Best Places To Visit in Poland

Where can you find the most beautiful destinations in Poland? You might ask yourself that question before packing your bags and heading to Poland. Not to worry! We’ve got you covered. 

Located in the heart of Europe, Poland has an impressive list of breathtaking places any traveler would be happy to discover. With a rich history, beautiful attractions, exotic local cuisines, and amazing scenery, Poland is a destination waiting to be discovered. 

No doubt, Poland is not a hot vacation destination for tourists, so finding the finest gems can be a bit overwhelming. Thankfully, you can secure the services of a local tour guide. Alternatively, you can research and get information from the countless online resources, but it would take forever to read them all. That’s why this piece has a list of 15 incredible Poland destinations that will blow your mind away. 

1. Krakow

The second-largest city in Poland, Krakow is unarguably the most popular tourist destination in Poland. You will fall in love with this city if you cherish colorful architecture, interactive museums, cool art galleries, and great tasting food. 

Krakow is one of the oldest cities in Poland, dating back to the 7th century. It is one of the few lucky Polish cities that escaped the massive destruction that befell Poland during the Second World War. For this reason, the Old Town treats visitors to beautiful medieval architecture in its original form. The Old Jewish Castle and the Impressive Wawel Castle are both proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to their historical significance. 

With more than 40 green parks where you can walk, relax and enjoy various interesting activities, 25 museums, including the National Art Collection and the Rynek Underground Museum and proximity to major attractions like Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camps and Wieliczka – the oldest salt mine in the world, there is absolutely no shortage of things to see and do here. You can be sure this city will not bore you. 

2. Warsaw

Anyone familiar with Poland will, of course, know that Warsaw is the capital of Poland. This capital has plenty of things stocked up for you. Poland, as a country, has a turbulent history, and Warsaw is a fine reference point. The city has been torn apart, destroyed, and razed to the ground during WWII. 

Thanks to the resilient action of the people, the city’s Old Town was rebuilt from scratch, but this time the builders tried to maintain its original look. Once nicknamed the “Paris of the North,” Warsaw is renowned the world over as the home of Fryderyk Chopin, a classical composer. 

There are lots of beautiful attractions, landmarks, and monuments that call Warsaw home. These include the Royal Castle, the Royal Baths Park, the Royal Wilanow, and many more. Shoppers and revelers will have a swell time in modern Warsaw. The city is also walkable. Locals are friendly, open, and welcoming. 

3. Gdansk

Much like Warsaw, the city had its own fair share of destruction during the Second World War. After the war, the city was restored. In the 1980s, Gdansk gave birth to the Solidarity movement, which saw the end of communism in the country. 

The colorful Old Town of Gdansk leaves visitors stuck in awe. A walk around the Old Town takes you back to the time of old. Admire the long rows of beautifully painted houses. Explore its many religious sites, towers, and attractions. 

Though a modern city and Poland’s main seaport, Gdansk never forgets its turbulent past. For detailed info about the city’s history, check out the Museum of the Second World War. The museum displays interesting artifacts, pictures, and documents that tell you more about the war itself. Other interesting highlights include Nowy Port Lighthouse, Wisloujscie, and St Mary, the world’s largest brick church. 

4. Wroclaw

If you are looking for a destination offering a perfect mix of entertainment and cultural events, Wroclaw is your sure plug. Wroclaw hasn’t been entirely Polish since its inception. This is evident in its cultural diversity tapping from Bohemian, Prussian, and Australian Kingdoms. The city only became part of Poland after the Second World War, which drew up new borderlines in Europe. 

Known as the capital of the Lower Silesia, Wroclaw is home to more than a dozen islands, several riverside parks, and lots of monuments, including the ultra-modern Hydropolis. 

Don’t miss the chance to go dwarf hunting. A stroll around the city brings you closer to these figurines. The city’s major highlights include the 13th century Main Market Square, Pan Tadeusz Museum, and the Lumbomirski Museum.

5. Torun

Torun is one of the oldest cities in Poland, with a history dating back to the 8th century. This is one of the few Polish cities that was largely untouched during WWII. This gives visitors a chance to explore centuries-old buildings in their original form and a medieval Central Marketplace. 

Among the original buildings is the place of residence of astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Today, the building serves as a museum. The Old Quarter, which made the list of World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is a great spot to explore on foot. The Gothic Town Hall and the Cathedral of SS. John the Evangelist and John the Baptist are other interesting sites to see. If you are looking for a perfect place that offers respite from the busy city life, Torun is the place to be. 

6. Zakopane and Tatra Mountains

Zakopane is the most famous mountain town in Poland. A trip to Poland without visiting this small town will be considered incomplete. This resort town attracts both local visitors and tourists alike. 

Its location at the base of the Tatra Mountains makes it even more popular. In the summer, go hiking and mountain climbing, while winter offers lots of snowboarding and skiing activities. Everywhere you turn, breathtaking mountain views abound. 

The peak of the Tatra Mountains offers breaking vistas of the surrounding areas. Also, the Tatras is home to streams, waterfalls, and mountain lakes. 

Tired of the outdoors? Zakopane also offers historic wooden villas that will cater to your every need. 

7. Tricity (Gdansk, Gdynia, Sopot)

Gdansk, Gdynia, and Sopot are interesting places that are worth your time. Together they make up the popular Tri-City. Each city has its own unique feel and characteristic features. With the range of activities and events available, one thing is sure – in Tricity, there is never a dull moment. 

You can choose to dance your heart out at the club, lounge in the sun on one of the beaches, taste local specialize, and enjoy many interesting activities.

Many travelers come here to enjoy the serenity and the freshness of the air. In the summer, visitors will be treated to loads of amazing events and activities. All three cities are well connected so you can stay in one and enjoy the charms of the Tricity. The Tricity is a perfect destination for water lovers and marine enthusiasts. 

8. Malbork

 

Malbork is well known for its 13th century castle built to serve as the headquarters of the Knights of the Teutonic Order. It took more than two centuries to complete building the castle and holds the positions as the largest brick castle in the world. 

Despite being destroyed during WWII, the castle has been renovated to give it a modern look. Surrounding by defensive walls and guarded by massive gates, Malbork Castle is one of the reasons why many people visit Poland, hence it is one of the most popular attractions in Poland. If you are a big fan of medieval history, Malbork is the place to be. 

9. Bialowieza Forest Reserve

Bialowieza Forest Reserve is a large remaining section of the primeval forest that once covered Europe. The area has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located between the borders of Poland and Belarus, the forest reserve is a great spot for bird watching. 

Covering more than 3000 square km, the forest has remained in its original form ever since it was discovered. More so, it is also one of the few virgin woodlands in Europe. The forest is a natural habitat for a wide range of wild life including lynx, deer, wolves, and golden eagles. However, the main attraction here is the European bison. 

Since it is a protected area, visitors are not allowed to enter without a certified guide. In the heart of the forest is the Bialowieza village and an open-air Museum of Wooden Architecture. You should check them out. 

10. Hel Peninsula

The Hel Peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Poland. The area has seen many ships dock and sails away. Water lovers and seafood enthusiasts will find this place soothing. Take a refreshing dip in the turquoise ocean waters and enjoy the cool ocean breeze as you relax onshore. If you love fishing, be sure to put Hel Peninsula in your Poland itinerary. 

11. Lublin

Sadly, Lublin is not fully appreciated by domestic and international visitors. But in the real sense, it has plenty of amazing things to offer. There are many reasons why you should consider making your plan to Lublin on your next trip to Poland. The charming Old Town featuring winding lanes, cobbled streets, and colorful houses, is hard to miss. 

Enjoy a few quirky things to do, like riding on the trolleybuses found in just three polish cities – Gdynia and Tychy inclusive. The art scene, great events, culinary scene, and interesting history makes this city such a cool place to visit. 

12. Poznan

This is one of the finest cities for budget travelers. Also, it is home to the third-largest university in Poland so expect to see a wide range of activities targeted at the younger generations. The city plays hosts to lots of international events such as the Malta International Theater Festival. 

Located in west-central Poland, Poznan is best known for its Old Town. Major highlights of the city include the New Zoo, Ostrow Tumski Cathedral, Lake Malta, and many more. 

13. Zamosc

Renowned as the Polish pearl of the Renaissance, Zamosc is one of the most beautiful places in Poland. The Old Town’s architectural style, fantastic monuments, and fine buildings make Zamosc a must-visit. 

The city is home to lots of interesting attractions including the Town Hall, the highest building in the Old Town offering stunning views of the city from the top; learn more about the rich history and culture by visiting the Museum of Zamosc; Zamosc Academy, one of the country’s oldest and most significant universities, and a monument in honor of the founded of Zamosc, Jan Zamoyski. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to Zamosc Zoo, one of Poland’s finest. 

14. Masurian Lake District

Looking for a place that offers adventurous outdoor activities? Masuria Lakelands is the place to be. Home to organic farms, dense forest, countless lakes, and charming resort towns, Masuria Lake District is a place worth visiting. Just as with other destinations in Poland, the best time to visit this place is during summer. Keep in mind that Masuria gets crowded at this time. 

From kayaking along the Krutynia River and exploring the bike trail in its dense forest to a wide range of water sports activities including sailing and fishing, Masuria will leave you spoilt for choice with the range of activities. Widely known as the Land of a Thousand Lakes, Masuria is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The deepest lake, Czarna Hancza measures 108m in depth while the largest, Sniardwy measures 114km2 in size. 

Located in northeastern Poland, major highlights of this Lake District include Luknajno Reserve, which prides itself for being Europe’s largest breeding grounds of mute swan, an open-air ethnographic museum, and Wolf’s Lair known to be Adolf Hitler’s military headquarter during WWII. 

15. Kashubian Switzerland

Popularly known as Poland’s Little Switzerland, Kashubia is famous for its distinct character and rich history. Featuring over 600 lakes, wild beaches, lovely attractions, dense forests, and charming villages, Kashubia offers activities and events that cater to both young and old. Everyone who comes here falls in love with the city. Locals are kind and great nature lovers. 

The city is the birthplace of quite a number of notable people, including former EU President Donald Tusk. If you fancy something different, it would be best to head to Kashubia. It is a great place for a family vacation and nature lovers.

Conclusion

Spending your holiday in Poland will leave you with great travel stories and memories that you will cherish for a long time. Visit these cities to explore the stunning side of Poland that will amaze you. No matter why you’re heading to Poland, check out the most beautiful places to visit in Poland. 

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