Summer is the time when many Poles embark on long-awaited vacations. After months of work, school, and daily responsibilities, the desire to relax and discover new places becomes irresistible. But where do Poles most often go on vacation? Let’s explore the most popular destinations and find out what attracts our compatriots to these places.
1. Polish Baltic Coast: Sopot, Gdańsk, Kołobrzeg
There’s nothing more classic than a holiday by the Polish sea. Sopot, Gdańsk, and Kołobrzeg are just a few of the seaside towns that attract crowds of tourists every year.
Sopot is known for the longest wooden pier in Europe, an ideal spot for evening walks. The proximity of the Tricity makes it easy to visit Gdańsk and Gdynia, which offer rich history, culture, and numerous attractions.
Gdańsk is a city with over a thousand years of history. It features historic buildings such as St. Mary’s Basilica, the Golden Gate, and the Long Market. Walking along the Motława River, you can admire picturesque views of the Old Town and the famous Crane.
Kołobrzeg offers beautiful beaches and a health resort atmosphere, making it an ideal place to recharge. Numerous sanatoriums and spas attract both younger and older tourists.
2. Tatras: Zakopane and Surroundings
For mountain lovers, Zakopane is a mecca of tourism. Located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, the city offers many attractions both in summer and winter.
Zakopane is not just Krupówki and Gubałówka. It also boasts numerous hiking trails leading through picturesque valleys and up to the Tatra peaks. Popular routes include the Kościeliska Valley, the Valley of Five Ponds, and the climb to Rysy – the highest peak in Poland.
In the vicinity of Zakopane, there are also many places worth visiting, such as Morskie Oko, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Tatras, and Kasprowy Wierch, offering breathtaking views of the mountains.
3. Masuria: The Land of a Thousand Lakes
Masuria is a paradise for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. This picturesque region full of lakes, forests, and hills offers many opportunities for active leisure.
Mikołajki, known as the “Pearl of Masuria,” attract tourists with its beautiful lakes and rich sailing offer. It is an ideal place to rent a yacht and spend a holiday on the water.
Giżycko is another popular destination in Masuria. Here you’ll find the Boyen Fortress, offering a wonderful view of Lake Niegocin. History enthusiasts can also visit numerous museums and historical sites in the area.
Ruciane-Nida offers peace and quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. It is an ideal place to relax and commune with nature, as well as to enjoy canoeing on the Krutynia River.
4. International Destinations: Croatia, Greece, Spain
Poles are increasingly choosing international destinations, taking advantage of increasingly accessible flight connections and attractive travel agency offers.
Croatia is one of the most popular holiday destinations. The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, picturesque islands, and charming towns like Dubrovnik, Split, and Hvar attract tourists from all over the world. Croatia also offers a rich culture, history, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Greece tempts with its beautiful islands such as Crete, Rhodes, and Santorini. It is an ideal place for holidays for history, culture, and sun lovers. Athens with the Acropolis, Thessaloniki with the Rotunda, and ancient ruins in Knossos are just some of the attractions worth seeing.
Spain offers a variety of attractions, from the beaches of the Costa Brava and Costa del Sol, through historic cities such as Barcelona and Madrid, to picturesque islands such as Mallorca and Tenerife. Spain is also a paradise for gourmets, with its rich cuisine full of tapas, paella, and sangria.
Barcelona: The Jewel of Catalonia
Barcelona is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, full of extraordinary architecture and culture. The main attractions include the works of Antoni Gaudí, such as the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Milà. A walk down La Rambla, a visit to the La Boqueria market, and relaxation on Barceloneta Beach are just some of the many attractions awaiting tourists in this dynamic city.
5. Exotic Destinations: Thailand, Bali, Maldives
For those dreaming of exotic holidays, destinations like Thailand, Bali, and the Maldives are ideal choices.
Thailand attracts tourists with its paradise beaches, lush jungles, and rich culture. Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and Chiang Mai are just some of the places worth visiting. Thailand is also a paradise for lovers of Asian cuisine, with its aromatic dishes and fresh seafood.
Bali, known as the “Island of the Gods,” offers not only beautiful beaches but also volcanic landscapes, rice terraces, and temples. Ubud is the cultural heart of the island, where you can immerse yourself in local art and traditions, while Kuta and Seminyak attract beachgoers and nightlife enthusiasts.
The Maldives are synonymous with luxury and tranquility. These tiny islands in the Indian Ocean offer crystal-clear waters, white beaches, and luxurious resorts. It is an ideal place for a romantic holiday or honeymoon.
6. Tourist Cities in Poland: Krakow, Wrocław, Toruń
Poland is not only about nature but also beautiful cities with rich history and culture.
Krakow is the former capital of Poland, full of monuments and tourist attractions. The Main Market Square, Wawel, Kazimierz, and numerous museums and galleries attract tourists from all over the world.
Wrocław is the city of a hundred bridges, which delights with its architecture and atmosphere. Ostrów Tumski, the Market Square with colorful townhouses, and modern attractions such as the Africarium in the ZOO are just some of the places worth seeing.
Toruń is a city famous for gingerbread and Nicolaus Copernicus. The Old Town of Toruń, inscribed on the UNESCO list, impresses with its Gothic buildings and narrow streets that take tourists back in time.
7. Health Resorts: Ciechocinek, Kudowa-Zdrój, Krynica-Zdrój
For those seeking regeneration and peace, Polish health resorts are an ideal choice.
Ciechocinek is one of the most famous Polish health resorts. It is known for its graduation towers, which create a specific microclimate beneficial for treating respiratory and nervous system diseases. In Ciechocinek, you can also walk through beautiful spa parks and enjoy numerous therapeutic treatments.
Kudowa-Zdrój is a charming health resort in the Sudetes, offering mineral springs and numerous sanatoriums. The town is also known for its Spa Park, Skull Chapel, and picturesque hiking trails in the Stołowe Mountains.
Krynica-Zdrój is the pearl of the Beskid Sądecki, known for its healing mineral waters and beautiful landscapes. The main attractions include the promenade, drinking houses, as well as numerous ski slopes and hiking trails that attract tourists all year round.
Summary
Poles have a wide selection of holiday destinations, both domestically and internationally. From Polish mountains and Masurian lakes, through the sunny beaches of the Baltic Sea, to exotic islands in distant corners of the world – there is something for everyone. Regardless of the chosen destination, the most important thing is for holidays to be a time of relaxation, discovering new places, and creating unforgettable memories. After all, travel educates, relaxes, and allows us to recharge our batteries for another year of challenges.
