Poland Travel Guide
Essential travel information — emergency numbers, safety, currency, visas, customs and getting around.
Poland is generally a safe country for tourists. Major cities are well-lit and have a visible police presence. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas, especially on public transport and around major attractions. Violent crime against tourists is rare.
Polish Złoty (PLN)
Type E
Tipping is appreciated but not strictly mandatory. In restaurants, a 10% tip is standard for good service. For taxis, rounding up the fare is common. For other services, tipping is less common but always welcome for exceptional service.
Prepaid SIM cards are readily available and affordable from major providers like Play, T-Mobile, Orange, and Plus. You can purchase them at airports, train stations, and convenience stores. Registration with a passport is usually required.
Poland is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations, can enter Poland for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business. Other nationalities may require a Schengen visa. Always check the specific requirements for your nationality before travel.
Right
Major Polish cities have extensive and efficient public transport networks, including trams, buses, and in Warsaw, a metro system. Tickets can usually be purchased from vending machines, kiosks, or directly on board (sometimes with cash only). Validate your ticket immediately after boarding. Google Maps and local transport apps are useful for planning routes.
Uber, Bolt, Free Now
Poland has a well-developed intercity transport system. PKP Intercity operates a network of trains connecting major cities, offering various classes of service including high-speed options. For budget travel, long-distance bus companies like FlixBus offer extensive routes. Domestic flights are also available for longer distances, especially between major hubs like Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk.
- • Punctuality is highly valued in business and social settings.
- • Handshakes are common greetings, both formal and informal. Men often kiss women's hands as a traditional sign of respect, though this is becoming less common among younger generations.
- • It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home.
- • Respect for elders is important. It's polite to address people using their professional titles or 'Pan' (Mr.) / 'Pani' (Ms.) followed by their surname until invited to use first names.
Dress code is generally casual for daily activities. For evenings out, especially in nicer restaurants or theaters, smart casual attire is appropriate. When visiting churches or religious sites, it is respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
Poland is predominantly Roman Catholic. When visiting churches, speak softly, turn off mobile phones, and avoid taking photos during services. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. It is customary to be quiet and respectful.
Football (Soccer) — Football is the most popular sport in Poland, with a passionate fan base and a national team that frequently qualifies for major international tournaments. Winter sports like skiing and snowboarding are popular in the Tatra Mountains. Hiking, cycling, and water sports are also common, especially during warmer months. Poland has a strong tradition in volleyball and speedway racing as well.
March/April (movable)
Wielkanoc (Easter)
A major religious holiday, celebrated with family gatherings, traditional foods, and church services. Śmigus-dyngus (Wet Monday) involves playful water fights.
May 1
Święto Pracy (Labor Day)
A public holiday celebrated with parades and political demonstrations.
May 3
Święto Konstytucji 3 Maja (Constitution Day)
Commemorates the adoption of the Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791. Celebrated with patriotic events, parades, and concerts.
November 1
Wszystkich Świętych (All Saints' Day)
A solemn public holiday when Poles visit cemeteries to light candles and lay flowers on the graves of deceased loved ones.
November 11
Narodowe Święto Niepodległości (Independence Day)
Commemorates Poland's regaining independence in 1918. Celebrated with parades, ceremonies, and patriotic events.
December 25-26
Boże Narodzenie (Christmas)
A significant religious and family holiday. Wigilia (Christmas Eve supper) is the most important meal, followed by Midnight Mass.