Poland holidays

Popular holidays

On holidays to Poland, you'll find chocolate box towns watched over by lofty mountains, and stately town squares shadowed by church spires.

A historic gateway

Poland has 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the old town centre of Kraków and the Wieliczka Salt Mines. There are plenty of opportunities to get up close to the country’s remarkable history, left behind from numerous past uprisings and involvement in both world wars.

Krakow’s underground

Kraków’s magnificent architecture may take centre stage on the surface, but this lively city has a whole other personality hidden below its streets. The Rynek Underground Museum’s a network of tunnels which run underneath the city, where you can discover the timeline of Kraków from its earliest settlements. Elsewhere, you can head to a cellar bar. These subterranean watering holes have become something of a calling card, hosting everything from laidback jazz nights to almost round-the-clock techno parties.

Highlander heights

Just south of Kraków, you’ll find Poland’s only alpine-style mountain range – the breathtaking Tatra Mountains. At their base lies Zakopane, a laid-back mountain town that’s still a bit of a hidden gem. With scenic hilltop trails, wildlife-rich forests and a jewel-like emerald lake, time spent in the beautiful outdoors is the top draw here. Yet the area's cultural scene is equally captivating. Goral (or highlander) heritage, shared across parts of eastern Europe, is especially strong – seen in everything from the ornate wooden buildings crafted in the distinctive Zakopane Style (inspired by local architect Stanisław Witkiewicz) to the lively folk music and colourful dress. One of the best places to soak it all in is the bustling summer market, near the Gubałówka funicular. Wander between stalls overflowing with handcrafted woollen slippers, carved wooden toys and locally made leather goods, before sampling oscypek (smoked sheep’s cheese) for a true taste of the region.

Popular hotels in Poland

Facts about Poland

Capital

Warsaw

Currency

Zloty

(PLN)

Population

37,950,000

Language

Polish

Time zone

GMT +2

Flight duration

2 hours 30 minutes from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What travel adapter do I need for Poland?

When visiting Poland, you'll need adapters for Type C and Type E plugs, both with two round pins. These European-style outlets are standard throughout the country. UK visitors will require an adapter for their devices. We recommend bringing a European travel adapter and checking high-powered appliances for compatibility with Poland's 230V supply.

What's the nightlife like in Poland?

In Poland, Warsaw and Krakow offer lively nightlife with trendy cocktail bars, nightclubs and live music venues. Head to Pawilony in Warsaw for open-air bars or Kazimierz district in Krakow for underground clubs and jazz venues.

Where are the best places to shop in Poland?

Poland offers diverse shopping experiences. In major cities like Warsaw and Krakow, you'll find modern shopping malls alongside charming local markets. We recommend exploring the Old Town areas for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts. Many resorts also have convenient shops for essentials.

What are the best beaches in Poland?

Poland's Baltic coast features wide sandy beaches backed by dunes and pine forests. Sopot Beach is known for its long wooden pier and seaside promenade. Leba Beach offers quieter stretches near shifting sand dunes, while Hel Peninsula provides calmer waters on its bay side.

Where can I try local food in Poland?

You'll find traditional Polish cuisine in local restaurants called 'milk bars' and 'karczmas' throughout Poland. We recommend trying pierogi and bigos at these authentic eateries. Many cities have food markets where you can sample local specialties. If you're staying at a hotel, ask your TUI rep about nearby Polish restaurants.

Should I tip in Poland?

Tipping in Poland is appreciated but not mandatory. At restaurants, it's common to round up the bill or leave about 10-15% for good service. For taxis and hotel staff, rounding up or giving a small amount is generally sufficient.

What should I pack for Poland?

For Poland, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and nature. Bring layers for changeable weather, including a light jacket or sweater. Don't forget essentials like a camera, sunglasses, and any necessary medications. A small umbrella is useful for unexpected showers.

Are there any local customs I should know about in Poland?

When visiting Poland, a handshake is a common greeting, and it's polite to remove your shoes when entering someone's home. When visiting churches, dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees. Dining etiquette includes keeping hands visible on the table and waiting for the host to start eating.