Complete Poland Travel Guide, What You Need to Know
Poland is well known for its World War II history and the Auschwitz-Birkenau Centration Camp. The country also has many great cities and UNESCO sites to explore. Poland is an inexpensive country for travel and receives around 20 million visitors each year. Planning international travel can be overwhelming and time-consuming while working full time. Use this Poland travel guide and the following Poland travel blog posts to plan your perfect vacation. The top destinations in Poland are Krakow, Gdańsk, Łódź, and Wrocław.
Why Visit Krakow Poland
Krakow Poland is the country’s second-largest city. Krakow was made famous by Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory. Krakow is a walkable city with a historic city wall, castle, fire-breathing dragon, market square, the Jewish ghetto, and delicious pierogi. Krakow is also close to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp and Wieliczka Salt Mine.
READ 48 Hours in Krakow Poland
Why Visit Gdansk Poland
Gdansk is the first city the Nazis seized at the start of World War II and is full of history. It is a port city on the Baltic coast known for its colorful facades, amber jewelry, cheesy potatoes, and great prices. Gdansk is a perfect weekend getaway location, don’t miss nearby Malbork Castle.
Why Visit Warsaw Poland
Warsaw is the Polish capital. 90% of the city was destroyed in World War II and it has been reconstructed to its original Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical forms. This is the perfect city to discover Polish History. Also, Warsaw is a university city with the perfect mix of old and new. You will find hipster coffee shops, milk bars, old Soviet buildings, and modern shopping malls.
Why Visit Wroclaw Poland
Wroclaw is also a university town. It has been ruled by Austrians, Czechs, Hungarians, Germans, and Poles and the influences remain. Wroclaw was named the European Capital of Culture in 2016, there is always a performance to watch or a concert to attend. The city is full of medieval architecture and Market Square is not to be missed. Also, be sure to search for the small dwarf sculptures throughout the city.
What You Need to Know When Planning a Trip to Poland
Where is Poland?
Poland is in Central Europe. It is bordered by the Baltic Sea, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, and Lithuania. The major cities are Warsaw, Krakow, Lodz, and Gdansk. Warsaw is the capital and largest city of Poland.
What is the language in Poland?
The national language of Poland is Polish. Russian is the second most commonly spoken language in Poland. About 20% of Poles speak English. English speakers will not have difficulty communicating in large cities. Be sure to learn a few key phrases as well as some slang. FluentU offers a helpful list of common words and phrases to learn before you travel.
Do I need a visa to visit Poland?
According to Project Visa, US citizens do not need a visa for a visit up to 90 days in a 6 month period.
What is the currency in Poland?
Although Poland is part of the European Union, the currency in Poland is the złoty. Euros may be accepted but at a high exchange rate. Therefore, if offered a price in euros, it is best to request the price in złoty. US dollars are not accepted at restaurants, attractions, or stores. Be sure to download a free currency calculator before you arrive.
Can I use credit cards and ATMs in Poland?
ATMs are widely available in Poland. Avoid large fees by using your bank’s international partner in Poland and google its location before you travel. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Poland, you will need a 4-digit PIN from the bank. Save money on fees with a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees and make purchases in złoty. Most small businesses and villages are cash only.
How much should I budget per day in Poland?
According to Budget Your Trip, the average daily cost of traveling in Poland is $68. Expect to pay $952 + airfare for a one-week trip for 2.
When is the best time to visit Poland?
The high tourist season is June through August. The shoulder season is March, April, and October. March to May and September through November are the best seasons to visit Poland; temperatures are mild and crowds are minimal. Expect freezing temperatures and snow in the winter.
What transportation does Poland use?
Public transportation in large cities is by tram or bus. Warsaw also has a metro system. Unlimited tourist travel cards are available, and amounts vary depending on the city. Be sure to purchase and validate transit tickets. Pro Tip: Google Maps does not work in Krakow, use the Jakdojade.pl App instead.
What kind of adaptor do I need in Poland?
The plugs in Poland are type C and F. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter with surge protection. You will need a converter if you plan to use an electric razor or blow dryer from the US.
What should I pack for Poland?
Jeans and camisoles or t-shirts are common daily wear. A comfortable pair of walking shoes with good soles for cobbled streets is important. Formal clothing in bold colors is popular for an evening out. Women often wear pencil skirts and stiletto heels.
Is Poland a safe country for solo travelers?
According to Travel Safe Abroad, Poland is a safe country overall. Be aware of your surroundings, there is a moderate risk for scams and pickpockets. Dial 112 in an emergency. Contact the US Embassy for non-urgent emergencies, such as a lost passport.
What Polish food do I need to try?
Kotlet schabowy (schnitzel), pierogi (dumplings), kopytka (potato gnocchi), gołąbki (cabbage rolls), kotlet mielony (meatballs), bigos (hunter’s stew), Mizeria (cucumber salad), nalesniki (cheese crepe), paczki (donut), makowiec (poppy-seed cake).
Tips for Traveling in Poland
- Poland is not considered Eastern Europe.
- WiFi is available in most restaurants, bars, and cafes.
- Tipping 10-15% is common in Poland.
- Women’s bathrooms are labeled with a circle and men’s with a triangle.
- Tap water is safe to drink, but Poles don’t drink it.
- It is illegal to drink alcohol in the streets.
- Take your shoes off if you are invited into someone’s home and bring a dessert or bottle of alcohol.
- Amber jewelry is a great souvenir.
- Milk bars are inexpensive cafeteria-style restaurants.
10 Top Things to See and Do in Poland
- Tour Krakow’s Jewish Quarter and Schindler’s Factory.
- Visit Wawel Royal Castle and Malbork Castle.
- Stroll the beautiful village of Zalipie.
- Visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.
- Tour the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
- Explore the coastal city of Gdansk.
- Visit the wooden churches of Southern Lesser Poland.
- Walk among the curved trees in the Crooked Forest.
- Check out Warsaw’s old town and Lazienki Park.
- Go hiking in the Tatra Mountains.
Check the Poland Office of Tourism website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.
Interesting Facts About Poland
- Poland has the world’s biggest castle (Malbork), and the longest pier in Europe.
- Poland has beaches, mountains, forests, deserts, and lakes.
- Warsaw was almost completely destroyed during WWII and had to be rebuilt.
- Poland is one of the most religious countries in Europe.
- The Polish language is very difficult to learn.
- Polish men still greet women by kissing their hand.
- Poland has a list of names you can not give a baby.
- Wearing a hat indoors is considered disrespectful.
- You get an award from the government if you remain married for 50 years.
- Poles are superstitous.
- College in Poland is free.
- Make-up, latex condoms, cotton swabs, bullet-proof vests, and kerosene lamps were invented by Poles.
- The famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus was Polish.
- Poland is the world’s biggest exporter of amber.
- TV in Poland is dubbed by one male voice.
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Booking Resources for Poland Travel
Poland Travel Guide
Pick up a Poland Travel Guide from Amazon.com to browse on the plane.
Book Your Accommodation in Krakow Poland Now
Spending the night? Search Booking.com and VRBO in one place to find the perfect property! I stayed at the PURO Hotel Kraków Stare Miasto. The location was great. It was directly across from the train station and within walking distance of the old town.
Krakow Poland Attractions and Day Tours
The best attractions sell out! Don’t chance it, get your tickets now and relax when you arrive.
Travel Essentials
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Have a great vacation!