From romantic tales of medieval knights and
castles to the horror and destruction of World War II, Poland tells
a complex story. Travellers are captivated and moved by its
remarkable history of heroic resilience and tragedy, detailing a
determined stand against communism and its now modern outlook and
economy.
Poland was the country most devastated by
World War II in Eastern Europe, losing about a quarter of its
population and almost its entire Jewish community. The aftermath of
the war greatly influenced its character. Former Jewish centres in
the cities and the concentration camps where the Nazis carried out
their atrocities remain as the most stirring reminders of the
nation's tragedies. Cities destroyed by the war had to be rebuilt
from scratch and the many meticulously restored buildings and
historic old towns are testimony to a proud and determined
people.
Warsaw, the capital, was almost totally
destroyed by the war and now presents an unusual mix of beautifully
restored historic buildings, communist-era concrete structures and
modern fashion. The maritime city of Gdansk, home to the historic
garrison at Westerplatte and the legendary Lenin Shipyard, was the
stage for both the beginning of World War II and the disintegration
of Eastern European communism.
But it's Krakow, the ancient royal capital,
that draws the crowds, rivalling the elegance of cities like Prague
and Vienna. Having largely escaped the destruction of the war, it
retains its medieval character: the Royal Castle, the grand Market
Square, the old Jewish quarter and the nearby Nazi death camps of
Auschwitz are all steeped in historical importance.
The unspoilt Baltic coastline and the
splendour of the rugged mountain ranges of the Tatras will impress
outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of activities and scenery to
provide a peaceful and relaxing break from the intensity of the
country's history.
Along with the legendary hospitality of
Polish people, a sense of nationhood to which the Catholic Church
is fundamental and a strong musical and cultural sense of identity,
its tourism infrastructure is flourishing and the country is
experiencing a remarkable increase in the number of visitors to its
shores.
Key Facts
Language:
The national language is Polish; however, English is
widely understood in tourist areas.
Passport/Visa:
A passport valid for at least three months after period of
intended stay is needed for those who require a visa. Generally,
visa exempt nationals must have a passport valid for period of
intended stay (other than EEA nationals). The borderless region
known as the Schengen area includes the following countries:
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland,
France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia,
Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands,
Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and
Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa
that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel
freely within the borders of all.
Currency:
The official currency is the Polish zloty (PLN), divided into
100 groszy. Poland still uses cash more frequently than visitors
might expect, while ATMs (bankomats) and credit card facilities are
available in major towns and cities. Money can be exchanged in the
cities and larger towns at banks, hotels or bureaux de change
called kantors, which offer the best rates. Banks are open Monday
to Friday from 10am to 6pm, and some are open on Saturday until
1pm.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. The standard
two-pin European style plugs are used.
Travel to Poland
Overview
When sightseeing around Poland you'll find all the hallmarks of
European charm in abundance: alpine mountains, historic buildings,
resplendent lakes, lush meadows, untainted beaches, and some
fascinating albiet harrowing sites from the Second World War.
The capital of Warsaw was the first city to fall to Hitler and
had to be almost completely rebuilt after the 1944 invasion. Parts
of the Old Town were built to replicate the city as it had stood in
the 17th and 18th centuries and the Historical Museum of Warsaw, a
salute to the city's violent past, is a must. A visit to Poland
would not be complete without a trip to the country's most
significant wartime landmark: Auschwitz, Hitler's biggest and most
notorious concentration camp.
About two hours north of Warsaw is the Bialowieza Primaeval
Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is one of the last
remnants of the European primeval forest which once covered most
the continent. Further north visitors will find other rare vestiges
of old Europe, like the Gothic Castle in Malbork, the largest and
most impressive brick fortress in Europe. There are several other
wooden and stone churches, temples and other impressive buildings
throughout Poland's vast and glorious countryside, which can be
traversed by bus or train.
The city of Krakow is the most popular tourist destination in
Poland, and the city which suffered least during the war. The main
attraction is the remarkably well-preserved medieval centre, but
Krakow is a cosmopolitan, modern city boasting the wonderful mix
between old and new which characterises the whole country.
Climate in Poland
Poland's climate is moderate and temperate, characterised by
cold winters and warm summers, with continental influences from the
east and maritime influences from the west. The weather in Poland
is highly changeable. There are, however, four distinct seasons,
and spring and summer are usually lovely in Poland. Winters become
increasingly severe inland from the Baltic coast, with January
temperatures in Warsaw averaging 23°F (-5°C). In summer it is
hotter inland, with July temperatures in Warsaw averaging 66°F
(19°C).
Rain can be expected throughout the year, particularly in the
southern mountains, and Poland is frequently cloudy and foggy. The
best time to visit Poland is during the warmer months of spring and
summer, between May and August. Early autumn, in September and
October, is also a pleasant and mild time of year to visit. The
peak tourist season is in July and August but travellers should
note that many Poles take their annual leave at this time, making
the tourist hotspots in Krakow and Sopot overcrowded in the height
of summer. Budget travellers should consider travelling outside of
the peak season.
Health Notes when travelling to Poland
There are few health risks associated with travel to Poland.
After Brexit, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC
allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the
EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or
Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance. Medical
facilities and standards of healthcare are good, but not many
nurses or doctors speak English. If travellers take prescription
medication along, they should be sure to bring a signed and dated
letter from a doctor detailing what it is and why it is needed.
Safety Notes when travelling to Poland
Having said that, visits to Poland are usually trouble free, and
the precautions travellers should take are merely the safety
measures advised for cities all over the world.
Customs in Poland
Family is incredibly important in Polish society, with many
citizens relying heavily on their close-knit inner circles which
also may include close friends. Parties can be formal, so don't be
surprised if you're introduced by your host and try to use the
prefix 'Pan' for males and 'Pani' for females when addressing
others. It serves as the Polish equivalent for 'Mr' and 'Ms'.
Duty Free in Poland
Travellers to Poland over 17 years, arriving from non-EU
countries, do not have to pay duty on 250 cigarettes or 50 cigars
or 250g tobacco; 1 litre wine and 1 litre spirits; cosmetics and
medicines for personal use; gifts up to the value of €430.
Travellers to Poland arriving from within the EU do not have to pay
duty on 800 cigarettes or 200 cigars or 1kg smoking tobacco; 10
litres spirits, 90 litres wine and 110 litres beer. Prohibited
items include birds and poultry arriving from countries infected
with avian influenza. The export of all articles of artistic,
historic or cultural value are subject to special regulations.
Doing Business in Poland
Poland has an interesting mix of the old and the new, and this
is apparent in the business world too. Women can expect a kiss on
the hand rather than a handshake from the older generation and one
can expect to be warmly offered drinks during meetings; it is
impolite to refuse. Although the Polish are hospitable and
friendly, business is still conducted formally. Punctuality is
important, dress should be formal and conservative (a suit and tie
are the norm) and business cards are exchanged. Use titles and last
names unless otherwise indicated. English is widely spoken, though
attempting some basic Polish phrases will be appreciated. Business
hours in Poland are traditionally 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday, and
lunch breaks are not a given as they are often unpaid.
Communication in Poland
The international access code for Poland is +48 and wifi is
available in towns and cities.
Tipping in Poland
Tipping is expected in restaurants in Poland and 15 percent is
the standard for good service. In restaurants, when your bill is
collected, saying 'thank you' signals to the waiter/waitress that
they can keep the change. Tipping is not the norm in hotels across
Poland, but taxis, tours and spas generally expect no less than 10
percent tip for good service.
Passport/Visa Note
A passport valid for at least three months after period of
intended stay is needed for those who require a visa. Generally,
visa exempt nationals must have a passport valid for period of
intended stay (other than EEA nationals). The borderless region
known as the Schengen area includes the following countries:
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland,
France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia,
Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands,
Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and
Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa
that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel
freely within the borders of all.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
US nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days
within a 180-day period. Passports must be valid for three months
beyond period of intended stay.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90
days within a 180-day period. Passports must be valid for three
months beyond period of intended stay.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days
within a 180-day period. Passports must be valid for three months
beyond period of intended stay.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australians require a passport valid for at least three months
beyond period of intended stay. No visa is required for stays of up
to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals require a passport valid on arrival, but no visa
is necessary.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least
three months beyond the period of intended stay. A visa is not
needed for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African passport holders require a visa for travel to
Poland. Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond
period of intended stay.
Tourist Offices
Polish National Tourist Office, Warsaw: +48 (0)22 536 7070 or
http://www.pot.gov.pl.
Poland Embassies
In the United States:
Polish Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 499
1700.
In Canada:
Polish Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 789 0468.
In the United Kingdom:
Polish Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7291 3520.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Poland, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Although rabies can be found in bats and other mammals in Poland, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites or other animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
People who will be working with or around animals (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Poland, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Although rabies can be found in bats and other mammals in Poland, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites or other animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
People who will be working with or around animals (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Poland, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Food and water standards in Poland are similar to those in the United States. Most travelers do not need to take special food or water precautions beyond what they normally do at home.
Although Poland is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Poland include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity in the heat of the day.
If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Poland’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Make sure there are seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Poland, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Poland for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency is the Polish zloty (PLN), divided into
100 groszy. Poland still uses cash more frequently than visitors
might expect, while ATMs (bankomats) and credit card facilities are
available in major towns and cities. Money can be exchanged in the
cities and larger towns at banks, hotels or bureaux de change
called kantors, which offer the best rates. Banks are open Monday
to Friday from 10am to 6pm, and some are open on Saturday until
1pm.
Exchange rate for 1 PLN - Polish Zloty
0.00BMD Bermudan Dollar
0.21EUR Euro
0.21USD U.S. Dollar
0.18GBP U.K. Pound Sterling
30.32JPY Japanese Yen
0.28CAD Canadian Dollar
0.20CHF Swiss Franc
0.31AUD Australian Dollar
7.75UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
100.51KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
318.67LBP Lebanese Pound
1.04LYD Libyan Dinar
1.46BOB Bolivian Boliviano
26.85NPR Nepalese Rupee
0.08OMR Omani Rial
0.78QAR Qatari Rial
0.30SGD Singapore Dollar
2.26SEK Swedish Krona
1.43TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00VEF Venezuelan Bolivar
11.19DOP Dominican Peso
1.59HRK Croatian Kuna
4.23MXN Mexican Peso
138.64XOF West African CFA Franc
0.74PGK Papua New Guinean kina
0.21BSD Bahamian Dollar
0.47FJD Fiji Dollar
5.21HNL Honduran Lempira
29.69DZD Algerian Dinar
443.28MMK Myanma Kyat
2.75BWP Botswana Pula
0.82PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
194.80CLP Chilean Peso
85.52AMD Armenia Dram
5.19CZK Czech Koruna
4.08MDL Moldova Lei
29.34ISK Icelandic Krona
2,309.47UZS Uzbekistan Sum
0.73ILS Israeli New Sheqel
0.15JOD Jordanian Dinar
0.07KWD Kuwaiti Dinar
8.60UYU Uruguayan Peso
9.54MUR Mauritian Rupee
7.58NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
2.14NOK Norwegian Krone
0.79SAR Saudi Riyal
76.95LKR Sri Lanka Rupee
7.76THB Thai Baht
0.78AED U.A.E Dirham
1.10BRL Brazilian Real
1.04RON Romanian New Leu
1.66HKD Hong Kong Dollar
138.89XAF Central African CFA Franc
4,973.25VND Vietnamese Dong
30.19ARS Argentine Peso
0.57XCD East Caribbean Dollar
1.65GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
2.25MAD Moroccan Dirham
0.08BHD Bahrain Dinar
0.21PAB Panamanian Balboa
0.36AZN Azerbaijan Manat
933.22COP Colombian Peso
17.07KGS Kyrgyzstan Som
86.10HUF Hungarian Forint
2.16TJS Tajikistan Ruble
3,139.70IDR Indonesian Rupiah
4.10EGP Egyptian Pound
295.33KRW South Korean Won
1,472.93PYG Paraguayan Guaraní
0.96MYR Malaysian Ringgit
133.66CRC Costa Rican Colón
0.35NZD New Zealand Dollar
47.23PKR Pakistani Rupee
12.72RUB Russian Rouble
3.71ZAR South African Rand
0.68TND Tunisian Dinar
0.43BBD Barbadian Dollar
0.41BGN Bulgarian Lev
3.86TRY Turkish Lira
12.10PHP Philippine Peso
6.58TWD New Taiwan Dollar
90.49NGN Nigerian Naira
25.22XPF CFP Franc
2.12GHS Ghanaian Cedi
32.17JMD Jamaican Dollar
0.38ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder
0.30BND Brunei Dollar
24.79RSD Serbian Dinar
1.48CNY Chinese Yuan
1.57DKK Danish Krone
0.74TMT New Turkmenistan Manat
16.86INR Indian Rupee
Exchange Rate for U.S. Dollar to Polish Zloty
1 USD = 4.73 PLN
Exchange Rate for Euro to Polish Zloty
1 EUR = 4.73 PLN
Exchange Rate for Canadian Dollar to Polish Zloty
1 CAD = 3.59 PLN
Exchange Rate for U.K. Pound Sterling to Polish Zloty
1 GBP = 5.44 PLN
Exchange Rate for Australian Dollar to Polish Zloty
1 AUD = 3.18 PLN
Exchange Rate for New Zealand Dollar to Polish Zloty
1 NZD = 2.83 PLN
Exchange Rate for South African Rand to Polish Zloty
1 ZAR = 0.27 PLN
Krakow International Airport (KRK) John Paul II International Airport
Krakow–Balice http://www.lotnisko-balice.pl
Location: Krakow The airport is situated 11 miles (17.6km) west of
Krakow.
Time: Local time is GMT +1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in
March to last Sunday in October).
Getting to the city:
City bus services 208 and 192 leave from the roundabout in front
of the passenger terminal and leave regularly to the city centre.
Taxis are also available outside the arrivals hall and take 20
minutes to get to the city centre.
A shuttle train operates between the airport and the city
centre. The Kraków-Balice train station is located 200m from the
passenger terminal and operated a daytime service every 30
minutes.
Car rental:
Car rental companies include Avis, Budget, Europcar and
Hertz.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
There are banks, bureaux de change and ATMs at the airport.
Other facilities include restaurants, bars, and shops, duty-free,
child facilities, tourist information and hotel reservations desks,
WiFi and a post office. A business lounge and VIP lounge is also
available. Disabled facilities are good, but those with special
needs should contact their airline in advance.
Parking:
Parking at John Paul II International Airport starts at PLN 5
every 15 minutes for short-term parking, and PLN 7 per hour for
long-term parking. Economy parking is also available at PLN 10 per
day.
Location: Warsaw The airport is situated six miles (10km) southwest of
Warsaw.
Time: Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 from last Sunday in
March to last Sunday in October).
Contacts:
Tel: +48 (22) 650 4220.
Transfer between terminals:
Terminals are within walking distance of each other.
Getting to the city:
Municipal buses 175, 148, 188 and 331 operate daily from 4.35am
to around 11pm ferrying commuters to Warsaw city centre and the
right riverbank. Some hotels provide a shuttle bus service to and
from the hotel on request.
Car rental:
Avis, Hertz, Budget and Europcar operate from the airport. They
are located at the Terminal A arrivals hall.
Airport Taxis:
A taxi stand is located in front of the arrivals hall.
Facilities:
There are shops, bars and restaurants at the airport. Other
facilities include banks, bureaux de change, ATMs, a post office,
and tourist information and hotel reservations kiosks.
Parking:
Short-stay parking at the Kiss&Fly Zone is free for the
first 7 minutes, and then PLN 30 for the next fifteen minutes with
a charge of PLN 1 per minute extra. The multi-level car park P1 and
P2 has long-stay parking options at a fee of PLN 250 for six to ten
days or PLN 300 for eleven to fifteen days.
Zakopane Krakow
Zakopane Photo credit: Mathiasrex
The Tatras is Poland's beautiful alpine
range of towering peaks, rocky cliffs and glacial lakes, dotted
with numerous little villages preserving a traditional highland
lifestyle. The region's largest town is Zakopane, Poland's premier
mountain resort. The winter sports capital of Poland, Zakopane is
superbly situated at the foot of the Tatras with immediate access
to the ski slopes in winter. The charming town has a laid-back
fairytale atmosphere, the steep streets lined with traditional
wooden cottages made from roughly cut logs and the 'Zakopane-style'
architecture featuring delicately carved patterns and intricate
woodwork decoration. The region is popular for outdoor activities
and one of the more popular holiday attractions is the trip to the
exquisite glacial lake, Morskie Oko.
Nightlife in Zakopane
Zakopane has a vibey nightlife with numerous bars and a few
great dance clubs. Some of the night spots are uninspiring tourist
traps but the big clubs attract party people from as far away as
Warsaw. Krupowki street is the main drag, but it is worth exploring
a bit to find less touristy options.
Shopping in Zakopane
Shopping in Zakopane is centred on the main street, Krupowki,
which is lined with restaurants, shops, stalls and street
performers, creating a fun, traditional atmosphere. Popular
souvenirs include items such as oscypek (smoked goat's cheese) and
ciupagas (long, thin traditional axes). There are plenty of ski
stores where visitors can buy or hire equipment before hitting the
slopes.
Things to do in Zakopane
Outside of the ski season Zakopane is a popular destination for
mountaineers and hikers, with a number of great climbs beginning at
the Morskie Oko and Czarny Staw lakes, and ascending Rysy, the
highest peak in Poland. Other popular climbing routes ascend the
peaks of Mieguszowiecki Szczyt, Glewont, Mnich and Cubryna. Most of
the area's attractions are natural, but the town is known for its
charming traditional atmosphere and there are many folk dancing
performances and cultural events held to entertain tourists. There
are a handful of museums and galleries in town and there is a water
park and a Teddy Bear Museum to amuse young children.
Things to be aware of in Zakopane
The popular ski slopes can get crowded and the ski lift
infrastructure is rather old-fashioned.
Dining in Zakopane
Zakopane boasts a variety of restaurants and there should be
something to cater to all budgets and tastes. Tuberoza, which
serves up traditional eastern European fare on Pilsudskiego street,
is one of the most popular restaurants in the town, and the
Trattoria Adamo offers a tasty range of Italian food. There are
plenty of fun bars for après ski drinks.
Overview of the Attractions in Poland
When sightseeing around Poland you'll find all the hallmarks of
European charm in abundance: alpine mountains, historic buildings,
resplendent lakes, lush meadows, untainted beaches, and some
fascinating albiet harrowing sites from the Second World War.
The capital of Warsaw was the first city to fall to Hitler and
had to be almost completely rebuilt after the 1944 invasion. Parts
of the Old Town were built to replicate the city as it had stood in
the 17th and 18th centuries and the Historical Museum of Warsaw, a
salute to the city's violent past, is a must. A visit to Poland
would not be complete without a trip to the country's most
significant wartime landmark: Auschwitz, Hitler's biggest and most
notorious concentration camp.
About two hours north of Warsaw is the Bialowieza Primaeval
Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is one of the last
remnants of the European primeval forest which once covered most
the continent. Further north visitors will find other rare vestiges
of old Europe, like the Gothic Castle in Malbork, the largest and
most impressive brick fortress in Europe. There are several other
wooden and stone churches, temples and other impressive buildings
throughout Poland's vast and glorious countryside, which can be
traversed by bus or train.
The city of Krakow is the most popular tourist destination in
Poland, and the city which suffered least during the war. The main
attraction is the remarkably well-preserved medieval centre, but
Krakow is a cosmopolitan, modern city boasting the wonderful mix
between old and new which characterises the whole country.
Old Town (Starego Miasta) Warsaw
The Old Town is an historic focal point, rebuilt in
original 17th and 18th-century style following the war. The
picturesque Old Market Square (Rynek) is at the centre, surrounded
by restored buildings and colourful three-storey merchant houses
with Baroque and Renaissance facades, lively open-air restaurants,
art stalls, and the Historical Museum of Warsaw. Buskers, painters,
and musicians provide entertainment, while cobbled streets and
alleyways contain beautiful Gothic churches and palaces. The
impressive Royal Castle was once the home of the Polish Kings while
ramparts and watchtowers dot the medieval walls surrounding the old
city.
Museum of Warsaw Warsaw
Opening time: 10am to 6pm, Tuesday to Sunday.
The Museum of Warsaw is one of the best of the city's
impressive array of museums. Its three storeys are crammed with
fascinating exhibitions, covering every aspect of Warsaw's history
and life from the city's establishment to the present day. It
occupies almost an entire side of a square in Old Town, housed in
quaint historical buildings and boasting 52 rooms with permanent
exhibitions, four with temporary exhibitions, a cinema, a library,
and a reading room. A special feature is a documentary film showing
the destruction and reconstruction of the city, with footage shot
by the Nazis during their calculated and systematic annihilation of
Warsaw, and footage of the careful rebuilding after the war. The
film is shown in English at 10am and 12pm from Tuesday to Friday,
and at 12pm and 2pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Address: Rynek Starego Miasta 28-42, 00-272 Warszawa,
Poland.
Telephone: +48 22 277 43 00
Website: http://www.muzeumwarszawy.pl
The Royal Way Warsaw
Known as the Royal Way, this two-and-a-half mile
(4km) route stretches from the Royal Castle in the Old Town to the
stately King's Palace at Wilanów on the outskirts of the city. It
bisects the central city from north to south, and is lined with
galleries, museums, and historical buildings St Anne's Church.
Along the way are the royal gardens of Park Lazienki with its
lakes, peacocks, and charming 18th-century Lazienki Palace, which
was the royal summer residence. A monument of the famous Polish
composter Frederic Chopin stands in the park, with summer concerts
held on the lawns. The Royal Way ends at the splendid Wilanów
Palace which was modelled on Versailles, containing a museum and an
art gallery called the Orangery.
Website: http://www.wilanow-palac.art.pl
Westerplatte Gdansk
The peninsula of Westerplatte saw the beginning of
Second World War. A small Polish garrison heroically held out
against the attack of seven days before surrendering to German
forces, with the site now a towering memorial to the defenders.
With only 180 Polish soldiers, they fought on knowing they had no
chance of reinforcement or resupply. A small museum is accompanied
by ruins of the barracks and guardhouses left from the shelling,
standing harrowing and dilapidated in an otherwise picturesque
setting reachable by bus. Surrounding scenery is best appreciated
on a boat or bike trip.
Malbork Castle Gdansk
Opening time: 9am to 7pm, Monday to Sunday.
Malbork Castle is the world's largest brick fortress
and one of the most impressive in Europe. The Teutonic Knights
built it in 1276 and slowly began to establish themselves as
fearsome rulers, taking control of most of Poland until they were
defeated at the Battle of Grunwald in 1410. The immense brick
stronghold incorporates a system of multiple defence walls with
gates and towers, guarding an interior of arcaded courtyards,
chapels, a treasury, the Knights' Hall, and an armoury. The castle
houses several exhibitions of tapestries, coins and medals,
medieval sculptures, and weapons. During summer, the courtyard is
used as a venue for sound and light shows. Guided tours are
available and there are audio guides for those who prefer to
explore independently, although the number of audio guides is
limited.
Getting there: 31 miles (50km) from Gdansk by train or bus
Address: Staroscinska 1, 82-200 Malbork, Poland
Telephone: +48 55 647 08 00
Website: http://www.zamek.malbork.pl
Main Market Square (Rynek Glówny) Krakow
Dating from 1257, the Central Market Square was one
of the largest squares in medieval Europe and remains the social
heart of Krakow. Surrounded by historic buildings, museums, and
magnificent churches, the impressive expanse of flagstones is a hub
of commercial and social activity. Flower sellers, ice-cream
vendors, musicians, pigeons, students, and groups of tourists fill
the square. The striking church of St Mary's is an impressive
twin-spire Gothic structure while at the centre of the square is
the splendid medieval Cloth Hall, its upstairs art gallery housing
a collection of 19th-century Polish paintings and sculptures.
Wawel Krakow
Wawel is a hill overlooking Krakow, upon which stands
an architectural complex that includes Wawel Castle and the Gothic
Wawel Cathedral. It was here that all the Polish kings ruling
between the 14th and the 17th centuries were crowned and buried,
and it lies at the heart of Poland's royal history. The
Renaissance-style castle is now a museum, with visitors able to see
the Royal Private Apartments, Crown Treasury, Armoury, and the
State Rooms. Of the many chapels in the cathedral, the golden-domed
Chapel of King Sigismund is the finest. The bell tower can be
climbed for views over the city and to see the enormous 11 tonne
bell. A number of different guided tours are available so check the
official website listed below for details.
Getting there: Tram 10 or a short walk from the Main Square, Rynek
Glówny.
Website: http://www.wawel.krakow.pl
Kazimierz District and the Old Synagogue Krakow
The Kazimierz quarter was the centre of Jewish
religion, culture, and learning before the Second World War. Badly
damaged during the Nazi occupation, it has been rebuilt so visitors
can admire the historical architecture and get an experience of
what daily Jewish life was once like. The area is enlivened by art
galleries, kosher restaurants, and numerous cultural events. The
Oskar Schindler Factory Museum is itself a popular tourist
attraction in Krakow, dedicated to the memory of Schindler and the
Jewish workers he managed to save from the death camps. The Old
Synagogue is part of the Historical Museum of Krakow, where the
collection of physical memories from the Kazimierz Jewish community
is kept.
A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Monument, the Salt
Mine at Wieliczka is a unique underground complex built in the
Middle Ages. The series of labyrinthine tunnels, chambers,
galleries, and underground lakes are spread over nine levels and
reach a depth of more than 1,000ft (304m), but visitors are
restricted to a tour of three levels. Centuries-old passageways
contain huge crystalline caverns and carved chapels. The highlight
is the Blessed Kinga Chapel where everything is carved from salt,
dedicated to the patron saint of Polish mine workers. The world's
first subterranean therapeutic sanatorium is situated 656ft (200m)
below the surface, and makes use of the saline air for the
treatment of asthma.
Getting there: Buses and minibuses leave from outside the train
station; or else there is the local Krakow-Wieliczka
train
Address: Ul. Danilowicza 10, Wieliczka
Website: http://www.kopalnia.pl
Auschwitz Memorial Museum Krakow
Opening time: 8am to 3pm, Monday to Sunday.
The Auschwitz concentration camp forms the largest
cemetery in the world, preserved as a memorial to the victims of
the Holocaust during the Second World War. Visitors can obvserve
the structures, ruins, and gas chambers, while visiting exhibits at
the museum. The buildings contain displays of photographs and piles
of personal articles of the victims, including battered suitcases,
and thousands of spectacles, hair, and shoes collected from the
bodies. The sheer scale of the tragedy can be experienced at the
Birkenau Camp, with a viewing platform to give some perspective
over the vast fenced-in area. It was the principal camp where the
extermination of millions took place, a chillingly efficient set-up
with rows of barracks and four colossal gas chambers and ovens.
Purpose-built railway tracks lead through the huge gateway along
which victims were transported from the ghettos to the camp in
crowded box-like carts. Taking a guided tour of the camps is the
best way to fully comprehend what you are seeing and a tour takes
at least three and a half hours. Visitors should try and book a
place on one of the various guided tours at least two weeks before
visiting - see the official website below for details.
Getting there: There are regular coach and rail services from Krakow (a
one hour journey), and a shuttle bus runs between Auschwitz I and
Birkenau from mid-April to October.
Situated in the heart of the Jewish Quarter of
Krakow, the Galicia Jewish Museum houses a permanent photographic
exhibition which is extremely powerful. It documents the history
and heritage of the Jews in the villages and towns of Poland,
focusing particularly on the Holocaust. Poland lost almost a
quarter of its population in World War II, and the Jewish community
was decimated. The museum has a bookshop, while also hosting plenty
of temporary exhibitions, special events, lectures, and Jewish
music concerts. The Galicia Jewish Museum is often overlooked as a
tourist attraction in Krakow, but is a worthwhile experience for
people from all walks of life. Budget at least three hours to fully
absorb the experience. Guided tours are available and there is a
charming little cafe for refreshments.
Address: Dajwór 18, 31-052 Kraków, Poland.
Telephone: +48 12 421 68 42
Website: http://www.galiciajewishmuseum.org
Polish Poster Gallery Warsaw
Opening time: 11am to 6pm (Monday to Friday); 10am to 3pm on
Saturdays.
The Galeria Grafiki i Plakatu (Polish Poster Gallery)
is located in the old town district of Warsaw, housing the finest
collection of graphic art and posters in Eastern Europe.
Established in 1975, it now exhibits over 5,000 pieces of art, many
displaying facets of Polish culture. Visitors will see theatre,
music, and cinema posters, as well as Polish Solidarity political
posters. The gallery also displays some iconic American, British,
French, and German posters, and tourists may be excited to see
classics like West Side Story, Moby Dick, and Dirty Dancing.
Thankfully, the museum has a great selection of prints for
sale.
Address: Hoża 40, 00-001 Warszawa, Poland
Website: http://www.poster.com.pl
Piwnica pod Baranami Krakow
The Piwnica pod Baranami is a Parisian-style cabaret
house located in Krakow's old town, allowing tourists to experience
and appreciate the culture, values, and ideals of the city. Created
by Piotr Skryznecki in 1956, this bohemian underground cellar soon
became a haven for local artists and intellectuals where they would
indulge in one of Poland's favourite cultural pastimes: political
cabaret. The Piwnica pod Baranami still functions as a cabaret
house to this day with performances on Saturdays at 9pm remaining
extremely popular, so book your ticket early. A highly recommended
tourist activity in Poland, it's a great spot to begin an
unforgettable Saturday night.
Address: Main Market Square, Krakow.
Website: http://www.piwnicapodbaranami.pl/
Bieszczady Mountains Krakow
While most tourists to Poland usually content
themselves with the wonderful cultural experiences in the old towns
of Warsaw and Krakow, a trip into the Polish countryside can be an
equally rewarding enterprise. The Bieszczady Mountains run through
the extreme southeast of Poland, near the Ukraine and Slovakia
borders. A land of snow-capped peaks, tall pine trees, and vast
green meadows, the Bieszczady region boasts hiking and mountain
bike trails which wind through a rich array of native flora. Found
in the UNESCO East Carpathian Biosphere Reserve, animal lovers
should look out for lynxes, bears, and wolves.
Bialowieza National Park Warsaw
Bialowieza National Park is a heavily protected
UNESCO World Heritage site. It guards the last remnants of the
primeval forest that used to cover most of Europe at the time of
the last ice age. The park is the last place on earth that tourists
can see European bison, huge beasts that once roamed across the
continent, living undisturbed in their natural habitats. An
ecotourism destination of international repute, the nearby town of
Bialowieza has launched numerous luxury spas and elite lodgings.
Bialowieza National Park is a short train ride from Warsaw (two and
a half hours) making it possible to visit the park on a daytrip,
but it is best to spend at least one night in the area if
possible.
Sopot Gdansk
Although still very much a well-kept secret on the
mainstream tourist scene, Northern European travellers have been
flocking to Sopot for many years for its gorgeous sandy beaches on
the shore of the Baltic Sea. Primarily a beach resort and health
spa town, Sopot buzzes every summer. Throngs of visitors walk along
its famous wooden pier while enjoying the long sunny days and
numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. There are a few other
tourist attractions in the town, like a museum and a water park,
but the beachfront is the highlight. With its vibrant nightlife and
relative obscurity, Sopot is the perfect cheaper option for budget
travellers and backpackers.
Zakopane Krakow
The Tatras is Poland's beautiful alpine range of towering peaks,
rocky cliffs and glacial lakes, dotted with numerous little
villages preserving a traditional highland lifestyle. The region's
largest town is Zakopane, Poland's premier mountain resort. The
winter sports capital of Poland, Zakopane is superbly situated at
the foot of the Tatras with immediate access to the ski slopes in
winter. The charming town has a laid-back fairytale atmosphere, the
steep streets lined with traditional wooden cottages made from
roughly cut logs and the 'Zakopane-style' architecture featuring
delicately carved patterns and intricate woodwork decoration. The
region is popular for outdoor activities and one of the more
popular holiday attractions is the trip to the exquisite glacial
lake, Morskie Oko.
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