2025 Poland Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

Have you ever seen a tree you can walk inside? This isn't a conceptual design but a real ancient tree located in the small village of Chudów, Silesia, Poland, named Topola Tekla. 📍44-177 Chudów This Canadian poplar, an introduced species "immigrated" from Canada, is already 100 years old and currently holds the record for the largest girth among Poland's natural monument trees. Its uniqueness lies in its hollow trunk – instead of being cut down, locals helped install doors and windows, transforming it into an accessible "treehouse". And it's still thriving! 🌿 New leaves sprout every spring. ⸻ 🌱 How does it stay alive? One might assume a hollow trunk means the end of life, but that's not the case. • Poplars are remarkably resilient. Even with a rotten core, as long as the outer vascular tissues remain intact, leaves can still grow and nutrients circulate normally. • Though hollow inside, Topola Tekla's outer bark remains alive, continuing photosynthesis. • Local residents carefully maintain it with protective fencing, regular checkups, and foot traffic prevention – achieving true "hollow yet living" dignity. So when sitting inside, rest assured – it's not only unharmed but delighted to host you. 🌳 What does this "treehouse" look like? • The door is carved into the trunk, opening to reveal a cozy space with table and chairs. • Accommodating 2-3 people, it offers fantastic photo ops like stepping into a fairytale. • While you sip hot cocoa in its "heart", new leaves keep growing outside... The experience feels less magical than profoundly heartwarming. ⸻ 🏰 Fancy visiting a castle nearby? Adjacent to Tekla stands 16th-century Renaissance-style Chudów Castle. Though now mostly walls, it was once a prestigious noble estate! Its flatland location was strategically chosen for "transport access, moat excavation, and adjacent farmland" – proving flat castles can rule comfortably too! Despite its ruined appearance, it's quite vibrant: • Summer opens the tower for panoramic views; • The lawns often host picnickers and dog walkers; • Medieval festivals feature armor-clad performers and royal reenactments; 📚 Bonus knowledge: • Tekla is a "Robusta" variety of Canadian poplar, planted around the 1920s; • Officially designated a "protected natural monument" since 1981; • Still sprouts new branches annually, stubbornly alive despite its hollow core (laughs); 📍 Sometimes travel encounters aren't just scenery, but revelations: A tree that refuses to give up becomes landscape; A castle left unrestored still finds purpose.

#Overseas Travel Strategy Poland is an Eastern European country facing the Baltic Sea, known for its medieval architecture and Jewish heritage The Baltic States are three countries that line the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, south of Finland, from north to south In VOL.1, we will mainly introduce our tour of the old towns of Warsaw in Poland and Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania This is a record of the eight days from leaving Japan to returning home °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• Travel Itinerary 🔸Day 1 22:35 Depart Narita and fly to Warsaw on Polish Airlines✈️ ◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹ 🔸Day 2 6:00 Arrive in Warsaw 6:40 Take a bus to Lazienki Park, approx. 12km, approx. 20 minutes🚌 7:00 Arrive at Lazienki Park Start sightseeing in the historic district of Warsaw, a World Heritage Site Church of the Right Cross, 1st Town Square, Barbican, etc. 11:00 Take a bus to Warsaw Airport, approx. 12km, approx. 20 minutes🚌 14:15 Depart Warsaw and fly to Vilnius, Lithuania on Polish Airlines✈️ 16:20 Arrive in Vilnius 17:00 Take a bus to the Radisson Blu Royal Astoria Hotel in the old town of Vilnius, about 9km, about 20 minutes🚌 17:20 Arrive at the hotel ◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹ 🔸Day 3 9:00 Start sightseeing in the World Heritage Site of Vilnius Historical District Vilnius Cathedral, Church of St. Peter and Paul, Gate of Dawn, etc. 12:00 Lunch 13:00 Take a bus to Trakai Castle, about 30km, about 1 hour🚌 14:00 Arrive at Trakai Castle Walk around Trakai Castle and the lakeside 17:00 Take a bus to Vilnius, about 30km, about 1 hour 🚌 18:00 Arrive at the hotel °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• 🔹Put your essentials for 1-2 nights in your carry-on luggage There are more and more cases of checked luggage being lost Even if you lose it at the local airport and arrange for delivery, you may not be able to pick it up right away We recommend that you bring your essentials for 1-2 nights in your carry-on luggage 🔹Credit card Many countries in Europe and the US are moving towards a cashless society We recommend that you bring a credit card to spread the risk of theft The most widely used VISA and MasterCard in the world are convenient #WorldHeritage #OverseasTravel #Poland #Warsaw #Lithuania

🎩 Warsaw, Poland: A European treasure you can't miss!✨ Must-visit attractions 🏰 - **Old Town Market Square**: One of the largest squares in Europe, surrounded by historic buildings and cafes☕️. - **Royal Castle**: A former royal palace, now a museum🖼️, offering a rich array of art exhibitions. - **Warsaw Uprising Museum**: Located on the banks of the Vistula River, it tells the story of the heroic resistance of the people of Warsaw🛡️. - **Westerplatte Heroes Monument**: Commemorates the resistance of the people of Warsaw during World War II🌅. - **Lazienki Park**: The largest park in the city, perfect for walking and cycling🚲. - **Palace of Culture and Science**: The highest point overlooking the city of Warsaw, with a free observation deck at the top when open🌆. Food and shopping 🍲🛍️ - **Food**: Don't miss traditional Polish dishes such as dumplings, borscht, and stews🥟🍲. - **Shopping**: For shopping, head to Ujazdowskie Avenue and Krakowskie Przedmiescie, where you'll find international brands like Zara and H&M, as well as Polish brands🛒🛍️. Cultural events 🎉 - **Chopin Music Festival**: Held every October in honor of Polish composer Chopin🎹. - **Jewish Culture Festival**: Held in May, showcasing Jewish culture and history🕍.

#fallcolors Autumn in Poland was a magical experience! I spent most of my time in Kraków, where the streets of the Old Town looked even more charming with the trees turning shades of gold and red. Walking around Rynek Główny, the largest medieval square in Europe, is free, and the colorful autumn backdrop made it feel like I’d stepped into a fairytale. I also took a trip to Zakopane, nestled in the Tatra Mountains. The hiking trails were covered in fallen leaves, making the scenery absolutely breathtaking. Entry to the Tatra National Park is about 6 PLN (€1.50), and it’s worth every bit for the stunning views. Autumn in Poland is the perfect time to explore both its cities and nature! 🍂🏰🏞️ #AutumnInPoland #KrakowOldTown #TatraMountains #FallVibes #PolandAdventure #ZakopaneHiking

I went on a trip to Poland around the summer two years ago. There is a six to seven hour time difference between Poland and Japan. Poland is a neighboring country of Germany, and it takes four hours by train from Frankfurt or Munich to Poland. When going to Poland, I recommend getting off at an airport in Germany.

#Introducing the #Palace of Culture and Science, a landmark of Warsaw "As the tallest building in Poland, it is a landmark for tourists who stand out from anywhere in the city." 🌇 Actually, I had seen a heart-shaped building in a picture somewhere, so I was happy to see that it was that! 🙂 First, I went into the Palace of Culture and Science, which is the building next door, to see the night view. I remember being happy because there was also an LG building there! #WinterTravel #GourmetExploration #SafeTravel #HappyNewYear #CityTravel

Warsaw, the capital of Poland in Eastern Europe, was nearly destroyed during World War II. However, thanks to the efforts of later generations, nearly the entire Old Town has been miraculously restored. Today's Old Town Square, while a replica, retains 90% of its original appearance. #bucketlist #bucketlist#tbt

A fairytale place - Czocha Castle in Poland, long corridors, backed by rivers, red roofs and study-filled dens, this castle can satisfy all the imagination of medieval castles. The castle of Zocha dates back to the thirteenth century, and although it has undergone many baptisms of war, it still maintains a complete romantic face. Now there are cafes and hotels in the castle, you can really experience the feeling of living in the castle, of course, the most important thing is to take 1000 photos!

I am still thinking about the Wieliczka Salt Mine. It is not a salt mine. It can be special, and the tickets should be the most expensive spots in Poland. Its not a diamond. How can it be so famous? When I really got to the bottom of the 300 meters, it was a little big contrast with my expectations. The beautiful Lithuanian narrator, Miss Sister, took us over fifty stairs, and the whole person was fainting haha. The deeper and deeper the shock, the more difficult it is to have more than 300 meters of churches, restaurants, lakes. There is a room. This mine is more like an underground city. Many of the halls are very empty and magnificent. It is not a nine-figure map. It can be called an artificial miracle. It can be regarded as a series of life. In the mine, how to smash the wall, it is salty hahaha. Most statues are carved with salt stone.

There are castles in the fairy tale, there are stories in the castle, today I recommend a special historic town - Krakow, a small city with few tourists in Asia. When I get up early, I dont have to go to the castle to pat. I seem to have a hard time laughing out on the tripod. The European sunshine is always very warm, so I dont want to avoid it, so Ive been darker recently. I have been thinking about the new meaning of travel for me at the present time. It is more like a way of life. It originates from life, but it is not higher than life. It is soluble in life, but it is not the whole life. Traveling every day can The different freshness that I touch will make my life look more vivid. However, there is no easy word in adult life. It is much harder to travel by travel than to travel by advertising or normal work. Now it is much harder to think about sticking to the original intention than to step-by-step development. Hahaha, there is no way to go under the sun. Kan, only the endless hurdle!

I started in Warsaw, where history meets modern life. The Old Town’s colorful streets felt magical, while trendy cafés and skyscrapers showed the city’s vibrant side. Next, I went to Zakopane, at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. Wooden houses, fresh mountain air, and stunning trails made it the perfect nature escape. I even tried local grilled cheese, which was amazing! Finally, Kraków stole my heart. The Main Square buzzed with life, Wawel Castle looked majestic, and Kazimierz had a mix of history and cool street vibes. Every corner had a story to tell. Poland is diverse, charming, and full of energy—I can’t wait to come back! #PolandTravel #Warsaw #Zakopane #Kraków #HiddenGems

#mytraveldiary Krakow Old Town continues to charm with its mix of history, culture, and vibrant street life. Strolling through the bustling Market Square, you can watch street performers, browse local crafts, and enjoy cozy cafes spilling onto cobblestone streets. The majestic St. Mary’s Basilica is impossible to miss, with its towering spires and the famous trumpet call echoing hourly. Hidden courtyards reveal quiet corners perfect for a pause or a photo. Don’t miss the Cloth Hall, where you can find unique souvenirs and handmade goods. As evening falls, the Old Town transforms with twinkling lights and lively bars, making it a perfect spot to soak up the local atmosphere. Every turn feels like a story waiting to be discovered.

#mytraveldiary Krakow Old Town in Poland is a vibrant and historic area that is perfect for wandering and soaking in the city’s atmosphere. The heart of Old Town is Rynek Główny, one of Europe’s largest market squares, lined with colorful buildings, cafes, and street performers that bring the area to life. The Cloth Hall is a must visit, offering handmade souvenirs, crafts, and local treats. Strolling through the narrow streets, you’ll find hidden courtyards, historic churches, and charming shops around every corner. The architecture is a beautiful mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, making every turn a visual treat. Whether you stop for coffee, explore museums, or simply people watch from a bench in the square, Krakow Old Town has a lively and welcoming vibe that captures the city’s spirit.

#mytraveldiary Wieliczka Salt Mine in Wieliczka, Poland, continues to impress as you explore its deeper chambers and winding tunnels. The underground world feels magical, with salt walls glistening and sculptures that range from religious figures to detailed carvings showing life in the mine. One of the highlights is the St. Kinga Chapel, a breathtaking space entirely carved from salt, complete with chandeliers, altars, and intricate artwork. Walking through the mine gives a sense of the scale and history, as you learn about the miners’ lives and the centuries of work that shaped this unique site. The cooler underground air is refreshing, and the guided tour keeps things interesting with stories and insights. Visiting Wieliczka Salt Mine is an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, history, and art all in one.

#mytraveldiary Wieliczka Salt Mine in Wieliczka, Poland, is an incredible underground world that feels like stepping into another realm. The mine stretches for miles, with tunnels, chambers, and chapels all carved from salt, creating a unique and surreal atmosphere. Walking through the dimly lit passageways, you’ll see stunning salt sculptures, chandeliers, and even a beautiful underground church that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. Guided tours make it easy to learn about the history of the mine, which has been in operation for centuries, and the stories of miners who worked here. The cool, quiet environment offers a break from the busy streets of Krakow, and the experience is both fascinating and memorable. Wieliczka Salt Mine is a must visit for history and adventure lovers alike.

#EuropeTravel #Poland #Warsaw #EasternEurope 🇵🇱 Warsaw, Poland ♥️ Zapiecek I'd like to introduce you to Zapiecek, a Warsaw restaurant where I enjoyed a delicious meal during my trip to Warsaw, Poland. Zapiecek is a chain restaurant with locations throughout Warsaw. There are two locations in Warsaw's Old Town, making it convenient to visit. Even though I visited during lunchtime on a weekday, it was packed and I had to wait about 20 minutes to be seated. Zapiecek offers a variety of traditional Polish dishes. I especially enjoyed the wide variety of pierogi, a traditional Polish dish. I ordered a nine-piece pierogi set, which resembles Korean dumplings, along with Flaki, a traditional Polish soup, and a fruit beer, for a total of 93.87 zł. The pierogi were filling, and the pork and beef pierogi were the most delicious. The mushroom pierogi was also incredibly flavorful and delicious. This was my first time trying Flaki. It's a tomato soup base with various offal and a herbal aroma. A bowl on a cold day warmed me up. The sweet and sour fruit-filled beer was also delicious! The staff, dressed in eye-catching yellow skirts, were incredibly friendly and made my meal in Poland a truly enjoyable one. If you're ever in Warsaw, Poland, be sure to try traditional Polish food at Zapiecek 🇵🇱♥️

#OverseasHotels #Poland #Warsaw #WarsawTravel 🇵🇱 Warsaw, Poland 💙 Radisson Blu Sobieski Introducing the Radisson Blu Sobieski, the hotel I stayed at during my trip to Warsaw, Poland. Radisson Blu Sobieski is a 50-minute walk or 15-minute bus ride from Warsaw's Old Town and a 20-minute walk from the Palace of Culture and Science, a Warsaw landmark. Bus and tram stops nearby make it convenient for getting around. Warsaw Airport is also within 30 minutes by car, making it a great location. Being located away from the hustle and bustle of the city center makes it a perfect place to relax. Warsaw, Poland, can get chilly from September onwards, but the well-heated rooms and comfortable rooms are a plus. Even the standard rooms come with a coffee machine, making it perfect for a morning cup of coffee. The bathroom and shower were spacious and comfortable, and the shower soap and shampoo provided smelled great. Furthermore, as expected from a Radisson Blu, the staff were incredibly friendly and pleasant. Another interesting thing was that if you didn't want your room cleaned, you could hang a small bag outside the door and receive a gift. I was curious, so I hung it up. There's also a water purifier on each floor, so you can enjoy plenty of water, and there's also a carbonated option. If you're traveling to Warsaw, Poland, I highly recommend staying at the Radisson Blu Sobieski 🇵🇱♥️

#mytraveldiary Malá Fatra in Žilina Region is a mountain range that surprises with its mix of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and charming meadows. It is smaller than the Tatras but has a wild beauty that makes it unforgettable. Hikes here range from easy forest strolls to thrilling ridge walks where views stretch endlessly across northern Slovakia. The highest peak, Veľký Kriváň, is a favorite for its accessible trail and sweeping panorama. Villages around the range welcome visitors with cozy guesthouses and traditional Slovak dishes, adding warmth to the mountain adventure. In summer, trails burst with wildflowers and rushing streams, while winter brings snow covered slopes perfect for skiing. The area feels both welcoming and untamed, a perfect balance for travelers who love nature. Malá Fatra is truly a gem for those who want authentic mountain experiences without the crowds.

#mytraveldiary Beskid Żywiecki in Silesian Voivodeship is a range that feels wild, scenic, and full of character. Known for peaks like Babia Góra, often called the Queen of the Beskids, it offers some of the most rewarding hiking in Poland. Trails here vary from gentle forest walks to challenging climbs that bring you above the treeline into wide open spaces with panoramic views. The region is rich in wildlife and the atmosphere has a raw beauty that makes every visit memorable. Zywiec, the nearby town, adds another layer to the experience with its historic charm and famous brewery. In winter, the slopes turn into a great playground for skiers and snowboarders, while summer is all about hiking and cycling. Beskid Żywiecki is a perfect destination for those who want both adventure and a strong taste of mountain culture.

#mytraveldiary Muszyna in Lesser Poland Voivodeship is a small town that perfectly blends natural beauty with a calm, relaxing vibe. Known for its mineral springs, it is a great place to slow down and recharge. The spa parks are lovely for a gentle walk, especially the sensory gardens filled with flowers, herbs, and fountains that create a soothing atmosphere. The surrounding mountains offer plenty of hiking opportunities, with trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking the Poprad Valley. In winter, Muszyna is close to ski slopes, making it a versatile destination for every season. The town also has a charming historic side, with a castle hill that gives you a glimpse into the past and wonderful views from the top. Muszyna is the kind of place where you can balance outdoor adventure with rest and quiet comfort.

#mytraveldiary Beskid Śląski in Silesian Voivodeship is a welcoming mountain range that combines beautiful trails with a lively local atmosphere. The area is full of well marked paths leading through forests, rolling ridges, and scenic valleys, making it great for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Peaks like Skrzyczne or Barania Góra reward with wide views across the region, and along the way you can stop at traditional mountain huts for hearty Polish food. In winter, Beskid Śląski turns into a popular skiing destination with resorts in Szczyrk and Wisła drawing visitors from all over. The region also has a strong cultural side, with charming towns, local traditions, and festivals adding to the experience. Whether you come for outdoor activities or to relax and soak in the mountain air, Beskid Śląski offers a little bit of everything in southern Poland.

#mytraveldiary Chatka Puchatka on Połonina Wetlińska in Podkarpackie Voivodeship is one of those places that hikers remember long after leaving. Sitting high above the valleys, it feels like a cozy shelter at the edge of the world. The climb up from Wetlina is rewarding, with meadows and forest paths opening into wide landscapes that stretch endlessly across the Bieszczady mountains. The hut itself is simple but full of character, a spot to rest, warm up, and share stories with fellow travelers. Whether you come in summer when the grasses sway in the wind or in winter when snow covers the slopes, the atmosphere always feels special. Sunsets here are especially unforgettable, painting the horizon in golden and red hues. Chatka Puchatka is not just a shelter, it is a symbol of the wild and inviting heart of the Bieszczady.

#mytraveldiary Beskid Maly near Andrychow in Lesser Poland Voivodeship is one of those regions that feels both accessible and untouched at the same time. The mountains here may not be the highest, but they offer a sense of calm that is hard to find in busier ranges. Rolling hills, forested slopes, and charming clearings create a landscape perfect for relaxed hikes and weekend getaways. Villages scattered across the area bring a warm and authentic atmosphere, often with small inns and local food worth trying. Popular trails lead to peaks like Leskowiec, which reward visitors with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. In winter, the gentle slopes make it a great place for beginners to try skiing or snowboarding. Beskid Maly is a perfect destination for anyone seeking nature, tradition, and a slower pace in the heart of southern Poland.

#mytraveldiary Sopki Stopki on Swietej Katarzyny Street in Milowka, Silesian Voivodeship, is a place that instantly makes you feel welcome. It blends the charm of a rustic mountain retreat with modern comfort, creating the perfect spot to relax after exploring the surrounding Beskid landscapes. The interiors are warm and stylish, with wooden details that match the natural setting outside. Guests can enjoy delicious homemade meals, often inspired by regional recipes, which give an authentic taste of local culture. The location is also a huge plus, as it offers easy access to hiking trails and beautiful views of the Beskid Zywiecki mountains. Whether you come in winter for snowy adventures or in summer for long walks and fresh mountain air, Sopki Stopki delivers a calm and pleasant escape. It feels like a little hidden gem tucked in the heart of southern Poland.

#mytraveldiary Magurka, also known as Magura Orawska, is a charming peak in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship that offers a refreshing break from the more crowded mountain trails. The hike up is not overly demanding, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy nature without the intensity of a high alpine climb. The paths wind through quiet forests and open meadows, creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Once at the top, the views open up to the Orava Basin and the distant Tatra Mountains, which makes the effort feel worthwhile. It is the kind of place where you can take a slower pace, enjoy a picnic, and simply soak in the mountain scenery. Magurka Orawska is ideal for casual hikers, families, or anyone looking to spend time outdoors in a peaceful natural setting.

#mytraveldiary Czerwone Wierchy, located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, is a group of four peaks forming one of the most beautiful ridges in the Tatra Mountains. The name, which means Red Peaks, comes from the unique grasses that turn shades of red in autumn, making the landscape look almost surreal. Hiking here is both challenging and rewarding, with long trails that demand stamina but pay off with breathtaking views stretching across Poland and Slovakia. Along the way, hikers pass rocky paths, alpine meadows, and wide open spaces that create a true mountain experience. The ridge is especially popular in the fall when the colors are at their most dramatic. It is a perfect route for adventurous hikers who enjoy panoramic views, a touch of wilderness, and the feeling of walking along one of the Tatras most iconic mountain ridges.

#mytraveldiary Szyndzielnia, rising to 1028 meters in the Silesian Voivodeship of Poland, is one of the most popular and accessible peaks in the Beskids. Many visitors take the cable car from Bielsko Biała, which makes the journey up easy and enjoyable, but hiking trails are also available for those who prefer a more active climb. The paths are surrounded by peaceful forests, and the higher you go, the more rewarding the views become. At the summit, you will find a historic mountain hut where you can enjoy a warm meal or simply relax with a drink while looking out across rolling ridges and valleys. On clear days, the panorama stretches far into the mountains. Szyndzielnia is a great choice for families, casual walkers, or anyone who wants to enjoy nature without tackling the most demanding trails.