Poland

Travel Guide

Travel to Poland

Poland is a country steeped in history and full of natural gems, welcoming travelers to many incredible experiences. From journeying through the medieval cities of Krakow and Warsaw, cities reborn from the ashes of war – there’s a beautiful blend of old and new. Discover the haunting history of Auschwitz-Birkenau or visit lesser-known spots like the colorful Zalipie or the Baltic Coast. In Poland, every step reveals another part of the country’s rich narrative.

How to Plan Your Trip to Poland

Use our Poland travel guides to plan your perfect trip to this underrated country. Whether you’re looking to stroll through pastel-colored streets, look out over the rolling hills from castle walls, or learn about Poland’s turbulent history, we’ve got you covered. Discover the best things to do in Poland in our complete 2-week travel guide for inspiration and tips.

Best Time to Visit Poland

The best time to visit Poland depends on your wishlist of experiences. Each season has its own unique charm, from spring’s blossoms to winter’s cozy traditions.

Spring: As the country awakens from its winter slumber, it bursts into color. Cherry blossoms bloom in Warsaw’s parks, and the countryside fills with stunning wildflowers. Embrace the milder weather while strolling through the cities and enjoying outdoor terraces.

Summer: Imagine sunny beaches along the Baltic Sea, medieval streets in Krakow alive with festivals and open-air concerts, and the mountains covered in green. Summers are the best time to visit Poland for a range of different activities, whether it’s savoring pierogi at a street-side cafe or lazing under the lake-side trees.

Fall: The country turns into a colorful symphony with shades of red, orange, and gold across the landscapes. Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine or take a leisurely cruise on the lakes. The harvest season also brings in delicious local products, so cozy up in the corner of a cute restaurant, huddled over a steaming bowl of stew.

Winter: This is when Poland turns into a real-life fairytale, where Christmas markets take center stage in cities, and the landscape turns into a winter wonderland. If you’re into winter sports, Poland is a great location for skiing, sledding, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. Discover the charm of Wroclaw under a blanket of snow and enjoy delicious mulled wine.

Countryside, Beaches, and Cities

A vacation in Poland is the perfect decision if you’re looking for diversity. From its idyllic countryside to the sun-kissed beaches and historic cities, there’s something for every type of traveler. 

The countryside unfolds like a painting, with forests, beautiful UNESCO sites, and many wild animals. Explore Poland’s lakes, where wooden cottages dot the landscape, or go hiking in the alpine mountains. In every village you pass, expect warm hospitality and delicious traditional cuisine.

Often forgotten is that Poland also has a coastline that stretches along the Baltic Sea. This gem has golden sands that stretch on for miles and offers many water sports. Gdansk, steeped in maritime history, makes a must-see on your Poland holiday, with a colorful Old Town and many stories. Twenty minutes further lies the seaside town of Sopot, with a wooden pier perfect for catching the sunset.

But perhaps the most fun to explore are the country’s enchanting cities, from Poland’s capital, Warsaw, where modern meets old, to medieval Krakow, with Europe’s largest market square. As well as Wroclaw, known as the ‘Venice of Poland’ and the romantic port town of Gdansk – there are many things to do in Poland.

Food, Culture, and Religion in Poland

The cuisine, culture, and religion of Poland are inseparable from its identity. The food is a celebration of hearty flavors and tradition, like its pierogi or famous hunter’s stew (bigos). As you stroll through old villages, stop to try some local beet soup or Polish sausages, ending your meals with an iconic apple pie.

Poland’s culture is woven together with its history and art. In Krakow’s Old Town, you can explore the stunning architecture (now a UNESCO site), like the Gothic Basilica next to Europe’s largest medieval square. Watch as folk traditions come alive with festivals, dances, and many crafts sold at the markets.

And its religion is just as diverse as everything else. With some of Europe’s most stunning cathedrals and churches dotted throughout the country, Poland is predominantly Roman Catholic. You’ll even find a few pilgrimage sites here, like the Jasna Góra Monastery. However, historic synagogues in Krakow reflect the country’s Jewish heritage, while Orthodox Christianity also thrives.

Why You Should Travel to Poland

Immerse yourself in the warmth of Polish hospitality, its inspiring historical stories, and the many wonderful landscapes and architecture. Unlike Western Europe, Poland remains an undiscovered gem, offering quieter journeys with fewer people. This allows you to truly explore its serene nature, from the southern mountains to the Baltic coastline, and unwind in beautiful cities, savoring delicious cuisine. 

Every corner offers something new and interesting, whether you’re looking to be outside between the hills and trees or learn about Poland’s tumultuous history. Nature and culture come together no matter where you go, offering a glimpse into Poland’s best places to visit.

Safety and Travel Advice in Poland

Although Poland is a safe destination to travel to, it’s always good to be up-to-date about safety measures and tips for traveling to the country.

Natural disasters: The risk of natural disasters is relatively low in Poland. However, heavy rains and thunderstorms are frequent during the summer months, which sometimes lead to flooding. Stay informed by watching local and international news for the latest information and register at an embassy for emergency updates.

Mountains: If you’re visiting southern Poland, there are two high mountain ranges (the Carpathians and Sudetes), perfect for hiking, climbing, and skiing. These areas can be dangerous if you go unprepared. Lightning strikes are common, as well as risks of sudden storms or avalanches. Always check weather forecasts and go well-prepared. 

Crime and safety in Poland: Public security in Poland is generally really good, especially in bigger cities, though petty crime does happen. This is more common in crowded areas, tourist destinations, and train stations. Keep your valuables on you secure and leave any important belongings at home. 

Learn more about travel safety

Traffic: If you’re driving in Poland, always keep an eye on the road and traffic. Though the country continues to improve its highway system, travel can still be challenging outside major city centers. Road conditions on secondary roads are poor, and Polish driving can sometimes be a bit erratic. Remember that the country also sees a lot of truck traffic, as it’s part of a major east-west route, and that horse-drawn and slow-moving agricultural vehicles are common in rural areas.

Travel Insurance: One of the things we always recommend for your Poland holiday is purchasing travel insurance. Whether it’s lost luggage or an accident – travel insurance gives you more peace of mind on your travels. Check out these best travel insurances.