as built up in these cities. But if you can get beyond that, these cities are all charming and worth a visit!

Łódź is a perfect daytrip from Warsaw (but be warned that the current town center is torn up for restoration, making navigation somewhat difficult). Łódź has a history of industry, and this is celebrated rather than shunned. Księży Młyn is located in the heart of this area, with faux-brick buildings, and even an old train stop. Also feel the industrial style at Manufaktura , the hub of Łódź, with shopping, museums, a Ferris wheel, and more.

Łódź’s main sight is Piotrkowska , Poland’s longest pedestrian street. This street is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. Also, take a quick glance into the Pasaż Róży , to see a beautiful glass art installment. Łódź has other art offerings, such as at the Łódź Art Museum, which has three campuses, including one at the beautiful Herbst Palace . Once finishing admiring the art at the palace, take a walk around Molo to detox.

Szczecin is fairly unknown to tourists, unless you are German. Mostly this is because its location in the extreme northwest of Poland makes it hard to access. But Szczecin has a lot to offer tourists! Perhaps the most unique attraction on this list is Kot Gacek , a feral street cat with a 5-star Google rating who recently went viral. While he is undergoing rehabilitation after an attempted cat-napping, he should be back during the summer! If Gacek isn’t there, walk around the town and visit the Pomeranian Duke’s Castle , and the Chroby Embankment on the Oder River .

Other unique experiences in Szczecin include riding the touristy Tram 0 on Sundays during the tourist season. This allows you to see the whole city at a low cost while riding an old-fashioned tram. Venture slightly out of the city to visit the nearby Crooked Forest , which is a forest full of trees with an odd, unexplained crook in every one of them.

Katowice is often overlooked due to its industrial nature. However, its closeness to other Polish sights, such as Auschwitz, make it a decent place to stay, and it is cheaper than Kraków to use as a base of operation. Additionally, the city does have some sights to offer that make it worth a visit! First, learn the history of the industrial nature of this city by visiting the Silesian Museum , and take a trip up the crane to get a view of the city. Then, walk down Ulica Mariacka to St Mary’s Church to see the main part of the town.

Katowice has some surprisingly good outdoor entertainment as well. Visit Legendia Silesian Amusement Park if your hunger for thrills was not met by Energylandia. Also, visit the many green spaces, such as the Valley of Three Ponds , Silesia Park , and Kościuszko Park . Also, overcome stereotypes, and visit neighboring Sosnowiec . Sosnowiec is often considered the most joked about town in Poland, but the lovely Park Sielecki begs to differ.

Bydgoszcz is my least-favorite Polish city to spell, and is often overlooked due to the beauties of nearby Toruń. However, Bydgoszcz is worth a visit if you already plan to visit Toruń. The Brda River supplies most of the entertainment. On its banks, you can find Mill Island , Ulica Tamka , Opera Nova , Minor Basilica of St Vincent de Paul , and the Old Town Square. All these sights point to a history of industry and agriculture, and the environment is laid-back, and mostly tourist-free. If this is not enough for you, head into Poland’s largest urban park, Myślęcinek .

The main draw of Zamość, a mid-sized town near Lublin, is its beautiful UNESCO heritage Old Town , with a stunning town hall and brightly colorful buildings. While the rest of the town does not have as much to do, it is still worth a visit, since this Old Town really is beautiful! But there are also green spaces within the park, and you can visit the bastion that protected the city in times past.

The Smaller Towns

These towns have one important thing worth seeing, but they are still worth a visit if you can work them into your schedule, as each of these things are unique, and important to Polish history and culture.

Kołobrzeg is an essential visit to get a true Baltic experience. While Gdańsk is on the Baltic, it is somewhat sheltered from the open sea by the Gulf of Gdańsk. Thus, coming to Kołobrzeg feels a bit more authentic, as looking north leads you to Sweden. Here, enjoys the restores and health spas that are available, and the pier and beautiful rebuilt lighthouse . There is also an 800-year-old oak tree found note far from the city. This city is reachable easiest from Szczecin.

If you are coming to Malbork, about a 30-minute train ride from Gdańsk, you are coming to visit the Malbork Castle . Not only is it the largest castle in Poland, it is the largest brick gothic style castle in the entire world. Although partially destroyed during WWII, this Teutonic castle can only be described as massive. Take three hours to tour it, inside and out.

This takes the cake as the smallest town on this list, with less than 1000 residents. However, what makes this town unique is the beautiful custom-painted cottages. Here houses, will have flourishing motifs of flowers painted in bright colors on walls, inside and out, and you will feel like you are living in a fairy tale land. Zalipie is reachable from Kraków or Lublin by car.

Poland has a city for everyone. There are cities with culture, outdoor activities, architecture, nightlife, and more. While there is certainly more to do in those cities than the information I provided, I hope you find the points of interest supplied a good starting point for further research. So, I hope you find the Polish city for you, as Poland, one of Europe’s underrated countries, is waiting for you!

University Student

Hi everyone! My name is Jeremy, and I am a staff writer for Poland Insiders. I first came to Poland in May of 2022, fell in love with it, applied to go to university here, got accepted, and have now been living in Warsaw since September 2022! I love traveling and sharing about what I find along the way, whether food, culture, or events. Being born and raised on the West Coast of the US, I also love nature, Asian food, and a good (non-alcoholic) beer. I am happy to share my adventures in Poland as I continue to live and study here for the near future.

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If you’re looking for the best cities to visit in Poland and wondering what you can see in this country, this post is for you.

Most Polish cities are way more exciting than people give them credit for, and they should be on any Europe lover’s bucket list.

Want to know what each one has to offer? Check out this awesome roundup of the best city breaks in Poland.

Warning: You might feel your fingers tingling and the urge to book a flight.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Table of Contents

Cities to Visit in Central Poland

The largest city in the country, Warsaw is rapidly gaining the attention it deserves as a visit-worthy European capital.

Alongside landmarks and museums that preserve its history and heritage, you’ll find shopping streets, colorful murals, parks and gardens, and modern cafes and restaurants.

This city also offers exquisite food, buzzing nightlife, and cultural events like open-air Chopin concerts, so any traveler can find something to love about it.

Plus, it has something to offer in every season, so it makes a fantastic winter break in Europe just as much as it is a great summer getaway. Believe it or not, it’s also a wonderful European girls’ trip destination .

One of the best things to see in Warsaw is the old town. It was reconstructed after WWII and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Take your time to stroll through its beautiful streets and Old Town Market Square, and don’t miss landmarks like the Royal Castle and Barbican.

Another fun free thing to do in this city is to explore the Praga district on the other side of the Vistula River. Here you’ll find an interesting mix of street art, pre-war buildings, cultural spaces, and even one of Europe’s busiest zoos.

You can also visit plenty of museums like the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, the Copernicus Science Centre, and the Uprising Museum or take alternative walking tours like a Communism tour to learn more about the city’s history.

By Ania from The Traveling Twins

Łódź is the Polish word for boat, but the  city of Łodź  is in the middle of Poland and doesn’t have any rivers.

It was a small market town until shortly after the beginning of the 19th century when it became the fastest-growing industrial city in Europe.

Vast fortunes were made, and palatial homes were built for the wealthy, bringing an influx of fabulous craftsmanship.

Łodź’s riches were created in red brick steam-powered factories so large that they had internal streets. But in time, these places became grim and grey, especially with the industrial decline of the later 20th century.

Now the red brick factories are fancy shopping malls, restaurants, and open spaces. The palaces are museums and galleries. The air is clean, and many of the grey buildings are covered in big colorful murals.

At the turn of the twenty-first century, Łódź has built on the cultural legacy of the industrial era, emerging from the ashes to become a city of modern culture, art, and good food.

Visit Manufaktura – an enormous restoration and reimagination of vast industrial textile mills that creates an exciting series of internal and external spaces. They house malls, galleries, cinemas, play spaces, food outlets, and game halls.

Walk or ride a rickshaw along Piotrkowska, Łódź’s main street, which at over 4 km, is the longest shopping street in Europe.

You can also enjoy spacious open parks, shops, restaurants, bars, street art, and historic buildings restored as exhibitions, modern workspaces, and cafes.

Best Cities to Visit in Poland’s Western Regions

I can safely say that Poznan is one of the most beautiful cities in Poland and a total revelation to me. From exquisite architecture to huge parks and gardens to the coziest cafes to open-air markets, you will never be bored in this city.

And what’s better than visiting a picturesque place that offers a long list of things to do and see but has yet to be discovered by masses of tourists? It is the absolute best.

Start with rambling through the streets of the old town and visiting the Old Town Market Square (aka one of the most stunning European squares ).

Beyond its beautiful colors and architecture, it houses sights and museums like the Old Town Hall, the Archaeological Museum, and the Croissant Museum.

The last one is dedicated to a uniquely flavored local pastry called St. Martin’s croissant. It is a must-try when visiting Poznan and can only be called St. Martin’s croissant by bakeries with a special certificate.

Other visit-worthy spots in the city include Poznan’s Cathedral, the Imperial Castle, Poznan’s palm house, and the list goes on.

And for those of you who want to enjoy some natural scenery, take a stroll around Lake Malta or one of Poznan’s many gardens and parks.

By Alexander from  Gourmand Trotter

Wroclaw is located in the South West of Poland, about 3 hours driving from Krakow in the historical region of Silesia.

It’s an old city with several historic buildings and impressive architecture. It has been part of various kingdoms throughout history, which can still be seen in the city.

Some of the major landmarks include the Main Market Square, Cathedral Island, and the Centennial Hall, which is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Wroclaw is one of the lesser-known cities in Poland, but more tourists are discovering its beauty these days, especially since it was listed as a European Capital of Culture in 2016.

It’s beautiful to visit any time of the year, and one of the main highlights is to stroll around the old town and admire the architecture.

Another fun activity is to go gnome hunting and find all the gnome statues that are scattered across the city.

By Anya from Road is Calling

Gniezno, the first capital of Poland, is a small city located 40 minutes from Poznan. It is great to  visit it on a day trip  from Poznan or have a side trip when traveling to Łódź.

Although it’s difficult to call Gniezno outstanding in terms of architecture, it is still very cozy with cute streets, lots of trees, and a unique vibe.

Here, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is located – one of the most revered and famous Polish churches.

I love how pleasant it is to wander through the narrow streets getting in the heart of the city to the old Market Square. It is also nice to spend a few hours learning about the city’s great historical and sacred significance.

Gniezno is surrounded by lakes and parks, and the rolling hills give this landscape a special charm. The cultural life is in full swing with various festivals, events, and historical meetings taking place on a regular basis.

Some of the places to visit in Gniezno on any occasion are Bazylika sw. Wojciecha, Museum of Heritage, Market Square, and the largest train yard museum in Europe.

Park Piastowski offers a few walking trails from where you get a view of the Basilica and nearby houses. Also, foodies should stop for lunch at Pierogarna Siodme Niebo cafe that serves incredibly delish pierogi.

Sitting on the Oder river near the Dąbie Lake, the Szczecin Lagoon, and the border with Germany, Szczecin is an important port city with a history that traces back to the 8th century.

Throughout the years, it belonged to the Duchy of Pomerania, the Kingdom of Prussia, and Germany (amongst many other rulings), until it finally became part of Poland again after WWII.

Like many other Polish cities, what makes Szczecin so special is that perfect combo of old and new.

From the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle and the Szczecin Cathedral to trendy cafes and the insta-worthy Be Happy Museum, this city offers a fun mix of things to do and see.

The easiest way to get to Szczecin is by train from Poznan.

Best Cities in Poland’s Northern Regions

By Inna from  The Executive Thrillseeker

Throughout its long history, Gdansk has absorbed many different features: you can see medieval churches and typical Soviet buildings standing next to each other. 

When you arrive in Gdansk, get ready to see the old city (Stare Miasto). Although it was severely destroyed during WWII, it has been carefully restored.

When you arrive at Gdansk Glowny station, follow the signs, and soon you will see intricate cathedrals and colorful houses that are more than 300 years old.

Ulica Dluga is perfect for walking and enjoying the beautiful views of the old town. This street looks like a busy anthill – there are a lot of cafes even for the pickiest taste, hundreds of tourists, and a cozy promenade.

You can find out about the history of Gdansk in the National Museum. There you can also discover an excellent collection of Flemish paintings.

Also, do check out the second-largest church in Europe and the largest brick church in the world – the Basilica of the Virgin Mary.

If you are tired of medieval architecture and looking for some adventure, head to Gdansk’s Stocznia district. Bicycles, fairs, street food, and parties until the morning – this is what Stocznia is all about.

By Ivan from  Mind the Travel

Located in northern Poland, Bydgoszcz (it can be roughly pronounced like Bid-gosh-ch) is known as Polish Venice.

Its distinctive decorative red-brick architecture, food scene, laid-back atmosphere, and youthful vibes are some of the reasons why the city is worth a visit. However, it’s still one of the country’s lesser-known destinations.

Spend some time walking around the streets of the Old Town and marveling at the beauty of Bydgoszcz Market Square, one of the prettiest medieval squares in Poland.

It witnessed some tragic events during WWII, and you can commemorate the Nazi regime’s victims at the Bydgoszcz Land Fight and Martyrdom Monument. 

Continue and head to the Cathedral of Saints Martin and Nicholas. Do not miss out on the opportunity to get your photo taken with the Tightrope Walker Sculpture, dangling over the River Brda.

On the other side of it, you’ll find Mill’s Island (Wyspa Mlynska), a spacious green oasis where locals relax on the weekends.

Consider watching a world-class theatrical performance at Opera Nova in the evening. You may also listen to and enjoy a classical music concert at the famous Pomeranian Philharmonic. Arguably, this is the prettiest place in the city and the reason to come.

No trip to Bydgoszcz is complete without visiting the Museum of Soap and History of Dirt. This unique museum takes visitors through the history of hygiene and the soap manufacturing process. You can also create your own soap at the museum’s workshop area.

Being a compact city, Bydgoszcz is easy to explore on foot. In addition, because of its underrated status, you may find locals are more inclined to offer advice when you need it.

By Sean from  LivingoutLau

Are you a beach lover? Do you miss the beach when you are traveling? Worry not. Though Poland is not famous for its beaches, it does have quite a few worth checking out. My favorite beach town/city is Sopot.

Located a short train ride from the popular tourist city of Gdansk, Sopot is an easy day trip. Though if you want to stay for a few days, there are many accommodations and things to do in the area.

Not only is Sopot known for its sandy beaches located next to the Baltic Sea, but it also has some of the craziest parties in Poland. Come party for a few days, lay on the beach, and just relax. Vacation isn’t always about constant action.

There are also a few Polish landmarks worth visiting in Sopot such as the unique Crooked House, the beautiful Sopot pier, and the famous Bohaterów Monte Cassino pedestrian street.

By Claire of  Backpacking Bella

Despite its name, Hel is one of the most heavenly places to visit in Poland. With a warm and temperate climate, it sits at the tip of the Hel Peninsula in the Pomerania province, close to the Tri-city area of Gdańsk, Gdynia, and Sopot.

Connected by road and rail of 33 kilometers (21 miles) to the mainland, the Hel peninsula is so narrow that during the train journey, you can see beaches on both sides.

Previously a trade center, fishing harbor, and naval base, Hel is now a yacht marina and a popular seaside resort for weekend trips from the Tri-city.

Hel’s history as a military base is still evident as fascinating remnants of naval stations and equipment are dotted around the area.

Its tourist attractions include a seal sanctuary, which is particularly fun at feeding time. There’s also a lighthouse, welcoming restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nature reserves to explore, as you can walk all the way around the end of the peninsula.

In Hel, it feels like you are at the edge of the world, but in the best way possible.

By Dominika from Sunday In Wonderland

Poland is rich not only with big metropoles but also with many smaller cities. In those places, you can discover the real Polish culture. One of them is Kartuzy, a town located in the Kaszubian region, around 35 kilometers from Gdańsk.

Kartuzy is situated in a picturesque landscape. The town is surrounded by green forests and four lakes.

Among the people from  Northern Poland , Kartuzy is mostly known for the collegiate Carthusian church and its particular shape – the characteristic roof of the temple looks like a coffin lid.

This church is also the main architectural and historical attraction of the city. Kartuzy took a name from the Carthusian order, which settled in here in the Middle Ages. The history of monks and their daily routines is still alive in this place.

After a visit to the church, the former order’s buildings, and a walk alongside the picturesque lakes, you should direct your steps into the city center.

The market square in Kartuzy, as in many other medieval cities in Poland, is the most representative place. It was restored a few years ago, so today it’s a great spot to take a rest, eat a delicious Polish meal, and treat yourself with some sweets from a local bakery.

When you visit the Kashubian region, you must definitely try some local sweet buns called drożdżówka, and eat them while relaxing at the local market square.

By Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

Toruń’s old town, or Stare Miasto in Polish, escaped practically unscathed from the bombings of WWII. It’s a wonderfully well-preserved walled town built in the Gothic style and has rightly earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Surprisingly, though, it remains off the radar of most tourists, so you won’t have to elbow your way through the crowds like in other Polish cities.

Impressive Gothic buildings to look for include the Town Hall and the Church of St. Mary. The latter is adorned with Gothic frescoes from around 1380, while the Town Hall’s tower can be climbed for terrific views.

Another great panoramic viewpoint is on the left bank of the Vistula River.

Toruń is famous for two things: gingerbread (Toruńskie pierniki) and the astronomer Copernicus, who was born here in 1473. You can even buy a souvenir that combines the two: a gingerbread cookie in the shape of Copernicus!

The most well-known gingerbread producer here is the historic Kopernik Confectionery Factory.

While the recipe is a closely guarded secret, they have revealed that there is no milk or eggs in the batter, making Toruń gingerbread  a traditional Polish food that vegans can enjoy ! It’s also certified as being kosher, non-GMO, and free of palm oil.

By Kamila from My Wanderlust

Gdynia is one of the youngest cities in Poland. It was founded only at the beginning of the 20th century. Always in the shadow of the older and more popular Gdańsk, Gdynia also has a lot to offer and is worth your time.

You can admire here amazing modernist architecture (probably the best in Poland), cool murals, and some incredible ships – a perfect testimony to the maritime heritage of the city.

In Gdynia, you can also find one of the most interesting museums in Poland – The Museum of Emigration, showing the history of transatlantic liners and those who took them in search of a better tomorrow.

If you wish to relax or enjoy some water sports – Gdynia is perfect for that too! For a nature getaway, visit cliffs in Orłowo – this is such a picturesque place, away from the crowds.

Gdynia is also home to some well-known festivals, such as the music festival Open’er that takes place each year at the beginning of July or the Polish Feature Film Festival. There are just so many reasons to  visit Gdynia !

Looking for more European city break inspo? Check out these amazing cities you need to visit in Hungary , Portugal , the Netherlands , Germany , and Austria !

Also, check out my roundup of travel sneakers that are perfect for a city break.

BEST WEEKEND BREAKS IN POLAND’S SOUTHERN REGIONS

By Stephanie from History Fan Girl

Krakow is a gorgeous historic city in Poland, and it’s one of the most important cities to visit to understand the devastating toll that the Second World War took on Eastern Europe.

On your Krakow itinerary, you can learn about the events that happened in the city, visit Oscar Schindler’s factory, and take a day trip out to Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Even though I’ve visited many World War II sites like Normandy, Berlin, and Dresden, Auschwitz and Krakow are two of the places that stand out the most for me and where I learned the most about the real effects of the war.

Beyond World War II history, you can explore the city’s historic core. Highlights include the Wawel Royal Castle and the city’s restored Main Square.

Another interesting day trip that should not be missed is a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Wieliczka Salt Mine , an underground world that combines science and art.

By David from Travelsewhere

Tucked away in the southeast of Poland, you’d be forgiven for overlooking the small  city of Rzeszów .

The modern Rzeszów is a financial and commercial hub, but those who visit it will discover a pleasing historical center that dates back to the Middle Ages.

Rzeszów prospered as a trade stop between Europe and the Ottoman Empire but lost much of its importance under the Austrian Empire.

At the heart of Rzeszów is its Market Square, which is lined with beautiful traditional architecture and is home to a cute little covered well.

But what really steals your focus here is the City Hall, whose elaborate design hides the fact that it’s only 100 years old. Not that you’re likely to mind because it’s surely one of the prettiest city halls in Poland.

There are more grand buildings to be found along the pedestrian thoroughfare of 3 Maja, named after the day on which Poland’s constitution was declared.

Follow the street to the end, and you’ll find the curious pairing of Rzeszów Castle and Lubomirski Summer Palace sitting across from one another.

The castle, while imposing, is not all that pretty, whereas the palace looks the height of elegance.

By Diana from  The Elusive Family

Approximately 1 hour east of Krakow on the newly created highway, sits the beautiful city of Tarnow. It is of utmost historical significance in Poland’s history.

During WWII, the city was home to a large Jewish Ghetto and also had the first train to Auschwitz, where the Germans continued to decimate the town’s population.

Today, a lot of the city’s history is ingrained into its culture. The town center is creating a new museum dedicated to the war as well as Tarnow’s history in its entirety. There is also a large Jewish Cemetery that was recently restored.

Rynek is the center of the town, within which you can find the main square and an area where a lot of locals go to have a beer in the evening.

The city itself is a growing city with a long shopping area on Wawel Street and growing shopping districts outside of the main streets.

A train station has direct trains to many cities in Poland, including Krakow, and Tarnow also lies right off the main highway. It is a beautiful place to visit and definitely worth exploring.

By Veronika from Travel Geekery

Gorlice in Poland can be found not too far from Krakow, but it’s a town rarely any foreign traveler ever visits. That’s surprising given how beautiful the town and the area around it are and how significant a role in history it played.

Gorlice is the place where the very first crude oil mine was built in the 19th century, with locals harvesting the strange black liquid that leaked out of the soil as far back as the 16th century. The kerosene lamp was also invented in Gorlice.

One of the main events of the First World War happened here in the famous Battle of Gorlice. It eventually led to Poland’s independence being restored.

The cute town features a lovely square and a maze of narrow streets surrounding it.

The best time to visit is late September when yearly celebrations of light dress the city even more up, and amazing fire shows are held right at the square.

By Coni from  Experiencing the Globe

If you’re looking for an escape from big cities, Zakopane is a perfect choice.

It has the vibe of a ski resort town from Central Europe but in a much more authentic way. The town is laid back, full of charm, and ideal if you want to have an active holiday.

You’ll find winter sports in the cold season, but when it shines the most (in my personal opinion) is throughout the rest of the year, when it serves as an entry point to the Tatra National Park.

You can base yourself in Zakopane and spend days on end hiking and climbing the gorgeous mountains.

The most popular hike is to Lake Morskie Oko (‘Eye of the Sea’). But if you visit during summer and want to avoid crowds, head to the tourist information office, where they will happily show you the many more alternatives to enjoy the vistas in peace.

After a day of beautiful panoramic views of mountain lakes, have a stroll around Krupówki street for restaurants, coffee shops, and people watching.

Don’t forget to try the local delicacies: gofry, a full-of-toppings bubble waffle; and Oscypek, grilled smoked sheep cheese served with cranberry jam (I know it sounds weird, but it’s delicious!).

By Julia from  Where is Juli

Katowice is a city that you usually pass through, not visit. It is located in Silesia (Slask), the mining region of Poland, and remains off the beaten tourist path.

But Katowice has so much to offer, so give it a chance and stay for a few days to explore.

Start your visit at the Silesian Museum (Museum Slaskie). This is one of the most interesting museums in Poland (and the best one I have ever been to), where you will learn about the history of the region. Extra tip – on Tuesdays, admission is free.

If you like design, you will appreciate the architecture of the buildings and the surrounding area. Located nearby – Spodek (meaning “saucer” in Polish) – is one of the most recognizable buildings in the country. It is a multipurpose arena complex that was built in 1971.

No visit to Katowice is complete without a walk in the suburb of Niszkowiec. The 100-year-old workers’ districts are full of characteristic brick buildings and give you endless photo opportunities.

Stop for a coffee at Zillmann Tea & Coffee or the legendary Cafe Byfyj. To try some Silesian food (yes, there is a regional cousin here), go to Żurownia restaurant and order kluski slaskie, zur , or brat .

If you are visiting Katowice in the summer, you can chill out at Three Ponds Valley (Dolina Trzech Stawów) – an oasis in the urban jungle, where you can relax on the beach and listen to live music.

The city also has the nearest airport to Auschwitz , so if you’re planning a visit, that would be convenient.

Cities to Visit in Eastern Poland

By Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Lublin is one of the most underrated cities in Poland.

It receives little attention while it is just as scenic as the more famous cities like Krakow or Gdansk. There is also an equal number of  interesting things to do in Lublin .

Lublin is located between Krakow and Vilnius and has always been a major center of trade and commerce in the Eastern part of Poland. It was a very multicultural city, and even though the old town was left intact during WWII, a large part of its Jewish community sadly disappeared.

Nowadays, the main attraction is Lublin Castle that has a nice location up on a hill overlooking the old town.

The castle once belonged to the royal family ruling over Eastern Poland but is now home to the Lublin Museum, which is one of the best museums in the city. 

From Lublin’s castle, it is just a short walk to the old town with its ancient city gates, colorful merchants’ homes, and great restaurants.

Also, in the newer part of the town around Litewski Square are some delicious places to eat where you can try Polish cuisine. With its great food and friendly people, Lublin is definitely worth a visit.

By Karolina from Lazy Travel Blog

Possibly the best destination on the eastern side of Poland is the small town of Zamosc.

The Pearl of the Renaissance, which was once the epicenter of the 16th century Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, is a gem waiting to be discovered by the travel community.

This small town in Lublin Voivodeship, which is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with beautiful and colorful buildings that will take you back to the past.

One of the best  things to do in Zamosc  is to see its iconic attraction – the City Hall that looks over the old town square.

It is probably the most photographed building in Zamosc due to its architectural beauty. Although one can climb up the steps or enter the lobby, the rest of the building is still used as council offices.

Another building that is worth a visit is the Cathedral of the Resurrection and St. Thomas the Apostle. Fringed by the branches of the trees that surround it, it is the perfect subject for a bit of photography.

For historians and adventurers, there is a half-kilometer underground walk through the Bastion part of the Zamosc Fortress that is open to tourists.

By Ana from Merry-Go-Round Slowly

Like many other Eastern European cities,  Bialystok might not seem charming right at first sight .

It has many grey Soviet blocks of flats and might seem a little hard to crack at first, but give it a chance. This place has so much to offer in terms of history, hospitality, and local cuisine.

Bialystok is a real border city and is located close to the borders of Lithuania, Belarus, and Ukraine. Like many other towns in Eastern Europe, it has stayed in one place, while the countries changed.

At different times Bialystok was a part of the Russian Empire, Lithuania, and Poland. Before the war, 20% of the population was Jewish.

If you visit Bialystok, take a stroll around the city center, and make sure you pay a visit to Branicki Park and Palace. The old town may seem old, but it was rebuilt after the original wooden houses had burned down.

While in Bialystok, you have to try some local food and beer. The local food is potatoes in all possible variations. Other typical dishes include herring, filled dumplings, and many hearty soups.

For dessert, check out Wedel at Rynek Kościuszki street. There you can choose among chocolate in all possible forms: sweets, cakes, drinks, and mousses.

Bialystok does not have an airport, but it can be a great place for a road trip from either Vilnius or Warsaw.

Pin this post about the best cities to see in Poland for later!

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

4 thoughts on “22 Best Cities to Visit in Poland (Right Now)”

Bydgoszcz is pronounced more like “Bid-goshch” (“bid” pronounced like “I placed a bid at the auction”).

You’re right – I’ve just corrected it. Thank you!

Such a beautiful country! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide! Saved your post for the future 🙂

Glad you liked it 🙂 It’s definitely a beautiful country

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

10 Best Cities To Visit in Poland

There is no secret that Poland’s main pulling magnets for its ever-blossoming tourism and hospitality industry are the magnificent cities.

Not only they are downright gorgeous but also enchanted by deep-rooted history, strong diversity in museums and other attractions, lively nightlife and entertainment, architecture that make cameras overheat with fascinating nature all around that will make your heart pound a little bit faster.

With 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Poland, it is easy to fall in love and be dazzled by the medieval charm and beauty these cities express.

Since there are many cities in Poland, to avoid confusion and steer your ship of adventures and everlasting memories in the right direction, we list 10 best cities to visit in Poland.

All with their own perks and gems, ready to be discovered by you.

Let’s bounce! Shall we?

Our list doesn’t start with Krakow by accident as we simply must begin with one of the most mesmerizing and beautiful cities in Europe and the world. Being a former capital of Poland for hundreds of years, it always led by example in academic, economic, cultural and artistic areas.

Whether its remarkable landmarks like Wawel Castle or the UNESCO Listed Old Town with cobblestone streets to be admired, Krakow will quickly make its case as your new favorite city.

Let the city take you through the beautiful journey across Gothic , Renaissance and Baroque architecture epochs alongside many museums, lovely restaurants, world-class art and music, all within the picturesque banks of Vistula river.

There is a chance you haven’t heard of Torun much if so, take notes because it is right up there with iconic cities like Krakow!

Known for being the birthplace of the famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus and a delicious traditional gingerbread, it is also one of the oldest cities in Poland. Being almost untouched by the havoc of World War II, the stunning preservation of its history and architecture together with the compact size allows for easy and fascinating exploration.

Besides the UNESCO Heritage Old Town, you will instantly fall in love with gothic churches, leaning medieval towers and massive castles with a chance to learn how to make a local gingerbread or learn about the life of Copernicus with many other attractions awaiting. Be ready for an instant Polish classic in Torun!

3. Zakopane

Bordered by the stunning Tatra National Park, and sometimes referred to as the ‘winter capital of Poland’ it is a city that outdoor and natures enthusiasts will enjoy and love.

From a village of 43 inhabitants to nearly 3 million visitors annually, Zakopane and its natural arsenal all around have come a long way and it is easy to see why. Today it’s a resort with a striking mountain backdrop and lovely wooden villas, Zakopane is a city that makes a perfect base for outdoor adventures in Tatras.

Hiking and skiing is king here, as the great outdoors of Tatras and lovely charm of Zakopane and its resort-like amenities will definitely enhance your vacation in Poland.

Wroclaw being mapped to Claudius Ptolemy ‘s map as early AD 142–147, it is yet another prime example of how history is cherished and entrenched here in Poland. Throughout its long journey, the city of Wroclaw has been apart of many different kingdoms and monarchies, that’s why its heritage combines almost all cultures and religions of Europe.

All the way to the present days, it is proudly ranked in the top 100 of the world cities in many categories, including quality of life and as the smartest city. But for us travelers, it offers a golden sightseeing adventure.

It all starts with the bustling Rynek market square and elegant townhouses and ends with UNESCO Heritage Sites like Centennial Hall, with 100 bridges on top of beautiful waterways and many more entertainment options in between!

Situated on the Baltic Sea shores, the port city of Gdansk is one of the most popular and beautiful cities in Poland, and once there, you will notice why in a heartbeat.

The principal seaport of Poland is enchanted by the rich history dating back to the years around 999, and since then it has seen a lot. But despite the wars, occupations and large-scale destructions, Gdansk’s incredibly picturesque charm is here to stay and fascinate the visitors.

Feeling fancy? Radisson Blu Hotel Gdansk is the perfect place to indulge in luxury.

Hotel features modern interiors, stunning city views and stylishly designed rooms with free Wi-Fi and bathroom floor heating. How cool is that?

Indulge in a delicious meal at elegant restaurant, Verres en Vers, specialising in French cuisine and with a wide wine selection.

Experience luxury at its finest!

The city is home to some of the best polish beer and iconic shipyards, the largest brick castle in the world, countless museums, and the Old Town so beautiful that will simply make it hard to leave!

For the cherry on top, head to neighboring resort city Sopot to hit a sandy beach and be confused by some of the oddest architecture around.

Rising from the ashes like a phoenix, the capital of Poland has become one of the premier cities to visit in the country. The merciless bombings didn’t break people’s spirit and will to restore once beautiful city after World War II and Warsaw Uprising that leftover 80% of the buildings in ruins.

Ready for an unforgettable stay in Warsaw?

This stunning hotel is located in the heart of the city, meaning you’ll have easy access to all of the top attractions.

Plus you can enjoy a delicious meal at on-site restaurant, or relax with a drink at bar.

Fast-forward to 2019, and we have an example of how hope and hard work can work wonders. Today, the city of Warsaw is not only a global city and an economic hub, but it’s also a fantastic tourist destination.

The old but new Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site while the streets are lined up some serious restaurants and clubs alongside thriving art, museums, and almost 100 parks, that makes Warsaw one of the greenest cities out there!

Youthful yet soulful, Poznan is home to third-largest university in Poland, renaissance Old Town and is a city of sports, education, and technology.

Poznan’s large student population infuses lively buzz and energetic vibes into its restaurants, bars, and clubs making it a truly fun city to hang out in. But if you are looking for an affair in history and sightseeing, no worries, because Poznan, just like many other cities in Poland has its own share of beautiful and intriguing.

Walk the halls of former Imperial Castle, watch goats bump their horns when the Town Hall’s clock strikes noon, taste the St.Martin’s Croissant that dates back to 19th-century traditions or discover the beginnings of the Polish state in the underground of the Cathedral in the Cathedral Island with many more attractions awaiting.

Let’s step away from picturesque Old Towns and never-ending historical discoveries to a city that’s best visited during warm summer months and is all about naval details, sandy beach, and marine life.

Formerly a quiet fishing and farming village, it later became a seaside resort town with a large spike in tourism. Combine sandy beach and Baltic waves with lovely squares, stunning ships from the past like Dar Pomorza and museums with an aquarium that hosts marine life & naval history for one lovely experience.

The city has also won numerous awards in relation to safety, infrastructure, quality of life and a rich variety of tourist attractions making it a place to visit in Poland!

Once ruled by Prussia and founded in the 14th century, Olsztyn is often overlooked by travelers, but it’s a city worth attention just like any other.

The medieval Old Town offers a relaxing stroll, and impressive landmarks like Olsztyn Cathedral or picturesque market squares add strong charm to the experience.

The city is also situated in a lake region composed of forests and plains with 15 lakes within the city boundaries and more than half of the forests used for recreation and tourism purposes.

Enjoy both architectural and natural gems as Olsztyn offers simplicity in a beautiful way.

10. Katowice

While the city origins date back to the year 1397, it truly sprung to prosperity during intensive industrialization in the 19th century. This huge leap led Katowice to become an interesting and vibrant city, with dozens of unique museums, lively nightlife and architectural styles of secessionism reminding of German and Communism past.

Unique museums range from ones dedicated to coal mine protests and Katowice history to computer science, modern art, and many more various topics. The city is also known for its beautiful contemporary churches and a strolling alley of St. Mary Street which received an extreme makeover in 2010 making it a new favorite place for both locals and visitors.

Katowice is also an intersection of major road and rail routes connecting Poland to the rest of Europe in all directions, making it perfect transitional city or even a gateway to magical locations like Beskid mountains.

Bartosz is a travel writer, photographer & founder/editor of theuniquepoland who tells stories of adventure, history and current affairs. He writes mainly about travel, with special focus on Poland. He loves travelling, discover new unknown and inspire others.

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15 Stunning Cities You Need to Visit in Poland

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While exploring Europe, one of the countries that I’ve become fixated with is the vastly underrated Poland . Through my travels here I’ve had the pleasure of visiting a lot of cities in Poland. While the first few made me think I had Poland figured out , the more cities I saw the more I realised just how diverse Poland could be. That’s not even taking into account the country’s many towns and ample countryside. If you want to see more of Poland , these are the best cities in Poland to visit.

Table of Contents

Warsaw doesn’t just earn a spot on here by default for being Poland’s capital city, it also happens to be a fascinating and diverse city to explore. Whether you want to see a faithfully rebuilt historic centre, a dose of Soviet-era brutalism or the surprising grandeur of the 19th century, Warsaw’s got it .

The city is also a massive cultural hub and a great place to learn about the country’s history and the devastating events of the Holocaust. Then there are huge surprises like the glamorous Łazienki Palace and gentrified Powiśle riverfront. With scores of cafes and great food options too, Warsaw has all the fun conveniences of a major city backed up by plenty of culture and history.

For many people, when they think of Poland at its best, Krakow is what comes to mind. Thanks to good fortune, Krakow is the rare beautifully preserved medieval cities in the country. Not only can you wander the streets of its Old Town and admire all the landmarks about its Main Square, but beyond you’ll find the Jewish Quarter and mighty Wawel Castle too.

Krakow is a city with more depth than some give it credit for. But truthfully, you need only see the city’s Cloth Hall or Saint Mary’s Basilica to know that this is one of Poland’s best cities. Trust me, this is where to go to be easily wowed by what the country has to show tourists. Krakow is one of the best Polish cities to visit and deserves the hype.

There’s a reason that so many Baltic cruise ships pull into the northern city of Gdansk – it’s crazy beautiful . Unquestionably one of the best places to visit in Poland, Gdansk is a stirring combination of majestic architecture, picturesque waterways and impactful history.

Since much of the city was damaged in WWII, Gdansk chose to rebuild itself true to its Renaissance form. Visitors today reap the rewards of that effort. I guarantee one walk along Long Lane or Amber Street and you’ll be smitten. Now, while neighbouring coastal cities Gdynia and Sopot also have their share of interest and combine with Gdansk to form the so-called “ Tri-City “, Gdansk is surely the linchpin of the three.

The city of Poznan is not a hard place to recommend to people visiting Poland which is why it has grown in popularity these last few years. The city in western Poland boasts a colourful main square, full of character thanks to its statues and legend surrounding the town clock. If you want to see mechanical goats fight, this is the place to be. But beyond the vibrancy of the city’s central square, there’s plenty more going on.

Head over to Poznan Cathedral to see Poland’s oldest cathedral or visit the Royal Castle to see the country’s newest castle. Poznan likes to have it both ways, preserving its grand past with places like the Jesuit College and reinterpreting the past through spots like the Stary Browar Shopping Centre . That’s just part of what makes Poznan fun to explore .

One of the rising stars of Poland tourism in recent years is the city of Wroclaw in Lower Silesia. Not only easily accessible, Wroclaw has several sides to it that give it a broad appeal. Areas like the main square and islands of Ostrow Tumski have plenty of historical landmarks to admire.

The elaborate Town Hall is hard to miss, as are the paired towers of the Wroclaw Cathedral . For travellers who adore quirky or kitsch attractions, however, you’ll be thoroughly satisfied by Wroclaw’s dwarfs , a collection of small bronze gnome statues throughout the city that are now a modern hallmark of the city.

It’s important to understand that not all of the cities of Poland are quite the same. There’s quite a lot of diversity found here, with Lodz a perfect example of somewhere that’s not your “typical” Polish destination. Rather than medieval heritage, Lodz calls back to the 1800s and 1900s.

Worn-down buildings along Piotrkowska Street show off some of its former glory, while the Manufaktura complex among others reimagines its industrial past. Let’s not forget the modern creative movement that has seen imaginative street art spring up about Lodz. No wonder it made Lonely Planet’s 2019 list of value destinations .

For a Polish destination with a clear focus, it doesn’t get more focused than historic Torun . An easy recommendation for those looking to feel like they’ve travelled to the past, Torun is surely one of the best Poland cities to experience the country’s history. The city’s old town is defined by the various medieval brick buildings, fragmented town walls and castle ruins.

However, the biggest presence you’ll notice is that of astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus who is the city’s favourite son. You can even visit his childhood home, now an exceedingly old building and see him standing proudly on the city’ main square. I will say, Torun is best enjoyed in the evening once the day trippers have left. The city just feels even more intimate and quaint.

Although it may not have the best reputation if you look it up online, Bydgoszcz has the goods for those who visit. Situated in northern Poland, this underrated city is strongly defined by the Brda River that flows through it. The river separates the city centre from its historic quarter, meaning you’ll get a very different impression of Bydgoszcz depending on the side you stand.

There’s certainly some elegant architecture to be found in the city centre, but it’s the riverfront and Old Town that are the main deals here. The Old Town has everything from quaint streets to old markets to water mills and heck even a beach. If you’re after a pleasant trip into the unknown, look Bydgoszcz way.

It’s hard to put a finger on what makes Szczecin such an interesting city to visit. Mostly off the beaten path in western Poland, Szczecin is another city that tells its own story. Long a part of Germany and known as Stettin, Poland reclaimed the city after WWII. Very important to the region of Pomerania, Szczecin was both a major river port and also the home to the Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes .

It still has some historical landmarks to its name, but many of its most important ones like the Chrobry Embankment , the Monument to the Polish Endeavour and Town Hall are more recent additions. None though are quite as modern as the noticeably modern Philharmonic building. It’s this complex collage of history and identity that makes Szczecin worth visiting.

While Krakow and Warsaw are the two cities that have been Poland’s capital over the years, they’re not the only cities home to grand palaces fit for royals. Just take the northeastern city of Bialystok and its resplendent Branicki Palace . Although only a palace for a local noble, this palace has all the makings of a stunning palace, from its architecture to its carefully maintained gardens.

In truth though, Bialystok is more than just this single attraction. It has the usual square and churches that bustle with people, especially on Sundays. Then there are the less typical features, like the curious sculptures around the city and the turn-of-the-century houses in the city’s Old Bojary District . Bialystok may lack name recognition, but it’s got more than enough going on to draw you in.

Even when cities in Poland lure you in with their historical side, it’s quite common for their other sides to emerge when you give them the chance. I mean, I went off to the lesser-known city of Olsztyn in northeastern Poland to see its castle and found more than I expected. Yes, Olsztyn centres on a small old town with an impressive castle and lingering sections of its former town walls.

But for many Olsztyn is more about all the surrounding lakes that draw in countless visitors wanting to play on their waters and spend time at their beaches. Even though Poland’s Baltic Sea coast isn’t that far away, come summer the lakes here draw in plenty of holidaymakers. Besides offering beaches and watersports, this side of Olsztyn also happens to be exceedingly beautiful, so what’s not to like?

It feels in many ways as if along the way someone lost the memo that Lublin was supposed to be a big deal. Found out in eastern Poland, the city is an absolute delight thanks to its picturesque city centre. You only need to start with the glorious main square and all the exquisite buildings that surround it to know you’ve chosen well.

That you can head into these buildings and score some fantastic pierogi in a traditional Polish tavern is just a bonus. Anyway, beyond the main square, you’ve got big tower gates, immense churches, old ruins and the city’s stout but sightly castle. Best of all, you don’t have to share Lublin with other tourists, but I’m sure that’ll change one of these days.

Poland is quite a large country so it can take a while for travellers to the country’s various corners. Down in Poland’s southeast lies Rzeszow , a photogenic old town wrapped inside a modern financial hub. Rzeszow is undoubtedly a pretty city , but also one that feels smaller and more intimate than it is.

Once you peel away the financial side of the city, you find a historical centre full of endearing character. Simply take one look at the main square or 3 Maja Street and you’re sure to be impressed by what you see. Among the grand buildings of Rzeszow are palaces, castles and theatres that together give the city that old-world pedigree that tourists to Europe so dearly love.

Katowice may seem like an unlikely kind of city to feature on a list of best cities. After all, it was a major industrial city right up into the 20th century and was best known for its coal mining. And yet, modern Katowice is so much more than that. It’s a city of surprising cultural depth, thanks to the city’s university and Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra .

Plenty of students about means you know there’s going to be interesting places to eat and plenty of fun bars. But there are also the parts of Katowice that pay tribute to its past. The former coal mine now hosts the Silesian Museum , which has affected all sorts of parts of life in the region. Katowice is also rapidly modernising, so it could become an even better tourist playground in years to come.

Jelenia Gora

Tucked so far away down by the Czech border, it’s little surprise that many travellers miss the small city of Jelenia Gora . Watched over by the nearby Krkonoše mountain range, this pleasant destination manages to have many hallmarks of great Polish cities despite its size. There’s a scenic main street that leads you through the old town. Then there’s a Main Square lined with colourful gabled houses and a striking town hall in the middle.

You won’t have any trouble getting pierogi here, nor fresh strawberries in wooden crates for that matter. Plus there are churches galore, the elegant thermal springs of Cieplice Śląskie-Zdrój and Chojnik Castle just nearby to keep you entertained.

Would you agree that these are the best cities in Poland to visit? Where have you travelled to in Poland? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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love Love LOVE Poland! And it’s thanks to you that I discovered several and more to add to our list!

Thank you David for your posts about Poland! I love them all <3 I'm Polish, living in Lublin – I love this city so much. Thanks for the posts about other cities in Poland too. I haven't been to many of them yet, but you inspired me to explore my country a little more… bye! 🙂

Hi David! Have you been in all of those cities? If yes – congratulations! Most of us – Poles – haven’t seen as many Polish cities as you’re showing here… Thank you for mentioning Poznan! Pity that you left Świdnica behind with it’s amazing Unesco heritage Church of Peace. Still – Great work! 🙂

Hi Tomasz, yes I’ve been lucky enough to visit all of these cities during my Poland trips. People don’t always think to explore their own country as it’s often more exciting to see other places when/if you get the chance for a holiday. I’ll have to look into Swidnica for next time, I know there’s plenty more places in Poland for me yet to see.

It may be picky, but you should spell the city names correctly. It’s not hard to add diacritics to the alphabet.

You’ve missed out Sandomierz, with its beautiful Old Town. Small, but perfectly formed!

You’ve shared good list. No doubt that Krakow and Warsaw are two most popular options.

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Poland Best Cities To Visit – Our 9 Favourite Cities

Poland is an amazing country that is often overlooked by tourists exploring other parts of Europe.

While it suffered greatly during WW2 and many cities were almost completely destroyed (such as Warsaw), today it is a fantastic destination to explore.

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There are charming old towns in thriving cities, lively squares filled with restaurants, quirky museums, and grand churches. So, if you are planning a trip to Poland or just looking for inspiration, this article focuses on the best cities to visit in Poland. 

We spent two weeks around Poland, and this list is a compilation of our favourite cities.

Since the car rental is cheap and the highways and roads are great, why not plan a trip to see more of Poland? 

Here are Poland best cities to visit:

Table of Contents

Kraków is one of Europe’s oldest cities and was once the capital of Poland. It is also known for its rich history and heritage and will leave a great impression.  We came here a few times before exploring other parts of Poland and most people consider Krakow the best place to visit in Poland.

Apart from its stunning main square Rynek Główny , the castle on Wawel Royal Hill is the main attraction. To learn more about the castle and Poland’s history, it is best to join this guided tour.

But don’t miss out on the former Jewish district Kazimierz where you can join the Oskar Schindlers Factory tour .

Alternatively, you have the choice to just buy the Factory Entrance ticket here.

You might be familiar with the story portrayed in the Schindler’s List movie from 1993, the tour explains more about the everyday life of the Jews here in Krakow and the story that this factory played.

Try to find the best  pierogi  or  paczki  (Polish donuts) and don’t miss out on  obwarzanek  – a braided ring-shaped bread that is boiled and sprinkled with salt and sesame or poppy seeds. This bread is only sold in Krakow.

Krakow is also a fantastic place to spend a few extra days and do some recommended day trips listed below:

• Day trip to Zakopane Tour with Thermal Pool
• Wieliczka Salt Mine Half-Day Trip
• Auschwitz-Birkenau Full-Day Trip.

We always wanted to see Gdansk after seeing some photos of its beautiful old town. Well, nothing actually prepared us for the size of the Old Town. It is huge!

Gdansk is an important port in Poland and it is also the place that started WW2. It was also known as Danzig and had a predominantly German population.

It was destroyed during the war but it has been beautifully restored. 

You can easily spend a few days here, in fact, it is one of Poland best cities to visit for a long weekend. The beaches around Sopot are a short drive away and don’t miss out on the Museum of the Second World War.

Gdansk is also home to the world’s largest brick church, St. Mary’s, and inside it is a unique astronomical clock similar to the one in Prague. 

For many Germans and Scandinavians, Gdansk is easy to get to so it is the best place to visit in Poland if you are from this part of the world.

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We almost didn’t visit Wroclaw and we were so glad we did. Wroclaw used to be part of Bohemia (today’s the Czech Republic) as well as Prussia (Today’s Germany). 

The oldest area is the Main Market Square from the 13th century. Don’t forget to look up at the buildings – notice all the details. 

Wroclaw is one of Poland best cities for a family as well, the city is known for statues of gnomes.

Over 350 tiny bronze figurines of gnomes (of dwarfs) can be found throughout the city, hiding around corners, on the main square, and even on lamp posts.

We also had our best Polish donuts here – the famous paczki with rosehip jam filling from  Gorąca Pączkarnia F-Wiatrak .

Poznan is one of Poland’s largest cities. It was founded by German settlers in the 12th century and became part of Prussia in 1793 to be later on absorbed into Poland. 

Poznan is known as a very youthful city due to its student population and its famous for its gorgeous merchant’s houses and a beautiful renaissance Town Hall. 

As of 2021, Poznan’s Old City has been going through a major redevelopment. The entire old town is currently under construction, but it should be ready by summer in 2023. The locals seemed to think it might take a bit longer.

Either way, it will be well worth seeing once the restoration works are completed.

When you come to Poznan, try the famous St Martin’s Croissant. It is made with semi-puff pastry and white poppy seed and it was created here in the 19th century.

On November 11 each year, known as St Martin’s day, Poznań locals and tourists eat around 250 tonnes of croissants – about 1.25 million individual pastries!

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The most famous city on the Northern Sea coast, Sopot was a former village that has quickly redeveloped into a hip seaside destination. 

Most people don’t think of Poland as a country with beaches! Yet another surprise for many.

If you come during the summer, it offers a nice “holiday vibe” away from all the cities you might’ve already visited.

Don’t miss Sopot’s main pier and for quiet beaches, simply visit the beaches next to Sopot. 

This brick-built city located on the Vistula river is the birthplace of astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Torun was a nice surprise! We wish we stayed longer.

The small, compact city seemed to have a few great things to keep visitors busy. From a leaning tower, the Museum of gingerbread (Torun is where gingerbread originated) to the Planetarium that provides some fun and education for any age. 

The city can be seen from above after climbing to the top of Town Hall Tower in Old Town square. And there are legends everywhere! Look out for the golden statue of a donkey, a dog with an umbrella or a fountain with frogs!

If you’d prefer to learn about this city in detail, this Torun Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour is recommended.  

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7. Zakopane

We have been told to visit Zakopane many times when mentioning our visit to Poland.

Zakopane is a city located close to the Polish-Slovakian Border on the edge of the High Tatra Mountains. It’s definitely a popular place for the Polish people to escape the bigger cities, they come here to go hiking, skiing, or to enjoy some wellness while surrounded by the mountains.

Much of Poland is quite flat, so these landscapes are something else.

This might be an unpopular opinion, but we found Zakopane to be simply too much. The downtown was way too busy with people, even on a weekday. So, we didn’t linger too long.

Zakopane is often listed as one of Poland best cities to visit, but if you are looking for some relaxation in mountains and some decent hiking, why not cross the border and stay in Zdiar in Slovakia and enjoy the peace and amazing views of the High Tatras.

We based ourselves in Zdiar at Penzión Bachleda and hiked to Green Pleso. It was gorgeous.  

Confused about Slovakia and Slovenia? Read this blog to see how these two countries are different: Slovakia vs Slovenia

Warsaw has virtually risen from its ashes after being completely destroyed in 1945 during WW2.

As the capital city of Poland, Warsaw is synonymous with what Poland is all about. 

Poland was once one of the larger empires in Europe under the Poland-Lithuania Commonwealth empire only to be partitioned and completely carved up by neighbouring countries – in 1775 Poland completely disappears off the map of Europe!

It later on reappears but suffers greatly during the 2nd World War and Warsaw, its capital city is left in ruins. It was rebuilt in the last 80 years.

Warsaw is one of Europe’s largest cities and its capital city. It is also home to the Royal Castle , the National Museum , and Old Town Square . 

But today Warsaw is so much more.

Incredible nightlife in the student’s part of town, the Palace of the Culture and Science which is a perfect example of communist architecture, and not to forget many gorgeous parks, such as Lazienki with the statue of Chopin.

As for museums, Warsaw has without a doubt some of the best ones in Poland.

The displays at the Warsaw Rising Museum (join an Audio Guided tour ) and POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews ( buy your entrance ticket here ) are informative and truly a must-see and do when in Warsaw. 

For a full list of the best things to do in Warsaw, check out  Get Your Guide.

And the food scene in Warsaw is next level. This would be featured on Poland best cities to visit for foodies list.

Of course, Warsaw is on our list of Poland best cities to visit, but there is one more place to add.

9. Zalipie Village

Of course, this doesn’t really belong on the list of the best cities in Poland to visit, as it is a tiny village about 2 hours away from Krakow.  However it adds a unique experience in Poland and if you are road tripping around Poland, add it to your itinerary.

Zalipie is a tiny village best known for the folk flower paintings that decorate houses, the outside and inside of them.

This tradition started hundred years ago when women of the village used a mix of powdered dye to cover dirty surfaces darkened by soot. Then they painted flowers on the walls and interiors and a tradition was born (or you could say, it bloomed).

Today you can visit the small museum which includes 3 different houses that you can visit as part of a guided tour for 10 Zloty ($2.20).

Yes, Poland has its own currency: Polish Zloty, find out  countries that are using euros here .

The tour is only in Polish, but you get to see the interiors of the houses! Everything is decorated with flowers, the walls, lamps, and furniture too. Then you can drive around to spot other houses around the village.

For more detailed information, check out our detailed blog about Zalipie with some practical info.

And that is it for our list of Poland best cities to visit. Do you have any city you would add to the list? let us know in the comments below. 

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Did you know Poland is also one of the most affordable European countries to visit? Read our list of  10 Cheapest Countries to Visit in Europe , and learn some other affordable nations to visit.

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15 Of The Best Places To Visit In Poland

By: Author Hannah Lukaszewicz

Posted on Last updated: 9 January, 2024

Poland is often associated closely with the Second World War. In most cases, their impressions are vaguely formed after watching films such as Schindler’s List or The Pianist and not from actual history. For many years, travelers didn’t want to visit Poland because of the way it had always been portrayed, but that perception is now rapidly changing.

Forget about the country’s bleak and gruesome past, savvy travelers have come to realize that Poland offers not just a rich history, but also stunning scenery and cool cities coupled with awesome activities.

Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw maybe some of the best places to visit in Poland, but they are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the best places to visit in Poland. Take a look and you will discover why this Baltic nation is now one of the top travel destinations and it is visited by millions of tourists from all over the world.

*When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Europe check prices on Booking.com , we’ve found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.*

When visiting Poland, it is certainly best to start with its biggest and the capital city of Warsaw. This 400-year-old city and its people have seen it all! During WWII, Warsaw has suffered greatly and it was almost completely destroyed. Now, less than a century later, it has become arguably one of Europe’s best cities to visit!

Warsaw’s residents lovingly preserved anything that survived the brutal Nazi invasion. They rebuilt their city, making it a perfect blend of historic opulence and contemporary designs.

Whether you are into medieval churches and palaces or you are after cozy cafés and
lively clubs, Warsaw has it all. In one majestic street, popularly known as the Royal Route, you will find a majestic Royal Castle that once was home to almost all of the Polish kings and queens. This is the area where you will also find the famous Presidential Palace and some of the best hotels that the country has to offer.

Warsaw is a medieval and neoclassical city and it is proud to showcase both its memorable and dark history to whoever is keen to take a look. If you are a military buff than you must put Warsaw Rising Museum on your list of things to see in Warsaw.

Alternatively, you can check out Lazienki Park, which is arguably the best park in Europe. Here you can find majestic regal peacocks strolling around the pristine lake and you can spot some of the semi-tame red squirrels as well. Click here to see a list of 15 of the best things to do in Warsaw

Krakow is Poland’s second-biggest city, and it is undoubtedly the country’s most popular tourist destination. Krakow is renowned for being a cultural center of Southern Poland, and it is also acknowledged as an architectural jewel of Central Europe. Some even call it a fairy-tale straight out of a Disney movie. Are you enticed yet?

The Old Town of Krakow is home to the famous Wawel Castle. This is the place that you simply cannot miss out on visiting! As you stroll around the Old Town, you will see plenty of legendary monuments positioned and dozens of stunning Polish restaurants serving all the yummy polish delicacies.

Krakow is also home to Europe’s largest market square. Make sure to bring your camera and clear your schedule because you will be here for a while. If you are interested in some pointers, make sure to check out the list of things to do in Krakow .

In short, Krakow is a fortress for both Renaissance and secessionist cultures. Its cobbled stone streets are popular with horses, candlelit bars, and pavement cafés, giving Krakow a look that any city in the world would only envy. You can find a choice of brilliant cafes to visit in Krakow. Check out our pick for the best restaurant in Krakow .

Add that to the fact that Krakow is the city of legends such as King Casimir the Great, Copernicus, and Pope John Paul II, and you’ll know that it is worth giving Krakow a closer look and perhaps a personal tour.

*Editor Note: We think this is the most beautiful city in Poland, it is considered one of Poland’s tourist cities, but the amount of tourists here is nothing compared to other European cities.

The capital of the Lower Silsea, Wroclaw, is a very popular entertainment and cultural destination. The strong presence of Bohemian, Prussian, and Austrian culture makes it a unique and very diverse architectural city. Wroclaw is basically a cathedral island where you will find over 12 islands, and numerous riverside parks, which are connected by over 100 bridges. Sounds special, because it is!

Wroclaw is the nation’s 4th biggest city and is characterized by Gothic architecture, large festivals, and lively nightlife. Some of the city’s historic neighborhoods that you can visit include; Ostrow, Rynek, and Tumski neighborhoods. Amongst many other famous monuments, it is recommended to check out the Hydropolis, which is an ultra-modern knowledge center dedicated to water.

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4. Bialowieża Forest

Bialowieża Forest is a highly preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site. This beautiful forest covers an area of more than 3,000 square kilometers. It stretches as far as the eastern border of Poland and western Belarus, as well as to the borders of Lithuania and Ukraine. Bialowieza is one of the most untouched Polish forests, and it is also one of the few remaining virgin woodlands in Europe.

Bialowieza is home to a large variety of exotic trees, including 500-year-old oaks. This forest is known to house more than 800 European bison, wolves, deer, lynx, and even golden eagles.

As this is a protected area, you can only visit the forest in the company of a guide, who will obviously encourage you to enjoy the endless hiking trails that will likely take you deep into the dense and untouched forest.

5. Wieliczka Salt Mine

When touring Poland, you should definitely not miss out on a chance to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine. The mine has been open since the Middle Ages, and it is yet another of the Polish UNESCO Heritage Sites.

Wieliczka will keep you busy for over two hours and burn a few calories on the hundreds of stairs. Your adventure will take you on a tour to a 140 feet underground oasis. You will go through a number of complex passages and crystal chambers.

Some say that the journey will make you feel as if you are heading for the center of the Earth. While inside, you will come across majestic churches, unique salt monuments, as well as some breathtaking underground lakes.

*Editor Note: We visited Poland with our family, and we both still talk about the Cathedral in the salt mine it definitely is one of the best places to visit in Poland and should be on everyone’s Poland itinerary.

6. Bydgoszcz

Located in Northern Poland, Bydgoszcz is widely known for its numerous universities and bustling colleges. This buzzing and vibrant city is also the country’s biggest inland navigation center. Bydgoszcz is a cosmopolitan city with a strong international and business presence. It is also renowned as a major cultural center.

Whilst visiting Bydgoszcz, you must not miss out on seeing some of the famous artistic, theatrical, and musical centers. Your list of must-see places in this city should include; Bydgoszcz Pantheon, Nicolaus Copernicus Square as well as the Old Mill by the Brda River.

Gdansk is one of the most popular of northern-Polish cities. This beautiful port city of Gdansk on the Baltic coast is well-known as the birthplace of Poland’s Solidarity movement and for its famous shipyards.

While in the city, you should take a boat trip around the port to get a glimpse of the skyline from the water and sample some of the tastiest and unique Polish beer. You can also take a walking tour of the city’s Royal Route, the Old Town and check out various other popular places such as Neptune Fountain and Long Market.

Located between the fields of Polish Mazury and Elbląg Lakes, the city of Malbork is home to arguably Europe’s most enthralling medieval castle ruins. If you are after history and architecture, then this is the best place for you. The sprawling castle complexes and the red brick fortresses will take you back to the medieval times and give you a glimpse into the past.

Related Article: The Best  of Germany’s Fairytale Castles

Torun is the birthplace of the legendary 15th-century astronomer and mathematician, Nicolaus Copernicus. It is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and thanks to its rich medieval culture and history, it is called by many locals as the “Krakow of the North”. Some of the most attractive places in the city include Teutonic Knight’s Castle, Old Town, numerous Gothic cathedrals as well as the New Town.

10. The Masurian Lake District

Popular with local tourists, the Masurian Lake District is very popular during warmer months thanks to its soothing Baltic sun. It is home to over 2,000 individual lakes, as well as dozens of beautiful rivers.

The best part of this district is that it is full of charming towns such as Elk, Giżycko and Mikolajki Masurian Lake District is one of Poland’s most popular summer holiday destinations, where you can hire sailing boats or simply relax in many of the local resorts.

Lodz is known as the cultural mecca for Poles, Germans, Jews, and Russians. The city is known for producing famous industrialists, scientists, and artists who have left permanent marks on the lifestyle of the city. Take a walk along the Piotrkowska Street and immerse yourself in some of Europe’s best architecture and marvel upon many of extraordinary monuments.

While in Lodz, you can also visit the famous Ghetto Litzmannstadt, where you will be hit by the city’s saddening Holocaust history. Other places to check out include Oscar Kon Palace, Edward Herbst Mansion as well as the Radegast Station.

12. Ojcow National Park

Located not far from Krakow, Ojcow National Park dramatically sits between Pradnik and Saspowska River valleys. It is one of the smallest national parks in the country and is characterized by deep canyons, numerous limestone cliffs, thick woodlands, rock formations, and dark caves.

While in the park, you can also visit Krakow Gate, Deotyma’s Needle, Hercules’ Club and the park’s top interesting castles – Renaissance Castle in Pieskowa Skala and Kazimierz Castle (home to King Casimir the Great) in Ojcow Village. Make sure to take a ride in one of the horse cabs and also visit any of the park’s 400 official caves.

13. Swinoujscie

Located on the Baltic Sea, Swinoujscie is a port city that is revered by many locals as a health retreat and a holiday resort destination. It has 44 unique islands where visitors can enjoy some quality time on the gently sloping beaches. It is also home to the 170-year-old Spa Park where tourists can walk around perusing through its endless vegetation.

For those of us interested in the maritime, a visit to the Museum of Sea Fishing should be a top priority. The Karsibor Island can be a hit with bird watchers while Wolin Island’s extraordinary lighthouse, which is the tallest structure on the Baltic Sea, will offer a panoramic place for those in need of a memorable photoshoot.

14. Tatra National Park

Located on the southern part of Poland, Tatra National Park is home to Poland’s only mountains; the Tatra Mountains. While visiting Tatry, there are two major sites to see! These are the famous country’s natural wonders: Morskie Oko Lake and Rysy Peak.

Tatra National Park is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is plenty to do in the park. You can hike through the dense forests, or venture out through the snow-packed fields or explore the region’s many caves. You can also go mountain biking, rock climbing or even paragliding.

15. Isle of Usedom

Located on the north-eastern region of Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, the Isle of Usedom is a popular holiday destination on the Baltic Sea. Usedom has plenty of hotels and guest houses for those who want to experience the unspoiled nature of the pristine Baltic Sea.

Apart from its many beautiful beaches, the Isle of Usedom attracts a number of international fashion events, theatre performances, outdoor concerts, and museum exhibitions on a yearly basis. Some of the region’s top attractions include; Heringdorf aerodome, Zinnowitz pier’s driving bell, Europe’s biggest butterfly farm as well as the Trasseheide.

Poland is fast becoming one of Europe’s favorite holiday destinations. Whether you are after medieval or modern history, architectural marvels or diverse culture, you will find it here. Whether you are after relaxation on white sandy beaches, sailing for days on pristine lakes or hiking through the majestic mountains, Poland also has you covered. The only question remains, which of the above destinations will make it to your list of things to do in Poland?

Have you traveled to Poland? What did you think were the best places in Poland to visit?

Author Bio:  This guest post is brought to you by Andrzej & Jolene from  Wanderlust Storytellers , a widely successful family travel blog. They love sharing their passion for travel with people all around the globe.

Gerry Thomson

Tuesday 4th of August 2020

Not only have I visited Warsaw and Krakow and enjoyed them emensely I have actually settled in Poland living in Kulik east of Lublin. Lublin is also well worth a visit as it has its medieval castle and Majdanek Concentration camp the old town has its street market restaurants and cathedral all worth a visit. Shopping is in a variety of Galleria around the city with the Plaza in the centre. The concert hall is also lively and beautiful we saw Swan lake there and it was amazing. University Town too so brimming with students. Parks and cycle ways. Lots to see and do. Give it a try too.

Linda Lineback

Friday 13th of March 2020

I have been to Poland twice and loved all of it, but especially Krakow. plan to go one more time.

Hannah Lukaszewicz

Monday 16th of March 2020

We fell in love with Poland on our first visit too. We can't wait to visit again.

Friday 28th of February 2020

Its a pity you don't have a picture of Lodz, it's my favourite town in Poland. I didn't say its the pretties lol its just my favourite

Sunday 12th of January 2020

I love Warsaw and its party vibe! they have best clubs in poland (New Orleans is my fav:D)

Wednesday 15th of January 2020

There are so many reasons to love Poland!

Sunday 24th of November 2019

Warsaw is my number one! definitely! best restaurants, places to take a walk and the best clubs (night in New Orleans club will stay in my heart forever haha) :D

Traverse With Taylor

| Helping You Experience Europe Easily

Top 10 Best Cities to Visit in Poland in 2024

Looking for the best polish cities to visit for an upcoming trip i’ve got all the tea.

Being a Holocaust and World War II educator and expert European traveler, I’ve visited Poland many times. I’ll never forget the first time I visited Old Town Krakow – walking through Market Square was like stepping foot into a new world. It’s where my love for Poland began. Since then, I’ve explored other parts of Poland . This post covers what I consider to be the best cities to visit in Poland- I hope you love it!

In my opinion, Poland is one of the most severely under-rated countries in Eastern Europe (and Europe as a whole). Before I visited the first time, I hadn’t really heard of anyone visiting. It wasn’t a popular tourist destination. But I left having fallen head over heels for the friendly Polish people, traditional Polish food (hi, pierogies!!!!), and the stunning beauty and character of the Old Town areas. If you’re looking for a fantastic place to visit in Poland , or even just scoping out an *affordable* vacation spot for your next international trip, here are a few of my favorites and the best cities to visit in Poland:

🏆 TOP 3 BEST CITIES TO VISIT IN POLAND

No Time to Read? Here are My Top Picks! ✅ Krakow (No Competition- Old Town!) ✅ Gdansk (Beautiful Scenery) ✅ Zakopane (Most Unique!)

1. Krakow, Poland

📍 Krakow at a Glance

⭐ Top Things to Do: Explore Old Town, Visit Auschwitz Concentration Camp, See Wieliczka Salt Mines ✈️ How to Get There : Fly into Krakow airport or take a train to Krakow Glowny. 🏨 Where to Stay: Aparthotel Stare Miasto

If you’re looking for the absolute best city to visit in Poland, Krakow is IT! When I tell you I love Krakow, I mean it (and so does my husband!). We both agree that it is one of the most incredible places we’ve visited- it’s affordable, it’s unique, it’s charming. It has delicious food, amazing tourist attractions and things to see, and, of course, a ton of history. Don’t miss the magnificent Market Square (Rynek Glowny) right in the center of Old Town Krakow. You’ll find Cloth Hall here, along with St Mary’s Basilica, the Rynek Underground Museum, and my favorite restaurant, Restauracja Sukiennice! It’s the perfect place to grab dinner and a beer (Try a Zywiec) And people-watch an evening in the square away. A little way outside Market Square, Krakow has the Plac Nowy, a fantastic local market, the Galeria Krakowska, and Wawel Castle , which are all worth visiting. Krakow is also host to many historic sites connected with World War II and the Holocaust . Near the city center, many visit Oskar Schindler’s Enamelware factory, the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz), and what remains of the Plaszow concentration camp. You can also easily take a day trip to Auschwitz Concentration Camp from Krakow , and I highly recommend you do so.

📍Gdańsk at a Glance

⭐ Top Things to Do: Wander about the Old Town, Museum of The Second World War , experience local life in the Motława Riverfront area. ✈️ How to Get There : Both domestic and international flights to the Gdansk Airport from all major cities 🏨 Where to Stay: Puro Gdansk Stare Miasto

One of the most remarkable cities in Poland is Gdańsk. This one stands out because it combines ancient history with a vibrant contemporary flavor. I relished every moment I spent here, as it’s truly a city unlike any other I’ve visited.

To begin, you cannot ignore the Old Town. This is like a return to the past with incredible structures and pavements built of stones. The Main Town Hall is gorgeous, and you can reach the peak for an amazing city view.

A tour of the Museum of the Second World War is quite an eye-opener and a popular tourist destination. This war museum backs insight into the conflict from a Polish point of view. This museum has many attractions and it is a great addition to your  2 week itinerary Europe for Poland.

Another captivating location is the Gdańsk Shipyard, where the Solidarity movement originated from. It is a peculiar combination of industrial history and contemporary development.

Don’t skip getting a feel for local life by going to the riverfront of Motława. There are many interesting cafes and shops, as well as the famous Gdańsk Crane, which is an old maritime crane considered to be a symbol of shipbuilding in this city.

Finally, there is the European Solidarity Center. This museum is dedicated to the Solidarity movement that ended communism in Poland. It’s really fascinating and worth seeing.

And, of course, the beach. Gdańsk is right on the Baltic Sea, so you can enjoy some beach time too! (Unless it is winter in Poland , which is COLD!). 

The city is well-connected by train to other parts of Poland. In addition, the city of Gdańsk boasts an efficient and widely available network of public transportation, so you can easily move around the streets without a rental car once you’re there!

Contributed by Lavina D’Souza of Continent Hop 

3. Warsaw, Poland

📍 Warsaw at a Glance

⭐ Top Things to Do: Visit the Royal Palace, Explore the Old Town, Warsaw Ghetto Tour ✈️ How to Get There : Fly into Warsaw Chopin Airport, from there, public transportation will take you into the Old Town 🏨 Where to Stay: InterContinental Warszawa, an IHG Hotel

As the capital of Poland and one of its major cities, it goes without saying that Warsaw is easily one of the best cities to visit in Poland. I’ve been there three times now, and I fall in love with it more every time I visit! It is one of the towns that beautifully marries the old with the new despite its rough past.

Warsaw’s rich history is reflected in the preserved architecture and museums, while its modern side shines through its diverse dining scene, contemporary art spaces, and amazing nightlife (which is kind of unexpected!).

There are plenty of incredible things to do in Warsaw. Any traveler should start their  Warsaw itinerary  with a visit to the Royal Castle. Once the official residence of Polish monarchs, the Royal Castle is now a museum that showcases an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts.

Once you are done visiting the Royal Castle, spend some time exploring the Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the city’s resilience and determination. Despite Warsaw being 85% destroyed during World War II, Warsaw has been meticulously rebuilt and is now a vibrant area filled with charming architecture, cozy cafes, shops, and historic sites. Finally, visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum and take a guided tour of the Warsaw Ghetto to to explore what’s left of this historic site. A few pieces of the original ghetto walls still remain, and there are multiple sites to see along a guided walking tour. I tried to find them myself, and it was definitely difficult, so I do really recommend the guide.

Warsaw is one of those cities that blew me away; it’s so gorgeous and almost reminded me of Italy. It is, without a doubt, one of the best cities to visit in Poland.

Recommended by Sean from Living Out Lau

4. Poznan, Poland

📍 Poznan at a Glance

⭐ Top Things to Do: Explore Old Market Square, indulge in traditional Polish cuisine, and watch the beloved goats fight at night on the Old Town Tower. ✈️ How to Get There : Connected by bus to popular cities like Berlin, Germany , and Wrocław, Poland. 🏨 Where to Stay: Fortune Old Town Boutique Hotel

One of the best cities to visit in Poland is Poznań. Oftentimes overlooked, Poznań is an energetic university town with plenty of things to do. While most travelers experience the city as a day trip, it’s easy to spend a  few days in Poznań  savoring the sights.

Poznań has a charming Old Market Square with colorful Merchant Houses. One of the biggest attractions is the mechanical “fighting goats” who entertain onlookers when the Town Hall clock strikes noon. Nods to the legend of the Poznań goats can be seen with sculptures, signboards, and street art proudly decorated throughout the city.

The Old Market Square is filled with bars, traditional restaurants, and museums, and is adorned with fountains. It’s easy to spend hours soaking in the atmosphere.

Do explore outside of the Old Town of Poznań. The hip neighborhood of Śródka is worth a wander for foodies seeking cuisines of the world. Another Poznań attraction is the Stary Browar , an impressively restored brick brewery. Even if you don’t want to shop, the architecture is spectacular,, and during the summer, events take place in the grassy surroundings.

During the summer, rent a bike and enjoy Cytadela Park. For a full-day adventure, bike out to Lake Malta or Lake Kiekrzskie. In the winter, the city hosts a spirited Christmas market.

Recommended by Megan From Packing Up the Pieces

5. Zakopane: A Polish Escape!

📍 Zakopane at a Glance

⭐ Top Things to Do: Spend time at the thermal baths , wandering Krupowki Street, and visiting Muzeum Oscypka ✈️ How to Get There : Rent a car or Take a Guided Tour 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Stamary

For those visiting Krakow or looking to get out of the city for a little bit, a beautiful mountain town to escape to is Zakopane! This small town is located within the Tatra Mountains and offers the most gorgeous natural scenery. Even driving up the mountainside, I remember being awestruck by the beauty of the colors and the towering mountains. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy all the traditional houses and chalets! Once you’re in Zakopane, be sure to  spend time at the rejuvenating thermal baths  that have minerals to help soothe your body. Afterward, check out Krupowki Street, which is where hundreds of vendors sell everything from unique souvenirs and clothes to traditional foods. And if you’re a cheese enthusiast, don’t miss out on Muzeum Oscypka. It delves into the local cheese that Zakopane is famous for. So, if you’re keen on an escape from city life, Zakopane is one of the best cities to visit in Poland!

Contributed by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades

📍 Wrocław at a Glance

⭐ Top Things to Do: Market Square, Wroclaw Dwarfs, The Cathedral Island, Centennial Hall, Japanese Garden. ✈️ How to Get There : By plane to Wroclaw International Airport, by train to Wrocław Główny, or by bus to Wrocław Main Bus Station.   🏨 Where to Stay: Q Hotel Plus Wrocław

Wrocław, known as the city of dwarfs and bridges and the capital of Lower Silesia, is a must-visit destination on every Poland  backpacking itinerary . With a rich history dating back to the 10th century, Wrocław once boasted more than 300 bridges. Today, the city features 100 bridges, 33 gangways, and 25 islands- hard to believe! It has a beautiful Old Town with a charming Market Square complete with an Old Town Hall, historical lanes with centuries-old tenement houses, and many restaurants.

Wish to see the city and have an amazing time? The most popular thing to do in Wrocław is dwarf-hunting (not kidding)! Wrocław Dwarfs are small (30cm tall) inhabitants who can be spotted pretty much all around the city. They are the unofficial symbol of Wrocław, and there’s even a map where you can find all the figures.

A top landmark, The Cathedral Island (Ostrów Tumski) is the oldest part of the city and home to the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, Collegiate Church of the Holy Cross and St. Bartholomew, and picturesque quiet streets. If you visit Ostrów Tumski during the sunset, you have a good chance of meeting a lamp man dressed in a black cape and top hat and walking around the streets lighting 98 street gas lamps.

Another UNESCO-listed architectural masterpiece worth visiting in Wrocław is the Centennial Hall. An early example of reinforced concrete architecture, Centennial Hall was designed by the architect Max Berg and opened to the public in 1913. Don’t miss out on the multimedia fountain show in front of the hall, which operates from spring to late autumn. It’s one of the largest fountains in Europe, with 300 water jets and three fire jets.

Adjacent to Centennial Hall, you’ll find another top attraction – the Japanese Garden. It has more than 300 plant species, walkways, a tea pavilion, and a gate. Japanese Garden was created in 1913 by the Japanese gardener Mankichi Arai for Baron Fritz von Hochberg and was initially part of the Global Exhibition in 1913. It’s a popular place for peaceful walks, and the entrance costs just 21 PLN (5 USD).

Contributed by Leslie of Backpackers Thailand

7. Bialystok

📍Bialystok at a Glance

⭐ Top Things to Do: Visit Branicki Palace, Explore Rynek Kosciusko Market Square, Day trip to Bialowieza National Park ✈️ How to Get There : Easily accessible by train or bus from major cities in Poland. The city also has its own airport, with direct flights to some European destinations. 🏨 Where to Stay: Ibis Styles Bialystok

Bialystok, the largest city in northeastern Poland, is a hidden gem that should absolutely make your list of the best cities to visit in Poland. What makes it special is the unique mix of Polish, Tatar, Jewish, and Belarusian influences that you can see throughout the city, in the monuments and the incredible churches.

One of the best  things to do in Bialystok  is visit Branicki Palace, often called the “Versailles of Poland.” A visit to this historic site will give you insight into the history of the city’s royal past and even has an enchanting baroque garden.

A stroll through Bialystok Market Square (Rynek Kosciuszko), the city’s main square, is a great opportunity to admire the buildings from different eras and sample traditional Polish food at the many cafes and restaurants.

If you have more time, Bialystok is also a perfect place to take a day trip to Bialowieza National Park, Poland’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Listed site and home of the European Bison. There is a great educational center here and tours of the area run frequently.

But perhaps best of all is the fact that Bialystok is not on Poland’s typical tourist route, and it gives you the chance to enjoy a truly local experience, cheaper prices, and fewer crowds. We love the laidback Bialystok lifestyle, still with plenty of the same charm as the more popular Polish cities. We have spent a lot of time in Bialystok due to having a family connection, and it is such a refreshing chance to live like locals for a while.

Holly Connors from Four Around The World

8. Sopot, Poland

📍Sopot at a Glance

⭐ Top Things to Do: Pirate Ship Excursion, Beach Visit, Jezioro Nowowiejskiego Park ✈️ How to Get There : Via train from other Polish cities. Alternatively, you can arrive by boat from Gdynia or Gdansk! 🏨 Where to Stay: Molo Residence

For a wonderful seaside city to visit in Poland, consider making your next destination Sopot. Located between Gdansk and Gdynia, it’s perfect to combine with these other locations. 

Sopot is a   great place to visit  while visiting Poland due to its location at the seaside. It has a large sandy beach for those looking for a hint of a beach vacation. Sopot also has the longest wooden pier in Europe at 511.5 meters. There is a small fee of 4 PLN to walk on the pier, which is free if you arrive to Sopot by boat from Gydnia or Gdansk. Many private and public transportation boats stop at the end of the pier,  as well as a fun speed boat activity and a pirate ship to explore! 

The city area has many restaurants to choose from. For a delicious burger, we suggest dining at Prosty Temat Sopot, or Kawiarnia Santa Cafe for tea, coffee and cake. Once eaten, take time for a little shopping. Sopot has some lovely local boutiques for finding something unique. Alternatively, take a walk in Jezioro Nowowiejskiego Park to climb the observation tower. Here you can see all of Sopot and the pier in the distance!

Contributed by Zoe from Together In Transit 

📍 Gdynia at a Glance

⭐ Top Things to Do: Relax on Miejska Beach, Maritime Museum or the Emigration Museum, abandoned Hotel Zdrowie ✈️ How to Get There : By train, bus, or rental car 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Różany Gaj

Gdynia is a special city among the very old towns one often visits in Europe, as it was just a small fishing village about a century ago but has over time been built up with modern buildings, designs, and layouts. Part of the “Tri-City” metropolitan area, it’s a great, calm base for exploring the area and visiting the two sister cities of Gdansk and Sopot. Gdynia is known for its relationship with the sea, being an important port town, and also enjoying a public beach in the heart of the city, which becomes very lively in the summertime. The wide stretch of sand at Miejska Beach offers lounge chairs, volleyball courts, restaurants and hotels just a few minutes walk away. The promenade along the beach and Kościuszko Square are perfect places to take a stroll or sit and people-watch. Gdynia also boasts some fascinating museums, especially if you’re interested in the city’s maritime history. Visit the Naval Museum, the Emigration Museum, or two different museums that are actually aboard ships, the “Dar Pomorza” Maritime Museum and the ORP “Błyskawica” Ship Museum. Lastly, for a more “off the beaten path” adventure, check out Hotel Zdrowie, an abandoned building turned giant canvas for street artists to show off their skills. It’s a cool place to take some interesting, even dystopian-looking, photography, but note that as the building is not maintained. Therefoire, it’s necessary to be careful of things like broken glass. With so many fun things to explore, from beach days and summer festivals to interesting museums and delicious seafood restaurants, Gdynia is an enjoyable place to visit any time of the year and is one of the  best day trips from Gdansk  and other Polish cities.

You can drive a rental car to Gdynia but it is not necessary to have one, as public transportation makes it easy to get to Gdynia. There are multiple trains a day from the bigger city of Gdansk or other cities such as Warsaw. Buses or taxis are also options, so there is no difficulty getting to Gdynia.

Recommended by Megan from Megan & Aram

📍 Lublin at a Glance

⭐ Top Things to Do: Lublin Village Open Air Museum, Majdanek Concentration Camp Memorial, Lublin Old Town ✈️ How to Get There : Easily connected via flight to Lublin Airport or by train. 🏨 Where to Stay: Rynek 10 Apartments

Lublin, tucked away in Eastern Poland, is often missed on most Poland itineraries. But my travels in Poland have led me to appreciate Lublin for its historic city center and the many things to do in this off-the-beaten-path town. First, visit the historic Lublic Old Town area, which is anchored by the medieval Lublin Castle and the Holy Trinity Chapel. You can tour both, gaining an appreciation for the art and architecture that comes alive here. Another place nearby Lublin that is worth visiting is the Majdanek Concentration Camp Memorial. Once the grounds of a Nazi Concentration Camp , this area has been preserved as a memorial to those murdered during the Holocaust. It is a somber and moving place to visit, but is so informative as a learning experience.

For those who enjoy trying local flavors (me!), Lublin’s food options do not disappoint. The city’s market square buzzes with small cafes and traditional Polish food. Grab a pint of beer and a plate of pierogies, and you’ll have a taste of authentic Poland!

Concluding Thoughts: Must-Visit Cities in Poland in 2024

As a Holocaust and World War II educator and an avid explorer of Europe, my numerous visits to Poland have only deepened my fondness for this often-overlooked country in Europe. Each city, from the streets of Old Town Krakow to the less-trodden paths of Lublin, brings its own unique story and charm.

If you’re seeking an affordable but incredible travel experience, some of the best cities to visit in Poland await. I hope you love it just as much as I did!

Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Poland

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Oct 14, 2022

Poland is a historical country with 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a collection of breathtaking natural attractions – mountains, national parks, rugged coastlines, and some unexpected wonders such as the world's oldest salt mine.

With its medieval architecture, troubled WWII history, and many villages that seem to be stuck in time, Poland is the perfect destination for history buffs and architecture lovers. Packed with things to do, Poland's cities are humming with the energy of art and culture and are a great starting point to discover everything the country has to offer.

No matter if you're after history, art, or nature, plan your visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Poland.

1. Wieliczka Salt Mine, Wieliczka

2. auschwitz-birkenau camps, oswiecim, 3. warsaw old market place, warsaw, 4. malbork castle, malbork, 5. lazienki park, warsaw, 6. schindler's factory, krakow, 7. crooked forest, gryfino, 8. warsaw rising museum, warsaw, 9. wawel royal castle, kraków, 10. wolf's lair, gierloz, 11. morskie oko lake, tatra national park, 12. kraków cloth hall, krakow, 13. wawel cathedral, krakow, 14. slowinski sand dunes, 15. biskupin settlement, map of tourist attractions in poland.

The 13 th -century Wieliczka salt mine is just as important for the locals today as it was hundreds of years ago, but for a very different reason. One of the world's oldest and longest-working salt mines, it stopped commercial operations in 1996 and has since become an artistic attraction .

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is now home to four chapels, corridors, and statues – all carved out of the rock salt walls. The mine's original shafts and passageways – some as deep as 327 meters underground – have been reopened and allow visitors to explore pits and chambers, walking past statues and alongside stunning architectural marvels. Deep into the mine, an underground lake shimmers against the candlelit walls.

The main tourist attraction inside the mine, however, is the Chapel of St. Kinga, a 12-meter-high chamber where everything – including the elaborate chandeliers and furniture – are made of salt. The tour continues on to the Erazm Baracz Chamber, where you'll find a lake that's saltier than the Dead Sea, and ends at a museum that explains salt mining and what life in the mines was like.

Official site: https://www.wieliczka-saltmine.com/

The Auschwitz I and the Auschwitz II—Birkenau concentration camps are a different kind of must-see. Located about an hour west of Krakow, the camps offer a sobering look into the past.

Between 1942 and 1944, over 900,000 Jews were brought to the camps here from German-occupied countries. Political prisoners, Roma, and a number of other ethnicities were also sent here. Less than 10 percent of the people brought here survived their stay.

At the end of the war, as Soviet forces advanced into Poland, the Nazis destroyed the gas chambers and crematoria before fleeing. Although they managed to destroy and burn down part of the camp, many structures remain standing to this day.

The camps, which include over 300 barracks and hundreds of other buildings and crematoriums, can only be explored as part of a guided tour.

Official site: http://auschwitz.org/en/

The oldest part of Warsaw, the Old Town Market Place dates back to the 13 th century. Although 85 percent of the area was destroyed by the Nazis during World War II, it has since been restored to look exactly like it did when it was first built.

A mix of medieval architecture, Gothic, and colorful Renaissance buildings and merchant houses all coexist in the city's most popular square. The 19th-century bronze statue of a sword-wielding mermaid – a symbol of Warsaw's since medieval times – survived the War and still stands at the square.

Today, the Market Square is home to many cafés and restaurants, as well as street art sellers and many souvenir stalls. The main branch of the Historical Museum of Warsaw is also located here – home to a massive art collection but also a look through the history of the city and country.

The Adam Mickiewicz Museum of Literature , just steps away, pays homage to Poland's most famous poet and writer.

This 13th-century Teutonic castle was originally built by the Teutonic Knights, a religious order that served as a crusading military unit. Although the castle started as a small fortification, it was subsequently expanded over the centuries and eventually became a massive structure. Once the largest Gothic building in Europe, Malbork castle remains the world's largest castle by land area.

Today, the castle serves as a museum, with many of its original rooms perfectly preserved. Highlights include a medieval kitchen with a six-meter-wide fireplace, a collection of armor and weapons, and the knights' private toilet at the top of a tower.

In addition to historical collections, the castle also houses a number of exhibits, including one showcasing the conservation techniques used to restore the castle.

Official site: http://www.zamek.malbork.pl/en

Lazienki Park covers 76 hectares of the city center, making it one of Poland's largest urban parks . Lazienki started life as a baths park for a nobleman in the 17 th century. Today, the Palace on the Isle is open to the public, as are the gardens around it.

A Classical-theater isle stage (where performances are still held), a number of smaller palaces and structures that now serve as museums or galleries, and even a classicist temple dedicated to the goddess Diana are set in the gardens.

A large statue of classic Polish composer Frederic Chopin stands on the grounds of the park as well. The statue was purposely destroyed by German forces as they invaded Poland during WWII and reconstructed in 1958 using the original mold. Every Sunday afternoon, free piano concerts are held at the foot of the statue.

Oskar Schindler's enamel and metal factory – made famous by Steven Spielberg's 1994 movie – is now home to two museums. Part of the building has been converted into the Museum of Contemporary Art, while Schindler's former office – and much of the former factory floor – is now a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow.

Schindler's former office, which has been preserved intact since War times, is now an exhibit dedicated to his life and the lives of the people he saved in this very factory. In the office, a wall of glass known as the "Survivors' Ark" serves as a time capsule, full of enamel pots like the ones built at the factory.

The rest of the factory presents a number of cinematic exhibits that show Krakow during the War and the impact the Nazis had on the history of the city and the lives who inhabited it. There are also a number of immersive stage-like reconstructions of 1940s spaces – from a typical street to the seats of a tram to a typical Jewish apartment of the time.

Located just outside the tiny town of Gryfino, the Crooked Forest is a (perhaps) natural marvel that defies explanation. Here, a number of pine trees stand on their own, growing with a 90-degree angle at their base, all bent northward.

The pines were originally planted here in the 1930s, but it took about 10 years before the trunks started to show their characteristic bent. Despite many theories, there's a standing heated debate on whether the curvature was created artificially by manipulating the trees – or whether it just happened naturally or accidentally.

Regardless of the cause, the eerie presence of the trees is hard to deny, especially as the rest of the forest is full of healthy, perfectly straight pine trees. It's a great place for a quiet hike in the silence of the forest.

This is a museum dedicated to 1944's Warsaw Uprising, where the Polish Underground Resistance fought the German occupation of their city. The uprising lasted for 63 days, with massive casualties on both sides.

Once the Polish forces surrounded them, the Nazis systematically destroyed a large number of historical buildings and structures in retaliation. The uprising was a massive effort by a poorly equipped and barely armed group of civilians trying to defeat the enemy – and the museum has done a remarkable job of bringing that spirit to life.

Exhibits here include many rooms and events brought to life through films, artifacts, recreations, and interactive displays, including replicas of the sewer tunnels used to move around the city in secret, an insurgent hospital, and a print shop where you can see posters and underground newspapers.

Several rooms show continuous original footage of the events, and there's a special section dedicated to the Nazi occupation and the atrocities committed during the uprising.

Official site: https://www.1944.pl/en/

Wawel is an architecturally eclectic castle – the construction has medieval elements mixed with Baroque and Renaissance details. One of the first places to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Poland, the castle has always been an important part of the history of the country.

King Sigismund I the Old, who lived in the castle in the 16 th century, was an avid collector of art – so it makes sense that the castle is now an important art museum, focused mainly on paintings and curatorial work.

Additional collections include weapons and armor, porcelain and ceramics, lots of textiles and prints, and a significant amount of period furniture. The museum also has an unusually large collection of Ottoman tents, the largest of its kind in Europe.

Official site: https://wawel.krakow.pl/en

Hitler's top-secret military headquarters is hidden deep in the Masurian woods. When it was active, it had three fortified security areas around it, defended by land mines in addition to heavily armed units.

At the time, the area included over 80 buildings, including several air-raid shelter bunkers and watchtowers. The Nazis blew up the complex in 1945 before fleeing the approaching Soviet Forces, but some of the buildings were so heavily reinforced, many of them could not be destroyed.

Visitors can now make their way to the area as a day trip from Warsaw . Although there are plans to eventually add historical exhibits or even a museum to the area, for now it's more a collection of ruins to walk through, discovering the corners of the history that developed here.

Located deep within the Tatra National Park and surrounded by towering mountains and Swiss pines, the lake is a favorite destination for people of all ages. Reaching it requires an easy but long paved hike through shaded forests. The lake changes color throughout the year, transforming from a deep shade of blue to a softer turquoise hue.

The Tatras National Park extends through both Poland and Slovakia. In Poland, it's home to over 600 caves; snow-covered peaks; and a number of waterfalls, including the 70-meter-tall Wielka Siklawa.

Most of the park is hikeable, with over 270 kilometers of trails of all lengths and difficulties.

The Hall, which dates back to the Renaissance, has always been the heart of international trade in Poland. During the 15 th century, it was the main place for foreign merchants to gather to sell exotic spices from the East.

Traders from all over Europe also came here to buy salt from the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Textiles, leather, and silk were also traded here – imported from other countries for sale and produced locally.

The Hall was renovated in the 19 th century and used for years as an events center, where formal balls to honor visiting emperors and kings were held. The main floor is now again a center of commerce, with small stalls and galleries selling souvenirs, collectibles, and small pieces of art.

The Sukiennice Museum has taken over the second floor – home to a large collection of 19th-century Polish art.

The first Wawel Cathedral was built over 1,000 years ago, though the current one – a fascinating combination of Romanesque, Baroque, Gothic, and Neoclassical elements – was built in the 14th century after a massive fire destroyed earlier buildings.

For centuries, the cathedral was the burial place of Polish monarchs, though most of the tombs now reside in the labyrinth of underground crypts located right under the cathedral.

In addition to the main cathedral, there's also a number of smaller buildings outside, including the Sigismund's Chapel, famous for its beautiful golden dome. Even more famous is the Sigismund Bell, which – as the largest church bell in the country at 11 tons – requires the strength of 12 people to ring it. The 70-meter-tall tower holding the bell also offers a great viewpoint over the city.

Part of Słowiński National Park in northern Poland, the 500 hectares of "moving dunes" here are considered a curiosity of nature. Their name comes from the fact that the dunes actually change form and move along the 32 kilometers of shoreline throughout the year, as winds and waves crash against the beach.

Depending on the weather, the dunes can move up to 10 meters per year and reach heights of up to 30 meters.

While the shifting sand dunes are the park's main attraction, you'll also find forests, bogs, lakes, and many kilometers of hiking trails. And once you make it over the dunes, you'll find a beautiful beach and clear blue waters.

Often referred to as "the Pompeii of Poland," the Biskupin Settlement is a recreation of the original prehistoric settlement that once thrived in the same place around the late Bronze Age.

Now an archeological open-air museum that tells the story of ancient Poland, the settlement showcases what life would have been like back then, with log houses (the original settlement included over 100 homes) and streets covered with wooden planks (as the location meant the streets were always wet and the ground always soft).

The settlement is surrounded by a tall wooden wall that's over 450 meters long and includes a watchtower near the entrance gate.

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Exploring Poland: Poland is one of the top-rated cheap places to visit in Europe – it offers great food, affordable accommodations, and plenty of unique destinations. For tips on things to do when visiting, take a look at our list of the Best Places to Visit in Poland .

Crossing Borders: Poland is strategically located, allowing easy access to many other countries in Europe. Spend a weekend discovering the top-rated tourist attractions in the Czech Republic , just a few hours away, or head over to Germany, even closer. Take a look at the many things to do in Germany in our article, Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Germany .

25+ of The Best Places to Visit in Poland: by a Local

Poland is a beautiful place that you can visit at any time of the year because there’s always something going on. Every season has different activities to offer.

While Poland is often associated closely with the Second World War, there’s much more to the country than just historical sites related to the war. The country literally has everything: sea, lakes, forests, castles , mountains, even a desert, and good food .

As a native Polish person I am very well placed to advise you on the best places to visit in Poland and help craft your itinerary . There’s way beyond just Warsaw and Krakow, some of these places are quite unique and most tourists never go there.

Top Places to See in Poland

(for more unique places to see in poland scroll down).

Being the capital of the country, everyone’s first port of call when visiting Poland is Warsaw. In many ways, it is a city much like many other European cities but is very much steeped in a rich history, having played a big roll in, and having been heavily damaged during the Second World War.

The city’s architecture is a living canvas of the various eras the city has seen, from dramatic Gothic churches, Soviet-style buildings, and modern-day skyscrapers, all intermingling. 

Although there’s much to see in terms of culture and history, like The Royal Castle and The Palace of Culture and Science , the city is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage site in the form of Warsaw Old Town. There, you’ll find the beating heart of the city, with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and the 16th-century Castle Square in which stands the famous Warsaw Mermaid statue, built as the symbol of Warsaw. 

See the heart of the renowned composer Frédéric Chopin at the Church of the Holy Cross or visit one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in the world at the Cmentarz Zydowski. Dine at traditional Polish restaurants such as Zapiecek (for tasty Pierogi) or Bar Mleczny (to experience a real Polish milk bar) or sample real Polish street foods like the grilled open sandwiches known as Zapiekanki.

Check Out my Ultimate Guide to Warsaw

To the south of Poland, bordering the Czech Republic, the city of Krakow, whose history dates as far back as the 7th century, has retained much of its regal medieval essence as well as its Rennaissance-era elegance.

It’s less touristy than Warsaw, but just as rich in terms of historic sites , a grand market square, typically Polish colorful architecture, and delicious traditional food spots.

The most popular attractions in Krakow include the Cloth Hall, which used to be a bustling market during medieval times and remains so today, and the St. Mary’s Basilica with one of the most jaw-dropping Gothic altars in Europe. You can actually walk through the ancient streets of Krakow at the Rynek Underground Museum or visit St Andrew’s Church built in 1079.

Not to forget that Poland is best known for its elegant castles and the Wawel Castle is no exception, you could easily spend half a day there exploring the grounds and taking in the history.

There are lots of World War Two sites to visit in and around Krakow as well, including Schindler’s Factory whose part in the war made such an impact on the world that they had the feature movie Schindler’s List made in 1993 featuring Liam Neeson.

Read More on Things to Do in Krakow

3. Wieliczka

Best known for its 13th century Wieliczka Salt Mine , this southern town is around a four-hour drive away from the capital Warsaw.

The mine is an underground network of tunnels and over 2000 grand excavated chambers , astonishingly shaped chapels, sculptures, and enchanting subterrestrial lakes. Tours of the mines take about 3 hours. 

4. Tatra Mountains

The misty jagged Tatra Mountains form part of the Carpathian Mountain range, about 2 hours away from Krakow , that creates a natural parkland border between Poland and Slovakia.

During summer, the mountains attract hikers from all over the world with its rumbling meadows of alpine blooms. During winter, the snow-topped peaks have made skiing a popular pastime of Polish locals and visitors alike. 

Hiking routes range from beginner-friendly to very difficult and the landscape is pure, breathtaking, and some of Mother Nature’s finest . Spots worth not missing are the Valley of Five Lakes, The Black Pond, Wodogrzmoty Mickiewicza Waterfall as well as Koscielisko Valley.

5. Zakopane

Known as the winter capital of Poland , the resort town of Zakopane at the base of the Tantras is most popular for being the prime spot for winter sports in the cold seasons and climbing and hiking in the summer months.

One of the most popular scenic areas for both is the Western peak at Kasprowy Wierch which is easily reached by a cable car from the center of the resort. It’s also a good starting point for other sought-after Polish landmarks and activities like the Tantra National Park, Lake Morskie Oko, and rafting through the Dunajec Gorge .

Nonetheless, it’s sometimes easy to forget that before the boom of the tourist industries, places like Zakopane were once real traditional Polish towns, which means that there’s so much more to experience than skiing and hiking. The town itself is rich in Polish traditions which you can see in its town center, like the local markets selling crafts made from wool and wood, or traditional sheep cheeses.

Krupówki street is lively with museums like Karol Szymanowski’s Museum and churches like the Old Church and Cemetary. Not to mention all the shops and restaurants where you can sample the best of Polish food . 

If you were to see postcard-perfect pictures of Zakopane, it would surely be of the typical 20th-century wooden chalets in the symbolic architectural style of the area. You could also pay a visit to the thermal spas 20km outside of Zakopane for a special experience.

6. Morskie Oko

You’ll find Lake Morskie Oko deep within the Tatra Mountains. It’s the largest lake in the mountain range and on days of calm weather, the lake creates an entrancing mirror image of the green, often snow peaked mountains all around including Rysy, the tallest of the Tatras.

There’s a clearly paved trail that you can hike to get to the lake as well as one that takes you further up for a full view of the lake from above. Local horse-drawn carts are also available to take you up the easy trail. 

7. Chocholowska Valley

Not only the largest valley in the Tatra Mountains, but the Chocholowska Valley is also the perfect vacation spot for families of all ages . You can get to the valley by bus from Zakopane or it’s quite easy to take a car or bike and once there.

The hiking trails are easy and ideal for everyone from small children to the elderly. The length of the trail runs from the entrance of the national park to the Siwa Polana-Chochołowska Valley mountain shelter on Chocholowska Glade. 

The views in the valley are spectacular, from the small lakes surrounded by towering pine trees to fields of mountain flowers of lilac and sunshine yellow. 

A beautiful, quiet town in the north of the country, Malbork boasts one of Poland’s gorgeous castle forts, the 13th century Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the main reason why most people make this a pit stop on their visit to Poland .

The Castle is worth a visit for its museum which houses both natural and historical collections as well as contemporary pieces. 

There is not much more to see in this rural town apart from a Dinosaur Park and Theme Park so a lot of people recommend not spending more than a night in the town. 

The port city of Gdansk on the Baltic Coast boasts a 1000-year-old history, having been the capital of the historic region of Pomerania when the area was split between modern-day Poland and Germany.  There are so many historical landmarks in the city, not to mention the unique local markets, perfectly preserved fortifications, and gorgeous bourgeois and harbor architecture, that make the city so rich in culture .

The Gothic temple at St Mary’s Basilica is more than 500 years old and stands impressively on the city’s skyscape, it’s often known as the Crown of Gdansk. Another icon, simply known as The Crane, was one of the largest Port Cranes in Europe during the Middle Ages.

The Museum of Amber and Museum of Torture offer insights into two very different but equally interesting aspects of the city’s history. Fort Carré is one of Europe’s best-preserved 16th-century defensive structures that allows visitors to step into the past and imagine the battles of the past.

Not to forget the 17th century Neptune Fountain not far from the center of town and visit ground zero for the Second World War at Westerplatte. 

The city is also more than its historical aspect. Today it remains the center of the world’s amber trade, there’s a popular zoo to visit as well as several viewpoints from which to marvel at the sea-facing view of the city.

Take a walk down the Royal Way, stroll down the Embankment, or try one of the popular restaurants like Pierogarnia Mandu for the best pierogi in town and you must visit Restauracja Kubicki to dine at the oldest restaurant in Gdansk.

Not far from the main city of Gdansk, Leba (pronounced ‘way-bah’) is so named for being at the mouth of the river Leba on the Baltic Coast. It’s home to rugged, natural coastal features like stunning beaches, picturesque shifting sand dunes, calm lakes, and the Słowiński National Park . 

Popular activities include sailing, cycling the National Park, and during peak season the beaches do get quite full of visitors making the most of the lazy beach life.

Visit the 1904 Stilo Lighthouse, attempt to escape the Labyrinth Park, visit the little Amber Museum or eat traditional food like Zurek at Pałac Poraj or Pierogi at Koga Restaurant.

The town’s quieter attractions make it perfect for a vacation simply to take in the Polish culture without the hustle and bustle of the busier city areas. 

11. Bialowieza Forest

On the border between Poland and Belarus, the Bialowieza Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , has successfully been preserved as the last primeval forest in lowland Europe . It’s important because of its singular opportunities for biodiversity conservation and as the home of Europe’s heaviest land animal, the bison. The forests are also home to a unique variety of gigantic trees and endemic wildlife like bears, wolves, and elks. 

Trips into the forest start from Białowieża village, where there are plenty of accommodations and facilities to explore the area, like bike rentals and local restaurants, although you could choose to stay in one of the small nearby villages or take a tour from Warsaw .

You can get to the village by bus, car, or train, the longest journey being 9 hours by bus. Once you’re there, you might want to plan a trip in advance because a lot of rural residents may not speak English very well and you want to be prepared. 

You can book a tour with a recommended company, where they’ll plan your whole trip beginning with your departure from Warsaw, but you also have the option of discovering the forest on your own. The main starting point is the town of Hajnówka, called ‘the Gateway to the Forest’.

Founded in 1580 and located about 450km away from Warsaw, the city of Zamosc has been dubbed a unique example of a Renaissance town in Central Europe because it embodies everything that the era was about including liberalism and elegant architecture. 

The Old Town is the city’s ‘piece de resistance’, being a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its preserved sixteenth-century state made up of the old merchant houses, the grand town hall, and the Zamoyski Palace.

The historical brightly colored buildings are worth the visit but the Great Market Square also has plenty of shops and cafes and The Zamojskie Museum will give you a detailed insight into the rich history of the area.

The town also has a small 1500s Cathedral that still holds regular masses today but they also have a substantial Jewish history, which you can learn all about from the Zamość Synagogue built between 1610 and 1618.

Poznan is a proud city, home to a buzzing bar scene, iconic colorful streets, a prominent history, and cheap and delicious traditional food , it’s so much more than meets the eye. It’s got a very young and modern vibe due to the several universities in the area but it still retains the charm and tradition of the old days. 

There’s a big bike culture in the city which makes it fun to travel along all the streets and experience the energetic atmosphere that’s so easily missed, as well as all the restaurants and boutiques promoting local entrepreneurs.

See the famous The Watcher street painting by one of the world’s greatest artists who goes by the name of Noriaki or visit Zemsta book store best known for its support of unusual texts. 

One of the city’s popular restaurants is Oskoma, where they put a special twist on traditional Polish classic. Another beloved classic with the locals and students is U Dziadka (pronounced “o-jadka”) where they make you feel right at home with their popular dishes like the chunky pan-fried pork chops and buttery potatoes.  And let’s not forget you absolutely need to try the town’s own special pastry, the St Martin’s croissant.

14. Masurian Lake District

Also known as the Masurian Lakeland, the northeastern area of Poland has its own dialect , is so called because it has over 2000 lakes and is mostly untouched country . Although it is the poorest region in the country, it is the richest in terms of free wildlife and virgin landscapes.

It’s the perfect place for outdoor camping with lots of open fields, forests, hikes, and pleasant walks; it’s often called the ‘green lungs of Poland’. Not to mention all of the water activities available on all the lakes and water bodies likd sailing, kayaking, fishing, and more. 

There are a few villages and resort towns in the area from which you can make a base, one of the more popular camping ones being the village of Ublik. A lot of the organic farms also offer farm stays or you could decide on a more luxurious spa resort in the great outdoors. 

If you’re looking for a bit of history even as far out as here, you can find Wolf’s Lair in Masuria too, which is Hitler’s former Second World War military headquarters where he spent more than 800 days and survived an assassination attempt in 1944.

Surprisingly, Torun was one of the few towns that were saved from any damage during the Second World War . This town has a unique beauty both in its visual architectural value and its cultural atmosphere that has attracted artists and academics from all over the world for years. 

The three-hour tour of the city’s Old Town is worth every minute and takes you to places such as Caesar’s Arch, St. Mary’s Church, the Copernicus Monument (for the famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus), and the Holy Spirit Gate. Visit the leaning tower of Torun and explore the Teutonic Knights Castle which is one of the oldest of its kind in the world.

Indulge in Poland’s popular Milk Bar at Bar Mlecznys, don’t miss out on Torun’s local gingerbread, and be sure to sample other classics like zurek and pierogi to get the full traditional experience. 

Read More on Torun

16. Wroclaw

Found on the Oder River, Wroclaw (pronounced vrots -wahf) is a strange and beautiful old city, made up of 12 islands and over 100 bridges connecting them. Its most prominent feature is a large astronomical clock at the 18th century Town Hall but there are plenty more things to do !

It’s got some unique architectural landmarks such as the Panorama of Racławice, a painting depicting the 1794 battle for independence, and the Centennial Hall auditorium, with its giant dome and tall spire which lies across the river.

The area is a very important commercial and educational center in Poland but is also a very vibrant cultural hub that hosts several festivals and boasts a vibrant nightlife. 

Check Out my Ultimate Guide to Wroclaw

17. Auschwitz

Auschwitz needs little to no introduction, known worldwide for the atrocities it endured during the Holocaust and the Nazi occupation of Poland. Over 40 concentration and death camps were run here and today they, and the museums, are humbling to visit and a reminder of the cruelty and destruction of war. 

It’s free of charge to visit the Memorial and walk around by yourself but if you want to take a guided tour you’ll have to make a reservation online and pay a fee depending on the type of tour and size of the group. 

Unique Places to Visit in Poland

18. crooked forest.

The mysterious Crooked Forest looks like something out of a Grimm Brothers story and is a unique site that’s worth a visit, with around 400 pine trees that grow with a near-perfect 90-degree curve at their base.

The forest, also known as Krzywy Las, has been around since the 1930s and while some believe they’re due to a unique gravitational pull in the area, it’s more likely that they were purposely mutated by local farmers in the area when they were planted. 

The forest is about a 1-hour bus ride from the town of Gryfino in the west of the country. The town was evacuated during the war so those who would have had the answers to the truth behind the peculiar trees have sadly long since gone.

19. Ksiaz Castle

This 13th-century castle is the largest in the Silesia region and looks like a fairy tale , with brightly colored walls, turrets, and elegant ramparts. It underwent a transformation from Gothic to the Baroque style in the 18th century and in the 1940s, the castle became Hitler’s headquarters after the Nazi invasion and his decision to move from Wolf’s Lair.

There are stories that Hitler had plans to make an underground network beneath the Sowie Mountains on which the castle lies but that remains a mystery even today. 

After the war, the castle was left abandoned and restorations were only fully completed as recently as 2005. Visitors can tour the castle’s great halls and compound either alone or with a pre-organized tour or even spend a night here .

20. Czestochowa

The southern city of Czestochowa is often undersold as a tourist destination but ‘ the Holy City ‘ is well worth the visit. It has a famous religious history, having been the home of St Paul’s Monastery of Jasna Góra which houses a shrine to the Virgin Mary known as the Black Madonna painting .

Pilgrims come in the millions from all over the world to pay homage every year. The Monastery and other religious areas in the city are some of the most revered in the Roman Catholic religion and the adjoining museums house unique artifacts and books.

Not to forget the unexpected landmark that a lot of people don’t know exists in Czestochowa, the World’s Tallest Pope Statue. The fiberglass statue measures 13.8 meters tall and depicts Pope John Paul II.

The great thing about this city is that it still has all of the beautiful thirteenth-century architecture that the other main cities are known for, like the iconic Town Hall, cathedral, and Old Market Square but Czestochowa is both less crowded and much cheaper than the main areas.

The city even has its own castle, or at least the ruins of one, at Olsztyn Castle where the views are stunning and there’s a popular 25-minute hike.

21. Ojcow National Park

If you’re visiting the busy city of Krakow and you’ve done all of the popular sights and experienced the vibrant city life, the perfect way to unwind and get some fresh outdoor air is to visit the Ojcow National Park .

It’s the smallest National Park in Poland but it makes up for its size with over 1000 species of multicolored trees and flowers, 135 species of birds and around 500 species of butterflies making it ideal nature for leisurely walks. 

The Park is only 24 km from Krakow and easily accessible by car or bus but it’s just as pleasant to bike along the Vistula River. There’s a little coffee shop within the park where you can relax for a drink or for all the castle lovers, the Renaissance castle at Pieskowa Skała sits serenely at the top of a hill overlooking the glorious natural landscape of the Park.

22. Jaskinia Niedzwiedzia

Discovered in 1966, this incredible excavation site near the village of Kletno, also known as the Bear Cave, is the longest cave in the Śnieżnik Mountains and the deepest in Poland.

It’s made up of three known levels, has a depth of around 100m, and is most popular for its middle cave featuring impressive preserved stalactites and a large range of ice-age animal bones and remains. 

A tour of the cave takes around 45 minutes and because the site is a Nature Reserve, they do have a limit on the number of daily visitors that they allow so it may be best to book in advance. 

23. Biskupin

The famous archaeological site at Biskupin , is an open-air museum that portrays a life-size reconstructed Iron Age fortified settlement in Poland, whose origins are believed to date back to 700 BC .

The origins of the people who once inhabited the structure are not well known but it is thought that they were a highly developed culture made up of the intricate design of the fortification and the settlement. The site is located on Lake Biskupin, about 5 hours away from Warsaw by train.

Every year in September, the Archeological Festival in Biskupin sees history fans from all over Europe get together to experience archeology at work. There are various workshops on life back in the Iron Age, which includes how to forge your own arrowhead and there are presentations on battles and early craftsmanship, all while listening to the sounds of music from times long gone by. 

24. Zalipie Village

The houses in Zalipie village are adorned with hand-painted artistic flower patterns and a very special atmosphere, making this the most colorful and unique village in Poland .

It’s not just the houses, trees, furniture, dog houses, and household items are all painted in this special way. Some of the houses are extra special and worth seeing, such as The House of the Woman Painters. All of the paintings in the village are unique and everyone has their own take of the traditional designs. 

The village itself is very peaceful and a perfect city break, with lush greenery and fresh air all around. If you want to see how the paintings are done, pay a visit to the folk museum in the center of town and also be sure to check out Saint Joseph’s Church, with its similarly beautifully painted interior. 

25. Wolf’s Liar

One of the most iconic historical World War II sights, Wolf’s Lair, hidden deep in the Polish wilderness, was Hitler’s first Eastern Front military headquarters which was built right in time for Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941.

After one attempted assassination in 1944 and the explosion of a suitcase bomb, the hideaway was compromised so Hilter and his men abandoned the highly fortified base.

You can visit Wolf’s Lair and its network of bunkers, tunnels, and rooms by yourself, which should take about 2 hours, or with an organized tour from major cities like Warsaw. They also have a small hotel and restaurant on the compound in the renovated former headquarters of Hitler’s personal security, if you want to spend the night and explore the area better. 

26. Chapel of Skulls

The Skull Chapel at St Bartholomew’s Church in the Czermna district of Kudowa was designed by Czech priest Vaclav Tomasek in the latest 1700s who created what he envisioned as a sanctuary of silence.

The chapel walls and ceilings are decorated, most in a Jolly Roger style, with the skulls and bones of 3000 people but another 21,000 are found in the crypt below.

It took Tomasek 18 years to collect, clean, and arrange all the bones in the church and the Chapel today is worth a visit for its unique and quite eery nature. 

Any questions or suggestions? Do you know any more interesting places to see in Poland?

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Thursday 8th of December 2022

Hello, My family (two kids 14/15 ) are coming to Poland in may 2023 We are flying in and out of Warsaw. your guides have been so helpful but I was wondering if you could suggest some where to go on the way and way back from Warsaw on the war to Krakow. for a night each way? (we will have a car) thank you

Roger Mancewicz

Saturday 22nd of February 2020

Had fun reading your website. I am 25% Polish & would love to visit there someday. I better hurry I am 78 but feel great!!!

Tuesday 18th of February 2020

Hi! Great to see Poznan and some other unexpected locations in this article :) Greetings from Poznan!

Saturday 7th of September 2019

We've been to Krakow, Warsaw, Gdansk and Wrocław. Our teenage children loved Wrocław most and my favourite is probably Gdansk. We have so many wonderful places still to visit, I think Poznan might be next but Poland just has so many stunning places. I am finding the language very hard to learn though! Thanks for such a wonderful post Anna xx

Marian Zarzycki

Friday 19th of July 2019

I was hoping during my visit to Poland, to meet family members of Stanislaus Zarzycki, Josephus Zarzycki, Antonio Zarzycki, as well as John Borkowski Family

15 Best Cities to Visit in Poland

P oland is a fascinating and beautiful European country. It’s a fusion of poignant history, incredible culture, and touches of modernity. Whether you’re a history buff, or you are just looking for the best places to explore in this Central European country, Poland’s unique charm and beauty are sure to captivate you. 

From the medieval streets of Krakow to the urban landscape of Warsaw and the coastal allure of Gdansk, we’ve laid out the best cities to visit in Poland. 

Prettiest and Best Cities to Visit in Poland

If you’re planning a trip to Poland and looking for the prettiest, most unique, and best cities to visit in Poland, these 15 cities each have their own distinct character and reasons to visit. 

Krakow is the most visited and arguably the most charming Polish city. 

Steeped in history, Krakow is worth visiting for at least 3 or 4 days. The UNESCO-listed Old Town and its lively Main Square invites you to wander among colorful facades or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets.

Take a moment to gaze at the peculiar Eros Bendato – one of the most famous statues in Europe , and marvel at the prominent St. Mary’s Basilica – one of the most notable European churches . 

Visit the famous Wawel Castle and its royal cathedral for a journey into Poland’s regal past. Then tour Krakow’s Jewish Quarter , a cultural hub with synagogues, World War II museums, and lively pubs for a look at the city’s most tragic era. 

Of course, no trip to Krakow is complete without touring the poignant Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum , located about an hour outside the city. It’s a sobering yet essential historical experience. 

For something unique, head to the Wieliczka Salt Mine tour , one of the oldest salt mines in the world. 

Because it is such a popular tourist destination in eastern Europe, Krakow is well-connected by air, and flying into Krakow John Paul II International Airport is a convenient option. Alternatively, the train from Warsaw to Krakow takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, offering a picturesque journey through the Polish countryside.

Each city has a story. Every building you see has a story. But, for Warsaw, the story of the great city in Poland is rebirth and remembrance. You see, Warsaw was obliterated during WWII. Almost every…single…building. During the rebuild, Poland wanted you to remember what the city was like before it was destroyed, while also pushing the concept of a new city that is looking towards the future. 

It took almost 40 years for the Polish capital to rebuild from the early 1940s. You won’t find a lot of romance in this town (go to Krakow for that), but there’s still beauty to be found in Old Town. 

Old Town is a testimonial of the citizens and their hope for survival and also the need to know what was taken from them 80 years ago. Warsaw is full of surprises .

Plan to spend at least 3-4 days in the capital of Poland, staying at a hotel like Polania Palace near the National Museum.

Start your journey in the meticulously reconstructed Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , where you can stroll through cobblestone streets, visit the Royal Castle, and enjoy charming cafes. Warsaw is also home to numerous museums, such as the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews , which provide deep insights into the city’s tumultuous past.

Visit the Palace of Culture and Science for panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. 

Getting to Warsaw is easy, as Warsaw Chopin Airport is well-connected internationally. From there, the city’s efficient public transportation system, including buses and the metro, makes it easy to navigate without a car.

Are you trying to escape the crowds in some of the more famous cities to visit in Poland, like Krakow and Warsaw – but still want to experience some Polish charm? Go to Poznan! With a population around 500,000, it’s a big city with a small feel , so if you have a day to spare and want to check out another one of the best cities to visit in Poland, you’ll love Poznan.

With its colorful square and beautiful architecture, you’ll walk away framing the pictures you took there.

Located in western Poland about halfway between Berlin and Warsaw you’ll want at least 1 or 2 days to appreciate Poznan. It’s easy to get to Poznan by train. The journey from Warsaw takes about 2 ½ hours while it’s about 3 ½  from Berlin.

As with most Polish cities, begin your exploration in the heart of Old Town Poznan , where the colorful facades and charming Market Square set a picturesque backdrop. The iconic Poznań Town Hall , with its two mechanical goats that butt heads at noon, is a must-see spectacle. 

Wander through the historic streets to discover landmarks like the Poznan Cathedral and the Imperial Castle .

For nightlife, head to the Stary Browar complex , which combines shopping, dining, and fun cultural experiences.

Lublin is one of the most underrated cities in Poland that definitely deserves your attention. 

Located only 170 km east of Warsaw, Lublin is a perfect day trip from the capital , but it’s worth spending at least a few days to enjoy the city to the fullest. There are so many amazing things to do in Lublin , including exploring the charming Old Town with its picturesque cobbled lanes and stunning Baroque churches , visiting the castle (originally from the 12th century), or admiring great street art. 

Lublin is known for its numerous cultural events , taking place here all year long, so if you are lucky, you can attend one of them during your trip. 

The best time to visit Lublin is between late spring and early autumn, but with its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful architecture, there is no wrong time to be here. If you have some extra days in your itinerary, it’s worth staying here a bit longer and exploring the surrounding region, too. 

The best way to get to Lublin is by train or bus from Warsaw; you can also fly directly here from a few destinations in Europe ( London , Dublin, Milan ).

Recommended by Kamila from My Wanderlust

Situated in north-central Poland on the banks of River Vistula , Torun is known for being a birthplace of astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus and is also famous for its gingerbread , known locally as ‘pierniki’. You can visit the Gingerbread Museum , to learn more about it.

Torun is also a showcase of medieval Gothic architecture and its Old Town, earning a status of UNESCO World Heritage site . Don’t miss the Town Hall that offers fantastic views of the city and the stunning St. John’s Cathedral .

Torun is a city that is great to visit any time of the year, but two particularly excellent times are summer and around Christmastime when the city is adorned by festive lights and decorations. The nearest international airport is located in Bydgoszcz, and Torun is also well connected with cities like Gdansk and Warsaw. 

Stay at BP I Premium which boasts elegant apartments right in the old town. A two day stay will give you enough time to explore the city. 

By Mal of LetsTravelToMexicoCity

BOOK A HALF DAY TOUR OF TORUN

One of the best cities to visit in Poland is Wrocław. The Old Town is stunning and is filled with beautiful squares , a towering church, historic buildings, and museums. The Oder River flows through the city adding bridges and small islands to explore.

Perhaps one of the more unique things to do in Wrocław is seeking out the dwarf sculptures. There are over 350 dwarves hidden throughout the city . While they are playful and fun, the dwarves were a symbol of hope that emerged during the Soviet Communist Era.

It’s ideal to spend at least two full days in Wrocław discovering all the treasures that the city offers. Take a walking tour of Old Town , then venture out to discover other gentrified neighborhoods filled with art and day trips to mountainsides and castles .

Wrocław is fantastic to visit any time of the year. In the summer, spend time in the Botanical Gardens and watching the nightly Multimedia fountain show. During the holiday season, enjoy a cheery Christmas market .

Wrocław is well connected to the rest of Poland and is found in the Lower Silesian Region . It’s a short ride to Poznan and Krakow. Wrocław is also a short distance from Dresden, Germany and Prague, Czech Republic .

There are numerous places to stay in Wrocław. Budget travelers can stay at Hostel VICE CITY while those looking to stay in the heart of Old Town will love Art Hotel .

Recommended by Megan from Packing Up the Pieces

BOOK A 2-HOUR PRIVATE TOUR OF WROCLAW

Gdansk is without a doubt one of the prettiest cities in Poland and one of the most attractive cities in the entire world. From the historical cobblestone “ ulica Mariacka ” street, lined up with amber merchants, to the historical Dlugi Targ and the Motlawa river quaint waterfront, where past and present blend in a cityscape of exquisite beauty, this Baltic gem will cast its spell on you.

Gdansk is located in Northern Poland, in the mouth of the Motlawa river , on the Southern edge of the Baltic sea. It has an international airport located just 12 Km away from the city center and several daily train connections with Warsaw.

The best time to visit it is between May and September when temperatures are on average 25 degrees Celsius (77 Fahrenheit). You can visit Gdansk Old Town and center in one day but there are plenty of things to do in Gdansk so my recommended stay is at least three days . You will enjoy rich historical experiences, take a cruise on a historical Polish boat , taste some Polish culinary wonders and be delighted with picturesque views.

In a prime location in Gdansk Radisson Hotel & Suites is located close to the Motlawa river waterfront and walking distance from all the main attractions in the city center.

Recommended by Pilar from TravelTheWorldpages

Located in central Poland, Łódź (pronounced “Woodge”) is a city steeped in history and industrial heritage. Once a thriving textile hub , Łódź has evolved into a lively metropolis with a meddling of historic architecture, artistic flair, and modern development. 

The city is renowned for its Film School , one of the oldest in the world, which produced some of the most influential European filmmakers, including Roman Polanski. 

Visitors to Lodz can explore the fascinating Manufaktura complex , a former industrial site transformed into a cultural and commercial space, offering shops, restaurants, and museums. 

Take a stroll down Piotrkowska Street, one of the longest commercial streets in Europe , which is lined with eclectic boutiques, cafes, and impressive architecture. 

If visiting during the warmer months, Łódź also boasts numerous parks, such as Łazienki Park , perfect for leisurely afternoons. 

And while most people visit Łódź during the warmer months from late spring to early autumn, if you visit during winter, particularly during Christmas time , you’ll find streets decorated in twinkling white lights and outdoor markets that encourages both locals and visitors alike to bundle up and explore.

BOOK A DAY TRIP TO LODZ FROM WARSAW

Bialystok, located in northeastern Poland, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of street art, history, and natural beauty . The best way to reach Bialystok is by train or bus from major cities like Warsaw. The journey takes around two to three hours, depending on the mode of transportation.

When visiting Bialystok, make sure to book a walking tour to learn more about its historical landmarks, such as the Branicki Palace, which is often referred to as the “Polish Versailles.” This magnificent palace is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and is a must-visit attraction.

To fully experience the city, it is recommended to spend at least two to three days in Bialystok . This will allow you enough time to explore the main attractions, immerse yourself in the local culture, and even take day trips to nearby natural wonders, such as the Bialowieza Forest . 

For accommodation, Hotel Gołębiewski , located in the heart of the city is a highly recommended option. 

Recommended by Paulina from the UK Every Day

Olsztyn, nestled in the heart of Poland’s Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship , is a hidden gem offering a unique blend of history, nature, and affordability. Often overshadowed by more popular Polish destinations, Olsztyn is a tranquil city with a rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Visitors to Olsztyn can take a guided walking tour to explore the historic Old Town , anchored by the Gothic Olsztyn Castle , providing a glimpse into the region’s medieval past. Stroll along the scenic waterfront of Lake Ukiel , rent a boat, or unwind in the lush city parks. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous lakes and forests surrounding Olsztyn, perfect for hiking or cycling.

With its budget-friendly atmosphere , Olsztyn is one of the cheapest places to live in Europe , making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking affordability without compromising on experiences. To truly immerse yourself in the local charm, plan to spend at least 2-3 days exploring the city and its surroundings.

The best way to reach Olsztyn is by train or car, with the city well-connected to major Polish hubs . The summer months, from May to September, offer pleasant weather, making it the best time to visit.

For accommodation, consider staying at the Hotel HP Park , offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location. Spending a night in Olsztyn allows you to absorb the city’s serene ambiance fully.

Recommended by Trijit Mallick from Cheap Travel Trail

Located in the southern part of Poland, at the base of the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane is often referred to as the ‘Winter Capital’ of Poland , and it’s among the most beautiful winter wonderlands in the world .

With its impressive resorts, Zakopane is equally enticing in warmer months with opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor fun in the picturesque Tatra Mountains .

However, there is s omething extra special about visiting Zakopane in winter . Especially over the Christmas and New Year period.

The city’s unique wooden architecture gives it a picture-book vibe, even when strolling down vibrant Krupowki Street , wandering between market stalls or dining at one of the many restaurants offering up delicious Polish food.

There are many fun things to do in Zakopane with kids , such as riding the funicular up to the top of Gubalowka Mountain for stunning views. Or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snowy forest to visit one of Zakopane’s famous highlander villages and experience folk music, dancing and local crafts.

You can reach Zakopane by bus from Krakow, which takes just under 2 hours.

There are many accommodation options , including private home rentals for that authentic Zakopane experience. Staying at least 2 nights is recommended , however, you will find plenty to do for a longer stay.

Recommended by Holly Connors from Four Around The World

SHORT ON TIME? BOOK A DAY TRIP TO ZAKOPANE FROM KRAKOW

Located along the scenic banks of the Brda River in northern Poland, Bydgoszcz is a lovely city boasting well-preserved Art-Nouveau architecture , historical landmarks, and a quirky museum, to name a few. Due to its layout along the river’s bend and many footbridges, the city got its nickname “Little Venice “, a comparison to the city of Venice, Italy .

With plenty of things to do in Bydgoszcz , you can visit it as a day trip from Poznan or spend a relaxing weekend. The most convenient way to get here is by train from Poznan or Gdansk, which takes around 1:30 hours. However, with a well-connected train system, you can get to Bydgoszcz from almost every major Polish city. 

Bydgoszcz Old Town Square is also lined with colorful buildings, cafes, shops, and historic landmarks. Next door, Mill Island is a charming area for relaxing strolls along the river and admiring old granaries turned into museums. The prominent landmark here is the Rother’s Mill , which produced flour from the 19th century till the 1990s. Today, it is home to the cultural center, open to the public to visit its temporary exhibitions.

For those who love quirky places, the city is also home to the Museum of History of Soup and Dirt , where visitors learn about hygiene history and prepare handmade soap during their guided visit. It also serves as a unique souvenir to bring back with you. You’ll need to book the guided tour on their website in advance. 

Recommended by Baia at Red Fedora Diary

For a beautiful city to visit in Poland, your next destination to book should be to Gdynia. Gdynia is located in the Northern area of Poland, just north of Gdansk and North West of Warsaw. 

The most ideal way to get to Gdynia is to fly to the airport of Gdansk first and then take a direct local train. You can also consider visiting with a car rental such as during a road trip around Poland .

Many hotel accommodations provide parking, but it is also easy to use paid parking on the city streets.

Give yourself a few days minimum to explore the city, especially if you visit during Spring or Summer when it’s warm. Gdynia is a great place for exploring by foot , where you can explore the city known for its modernist style buildings. For a bite to eat, visit the restaurant Pierogarnia Mandu for the most delicious and most choice of local polish dumplings!

Since the port of Gdynia is quite large for boating, it’s also inviting for tourists to explore. You can also explore a military ORP Błyskawica destroyer ship and the Dar Pomorza fully-rigged sailing ship as well as the Polish National Maritime Museum . Furthermore, you can sign up for many water activities such as sailing, speedboat tours and wakeboarding. 

For the end of the warm day, head for a walk along the coast along the beach of Gdynia . It’s recommended to also take a blanket and some refreshments for a picnic on the beach. You’ll be joining all the locals during sunset, which can be cozy, fun and romantic! 

Recommended by Zoe from Together In Transit 

Located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, Sopot is a part of the tri-cities of Gdansk, Gdynia and Sopot . This charming resort town is known for its lively atmosphere and stunning coastline.

With its iconic wooden pier stretching into the sea, Sopot is one of the best cities to visit in Poland. It’s recommended that you spend at least two days exploring Sopot to get a feel for its unique history and culture, as well as enjoy some coastal relaxation.

One of the main attractions within the city is the lively Monte Cassino Street , lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The iconic Sopot Pier offers breathtaking sea views and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. For culture enthusiasts, the historic Crooked House is a must-see architectural marvel.

Sopot is conveniently located from the Gdansk Airport along with easy transport links to the town, as well. The summer months from June to August are ideal for a visit, offering pleasant weather for beach activities.

Consider staying at the Sheraton Sopot Hotel for a luxurious experience, centrally located near the pier and offering stunning sea views. Sopot, with its unique coastal charm, promises an unforgettable Polish retreat.

Recommended by Kasia from Perfect Day Somewhere

BOOK A 1-DAY TOUR TO SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF GDANSK, GDYNIA AND SOPOT

Kielce is not a large city, but its central location, beautiful surroundings and interesting monuments make the city worth visiting. It’s an ideal city for a weekend and its location almost halfway between Krakow and Warsaw means you can get there without any problems.

This city is interesting at any time of the year, but it is best to visit it in late spring, summer or early autumn. Kielce has an interesting center with the Market Square , which in warm months is bustling with the bustle of restaurant gardens, and the Castle Hill , which towers over the city. On the hill there is an extraordinary former bishop’s palace , whose architecture will satisfy even the most demanding tourists.

Kielce is located in the Świętokrzyskie UNESCO Geopark . In the city itself, there are 5 nature reserves that are related to the geological past. A good starting point for exploring is the Geoeducation Center , which will introduce you to the world from millions of years ago.

Kielce has an extensive hotel base. If you are looking for a place of good standard and location in the very center, check out the Grand Hotel located right next to the promenade.

Recommended by Jakub Juszyński from Tymrazem

Final thoughts on where to go in Poland

In conclusion, Poland is a treasure trove of beautiful, historic, and even modern places. Whether you are drawn to the medieval charm of Krakow, the cultural museums of Warsaw, or the maritime beauty of Gdańsk, each of these best cities to visit in Poland offer something unique and memorable.

Like it? Pin this list of the best cities to visit in Poland to save it for later!

Do you have a question or comment about where to go in Poland? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts or questions about any of these best cities in Poland in the comments below.

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Top 10 things to do in Poland

Nov 21, 2019 • 6 min read

Wander the picturesque quay in Gdańsk © Alina Stankevych / 500px

Poland is full of surprises. Cities like  Warsaw ,  Kraków  and  Gdańsk  teem with treasures, while outside the urban centres there are craggy mountains, wooded forests, and wondrous waterways to be explored. Whether your idea of a wild time is trying a tipple (or two) of the national drink, getting lost in the annals of history, or discovering wildlife in the little-trodden countryside, we’ve rounded up the top ten things to do on a trip to Poland.

Be captivated by Kraków

A city of stunning architecture, fabulous cuisine, and an arresting history, Kraków offers an evocative atmosphere beyond compare. Get acquainted with a tour of the Old Town, the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz) and the Kraków Ghetto, and dive into the secrets of this fascinating one-time capital. A standout exception to the physical wartime destruction of the rest of the country, the glorious main square, the Rynek Główny – Europe's largest medieval town square – survived intact to the modern day. Kraków’s wounds remain, however, its scars reflected in the dedicated monuments and memorials throughout. Particularly haunting are the large metal chairs dotting the Ghetto Heroes Square, each representing the lost souls of one thousand Kraków Jews. 

Bear witness at Auschwitz-Birkenau

The occupying German army in WWII tragically turned Poland into a killing field in the heinous genocide committed against Jews and other groups, including Polish resisters and Roma people. The most infamous of the extermination camps was  Auschwitz-Birkenau , now a memorial and museum, in the town of Oświęcim . More than a million people were imprisoned, enslaved, and murdered over a four-year period. Much of the camp has been preserved as it was during the war, allowing visitors to learn, reflect and resolve that this can never happen again. The matter-of-fact tour is as heavy as it is important and will leave your head spinning and heart aching.

Experience the wisdom of Warsaw

Warsaw’s world-class museums offer an accessible and engaging education on a history that affects us all. The Warsaw Rising Museum delivers an immersive portrayal of the events surrounding the city’s tragic uprising against the occupying Germans in 1944, while the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews traces the 1000-year history of the Jewish people in Poland. These high-tech venues ask that you take your time absorbing the events of a profoundly harrowing past as you make your way through an engrossing array of sound, light and video. The experience yields a uniquely contextual grasp of these circumstances, as well as a meaningful connection to the former and present occupants of this resilient city.

Do as the locals do in Poland’s largest cities

Take a closer look at the culture of Poland’s urban centres and the day-to-day life of its residents. The amount of green space, variety of restaurants and ridesharing options will surprise you. Unwind and have fun in the same ways the locals do. In Warsaw, attend a free Chopin Concert at Royal Łazienki Park on summer Sundays, or stroll down to the Vistula riverside for post-work beverages during the week. Go clubbing in Poznań , Wrocław or Kraków's Kazimierz district. Poles love to party.

Get lost in Gdańsk

It’s hard to imagine a more handsome seaport than the Hanseatic city of Gdańsk on the Baltic. The mesmerising streets of Old Town and the enchanting grounds of Malbork Castle are enough to call you north for a visit, but the aesthetics are just the beginning. Gdańsk prospered in the Middle Ages as a trade link between the interior and the rest of the world and has played an outsized role in recent history as well, serving as an important symbol of resistance both to the Germans in 1939 and to the Soviets in 1980. A visit to the boldly designed Museum of WWII and the interactive European Solidarity Centre will provide brilliant depictions of these consequential events from the local perspective. 

Knock back a vodka shot

Poles love vodka  and one of the joys of venturing abroad is to join in with the locals. Clear vodkas, like top-shelf Wyborowa and Belvedere, are drunk icy and neat, but Poles like to experiment as well. Wiśniówka is cherry-flavoured, sweet and painfully easy to over-indulge in. More palatable, particularly mixed with apple juice, is Żubrówka, a rye-based vodka flavoured with bison grass from Białowieża. Another favourite is Żołądkowa Gorzka, a sweetish, amber-coloured concoction spiced with nutmeg that is allegedly good for the stomach. Not sure where to begin? Lean on the experts and order a tasting tray. And yes, all the go-tos and trendy favourites are available too – from craft beer to Prosecco and fancy cocktails. 

Be wowed by Polish food

Beetroot and buckwheat, apples, onions and mushrooms picked fresh from the forest – the beauty of  Polish cooking  often lies in the novel pairings, side dishes and seasonings alongside a meaty hero. Filling soups like zurec (rye sour soup) and barszcz (borscht) appear regularly on the menu, as do dumplings ( pierogi ), served boiled or fried with fillings ranging from plain cheese to duck meat. If hearty beef and goose dishes featuring sauerkraut and gherkins don’t please your palate, there are a surprising number of international options, as well as special dietary cafes in the urban centres. The variety of fresh and delicious salads is perhaps most impressive, but don’t leave this land without trying zapiekanki –  an open-faced sandwich and famous street food.

Reconnect with nature in the national parks

Poland is home to several national parks, with many classified as a Biosphere Reserve or a World Heritage Site. These preserved and protected swaths of land dot across the country and boast distinctive wonders at which to marvel. Białowieża National Park features both Europe’s largest, original, old-growth forest, and several reserves of one of Poland’s national animals: the European bison. Słowiński National Park on the Pomeranian coast is famous for its shifting dunes and comprises mostly shallow lakes cut off from the sea, an ideal habitat to support roughly 250 bird species. Others offer mysterious rock formations, extensive meadows, and medieval castles.

Take to the Carpathian mountains for active adventure

Poland is famously flat. That is, until you get to the far south of the country. There the Carpathians , a narrow range of mid-sized mountains runs the length of the Polish border from Germany to Ukraine. The Karkonosze range in the southwest is ideal for mountain biking, while  Zakopane , south of Kraków and at the foot of the Tatras, is considered best for skiing. Our favourite, though, is the isolated  Bieszczady  range in the extreme southeast. Off the beaten track, it's a hiker's dream, and the native lynx might well outnumber the people who venture there.

Sail the Great Masurian Lakes

The northeast of Poland is a vast expanse of little-known, interlinked lakes and rivers . From the first budding of the trees in May through to the changing of the leaves in autumn, boaters from all around try their hand on Lake Śniardwy or Lake Niegocin, or paddle the scenic Krutynia River. The towns of Giżycko and Mikołajki make the best bases for sailing, cycling and paddling trips.

This article by Mark Baker was first published in May 2015, and was updated by Meghan Advent in November 2019

This article was first published May 2015 and updated November 2019

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