2025 Poland Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

Have you ever seen a tree you can walk inside? This isn't a conceptual design but a real ancient tree located in the small village of Chudów, Silesia, Poland, named Topola Tekla. 📍44-177 Chudów This Canadian poplar, an introduced species "immigrated" from Canada, is already 100 years old and currently holds the record for the largest girth among Poland's natural monument trees. Its uniqueness lies in its hollow trunk – instead of being cut down, locals helped install doors and windows, transforming it into an accessible "treehouse". And it's still thriving! 🌿 New leaves sprout every spring. ⸻ 🌱 How does it stay alive? One might assume a hollow trunk means the end of life, but that's not the case. • Poplars are remarkably resilient. Even with a rotten core, as long as the outer vascular tissues remain intact, leaves can still grow and nutrients circulate normally. • Though hollow inside, Topola Tekla's outer bark remains alive, continuing photosynthesis. • Local residents carefully maintain it with protective fencing, regular checkups, and foot traffic prevention – achieving true "hollow yet living" dignity. So when sitting inside, rest assured – it's not only unharmed but delighted to host you. 🌳 What does this "treehouse" look like? • The door is carved into the trunk, opening to reveal a cozy space with table and chairs. • Accommodating 2-3 people, it offers fantastic photo ops like stepping into a fairytale. • While you sip hot cocoa in its "heart", new leaves keep growing outside... The experience feels less magical than profoundly heartwarming. ⸻ 🏰 Fancy visiting a castle nearby? Adjacent to Tekla stands 16th-century Renaissance-style Chudów Castle. Though now mostly walls, it was once a prestigious noble estate! Its flatland location was strategically chosen for "transport access, moat excavation, and adjacent farmland" – proving flat castles can rule comfortably too! Despite its ruined appearance, it's quite vibrant: • Summer opens the tower for panoramic views; • The lawns often host picnickers and dog walkers; • Medieval festivals feature armor-clad performers and royal reenactments; 📚 Bonus knowledge: • Tekla is a "Robusta" variety of Canadian poplar, planted around the 1920s; • Officially designated a "protected natural monument" since 1981; • Still sprouts new branches annually, stubbornly alive despite its hollow core (laughs); 📍 Sometimes travel encounters aren't just scenery, but revelations: A tree that refuses to give up becomes landscape; A castle left unrestored still finds purpose.

#Overseas Travel Strategy Poland is an Eastern European country facing the Baltic Sea, known for its medieval architecture and Jewish heritage The Baltic States are three countries that line the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, south of Finland, from north to south In VOL.1, we will mainly introduce our tour of the old towns of Warsaw in Poland and Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania This is a record of the eight days from leaving Japan to returning home °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• Travel Itinerary 🔸Day 1 22:35 Depart Narita and fly to Warsaw on Polish Airlines✈️ ◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹ 🔸Day 2 6:00 Arrive in Warsaw 6:40 Take a bus to Lazienki Park, approx. 12km, approx. 20 minutes🚌 7:00 Arrive at Lazienki Park Start sightseeing in the historic district of Warsaw, a World Heritage Site Church of the Right Cross, 1st Town Square, Barbican, etc. 11:00 Take a bus to Warsaw Airport, approx. 12km, approx. 20 minutes🚌 14:15 Depart Warsaw and fly to Vilnius, Lithuania on Polish Airlines✈️ 16:20 Arrive in Vilnius 17:00 Take a bus to the Radisson Blu Royal Astoria Hotel in the old town of Vilnius, about 9km, about 20 minutes🚌 17:20 Arrive at the hotel ◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹ 🔸Day 3 9:00 Start sightseeing in the World Heritage Site of Vilnius Historical District Vilnius Cathedral, Church of St. Peter and Paul, Gate of Dawn, etc. 12:00 Lunch 13:00 Take a bus to Trakai Castle, about 30km, about 1 hour🚌 14:00 Arrive at Trakai Castle Walk around Trakai Castle and the lakeside 17:00 Take a bus to Vilnius, about 30km, about 1 hour 🚌 18:00 Arrive at the hotel °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• 🔹Put your essentials for 1-2 nights in your carry-on luggage There are more and more cases of checked luggage being lost Even if you lose it at the local airport and arrange for delivery, you may not be able to pick it up right away We recommend that you bring your essentials for 1-2 nights in your carry-on luggage 🔹Credit card Many countries in Europe and the US are moving towards a cashless society We recommend that you bring a credit card to spread the risk of theft The most widely used VISA and MasterCard in the world are convenient #WorldHeritage #OverseasTravel #Poland #Warsaw #Lithuania

🎩 Warsaw, Poland: A European treasure you can't miss!✨ Must-visit attractions 🏰 - **Old Town Market Square**: One of the largest squares in Europe, surrounded by historic buildings and cafes☕️. - **Royal Castle**: A former royal palace, now a museum🖼️, offering a rich array of art exhibitions. - **Warsaw Uprising Museum**: Located on the banks of the Vistula River, it tells the story of the heroic resistance of the people of Warsaw🛡️. - **Westerplatte Heroes Monument**: Commemorates the resistance of the people of Warsaw during World War II🌅. - **Lazienki Park**: The largest park in the city, perfect for walking and cycling🚲. - **Palace of Culture and Science**: The highest point overlooking the city of Warsaw, with a free observation deck at the top when open🌆. Food and shopping 🍲🛍️ - **Food**: Don't miss traditional Polish dishes such as dumplings, borscht, and stews🥟🍲. - **Shopping**: For shopping, head to Ujazdowskie Avenue and Krakowskie Przedmiescie, where you'll find international brands like Zara and H&M, as well as Polish brands🛒🛍️. Cultural events 🎉 - **Chopin Music Festival**: Held every October in honor of Polish composer Chopin🎹. - **Jewish Culture Festival**: Held in May, showcasing Jewish culture and history🕍.

#fallcolors Autumn in Poland was a magical experience! I spent most of my time in Kraków, where the streets of the Old Town looked even more charming with the trees turning shades of gold and red. Walking around Rynek Główny, the largest medieval square in Europe, is free, and the colorful autumn backdrop made it feel like I’d stepped into a fairytale. I also took a trip to Zakopane, nestled in the Tatra Mountains. The hiking trails were covered in fallen leaves, making the scenery absolutely breathtaking. Entry to the Tatra National Park is about 6 PLN (€1.50), and it’s worth every bit for the stunning views. Autumn in Poland is the perfect time to explore both its cities and nature! 🍂🏰🏞️ #AutumnInPoland #KrakowOldTown #TatraMountains #FallVibes #PolandAdventure #ZakopaneHiking

I went on a trip to Poland around the summer two years ago. There is a six to seven hour time difference between Poland and Japan. Poland is a neighboring country of Germany, and it takes four hours by train from Frankfurt or Munich to Poland. When going to Poland, I recommend getting off at an airport in Germany.

#Introducing the #Palace of Culture and Science, a landmark of Warsaw "As the tallest building in Poland, it is a landmark for tourists who stand out from anywhere in the city." 🌇 Actually, I had seen a heart-shaped building in a picture somewhere, so I was happy to see that it was that! 🙂 First, I went into the Palace of Culture and Science, which is the building next door, to see the night view. I remember being happy because there was also an LG building there! #WinterTravel #GourmetExploration #SafeTravel #HappyNewYear #CityTravel

Warsaw, the capital of Poland in Eastern Europe, was nearly destroyed during World War II. However, thanks to the efforts of later generations, nearly the entire Old Town has been miraculously restored. Today's Old Town Square, while a replica, retains 90% of its original appearance. #bucketlist #bucketlist#tbt

A fairytale place - Czocha Castle in Poland, long corridors, backed by rivers, red roofs and study-filled dens, this castle can satisfy all the imagination of medieval castles. The castle of Zocha dates back to the thirteenth century, and although it has undergone many baptisms of war, it still maintains a complete romantic face. Now there are cafes and hotels in the castle, you can really experience the feeling of living in the castle, of course, the most important thing is to take 1000 photos!

I am still thinking about the Wieliczka Salt Mine. It is not a salt mine. It can be special, and the tickets should be the most expensive spots in Poland. Its not a diamond. How can it be so famous? When I really got to the bottom of the 300 meters, it was a little big contrast with my expectations. The beautiful Lithuanian narrator, Miss Sister, took us over fifty stairs, and the whole person was fainting haha. The deeper and deeper the shock, the more difficult it is to have more than 300 meters of churches, restaurants, lakes. There is a room. This mine is more like an underground city. Many of the halls are very empty and magnificent. It is not a nine-figure map. It can be called an artificial miracle. It can be regarded as a series of life. In the mine, how to smash the wall, it is salty hahaha. Most statues are carved with salt stone.

There are castles in the fairy tale, there are stories in the castle, today I recommend a special historic town - Krakow, a small city with few tourists in Asia. When I get up early, I dont have to go to the castle to pat. I seem to have a hard time laughing out on the tripod. The European sunshine is always very warm, so I dont want to avoid it, so Ive been darker recently. I have been thinking about the new meaning of travel for me at the present time. It is more like a way of life. It originates from life, but it is not higher than life. It is soluble in life, but it is not the whole life. Traveling every day can The different freshness that I touch will make my life look more vivid. However, there is no easy word in adult life. It is much harder to travel by travel than to travel by advertising or normal work. Now it is much harder to think about sticking to the original intention than to step-by-step development. Hahaha, there is no way to go under the sun. Kan, only the endless hurdle!

#mytraveldiary Malá Fatra in Žilina Region is a mountain range that surprises with its mix of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and charming meadows. It is smaller than the Tatras but has a wild beauty that makes it unforgettable. Hikes here range from easy forest strolls to thrilling ridge walks where views stretch endlessly across northern Slovakia. The highest peak, Veľký Kriváň, is a favorite for its accessible trail and sweeping panorama. Villages around the range welcome visitors with cozy guesthouses and traditional Slovak dishes, adding warmth to the mountain adventure. In summer, trails burst with wildflowers and rushing streams, while winter brings snow covered slopes perfect for skiing. The area feels both welcoming and untamed, a perfect balance for travelers who love nature. Malá Fatra is truly a gem for those who want authentic mountain experiences without the crowds.

#mytraveldiary Beskid Żywiecki in Silesian Voivodeship is a range that feels wild, scenic, and full of character. Known for peaks like Babia Góra, often called the Queen of the Beskids, it offers some of the most rewarding hiking in Poland. Trails here vary from gentle forest walks to challenging climbs that bring you above the treeline into wide open spaces with panoramic views. The region is rich in wildlife and the atmosphere has a raw beauty that makes every visit memorable. Zywiec, the nearby town, adds another layer to the experience with its historic charm and famous brewery. In winter, the slopes turn into a great playground for skiers and snowboarders, while summer is all about hiking and cycling. Beskid Żywiecki is a perfect destination for those who want both adventure and a strong taste of mountain culture.

#mytraveldiary Muszyna in Lesser Poland Voivodeship is a small town that perfectly blends natural beauty with a calm, relaxing vibe. Known for its mineral springs, it is a great place to slow down and recharge. The spa parks are lovely for a gentle walk, especially the sensory gardens filled with flowers, herbs, and fountains that create a soothing atmosphere. The surrounding mountains offer plenty of hiking opportunities, with trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking the Poprad Valley. In winter, Muszyna is close to ski slopes, making it a versatile destination for every season. The town also has a charming historic side, with a castle hill that gives you a glimpse into the past and wonderful views from the top. Muszyna is the kind of place where you can balance outdoor adventure with rest and quiet comfort.

#mytraveldiary Beskid Śląski in Silesian Voivodeship is a welcoming mountain range that combines beautiful trails with a lively local atmosphere. The area is full of well marked paths leading through forests, rolling ridges, and scenic valleys, making it great for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Peaks like Skrzyczne or Barania Góra reward with wide views across the region, and along the way you can stop at traditional mountain huts for hearty Polish food. In winter, Beskid Śląski turns into a popular skiing destination with resorts in Szczyrk and Wisła drawing visitors from all over. The region also has a strong cultural side, with charming towns, local traditions, and festivals adding to the experience. Whether you come for outdoor activities or to relax and soak in the mountain air, Beskid Śląski offers a little bit of everything in southern Poland.

#mytraveldiary Chatka Puchatka on Połonina Wetlińska in Podkarpackie Voivodeship is one of those places that hikers remember long after leaving. Sitting high above the valleys, it feels like a cozy shelter at the edge of the world. The climb up from Wetlina is rewarding, with meadows and forest paths opening into wide landscapes that stretch endlessly across the Bieszczady mountains. The hut itself is simple but full of character, a spot to rest, warm up, and share stories with fellow travelers. Whether you come in summer when the grasses sway in the wind or in winter when snow covers the slopes, the atmosphere always feels special. Sunsets here are especially unforgettable, painting the horizon in golden and red hues. Chatka Puchatka is not just a shelter, it is a symbol of the wild and inviting heart of the Bieszczady.

#mytraveldiary Beskid Maly near Andrychow in Lesser Poland Voivodeship is one of those regions that feels both accessible and untouched at the same time. The mountains here may not be the highest, but they offer a sense of calm that is hard to find in busier ranges. Rolling hills, forested slopes, and charming clearings create a landscape perfect for relaxed hikes and weekend getaways. Villages scattered across the area bring a warm and authentic atmosphere, often with small inns and local food worth trying. Popular trails lead to peaks like Leskowiec, which reward visitors with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. In winter, the gentle slopes make it a great place for beginners to try skiing or snowboarding. Beskid Maly is a perfect destination for anyone seeking nature, tradition, and a slower pace in the heart of southern Poland.

#mytraveldiary Sopki Stopki on Swietej Katarzyny Street in Milowka, Silesian Voivodeship, is a place that instantly makes you feel welcome. It blends the charm of a rustic mountain retreat with modern comfort, creating the perfect spot to relax after exploring the surrounding Beskid landscapes. The interiors are warm and stylish, with wooden details that match the natural setting outside. Guests can enjoy delicious homemade meals, often inspired by regional recipes, which give an authentic taste of local culture. The location is also a huge plus, as it offers easy access to hiking trails and beautiful views of the Beskid Zywiecki mountains. Whether you come in winter for snowy adventures or in summer for long walks and fresh mountain air, Sopki Stopki delivers a calm and pleasant escape. It feels like a little hidden gem tucked in the heart of southern Poland.

#mytraveldiary Magurka, also known as Magura Orawska, is a charming peak in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship that offers a refreshing break from the more crowded mountain trails. The hike up is not overly demanding, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy nature without the intensity of a high alpine climb. The paths wind through quiet forests and open meadows, creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Once at the top, the views open up to the Orava Basin and the distant Tatra Mountains, which makes the effort feel worthwhile. It is the kind of place where you can take a slower pace, enjoy a picnic, and simply soak in the mountain scenery. Magurka Orawska is ideal for casual hikers, families, or anyone looking to spend time outdoors in a peaceful natural setting.

#mytraveldiary Czerwone Wierchy, located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, is a group of four peaks forming one of the most beautiful ridges in the Tatra Mountains. The name, which means Red Peaks, comes from the unique grasses that turn shades of red in autumn, making the landscape look almost surreal. Hiking here is both challenging and rewarding, with long trails that demand stamina but pay off with breathtaking views stretching across Poland and Slovakia. Along the way, hikers pass rocky paths, alpine meadows, and wide open spaces that create a true mountain experience. The ridge is especially popular in the fall when the colors are at their most dramatic. It is a perfect route for adventurous hikers who enjoy panoramic views, a touch of wilderness, and the feeling of walking along one of the Tatras most iconic mountain ridges.

#mytraveldiary Szyndzielnia, rising to 1028 meters in the Silesian Voivodeship of Poland, is one of the most popular and accessible peaks in the Beskids. Many visitors take the cable car from Bielsko Biała, which makes the journey up easy and enjoyable, but hiking trails are also available for those who prefer a more active climb. The paths are surrounded by peaceful forests, and the higher you go, the more rewarding the views become. At the summit, you will find a historic mountain hut where you can enjoy a warm meal or simply relax with a drink while looking out across rolling ridges and valleys. On clear days, the panorama stretches far into the mountains. Szyndzielnia is a great choice for families, casual walkers, or anyone who wants to enjoy nature without tackling the most demanding trails.

#mytraveldiary Wielka Racza, located in the Żywiec Beskids within the Silesian Voivodeship of Poland, is a mountain that rewards hikers with stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere. At 1236 meters, it is not the tallest peak around, but it stands out thanks to its broad summit and the panoramic vistas that open up across both Poland and Slovakia. The trails leading up are well marked, offering a mix of forest paths, meadows, and gentle climbs that make the hike enjoyable rather than exhausting. At the top, there is a mountain hut where you can rest, enjoy a meal, and take in the wide open scenery. The area is especially charming in summer with its green slopes, and in autumn when the forests glow with color. Wielka Racza is a perfect destination for casual hikers looking for fresh air and unforgettable landscapes.

#mytraveldiary Beskid Niski, Małopolskie, Poland, is a tranquil mountain region known for its gentle hills, lush forests, and peaceful rural charm. Ideal for hiking, cycling, and nature walks, the area offers trails that wind through valleys, meadows, and small villages, providing a quiet escape from bustling city life. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills, rivers, and distant peaks, making it perfect for photography and outdoor relaxation. The region is rich in flora and fauna, with opportunities to spot deer, birds, and other wildlife. Traditional villages showcase wooden architecture, local markets, and authentic Polish culture, adding to the area’s appeal. Whether exploring scenic trails, enjoying picnics in nature, or discovering cultural heritage, Beskid Niski in Małopolskie provides a rejuvenating and memorable experience for travelers seeking calm, natural beauty, and authentic mountain life.

#mytraveldiary Kysucká Vrchovina, Žilinský, Slovakia, is a picturesque region known for its gentle hills, lush forests, and tranquil rural landscapes. Ideal for hiking, cycling, and nature walks, the area offers well marked trails that wind through meadows, woodlands, and traditional villages. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills, rivers, and valleys, making it a perfect destination for photography and outdoor relaxation. The region is rich in flora and fauna, providing opportunities for wildlife observation and immersion in natural beauty. Local villages offer a glimpse into traditional Slovak culture, with charming wooden architecture, local markets, and friendly communities. Whether exploring scenic trails, enjoying quiet countryside moments, or discovering cultural heritage, Kysucká Vrchovina in Žilinský offers a peaceful and memorable escape that highlights the charm, history, and natural beauty of northern Slovakia.

#mytraveldiary Wielka Rycerzowa, Silesian, Poland, is a scenic mountain destination that captivates visitors with its rolling hills, lush meadows, and peaceful landscapes. Part of the Beskid Żywiecki range, the area offers well marked hiking trails suitable for both casual walkers and experienced trekkers. As you explore the trails, panoramic views of valleys, forests, and distant peaks unfold, providing perfect opportunities for photography and nature appreciation. The region is rich in flora and fauna, with chances to spot deer, birds, and other wildlife along the way. Nearby villages showcase traditional wooden architecture, local markets, and warm hospitality, adding cultural charm to the natural beauty. Whether hiking the trails, enjoying a picnic, or simply taking in the serene surroundings, Wielka Rycerzowa in Silesian offers a rejuvenating and memorable mountain escape for all visitors.

#mytraveldiary Mnich, 2068 Mnpm, Tatry Wysokie, Małopolskie, Poland, is an iconic peak in the High Tatras renowned for its dramatic spire and challenging climbs. The mountain draws experienced hikers and climbers seeking both adventure and breathtaking scenery. Trails and climbing routes lead visitors through rugged terrain, alpine meadows, and rocky outcrops, offering panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys that are perfect for photography. The area is rich in natural beauty, with crystal clear streams, rare alpine flora, and opportunities to spot local wildlife such as marmots and chamois. Nearby mountain huts provide rest stops, traditional Polish cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere for climbers and hikers alike. Whether tackling the summit, exploring scenic trails, or simply admiring the dramatic landscapes, Mnich in Tatry Wysokie offers an unforgettable experience full of adventure and alpine wonder.

#mytraveldiary Tatry Wysokie, Małopolskie, Poland, is the high section of the Tatra Mountains, renowned for its dramatic peaks, rugged landscapes, and breathtaking natural beauty. Ideal for hiking, climbing, and outdoor adventure, the area offers trails that wind through alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and rocky summits, rewarding visitors with panoramic views at every turn. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot marmots, chamois, and a variety of bird species in their pristine natural habitats. The surrounding valleys and mountain huts provide opportunities for rest, local cuisine, and cultural immersion, highlighting traditional Polish mountain life. Whether seeking challenging hikes, serene nature walks, or unforgettable photography moments, Tatry Wysokie in Małopolskie delivers an inspiring and invigorating experience. Its combination of alpine grandeur, rich biodiversity, and cultural charm makes it a must visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

#mytraveldiary Beskid Żywiecki, Żywiec, Poland, is a scenic mountain region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Rolling hills, dense forests, and sparkling streams create a picturesque setting for hiking, cycling, and nature walks. Well marked trails lead visitors through charming valleys, past traditional villages, and up to panoramic viewpoints that showcase the surrounding Beskid landscapes. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy spotting deer, birds, and other native species in their natural habitats. The region is also rich in culture, with local villages offering traditional architecture, markets, and cuisine that provide insight into the heritage of the area. Seasonal events and festivals add vibrancy to the experience. Whether exploring mountain trails, relaxing in serene nature, or immersing in local traditions, Beskid Żywiecki in Żywiec offers a memorable and rejuvenating escape for all visitors.