Whether you’re looking to explore pristine lakes and mountain ranges, stroll through the bustling Old Town of Krakow, or simply eat your weight in pierogi (traditional dumplings), you will find countless things to do in Poland—one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. The country has long since shaken off its status as a Soviet Union satellite state, and today it’s home to multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Bialowieza Forest National Park, Krakow’s historic center, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. There also are places to learn about the impact of World War II, such as the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum and Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum.
From towns that date to the middle ages to modern ski resorts, from Baltic Sea beaches to idyllic countryside, this country in Central Europe has something to offer at every time of year. The busiest season is summer, when tourists flock to the country and schools are on break. Spring and fall are better options if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy good weather. You can also plan a trip around Krakow’s lively Wianki festival, which celebrates Midsummer; Warsaw’s Jewish Culture Festival or Krakow’s Pierogi Festival, both in August; or Zielona Góra wine festival, in September.
Poland has a great public transportation network. One of the best ways to get around the country is by train; it is both cost-effective and efficient, and you can find routes with incredible scenery along the way. When possible, opt for the fast and modern PKP Intercity train services, which offer the shortest and most comfortable trips. There are also bus networks that travel all over the country, to even the most remote of villages.
While Krakow is wonderful and it’s worth visiting the capital, Warsaw, one of the best things to do in Poland is to visit its smaller towns and cities. The UNESCO-listed city of Toruń—the birthplace of astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus—has a wonderful old town market square and a wealth of medieval buildings. It’s also known for being the home of Polish gingerbread; visitors can admire intricately decorated gingerbread cookies in shops, visit gingerbread museums, and enjoy hands-on baking classes.
Local Currency Polish Zloty (PLN) | Time Zone CEST (UTC +1) | Country Code +48 | Language(s) Polish | Attractions 99 | Tours 2,704 | Reviews 72,306 |
Poland is famous for medieval architecture like Krakow’s Cloth Hall, pierogi, and Pope John Paul II. The country is also known for its resilience and reinvention after World War II, despite being heavily damaged. Its UNESCO World Heritage sites are a big draw for visitors—including the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp memorial, Wieliczka Salt Mine, and Krakow’s historic center.
...MoreWith so many cities to explore, you could easily spend 10-plus days in Poland without getting bored. Traveling by train is one of the best things to do in Poland. For city breaks, don’t miss Krakow, Gdansk, and Wroclaw. Nature lovers should visit the Tatra Mountains or Bialowieza Forest, or the sights of the Holy Cross Province.
...MorePoland is an incredibly family-friendly country, and there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. If you’re visiting Krakow, take a day trip to one of Poland’s biggest amusement parks, Energylandia; see the animals at Krakow Zoo; or burn off some energy at Gojump, a giant trampoline park.
...MoreThe most beautiful part of Poland depends on your interests. Mountains, lakes, beaches, or forests—Poland has it all. Head south to the Tatra Mountains, explore the 2,000 lakes of the Masurian Lakeland, or visit Bialowieza Forest, one of Europe’s oldest. You can see medieval architecture in Krakow, Wroclaw, and Gdansk.
...MoreYes, Poland is very cheap to visit. In fact, it’s often listed as one of Europe’s most cost-effective vacation spots. Whichever city you visit, you’ll find bar mleczny (milk bars), no-frills cafeterias that serve home-cooked cuisine—often for around US$5 for a main course.
...MoreYes, it’s worth visiting. Poland has atmospheric old towns that showcase beautifully preserved medieval architecture and traditional Polish culture, and it’s rich in UNESCO sites (like the Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork, once home to the Teutonic Knights). Polish people are friendly and their food is delicious—don’t miss the pierogi.
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