poland 3 places to visit

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Poland

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Oct 14, 2022

Poland is a historical country with 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a collection of breathtaking natural attractions – mountains, national parks, rugged coastlines, and some unexpected wonders such as the world's oldest salt mine.

With its medieval architecture, troubled WWII history, and many villages that seem to be stuck in time, Poland is the perfect destination for history buffs and architecture lovers. Packed with things to do, Poland's cities are humming with the energy of art and culture and are a great starting point to discover everything the country has to offer.

No matter if you're after history, art, or nature, plan your visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Poland.

1. Wieliczka Salt Mine, Wieliczka

2. auschwitz-birkenau camps, oswiecim, 3. warsaw old market place, warsaw, 4. malbork castle, malbork, 5. lazienki park, warsaw, 6. schindler's factory, krakow, 7. crooked forest, gryfino, 8. warsaw rising museum, warsaw, 9. wawel royal castle, kraków, 10. wolf's lair, gierloz, 11. morskie oko lake, tatra national park, 12. kraków cloth hall, krakow, 13. wawel cathedral, krakow, 14. slowinski sand dunes, 15. biskupin settlement, map of tourist attractions in poland.

The 13 th -century Wieliczka salt mine is just as important for the locals today as it was hundreds of years ago, but for a very different reason. One of the world's oldest and longest-working salt mines, it stopped commercial operations in 1996 and has since become an artistic attraction .

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is now home to four chapels, corridors, and statues – all carved out of the rock salt walls. The mine's original shafts and passageways – some as deep as 327 meters underground – have been reopened and allow visitors to explore pits and chambers, walking past statues and alongside stunning architectural marvels. Deep into the mine, an underground lake shimmers against the candlelit walls.

The main tourist attraction inside the mine, however, is the Chapel of St. Kinga, a 12-meter-high chamber where everything – including the elaborate chandeliers and furniture – are made of salt. The tour continues on to the Erazm Baracz Chamber, where you'll find a lake that's saltier than the Dead Sea, and ends at a museum that explains salt mining and what life in the mines was like.

Official site: https://www.wieliczka-saltmine.com/

Entrance to Auschwitz concentration camp

The Auschwitz I and the Auschwitz II—Birkenau concentration camps are a different kind of must-see. Located about an hour west of Krakow, the camps offer a sobering look into the past.

Between 1942 and 1944, over 900,000 Jews were brought to the camps here from German-occupied countries. Political prisoners, Roma, and a number of other ethnicities were also sent here. Less than 10 percent of the people brought here survived their stay.

At the end of the war, as Soviet forces advanced into Poland, the Nazis destroyed the gas chambers and crematoria before fleeing. Although they managed to destroy and burn down part of the camp, many structures remain standing to this day.

The camps, which include over 300 barracks and hundreds of other buildings and crematoriums, can only be explored as part of a guided tour.

Official site: http://auschwitz.org/en/

The oldest part of Warsaw, the Old Town Market Place dates back to the 13 th century. Although 85 percent of the area was destroyed by the Nazis during World War II, it has since been restored to look exactly like it did when it was first built.

A mix of medieval architecture, Gothic, and colorful Renaissance buildings and merchant houses all coexist in the city's most popular square. The 19th-century bronze statue of a sword-wielding mermaid – a symbol of Warsaw's since medieval times – survived the War and still stands at the square.

Today, the Market Square is home to many cafés and restaurants, as well as street art sellers and many souvenir stalls. The main branch of the Historical Museum of Warsaw is also located here – home to a massive art collection but also a look through the history of the city and country.

The Adam Mickiewicz Museum of Literature , just steps away, pays homage to Poland's most famous poet and writer.

This 13th-century Teutonic castle was originally built by the Teutonic Knights, a religious order that served as a crusading military unit. Although the castle started as a small fortification, it was subsequently expanded over the centuries and eventually became a massive structure. Once the largest Gothic building in Europe, Malbork castle remains the world's largest castle by land area.

Today, the castle serves as a museum, with many of its original rooms perfectly preserved. Highlights include a medieval kitchen with a six-meter-wide fireplace, a collection of armor and weapons, and the knights' private toilet at the top of a tower.

In addition to historical collections, the castle also houses a number of exhibits, including one showcasing the conservation techniques used to restore the castle.

Official site: http://www.zamek.malbork.pl/en

Lazienki Park covers 76 hectares of the city center, making it one of Poland's largest urban parks . Lazienki started life as a baths park for a nobleman in the 17 th century. Today, the Palace on the Isle is open to the public, as are the gardens around it.

A Classical-theater isle stage (where performances are still held), a number of smaller palaces and structures that now serve as museums or galleries, and even a classicist temple dedicated to the goddess Diana are set in the gardens.

A large statue of classic Polish composer Frederic Chopin stands on the grounds of the park as well. The statue was purposely destroyed by German forces as they invaded Poland during WWII and reconstructed in 1958 using the original mold. Every Sunday afternoon, free piano concerts are held at the foot of the statue.

Oskar Schindler's desk at Schindler's Factory

Oskar Schindler's enamel and metal factory – made famous by Steven Spielberg's 1994 movie – is now home to two museums. Part of the building has been converted into the Museum of Contemporary Art, while Schindler's former office – and much of the former factory floor – is now a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow.

Schindler's former office, which has been preserved intact since War times, is now an exhibit dedicated to his life and the lives of the people he saved in this very factory. In the office, a wall of glass known as the "Survivors' Ark" serves as a time capsule, full of enamel pots like the ones built at the factory.

The rest of the factory presents a number of cinematic exhibits that show Krakow during the War and the impact the Nazis had on the history of the city and the lives who inhabited it. There are also a number of immersive stage-like reconstructions of 1940s spaces – from a typical street to the seats of a tram to a typical Jewish apartment of the time.

Located just outside the tiny town of Gryfino, the Crooked Forest is a (perhaps) natural marvel that defies explanation. Here, a number of pine trees stand on their own, growing with a 90-degree angle at their base, all bent northward.

The pines were originally planted here in the 1930s, but it took about 10 years before the trunks started to show their characteristic bent. Despite many theories, there's a standing heated debate on whether the curvature was created artificially by manipulating the trees – or whether it just happened naturally or accidentally.

Regardless of the cause, the eerie presence of the trees is hard to deny, especially as the rest of the forest is full of healthy, perfectly straight pine trees. It's a great place for a quiet hike in the silence of the forest.

This is a museum dedicated to 1944's Warsaw Uprising, where the Polish Underground Resistance fought the German occupation of their city. The uprising lasted for 63 days, with massive casualties on both sides.

Once the Polish forces surrounded them, the Nazis systematically destroyed a large number of historical buildings and structures in retaliation. The uprising was a massive effort by a poorly equipped and barely armed group of civilians trying to defeat the enemy – and the museum has done a remarkable job of bringing that spirit to life.

Exhibits here include many rooms and events brought to life through films, artifacts, recreations, and interactive displays, including replicas of the sewer tunnels used to move around the city in secret, an insurgent hospital, and a print shop where you can see posters and underground newspapers.

Several rooms show continuous original footage of the events, and there's a special section dedicated to the Nazi occupation and the atrocities committed during the uprising.

Official site: https://www.1944.pl/en/

Wawel is an architecturally eclectic castle – the construction has medieval elements mixed with Baroque and Renaissance details. One of the first places to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Poland, the castle has always been an important part of the history of the country.

King Sigismund I the Old, who lived in the castle in the 16 th century, was an avid collector of art – so it makes sense that the castle is now an important art museum, focused mainly on paintings and curatorial work.

Additional collections include weapons and armor, porcelain and ceramics, lots of textiles and prints, and a significant amount of period furniture. The museum also has an unusually large collection of Ottoman tents, the largest of its kind in Europe.

Official site: https://wawel.krakow.pl/en

Hitler's top-secret military headquarters is hidden deep in the Masurian woods. When it was active, it had three fortified security areas around it, defended by land mines in addition to heavily armed units.

At the time, the area included over 80 buildings, including several air-raid shelter bunkers and watchtowers. The Nazis blew up the complex in 1945 before fleeing the approaching Soviet Forces, but some of the buildings were so heavily reinforced, many of them could not be destroyed.

Visitors can now make their way to the area as a day trip from Warsaw . Although there are plans to eventually add historical exhibits or even a museum to the area, for now it's more a collection of ruins to walk through, discovering the corners of the history that developed here.

Located deep within the Tatra National Park and surrounded by towering mountains and Swiss pines, the lake is a favorite destination for people of all ages. Reaching it requires an easy but long paved hike through shaded forests. The lake changes color throughout the year, transforming from a deep shade of blue to a softer turquoise hue.

The Tatras National Park extends through both Poland and Slovakia. In Poland, it's home to over 600 caves; snow-covered peaks; and a number of waterfalls, including the 70-meter-tall Wielka Siklawa.

Most of the park is hikeable, with over 270 kilometers of trails of all lengths and difficulties.

The Hall, which dates back to the Renaissance, has always been the heart of international trade in Poland. During the 15 th century, it was the main place for foreign merchants to gather to sell exotic spices from the East.

Traders from all over Europe also came here to buy salt from the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Textiles, leather, and silk were also traded here – imported from other countries for sale and produced locally.

The Hall was renovated in the 19 th century and used for years as an events center, where formal balls to honor visiting emperors and kings were held. The main floor is now again a center of commerce, with small stalls and galleries selling souvenirs, collectibles, and small pieces of art.

The Sukiennice Museum has taken over the second floor – home to a large collection of 19th-century Polish art.

The first Wawel Cathedral was built over 1,000 years ago, though the current one – a fascinating combination of Romanesque, Baroque, Gothic, and Neoclassical elements – was built in the 14th century after a massive fire destroyed earlier buildings.

For centuries, the cathedral was the burial place of Polish monarchs, though most of the tombs now reside in the labyrinth of underground crypts located right under the cathedral.

In addition to the main cathedral, there's also a number of smaller buildings outside, including the Sigismund's Chapel, famous for its beautiful golden dome. Even more famous is the Sigismund Bell, which – as the largest church bell in the country at 11 tons – requires the strength of 12 people to ring it. The 70-meter-tall tower holding the bell also offers a great viewpoint over the city.

Sand dunes in the Slowinski National Park at sunset

Part of Słowiński National Park in northern Poland, the 500 hectares of "moving dunes" here are considered a curiosity of nature. Their name comes from the fact that the dunes actually change form and move along the 32 kilometers of shoreline throughout the year, as winds and waves crash against the beach.

Depending on the weather, the dunes can move up to 10 meters per year and reach heights of up to 30 meters.

While the shifting sand dunes are the park's main attraction, you'll also find forests, bogs, lakes, and many kilometers of hiking trails. And once you make it over the dunes, you'll find a beautiful beach and clear blue waters.

Often referred to as "the Pompeii of Poland," the Biskupin Settlement is a recreation of the original prehistoric settlement that once thrived in the same place around the late Bronze Age.

Now an archeological open-air museum that tells the story of ancient Poland, the settlement showcases what life would have been like back then, with log houses (the original settlement included over 100 homes) and streets covered with wooden planks (as the location meant the streets were always wet and the ground always soft).

The settlement is surrounded by a tall wooden wall that's over 450 meters long and includes a watchtower near the entrance gate.

Top 15 Places To Visit In Poland

While you’re out and about in the fun packed paradise of Poland, this list of places will surely woo your senses. Check out this list to know what all awaits you here!

Wonderful Main Market Square
The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial And Museum
Krakow Old Town
Royal Castle
The Museum Of The History Of Polish Jews
Palace Of Culture And Science
The Vistula River Beach
Ostrów Tumski
The Royal Palace
Białowieża Forest
Wieliczka Salt Mine

1. Wonderful Main Market Square

Image Source

This is the first amongst Poland destinations you should start your visit in Krakow with. Main Market Square is the largest medieval market in Europe and a famous hub of social life for youth and young tourists traveling from around the world. a busy urban space today, it dates back to the 13th century. Location: 0-062 Kraków, Poland

Suggested Read: 14 Essential Europe Travel Tips For The First-Timers Taking A Euro-cation

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2. The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial And Museum

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum poland

Image Source It is built in the honour of approximately 1.5 million people exterminated here during the Second World War. Today, this museum serves as an important historical area left exactly as it was when the Nazis abandoned it, complete with gas chamber ruins that makes it one of the foremost places to visit in Poland.

Location: Więźniów Oświęcimia 20, 32-603 Oświęcim, Poland Timings: : 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

3. Krakow Old Town

The Main Square of Krakow is the largest in Central Europe and serves as the center of the city’s political and social life since the Middle ages. It is the best place for Poland tourism for its amazing Renaissance feels reflected in the Sufkiennence, St Mary Basilica and artsy cafes and bars. Infact Krakow has one of the world’s most beautiful street owing to its wonderful architecture. Location: Old Town, Krakow, Poland

Suggested Read: 20 Things To Do In Prague: Key To An Apt European Vacay

4. Royal Castle

Image Source Located in the Old Town on the beautiful Castle Square, it housed Polish royalty between the 16th and the 18th century. It was rebuilt in the 1980’s after being destroyed in the Second World War. Don’t miss out on the the series of portraits of Polish kings and 23 18th-century paintings of Warsaw.

5. The Museum Of The History Of Polish Jews

Compared to other places to visit in Poland, it has opened in recent times and is an interactive museum which serves as a centre of culture. Various events, workshops, debates and lectures are held here. This is one of the places in Poland that is notable for the depiction of the thousand-year old history of Polish Jews.

Location: Anielewicza 6, 00-157 Warszawa, Poland Timings: : 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

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6. Palace Of Culture And Science

Image Source If you are wondering what to see in Poland, this should be one of the first few items on your checklist. It was gifted by Stalin and is a long high-rise building that is inspired The Empire State Building. It is today a centre for various events such as concerts, theatrical performances, sports clubs, and cultural activities. This is surely one of the most famous places to visit in Poland for your next trip!

Location: Plac Defilad 1, Warsaw 00-110, Poland Timings: : 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM

7. The Vistula River Beach

Plaża nad Wisłą. // Beach on the Vistula river.

The Vistula acts as a district of entertainment and recreational activities in the middle of Warsaw. The beach, stretch of natural grasslands and various indigenous species of birds make this area a spectacular point to chill in the city with its vibrant colours and magical atmosphere. This place surely tops the list of most beautiful places to visit in Poland !

Location: Wybrzeże Helskie, Warsaw, Poland

Suggested Read: Planning A European Holiday? Here’s How You Can Get Paid To Travel Across Europe!

8. Ostrów Tumski

Image Source This stunning island is one of the oldest areas in Wroclaw. Bound by the River Oder, there are many prominent monuments on this island such as the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist (restored after World War II), the Holy Cross and Saint Bartholomew’s Collegiate. The place has some fantastic architecture. Be charmed by the aesthetic and historic buildings here.

Location: Ostrow Tumski, Wroclaw, Poland Timings: : 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Suggested Read: Wildlife In Poland: 9 Popular Animals In The Country You Must Witness

This market square is located in the heart of Wroclaw and features the Cloth Hall and the Town Hall, with elements of Gothic and renaissance architecture. Visiting the Rynek is an important part of your itinerary on Poland travel and amongst the best places to visit in Poland.

Location: Stare Miasto, Wrocław; Lower Silesian Voivodeship

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10. The Royal Palace

Image Source The Royal palace is home to the historical Museum of Wroclaw which shows the historical traditions of the city through interactive exhibitions such as Wroclaw’s millennium. The Baroque style garden and royal apartments in this palace makes it one of places to visit in Poland.

Location: Kazimierza Wielkiego 35, 50-077 Wrocław Timings: : 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Entry fee: : Rs. 292

Suggested Read: 10 Best Festivals In Poland That Showcase Its History And Traditions

11. Białowieża Forest

Covering a region of more than 3,000 kilometres, Białowieża Forest is amongst the most raw and untouched form of scenic beauty that you can visit in Poland and is also listed amongst the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Having a wide variety of trees such as oaks as old as 500 years are the speciality of this region. If you’re lucky you can spot one of the many wild creatures present here including golden eagles, European bison and deer.

Location: Grodno and Brest regions, Belarus; Podlaskie Voivodeship

12. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Another one of the UNESCO sites, Wieliczka Salt Mine has been open since the time of middle ages and takes about 2 hours to tour the entire place. This mine goes as deep as 140 feet under the ground level and has plenty of stairs which will help burn some calories. The experience of traveling through this stunning site also feels like moving towards the centre of the Earth as per some travelers.

Location: Jana Mikołaja Daniłowicza 10, 32-020 Wieliczka

13. Bydgoszcz

Known to have some of the finest universities and colleges abode, Bydgoszcz in Poland is a must visit cosmopolitan city. It’s one of those places where you can pamper the artist in you by exploring the various theatres and music centres in the city. Don’t miss out on Nicolaus Copernicus Square and Bydgoszcz Pantheon while you’re here.

Location: Bydgoszcz, Poland

Famous as the place where the Solidarity movement in Poland started, Gdansk is a must visit spot for its shipyards. A boat trip around the port will let you witness some of the finest views and you can surely head straight to try some Polish beer while you’re here. What’s more is that the Royal Route and the Old Town have some surprising hidden secrets for travelers to explore!

Location: Gdansk, Poland

15. Malbork

Europe’s most splendid castles with all their glory and charm can be found in the quaint town of Malbork. With a serene view from each of the historical and architectural sites to visit in this place, this place has something in store for every kind of traveler. Don’t forget to stop by at some of the local shops to indulge in the authentic flavours of this place.

Location: Malbork, Poland

Further Read: These Pictures Of Freezing Amsterdam Canals Will Make You Fall For European Winters!

Know any more places to visit in Poland? Put them in the comments below. Plan your trip to Europe for the most amazing and unparalleled experiences in Poland with your loved ones like never before. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get going for that much awaited trip you’ve been longing for and tag your favourite travel buddies along!

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Poland

What are three tourist attractions in Poland?

Poland is home to some of the most fascinating attractions and landmarks in the world, and three tourist attractions that we recommend you must visit are: 1. Wieliczka Salt Mine, Wieliczka 2. Warsaw Old Market Place 3. Auschwitz-Birkenau Camps, Oswiecim

How expensive is Poland?

If you are planning to visit this central European country, you can expect to spend around zł2,944 ($726) for two people. While Poland is not one of the most expensive countries to visit, it is above average when it comes to the cost of accommodation, food and sightseeing.

What is the most visited site in Poland?

While there are more than one popular sites in Poland, two of the most recommended is the Salt Mine in Wieliczka and the historic site of Auschwitz which you must visit.

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16 Best Places to Visit in Poland

From Krakow to Gdansk, the Old Towns of Poland mark the center of the cities they call home. From there, the ancient streets spread like veins to the outer districts, bringing stories, culture, and cuisine.

They continue into the countryside as the plains become more mountainous and the snow-capped peaks start to tower over the glacial valleys.

Poland is a heartwarming mix of humanity and nature. The nation’s storied past features tremendous heights and ruinous lows. An array of rulers from the Teutonic Knights to Prussia have added their own unique layers. While the destruction of the Second World War showcases both the fragility and power of life as Poland meticulously redeveloped both their present and past.

As you explore the best places to visit in Poland, it’s easy to immerse yourself in each destination. The rugged landscapes are magical, but accessible. The towns and cities have an allure and welcoming folks, so grab that pierogi and that Tyskie and let’s get to know them.

Map of Places to Visit in Poland

Often overlooked, Lublin belongs on your Poland itinerary. The medieval Krakow and Warsaw may rightfully garner much of your attention. But there is something rather alluring about Lublin .

Upon arrival, you have to jump through some modern districts to make your way to the Old Town. But once you do, you’ll feel like you’re exploring Lublin’s incredible past without an abundance of fellow travelers.

The character of her old buildings is a sight to behold, and it marks the heart of a prominent trade city that dates back to the late 9th century. At its center is the Plac Po Farze square, almost entirely surrounded by colorful historic homes. One side, however, has terraced seating where you can grab a Rurki cream roll and watch the world go by.

Beyond the Old Town, you can explore the Lublin Castle. Dating back to the 14th century, it’s infused with traditional and Russian styles.

On the Baltic Sea, Sopot is a popular seaside getaway. It’s one part of the Tri-City that includes Gdynia and Gdansk. But the town has evolved in a different direction. The summer destination brings local and international crowds alike who make the most of Sopot’s lengthy beaches, waterfront restaurants and teeming nightlife.

Life here revolves around the shoreline. The developed waterfront leads to Sopot’s renowned pier that darts out into the Baltic Sea. As you wander out you’ll enjoy lovely views back to town and the golden sands that spread left and right.

Back on land, head to Monciak, a pedestrian street lined with boutique shops, cafe patios and restaurants. Just steps away, you can also discover the famous, and aptly named, Crooked House.

To enjoy some peace, head to Sopot Spa Park. Here you’ll find meandering paths through terraces of colorful flowers, graceful statues and the Fountain of Chopin.

14. Zalipie Village

Just a two hour drive stands between Krakow and Poland’s beloved painted town. Zalipie Village is an endearing place filled with elegant cottages, many of which have been intriguingly painted.

Transforming homes and many wooden structures around town into works of art has been a tradition here since the 1800s. From small beginnings, it’s become a central part of local culture to the point most residents participate. In fact, every year there is a competition.

Because of its diminutive size, it’s easy to explore Zalipie Village. As you go, you’ll find dozens of old homes painted in bright colors and captivating motifs, spreading pure joy. Many are emblazoned with flowers, commemorating the OG Felicja Curylowa who began this tradition.

Today, her former home has been transformed into a museum.

Undamaged after WWII, Torun boasts an opulent medieval aura. Gothic architecture, half-timbered homes and Teutonic castles are strewn throughout town, making it a delight to explore.

These highlights, alongside the Town Hall and St. John’s Cathedral, are set within the ancient fortified walls. These are a historic callback to the 1200s and the rise of the Teutonic Order, where you’ll also find the ruinous remains of the Torun Fortress.

One of the highlights of Torun’s Old Town is the Gingerbread Museum. Set within the factory, there’s no better way to learn about the Weese family and their famously delicious treat. The museum takes you on a journey over the last 300 years to see various gingerbread molds and the factory’s evolution.

Those interested in the stars and galaxies will also have the chance to explore the childhood home of Nicolaus Copernicus.

12. Masurian Lake District

Spanning from Vistula to the border of Russia, the Masurian Lake District is one of Poland’s most spellbinding landscapes. The Pleistocene ice age carved through the region over 11,000 years ago, leaving behind a valley of 2,000 lakes.

Small towns are spread throughout the district, putting a slight pause in the seemingly endless virgin wilderness. But they are complementary, a gateway to a majestic landscape. Here, lateral moraines tell the story of millions of years of grinding ice. While the wetland plains welcome white-tailed eagles, osprey, bison and pike.

Hiking is a great way to explore the district, but the best is on board a kayak. Paddle trails traverse the surface of Lake Śniardwy, plus the 100km Krutinya River.

For an immersive look into the district’s human history, one only needs to visit the Wolf’s Lair. This was Hitler’s headquarters for the Eastern Front.

Old towns and mountains make up much of your Polish itinerary. But there are still ways to see a different side of this country. In Leba, you’ll find a small seaside village with a rugged coastline and famous sand dunes.

Leba is a quiet, intricate town and one worth peeling back the layers. Local restaurants serve up kielbasa, kaszanka, smoked fish and bigos and major landmarks celebrate the town’s maritime heritage. None bigger than the Stilo Lighthouse.

Beyond the local culture, the gems of Leba show themselves along the wind-swept coasts. There, you’ll find Słowiński National Park. Explore on foot, bicycle or golf cart to see the famous moving sand dunes that create the visual of a vast desert.

The youthful university town of Poznan is the perfect spot to get to know the Polish way of life. You’ll still find ample history here, but its scenic streets are polished off with a vibrant bar scene along with inexpensive traditional cuisine.

It’s easy to latch onto the energy in Poznan. Rather than getting about on two feet, you can join the city’s thriving cycle culture and explore within the bike lanes. See the Poznan Castle, Market Square and Town Hall. Not to mention the famous street art, exemplified by Noriaki’s The Watcher.

Knowing you’ll have plenty of time to indulge in the food and drink at night, take time to explore the parks and gardens that add green to the hues of pastel-colored buildings. After stopping by Citadela Park, head to the Old Brewery. This is a thriving urban renewal project that has transformed a former brewery into a modern arts and shopping hub.

9. Tatra Mountains

Splitting Slovakia and Poland, the Tatra Mountains are laden with breathtaking scenery. After days spent exploring ancient cities, there’s something tremendously grounding about putting on those hiking shoes and heading out into the Tatras.

There are almost 300 kilometers of hiking trails throughout. If you could only choose one trail, it would have to be to the top of Rysy. The 2500m peak is as rewarding as it’s challenging. Once you’ve made it to the top, you’ll bask in the spoils encapsulated by the unforgettable views.

Known as the Eye of the Sea, Morskie Oko is another spot you should add to your Tatra Mountains bucket list. A two-hour trek through deep forests of Swiss pines awaits. But lying on the other end is a glacial-fed lake that mirrors the exceptional surrounding landscapes. The trail turns back into the foothills where you can enjoy an elevated look of the glistening lake.

On the banks of the Oder River, Wroclaw is one of the most unique places to visit in Poland. Over 100 bridges connect the city’s 12 islands with the flowing water meandering by ancient buildings that tell the story of the Piast dynasty and the Kingdom of Bohemia.

It’s safe to say, exploring on foot is an adventure in itself. Old streets lead to elegant architecture with prominent museums standing behind the doors. These include the Lubomirski Museum which divulges the interesting ancient and recent history of Wroclaw.

But all roads lead to the 13th century Main Market Square. Here, you’ll find a gorgeous assortment of culture and heritage, with the Old Town Hall and St. Elizabeth’s Church dominating the scene.

Beyond the beauty and bridges, Wroclaw is home to one rather fascinating phenomenon, the Wroclaw Dwarfs. Spread across the Old Town and Market Square, there are 600 of these dwarfs each with their own personality and story to tell. How many can you discover?

7. Bialowieza National Park

Spectacular old-growth forests, rich wetlands and blooming meadows make up Bialowieza National Park. As one of the best preserved primeval forests in Europe, exploring this national park is seeing the continent as it once was.

Long before the rise and fall of empires, these very forests covered large swathes of Europe. Today hiking and biking trails meander throughout the park. Trails like the 2.7km Żebra Żubra Trail showcase a wide breadth of landscapes from deciduous forests to wetlands.

Joining you on your adventure will be a collection of Bialowieza 250 species of birds, red deer and elk. You may even spot wolves, wildcats, and beavers. But as far as wildlife goes, none compare to Wisent, the European Bison. These majestic beasts are the heaviest land animals on the continent.

Among the stunning nature, there are hints of human history. This is encapsulated by Bialowieza village. This open-air museum features ancient wooden architecture, windmills, chapels and a traditional sauna.

Singing the tales of the Teutonic Order, Malbork, is shrouded in medieval grandeur and military excellence. Set on the banks of the Nogat River, this ancient citadel boasts (by land size) the biggest castle on planet earth!

I hear you saying, “well, size isn’t everything”. This is true, especially if the castle in question wasn’t so imposingly beautiful. Upon settling here in the 1300s, the Teutonic Order went about creating this brick masterpiece. It would be their headquarters until 1525. Today you can explore much of the castle’s three sections, the highlight of which is the Grand Master’s Palace.

With the picturesque Nogat River coursing through town, there’s more to Malbork than a ton of well-arranged bricks. You can take a cruise along the river from a different perspective. All before exploring the charming Old Town at night where a hearty bowl of żurek awaits.

Also known as Danzig, Gdansk is the largest city in northern Poland and its main seaport On the edge of the Old Harbor, the salty Baltic Sea crashes onto the shore. These waters have seen the rise, fall and reemergence of Gdansk. Those who visit will discover a maritime city whose streets and merchant homes tell a story of trade, warfare and resilience.

Along the waterfront, this history dances with contemporary life. Restaurants flood the area with the aromas for fresh catch and fairy lights dangle from entrances to bars.

Stepping away from the Baltic Sea takes you through Gdansk Old Town where Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture take turns filling Dlugi Targ Street with art. Continue on to experience the happening Long Market, the world’s largest brick church and, eventually, the Gdansk Crane.

But among the centuries-old marvels are stories that bring you right back to the present. Along the Westerplatte Peninsula, the first shots of WWII were fired. The Museum of the Second World War comprehensively explores this recent period.

4. Zakopane

In the foothills of the Tantra Mountains, Zakopane is the place to be when the snow starts to fall. As the daylight hours shorten, locals and fellow travelers make their way to this beloved winter destination. Along the way the snow-capped peaks of the Tantra’s whisper promises of the adventures ahead.

Kasprowy Wierch and Nosal are two resorts that offer some fantastic skiing and snowboarding for all abilities. But it’s Zakopane’s après-ski culture that makes the experience so memorable. The traditional Polish town retains much of its historic charm with the addition of the modern Krupówki Street festivities.

But say you aren’t a fan of speeding encumbered down a snowy mountain. Maybe you’re more of a summer sun kind of traveler? As the snow melts and wildflowers bloom, hiking trails reappear ready to guide you to epic vistas of the town and valley below. You may even spot the rushing waters of the Dunajec Gorge where rafting adventures are bound to get the heart racing.

3. Wieliczka

With roots tying it back to the Middle Ages, Wieliczka has a story to go with its small town charm. Its economic prosperity blossomed on the back of the Wieliczka Salt Mine, creating a rich heritage that you can still discover today.

Old town streets guide you through quaint plazas and churches. The latter includes St. Clement’s Church, whose Gothic design dominates the city skyline.

But eventually, you’ll have seen enough of the world above and begin to wonder what lies beneath. The Wieliczka Salt Mine is an adventure through both time and geology.

One of the oldest known salt mines, visitors can embark on a subterranean tour to see much of the mine’s nine levels. Along the way, you’ll find carved masterpieces as good as any above the surface. None are better than the Chapel of St. Kinga, whose majestic chandeliers and altars have been created purely out of salt crystals.

Rising out of the ashes of the Second World War, Warsaw has undergone an immense redevelopment. Through the previous decades, green shoots have fully grown to once again showcase Warsaw’s vibrant cultural scene that intertwines with the city’s vast history.

Just by wandering Krakow’s Old Town, Stare Miasto, you’d be forgiven for thinking the war never happened. Such is the meticulous reconstruction of the former Baroque and Renaissance buildings, Krakow’s physical scars have healed.

The cobbled streets of Stare Miasto lead you to Castle Square. Shops and cafes line the edges, creating a space to gather or simply watch the world go by. It’s here you can admire the colorful merchant houses and the famous Warsaw Mermaid Statue.

After exploring living history, complement your experience at any of the city’s 60 museums. Some of our favorites include the Uprising Museum, a tribute to those who pursued freedom during the war, and the world’s only gallery dedicated to posters.

Once known as the “Paris of the North,” it also is famous as the home of classical composer Fryderyk Chopin. Another famous citizen was Renaissance astronomer Copernicus, who was born in Poland. Travelers of all ages will enjoy a visit to the Copernicus Science Center where hands-on activities abound.

Having escaped much of the WWII damage that beset parts of Poland, Krakow’s ancient past lives on. The city was inhabited as far back as the 600s, and today its array of medieval and Renaissance architecture captures your imagination.

During World War II, the Nazis herded Jews into the Krakow Ghetto where they were later sent to concentration camps; the movie Schindler’s List centered around one man’s efforts to save the ghetto residents from extermination.

Today, the colorful homes and buildings shimmer on sunny, summer days. In the winter months, these same old-time structures provide a sense of warmth in the snow. Importantly, the elegance of Krakow is not so high-brow, it feels more akin to a welcoming embrace.

Rynek Główny, Krakow’s Grand Market Square, is one of the premier examples of medieval history in Europe. Sit with a pierogi in hand and admire the facade of St.Mary’s Basilica, the Cloth Hall or the soaring heights of the Town Hall Tower.

As you branch out of the Old Town , you’ll find a city with 40 urban parks. The best Planty Park envelopes Krakow in green landscapes, perfect for stretching your legs or exploring on two wheels.

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Reader interactions.

November 16, 2019 at 7:13 pm

Don’t forget SZCZECIN, very beautiful city on the west . Right by the Baltic Sea and German border , 1 hr away from Berlin , 180 km to Scandinavia by the ferry

August 17, 2019 at 4:41 pm

I would like to recommend the polish mountains resort cities/towns such as Jelenia Gora (Lower silesia), Zakopane (Lesser Poland, Tatra Mountains), Nowy Sacz (Lesser Poland) and Polanczyk (Subcarpathian Voivodeship, Bieszczady Mountains, in south-eastern Poland), etc. Enjoy beautiful mountains and lake views ! ! （＾～＾）

January 13, 2017 at 1:25 am

Pretty good text but totally forgets that Poznan and area around Poznan it’s a birthplace of Poland! Therefore in Poznan you will find many places connected with beginnings of Polish State. It’s also the only city mentioned in Polish National Anthem.

June 24, 2016 at 2:33 am

I would also add Szczecin to the list. It’s a really great place to visit. I specially recommend Waly Chrobrego. Try to go there when You’re in Poland. I’ve been there few month’s ago in Dana Hotel. Do not miss this city. Try to read something about it.

February 1, 2015 at 5:35 pm

Thera are many interesting places in Poland. For example last year I was on Hel. Hel is a charming town, with fishing port and the biggest attraction of this place the Seal Sanctuary. I spent there 2 weeks and really rested and i met many new friends.

25+ of The Best Places to Visit in Poland: by a Local

Poland is a beautiful place that you can visit at any time of the year because there’s always something going on. Every season has different activities to offer.

While Poland is often associated closely with the Second World War, there’s much more to the country than just historical sites related to the war. The country literally has everything: sea, lakes, forests, castles , mountains, even a desert, and good food .

As a native Polish person I am very well placed to advise you on the best places to visit in Poland and help craft your itinerary . There’s way beyond just Warsaw and Krakow, some of these places are quite unique and most tourists never go there.

Top Places to See in Poland

(for more unique places to see in poland scroll down).

Being the capital of the country, everyone’s first port of call when visiting Poland is Warsaw. In many ways, it is a city much like many other European cities but is very much steeped in a rich history, having played a big roll in, and having been heavily damaged during the Second World War.

The city’s architecture is a living canvas of the various eras the city has seen, from dramatic Gothic churches, Soviet-style buildings, and modern-day skyscrapers, all intermingling.

Although there’s much to see in terms of culture and history, like The Royal Castle and The Palace of Culture and Science , the city is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage site in the form of Warsaw Old Town. There, you’ll find the beating heart of the city, with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and the 16th-century Castle Square in which stands the famous Warsaw Mermaid statue, built as the symbol of Warsaw.

See the heart of the renowned composer Frédéric Chopin at the Church of the Holy Cross or visit one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in the world at the Cmentarz Zydowski. Dine at traditional Polish restaurants such as Zapiecek (for tasty Pierogi) or Bar Mleczny (to experience a real Polish milk bar) or sample real Polish street foods like the grilled open sandwiches known as Zapiekanki.

Check Out my Ultimate Guide to Warsaw

To the south of Poland, bordering the Czech Republic, the city of Krakow, whose history dates as far back as the 7th century, has retained much of its regal medieval essence as well as its Rennaissance-era elegance.

It’s less touristy than Warsaw, but just as rich in terms of historic sites , a grand market square, typically Polish colorful architecture, and delicious traditional food spots.

The most popular attractions in Krakow include the Cloth Hall, which used to be a bustling market during medieval times and remains so today, and the St. Mary’s Basilica with one of the most jaw-dropping Gothic altars in Europe. You can actually walk through the ancient streets of Krakow at the Rynek Underground Museum or visit St Andrew’s Church built in 1079.

Not to forget that Poland is best known for its elegant castles and the Wawel Castle is no exception, you could easily spend half a day there exploring the grounds and taking in the history.

There are lots of World War Two sites to visit in and around Krakow as well, including Schindler’s Factory whose part in the war made such an impact on the world that they had the feature movie Schindler’s List made in 1993 featuring Liam Neeson.

3. Wieliczka

Best known for its 13th century Wieliczka Salt Mine , this southern town is around a four-hour drive away from the capital Warsaw.

The mine is an underground network of tunnels and over 2000 grand excavated chambers , astonishingly shaped chapels, sculptures, and enchanting subterrestrial lakes. Tours of the mines take about 3 hours.

4. Tatra Mountains

The misty jagged Tatra Mountains form part of the Carpathian Mountain range, about 2 hours away from Krakow , that creates a natural parkland border between Poland and Slovakia.

During summer, the mountains attract hikers from all over the world with its rumbling meadows of alpine blooms. During winter, the snow-topped peaks have made skiing a popular pastime of Polish locals and visitors alike.

Hiking routes range from beginner-friendly to very difficult and the landscape is pure, breathtaking, and some of Mother Nature’s finest . Spots worth not missing are the Valley of Five Lakes, The Black Pond, Wodogrzmoty Mickiewicza Waterfall as well as Koscielisko Valley.

5. Zakopane

Known as the winter capital of Poland , the resort town of Zakopane at the base of the Tantras is most popular for being the prime spot for winter sports in the cold seasons and climbing and hiking in the summer months.

One of the most popular scenic areas for both is the Western peak at Kasprowy Wierch which is easily reached by a cable car from the center of the resort. It’s also a good starting point for other sought-after Polish landmarks and activities like the Tantra National Park, Lake Morskie Oko, and rafting through the Dunajec Gorge .

Nonetheless, it’s sometimes easy to forget that before the boom of the tourist industries, places like Zakopane were once real traditional Polish towns, which means that there’s so much more to experience than skiing and hiking. The town itself is rich in Polish traditions which you can see in its town center, like the local markets selling crafts made from wool and wood, or traditional sheep cheeses.

Krupówki street is lively with museums like Karol Szymanowski’s Museum and churches like the Old Church and Cemetary. Not to mention all the shops and restaurants where you can sample the best of Polish food .

If you were to see postcard-perfect pictures of Zakopane, it would surely be of the typical 20th-century wooden chalets in the symbolic architectural style of the area. You could also pay a visit to the thermal spas 20km outside of Zakopane for a special experience.

6. Morskie Oko

You’ll find Lake Morskie Oko deep within the Tatra Mountains. It’s the largest lake in the mountain range and on days of calm weather, the lake creates an entrancing mirror image of the green, often snow peaked mountains all around including Rysy, the tallest of the Tatras.

There’s a clearly paved trail that you can hike to get to the lake as well as one that takes you further up for a full view of the lake from above. Local horse-drawn carts are also available to take you up the easy trail.

7. Chocholowska Valley

Not only the largest valley in the Tatra Mountains, but the Chocholowska Valley is also the perfect vacation spot for families of all ages . You can get to the valley by bus from Zakopane or it’s quite easy to take a car or bike and once there.

The hiking trails are easy and ideal for everyone from small children to the elderly. The length of the trail runs from the entrance of the national park to the Siwa Polana-Chochołowska Valley mountain shelter on Chocholowska Glade.

The views in the valley are spectacular, from the small lakes surrounded by towering pine trees to fields of mountain flowers of lilac and sunshine yellow.

A beautiful, quiet town in the north of the country, Malbork boasts one of Poland’s gorgeous castle forts, the 13th century Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the main reason why most people make this a pit stop on their visit to Poland .

The Castle is worth a visit for its museum which houses both natural and historical collections as well as contemporary pieces.

There is not much more to see in this rural town apart from a Dinosaur Park and Theme Park so a lot of people recommend not spending more than a night in the town.

The port city of Gdansk on the Baltic Coast boasts a 1000-year-old history, having been the capital of the historic region of Pomerania when the area was split between modern-day Poland and Germany. There are so many historical landmarks in the city, not to mention the unique local markets, perfectly preserved fortifications, and gorgeous bourgeois and harbor architecture, that make the city so rich in culture .

The Gothic temple at St Mary’s Basilica is more than 500 years old and stands impressively on the city’s skyscape, it’s often known as the Crown of Gdansk. Another icon, simply known as The Crane, was one of the largest Port Cranes in Europe during the Middle Ages.

The Museum of Amber and Museum of Torture offer insights into two very different but equally interesting aspects of the city’s history. Fort Carré is one of Europe’s best-preserved 16th-century defensive structures that allows visitors to step into the past and imagine the battles of the past.

Not to forget the 17th century Neptune Fountain not far from the center of town and visit ground zero for the Second World War at Westerplatte.

The city is also more than its historical aspect. Today it remains the center of the world’s amber trade, there’s a popular zoo to visit as well as several viewpoints from which to marvel at the sea-facing view of the city.

Take a walk down the Royal Way, stroll down the Embankment, or try one of the popular restaurants like Pierogarnia Mandu for the best pierogi in town and you must visit Restauracja Kubicki to dine at the oldest restaurant in Gdansk.

Not far from the main city of Gdansk, Leba (pronounced ‘way-bah’) is so named for being at the mouth of the river Leba on the Baltic Coast. It’s home to rugged, natural coastal features like stunning beaches, picturesque shifting sand dunes, calm lakes, and the Słowiński National Park .

Popular activities include sailing, cycling the National Park, and during peak season the beaches do get quite full of visitors making the most of the lazy beach life.

Visit the 1904 Stilo Lighthouse, attempt to escape the Labyrinth Park, visit the little Amber Museum or eat traditional food like Zurek at Pałac Poraj or Pierogi at Koga Restaurant.

The town’s quieter attractions make it perfect for a vacation simply to take in the Polish culture without the hustle and bustle of the busier city areas.

11. Bialowieza Forest

On the border between Poland and Belarus, the Bialowieza Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , has successfully been preserved as the last primeval forest in lowland Europe . It’s important because of its singular opportunities for biodiversity conservation and as the home of Europe’s heaviest land animal, the bison. The forests are also home to a unique variety of gigantic trees and endemic wildlife like bears, wolves, and elks.

Trips into the forest start from Białowieża village, where there are plenty of accommodations and facilities to explore the area, like bike rentals and local restaurants, although you could choose to stay in one of the small nearby villages or take a tour from Warsaw .

You can get to the village by bus, car, or train, the longest journey being 9 hours by bus. Once you’re there, you might want to plan a trip in advance because a lot of rural residents may not speak English very well and you want to be prepared.

You can book a tour with a recommended company, where they’ll plan your whole trip beginning with your departure from Warsaw, but you also have the option of discovering the forest on your own. The main starting point is the town of Hajnówka, called ‘the Gateway to the Forest’.

Founded in 1580 and located about 450km away from Warsaw, the city of Zamosc has been dubbed a unique example of a Renaissance town in Central Europe because it embodies everything that the era was about including liberalism and elegant architecture.

The Old Town is the city’s ‘piece de resistance’, being a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its preserved sixteenth-century state made up of the old merchant houses, the grand town hall, and the Zamoyski Palace.

The historical brightly colored buildings are worth the visit but the Great Market Square also has plenty of shops and cafes and The Zamojskie Museum will give you a detailed insight into the rich history of the area.

The town also has a small 1500s Cathedral that still holds regular masses today but they also have a substantial Jewish history, which you can learn all about from the Zamość Synagogue built between 1610 and 1618.

Poznan is a proud city, home to a buzzing bar scene, iconic colorful streets, a prominent history, and cheap and delicious traditional food , it’s so much more than meets the eye. It’s got a very young and modern vibe due to the several universities in the area but it still retains the charm and tradition of the old days.

There’s a big bike culture in the city which makes it fun to travel along all the streets and experience the energetic atmosphere that’s so easily missed, as well as all the restaurants and boutiques promoting local entrepreneurs.

See the famous The Watcher street painting by one of the world’s greatest artists who goes by the name of Noriaki or visit Zemsta book store best known for its support of unusual texts.

One of the city’s popular restaurants is Oskoma, where they put a special twist on traditional Polish classic. Another beloved classic with the locals and students is U Dziadka (pronounced “o-jadka”) where they make you feel right at home with their popular dishes like the chunky pan-fried pork chops and buttery potatoes. And let’s not forget you absolutely need to try the town’s own special pastry, the St Martin’s croissant.

14. Masurian Lake District

Also known as the Masurian Lakeland, the northeastern area of Poland has its own dialect , is so called because it has over 2000 lakes and is mostly untouched country . Although it is the poorest region in the country, it is the richest in terms of free wildlife and virgin landscapes.

It’s the perfect place for outdoor camping with lots of open fields, forests, hikes, and pleasant walks; it’s often called the ‘green lungs of Poland’. Not to mention all of the water activities available on all the lakes and water bodies likd sailing, kayaking, fishing, and more.

There are a few villages and resort towns in the area from which you can make a base, one of the more popular camping ones being the village of Ublik. A lot of the organic farms also offer farm stays or you could decide on a more luxurious spa resort in the great outdoors.

If you’re looking for a bit of history even as far out as here, you can find Wolf’s Lair in Masuria too, which is Hitler’s former Second World War military headquarters where he spent more than 800 days and survived an assassination attempt in 1944.

Surprisingly, Torun was one of the few towns that were saved from any damage during the Second World War . This town has a unique beauty both in its visual architectural value and its cultural atmosphere that has attracted artists and academics from all over the world for years.

The three-hour tour of the city’s Old Town is worth every minute and takes you to places such as Caesar’s Arch, St. Mary’s Church, the Copernicus Monument (for the famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus), and the Holy Spirit Gate. Visit the leaning tower of Torun and explore the Teutonic Knights Castle which is one of the oldest of its kind in the world.

Indulge in Poland’s popular Milk Bar at Bar Mlecznys, don’t miss out on Torun’s local gingerbread, and be sure to sample other classics like zurek and pierogi to get the full traditional experience.

16. Wroclaw

Found on the Oder River, Wroclaw (pronounced vrots -wahf) is a strange and beautiful old city, made up of 12 islands and over 100 bridges connecting them. Its most prominent feature is a large astronomical clock at the 18th century Town Hall but there are plenty more things to do !

It’s got some unique architectural landmarks such as the Panorama of Racławice, a painting depicting the 1794 battle for independence, and the Centennial Hall auditorium, with its giant dome and tall spire which lies across the river.

The area is a very important commercial and educational center in Poland but is also a very vibrant cultural hub that hosts several festivals and boasts a vibrant nightlife.

Check Out my Ultimate Guide to Wroclaw

17. Auschwitz

Auschwitz needs little to no introduction, known worldwide for the atrocities it endured during the Holocaust and the Nazi occupation of Poland. Over 40 concentration and death camps were run here and today they, and the museums, are humbling to visit and a reminder of the cruelty and destruction of war.

It’s free of charge to visit the Memorial and walk around by yourself but if you want to take a guided tour you’ll have to make a reservation online and pay a fee depending on the type of tour and size of the group.

Unique Places to Visit in Poland

18. crooked forest.

The mysterious Crooked Forest looks like something out of a Grimm Brothers story and is a unique site that’s worth a visit, with around 400 pine trees that grow with a near-perfect 90-degree curve at their base.

The forest, also known as Krzywy Las, has been around since the 1930s and while some believe they’re due to a unique gravitational pull in the area, it’s more likely that they were purposely mutated by local farmers in the area when they were planted.

The forest is about a 1-hour bus ride from the town of Gryfino in the west of the country. The town was evacuated during the war so those who would have had the answers to the truth behind the peculiar trees have sadly long since gone.

19. Ksiaz Castle

This 13th-century castle is the largest in the Silesia region and looks like a fairy tale , with brightly colored walls, turrets, and elegant ramparts. It underwent a transformation from Gothic to the Baroque style in the 18th century and in the 1940s, the castle became Hitler’s headquarters after the Nazi invasion and his decision to move from Wolf’s Lair.

There are stories that Hitler had plans to make an underground network beneath the Sowie Mountains on which the castle lies but that remains a mystery even today.

After the war, the castle was left abandoned and restorations were only fully completed as recently as 2005. Visitors can tour the castle’s great halls and compound either alone or with a pre-organized tour or even spend a night here .

20. Czestochowa

The southern city of Czestochowa is often undersold as a tourist destination but ‘ the Holy City ‘ is well worth the visit. It has a famous religious history, having been the home of St Paul’s Monastery of Jasna Góra which houses a shrine to the Virgin Mary known as the Black Madonna painting .

Pilgrims come in the millions from all over the world to pay homage every year. The Monastery and other religious areas in the city are some of the most revered in the Roman Catholic religion and the adjoining museums house unique artifacts and books.

Not to forget the unexpected landmark that a lot of people don’t know exists in Czestochowa, the World’s Tallest Pope Statue. The fiberglass statue measures 13.8 meters tall and depicts Pope John Paul II.

The great thing about this city is that it still has all of the beautiful thirteenth-century architecture that the other main cities are known for, like the iconic Town Hall, cathedral, and Old Market Square but Czestochowa is both less crowded and much cheaper than the main areas.

The city even has its own castle, or at least the ruins of one, at Olsztyn Castle where the views are stunning and there’s a popular 25-minute hike.

21. Ojcow National Park

If you’re visiting the busy city of Krakow and you’ve done all of the popular sights and experienced the vibrant city life, the perfect way to unwind and get some fresh outdoor air is to visit the Ojcow National Park .

It’s the smallest National Park in Poland but it makes up for its size with over 1000 species of multicolored trees and flowers, 135 species of birds and around 500 species of butterflies making it ideal nature for leisurely walks.

The Park is only 24 km from Krakow and easily accessible by car or bus but it’s just as pleasant to bike along the Vistula River. There’s a little coffee shop within the park where you can relax for a drink or for all the castle lovers, the Renaissance castle at Pieskowa Skała sits serenely at the top of a hill overlooking the glorious natural landscape of the Park.

22. Jaskinia Niedzwiedzia

Discovered in 1966, this incredible excavation site near the village of Kletno, also known as the Bear Cave, is the longest cave in the Śnieżnik Mountains and the deepest in Poland.

It’s made up of three known levels, has a depth of around 100m, and is most popular for its middle cave featuring impressive preserved stalactites and a large range of ice-age animal bones and remains.

A tour of the cave takes around 45 minutes and because the site is a Nature Reserve, they do have a limit on the number of daily visitors that they allow so it may be best to book in advance.

23. Biskupin

The famous archaeological site at Biskupin , is an open-air museum that portrays a life-size reconstructed Iron Age fortified settlement in Poland, whose origins are believed to date back to 700 BC .

The origins of the people who once inhabited the structure are not well known but it is thought that they were a highly developed culture made up of the intricate design of the fortification and the settlement. The site is located on Lake Biskupin, about 5 hours away from Warsaw by train.

Every year in September, the Archeological Festival in Biskupin sees history fans from all over Europe get together to experience archeology at work. There are various workshops on life back in the Iron Age, which includes how to forge your own arrowhead and there are presentations on battles and early craftsmanship, all while listening to the sounds of music from times long gone by.

24. Zalipie Village

The houses in Zalipie village are adorned with hand-painted artistic flower patterns and a very special atmosphere, making this the most colorful and unique village in Poland .

It’s not just the houses, trees, furniture, dog houses, and household items are all painted in this special way. Some of the houses are extra special and worth seeing, such as The House of the Woman Painters. All of the paintings in the village are unique and everyone has their own take of the traditional designs.

The village itself is very peaceful and a perfect city break, with lush greenery and fresh air all around. If you want to see how the paintings are done, pay a visit to the folk museum in the center of town and also be sure to check out Saint Joseph’s Church, with its similarly beautifully painted interior.

25. Wolf’s Liar

One of the most iconic historical World War II sights, Wolf’s Lair, hidden deep in the Polish wilderness, was Hitler’s first Eastern Front military headquarters which was built right in time for Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941.

After one attempted assassination in 1944 and the explosion of a suitcase bomb, the hideaway was compromised so Hilter and his men abandoned the highly fortified base.

You can visit Wolf’s Lair and its network of bunkers, tunnels, and rooms by yourself, which should take about 2 hours, or with an organized tour from major cities like Warsaw. They also have a small hotel and restaurant on the compound in the renovated former headquarters of Hitler’s personal security, if you want to spend the night and explore the area better.

26. Chapel of Skulls

The Skull Chapel at St Bartholomew’s Church in the Czermna district of Kudowa was designed by Czech priest Vaclav Tomasek in the latest 1700s who created what he envisioned as a sanctuary of silence.

The chapel walls and ceilings are decorated, most in a Jolly Roger style, with the skulls and bones of 3000 people but another 21,000 are found in the crypt below.

It took Tomasek 18 years to collect, clean, and arrange all the bones in the church and the Chapel today is worth a visit for its unique and quite eery nature.

Any questions or suggestions? Do you know any more interesting places to see in Poland?

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25 Off the Path Spots to Visit in Poland

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15 Of The Best Places To Visit In Poland

By: Author Hannah Lukaszewicz

Posted on Last updated: 9 January, 2024

15 Of The Best Places To Visit In Poland

Poland is often associated closely with the Second World War. In most cases, their impressions are vaguely formed after watching films such as Schindler’s List or The Pianist and not from actual history. For many years, travelers didn’t want to visit Poland because of the way it had always been portrayed, but that perception is now rapidly changing.

Forget about the country’s bleak and gruesome past, savvy travelers have come to realize that Poland offers not just a rich history, but also stunning scenery and cool cities coupled with awesome activities.

Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw maybe some of the best places to visit in Poland, but they are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the best places to visit in Poland. Take a look and you will discover why this Baltic nation is now one of the top travel destinations and it is visited by millions of tourists from all over the world.

*When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Europe check prices on Booking.com , we’ve found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.*

Street view of Old Town Warsaw one of the best places in Poland

When visiting Poland, it is certainly best to start with its biggest and the capital city of Warsaw. This 400-year-old city and its people have seen it all! During WWII, Warsaw has suffered greatly and it was almost completely destroyed. Now, less than a century later, it has become arguably one of Europe’s best cities to visit!

Warsaw’s residents lovingly preserved anything that survived the brutal Nazi invasion. They rebuilt their city, making it a perfect blend of historic opulence and contemporary designs.

Whether you are into medieval churches and palaces or you are after cozy cafés and lively clubs, Warsaw has it all. In one majestic street, popularly known as the Royal Route, you will find a majestic Royal Castle that once was home to almost all of the Polish kings and queens. This is the area where you will also find the famous Presidential Palace and some of the best hotels that the country has to offer.

Warsaw is a medieval and neoclassical city and it is proud to showcase both its memorable and dark history to whoever is keen to take a look. If you are a military buff than you must put Warsaw Rising Museum on your list of things to see in Warsaw.

Alternatively, you can check out Lazienki Park, which is arguably the best park in Europe. Here you can find majestic regal peacocks strolling around the pristine lake and you can spot some of the semi-tame red squirrels as well. Click here to see a list of 15 of the best things to do in Warsaw

Krakow is Poland’s second-biggest city, and it is undoubtedly the country’s most popular tourist destination. Krakow is renowned for being a cultural center of Southern Poland, and it is also acknowledged as an architectural jewel of Central Europe. Some even call it a fairy-tale straight out of a Disney movie. Are you enticed yet?

The Old Town of Krakow is home to the famous Wawel Castle. This is the place that you simply cannot miss out on visiting! As you stroll around the Old Town, you will see plenty of legendary monuments positioned and dozens of stunning Polish restaurants serving all the yummy polish delicacies.

Krakow is also home to Europe’s largest market square. Make sure to bring your camera and clear your schedule because you will be here for a while. If you are interested in some pointers, make sure to check out the list of things to do in Krakow .

In short, Krakow is a fortress for both Renaissance and secessionist cultures. Its cobbled stone streets are popular with horses, candlelit bars, and pavement cafés, giving Krakow a look that any city in the world would only envy. You can find a choice of brilliant cafes to visit in Krakow. Check out our pick for the best restaurant in Krakow .

Add that to the fact that Krakow is the city of legends such as King Casimir the Great, Copernicus, and Pope John Paul II, and you’ll know that it is worth giving Krakow a closer look and perhaps a personal tour.

*Editor Note: We think this is the most beautiful city in Poland, it is considered one of Poland’s tourist cities, but the amount of tourists here is nothing compared to other European cities.

The capital of the Lower Silsea, Wroclaw, is a very popular entertainment and cultural destination. The strong presence of Bohemian, Prussian, and Austrian culture makes it a unique and very diverse architectural city. Wroclaw is basically a cathedral island where you will find over 12 islands, and numerous riverside parks, which are connected by over 100 bridges. Sounds special, because it is!

Wroclaw is the nation’s 4th biggest city and is characterized by Gothic architecture, large festivals, and lively nightlife. Some of the city’s historic neighborhoods that you can visit include; Ostrow, Rynek, and Tumski neighborhoods. Amongst many other famous monuments, it is recommended to check out the Hydropolis, which is an ultra-modern knowledge center dedicated to water.

Don’t forget your insurance! You never know when you’ll need it. We suggest getting travel insurance with Safety Wing. Which coverage includes medical, trip interruption, lost luggage, and more. Often rates are as low as $12 a week.

4. Bialowieża Forest

Bialowieża Forest is a highly preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site. This beautiful forest covers an area of more than 3,000 square kilometers. It stretches as far as the eastern border of Poland and western Belarus, as well as to the borders of Lithuania and Ukraine. Bialowieza is one of the most untouched Polish forests, and it is also one of the few remaining virgin woodlands in Europe.

Bialowieza is home to a large variety of exotic trees, including 500-year-old oaks. This forest is known to house more than 800 European bison, wolves, deer, lynx, and even golden eagles.

As this is a protected area, you can only visit the forest in the company of a guide, who will obviously encourage you to enjoy the endless hiking trails that will likely take you deep into the dense and untouched forest.

5. Wieliczka Salt Mine

When touring Poland, you should definitely not miss out on a chance to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine. The mine has been open since the Middle Ages, and it is yet another of the Polish UNESCO Heritage Sites.

Wieliczka will keep you busy for over two hours and burn a few calories on the hundreds of stairs. Your adventure will take you on a tour to a 140 feet underground oasis. You will go through a number of complex passages and crystal chambers.

Some say that the journey will make you feel as if you are heading for the center of the Earth. While inside, you will come across majestic churches, unique salt monuments, as well as some breathtaking underground lakes.

*Editor Note: We visited Poland with our family, and we both still talk about the Cathedral in the salt mine it definitely is one of the best places to visit in Poland and should be on everyone’s Poland itinerary.

6. Bydgoszcz

Located in Northern Poland, Bydgoszcz is widely known for its numerous universities and bustling colleges. This buzzing and vibrant city is also the country’s biggest inland navigation center. Bydgoszcz is a cosmopolitan city with a strong international and business presence. It is also renowned as a major cultural center.

Whilst visiting Bydgoszcz, you must not miss out on seeing some of the famous artistic, theatrical, and musical centers. Your list of must-see places in this city should include; Bydgoszcz Pantheon, Nicolaus Copernicus Square as well as the Old Mill by the Brda River.

Gdansk is one of the most popular of northern-Polish cities. This beautiful port city of Gdansk on the Baltic coast is well-known as the birthplace of Poland’s Solidarity movement and for its famous shipyards.

While in the city, you should take a boat trip around the port to get a glimpse of the skyline from the water and sample some of the tastiest and unique Polish beer. You can also take a walking tour of the city’s Royal Route, the Old Town and check out various other popular places such as Neptune Fountain and Long Market.

Malbork Castle on the water, one of the best castles in Poland

Located between the fields of Polish Mazury and Elbląg Lakes, the city of Malbork is home to arguably Europe’s most enthralling medieval castle ruins. If you are after history and architecture, then this is the best place for you. The sprawling castle complexes and the red brick fortresses will take you back to the medieval times and give you a glimpse into the past.

Related Article: The Best of Germany’s Fairytale Castles

Torun is the birthplace of the legendary 15th-century astronomer and mathematician, Nicolaus Copernicus. It is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and thanks to its rich medieval culture and history, it is called by many locals as the “Krakow of the North”. Some of the most attractive places in the city include Teutonic Knight’s Castle, Old Town, numerous Gothic cathedrals as well as the New Town.

10. The Masurian Lake District

Popular with local tourists, the Masurian Lake District is very popular during warmer months thanks to its soothing Baltic sun. It is home to over 2,000 individual lakes, as well as dozens of beautiful rivers.

The best part of this district is that it is full of charming towns such as Elk, Giżycko and Mikolajki Masurian Lake District is one of Poland’s most popular summer holiday destinations, where you can hire sailing boats or simply relax in many of the local resorts.

Lodz is known as the cultural mecca for Poles, Germans, Jews, and Russians. The city is known for producing famous industrialists, scientists, and artists who have left permanent marks on the lifestyle of the city. Take a walk along the Piotrkowska Street and immerse yourself in some of Europe’s best architecture and marvel upon many of extraordinary monuments.

While in Lodz, you can also visit the famous Ghetto Litzmannstadt, where you will be hit by the city’s saddening Holocaust history. Other places to check out include Oscar Kon Palace, Edward Herbst Mansion as well as the Radegast Station.

hiking path in Ojcow National Park in Poland

12. Ojcow National Park

Located not far from Krakow, Ojcow National Park dramatically sits between Pradnik and Saspowska River valleys. It is one of the smallest national parks in the country and is characterized by deep canyons, numerous limestone cliffs, thick woodlands, rock formations, and dark caves.

While in the park, you can also visit Krakow Gate, Deotyma’s Needle, Hercules’ Club and the park’s top interesting castles – Renaissance Castle in Pieskowa Skala and Kazimierz Castle (home to King Casimir the Great) in Ojcow Village. Make sure to take a ride in one of the horse cabs and also visit any of the park’s 400 official caves.

13. Swinoujscie

Located on the Baltic Sea, Swinoujscie is a port city that is revered by many locals as a health retreat and a holiday resort destination. It has 44 unique islands where visitors can enjoy some quality time on the gently sloping beaches. It is also home to the 170-year-old Spa Park where tourists can walk around perusing through its endless vegetation.

For those of us interested in the maritime, a visit to the Museum of Sea Fishing should be a top priority. The Karsibor Island can be a hit with bird watchers while Wolin Island’s extraordinary lighthouse, which is the tallest structure on the Baltic Sea, will offer a panoramic place for those in need of a memorable photoshoot.

14. Tatra National Park

Located on the southern part of Poland, Tatra National Park is home to Poland’s only mountains; the Tatra Mountains. While visiting Tatry, there are two major sites to see! These are the famous country’s natural wonders: Morskie Oko Lake and Rysy Peak.

Tatra National Park is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is plenty to do in the park. You can hike through the dense forests, or venture out through the snow-packed fields or explore the region’s many caves. You can also go mountain biking, rock climbing or even paragliding.

gorgeous sunset in Isle of Usedom Poland

15. Isle of Usedom

Located on the north-eastern region of Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, the Isle of Usedom is a popular holiday destination on the Baltic Sea. Usedom has plenty of hotels and guest houses for those who want to experience the unspoiled nature of the pristine Baltic Sea.

Apart from its many beautiful beaches, the Isle of Usedom attracts a number of international fashion events, theatre performances, outdoor concerts, and museum exhibitions on a yearly basis. Some of the region’s top attractions include; Heringdorf aerodome, Zinnowitz pier’s driving bell, Europe’s biggest butterfly farm as well as the Trasseheide.

Poland is fast becoming one of Europe’s favorite holiday destinations. Whether you are after medieval or modern history, architectural marvels or diverse culture, you will find it here. Whether you are after relaxation on white sandy beaches, sailing for days on pristine lakes or hiking through the majestic mountains, Poland also has you covered. The only question remains, which of the above destinations will make it to your list of things to do in Poland?

Have you traveled to Poland? What did you think were the best places in Poland to visit?

Author Bio: This guest post is brought to you by Andrzej & Jolene from Wanderlust Storytellers , a widely successful family travel blog. They love sharing their passion for travel with people all around the globe.

Gerry Thomson

Tuesday 4th of August 2020

Not only have I visited Warsaw and Krakow and enjoyed them emensely I have actually settled in Poland living in Kulik east of Lublin. Lublin is also well worth a visit as it has its medieval castle and Majdanek Concentration camp the old town has its street market restaurants and cathedral all worth a visit. Shopping is in a variety of Galleria around the city with the Plaza in the centre. The concert hall is also lively and beautiful we saw Swan lake there and it was amazing. University Town too so brimming with students. Parks and cycle ways. Lots to see and do. Give it a try too.

Linda Lineback

Friday 13th of March 2020

I have been to Poland twice and loved all of it, but especially Krakow. plan to go one more time.

Hannah Lukaszewicz

Monday 16th of March 2020

We fell in love with Poland on our first visit too. We can't wait to visit again.

Friday 28th of February 2020

Its a pity you don't have a picture of Lodz, it's my favourite town in Poland. I didn't say its the pretties lol its just my favourite

Sunday 12th of January 2020

I love Warsaw and its party vibe! they have best clubs in poland (New Orleans is my fav:D)

Wednesday 15th of January 2020

There are so many reasons to love Poland!

Sunday 24th of November 2019

Warsaw is my number one! definitely! best restaurants, places to take a walk and the best clubs (night in New Orleans club will stay in my heart forever haha) :D

First-timer's guide to Poland

Sep 29, 2023 • 7 min read

Everything you need to know about visiting Poland for the first time © Imgorthand / Getty Images

Supported by

Poland has a long, fascinating, sometimes tragic history, played out against a backdrop of royal castles and palaces, picturesque old towns and incredible landscapes.

From the Carpathian Mountains in the south to the Great Masurian Lakes in the north, Poland is a dream destination if you’re up for an activity-driven vacation – hiking, cycling and kayaking opportunities are abundant, plus there’s skiing in the winter.

If urban pleasures are more your thing, vibrant cities such as the capital Warsaw , the atmospheric old capital Kraków , and revamped 19th-century industrial powerhouse Łódź do not disappoint. Each offers masses of cultural attractions alongside delicious dining and lively nightlife scenes – all at very affordable prices.

As Poland is a big country packed with travel possibilities, you’re sure to have questions. Here are some tips and practical advice on how to get the most out of your first trip to Poland.

When should I go to Poland?

There’s no time of the year to specifically avoid when scheduling a trip. For fine weather and the chance to join summer festivals and events such as Kraków’s Jewish Culture Festival and Warsaw’s Summer Jazz Days , come between May and early September.

Towns and cities come alive as the warmer temperatures tempt everyone outside for alfresco dining and drinking. This is peak season, too, for visiting Poland’s 23 national parks.

The countryside in spring and autumn can also be very beautiful. Winter is the quietest season, except in ski resorts such as Zakopane . Come prepared for frigid temperatures and sloshing through snow and rain.

Compensations include low season rates at hotels and plenty of excellent museums in the major cities in which to shelter from the elements. Autumn through early spring is also when performing arts institutions such as Warsaw’s Teatr Wielki and Filharmonia Narodowa run their season of top-grade shows.

Woman on a hiking trip in the mountains sitting on a rock looking through binoculars in Poland

How much time do I need to visit Poland?

Two, or better, three days is the minimum needed for a short city break to either Warsaw or Kraków. You won’t have enough time to cover everything, but you will be able to get a feel for these places and tick off the main attractions.

If you’re prepared to move around quickly, you could cram in more of Poland over 10 days to two weeks, adding to your itinerary metropolises such as Gdańsk (also close to the Baltic seaside resort of Sopot ) and Łódź, as well as smaller historic towns like the artists’ retreat Kazimierz Dolny and Zamość , a perfectly preserved 16th-century Renaissance town.

Have a month to spare? Now you’re talking! This will give you the opportunity to explore rural backwaters and national parks such as World Heritage-listed Białowieża National Park , home to some 800 free-roaming European bison, Poland’s national symbol and Europe’s largest land mammal; and Karkonosze National Park with its spectacular Ice Age glacier-carved landscapes.

Is it easy to get in and around Poland?

Poland is tethered to the world by international flights. The capital’s main airport is the central Warsaw Chopin Airport , with Modlin Airport , 39km (24 miles) north of the city, handling budget carriers.

Other international airports include Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport, Katowice Airport, Kraków John Paul II International Airport, Łódż Airport and Wrocław Airport . There are also excellent rail and bus links, especially with Western European neighbors, including overnight train services to Berlin and Vienna .

Getting around Poland itself is a breeze. There’s a comprehensive system of buses and trains offering both frequent services and affordable prices. For more remote parts, including nearly all the national parks, you’ll really need your own set of wheels.

Hiring a car is straightforward and the roads have vastly improved in recent years (although you will encounter some unsealed roads in the most rural regions). Major cities and towns all have decent public transport, and you can easily cover historic old town centers on foot.

Top things to do in Poland

Kraków, the former royal capital, is a stunner with its heady blend of history and harmonious architecture. At its heart are the vast Rynek Główny, Europe’s largest medieval marketplace, and the magnificent Wawel Royal Castle , on a hill above the Old Town.

But that's just the start – every part of the city is fascinating, from the former Jewish district of Kazimierz and its lively nightlife to the atomic fallout shelters of Nowa Huta .

Warsaw had to be almost completely rebuilt after WWII. The powerful Warsaw Rising Museum focuses on the darkest hours of WWII, while the Museum of Warsaw superbly documents the city's rise, fall and resurrection. Also don’t miss the award-winning POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews , and regal Wilanów Palace and surrounding lush parkland.

Toruń , a walled Gothic city on the Vistula River, miraculously escaped WWII intact. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town crammed with museums, churches, grand mansions and squares. When you’re flagging, perk up with a peppery gingerbread cookie, Toruń’s signature snack, which you can make yourself at the Gingerbread Museum .

The UNESCO-listed Białowieża National Park holds one of Europe’s last vestiges of primeval forest, which you can visit in the company of a guide. The bison, which was once extinct outside zoos, has been successfully reintroduced here, although your best bet for seeing these magnificent animals is the region’s European Bison Show Reserve .

A woman walking through a medieval square in Kraków with a suitcase

My favorite thing to do in Poland

I’m a huge fan of street art and Łódź has embraced this public form of creative expression unlike anywhere else in Poland - the city is practically one giant art gallery! There are well over 200 public works of art ranging from massive painted murals to installations involving neon, nails and porcelain tiles.

Among my favorites are Pasaż Róży, a dazzling courtyard completely plastered with mirror fragments arranged in swirling rose patterns, and Wiedźmin, a 70m tall mural designed by Jakub Rebelka on the sides of adjacent apartment blocks – it’s a homage to the Witcher series of fantasy books by Łódź-based author Andrzej Sapkowski.

How much money do I need for Poland?

Like everywhere in Europe in recent times, prices have been rising in Poland. That said, the country offers great value, especially when it comes to accommodation, dining out and entertainment. Getting around by public transport is also a bargain.

Hostel room: 60 zł
Basic room for two: 200 zł
Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): 120 zł
Public transport ticket: 3.40 zł
Coffee: 15-20 zł
Sandwich: 15 zł
Dinner for two: 150-200 zł
Beer/pint at the bar: 12 zł

Is Poland part of the EU?

Yes, which means if you’re crossing into the country from neighboring EU countries – the Czech Republic (Czechia), Germany , Lithuania and Slovakia – there are no border formalities. However, rather than the euro, Poland’s national currency is the złoty (zł, sometimes also abbreviated as PLN) which dates back to the 14th century.

Most places accept card or electronic payments but sometimes you will need to pay in cash so it’s handy to keep some money in your wallet.

How easy is it to get online?

Very easy. Depending on your home mobile phone/internet plans, you should be able to surf the web and stay in touch using a smartphone or tablet. There are plenty of wifi hotspots and some of them are free.

A person dipping Polish pierogi in sour cream

What’s Polish food like?

Locals like nothing better than scoffing comfort foods such as pączki (rose-jam filled doughnuts) or a plate of pierogi , dough dumplings stuffed with anything from cottage cheese, potato and meat to blueberries or other fruits.

Traditional cooking is rustic and flavorful and can be summed up by Poland’s signature kiełbasa sausages. These are usually made with pork and various seasonings, though other meats, like beef and veal, can be added.

Beyond such staples Polish cuisine also includes hearty soups and dishes such as beef tartare. In the major cities and towns, there’s a wide choice of world cuisines alongside creative renditions of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Editor's note: This article was sponsored by Poland NTO after the city was selected for Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2024. Sponsors do not influence a destination's inclusion in Best In Travel, which is determined solely by Lonely Planet's editorial team.

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Funding for this story is provided by Poland NTO. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.

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Best destinations to visit in Poland

Discover the best places to visit in Poland

Best Destinations to visit in Poland

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Discover the best places to visit in Poland during your stay in this country as colourful as it is unforgettable. Stroll through the streets of Warsaw , the famous Polish capital, probably the best destination for a weekend trip. Treat yourself to a nature getaway by visiting the Tatra Mountains. Travel in the traditional and floral universe of Zalipie and its painted houses. Cycle in the middle of nature in Hel, Gdansk , Sopot or enjoy fine sandy beaches during your stay in Poland.

Find inspiration among this ranking of the best destinations to visit in Poland and book your flights , your accommodation as well as your tours and activities in Poland and discover the Best Places to visit in Poland.

Best Destinations to visit in Poland - European Best Destinations

East-Central Poland

Warsaw is a city that defies all stereotypes. Poland’s capital has an unusual history but is at the same time a dynamic and modern city - it oozes energy. It surprises and delights those who choose to visit it.

Situated in the heart of Europe , Warsaw is the ideal destination for a weekend trip . It can be reached in just a few hours and getting around town is easy thanks to excellent public transport. Importantly, tourists feel safe here and are welcomed by the locals.

A must-see is the Old Town, which along with the Royal Castle has been included on the UNESCO world heritage list. The Old Town charms with its beauty and is the perfect place to get to know the city’s history, though Warsaw has much more to offer.

Green space covers almost half the city. Its beautiful and extensive parks entice people to relax and the Vistula river running through the centre is a popular place among residents for active recreation and meeting up. The river’s wild bank is a habitat for many species of birds and it enables unhampered contact with nature.

Warsaw will not disappoint lovers of good cuisine . The numerous food bars, wonderful patisseries, elegant restaurants and culinary festivals are enough to make your head spin. And it’s worth adding that Warsaw is recognised as one of the world’s most vegan-friendly cities.

It is also a great city for culture . Modern museums, art galleries, concerts and music festivals as well as other interesting events make Warsaw a real cultural capital . It’s impossible to get bored there.

Book your flights to Warsaw, your accommodation in Warsaw as well as your tours and activities in Warsaw as a " Polish Dumplings Cooking Class ".

How to get there: Book your flights to Warsaw and your transfer .

Where to stay: “ Golden Tulip Warsaw Centre ". Guest have free access to the hotel's sauna and fitness room.

Pomerania - Poland

There are only good reasons to visit Gdansk this year. You have ranked Gdansk among the Most beautiful ferris wheels in Europe , Best Christmas Lights but also the Best destinations to visit in Autumn . Gdansk is for sure one of the best places to visit during your stay in Poland .

After a visit to the colourful city centre go to the beach located a few minutes from the centre. Visit the Park Reagana and the "Port Brzezno Park" with their playgrounds, the little train but also zip-lines.

Take a boat trip to the Hel Peninsula and play on its long sandy beaches, it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Poland. Finally Gdansk is home to the largest Zoo in Poland where your children can see animals from all over the world.

Book your flights to Gdansk your accommodation in Gdansk as well as your tours and activities in Gdansk such as a " Gdansk Old Town 2-Hour Walking Tour ".

How to get there: Book your flights to Gdansk.

Where to stay: " Hilton Gdansk " located in Gdansk's old town.

3. Tatra Mountains

South-Central Poland

Escape to the Tatra Mountains and discover the most beautiful landscapes in Poland . This mountain range creates a natural border between Poland and Slovakia with, in each country, a national park which protects these exceptional sites.

We come here in winter to ski and in summer to hike, to observe the wild nature, marmots, chamoix and even lynxes and bears! Beach wood forests await you after bike tours in the Tatra Mountains (230 km of mountain bike trails). Are you going in winter? Zakopane will be your destination, it is the best ski resort in Poland.

For lovers of nature, wide open spaces, for the beauty of its landscapes, during your stay in Poland do not miss to visit the Tatra Mountains.

Book your flights to Krakow (2h30 by car) as well as your accommodation in Poland and your tours and activities in Poland such as a " From Krakow: Zakopane and Thermal Springs with hotel pickup ".

How to get there: Book your flights to Krakow (2h30 by car).

Where to stay: " Smrekowa Polana Resort & Spa ". Located in central Zakopane.

Southern Poland

Situated in southern Poland, Krakow is one of the country’s most ancient cities and its former capital and a real pearl in its crown. The city lies on the banks of the Vistula River which is called the Queen of Polish Rivers.

The town is filled with monuments and is impossible to visit in just one day to experience the emotions this city can evoke. Its unique atmosphere has inspired artists and writers. Visitors fall in love with Krakow and all wish they could come back some day. The city’s rich cultural and artistic life contributes to this fascination as much as the genuine character of its streets and little squares lined with restaurants serving local delicacies.

The range of accommodation and gastronomic services is very wide and easily available, which makes planning a trip to Krakow very straightforward. It is also a base from where to visit southern Poland. Zakopane, called “the mountain capital” of Poland and Wroclaw are within easy distance from Krakow.

Book your flights to Krakow, your accommodation in Krakow as well as your tours and activities in Krakow such as a " Krakow: Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour ".

How to get there: Book your flights to Krakow and your transfer .

Where to stay: " Warszauer Hotel " is a small luxury boutique hotel.

5. Hel Peninsula

Pomerania - Poland

After a flight to Gdansk , one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, take your rental car to "Hel Peninsula", which despite its name is a paradise on earth.

This huge strip of sand (35 km long, 30 metres up to 3 km wide), offers travellers millions of square metres. If you are either idle or active, Hel is made for you. We recommend you rent a bike to discover all the beauty of this unique peninsula in Europe. If you have time and for the more athletic ones we recommend a bike trip on the Polish coast. Rent a bike in Świnoujście and join Hel Peninsula (20 hours by bike, 4 to 5 days with stops along the coast).

Poland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe and the Hel Peninsula is one of the jewels of pure nature and freedom in Europe .

Book your flights to Gdansk, your accommodation in Hel or Gdansk as well as your tours and activities in Poland as a " From Gdansk: Hel Pensinula Private Guided Tour ".

How to get there: Book your flights to Gdansk (1h15 by car).

Where to stay: " Hothel " is a paradise accommodation on Hel Peninsula.

Greater Poland

Poznan is ranked among the best Christmas markets in Europe and Poland but also among the best destinations to visit in Europe, Best destinations to live if you want to leave the USA, Poznan is one of the best places to visit in Poland.

Poznan is Poland's 5th largest city and one of its oldest. Situated halfway between Warsaw and Berlin , it combines a unique heritage with rich cultural offer, lively atmosphere and spirit of entrepreneurship.

This is the very place where Polish statehood was born in the 10th century. Among the must-see attractions you will find Stary Rynek (The Old Market Square). With its magnificent Renaissance Town Hall and Billy Goats it has remained the city’s biggest attraction since the 13th century.

Book your flights to Poznan, your accommodation in Poznan as well as your tours and activities in Poznan such as a " Poznan: Private Polish Beer Tasting Tour ".

How to get there: Book your flights to Poznan.

Where to stay: “ Hampton by Hilton ". 5minutes walk from Old Market Square.

Lesser Poland

During your stay in Krakow be sure to visit the village of Zalipie (70 km from Krakow).

It is to the artist Felicja Curylowa that we owe most of the floral paintings on the white cottages with thatched roofs of Zalipie. The house of this Polish folk artist is now open to the public as an open-air museum. She also painted the interior of the "Wierzynek" restaurant in Krakow and her colourful floral motifs have often been reproduced around the world (mainly in China).

Felicja Curylowa painted on all types of support, on everything that came to her hands such as carpets, plaster, objects. This artist made Zalipie world famous for nature and art lovers.

Book your flights to Krakow, your accommodation in Krakow as well as your tours and activities in Poland such as a “ From Krakow: Guided Tour of Zalipie ”.

How to get there: Book your flights to Krakow and your transfer .

Where to stay: " Hotel Senacki ". Overlooking the 17th century church of St Peter and Paul.

Lower Silesia - Poland

Wroclaw is an amazing city, the "wow" effect is guaranteed! Wroclaw has the energy of Berlin , the youth of Lisbon or Barcelona , trendy bars like Amsterdam , an exceptional architecture that could make you think of Bruges or Vienna , ... but in fact, Wroclaw is incomparable, Wroclaw is Wroclaw and that’s all.

Girls in Wroclaw are chic, rock, trendy, both elegant and quirky. Boys can look more sober but they're stylish and very often sporty and fashionable. In any case, they all meet at night in trendy, affordable bars that provide good food (sometimes organic) and local beers.

One in six people you meet in the streets of Wroclaw is a student . Whether on a bike, on foot, in bars or in parks, they are everywhere and that's a good thing: they provide freshness and dynamism to the city.

Book your flights to Wroclaw, your accommodation as well as your tours and activities in Wroclaw as a " Wroclaw 2-Hour Tour of Old Town ".

How to get there: Book your flights to Wroclaw.

Where to stay: " SleepWalker Boutique Suites " located in Wroclaw's Old Town

Zulawy region Poland

Elblag is one of the most beautiful destinations in Poland , a secret destination less known than its neighbour Gdansk but just as interesting for lovers of history, architecture or simply those who want to take a city break off the beaten track to discover an authentic and terribly charming destination.

Considered one of the oldest cities in Poland , Elblag owes its economic development to its port connected to the ports of Gdansk and Amsterdam. If you like port cities, Elblag is for you. The development of Elblag dates back to the time of the Teutonic Order, which initiated many constructions in Elblag from the 13th century. Partly destroyed after the Second World War, the city was reborn from its ashes by faithfully rebuilding its most beautiful buildings.

Dynamic and sparkling , it is a student city and an important financial centre in Europe. Last but not least beer enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that Elblag does not only have museums and churches, but is also known for being home to the largest brewery in Poland.

Polish beers are very famous, refreshing and light; enjoy them with a meal on a terrace in one of the squares in the historic centre of Elblag.

Do not miss to visit Gdansk located just a few kilometres from Elblag: this city is simply magical at Christmas .

Book your flights to Gdansk (40 min by car), your accommodation in Elblag as well as your activities and tours in the region .

How to get there: Book your flights to Gdansk (40 min by car) as well as your transfer .

Where to stay: " Focus Hotel Premium Elblag ". Featuring free access to the indoor pool.

10. Bydgoszcz

Northern Poland

During your stay in Poland do not miss to visit Bydgoczsz , one of the best places to visit in Poland . If you like to think outside the box and discover real cities and real people and have real experiences, Bydgoszcz is for you.

There are dozens of unusual places you will only see in Bydgoszcz like its incredible cathedral, probably the most beautiful Gothic church in Europe. The inside of the church is an explosion of colours. Take a walk along the photogenic Brda River or relax on the Mill Island or go paddling.

Looking for another place to blow up your Instagram account? Visit the Museum of Soap and History of dirt, do not hesitate to book your tour in advance, this museum attracts visitors from all over the world.

Bydgoszcz is exactly what you need for an unforgettable city break. Trendy bars and numerous traditional or trendy restaurants await you as well as hotels at affordable prices.

Book your flights to Bydgoszcz, your accommodation in Bydgoszcz as well as your tours and activities in Poland.

How to get there: Book your flights to Bydgoczsz

Where to stay: " Mercure Bydgoczsz Sepia ". 5-minute walk from the old market.

11. Niedzica

During your stay in Poland make sure to visit Niedzica, ranked among the best places to visit in Poland it is known for its castle but also its river beach. 2 hours by car (or public transport) from Krakow , Niedzica is a perfect nature escape during your stay in Poland.

On the border with Slovakia, Niedzica offers spectacular views of the Tatra Mountains, High Tatras and White Tatra peaks. Part of Hungary, then belonged to Slovakia, Niedzica has been one of the most beautiful destinations in Poland for 80 years now.

Book your flights to Krakow, your accommodation in Niedzica as well as your tours and activities such as a " From Krakow: Dunajec River Rafting with Hotel Pickup ".

How to get there: Book your flights to Krakow (2h by car or public transport).

Where to stay: If you are staying in Krakow, " Hotel Jan " is situated 100 m from the Main Market Square.

Ranked among the most romantic destinations in Europe , Best family-friendly city breaks in Europe , Best destinations to celebrate New Year's Eve , Sopot is the most famous Seaside Resort in Poland.

Located just 20 minutes from Gdansk , Sopot is a perfect destination for a wellness getaway. Walks, massages, idleness, nature, are the ingredients for a perfect stay, as a couple, with family or friends in Sopot.

Want another reason to stay in Sopot? Its wooden pier has been ranked among the most beautiful piers in Europe !

Book your flights to Gdansk (20 min by car or public transport), your accommodation in Gdansk or Sopot as well as your tours and activities in Poland such as " Sopot: Sunset Yachting Experience ".

How to get there: Book your flights to Gdansk (1h30 by car) and your transfer .

Where to stay: " Puro Gdansk " located in the centre of Gdansk.

13. Kwidzyn

Formerly in German "Marienwerder", in Old Prussian "Kwedina", "Kwidzyn" is one of the best places to visit in Poland . Located in northern Poland, Kwidzyn is renowned for its medieval castle and Cathedral, listed as Historic Monuments of Poland.

Want another good reason to visit Kwidzyn? It is the city in Poland with the lowest crime and unemployment rate, probably thanks to the many sports and associative infrastructures for young people.

Book your flights to Gdansk (1h30 by car), your accommodation in Gdansk or Kwidzyn as well as your tours and activities in Poland .

How to get there: Book your flights to Gdansk (1h30 by car) and your transfer .

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The 10 best places to visit in Poland

Since the late 20th century, after the break-up of the Eastern Bloc, Poland has been one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. It’s no surprise either. The country isn’t only naturally beautiful, it’s also steeped in the modern-day history of the continent, going back many centuries. As a result, it boasts an enviable array of tourist attractions and important historical landmarks, which are top of the list of the best places to visit in Poland.

Best places to visit in Poland: Top 10

Holidays in Poland offer something for everyone, even during its chilly winter. Depending on what time of the year you arrive, you can experience two completely different facets of the country. This makes it a great place to visit year-round, especially given that it’s a short, affordable flight from the UK. Read on to discover some of the most rewarding Poland holiday destinations.

To help you plan your sightseeing itinerary in more detail, you can also read our Poland travel guide.

Find flights to Poland

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The capital of Poland is one of Europe’s most historic cities and the centre of Polish art. After its virtual destruction during WWII, the city quickly rebuilt its historic centre, using the original planning papers. You can still see authentic Renaissance and Baroque period houses that have been perfectly recreated.

Treasured art museums

The famous art museums in Warsaw were also given a new lease on life. Today you can see the largest painting collection in Poland at the National Museum. Here you can see many works with historical connections. There’s a selection of paintings that were stolen and then reclaimed from Adolf Hitler, for instance.

Quirky museums to visit

You’ll find some quaintly fascinating niche museums in Warsaw too. It has the only Museum of Posters in the world and a Museum of Caricature. Or visit the more modern Neon Museum. There’s also a moving and inspirational museum that covers the gallant Warsaw Uprising of 1944.

Inspiring architecture

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Visit the 18th-century Lazienki Palace, not least for its splendid formal gardens and more than 75 hectares of urban forest. The palace complex houses an outdoor theatre, a planetarium and historical pavilions. Krakowskie Przedmiescie is the main architectural street in Warsaw. Here you can see the more traditional Polish architecture, including genuine old homes.

Royal splendour and celebrating science

Two other Warsaw attractions also deserve mentioning. One, the lavish Presidential Palace, is a sight to behold, dating back to 1643. The other is the Polish Academy of Sciences. This has produced some of Poland’s more eminent scientists, as well as many international experts.

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Krakow is another hugely significant historic Polish city and one of the oldest in the country. It offers a pretty diverse set of tourist landmarks. It’s also particularly known for its many parks and woodlands. From here, you can also reach some of Poland’s most important historical sites, including one of history’s most notorious.

Go hiking in urban nature

Krakow is one of the best places in Poland to go for urban outdoor activities in a variety of natural settings. The city has about 40 urban parks, some modern, some dating back a century or more. Planty Park, established in the 19th century, creates a ring of green around the central area of the city, covering some 21 hectares. It’s a great place for solitary or family walks.

There’s also Lasek Wolski Forest, not far from the city centre. It has dozens of biking and hiking trails and offers another excellent way to escape into nature without leaving Krakow itself. It’s all free, to boot. Take a picnic hamper with you.

The royal jewels and classical tapestries

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There are almost 30 museums spread across Krakow, so you can spend a good few days visiting them all. The National Art Collection at Wawel Castle is one of the most impressive. It houses the Polish royal jewels and a huge collection of Flemish tapestries. You can also view period furniture and 15th-century weapons and armour.

Road trips outside Krakow

There are two very notable road trips you can take from Krakow. The first is to visit the oldest salt mine in the world, which is still functioning. The other is to pay your respects at the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp complex. It will give you a stronger resolve to work for good in the world.

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This is one of the more fascinating cities to put on your list of where to go in Poland. It has a unique mixed culture compared to other Polish cities, thanks to having belonged variously to Germany, Prussia and the Kingdom of Bohemia through the centuries.

A millennium of museums

You can learn about its colourful modern history at the Lubomirski Museum, which covers events beginning in 1945 and continuing into the Iron Curtain years. For the city’s more ancient history, visit the Wroclaw City Museum, with its artefacts that go back over a thousand years. Perhaps the most intriguing is the Pan Tadeusz Museum. This contains multimedia exhibitions of Polish customs.

Open-bus tours and gnome hunting

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When the city is nice and warm in summer, it’s a great idea to take an open-top bus tour. These will take you through all of the city’s most historic districts, like the area around the 13th-century Main Market Square. Or explore the city more playfully by searching for the bronze figurines of Wroclaw’s famous gnomes (there are more than 350). They’re hidden everywhere among the city’s everyday features.

We’ve also created a dedicated Wroclaw travel guide , so you can read more extensively about what to see and do there.

4. Tatra Mountains

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We leave the cities for a moment to explore arguably the most celebrated natural feature in Poland, the Tatra Mountains. It’s part of a national park and the range creates a natural border between Poland and Slovakia.

Hiking trails through immersive scenery

The Tatra Mountains and Tatra National Park offer over 270 km (roughly 170 miles) of hiking trails. As you hike, you’ll pass many enticing streams, waterfalls and mountain lakes, where you can rest or take a refreshing swim in summer. Morskie Oko is the largest lake here. It’s about a 2-hour hike through the forest from the trail starting point.

Majestic Mount Rysy

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Mount Rysy, the tallest mountain peak in Poland, is also to be found in the Tatra Mountain range. It’s gauged to be about 2,500 metres tall (over 8,200 feet). You won’t need a guide to climb it, as the trail gradient is relatively mild. Just make sure you have a good pair of hiking boots to maintain a good grip underfoot.

The Jaskinia Wielka Sniezna limestone caves

The Tatra Mountain range is also known for its vast labyrinth of limestone caves, which purportedly contains over 600 caves. Jaskinia Wielka Sniezna is the deepest and longest of these cave systems. It’s about 825 metres (2,700 feet) deep and has a staggering length of roughly 23 km (14 miles).

5. Bialowieza Forest Reserve

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What makes Bialowieza Forest Reserve special is that it’s the largest remaining primaeval forest in Europe, and as such is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The forest covers over 1,400 square km (540 square miles) on the Polish-Belarus border.

Ornithology among herds of indigenous European bison

Bialowieza Forest Reserve is also special for being the home of large original European species of animals, like bison. It’s a haven for bird watchers too, and you can take tours guided by local ornithologists. Inside the forest, you’ll find the open-air Museum of Wooden Architecture, showcasing all kinds of traditional Polish wooden structures.

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If you’re wondering where to visit in Poland for the country’s most beautiful city, Gdansk is a top contender. It had the good fortune to remain virtually untouched by WWII, so most of this 17th-century Polish city is excellently preserved.

Poland’s ancient seaport

Gdansk’s prime location in a bay on the Baltic Sea made it Poland’s main seaport over the centuries. This part of the city has been painstakingly preserved, so you can walk through it and see some of its most ancient structures; the Prison Tower and the City Gates are two of these. You’ll also be able to stroll along avenues lined with original merchant houses.

WWII museum and record-holding church

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In Gdansk, you’ll find a very comprehensive Museum of the Second World War, with unusual exhibits like a German DKW motorbike and a Polish Sherman tank. There are many other authentic photos and genuine artefacts. You can also pay a visit to St. Mary’s Church, which is the largest all-brick church in the world. The Gdansk Nowy Port Lighthouse is another noteworthy tourist attraction in the city.

While that only scratches the surface of the wonderful Polish city, you can find out more by reading our Gdansk travel guide .

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Torun makes it onto the list of the best places to visit in Poland due to its remarkable age and its connection with one of history’s most important scientific figures. It’s also the home of gingerbread in Poland.

The birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus

Few would dispute the immense contribution that Copernicus made to our understanding of our solar system. You’ll find the house where he was born in Torun. It’s now a museum showcasing the life and work of this illustrious astronomer. It’s an absorbing trip into the very origins of astronomy.

Step back into mediaeval times

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Torun was founded around the 8th century, which easily makes it one of the most ancient cities in Poland. It’s well worth getting a sense of this history by visiting the Central Marketplace district and the Old Quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you’ll find original 16th-century buildings with wooden beams and many Gothic houses too. The square also remained intact during WWII, leaving its original structures as they always were.

Bake some classic Polish gingerbread

Poland has its own unique version of gingerbread that you must taste. To find out more about it and do some sampling, visit the Muzeum Piernika. This is a museum that’s entirely dedicated to the art and history of Polish gingerbread. You can even try your hand at baking some yourself and see how you stack up against the lifelong local experts.

8. Bieszczady Mountains

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This is a very long Polish mountain range that stretches all the way to Slovakia and Ukraine. It has a unique ecosystem only found in this Carpathia region: the mountains are covered by a type of meadow that only occurs here, known as polonyna.

The ideal Polish destination for hiking

The highest points of the Bieszczady Mountains are lofty, but their slopes and valleys offer easy hiking for all ages. You can easily hike to the top of the tallest peak in the range, Polonyna Wetlinska. It’s roughly 2,255 metres high (about 7,400 feet) in height, and getting up there is a gentle climb along the most popular meadow trail. This will only take you about 2 hours.

A protected biosphere

A cluster of tents on a campsite bordered by trees, with a town in the distance.

Because of its unique ecosystem, a large part of the Bieszczady Mountains belongs to the UNESCO East Carpathian Biosphere Reserve. This is where wolves, bison and brown bears roam freely in their untouched natural habitat. It also has a huge indigenous beech forest. Visiting the mountains is a good way to get in touch with the wilder natural side of Poland.

9. The Isle of Usedom

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This is a picturesque island in the Baltic Sea that’s jointly owned by Poland and Germany. It’s known as the “sun island”, as it receives so many hours of sunlight during the year. This makes it a sought-after tourist destination in northern Poland.

Beaches, resorts and summer sports

The Isle of Usedom is a summer playground for local Poles, Germans and other European visitors alike. Far less well known than most other European resort areas, like those in the south of France or on the Aegean, it’s a real hidden gem. Its soft white beaches and relatively warm water attract many thousands of tourists each year. The region is also a centre for water sports and other aquatic activities.

Gardens and local landmarks

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You’ll also find a wonderful private botanical garden on the Isle of Usedom. There are many other landscaped gardens on the island too, and remember to visit some of the many small nature reserves and lakes. These can be found spread out across the entire island.

The remains of the Karnin Lift railway bridge provide a tourist attraction for those who are that way inclined. It’s on the German side of the island. The bridge has now become a historic symbol of engineering in Germany. You can also visit the old Dannenfeldt Mausoleum.

10. Bialystok

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Bialystok is a Polish city to visit if you’re into architecture. It has hundreds of historical buildings, some of them elaborately ornate.

Branicki Palace and Kosciuszko Market Square

Branicki Palace is arguably the most eminent piece of architecture in Bialystok. It’s a huge country estate, originally built by a businessman who fancied becoming the king of Poland. Kosciuszko Market Square offers a delightful experience sitting in a cosy coffee shop in the midst of ornate period townhouses. You can also visit the smaller Hasbach Palace.

Explore more with KAYAK

Once you’ve visited Poland, you can start planning your next holiday with KAYAK. We can guide you to the best places to visit in Switzerland , for instance. Or travel closer to home and explore the best places to visit in Ireland . For a Mediterranean island holiday, read about the best places to visit in Crete . If you want a more exotic holiday, check out the best places to visit in Japan .

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21 Best Places to Visit in Poland

Wondering what are the best places to visit in Poland?

Poland might not be the first place that comes to mind when you’re thinking about your next spectacular vacation experience. There are a lot best places to visit in Poland.

With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture, this undiscovered jewel of Central Europe has been subtly capturing the hearts of tourists.

The resounding response to the question of whether Poland is worthwhile travel is a resounding yes!

The numerous attractions that make Poland a must-see destination are highlighted in this guide. Here are the best places to visit in Poland.

Table of Contents

Main Attractions: Wawel Castle, Main Market Square, St. Mary’s Basilica

Background: Krakow, with its medieval allure, stands as a jewel in Poland’s crown. The Wawel Castle, perched majestically on Wawel Hill, tells tales of kings and legends.

The vibrant Main Market Square buzzes with life and is home to St. Mary’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture adorned with the stunning Altarpiece of Veit Stoss. There are just so many things to do in Krakow that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Main Attractions: Royal Castle, Lazienki Park, Warsaw Uprising Museum

Background: Warsaw’s story is one of resilience and rejuvenation.

Devastated during World War II, the city rose from the ashes with a determination to rebuild.

The reconstructed Royal Castle proudly showcases its rich history, while Lazienki Park provides a serene retreat.

The Warsaw Uprising Museum pays homage to the city’s fight for freedom.

Main Attractions: Long Market, St. Mary’s Church, European Solidarity Centre

Background: Gdansk’s maritime history and role in shaping Europe’s destiny are entwined with its cobbled streets.

The Long Market, lined with colorful merchant houses, leads to the imposing St. Mary’s Church.

Gdansk also played a significant part in the Solidarity movement, symbolized by the European Solidarity Centre.

Wroclaw

Main Attractions: Wroclaw Cathedral, Market Square, Ostrow Tumski

Background: Wroclaw, a city of islands and bridges, is a visual feast. The Wroclaw Cathedral’s stunning facade tells tales of the city’s spiritual journey.

The Market Square teems with energy, while Ostrow Tumski, the Cathedral Island, casts a serene spell with its historic charm.

Main Attractions: Gubalowka Mountain, Tatra National Park, Krupowki Street

Background: Zakopane , nestled in the Tatra Mountains, is an adventurer’s paradise. Gubalowka Mountain offers sweeping views, while Tatra National Park boasts hiking trails for every skill level.

Krupowki Street bustles with the spirit of the highlanders, offering a taste of local culture.

Auschwitz-Birkenau

Main Attractions: Auschwitz I, Auschwitz II-Birkenau, Memorial and Museum

Background: Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau is a solemn pilgrimage, honoring the memory of Holocaust victims. Auschwitz I, a former concentration camp, and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, an extermination camp, stand as stark reminders of humanity’s darkest hours.

The Memorial and Museum ensure that the stories are never forgotten.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Main Attractions: St. Kinga’s Chapel, Underground Lakes, Salt Sculptures

Background: The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a subterranean masterpiece carved by generations of miners.

St. Kinga’s Chapel, adorned with salt chandeliers and sculptures, is a sight to behold. Underground lakes reflect a surreal world, and salt sculptures showcase the miners’ artistic prowess.

Malbork Castle

Main Attractions: Grand Master’s Palace, Tower of Torture, Amber Museum

Background: Malbork Castle, the largest brick castle globally, embodies the might of the Teutonic Knights.

The Grand Master’s Palace whispers tales of medieval splendor, while the Tower of Torture tells a chilling history. The Amber Museum reflects the region’s treasures.

Bialowieza Forest

Main Attractions: Bialowieza National Park, European Bison Reserve, King’s Oak

Background: Bialowieza Forest, a UNESCO-listed site, offers a glimpse into Europe’s ancient wilderness.

The European bison roams freely, while the King’s Oak stands as a living witness to centuries of growth. The forest’s tranquility and biodiversity make it a nature lover’s haven.

Main Attractions : Lublin Castle, Old Town, and Majdanek Concentration Camp.

Background : The Old Town in Lublin, which has been preserved, is a treasure trove of architectural marvels.

While the moving Majdanek Concentration Camp memorializes the horrors of the Holocaust and serves as a reminder to value peace and humanity, Lublin Castle’s towers stand as keepers of history.

Main Attractions : Old Market Square, Imperial Castle, and Cathedral Island are the main attractions in Poznan, a thriving cultural hub.

Background : Poznan’s Old Market Square, where the fabled billy goats butt heads at noon, is the city’s beating center.

While Cathedral Island radiates spiritual tranquillity in the middle of the Warta River, the Imperial Castle’s grandness echoes stories of rulers.

Ojcow National Park

Main Attractions : Pieskowa Skala Castle, Pradnik Valley, and Hercules’ Club

Background : The limestone cliffs, lush valleys, and secret caverns of Ojcow National Park are a natural wonderland.

A touch of medieval elegance is added by Pieskowa Skala Castle, and the Hercules’ Club rock formation enables you to feel a connection to the prehistoric surroundings.

Szczecin

Main Attractions : Maritime Majesty The Chrobry Embankment, Szczecin Philharmonic, and Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes are the city’s top attractions.

Background : Along the Chrobry Embankment, where ships recount tales of sea voyages, Szczecin’s maritime heritage is celebrated.

The historical legacy and cultural vitality of the city are enhanced by the Szczecin Philharmonic and the Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes.

Bieszczady Mountains

Main Attractions : Solina Reservoir, Arlamow, and Tarnica Peak

Background : For an escape into pristine wilderness, choose the Bieszczady Mountains.

The thermal springs in Arlamow offer comfort while the serene waters of the Solina Reservoir contrast with the untamed surroundings.

Hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of the area from Tarnica Peak.

Czestochowa

Main Attractions : Black Madonna, Pauline Fathers’ Monastery, Jasna Gora Monaster

Background : The Jasna Gora Monastery, which houses the famous Black Madonna image, embodies the spiritual significance of Czestochowa.

Many pilgrims come here in search of comfort and motivation. The Pauline Fathers’ Monastery gives the spiritual haven a touch of history.

Main Attractions : Manufaktura, Piotrkowska Street, and Museum of Art

Background : Lodz, a former industrial center, has become a haven for artists.

A renovated factory complex called Manufaktura is now a center for retail and culture.

The varied art and cuisine along Piotrkowska Street reflect the city’s transformation.

Main Attractions : Lakeside Tranquility Wigry National Park, Suwalki Landscape Park, and Arkadia Park.

Background : The tranquil surroundings of Suwalki call for leisure by the lakeshores.

The pure splendor of Wigry National Park is home to a wide variety of plants and animals.

The story of natural marvel is continued in Arkadia Park and Suwalki Landscape Park.

Kazimierz Dolny

Main Attractions : Bohemian Charm Top Attractions: Vistula River, Market Square, and Castle Ruins

Background : Kazimierz Dolny’s Market Square, which is dotted with galleries and boutiques, perfectly captures the bohemian atmosphere of the city.

Ruins of a castle offer a glimpse into the past, while the Vistula River gives this picture-perfect town a tinge of romance. Kazimierz Dolny is really one of the best places to visit in Poland.

Main Attractions : Vang Stave Church, Wang Church, and Karkonosze National Park

Background : The Karkonosze Mountains’ town of Karpacz is picturesque all year long. The elegant timber architecture of Wang Church contrasts with the untamed surroundings.

The trails in Karkonosze National Park reveal beautiful views, and Vang Stave Church adds a dash of charm from Norway.

Main Attractions : Orthodox Cathedral, Branicki Palace, and Kociuszko Market Square.

Background : The lavish Branicki Palace is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture and is located in the cultural hub of Bialystok.

A hive of activity, Kociuszko Market Square is home to the Orthodox Cathedral, which honors the city’s rich heritage.

Main Attractions : The Sandomierz Old Town, Opatowska Gate, and Sandomierz Castle are the city’s main medieval marvels.

Background : The enchanting medieval beauty of Sandomierz, a hidden gem, draws tourists. Historic structures and artisan stores fill the winding pathways of the Sandomierz Old Town.

Sandomierz Castle whispers tales of its aristocratic past, while Opatowska Gate remains as a portal to the past.

This charming village is gently cradled by the Vistula River, which invites you to enter its historic embrace.

Best places to visit in Poland: FAQ’s

Is krakow or warsaw better.

Whether Krakow or Warsaw is “better” will depend on your choices and the type of vacation experience you’re seeking.

Both cities are charming in their own special way and present various facets of Polish history and culture.

What is the best time to visit Poland?

Poland is best visited in the spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October), when the weather is nice and there are fewer tourists around.

The summer season is also well-liked, particularly for festivals and outdoor activities.

How many days are enough for Poland?

While you may get a flavor of Poland in a week, 10 to 14 days would be excellent to allow you to see the main cities and take in some of the country life.

Is Poland cheap to vacation?

Poland provides outstanding value for money in comparison to several Western European nations.

It is a place that is affordable in terms of lodging, dining, and transportation.

What is the cheapest month to go to Poland?

Off-peak season, which runs from November to March, may result in cheaper hotel and airfare rates.

However, be aware that some attractions might operate with shortened hours or not at all during this period.

Do they speak English in Poland?

Yes, especially in big cities and popular tourist destinations, English is commonly spoken. In general, talking with locals won’t be a problem.

Which currency do they use in Poland?

The Polish Zloty (PLN) is the currency used in Poland. For the best rates, it is advised to exchange money at banks or authorized exchange facilities.

Why is Poland so famous?

Poland is well known for its fascinating history, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural legacy.

Poland’s history is an essential component of European history, from the country’s association with historical giants like Copernicus and Chopin to its fortitude throughout World War II.

The Wrap-Up: 21 best places to visit in Poland in 2023

Poland is an alluring travel destination that offers a distinctive fusion of history, culture, and natural beauty.

It’s no surprise that Poland is becoming known as a place that travelers must visit with its bustling cities, magnificent scenery, and friendly environment.

Whether you want to go skiing in Zakopane, stroll through the picturesque streets of Krakow, or think back on the past at Auschwitz-Birkenau, Poland has a variety of activities to offer.

Pack your bags, get ready for an extraordinary vacation, and get set to discover Poland’s top 21 destinations in 2023.

In this wonderful nation, your next extraordinary journey awaits.

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25 Amazing Places to Visit in Poland

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: September 30, 2018

Categories Poland , Travel Inspiration

Home / Europe / Poland / 25 Amazing Places to Visit in Poland

There are lots of interesting and beautiful places to visit in Poland, and it’s a destination that you can travel to 365 days a year. Every season has something special to offer visitors who come here.

I love Poland, and I’ve traveled quite a lot around the country, but there are of course a lot of places that I’ve yet to discover. However, to make things easier for other visitors, I’ve made this list with 25 places to visit in Poland.

I think this list is a great start when planning your trip! The places aren’t ranked in any particular order, and they’re just numbered as a reference to the list of 25 Amazing places to Visit in Poland.

1. Tatra Mountain

Situated in the far south at the Polish-Slovakian border, the Tatras Mountain Range is a destination that everyone should visit at least once in their life. The Natural beauty here is breathtaking, and no wonder it has earned the UNESCO biosphere title.

The Tatras can compete with most places around the world, and here you can go hiking and skiing throughout the year.

2. Zamosc

Zamość is a unique example of a Renaissance town in Central Europe, and it was designed and built as the “ideal town” in reference to the Italian theories. It’s listed as a UNESCO heritage site, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Poland if you like history and architecture.

The Old town is simply adorable and the houses are very charming.

Photo: Shutterstock

Another beautiful city in Poland with lots of history. Torun also happens to be the birthplace of the famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. It’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s often referred to as the “Krakow of the North”.

In Torun, you can also try the famous gingerbread.

4. The Masurian Lake District

This place has long-time been a returning favorite among Polish people but has not become as famous among tourists. But the Masurian Lake District is truly beautiful and it’s home to more than 2000 lakes.

It’s a great place for camping, sailing, and hiking. Here you’ll also find the largest lake in Poland – Śniardwy.

On the northern coast along the Baltic Sea, one will find the historic city of Gdansk. It’s known as the birthplace of Poland’s Solidarity movement and throughout history, it has been of great importance.

Go for a stroll in the harbor and old town. Sit down for a beer and some delicious Polish food.

6. Bialowieza Forest

An enchanted forest at the Polish and Belarusian border. This forest is considered one of the last vestiges of virgin woodland in Europe, and it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Poland for nature lovers.

The forest is also home to the largest herd of the endangered European Bison, also known as wisent.

Where : In Eastern Poland, about 3 hours driving from Warsaw.

I discovered this beautiful city by accident when I found cheap flights from Malmö to Poznan with Ryanair. The flight tickets cost 4 euros one way, so it was a no-brainer to travel there.

I instantly fell in love with the old town of Poznan, what a beauty!

8. Wieliczka Salt Mine

It’s one of the oldest salt mines and what makes it even more unique is the fact that there’s a “city” down in the Salt mine, where the workers have carved out chapels and sculptures.

Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction, and one could also get married down in Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Where : About 25 minutes driving from Krakow.

Hel Peninsula looks nothing like hell, quite the opposite, and it’s a popular summer destination. Here you can find some of the best beaches in Poland, although it tends to get crowded during July and August.

Where : Near Gdansk and Gdynia.

Krakow is one of the most famous cities in Poland, and for a good reason. While many other Polish cities were destroyed to the grounds during World War 2, Krakow saw little destruction in terms of buildings being destroyed.

The city is well-preserved and has many interesting points of interest. From here, it’s also easy to visit places such as Auschwitz-Birkenau, The Salt Mine, Ojcow National Park, and other nearby cities.

Krakow is a sprawling city these days, filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and visitors year round. The old historic center is also listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.

11. Lake Morskie Oko

This is the largest lake in the Tatra Mountains, and perhaps also the most beautiful one, with the majestic reflections.

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Poland – Photo: Shutterstock

12. Zakopane

Perhaps the most famous mountain town in Poland, situated in the Tatras. Here you can immerse yourself in the local culture, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings and ski slopes.

Photo: Marcin Krzyzak / Shutterstock.com

13. Kaplica Czaszek

This Skull Chapel might be one of the scariest and most peculiar places to visit in Poland. I’ve visited another Bone Church in the Czech Republic , and it was a fascinating experience.

Where : About 2 hours driving from Wroclaw.

One of the scariest places to visit in Poland – Photo: Lidia Mukhamadeeva / Shutterstock.com

14. Słowiński National Park

The Sand dunes at Slowinski National Park is worth a visit, and you can find many beautiful beaches here. And yes, Poland also has a real desert named Bledow desert, which might also be worth a visit, although it’s not located in Slowinski National Park.

Where : About 2 hours driving from Gdansk, along with the Baltic Sea.

15. Wroclaw

Another fantastic Polish city that everyone should visit at least once. Wroclaw is perhaps my all-time favorite, and it was named as the cultural capital of Europe back in 2016.

The old town is exquisite and one of the best things to do here is just strolling around. Vegetarians and Vegans who visit will also be happy about the abundance of Vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Wroclaw.

16. Kamieńczyk Waterfall

Poland might not be famous to have many spectacular waterfalls, but Kamienczyk Waterfall is definitely spectacular and worth a visit. It’s very close to Karpacz as well.

Where : 2 hours drive from Wroclaw.

17. Malbork

This castle is a UNESCO heritage site, that can also title itself as the largest castle in the world by land area. It gives a glimpse of Medieval times and will be very interesting for architecture lovers and history buffs.

Where : About 50 minutes driving from Gdansk.

18. Rysy

Want to climb the highest mountain in Poland? Then you should plan a trip to Rysy, which is situated on the Polish-Slovakian border. There are 3 peaks that you can climb, and the highest one is 2 503 meters above the sea.

Where : in the Tatra Mountains in Southern Poland.

Photo: Juraj Kamenicky / Shutterstock.com

19. Bieszczady Mountains

Tatra mountains often get the most attention from tourists visiting Poland, but Bieszczady mountains is also a lovely place to go for hiking and enjoying nature.

Some of the animals roaming these mountains include brown bears, wild wolf packs and even the endangered European bison.

20. Krzywy Las – The Crooked Forest

Ever seen a crooked forest before? Krzywy Las as it’s named in Polish is located in Nowe Czarnowo, about 50 minutes driving from Poznan, in the western part of the country.

21. Lake Wielki Staw

Another beautiful lake in the Tatras Mountains. It’s the deepest and longest lake in the Tatras, and the view from above is simply amazing. The Lake has about 13 million m³ of water, and the warmest temperature recorded was 11.2 °C (52.2 °F).

It’s a not a place you go for a relaxing swim unless you’re made of ice!

Where : In the High Tatras.

22. Czocha castle

This castle is one of the best places to visit in Poland if you’re a Harry Potter fan. At Czocha Castle, you can get attended to a wizard school and live out your dreams from the famous books and movies that have gained millions of fans worldwide.

23. Ojcowski Park Narodowy

Another beautiful national park in Poland, filled with diversity and amazing scenery. The Ojcow National Park is just a short drive from Krakow, and one of the places of interest include “the White Hand Rock” and the various caves and canyons.

You can also visit the famous Kazimierz Castle, where King Casimir the Great used to live.

Where : About 30 minutes from Krakow.

24. Karpacz

A famous and beloved Ski-destination nestled in the Karkonosze Mountains. Karpacz has everything for a perfect family getaway, and nature lovers will enjoy this area year round.

Photo: aaabbbccc / Shutterstock.com

Last but not least, we have the capital of Poland, Warsaw. A bustling city that gets more modern each year that passes.

In Warsaw, you will find shopping, artistic metro stations, a beautiful old town, top restaurants and basically everything you can wish for from an awesome capital city in Europe!

Top 10 Best Places to visit in Poland

In my opinion, these are the top 10 places to visit in Poland.

Tatra Mountains
Bialowieza Forest
Masurian Lake District
Lake Morskie Oko

Do you agree? Share your own favorite places to visit in Poland in the comment section!

Book Your Trip

So, now that you know about all these beautiful places to visit in Poland, it’s time to book your trip!

See the best deals on hotels
Find the cheapest flights here
Get $40 discount on Airbnb

Poland is an incredible destination where you can spend weeks or even months. If you know some more beautiful places to visit in Poland, feel free to share in the comment section!

Saturday 27th of July 2019

I also spent a really good time at Krakow during my last summer holidays and we came back with unforgettable memories.

Wednesday 29th of May 2019

Hi are we able to travel to all these places via public transport?

Alexander Waltner

Friday 14th of June 2019

Hello, yes most likely. Bus service and trains are great in Poland. However, I do recommend renting a car if you want to visit as many places as possible since then you won't have to rely on the time schedule of buses or trains.

Greg & Joanne

Friday 4th of January 2019

we strongly recommend you to raft on the river Dunajec in Pieniny Mountains.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlY0rHKeQK4

-Greg and Joanne

Monday 1st of October 2018

Moszna Castle - http://artophilia.com/articles/moszna-castle-in-poland-which-is-worthy-harry-potter/ specially in end of April And begoning of May

Exploring the world, one place at a time.

15 best places to visit in poland in 2023.

Post published: July 30, 2021
Post category: Poland
Post author: Charu Goyal

Poland is a beautiful country in Central Europe that is often overlooked due to the presence of more popular destinations nearby. But consisting of many UNESCO World Heritage sites and captivating cities, it is a country that has a wide range of must-visit places to see. If you are looking to explore more hidden gems in Europe, then Poland should definitely be on your bucket list.

I visited Poland a few years ago in the summer and was pleasantly surprised by all the sights it had to offer. From historical locations related to the Second World War, to natural gems like the Tatra Mountains and the Bieszczady National Park; there really is something to interest every type of traveller there. With an array of colourful old towns and mesmerising castles, Poland is also perfect for photographers and Instagrammers.

So in order to bring you the best of Poland, I asked some of my fellow travel bloggers to recommend a Polish destination that they love. In this article, you will find the 15 top places to visit in Poland this year. Of course, this is not to say that there aren’t any more beautiful corners in Poland. The country has a lot more to offer and I would love to go back and explore more of it someday!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using any of those links, I may get a small commission. Thank you for your continued support!

Table of Contents

Recommended by Charu from Travel with CG

When thinking about the most beautiful places to see in Poland, Warsaw is that one name that usually pops first in my mind. Located at a distance of nearly 260 km from the Baltic Sea in east-central Poland, it is both the Polish capital and the largest city in the country.

Boosting a plethora of Instagrammable spots that were largely rebuilt after the war, the city of Warsaw is also known as the Phoenix city. In fact, its picturesque Old Town was reconstructed brick by brick with the help of the local citizens who worked tirelessly (free-of-cost) to put the worst behind them. Today, that same Old Town is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage site.

When visiting Warsaw, make sure to spend a morning exploring the quaint alleys of its Old Town. If you are an early riser, then you might even find it all to yourself before the numerous restaurants in its market square open doors. Then, once the crowd starts rolling in, make your way to the top of Taras Widokowy Tower and to enjoy an unobstructed view that is hard to come by in global cities like Warsaw.

Along with admiring the colourful buildings of the Old Town, The Royal Castle of Warsaw , and the Palace of Culture and Science from a distance; the observation deck at Taras Widokowy Tower also gives a bird’s eye perspective of Nowy Swiat Street . Being a part of the Royal route of Warsaw, the Nowy Swiat Street is one of the main historic thoroughfares of the city. It is also home to several restaurants, shops and bars – offering plenty of choice to travellers visiting the city.

If you like basing yourself in centrally located accommodations, then properties situated in the Sródmiescie district of Warsaw can be a great choice for you. The Novotel Warszawa Centrum is a walking distance to many restaurants, shops and touristy places. Public transports like trams and buses are also available just outside it.

Warsaw is well-connected to most international destinations via the city’s two airports. If travelling from other major European cities, then it is also easily accessible by trains and buses .

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One of the best places to visit in Poland has to be Krakow. This city in the south of Poland is the second-largest in the country. It consistently shows up in lists of the most beautiful European cities, and its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Wawel is a citadel in the Old Town and houses the Wawel Cathedral and the Wawel Royal Castle which is home to several museums. On the main market square, you will find St. Mary’s Basilica as well as the Cloth Hall , one of Krakow’s main landmarks. Another highlight of Krakow is the Kazimierz district , the former Jewish district. It is one of the liveliest neighbourhoods of Krakow and a great area for eating and drinking. Vegans don’t have to worry either, much of the vegan food in Krakow can be found right here in Kazimierz.

During the day Kazimierz is worth a visit for its museums, synagogues, churches, and Jewish cemeteries. In the neighbouring Podgórze district you can also visit the Schindler Factory to find out more about what life in Krakow was like under Nazi occupation.

Because Krakow is Poland’s most popular tourist destination, accommodation can fill up quite quickly. It’s not necessary to stay in the Old Town or Kazimierz . Since these are the city’s most interesting neighbourhoods, accommodation can be quite expensive there. A better option is the Podgórze district which is not only cheaper but also has excellent connections to the popular tourist attractions.

Krakow has its own international airport making it very easy to get to from various destinations. If you’re based in Central or Eastern Europe, then train or bus is a convenient alternative as well. Find best deals here .

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Located on Poland’s Baltic coast, Gdansk is a thriving city with a picturesque and beautiful Old Town. Wandering down Dlugi Targ (or the Long Market) is the first thing to do on arrival, as it’s the main street in the Old Town and will help you get your bearings.

Spend some time exploring the beautiful streets of the Old Town, and make sure to see Neptune’s Fountain , which was first built in 1633. For the best view of the Old Town, head to St. Mary’s Basilica and climb the 400+ steps up to the tower. Stroll along the Motlawa River , where you can see the Crane , an icon of the city that has been reconstructed several times.

You can’t visit Gdansk without learning about the Solidarity (Solidarność) movement and Lech Walesa. The best place for this is the excellent Solidarity Museum , located in the European Centre for Solidarity. You can discover the origins of the Solidarity movement, which is an independent labour union that was formed in 1980 in Gdansk.

Another museum worth visiting is the Museum of the Second World War , which focuses on Poland’s struggle during the devastating war. Don’t miss the view from Gradowa Hill – it’s a great place to watch a sunset over Gdansk.

There’s plenty to see outside of Gdansk as well – as part of the Tri-City region, the cities of Gdynia and Sopot are easy to get to, particularly if you want to visit the sea. Malbork Castle is a popular day trip from Gdansk, with easy access by train.

There is a wealth of accommodations to stay in Gdansk to suit every budget, and the city is served by various budget airlines, as well as train and bus connections across Poland.

Recommended by Zoe from Together in Transit

One city that should not be missed from the best places to visit in Poland list is the city of Gdynia . This city makes up the official Tri-City, three cities in total combining Gdynia with Sopot and Gdansk. Gdynia is mostly known for its port and it’s easily reachable by driving or a short train journey from Gdansk.

Focusing on the port, you can visit a wartime destroyer ship called ORP Błyskawica or a fully-rigged sailing ship called Dar Pomorza . These are great for those interested in history, but also sailing. Visiting these with the Polish National Maritime Museum is perfect for an afternoon in the port.

Head next to the sandy beach area, where you can walk all the way along the calming water coast to the Gdynia cliffs. You should head to Orłowo , a beautiful spot that has a lovely pier. Alternatively, you can stay in the beach area of Gdynia for relaxation and visit one of the many restaurants selling freshly prepared local food. For other things to do, you can enjoy a boat trip to Hel or Gdansk, hike above the cliff area, shop at the huge shopping mall or explore the Emigration Museum .

For a place to stay and dream the night away, book a stay at Apartamenty Na Fali , which is a perfect walking distance from both the city and the beach, and has free parking. The area is also very safe and there is a pretty viewpoint near the port.

Gdynia can be reached via direct trains and buses from Warsaw . Alternatively, you can also fly into Gdansk and take a taxi or public transport from there. The Gdansk Lech Walesa airport is around 22 km from Gdynia.

Recommended by Or from My Path in the World

If you’re looking for an alternative city break in Poland, you’ll surely love Poznan . It’s not that Poland is a very crowded and overly touristy destination, but the undiscovered Poznan is definitely a refreshing choice if you’ve already visited popular cities like Warsaw and Gdansk. It has everything you need for a weekend getaway, from beautiful landmarks; to gardens, cute cafes, markets, and much more.

Start with wandering through the Old Town , where you’ll find landmarks like the Old Town Hall , the Royal Castle , and the gorgeous, pink St. Stanislaus Parish Church . This is also where you can visit some museums like the Croissant Museum (dedicated to a local delicacy), an Archaeological Museum , and a Museum of Musical Instruments . While roaming the Old Town’s colourful streets, don’t miss out on some of the city’s most adorable cafes – including Weranda, In a Cup, Lavenda, and E. Wedel (a chocoholic’s heaven).

Next, a quick tram ride will take you east to Cathedral Island , where you’ll find the oldest cathedral in Poland (dating back to the 10th century) and a cute little neighbourhood called Srodka, where you can feast on some amazing pierogi at Na Winklu and check out the colorful 3D Mural Śródka.

On the other side of the Old Town, head to the photogenic Imperial Castle , enjoy a local market called Rynek Jeżycki, or take the tram to get the serene botanical gardens, which are completely free to visit and are perfect for a morning stroll.

Poznan is easily reachable by international and national flights. Though you can also get there by train from Warsaw, Wroclaw, Lodz, Bydgoszcz, and even Berlin.

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Wroclaw is one of the most underrated yet beautiful cities in Europe. If you’re looking for an interesting city with plenty to do, great shopping and stunning architecture, you’ll love Wroclaw. It is the capital city of Lower Silesia, situated in the southwest of Poland. It is a vibrant student city with great nightlife and an excellent food scene.

Visit Rynek , Wroclaw’s historic market square surrounded by elegant townhouses painted in the different colours of the rainbow. In the centre of Rynek stands the Gothic style old city hall featuring a large astronomical clock. But the best way to enjoy Rynek is to sit in one of the beer gardens sipping a Polish craft beer while people-watching. If you’re in need of some retail therapy, you’ll love Wroclaw – the city has over 18 extensive shopping galleries!

Head to the Royal Palace that today houses a Historical Museum of Wroclaw to find out the city’s turbulent history. And if you’re a history enthusiast, check out Panorama Raclawicka , a rotund building with a unique display of paintings entirely devoted to one of the greatest battles in Polish history.

You can stay at Hotel Monopol , which is situated right in the city’s heart, just a few minutes away from Rynek and a range of good restaurants. Hotel Monopol has a modern décor, and guests can enjoy a complimentary spa including a range of indulging treatments and an indoor pool.

Wroclaw is situated at a 4-hour drive from Warsaw. You can rent a car in Warsaw or use public transportation to get there. There are plenty of trains and buses leaving multiple times a day.

7. LODZ

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Lodz is a post-industrial city in Poland, and it’s also the 3rd largest city in the country. Lodz will be interesting to any traveller because of its mix of old, red brick post-industrial buildings, modern architecture and many open green spaces. Lodz has something for everyone: museums, parks, theatres, churches.

Lodz is definitely one of the most underrated cities in Poland. During the Communist times, Lodz was dull – grey buildings were everywhere, and the air was polluted from smoke coming from the textile factories. Now all the factories are closed, and 19th-century buildings are beautifully clean, boasting last century’s red brickworks and adopted for shopping centres, museums and housing estates.

One of the most successful adaptations is Manufactura . What used to be the biggest textile factory – it was so big it had internal streets with names – right now is a shopping and entertainment centre with an art museum, theatres, cinemas and more. On the big piazza in summer you can play beach volleyball, and in winter you can skate.

Lodz is built on a rigid street grid (almost like New York) where the main axis is the pedestrian Piotrkowska street, making it easy to navigate and commute. There are many things to do in Lodz , making it the perfect destination to visit when you are in Poland.

Lodz is connected to Warsaw via road and public transport. You can fly into Warsaw’s Chopin International Airport and then take a direct train or bus from Warsaw to Lodz-Fabryczna.

8. ZAKOPANE

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Another must-see place to visit in Poland is unquestionably Zakopane. A resort town in the southern end of Poland, Zakopane sits at the foot of the famous Tatra Mountains.

As a result, some of the most popular things to do in Zakopane are winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Travellers visiting Zakopane in the warmer months won’t be disappointed though, as there are many gorgeous hiking trails and mountain-climbing opportunities in the region too.

Besides being a base for a plethora of outdoor adventurous activities, the town of Zakopane itself is also an attraction. Beautiful turn-of-the-20th century wooden chalets dot the quaint streets of Zakopane, offering visitors a completely immersive experience. Visiting Zakopane is unlike visiting any other main city in Poland (such as Warsaw or Krakow).

When visiting Zakopane, do not forget to try Oscypek , a smoked cheese made using salted sheep milk that is available only in the Tatra Mountains region of Poland. If you fall in love with it, you can also visit Muzeum Oscypka Zakopane , a museum dedicated to this Polish cheese where you can also make your own Oscypek.

There are many places to stay in Zakopane, but none is as luxurious as Aries Hotel & Spa . This 5-star hotel in Zakopane will show you some of the finer things in life.

Getting to Zakopane is fairly easy, but visitors must be aware that it does not have its own airport. Typically, travellers will fly into Krakow’s airport and either take the train or bus to Zakopane . Both ways are efficient and affordable.

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Poland is fast becoming one of the top places to visit in Europe and for good reason. A wonderful mix of history, culture, epic landscapes and delicious food – there is something for everyone in Poland.

For people looking for some beautiful, relaxing time in both the summer and winter, Wisla may be the place for you to visit. Located in Southern Poland, Wisla has always been a popular skiing destination for the Polish people. With Poland now becoming a hot tourist destination, Wisla is the place to spend time hitting the slopes. With many ski chalets, ski runs and ski resorts you can find the perfect place to stay for your winter escape to Wisla.

Many people find the cost of spending time skiing in Poland a fraction of the cost of some of the bigger, more well-known resort-type towns in other areas of Europe.

In the summertime, you can spend time in what were snow-covered mountains and hike in the crisp, green forest that surrounds Wisla. There are plenty of hiking trails for all abilities with plenty that will challenge you and show you the pure beauty that is rural Poland.

Although a small town, you can find all that you will need in Wisla with supermarkets, convenience stores and even a wonderful small-town market. At the market, you can find traditional Tatra cheese, souvenirs, as well as summer and winter clothes.

Wisla is a beautiful place to spend some time if you want to see the smaller and more traditional Poland. It can be conveniently reached via direct trains from other Polish cities like Warsaw and Krakow. The journey time between Warsaw and Wisla is around 5 hours.

10. BIESZCZADY MOUNTAINS

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Bieszczady Mountains are one of the best places to visit in Poland. Why? They are less popular than the famous Zakopane and Tatra Mountains. That means the mountains are wild and you can have a more authentic experience when visiting there.

The highest peak of the Bieszczady Mountains is Tarnica, located right between Poland, Ukraine, and Slovakia. While hiking up, your carrier will “catch” the signal from all three countries! Bieszczady is famous for beautiful meadows located on top of the mountains known as poloniny. Some of the well-known ones are Polonina Wetlinska and Polonina Carynska.

One of the best places to visit in Bieszczady is Solina, a lovely artificial lake in the region. In the summer, you can swim in it or even sail surrounded by the breathtakingly beautiful mountains. Ustrzyki Dolne, Ustrzyki Gorne, and Polanczyk are some other worthwhile destinations in Bieszczady.

If you like trekking, these are the best peaks to reach: Smerek, Wielka Rawka, Mała Rawka, Przełęcz Wyżna, Reserve Sine Wiry, and of course Tarnica. Remember that there are no mountain hotels in Bieszczady, so you always need to go down to spend the night at your accommodation . While in Bieszczady, be sure to try authentic Polish food, such as pierogi (dumplings), fuczki (sauerkraut pancakes), and bigos.

If you have a car, it’s easy to get to Bieszczady from any place in Poland. Those traveling by public transport need to take a train, plane or bus to Rzeszow, then travel directly to Bieszczady (Sanok or Ustrzyki Dolne). It’s worth knowing that hitchhiking is still popular in this area of Poland.

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Torun is a picturesque city in Poland with brick-built red houses and a medieval flair. In fact, it has the best preserved medieval town centre in the country. UNESCO recognized its historical value and added it to the world heritage list. As if this was not enough, Torun is the place of birth of the great astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus that set the sun at the centre of the galaxy for the first time. The town is proud of this connection and references to the astronomer can be seen everywhere.

The heart of the city, the Old Town Market Square, dates back to the 13th century. The reddish Town Hall with its Clock Tower became the symbol of the city. But this is not the oldest site in Torun. The city is also home to the ruins of a Teutonic Castle older than Malbork. During medieval times, Torun was an important stronghold. A proof of this is that it has not one, but two defensive walls. Parts of them, as well as nine of the old gates and towers still stand today. The most Instagram-worthy of them is the leaning one. Curiously, contrary to the one in Pisa, this is pretty much overlooked.

Torun is also known for a unique kind of gingerbread baked locally since medieval times, pierniki. One of the most memorable experiences while in town is to attend a workshop and learn hands-on how to prepare it. As pierniki is the culinary symbol of Torun, one can also taste all kinds of treats with a gingerbread inspired flavour: beer, vodka or ice-cream.

The closest airport to Torun is Bydgoszcz (BZG). But you can also fly into Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) and take a train or bus from there.

12. AUSCHWITZ

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Auschwitz Memorial Museum is a solemn and significant place to visit, more than it is an enjoyable experience.

The Museum is the preserved site of the biggest concentration camp built by the Nazis during World War II, and it serves as a memorial to all those who were tortured and killed there. It is estimated that 1.1 million people lost their lives at Auschwitz, mostly Jews from across Europe. For many people, visiting Auschwitz is an important act of remembrance of the Holocaust and the horrors of the Nazi regime.

When visiting Auschwitz, you will learn about the origins of the camp, how prisoners were treated and how the Nazis developed the final solution of exterminating Jews in the gas chambers. You will tour the barracks and other buildings at both the original site (Auschwitz I) and the extension at Birkenau (Auschwitz II). You’ll also see exhibits that demonstrate the scale and the horror of what occurred there.

It is heavy stuff, and it can be quite emotionally hard to deal with all the information you’ll be faced with. There are also some rules that you must adhere to when at the museum, so it is worth doing some research in advance so you know what to expect when visiting Auschwitz .

Many people visit Auschwitz as a day trip from nearby Krakow, so you can combine it with a city break there. If you don’t have your own car, you can get there from Krakow by bus, which takes around 1.5 hours, and you’ll be dropped off very close to the Museum.

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Some people like big cities, while others like to rest in the bosom of nature. Kielce is a place where you can visit interesting attractions, museums, and restaurants, and then find yourself in beautiful nature reserves or walk in the woods in just a few minutes. The city also has 1000 years of interesting history that you can learn while walking around it.

There are fascinating sites for fans of architecture, religious buildings, geology, the Jewish community and music. Among the places that should be seen in Kielce is The Palace of Krakow Bishops, the Kadzielnia reserve, the Geoeducation Center or the Market Square. However, the list is much longer.

Kielce is an excellent starting point for trips to the Świętokrzyskie Mountains and the surrounding region. In the area, you can find a variety of castles, palaces, museums and reserves that will surely appeal to tourists. Additionally, the city is a trade fair centre, so the accommodation infrastructure is very extensive. There are many hotels in the city centre . It is not a big city, so it is worth considering accommodation in the centre and walking to most places.

Kielce is conveniently located – almost halfway between Warsaw and Krakow. It is connected with the capital of Poland by an expressway and the route takes less than 2 hours.

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Lublin is one of the most underrated places to visit in Poland. A city that is often overlooked in favour of more famous tourist attractions. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Eastern Poland though with a rich history and a charming old town.

Lublin has always been an important trade hub with its strategic location near the borders with Belarus and Ukraine. As a result, it was a thriving and multicultural city. There was a large Jewish population as well as merchants coming from Lithuania, Ukraine and other neighbouring countries.

King Casimier the Great loved Lublin so much that he built a castle there and encircled the city with defensive walls. The Lublin castle is still one of the biggest attractions in the city. On top of a hill it offers beautiful views over Lublin. It is now home to the national museum and thus a great place to learn more about the city’s intriguing past.

The other top thing to do in Lublin is a visit to the city’s historic centre. The narrow-cobbled stone streets are lined with pastel coloured merchant homes. Entrance is through one of the remaining medieval gates and it is like stepping back in time. The oldest monuments go back all the way to the 13th century. Although relatively small, Lublin has one of the most picturesque old towns in Poland.

Lublin is connected to major Polish and Ukranian cities via an extensive rail network. There are several trains operating between Warsaw and Lublin every day. But if you are visiting from further away, then you can also take a connecting flight to Lublin from Warsaw Chopin Airport.

15. KSIAZ CASTLE

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Ksiaz Castle has to be seen to be believed. This beautiful multi-coloured castle sits mighty, on its banks, overlooking the Pelcznica River. Many castles in Poland have a history just like it. Built to house and protect a family, it standing tall until conquered and left in ruins before being found, rebuilt and made again into something to be marvelled at.

This is no different for Ksiaz Castle. It was once a mighty fortress, but then was left to ruin. During World War II, it was made into a possible home for Adolf Hitler with prisoners of war from local concentration camps doing much of the restorations and building the castle. They also built miles of tunnels under the castle.

Some of the tunnels are known but others are still not completely discovered after being damaged by the retreating army. For this reason, Ksiaz Castle has become well known for being involved in the search for the ‘Gold Train’. This train was believed to be hidden under the castle somewhere in one of the tunnels.

After World War II, the castle again went into ruin but now is being lovingly restored to its former glory and being exposed to all that want to visit. Many of the treasures that were stolen or ransacked from the castle are also slowly being returned to their former home, to be housed in the place where they belong.

Ksiaz Castle is at a distance of 70 km from Wroclaw. It can be easily reached by direct trains from Wroclaw to Wałbrzych or local ones from Świdnica to Wałbrzych. You can then take a local bus from outside the station to the castle or get a taxi.

I hope this guide about the best places to visit in Poland has given you some inspiration for your next Europe trip. Poland really is an incredible country to explore and I wish that more people decide to travel there in the near future!

If you have any questions about Poland or want to suggest another place for me to add to this list, then please feel free to leave a comment below. I love hearing from you!

Safe travels, Charu xx

Want to keep reading? You may like “ The Ultimate Warsaw, Poland Guide ” and “ The Ultimate Prague, Czech Republic Guide ” too.

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This Post Has 30 Comments

This is a very timely post because I’m heading to Poland later this month and am just now researching what to do! Now I’m even more excited than before for my upcoming trip. I’m still early in my exploration phase and haven’t even heard of many of these places before. Love it!

So happy to read that this was helpful, Katy. I hope your trip to Poland was amazing. Where all did you end up going then?

I didn’t know Poland had such interesting places! Thank you so much for the advice, loved it 🙂

Thank you, Una! Poland really feels like a hidden gem.

I have visited some of the places on your list. I really liked Warsaw – the history was so interesting. Your photos make the country look very colourful.

Thank you, Sharyn. I have only been to Warsaw myself and loved how colourful the Old Town was there. I hope to visit more places in this list to see all the other colourful cities!

Poland was one of my first trips in Europe and I loved it. I’m hoping to visit again at some point, maybe towards the end of this year. So thanks for the tips on what places to visit this time around!

My pleasure, Krista! I am really happy to read that Poland was one of the first countries that you explored in Europe. I hope more people give it a chance like that.

I’ve visited 4 places on this list: Warsaw, Krakow, Gdansk and Zakapone. I love Poland and would love to visit other places on your list soon.

That is amazing! I have been wanting to visit Gdansk and Krakow since so long. Hoping that we both get to explore more of this incredible country soon.

I’ve never visited Poland, these all sound wonderful!

You should! It is one of Europe’s underrated gems.

It’s really a great list! Still, so many great places to see in Poland. I make a bucket list of places by countires. I added Kielce to it from here. Ksiaz castle was already there but I still have not visited it. So many places, so little time! Thanks for sharing!

That sounds amazing, Anita! I am a big list maker as well so I am totally with you on that one. Hoping you can tick Kielce and Ksiaz castle off sometime soon 😊

Poland is already on my wish list and now I want to visit Poland even more. Hopefully I will visit Poland soon. Thanks for the tips!

My pleasure, Jasmina! Hope you can make a trip to Poland happen someday soon 😊

All these places look beautiful and interesting. I have only been to Warsaw, so I need to go back to Poland and check the other cities you’ve mentioned in this blog. Thank you for sharing 🙂

Me too, Cristina. I planned to see Krakow and Gdansk as well but unfortunately the rain gods had other plans when I was there.

Wow, adding to our list thanks!

So glad to read that, Michelle! Hope you can visit soon 🙂

Wow, I always knew Poland had plenty of interesting cities to explore, but I had no idea how much natural beauty was in the country! Zakopane is absolutely breathtaking. I would love to visit. Thank you for sharing!

Hey Brittany,

I am happy to read that you discovered something new about Poland from this post. Zakopane is breathtaking indeed. Wishing you can visit there one day 😊

I’ve only been to Krakow and Auschwitz before, so many beautiful places I’d love to visit in Poland!

Me too honestly! Krakow and Gdansk are so high on my list. Hoping we get to see more places in Poland in the near future. 💕

Great post! Krakow is one of my favourite cities in Europe and I’d love to explore more places in Poland.

Thank you, Rachel! Krakow looks beautiful, I would really like to visit there myself. Hope you get to see more of this beautiful country someday!

I feel Like Poland is so underrated! love the idea of the collaborative post so that we can have the best recommendations all in one place.

Right? I felt the same too when I visited. I hope more people can give Poland a chance, it really is so beautiful. Thank you for your comment, Emma!

This is so pretty! I was just looking at Christmas markets in Wroclaw and those look amazing too! Have you been to any of the markets there?

They do, don’t they? Unfortunately I haven’t been to Poland during Christmas time but I hope to make it happen in the coming years. Thank you for your kind words, Linnea 💖

Places To Visit in Poland

Here are the top 25 tourist places in poland.

1 out of 25 Places to visit in Poland 24 Tourist attractions

Warsaw is the capital of Poland and is a part of the Mazovia plane. The city is an amalgamation of the old and the new, the traditional and the modern, in terms of its architecture. Interestingly, it is said that Warsaw, together with Paris, Frankfurt, London and Barcelona, has the greatest number o...

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Krakow being one of the largest and oldest cities of Poland, is a perfect place for a cheap and easy weekend getaway from Germany. One can opt for the free walking tours for their old town krakow tour and it is totally worth it. The main sightseeing spots of the Old town include the St Mary's Basili...

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3 out of 25 Places to visit in Poland 3 Tourist attractions

Auschwtiz is a town which is present in the lesser known parts of Poland . This place is famous for the Aushwtiz concentration camp which was is a concentration camps by the Germans during second world war. This place is accesible from a nearby area called as Krakow by the means of bus as well as by...

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Mikolajki, located in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship of Poland, is a popular tourist destination. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque landscape of lakes, forests, and rolling hills. The main reason to visit Mikolajki is its abundance of outdoor activities such as sailing, winds...

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Krynica Zdroj is an amazing spa town located in the Beskid Sadecki mountain range in southern Poland. It is the largest Polish health resort and the most popular one in the country. It is also one of the oldest health resorts in Europe.

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Karpacz, a town in the Lower Silesian Voivodeship of Poland, is a popular tourist destination due to its breathtaking mountain scenery and abundance of outdoor activities. Located in the Karkonosze Mountains, the nearby Karkonosze National Park is an ideal location for hiking, biking, and skiing. To...

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Szczyrk is a picturesque mountain resort located in the Beskidy Mountains in southern Poland. It is known for its stunningly beautiful landscapes, perfect for outdoor activities. Tourists can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking. Szczyrk is also home to several lakes, including th...

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Szczawnica is a picturesque town located in the southeastern corner of Poland, close to the border of Slovakia. It is recognized as one of the most beautiful spa towns in the country and is popular among tourists due to its stunning landscape, mountain views, and health-focused atmosphere.

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Poznan is a vibrant city in the west of Poland, located on the banks of the Warta River. It's a great destination for those looking for a cultural and historical experience, as well as a vibrant nightlife. There are numerous historical buildings and monuments to explore, including the grand Imperial...

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Kielce, located in southern Poland, is a perfect destination for travelers looking for a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. Its historic town center is full of cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and grand monuments. Key tourist spots and attractions include the Kielce Cathedral, the Kiel...

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Wroclaw, the largest city in western Poland, is a vibrant and enchanting destination that is sure to captivate visitors with its unique history, culture, and beauty. Located on the banks of the Oder River, Wroclaw is the fourth-largest city in Poland and is an attractive destination for tourists.

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Krynica Morska is a seaside town located in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship region of Poland. It is a popular destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The prime attraction of Krynica Morska is its long stretches of white sandy beaches lined with lush pine forests. The town is home to ma...

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Jastarnia is a seaside resort situated in the Puck County in Poland. It is located at the tip of the Hel Peninsula, about 280 km from Warsaw. Blessed with a beautiful coastal scenery, visitors can enjoy the sun and sand along the beach, and take in the stunning views of the Gulf of Gdansk. Popular a...

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Zakopane, located in the foothills of the Tatra Mountains in southern Poland, is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. With its picturesque views, unique culture and stunning natural beauty, Zakopane is a must-visit destination in Poland. The main attraction here is the stunnin...

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I'm planning to visit Europe in late May for 1 week.

2. Czechia ( Prague )

3. Germany (Dresden, Berlin )

Please know if this itinerary is too ambitious, how many days should I stay in each place, what's the best way to move from place to place ( car , plane , train), restaurants recommendations in each city.

Yes, you are right, it is too ambitious for one week

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The total solar eclipse is just 3 days away: Where will clouds, storms spoil the view?

We're in the home stretch now: North America's much-ballyhooed total eclipse of the sun is now just a mere three days away.

The total eclipse will pass over parts of roughly a dozen U.S. states as it moves from Texas to Maine on the afternoon of April 8. Millions of people are expected to travel to see it, which will also attract scientists from across the country to study its unique effects on the Earth and its atmosphere .

The full total solar eclipse experience will plunge people along a narrow path into darkness midday, but people outside the path of totality can still use eclipse glasses (maybe free eclipse glasses ) to see the moon pass in front of the sun.

That is, if clouds don't get in the way.

Where are clear skies most likely?

Within the path of totality , the best chances for clear viewing are in "northern New England and from southern Missouri to central Indiana," the Weather Prediction Center said Friday.

The National Weather Service forecast office in Burlington, Vermont, said "sky cover is still looking mostly sunny for eclipse day on Monday." In New York State, the Albany office confirmed the good forecast: "We have good news for those wishing to view the eclipse. Very pleasant spring weather conditions arrive just in time for the start of the new work week and the day of the Great North American Solar Eclipse."

Where might clouds spoil the view?

Based on past weather patterns, the Hill Country of Texas was supposed to be the ideal location for eclipse viewing: Texas' typically sunny weather, major cities such as Austin and San Antonio that are ready for tourists, and location under the path of totality all combined to make it an easy recommendation for people willing to travel.

But those hopes appear to be dashed as of Friday.

The National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio said that widespread clouds are likely in that part of Texas Monday afternoon, and that "for now eclipse viewability through the cloud cover is expected to be poor."

In addition to clouds, AccuWeather says that portions of Texas will have to endure stormy weather on Monday: "Showers and drenching thunderstorms can occur across east Texas and the lower Mississippi Valley on Monday and slowly move northward into southern Oklahoma later in the day and night. Some of the heavier storms can produce flooding, hail, and brief strong wind gusts."

What about around the Great Lakes?

Elsewhere, the Weather Prediction Center said that "cloud cover in the path of totality is also possible for portions of Ohio, northwest Pennsylvania, and far western New York."

The weather service in Cleveland offered a modicum of hope: "Exact details for the April 8, 2024 eclipse remain uncertain, although confidence is medium to high that the area will not experience completely opaque/overcast skies."

What time is the solar eclipse?

The eclipse will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, but the exact time of the eclipse varies by where you are in its path. You can search by zip code to find the exact time for your location.

Monday’s solar eclipse path of totality may not be exact

A new map is projecting that the path of totality for Monday's solar eclipse may be narrower than experts previously believed. But if you're right on the edge of the path, don't go changing your plans just yet.

New amateur calculations suggest that widely-accepted path could be off by as much as just a few hundred yards. The potential shift in the eclipse's path is so miniscule, in fact, that a NASA spokesperson told the Detroit Free Press that the U.S. space agency won't be making any alterations to its own calculations.

So, even if the new calculation is more accurate, it’s unlikely to matter much for most of the millions of skygazers who hope to witness the first total solar eclipse in North America in seven years .

The new eclipse calculations come courtesy of John Irwin, a member of the team of amateur astronomers analyzing the celestial event for the Besselian Elements .

But don't fret too much: Not only is the new analysis not yet peer-reviewed, but NASA told the Free Press, part of the USA TODAY Network, that its predictions have not changed.

However, NASA spokesman Tiernan Doyle acknowledged "a tiny but real uncertainty about the size of the sun" could lead to a narrower eclipse path.

More celestial wonders on the way: 'Devil comet,' Lyrid meteor shower, pink moon also visible in April

The eclipse isn't the only sky spectacle to look forward to this month: From a "devil comet" to a stunning pink moon, a few other celestial events will give skygazers plenty of reason to look up in April once the total solar eclipse has come and gone Monday.

While the famed "devil comet" may be visible during the solar eclipse itself, astronomers say that the celestial body will be best sighted on April 21. That's the day that the comet, officially known as 12P/Pons-Brooks , will make its closest approach to the sun.

The comet earned its demonic nickname from its distinctive tail that resembles horns.

The Lyrid meteor shower will also make its annual appearance this month, with its peak on April 21-22. The Lyrids, one of the oldest-known meteor showers on record, has reliably peaked every year in late April like clockwork for thousands of years.

Finally, the full pink moon will rise in the evening sky on April 23. This month's full moon name comes from the moss pink wildflower that sprouts this time of year.

Can you drive during a solar eclipse?

It's safe to drive during an eclipse as long as you don't look up at the sky. AAA is telling drivers to be focused on the road if they are operating a car during the total solar eclipse.

The automobile insurance company is advising Americans who want to safely view the total eclipse to find a safe place to park and then wear your eclipse glasses to view the eclipse.

Authorities are also reminding people to not drive while wearing solar eclipse glasses . Eclipse glasses are designed specifically for viewing an eclipse and you would not be able to see the road adequately while wearing them.

Owls may hoot and bats may fly during the eclipse, but don't expect coyotes to howl

We human beings are giddy with excitement for the upcoming eclipse on Monday, but what about the animals? It's safe to say they don't even know it's coming. How will they react when the moon blots out the sun and it gets dark?

"It will be a complete surprise to our wildlife, but we do know from other parts of the world some will assume it's nighttime all of a sudden," said Toni Mikula, a fish and wildlife scientist with Vermont Fish & Wildlife. "Birds hurrying to go to roost. Owls starting to hoot or you might see some bats come out. Three minutes later the sun will start to rise again. Everybody will go back to normal."

Mikula doesn't expect anything overly dramatic, like coyotes beginning to howl. But she'll be monitoring reactions near her home during the eclipse.

"I'm fortunate, I have a pretty good view of the sky from my house," Mikula said. "The state is encouraging people to stay home that day. I will be outside listening to see if any owls come out to hoot."

New York inmates who claimed lockdown was religious violation will be able to see eclipse

Inmates at a New York prison who sued the state corrections department over a planned lockdown during the eclipse will be able to see the celestial event after all.

The lawsuit filed Friday in federal court in upstate New York claimed that the lockdown, which would have prevented many statewide inmates from witnessing Monday's solar eclipse, constituted a violation of religious rights.

"For many, this eclipse is a moment of monumental religious significance that cannot be overlooked or dismissed out of hand," according to the lawsuit, which listed six plaintiffs of various religious faiths.

Corrections officials agreed Thursday to permit the plaintiffs – a Baptist, a Muslim, a Seventh-Day Adventist, two practitioners of Santeria and an atheist – to view the eclipse in exchange for the lawsuit's dismissal, department spokesman Thomas Mailey told USA TODAY.

NASA's interactive map shows best times, places to watch total solar eclipse

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Millions of Americans will get the chance to see a total solar eclipse when the rare event crosses the country next week.

The total solar eclipse is expected on Monday, April 8 - the first one in seven years to pass over the U.S.

So what exactly will you be able to see during Monday's solar eclipse? That's what an interactive NASA map is for.

The interactive lets you type in your city or zip code into a map to see what the eclipse will look like in your neighborhood and what time it will happen. NASA's interactive can be viewed here .

RELATED: How much of the solar eclipse will be visible in California?

Southern California is not in the best position to see the total eclipse, but people can still get a partial view. For example, the interactive shows Los Angeles residents will be able to see that only the bottom portion of the sun will be covered, and it'll happen around 11 a.m.

In places like Columbus, Ohio - which is in the path of totality - users of the interactive will see that the entire sun will be covered during the event.

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

ABC News contributed to this report.

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Watch CBS News

Looking for the best places to see the April 8 solar eclipse in the totality path? You may have to dodge clouds.

By Eric Henderson

Updated on: April 2, 2024 / 2:12 PM EDT / CBS News

America is gearing up for the April 8 total solar eclipse , and in less than a week many will be scrambling to find the best location to watch within the path of totality. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the latest models, and while it won't be until a few days prior to the event that the national forecast will be fully cooked, historical data suggests those hoping to view the corona and see a fully darkened midday sky may find themselves dodging clouds due to April weather patterns.

The last time a total solar eclipse traversed an elongated path across the continental U.S. — on Aug. 21, 2017 — Americans could be caught gazing at the midday dark from Oregon all the way to South Carolina. Most spots along the path of totality enjoyed reasonably clear, summer skies.

Those living or visiting along the path of totality next week may not end up so fortunate, as historical weather maps show the odds of experiencing a cloud-free sky at this time of year are somewhat less than ideal. In fact, finding a totally clear view at any given time is closer to the exception than the rule.

"According to NASA, at any given time, 70% of the earth is covered in clouds," said Mike Augustyniak , CBS Minnesota director of meteorology.

Not only is North America in the middle of the volatility of changing seasons during this year's solar event, but meteorologists note that we're also currently in an El Niño pattern, albeit one that's proven quieter than usual.

"An El Niño pattern tends to increase the chances of cloudy, rainy weather in those areas. Interestingly, though, that is not how this winter and spring have played out," said Augustyniak. "Since the start of 2024, Texas Hill Country and western Texas areas have been markedly drier than average; if that trend holds for the next few weeks, that would be good news for eclipse watchers."

The path of totality is only about 150 miles wide, and in America stretches roughly 2,500 miles from the Texas border to the last few towns in northeastern Maine. That leaves only so many places where you can seek the full show, though the path's width will be significantly wider than it was in 2017, according to NASA , as the moon will to be closer to Earth on this pass than it was then.

So will April showers bring spectator flowers? Here's a breakdown of which places along the path of totality are most likely to give eclipse chasers the best odds.

United States map showing the percent of cloud cover in various regions of the eclipse path on April 8. The lakeshore region will be primarily affected.

Viewing the eclipse in Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas

Augustyniak said at this transitional time of year, the further south you can go, the more likely you are to experience clear skies during eclipse totality.

"Of the areas where the total eclipse will be visible on April 8, that includes the Hill Country of Texas, and the Mexican states of Coahuila and Durango," Augustyniak said.

Of course, the further south you get, the more you increase your chances of running into not only clouds, but rain.

"Spring is our storm season of course," said Jeff Ray , chief meteorologist for CBS Texas.

Ray said that you can almost bet on needing to do a little bit of reverse storm-chasing — in other words, doing some last-minute navigation to dart away from the oncoming clouds, rather than toward them — on or around the eclipse in Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma.

"There will be storms around the day of April 8. I say that because we rarely get through a week in spring without a couple of rounds coming through the area during this time of the year. Will they arrive a day before and be gone? Not start up until later that day? Maybe two days later? We are looking at our long-range model the GFS for the date and it looks like storms on the eighth," Ray said, with a caveat. "Long-range models are notoriously inaccurate for a specific day. But there is a good chance the storms the model sees will materialize, give or take a 36-hour period."

Ray said that Texas sees, on average, a sunny or mostly sunny April day only about 28% of the time. Conversely, the region gets April days with mostly cloudy or fully overcast conditions about 36% of the time.

"High clouds can arrive several days before the storm system, they are overhead in April around 22% of the time. A sky with some kind of cloud cover is likely," said Ray. "A typical April day would have near overcast skies in the morning, then the heating of the day makes for more sunshine. So an afternoon even has better odds of a good view of the eclipse."

The eclipse will reach totality in Texas from about 1:30 p.m. CT near Elm Creek until wrapping up near the Oklahoma border a few minutes before 2 p.m. Some of the most populous areas along the path of totality will be during this leg, from San Antonio and Austin to Dallas-Fort Worth.

One final factor to consider if you're heading to the area — tornadoes. Ray said that the National Weather Office in Fort Worth has tallied all the confirmed tornadoes since 1880, and in April and May, north Texas has seen more than 1,100 twisters, compared with the nearly 900 seen in all other months.

"So more tornadoes in the 61-day window than all of the other days of the year combined," Ray said, "but the tornado count varies greatly from year to year."

Ultimately, Ray said that April is traditionally the third-stormiest month of the year in Texas.

"In short, April is not the best, nor the worst, time of the year to hope for clear or mostly clear skies. The best would be July or August. The worst would be January or February," he said. "We get a decent idea of the expected weather about seven days out. Four days out we get more comfortable talking about the timing of a rain or storm event. But it's the weather, we are trying to throw a lasso around chaos. It is not rare we forecasters look like fools."

Viewing the eclipse in Missouri, southern Illinois and Indiana

While many are likely to head as far south as possible, some of the biggest cities in the Midwest are likely to fuel day-of migration to spots in Missouri and Illinois, many of them likely seeing a total eclipse for the second time in a decade. A small zone centered around Carbondale, Illinois, was along the path of totality in 2017, and will be once again this month.

While those in the St. Louis area seeking areas to watch in southeastern Missouri will find historical odds for cloud-free viewing roughly comparable to Arkansas, and those in the Chicago metro area should find their best bet is to head toward the southern part of Illinois.

"If you're unable to travel (to Texas or Arkansas), then Southern Illinois and Indiana present your best opportunity for a clearer sky, supported by the 43-year average and, of course, weather permitting," said Albert Ramon , chief meteorologist for CBS Chicago.

There will likely be some who decide that 90% or 95% totality is enough for them. But Ramon warns that those in the Chicago metro area could be at a higher risk to find their view obscured by clouds.

"Based on a comprehensive 43-year average , April 8 typically brings cloud cover chances ranging from 60 to 80% across Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, with similar patterns observed in Indianapolis, where cloud cover hovers between 60 to 70%," Ramon said.

Viewing the eclipse near the Great Lakes and Pennsylvania

Ramon said another factor that could make viewing along the path of totality something of a challenge in the Midwest is the lingering influence of an El Niño weather pattern.

"Its presence elevates the chances of clouds across the Midwest and Great Lakes regions," Ramon said. "This year may even be a bit more cloudier than the normal."

The Great Lakes portion of totality's path includes large sections of Ohio, including Cleveland, along with the area of Ontario south of Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Erie, Pennsylvania. CBS Pittsburgh meteorologist Ray Petelin said many of these areas are subject to the wildcard that is the Great Lakes.

"They are known for lake-effect snow, but it is the lake-effect clouds that could hide the eclipse. Erie, which is in the path of totality, averages only six clear days during the month of April. Pittsburgh, which has the potential to see around 97% of totality, only averages four clear days in April," Petelin said.

Petelin says that a southerly breeze and warmer-than-average temperatures would go a long way toward helping the Great Lakes region out on April 8.

"While the historical data suggests the chances for a clear day are low, this winter and early spring have been exceptionally bright and warmer than usual. Let's keep our fingers crossed that we can get that perfect weather for when it matters most," Petelin said.

As it stands, the areas near the shores of the Great Lakes historically show a higher probability for clearer skies than areas inland.

Viewing the eclipse in New England

The eclipse will wrap up its march across the U.S. when the path of totality cuts across state lines from New York to Vermont just before 3:30 p.m. ET. By this point in the event, the duration of totality along the central line will have already fallen off from its peak — about 4 minutes, 30 seconds near Nazas, Mexico — to just over 3 minutes, 30 seconds, according to NASA.

"The southern edge of the totality line passes right through the towns of Middlebury, Northfield and Barre. You will need to get just north of these areas. Some suggested 'larger' towns include Montpelier, St. Johnsbury, Newport and Burlington," said Terry Eliasen , executive weather producer for CBS Boston.

In New Hampshire, the southern edge of totality will pass just north of the White Mountains. And in Maine, you'll need to get north of major cities like Portland, Augusta and Bangor. Eliasen said the entirety of Baxter State Park will be in the totality path, including Mount Katahdin.

The bad news: Eliasen said that those in the New England area face possibly the stiffest odds in the country for catching clear skies next Monday, based on historical patterns. The data says you're more likely to be negatively impacted by clouds pretty much anywhere in these three states than not.

"Frankly, northern New England is probably the worst place (historically speaking) in the path of totality as far as cloud cover goes," said Eliasen. "Of course, we could get lucky."

No luck? There's always the 2045 total solar eclipse

As a last-ditch hope for those who opt to stay put no matter where they're located, there's one last meteorological ace-in-the-hole that could offer reprieve, one fueled by the astronomical event itself.

"It's worth noting that, as totality approaches and sunlight is reduced, temperatures are likely to fall noticeably. Cooler temperatures can stabilize the atmosphere – like when the sun sets after a hot summer day – leading to a decrease in cloud cover," said Augustyniak. "Still, your best plan is to find an area that has no clouds to begin with."

And if the clouds end up sullying the view for some this month, another chance comes around in August 2045 , when a line of totality will stretch from northern California all the way to Miami Beach. Which, of course, will fall during the height of hurricane season.

United states map showing the path of the 2045 solar eclipse.

Eric Henderson is Managing Editor, Midwest for CBSNews.com. He has won three Emmy Awards, an Eric Sevareid Award and two Edward R. Murrow Awards.

More from CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times across the U.S.

When was the last total solar eclipse in the U.S.? Revisiting 2017

See the list of notable total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

Eclipse seekers in Texas may get clouds, but New England looks clear

Where to buy solar eclipse glasses, according to the experts

Solar eclipse enthusiasts have little time left to get their hands on safe viewing glasses before the celestial phenomenon Monday.

Austin residents, and many other Americans, will be able to view the 2024 total solar eclipse from within its path of totality, meaning the sun will be completely blocked by the moon. Except during the brief moment when the sun is completely covered, viewers must wear specialized eye protection to safely see the eclipse, NASA says .

Thankfully, there are several retailers still selling safe eclipse viewing glasses. Here's what to know about the historic event and where to buy eclipse viewing glasses.

What is a solar eclipse?

According to NASA , a solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, either fully or partially blocking the sun's light. This casts a momentary shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse, which will happen Monday, is when the moon completely blocks out the sun. These do not happen very often, and can only be experienced by people located in the center of the moon's shadow.

Where to buy solar eclipse glasses

The Statesman turned to the experts at the American Astronomical Society for information on safe eclipse viewing glasses. These retailers, and others, are on their approved list :

Walmart: Prices start at $9.99. They're available to snag online .
Lowe's: Eclipse glasses are available in-store only .
The Home Depot: Sells eclipse glasses , but its stock is very limited and may no longer be available.
Staples: Purchase a 50-pack of eclipse glasses for $149.50 online .
More local stores: Buc-ee's , Cracker Barrel and Kroger .

Is your local store out of solar eclipse glasses? Check out this map of stores by Linq that still have them in stock .

When buying eclipse viewing glasses, make sure they are certified by the International Organization for Standardization and have the "ISO" icon. The glasses should also have the ISO reference number: 12312-2.

How to spot fake eclipse glasses

Fake eclipse viewing glasses are all over the marketplace, the American Astronomical Society warned in a news release .

The society recommends only buying glasses from sellers on its vetted list .

NASA does not endorse any brand of glasses, so if pairs are marketed as approved by the space agency, that may be a red flag, experts warn.

Before the eclipse, the society recommends testing the glasses indoors and outside. If they are safe, nothing should be visible through the lenses, and bright lights should only faintly appear. When looking at the sun through the glasses, it may appear white, yellow, orange or bluish white, and the light should not hurt the viewers eyes.

When is the eclipse in Texas?

Many Texas cities are within the solar eclipse's updated path of totality , or the direction of the moon's shadow across Earth. These cities will experience brief total darkness, while areas outside the path of totality will see partial darkness.

The eclipse will be visible in Texas, starting near Del Rio and moving northeast, around 1:30 p.m. It will exit the Lone Star State around 1:49 p.m.

Austin viewers will have the best chance to see the eclipse between 1:35 and 1:40 p.m.

How often do total solar eclipses occur?

Total solar eclipses only happen about once every 18 months and can't be seen from everywhere. The next total eclipse that will be viewable from the United States after Monday will be Aug. 23, 2044.

Are you in the dark about the eclipse ? Take our quiz.

Millions of north americans are about to experience a once-in-a-lifetime event. how much do you know about total solar eclipses.

There are only a few things in life worth the hype: ice cream, Season 1 of “Ted Lasso” and total solar eclipses.

On April 8 , the moon will block out the sun’s surface and cast a shadow across a tiny sliver of North America. Millions of people will experience the magic of this celestial dance: darkened skies, cooler air, stars and planets visible in the middle of the day, and nighttime animals awakening. Gazing at the sun during totality, people can experience transcendence and awe typically felt by astronauts in space.

2024 total solar eclipse

But how much do you know about what you’re seeing? Total solar eclipses have been documented for at least 5,000 years, but they won’t be around forever. They have also played critical roles in pivotal scientific discoveries and popular media. They’re also rare: By the time we have another one in the United States, we might have people on the moon.

Test your knowledge and see if you can eclipse your friends in this quiz.

Question 1 of 9

After the april 8, 2024, event, when will the next total solar eclipse take place in the united states, question 2 of 9, our moon is slowly drifting away from earth. how long until earth will no longer experience a total solar eclipse.

An anthropomorphic sun and moon wearing eclipse glasses and staring upward.

Question 3 of 9

As the moon blocks out the sun’s surface, the sun’s outer atmosphere is visible. what is this outermost layer called, question 4 of 9, how often do total solar eclipses occur anywhere across the world.

An anthropomorphic sun and moon sitting in theater seats and eating popcorn.

Question 5 of 9

Which popular young-adult book series is named after moon and sun phenomena, question 6 of 9, which president looked at the sun during a solar eclipse without special glasses.

An anthropomorphic sun and moon looking at a paper map together. The sun is pointing out a specific spot on the map.

Question 7 of 9

‘eclipse island’ is located in which of the following countries, question 8 of 9, which u.s. cities are in the path of totality for both the 2017 and 2024 eclipses.

An anthropomorphic sun and moon look up into the sky together. The sun is holding a telescope, and in the telescope's glass, you can see the earth.

Question 9 of 9

What theory was proved correct after an experiment during the 1919 total solar eclipse, which lasted over six minutes.

You need to answer every question to see your result. You’re missing questions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 .

About this story

Design and development by Stephanie Hays. Illustrations by Lauren Martin. Design editing by Chloe Meister. Editing by Juliet Eilperin and Paulina Firozi.

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No matter if you're after history, art, or nature, plan your visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Poland. On This Page: 1. Wieliczka Salt Mine, Wieliczka. 2. Auschwitz-Birkenau Camps, Oswiecim. 3. Warsaw Old Market Place, Warsaw. 4.
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4. Gdansk. Gdansk is one of Poland's most popular tourist destinations, located on the Baltic coast. When you think of Poland, beaches and seaports don't necessarily come to mind, which is why Gdansk is one of the best places to visit in Poland. Situated in the north of Poland, Gdansk is a port city on the Baltic Coast.
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Today, this museum serves as an important historical area left exactly as it was when the Nazis abandoned it, complete with gas chamber ruins that makes it one of the foremost places to visit in Poland. Location: Więźniów Oświęcimia 20, 32-603 Oświęcim, Poland Timings:: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM. 3. Krakow Old Town
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12. Energylandia. Try all of Energylandia's—Poland's largest theme park—123 attractions spread across 6 distinctive zones: Fairytale Land, Family Zone, Extreme Zone, Water Park, Dragon Zone, and Aqualantis. Ride the popular Hyperion, Speed, and Space Booster rollercoasters; and watch shows like 'Extreme show' and 'The Egypt ...
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4. Zakopane. In the foothills of the Tantra Mountains, Zakopane is the place to be when the snow starts to fall. As the daylight hours shorten, locals and fellow travelers make their way to this beloved winter destination. Along the way the snow-capped peaks of the Tantra's whisper promises of the adventures ahead.
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4. Tatra Mountains. The misty jagged Tatra Mountains form part of the Carpathian Mountain range, about 2 hours away from Krakow, that creates a natural parkland border between Poland and Slovakia. During summer, the mountains attract hikers from all over the world with its rumbling meadows of alpine blooms.
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6. Bydgoszcz. Located in Northern Poland, Bydgoszcz is widely known for its numerous universities and bustling colleges. This buzzing and vibrant city is also the country's biggest inland navigation center. Bydgoszcz is a cosmopolitan city with a strong international and business presence.
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Best Places to Stay. Located in eastern Poland, Lublin is a popular gateway to Ukraine. Visit the Zemborzycki Lake and Aqua Lublin complex for water-based adventures, or visit the Tower of the Trinity for beautiful views over the Old Town. Walk through the Old Town to discover the 14th century Krakovian Gate and over 100 mansions and buildings ...
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Warsaw's world-class museums offer an accessible and engaging education on a history that affects us all. The Warsaw Rising Museum delivers an immersive portrayal of the events surrounding the city's tragic uprising against the occupying Germans in 1944, while the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews traces the 1000-year history of the Jewish people in Poland.
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25+ of The Best Places to Visit in Poland: by a Local

Top Places to See in Poland

3. Wieliczka

4. Tatra Mountains

5. Zakopane

6. Morskie Oko

7. Chocholowska Valley

11. Bialowieza Forest

14. Masurian Lake District

16. Wroclaw

17. Auschwitz

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19. Ksiaz Castle

20. Czestochowa

21. Ojcow National Park

22. Jaskinia Niedzwiedzia

23. Biskupin

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25. Wolf’s Liar

26. Chapel of Skulls

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15 Of The Best Places To Visit In Poland

4. Bialowieża Forest

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6. Bydgoszcz

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14. Tatra National Park

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