Your full Wanderlust guide to
Poland
Further south, trek through the majestic Carpathian Mountains and visit the 13th century Niedzica Castle at Czorsztyn. Travel down the mountains in style at the Zakopane ski resort in the Carpathians’ highest range, the Tatras; or canoe down the rapids of the Dunajec river.
In Poland’s capital city of Warsaw, trawl the markets of Old Town Square and visit the Baroque-style Krasinski Palace in the New Town.
Visit Warsaw’s museums to pay homage to international greats: discover Marie Curie’s story in the Maria Sklodowska-Curie museum, and visit the Chopin Museum in the 17th century Ostrogskich Palace.
There’s cultural treasures hidden in every corner of Poland so keep your eyes peeled.
You can’t miss
Latest Poland articles
Wanderlust recommends
Visit the native European Bison at Bialowieza National Park
Wander the sand dunes on the north coast
Trek through the Tatras, the highest range of the Carpathian mountains
Fly down the mountainside on the ski slopes of Zakopane
Visit Copernicus’ birthplace in the city of Torun.
When to go to Poland
Poland’s main tourist season is in the Summer, when the resorts on the Baltic coast get the warmest temperatures.
For exploring Poland’s mountainous regions, the best time to visit is in the Spring when the flora and fauna are at their most vivid.
Autumn is the Polish cultural season, and hotels tend to be emptier after the holiday period.
In Winter, the icy temperatures mean the South of the country is perfect for skiing.
International airports
Warsaw Frédéric Chopin Airport (WAW) is located in the country’s capital, Warwaw. Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport (GDN) is 12km west of Gdansk. John Paul II International Airport (KRK) is 11km west of Kraków. Katowice International Airport (KTW) is 30km north of Katowice. Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport (RZE) is 10km from Rzeszów.
Getting around in Poland
Poland’s main roads tend to be very congested, although the rural backroads are quiet. Car hire is easily available for over 21s.
Poland has a flat landscape which is perfect for cyclists. The bus network (PKS) on the other hand is good quality in urban areas but in rural areas vehicles are likely to be uncomfortable.
Polish State Rail (PKP) runs a good service although buying a ticket can be complicated – make sure to spare 45 minutes to an hour when purchasing one.
The Polish national airline (LOT) has regular domestic flights to major regions throughout the year.
Poland accommodation
Hotels and hostels are available over a range of budgets and standards. Hotel prices are highest in the cities, although the seaside and ski resorts put their prices up in Summer and Winter respectively.
Homestays are available at good value and can be found through local tourist information centres. There are over 500 camping sites, mostly open from April-September.
Poland food & drink
Bread and potatoes are savoury staples and often feature in main meals. Another popular nourishment is pierogi, dumpling stuffed with vegetables, meat, or even fruit. Sweet treats can be found in the form of cheesecake, apple pie and pancakes.
The Poles are very fond of tea, and serve it in a glass without milk. The major alcoholic beverage is vodka, available in many different forms including Goldwasser, vodka liqueur containing flakes of real gold.
Health & safety in Poland
It is important to consult your GP or travel health clinic before travelling; however inoculations are not required to travel to Poland. Tap water is safe to drink.
Be wary of petty crime on streets and in hotels in larger cities, and on trains. Car theft and looting is a growing problem, especially for vehicles with Western number plates – it may be worth paying for a guarded parking lot (around 20zl a day). Also watch out for unofficial money-changers.
