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Discovering Poland

About this tour.

On an all-encompassing tour of Poland, uncover the country’s poignant past and engaging present. Tour the thriving capital city of Warsaw, reborn after World War II. See Wawel Castle, the former home to the kings of Imperial Poland. Behold the Black Madonna while visiting the Jasna Góra Monastery. During a moving visit to Auschwitz, unveil its somber history and tragic reality. Discover Polish culture at a folklore dinner and show in Kraków. From the thriving capital city of Warsaw to the coastal city of Gdansk, experience Poland at its best.

Your Tour Includes

• 4 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Malbork Castle
• Solidarity Shipyards

Your Tour at a Glance

10 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $50.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Discover the 700-year-old Malbork castle, one of the world's largest.

A tour of Wroclaw brings you up-close to this ethnically diverse city.

Get a deeper perspective of Warsaw during a Jewish heritage tour.

Cultural Experiences:

• Visit the Jasna Góra monastery to witness the world-famous Black Madonna.

Explore the poignant history of Auschwitz.

Culinary Inclusions:

Immerse yourself in Polish culture during a folklore show and dinner.

• Choice on Tour
• Jasna Góra Monastery
• Black Madonna
• Folklore Show & Dinner

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

In Gdansk, it’s your choice! Take an independent boat ride down the Motlawa River, experiencing the historic city of Gdansk from the water side. As you take in the salty-sea views, get a true taste of the local flavor aboard the ship as you relax and take in the coastal views – OR – take a short afternoon tour of Sopot, a town set on the Baltic Sea where you can see the fairy-tale inspired Crooked House and Monte Cassino before enjoying free time for lunch, exploration or a return to Wroclaw to relax.

Hotel-Mercure Grand Warszawa Hotel

History surrounds you in the former Jewish district of Kazimierz. Krakow - once the capital of Poland - is where Jews lived under the protection of Polish kings and is home to the historic Jewish quarter, Kazimierz. The Jewish community developed culture, religion, and even their own educational system during this time. As you walk through Kazimierz in the present, you'll see historic synagogues, stop for photos and an educational talk at the remnants of a World War II ghetto in Podgorze, and even visit the streets where Spielberg filmed his Academy Award-winning movie, "Schindler's List". You will also visit a Jewish cemetery and learn all about the practice of giving "kvitelach" - a note with personal prayers to God - along with kosher traditions.

Travel through the Silesian heartland to the towns of Jawor and Swidnica, home to the "Churches of Peace." You will visit one of these churches whose names are derived from the Peace Accords of Westphalia signed in 1648 which ended the 30 Years War and which permitted Lutherans living in Catholic Silesia to build their own evangelical churches. We will explore the church which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its masterful architecture and historical importance. Inside you will be treated to a private organ concert. Afterwards, you will journey to a small village in the heart of the Polish countryside where you will enjoy lunch and a wine tasting.

Discover the 700-year-old Malbork castle, one of the world's largest.

Visit the Jasna Góra monastery to witness the world-famous Black Madonna.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Mercure Grand Warszawa Hotel From $80 per night

Mercure Grand Warszawa Hotel

Radisson blu hotel gdansk, the bridge wroclaw mgallery, holiday inn city center krakow.

Nights 8-10

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"A land of unspoiled countryside and splendid buildings, and home to 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 23 national parks, Poland is rich in culture, history and natural beauty"

Steven, Travel Director

Enjoy the music of Chopin in Warsaw

The city where Chopin was first discovered provides the perfect backdrop to his masterpieces. Take your pick of many museums, galleries, terraces and parks that still perform concerts daily in honor of this Polish composer and virtuoso, two centuries on.

Journey to the little-known district of Praga in Warsaw

One of the best things to do in Warsaw is to leave the well-trodden Old Town and visit the right bank district of Praga. The once derelict neighborhood has become a favorite among students and artists alike. Explore the gritty bohemia's abandoned factories, now reclaimed and transformed into communal cultural spaces, street art, markets and bars.

Journey to Gdansk

For a change of scenery, head to the port city of Gdansk that bears little resemblance to Poland’s urban centres. Stroll through Main Town and be dazzled by the colorful shop facades of Long Market, an ornate Golden Gate and the bronzed body of a sea God in Neptune Fountain.

Visit Westerplatte, the place where WWII began

A scattering of shelled bunkers and burnt-out ruins contain reminders of the Battle of Westerplatte. This memorial site and monument will whisper Poland’s forlorn story to you. See the lighthouse where the first warning shots were fired and stand where the few brave Polish soldiers tried in vain to defend against the German invasion.

Explore Wieliczka Salt Mines

A short drive from Krakow is a subterranean labyrinth to behold. Descend the many steps and discover an underground world so remarkable in size it contains lakes and a chapel made of salt - right down to its chandeliers. One of the Poland attractions you will have to see with your own two eyes to believe.

Our top 5 things to do in Poland

Walk through the artistic underbelly of Warsaw and stand in the spot where WWII began. These are just some of the captivating experiences served up by Trafalgar in Poland.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum

The largest of the Nazi concentration camps and the resting place of over one million men, women and children, Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum is a somber place of reflection. Come face-to-face with the realities of the Holocaust with a walk through these infamous grounds, where you will uncover a dark time in humanity that’s not to be forgotten.

Galeria Raster

Founded by two art critics, this independent gallery is a place known for encouraging participation in culture. Immerse in the excitement of Poland’s next generation with film screenings, concerts, countless artworks and a self-publishing bookstore all found at Galeria Raster. This is the heart of the local contemporary art scene.

Krolikarnia

Fresh respite is found in the ‘Green District’ of Mokotów and the classicist palace that calls it home. Come to Krolikarnia to see the country’s largest collection of sculptures and relax in the leafy estate grounds, where idyllic reading spots and garden performances are plentiful.

Best museums in Poland

A Trafalgar tour through Poland will take you back in time to World War II and forward in time to Poland’s next generation of artists. It is through these museums that you will understand the many chapters of Poland's remarkable story.

The humble pierogi dumplings have been comforting the Polish since the 13th century, enduring and evolving as the years went by. Savoury, salty, spicy, sweet - these half-moon delights will not fail you. From the traditional to the more creative, chefs around the country will surprise you with many moreish fillings.

With a name meaning ‘hunter’s stew’, it’s unsurprising the meal of bigos is meaty and hearty. Expect cabbage, sauerkraut, finely chopped meats and the odd splash of beer or wine stewed for hours. Let this traditional single pot meal warm you on a cool Polish night.

Placki Ziemniaczane

Popular in World War II when there was little to eat, today these potato pancakes are considered a special treat. Try one - or many - at an outdoor market or festival topped with a generous dollop of sour cream or a sweet condiment.

Best food in Poland

Our tours of Poland is complete with many tastes of its simple - and simply delicious - national dishes. You will quickly understand why the Polish say ‘smacznego’ (meaning ‘enjoy your meal’) at breakfast, lunch and dinner.

What to pack for Poland

Polish phrasebook

Polish is the official language of Poland, so pack a phrasebook to help you learn a few words. If you can’t spare the space, download them to your Google Translate app offline.

A secure day bag

Though Poland is considered a safe destination, it isn't immune to pickpockets and petty crime. A good quality zipper bag or travel wallet will keep cash, cards and important items safe.

Poland is a massive country and on some days, long journeys are unavoidable. The scenery will provide plenty of visual entertainment, while headphones can be used to listen to some local music or enjoy podcasts about Polish history and culture.

A filtered water bottle

Polish water is officially safe to drink, but the plumbing can affect the quality. Many locals and tourists use bottled water; take the cheaper and more eco-friendly option of a reusable bottle with built in filtration.

Some WWII reading

Whether you’re a history buff or not, a refresher on the world wars will make for a richer experience of the significant and soul stirring sites you will visit in Poland.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and reusable toiletry bottles.

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Poland Tours & Vacations

Scenic, historic and surprisingly cheap – Poland should feature on every traveler's list.

The heart of Poland is in a town’s rynek – the central market square where locals converge and travelers can take the temperature of this   European   gem. Beyond city limits, it’s a country blessed by Mother Nature; of forest and lakes, snow-capped peaks and rolling hills changing color with each season. There’s a melting pot of traditional cuisines, hearty and heartfelt food that is being reinvented for a new audience. Wander through Poland’s living history: cultural Krakow, maritime mecca Gdansk and the post-war rebuilt capital of Warsaw. Every adventure here is distinct, but one thing remains the same – this under-discovered nation that’s eager to be explored.

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Poland tour reviews

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Highlights of Southern Poland

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6 stunning spots in Europe (and how to express wonder in the local language)

14 national parks in Europe you probably haven’t visited yet (but should)

5 budget destinations in Europe you won’t want to miss

6 reasons why Krakow is Europe’s most overlooked city

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5 reasons Poland is Europe’s most underrated destination

Poland at a glance

Capital city.

Warsaw (population approximately 1.75 million)

Approximately 38.5 million

(GMT+01:00) Sarajevo, Skopje, Warsaw, Zagreb

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type E (French 2-pin, female earth)

Learn more about Poland

Culture and customs.

Despite Poland’s turbulent political and wartime past, traditional Polish culture and customs thrive throughout the country. More than three quarters of Poles are Roman Catholics – almost half of whom are regular church attendees. There’s still a Jewish influence, including buildings and symbolism, here too. Many of Poland’s public holidays follow the Roman Catholic calendar, and Christmas and Easter are big festive celebrations.

On important occasions – including folk festivals, weddings, religious holidays – traditional folk costumes called stroje ludowe are worn, The costumes represent different regions of Poland, with colorful fabrics, patterns and decorations.

Some of Poland’s customs and traditions are a little bit unusual, so if you find yourself near a burning effigy on the first day of spring or struck by a water balloon around Easter, don’t worry, it’s all part of bonding with the locals.

Much of Poland’s culture is reflected in its architecture, so a walk along the cobbled streets of Krakow or Warsaw will reveal both history and local charm at building-level.

Top 5 heritage spots of Krakow

• Collegium Maius This 15th-century building, the oldest in Jagiellonian University, has hosted such famous students as revolutionary astronomer Copernicus and spiritual leader Pope John Paul II. A visit here is an object lesson in art, science, history and architecture.
• Wawel Cathedral Over a thousand years old, this imposing edifice is where Pope John Paul II conducted his first Mass. If that's not impressive enough, add a crypt holding the bodies of some of Poland's most influential leaders and public figures, and you've got one of Poland's most interesting buildings.
• Wawel Royal Castle Sitting on the edge of the Vistula River, this remarkable Gothic-style building acted as a home for Poland's royal family centuries ago. Featuring a valuable collection of historic paintings, tapestries and murals, this is a top spot to delve into European treasures and classic architecture.
• Remuh Synagogue While this small, elegant synagogue may not be the grandest in scale or design, its historic value is unquestionable. Founded in 1553, it remains a place of worship for the local community and a place of pilgrimage for the world's Jewish people.
• Cloth Hall Krakow's Renaissance-style Cloth Hall is a splendid building with a retail heritage. Once used as trading post for textiles and cloth in the 14th century, nowadays the building houses shops, cafes and a museum. Visit the city's Main Square at night to see this historic piece of architecture lit up.

History and government

Polan to poland.

During the Early Middle Ages, pre-Slavic settlers made their way to what was then East Germania, prospering during the Iron Age. However, it was the Western Polans who dominated the region from the fifth to eighth centuries and gave Poland its name.

Making friends, and losing them

The first Polish state was established in the late 10th century AD, and in 1025 the Kingdom of Poland was founded. In the 13th century, tensions between pagan Prussians and the central powers saw German knights dominate northern Poland and construct fortress strongholds, including the epic castle at Malbork.

Peace was restored, and in 1569 this region became the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. At the time, it was one of the largest countries in Europe. The 18th century saw this relationship weaken, so an effort was made to reform, but it was too little, too late. Poland was already being invaded from all sides by Russia. Poland continued to exist as a political and cultural community, despite Russian efforts to suppress education and commerce. Although no Polish states existed from the 1790s until 1918, strong resistance movements operated.

Stuck in the firing line

In the 20th century, Poland was forced into battle with occupying forces. Central Powers (Austria-Hungary, Germany and Prussia) and Russia (plus Western Allies) fought World War I, with conflicts occurring on Polish soil. Since no Polish state existed, no one was fighting for Poland – they were conscripted by both sides and fought one another. An estimated one million Poles lost their lives, but amid this loss, Poland regained independence and began to rebuild. The Treaty of Versailles in 1919 awarded Poland the western part of Prussia.

A nonaggression pact between Germany and the Soviet Union was signed in August 1939, but little did Poland know that this also contained protocol to split the Polish state in two. Weeks later, World War II began with a massive German invasion of Poland. Hitler’s policy was to eradicate Poland, with almost three million Jews and one million Poles perishing in German extermination camps.

The War changed dramatically in June 1941 when Hitler attacked the Soviet Union and Soviet leader Joseph Stalin turning to Poland for help. The Soviet army moved westward, and with Hitler’s defeat at Stalingrad in 1943, the war was all but over. Poland lay in ruins, with six million people, or 20% of the pre-war population losing their lives. The Polish Jewish community declined from three million to less than 90,000. Soviet control continued in Poland, with new borders established and a government set up in 1945. Soon after Stalin died in 1953, the ‘Sovietization’ of Poland weakened until it was almost non-existent. Traditional Polish values began to be revived.

Power to the people

During the second half of the 20th century, dissatisfied with living and working conditions in the country, Polish workers began to organize and unite. Industrial action, including strikes, led to the formation of a national trade union movement called Solidarity who pushed for workers’ rights and democratic governance. But it took until 1989 for semi-free elections to be held in Poland, when Solidarity succeeded in controlling the Senat (upper house). Communism began to collapse, and in January 1990, Poland’s political system was reformed with a return to territorial self-governance. Political instability followed, but in 1997, an alliance of Solidarity-linked political parties formed a coalition, putting an end to communist rule.

Today, Poland still finds itself in testing times politically and economically, with nationalist voices louder than ever. But the nation has been shaped into a peaceful and resilient nation by the toughest of situations.

Eating and drinking

Poland’s cuisine is a unique blend of influences from its neighbors, regional traditions and times of flourishing trade followed by years of restricted imports. Varied and versatile, it certainly is. Be sure to offer a ‘na zdrowie’ when raising a glass and wish everyone ‘smacznego’ – the Polish ‘bon appetit’ – before tucking into your food.

Here are some hearty essentials to keep a look out for when traveling around Poland.

• Pierogi What’s a country without its version of a dumpling? Pierogi are found all across Central and Eastern Europe, but many assert Poland is the birthplace of this interpretation. These meat, potato, onion and cheese-filled morsels will warm you up on even the coldest of Krakow evenings.
• Bigos Bigos is a stew of mixed chopped meat, sauerkraut and fresh cabbage, other vegetables and spices all together in a large cast iron pan. Known as hunter’s stew, it originated in Medieval times and is as hearty as it gets.
• Rosol This one’s a Polish staple, the most popular version of which is a comforting chicken noodle soup, not just an antidote for the common cold but also for the dreaded (and also common – see number 10 on this list!) hangover. The meat is slowly cooked in a classic clear broth before thin noodles, sliced vegetables and a garnish of herbs are added.
• Barszcz czerwony Poland may have a convoluted name for it, but their version of borscht is simply delicious. It’s a sour soup with a vibrant purple color, coming from its key ingredient – beetroot. Traditionally served on Christmas Eve, it’s probably wise not to wear white while you slurp a bowl of it up.
• Kanapki Take out a ‘k’ and you’ve nearly got the word canape. Funny that, because these open sandwiches resemble that bite-sized evening snack, but aren’t always that bite-sized. Poles have an open sandwich obsession, so they’re an option for every meal, usually with a bottom layer of pate or spread, topped with meat or pickled vegetables and boiled egg slices to top it off.
• Kopytka Europeans know what’s up with food, and definitely know how to prepare a potato. Kopytka is a Polish take on Italian gnocchi, and is often sautéed in a pan for a crispy outer layer, then sprinkled with fried onions and bacon bits.
• Golabki Another European dish Poland has added its own twist to is the saucy golabki. It’s the Polish name for cabbage leaves wrapped around a filling of minced pork or beef, plus onions and rice (or barley). They’re a special occasion food, often served at Christmas and weddings, but we reckon they’re good enough to have all year round.
• Paczki It’s not a fun cuisine if there isn’t a donut thrown into the mix. Paczki is a fried, round dough covered with icing sugar or dried orange zest or glazed, with sweet fillings including jam, cream and custard. If they’re not filled and are ring-shaped, these Polish delights are known as oponki.
• Sernik Poland’s version of a cheesecake is a simple dessert made with a dry-curd ‘farmer’s’ cheese (similar to cottage cheese or quark), and usually without a bottom layer of biscuit. It’s baked for around an hour and comes out set but still moist, to be enjoyed with a dollop of plum jam and cream. A modern version using American-style cream cheese is referred to as Sernik Philadelphia!
• Beer This is mainly a food list, but it’s hard to leave this beverage off. Beer is abundant in Poland, with around a hundred craft breweries producing distinctive brews, and they’re usually dirt cheap. The most popular varieties are pilsners, pale ales and porters, and the top brands to look out for are Zywiec, Okocim and Tyskie. Pair a local ale with a plate of pierogi.

Geography and environment

Located in Central Europe, Poland shares borders with   Germany ,   Czech Republic ,   Slovakia ,   Ukraine ,   Belarus ,   Lithuania , and   Russia  (Kaliningrad). Poland also has a stretch of coastline along the Baltic Sea, featuring two natural harbours. The coastal regions are marked by dunes and lakes, while the north and central parts of Poland have lowlands and plains, interrupted by rivers and valleys. Segments of the Carpathian Mountains mark the south-east part of the country, while the Tatra Mountains act as a natural border between Poland and Slovakia.

Around 90 percent of the country sits less than 1000 feet above sea level, but the south has mountains that bring with them relatively cold winters. The northern reaches of Poland are graced with sandy beaches stretching out to the Baltic Sea, as well as the Masurian Lakes District – an area with over 2000 lakes dotted through dense forest. Storks, eagles, bison and wolves are all found in the 23 national parks around Poland, and much of the flora and fauna in the country is under natural protection.

From local wares and crafts in town ryneks to global brands in malls dotted around the cities, Poland’s got all the shopping you need. The main places to shop in Krakow are Shevska, Florianskaya and Grodskaya streets. In Warsaw, Plac Trzech Krzyzy (Three Crosses Square), Mokotowska Street and the Old Town all offer a wide range of places to shop.

In recent years, Poland has implemented a restriction on Sunday shopping trading on almost all stores for all but seven Sundays in the year (exceptions are those which fall before Easter and Christmas periods). There are also some exceptions for certain types of stores and those located in airports and train stations. Keeping this in mind is important when considering travel plans in Poland, as you may not be able to find what you’re looking for if traveling on a Sunday.

As with most countries, Poland adds a goods and services tax to many of its products. Poland’s VAT (PTU in Polish) is calculated at 23%, 8% or 5% depending on the type of product, and is normally included in the marked price.

Festivals and events

Alongside the major religious and cultural celebrations in Poland, this Central European nation gets together and celebrates in a whole range of ways. And some of them are pretty unusual.

Drowning of Marzanna

Marzanna is the Slavic goddess associated with death and rebirth. Traditionally, in early spring (around Easter), a straw effigy of Marzanna is ritually burned and ‘drowned’ as an offering to ward off death (aka winter) and welcome in the new season. These days, Marzanna is carried past every house in a village and dipped in each puddle or stream she passes. Superstitions still persist with Marzanna: if you touch the effigy once it’s in the water, your hand will wither; looking back at the drowning effigy when walking home may cause an illness; and stumbling or falling may lead to a relative’s death in the next year.

Smigus-dyngus

Traditionally held on Easter Monday in Poland, Smigus-dyngus – roughly translated as ‘Wet Monday’ – involves boys throwing water at girls, using water balloons, pistols or buckets. In return, girls provide a ‘ransom’ of painted eggs, or pisanki, which brings good fortune and harvests. In reality, it’s a big water fight with everyone getting involved.

Calling all higher education students: this festival is for you. Juwenalia is an annual holiday for students that takes place before summer exams in May or June, celebrating three days of no lectures. The tradition started in the 15th century in Krakow, but now most universities in Poland organize their own Juwenalia, usually with some type of music festival attached to it.

Also known as the Midsummer Solstice festival, this event held annually in Krakow involves telling fortunes, floating handmade wreaths, jumping over bonfires and burning herbs. Wianki began as a Slavic fertility festival honoring the goddess of harvest and love – Kupala – but when Christianity came to Poland, efforts were made to ‘Christianize’ the pagan rites and rebrand the holiday as St John’s Eve. Despite this, Wianki celebrations today are pretty similar to traditional summer solstice festivities.

St Dominic’s Fair

Started in 1260, this outdoor festival in Gdansk has become one of Europe’s biggest open-air trade and cultural festivals. From mid-July to mid-August, the fair hosts 20 days of markets, music and theatre, Kashubian food, a strongman competition and a fireworks display at the closing ceremony. All the ingredients for a Polish spectacular.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Poland adventure, check out these books:

• Push Not the River   – James Conroyd Martin
• The Pianist   – Wladyslaw Szpilman
• The Beautiful Mrs Seidenman   – Andrzej Szczypiorski
• No Greater Ally   – Kenneth K. Koskodan
• The Diary of Mary Berg: Growing up in the Warsaw Ghetto   – Mary Berg
• House of Day, House of Night   – Olga Tokarczuk
• Chasing the King of Hearts   – Hanna Krall

Poland travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Poland?

Poland offers travelers different experiences depending on the season, so pack sensibly and choose your adventure.

Late June to August offers the warmest temperatures and long days but tourist numbers are high, the heat can sometimes be quite intense, and thunderstorms are surprisingly common in the mountainous areas.

The shoulder season of April-May is a great time to visit Poland – long hours of sunlight, cooler temperatures and spring flowers in full bloom. The autumn months of September and October offer beautiful scenery, leaves changing color and average temperatures around 53°F during the day.

If snow sports are your thing, head to southern Poland, particularly Zakopane, in late December and early January for a winter wonderland and mountain resorts in full swing. Poland is a charming place to visit in Christmas, with winter markets, decorations along the city streets, outdoor nativity scenes and carolers singing at night.

Do I need a visa to travel to Poland?

Generally, you will not need a visa to travel to Poland for a period of up to 90 days. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Japan and many other countries can spend 90 days in the wider Schengen area, including Poland and other countries in the EU. EU citizens can travel around the Schengen area indefinitely.

Other nationalities should check with their local Polish embassy or on the   Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Poland?

While not mandatory, a tip of around 10–15% is considered a polite recognition of good service in Polish restaurants and cafes. Tipping service workers in high-end establishments such as luxury hotels is also encouraged.

At smaller establishments or when taking a taxi it’s acceptable to round up to the nearest PLN 5 or 10.

What is the internet access like in Poland?

Poland is very well connected – most hotels, hostels and some public spaces offer wi-fi (pronounced ‘vee-fee’), usually free of charge but sometimes for a small fee. Many bars, cafes and restaurants also offer wi-fi, so keep a look out for the international symbol for wi-fi.

Major cities like Warsaw have many wi-fi hotspots and cyber cafes to choose from, while rural areas will generally have less reliable options to get online.

Can I use my cell phone while in Poland?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in Poland. Poland uses the GSM 900/1800 system, which is the same as Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Cell networks are usually not compatible with cellphones from North America or Japan; however, if you’ve got a multiband GSM system, it should work.

If your cell phone is unlocked, your cheapest option to call and text on the go is probably with a local SIM card. These can be picked up from a phone shop, which are located all throughout the country. This is also likely the cheapest option for a mobile data plan in Poland.

If you wish to use your current SIM and phone plan in Poland, ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive, and be sure to check in with your service provider for costs, as often this can be extremely expensive.

What are the toilets like in Poland?

Flushable toilets are the standard in Poland, although public toilets are quite scarce. Public toilets are labelled with ‘dla panow’ or ‘meski’ and a downward-pointing triangle symbol for men, and ‘dla pan’ or ‘damski’ and a circle symbol for women.

Expect to pay a small fee when visiting public toilets (around PLN 2) and carry small denominations with you, as change is often not available.

What will it cost for a…?

Poland’s unit of currency is the zloty (PLN). Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison.

• A bottle of beer = USD 1.30–2.60
• Cup of coffee in a cafe = USD 1.30–2.60
• Simple lunch at a cafe = USD 4–7
• Dinner at a nice restaurant = USD 13–26

Can I drink the water in Poland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in Poland unless marked otherwise.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Poland?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores and hotels in Poland. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover minor purchases. It’s also a good idea to carry small change to make tipping easier and to cover public toilet charges.

What is ATM access like in Poland?

ATMs that accept international cards are common in Poland, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities. Our tip is to go for internationally recognized banks and avoid ATMs labelled ‘Euronet’, as these often give a much poorer rate of exchange than other banks’ machines.

What is the weather like in Poland?

Poland’s climate is mostly temperate, with some slight weather differences between the oceanic north and the landlocked south. July is Poland’s hottest month, averaging around 72°F (22°C) throughout the country, with some temperatures rising to the mid-80s Fahrenheit, especially in Lower Silesia (southwest Poland).

Winters are often drier than summer, and range between 21°F (-6°C) and 33°F (1°C), with the northeast of the country near the borders with   Belarus  and   Lithuania  experiencing the coldest temperatures. Snow can be found around Poland in the depths of winter, usually in January.

What public holidays are celebrated in Poland?

• 1 January   Nowy Rok (New Year's Day)
• 6 January   Epiphany (Three Kings’ Day)
• March/April   Easter Sunday
• March/April   Easter Monday
• 1 May   Labour Day (State Holiday)
• 3 May   Swieto Trzeciego Maja (Constitution Day)
• 11 November   Narodowe Swieto Niepodleglosci (Independence Day)
• 25 December   Christmas Day
• 26 December   St Stephen’s Day (Second Day of Christmas)

For a current list of public holidays in Poland, including the movable dates above and other religious holidays, go to   worldtravelguide.net

Is Poland safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Homosexuality is legal in Poland, and in major cities like Warsaw and Krakow there is generally a liberal attitude towards LGBTQIA+ communities. That being said, the wider LGBTQIA+ scene in Poland is fairly discreet. Warsaw and Krakow are the best places to experience Poland’s gay scene, with a small number of bars and clubs dotted around the city. The seaside resort city of Sopot also has a number of gay bars and clubs. Same-sex marriage is not officially recognized in Poland.

Recently, with the rise of the ruling far-right Law & Justice (PiS) party in the Polish political system, anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiments in Poland have grown. Many Polish residents hold conservative and religious views, which are reflected in much of the current political discourse. While in most contexts there’s equality of legal rights for all residents regardless of sexuality or gender identity, there are still no protections against discrimination in education and health, hate crimes and hate speech.

Around 30 symbolic ‘LGBT-free’ zones have been declared in the south-eastern reaches of the country, and although unenforceable, these zones are said to represent a move to stigmatize and exclude LGBTQIA+ residents in rural parts of Poland.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Poland accessible for travelers with disabilities?

As Poland has many medieval towns and cobbled lanes, travelers with mobility issues may find traveling difficult, but doable. Newer buildings are designed with accessibility in mind, and many popular older buildings are retrofitted with ramps, lifts and wider entrances. Poland’s public transport system is designed to accommodate wheelchairs.

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in Poland

What you should wear in Poland will depend on what season you decide to travel! Poland’s mild climate and distinct seasons make it a little bit easier to know what to wear, so check out the weather in advance to get an idea of what to pack.

In summer, be sure to stay cool with looser clothing and some short sleeve t-shirts and shorts, plus a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings. In winter (as well as the shoulder seasons), pack some extra warmth, long pants and wind-breaking outer layers. If you’re traveling to Poland in snow season, pack thermal layers and insulated jackets. Gloves (or mittens) and a beanie will also come in handy.

Depending on the adventure you’re after, you’re likely to do a lot of walking, so a pair of sturdy walking shoes is a must. You might also like to pack a smaller backpack or satchel to use as a day pack when traveling around Krakow or Warsaw.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

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Poland Escorted Tours

East west tours offer a large selection of escorted tours to poland by the most reliable local polish tour operators. small groups, superior class hotels, exciting sightseeing by comfortable motorcoaches represent an exceptional value and convenience..

Poland is the largest of the East European countries located in the very heart of Europe, a member of European Union since 2004. The country boasts rich historical and cultural heritage, beautiful nature and exciting European atmosphere of modern times. The most famous Polish personalities are Fryderyk Chopin, Pope John Paul II, Maria Skłodowska-Curie, and Nicolaus Copernicus. With the size comparable to Italy and Germany, and the population of about 40 million it is one of the most influential and progressive countries in Eastern Europe.

Poland’s historical and architectural scene, along with its remarkable nature of woods, rivers, lakes and mountains contributed to country’s rising popularity among tourists from all over the world. The reasons to visit Poland are abundant. Royal Krakow with its well preserved Gothic architecture, mixed with splendid samples of Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau, amazing medieval castles, ancient fortresses of the Teutonic Knights, skillfully crafted wooden churches, and the food that your grandmother used to cook.

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Highlights of Poland

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Explore Poland’s Rich Heritage, Culinary Delights & Local Traditions on a 10-Day Guided Tour

Plunge into an adventure across Poland as you shop for folklore fare in Krakow and sample traditional dumplings in Warsaw. A day of dedicated Krakow sightseeing kickstarts the vacation as your Local Expert guides you up to Wawel Royal Castle, and through Podgórze to Ghetto Square. In the cradle of the Polish nation, spoil yourself with the Poznan Choice to unveil the secrets of the local delicacy, the St Martin’s croissant, or uncover the history of the city on a walking tour with a Local Expert. Cross the heights of the Tatras Mountains for a Zakopane Dinner of delicious local dishes, accompanied by the soul rousing folklore entertainment of the Goral Highlanders.

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Start Kraków, Poland. End Warsaw, Poland.

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Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

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Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNSECO sites and places of cultural significance.

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Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

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Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Warsaw, Budapest, Vienna & Prague

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TAUCK'S YELLOW ROADS – Authentic cultural discoveries as you travel from Poland to Hungary, from a visit to Wawel Hill to lunch in a Slovakian village in the Tatra Mountains

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Private after-hours visit with lecture and reception at Imre Nagy Memorial House in Budapest

Private tour of the Baroque libraries of Strahov Monastery in Prague

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Private piano recital in Warsaw celebrating the music of Frederic Chopin

A private dinner cruise on the Danube River in Budapest

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Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Along Europe's Scenic "Yellow Roads"

Speaking of traditions... From castles to concerts to cafés, time-honored traditions from across the centuries are at the heart of cultural life in the historic cities and across the idyllic countryside you'll explore on a two-week trip through the center of "old Europe."

After-hours schönbrunn palace visit, an imperial reception & after-hours tour at schönbrunn.

Your special experience at Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace – the opulent, 1,441-room Baroque summer residence of the Habsburg royals – begins with an Imperial Reception at the Gloriette pavilion, perched on a hill overlooking the palace's magnificent gardens. Then enjoy an after-hours tour of the palace's Imperial Apartments, revealing the residential suite of rooms occupied by Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth (popularly known as "Sisi") – including the bedroom furnished in the Blondel style for the imperial couple at the time of their 1854 wedding, but only used during the early years of their marriage, and the Rococo Revival salon where Empress "Sisi" received her visitors – plus other royal apartments.

Tauck Exclusive – Private tour of the Strahov Monastery libraries

An exclusive private tour of the baroque libraries of strahov monastery.

Established in 1120, the medieval Strahov Monastery in Prague was restored in grand Baroque style in the 18th century – especially its two magnificent libraries which together hold one of the world's greatest collections of theological and philosophical books, illuminated manuscripts and prints. On your Tauck Exclusive, behind-the-scenes private tour of the Strahov Monastery libraries – as other visitors look on – you'll stand mesmerized by the towering gilded bookcases, ornate balconies, wall murals, ceiling frescoes (some fifty feet overhead), altars, printing presses, and the Cabinet of Curiosities... enough to give any visitor to this contemplative place a great deal to contemplate!

Tauck Exclusive – After-hours visit to the Imre Nagy House

A private, after-hours visit to the imre nagy memorial house in budapest.

After serving in the Austro-Hungarian army during World War I, Hungarian-born Imre Nagy later joined the Russian Communist Party and the Red Army, and became a Soviet citizen before returning to his native country to take part in the Hungarian Communist government following World War II. Rising to leadership of Hungary's government as Prime Minister during the anti-Soviet Hungarian Revolution of the 1950s, Nagy was arrested by the Soviets for treason, and secretly tried and executed in 1958. Today, Nagy is revered as a martyr and national hero by the people of an independent Hungary, and his former villa in Budapest has been transformed into the Imre Nagy Memorial House and Museum – where you'll enjoy a Tauck Exclusive, private after-hours visit featuring a lecture on the Hungarian Revolution and a reception with special "Molotov Cocktails."

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Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey to enter Poland, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

The U.S. State Department advises that: "All foreigners seeking entry into the Czech Republic must also carry proof of a medical insurance policy contracted for payment of all costs for hospitalization and medical treatment while in the Czech Republic. According to the Czech Government, if you have a health insurance card or an internationally recognized credit card with health insurance included, it will generally be accepted as proof of insurance to enter the country."

Tauck offers insurance that is considered sufficient for this purpose. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section above on this webpage for further details.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy or consulate of Poland, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

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Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $559  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

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Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Poland, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally , please contact an embassy or consulate of Poland, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

  MOBILITY

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

The weather in this region of Eastern Europe is temperate and unpredictable. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is generally customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but by all means be comfortable.

You will find a hair dryer located in your guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available on request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Eastern Europe:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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PolishOrigins

Polish Genealogy & Tours

Tours of Poland and its neighboring countries with PolishOrigins in 2023

We didn’t know what to expect at the beginning of 2022. Covid restrictions were still around, a war in Ukraine broke out which also affected Poland both socially (millions of refugees, uncertainty about the future) and economically. Of course, the perception of safety in this part of Europe by people from the outside was also a factor in deciding to arrive in Poland.

Situation in Ukraine is still very difficult for all Ukrainian people. For those who stayed in their homes but also for those who fled and are separated for almost a year now from their people and homes. Dramatic experience for the whole nation and its people is still hard to comprehend and it, unfortunately, goes on. A year ago in January 2022 if someone told you that in the coming months we would witness such tragic events very few would believe it.

The fact that the invasion has been strongly opposed by the alliance of most of the world since the beginning, including NATO, is uplifting. We all hope that the war will end soon and we do what we can to bring some help and relieve those who suffer from that.

Of course, this means that until the war is over we will not travel with our guests neither to Ukraine nor to Belarus as we did in the past years on a regular basis. However, we are still continuing to do genealogy research in these two countries.

Despite all the circumstances we are very happy with last year’s tour season. At last, after a 2-year break, we could hit the road and make discoveries with our guests. In 2021 we had a few tours but it was less than 10% of our normal number. In 2022 it was about 1/3 of what we had before 2020. But for us it was like getting back to life.

At the moment this year looks promising. We have quite a lot of tour requests, many of them are from multigenerational families who are planning to visit their ancestors’ places together. Some people were postponing their plans through the last three years and now finally they are able to come.

This all means that our guides’ calendars are filling up fast. It is becoming a challenge for us because some of the tour guides needed to find a job outside of tourism and our capacity to organize many tours at the same time is reduced. The most popular months are as always May, June, September, and the first half of October.

Now details of our offer.

PolishOrigins Genealogy Tour – our flagship product. The shape of each tour is fully based on your expectations. In the tour request you answer a few questions based on which we can start to think about a specific itinerary for you. These questions include: number of the tour participants, dates of your visit, arrival and departure cities, places of your ancestors you would like to visit, (if you want) genealogy research you would like to perform, other tourist places/attractions you are interested in, accommodation standard, and a few more pieces of information.

Usually, after receiving your request we ask a few additional questions and we prepare for you a draft of a tailor-made itinerary. Of course, you can always contact us directly at our email: [email protected] before and during our work together on your tour.

There are no charges involved in this part of our work. You only pay if you decide on the tour. First, you make a deposit. The rest of the full price when the date of your arrival is close.

We also do other custom tours of Poland and neighboring countries that don’t necessarily include the family genealogy part. If you wish one of those you can also contact us by email or fill out the tour request .

Besides custom genealogical and historical tours we also have three group tours:

Galicia Tour

Prussian Poland Tour

Kingdom of Poland Tour

For this year we planned all three of them. The dates are:

Galicia Tour: June 25-July 5 , and the second edition September 3-13 .

Prussian Poland Tour: September 16-26

and slightly modified Kingdom of Poland Tour organized with the cooperation of the Polish Genealogical Society in America from Chicago in dates (details of this offer you will find here: https://pgsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Tour-PolOr.pdf ) in September (specific days to be determined).

Most people who decide for on group tours combine them with their custom Genealogy Tours.

Full offer of all our tours you will find here: https://polishorigins.com/tours

If you are interested to read stories of others who visited Poland with us see some of the dozens of blogs written by some of our guests and published here: https://polishorigins.com/blog/category/genealogy-tours-of-poland/ (We know that there are written more stories from the 2022 tours).

That’s about our PolishOrigins Tours offer and our plans for 2023

At the end of the tourism part, I want to share with you two links.

The first one is the CNN article: “Where to travel in 2023: The best destinations to visit”. You can see Poland is put second after Western Australia as the best travel destination: https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/where-to-travel-best-destinations-2023/index.html .

Another report we found interesting is from a global organization A3M that monitors the security of traveling throughout the world. According to their assessment traveling to Poland entails a low risk (the same level as e.g. Australia, US, or Italy). You will find the full report here: https://www.global-monitoring.com/en/corporate/risk-map/ .

And now promised at the beginning gift for you. This is a full version of a cult Polish comedy trilogy from the 1960s and 1970s about the families of Pawlak and Kargul. I think many of you will find it not only very funny but also interesting from a historical and social perspective. It presents the history and a “fight” of two families who were resettled from the Eastern Borderlands of Poland to western Poland after WWII. An important part of the story includes a relationship with a family member that emigrated to the US. The third part of the trilogy is almost entirely shot in Chicago, USA.

Have fun! (to turn on English subtitles click on the ‘Available subtitle icon” in the lower left corner).

Part 1: Our Folks https://35mm.online/en/vod/feature-films/our-folks

Part 2: Take It Easy https://35mm.online/en/vod/feature-films/take-it-easy

Part 3: Big Deal https://35mm.online/en/vod/feature-films/big-deal

Best wishes from Poland! Pozdrowienia z Polski!

Zenon and the PolishOrigins Team

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Stuttgart draw: Raducanu, Kerber set for first-round clash

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STUTTGART, Germany -- The draw for the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix is out. World No.1 and two-time defending champion Iga Swiatek and No.2 Aryna Sabalenka lead the jam-packed draw at the WTA 500 tournament, which includes eight of the Hologic WTA Tour's Top 10. 

Stuttgart: Draws | Schedule | Scores

The first round will see a clash of wild cards, as former No.1 Angelique Kerber faces 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu in a first-time meeting. Raducanu comes to Stuttgart off a successful weekend at the Billie Jean King Cup Qualifiers, where she earned wins over Caroline Garcia and Diane Parry to lead Great Britain to a 3-1 win over France. 

Kerber, a champion in Stuttgart in 2015 and 2016, is set to compete at the Porsche Tennis Arena for the first time since 2022.

The top four seeds, Swiatek, Sabalenka, No.3 Coco Gauff, and No.4 Elena Rybakina, have first-round byes.

Stuttgart 2024: Dates, draws, prize money and everything you need to know

Swiatek sends poland to bjk cup finals; raducanu wins thriller for the u.k., insider podcast: zheng on living in the moment and finding her swag.

Main draw in Stuttgart (WTA 500), where Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina are the top seeds. pic.twitter.com/kXeRdM7L58 — WTA Insider (@WTA_insider) April 14, 2024

Swiatek is bidding to become the first three-time champion in Stuttgart since Maria Sharapova swept the titles from 2012-2014. She will open her tournament in the second round against either Elise Mertens or Tatjana Maria. 

Looming in Swiatek's quarter is No.8 seed Jelena Ostapenko, who opens against Linda Noskova. The winner will face either Raducanu or Kerber.

Champions Reel: How Iga Swiatek won Stuttgart 2023

No.4 seed Rybakina and No.7 seed Ons Jabeur anchor the second quarter. Jabeur will open her tournament against Miami semifinalist Ekaterina Alexandrova. 

No.3 seed Coco Gauff and No.5 seed Zheng Qinwen were drawn into the bottom half of the draw and anchor the third quarter. Gauff will face a qualifier in her second-round opener. Zheng will face Romania's Sorana Cirstea.

No.2 Sabalenka, a finalist in the last three editions, leads the bottom quarter. She could face former No.2 Paula Badosa in the second round. The Spaniard will face a qualifier in the first round. 

Main draw play begins on Monday, April 15. 

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Zheng Qinwen on culture clashes, finding her swagger and staying grounded

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I'm planning to spend $5,000 to see Taylor Swift in Europe with my kids. Our floor tickets, hotel, and flights are set to cost less than our nosebleed seats in the US did.

• I saw Taylor Swift on the US leg of The Eras Tour, and two nosebleed seats cost us $5,000.
• My daughter and I loved the show, so I scored us floor seats for one of Swift's Poland shows.
• Our European trip includes three VIP Swift tickets and is set to be cheaper than our seats in the US.

When Taylor Swift first announced her Eras Tour , I laughed when I heard colleagues had cleared their work schedules to buy tickets.

I couldn't understand why they were looking for tickets for shows hours away. I liked a few of Swift's songs, but I wasn't a "Swiftie" and didn't understand the frenzy.

That all changed when my daughter started asking intensely for tickets . And once The Eras Tour started, it became clear that it was the concert of the century. It was also nearly impossible to get tickets.

Seeing the US tour was difficult and expensive, but the show turned me into a full-on Swiftie

I didn't want my kid to miss out on this generation-defining event, but I couldn't stomach spending $4,000 or more on the resale market for two nosebleed seats on top of travel costs to another city.

Fortunately, five cousins chipped in to buy my daughter tickets for her birthday.

My daughter, a devoted Swiftie, predictably loved every second of The Eras Tour. At first, I wasn't sure how I would get through a 3 ½-hour show by an artist I barely knew — but I left in awe of Swift's talent.

Related stories

In the weeks that followed, I listened exclusively to Swift. On a trip to Nashville, I sang my heart out to Swift's songs at the Country Music Hall of Fame. I wondered whether I would be able to see her perform again, this time going all in.

Getting tickets to see Swift in Poland was easier than I expected

As soon as Swift announced international dates on her tour in June, I took the first of many steps to get tickets to one of her shows abroad. I set my sights on a show in Warsaw, Poland, for several reasons.

My children and I are Polish citizens but have never set foot in the country. I've wanted to go for years, and snagging Swift tickets would allow me to finally make the trip. I reasoned that Warsaw was unlikely to be as popular as marquee destinations like Paris. It's also a less expensive city than many other international stops on The Eras Tour.

Also, tickets for the Warsaw show were not being sold through Ticketmaster. I found the idea of not having to deal with the company that botched sales to the US leg of the tour very appealing.

A few days before tickets went on sale, I got a code for the chance to buy tickets before they became available to the rest of the public. Based on how popular presales were in the US , I knew I was unlikely to get tickets, but I set an alarm for 5 a.m. anyway.

Much to my surprise, I was able to enter the ticket-buying portal right away. I scored three VIP floor seats for the first night of Swift's Eras Tour in Warsaw for less than $1,000. My daughter, my son, and I started making friendship bracelets immediately to exchange with other concert-goers, an Eras Tour tradition.

Our trip hasn't happened yet, but I already know it'll be worth it

Although tickets to the Warsaw show were not cheap, the total cost plus our European trip is set to be about the same as or less than the two nosebleed seats I got when I saw Swift in the US.

I hope to use credit-card points to book our flights, but even if I don't, I estimate the total cost of the trip could be from $4,000 to $5,000. This isn't significantly more than my family usually spends on our annual family vacation, and I have more than a year to save.

However, unlike other family vacations, this one comes with the chance to explore our roots and see a new part of the world. I never would have guessed that Swift would be what finally got me to Poland, but it's just one more reason for me to love her.

This story was originally published on July 24, 2023, and most recently updated on April 10, 2024.

Watch: All the Easter eggs in Taylor Swift's 'Willow' music video

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Summer 2024 Tours & Vacation Packages Poland

Filters applied, 53 poland vacation packages in june, july and august.

• In-depth Cultural

Portrait of Poland

Overall, the tour was wonderful. A lot was squeezed into the 7 days. There were a few stops we would like to have spent more time at. The evening included meals were average or below average- it would have been nice to have more local cuisine. Breakfast meals were good; the breakfast buffet at the Regent Warsaw Hotel was excellent. Our tour guide Kasia was very knowledgeable & engaging - she did an excellent job! Really enjoyed her commentary & she was so helpful.

• Christmas & New Year

Krakow, Auschwitz & Wieliczka Salt Mine - 4 Days

What an amazing tour! Krakow is indeed a beautiful, historic city - however, it was mainly thanks to our guide Seweryn we enjoyed it so much! He took care about everything (accommodation; day tours; recommended us some places to eat; organized us a free museum tour) and he was always kind, passionate and organized. We'll be back! ;)

Tour of Poland

Am excellent tour that provided fine accommodations and a good mix of organized touring and free time. It was novel in that you had different guides and drivers in each city but the handoffs were seamless and each guide was superior. I would recommend adding the optional Marienberg Fortress and Salt Mine visit options. I booked other sites such as Auschwitz & topic specific walking tours thru other operators but they blended well. You will hit the "Big 3 cities" but you'll not see much countryside or small town life on this particular tour. Any glitches were quickly and satisfactorially resolved. I will be back and I will use this operator if possible.

Krakow & Auschwitz

Did their Krakow, Poland trip in December during the Christmas markets. Really a great trip and experience. Everything was very organized, had really good hotel near the square/old town (I booked the 3-star hotel, private room option with my husband), guides were very good & knowledgeable and the excursions/tours were very good. We also received a lot of extra information and recommendations for things to do and places to go (food and drink too) in our free time which was really nice and helpful. I was a bit nervous reading a few of the reviews here on Yelp but our experience was fantastic and nothing like what some others wrote in their reviews. Krakow was an amazing city and one of the most beautiful in Europe. Definitely recommend this trip and company.

• Coach / Bus

Highlights of Southern Poland

The Poland tour was excellent! The group leader Beata was awesome and all guidance, planning and itinerary was wonderful. Totally recommended!!

Tailor-Made Private Trip to Southern Poland with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Highlights of Poland

Thanks for a great trip, we thoroughly enjoyed it. It was my first time with Explore, and I was impressed. Already looking at booking one with you for next year.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Highlights of Poland (Classic, 10 Days)

KRAKOW: Everything was wonderful in Krakow; by far my favorite city on the tour. There was ample time to see things on our own and enjoy the group activities. ZAKOPANE: The afternoon tour was fine. One option you might want to mention is the spa services at the resort. I made reservations for a massage/facial. When I mentioned this to others on the trip, there were a few that also wanted to do that, but unfortunately, there were no available appointments. I wouldn't necessarily make it an option, but I think you should suggest the services at the spa and if interested in scheduling something, it would be the individual's responsibility to make those arrangements. Unfortunately, some people don't do the level of research in advance as I do. The evening meal was nice, but should be in a bigger venue, as the band was so loud that you couldn't carry on a conversation with those in your group. AUSCHWITZ: A must visit. WROCLAW: Lovely city; all activities were well planned. POZNAN: A few things I would change. The hotel in Poznan was not very nice; the original hotel was the Sheraton Poznan Hotel. I'm not sure why there was a change. I would look at changing to a nicer hotel, as the hotel we stayed (not the Sheraton) was dingy and dirty inside and out. Also, in Poznan, one of our activities was to view a comical twist to the making of a croissant. I think this could be eliminated, giving the group some needed free time to explore the city or rest. I would have much rather walked around the town, than to have gone to this presentation. Perhaps make it an option; it didn't add to my overall experience. TORUN: Beautiful city; enjoyed this stop. GDANSK: Loved every minute of this. WARSAW: Loved every minute of this.

Pearls of Poland (for couples)

Kuba was extremely knowledgeable and contributed considerably to our understanding and enjoyment of the spots we saw. He was sensitive to my mother's special needs and programmed stops in the tour so she could rest. He also showed up on our final day with special Polish donuts for us to enjoy -- a thoughtful and very sweet gesture. We recommend Kuba highly!

• Walking Adventure

Best of Poland (11 Days)

Everything was outstanding. Coach, Kate (tour guide), all other guides (except one), hotels, meals, itineraries, driver, sights, tours. Two issues. Our Auschwitz tour guide had a very, very pronounced accent and spoke very quickly making it difficult to understand him. Extremely knowledgeable but needs to slow down his speech. Loved that every tour guide throughout the country was a "local". The other issue was that the optional tours available were charged in Euros and not Polish money. Other than those "minor issues" the tour was truly outstanding, interesting, educational and fun!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Customized Best Poland Tour with Daily Departure

Polish Splendours

Camino de Santiago: the Scenic Portuguese Route

The best of Poland in 7 days (Guaranteed departure)

Highlights of Poland - 7 Days

What people love about poland tours in summer.

Overall, the tour was wonderful. A lot was squeezed into the 7 days. There were a few stops we would like to have spent more time at. The evening included meals were average or below average- it would have been nice to have more local cuisine. Breakfast meals were good; the breakfast buffet at the Regent Warsaw Hotel was excellent. Our tour guide Kasia was very knowledgeable & engaging - she did an excellent job! Really enjoyed her commentary & she was so helpful.

Seweryn was a fantastic tour guide and very knowledgeable about Krakow's history. I enjoyed learning about the many historical and religious details we saw around Krakow. He also went above and beyond to help me when I had trouble purchasing train tickets, and when I got sick offered to reschedule one of the tour days. I really enjoyed his tour and would highly recommend it.

Am excellent tour that provided fine accommodations and a good mix of organized touring and free time. It was novel in that you had different guides and drivers in each city but the handoffs were seamless and each guide was superior. I would recommend adding the optional Marienberg Fortress and Salt Mine visit options. I booked other sites such as Auschwitz & topic specific walking tours thru other operators but they blended well. You will hit the "Big 3 cities" but you'll not see much countryside or small town life on this particular tour. Any glitches were quickly and satisfactorially resolved. I will be back and I will use this operator if possible.

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