travel list polska

First-timer's guide to Poland

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Jun 11, 2024 • 7 min read

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

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 like 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.

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.

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 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

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 scarfing 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.

Keep planning your trip to Poland:

Attention, foodies, Poland should be your next destination Plan a perfect weekend in Krakow Make sure these top 10 things are on your Poland itinerary

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.

This article was first published Sep 29, 2023 and updated Jun 11, 2024.

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Poland Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 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
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip

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

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:

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:

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

Poland Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel dorms – 55-95 PLN per night
• Hostel private rooms – 120-200 PLN per night
• Budget hotels – 150-275 PLN per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 75-150 PLN per night
• Airbnb apartments – 100-200 PLN per night
• Campsite – 40 PLN per night (Wild camping is prohibited in national parks.)
• Street food – 5-6 PLN
• Sit-down restaurants – 35-75 PLN
• Casual take-out places – 15-30 PLN
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 25 PLN
• Beer – 8-12 PLN
• Glass of wine – 12 PLN
• Cappuccino/latte – 11 PLN
• Bottled water – 5 PLN
• Groceries for a week – 150-165 PLN

Poland Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 175 pln per day.

On a backpacker budget, 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 free museums. If you plan on drinking, add 10-20 PLN to your budget per day.

Midrange – 330 PLN Per Day

On a midrange budget, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room. You’ll be able to 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.

Upscale – 600 PLN Per Day

On a “luxury” budget, 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!

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:

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.

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.

How to Get Around in 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 .

Hitchhiking – Poland is one of the most hitchhiking-friendly countries in Europe. If you have a sign that says where you are going and you look presentable, you usually don’t have to wait too long for a ride. Having a flag from your home country helps too. Hitchwiki is the best website for additional hitchhiking info.

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.

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!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

There’s a lot of free information online but do you want to spend days searching for information? Prob not! That’s why guidebooks exist.

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

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EUROPE , KRAKOW , POLAND , ZAKOPANE · January 23, 2019 Last Updated on July 25, 2024

POLAND: A GUIDE TO 5 DAYS IN KRAKOW & ZAKOPANE

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

Poland is a lesser visited gem of a country that everyone should put on their travel list, and you can see a good amount in a quick five day itinerary. After being in England over the holidays and craving a nearby winter trip, I used the handy ‘everywhere’ feature of Skyscanner and looked for the cheapest flights.

I found round trip flights for around GBP 50 from Bournemouth to Krakow, and after a quick bit of research and Pinterest exploration (my favourite way to plan travel!), I discovered that Poland has a lot to offer its visitors and is a great winter destination.

In addition, Poland is one of the cheaper European country when you get there, making it a great budget destination as well!

In this article I share a few interesting facts about Poland, our exact itinerary of what to do with just three days and four nights in Poland, how to get around the country easily and cheaply, where to stay in Krakow and Zakopane, my favourite spots to eat and of course the best things to do in the country.

Some Interesting Facts About Poland

Once I started my research, I discovered lots of interesting facts about Poland. It is the 9 th largest country in Europe; they have an additional 6 letters in their alphabet; it’s home to the largest castle in the world; it has a diverse landscape to discover including desert, mountains, lakes, beaches and forests; you can eat at the oldest restaurant Europe called Piwnica Swidnicka and located in Wrocław; the name Poland derives from the word Polska “people living in open fields”; Poland is the world’s largest exporter of amber; mushrooming – going to the forests and picking mushrooms is a popular activity in the summer months; the fun trivia facts go on! 

There is so much history to learn about Poland and so many interesting facts about the country to discover so take some time to read up about the country before your visit!

4 Night / 5 Day Poland Itinerary

First things first this guide and itinerary is called a 3 day guide, even though in fact it’s a 5 day itinerary with four nights in the country. This is because two of the days are assigned as travel days, so it’s a full 3 days of sightseeing.

On the final day 5 depending on your flight time you may have extra time to explore in the morning and afternoon before your departure. What I cover includes these travel days, as well as what to do on the three full days that you have in the country. At the end of the guide i also share a few ideas on other things to do in Poland if you have more time.

Day 1: Travel Day To Krakow And Onwards To Zakopane

We took a morning flight from Bournemouth, England direct to Krakow with Ryanair which takes around 2 hrs 20 minutes. Flights from the UK are relatively cheap and you can get airfare for as low as GBP 15 each way. Our flight arrived in Krakow at 3.30pm in the afternoon, and since this seemed like a bit of a dead day we decided to go straight from the airport to Zakopane in the south of Poland.

After a bit of research, we found that buses run from the airport to Zakopane with Flixbus and are as little as GBP 4 per person! Timing this will really depend on where you are travelling from.

For us this meant a few hours waiting at the airport at a Costa Coffee, but this was a better than staying the night in Krakow and travelling the next day losing one of the few days we had in Poland. The journey to Zakopane is around two and half hours and you can pre-book your exact seats with Flixbus.

Day 2-3: Zakopane

If you follow my itinerary you will arrive late in the evening to Zakopane on Day 1 of your trip. The bus station is around a 5-8 minute drive to the center of the town and Google Maps told us a 10 minute walk – however, it definitely looked to be more like a 20-25 minute walk especially in the snow.

Getting a taxi from here is pure luck, so if you can arrange a driver to pick you up from your hotel I would highly recommend that.

We arrived at our accommodation at around 9.30pm which allowed us to go out for a quick bite to eat before the restaurants closed for the evening – our first meal in Poland was at Zapiecek on Krupówki Street complete with live music. If you don’t go here on night one, make sure that you go at least once during your time in Zakopane as both the food and atmosphere were great!

Day 2: Explore Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains

After arriving late in the evening on Day 1 to Zakopane, you can get up bright and early to explore this magical little city. There is plenty to do to keep you occupied in Zakopane and I have highlighted my favourites and must-do’s when visiting Zakopane a little further down this article.

There is also the option to go right out to the Tatra Mountains which create a natural border between Poland and Slovakia and visit the stunning Lake Morskie Oko.

Day 3: Travel from Zakopane to Krakow

On Day 3 it’s time to tear yourself away from beautiful Zakopane and take an early bus from Zakopane back to Krakow. Again I recommend booking the Flixbus. Before travelling I wanted to book a set with the best views, but honestly it looked like the views were beautiful from both the left and right hand side of the bus so you can pick either side.

It is worth noting that the seats you book may not always be honored, on our return journey we pre-booked seated so we didn’t rush to be on the bus first like some other passengers did. when we got to the front we were told there was no assigned seating today and to take any seat, so my advice would be to get to the front of the queue just in case seat reservations are not honored on that day. 

If you have taken the earlier bus you will have some time to explore Krakow and get your bearings. We spent the afternoon heading to the main market square where St Mary’s Basilica is located. Along the way we admired the pretty streets of the old town, other beautiful and ornate buildings and stopped for some sweet treats and donuts along the way. 

Day 4: Full day exploring Krakow

On Day 4 you will have the whole day to explore historical Krakow. Get out your Google Maps and pin all the spots on my things to do in Krakow list below and then you can determine the more efficient route to create your own walking tour around the city. My absolute highlights in Krakow were walking along the river, crossing the bridges and watching life go by as locals went on runs, walked their dogs or sat on benches along this pretty part of the city and St Joseph’s Church which was magical and felt like we stepped onto a movie set or episode of Game of Thrones!

Day 5: Travel back to your home country, or onward destination

On the final day of your trip you will be heading home, if like us you have an afternoon flight then you can use the morning to explore Wawel castle and the cathedral. You only need to a few hours to walk the full perimeter of the castle and go inside the main cathedral so it is a perfect morning activity. For more ideas on things to do in Krakow on your final day see my list below. 

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Things To Do In Zakopane

• Ski & Snowboard Of course this is one of the main reasons that visitors to Zakopane come, the town is surrounded by mountains and is the perfect place to ski.
• Take the cable car to Mount Kasprowy (1987 m asl). If you only do one thing in Zakopane then it will probably be this. However, make sure to check the weather as it will not be as pleasant if the visibility is poor. At the top you can stand on the border between Poland and Slovakia and take in spectacular views of the Tatra Mountains. 
• Take The Funicular To Gubałówka Hill which starts in the very centre of the town. The funicular costs around US $5 pp for the ride there and back and the journey is around 7 minutes long to the top. The more adventurous traveler can choose to walk all the way to the top which takes around 2 hours – along the ride you will see a number of people doing this. At the top on a clear day Gubałówka (1100 m asl) offers spectacular views over the town and the surrounding Tatra mountains. There is a market, a couple of coffee and lunch spots and also pretty light features and statues at the top to explore. You will also find that there are lots of horse and carriages for rent, though I personally would not do this and recommend you look into the ethics and treatments of the animals before you participate.
• Stroll Around Krupówki street. This is the main street in Zakopane and home to some designer shops, lots of boutique chocolate shops, many restaurants, ski and hiking equipment stores and some small food carts. No doubt you will find your way to this street at some point during your trip, mostly likely in search of a good place to dine – you will find my restaurant and cafe recommendations below.
• Explore The Local Market There is a small local market at very foot of the hill and Krupówki street which you will find if you are going to the Gubalowka funicular. This is the perfect place to buy some local produce and cheeses. There are lots of wooden crafts on sale, as well as hats, gloves, faux fur coats and plenty of other winter warmers!
• Tatra Mountains The Tatra Mountains actually span Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia so you can visit from each. But from Krakow there are several day trips which take you out to Zakopane and to the Tatra Mountains at very reasonable prices, around GBP 35 pp including transportation, lunch and a guide. We didn’t choose this option since we were staying in Zakopane, but it’s an easy a cheap way to see this part of Poland in just one day.

Where To Stay In Zakopane

There are hundreds of options for places to stay in Zakopane , from lodges, small cabins, hotels to AirBnB. Depending on how you like to select your accommodation will determine which you choose, some people choose based on price, others based on location.

When we travel we typically look for a place that is reasonably priced and in a central location to avoid expensive taxis and make it easy to pop out for a bite to eat. Upon some research on Booking.com we choose  Przy Szlaku Zakopane Centrum Pokioje & Apartamenty.

These apartments are very centrally located, just one street back from Krupowki Street, so you cannot be in a better position! And at around US $55 a night they are very budget friendly.  

Highly Rated Places To Stay In Zakopane

• Przy Szlaku Zakopane Centrum Pokioje & Apartamenty
• Hotel Aquarion
• Villa 11 Folk & Design
• Search for more places to stay in  Zakopane
• Sign up to Air BNB with this link and get $35 off your first booking

Where To Eat In Zakopane

• STRH Café is a great spot for breakfast or lunch, you will find it upstairs in a building with large windows overlooking Krupowki street. I choose the mountaineers porridge with cranberries, and apple sauce (delicious!), but there are many more egg based traditional breakfast options. The décor is modern ski chic and the perfect spot to grab a book, coffee and relax for a few hours in a comfy chair.
• Samanta 1927 Below STRH you will find a café / patisserie called Samanta 1927. This place is like a luxury, retro diner, with pink and black velvet chairs and a huge array of cakes and pastries to choose from. This place would look more at home in Paris or New York but is a cute spot right in the centre of town to enjoy some sweet treats.
• Zapiecek Our favourite spot in Zakopane was Zapiecek, halfway up Krupowki street on the left. This is quite a small cosy traditional restaurant serving delicious Polish food with live music playing. We were hard pressed not to return for all of our meals. I highly recommend the traditional Highlanders Borscht, the warm slices of toast bread with plum wrapped in bacon and a garlic sauce and the cheese and potato perogies. We didn’t get the cheese board, but I saw it go past to another table and wished we had!
• Gazdowo Kuznia Similar to Zapiecek and at the bottom of town heading towards the funicular you can find Gazdowo Kuznia, another traditional Polish restaurant. This is a much larger restaurant so would work well for bigger groups.
• Cristina Restaurant and Pizzeria If you want a change from Polish food, then you can head to Cristina Restaurant and Pizzeria which is a great Italian place. I recommend the Cristina Pizza with gorgonzola and parma ham, the Cristina salad with apples and peach and of course the fresh burrata with baby tomatoes!

To see the best of Zakopanes food scene you can book this Zakopane Private Traditional Polish Food Tour  and maybe also indulge in the Zakopane Private Polish Beer Tasting Tour.

Tours To Zakopane From Krakow

If you don’t want to stay in Zakopane, you can take a day tour from Krakow, this is a convenient way to see Zakopane and the highlights of this area. 

• From Krakow: Zakopane and Dunajec River Rafting Tour
• From Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Thermal Springs
• From Krakow: Zakopane and Tatra Mountains Day Trip
• From Krakow: Slovakia Treetop Walk and Zakopane Tour
• Krakow: Zakopane, Quads and Thermal Baths

Tours In Zakopane

There are lots of great tours in Zakopane, from snowmobiling, to quad biking and of course food and beer tours. These are some highly rated tours from Zakopane.

• Zakopane: Snowmobiles – Expedition with Bonfire
• Zakopane: Quads – Adventure
• Zakopane Private Traditional Polish Food Tour
• Zakopane Private Polish Beer Tasting Tour
• Zakopane Walking Tour
• Zakopane Private Vodka Tasting Tour

Things To Do In Krakow

• Wawel Castle and Cathedral  It is free to walk around the castle or you can choose to take a guided tour which costs EUR 30 or an audio tour of the cathedral for around EUR 4.75. The castle is a must visit and is a great place to learn about Polish history.
• Botanical Gardens  of the Jagiellonian University  For the romantics and the lovers, a walk through these 18 th century botanical gardens is a lovely way to spend an afternoon in Krakow. Be sure to check the opening times though as the gardens are usually only open between April and Mid-October.
• The Main Market Square It’s pretty certain on a trip to Poland and Krakow that you will find yourself in the main market square at some point, whether this is in search of a lunch spot or to visit St Mary’s Basilica. 
• Take a Free Walking Tour Through Kazimierz This is one of Krakow’s most enchanting districts and a lovely place to wander around aimlessly along the pretty cobbled streets. In this area you will find an array of artisan shops and intimate cafes.
• Bernatka Footbridge If you are feeling romantic and travelling with a loved one you might want to take a walk across this pretty footbridge, where you can hang a padlock to side of the Bernatka bridge and toss the key into the river Wista below. This bridge is close to St Joseph’s church so if you follow my recommendation and go there you can cross it on the way there or the way back. 
• Veit Stoss’ Altar Marvel at the beautiful Veit Stoss altar in St Mary’s Basilica. Krakow is jam packed with art, both old and new, but if like me you appreciate the older architecture and art then a stop at St Mary’s Basilica is a must do in the city.
• Oscar Schindler’s Factory If you are a history buff or simply interested in the important historical aspects of the countries that you visit you might be interested to take a guided tour of Oscar Schindler’s factory. The guided tours cost around EUR 20 or you can just go for entry ticket only for EUR 11.
• Visit Auschwitz – Birkenau Museum Another one for those interested in history would be to visit Auschwitz. I personally made the choice with my husband that we did not want to visit. However, my cousin who is a prolific traveler and has been quite literally all over the world when she worked for the Travel Channel described this as one of the best experiences she had had whilst traveler, of course not a pleasant one, but an interesting and important look into history and what happened here. Again there are guided tours available to be booked for around EUR 40.
• Wieliczka Salt Mine Universally considered a must visit in Krakow is the Wieliczka Salt Mine located just outside of the city. This is a unique and incredible piece of architecture that should be experienced by all of Poland’s visitors. Entrance is around EUR 23 and guided tours are EUR 40.
• Take A Street Art Tour There is a lot of street art in Krakow and its relatively easy to find this on your own, you could plan you day around finding unique art pieces as you walk from gallery to gallery, or coffee shop to coffee shop. I personally like to create my own walking tour, pinning all the spots I want to go to on google maps and then finding an efficient way to walk between them all. If you are interested in finding the most impressive murals and street art include murals are Ding Dong Dumb (Piwna 3a), Judah (Św Wawrzyńca 16), Bawol Square (Plac Bawół 3), and AGH mural (Czarnowiejska 50b) onto your list.

Where To Stay In Krakow

As with Zakopane there are plenty of options in Krakow , so first you will want to narrow your search by looking at the different areas in the city. We choose the magnificent Kanonicza 22 hotel. If you are ready to spurge on your trip to Poland then I cannot recommend Kanonicza 22 highly enough. There are 5 rooms to choose from and we opted for the Emperor Suite, if you take a look at the website its not hard to see why!

First of all the  Kanonicza 22  is beautifully decorated in grey and white, and for my friends who know me personally they know I have a very simple décor of greys and whites so this certainly appealed to my taste. But more important is the absolutely stunning bathroom, and the pièce de résistance is the private rooftop, where you can sit and enjoy a glass of champagne with a view overlooking the Wawel castle.

If that’s not enough to get you excited, then perhaps the fact there is a hot tub on this balcony will! Seriously, take my advice and choose this hotel for your next visit to Krakow.

Our Top Places To Stay In Krakow

• Kanonicza 22 – a home away from home a few hundred yards from the Wawel Castle. Read my review of Kanonicza 22 here.
• Hotel Grodek in the old town
• Bachleda Luxury Hotel Krakow MGallery By Sofitel
• Bonerowski Palace
• Search for more places to stay in  Krakow
• Sign Up To AirBnB with this link and get $35 off your first booking

Where To Eat In Krakow

• Pod Nosem Again, for the splurgers reading this, head to the Pod Nosem restaurant. This is a Michelin starred restaurant set in a beautiful baroque style in the Kanonicza 22 hotel. We had one of our meals here whilst we stayed at the Kanonicza 22 and it was one of the most delicious meals I have ever experience, plus the ambient atmosphere is a delight for the senses! You can read my full review of the hotel and the restaurant here .
• Kakowskie Packzi Located close to the main square is this little bakery that serves many delicious sweet treats and the windows are filled with donuts. Even if there is a queue it’s worth waiting to get your hands on one of these delicious donuts!
• Lu-Kier Cafe located right next to St Joseph’s church is a cute little coffee shop with delicious cakes, I recommend trying the cheesecake. 
• Starka Restaurant is a lovely candle lit restaurant serving traditional Polish fare.
• Malecon is a excellent choice if you want a rooftop view of the city over the river. In the winter you will have to sit inside, but there are large floor to ceiling windows so you can still enjoy the view. The food is delicious and reasonably priced.
• Folk Show in Jama Michalika Café Pre-book you tickets for a three course dinner, with a traditional Polish show. You will learn about Polish traditions folk law as performers tell stories through dance to folk music. 
• Cyrano de Bergerac  is one of the top restaurants in Krakow and is a French-style restaurant in the heart of Krakow. In fact, the location in the cellars of a medieval 15th century building is one of the restaurants main draws. 

Where To Drink & Party In Krakow

If you want to keep the night going after dinner then here are a few places to try for an after hours drink or dance.

• Eszeweria is a romantic / hipster style bar popular with locals
• Forum Przestrzenie  is one of Krakow’s trendiest spots
• Movida Cocktail Bar is another one of Krakow’s best drinking spots, it is well known for its delicious and inventive cocktails. The vibe is young and fun, with cocktails names after celebrities including the Brad Pitt and the Monica Bellucci.
• Wódka Cafe Bar appears on many lists of the best places to drink in Krakow and proclaims to be the hours of vodka. You can try a tasting menu of different vodkas and get acquainted with Poland’s most famous export.
• Pergamin Chill Out Music Bar is located near the main square on Brice Street, a little hard to find but worth the hunt. This is a popular haunt for any cocktail lover and you will be happy with the extensive cocktail list on offer. 

Finally, if you are nursing a hangover from the night before, you can head to Plaża which is a great summertime venue on the banks of the Vistula River. Here you can recline in a deckchair, with a bloody mary (or glass of water!) in hand and recover from your previous night out!

Tours In Krakow

• Kraków: Wawel Castle, Jewish Quarter, Wieliczka, Auschwitz
• Krakow: Guided Private Walking Tour
• Krakow: Half-Day Horse Riding by the Lake
• Krakow: Bachelor & Hen Party Package
• Kraków: Hot Air Balloon Flight with Champagne
• Krakow: Wawel Hill Guided Tour with Wine and Tapas
• Krakow: Pub, Bar & Club Crawl
• Krakow: Guided Craft Beer Tour
• Krakow: 4-Hour Polish Food Tour

Tours From Krakow

• From Krakow: Private Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour with Wieliczka Salt Mine and Private Transfer
• From Krakow: Full-Day Warsaw Sightseeing Tour
• From Krakow: Scenic Boat Trip to Tyniec Village
• From Kraków: UNESCO Wooden Churches Guided Tour

The Best Time Of Year To Visit Poland

Our trip was in the second week of January, right in the middle of winter but also the perfect time to enjoy the last of the festive season and get a bit of belated white Christmas. If you prefer to visit in the summer then June / July would be a wonderful time to visit, and it would still be worth going out to Zakopane and Tatra Mountains as you would get great weather for hiking and other outdoor activities. 

If You Have A Little More Time In Poland

If you have the luxury of more time in Poland then I would suggest some of the following activities and cities, these places came highly recommended on other blogs and travel websites and will be on my list for my next visit to Poland!

• Visit Szczecin , a charming, port city located on the Oder River, one hour’s drive from the Baltic Sea, in Northwest Poland 
• Visit the historical city of Warsaw
• Visit the sand dunes in Leba where you can hire bikes and cycle through the national forest
• Visit the pretty town of Gdansk 

A Few Final Things To Do In Poland

• Eat fresh perogies  This is a must do, pierogies are delicious pockets filled with potato and cheese or meats and are not to be missed!
• Try the local vodkas and lots of them!
• Visit the Christmas markets in December . As I have mentioned Poland is quite budget friendly and offers a great alternative to some of the other expensive European Christmas Market destinations. 
• Buy your Christmas decorations. Wandering around Krakow I found so many cute shops absolutely filled to the brim with Christmas baubles and tree decorations – this is the perfect place to pick up some unique decorations to take home.
• Try the local donuts. There are so many bakeries and chocolate shops and you will be hard pressed not to stop every few minutes at one of them and if you do make sure it is one that sells donuts! They are absolutely delicious and beat the Krispy Kreme or Dunkin Donuts you might be used to!
• Go on a Craft Beer Tour in Krakow 

I hope that you found this article useful and that it will provide you some inspiration and helpful tips for planning your own trip to Poland. If you have any questions for me, or would like to share some of your own tips with our readers then please do leave these in the comments below.

And if you enjoyed this article, make sure to read my detailed Guide & Itinerary For A 5 Day Lapland Adventure in Finland.

We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Krakow and Zakopane in Poland. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

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• Kanonicza 22
• Hotel Grodek

Read More About Poland

• A Guide To Visiting Historical Warsaw, Poland
• 7 Reasons To Visit Szczecin, Poland
• Visiting The Sand Dunes In Poland

We Are Travel Girls Founder Becky van Dijk of  BeckyvanDijk.com Connect with Becky  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Instagram  |  Pinterest  |  YouTube

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Raquel Costa says

October 7, 2019 at 12:06 pm

Thank you for all the tips above. I’ve had a layover in Krakow for 24h and went to Stylowa restaurant expecting a great place with a decoration taking us to the 50’s as mentioned. Upon entering the restaurant the disappointment was clear, little we knew that it was just about to get worst. Food was terrible (over fried and oily), water tasted awfully and the white wine was warm.. Just wanted to leave this here so no one else has to go through the same experience we had (the worst dining experience by far). We didn’t finish the food, just payed and left. . Safe and enjoyable travels to all ?

We Are Travel Girls says

October 8, 2019 at 12:05 am

Sorry you had a bad experience at Stylowa! We did not personally go there but it was recommended to us as a local lunch spot. Based on your review we will remove it from our list.

Hope you found the rest of the tips in the article useful and thanks for reading!

August 1, 2022 at 10:14 am

Great article girls!. I’m native polish, i was born in Oswiecim (where Auschwitz-Birkenau is located), Krakow and Zakopane are both cities I know very well. lived there few years. As I’m personal driver (5 or 9 seats comfort car) and personal tour guide, if there is anyone who would like to spent great days in Krakow, Oswiecim and Zakopane, I can assist you and show the most breathtaking views of these cities, especially the Polish Tatra Mountains in Zakopane. I can do pick up service as well from Cracow Airport. Tel / whatsapp +48 501 486 883

November 28, 2022 at 12:42 pm

A beautiful city I loved it and Auschwitz was so humbling. Oscar Schindlers factory was pretty amazing too.

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We chose a trip to Poland due to the fact that my family comes from Poland. It was the best choice. Our guide showed us the house where my family once live...

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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Poland

• How to get to Poland
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Daily budget Basic €25/occasional treat €35. Drink Vodka (50ml shot) €1. Food Żurek soup €2–3. Hostel/budget hotel €10/€30. Travel Train: Warsaw–Kraków €13; bus: €10.

Crime and personal safety

Emergencies, information, money and banks, opening hours and holidays, travel ideas for poland.

Created by local experts

Explore the Liberation Route in Poland

Poland was the first country that Hitler invaded and with it starting World War II. Discover the Polish sites of World War II with this itinerary, from the Northern city of Gdansk where the first battle took place to the concentration camps of Auschwitz close to Krakow.

Poland is a very safe country to travel in, though inevitably thefts from dorms and pickpocketing do occur. Safely store your valuables whenever possible and, on night trains, lock your compartment when you sleep. Polish police ( policja ) are courteous but unlikely to speak English. Your best protection against crime is to take out travel insurance before you go. If you do have anything stolen, report the loss to the police as soon as possible, and be patient – the Polish police rarely speak English, and filling out a report can take ages. The chances of getting your gear back are virtually zero.

Poles are obliged to carry some form of ID with them at all times. You should always keep your passport with you, even though you’re unlikely to get stopped unless you’re in a car; Western numberplates provide the excuse for occasional unprovoked spot checks. It’s also a good idea to make a photocopy of the final, information-bearing page of your passport. This will help your consulate to issue a replacement document if you’re unlucky enough to have it stolen.

Police 997 (112 from mobile phones); fire service998; ambulance 999

Medical care can be basic and most foreigners rely on the expensive private medical centres run by Medicover (500 900 500, www.medicover.pl ). For non-prescription medication, local pharmacists are helpful and often speak English. Citizens of the EU are entitled to free emergency healthcare in Poland providing they have an EHIC card, obtainable in the UK from most post offices or online at wwww.ehic.org; and in Ireland at local health offices or online at wwww.ehic.ie. Lengthy courses of treatment (as well as any prescribed drugs) must be paid for, however, so it’s sensible to take out adequate health insurance. North Americans, Canadians, Australians and New Zealanders must arrange full insurance before leaving home.

Inoculations are not required for a trip to Poland. Drinking tap water is perfectly safe.

Most cities have a tourist office ( informacja turystyczna , or IT), usually run by the local municipality, though some are merely private agencies selling tours.

Travellers with GSM mobile phones will find that almost all of Poland enjoys coverage – apart from the odd remote mountain valley. Public payphones are operated by a card (karta telefoniczna), bought at post offices and Ruch kiosks, the latter usually marginally more expensive. To make a collect call, go to a post office, write down the number you want and “Rozmówa R” and show it to the clerk. Remember, too, that calls from hotels are usually far more expensive than calls from a payphone.

Internet cafés are fairly ubiquitous in Poland, and are listed in the Guide where relevant. Usage rarely costs more than 4zł/hr.

www.poland.travel/en The official tourist website with general details on Poland’s major sights and visa information.

www.thenews.pl Polish radio’s English-language service, focusing on national news and current events.

www.culture.pl News and essays on Polish cultural events and history.

Currency is the złoty (zł/PLN), divided into 100 groszy. Coins come in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 groszy, and 1, 2 and 5 złoty denominations; notes as 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 złoty. Major credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are common in cities. Euros are not widely accepted, even in Warsaw.

Most shops open on weekdays from 10am to 6pm, and all but the largest close on Saturday at 2 or 3pm and all day Sunday. RUCH kiosks, selling public transport tickets ( bilety ), open at 6 or 7am. Most museums and historic monuments are closed once a week. Entrance tends to be inexpensive, and is often free one day of the week. Public holidays are: January 1, Easter Monday, May 1, May 3, Corpus Christi (May/June), August 15, November 1, November 11, December 25 and 26.

Dealing with the complexities of your first trip to Europe? Our comprehensive planning guide will simplify the process and ensure you are well-prepared.

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Poland Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Poland

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Poland entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Poland from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Poland.

Can I travel to Poland if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Poland without restrictions.

Can I travel to Poland without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Poland without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Poland?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Poland.

Can I travel to Poland without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Poland?

Mask usage in Poland is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Poland?

Restaurants in Poland are open. Bars in Poland are .

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Poland Travel Advisory

Travel advisory may 1, 2024, poland - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review without changes.                   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 .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

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RULES & REGULATIONS

Public transport tickets

Where to buy? Tickets are sold at newsagent kiosks. One ticket is used for all means of public transport and is valid for buses, trams and the underground. In some towns you can buy tickets from the driver (at a surcharge), from ticket machines on board or at underground stations.

Ticket inspections may be frequent and the failure to produce a valid ticket may lead to a fine. The transport company inspectors are ununiformed but they carry an ID card which they are obliged to present to the passenger.

What types of tickets are available? Not all cities have the same type of tickets. In some, you can buy tickets which are valid for a specific length of time – 15 minutes, 30 minutes, one hour, one day, 24 hours etc. Such tickets can be used to travel by any means of public transport within the allocated time. When the ticket is stamped in the machine on board, the time is printed on the ticket. The ticket should only be stamped once. In some cities also single journey tickets are available.

Rail tickets The best place to buy rail tickets is the station. Express / IC InterCity / EC EuroCity trains are charged extra for seat booking.Vist the information desk to enquire about timetables, prices and special offers. If you happen to be too late to buy a ticket at the station, you can still board the train and, as soon as possible, ask the guard to sell you a ticket (at a surcharge).

Using your own transport

Headlights All vehicles are required to use headlights, night day and and all year round.

Seatbelts The use of seat belts is compulsory for front and rear-seat passengers.

Roads and motorways The condition of Polish roads could be described as relatively good. In the vicinity of the larger cities road surfaces are improving every month. Secondary roads can be qualified as being in a satisfactory condition.

Conditions on the roads Apart from these motorways there are many dual carriageways and single-lane roads. The surface of some of these roads has been deformed by ruts cut into the road surface during the summer by TIR trucks. In general drivers have to be a little more vigilant in Poland when driving along the minor roads in this country.

Speed limits

• built-up area – 50 km/h
• outside built-up area – 90 km/h
• dual carriageway – 120 km/h
• single-lane road – 100 km/h
• twin lane carriageway with at least two lanes per direction – 100 km/h
• motorway – 140 km/h

Road use charges In Poland there is a toll on motorways (A1, A2, A4 and A8). These tolls are collected using two systems:

• open system: The tolls are collected at toll booths situated on motorways. The toll depends on the type of vehicle.
• closed system (viaTOLL system): The tolls are collected at toll booths situated on access roads, on junction roads and additionally on the final sections of motorways. The toll depends on the type of vehicle and the distance covered.

viaTOLL is an electronic toll collection system that charges road users for using selected sections of toll road network. Vehicles required to pay electronic tolls are the motor vehicles or combinations of vehicles with maximum permissible weight of over 3.5 tonnes and buses regardless of its maximum permissible weight. viaTOLL system covers caravanning. Vehicles have to be equipped with little on-board units (so called viaBOX) which communicate with transmitters in toll gantries. Each time a vehicle equipped with viaBOX technology passes beneath the gantry the driver is charged for that particular section of toll road.

Customs duty When travelling to Poland from a country outside the EU, you should take note some customs procedures and regulations. This will avoid the disappointment when some of the items you bought during your stay in Poland turn out to be subject to customs restrictions..

If you are 17 years of age or over, you may legally bring into Poland goods for your personal use and consumption, free of customs duty, as long as the quantity of the goods does not exceed:

tobacco products:

• 200 cigarettes
• 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars
• 250 g of tobacco
• a proportional quantity of all of these various products combined;

spirits and alcoholic drinks:

• alcoholic beverages with alcohol volume content of more than 22% and pure ethyl alcohol with alcohol volume content of more than 80% – 1 litre,
• alcoholic beverages, wine- or alcohol-based aperitifs, taffia, sake or similar drinks with alcohol volume content up to 22%; sparkling wines, liqueurs – 2 litres
• non-sparkling wines – 2 litres

If you are 17 years of age or over and you are a resident of the frontier zone, a frontier zone worker or a member of the crew of a means of transport used for travel between third countries and the EU, you may legally bring into Poland goods for your personal use and consumption, free of customs duty, in quantities which do not exceed:

• alcoholic beverages with alcohol volume content of more than 22% and pure ethyl alcohol with alcohol volume content of more than 80% – 0.5 litre
• alcoholic beverages, wine- or alcohol-based aperitifs, taffia, sake or similar drinks with alcohol volume content up to 22%; sparkling wines, liqueurs – 0.5 litre
• non-sparkling wines – 0.5 litre
• 0,5 litre of spirits
• 0,5 litre of intermediary products
• 0,5 litres of non-sparkling wine

The value of the goods listed above may not exceed amount in PLN equivalent to EUR 80.00. You should be aware of the current control regulations in Poland before taking out funds in excess of EUR 10,000. Please be aware that you will be asked to document any other goods brought in quantities which may be reasonably considered as being imported for commercial use.

Import restrictions You must not bring with you (unless under a special permit) such banned goods as:

• unlicensed drugs (e.g. heroin, morphine, cocaine, cannabis, etc),
• offensive weapons (e.g. firearms, flick knives, knuckledusters, swords, etc)
• indecent and obscene materials featuring children and other pornographic materials which are considered illegal in EU countries.
• counterfeit and pirated goods and goods that infringe patents (e.g. watches, CDs, etc)

Protection of national heritage

To export from Poland to any foreign country (both within and outside the EU) an object of historic value, a work of art or an object of Poland’s industrial heritage, you must obtain a suitable permit issued by the Minister of Culture and National Heritage. Antique shops or other legitimate sellers offering such objects for sale should be able to offer assistance in obtaining the required permit.

Export permits  are not required  in case of:

• Objects which are not entered in the Inventory of National Heritage and which are not older than 55 years;
• Objects of industrial heritage, which are entered in the Inventory of National Heritage and which are not older than 25 years;
• Works of are created by living artists;
• Library items dated after 31 December 1948;
• Other objects of historic value which are not entered in the Inventory of National Heritage.

A certificate stating that an object mentioned above does not require export permit must be obtained. Certificates are issued by the local Curator of National Heritage Monuments. Ask the vendor offering such objects for sale to assist you in obtaining the required certificate.

Avian flu Because of the danger of avian flu, Poland – like other EU countries – does not allow import of animal products whose country of origin is outside of the EU. This ban does not apply to infant products (on condition that such products do not require refrigeration prior to consumption, and the packaging is intact). Meat and milk can only be imported under a special permit.

Visas – general information

There are many countries whose citizens can visit Poland as tourists without visas. These include all European Union countries.

Visa free travel to Poland is available to citizens of many countries outside the European Union.

Countries whose citizens can travel to Poland for up to 90 days without a visa:

Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong (SAR), Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao (SAR), Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Vatican, Venezuela.

Detailed information on rules covering entry and stay in Poland can be obtained from Polish embassies and consular offices.

A list of addresses of embassies and consulates

Visa application service

A visa is still required for a stay of longer than three months or when entering the country to take up paid employment.

A list of countries whose citizens can travel to Poland for up to 90 days without a visa

Alcohol & Cigarettes

Poland has no specific laws regulating alcohol consumption. There are, however, certain restrictions as to the age and venues where people are permitted to drink alcohol. It is also worth remembering that being under the influence of alcohol is not a mitigating factor if an offence has been committed. While smoking tobacco is going out of fashion in Poland, it is not prohibited to smoke in public places.

Drinking in public places In Poland, it is prohibited to drink alcohol in public places, with the exception of properly licensed designated places, such as bars, restaurants, open air café gardens, etc. Underage drinking It is strictly prohibited to sell or offer alcohol to young people under the age of 18 years. Likewise, underage drinking is not allowed in licensed bars and restaurants. Drinking & driving In Poland, the legal limit of blood alcohol content is 20 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. Driving while under the influence of alcohol (between 20 mg and 50 mg) is an offence punishable by a fine. Driving while being above the 50 mg limit is a serious offence which leads to criminal conviction and possible seizure of the vehicle. Offenders face a possibility of immediate arrest and up to two years’ imprisonment. Smoking in public places Although in Poland it is not illegal to smoke in many public places, there are also regulations aiming at protecting non-smokers. With an increasing number of Polish people preferring a healthy lifestyle, smoking is no longer generally acceptable. The anti-smoking lobby is gaining popularity not only by promoting a healthy lifestyle for smokers, but mainly by protecting passive smokers. A nationwide campaign has been launched to declare 31 May a ‘Non Smoking Day’. Because of these concerns, smoking is now prohibited in many places. Many such places may have, however, designated smoking areas. Therefore, in restaurants, pubs, on trains, in theatres, colleges, etc. you may only smoke in such designated areas. Smoking is strictly prohibited in places marked with special signs (a cigarette crossed with a red line).

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Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Poland. 

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise normal safety precautions in Poland.

• Heavy rain has caused extensive flooding in southern Poland. Avoid flood-affected areas, monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities. Before you travel, check road traffic information (Polish) and transport services for updates. 
• Do not cross into Ukraine from Poland. Special conditions may apply when entering Poland by road from Ukraine. 
• Be careful of drink spiking. Keep an eye on your food and drink. 
• Be careful when crossing the road. Use pedestrian crossings only, and make sure cars have stopped before crossing.
• There have been reports of violence against LGBTQIA+ people. Avoid public displays of affection to avoid any possible confrontation or discrimination.  

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Air pollution levels can be very high in winter. Get medical advice if you have a heart or lung condition.
• Public hospitals are reasonable in large cities. Services are limited in rural and border regions. 
• Most doctors and hospitals will need payment up-front or evidence of medical insurance before treating you. Don't assume you're covered for medical costs if you're a dual citizen. Check with the  Polish Social Insurance (ZUS) .

Full travel advice:  Health

• There are strict alcohol laws in Poland. There's zero tolerance for drink driving. The blood alcohol limit is 0.02%. It's illegal to drink or be drunk in public. You may be arrested or taken to a facility to sober up.
• It's illegal to take photos of some buildings. Look for signs on buildings that forbid photos and check with local authorities.
• Poland doesn't recognise dual nationality. This may limit the consular help we can provide. By Polish law, dual nationals must enter and exit Poland on their Polish passport.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Poland is a part of the  Schengen area , meaning you can enter Poland without a visa in some cases. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Poland for the latest details.
• You can't enter Poland via the land borders from Belarus and Russia (Kaliningrad).
• Be cautious if travelling in regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Access is restricted up to 2km from the border in some areas.  
• If you're travelling by land, you must have a valid Australian passport.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Contact the  Australian Embassy in Warsaw  for consular help.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Australian Embassy in Warsaw's social media accounts.  

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Border with ukraine.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. The security situation continues to be volatile. Exercise caution while travelling in the regions bordering Ukraine. 

Do not travel from Poland to Ukraine.

Australian citizens can enter Poland from Ukraine by road, train or foot. Vehicles are subject to ownership and registration checks. There may be delays at border crossings. You can check border wait times at the  State Customs Service of Ukraine website.

You must have a valid Australian passport when crossing the border into Poland. You'll be subject to a passport and security check. 

More information:

• Ukraine travel advice .

Violent crime is rare in Poland, but petty crime is common.

Petty crime

Muggings , carjackings and theft from vehicles happen in large cities, including Warsaw.

Take care in the tourist areas of large cities. Pickpocketing is common. Thieves often work in small groups.

Watch your belongings:

• near hotels
• at ATMs and currency exchange bureaus
• on public transport, including trams and trains

Regularly check your bank statement. Report any suspicious items to your bank.

Crime and public transport

Thieves target central railway stations at:

Thieves can target passengers on:

• long-distance trains and buses
• public transport between the airport and central Warsaw

Only use official, registered taxi companies. Unregulated taxi drivers operate in Poland. There have been reports of attacks against passengers, Including sexual assaults, in unregulated taxis and cars booked using ride-sharing apps.

Drinking in bars and nightclubs

Ask the price of drinks before you order in bars and nightclubs, particularly those that lure you in with special deals. Check the bill amount and currency carefully. 

Be careful of drink spiking and theft. To stay safe:

• never leave drinks or food unattended
• don't accept drinks from anyone you don't know 
• appoint someone who is not drinking, and watch out for your mates.

There's an increasing number of reports of travellers being scammed with drink spiking and credit card overcharging in venues frequented by tourists, particularly those that entice you in with special deals. People have been lured in and overcharged for drinks on credit cards while under the influence.

If you're a victim, report the incident to the police and contact your bank immediately.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Public protests and events can draw large groups of people. Avoid protests and large public gatherings, as they may turn violent. Monitor local media and follow instructions of local authorities.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Poland, they can still happen.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorists have attacked some European cities.

Climate and natural disasters

Heavy rain has caused extensive flooding in southern Poland. Before you travel, check road traffic information (in Polish) and transport services for updates. 

Poland can experience very low temperatures in the winter. Take care in snow and ice conditions. 

In the cities, roads are quickly cleared of snow, but black ice is hazardous. Snow can block highways and roads in rural areas for extended periods.

Heavy snowfalls can disrupt train travel.

If there's flooding or  severe weather :

• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the media and other local information sources

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

LGBTQIA+ safety

Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriages and civil partnerships aren't recognised under Polish law. The social acceptance of LGBTQIA+ people is not as widespread as in Australia. Individuals have experienced harassment. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention.   

More information: 

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Poland. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 

Health risks

Air pollution.

Air pollution levels can be very high.

Get medical advice if you have a pre-existing heart or lung condition.

Tick-borne encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis  is a risk.

Ticks are common in both urban and country areas. They're active year-round, especially from spring to autumn.

Regularly check your body for ticks during and after visits to parks, gardens and forest areas.

If a tick bites you:

• remove it from your body as soon as possible
• make sure you remove the whole tick
• monitor the site for any signs of infection
• Tick bite prevention  (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Measles cases can routinely occur in Poland, which is currently experiencing increased measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Measles Outbreaks 2019 (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Measles immunisation service (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Infectious diseases  

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Public hospitals are of a reasonable standard in large cities. Services are limited in rural and border regions.

Most doctors and hospitals will need payment up-front or evidence of medical insurance before treating you, even in an emergency. Don't presume you're covered for medical costs if you're a dual citizen. Check with the  Polish Social Insurance (ZUS) .

If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

When reporting a crime to the police, it's a requirement for a sworn 'approved' translator to be present regardless of how fluent the officer is in English. You may have to wait for a translator to arrive.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include mandatory prison sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Drinking laws

There are strict alcohol laws in Poland. 

There's zero tolerance for drink driving. The blood alcohol limit is 0.02%.

If you drink and drive, you face up to five years in jail and substantial fines. Your car could also be impounded. Drink drivers involved in accidents face up to 16 years in jail and significant fines.

It's illegal to be drunk in public. You may be arrested or taken to a facility to sober up. Expect to pay for the cost of your stay.

Drinking alcohol in public places is illegal, including parks and picnic areas.

Surrogacy 

Poland has no specific surrogacy laws in place. Seek independent legal advice. 

The Australian Embassy can't provide:

• legal advice about surrogacy
• information on clinics
• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt a child

It's illegal to take photos of some buildings.

Look for signs on buildings that forbid photos. If you're not sure, check with local authorities.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

Poland doesn't recognise dual nationality.

Under Polish law, Australian-Polish dual nationals must enter and exit Poland using their Polish passport or Polish national identity card (only within the Schengen zone). 

If you're a dual national, this may limit the terms of  consular services  we can provide if you're arrested or detained.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Poland is a part of the  Schengen area , meaning you can enter Poland without a visa in some cases.

In other situations, such as working, studying or staying long-term, you'll need a visa.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Poland  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

You can’t enter Poland via the land borders from Belarus and Russia (Kaliningrad).

Other formalities

If you're staying in private accommodation, you must register with the local registration office.

You'll need proof of registration if you apply for a visa extension.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You could end up stranded if your passport isn't valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

Poland's currency is the Zloty (PLN).

You can easily change all major currencies.

If you're travelling between Poland and any non-EU country, declare currency equivalent to 10,000 euro or more. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you don't declare currency or give incorrect information, you'll be fined.

You should check with local authorities in the countries you are leaving, entering or passing through whether you must declare higher amounts of currency.

Local travel

Carry your passport when crossing borders, even within the  Schengen area . Be prepared to show your passport to authorities at any time.

If you're travelling by road or train, allow extra time for possible disruptions or delays.

Be cautious while travelling in regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Access is restricted up to 2km from the border in some areas. Abide by any regulations at all times and follow the advice of the Polish authorities.

Border with Belarus and Russia (Kaliningrad)

Do not cross into Belarus or Russia from Poland.

Read the travel advice for  Belarus  and  Russia .

You can't enter Poland via the land borders from Belarus or Russia (Kaliningrad) – limited exceptions may apply.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. Heavy fighting is occurring in parts of eastern and southern Ukraine. Missile strikes and attacks are ongoing in some locations across the country, including in major cities. Exercise caution while travelling in the regions bordering Ukraine. The security situation continues to be volatile. 

If, despite our advice, you travel by road from Ukraine to Poland, you may face additional security measures when crossing the border. See 'Safety' section above and the  Ukraine travel advice  for more information.

Driving permit

You can drive in Poland for 6 months if you have both:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP), and
• a valid Australian driver's licence

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

If you want to drive for longer than 6 months, you must get a Polish licence. Ensure your driver's licence is current.

Road travel

There is a high rate of motor vehicle accidents in Poland.

Drink driving is a major cause of road accidents. Stay below the legal blood alcohol limit of 0.02%.

Hazards for drivers and pedestrians include:

• driving at high speed
• pedestrians looking in the wrong direction at crossings due to cars driven on the right-hand side in Europe
• be aware that when turning with a green arrow, pedestrians also have a green crossing light and have the right of way
• poor roads, especially outside major cities
• poor street lighting
• high volumes of traffic, particularly trucks

Many highways are not dual-carriageways or are under construction. Overtaking lanes are rare. 

Severe weather in winter can make driving more dangerous. Some roads are closed in winter.

If you drive in winter, use winter tyres and carry chains.

By law, you must always have your headlights on when driving.

Children shorter than 150cm must use a safety seat. Check with your car rental company or the police.

Using mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless they're fitted with a hands-free device.

Poland's road rules are different from Australia's. Know the rules to avoid fines and insurance issues.

Check the vehicle rental company rules before hiring a car or motorbike. You must meet both Polish and Australian vehicle operating and licence laws (e.g. hold the appropriate licence for the vehicle you drive).

The process of paying road tolls varies across the country. More information is available on the  toll operator website .

• Driving or riding

Only use official taxis. They have the name and number of the taxi company on the door and on top of the taxi, next to the light. They'll also show a rate card on the vehicle window.

Taxis with a crest but no company name are not official taxis.

Unregulated taxis can overcharge passengers. There have been reports of attacks against passengers, including sexual assaults, in both unregulated taxis and cars booked using ride-sharing apps.

Pre-book taxis using a reputable taxi company or an English-speaking app. You can also ask staff at hotels, hostels or tourist areas to book you an official taxi.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Poland's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

If you need consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Warsaw.

Australian Embassy, Warsaw

Rondo ONZ 1 8th floor 00-124 Warsaw, Poland Phone: (+48 22) 521 3444 Website:  poland.embassy.gov.au Email:  [email protected] Facebook:  Australia in Poland, Czech Republic and Lithuania X:  @AusAmbPoland Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Coronavirus: information and recommendations

Pursuant to the Regulation of the Council of Ministers of 25 March 2022 on establishing specific restrictions, orders, and prohibitions in relation to the state of epidemic (Polish Journal of Laws, item 673), from 28 March 2022 onwards, all restrictions on travel to the Republic of Poland are lifted, which means there is no obligation to:

- present COVID certificates when crossing the border;

- test for SARS-CoV-2;

- undergo the so-called entry quarantine.

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