Poland had never really been on my bucket list until I actually went there and realised how amazing it is! I had such a fabulous time in Poznan and Gdansk that I wanted to learn more about the best cities in Poland to visit so I asked some of my travel blogger friends for their advice. Check out these incredible places in Poland that should definitely be on your must-visit list!
Why Visit Poland
While the only thing people think of when imagining Poland is the horrors of World War II, the Holocaust and concentration camps, there is far more to discover in Poland. It is important to acknowledge what happened here but please do experience the joys of modern Poland as well.
There is delicious food in Poland, with traditional dishes and modern international cuisine to enjoy, as well as fabulous wineries and breweries to visit. The cities are colourful and vibrant, and the countryside quite spectacular. There are lots of reasons to visit Poland in fact, so I hope this post gives you a taster of what to expect!
Is Poland Safe?
When I told my parents I was planning to come here, my dad was concerned about safety in Poland. He was worried that the war in Ukraine would affect Poland and make it unsafe for me to visit, but actually now is a very good time to visit Poland.
Polish people are understandably concerned about the war, and have done everything they can to help their Ukrainian neighbours, providing support both on a national and personal level. I didn’t see any negative impact from the war, only perhaps higher prices, and the only signs that it is happening at all were the Ukrainian flags and messages of support and solidarity around the cities I visited.
However, tourism has undoubtedly been affected, and businesses in Poland are glad to receive visitors so please do go to Poland and show your support too. While there is a risk of escalation, I would say that yes, Poland is safe to visit – the US and UK governments both have it on the lowest risk level which is “exercise normal precautions”, so unless that changes then get ready to explore Poland!
The Best Cities in Poland to Visit
Gdansk
Gdansk is a beautiful city on the Baltic coast, famous for its history (World War II began here and strikes in the city in the 70s and 80s led to the fall of Communism. It is also famous for Baltic Amber, and there is a whole street filled with shops selling amber jewellery and souvenirs as well as a museum dedicated to the history of amber in the region.
The Old Town is filled with rows of colourful buildings, rebuilt in the original style after much of the city was destroyed during WWII. The location of Gdansk also adds to its charm, as the riverfront is now a focus for regeneration and home to lots of bars and restaurants.
Don’t miss visiting one of the largest brick cathedrals in the world, Basilica of St Mary of the Assumption, Mariacka Cathedral, where you can also climb the tower for lovely views of the city below.
Learn more about the history of Gdansk in the city’s excellent museums, including the World War II Museum, the European Solidarity Centre and the Maritime Museum. If you’ve had your fill of museums then just wandering the Old Town is a wonderful way to pass the time.
At night, be sure to check out some of the cocktail bars in Gdansk too, especially if you spend the weekend in Gdansk – Winston Bar is an excellent choice with a variety of fun cocktails served in a cosy lounge-style bar.
Poznan
Poznan is another beautiful Polish city to visit, with many of the buildings in the Old Town restored to their original styles. The large Old Market Square is home to the Town Hall, which at 12 noon every day marks the hour with two models of goats butting heads.
Goats are the symbol of the city and don’t miss taking a photo with the goat sculpture in plac Kolegiacki, where the locals often dress the goat statues in football scarves or other clothes relating to events in the city.
Other things to do in Poznan include the gorgeous pink Baroque Basilica “The Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Mary Magdalene and St. Stanislaus” is an incredible building and a must-visit while you are in Poland. Outside of the centre, cross the river to visit Cathedral Island where the Cathedral and several museums are located.
There is also a large mural, the Srodka Mural, covering the wall of a nearby building and a fabulous pierogi restaurant called Na Winklu too where you can gorge on delicious Polish dumplings before heading back to the Old Town. A walking tour is a great way to get to know the city, and you can also try a St Martin’s Croissant on this walking tour of Poznan.
Warsaw
There are so many fantastic things to see in Warsaw, Poland which is the capital and largest city in the country. The city was completely devasted and bombed from the ground up during World War ll but ingeniously built the historic district brick by brick from destroyed materials. Enough so that the meticulous rebuilding of the city to exact standards have entitled the city to the unique status of a Unesco World Heritage Site for recreating the old city back to its original state.
Outside of exploring the city center, there are so many other fabulous attractions, gorgeous parks and monuments you can explore outside of the historic district including: the Royal Route, History of Polish Jews, the Royal Castle, Palace of Culture and Science, Lazienki park and palace and so many other amazing places to visit around the city. You’ll feel at home at the gorgeous Teatro Hotel located in the Royal Route of Warsaw and in a beautiful part of the city area.
The city has so many beautiful parks and outdoor areas to explore and don’t forget to see the gorgeous Saxon Garden located off Pilsudski square which is one of the first public parks in the world and worth a visit.
By Noel, Travel Photo Discovery
Krakow
Krakow is a charming UNESCO World Heritage city and its heart in Stare Miasto (Old Town) is Rynek Glowny, which is the biggest medieval square in Europe and in its centre is the Cloth Hall the old market and St. Mary’s Basilica where you will hear the Hejnal or bugle call from the towers every hour.
In the 15th century, the King moved all the Krakow Jews to Kazimierz, which grew as Jews expelled from all over Europe, came to live here. This ancient Jewish area is full of medieval buildings and Jewish history dating back centuries.
Of course you can’t visit Krakow without taking tours of the factory of Oskar Schindler of Schindler’s List the film and pay your respects at the Krakow Ghetto that was “liquidated” by the Nazis. The large public square was known as Plac Zgody and was where the Nazis transported the Jewish people to the Concentration Camps it is now known as Ghetto Heroes Square.
Situated in a historic 15th-century building, the Hotel Eden is in the heart of Kazimierz, Krakow’s old Jewish Quarter. It offers a mikveh (Jewish ritual bath), spa facilities and is close to everything important to visit in Krakow.
Other fascinating sites in Krakow include the Wawel Dragon which legends say was slain by King Krakus when he founded the city. You can tour Wawel Castle another UNESCO site which is now a museum and Wawel Cathedral with its ancient dragon bones
By Faith, xyu and beyond
Wroclaw
Wroclaw is the 4th largest city in Poland and a popular one among local tourists. Once you’ll see the pretty Old Town, you’ll understand why!
Any visit to Wroclaw should start at the Market Square. Its magnificent city hall occupies a large part of the picturesque square and is amazing in both scale and style. Neighboring Salt Square, with its signature row of colorful merchant houses, cannot be left out either.
Hansel and Gretel Houses should also not escape your attention. The tall houses look like they’re holding hands, which earned them their nicknames.
Wroclaw has a pretty island on the Odra river – it’s called Tumski and was actually the original settlement of Wroclaw in the 10th century. While islands are worth visiting per se, this one houses a few picturesque streets and religious structures, among which the St. John Baptist Cathedral sticks out.
When exploring Wroclaw, you’ll notice small bronze dwarves all over town. There are over 300 of them and they, too, have an interesting story to tell.
It’s advisable that you stay near Wroclaw Old Town. I can highly recommend the boutique Art Hotel. If your budget is rather low, consider staying at the well-rated Shick Hostel.
By Veronika, Travel Geekery
Bialystok
There are lots of beautiful cities in Poland, but if you want to get off the tourist track, Bialystok is the perfect place to visit for a more laid-back experience. This charming city is the largest city in the northeastern part of the country and has a lot to offer, from stunning architecture to its lively nightlife.
The Old Town is a great place to start, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings or take a stroll through one of the many gardens. A visit to Branicki Palace is essential for things to do in Bialystok, often referred to as the “Versailles of Poland’.
Bialystok is also one of the best places to base yourself for a visit to the Białowieża Forest. It is just under 90 minute’s drive to the incredible national park, where you will find European bison.
In terms of nightlife, Bialystok knows how to party! There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, so you can dance the night away or enjoy a late afternoon brew with friends. If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, there are also plenty of cosy cafes where you can enjoy a coffee or delicious traditional Polish food.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, the Hotel Podlasie is a great option. It’s centrally located and reasonably priced, and the staff are incredibly friendly and helpful.
By Holly, Four Around The World
Kielce
Although Kielce may not be known all over the world (but it should be!), it is definitely worth visiting this Polish city. Interesting history, beautiful monuments, 5 nature reserves in the city itself and an Old Town to explore make it an ideal destination for a weekend.
Kielce is almost 1000 years old and you will find examples of architecture from different periods, including the 17th Century Bishop’s Palace. If 1000 years is not enough for you, be sure to visit the facilities located in the Świętokrzyski Geopark, which has the status of a UNESCO Geopark! When visiting the Kielce nature reserves, you can go back hundreds of millions of years.
Kielce is a perfect city for summer – many hiking and biking routes as well as other attractions such as the Botanical Garden await you. In winter, some attractions hibernate, but there are ice rinks and ski slopes, as well as the Christmas market to enjoy.
If you like nature, you will not be disappointed. The many reserves and nature parks in the area make it easy to relax. After a day in nature, be sure to visit Market Square, where the evening life is – drink good beer and eat something delicious there!
By Jakub, Tymrazem
Zakopane
Zakopane is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Poland. It is located in the southernmost part of the country and is mostly known as a getaway town to the Alps-like Tatry National Park.
There are plenty of things to do in Zakopane. In the summer, visitors can enjoy its numerous hiking trails that wind through the surrounding mountains and lakes. One you mustn’t miss is Morskie Oko, the largest lake inside the National Park.
In the winter, Zakopane is a resort town known for its winter sports activities. Visitors can also enjoy its natural thermal baths after a long day on the slopes.
Besides its stunning natural scenery, Zakopane is home to traditional wooden cottages, some of which have been preserved since the late 19th century. These cottages are the perfect places to stay in Zakopane, and there is perhaps no better one than Domki Javorina.
When you are not exploring Zakopane’s outdoor wonders, make sure you spend some time in the city. Walk down Krupówki Street and you will find plenty of traditional restaurants, cafes and shops selling local crafts. Also, make sure to try some Oscypek, a smoked cheese that is typical of the region.
By Sean, Living Out Lau
Tarnow
An hour east of Krakow on the highway, Tarnow is a hidden gem in southeastern Poland that is not to be missed. Easily reached by the main highway servicing southern Poland as well as the main train station connecting the city to Krakow and other large cities in Poland, Tarnow is a mid-size city with much to explore.
The city’s deep-rooted history in various wars, particularly the Second World War, shows the strength and beauty of the city over time. During World War II, Tarnow was one of the first larger cities to be invaded and had the first transport of people to Auschwitz. The history of the Jewish people can be seen in tidbits of architecture throughout the city.
Tarnow has a beautiful central walking area, with a small square surrounded by cozy restaurants and a few popular bars. A museum exploring the city’s history makes the historic center a great place to spend an afternoon and learn about the importance of the city throughout Poland’s history.
Several popular bakeries and restaurants line the main street, ul. Krakowska, in particular, the popular bakery Tatrzanska at the top of the hill is a great place for traditional polish desserts.
If staying centrally, Hotel Bristol is a classic simple European hotel. For a bit more comfort, Hotel Krszyski, further north of the central area, offers comfort, great food and a relaxing atmosphere.
By Diana, Travels in Poland
Sopot
Sopot is a stunning beach town in the tri-city area of Poland’s north Baltic coast, situated right between Gdansk and Gdynia. Unlike its larger sister cities, Sopot is much more of a holiday destination. If you end up in this beach riviera town over the summer, you’ll be stunned by the number of revelers visiting from all over Poland, Central Europe, and Baltic countries too.
Sopot is known for having the longest wooden pier in Europe, for being a wonderful place for spa tourism, for delicious seafood, and for its beaches of course. It’s truly a city of entertainment with a summer Grand Prix, horse races, a sports/concert stadium, the famous forest opera, and a bustling bar and club scene too! Spending a weekend in Sopot is an ideal amount of time before exploring other amazing Polish destinations.
You can reach Sopot in a quick train ride, bike ride, or bus ride from Gdansk or Gdynia of course, and the modern train station is right in the center of the beach town. It’s also conveniently on the train route straight from Berlin, too!
By Kimmie, Adventures & Sunsets
More of the Best Places to Visit in Poland
There are plenty more things to do in Poland outside of the cities, and some of the most incredible attractions in Poland that you can’t miss include:
Ksiaz Castle
There are few castles in the world that do not have a story to tell. If their walls could talk there would be thousands of stories of beauty, pain and glory but few castles in the world can tell the same tale as Ksiaz Castle in Poland.
Many will remember this castle from the story of the Nazi Gold train. Hunters believed the train was hidden somewhere under or around the stunning and colourful castle. People searched high and low for it bringing the castle back into the limelight after many years of being off the tourist radar. Now with the added media attention Ksaiz is back in the spotlight and welcoming new and more visitors to its regal halls.
This beautiful multi-coloured castle sits mighty, on its banks, overlooking the Pelcznica River. First built as a defensive structure it also housed families and armies alike.
Tourists can now easily take a day tour here from Wroclaw. Guided tours are run in many languages throughout the day and they are invaluable in understanding the history of the castle. As the castle was looted at the end of WWII many of the glorious items it housed were taken, but with the added media attention many of the looted items are being found and sent back to where they belong for all to see. Added visitors also means more money to use to restore the castle to its former glory.
You can easily tour the castle, its rooms and the underneath of the castle where a lot of the tunnels were constructed by Prisoners of War from nearby concentration camps. Its long, tumultuous story is one that cannot be missed when you visit Poland.
By Bec from Poland Travel Expert
Morskie Oko
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Poland is the biggest lake in the Tatra Mountains hidden in a picturesque location not far from the Slovakia border. It is a popular destination for many visitors, especially on annual school trips. Moreover, children who visit this place at a young age return to it many times as adult travelers, because it is an icon of the Polish landscape.
Therefore, a trip to one of the southernmost places in the country which offers incredible views of the glacial lake cannot be missed during your visit to Poland. To get there you will need to hike for 2 hours from Palenica Białczańska which is almost 9km away from the lake.
If you are an experienced hiker you might also want to climb Czarny Staw which is 188m above Morskie Oko. Those panoramic views in Tatra National Park at an altitude of 1583 m (Czarny Staw) or 1395m (Morskie Oko) will offer you an unforgettable experience. This hike is demanding so stay in one of the nearby hostels such as Schronisko PTTK Morskie Oko or Schronisko im. W. Pola w Roztoce.
By Paulina, the UK Every Day
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Consider a visit to the infamous Wieliczka Salt Mine on your trip to Poland. Its convenient location outside of Krakow makes it a simple city getaway for the afternoon.
Established in the 13th century, Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the oldest salt mines in the world. It was also one of the first entries as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors descend 380 steps into the mine where they enter a new universe full of glittering salt walls, cool temperatures, and a mining experience.
Following the 2-3 hour tour, visitors ride a lift out of the mines. Booking tickets in advance is not required. However, it is required to enter the mines with a guide. The tourist route operates from 9:00am-5:00pm daily. What’s more, the underground chapel even serves as a wedding venue!
Turowka Hotel and Spa in Wieliczka is a highly-rated area hotel with a pool and spa. Atlantis Hostel is a highly rated more basic option in Downtown Krakow. Visitors from Krakow can take a train from Krakow Railway Station to Wieliczka Rynek for a 20 minute train ride. From here it is a 10 minute walk to the Mine.
By Alyssa, An Apple a Plane
Auschwitz
A must-visit place for all travelers in Poland is Auschwitz, located in Oświęcim. For those who don’t know, Oświęcim is about 40 miles west of Krakow, so if you’re looking for a must-do excursion from Krakow, this is it!
Auschwitz served as a Nazi concentration and extermination camp during World War II and is now a memorial and museum to the victims of the Holocaust. The Auschwitz concentration camp operated from 1940 to 1945 and was the largest of the Nazi concentration camps with over a million inmates.
Today, visitors can take a tour of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum which includes the remains of the concentration camp as well as exhibits on the history of the Holocaust. Just make sure you book your tour early in the day to avoid crowds.
And if you’re interested in staying in the area, consider staying at the Hampton by Hilton in Oswiecim or the Pokoje gościnne “Old Town.” Both are centrally located near Auschwitz and allow you to easily explore the city! Thus, if you are interested in learning more about the Holocaust and World War II, then Auschwitz is an absolute must-visit place in Poland.
By Kristin, Global Travel Escapades
Bialowieza Forest
There was a time that most of Europe was covered by primeval forests. Now, most of these forests have disappeared or are replanted and managed by humans. One of the last stretches of old growth forest is the Bialowieza forest.
This forest covers a large area in both Poland and Belarus. It is one of the best places to visit in Poland if you love nature. The forest is home to the largest herd of wild bison in Europe as well as wolves, deers, foxes and wild boars. One of the most popular things to do in Bialowieza is going on a bison safari or hiking through the forest.
The Bialowieza forest is in the remote Podlasie province which is also interesting culturally. The countryside here is dotted with charming and picturesque villages where you can see traditional wooden homes. The Polish food in this region uses fresh local herbs and ingredients and is also worth exploring.
It is best to base yourself in Hajnowka or Białowieża town. Hotel Zubrowka in Bialowieza or Enklava Białowieża in Hajnowka are good options from where you can explore the area. Hajnowka has direct train connections with Warsaw and Bialystok. From Hajnowka it is a short bus ride to Bialowieza town.
By Ellis, Backpack Adventures
I hope these beautiful places in Poland have given you enough inspiration and ideas to help you plan your visit soon! I fell in love with Poland, and I’m sure you will too.
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