poland tourism website

First-timer's guide to Poland

Sep 29, 2023 • 7 min read

Everything you need to know about visiting Poland for the first time © Imgorthand / Getty Images

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Poland  has a long, fascinating, sometimes tragic history, played out against a backdrop of royal castles and palaces, picturesque old towns and incredible landscapes.

From the Carpathian Mountains in the south to the Great Masurian Lakes in the north, Poland is a dream destination if you’re up for an activity-driven vacation – hiking, cycling and kayaking opportunities are abundant, plus there’s skiing in the winter.

If urban pleasures are more your thing, vibrant cities such as the capital Warsaw , the atmospheric old capital Kraków , and revamped 19th-century industrial powerhouse Łódź do not disappoint. Each offers masses of cultural attractions alongside delicious dining and lively nightlife scenes – all at very affordable prices.

As Poland is a big country packed with travel possibilities, you’re sure to have questions. Here are some tips and practical advice on how to get the most out of your first trip to Poland.

When should I go to Poland?

There’s no time of the year to specifically avoid when scheduling a trip. For fine weather and the chance to join summer festivals and events such as Kraków’s Jewish Culture Festival and Warsaw’s Summer Jazz Days , come between May and early September.

Towns and cities come alive as the warmer temperatures tempt everyone outside for alfresco dining and drinking. This is peak season, too, for visiting Poland’s 23 national parks.

The countryside in spring and autumn can also be very beautiful. Winter is the quietest season, except in ski resorts such as Zakopane . Come prepared for frigid temperatures and sloshing through snow and rain.

Compensations include low season rates at hotels and plenty of excellent museums in the major cities in which to shelter from the elements. Autumn through early spring is also when performing arts institutions such as Warsaw’s Teatr Wielki and Filharmonia Narodowa run their season of top-grade shows.

How much time do I need to visit Poland?

Two, or better, three days is the minimum needed for a short city break to either Warsaw or Kraków. You won’t have enough time to cover everything, but you will be able to get a feel for these places and tick off the main attractions.

If you’re prepared to move around quickly, you could cram in more of Poland over 10 days to two weeks, adding to your itinerary metropolises such as Gdańsk (also close to the Baltic seaside resort of Sopot ) and Łódź, as well as smaller historic towns like the artists’ retreat Kazimierz Dolny and Zamość , a perfectly preserved 16th-century Renaissance town.

Have a month to spare? Now you’re talking! This will give you the opportunity to explore rural backwaters and national parks such as World Heritage-listed Białowieża National Park , home to some 800 free-roaming European bison, Poland’s national symbol and Europe’s largest land mammal; and Karkonosze National Park with its spectacular Ice Age glacier-carved landscapes.

Is it easy to get in and around Poland?

Poland is tethered to the world by international flights. The capital’s main airport is the central Warsaw Chopin Airport , with Modlin Airport , 39km (24 miles) north of the city, handling budget carriers.

Other international airports include Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport, Katowice Airport, Kraków John Paul II International Airport, Łódż Airport and Wrocław Airport . There are also excellent rail and bus links, especially with Western European neighbors, including overnight train services to Berlin and Vienna .

Getting around Poland itself is a breeze. There’s a comprehensive system of buses and trains offering both frequent services and affordable prices. For more remote parts, including nearly all the national parks, you’ll really need your own set of wheels.

Hiring a car is straightforward and the roads have vastly improved in recent years (although you will encounter some unsealed roads in the most rural regions). Major cities and towns all have decent public transport, and you can easily cover historic old town centers on foot.

Top things to do in Poland

Kraków, the former royal capital, is a stunner with its heady blend of history and harmonious architecture. At its heart are the vast Rynek Główny, Europe’s largest medieval marketplace, and the magnificent Wawel Royal Castle , on a hill above the Old Town.

But that's just the start – every part of the city is fascinating, from the former Jewish district of Kazimierz and its lively nightlife to the atomic fallout shelters of Nowa Huta .

Warsaw had to be almost completely rebuilt after WWII. The powerful Warsaw Rising Museum focuses on the darkest hours of WWII, while the Museum of Warsaw superbly documents the city's rise, fall and resurrection. Also don’t miss the award-winning POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews , and regal Wilanów Palace and surrounding lush parkland.

Toruń , a walled Gothic city on the Vistula River, miraculously escaped WWII intact. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town crammed with museums, churches, grand mansions and squares. When you’re flagging, perk up with a peppery gingerbread cookie, Toruń’s signature snack, which you can make yourself at the Gingerbread Museum .

The UNESCO-listed Białowieża National Park holds one of Europe’s last vestiges of primeval forest, which you can visit in the company of a guide. The bison, which was once extinct outside zoos, has been successfully reintroduced here, although your best bet for seeing these magnificent animals is the region’s European Bison Show Reserve .

My favorite thing to do in Poland

I’m a huge fan of street art and Łódź has embraced this public form of creative expression unlike anywhere else in Poland - the city is practically one giant art gallery! There are well over 200 public works of art ranging from massive painted murals to installations involving neon, nails and porcelain tiles.

Among my favorites are Pasaż Róży, a dazzling courtyard completely plastered with mirror fragments arranged in swirling rose patterns, and Wiedźmin, a 70m tall mural designed by Jakub Rebelka on the sides of adjacent apartment blocks – it’s a homage to the Witcher series of fantasy books by Łódź-based author Andrzej Sapkowski.

How much money do I need for Poland?

Like everywhere in Europe in recent times, prices have been rising in Poland. That said, the country offers great value, especially when it comes to accommodation, dining out and entertainment. Getting around by public transport is also a bargain.

• Hostel room: 60 zł
• Basic room for two: 200 zł
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): 120 zł
• Public transport ticket: 3.40 zł
• Coffee: 15-20 zł
• Sandwich: 15 zł
• Dinner for two: 150-200 zł
• Beer/pint at the bar: 12 zł

Is Poland part of the EU?

Yes, which means if you’re crossing into the country from neighboring EU countries – the Czech Republic (Czechia), Germany , Lithuania and Slovakia – there are no border formalities. However, rather than the euro, Poland’s national currency is the złoty (zł, sometimes also abbreviated as PLN) which dates back to the 14th century.

Most places accept card or electronic payments but sometimes you will need to pay in cash so it’s handy to keep some money in your wallet.

How easy is it to get online?

Very easy. Depending on your home mobile phone/internet plans, you should be able to surf the web and stay in touch using a smartphone or tablet. There are plenty of wifi hotspots and some of them are free.

What’s Polish food like?

Locals like nothing better than scoffing comfort foods such as pączki (rose-jam filled doughnuts) or a plate of pierogi , dough dumplings stuffed with anything from cottage cheese, potato and meat to blueberries or other fruits.

Traditional cooking is rustic and flavorful and can be summed up by Poland’s signature kiełbasa sausages. These are usually made with pork and various seasonings, though other meats, like beef and veal, can be added.

Beyond such staples Polish cuisine also includes hearty soups and dishes such as beef tartare. In the major cities and towns, there’s a wide choice of world cuisines alongside creative renditions of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Editor's note: This article was sponsored by Poland NTO after the city was selected for Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2024. Sponsors do not influence a destination's inclusion in Best In Travel, which is determined solely by Lonely Planet's editorial team.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Poland Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Poland is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe . With its incredible history and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cheap food, world-class museums, wild nightlife, and plentiful nature, Poland is a budget-travel paradise. It has everything you’ll find in Western Europe — but for half the price and with half the crowds!

Most travelers visit Krakow or spend a day or two in Warsaw before departing to a neighboring country. While that’s better than nothing, Poland has so much more to offer.

From beautiful parks to medieval cities to cheap beer to rugged coastlines, you can spend weeks here and still only scratch the surface.

Best of all, there are far fewer tourists here than elsewhere in Europe so it’s easy to have a more local, more authentic experience.

Use this travel guide to Poland to plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this budget-travel paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Poland

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in poland.

1. Visit Auschwitz

Auschwitz-Birkenau is the site of a former concentration camp used by the Nazis during World War II. Approximately 1.3 million people were sent here and an astounding 1.1 million of them were killed. When the camp was liberated in 1945, there were just 7,000 people there, many of whom were incredibly ill or sick. A visit here is sobering but shouldn’t be missed. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and keep in mind you’re allowed to take photographs but be considerate that this is a somber place. Admission is free, but the experience is much more meaningful with a guide who can provide context. Expect to pay around 550 PLN for a guide.

2. Explore Krakow

Krakow is a student city and one of the biggest tourist destinations in the country (people love coming here to party). This city is beautiful, inexpensive, and is filled with plenty to do. Be sure to check out the castle, the nearby salt mines, and underground ruins. The Christmas market in December is amazing too!

3. See Wroclaw

Wroclaw is one of Poland’s lesser-known destinations. Home to some amazing architecture, this small city is beautiful, inexpensive, and free of crowds. Be sure to see the Raclawice Panorama, which depicts the Battle of Raclawice that took place during the Kosciuszko Uprising in the 1790s.

4. Wander through Bialowieza National Park

This national park on the Belarus border contains the last remains of a primeval forest that once covered most of Europe. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, and remarkably, the only place where European bison still live in the wild. Bialowieza National Park is the oldest in Poland. Stretching 105 square kilometers (40 square miles), it’s thriving with biological diversity. Visitors can hike, walk, and bike in nature and you can also try unique local cuisine from Bialowieza, which is influenced by nearby Belarus and Ukraine. Some local favorites include Pielmieni meat dumplings, Mrowisko sweet cakes, and Zubr (bison) beer. Admission is 16 PLN. If you want a guide, expect to pay around 250 PLN.

5. Discover Warsaw

Explore the old and new towns, see the castle, binge on pierogis, and visit the city’s amazing museums that highlight the struggles of the Warsaw Uprising and the ghettoization of the Jews during World War II. Be sure to spend time wandering Warsaw’s Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with history, art, culture, and science. Savor a hearty Polish meal at one of the many ‘milk bars’ and check out Hala Koszyki, a funky food market hall with nearly 20 different eateries and many tasty offerings.

Other Things to See and Do in Poland

1. take a free walking tour.

One of the best things you can do when you arrive in a new destination is take a walking tour. It’s a great way to get the lay of the land and learn about the culture, people, and history of the destination. Walkative offers free tours in Warsaw, Krakow, Gdansk, Poznan, and a few other cities around the country. These tours provide much more insight than any guidebook. Just be sure to tip your guides at the end!

2. Tour the Szczecin underground tunnels

These concrete tunnels lie beneath the city of Szczecin in northwest Poland (near the border with Germany). The tunnels were designated as a bomb shelter in the 1940s and then used as a fallout shelter during the Cold War. Located 17 meters (56 feet) below ground, here you can see artifacts from World War II and learn how the shelter was used during the war. You’ll also learn how the tunnels were reinforced during the Cold War to survive a nuclear attack. Tours last around an hour and admission is 38 PLN. It can get cold in the tunnels so bring a sweater.

3. Visit a national park

Poland has 23 different national parks. Ojcowski National Park (near Krakow) is a small park filled with stunning caves and castles while Slowinski National Park (on the Baltic Coast), Biebrzanski, Narwianski, and Poleski National Parks (all located in the northeast) offer great bird watching. Bialowieza National Park (near Belarus) is where you can see Europe’s only wild bison. They’re a great way to get away from the crowds and stretch your legs, especially in the summer when the weather is nice, or in the fall when the leaves are changing. There are usually lodges and campgrounds near each park as well if you want to disconnect for a few days.

4. Explore Wawel Castle

This site in Krakow is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in all of Poland. Castles here are rare as most were mostly destroyed over the years (the vast majority of which being destroyed during World War II). Built in the 13th century under the order of King Casimir III, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an art museum that has medieval tapestries, the former Polish crown jewels, and Ottoman Empire treasures. Admission ranges from 5-46 PLN depending on what you want to see. On Mondays in the summer, free tickets are available for the Crown Treasury and Armory. There are seasonal discounts from September to October as well for the Dragon’s Den, Sandomierska Tower, and The Lost Wawel archeological exhibition, and The Church of St. Gereon.

5. Visit the Wooden Churches

Tucked away in the southeastern corner of the country, The Wooden Churches of Southern Lesser Poland consists of six Roman Catholic churches that reflect various periods of religious architecture in Poland: from Medieval to Gothic, Rococo, Baroque, as well as the occasional onion dome and Greek cross. Dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, the interiors of these UNESCO churches were intricately painted and carved by hand, with every inch of the church a veritable work of art. Dress appropriately when visiting as these are sites of religious worship.

6. Tour the Wieliczka Salt Mine

This mine produced table salt and was first used in the 13th century. It became one of Krakow’s main industries and was in use until 2007. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can marvel over the cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals — all carved out of salt and stone by the miners. The mines reach depths of over 300 meters (984 feet) and are also home to contemporary works of art. The mine is just 13 kilometers (8 miles) outside the city. Admission is 109 PLN.

7. Stroll through Gdansk

Formerly known as Danzig, Gdansk is a beautiful coastal city in northern Poland. Much of the city was rebuilt after World War II but you can still find plenty of history here. Be sure to spend some time wandering the old town and checking out the local markets and small artisan shops. And don’t miss the Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the city’s towering 16th-century gothic church. There’s also an excellent World War II museum here too.

8. Admire Kalwaria Zebrzydowska

Located an hour from Krakow, this Catholic monastery dates back to the 17th century. Built in the Mannerist (Late Renaissance) architectural style, it was declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1999. Surrounding the monastery are over 5 kilometers (3 miles) of pilgrimage routes and 42 chapels and churches which have been in regular use for over 400 years. Tours are free (though they must be booked in advance) and last around an hour. Donations are welcome.

9. Head to Lublin

Lublin is eastern Poland’s main city. It was an important trading and military center during the Middle Ages. It developed its own architectural style at the end of the 16th century, which has become known as the Lublin Renaissance as rulers here brought in many Italian architects to expand the city. Be sure to visit the castle, the monastery, and the old town (which is sometimes called “Little Krakow” owing to its similarities with Krakow’s old town). There’s also the sobering State Museum that illuminates the atrocities of the death camps of World War II.

10. See the world’s tallest pope statue

Located 2.5 hours south of Warsaw in Czestochowa, this statue of Pope John Paul II (who was born in Poland) stands 13.8 meters (42 feet) tall and is made of fiberglass. There really isn’t much else to see here but it makes for a quirky photo op if you’re in the area!

11. Visit the Exploseum

This abandoned Nazi explosive plant, founded by Alfred Nobel (the inventor of dynamite), is now a museum open to the public. Here visitors learn about Alfred Nobel, his company, what life was like for Polish residents during the German occupation, weapons used during the war, as well as modern weapons of war. It’s an interesting and eye-opening museum. Tucked away in Bydgoszcz (3 hours north of Warsaw), the museum takes 1-2 hours to explore. Admission is 17 PLN and includes a guide. Children under 6 are not allowed to enter.

12. Visit the Churches of Peace

These are the biggest timber-framed churches in Europe. Located in Jawor and Swidnica (near Wroclaw), they were built in the mid-17th century and were the first Lutheran churches constructed in Roman Catholic Poland. Since the churches were not Catholic, they were only allowed to be built from wood and could not have steeples or bells (Lutherans were not allowed to construct stone churches that could compete with the dominant religion). Today they are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Admission is 12 PLN and an audio tour is available. Just be sure to dress appropriately.

13. See the World War II Museum in Gdansk

The Museum of the Second World War opened in 2008 and is one of the best museums in the country. It’s an immersive experience that really opens your eyes to the death and destruction that the war unleashed — in Poland and beyond. In addition to the weapons, clothing, letters, and maps there is an entire recreated street to give you a palpable sense of what it would have been like to live through the worst of the war. Admission 25 PLN. For an extra 2 PLN, you can also see their temporary expositions.

14. Explore the Tatra Mountains

This mountain range, part of the Carpathian Mountains, is located near the border of Poland and Slovakia. It’s here where you’ll find Tatra National Park (a protected UNESCO site), a great destination for hiking. Spanning over 200 square kilometers (77 square miles), there are plenty of day hikes available ranging from 2-12 hours. While you can’t camp in the park, there are mountain huts if you book in advance (they cost 35-70 PLN per night depending on where you stay). Make sure you check the weather before you go and bring ample water and sunscreen for your hike.

15. Take in the Warsaw Rising Museum

This museum is a tribute to the people of Warsaw who fought and died for Polish independence. Opened in 2004, the museum is home to hundreds of artifacts from the uprising of 1944, when Polish citizens rebelled against German occupation. The uprising lasted 63 days and was the largest resistance movement during World War II. Some 15,000 members of the Polish resistance were killed, as well as 2,000-17,000 German troops. There are weapons, clothing, letters, and interactive films that shed light on one of the most important events in Polish history. Admission is 25 PLN.

16. Tour Schlinder’s Factory

Oskar Schindler was a German industrialist who saved over 1,200 Jews during the war. His story was made famous by Steven Spielberg’s 1993 film, Schindler’s List . Located in his actual factory in Krakow, this museum offers a thorough trip through the history of World War II, highlighting how he saved so many people during the war while bankrupting himself in the process. Admission starts at 10 PLN or 72 PLN for a guided tour. There are a number of limited free tickets on Mondays.

  For more information on specific cities in Poland, check out these guides:

• Krakow Travel Guide
• Warsaw Travel Guide

Poland Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a dorm with 8-10 beds costs 55-95 PLN per night. Private rooms cost 120-200 PLN. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Free breakfast is available at many hostels too.

Budget two-star hotels start at 150-275 PLN per night. Free Wi-Fi is common and many hotels also include a simple free breakfast as well. For a three-star hotel, expect to pay at least 300-500 PLN.

Airbnb is available throughout the country with private rooms starting at 75 PLN per night while entire homes/apartments cost at least 100 PLN. Prices are usually double these numbers, however, so be sure to book early to find the best deals.

There are plenty of campgrounds throughout the country for those traveling with a tent. Expect to pay around 40 PLN per night for a basic tent plot for two people without electricity. Wild camping is tolerated if you’re in the mountains and as long as you are not in a national park (camping in national parks is strictly prohibited in Poland).

Food – Polish meals are quite hearty, usually containing potatoes, meat (pork and chicken), and seasonal produce like beets or cabbage. Stews and soups (like borscht, a beet soup) are popular and can be found at most local restaurants. Pierogis are also a common staple and can be found everywhere for cheap. For some traditional Polish food, try beef tongue or pork knuckles. The country also has lots of traditional desserts too, like paczki (a Polish donut) and makowiec (poppy-seed cake).

Most cheap meals of traditional cuisine (served at local restaurants called bar mleczny or “milk bars”) cost around 35 PLN. For a three-course meal with a drink and table service, expect to pay around 75 PLN. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 25 PLN for a combo meal.

A large pizza costs around 25-30 PLN while Chinese food costs around 15-20 PLN. Zapiekanki , a popular Polish street snack that’s like a pizza on a baguette, costs 5-6 PLN.

Beer costs 8-12 PLN, while a glass of wine is a minimum of 12 PLN. A latte or cappuccino is around 11 PLN. Bottled water is 5 PLN.

If you buy your own groceries and cook your meals, expect to pay around 150-165 PLN per week for basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal vegetables, and some meat. Local markets are the cheapest places to buy fresh produce. Biedronka is a cheap grocery store that’s everywhere.

Backpacking Poland Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 175 PLN per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do some cheap activities like free walking tours and visiting the free museums. If you plan on drinking, add 10-20 PLN to your budget per day.

On a mid-range budget of 330 PLN per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for most meals at cheap milk bars, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the Uprising Museum or taking a tour of Auschwitz.

On a “luxury” budget of 600 PLN or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever guided tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in PLN.

Poland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Poland is a very affordable country so there aren’t too many tips out there to help you save. You won’t be spending a lot of money anyways unless you go out of your way to spend money. That being said, there are still a few extra ways you can save money while you visit Poland:

• Eat at milk bars – You’ll get a taste of Poland at a mleczny (milk bars). Hearty pierogis, homemade soups, plenty of meat, and a local beer usually cost around 30 PLN. While they are a no-frills choice, the food is tasty and filling.
• Get a tourist card – Certain cities, like Krakow and Warsaw, offer tourist cards that provide unlimited public transportation and free or discounted museum access. If you plan to see lots of sites, be sure to go to the local tourism office and pick up one of these cards. They usually cost 100-160 PLN.
• Take advantage of train specials – Poland has various special train tickets that can save you money during your visit. For example, the Weekend Ticket ( Bilet Weekendowy ) is available for several train lines and lasts from Friday night at 7pm to Monday at 6am and allows for unlimited trips within Poland. It’s a great way to see the country if you need to cover a lot of ground in a short time!
• Watch your drinking – Cities like Krakow are known for their parties, pub crawls, and long nights out. These can add up quickly, so watch how much you drink. Start off by grabbing your favorite drinks from a grocery store first whenever possible. You’ll save a ton that way.
• Take a free walking tour – Free tours from companies like Walkative can be found in Poland’s larger cities. They are a great way to explore the city while learning about the history, culture, and architecture. Just be sure to tip!
• Use ridesharing apps – Ridesharing apps like BlaBlaCar are a great way to get around the country for cheap. You simply download the app, find someone looking for passengers, pay a small fee, and go! Everyone is rated and verified, and it’s usually more convenient (and cheaper) than other forms of transportation. For travel within a city, use Uber. It’s cheaper than the local taxis.
• Stay with a local – While accommodation is not expensive in Poland, Couchsurfing is a great way to lower your accommodation costs. Not only will you save money by getting a free place to stay but you’ll also be able to make a local friend and get insider knowledge about the country.
• Bike share – For 10 PLN, you can register for Vetrulio, a bike-rental company in Warsaw. After you sign up, bike use is free for 20 minutes, making it essentially free to bounce around the city during your visit. After 20 minutes (up to the first hour) it’s just 1 PLN and then 3 PLN for the next hour.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water in Poland is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Poland

Accommodation in Poland is very affordable. Even if you don’t want to do the whole hostel thing, you can find really comfortable and inexpensive hotels throughout the country. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Poland:

• Oki Doki Old Town (Warsaw)
• Warsaw Centrum Hostel (Warsaw)
• Greg and Tom Hostel (Krakow)
• Let’s Rock (Krakow)
• Slowgate Hostel (Gdansk)
• Mleczarnia Hostel (Wroclaw)

How to Get Around Poland

Public transportation – Buses and trams are the most common ways to get around in each city. Only Warsaw has a subway system. Public buses and trams cost around 3-5 PLN for a one-way ride, depending on how far you go. For a single-day pass, expect prices to start at 15 PLN per person. In Warsaw, a three-day public transportation pass starts at 36 PLN.

Bus – Poland has an extensive bus network so you can easily travel around the entire country by bus if you’re on a budget. Flixbus (and its partner company, Polski Bus) are the best options as they have comfortable buses for affordable prices. For example, the 4-hour journey from Warsaw to Krakow costs around 44 PLN while the 7-hour ride to Gdansk from Warsaw costs around 50 PLN.

The buses have bathrooms, electrical outlets, and Wi-Fi, making them a good choice for budget travelers.

Train – While trains aren’t as cheap as buses, they’re a good option for long-distance trips. There are several different companies operating trains here with a variety of train types. The three most important to travelers are the ExpressInterCity Premium (EIP), ExpressInterCity (EIC), and InterCity (IC).

The EIP trains are fast and operate between major cities. They have first-class and second-class seats and reservations are mandatory. These are the newest trains and have a dining car if you’re looking to eat during your trip. They can be pricey if you book on the day, so try to book in advance for the best prices.

EIC trains also run between major cities but are a little slower. They are still perfectly safe and comfortable, with a dining car and business class seats available. Since the services aren’t as great, the prices here are lower than on EIP trains. There are first- and second-class seats as well.

IC trains are the cheapest of the three but also the slowest as they make more stops. They have basic amenities such as power outlets.

InterRegio (IR) trains are another option as they stop in most medium-sized cities. There are no first-class or seat reservations here, so they can be a bit busier and sometimes won’t have space for luggage. But they are affordable!

The train from Warsaw to Gdansk costs around 175 PLN and takes around 2.5 hours while the 2-hour train from Warsaw to Krakow is just 50 PLN.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

Flying – Flying around Poland is relatively cheap thanks to budget airlines like Ryanair. From Warsaw, you can get to pretty much any city in the country for under 325 PLN, round trip.

For example, Warsaw to Krakow takes just under an hour and costs 280 PLN while Warsaw to Gdansk takes an hour and costs 180 PLN.

It’s also easy to get to/from Poland via plane as Wizz and Ryanair fly all over the continent. You can find flights for as little as 50 PLN to destinations all around Europe if you book early and are flexible.

Rideshare – BlaBlaCar is the best ride-sharing option for intercity travel. It’s cheap and fast, and drivers are verified and have reviews so it’s quite safe. Just make sure you have flexible plans as drivers are often late or change their plans entirely.

Car rental – Car rentals start at 75 PLN per day for a multi-day rental. Drivers must have had their license for at least one year and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for citizens of certain countries.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Poland

The best (and most popular) time to visit Poland is during the summer, from June to August. Temperatures are hot and rain is infrequent. Expect daily highs between 17-25°C (63-77°F) during this time (and a 1-3 degree difference between Gdansk in the north to Krakow in the south).

The summer is also the busiest time of the year for tourism, though and you’ll only really notice it in the main tourist cities (such as Warsaw and Krakow).

The shoulder season of late April-May and September-October are great times to visit as well, with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F). You’ll beat the crowd and have much milder temperatures. There’s more rain in the spring but you’ll get the stunning autumn colors in the fall which makes for a scenic backdrop to your trip.

Winter in Poland can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around -1°C (30°F) during the day and -5°C (23°F) overnight. Snow is common, which can affect conditions if you’re traveling by car. In short, I wouldn’t recommend a winter visit unless you plan on going skiing or taking part in other winter activities such as visiting the Christmas markets.

How to Stay Safe in Poland

Poland is a very safe country. The risk of theft or getting pickpocketed is much lower here than it is in other parts of Europe. Of course, you should always keep your valuables secure and out of sight when riding public transportation and while you’re in popular tourist areas.

Taxi scams are rare, but always make sure your driver is using the meter. If they aren’t, ask them to stop and find a taxi that will. To avoid fake taxis, have your hotel/hostel staff call a taxi for you to ensure you aren’t scammed.

ATM skimming (when criminals attach a covert device to an ATM that can steal your information) can occur here, so always make sure you use verified ATMs. If you can, go into the bank to withdraw your money (as opposed to using outdoor ATMs, which are easier to tamper with).

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a vehicle here, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Poland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Poland Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

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Warsaw. One city, two faces

When you stroll along the Royal Route that links the former residences of Polish rulers, go down to the Vistula River to see the modern boulevards stretching between the Multimedia Fountain Park and the Copernicus Science Center . During the summer, the city vibrates with life – the cafés and bars open up and dance parties and open-air concerts take place. Meanwhile, the other shore retains its natural character, which is unique in Europe and delights all visitors. There you will find sandy beaches, bike paths and excellent conditions for water sports.

Interactive museums will help you understand the history of the city. The Warsaw Rising Museum is dedicated to the event that shaped the contemporary face of the capital. The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews , which received the prestigious title of European Museum of the Year 2016, shows the 1000-year-old Jewish presence in Warsaw, and at the same time is an excellent example of contemporary architecture.

The combination of tradition and modernity is also evident in the city’s architecture. An example of this is Hala Koszyki, a historic commercial building from the beginning of the 20th century, carefully restored, which now houses numerous bars and restaurants and is now one of Warsaw’s favourite culinary destinations.

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#GastroStreet: Św. Antoniego street in Wroclaw – come here for breakfast in the morning and for a drink in the evening!

Św. Antoniego street is located close to the Wroclaw Market Square in Old Town. Although It is only 289 m in length, it houses several restaurants! The street became famous mainly thanks to cult restaurants, cafés or clubs located here, although locals associate it with the Four Denominations District or... numerous funeral homes that once existed here.

#GastroStreet: Plac Solny – restaurants, cafés and bars in Wroclaw recommend themselves not only for the weekend!

Plac Solny is one of the most recognisable places on the Wroclaw Market Square – it is associated mainly with numerous open-air flower shops. This square has served as a marketplace for centuries. Plac Solny means not only monuments, but also many interesting food outlets. Check where it is worth having a cup of coffee or eating delicious dinner!

John Malkovich on a film set in Wroclaw [INTERVIEW]

One of the most interesting American actors, the star of numerous films (Dangerous Liaisons, In the Line of Fire, Being John Malkovich) or TV series (Billions, The New Pope) appeared in Wroclaw to take part in the shooting of A Winter’s Journey directed by Alex Helfrecht. He talked to us about Wroclaw, films by Polish directors, the new production and fascination with... classical music.

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Poland - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.                     Exercise normal precautions in Poland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Poland.

If you decide to travel to Poland:                                  

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Poland.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Quick Facts

Six months remaining validity strongly recommended; at least three months remaining validity beyond planned departure from the Schengen area is required

Must have at least one page

Not required for stays under 90 days

 10,000€ (euros or equivalent)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy warsaw.

Aleje Ujazdowskie 29/31 00-540 Warsaw, Poland Telephone:  +48 (22) 504-2000 American Citizens Services:  +48 (22) 504-2784 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +48 (22) 504-2000 Fax:  +(48) (22) 504-2088 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Krakow Ulica Stolarska 9 31-043 Kraków, Poland Telephone:  +48 (12) 424-5100 American Citizens Services:  +48 (12) 424-5129 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +48 (22) 504-2000 Fax:  +(48) (12) 424-5103 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agent Poznan Ulica Paderewskiego 8 61-770 Poznan Telephone:  +(48) (61) 851-8516 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(48) (22) 504-2000 Fax:  +(48) (61) 851-8966 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens are restricted from entering Poland from Belarus and Russia unless they meet one of the exceptions currently in place. You may find the list of exceptions on the Polish Border Guard website .  

U.S. citizens who do not meet one of the listed exceptions, but who want to return to the United States from Belarus by transiting through Poland, may seek a special permit to enter Poland only at the border crossing point in Brest-Terespol.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.  If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .  
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

Military/Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) Travelers : Active-duty U.S. military personnel may enter Poland under the SOFA with proper Department of Defense (DOD) identification and travel orders. All SOFA family members, civilian employees, and contractors must have valid passports. Active-duty military personnel should obtain a tourist passport before leaving the United States to accommodate off-duty travel. DOD travelers should consult with their unit for clearance  before  leaving the United States.

If you are transiting Poland  en route  to other countries,  know all entry and exit requirements for your final destination . You may be denied boarding for your connecting flight if you have incorrect documentation or insufficient validity on your passport. If you are denied boarding, you will need sufficient funds and a return airline ticket or an itinerary that does not require re-entry into the Schengen zone in order to return to the United States.  

For further information on entry requirements and current visa information, please contact the consular section of the  Embassy of Poland , 2224 Wyoming Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, (202) 499-1700, or a Polish consulate in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, or Houston.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any  HIV/AIDS entry restrictions  for visitors to or foreign residents of Poland.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction,  and  customs  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime:   Poland has a low crime rate overall, the highest rates of crime rates occur in major cities.

• Safeguard your belongings in public areas . Thieves and pickpockets operate at major tourist destinations, railroad stations, and on trains (particularly overnight trains), trams, and buses. Report incidents of theft to the police.
• Do not leave valuables in plain sight inside vehicles .
• If someone directs you to pull over or signals that something is wrong with your car,  continue driving until you reach a safe spot  (such as a crowded gas station, supermarket, or a police station) to inspect your vehicle.
• Only change money at banks or legitimate exchange kiosks (kantor).   ATMs at commercial banks, large hotels, shopping malls, and airports are safest.
• While casinos and gaming establishments are government-regulated, some are affiliated with or have attracted the interest of  organized crime.
• Avoid adult entertainment venues . Such establishments have been known to present foreign customers with inflated charges and threaten those who refuse to pay. There have been some incidents of suspected drink spiking associated with these venues.
• Travel in a group  when going out at night to nightclubs, discos, bars, or high-tourism areas, such as the Market Square in Krakow and Old Town in Warsaw.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable; avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

The Travel Advisory and Security Alerts can be found on the  U.S. Mission to Poland’s website .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime:   U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the local police. Report crimes to the local police by  calling 112  (multilingual emergency dispatch centers serving Poland and EU countries), and contact the  U.S. Embassy  in Warsaw at +48 (22) 504-2000 or the U.S. Consulate in Krakow at +48 (12) 424-5100.   Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Provide a  list of health care providers  in Poland
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of  local attorneys
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States.   A list of organizations providing assistance programs for victims of crimes in Poland is available on the website of the Ministry of Justice  here .
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:   U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should contact local authorities and the U.S. Embassy in Warsaw or the U.S. Consulate in Krakow for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated. Rules (with regards to best practices and safety inspections) are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country.  Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, imprisoned, or deported. 

A U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution.

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website. 

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately . Under Polish law, a person with Polish and U.S. citizenship is deemed to be a Polish citizen; however, dual U.S.-Polish nationals may still ask to see a U.S. consular officer.  See our  webpage  for further information. 

Special Circumstances: Polish Law prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition without proper permits.

In Poland, it is illegal to possess, carry, transport, import or export arms or ammunition without proper authorization. Polish law broadly defines the meaning of “arms” to include items that may put life or health at risk, which may include parts of firearms or ammunition. Travelers have been arrested who were in possession of military items without proper permits.  Please visit the Government of Poland’s website to find out more about obtaining a permit and our website on traveling with firearms .    

Polish Customs enforces strict regulations concerning the export of items such as works of art.  Contact the  Polish Embassy  in Washington, D.C., or a Polish consulate in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, or Houston for specific information regarding customs requirements. 

Taking pictures of Polish military buildings or other national security/restricted objects is illegal.

Penalties are severe for possessing, using, or trafficking  illegal drugs  in Poland. Expect  long jail sentences  and  heavy fines  if convicted. 

Local police can stop a car and request identification to establish identity, and may ask the driver subsequent questions. 

Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.  Information about conducting business in Poland can be found at the  U.S. Embassy’s website .

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, including Poland, they may still be illegal according to local laws. Possessing or purchasing them is against the law. You may be subject to heavy fines and even imprisonment. You must also relinquish the items if you bring them back to the United States. For more information, see the  U.S. Department of Justice website  and the  Polish Ministry of Finance Customs Department.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

      ·        Faith-Based Travel Information

      ·        International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports

      ·        Human Rights Report – see country reports

     ·        Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers

      ·        Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers : There are  no legal restrictions  on either consensual same-sex sexual conduct between adults or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Poland. Polish law prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity and the government enforces these provisions.  The social acceptance of LGBTQI+ individuals is not as prevalent  as in the United States, though polling indicates tolerance is steadily increasing. Some politicians have made derogatory comments about LGBTQI+ persons. Media have not recently reported on physical and verbal attacks against LGBTQI+ persons, but community members have reported concerns about their physical safety. Travelers identifying openly as LGBTQI+ may face harassment. The practice of so-called conversion therapy is legal and offered on a voluntary basis. See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section six of our  Human Rights report  for further details. 

Travelers with Disabilities : Polish law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities, but some discrimination occurs. Polish law states that buildings should be accessible for persons with disabilities, but in practice, many buildings remain inaccessible. Newer public trains, vehicles, and stations may be accessible, but older ones are not. Wheelchair users will find many challenges throughout the country. Service animals are generally allowed in public buildings and on transportation. Pedestrian crossings at intersections in large cities are generally equipped with audible crossing signals. 

Students:  See our  students abroad  page and  FBI travel tips . 

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for  women travelers .

COVID-19 Testing:  COVID PCR and antigen tests are available for U.S. citizens in Poland and results are available within 24 hours.

Adequate medical care is available, but the quality of hospitals and nursing support may not be comparable to U.S. standards in all regions of Poland . Emergency services may be lacking in small towns and rural areas. Physicians are generally well-trained, and many younger doctors speak English (nurses and staff may not).  While medication and treatment are generally substantially less costly than in the United States,  doctors and hospitals often expect cash payment prior to treatment . Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient. Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. Medication, while generally available, may not be U.S. brand-name drugs.

For emergency services in Poland,  dial 112 .  Ambulance services are widely available. 

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

The Embassy does not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Ministry of Health Poland  to ensure the medication is legal in Poland.

Vaccinations:   The CDC does not recommend and there is no requirement for specific vaccinations for U.S. citizen travelers.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery :

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry.  U.S. citizens traveling to Poland for medical tourism or elective surgery should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations.  Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on Medical Tourism.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Pharmaceuticals :

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for use in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Water Quality:

• Food and water standards in Poland are similar to those in the United States. Most travelers do not need to take special food or water precautions beyond what they normally do at home. For more information please visit  CDC Traveler’s Health.

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Air Quality:

• Cities in Poland have higher air pollution levels than major U.S. cities. Especially in Krakow, levels are often above U.S. health-based standards in the winter. Air quality is often good to moderate during warmer months. Visit  the European Environment Agency’s website  for information on air quality in Poland.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions in Poland differ significantly from those in the United States. Poland has the third-highest road fatality rate based on population in the European Union. Driving, especially after dark, is hazardous. Roads are sometimes narrow, poorly lit, frequently under repair (especially in summer), and are often also used by pedestrians and cyclists.  Pedestrians account for approximately one-third of all traffic fatalities in Poland. 

• Polish roadside services, while not equal to those in the United States, are adequate. The Polish Automobile Association ( Polski Związek Motorowy Auto-Tour ) has multilingual operators and provides assistance countrywide 24/7. Call (22) 532-8403 or email  [email protected] .
• The police emergency number is  997 , fire service is  998 , ambulance service is  999 , and the general emergency number is  112.

Traffic Laws:  You must have a U.S. driver's license and International Driving Permit (IDP) in order to drive in Poland .  U.S. citizens  cannot  obtain IDPs in Poland.  If you stay in Poland for more than six months and continue to drive, you must obtain a Polish driver’s license. You can find information on obtaining an International Driving Permit  here .

• Seat belt use is mandatory .
• Use headlights year-round at all times .
• Children under 12 must sit in rear seats .  Children under 12 and shorter than 4’11” must use a child’s car seat.
• Using hand-held cell phones while driving is prohibited .
• Polish law provides zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs . Prison sentences for DUI violations or accidents caused by impaired drivers can range from two to twelve years. 
• Fines for traffic violations can be substantial . Non-residents are expected to pay the police officer at the time the ticket is issued. Be prepared to pay in cash in local currency.

Public Transportation :  Public transportation in Poland is efficient, inexpensive, and safe. A ticket is required when boarding a bus or tram and if the ticket is not validated upon entry, you may be fined. In cities, taxis are available at major hotels and designated taxi stands, and can be ordered in advance by phone.

Avoid taxis without a company name and/or telephone number printed on the light bar . Make sure that the driver displays his or her license inside the vehicle, has a functioning meter, and uses the meter when starting your trip. At airports in Poland, including Warsaw’s Chopin Airport, only use taxis found at designated stands and avoid unregistered taxi stalls.

Apps-based Ride Sharing:  Internet-based ride services, such as Uber, iTaxi, and Freenow, are legal in Poland and growing in popularity as a safe ride option. However, some internet-based ride services may not be authorized to drop off or pick up patrons in some downtown tourist areas.

See our  Road Safety  page for more information. Also, visit  Poland’s National Tourist Office  and Poland’s  General Roads and Highways Authority  responsible for road safety information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Poland’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Poland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page . 

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Poland should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Poland . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Traveler's guide to Poland

Latest Poland Travel Articles

• Top 5 Tourist Spots in Warsaw
• Winter sports in Poland
• Sudety Mountains, Walbrzych, Ksiaz Castle
• Bialowieza National Park
• Tatra Mountains
• Culture and History
• Natural Atractions
• Popular Spots
• City Guides

Touch real history

Wawel, the Cloth Hall, Jewish Kazimierz, the charms of old Podgórze, the socialist realism of Nowa Huta – join us on a journey through Kraków’s most beautiful heritage.

The treasure trove of culture

Masterpieces of Polish and European culture, and the art of the Far East; prehistorical dungeons and views into the future – Kraków’s museums know no bounds.

Green leisure

How about unwinding for a while? Kraków’s ancient mounds, the Planty garden ring, Błonia Common, Skałki Twardowskiego Rocks, the Botanical Garden, and Lasek Wolski Forest are perfect spots to relax in.

Tourist guide

See the famous heritage sites, marvel at the most cherished treasures and discover Kraków’s most interesting nooks and crannies. See what attractions are waiting for you – fall in love in our city!

The Main Market Square, the Cloth Hall, Wawel, Kazimierz – Kraków’s most famous heritage at your fingertips! See how beautiful our city is.

Catch a concert, a film, or a play – Kraków is a city of culture, a city where something is always on.

Take a walk along the Vistula, relax in a park, climb the Krakus mound – see Kraków the green way…

Down in the dungeons and up a tower, art both ancient and contemporary, from prehistory to the latest trends – visit Kraków's museums!

Plan a stay

First time in Kraków? You don’t know where to start? Make things easier with the planner!

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Plan your unique stay, and we’ll off tips on what’s most beautiful and most interesting in Kraków.

Our proposals

There is a country… historical walk for family.

44 ciekawe miejsca

Green Kraków by bike for children

Animal counting rhyme, or a family urban game, thick as thieves with physics, or a walk for fans of science, discovery and experiments, practical information.

Hungry? Need accommodation? Looking for a post office or pharmacy? Do you know how to get around Kraków by bus and tram? Our practical information will help you during your visit.

Recommended events

Concert, film, or play? Kraków boasts a plethora of cultural events – see what we have selected for you.

36th International Festival of Kraków Composers

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - Sunday, April 28, 2024

This year’s 36th Krakow International Festival of Composers explores the close relationship between the world of sounds and the kingdom of numbers – a phenomenon humankind has been familiar with since the Antiquity. “Maths in Music” will resound at the concert Two +...

Mastercard OFF CAMERA 2024

Friday, April 26, 2024 - Sunday, May 5, 2024

Stars of Polish and world cinema, outdoor screenings, backgrounds to TV series, concerts by artists from all corners of Europe – all in Kraków’s unique atmosphere! Fascinating opportunities, meetings with fellow cinephiles, discussions on featured films… Mastercard...

Krakow Philharmonic: Anniversary of Poland's accession to the EU

Saturday, April 27, 2024, 6:00 PM

During this concert, symbolism plays a role that is just as important as exquisite music. The programme prepared for the 20th anniversary of Poland's accession to the European Union by the Kraków Philharmonic refers to the Polish ‘spiritual revolution’ and the universal concepts...

Don Pasquale (Kraków Opera)

Saturday, April 27, 2024, 6:30 PM

Cunning plans, alluring singing, affrays and slapped cheeks – Don Pasquale features all this and more on stage, remaining a pearl of charm and carefree humour. The intrigue in Gaetano Donizetti’s opera buffa masterpiece centres around the idea of cooling the protagonist’s...

4 Traditions Festival

Tuesday, May 7, 2024 - Friday, May 10, 2024

Music explores myriad languages, nationalities and cultures, yet the emotions it dresses up in sounds are universal to us all. That’s the message of the 4 Traditions Festival prepared by the Kraków Philharmonic, exploring various cultural circles once comprising the Commonwealth...

Thirty Seconds to Mars: Seasons at Tauron Arena Kraków

Thursday, May 9, 2024, 6:00 PM

A Beautiful End of the World Although preparing a world tour seems like a great event in and of itself, Jared Leto decided that it needs to be announced in a very special way, so one day at dawn he scaled the Empire State Building in New York, becoming the first person ever to do so. The event...

What say you, Mr Guinness?

In the ancient Roman Empire, all roads led to Rome. The situation in Kraków has been similar since the Middle Ages: here, all the city’s roads lead to the Main Square. The idea was...

Stay up to scratch! Check the latest news from Kraków.

Cinematic Spring in Kraków

24 April 2024

  Krzysztof Siwoń Cinematic life wakes up in spring, and Kraków’s festivals have been presenting captivating screenings and events for many years. Mastercard OFF CAMERA,...

Faces of Jadwiga

10 April 2024

  She fascinates artists and scholars alike. A woman of flesh and blood, King of the Commonwealth… Marek Mikos Kraków Culture It’s hard to believe just...

Information

Transport: by plane, transport: by bus, transport: by train.

World Heritage Sites

Poland is a country of 1000-year-old history, rich traditions and abundant cultural heritage. The legacy of bygone centuries that includes monuments of architecture, historical mementos and masterpieces of art is perfectly combined with the wealth of Polish nature and its original landscapes. Millions of tourists visit Poland every year.

All those who wish to deepen their knowledge of history and see outstanding art pieces should travel to our country in order to admire Poland’s UNESCO sites entered on the World Cultural and Natural Heritage List. The list created by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) distinguishes buildings and sites that constitute the most valuable examples of peoples’ material culture, products of human genius or unique nature reserves. The states that possess those special sites on their territory are bound to protect them from destruction.

Some of these churches are several hundred years old and six were entered on UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage List. Famous architects designed none of them. Simple carpenters constructed them all. The oldest one is the 15th-century church in Haczów, made of fir-wood and covered with shingles. Fragments of wall paintings were uncovered in the church interiors.

The Baroque church (17th c) contains the revered painting of Our Lady of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska. The Calvary, the Way of the Cross, is lined with shrines, chapels and small churches and is picturesquely set on hills and in the valley of a stream.

The Medieval urban layout of the Old Town has not changed for centuries. Every visitor to Cracow should see Europe’s largest Medieval market square with its Cloth Hall, the Church of the Holy Mary with its Gothic pentaptych altarpiece carved from limewood, Wawel Hill and its royal castle and the Wawel cathedral with its outstanding Renaissance chapel, the Medieval university building of Collegium Maius with its unique collection of astronomical instruments, the Barbican, and St Florian’s Gate. The Jewish quarter of Kazimierz features a wealth of Jewish heritage with its 16th century cemetery and seven synagogues of which one is now the Jewish museum. Each summer the Jewish Culture Festival is held and attracts Jewish culture lovers from the whole world. Other cultural events held in Cracow each year attract thousands of visitors. In the suburban town of Tyniec stands a Benedictine Abbey dating back to the 11th century.

Together with the neighboring Bochnia it is one of the oldest salt mines in the world. These are also one of the oldest running companies. Let us take a walk through some of the 20 large chambers of the three-kilometer-long sightseeing route. Already during the 2nd UNESCO Conference on the List of World Heritage the Polish “Wieliczka” Salt Mine was entered into UNESCO’s First World List of Cultural and Natural Heritage. Together with the neighboring Bochnia it is one of the oldest salt mines in the world. These are also one of the oldest running companies in the world.

Situated on the eastern edge of Eastern Europe, the transnational property numbers a selection of 16 tserkvas –churches built of horizontal wooden logs between the 16th and 19th centuries by communities of the Eastern Orthodox and Greek Catholic faiths.

Polska jest jednym z pierwszych państw – sygnatariuszy Konwencji UNESCO o Ochronie Światowego Dziedzictwa. Obiekty i miejsca wpisane na listę stanowią wspólne dobro ludzkości, które charakteryzuje najwyższa powszechna wartość.

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial is visited by great numbers of pilgrims. Many heads of state on official visits to Poland come here to pay homage to the victims of Nazi genocide.

An exquisite tourist attraction was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List was added in July 2017 – Tarnowskie Gory Lead-Silver-Zinc Mine and its Underground Water Management System.

It is not a frequent occurrence that a building merely 100 years old is honoured in this way. Construction of the Centennial Hall is one of the turning points in the history of the utilisation of steel for reinforcing structural frames of buildings.

UNESCO Conference on the List of World Heritage took place in Helsinki in December 2001. During this meeting Poland, supported actively by Germany, suggested to add two Silesian Churches of Peace to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. This wish was fulfilled and as a result the List was enlarged by the two biggest European sacral buildings constructed by the use of timber framing.

The landscape park of the eccentric Prince Hermann Ludwig Heinrich von Pückler-Muskau in Bad Muskau, known on the Polish side as the Mużakowski Park in Łęknica, is one of the most outstanding achievements in European landscape architecture of the 19th century.

Located in the mountain region of Świętokrzyskie, Krzemionki is an ensemble of four mining sites, dating from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age (about 3900 to 1600 BCE), dedicated to the extraction and processing of striped flint, which was mainly used for ax-making.

The originator and, as we would call him today, the developer of the city was Jan Sariusz Zamoyski, the Great Chancellor of the Crown, magnate and magistrate, one of the most affluent people in the history of the world. With a purchasing power of at least twice as much as the one of Bill Gates and an excellent educational background, he was able to make his dreams come true. One of the most popular Italian architects of the time, Bernardo Mornado, was employed to draw the plans and supervise the construction works of Nowy Zamość. Born around 1540 the engineer had been working in Poland since 1569. Before signing the contract for constructing Zamość he had already completed several works for King Batory and several Polish magnates.

The historic center of Warsaw constitutes an exception on UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage List. It’s the only urban complex almost entirely reconstructed after the WWII total destruction. The careful reconstruction was so well done that the international community demonstrated its great appreciation through putting the historic city center of Warsaw on the list of the unique world heritage sites.

Thanks to the great astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus and to the flavor of the famous Torunian gingerbread as well as to the charm and character of one of Europe’s most beautiful old towns, Toruń is a city widely known in Poland and also far beyond its borders. Toruń’s historic core, represented by its well preserved complex of medieval architecture and the original urban layout, was included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1997.

In 1992, UNESCO extended the status of the park of world heritage to the east by adding the bordering Belarusian national park „Białowieżskaja Puszcza”. This led to the creation of one of the world’s seven and Europe’s three world heritage sites which lie on both sides of a national boarder. The surface of the entire forest exceeds 150 thousand ha (62 thousand ha are within the Polish boarders), strict reserves are significantly smaller.

It is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The castle is encircled by defensive walls with gates and towers. The Grand Master’s palace is believed to be the highest achievement in the late-Gothic style.

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Grand Tour of Poland

Discover Poland’s best attractions in 12 days. Guaranteed departures, luxury accommodation, small groups of max 25 participants.

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POLAND TRAVEL

See the unmatched beauty of poland.

Check our best selling and top rated tours around Poland. An ideal choice for anyone who wants to get to know the most beautiful sites in Poland. Outstanding personal service guaranteed.

The Polish Dream Tour

A one of a kind program for everyone fortunate to have more than two weeks to explore the outstanding heritage, charm and lifestyle of Poland.

The Spirit of Poland

The best sights that you can see and visit if you only have six days. An absolute must if you want a thorough flexible introduction to Poland.

Polish Triangle

Seven days of great Polish experience, including the most important Polish cities – Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw.

The Amber Route

A flexible introduction to north of Poland, including the magnetic seaside city of amber – Gdansk.

Poland’s Best in 7 Days

Spend 7 days days exploring the best of Poland. Experience the spectacular old towns of Warsaw and Krakow. Enjoy the stunning view of the Tatra Mountains in Zakopane.

The Route of John Paul II

6-days tour with the places related to Pope John Paul II and famous saints as well as important and beautiful sanctuaries to visit.

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The largest selection of Poland tours online. We provide the most comprehensive selection of city tours and excursions from all major Polish towns. Check out what we offer in the following locations.

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