Top 11 cities in Poland worth visiting

Poland is a country that surprises with diversity and contrasts. Ancient cities with Gothic temples, modern metropolises with cultural festivals and cozy mountain towns with traditional architecture are combined here. In this article, we have prepared for you a selection of the 11 best Polish cities, each of which has its own unique atmosphere. Find out what to see, where to stay, taste traditional dishes and what interesting fact will add to your trip!

1. Warsaw

Brief description: Warsaw is the heart of Poland, where the past and the present are intertwined, creating a unique urban landscape. Despite significant destruction during the Second World War, the city was rebuilt with love for details. Here, along with modern buildings, there are restored historical monuments, which adds a special charm to the city.
What to see: The old town with its picturesque market square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You should definitely see the Royal Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science, which are symbols of the city. For those interested in history, the Warsaw Uprising Museum offers an emotional and in-depth exposition about the events of the Second World War.
Read more ⇒ Warsaw in 1-3 days, what to see
Where to stay: Districts Śródmieście and Powiśle offer a convenient location. Śródmieście – an ideal option for those who want to be in the center of events, and Powiśle suitable for lovers of quiet places near the Vistula River.
Hotel Bristol, A Luxury Collection Hotel – a luxury hotel in the very center of Warsaw, conveniently located near the Old Town.

Where to eat: Warsaw is rich in gastronomic discoveries. Zapiecek is a restaurant chain known for its traditional Polish dishes such as pelmeni and zurek. Charlotte is a cozy French cafe where you can enjoy aromatic pastries and croissants with homemade jam.
Tour: Take a walking tour The Old Town and the Warsaw Uprising Museum to get to know the history and culture of the capital. We recommend to attend a Chopin concert in the Old Town, an unforgettable experience.
Interesting fact: More than half of Warsaw’s area is occupied by green areas, parks and squares, which makes it one of the greenest capitals in Europe.

2. Krakow

Brief description: The cultural capital of Poland, Krakow is a city that fascinates with its architectural heritage and the atmosphere of old Europe. Its wealth of historical monuments attracts tourists from all over the world.
What to see: The center of attention is the majestic Wawel Castle, where the national relics of Poland are kept, and the picturesque Market Square with its unique architecture and Cloth Rows. The Krakow Underground Museum tells the story of the city, while the Kazimierz Jewish quarter offers cultural diversity and authentic cafes.
Read more ⇒ Krakow in 1-3 days, what to see
Where to stay: Old town is an ideal tourist destination, offering a convenient location for hiking as well as many accommodation options. Hotel Wentzl – a historic hotel on the Market Square, with a view of the square and convenient access to the main attractions.
Where to eat: Pod Wawelem is a cozy restaurant with traditional Polish cuisine, where you can try dishes such as bigos and zurek. Charlotte is a popular cafe where you can enjoy breakfast or a light meal in a modern style.
Excursion: Explore the ancient buildings of the Old Town and go on foot a tour of the Kazimierz Jewish quarter. We recommend a tour of the Wawel Castle and the cathedral.
Interesting fact: Unlike many other European cities, Krakow did not suffer significant destruction during the Second World War, so its architecture remains authentic and dates back to the 14th century.

3. Wroclaw

Brief description: Located in southwestern Poland, Wrocław is known for its many bridges and canals, which give the city a special charm. This city is often called the “Polish Venice” for its picturesque water landscapes.
What to see: The heart of the city is the colorful Market Square with its colorful houses. Be sure to visit the historic island of Ostrów Tumski, the oldest part of the city with beautiful cathedrals and hand-lit street lamps. The University of Wrocław and the Botanical Garden will add exciting discoveries to your walk.
Read more ⇒ Wrocław in 1-3 days, what to see
Where to stay: In Stare Miasto a convenient place to stay for those who want to be in the heart of the action, while the Nadodrze district, known for its creative spaces and atmospheric cafes, also offers affordable accommodation options. The Granary – La Suite Hotel – stylish hotel in the city center, located in an old warehouse with history.
Where to eat: Cafe Mleczarnia – an atmospheric establishment with a cozy atmosphere, serving local snacks, or the restaurant Pod Fredrą, famous for traditional Polish dishes.
Excursion: A tour of the market square and museums of Wrocław, as well as an introduction to the most famous gnomes of this city. interesting 2-hour private tourby electric car
Interesting fact: Wrocław has special residents – small bronze gnomes, of which there are more than 350 in the city. These figurines are located all over the city and have become its symbol, attracting the attention of both adults and children.

4. Gdansk

Brief description: Gdansk, located on the Baltic coast, is the pearl of Poland, famous for its ancient traditions of seafaring and trade. This is a city where rich history is combined with magical sea views.
What to see: Long Street is the heart of Gdańsk, lined with colorful facades and historic buildings such as the Town Hall. The Museum of the Second World War fascinates with the depth of expositions, and the Amber Museum demonstrates the richness and beauty of the local “sunstone”. A walk through the port and embankment opens up picturesque views of the Baltic Sea.
Where to stay: The best option will be located in Old town, close to the port or waterfront to easily reach the main attractions and enjoy the atmosphere of the city. Hampton by Hilton Gdansk Old Town – a modern hotel in the old town, ideally located for exploring the city.

Where to eat: Piwna 47 Food & Wine offers fine Polish cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, while the Goldwasser restaurant is famous for its local cuisine and signature gold flake liqueur.
Excursion: Walk along Long Street and visit the Amber Museum to learn more about the history of seafaring and amber fishing. Sightseeing eco-cruise around the Old Town of Gdańsk
Interesting fact: Gdansk is the main amber mining center in Europe. Here you can find unique products made of this stone, which symbolize the historical connection of the city with the Baltic coast.

5. Poznań

Brief description: One of the oldest and most historic cities in Poland, Poznań attracts with its rich cultural heritage, lively atmosphere and numerous festivals.
What to see: The Cathedral on Tumski Island is one of the oldest in Poland. The old market with the baroque town hall impresses with its architecture and colorful facades. Citadel Park is an ideal place for walking and relaxing, while Malta Lake is a popular entertainment area with a beach, sports fields and walking trails..
Where to stay: Stare Miasto – the city center, convenient for those who want to explore historical sights, or Jeżyce – an atmospheric area with cozy cafes and modern apartments. City Park Hotel & Residence – an elegant hotel in the city center with excellent conditions for recreation.
Де перекусити: The Brovaria restaurant on the Market Square offers Polish cuisine and its own beer, making it popular with tourists and locals alike.
Екскурсія: Explore the old town and visit the Town Hall to see the mechanical rabbits. Private tour with a local guide.
Цікавий факт: Poznań is famous for its mechanical goats, which appear at the town hall every day at 12:00 and “beat their horns” in front of tourists – this is one of the most beloved symbols of the city.

6. Лодзь

Brief description: Łódź is a former industrial city that has turned into a creative cultural center of Poland, known for its unique architecture, murals and art spaces.
What to see: Piotrkovska Street is one of the longest commercial streets in Europe, lined with numerous cafes, shops and sights. The manufacturing complex is an old factory converted into a modern shopping and entertainment center with shops, restaurants and museums. The Museum of Cinematography reveals the history of Polish cinema, and the EC1 art center attracts with modern exhibitions and scientific and artistic expositions.
Where to stay: Hotels along Piotrkovska street or near the Manufaktura complex – a great choice for those who want to be in the center of events. DoubleTree by Hilton Łódź – a modern hotel located near cultural centers and on the historical territory.
Where to eat: Anatewka is a restaurant specializing in traditional Jewish cuisine with a modern twist. OFF Piotrkowska is a popular space with numerous cafes and restaurants for informal food and drinks.
Excursion: A visit to the EC1 art center and a tour of Piotrkovska Street to explore the unique architecture and street art. Private walking tour The old town of Łódź.
Fun fact: Łódź has one of the largest street art projects in Europe – numerous murals decorate buildings throughout the city, turning it into an open-air gallery.

7. Szczecin

Brief description: Szczecin is a city in the north-west of Poland, known for its maritime history, rich cultural heritage and green spaces that harmoniously combine with architecture.
What to see: The Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes is the main historical landmark of the city, and the Baszta Tower offers a fascinating view of the ancient architecture. The Museum of National History and Archeology reveals the past of the region, and Kasprowicz Park is a great place for walking and relaxing in nature.
Where to stay: Готелі in the city center are conveniently located for sightseeing, and options near parks allow you to enjoy nature and peace. Radisson Blu Hotel, Szczecin – stylish hotel with a great view of the city, located near the center.

Where to eat: Kaskada is a modern restaurant with a stylish interior, and Stara Rzeźnia, located in a former butcher shop, offers not only delicious dishes, but also a creative atmosphere.
Excursion: A walk through the ancient streets of Szczecin with a visit to the castle of the Pomeranian princes and architectural monuments. Private walking tour along the Old Town.
Interesting fact: Szczecin is known for its unique architectural layout, built on the example of Parisian boulevards. This creates a unique look of the city with wide avenues that make it look like a “little Paris”.

8. Lublin

Brief description: Lublin is a cultural center in the east of Poland, known for its old buildings, narrow streets and an atmosphere that preserves the spirit of past centuries.
What to see: Lublin Castle is a symbol of the city and the main historical monument. The Crown Gate is the entrance to the Old Town with its town hall and architecture from different eras. The nearby Majdanek National Monument Museum is an important memorial to the tragic events of World War II.
Where to stay: Stare Miasto – the perfect place for those who want to stay in the heart of the action. You can also stay near Lublin Castle for easy access to the main tourist attractions. Hotel Alter – a retro-style hotel located close to the Old Town and the main attractions.
Where to eat: The Magia restaurant in the old square offers an atmospheric setting and local dishes, while Kardamon is known for its local cuisine and original recipes.
Excursion: Visit Lublin Castle and the Old Town, where you can learn about the city’s history of trade and cultural connections with other countries. Private walking tour The old town of Lublin.
Interesting fact: In the Middle Ages, Lublin was an important trading city where fairs were held for Eastern European merchants, making it a true crossroads of cultures and an important center for the exchange of goods and ideas.

9. Toruń

Brief description: Toruń is a city with a rich Gothic architectural heritage, which is famous for being the birthplace of the great astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Its medieval appearance has remained almost unchanged, making the city an ideal place to study history.
What to see: The old town with its Gothic buildings, including the majestic Town Hall, impresses with its beauty and atmosphere. Copernicus’ house, where the scientist was born, is today a museum dedicated to his life and achievements. The ruins of the Teutonic Castle and the planetarium, where you can learn more about space, add a scientific touch to the urban landscape.
Where to stay: It is recommended to stay in areas near old town, to enjoy historic architecture and be close to major tourist spots. Hotel Copernicus Toruń – a hotel with an elegant interior, located in the old part of the city, near the main attractions.
Where to eat: Restaurant Monka is a cozy place for traditional Polish dishes, while Kadrina is another great choice for those who want to try local cuisine.
Excursion: Walking tour of the Old Town, including a visit to the Copernicus House and Gingerbread Museum, where you will learn more about the history of the city and its famous residents. Evening cruises in Toruń.
Interesting fact: Toruń is known throughout the world for its gingerbread. The city even has a museum dedicated to this sweet, and every visitor can learn about the history of gingerbread and even try to make it themselves.

10. Zakopane

Brief description: Zakopane is a mountain town in the south of Poland, which is often called the “winter capital of Poland” due to its picturesque nature and winter resorts. It attracts tourists both in summer and in winter due to excellent conditions for active recreation.
What to see: Tatra Mountains – a true pearl of Poland, Tatra National Park, which protects unique flora and fauna, Krupuvka Street – a popular place for walks and shopping, and the Museum of Zakopane Style will allow you to get acquainted with the architectural heritage of this region.
Read more ⇒ Zakopane, winter Tatras
Where to stay: Local villas and hotels with mountain views offer a cozy location for relaxing in nature. Rezydencja Nosalowy Dwór – a hotel with excellent conditions for recreation, located near the Tatras, with a view of the mountains.

Where to eat: Karczma Przy Młynie is a great place to try traditional Gural dishes that perfectly convey the atmosphere of the mountain region.
Excursion: During the Zakopane tour, visit the mountain national park and the Zakopane style museum, where you can learn more about the local culture and traditions of the Gural peoples. Unbelievable excursion from Krakow to Zakopane with thermal pools and transfer from the hotel.
Interesting fact: Zakopane is famous for its unique architecture known as “Zakopane style”. This style includes wooden carved houses that perfectly blend with the nature and atmosphere of the mountains.

11. Katowice

Brief description: Katowice is a former industrial center of Poland that has transformed into a modern city that combines innovative spaces and cultural events. Today it is one of the main cultural centers of Poland, which attracts tourists due to its dynamic atmosphere.
What to see: The Museum of Silesia is a cultural gem of the city, which introduces the history of the region. Spodek is a huge cultural center that is a symbol of the city, ideal for performances and large events. Nikiszowiec is an old working-class district known for its architectural value and atmosphere.
Where to stay: It is best to stay in the city center area to be close to cultural and architectural attractions. You can also choose a place near Nikiszowiec to feel the atmosphere of the old town. Hotel Monopol – an elegant hotel in the very center of Katowice, close to the main cultural sites.
Where to eat: Moodro Restaurant is a stylish place for modern cuisine that combines local and international flavors. Restauracja Złoty Osioł offers traditional Polish dishes in the atmosphere of a classic restaurant.
Excursion: Walking around Nikiszowiec and visiting the Silesia Museum, where you can learn about the industrial history and cultural transformations of this city. Private walking tour of the Old Town of Katowice.
Interesting fact: Katowice is a real center of electronic music in Poland. Every year, the city hosts numerous festivals and events for fans of this genre, attracting tourists from all over the world.