10 beautiful places in Poland you need to visit
With wild beaches to the north and soaring mountains to the south – and in between a generous scattering of fairy-tale towns, magical villages and ancient forests – Poland is packed with beautiful places. Here are some of our favourites.
Tatra National Park
Snow-sprinkled mountains, peaceful valleys, wild-flower meadows: Poland’s most beloved natural playground promises spectacular scenery. Established in 1954, this vast national park is also home to some of the country’s most elusive residents: brown bears and lynx stalk the wilder regions, while golden eagles soar overhead. If that isn’t enough adventure, thrill seekers can also delve down into the caves that gape beneath the ground.
Wrocław
Oft-overlooked in favour of Poland’s more popular cities, Wrocław is a photographer’s dream. Rows of colourful buildings line the streets here, with zesty yellow facades sitting side by side with minty green hues and pretty pinks. Against this vibrant backdrop, the university city buzzes with energy: locals dip in and out of vintage stores and contemporary art galleries, while students crowd the craft beer bars.
The Wawel, Kraków
With its unforgettable historical sights, lively nightlife and delicious foodie scene, Kraków packs a punch. It’s hard to pick a highlight in this dazzling city, but the Wawel is certainly a contender. This impressive royal complex comprises the revered Royal Castle – with its Italian-inspired interiors and royal treasures – and Royal Cathedral – a Baroque masterclass with a grand high altar. Picturesquely perched atop Wawel Hill, it also offers panoramic views of the city from its Sandomierska tower.
Karkonosze National Park
Poland isn’t short of beautiful alpine scenery. Sure, the Tatras are the country’s most famous range, but the Karkonosze Mountains (which straddle the Czech-Polish border) are equally mesmerizing. Hosting fanciful rock formations, dense forests and stunning waterfalls (check out Szklarki and Kamieńczyk), the national park that protects these mountains is a must-visit.
Książ Castle
Bobolice, Ogrodzieniec, Malbork: Poland has its share of captivating castles. But if there was ever a beauty contest for fine fortresses, Książ Castle would take the cake. Dating to the 13th century, this royal residence (the so-called Pearl of Lower Silesia) rises above the region’s thick forest in a cloud of pink. Its stunning facade is enough to win it the title, but venture inside and you’ll discover the historical interior is just as charming.
Zalipie
A trip to Zalipie is like stepping into a fairytale. Just over an hour’s drive from Kraków, this rural village is awash with folk art-adorned houses – most of which are carefully painted by the women of the village. It’s a tradition that dates back to the 19th century, but it’s not just the facades that are works of art; colourful floral motifs cover everything from window frames to fences, kitchen countertops to cabinets.
Dunajec River
Gliding along the border between Poland and Slovakia, the Dunajec River passes through another of Poland’s spectacular ranges: the Pieniny Mountains. These famously beautiful peaks are characterized by their lush, forested landscapes and deep ravines – all of which can be enjoyed on a leisuring rafting trip down the river.
Gdańsk
This Baltic port is full of surprises. As in most Polish cities, Gdańsk’s buildings feature ornate facades in a kaleidoscope of colours. But venture beyond the beautiful surface and you’ll find the city a trove of treasures. The National Maritime Museum and European Solidarity Centre provide an essential journey through history, while St Mary’s Church (the largest medieval brick-built church in Europe) is the city’s most awe-inspiring sight. Looking for the most picturesque place? It has to be Ulica Mariacka, a quaint street lined with wealthy townhouses and buzzing cafés.
Słowiński National Park
Unbeknown to some, Poland’s Baltic coastline features an array of charming resorts and wild beaches – and none are wilder than the shifting sands of Słowiński National Park. Huge dunes blanket this area, changing shape yearly due to the strong winds that whip around them. Visitors can hire a bike from the nearby town of Łeba to explore the park, cycling through the coastal forests before dismounting to climb the dunes.
Łazienki Palace, Warsaw
Sitting serenely in the heart of Warsaw, Łazienki Palace offers a retreat from the buzz of the capital. Its tree-lined paths and pretty lake make it a local favourite on weekends – and outdoor concerts mean it’s all the more enticing in the summertime. Stop by the Belvedere restaurant, housed with the park’s airy New Orangery, for a gorgeous lunch to remember.
GRUPA MEDIA INFORMACYJNE