PRICES AND BUDGET

Poland is generally affordable compared to many Western European countries, though prices can vary depending on the city or region.

ACCOMMODATION:

• Hostels: Around €10–€25 per night for a dorm bed.

• Budget Hotels: €25–€70 per night for a double room.

• Airbnb: Prices vary, but expect to pay around €30–€90 per night for a private room.

FOOD:

• Street food & fast food: Around €2–€6 for a meal.

• Restaurants: A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost around €7–€18 per person.

• Supermarkets: Grocery costs are generally affordable, with local products often cheaper than imported ones.

TRANSPORT:

• Bus: Buses between cities are economical, costing €5–€20 depending on distance.

• Trains: Train services are reliable and affordable, though sometimes slower than buses for regional travel.

• Car Rental: A basic car rental costs around €25–€50 per day.

OVERALL DAILY BUDGET:

• Budget Traveler: €35–€55/day.

• Mid-range Traveler: €55–€110/day.

LANGUAGE

The official language in Poland is Polish, a Slavic language. English, Russian and German are widely spoken in larger cities and tourist areas, though many Polish people avoid speaking Russian. Learning a few basic Polish phrases can enhance your experience and make interactions smoother.

SEASONS IN POLAND

• Spring (April–June): Spring is mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. The countryside blooms beautifully, and it’s a quieter time to explore cities and nature.

• Summer (June–August): Summer brings warm weather (around 20°C–30°C) and is ideal for sightseeing, hiking and enjoying lakes or beaches in northern Poland. Festivals and cultural events are abundant, especially in Warsaw, Kraków and Gdańsk.

• Autumn (September–November): Cooler temperatures (5°C–15°C) and colorful foliage make autumn perfect for exploring cities and countryside without the summer crowds.

• Winter (December–February): Winters are cold, often below freezing, especially in January and February. Snow is common in the mountains and northern regions, making it great for skiing, snowboarding and visiting Christmas markets.

TRANSPORTATION

PUBLIC TRANSPORT:

Poland’s major cities have reliable and well-organized public transportation systems:

• Warsaw: Extensive network of buses, trams and metro lines. Tickets can be purchased via mobile app "Jakdojade" or ticket machines.

• Kraków: Buses and trams cover the city well, with ticket machines, apps and points of sale widely available.

• Gdańsk, Wrocław, Poznań: Similar public transport networks, including buses and trams. Tickets are easy to buy via apps or kiosks.

BICYCLES:

Cycling is popular in many cities, especially during warmer months. Major cities like Warsaw, Kraków and Gdańsk offer bike-sharing systems and there are many scenic cycling routes outside urban areas.

TRAINS AND BUSES:

• Buses: The most common and affordable way to travel between cities and regions.

• Trains: Poland has a good rail network, especially for larger cities and tourist destinations. High-speed and regional trains are available, though slower local trains may take longer.

DRIVING:

Polish roads are generally well-maintained and renting a car gives flexibility to explore smaller towns, countryside and national parks. Driving is on the right-hand side and a valid driver’s license is required. Fuel is widely available and road signs follow international standards.

TRAVEL TIPS

• Weather: Poland’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn. Pack layers and be ready for rain or sudden temperature changes.

• Language Barrier: Polish is the official language. English, German and Russian are widely understood in major cities and tourist areas, but rural regions may have limited speakers and many Polish people avoid speaking Russian. Learning a few key Polish phrases can make travel easier.

• Transportation: Public transport is generally reliable. Buses and trains connect major cities efficiently, though regional services can be slower. Renting a car gives more flexibility to explore smaller towns and countryside.

• Currency: Poland uses the Polish złoty (PLN). It’s helpful to check exchange rates and have some cash on hand, especially in smaller towns where cards may not always be accepted.

• Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 5–10% is typical if service is good. In cafes or bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

• ATMs and Cash: ATMs are widely available and most places accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard). Still, it’s useful to carry some cash for rural areas or small shops.

• Respect for Nature: Poland has many beautiful national parks and natural areas. Always respect the environment, clean up after yourself and follow local rules when hiking or camping.

SAFETY AND HEALTH

Poland is generally safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft (pickpocketing) can occur in crowded areas such as markets, public transport or tourist hotspots. Keep your belongings secure.

Emergency Number: 112 is the general emergency number throughout Poland.

Healthcare: Poland has a reliable healthcare system. Travel insurance covering medical expenses is recommended. Bring enough prescription medication for your stay.

FOOD AND DRINK

Polish cuisine is hearty, flavorful and influenced by centuries of history. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

TRADITIONAL FOOD

• Pierogi: Dumplings filled with meat, cheese, potatoes or fruit.

• Bigos: Hunter’s stew made with cabbage, sauerkraut and various meats.

• Żurek: Sour rye soup often served with sausage and boiled eggs.

• Placki ziemniaczane: Crispy potato pancakes, usually served with sour cream.

STREET FOOD

• Zapiekanka: Polish-style open-faced baguette pizza.

• Obwarzanek krakowski: A twisted, salted bread ring popular in Kraków.

DRINKS

• Kompot: Traditional fruit drink.

• Polish Vodka: A world-famous spirit, often enjoyed neat or in cocktails.

• Beer: Poland has a growing craft beer scene alongside traditional lagers.