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Beauty in Reinvention

Polish culture is one of global influences and long-standing traditions. The food is delicious – from the beloved pierogis to the holiday favorite of gingerbread. Its history runs deep, with vestiges of the past that range from medieval times to World War II. Its picturesque natural wonders provide beautiful contrast to its colorful cities. A trip to Poland is an adventure to remember.

Destination Must-See's

This city offers a mixture of German and Polish history. Its Gothic atmosphere makes it the greatest attraction. There are gothic cathedrals, the gothic town hall, the castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork, and city defense walls. Because it did not suffer any damage from the Second World War, its urban substance and fabric are authentic. 

A great place to travel to -or live in- is Poland’s second city. Over the years it has grown to be a popular destination. It is the heart of Polish culture and is filled with many historical attractions including the salt mine, the basilica, cathedral, and castle. During your leisure tme you may attend any of the festivals, do some hiking, or just enjoy the beautiful scenery. Many people visit to try to connect with the worlds that vanished during the era of the Second World War. 

With a history dating back a thousand years, this location has served as a cultural capital. With great commercial and communication routes and an extensive port, trade, fishing and crafts continue to develop the city despite being taken over by knights in 1308. It was here in Gdansk, that the Second World War started in 1939.

This large and ethnically diverse city is the only location where you can find a Stare Miasto (Old Town) with a Synagogue, Lutheran church, Roman Catholic church and an Eastern Orthodox church standing near each other. It is notorious for its richness and history as well as its market square that features a modern fountain and is lined with elegant colorful townhouses.

Destination Must-Do's

Before the Second World War, Auschwitz was a thriving center of Polish Jewish culture. However, by the end of the war, it became part of a large network of concentration camps. The exact death toll will never be known, but it is estimated to be between 1.5 - 2 million, with as many as 900,000 Jews in that number. The Auschwitz Jewish Center is a museum that holds the history of the Jews from the area, including information from before the terrors of the Nazis all the way up to present day. Walking through the site can evoke many emotions as you learn about the history of what happened on those same grounds years ago.

Polish Cuisine:

Poland’s national dish is a pierogi. A pierogi is a dumpling stuffed with many fillings, with the most popular being mashed potatoes, farmer’s cheese, sauerkraut, cabbage, mushrooms, spinach, ground beef, and healthy grains. In history, the pierogi was prepared for holidays and each holiday had its own designated pierogi flavor. Another popular food is gingerbread, which dates back to the 13th century. Today’s delicious cookies are still based on original recipes and methods and are very popular, especially during the holiday season.

Jasna Góra Monastery:

This national shrine of Poland is the center of Polish Catholicism, and is home to the miraculous icon, The Black Madonna. The monastery dominates a Czestochowa hilltop that is always bustling with pilgrims and worshippers waiting to see this depiction of Mary holding the infant Jesus.

Polish People:

Poland is known for its inspiring fighting spirit. Throughout the entire Cold War, the Poles never surrendered. Their government went into exile in the UK for 50 years and they were almost completely wiped off the face of any map. Despite all of this, they stayed persistent and determined to never give up, never accept no, and to never go away.

Expert Advice

In Poland, one’s “Name Day” – imieniny – is considered a far more important occasion than one’s birthday. The calendar of saints is a Christian method of associating each day with the name of a saint. The day your name is celebrated is your name day. There is no mention of age or numbers on a name day; however, there are still gifts.

In Poland, pizza bases are not topped with Napolitana or a tomato-based sauce. These are generally served separately and resemble what some would consider to be ketchup.

If interested in hiking, Zakopane makes a nice base. In addition to hiking, it has much to offer including a main shopping street and you might even catch an international ski jumping competition.

Featured Tours to Poland

Discovering Poland Warsaw, Gdansk, Wroclaw & Kraków

Majestic Cities of Central & Eastern Europe featuring Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest & Krakow

Brochures that Feature Our Poland Tours

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Poland Tours & Vacations

Scenic, historic and surprisingly cheap – Poland should feature on every traveler's list.

The heart of Poland is in a town’s rynek – the central market square where locals converge and travelers can take the temperature of this   European   gem. Beyond city limits, it’s a country blessed by Mother Nature; of forest and lakes, snow-capped peaks and rolling hills changing color with each season. There’s a melting pot of traditional cuisines, hearty and heartfelt food that is being reinvented for a new audience. Wander through Poland’s living history: cultural Krakow, maritime mecca Gdansk and the post-war rebuilt capital of Warsaw. Every adventure here is distinct, but one thing remains the same – this under-discovered nation that’s eager to be explored.

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Highlights of Southern Poland

Articles of Poland

What to expect on your visit to Auschwitz

6 stunning spots in Europe (and how to express wonder in the local language)

14 national parks in Europe you probably haven’t visited yet (but should)

5 budget destinations in Europe you won’t want to miss

6 reasons why Krakow is Europe’s most overlooked city

How we celebrate: Easter traditions around the world

Dark Tourism sites: should we be visiting them?

5 reasons Poland is Europe’s most underrated destination

Poland at a glance

Capital city.

Warsaw (population approximately 1.75 million)

Approximately 38.5 million

(GMT+01:00) Sarajevo, Skopje, Warsaw, Zagreb

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type E (French 2-pin, female earth)

Learn more about Poland

Culture and customs.

Despite Poland’s turbulent political and wartime past, traditional Polish culture and customs thrive throughout the country. More than three quarters of Poles are Roman Catholics – almost half of whom are regular church attendees. There’s still a Jewish influence, including buildings and symbolism, here too. Many of Poland’s public holidays follow the Roman Catholic calendar, and Christmas and Easter are big festive celebrations.

On important occasions – including folk festivals, weddings, religious holidays – traditional folk costumes called stroje ludowe are worn, The costumes represent different regions of Poland, with colorful fabrics, patterns and decorations.

Some of Poland’s customs and traditions are a little bit unusual, so if you find yourself near a burning effigy on the first day of spring or struck by a water balloon around Easter, don’t worry, it’s all part of bonding with the locals.

Much of Poland’s culture is reflected in its architecture, so a walk along the cobbled streets of Krakow or Warsaw will reveal both history and local charm at building-level.

Top 5 heritage spots of Krakow

• Collegium Maius This 15th-century building, the oldest in Jagiellonian University, has hosted such famous students as revolutionary astronomer Copernicus and spiritual leader Pope John Paul II. A visit here is an object lesson in art, science, history and architecture.
• Wawel Cathedral Over a thousand years old, this imposing edifice is where Pope John Paul II conducted his first Mass. If that's not impressive enough, add a crypt holding the bodies of some of Poland's most influential leaders and public figures, and you've got one of Poland's most interesting buildings.
• Wawel Royal Castle Sitting on the edge of the Vistula River, this remarkable Gothic-style building acted as a home for Poland's royal family centuries ago. Featuring a valuable collection of historic paintings, tapestries and murals, this is a top spot to delve into European treasures and classic architecture.
• Remuh Synagogue While this small, elegant synagogue may not be the grandest in scale or design, its historic value is unquestionable. Founded in 1553, it remains a place of worship for the local community and a place of pilgrimage for the world's Jewish people.
• Cloth Hall Krakow's Renaissance-style Cloth Hall is a splendid building with a retail heritage. Once used as trading post for textiles and cloth in the 14th century, nowadays the building houses shops, cafes and a museum. Visit the city's Main Square at night to see this historic piece of architecture lit up.

History and government

Polan to poland.

During the Early Middle Ages, pre-Slavic settlers made their way to what was then East Germania, prospering during the Iron Age. However, it was the Western Polans who dominated the region from the fifth to eighth centuries and gave Poland its name.

Making friends, and losing them

The first Polish state was established in the late 10th century AD, and in 1025 the Kingdom of Poland was founded. In the 13th century, tensions between pagan Prussians and the central powers saw German knights dominate northern Poland and construct fortress strongholds, including the epic castle at Malbork.

Peace was restored, and in 1569 this region became the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. At the time, it was one of the largest countries in Europe. The 18th century saw this relationship weaken, so an effort was made to reform, but it was too little, too late. Poland was already being invaded from all sides by Russia. Poland continued to exist as a political and cultural community, despite Russian efforts to suppress education and commerce. Although no Polish states existed from the 1790s until 1918, strong resistance movements operated.

Stuck in the firing line

In the 20th century, Poland was forced into battle with occupying forces. Central Powers (Austria-Hungary, Germany and Prussia) and Russia (plus Western Allies) fought World War I, with conflicts occurring on Polish soil. Since no Polish state existed, no one was fighting for Poland – they were conscripted by both sides and fought one another. An estimated one million Poles lost their lives, but amid this loss, Poland regained independence and began to rebuild. The Treaty of Versailles in 1919 awarded Poland the western part of Prussia.

A nonaggression pact between Germany and the Soviet Union was signed in August 1939, but little did Poland know that this also contained protocol to split the Polish state in two. Weeks later, World War II began with a massive German invasion of Poland. Hitler’s policy was to eradicate Poland, with almost three million Jews and one million Poles perishing in German extermination camps.

The War changed dramatically in June 1941 when Hitler attacked the Soviet Union and Soviet leader Joseph Stalin turning to Poland for help. The Soviet army moved westward, and with Hitler’s defeat at Stalingrad in 1943, the war was all but over. Poland lay in ruins, with six million people, or 20% of the pre-war population losing their lives. The Polish Jewish community declined from three million to less than 90,000. Soviet control continued in Poland, with new borders established and a government set up in 1945. Soon after Stalin died in 1953, the ‘Sovietization’ of Poland weakened until it was almost non-existent. Traditional Polish values began to be revived.

Power to the people

During the second half of the 20th century, dissatisfied with living and working conditions in the country, Polish workers began to organize and unite. Industrial action, including strikes, led to the formation of a national trade union movement called Solidarity who pushed for workers’ rights and democratic governance. But it took until 1989 for semi-free elections to be held in Poland, when Solidarity succeeded in controlling the Senat (upper house). Communism began to collapse, and in January 1990, Poland’s political system was reformed with a return to territorial self-governance. Political instability followed, but in 1997, an alliance of Solidarity-linked political parties formed a coalition, putting an end to communist rule.

Today, Poland still finds itself in testing times politically and economically, with nationalist voices louder than ever. But the nation has been shaped into a peaceful and resilient nation by the toughest of situations.

Eating and drinking

Poland’s cuisine is a unique blend of influences from its neighbors, regional traditions and times of flourishing trade followed by years of restricted imports. Varied and versatile, it certainly is. Be sure to offer a ‘na zdrowie’ when raising a glass and wish everyone ‘smacznego’ – the Polish ‘bon appetit’ – before tucking into your food.

Here are some hearty essentials to keep a look out for when traveling around Poland.

• Pierogi What’s a country without its version of a dumpling? Pierogi are found all across Central and Eastern Europe, but many assert Poland is the birthplace of this interpretation. These meat, potato, onion and cheese-filled morsels will warm you up on even the coldest of Krakow evenings.
• Bigos Bigos is a stew of mixed chopped meat, sauerkraut and fresh cabbage, other vegetables and spices all together in a large cast iron pan. Known as hunter’s stew, it originated in Medieval times and is as hearty as it gets.
• Rosol This one’s a Polish staple, the most popular version of which is a comforting chicken noodle soup, not just an antidote for the common cold but also for the dreaded (and also common – see number 10 on this list!) hangover. The meat is slowly cooked in a classic clear broth before thin noodles, sliced vegetables and a garnish of herbs are added.
• Barszcz czerwony Poland may have a convoluted name for it, but their version of borscht is simply delicious. It’s a sour soup with a vibrant purple color, coming from its key ingredient – beetroot. Traditionally served on Christmas Eve, it’s probably wise not to wear white while you slurp a bowl of it up.
• Kanapki Take out a ‘k’ and you’ve nearly got the word canape. Funny that, because these open sandwiches resemble that bite-sized evening snack, but aren’t always that bite-sized. Poles have an open sandwich obsession, so they’re an option for every meal, usually with a bottom layer of pate or spread, topped with meat or pickled vegetables and boiled egg slices to top it off.
• Kopytka Europeans know what’s up with food, and definitely know how to prepare a potato. Kopytka is a Polish take on Italian gnocchi, and is often sautéed in a pan for a crispy outer layer, then sprinkled with fried onions and bacon bits.
• Golabki Another European dish Poland has added its own twist to is the saucy golabki. It’s the Polish name for cabbage leaves wrapped around a filling of minced pork or beef, plus onions and rice (or barley). They’re a special occasion food, often served at Christmas and weddings, but we reckon they’re good enough to have all year round.
• Paczki It’s not a fun cuisine if there isn’t a donut thrown into the mix. Paczki is a fried, round dough covered with icing sugar or dried orange zest or glazed, with sweet fillings including jam, cream and custard. If they’re not filled and are ring-shaped, these Polish delights are known as oponki.
• Sernik Poland’s version of a cheesecake is a simple dessert made with a dry-curd ‘farmer’s’ cheese (similar to cottage cheese or quark), and usually without a bottom layer of biscuit. It’s baked for around an hour and comes out set but still moist, to be enjoyed with a dollop of plum jam and cream. A modern version using American-style cream cheese is referred to as Sernik Philadelphia!
• Beer This is mainly a food list, but it’s hard to leave this beverage off. Beer is abundant in Poland, with around a hundred craft breweries producing distinctive brews, and they’re usually dirt cheap. The most popular varieties are pilsners, pale ales and porters, and the top brands to look out for are Zywiec, Okocim and Tyskie. Pair a local ale with a plate of pierogi.

Geography and environment

Located in Central Europe, Poland shares borders with   Germany ,   Czech Republic ,   Slovakia ,   Ukraine ,   Belarus ,   Lithuania , and   Russia  (Kaliningrad). Poland also has a stretch of coastline along the Baltic Sea, featuring two natural harbours. The coastal regions are marked by dunes and lakes, while the north and central parts of Poland have lowlands and plains, interrupted by rivers and valleys. Segments of the Carpathian Mountains mark the south-east part of the country, while the Tatra Mountains act as a natural border between Poland and Slovakia.

Around 90 percent of the country sits less than 1000 feet above sea level, but the south has mountains that bring with them relatively cold winters. The northern reaches of Poland are graced with sandy beaches stretching out to the Baltic Sea, as well as the Masurian Lakes District – an area with over 2000 lakes dotted through dense forest. Storks, eagles, bison and wolves are all found in the 23 national parks around Poland, and much of the flora and fauna in the country is under natural protection.

From local wares and crafts in town ryneks to global brands in malls dotted around the cities, Poland’s got all the shopping you need. The main places to shop in Krakow are Shevska, Florianskaya and Grodskaya streets. In Warsaw, Plac Trzech Krzyzy (Three Crosses Square), Mokotowska Street and the Old Town all offer a wide range of places to shop.

In recent years, Poland has implemented a restriction on Sunday shopping trading on almost all stores for all but seven Sundays in the year (exceptions are those which fall before Easter and Christmas periods). There are also some exceptions for certain types of stores and those located in airports and train stations. Keeping this in mind is important when considering travel plans in Poland, as you may not be able to find what you’re looking for if traveling on a Sunday.

As with most countries, Poland adds a goods and services tax to many of its products. Poland’s VAT (PTU in Polish) is calculated at 23%, 8% or 5% depending on the type of product, and is normally included in the marked price.

Festivals and events

Alongside the major religious and cultural celebrations in Poland, this Central European nation gets together and celebrates in a whole range of ways. And some of them are pretty unusual.

Drowning of Marzanna

Marzanna is the Slavic goddess associated with death and rebirth. Traditionally, in early spring (around Easter), a straw effigy of Marzanna is ritually burned and ‘drowned’ as an offering to ward off death (aka winter) and welcome in the new season. These days, Marzanna is carried past every house in a village and dipped in each puddle or stream she passes. Superstitions still persist with Marzanna: if you touch the effigy once it’s in the water, your hand will wither; looking back at the drowning effigy when walking home may cause an illness; and stumbling or falling may lead to a relative’s death in the next year.

Smigus-dyngus

Traditionally held on Easter Monday in Poland, Smigus-dyngus – roughly translated as ‘Wet Monday’ – involves boys throwing water at girls, using water balloons, pistols or buckets. In return, girls provide a ‘ransom’ of painted eggs, or pisanki, which brings good fortune and harvests. In reality, it’s a big water fight with everyone getting involved.

Calling all higher education students: this festival is for you. Juwenalia is an annual holiday for students that takes place before summer exams in May or June. It celebrates three days of no lectures. The tradition started in the 15th century in Krakow, but now most universities in Poland organize their own Juwenalia, usually with some type of music festival attached to it.

Also known as the Midsummer Solstice festival, this event held annually in Krakow involves telling fortunes, floating handmade wreaths, jumping over bonfires and burning herbs. Wianki began as a Slavic fertility festival honoring the goddess of harvest and love – Kupala – but when Christianity came to Poland, efforts were made to ‘Christianize’ the pagan rites and rebrand the holiday as St John’s Eve. Despite this, Wianki celebrations today are pretty similar to traditional summer solstice festivities.

St Dominic’s Fair

Started in 1260, this outdoor festival in Gdansk has become one of Europe’s biggest open-air trade and cultural festivals. From mid-July to mid-August, the fair hosts 20 days of markets, music and theatre, Kashubian food, a strongman competition and a fireworks display at the closing ceremony. All the ingredients for a Polish spectacular.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Constitution Day

• Independence Day

Please note that the dates of  Poland's public holidays  may vary.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Poland adventure, check out these books:

• Push Not the River   – James Conroyd Martin
• The Pianist   – Wladyslaw Szpilman
• The Beautiful Mrs Seidenman   – Andrzej Szczypiorski
• No Greater Ally   – Kenneth K. Koskodan
• The Diary of Mary Berg: Growing up in the Warsaw Ghetto   – Mary Berg
• House of Day, House of Night   – Olga Tokarczuk
• Chasing the King of Hearts   – Hanna Krall

Poland travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Poland?

Poland offers travelers different experiences depending on the season, so pack sensibly and choose your adventure.

Late June to August offers the warmest temperatures and long days but tourist numbers are high, the heat can sometimes be quite intense, and thunderstorms are surprisingly common in the mountainous areas.

The shoulder season of April-May is a great time to visit Poland – long hours of sunlight, cooler temperatures and spring flowers in full bloom. The autumn months of September and October offer beautiful scenery, leaves changing color and average temperatures around 53°F during the day.

If snow sports are your thing, head to southern Poland, particularly Zakopane, in late December and early January for a winter wonderland and mountain resorts in full swing. Poland is a charming place to visit in Christmas, with winter markets, decorations along the city streets, outdoor nativity scenes and carolers singing at night.

Do I need a visa to travel to Poland?

Generally, you will not need a visa to travel to Poland for a period of up to 90 days. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Japan and many other countries can spend 90 days in the wider Schengen area, including Poland and other countries in the EU. EU citizens can travel around the Schengen area indefinitely.

Other nationalities should check with their local Polish embassy or on the   Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Poland?

While not mandatory, a tip of around 10–15% is considered a polite recognition of good service in Polish restaurants and cafes. Tipping service workers in high-end establishments such as luxury hotels is also encouraged.

At smaller establishments or when taking a taxi it’s acceptable to round up to the nearest PLN 5 or 10.

What is the internet access like in Poland?

Poland is very well connected – most hotels, hostels and some public spaces offer wi-fi (pronounced ‘vee-fee’), usually free of charge but sometimes for a small fee. Many bars, cafes and restaurants also offer wi-fi, so keep a look out for the international symbol for wi-fi.

Major cities like Warsaw have many wi-fi hotspots and cyber cafes to choose from, while rural areas will generally have less reliable options to get online.

Can I use my cell phone while in Poland?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in Poland. Poland uses the GSM 900/1800 system, which is the same as Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Cell networks are usually not compatible with cellphones from North America or Japan; however, if you’ve got a multiband GSM system, it should work.

If your cell phone is unlocked, your cheapest option to call and text on the go is probably with a local SIM card. These can be picked up from a phone shop, which are located all throughout the country. This is also likely the cheapest option for a mobile data plan in Poland.

If you wish to use your current SIM and phone plan in Poland, ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive, and be sure to check in with your service provider for costs, as often this can be extremely expensive.

What are the toilets like in Poland?

Flushable toilets are the standard in Poland, although public toilets are quite scarce. Public toilets are labelled with ‘dla panow’ or ‘meski’ and a downward-pointing triangle symbol for men, and ‘dla pan’ or ‘damski’ and a circle symbol for women.

Expect to pay a small fee when visiting public toilets (around PLN 2) and carry small denominations with you, as change is often not available.

Can I drink the water in Poland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in Poland unless marked otherwise.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Poland?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores and hotels in Poland. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover minor purchases. It’s also a good idea to carry small change to make tipping easier and to cover public toilet charges.

What is ATM access like in Poland?

ATMs that accept international cards are common in Poland, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities. Our tip is to go for internationally recognized banks and avoid ATMs labelled ‘Euronet’, as these often give a much poorer rate of exchange than other banks’ machines.

What is the weather like in Poland?

Poland’s climate is mostly temperate, with some slight weather differences between the oceanic north and the landlocked south. July is Poland’s hottest month, averaging around 72°F (22°C) throughout the country, with some temperatures rising to the mid-80s Fahrenheit, especially in Lower Silesia (southwest Poland).

Winters are often drier than summer, and range between 21°F (-6°C) and 33°F (1°C), with the northeast of the country near the borders with   Belarus  and   Lithuania  experiencing the coldest temperatures. Snow can be found around Poland in the depths of winter, usually in January.

Is Poland safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Homosexuality is legal in Poland, and in major cities like Warsaw and Krakow there is generally a liberal attitude towards LGBTQIA+ communities. That being said, the wider LGBTQIA+ scene in Poland is fairly discreet. Warsaw and Krakow are the best places to experience Poland’s gay scene, with a small number of bars and clubs dotted around the city. The seaside resort city of Sopot also has a number of gay bars and clubs. Same-sex marriage is not officially recognized in Poland.

Recently, with the rise of the ruling far-right Law & Justice (PiS) party in the Polish political system, anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiments in Poland have grown. Many Polish residents hold conservative and religious views, which are reflected in much of the current political discourse. While in most contexts there’s equality of legal rights for all residents regardless of sexuality or gender identity, there are still no protections against discrimination in education and health, hate crimes and hate speech.

Around 30 symbolic ‘LGBT-free’ zones have been declared in the south-eastern reaches of the country, and although unenforceable, these zones are said to represent a move to stigmatize and exclude LGBTQIA+ residents in rural parts of Poland.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Poland accessible for travelers with disabilities?

As Poland has many medieval towns and cobbled lanes, travelers with mobility issues may find traveling difficult, but doable. Newer buildings are designed with accessibility in mind, and many popular older buildings are retrofitted with ramps, lifts and wider entrances. Poland’s public transport system is designed to accommodate wheelchairs.

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in Poland

What you should wear in Poland will depend on what season you decide to travel! Poland’s mild climate and distinct seasons make it a little bit easier to know what to wear, so check out the weather in advance to get an idea of what to pack.

In summer, be sure to stay cool with looser clothing and some short sleeve t-shirts and shorts, plus a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings. In winter (as well as the shoulder seasons), pack some extra warmth, long pants and wind-breaking outer layers. If you’re traveling to Poland in snow season, pack thermal layers and insulated jackets. Gloves (or mittens) and a beanie will also come in handy.

Depending on the adventure you’re after, you’re likely to do a lot of walking, so a pair of sturdy walking shoes is a must. You might also like to pack a smaller backpack or satchel to use as a day pack when traveling around Krakow or Warsaw.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Grand Tour of Poland

Discover Poland’s best attractions in 12 days. Guaranteed departures, luxury accommodation, small groups of max 25 participants.

• Local company
• Authentic experiences
• Expert guides
• Responsible tourism
• Excellent customer service

Poland tours

See the unmatched beauty of poland.

Check our best selling and top rated tours around Poland. An ideal choice for anyone who wants to get to know the most beautiful sites in Poland. Outstanding personal service guaranteed.

The Polish Dream Tour

A one of a kind program for everyone fortunate to have more than two weeks to explore the outstanding heritage, charm and lifestyle of Poland.

Poland’s Best in 7 Days (escorted tour)

Experience the best of Poland in just 7 days! This tour offers an immersive journey into Poland’s rich heritage and fascinating culture. Begin in Warsaw, where Chopin’s legacy lives on in every note. Reflect on history at Auschwitz & Birkenau,…

The Spirit of Poland

The best sights that you can see and visit if you only have six days. An absolute must if you want a thorough flexible introduction to Poland.

Polish Triangle

Seven days of great Polish experience, including the most important Polish cities – Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw.

The Amber Route

A flexible introduction to north of Poland, including the magnetic seaside city of amber – Gdansk.

Poland’s Best in 7 Days

Spend 7 days days exploring the best of Poland. Experience the spectacular old towns of Warsaw and Krakow. Enjoy the stunning view of the Tatra Mountains in Zakopane.

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Staypoland helps you explore poland since 2003. outstanding personal service and the best prices for hotels, transport & city guides., escorted tours poland, multiday tours: poland, multiday tours: central europe, city breaks & one day trips.

The largest selection of Poland tours online. We provide the most comprehensive selection of city tours and excursions from all major Polish towns. Check out what we offer in the following locations.

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● • • • • • • •.• • • • • • • • • • Poland

● • • • • • • •.• • • • • • • • • • Polish food

● • • • • • • •.• • • • • • • • • • Polish folklore

POLAND • GERMANY • CZECHIA  • SLOVAKIA • AUSTRIA • HUNGARY • LITHUANIA • LATVIA • ESTONIA

Escape. Explore. Experience.

POLAND TOUR is an incoming tour operator specialized in tailor made packages around Poland, Central and Eastern Europe. Throughout many years of experience we have created hundreds of itineraries showing the most important sights of historical, environmental and cultural interest. As a team of travel enthusiasts, proud of living in Poland, we are a shining proof of the popular quote: “do what you love, and you’ll never work another day in your life”.

All tours we offer are divided into 9 groups in order to make it easier for you to choose:

Why Poland Tour?

Since 2005 we have been sharing our knowledge with thousands of travelers every year. We constantly dedicate time to discovering some hidden treasures of Poland and Central Europe, in order to later on share them with those eager to get to know our region. If those countries can surprise even us with their riches, imagine what your reaction will be once you come here!

Poland Tour is a tour operator that helps you discover charm of Poland & Central Europe

Did you know…?

beautiful untouched nature (sea, lakes, rivers, forests, mountains), interesting history and hundreds of monuments. It has 32 places inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list and 11 UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. But there is much more to discover. 

Testimonials

I just wanted to let you know that we had a great time in Poland. You did a good job in making our arrange­ments. The Guides were pleasant, one time and well pre­pared. Poland was a great exper­ience for Kathy and I, this trip will always be a fond memory for us.   Thanks for your help.

We had a ter­rific time in Poland, largely to the credit of Agnieszka.  She was an excellent match for us and imme­di­ately appre­ciated Agnieszka con­veyed so much inform­ation to us in such a natural and easy manner that we gained an incredible know­ledge about the history of places, people and Poland today—we cannot praise her too much!

This program looks amazing to us, you have done such a good job for us ! Were so thankful to have you as are travel con­sultant. In America we hear nightly on are evening news, stories about the strength \ gen­er­osity of the Polish people, trying to help Ukraine refugees. God Bless everyone of them Monika!

It has been a dif­ferent trip from the typical one offered by agencies, since it has been totally per­son­alized. We have been a family group of dif­ferent ages and each one of us has con­tributed our wishes and ideas to the pro­gramme. Hopefully all of them have been ful­filled, thanks to the guides who have made it pos­sible and made it happen.

It was a very pleasant well-planned trip, with good guides in Spanish

It was our second trip to Poland, so we didn’t want to repeat what we already knew. Poland Tour has put together a perfect tour for us, sug­gested by us, but incor­por­ating valuable advice. The hotels are very central and perfect for us. The guides with a lot of know­ledge and perfect Spanish. The very punctual and very friendly and col­lab­or­ating trans­ports. In short, all very well.

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Poland Small Group Tours

20 poland small group tours with 55 reviews.

In-depth Cultural Sightseeing Christmas & New Year +1

Pearls of Poland (for couples)

"I think this tour is just right for covering the best sites in Poland in a week's time. Our guides were excellent." Andrew, traveled in September 2020

Explorer Coach / Bus Historical +1

Highlights of Southern Poland

"The Poland tour was excellent! Totally recommended!!" Maria, traveled in October 2021

In-depth Cultural Family Explorer Historical Christmas & New Year +3

Krakow, Auschwitz & Wieliczka Salt Mine - 4 Days

"We highly recommend Seweryn and Tour Radar for excellent service and providing us with a truly memorable visit to Krakow." ilene, traveled in September 2022

Explorer Family Christmas & New Year +1

Tailor-Made Private Poland Tour with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility View tour Download Brochure

In-depth Cultural Family Christmas & New Year +1

Tailor-Made Private Trip to Southern Poland with Daily Departure

In-depth Cultural Family

The best of Eastern Slovakia (small group minimum 2 people & maximum 8 people)

In-depth Cultural Family Explorer Historical +2

Krakow, Auschwitz, Enamel Factory & Wieliczka Salt Mine - 4 Days

"Visiting Auschwitz is astounding and educational seeing the exact concentration camp is mind-blowing." Antonio, traveled in September 2022

In-depth Cultural Family Sightseeing +1

6 days in Krakow and Szczawnica- private exclusive tour for 2 people

7 days in Krakow and Szczawnica- private exclusive tour for 3-4 people

The Polish Dream Tour

Reviews of small group tours to poland.

I think this tour is just right for covering the best sites in Poland in a week's time. I doubt few travelers know anything about Poland's history. So a brief outline of the essentials at the start of the tour would facilitate understanding in Warsaw and Krakow. Our guides were excellent, but if they had structured their presentations, they would have communicated the details at the sights visited much better. Since we two were the only tourists on this tour in this Covid-marred year, we traveled with a driver (Piotr) who was tops.

The Poland tour was excellent! The group leader Beata was awesome and all guidance, planning and itinerary was wonderful. Totally recommended!!

An amazing tour of Krakow that includes breathtaking views of Old Town cathedrals and castles. A visit to Auschwitz - Birkenau and other historical sights connected to Schindler's List and the Jewish Ghetto. A great mix of history, culture, and architecture with time enough to explore on your own or rejuvenate in the comfort of your hotel.

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Picturesque cities such as Kraków and Gdańsk vie with energetic Warsaw for your urban attention. Elsewhere, woods, rivers, lakes and hills beckon for some fresh-air fun.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Malbork Castle

Gdańsk & Pomerania

Malbork’s blockbuster attraction is its show-stoppingly massive castle sitting on the banks of the sluggish Nogat River, an eastern arm of the Vistula…

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Some 14km southeast of Kraków, the Wieliczka (vyeh-leech-kah) salt mine has been welcoming tourists since 1722 and today is one of Poland's most popular…

Museum of WWII

Opened in 2016, this striking piece of modern architecture is a bold addition to the northern end of Gdańsk's waterfront. It has rapidly become one of…

Wawel Royal Castle

As the political and cultural heart of Poland through the 16th century, Wawel Royal Castle is a potent symbol of national identity. It's now a museum…

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial & Museum

Auschwitz-Birkenau is synonymous with the Holocaust. More than a million Jews, and many Poles and Roma, were murdered here by German Nazis during WWII…

Wilanów Palace

Warsaw’s top palace, 10km south of the city centre, was commissioned by King Jan III Sobieski in 1677. It has changed hands several times over the…

Palace of Culture & Science

For over 60 years this socialist realist palace has dominated central Warsaw. A ‘gift of friendship’ from the Soviet Union, it was completed in 1955 and…

Royal Castle

This remarkable copy of the original castle blown up by the Germans in WWII is filled with authentic period furniture and original works of art…

Top picks from our travel experts

10 best things to do in poland.

Rynek Underground

This fascinating attraction beneath the market square consists of an underground route through medieval market stalls and other long-forgotten chambers…

Central Museum of Textiles

Dig deeper into Łódź' industrial past at this museum located in Ludwig Geyer's gorgeous White Factory (Biała Fabryka), the city's oldest textile mill,…

Tatra Park Nature Education Centre

The national park's education centre walks visitors through the natural history of the mountains, including dioramas, interactive displays, kids'…

Dominating the centre of the Main Market Square, this building was once the heart of Kraków’s medieval clothing trade. Created in the early 14th century…

European Bison Show Reserve

Białowieża National Park

This modern and large enclosed animal park around 4km west of Palace Park is your best chance to see an actual bison. Though the bison died out in the…

Museum of Zamość

Two of the row of iconic and colourful Armenian houses on the northeast side of the Rynek shelter the Zamość museum, with intriguing displays such as a…

St Anne's Church

Marking the start of the Royal Way, this is arguably Warsaw's most ornate church. It escaped major damage during WWII, which explains why it sports an…

Main Market Square

The vast Main Market Square is the focus of the Old Town, and is Europe's largest medieval town square (200m by 200m). Its most prominent features are the…

The work of designer Joanna Rajkowska, a typical Łódź courtyard passage has been completely lined with mirror fragments arranged in swirling floral…

POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews

Housed in one of Warsaw's best examples of contemporary architecture, this award-winning museum documents 1000 years of Jewish history in Poland. The…

St Mary's Basilica

This striking brick church, best known simply as St Mary’s, is dominated by two towers of different heights. The first church here was built in the 1220s…

Jewish Historical Institute

Just behind a blue skyscraper (which stands on the location of the Great Synagogue destroyed by the Germans), JHI houses a library and exhibitions related…

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From stunning national parks to culture-rich cities and museums exploring the country's complex history, here are the top things to do in Poland.

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Poland Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Poland is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe . With its incredible history and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cheap food, world-class museums, wild nightlife, and plentiful nature, Poland is a budget-travel paradise. It has everything you’ll find in Western Europe — but for half the price and with half the crowds!

Most travelers visit Krakow or spend a day or two in Warsaw before departing to a neighboring country. While that’s better than nothing, Poland has so much more to offer.

From beautiful parks to medieval cities to cheap beer to rugged coastlines, you can spend weeks here and still only scratch the surface.

Best of all, there are far fewer tourists here than elsewhere in Europe so it’s easy to have a more local, more authentic experience.

Use this travel guide to Poland to plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this budget-travel paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Poland

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in poland.

1. Visit Auschwitz

Auschwitz-Birkenau is the site of a former concentration camp used by the Nazis during World War II. Approximately 1.3 million people were sent here and an astounding 1.1 million of them were killed. When the camp was liberated in 1945, there were just 7,000 people there, many of whom were incredibly ill or sick. A visit here is sobering but shouldn’t be missed. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and keep in mind you’re allowed to take photographs but be considerate that this is a somber place. Admission is free, but the experience is much more meaningful with a guide who can provide context. Expect to pay around 550 PLN for a guide.

2. Explore Krakow

Krakow is a student city and one of the biggest tourist destinations in the country (people love coming here to party). This city is beautiful, inexpensive, and is filled with plenty to do. Be sure to check out the castle, the nearby salt mines, and underground ruins. The Christmas market in December is amazing too!

3. See Wroclaw

Wroclaw is one of Poland’s lesser-known destinations. Home to some amazing architecture, this small city is beautiful, inexpensive, and free of crowds. Be sure to see the Raclawice Panorama, which depicts the Battle of Raclawice that took place during the Kosciuszko Uprising in the 1790s.

4. Wander through Bialowieza National Park

This national park on the Belarus border contains the last remains of a primeval forest that once covered most of Europe. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, and remarkably, the only place where European bison still live in the wild. Bialowieza National Park is the oldest in Poland. Stretching 105 square kilometers (40 square miles), it’s thriving with biological diversity. Visitors can hike, walk, and bike in nature and you can also try unique local cuisine from Bialowieza, which is influenced by nearby Belarus and Ukraine. Some local favorites include Pielmieni meat dumplings, Mrowisko sweet cakes, and Zubr (bison) beer. Admission is 16 PLN. If you want a guide, expect to pay around 250 PLN.

5. Discover Warsaw

Explore the old and new towns, see the castle, binge on pierogis, and visit the city’s amazing museums that highlight the struggles of the Warsaw Uprising and the ghettoization of the Jews during World War II. Be sure to spend time wandering Warsaw’s Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with history, art, culture, and science. Savor a hearty Polish meal at one of the many ‘milk bars’ and check out Hala Koszyki, a funky food market hall with nearly 20 different eateries and many tasty offerings.

Other Things to See and Do in Poland

1. take a free walking tour.

One of the best things you can do when you arrive in a new destination is take a walking tour. It’s a great way to get the lay of the land and learn about the culture, people, and history of the destination. Walkative offers free tours in Warsaw, Krakow, Gdansk, Poznan, and a few other cities around the country. These tours provide much more insight than any guidebook. Just be sure to tip your guides at the end!

2. Tour the Szczecin underground tunnels

These concrete tunnels lie beneath the city of Szczecin in northwest Poland (near the border with Germany). The tunnels were designated as a bomb shelter in the 1940s and then used as a fallout shelter during the Cold War. Located 17 meters (56 feet) below ground, here you can see artifacts from World War II and learn how the shelter was used during the war. You’ll also learn how the tunnels were reinforced during the Cold War to survive a nuclear attack. Tours last around an hour and admission is 38 PLN. It can get cold in the tunnels so bring a sweater.

3. Visit a national park

Poland has 23 different national parks. Ojcowski National Park (near Krakow) is a small park filled with stunning caves and castles while Slowinski National Park (on the Baltic Coast), Biebrzanski, Narwianski, and Poleski National Parks (all located in the northeast) offer great bird watching. Bialowieza National Park (near Belarus) is where you can see Europe’s only wild bison. They’re a great way to get away from the crowds and stretch your legs, especially in the summer when the weather is nice, or in the fall when the leaves are changing. There are usually lodges and campgrounds near each park as well if you want to disconnect for a few days.

4. Explore Wawel Castle

This site in Krakow is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in all of Poland. Castles here are rare as most were mostly destroyed over the years (the vast majority of which being destroyed during World War II). Built in the 13th century under the order of King Casimir III, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an art museum that has medieval tapestries, the former Polish crown jewels, and Ottoman Empire treasures. Admission ranges from 5-46 PLN depending on what you want to see. On Mondays in the summer, free tickets are available for the Crown Treasury and Armory. There are seasonal discounts from September to October as well for the Dragon’s Den, Sandomierska Tower, and The Lost Wawel archeological exhibition, and The Church of St. Gereon.

5. Visit the Wooden Churches

Tucked away in the southeastern corner of the country, The Wooden Churches of Southern Lesser Poland consists of six Roman Catholic churches that reflect various periods of religious architecture in Poland: from Medieval to Gothic, Rococo, Baroque, as well as the occasional onion dome and Greek cross. Dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, the interiors of these UNESCO churches were intricately painted and carved by hand, with every inch of the church a veritable work of art. Dress appropriately when visiting as these are sites of religious worship.

6. Tour the Wieliczka Salt Mine

This mine produced table salt and was first used in the 13th century. It became one of Krakow’s main industries and was in use until 2007. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can marvel over the cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals — all carved out of salt and stone by the miners. The mines reach depths of over 300 meters (984 feet) and are also home to contemporary works of art. The mine is just 13 kilometers (8 miles) outside the city. Admission is 109 PLN.

7. Stroll through Gdansk

Formerly known as Danzig, Gdansk is a beautiful coastal city in northern Poland. Much of the city was rebuilt after World War II but you can still find plenty of history here. Be sure to spend some time wandering the old town and checking out the local markets and small artisan shops. And don’t miss the Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the city’s towering 16th-century gothic church. There’s also an excellent World War II museum here too.

8. Admire Kalwaria Zebrzydowska

Located an hour from Krakow, this Catholic monastery dates back to the 17th century. Built in the Mannerist (Late Renaissance) architectural style, it was declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1999. Surrounding the monastery are over 5 kilometers (3 miles) of pilgrimage routes and 42 chapels and churches which have been in regular use for over 400 years. Tours are free (though they must be booked in advance) and last around an hour. Donations are welcome.

9. Head to Lublin

Lublin is eastern Poland’s main city. It was an important trading and military center during the Middle Ages. It developed its own architectural style at the end of the 16th century, which has become known as the Lublin Renaissance as rulers here brought in many Italian architects to expand the city. Be sure to visit the castle, the monastery, and the old town (which is sometimes called “Little Krakow” owing to its similarities with Krakow’s old town). There’s also the sobering State Museum that illuminates the atrocities of the death camps of World War II.

10. See the world’s tallest pope statue

Located 2.5 hours south of Warsaw in Czestochowa, this statue of Pope John Paul II (who was born in Poland) stands 13.8 meters (42 feet) tall and is made of fiberglass. There really isn’t much else to see here but it makes for a quirky photo op if you’re in the area!

11. Visit the Exploseum

This abandoned Nazi explosive plant, founded by Alfred Nobel (the inventor of dynamite), is now a museum open to the public. Here visitors learn about Alfred Nobel, his company, what life was like for Polish residents during the German occupation, weapons used during the war, as well as modern weapons of war. It’s an interesting and eye-opening museum. Tucked away in Bydgoszcz (3 hours north of Warsaw), the museum takes 1-2 hours to explore. Admission is 17 PLN and includes a guide. Children under 6 are not allowed to enter.

12. Visit the Churches of Peace

These are the biggest timber-framed churches in Europe. Located in Jawor and Swidnica (near Wroclaw), they were built in the mid-17th century and were the first Lutheran churches constructed in Roman Catholic Poland. Since the churches were not Catholic, they were only allowed to be built from wood and could not have steeples or bells (Lutherans were not allowed to construct stone churches that could compete with the dominant religion). Today they are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Admission is 12 PLN and an audio tour is available. Just be sure to dress appropriately.

13. See the World War II Museum in Gdansk

The Museum of the Second World War opened in 2008 and is one of the best museums in the country. It’s an immersive experience that really opens your eyes to the death and destruction that the war unleashed — in Poland and beyond. In addition to the weapons, clothing, letters, and maps there is an entire recreated street to give you a palpable sense of what it would have been like to live through the worst of the war. Admission 25 PLN. For an extra 2 PLN, you can also see their temporary expositions.

14. Explore the Tatra Mountains

This mountain range, part of the Carpathian Mountains, is located near the border of Poland and Slovakia. It’s here where you’ll find Tatra National Park (a protected UNESCO site), a great destination for hiking. Spanning over 200 square kilometers (77 square miles), there are plenty of day hikes available ranging from 2-12 hours. While you can’t camp in the park, there are mountain huts if you book in advance (they cost 35-70 PLN per night depending on where you stay). Make sure you check the weather before you go and bring ample water and sunscreen for your hike.

15. Take in the Warsaw Rising Museum

This museum is a tribute to the people of Warsaw who fought and died for Polish independence. Opened in 2004, the museum is home to hundreds of artifacts from the uprising of 1944, when Polish citizens rebelled against German occupation. The uprising lasted 63 days and was the largest resistance movement during World War II. Some 15,000 members of the Polish resistance were killed, as well as 2,000-17,000 German troops. There are weapons, clothing, letters, and interactive films that shed light on one of the most important events in Polish history. Admission is 25 PLN.

16. Tour Schlinder’s Factory

Oskar Schindler was a German industrialist who saved over 1,200 Jews during the war. His story was made famous by Steven Spielberg’s 1993 film, Schindler’s List . Located in his actual factory in Krakow, this museum offers a thorough trip through the history of World War II, highlighting how he saved so many people during the war while bankrupting himself in the process. Admission starts at 10 PLN or 72 PLN for a guided tour. There are a number of limited free tickets on Mondays.

  For more information on specific cities in Poland, check out these guides:

• Krakow Travel Guide
• Warsaw Travel Guide

Poland Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a dorm with 8-10 beds costs 55-95 PLN per night. Private rooms cost 120-200 PLN. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Free breakfast is available at many hostels too.

Budget two-star hotels start at 150-275 PLN per night. Free Wi-Fi is common and many hotels also include a simple free breakfast as well. For a three-star hotel, expect to pay at least 300-500 PLN.

Airbnb is available throughout the country with private rooms starting at 75 PLN per night while entire homes/apartments cost at least 100 PLN. Prices are usually double these numbers, however, so be sure to book early to find the best deals.

There are plenty of campgrounds throughout the country for those traveling with a tent. Expect to pay around 40 PLN per night for a basic tent plot for two people without electricity. Wild camping is tolerated if you’re in the mountains and as long as you are not in a national park (camping in national parks is strictly prohibited in Poland).

Food – Polish meals are quite hearty, usually containing potatoes, meat (pork and chicken), and seasonal produce like beets or cabbage. Stews and soups (like borscht, a beet soup) are popular and can be found at most local restaurants. Pierogis are also a common staple and can be found everywhere for cheap. For some traditional Polish food, try beef tongue or pork knuckles. The country also has lots of traditional desserts too, like paczki (a Polish donut) and makowiec (poppy-seed cake).

Most cheap meals of traditional cuisine (served at local restaurants called bar mleczny or “milk bars”) cost around 35 PLN. For a three-course meal with a drink and table service, expect to pay around 75 PLN. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 25 PLN for a combo meal.

A large pizza costs around 25-30 PLN while Chinese food costs around 15-20 PLN. Zapiekanki , a popular Polish street snack that’s like a pizza on a baguette, costs 5-6 PLN.

Beer costs 8-12 PLN, while a glass of wine is a minimum of 12 PLN. A latte or cappuccino is around 11 PLN. Bottled water is 5 PLN.

If you buy your own groceries and cook your meals, expect to pay around 150-165 PLN per week for basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal vegetables, and some meat. Local markets are the cheapest places to buy fresh produce. Biedronka is a cheap grocery store that’s everywhere.

Backpacking Poland Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 175 PLN per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do some cheap activities like free walking tours and visiting the free museums. If you plan on drinking, add 10-20 PLN to your budget per day.

On a mid-range budget of 330 PLN per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for most meals at cheap milk bars, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the Uprising Museum or taking a tour of Auschwitz.

On a “luxury” budget of 600 PLN or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever guided tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in PLN.

Poland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Poland is a very affordable country so there aren’t too many tips out there to help you save. You won’t be spending a lot of money anyways unless you go out of your way to spend money. That being said, there are still a few extra ways you can save money while you visit Poland:

• Eat at milk bars – You’ll get a taste of Poland at a mleczny (milk bars). Hearty pierogis, homemade soups, plenty of meat, and a local beer usually cost around 30 PLN. While they are a no-frills choice, the food is tasty and filling.
• Get a tourist card – Certain cities, like Krakow and Warsaw, offer tourist cards that provide unlimited public transportation and free or discounted museum access. If you plan to see lots of sites, be sure to go to the local tourism office and pick up one of these cards. They usually cost 100-160 PLN.
• Take advantage of train specials – Poland has various special train tickets that can save you money during your visit. For example, the Weekend Ticket ( Bilet Weekendowy ) is available for several train lines and lasts from Friday night at 7pm to Monday at 6am and allows for unlimited trips within Poland. It’s a great way to see the country if you need to cover a lot of ground in a short time!
• Watch your drinking – Cities like Krakow are known for their parties, pub crawls, and long nights out. These can add up quickly, so watch how much you drink. Start off by grabbing your favorite drinks from a grocery store first whenever possible. You’ll save a ton that way.
• Take a free walking tour – Free tours from companies like Walkative can be found in Poland’s larger cities. They are a great way to explore the city while learning about the history, culture, and architecture. Just be sure to tip!
• Use ridesharing apps – Ridesharing apps like BlaBlaCar are a great way to get around the country for cheap. You simply download the app, find someone looking for passengers, pay a small fee, and go! Everyone is rated and verified, and it’s usually more convenient (and cheaper) than other forms of transportation. For travel within a city, use Uber. It’s cheaper than the local taxis.
• Stay with a local – While accommodation is not expensive in Poland, Couchsurfing is a great way to lower your accommodation costs. Not only will you save money by getting a free place to stay but you’ll also be able to make a local friend and get insider knowledge about the country.
• Bike share – For 10 PLN, you can register for Vetrulio, a bike-rental company in Warsaw. After you sign up, bike use is free for 20 minutes, making it essentially free to bounce around the city during your visit. After 20 minutes (up to the first hour) it’s just 1 PLN and then 3 PLN for the next hour.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water in Poland is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Poland

Accommodation in Poland is very affordable. Even if you don’t want to do the whole hostel thing, you can find really comfortable and inexpensive hotels throughout the country. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Poland:

• Oki Doki Old Town (Warsaw)
• Warsaw Centrum Hostel (Warsaw)
• Greg and Tom Hostel (Krakow)
• Let’s Rock (Krakow)
• Slowgate Hostel (Gdansk)
• Mleczarnia Hostel (Wroclaw)

How to Get Around Poland

Public transportation – Buses and trams are the most common ways to get around in each city. Only Warsaw has a subway system. Public buses and trams cost around 3-5 PLN for a one-way ride, depending on how far you go. For a single-day pass, expect prices to start at 15 PLN per person. In Warsaw, a three-day public transportation pass starts at 36 PLN.

Bus – Poland has an extensive bus network so you can easily travel around the entire country by bus if you’re on a budget. Flixbus (and its partner company, Polski Bus) are the best options as they have comfortable buses for affordable prices. For example, the 4-hour journey from Warsaw to Krakow costs around 44 PLN while the 7-hour ride to Gdansk from Warsaw costs around 50 PLN.

The buses have bathrooms, electrical outlets, and Wi-Fi, making them a good choice for budget travelers.

Train – While trains aren’t as cheap as buses, they’re a good option for long-distance trips. There are several different companies operating trains here with a variety of train types. The three most important to travelers are the ExpressInterCity Premium (EIP), ExpressInterCity (EIC), and InterCity (IC).

The EIP trains are fast and operate between major cities. They have first-class and second-class seats and reservations are mandatory. These are the newest trains and have a dining car if you’re looking to eat during your trip. They can be pricey if you book on the day, so try to book in advance for the best prices.

EIC trains also run between major cities but are a little slower. They are still perfectly safe and comfortable, with a dining car and business class seats available. Since the services aren’t as great, the prices here are lower than on EIP trains. There are first- and second-class seats as well.

IC trains are the cheapest of the three but also the slowest as they make more stops. They have basic amenities such as power outlets.

InterRegio (IR) trains are another option as they stop in most medium-sized cities. There are no first-class or seat reservations here, so they can be a bit busier and sometimes won’t have space for luggage. But they are affordable!

The train from Warsaw to Gdansk costs around 175 PLN and takes around 2.5 hours while the 2-hour train from Warsaw to Krakow is just 50 PLN.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

Flying – Flying around Poland is relatively cheap thanks to budget airlines like Ryanair. From Warsaw, you can get to pretty much any city in the country for under 325 PLN, round trip.

For example, Warsaw to Krakow takes just under an hour and costs 280 PLN while Warsaw to Gdansk takes an hour and costs 180 PLN.

It’s also easy to get to/from Poland via plane as Wizz and Ryanair fly all over the continent. You can find flights for as little as 50 PLN to destinations all around Europe if you book early and are flexible.

Rideshare – BlaBlaCar is the best ride-sharing option for intercity travel. It’s cheap and fast, and drivers are verified and have reviews so it’s quite safe. Just make sure you have flexible plans as drivers are often late or change their plans entirely.

Car rental – Car rentals start at 75 PLN per day for a multi-day rental. Drivers must have had their license for at least one year and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for citizens of certain countries.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Poland

The best (and most popular) time to visit Poland is during the summer, from June to August. Temperatures are hot and rain is infrequent. Expect daily highs between 17-25°C (63-77°F) during this time (and a 1-3 degree difference between Gdansk in the north to Krakow in the south).

The summer is also the busiest time of the year for tourism, though and you’ll only really notice it in the main tourist cities (such as Warsaw and Krakow).

The shoulder season of late April-May and September-October are great times to visit as well, with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F). You’ll beat the crowd and have much milder temperatures. There’s more rain in the spring but you’ll get the stunning autumn colors in the fall which makes for a scenic backdrop to your trip.

Winter in Poland can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around -1°C (30°F) during the day and -5°C (23°F) overnight. Snow is common, which can affect conditions if you’re traveling by car. In short, I wouldn’t recommend a winter visit unless you plan on going skiing or taking part in other winter activities such as visiting the Christmas markets.

How to Stay Safe in Poland

Poland is a very safe country. The risk of theft or getting pickpocketed is much lower here than it is in other parts of Europe. Of course, you should always keep your valuables secure and out of sight when riding public transportation and while you’re in popular tourist areas.

Taxi scams are rare, but always make sure your driver is using the meter. If they aren’t, ask them to stop and find a taxi that will. To avoid fake taxis, have your hotel/hostel staff call a taxi for you to ensure you aren’t scammed.

ATM skimming (when criminals attach a covert device to an ATM that can steal your information) can occur here, so always make sure you use verified ATMs. If you can, go into the bank to withdraw your money (as opposed to using outdoor ATMs, which are easier to tamper with).

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a vehicle here, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Poland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Poland Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

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Previews 19 Jun 2024

Kaczmarek and nowicki among home stars in bydgoszcz.

Natalia Kaczmarek in Continental Tour Gold action (© Ostrava Golden Spike)

Many of Poland’s best will take on some of the world’s leading athletes when the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold continues with the Irena Szewinska Memorial in Bydgoszcz on Thursday (20).

It is fitting that Natalia Kaczmarek is among the headliners of the meeting, which is named in tribute to Polish sprint great Szewinska who set a world record of 49.29 when winning her Olympic 400m title in Montreal in 1976. That legendary mark remained the Polish record until last week, when Kaczmarek improved it to 48.98 to win the European title in Rome.

Fresh from that performance at the Stadio Olimpico, world silver medallist Kaczmarek will be looking to put on another show for home fans at the Zdzislaw Krzyszkowiak Stadium. She has finished in the top two in each of her 400m races so far this season and in Bydgoszcz her competition includes her compatriots Justyna Swiety-Ersetic and Iga Baumgart-Witan, Romania’s Andrea Miklos and Great Britain’s Ama Pipi.

The men’s hammer gets the field action under way on Thursday and all three medallists from the recent European Championships will clash again. Home star Wojciech Nowicki, Hungary’s Bence Halasz and Ukraine’s Mykhaylo Kokhan renew their rivalry as part of a field that also features another Polish great – five-time world champion Pawel Fajdek – and Dutch record-holder Denzel Comenentia.

When it comes to performances so far this season, Olympic champion Nowicki, Olympic fourth-place finisher Kokhan and world bronze medallist Halasz are separated by less than half a metre. Nowicki, also a two-time world silver medallist, threw 80.95m to win his third consecutive European title in Rome, while Kokhan threw 80.76m in Nairobi and Halasz 80.49m in Rome. Nowicki was the 2022 winner in Bydgoszcz, while he finished runner-up last year.

In the men’s shot put, Italy’s world silver medallist Leonardo Fabbri faces Jamaica’s Rajindra Campbell, Czechia’s Tomas Stanek and Great Britain’s Scott Lincoln, plus Poland’s Michal Haratyk and Konrad Bukowiecki.

Fabbri sits second on this season’s top list with the national record of 22.95m he set in Savona last month, while Campbell has also surpassed 22 metres so far in 2024.

The men’s pole vault will see home favourite Piotr Lisek, the multiple world medallist, go up against Philippines' world silver medallist Ernest John Obiena and world indoor bronze medallist Emmanouil Karalis of Greece. Obiena cleared 5.93m indoors in February and has an outdoor best this season of 5.80m set when winning at the Continental Tour Gold meeting in Los Angeles, while Karalis soared 5.87m to secure his silver medal at the European Championships a week ago. He followed that with a win in Athens four days later with a clearance of 5.82m.

Ethiopia’s Freweyni Hailu has happy memories of racing in Poland as she set her 1500m PB of 3:55.28 indoors in Torun in February. That came a month before she won the world indoor title in Glasgow and now she continues her outdoor campaign in Bydgoszcz. 

She will line up alongside the Australian trio of Linden Hall, Abbey Caldwell and Sarah Billings, plus Great Britain’s Revee Walcott-Nolan.

Sweden’s Andreas Kramer claimed a narrow 800m victory at the Continental Tour Gold meeting in Turku on Tuesday and he’ll want to continue his winning ways as he takes on a field featuring Algeria’s Mohamed Ali Gouaned, Dutch champion Ryan Clarke and Poland’s Mateusz Borkowski. In the men’s 1500m, Australia’s Cameron Myers races Italy’s Federico Riva and Kenya’s Daniel Munguti.

New Zealand’s Zoe Hobbs heads the women’s 100m field following Continental Tour Gold meeting wins in Melbourne and Tokyo so far this season.

Polish heptathlete Adrianna Sulek-Schubert makes her return to competition following the birth of her son in February and she contests the 100m hurdles, up against Sarah Lavin, Viktoria Forster and Crystal Morrison. In the men’s 110m hurdles, Poland’s Damian Czykier and Jakub Szymanski race Roger Iribarne, Milan Trajkovic and Eduardo Rodrigues.

The 400m hurdles fields feature Brazil’s Matheus Lima, Ireland’s Thomas Barr, Czechia’s Nikoleta Jichova, Australia’s Sarah Carli and South Africa’s Zeney Geldenhuys.

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Beat the heat: The ‘cool’ European destinations to visit in summer 2024

Here are the temperate alternatives to european hotspots that keep it cool – even in peak season, article bookmarked.

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Shade seekers can rejoice, holiday travel trends are changing and tan-refreshing, sunbed-stewing summer getaways are on the decline.

In light of the ongoing climate crisis , Brits – habitually inclined to boil abroad – are redirecting their wanderlust to European shores where they won’t be a prisoner to a hotel room’s air-conditioning or sweat over the midday UV index.

The shift to more moderate climates comes as no surprise. A furnace of Mediterranean holiday heavyweights, from Rhodes to Gran Canaria , were ablaze with wildfires during peak travel season 2023, and temperatures are continuing to break record highs year on year.

Now’s the time to swap searing Andalusia in mainland Spain for the cooler Canaries , trade Portugal ’s Algarve for Poland ’s Baltic coast, and replace big-hitting Greek islands with German variations.

With chasing scorching sun on the backburner, here are the destinations bringing a breeze to summer holidays from wind-whipped islands to northern Europe’s fine coastline.

Read more on Europe travel :

• The Spanish islands with sun and volcanic peaks that you should make your next holiday destination
• Greece travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go
• The best things to do in Valencia, from beach hopping to exploring by bike

Ostend, Belgium

• Average high in August: 21C
• Average low in August: 15C

Though best known for its chocolate, beer and the hub of EU democracy that is Brussels , it would be foolish to turn your nose up at Belgium ’s beach resorts. Let Flanders’s largest, Ostend , sweep you away to its golden sands this summer for mornings spent kitesurfing and afternoons filled with fresh oysters on the Albert I Promenade – all without the need to retreat from the heat.

Oslo, Norway

• Average low in August: 13C

The Norwegian capital is a tangle of hip districts – specifically buzzy Grünerløkka – boutique stores and al fresco dining spots fringed with by thick Marka forest (where you can go for active pursuits, including zip lining and mountain biking). Slick museums on the Oslo Pass, such as the Munch Museum, meet the culture criteria for a city break while taking a dip in seawater pools and drying off in Nordic saunas nails the R&R element of a standard summer holiday.

La Gomera, Canary Islands

• Average high in August: 28C
• Average low in August: 21C

While mainland Spain sizzles, an Atlantic onshore breeze blows through the Canary Islands , blessing balmy year-round La Gomera with inviting 20C days for holidaymakers to indulge in hiking, black-sand bathing and foodie feasts of melon lobster and marmalade rabbit. The bearable heat doesn’t sacrifice sunshine, with around nine hours of vitamin D on offer in August.

Tartu, Estonia

• Average low in August: 11C

Inevitably laden with sweaty vista climbs, winding refreshment queues and daily step tallies in the thousands, comfort is key on a city break, and the 2024 Capital of Culture , Tartu has just the climate for exploring Estonia . There is an elegant Town Hall Square primed for mass kissing events (yes, really), the sleek Estonian National Museum, and timber barges on the Emajõgi River for a sailor’s view of the peaceful landscape.

Sopot, Poland

• Average high in August: 22C
• Average low in August: 12C

Seafront Sopot, in the Tricity region of the “Baltic Riviera”, is an affordable alternative to the beloved big names further south  and  at its warmest come August. A short train ride from all the history of Gdansk , 4km of tempting beaches, Europe ’s longest wooden pier and stylish health spas dot the fairy tale-esque facades and locals hail Sopot for its beachfront nightlife scene and, of course, decadent waffles.

Sylt, Germany

• Average high in August: 20C
• Average low in August: 16C

A magnet for the German elite, the North Frisian Islands’ mild microclimate, pinstriped strandkorbs (hooded wicker seats wide enough for two) and pristine pale sands understandably attract travellers to Sylt’s west coast. A Michelin-rosette gastronomy scene, thatched cottages and lighthouse-scattered peninsulas make this balmy under-the-radar beach break one to add to your list.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Slovenia ’s most famous attraction sparkles under the summer sun and Lake Bled’s inviting turquoise glacial waters will help you keep your cool on climbs up to the medieval Bled Castle and romantic rows around the fantasy island. Where the legendary lakes of Garda and Como sweat with crowds in Italy , Bled’s slice of the Julian Alps, though inevitably busy, offers forest trails suited for secluded alpine hikes.

Machico, Madeira

• Average high in August: 26C

Leave the scorching Algarve for a more temperate Atlantic alternative on Portugal ’s Madeira archipelago. Sandwiched between mountains, far east Machico has a wave-battered artificial beach with golden grains imported from Africa , well-groomed gardens and a vision of terracotta roofs dotting its landscape. 

Pori, Finland

On Finland ’s west coast, the city of Pori is a centre for jazz music, Finnish street eats (including  porilainen,  an elevated sausage sandwich), and, star of Scandinavia, Yyteri Beach: 6km of white sand geared for windsurfing, bird watching, beach volleyball and barbecues. With the Kokemäenjoki River and Bothnian Sea National Park, this diverse destination has mastered sub-30C summer culture.

Haarlem, Netherlands

• Average high in August: 19C

Head to Haarlem for tulips, vinyls, hidden  hofje  courtyards and a fair share of canals. Amsterdam ’s less-crowded neighbour serves a slice of Dutch cool without the sweaty shoulder brushes with strangers. It has a popular shopping scene as well as a brewing culture backdating to the 14th century, and active pursuits can be found in the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park. 

Skagen, Denmark

On Denmark ’s northeastern peninsula, the port town of Skagen has art museums and fine dining to rival the country’s effortlessly cool capital Copenhagen . Whisps of cloud paint the skies and wild nature patrols the pale grains of the Grenen sandbar that straddles the Baltic and North Sea. Better still, August’s T-shirt and light-layers weather is ideal for exploring this stretch of the Rabjerg Mile – a migrating coastal sand dune.

Hoping for a balmy UK summer? Here are the best secret UK beaches to visit for some peace and quiet

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All the LIV Golf players in the 2024 Paris Olympics

7 LIV golfers (not Bryson DeChambeau) will go for gold in Paris.

Michael Corvo

The men's and women's 60-person fields for the 2024 Paris Olympics have been solidified.

The men's field has been set since the 2024 U.S. Open results were made official. Controversially, LIV Golf League star Bryson DeChambeau — who ranks sixth on DataGolf , based on his performance in all three majors — will not be a part of Team USA's delegation.

Instead, PGA Tour stalwarts Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, Collin Morikawa (all inarguable selections) and Wyndham Clark (ranked 27th on DataGolf) will head to Paris. Schauffele is the defending golf medalist.

Qualification criteria for men's Olympic golf is based on the Official World Golf Ranking. DeChambeau's omission shed a fresh light on the embattled OWGR, which has yet to recognize LIV results. The two-time major champion is ranked ninth, four spots below Clark. No country can take more than four top-15 players.

That said, there are seven LIV Golf League members going for gold.

LIV Golf players in Paris Olympics

Jon Rahm:  Rahm (and Puig) will be making their Olympic debuts.

Rahm struggled in the first two majors of 2024 and was a late scratch for the U.S. Open due to a toe infection . He's played well on LIV, though; His Legion XIII team has two wins, including last week's shindig in Nashville.

The 2023 Masters champion ranks second in the individual points standings, though he's still looking for his first first-place finish.

David Puig: Puig has quickly established himself as a rising star in global golf. The 22-year-old was one of the few LIV Golfers to earn a spot in the U.S. Open through qualifying. He finished T55 (+11), but the made cut on top of two prior Asian Tour wins vaulted him into the Olympics field.

“Proud of myself and all the work I put in this year and last year,” said the Spaniard. “All the travel I did, I think it paid off for moments like this. I’m super-excited.”

Joaquin Niemann: Niemann is one of most promising talents to depart the PGA Tour. At LIV, the 25-year-old has banked two wins and leads the individual points standings.

He earned a spot in two majors thanks to his win at the Australian Open in December. Niemann finished T10 in 2021 in Tokyo.

Mito Peirera: Pereira was a late sub after Cristobal del Solar withdrew to focus on upcoming Korn Ferry Tour events. The 29-year-old part-took in the seven-way playoff for bronze at the Tokyo Games (C.T. Pan triumphed).

Carlos Ortiz:  Ortiz, a member of Niemann's Torque GC squad, recently found the winner's circle at LIV Houston. He finished T42 in his Olympics debut.

Abraham Ancer:  Ancer has fallen dramatically in the world rankings, but he's a top-20 talent. The Mexican finished T14 in the 2020 Summer Games. He has four top-10 finishes in eight LIV Golf events, headlined by a victory in Hong Kong.

Adam Meronk:  Meronk finished T51 at the Tokyo Games. The 31-year-old is headed to France for his performance on the DP World Tour and other international events from 2022-23.

Olympic golf is comprised of 72 holes of individual stroke play and no cut. The men will compete from Aug. 1-4. The women will tee off on Aug. 7.

For all the fair criticism of the LIV product, the Saudi-backed circuit is at its best when it leans into its international and team components, such as in Adelaide, where Cam Smith's all-Aussie Ripper squad bested the South African-led Stinger GC in a rowdy playoff.

Le Golf National, located outside of Paris, hosted the 2018 Ryder Cup.

Michael Corvo is ClutchPoints' Senior Associate Editor of golf + culture. He was the Lakers beat reporter from 2021-24. One day, he hopes to see the New York Jets win another playoff game. Inspirations: Paul Giamatti, Shane Falco, Phife Dawg.

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BLACKPINK’s ‘World Tour [Born Pink] In Cinemas’ Concert Film Coming to Screens Worldwide

Limited screenings will begin on July 31.

By Gil Kaufman

Gil Kaufman

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A 92-minute concert film celebrating K-pop girl group BLACKPINK ‘s eighth anniversary, BLACKPINK WORLD TOUR [BORN PINK] IN CINEMAS , is slated to hit screens worldwide on July 31. The movie from Trafalgar Releasing and CJ 4DPLEX will celebrate the highest-grossing tour from an Asian act and a female group in history in a variety of formats, including ScreenX, 4DX and ULTRA 4DX.

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WEATHER ALERT: Cold front brings round of storms to DC region

Taylor Swift brings out Travis Kelce at London Eras Tour date

The Associated Press

June 24, 2024, 12:17 PM

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Taylor Swift had a surprise for fans attending her Eras Tour at London’s Wembley Stadium on Sunday: her boyfriend and tight end for the Super Bowl-winning Kansas City Chiefs, Travis Kelce .

Dressed in a tuxedo with a tailcoat and top hat, Kelce joined Swift on stage for a transitional sketch that leads into the song “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart.” In fan videos, he’s seen carrying Swift, urging her into a costume change. He fanned and powdered her face as part of the act.

Last month, in her first Eras Tour concert since the release of “The Tortured Poets Department,” Swift shook up her setlist. At the La Défense Arena in Paris, fans were treated to the inclusion of new songs from the record-breaking album released in April.

The billion-dollar Eras Tour is meant to be a career retrospective, with Swift performing more than 40 tracks reflecting 17 years of recorded music. “The Tortured Poets Department” was her first brand-new release since the tour’s start.

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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