10 Must-See Places in Poland 🇵🇱 [2024]

Poland is becoming more popular among tourists, yet it’s still underrated! People know Warsaw and Krakow, but there’s so much more to see in Poland. Discover with us the country’s most important cities, historical monuments, and incredible natural wonders. From mountains to the city of dwarves, the largest castle in the world, and Copernicus’s hometown. Keep reading to find out must-see places in Poland!

1. Warsaw – the capital of Poland

One of the most important cities to visit in Poland is, without a doubt, Warsaw. It’s the capital and the largest city in Poland. Warsaw was completely destroyed during World War II but was then meticulously rebuilt with historical accuracy. The city combines an old historic center with modern buildings. There are many places to see in Warsaw, so when planning your trip, set aside at least three days to enjoy it. Don’t forget to check out our article on the best restaurants and the best rooftop bars in Warsaw!

2. Gdańsk, the most beautiful city in Poland

One of our favorite cities in Poland, Gdańsk, is well worth a visit. Although it’s not as well-known as Kraków or Warsaw, we consider it the most beautiful in the country. Located in the north on the shores of the Baltic Sea, it offers a unique charm. While the beaches may not be the most famous, I recommend exploring Gdańsk and nearby cities like Sopot or Gdynia. While you’re there, don’t miss the World War II Museum—it’s incredible. Set aside at least three hours to visit; you’ll be amazed! Gdańsk is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in Poland. Be sure to read our guide to must-see places in Gdańsk before you go!

3. Cracow

Kraków is Poland’s most popular city, and for good reason. It’s beautiful, filled with ancient monuments that weren’t destroyed during World War II, with some dating back to the 13th century. It’s also close to interesting sites like Auschwitz, the Wieliczka Salt Mines, and only two hours from the Tatra Mountains. Kraków is definitely one of the must-see in Poland. Visit this Polish city with our guide to the top places to see in Kraków! Before your trip, also check out our article on the best restaurants in Kraków.

4. Zakopane and Tatra Mountains – must-see place in Poland

Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains are our favorite place in Poland for a weekend getaway. In winter, it transforms into a magical spot with snow-covered mountains, sleigh rides, and the delicious aroma of smoked cheese that makes you forget the cold. But Zakopane isn’t just for winter; it’s equally beautiful in summer. I like it even more because you can enjoy many hiking trails without worrying about professional gear, and the days are much longer. Check out our guide on the best hiking trails in the Tatra Mountains—it’s especially useful if it’s your first time and you’re not very experienced with mountain climbing. Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains are among the best places to visit in Poland and to try traditional Polish food.

5. The City of Dwarfs – Wroclaw

Wroclaw, known as the city of dwarfs, is another Polish gem worth visiting in Poland. Its charming old town is filled with hidden dwarfs on every corner. Wroclaw is located in western Poland, near the German border. I recommend visiting it around Christmas, as it also has one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the country. Plus, don’t miss the restaurant called Riso Bar. We loved it so much that I’d go back to Wroclaw just to eat there again.

6. The Salt Mines in Wieliczka, must-see place in Poland

The Wieliczka Salt Mines near Krakow are a must-see destination in Poland. These historic mines, carved by miners over 700 years ago, offer an unforgettable experience. Walk through underground tunnels made entirely of salt, and marvel at an entire chapel carved from salt—including salt chandeliers! The unique air in the mines is also said to be beneficial for health.

To visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines, you have two options. A guided tour from Krakow is convenient and includes transport, although it’s slightly more expensive. Alternatively, you can take a train from Krakow’s main station directly to Wieliczka, with a short 5-minute walk to the mine entrance. You will find train schedules and tickets here. Tickets can be purchased on-site or reserved in advance through the official Wieliczka Salt Mines website.

With its fascinating tours and occasional underground concerts, the Wieliczka Salt Mines are an unforgettable experience for visitors to Poland.

7. Malbork Castle, the biggest castle in Poland

Malbork Castle is the largest castle in the world and one of the most important historical landmarks in the country. Built by the Teutonic Order in the 13th century, this impressive fortress offers visitors a unique journey through time.

In the summer, Malbork Castle comes alive with a vibrant festival, including tournaments and reenactments, giving you a taste of its medieval history. Between 1274 and 1457, the castle served as a key stronghold for the Teutonic Order during the Baltic Crusades.

Located just a short distance from Gdansk, Malbork Castle is an essential stop for anyone traveling through Poland. Whether you’re heading to Gdansk or exploring Warsaw, make sure to visit this historical gem!

Make sure to include Malbork Castle in your Poland itinerary – it’s a must-see destination!

8. Auschwitz Concentration Camp

Auschwitz, located about 70 km from Krakow in Oswiecim, is one of the most significant historical sites in Poland. This former Nazi concentration camp is a powerful reminder of the Holocaust and its victims. If you’re interested in World War II history, Auschwitz is a must-see destination to understand the past and honor the lives lost. You can get to Auschwitz Museum on your own, for example using public transport or you can book a guided tour from Cracow.

9. Poznań, another charming city to visit in Poland

Poznań is another Polish city with colorful streets and a rich history. You’ll love the stunning views from the Cathedral. Poznań isn’t as famous as the other Polish cities mentioned earlier, but it definitely has its charm and you should visit it if you have more time in Poland.

10. Toruń

Toruń is the birthplace of Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, famous for proposing the heliocentric theory, which states that the Earth and other planets revolve around the Sun. The cobbled streets of Toruń and its colorful houses will transport you to another era. You can enjoy panoramic views from the City Tower. Toruń is a must-see city in Poland, rich in history and charm, perfect for those interested in science and medieval architecture.

Is it Safe to Visit Poland in 2024?

Poland is considered one of the safest countries in Europe and even the world. With very low crime rates, you can walk around with peace of mind, even at night, and use public transportation without worries. While it’s always important to take precautions, we felt safer in Poland than in countries like France, Spain, or Germany. Despite concerns about the proximity to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, there is currently no cause for fear. Poland is peaceful and remains a safe travel destination in 2024.

When is the Best Time to Visit Poland?

With Poland’s unpredictable weather, every season has its charm. You might choose summer and experience rainy days, or autumn and enjoy sunny weather. My favorite time is May/June when the weather starts warming up with more sunny days, or September/October when the heat decreases and the fall colors are stunning. If you’re looking for snow, I recommend visiting in January or February. Each season in Poland has its own magic!

How to Get Around Poland?

etting around Poland by public transport is easy and convenient, and we use it frequently. If you prefer more independence or want to explore less accessible places in Poland, you can rent a car. The highways are good, and driving in Poland is no more difficult than in other European countries.

What is Public Transport Like in Poland?

Public transport in Poland is really good: fast, reliable, and secure. You can reach all the must-see destinations in Poland using public transportation. In fact, we’ve seen few places in the world where it works better than in Poland. We use it almost every day, and it’s 100% recommended.

You can easily check routes and connections using Google Maps. For train schedules, you can visit this page, and for long-distance train schedules, check here. For both train and bus schedules, this website is also helpful.

To buy tickets for public transport in major cities, we recommend the Jakdojade app (remember to change your location in the app whenever you move to a different city). Remember to validate your ticket once you’re inside the bus or tram!

Poland’s public transport system is a convenient, efficient, and budget-friendly option for traveling across the country.

Car Rental in Poland

In Poland, there are many car rental companies to choose from. We recommend Kaizen Rent, which we’ve used without any issues in the past. Remember to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

In addition to traditional car rentals, there is a convenient service that allows you to rent cars by the minute or kilometer, making it ideal for short-term use. So far, we know of two companies that offer this service: Panek and Traficar.

Renting a car in Poland is a great way to explore the country at your own pace, especially if you plan to visit places that are less accessible by public transport.

Must-See Places in Poland

We hope this article has been helpful and that now you know what to see and do in Poland. If you have any questions or have already visited Poland and know of must-see places, feel free to leave us a comment.

Book your trip to Poland!