When it comes to great European adventures, most tourists’ first-choice destination would probably be France or Italy. But Poland should never be overlooked. A country that showcases a long and rich history, Poland’s major cities like Warsaw, Gdansk, and Krakow are brimming with energy, incomparable architecture, and lots of exhilarating sights. Apart from castle hotels there are also all-inclusive resorts available for tourists looking for a place to stay. On the flip side of Poland’s urban areas is the vast and scenic outdoor terrain filled with fresh air and displays of everything from woodsy landscapes to shimmering lakes. If you’re starting to warm to the idea of this grand central European country then you have to read on for a fabulous list of the top things to do in Poland.
1. Enjoy a folk show and dinner, Krakow (from USD 42.07)
This folk show in Krakow’s Jama Michalika Cafe is a fantastic tour that offers visitors the opportunity to experience traditional Polish culture through music, dance, and food. Located in the historic Jama Michalika Cafe, visitors will be transported back in time to the early 20th century when the cafe was a hub for Polish artists and intellectuals.
The show itself features talented musicians and dancers performing traditional Polish folk music and dances, providing a unique and immersive cultural experience. In addition, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious dinner of Polish cuisine, including pierogi and other traditional dishes.
Krakow: Folk Show & 3-Course Dinner at Jama Michalika Café
Duration: 1.5 hour
2. Learn interesting facts on a history walking tour, Krakow (from USD 42.0)
This walking tour in Kraków is a must-do for anyone interested in the rich history of the city. Led by a local guide, visitors will explore the Old Town and Castle on Wawel hill, stopping more than a dozen times to learn about the history and significance of the monuments, landmarks, and top tourist attractions in Poland. The tour presents the history of Poland in digestible and narratable chunks that will relate to things visitors can touch and see for themselves.
The guide’s passion for Kraków and its history makes this tour an immersive and authentic experience. Visitors can also customize the tour schedule to suit their needs.
Krakow History Walking Tour with Rudolf
Duration: 4 hours
3. Explore Warsaw's bustling Old Town Market Square
The perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon is to check out Old Town Market Square, which is one of the best places to visit in Poland. Originally lost in 1944, this medieval cobblestoned square was rebuilt after World War II. Old Town Market Square is a vibrant area featuring a famed mermaid statue, a collection of charming shops and cafes, and dwellings with brightly colored facades. Listen to the delightful clopping sound of horse-drawn carriages pass by as you dine at one of the square’s tasty eateries.
Old Town Market Square
Address: rynek Starego Miasta, 00-001 Warsaw, Poland
Website: Old Town Market Square
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
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4. Learn about classical music history at Fryderyk Chopin Museum, Warsaw
Fryderyk Chopin Museum, Warsaw was founded in 1954 and showcases legendary Polish composer Frederic Chopin’s lifework. Housed in a prominent 17th-century palace, this dazzling museum is filled with interesting musical scores, revealing photographs, and intriguing recordings of the composer’s body of work. Fans of Chopin and classical music should definitely check out this wonderful commemoration of this accomplished 19th-century artist. Even architectural lovers will be pleased they stopped by.
Fryderyk Chopin Museum
Address: Pałac Gnińskich, 00-368, Okólnik 1, 00-368 Warsaw, Poland
Website: Fryderyk Chopin Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11am - 8pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 5.71 USD
5. Tour the magnificent Wawel Royal Castle, Krakow
One of the most visited and treasured castles in Poland is Wawel Royal Castle, Krakow. A wonderful blend of brilliant Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, this walled hilltop castle is a dream come true for architectural fanatics and history buffs. Stand-out features of Wawel Royal Castle include the Crown Treasury, the lavish State Rooms, the Cathedral, and the beautifully maintained courtyards and various open spaces.
Wawel Royal Castle
Address: Wawel 5, 31-001 Krakow, Poland
Website: Wawel Royal Castle
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 9:30am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
6. Admire Poland's picturesque lowlands aboard the Express InterCity Premium
The only way to travel extensively throughout Poland is aboard the efficient Express InterCity Premium. A ride on this speedy and ultra-modern train affords riders lots of top-quality comfort and service. While tourists can enjoy traveling to a plethora of main cities, Express InterCity Premium also allows fun-seekers the opportunity to see a whole other section of Poland’s countryside, namely the picture-perfect lowlands. See Poland’s natural beauty from a different perspective on board this convenient means of transportation.
Express InterCity Premium
Website: Express InterCity Premium
7. Discover a world carved from salt in Wieliczka Salt Mine
Wieliczka Salt Mine is a one-of-a-kind tourist attraction that shouldn’t be missed. An underground city made of salt, Wieliczka Salt Mine is a wonder that’ll make your jaw drop. This unique underground site is comprised of beautifully carved chapels and statues. You’ll even discover an entire cathedral sculpted in great detail from the salt rock! This was a working salt mine that began as far back as the 13th century and ended as early as 2007, so Wieliczka Salt Mine boasts quite a lengthy history!
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Address: ul. Daniłowicza 10, 32-020 Wieliczka, Poland
Website: Wieliczka Salt Mine
Opening hours: 7:30am - 7:30pm (daily)
Price: 16.61 - 23.09 USD
8. Roam around Gdańsk's storied buildings on enticing Długi Targ
Walking the length of Dlugi Targ - about 1,640 feet (500 meters) - is a genuine thrill for any tourist. Wander amongst the fanciful-designed buildings displaying brilliantly painted exteriors and drink in the radiant beauty. Head to the bold bronze Neptune Fountain and view Poland’s oldest secular monument. Adjacent to the fountain is the splendid Town Hall where you can climb to the amazing quintessential tower and get stupendous views of Gdansk. Długi Targ is a great spot to spend some leisure time. However, if you want to avoid crowds get there in the early morning or after the sun goes down.
Długi Targ
Address: Długa, 80-831 Gdańsk, Poland
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
9. Be awestruck by Malbork Castle - the world's largest castle
The magnificent Malbork Castle is the biggest castle on the globe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To say this castle - that was occupied by Teutonic Knights and Prussian rulers - is a formidable structure is quite an understatement. Boasting an impressive exterior of towering walls, spiked turrets, grand bulwarks, and imposing gatehouses, Malbork Castle must be seen to be believed. The interior of this 14th-century manor offers a museum possessing curious medieval artifacts, enchanting paintings, and a dazzling amber display.
Malbork Castle
Address: Starościńska 1, 82-200 Malbork, Poland
Website: Malbork Castle
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 11.66 USD
10. See Toruń's myriad architectural marvels (from USD 269.0)
A guided walking tour is the best way to view Torun’s architectural beauty. The Old Town area is pedestrian-friendly so it’s ideal for exploring on foot. Led by a top expert, tour participants get to know one of Poland’s oldest and most captivating cities. Stand in awe at exquisite sites like the majestic Town Hall. If you’re willing to pay extra you can climb the Town Hall’s tower and relish amazing views of the city and Vistula River - the biggest and longest river in Poland. Visit the bustling Main Square and learn about the city’s past notable residents - including the famed Renaissance-era astronomer Copernicus.
Private walking city tour in Torun
Duration: 3 hours
11. Shop fine ceramics in the famous pottery town of Boleslawiec
Boleslawiec is the go-to city in Poland when you’re on the hunt for fabulous top-tier ceramics. Known as Ceramics City, Boleslawiec offers an enduring tradition of authentic pottery making. A high-quality, family-owned establishment and one of the most popular is Andy Polish Pottery. From intricately decorated plates and serving trays to pretty drinking mugs and handy tea kettles there’s no doubt you’ll find a huge selection of colorful fine-made products that’ll make your eyes pop.
Andy Polish Pottery
Address: Tomaszów Bolesławiecki 110, 59-720 Bolesławiecki, Poland
Website: Andy Polish Pottery
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 7am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
12. Enjoy outdoor sports in the mountainous region of Zakopane (from USD 116.4)
In summer Zakopane offers an abundance of hiking trails that meander towards the Slovak border. However, in winter this town really excels with first-rate skiing and snowmobiling activities. Taking a snowmobile tour is guaranteed an extreme thrill. One of the top things to do in Poland in winter, this excursion takes you to remote areas only reached by snowmobile. Travel to the incredible Tatra Mountains and admire far-reaching views of this winter wonderland that’ll knock you off your feet. Participants have the option of a hearty barbecue meal around a toasty bonfire or a three-hour visit to the soothing thermal baths in Chochołów.
From Zakopane: Winter Wonderland Hike and City Tour
Duration: 5 hour
Pleasantly beguiling Poland
Possessing a past that goes all the way back to the 10th century, Poland offers a long and spellbinding history filled with medieval castles and powerful kings. Discover the Gothic cathedrals, charming town squares, and other things Poland is famous for. If you want to forgo the well-worn tourist areas of Europe then you can’t go wrong giving Poland a try.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Poland
1. What are the best activities with kids in Poland?
Some of the best activities with kids include seeing Poland’s natural beauty aboard the Express InterCity Premium and enjoying winter activities in Zakopane. Old Town Market Square, which features boutiques and hand-drawn carriages, is a great spot to hang out with the kids as well.
2. What are the top tourist attractions in Poland?
The Fryderyk Chopin Museum in Warsaw, the magnificent Wawel Royal Castle in Krakow, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine in Wieliczka are only some of the favorite go-to spots of tourists in Poland. Malbork Castle, the world’s largest castle, also attracts tourists with its brick walls and medieval displays.
History
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