2 Weeks in Poland: 2 Itineraries

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The first time that I went to Poland was when I was backpacking across Eastern Europe for three months. During that trip, I visited Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria.

I remember walking around Krakow Old Town, a woman biking, and she drove past me. Right at that moment, I told myself that I could imagine living there.

While that hasn’t happened yet, but I’ve been back to Poland twice since and it’s still one of my favourite budget-friendly European destinations offering the classic European vibe and atmosphere.

If you only have 2 weeks in Europe and plan to see just one country, Poland is an ideal destination. It is suitable for history buffs and admirers of architecture, with its medieval style, WWII history, and numerous villages that appear to have not changed in centuries.

The cities of Poland are overflowing with activities, art and culture, and everything in between, making it an exciting country to explore.

Many people don’t know that Poland is one of the most affordable European destinations. You still get to walk on the unique cobbled streets, visit historical sites, be stunned by beautiful castles, try delicious local dishes, and go to incredible ski resorts in winter without paying too much.

The Baltic Sea borders Poland to the North, Lithuania and Russia to the Northeast, and Belarus and Ukraine to the East. It is considered part of Central Europe, but some references might say it’s part of Eastern Europe of the Baltic States.

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THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING POLAND

4 images - crooked trees, zakopane ski resort, salt mine in Krakow, and Warsaw Royal Palace - 2 Weeks in Poland Itinerary

In Poland, there are so many things to do that might be daunting, especially for first-time visitors. Before starting a 14-day vacation to Poland, there are a few things to consider. In the latter part of this article, you’ll find itineraries that will serve as your guide.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, or nature, you may utilize this list of the top tourist destinations to help you plan your 2 weeks in Poland trip. Get information on how to travel conveniently, the best time to go, what language is spoken most often, the widely used mode of payment, and other helpful tips below:

When is the best time to go to Poland

Poland’s peak season is during the summer months (June – August) when resorts are filled with tourists and the streets are crowded. However, if you want to avoid the crowd, shoulder season is for you during spring (March – April) and autumn (September- October) when the weather is pleasant for travelling but with fewer people.

At the same time, the low season is during winter (November – February). Christmas is a great time to travel to Poland if you don’t mind braving the freezing weather.

The country is widely known for its Christmas markets, which come alive in December in towns like Gdansk, Krakow, and Warsaw. This is also the most fantastic time to hit the slopes.

ALSO READ: What to pack for a 2-week trip

Are 2 weeks enough for Poland

2 weeks in Poland is a lot of time. You can visit historical sites such as Krakow and Warsaw then go for an adventure in Zakopane. You can honestly go and see lots of places in just 14 days without rushing your entire trip.

I recommend that you plan to see 3-4 cities. If you plan great transportation and choose cities that are near one another, you can see 4-5 places.

Getting around

InterCity trains are preferred for travel between major cities like Gdansk, Poznan, Warsaw, and others. You can choose the InterCity, POLREGIO, and Twoje Linie Kolejowe (TLK) train types.

Bus travel is another option for getting across Poland, and it can be more practical if you’re going somewhere mountainous or need to connect to places with shorter distances.

Both regional and local bus services are widely available in small communities. Driving might be a terrific way to discover Poland if you like personal travel and want to venture off the beaten path. Flying on a plane is ideal for travelling long distances in Poland.

Language and currency

The vast majority of Poland’s population are native speakers of the Polish language. If you’re visiting here, you might be worried that you won’t be able to find your way around the country.

However, you don’t have to be anxious about it since roughly one-third of the population can speak English. You’ll encounter more English-speaking locals in significant towns and those employed in hotels and restaurants.

Poland’s national currency is the Zloty (PLN). In terms of the mode of payment, transactions are still made mostly in cash, with credit cards and bank transfers following closely behind.

Visa

Travellers with passport issues by the US, most countries in Latin America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand South Korea, Japan, some countries in the Gulf region, and Malaysia can enter Poland without a visa and stay for up to 90 days.

Other passport holders must apply for a tourist visa in advance (Schengen visa) at the nearest Polish Embassy or Consulate near you at least 6 months before their intended trip.

What is the average cost for 2 weeks in Poland

As mentioned before, travelling in Poland is much cheaper than in other parts of Europe. You can spend about $900 per person for a 14-day trip to Poland ($60/day) if you’re backpacking and can stay in hostels.

For a couple, you can take advantage of the private room without paying double. Around $1,100 ($80/day) should work for 2 weeks, which is also a great amount for a solo traveller on a mid-range budget.

For those who plan to travel in luxury, $2,200 ($150/day) and up will allow you to stay in 5-star hotels and dine at nicer restaurants. You can also take taxis most of the time during your 14-day stay.

Accommodation in Poland is quite affordable, the highest cost would go to taking domestic flights and dining. However, you can save money by staying in shared dorm rooms, taking local buses, and buying food at food stalls and grocery shops.

RELATED POST: Best Honeymoon Destinations for 2 Weeks

Other basic travel tips

When you start planning your itinerary, I recommend you book your travel arrangements as soon as possible, especially the flights since those change so much. If you find a cheap one, grab those right away.

When it comes to booking a hotel, if you are coming in the peak season, book your room right away.

Below is a list of travel services I love to use. A lot of them allow me to cancel at the last minute without paying high cancellation fees while other sites have a variety of options.

HOTELS
VISA
CAR RENT
TOURS
FLIGHTS
BUS (EU/US/CA)
TRAINS (EUROPE)
TRAIN/BUS (ASIA)
BOOKED TOURS
TRAVEL INSURANCE
RETURN TICKET
HOSTELS
AIRPORT PICK UP
CRUISES
BIKE RENTAL

TOP THINGS TO SEE IN POLAND (pinned map)

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN POLAND ITINERARY

Poland is a relatively vast and lovely place to visit, perched in the heart of Europe. Whether you’re looking to relax slowly, go on an epic adventure, or take a weekend trip, you’ll discover a few places that appeal to you.

The following is a list of the important places you should visit during your 14 days in Poland. If you want to skip the crowds, you can select between these two itineraries designed for first-timers and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

You don’t have to adhere to the itinerary strictly. Just choose the activities that intrigue you.

Itinerary #1: First-timers (Warsaw, Krakow, Zakopane, Wrocklaw, Gdansk)

For first-timers in Poland, you should include the must-see tourist destinations in your 2 weeks in Poland itinerary: Warsaw, Krakow, Zakopane, Wroclaw, and Gdansk. Warsaw city has a 1,000-year history to explore with unique architecture and culture.

The Polish Aviation Museum and the National Museum of Science and Technology are Krakow’s two most popular museums.

Ski towns, including Zakopane, are famous for hiking and mountain biking during summer. As for Wroclaw, theatres, galleries, and other cultural institutions are abundant. On the other hand, Gdansk is known for its historical sites such as churches, cathedrals, and castles.

2 images - Krakow Barbican and Royal Castle in Warsaw - 2 Weeks in Poland Itinerary

Warsaw for 3 days

As soon as World War II was over, the city launched a tremendous effort to rebuild its historic centre per the original blueprints. The city of Warsaw was formed in the 13th century, and Old Town Market Square was a medieval plaza built in the centre of the Old Town.

There is no better place to begin your tour in Poland than here, the country’s capital. The National Museum documents the city’s history and is also home to Poland’s most extensive collection of artworks, including several pieces once part of Adolf Hitler’s personal collection.

Take a stroll at the formal gardens of Lazienki Palace, Warsaw’s largest park and complex. You can find a planetarium, pavilions, an outdoor theatre, and more inside this 18th-century palace encircled by 76 hectares of an urban forest.

Krakow and Zakopane for 5 days

Among the best spots to visit in the country is Krakow’s Old Town, one of the earliest established UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is conveniently situated at the foot of Wawel Royal Castle, where exquisite gardens and former royal guests’ apartments can be found.

You should plan to visit Kazimierz, the historic Jewish neighbourhood, and learn about Jewish history. Poland’s top snow destination is the town of Zakopane, which is situated at the base of the Tatra Mountains.

The two most famous skiing areas close to Zakopane are Gubaówka Mountain and Kasprowy Wierch Peak. Both novice and expert skiers can experience world-class snowboarding and skiing with spectacular landscape views.

It takes an average of 2 hr 45 min to arrive from Warsaw to Krakow by train, over an estimated distance of 250 km (155 miles). Usually, 17 trains operate daily from Warsaw to Krakow.

However, if you want to go to Zakopane from Warsaw, it would be ideal for travelling by plane, which takes 55 minutes.

2 images - Wroclaw Market Square and Zakopane in summer

Wroclaw or Poznan for 3 days

The 13th-century Main Market Square, home to St. Elizabeth’s Church and the Old Town Hall, is a must-visit area of Wroclaw. A short distance away is the Pan Tadeusz Museum, which features multimedia exhibitions about Polish traditions.

As for Poznan, The Old Market Square is a popular place to visit with its vibrant and charming pastel-painted homes with restaurants and bars, and you can also stop by the Stary Browar. This old brewery has been transformed into a shopping centre and art gallery.

You can get from Krakow to Wroclaw the fastest way is by train, which takes around 2 hr 59 min. About 17 trains operate daily from Krakow to Wroclaw, with 235 km (146 miles) between these destinations.

As for the journey from Krakow to Poznan by train, you can expect to arrive in roughly 5 hr, which spans 335 km (208 miles).

Gdansk for 3 days

In Gdansk, you will find Poland’s principal seaport, which makes it an excellent place to end your 2 weeks in Poland trip. The City Gates and the Prison Tower are some prominent buildings in this area that are worth checking out.

St. Mary’s, the world’s largest brick church, the Wisloujscie Fortress, and the Gdansk Nowy Port Lighthouse are also in Gdansk.

Despite not being directly impacted by the war, Gdansk has one of the most extraordinary museums in the nation, housing a collection of vehicles, relics, documents, and images of the war.

The quickest way to travel from Wroclaw to Gdansk is around 1 hr 5 min by plane. You can also hop on a 3 hr 38 min train ride from Poznan to Gdansk along the 246 km (153 miles) route.

Itinerary #2: Off-the-beaten Path (Warsaw, Malbork, Szczecin, Poznan, Lodz)

If you’ve already been to the significant towns in Poland and want to see more of the underrated side, this 2 weeks in Poland itinerary is for you. This guide will take you through the less-visited sights and give you a genuine understanding of the life of the Polish people throughout history.

Whether searching for a relaxing getaway or capturing some Instagrammable shots, these cities in Poland have much to offer. Below are my top recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations in Poland for travellers who wish to avoid tourist crowds.

2 images - Brick Milkk in Gdansk and Marlbork Castle

Warsaw for 3 days

The Crooked Forest, which lies close to the hamlet of Gryfino, is a unique natural wonder that defies explanation. Several pine trees stand alone in this location, each bending northward and rising at a 90-degree angle at its base. Even today, the cause of bent trees still remains a misery.

It’s a beautiful setting to start your trip here as you go on a peaceful trek amid the forest’s solitude. One of the first locations in Poland to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wawel Royal Castle has always played a significant role in the country’s history.

Among the other collections. Weapons, armour, porcelains and ceramics, numerous textiles and prints, and a sizable amount of antique furniture.

Malbork for 2 days

Despite its beginnings as a fortress, the Malbork Castle was the world’s largest castle when it was finished in the 14th century for the Teutonic Knights Crusaders.

It’s a famous site for tourists since it is now a museum where you can see many of its original chambers that have been meticulously conserved. The tour includes the castle’s courtyards, kitchen, and tapestry rooms.

The train journey from Warsaw to Malbork is roughly 2 hr 2 min via PKP Intercity. Alternatively, you can take a 4 hr 5 min-bus ride from Warsaw to Malbork with FlixBus, covering a distance of 311 km (193 miles).

2 images - Neptune Fountain in Gdansk and Gmina Gryfino

Szczecin for 3 days

The Szczecin Philharmonic is among the top spots in this city since it was designed to accommodate a chamber music hall and a symphony hall.

Everyone who passes by is attracted to its metal and glass exterior, complemented with light illuminations. If you’re into nature, don’t forget to drop by Szmaragdowe Lake, where you can view Lower Odra River and Szczecin City from its observation deck.

To help you save time, I recommend booking a flight from Malbork to Szczecin, which often takes 2 hr 40 min. Alternatively, if you have a car rental, you can drive from Malbork to Szczecin in 4 hr 47 min with a total distance of 346 km (215 miles) along routes DK22 and DK10.

Poznan for 3 days

If you plan to explore Poznan, ensure to put Fara Poznan in your places to visit since it’s a gorgeous pink Roman Catholic Basilica tucked away from the Old Market Square.

Just north of it is Park Cytadela w Poznaniu, the city’s largest urban park. If you’re into pastries, swing by St. Martin’s Croissant and taste their special dessert, a croissant with poppy-seed filling.

Around 16 trains operate daily from Szczecin to Poznan, and the fastest train ride takes roughly 3 hr 10 min to arrive. You can also opt for a 3 hr 30 min-bus ride.

Alternatively, if you rent a car, the direct drive between the two cities is around 2 hr 50 min to complete the 265 km (165 miles) journey via routes S3 and A2.

Lodz for 3 days

You can end your two weeks in Poland in Lodz, where you can find Piotkowska Street, the world’s longest commercial street at 5 km. The best eateries, pubs, and boutiques in the city can be spotted along this route, which runs between Liberty Square and Independence Square.

If you’re into shopping, Manufaktura is for you since it houses 240 stores and boutiques to wander through, as well as many cinemas, restaurants, bars, theatres, a fitness centre, and more.

You can expect the trip from Poznan to Lodz, which spans 188 km (117 miles) by train to take roughly 2 hr 48 min. The fastest bus service between the cities is around 3 hr 37 min.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO (each city)

I recommend you pin these attractions on your digital map. This will help you visualise the places you want to see and how you want to create your travel itinerary.

You can tell which places are near one another, which locations you can see in one day which ones will take an entire day to reach, and in what order you want to see each city.

Warsaw

Krakow

Zakopane

Wroclaw

Poznan

Gdansk

Malbork

  • Malbork Castle and Museum – go on a 6-hour tour
  • Nad Nogatem
  • Zbytkowa Wieza Cisnien
  • Mariacka Gate in Malbork
  • Day trip to Elblag

Szczecin

  • Enjoy an Old Town walking tour – read the reviews
  • Gmina Gryfino
  • Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle in Szczecin
  • Waly Chrobrego
  • Go do a food and beer tasting tour or vodka tasting tour
  • Kasprowicz Park
  • Archcathedral Basilica of St. James the
  • The Dialogue Centre Upheavals
  • Karlowicz Philharmonic
  • Museum of Technology and Transportation 
  • Bismarck Tower
  • Dabie Lake
  • Bukowa Forest Landscape Park

Lodz

  • Join a Jewish Heritage tour or Old Town walking tour
  • Piotrkowska Street
  • Fala Aquapark
  • Museum of the City of Lodz
  • Central Museum of Textiles
  • Ksiezy Mlyn
  • Cinema Museum in Lodz
  • EC1 Lodz – City of Culture
  • Museum of Art in Lodz MS1
  • Muzeum Fabryki
  • Museum of Independence Traditions 

MUST-TRY POLISH DISHES, DRINKS, AND SNACKS

3 images Pierogi, Szarlotka, and Barszcz Czerwony

If you’re going to Poland, you can’t leave without trying out the local dishes and drinks. Ensure you order at least 3-4 dishes during your trip to complete the ultimate Polish adventure. Remember to wash down with some yummy Polish alcoholic drinks or some sweets.

  • Pierogi (dumplings)
  • Kotlet Schabowy (breaded and fried pork chop)
  • Gołąbki (cabbage rolls)
  • Polskie naleśniki (Polish pancakes)
  • Bigos (hunter’s stew)
  • Gulasz (goulash)
  • Placki Ziemniaczane (potato pancakes)
  • Barszcz Czerwony (red beetroot soup)
  • Szarlotka (apple pie)
  • Polish Paczki (doughnuts)
  • Naleśniki (Polish crepes)
  • Ziemniaczki (Polish rum balls)
  • Goldwasser
  • Kompot (compote)
  • Oranzada (orangeade)
  • Krupnik

ACCOMMODATIONS (per city)

Accommodations are quite affordable in Poland compared to the west and south of Europe. However, you can still expect the hotels to be fully booked during peak season since many Polish would come home for a vacation.

Make sure you book your room in advance to avoid staying in a mediocre place and paying more than you should.

Warsaw

Krakow

Zakopane

Wroclaw

Poznan

Gdansk

Szczecin

Lodz

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN POLAND

Poland is one location that isn’t entirely on the tourist radar but is rapidly developing into a beautiful European holiday destination. It is a hidden jewel in Eastern Europe, with a fascinating culture, a long history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes.

This country is perfect for people seeking a natural setting away from the metropolis, offering mountains, lakes, and forests.

Exploring the Old Towns of several Polish cities will leave you breathless. Poland’s castles are among the most distinctive aspects of its extensive history and are one of the top attractions. Poland’s castles are majestic and fascinating, whether it be the country’s past or fairy tales.

2 weeks in Poland can be filled with sightseeing relating to World War II, Polish culture, and tasting local dishes. You can also include a visit to the beach if you’re going during summer or enjoy the slopes for skiing if you visit in winter.

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Spend two weeks in Poland, exploring historic Warsaw, medieval Krakow, and the stunning Tatra Mountains. Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, experience the solemnity of Auschwitz, and enjoy delicious pierogi. A journey through history and natural beauty. via @twoweektraveller