Thinking about visiting Poland? We must mention that one day isn’t enough to truly experience everything this fantastic country has to offer. You need at least 10 days to really soak it all in. Here’s an ultimate travel guide to help you make the most of your trip to Poland!
Let’s Dive into Poland!
Basic Travel Information
Before you venture to Poland, here are some essential details to know:
– Currency: Polish Złoty (PLN), approximately USD 0.2.
– Official Language: Polish.
– Plug Type: Type C and E.
Visa and Entry Requirements
First, check if your nationality allows you to enter Poland without a visa. If not, you’ll need to prepare for a Schengen Visa. This requires proof of USD 29,000 in medical coverage. Additionally, check current border restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic to see if you need specific test results.
Tips and Tricks for Traveling in Poland
This travel guide highlights some tips to help you have a more enjoyable, affordable, and stress-free trip.
Accommodation
– Dorm Rooms: A bed in an 8 to 10-bed dorm costs around PLN 55-59 per night.
– Private Rooms: Prices range from PLN 95 to 175 per night.
– Two-Star Hotels: Expect to pay between PLN 110 to 160 per night.
– Three-Star Hotels: These cost around PLN 145 to 195 per night, and prices generally increase the closer you are to the city center.
– Airbnb: Private rooms start at PLN 75 per night, while entire homes or apartments begin at PLN 100.
– Campgrounds: Basic tent plots without electricity for two people are usually around PLN 40 per night. Note that camping in national parks is not allowed.
Transportation
To get around Poland, choose the best mode of transportation that suits your budget and needs.
City Passes:
Most Polish cities have buses and trams; only Warsaw has a subway system. Day passes are a good budget saver:
– Warsaw: A one-day pass in Zone 1 costs at least PLN 7.5.
– Gdansk: Part of the Tricity area, a Zone 1 pass is PLN 18.5.
– Wroclaw: A 24-hour all-zone pass is PLN 15.
– Krakow: A one-day pass for Zone 1 is PLN 17.
Intercity Travel:
– Bus: The popular Flixbus (in partnership with Polski Bus) offers various routes. For instance, a 4-hour trip from Warsaw to Krakow costs PLN 29, while a 7-hour trip to Gdansk costs PLN 50.
– Train: Suitable for long distances, book through Omio. For example, a 2.5-hour journey from Warsaw to Gdansk costs around PLN 245, while a 2-hour trip to Krakow is about PLN 50.
– Flight: Budget airlines offer domestic flights. A round-trip from Warsaw to various cities is around PLN 325. A one-hour flight from Warsaw to Krakow is about PLN 215, and to Gdansk, it’s around PLN 180.
Food
Polish cuisine is hearty, with dishes often featuring meat, potatoes, and vegetables like cabbage and beets. A full traditional meal at a local restaurant (bar mleczny) costs around PLN 30-35. For a three-course meal with a drink, expect to pay about PLN 75. If you prefer cooking, groceries for a week cost around PLN 190 for essentials like pasta, rice, vegetables, and meats.
Itinerary and Places to Visit
Here’s a 10-day itinerary to help you explore Poland:
Day 1: Warsaw
Start your journey in the capital. Warsaw Chopin Airport is a popular entry point for international flights. The city boasts fantastic restaurants and numerous museums. Highlights include the Warsaw Old Town Market Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 2-4: Gdansk
Spend three days in this charming harbor city to fully appreciate its medieval castles and seaside resorts. Key spots include Main Town, Dlugi Targ, and the Gdansk Shipyards. Don’t miss Malbork Castle.
Day 5-6: Wroclaw
Explore the city’s medieval architecture, including the Centennial Hall, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Key attractions are the Market Square, Old Town, and Cathedral Island.
Day 7-9: Krakow
This city offers vibrant nightlife, historical sites, and outdoor adventures. Spend three days immersing yourself in places like Rynek Glowny, Wawel Castle, and the Auschwitz-Birkenau museum.
Day 10: Zakopane
End your trip in the picturesque town of Zakopane, famous for its winter sports and stunning views of the Tatra Mountains. Explore hiking trails like Strazyska Valley and Kasprowy Wierch, or enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
Final Thoughts
Poland has countless places worth visiting, and a thorough travel guide can make your trip seamless. If you don’t want to plan everything yourself, consider booking a travel package with JoinMyTrip to explore Poland and Eastern Europe with fellow travelers. What are you waiting for? Start planning your incredible adventure today!