Poland is an increasingly popular destination for European travellers, and for good reason — it offers exceptional value, world-class history and culture, and a warm, welcoming people. A few practical tips will help you navigate the currency, transport, and local customs.
Currency and Money
Poland uses the Polish Zloty (PLN/zł) — not the Euro. Card payments are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas. ATMs are available in all cities and towns.\n\nPoland is excellent value for money. A meal in a good restaurant costs £8–£15. A beer in a bar costs £1.50–£3. A taxi across Krakow's old town costs £3–£5.\n\nThe best exchange rates are at ATMs on arrival or at kantors (currency exchange offices) in city centres. Avoid airport exchange desks and hotel exchange services.
Getting Around Poland
By train (PKP) — Poland has a good intercity rail network. Warsaw–Krakow takes 2.5 hours on the express train. Warsaw–Gdansk takes 3 hours. Book at intercity.pl for the best fares.\n\nBy bus (FlixBus, PolskiBus) — Long-distance buses are often cheaper than trains and connect cities and towns not served by rail. FlixBus has an extensive Polish network.\n\nIn cities — Krakow, Warsaw, and Gdansk all have good tram and bus networks. Day tickets offer good value. Taxis and Uber are cheap by Western European standards.\n\nBy car — A car is useful for exploring the countryside, the Tatra Mountains, and the Bialowieza Forest. Roads are generally good. Driving is on the right.
Language and Culture
Language: Polish is the official language. English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas, particularly among younger people. In rural areas, German is sometimes more useful than English as a second language.\n\nTipping: 10% for good restaurant service is standard. Round up for taxis. Tipping bar staff is not expected.\n\nHospitality: Poles are warm and hospitable hosts. If invited to a Polish home, bring flowers (odd number, not even) or chocolates. Remove your shoes at the door unless told otherwise.\n\nVodka culture: Vodka is an important part of Polish social culture. If offered a shot, it is polite to accept (or politely decline with a specific reason). Poles drink vodka neat and chilled, not mixed.
Practical Poland Facts
Electricity: European two-pin plug (Type E/F). 230V/50Hz. UK visitors need an adaptor.\n\nEmergency number: 112 (EU standard). 997 for police, 998 for fire, 999 for ambulance.\n\nTap water: Safe to drink in cities. Some people prefer bottled water due to taste.\n\nVisa: EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa. UK citizens can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Poland is part of the Schengen Area.
