Welcome to Poland 😊
Poland is a beautiful and fascinating country located in Central Europe. From its stunning natural landscapes, delicious cuisine, inspiring history, and vibrant culture, there is so much to explore and experience in this wonderful destination.
One of the first things you will notice in Poland is the warmth and hospitality of its people. Poles are known for their friendliness and love of good food, music, and conversation. You can expect to be greeted with a smile and offered a delicious meal or drink wherever you go.
One of the most popular cities to visit in Poland is Warsaw, the country's capital, which is home to a rich cultural heritage. Here you can explore the restored old town, royal palaces, museums, art galleries, and theaters. You can also enjoy traditional Polish cuisine, such as pierogi, kielbasa, and bigos, at one of the many restaurants or street vendors.
Another must-visit destination in Poland is Krakow, a historic city with a rich cultural and artistic heritage. It is home to several museums, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and stunning architecture. You can wander through the charming streets of the old town, visit the Wawel castle and cathedral, or enjoy a drink at one of the many outdoor cafes or bars.
Whether you are interested in history, culture, art, or nature, Poland has something for everyone. So come and explore this beautiful country and discover its many wonders for yourself!
Quick Facts About Poland
- Currency: Polish złoty
- Population: 38433600
- Languages: Polish
Money and Finances
The currency in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). Notes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 złoty. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 grosz, as well as 1, 2, and 5 złoty.
ATM Network
ATMs are widely available in Poland, particularly in larger cities like Warsaw and Krakow. Many ATMs accept international cards, but it's always a good idea to check with your bank before traveling.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in Poland, particularly Visa and Mastercard. However, American Express may not be accepted in all stores and restaurants, so it's a good idea to carry a backup card just in case.
Internet and Phones
Poland has an average internet speed of 19.3 Mbps (download) and 7.1 Mbps (upload). There is no government interference in internet use.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
The major telco companies in Poland are Orange, T-Mobile, and Play. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 50 PLN per month. SIM compatibility can vary depending on the phone model.
Dialling to Poland
To call Poland from another country, dial the country code +48 followed by the area code and phone number. Within Poland, the area codes vary depending on the region and can be either 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 digits long.
Transport Around Poland
Air Travel
Major airports in Poland include Warsaw Chopin Airport, Kraków John Paul II International Airport, and Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport.
Train Travel
Poland has an extensive inter-city train network operated by Polish State Railways. Example journey times include Warsaw to Kraków in 2.5 hours and Warsaw to Gdańsk in 4 hours. Ticket prices vary depending on class and distance.
Metro / Local Trains
Warsaw has a metro system with two lines connecting different parts of the city.
Buses
There is a well-developed bus network in Poland, with a variety of companies offering inter-city and regional services. Example journey times include Warsaw to Kraków in 3.5 hours and Warsaw to Gdańsk in 6 hours. Ticket prices vary depending on distance and operator.
Rideshare
Popular rideshare companies in Poland include Uber and Bolt, with average prices varying depending on distance traveled.
Driving by Car
Driving in Poland is relatively easy, with good road infrastructure covering most of the country. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on highways. Poland uses right-hand drive.
Local Customs
In Poland, tipping is a common practice with 10% being the standard. Locals typically greet each other with a handshake or a nod, and it is customary to address people using formal titles such as 'pan' for men and 'pani' for women. Speaking with strangers is generally friendly and polite, but it is important to avoid sensitive topics like politics or religion unless you know the person well. Additionally, it is respectful to remove your shoes when entering a home.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
Poland has a universal healthcare system with both public and private providers. Most medical services are free for Polish citizens, but expats and visitors may need to pay out of pocket or have travel insurance. A visit to the doctor can cost anywhere from 40-150 PLN (about $10-40 USD).
COVID Situation
Poland reported some of the highest COVID-19 case numbers in Europe during the winter of 2020-2021, but has since seen a decrease in cases. Mask wearing and social distancing are still required in public spaces, and vaccination is available for all eligible residents and visitors.
Common Health Risks
Food and waterborne illnesses such as Hepatitis A and E. cases have been reported. Tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease are also prevalent in rural areas. Visitors should also be aware of the risk of air pollution in urban areas.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
In Poland, the legal drinking age is 18. The sale of alcohol is prohibited between 10pm and 6am in shops and petrol stations. Drinking in public places is only allowed during events such as fairs, festivals, and concerts. It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level of over 0.2 promille.
Recreational Drugs
The use, possession, or sale of any type of recreational drugs is illegal and punishable by imprisonment. This includes cannabis and other party drugs.
Pre-Marital Relationships
Pre-marital relationships are legal and socially acceptable in Poland.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Discrimination against LGBTQ individuals is still common.
Firearms / Guns
The use and ownership of firearms in Poland is strictly regulated. A license is required to own a firearm and strict rules apply to their storage and usage.
Regions in Poland
There are many wonderful regions to visit in Poland, browse through each to see what to visit.
1 Popular Travel Destination in Poland
