Poland

Poland

Your online travel guide to Poland
Discover the wonders of Poland, a land of UNESCO cities, medieval castles and majestic mountains, where history, tradition and modernity come together in a unique experience.
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Poland is a central European nation and borders Germany to the west, the Czech Republic and Slovakia to the south, Ukraine and Belarus to the east and Lithuania and Russia (Kaliningrad exclave) to the north.

The country faces the Baltic Sea to the north, with a coastline stretching some 440 kilometres. Its strategic location has historically made it an important cultural and commercial crossroads between Eastern and Western Europe.

Its main cities, Warsaw, Kraków and Gdańsk, tell stories of resilience and rebirth, while the natural areas, from the Tatra Mountains to the primeval forests of Białowieża, display the country’s extraordinary biodiversity.

Polish culture, deeply rooted in Slavic traditions but open to modern influences, is reflected in its robust cuisine, vibrant art scene and the warm hospitality of its people. From the tragic past of World War II to the Solidarity revolution, Poland has turned its challenges into opportunities for renewal, emerging as one of the most dynamic economies in Eastern Europe.

Things to do in Poland

Poland offers an incredible variety of attractions ranging from historic cities to breathtaking natural landscapes.

Krakow

Kraków ‘s Old Town (Stare Miasto) is the beating heart of Polish culture. Its main square, Rynek Główny, is Europe’s largest medieval square and is home to the iconic Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), a Renaissance building where fine fabrics were once traded and now home to local craft stalls. The Gothic vaults of the upper floor house a valuable collection of 19th-century Polish art.

Wawel Castle dominates the city from the top of its hill. This architectural complex represents the spiritual and historical heart of Poland, where Polish kings were crowned and buried for centuries. The castle combines different architectural styles, from Gothic to Renaissance, and houses an extraordinary collection of Flemish tapestries. Wawel Cathedral, part of the complex, houses the royal tombs and Sigismund’s famous bell.

The Jewish quarter of Kazimierz is a vibrant area that tells the rich history of Krakow’s Jewish community. Its historic synagogues, such as the 16th-century Remuh Synagogue, alternate with trendy cafes, art galleries and restaurants serving traditional Jewish cuisine.

Warsaw

The Old Town (Stare Miasto) of Warsaw is a miracle of post-war reconstruction. Completely destroyed during World War II, it was rebuilt stone by stone using Canaletto’s paintings as a reference. The colourful Market Square (Rynek Starego Miasta) is surrounded by richly decorated burgher houses that look like something out of a storybook.

The Royal Palace represents the historical heart of the city. Rebuilt in the 1970s, it now houses a rich collection of artwork and period furniture. The state rooms are particularly impressive, with the Throne Room and the Knights’ Hall bearing witness to the former grandeur of the Polish monarchy.

Łazienki Park is the largest park in the capital and a true green jewel. Inside, the Palace on the Island is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, surrounded by English gardens and populated by free-roaming peacocks. During the summer, open-air Chopin concerts attract music lovers from all over the world.

Gdańsk

Gdańsk is one of the most fascinating cities in Poland, with its Hanseatic atmosphere and architecture more reminiscent of Amsterdam than typical Polish cities. The Royal Street (Droga Królewska) is lined with beautiful merchant houses decorated with elaborate facades. The Neptune Fountain and Artus Palace on the Długi Targ (Long Market) are perfect examples of the splendour of the city in its golden age.

The World War II Museum is one of the most impressive modern museums in Europe, telling the story of the conflict from a Polish and Eastern European perspective. The building itself is a contemporary architectural masterpiece.

Auschwitz-Birkenau

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum provides an essential moment of reflection for understanding the horrors of the Holocaust. The site includes the original Auschwitz I camp and the larger Birkenau extermination camp (Auschwitz II). The emotionally demanding but necessary visit includes the original barracks, gas chambers, crematoria and an extensive collection of personal belongings of the victims.

Wieliczka

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, just a few kilometres from Krakow, is a UNESCO site that has amazed visitors for centuries. This underground city stretches over 300 km on nine levels, although only a small part is open to visitors. The Chapel of St. Kinga, entirely excavated in salt, is the highlight of the visit, with its salt crystal chandeliers and bas-reliefs telling biblical stories.

Malbork Castle

Malbork Castle is the largest brick castle in the world and an impressive example of medieval military architecture. Built by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century, the castle is a complex of three separate fortresses that show the evolution of military construction techniques in the Middle Ages. Guided tours allow visitors to explore the rooms of the Grand Master, the medieval kitchens and the imposing fortifications.

Tatra Mountains

The Tatra Mountains offer some of the most spectacular scenery in Poland. Zakopane, the country’s winter capital, is the perfect starting point for exploring this region. The city is famous for its unique wooden architecture and numerous ski slopes. During the summer, a network of well-maintained hiking trails leads to crystal-clear Alpine lakes and breathtaking peaks.

Documents

To visit Poland, EU citizens need only a valid identity card or passport.

If you are travelling by car, you need to carry your driving licence, registration certificate andvehicle insurance. It is also recommended to carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access health care in case of need.

For those travelling with pets, a valid European pet passport, microchip and rabies vaccination are required.

However, it is advisable to always check the validity of your documents before departure and to take photocopies with you.

When to go to Poland

The best time to visit Poland varies depending on the activities you wish to undertake. The summer season, from June to August, offers pleasant temperatures between 20-25°C and is ideal for exploring the cities and enjoying the many outdoor festivals. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive period.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are excellent alternatives, with mild temperatures and cheaper prices. These months are perfect for excursions to national parks and admiring the colours of the changing seasons.

The Polish winter, from December to March, is harsh with temperatures dropping below zero, but offers unique opportunities for winter sports in the Tatra Mountains and the magical atmosphere of the Christmas markets.

Useful information

Plan a trip to Poland

Flights to Poland

Flights to Poland

Discover all direct flights from major European countries to Poland: airlines, deals and connections. Compare prices and find the best flight.
Places to visit in Poland

Places to visit in Poland

Discover the wonders of Poland on a journey through UNESCO heritage cities, medieval castles and beautiful natural parks for an unforgettable experience.
Where to stay in Poland

Where to stay in Poland

Discover our selection of the best accommodation in major Polish cities with recommendations on hotels and areas to stay for every type of travel and budget.
Car hire in Poland

Car hire in Poland

Complete guide to car rental in Poland: main rental locations, traffic regulations, costs and practical tips for exploring the country independently.
Map of Poland

Map of Poland

Detailed, interactive maps of Poland with major cities, tourist attractions, nature parks and airports to help you plan your trip.
Weather Poland

Weather Poland

Information on Poland's climate with temperatures, precipitation and weather conditions to help you plan the best time for your trip.