Poland

Situated on the Baltic Sea, Poland is a living history museum showcasing a captivating past. This charming Eastern European country is renowned for its spectacular medieval architecture, cultural heritage and turbulent yet triumphant history. First and Second World War enthusiasts can explore the various Holocaust memorials, monuments, museums, and restored synagogues commemorating Poland’s remarkable survival. The country’s remote and unspoilt landscape features lush woodlands, broad rivers, glistening lakes and rolling hills. A visit to Poland will no doubt include the trendy medieval city of Krakow as well as the bustling city of Warsaw. Visitors can look forward to many activities including: hiking through scenic mountain terrain in the south of the country, sampling regional culinary specialities, discovering rural villages and wooden churches tucked away in the Carpathian hills and exploring the many ancient castles dotting the hills of Poland.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Polish Zloty 
Symbol: zł 
ISO code: PLN 
Subunit: Grosz 
Banknotes: zł10, zł20, zł50, zł100, zł200 
Coins: Grosz, zł1, zł2, zł5 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: LOT Polish Airlines 
International Airports: Warsaw Chopin Airport, Kraków John Paul II International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport, Wrocław Copernicus Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Polish cuisine is hearty and diverse, featuring dishes like pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter's stew), and żurek (sour rye soup). Traditional Polish meals often include meat, potatoes, and cabbage. Notable local drinks include Żubrówka (bison grass vodka), Polish beer, and kompot (fruit compote). 
Tipping: 10-15% 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: 9°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 24°C 
Average lows: 12°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 0°C 
Average lows: -6°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Poland is from May to September when the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor activities. 


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: No 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type C, Type E 
Voltage (V): 230V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


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