Ancient capital Kraków is known for the Wawel, an impressive castle/cathedral complex from which the country was once run, whilst Warsaw is of course known for what happened here during the war. But what about charming Gdansk, the maritime city with a medieval heart and easy access to the Polish Baltic coastline? Nature-lovers shouldn't forget about the Carpathian Mountains, dotted with open-air ethnographic museums and old wooden churches, whilst Poland also boasts nine national parks; from the lake-district peace of Mazury to the stunning, snow-capped Tatra Mountains. The best places to stay in Poland will vary depending on your reason to visit. But we have a wide selection to suit everyone from chic city centre pads to design hotels in the heart of the countryside.
Dramatic history, impressive architecture, wonderfully heart-warming food, vibrant cities with life and soul, plus unspoiled countryside. Many travellers are aware of some of Poland's appeal, but not everyone can see beyond the visible reminders of its complicated history (and that goes for pre-WWII, too).
If you're looking for more than just a city break then it's worth trying to visit both Poland's major cities, and after that to head off exploring some of her natural beauty.
Bia?owie?a is a good place to do the latter. This is Poland's oldest national park with pockets of truly ancient forest, and also the original home of the European bison - Europe's largest land mammal.
Mazury, the 'great lakes district' is another beautiful sight, with its rolling, green hills and mirrored lakes, whilst there are also plenty of charming little villages to choose from here.
If you're visiting Poland for the country's dramatic scenery then the alpine Tatras will be more to your liking, with their towering peaks and steep, rocky drops.
What Not To Miss
- Kraków is home to Europe's largest main square, dating back to the 13th century and filled with beautiful architecture that's a delight to all visitors. Warsaw also has a similarly stunning square, the Old Market Place, though it's slightly more colourful. Either way, they're both top spots!
- History buffs will love a trip to the resplendent Malbork Castle (about 70km south east of Gdansk), built all the way back in 1274, or the Gothic 14th century Wawel Castle in Krakow.
- If you want to truly take in Poland's past then visiting the infamous Auschwitz-Birkenau is a must. The most notorious of German WWII concentration camps, it's an incredibly moving, if harrowing, experience.
- The Wieliczka Salt Mine, located on the outskirts of Kraków, is a truly jaw-dropping spot. Believed to be one of the world's oldest companies, with salt having been mined here continually since the 13th century, it features an entire underground city carved out of rock salt - even boasting chandelier lighting and a variety of sculptures!
With such a wide variety of locations to choose from, have a ponder over what you're looking for before browsing through our list of the best places to stay in Poland.