If you’re thinking of a short trip, Poland might just be the ideal destination, especially if you live near the Baltics, Germany, or any neighboring country. Though it might be close, Poland is far from boring. It’s one of Europe’s most intriguing countries, boasting a rich history, vibrant culture, and a wide array of activities for every kind of traveler.
So, what should you do in Poland? What are the must-see places? To help you plan your visit, here are some of the top spots to check out:
Start your journey in Warsaw, a city that perfectly blends modernity and history. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see. Don’t miss The Royal Castle, once the grand residence of Polish monarchs. Another great spot to relax is Łazienki Park, Warsaw’s largest park, complete with lakes, rolling hills, beautiful historic buildings, and lush gardens. For museum enthusiasts, the Copernicus Science Center and the National Museum are among the most fascinating.
Krakow, Poland’s second-largest city and one of its oldest, used to be the royal capital. Its rich history, dating back to the 13th century, along with its stunning medieval architecture, are key attractions. Krakow showcases a variety of European architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau. Wawel Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its stunning Italian-style courtyard, exemplifies this architectural diversity.
Wroclaw, a vibrant university city with over 130,000 students, is one of Poland’s most lively places. According to the Mercer Quality of Living Survey, it’s among the top 100 most liveable cities worldwide. Ostrów Tumski, Wroclaw’s oldest section, features impressive historical architecture from the 13th century and is particularly beautiful at twilight.
One of Poland’s most unique attractions is the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which dates back to the 13th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though it ceased salt production in 2007, it remains a fascinating historic monument, attracting over a million visitors each year. The mine hosts underground concerts and theatre shows and is home to the Chapel of St. Kinga, situated 101 meters underground with an intricately carved interior and crystal chandeliers.
For hiking enthusiasts, Poland offers numerous trails in the Tatra Mountains that provide spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes and lakes. Popular hikes include Morskie Oko, the Valley of Five Lakes, Zawrat Pass, and Red Peaks. The resort town of Zakopane in Tatra National Park is also worth a visit. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy beautiful mountain scenery via cable car or funicular to peaks like Kasprowy Wierch and Gubałówka.
Slowinski National Park is another gem with its vast, shifting sand dunes and picturesque Baltic coastline. Inside the park, you’ll find Łebsko Lake, a large saltwater lake. North of the lake is the Łącka Dune, offering breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea.
Poland is also home to some of Europe’s most impressive castles. A prime example is Malbork Castle, the largest brick fortress in the world by land area. Built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Order, this UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises the lower, middle, and high castle sections. Due to its vast size, be prepared to spend most of your day exploring it.