10 Practical Tips for Traveling in Poland
Practical Tips
2026-10-03
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From Polish zloty cash to shop closing days and Auschwitz reservations—ten insider tips to help you avoid common travel pitfalls in Poland.
- Exchange zloty in advance: Although Poland is an EU member, it is not part of the eurozone, and all official prices are listed in Polish zloty (PLN). Currency exchange rates at airports and train stations are poor—exchange your money before departure at home or use a city kantor (exchange office) for better rates. Kantors display both buying and selling prices; look for the buying rate when exchanging.
- Remember Sunday closures: Most shops are closed on Sundays. Plan your supermarket shopping for Saturdays. Restaurants and convenience stores remain open. Some popular cities have exceptions on the last Sunday of each month—check local notices before you go.
- Book Auschwitz visits in advance: Visits to the memorial site are free, but guided tour slots are limited. During peak season, reserve your guided tour 2–4 weeks ahead on the official website. Tours last about 3.5 hours, and the experience can be emotionally intense—allow time to decompress afterward.
- Try milk bars: Bar Mleczny are affordable canteens that have continued since the socialist era. A plate of pierogi with sour rye soup costs around 20 PLN. Order at the counter to get a number, then find a seat. It’s a great way to experience everyday Polish life.
- Book train tickets early: For EIP high-speed trains, early bird discounts are often available if you book in advance via the PKP Intercity website or app. Buying tickets at the station can cost nearly double. Secure your tickets well ahead for weekends during peak travel periods.
- Be respectful at historical sites: Maintain a quiet and solemn demeanor at sites like concentration camp memorials and the Warsaw Uprising Museum. Avoid loud behavior, inappropriate poses, or joking—this is not only legally required but also a mark of basic respect.
- Tip rounding or 5–10%: It’s customary to round up the bill or leave a 5–10% tip in restaurants. Service charges are usually included in the bill along with taxes, so no extra service fee is needed. Tipping taxi drivers is generally not expected.
- Use apps for nighttime travel: Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow are widely available in major cities and offer transparent pricing. Avoid haggling with street taxis. A ride from the airport to the city center typically costs around 30–60 PLN.
- Dress in layered clothing by season: Summer nights can be cool, with temperatures around 12–15°C—bring a light jacket. Winters are harsh, with temperatures dropping to -15°C and daylight lasting only about 8 hours. Waterproof shoes and a warm down jacket are essential.
- Buy amber with certification: Gdańsk is known as the world’s amber capital. Purchase from certified, reputable shops and ask for an international warranty card. Street vendors selling cheap items often sell copal (immature resin) or plastic imitations.