Polish cities are the hottest travel destinations right now – more than 18.3 million tourists last year. At that point it’s pointless to promote Warsaw, Cracow or Gdansk once again – everyone knows that they are vibrant and lovely towns, definitely worth visiting. But outside the urban centres, there are forests, mountains and lakes to be explored in Poland. As well as medieval castles. In general, Poland is full of amazingly beautiful places and monuments, such as The Baltic Sea, the Masurian Lake District, the Tatra Mountains. So without further ado – let’s check 10 locations in Poland which you NEED to see.
Białowieża National Park
Białowieża Park is one of the last ancient woodlands in Europe. It’s one of the most significant swaths of original, old growth forest on the continent. It means that the land and trees have never been touched and changed by human hands. Thanks to that, you can imagine how Europe would look like had civilization never evolved. Also – a species of the European bison supposedly died out in 1919. Not for long, because the breed one of Poland’s national animals, has been reintroduced into the wild, precisely at the Białowieża National Park. There are several reserves here, where Europe’s largest mammals can be viewed in their natural habitat.
Beaches of the Baltic Sea
Location of Poland should satisfy every traveller and tourist. Breathtaking and adventurous mountains on the south and Baltic Sea up north, with a long coastline. Thanks to that, all of the travelling families or “lazy cats” tourists, have a vast variety of lovely beaches to choose from. Polish beaches are wide and white or gold. Most of them are commercialized, but you can find almost not empty and utterly peaceful ones. During the summer, the sea water temperature is around 16-18° C. It’s warm enough to cool down during a hot day. If you are observant (and bit lucky obviously), you can spot a loosely thrown amber on the beach. In conclusion – if you are looking for bright sand and salt water, you just found the place. Discover Polish coastline along with beautiful lagoons, walking dunes, high cliffs and picturesque lakes.
Biskupin Settlement
The archaeology research found that the Biskupin Settlement was built on a marshy island, around 738 B.C. These days, it’s one of the best examined and reconstructed archaeological sites in Poland. It consists of fragments partially surrounded by a dam and a breakwater with a characteristic gate and tower. The venue presents everyday objects made of bronze, stone and iron. They are also demonstrating according to ancient techniques how blacksmiths, tanners, horn makers, potters, and weavers went about their crafts. And how to fight in duels using the oldest types of weapons. Visitors also have an opportunity to watch conservationists of ancient weapons at work. So experience battles and presentations of old and early medieval craftsmanship, and listen to concerts of music from distant epochs. So if you are a history buff or a big fan of ancient cultures, it’s a place for you.
Valley of Five Polish Ponds
You seek spectacular views and mountainous scenery? I strongly recommend The Valley of Five Lakes. It’s the most famous tourist attraction in the Tatra Mountains region. This post-glacial area spread on 6.5 km2 and is 4 km long. It’s surrounded by numerous peaks and ridges, unspoiled nature, amazing landscapes and freshest of air. So get up early in the morning, preferably when it is still dark. Fix yourself some sandwiches and sweets on the road, prepare your camera and go. Try to catch a “mountain sunrise” and take a few breathtaking panoramas snapshots, which you will treasure for life in your memories!
The Great Masurian Lakes
Are you enjoying yourself the best sailing on the water and you can tirelessly singing next to the fireplace? Congrats, you just found a perfect spot! Masuria is the most famous lake region in Poland. The northeast of Poland area offers over 2,000 lakes that are connected by tiny canals and rivers. If you brave enough, try yourself on the Lake Śniardwy or Lake Niegocin and paddle the scenic Krutynia River. The towns of Giżycko and Mikołajki make the best bases for sailing and paddling trips. Basically, all of the water sports, cycling, canoe trips and horse riding are also available! Neverending hills of green grass and blooming flowers roll to the horizon. For the love of god – just don’t forget your camera…
The Slowinski National Park
Did you know that Poland has its own sand dunes? Up north, near the little town called Leba, you can experience a little Sahara! Safeguarded reserves of Slowinski National Park are famous because of its shifting nature. Aside from the sand, there are plenty of forests areas, so it’s a lovely place for the outdoorsy types of people. Dunes themselves are formed as waves and wind of the Baltic shores, carry sand onshore and can reach as high as 30 meters. Their forms are changing according to the season and are known as the “moving dunes.” If you are planning to stay around a bit longer, campsites and hotels offer pretty good accommodation for everyone interested in exploring the walking trails
Hel Peninsula
One of the most beautiful places in northern Poland is a peninsula with the funny name. Long stretches of golden sand and the sunbathing spots are surrounded by little towns down the road. Despite its small size Hel Peninsula is the most favourite seaside spot in Poland, according to the number of tourists. Yes, it’s small and also little hidden, but charming as hell (haha). It’s a real gem. Because it’s at the end of the actual peninsula, the train doesn’t go any further. The location is quite unusual – once you got there, you will be simply surrounded by the sea and wide, sandy beach. And because of plenty other resorts around, you can always jump on a train or take a bike or motor and explore. The place gives you a real chance to rest just like you want and away from crowds.
Tatra National Park
Travellers who crave scenic beauty will find it in south-central Poland, located in Tatra National Park. It’s one of the most visited national park in Poland, which delights hikers with its 270 km of trails. This park area established in 1954 is mainly forests and contains meadows and many rock formations characteristic in the Tatra Mountains. Adrenaline seekers can enjoy touring six of the park’s 650 caves which are open to the public. The park also offers Wielka Siklawa waterfall that is 70 meters high, as well as more than 30 alpine lakes to admire. There are plenty of other things to do around, such as mountain biking, rock climbing or even paragliding. Also, the Tatra National Park is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. That means that breathtakingly beautiful view is guaranteed.
Świnoujście
Swinoujscie is a port city and a health-resort, that is revered by locals as an essential holiday resort destination. It has the unique characteristic of being wholly located on 44 islands. This is the perfect destination for everyone who enjoys the beach life, with gently white sand. Probably the biggest attractions over there are the 170-year-old Spa Park, where visitors can walk the grounds and wonder the abundant vegetation. History buffs interested in the maritime will definitely visit the Museum of Sea Fishing in the old town hall. Nature lovers will love Karsibor Island bird reserve and Wolin Island’s iconic lighthouse for panoramic views of Swinoujscie. That building is the tallest structure in the Baltic Sea’s area. It also offers a scenic place for those in need of memorable photos.
Malbork
The Malbork city is home to most magnificent medieval castle ruins in Europe. If history and architecture is “your thing”, then this is the best place for you. It’s not only magnificent but also has a fantastic tale to discover. The castle complexes and the fortresses made with red bricks is like a time-travel portal. See a glimpse of the past and know more about the medieval! Located between the Great Masurian area and Elbląg Lakes, Malbork Castle stands at the top of the list of main attractions in Poland today. It’s Europe’s largest Gothic castle, completed in 1409 deservedly listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
