First-time Visitor Tips

12 things I wish I had known before my first trip to Poland:

1. Poland is EU and Schengen — but not Euro. Payment is in Złoty (PLN). Card payment works almost everywhere (even at market stalls), but having some cash for small shops and tips is sensible. DO NOT exchange at airport Kantor exchange offices with poor rates!
2. The "Bar Mleczny" is no joke. These "milk bars" are communist canteens that still exist — and are fantastic. Polish home cooking at bargain prices, loved by students, pensioners, and increasingly tourists. A must-try!
3. Polish is difficult — but try it anyway. "Dziękuję" (Thank you, pronounced: Jen-koo-yeh) and "Dzień dobry" (Good day, pronounced: Jenj dobri) open hearts. Younger Poles often speak good English, the older generation less so.
4. History is omnipresent. World War II, the Holocaust, and the communist era have left deep marks. Poles expect respect for their history. Auschwitz-Birkenau is not a photo spot — it is a memorial.
5. Drinking culture is big. Wódka is the national drink, but the craft beer revolution has turned Poland into a beer paradise. "Na zdrowie!" (Cheers!) is often heard. Never drink alone — always with a toast.
6. Poland is very Catholic. 87% of the population are Catholic, churches are full (especially on Sundays). Respectful clothing in churches is a given. Religious holidays (Easter, All Saints, Christmas) are celebrated intensely.
7. The hospitality is overwhelming. If you are invited, you will be fed until you drop. "Another piece?" is not a question, but a statement. Refusing is almost impossible (and impolite).
8. Train travel is fantastic. Poland's trains are modern, punctual, and affordable. The EIP (Express InterCity Premium) travels Warsaw–Krakow in 2.5 hours. Buy tickets early online — saver fares from 8€!
9. Krakow is more touristy than you think. In summer, the Rynek Główny is as crowded as St. Mark's Square in Venice. Come in May, September, or October for a better experience. Or head to Wrocław — just as beautiful, half as crowded.
10. Withdrawing money at ATMs: Be careful! Many ATMs offer "dynamic currency conversion" (convert to Euro). ALWAYS decline and withdraw in PLN — otherwise, you pay 5–10% more due to the poor exchange rate.
11. Many things are closed on Sundays. Since 2018, there has been a trade ban in Poland on most Sundays. Supermarkets, shopping centers, and many shops are closed. Restaurants, cafés, museums, and gas stations remain open.
12. Safety is excellent. Poland is one of the safest countries in Europe. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Usual big city caution (pickpockets at tourist spots) is completely sufficient.