Plan a trip to Poland

Poland weaves together a diverse, rich tapestry of culture, art, age-old traditions, and culinary delights. It seamlessly combines medieval cities that come alive with history, along with the natural beauty of lakeshores and authentic villages. Warm hospitality is ingrained in the locals, who are welcoming and attentive to tourists.

To get you started, we’ve compiled some of Poland’s highlights and most notable attractions

Cities

Warsaw: Warsaw, the capital of Poland, offers a unique blend of past and present. From the charm of its reconstructed old town to the city’s modern architecture and diverse art, the imprint of history is evident in every building, street, museum, and monument. The city pulsates with vibrant events and culinary pleasures, a captivating fusion of tradition and modernity.

Kraków: With a history spanning millennia, Kraków stands as an ancient city that once served as a royal capital. It is renowned for its iconic sites like Wawel Castle and the bustling central market square, and its rich and diverse heritage, including its significant Jewish history, enhances its charm. Serving as a center of academia, arts, and vibrant festivals, Kraków draws travelers who are looking for a harmonious fusion of history and contemporary life.

Gdańsk: A charming city rich in history and beauty, Gdańsk also blends the past and present. The city has a proud maritime heritage that spanned many centuries, as is reflected in its architecture and culture.

Zakopane: Nestled in the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane is a natural gem that beautifully showcases the "highland" heritage through its charming architecture, traditional arts, and local cuisine. A visit to Zakopane offers a blend of awe-inspiring landscapes and an authentic window into Poland's rich cultural traditions.

Castles and Palaces

Malbork Castle: Malbork Castle, one of the world's largest brick castles, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The castle was built by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century and served as their headquarters. Its impressive architecture and historical significance attract visitors to explore its halls, chambers, and medieval defensive structures.

Wawel Castle: Located in the city of Kraków, Wawel Castle is an architectural marvel with origins dating back to the 11th century. The castle, which overlooks the Vistula River (Wisla), reflects Poland's royal history. The castle complex includes a cathedral, a palace, and an array of architectural styles, and it symbolizes the nation's cultural heritage while also holding religious significance.

Kłodzko Fortress: The 13th century Kłodzko Fortress is a testament to centuries of history. Today, it houses a museum and serves as a cultural center, offering panoramic views and insights into the region's rich heritage. The fortress is a journey through time, connecting visitors to stories rooted within its walls.

Ogrodzieniec Castle: A medieval castle situated on the Stone Mountain hill, Ogrodzieniec Castle offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

Nature and Landscape

Tatra Mountains: The Tatra Mountains, located on the border of Poland and Slovakia, are picturesque mountains known for their natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The Tatras offer breathtaking views, including rugged peaks and serene lakes, making them a popular destination for hikers, skiers, and nature enthusiasts. The range is a protected national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, preserving its unique ecological system and diverse wildlife.

Białowieża Forest: One of the last and largest primeval forests in Europe, Białowieża Forest straddles the Poland-Belarus border. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven of rich biological diversity. The forest is famous for its European Bison population, which serves as a symbol of the region.

Wieliczka Salt Mine: An underground marvel, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that takes you on a journey through time. Inside the mine, you'll find intricately sculpted salt statues, parts of altars, and even chapels dating back about 700 years, all hidden beneath the earth’s surface.

Dunajec River Gorge: Winding through the picturesque landscapes of Poland and Slovakia, the Dunajec River creates a breathtaking panorama of geological artistry. Its turquoise waters and soaring limestone cliffs form a captivating view.

Morskie Oko: "Morskie Oko," translated as "Eye of the Sea", is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty. It's a mountain lake nestled in the Tatra Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a picturesque setting. Its name reflects the lake's clear and deep blue waters.

Historical Sites

Osówka Complex: The Osówka Complex, a network of underground tunnels and structures built during World War II, is shrouded in mystery. It consists of a series of underground buildings that served the Nazis as part of the "Riese" project in World War II, yet their specific purpose remains unknown.

Auschwitz-Birkenau: A concentration and extermination camp that was operated by the Nazis during World War II, Auschwitz-Birkenau holds the chilling and solemn remembrance of the horrors of the Holocaust. This somber memorial stands as a most powerful testament to the over one million people who were brutally murdered within the camp.

Churches and Cathedrals

St. Mary's Basilica: Located in Krakow, St. Mary's Basilica is an historic symbol dating back to the 14th century, and this architectural gem presents a fusion of Gothic and Baroque elements. According to legend, during the Mongol invasion of the 13th century, a trumpeter sounded an alarm to alert the city of an impending attack. Unfortunately, the melody was abruptly cut off when an arrow struck the trumpeter. To honor this brave act, the "Hejnał Mariacki" is played every hour, and the melody abruptly stops to commemorate that fateful day.

Wooden Churches of Southern Lesser Poland: These unique wooden churches stand as testimonies to centuries of history. Nestled within breathtaking landscapes, these intricately decorated structures present a fusion of architectural excellence and religious significance. Each church tells a story of the faith and artistry of the local community, adorned with elaborately carved wooden decorations that have endured the passage of time. Recognized as UNESCO heritage sites, the churches listed below are revered for their cultural and religious value:

• Church of St. Michael the Archangel, Binarowa
• Church of All Saints, Blizne
• Church of the Archangel Michael, Debno
• Church of St. Philip and St. James, Sękowa
• Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, Lipnica Murowana
• Church of St. Leonard, Lipnica Murowana
• Church of St. Michael the Archangel, Dębno Podhalańskie
• Church of St. Paraskeva, Mszana Dolna

Museums

The National Museum in Warsaw houses an exquisite repository of European art, showcasing Polish maestros, globally acclaimed sculptures, and intricate masterpieces.

The Muzeum Sztuki in Łódź has a remarkable collection of modern art, including Poland's avant-garde movements and masterpieces by contemporary international artists.

The Museum of the History of Polish Jews displays a broad array of art and culture that are related to the history of the Jews in Poland.

The Chopin Museum in Warsaw provides insight into the life and musical legacy of composer Frederic Chopin, highlighting his musical genius. 

The Warsaw Ghetto Uprising Museum offers a compelling and profound experience about the heroic struggle of the Jews in the Warsaw Ghetto during World War II. 

Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory Museum in Krakow commemorates the captivating story of Oskar Schindler's life-saving efforts, the Righteous among Nations, and the impact of the Holocaust on the city of Krakow.

Markets

Krakow's Main Market Square is a bustling square where stalls offer art, souvenirs, and a taste of Polish tradition.

Hala Mirowska in Warsaw is a covered market with abundant fresh produce, meats, and traditional cheeses.

Kazimierz Flea Market in Krakow is renowned for its antiques, vintage items, and decorative art pieces.

Hala Targowa in Wrocław is an authentic local market where vendors offer everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Plac Nowy Market in Krakow was established in 1808, and it transforms into a vibrant flea market on Saturdays.

Hala Gwardii in Warsaw is a beloved food market located in an old sports hall in the heart of the Praga district.

Bazar Na Kole in Poznań, a flea market housed in a historic railway station, offers vintage clothing, accessories, and unique collectibles.

Targ Śniadaniowy in Warsaw is a lively breakfast market that provides fresh food, organic products, and a delightful culinary experience.

To help you navigate Polish cuisine, here is a sampling of some of Poland’s most famous dishes:

Pierogi: These dumplings are a popular Polish dish, filled with various fillings like potatoes, cheese, mushrooms, and meats.

Bigos: Known as "hunter's stew," this rich dish combines boiled cabbage, fresh cabbage, and a variety of meats for a flavorful blend.

Kielbasa are Poland's famous sausages that come in a variety of flavors and styles.

Barszcz is a tangy beet soup often served with sour cream, and it is available in several flavors and colors.

Żurek is a sour rye soup traditionally served with sausages and hard-boiled eggs, perfect for warming up on chilly days.

Golabki are cabbage leaves that are stuffed with a mixture of meat and rice, dipped in tomato sauce.

Kotlet Schabowy is the Polish version of a breaded pork or chicken cutlet, similar to a schnitzel, served with potatoes or salads.

Chłodnik is a chilled and refreshing beet soup, perfect for summer days, often garnished with fresh herbs and sour cream.

Makowiec is a poppy seed cake, a beloved dessert that reflects Poland's sweet traditions.

Sękacz, also known as "tree cake," is log-shaped dessert that is served as a work of art.

Intriguing history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture await in Poland, offering visitors unforgettable experiences and unique adventures.