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• Posts About Poland.

Written by:
Karolina Hammad.
a polish citizen!

You can use REVOLUT app as a payment method in Poland.

Ukranian:
Poland has a large Ukrainian community and has welcomed many Ukrainian refugees and immigrants, especially in recent years.
you might find Ukrainian spoken language in some areas, particularly in major cities and border regions.

(a) TICKETS

One of the great things about visiting Poland is its central European location, making it incredibly accessible. Whether you prefer trains, buses, cars, flights, or even a camper van adventure, getting to Poland is easy and convenient.

Flying to Poland is often one of the easiest and most affordable travel options. With numerous international flights and multiple airports across the country, reaching your Polish destination is both convenient and budget-friendly. This extensive network of airports also makes domestic flights a popular choice for exploring within Poland.

By Planes:

Planning your trip to Poland is made easier by the presence of airports in several key cities. Warsaw is served by both Chopin and Modlin airports, while Kraków, Wrocław, Poznań, Gdańsk, and Olsztyn also offer air travel options. For budget travelers, airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and EasyJet offer competitive fares.

By Train:

Train travel to Poland is scenic and convenient, with connections to neighboring countries like Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Austria.
Comfortable international trains like the EuroCity (EC) make reaching cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Poznan easy and enjoyable.

Bus travel in Poland is a budget-friendly option with extensive routes connecting it to other European countries and major Polish cities. While FlixBus is a major operator, other companies also offer services such as Sindbad.

By Bus:

Driving to Poland offers flexibility and scenic road trip potential, especially from neighboring countries.
With a developing motorway network, navigating by car is relatively easy, allowing for independent exploration and more luggage.
Be aware of motorway tolls and ensure you have necessary documentation and insurance.

By Car:

Last year we rented a mini van to go to Austria and we drove back to Poland in a 13-hour journey with a refreshing stop in Prague.

By Camper Van:

Traveling Poland by campervan offers incredible freedom and flexibility. Explore stunning landscapes, visit charming towns, and enjoy the comfort of your own mobile home.

Here's a list of some of the wonderful places we stayed at during our tour around Poland:

Władysławowo:

We stayed in a lovely hotel apartment that was literally right across the street from the beach.
Surrounded by a variety of restaurants and shops, everything we needed was just steps away.
Although the parking was paid and about 100 meters from the hotel, it was a small trade-off for such a fantastic location.

ZAKOPANE:

Option 1:
Last summer, when we visited the Tatra Mountains, there were seven of us, and we found a great apartment complex in a perfect spot.
It was spacious, clean, and had a fantastic balcony with a view of the mountains.
A short walk behind the complex takes you to beautiful green hills with stunning views of the entire Tatra range and a wonderful walking trail.

Option 2:
When we were planning our visit to Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains.
We found a very nice room just 15 minutes by car from Zakopane’s city center and 20 minutes from Tatra National Park.

OLSZTYN:

Although we have family in Olsztyn, we decided to try these charming small flats.
Our experience was incredibly pleasant and relaxing.
Situated on the edge of the city and close to a beautiful lake, the location couldn’t have been better.

f you love staying overnight in the mountains, Tatra National Park has a fantastic option for you.
You can book a room in one of the mountain huts, which is an amazing experience.
Unfortunately, we couldn’t do it because we booked too late.
So, our tip is to make your reservation a few months before your trip to Poland!

located in a quiet area yet close to shops and restaurants, the location was perfect.
We absolutely loved the room’s cleanliness and stylish décor, making our stay all the more enjoyable.

MAZURY:

In the summer of 2022, we decided to explore a bit around Giżycko, my hometown. We found a cozy, budget-friendly hotel in the area, surrounded by lakes like much of Mazury.

The hotel is right by a port where sailors stop to rest before continuing to other lakes. There’s a small but lovely restaurant, and it’s a family-friendly place, perfect for kids.
We rented a paddle boat and explored nearby islands. After two nights, we took advantage of the beautiful weather and went kayaking on a nearby river.

ŚNIARDWY LAKE:

Can you believe you can wild camp by Poland's biggest lake?!

We usually bring our tent, while my family has a rooftop tent to sleep in. We love walking around the lake, and time just flies when we're there.

We often go there with our family and kids for 2 or 3 nights.
The views are amazing, with the lake surrounded by forests and a hill nearby that's perfect for watching sunsets.

The small complex features its own garden, a cozy pond, and a restaurant serving delightful Polish cuisine.
We truly enjoyed our stay and appreciated the tranquil setting.

Warsaw:
I used to stay in many hostels around Europe when i was single.
I discovered in Warsaw an incredible hostel in the heart of old downtown (Warszawa Stare Miasto).
Its called: oki doki hostel.
and i booked it through www.Hostelworld.com

its only 5 minutes by foot from the main square, very clean, great hospitality and remarkably affordable prices.

Hostels:

Wrocław:
i remember spending one night at this hostel after arriving late to this city, it was clean and incredibly cheap.
i also booked it through www.hostelworld.com
and its called: Hostel Wratislavia

Its around 20 minutes from the beautiful old town of Wrocław.

Krakow:
I stayed here few nights and i liked my stay, it was clean and quiet, even that it is only 10 minutes by foot from the Beautiful old town of Krakow!
I booked it through www.booking.com
and its called: Das Hostel.

Before we proceed, we need to mention that poland has endless of places to visit, what you are about to read is only our experience and the places we visited.
when we visit more places and we find it interesting enough, we promise you to update the list :)

Władysławowo:

If you're seeking a relaxing seaside escape with everything you need just a short walk away, Władysławowo is the perfect destination.
Situated on the northern coast of Poland along the Baltic Sea, this charming town offers the tranquil atmosphere you crave.

In 2023, we visited Władysławowo with our family from Jordan and Poland, spending two relaxing nights there.

GDNASK:

On our way back south from Władysławowo, we made a delightful stop at the zoo in Gdańsk, a charming zoological garden.
Afterward, we headed to the city center and spent the entire day sightseeing.

Plenty of attractions there as the town is designed for tourists mainly, all the restaurants and shops were within walking distance from our accommodation, making it incredibly convenient.
We spent our days unwinding on the beach, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
what is really beautiful there is that the forest there is by sea, which makes it perfect for walks and bikes.

LETS START FROM THE NORTH

One of the highlights of our trip was a train ride to the Hel Peninsula, where we reached its tip to witness an incredible sunset.
The journey itself was magical, with the sea on both sides, providing breathtaking views throughout.

Located by the Baltic Sea, Gdańsk's old town is situated along Charming canals.
We loved walking by the water, watching ships and tour boats sail by.

Crossing the beautiful bridges to the other side of downtown, we were surrounded by historic buildings, vibrant walking areas, and a plenty of shops and restaurants.

Gdnask was an excellent choice, especially with our baby, as the city offered both fascinating sights and family-friendly convenience.

OLSZTYN:

In Olsztyn, one of our closest family members resides, making this beautiful city in northwest Poland a regular destination for us.
We often refer to it as a mini Warsaw, but with more lakes and lush nature, and a much more relaxed atmosphere.

Whenever we're in Olsztyn, we spend our days exploring its stunning lakes and expansive forests, especially with our family's kids.
We love the calm and serenity of this city, which makes for perfect outdoor adventures.

Despite its peaceful nature, Olsztyn boasts a charming historical old town that’s absolutely worth a visit.
The blend of history and natural beauty makes this city a special place in our hearts.

GIZYCKO

Although if you prefer more secluded and quiet places you can find them too, as there is many smaller lakes surrounded by woodsf araway from the crowds. Some of them might be Rydzewo, Bogacko (free campsite far from people), Kruklanki or Wydminy where my dad comes from.

These are only few names from a large number of towns and villages to choose from.
The best is to let your car lead the way, drive ahead following the road and you will find your way to the perfect spot you will enjoy the most. Remember Earth is round!
Bikeride - Giżycko - Wilkasy, by Krzyż Brunona

“The Land of Thousand Lakes”

Tourists from all around Poland and not only, come to Gizycko and neighbouring towns such as Wilkasy, Ruciana Nida, Ryn, Mikolajki, Ketrzyn, Elk or Mragowo.

For more info about activities to do in Giżycko, please check our posts section about Poland.

While Warsaw is the most famous city for tourists in Poland, for locals like us, it doesn’t always hold the same Attraction.
Nonetheless, Warsaw has a lot to offer city lovers.

Its charming Old Town, with spacious areas for walking and historical buildings and castles, is a delight to explore.
Just a short walk from there, you’ll find the famous Vistula River, perfect for sightseeing.

Warsaw is great for biking and scootering! You can rent bikes and scooters almost anywhere in the city at reasonable prices.
Since Warsaw is flat, it's easy to get around on two wheels.
Just download the Bolt app to find and rent scooters nearby!

Other great spots to visit in Warsaw include Łazienki Królewskie, a royal park that's perfect for walks and simple, enjoyable water activities with the family.

Just north of the city is Zalew Zegrzyński, a reservoir with lots of fun water activities and relaxing beaches.

If you're a football fan like my husband Hamza, you'll love watching a match at the PGE Narodowy, the national stadium for Poland's team.

An interesting area to explore in Warsaw is Praga, not to be confused with Prague in the Czech Republic!
This historic district boasts some of the best restaurants, cathedrals, and museums in the city.
Just a short three-minute journey from the Old Town by bus, Praga is definitely worth a visit!"

WARSAW:

KRAKOW:

A must-visit in Poland, offers a rich blend of history and culture.
The Old Town, a UNESCO site, is perfect for wandering, and the city boasts delicious Polish cuisine.
Explore Wawel Castle, the bustling Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), During the Christmas season, it hosts a magical Christmas market.

And consider a trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.
Don't miss the nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine, a fascinating underground world of salt carvings and chambers.
Krakow truly offers something for everyone.

ZAKOPANE:

Zakopane, often called the "Winter Capital of Poland".

This charming town offers a mix of cultural experiences, from traditional wooden architecture to vibrant local markets.

We have beautiful memories of walking through its charming streets, lined with unique traditional wooden houses, and immersing ourselves in the local culture at busy markets filled with handmade crafts and delicious regional specialties.

One of our favorite experiences was in "gubałówka" taking the mini train or as its said in polish (kolejka), up to a scenic viewpoint, where we were treated to breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains, while relaxing in beach seats.

This situation with all the tickets being booked shows that while spontaneous travel can be fun, it's still important to plan a bit, especially for popular tourist spots.
It’s wise to book tickets and find accommodation in advance.

We enjoyed a delightful lunch with refreshing drinks and even had fun riding the slides back down the hill.

one of the best activities you may have there, is rafting in dunajec river, unfortunately we had the tickets fully booked, so we couldn’t make it!

the same sad situation happened to us when we wanted to buy a cable car tickets in "Kasprowy Wierch" which is a a very amazing mountain peak in tatra mountains.

From our accommodation in Zakopane, we headed into the Tatra Mountains for day hikes, including a memorable trek on the Slovakian side.

The Tatra Mountains, located in southern Poland, are a stunning natural gem and part of the Carpathian range.
This area, shared with Slovakia, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, alpine peaks, and rich biodiversity.

Zakopane, the town, is the main gateway to the Tatras.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Tatra National Park provides an array of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.
The popular Morskie Oko trail leads to a breathtaking glacial lake, surrounded by towering peaks.

Most trails in the Tatra Mountains are free to access, but for a few selected trails, you'll need to buy a ticket.
you can buy tickets online and avoid the long queues in during peak seasons.
you can check this official website for more information and tickets purchase.

Another highlight is the trek to Giewont, a mountain with a distinctive cross at its summit, offering panoramic views.

In winter, the Tatras transform into a snowy paradise, ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
The region also hosts numerous mountain huts, where travelers can rest and enjoy hearty Polish cuisine.

“The Mini Switzerland Alps!”

TATRA MOUNTAIN:

(d)TRANSPORTATION

1. Public Transportation

Buses and Trams:

Cities:
Major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, and Gdańsk have extensive bus and tram networks that are convenient for getting around town.
Tickets can usually be purchased at kiosks, ticket machines, or via mobile apps.

Regional:
Intercity buses connect many towns and cities, operated by companies like Flix Bus and Polski Bus.
These services are often affordable and comfortable.

Warsaw’s metro system features two main lines:
M1 (Red Line):
Extends from Młociny in the north to Kabaty in the south.

M2 (Green Line):
Runs from Wola in the west to Targówek in the east.

The metro operates from around 5:00 AM to 11:30 PM, with extended hours on weekends.

Tickets can be purchased at stations or via mobile apps.

The system is clean, accessible, and integrates well with other public transportation, offering a convenient way to explore the city.

Regional Trains:
Operated by regional providers, these are great for exploring specific regions and can be less expensive than long-distance services.

Warsaw Metro:

PKP Intercity:
The main provider of long-distance train services. It offers various types of trains, including Express InterCity (EIC), InterCity (IC), and regional trains (R).

Trains:

Make your travels easier by using Jakdojade, the go-to app for navigating public transportation in Poland.

Most cities use user-friendly online ticket system.
For buying a train ticket online and checking trains time table, you can download KOLEO app.

Ride-Sharing:
Services like Uber and Bolt operate in major cities, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.

Taxis:
Widely available in cities. It’s best to use official taxi services or apps to avoid any issues.
Prices are generally reasonable but should be confirmed before starting your trip.

Poland is increasingly becoming bicycle-friendly, with significant improvements in infrastructure and growing cycling culture, particularly in major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław.

For longer distances, such as traveling between Warsaw and Gdańsk or Kraków, domestic flights can be a time-saving option.
Airlines like LOT Polish Airlines, RYAN AIR and WIZZ AIR, offer frequent connections.

2. Taxi and Ride-Sharing

3. Car Rental

During our week-long trip to Zakopane, we found a great deal on a car rental, even during the busy summer season.
This gave us the freedom to explore the area at our own pace.

When my family visited from Jordan, we rented a seven-seater, which was the most cost-effective option for our long-distance travels between cities.

For renting a car in Poland on a budget,
consider checking out these websites:

Rentalcars.com
DiscoverCars.com
Kayak.com
Skyscanner.net
AutoEurope.com

4. Bicycles:

5. Domestic Flights

You can rent a car even cheaper than these mentioned platforms using OLX app or website. but the language mainly spoken there is Polish!

Here's a list of some of the
most famous dishes in Poland:

Gołąbki:
(pronounced "gaw-WOHMP-kee")
Is a dish consisting of cabbage rolls stuffed with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, rice or barley, and onions.
The rolls are typically baked in a savory tomato sauce until tender.
its often served during family gatherings and holidays.

Pyzy:
Typically made from grated raw potatoes, boiled potatoes, or a mixture of both.
These potato dumplings can be filled with various ingredients like minced meat, cottage cheese, or mushrooms, or they can be served plain.
Pyzy are usually boiled and can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings such as fried onions, bacon, or sour cream.

Bigos:
Its a dish combines various meats with sauerkraut and fresh cabbage.
It is flavorful stew typically made with pork or beef, along with sausages like kielbasa.
The dish is slowly simmered with a mix of sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, onions, mushrooms, and sometimes prunes or dried plums for a hint of sweetness.
Bigos is seasoned with bay leaves, allspice, and pepper, creating a rich and savory flavor.
It is often enjoyed with warm bread.

Pierogi:
are traditional Polish dumplings, typically filled with a variety of ingredients.
The most common fillings include potatoes and cheese (pierogi ruskie), ground meat, mushrooms, cabbage, and even sweet fillings like fruit or sweet cheese.
Usually boiled, but they can also be pan-fried for a crispy exterior.
Pierogi are often served with toppings such as sour cream, caramelized onions, or melted butter.

Poland is also famous with delicious soups,
here is some of our soup dishes:

Chłodnik:
A traditional Polish cold soup, perfect for hot summer days.
This refreshing dish is made from a base of beetroot, which gives it a vibrant pink color.
The soup typically includes ingredients like cucumbers, radishes, and hard-boiled eggs, all finely chopped.
It's usually prepared with kefir or buttermilk, adding a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Dill and green onions are often added for extra freshness.

White borscht:
known as "barszcz biały" in Polish, is a traditional soup that holds a special place in Polish cuisine. Its typically made from a fermented rye flour base, giving it a tangy and slightly sour flavor. The soup is usually enriched with ingredients like potatoes, smoked bacon or sausage, garlic, and marjoram.
It's often served with hard-boiled eggs and a dollop of sour cream.
White borscht is especially popular during Easter celebrations.

Żurek:
Its known for distinctive sour taste.
The soup is made from a base of fermented rye flour, which gives it a unique tanginess.
It is typically cooked with ingredients like white sausage (kiełbasa), hard-boiled eggs, potatoes, and sometimes pieces of smoked meat or bacon. Seasoned with garlic, marjoram, and horseradish, żurek is hearty and flavorful.
It’s often served in a bowl made of bread, adding a rustic touch to this comforting dish.
Żurek is especially popular during Easter but is enjoyed year-round in Poland.

Makowiec:
A poppy seed roll, featuring a sweet, dense filling of ground poppy seeds, honey, and nuts, rolled up in a soft dough.

Kremówka:
Also known as Napoleonka, this is a delicate cream cake made with layers of puff pastry and rich pastry cream, sometimes dusted with powdered sugar.

Sernik:
Poland's Legendary Cheesecake. Often hailed as the world's best cheesecake, Sernik is a creamy, decadent Polish treat.
Made with fresh twaróg cheese, this baked delight is often infused with vanilla, lemon zest for a truly unforgettable flavor.

Pączki:
These traditional Polish doughnuts are filled with jam, custard, or other sweet fillings and topped with powdered sugar or icing.

Szarlotka:
A Polish apple pie or apple cake, typically made with a buttery crust and filled with spiced apples, often served with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.

(e)POLISH SWEETS

Polish desserts are a delightful blend of tradition and flavor, offering something to satisfy every sweet tooth. From creamy cheesecakes and rich poppy seed cakes to delicate pastries and melt-in-your-mouth cookies, Poland's confectionery scene is a delicious exploration of Eastern European baking at its finest.

Poland posts