2 weeks in Poland: The perfect Poland itinerary

Is Poland next on your travel list? This detailed itinerary will show you the best way to spend 2 weeks in Poland, with suggestions on where to go, how to get around, things to do, where to stay and helpful travel tips to make sure you make the most of your time and budget.

I have to be honest here and say that each time I visit a new part of Poland, it totally catches me by surprise. This is seriously one of the most underrated countries in Europe!

It might not be as trendy as its Scandinavian friends across the water, as efficient as Germany next door, or as alluring as the Gothic cities in Czechia, but it has much more going for it than people realise.

Colourful town squares, divine yet affordable cuisine, pristine national parks that manage to escape the overtourism that plagues many other parks in Europe, and a tumultuous history that is equally sombre and significant. But if you’re reading this I guess you’ve already decided to go, so there’s no need to convince you 🙃

With two weeks in Poland you’ve got enough time to see four diverse cities as well spend some time in the mountains, but zigzagging the country and navigating the logistical side of things can be a bit tricky. That’s where I come in!

After following this exact two week Poland itinerary myself during a recent three month Europe trip, travelling by bus and train, I can tell you all you need to know about how to get from A to B, what to do once you get there, where to stay, budget tips and loads more. This is the perfect combo of culture hits, foodie finds, nights out, nature escapes and a dash of adventure, so let’s get right into it.

Please note this blog contains affiliate links that give me a small commission from any purchase, at no extra cost to you. I would never advertise anything I wouldn’t use myself, and this commission helps Finding Alexx reach more travellers. Thank you for supporting me!

Quick summary: 2 weeks in Poland

• 2-3 days in Wrocław
• 3-4 days in Kraków
• 2-3 days in Zakopane
• 3-4 days in Warsaw
• 2-3 days in Gdańsk

Map of the 2 week Poland itinerary

What to know before your 2 weeks in Poland

When is the best time to visit Poland?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to dodge the tourist rush of summer and skip the gloominess of winter.

If you are coming in summer then expect the coast (Gdańsk) and the mountains (Zakopane) to be full of locals and tourists alike, the cities might not be too hectic but they can get unbearably hot during a heat wave.

If you’re planning a trip to Poland in the colder months you can enjoy snowy outdoor fun in Zakopane and winter wonderland vibes in cities, just make sure you pack accordingly.

How to get to Poland

✈️ If you’re coming from afar, your best bet is to fly into Poland.

A number of budget airlines service various airports throughout Poland, including Ryanair, LOT Airlines and Wizz Air, and you can often find suuuuper cheap flights from major European hubs into Warsaw, Gdańsk, Katowice, Poznan, Kraków or Wrocław. And by budget, I mean as low as €15 one way!

If you’re coming from further afield there are long-haul carriers that fly into Kraków and Warsaw.

🚂 If you’re travelling around Europe already, you can find easy train connections between Poland and other cities that might be on your hit list, like:

• Warsaw to Berlin direct (5h 25m)
• Kraków to Budapest direct (8h 40m)
• Warsaw to Prague direct (8h 10m)
• Warsaw to Vienna direct (7h 30m)
• Wrocław to Vienna direct (5h 40m)

🚌 And if you’re connecting Poland with the Baltics, there are long but direct buses to get you from Warsaw to Vilnius and beyond.

How to get around Poland

Poland’s train network is extensive and is the most convenient way to travel between most cities, and various bus companies service all the popular routes too so you can compare prices and see what’s best for you (though trains are much more comfortable for the long trips!).

🚂 Book train tickets at intercity,pl

🚌 Book bus tickets at Omio

If you want to get off the beaten path then rental cars are fairly inexpensive, and in the cities themselves it’s best to explore on foot, rent a bike or use public transport.

What to budget for 2 weeks in Poland

Unlike almost every other European country I’ve written about (*ahem* looking at you Switzerland 👀), Poland is cheeeeap and cheerful! Your money goes SO far here, so you can either stick to a tight budget orrrrr do what I do and spend the exact same amount of money but get better bang for your buck haha.

🛌🏼 Accommodation: You can find hostel dorms from €10-20 per night, private hostel rooms or guesthouses from €25-30 per night, simple hotels from €35-50 and 4* hotels from about €60-75 per night. Expect to pay a bit more if you’re travelling on weekends or in a busy season.

🚃 Transport: For inter-city trains you’ll pay between €15-60 for a second class ticket, and public transport within cities is very cheap.

🥟 Food: My favourite thing about Poland is how GOOD the food is, while being so cheap! If you’re on a budget you could live off street food (like a delicious zapiekanka), bakery treats and milk bar meals for as little as €10 a day. A hearty meal at a sit-down restaurant might be €8-10 or if you want to splurge on somewhere fancy, you’ll probably spend €15-20 max. The dream!

The ultimate 2 week Poland itinerary

Who is this two week Poland itinerary for?

This itinerary is ideal for anyone wanting to explore the country’s top highlights with their two weeks in Poland, including city breaks in the major hubs as well as a national park visit and some must-do day trips. All these places are easily accessible by train or bus, no need to hire a rental car (unless you want to veer off the beaten track).

I’ve also started the itinerary with Wrocław because that’s where I started my Poland two week trip, but you can really start in whatever city suits you/has the cheapest flights.

Wrocław

How to get to Wrocław: LOT, Ryanair and Wizz Air are the budget airlines servicing Wrocław, or if you’re starting this itinerary from elsewhere then you can link it up with a 4h 50m direct train from Gdańsk to Wrocław.

How long to stay: 2-3 days

What it’s good for: Exquisite architecture, a melting pot of culture and entertainment, and excellent nightlife

About Wrocław

Wrocław offers a brilliant combo of historical charm and youthful energy, where beautiful buildings house epic nightclubs and students roam the cobblestone streets on their uni breaks. The Market Square is maybe the brightest and most beautiful in all of Poland, it’s bustling from dawn till well past dusk with street performers and people-watching opportunities galore.

Its attractions aren’t as well-known as the options in Kraków and Warsaw but the vibe is unbeatable, so it’s the perfect way to kick off your Polish adventure and get a feel for the culture, cuisine and language.

Things to do in Wrocław

• Admire the rainbow of colours at Market Square
• Join a walking tour around the city to get a quick fix of culture and history, or do an e-car tour instead (super popular, you’ll see these everywhere!)
• Search for dwarfs! These cheeky statues started as a peaceful anti-authoritarian protest and now there are apparently 300-600 in the city to try and find (there’s been no official confirmation on how many, if you count more than 300 let me know 😂)
• See the impressive Gothic architecture of Cathedral Island
• Explore the Wrocław University Museum for its baroque halls and panoramic terrace
• Take a cruise down Oder River or rent a boat to drive yourself
• Go on a day trip to Ksiaz Castle and the Church of Peace
• Discover the network of underground tunnels at Project Riese
• Let your hair down with a night out
• Spot the lamplighter who manually lights more than 100 gas lanterns every night of the year
• Visit Ruska 46 at dusk, it’s a cultural hub lit up by 30 massive neon signs

Where to stay in Wrocław

I’ve added a star to where I’ve stayed personally, the other recommendations are based on online reviews and suggestions from friends who have visited recently.

Budget:

• ⭐ Basecamp Wrocław(an upmarket student hall that also offers short-term rooms with access to a shared kitchen as well as studios with their own kitchenette, 15 minutes to the main square which was ideal)
• FOKA Hostel (simple but comfortable top-rated hostel accommodation)
• VICE CITY Hostel (basic hostel a short walk from Main Market Square)
• Odrzańska Residence Old Town (super cheap apartments in the centre of Wrocław’s old town)

Mid-range:

• Old Town Haston (stylish apartments a few blocks from Main Market Square)
• Herbal Hotel Wrocław (3* hotel in a beautiful historic building)
• PURO Wrocław Stare Miasto (4* design hotel with brilliant reviews)

Luxury:

• The Bridge Wrocław (modern 5* hotel with great reviews)
• Hotel Altus Palace (elegant 5* hotel in a beautifully-preserved heritage building)
• Grape Hotel (boutique 5* hotel themed around wine 🍷)

Kraków

How to get from Wrocław to Kraków: Direct train, around 3h

How long to stay: 3-4 days

What it’s good for: A brilliant culinary scene, a UNESCO-listed Old Town, and gaining insight into one of history’s darkest chapters

About Kraków

Poland’s historical jewel ticks a lot of boxes, so you’re going to love it no matter what you’re here for.

History buffs will adore the World Heritage site of the Old Town, a well-preserved medieval labyrinth of cobblestone streets and grand facades, foodies will fall in love with the quality of restaurants for the price you pay, and if you prefer living like a local you can people watch at a milk bar and hunt for treasures at a flea market.

There are also experiences in and near Kraków that are painful to learn about, but I think as travellers we have a responsibility to educate ourselves about these bleak periods of the past, to ensure we never let it happen again to any group of people.

Things to do in Kraków

• I can’t say anyone will ‘love’ a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, but it’s probably one of the most impactful tourism experiences you’re ever going to have. Book a guided tour and get ready for a heart-breaking but very thought-provoking day trip. Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory is another must-visit in the city itself for a lesson about the Nazi occupation.
• Take a walking tour through the Old Town to learn about Kraków’s history, or join a Jewish Quarter walking tour to see a more alternative side of the city
• If you’re exploring on your own, don’t miss the Cloth Hall, St Mary’s Basilica and the view from the Town Hall Tower (110 steps in a narrow staircase with uneven stairs so only if you’re stable on your feet)
• Wander through the exhibits at Wawel Royal Castle
• See the fire-breathing Wawel Dragon outside the castle along the riverfront (yes, for real)
• Eat! Kraków is one of my all-time favourite food cities, you get incredible value for money. Join a food tour to try some of the city’s best bites, or my favourite restaurants are Starka for pierogies, Kawaleria Restaurant for piergogies with a modern twist, Milkbar Tomasza for an authentic milk bar experience, Las Kraków Breakfast & Prosecco for brunch and Moaburger for burgers (part-owned by a Kiwi!)
• Order fancy drinks at the Artist Cocktail Bar before a wild night out, I guarantee you’ll run into at least one British stag do or football club getaway!
• Take a day trip to Wieliczka Salt Mine, a weird and wonderful underground salt-carved masterpiece
• Walk along Vistula River or take a cruise instead
• Soak up the view from the top of Kościuszko Mound

Where to stay in Kraków

I’ve added a star to where I’ve stayed personally, the other recommendations are based on online reviews and suggestions from friends who have visited recently.

Budget:

• Greg&Tom Beer House Hostel or The Little Havana Party Hostel for a claaaassic party hostel experience (just don’t expect to sleep much haha)
• ⭐ Ginger ApartHostel (where I stayed on my first trip to Kraków and an excellent value choice for a non-party hostel)
• Girls Hostel (cheap and cheerful female-only hostel)

Mid-range:

• ⭐ Meyo Apartments (beautiful and spacious apartments literally right on the main square, an unbeatable location)
• ⭐ PLANTONIA Aparthotel (Poland’s first vegan hotel & apartments, incredible focus on sustainable design, great facilities including work-friendly areas, free laundry, gym and even a salt room!)
• Warszauer Hotel (4* design hotel in the heart of the Jewish Quarter)

Luxury:

• Hotel H15 Francuski Old Town (surprisingly affordable 5* hotel)
• Hotel H15 Luxury Palace (same chain as the hotel above but more opulent and regal design)
• Stradom House (stunning luxury design hotel with a dreamy spa and wellness area)
• Hotel Copernicus (historic hotel with a world-class restaurant on-site)

Zakopane

How to get from Kraków to Zakopane: About 2h 20m by either train or bus

How long to stay: 2-3 days, longer if you’re a hiker or a skier

What it’s good for: Outdoor adventures, relaxation, an alpine experience without the Switzerland, France or Italy price tag

About Zakopane

I had never heard of Zakopane before Googling things to do near Kraków, and I honestly can’t believe this place flies under the radar. It’s absolutely gorgeous, and it’s an essential part of any two week Poland itinerary if you love the outdoors.

As the gateway to the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane offers access to some of the best scenery in this corner of Europe, with options ranging from cable car viewpoints to short treks to multi-day adventures. And if you need a rest afterwards you’re in luck, there are a number of world-class thermal bath complexes within easy reach.

The Goral culture shines bright down here with traditional chalets and folk entertainment, and there’s loads of highland cuisine to taste test.

Zakopane does get very busy in the summer months with Poles coming for their annual outdoor getaway as well as a growing number of international tourists, but I visited in early September (when the Dolomites and Switzerland would still be PACKED) and it had a fraction of the crowds I’d expect to see somewhere so beautiful. Get there before everyone else knows about it!

Things to do in Zakopane

• Take the cable car (or hike if you’re into that!) to the top of Kasprowy Wierch for dramatic mountain landscapes
• Soak up the good vibes and enjoy street performances along Krupowki Street
• Then soak in the thermal baths at Chochołowskie Termy (4.6/5 on from more than 60,000 Google reviews!) or Terma Bania
• Learn about the region’s history and culture at the Tatra Museum
• Marvel at the unique wooden Jaszczurowka Chapel
• Catch the funicular to Gubałówka for a dreamy pastel sunset
• Hit one of Zakopane’s hiking trails, Morskie Oko and the Valley of Five Lakes are the two most popular ones
• Indulge in local cuisine, and don’t miss trying the delicious Oscypek smoked cheese
• In summer you could join this epic quad bike adventure
• If you’re visiting in winter you can ski, snowmobile or snowshoe
• Treat yourself to a luxury alpine holiday for much, much cheaper than other European mountain destinations

Where to stay in Zakopane

I’ve added a star to where I’ve stayed personally, the other recommendations are based on online reviews and suggestions from friends who have visited recently.

Budget:

• Top Hostel Pokoje Gościnne (very basic dorms but okay reviews and ideal location right in town)
• Willa Cyrek (top-rated homestay with cheap rooms near the train station)
• Good Bye Lenin Hostel Zakopane (much-loved mountain hostel with a direct bus link to town)

Mid-range:

• Willa Belmont (charming homestay close to town with gorgeous interiors and impressive reviews)
• Apartamenty i Pokoje Krupówki Tuż Tuż (well-equipped apartments near town with mountain views)
• Villa Adamo&SPA (bed and breakfast with cosy and comfy rooms as well as a jacuzzi and sauna)

Luxury:

• ⭐ Villa T Apartments & SPA (exceptional villa a short walk from town, I could’ve easily spent a week here! Modern design, super comfortable beds, lush wellness area and views out to the mountains)
• Aries Hotel & SPA Zakopane (5* alpine hotel with family-friendly facilities and a gorgeous wellness area)
• Bachleda Residence Zakopane (elegant 5* hotel with fantastic reviews)

Warsaw

How to get from Zakopane to Warsaw: About five hours by train with an easy change in Kraków

How long to stay: 3-4 days

What it’s good for: Pastel buildings, hearty food and an enchanting combo of old and new

About Warsaw

I’ll say it straight, Warsaw doesn’t get enough credit.

As the capital city and economic hub, it’s often overlooked for the historical heavyweight of Kraków or charming seaside city of Gdańsk, but this city is an example of rebirth and it deserves a chance to impress you during your 2 weeks in Poland. I mean it was almost destroyed during WWII and has been meticulously reconstructed, surely that alone makes it worth at least a few days?!

Warsaw proves a bit trickier to explore than other cities on this itinerary due to its sprawling size, and the vibe is much more modern and cosmopolitan rather than being a step back in time, but there is still loads to see, do and eat to keep you busy.

Things to do in Warsaw

• Join a walking tour to get a basic overview of Warsaw’s history while getting your bearings
• Get lost in the old town, keeping in mind that it was rebuilt from total ruin. Incredible!
• Take a more in-depth look into the city’s devastating past at the Warsaw Rising Museum
• And then head to POLIN Museum for a broader lesson on Jewish history in Poland
• Climb 147 steps to the viewing platform of the tower next to St. Anne’s Church for the best view of the old town
• Wander the Royal Route, a path that connects the Royal Castle, Royal Łazienki Park and Wilanów Palace (a.k.a. the Versailles of Poland)
• Watch a Chopin concert in the Old Town
• See a different side of the city with this top-rated Behind the Scenes Warsaw guided tour
• Learn to make dumplings from scratch with a Polish cooking class
• Go for a traditional Galar cruise on the river
• See the controversial Palace of Culture and Science skyscraper, an imposing reminder of Soviet rule
• Taste local brews at PiwPaw Beer Heaven
• Visit the Polish Vodka Museum
• If you miss out on visiting Auschwitz while you’re in Kraków for some reason, you can take a day trip to Treblinka extermination camp from Warsaw

Where to stay in Warsaw

I’ve added a star to where I’ve stayed personally, the other recommendations are based on online reviews and suggestions from friends who have visited recently.

Budget:

• ⭐ Safestay Warsaw Old Town (simple but clean and comfortable social hostel right next to the Old Town)
• Kapsuła Hostel Warszawa (cheap capsule hotel with great reviews)

Mid-range:

• La Mia Casa Stare Miasto (top-rated apartment right off the main square)
• Royal Castle Square Apartment (charming apartment with an incredible view of the Royal Castle)
• Movo Old Town Apartments (another Old Town apartment option with a slightly more luxurious feel)
• Noli Mokotow (great option for comfortable studios near the airport if you’re starting or finishing your two weeks in Poland in Warsaw)

Luxury:

• Raffles Europejski Warsaw (spectacular luxury hotel if you want to splurge on somewhere ultra-fancy)
• Hotel Bristol (5* heritage hotel with brilliant reviews)
• Nobu Hotel Warsaw (high end boutique hotel near the train station)

Gdańsk

How to get from Warsaw to Gdańsk: A direct train, around 2h 30m

How long to stay: 2-3 days

What it’s good for: Loads of photo opportunities, maritime history and high end dining at an affordable price point

About Gdańsk

Gdańsk is my personal top pick for the most beautiful city in Poland, with a kaleidoscope of narrow burgher houses, ornate public buildings and an aesthetically pleasing riverbank where you’ll see stunning reflections on a still day. Your taste buds will get as much of a treat as your eyes, with a great mix of traditional restaurants as well as innovative, modern eateries.

History buffs will adore the city too, with a number of eras having made a significant impact on Gdańsk. It’s home to one of the most impressive WWII museums in Europe, there are medieval remnants of the Hanseatic League network, and you can also get a glimpse into a different part of Poland’s past, the Solidarity movement that contributed to the topple of communism in Eastern Europe.

Things to do in Gdańsk

• Tackle 400 steps to get to the top of St Mary’s Church Tower for panoramic views that will blow your mind, or opt for the 200 steps to the town hall tower platform instead
• Explore by golf cart with this perfectly-rated sightseeing tour
• Learn about the impact of the 1980s anti-authoritarian movement at the European Solidarity Centre
• Dedicate a decent chunk of time to the WWII Museum, the main exhibition is more than 5000sqm 😱 and they only allow limited number of people in per hour so it’s best to book in advance
• Visit the National Maritime Museum and see the Gdańsk Crane for an insight into the city’s trading history
• Take a boat tour or kayak trip to see the city from the water
• Follow the Royal Way through the Old Town, from Upland Gate along ulica Długa (Long Street) to Green Gate
• Explore the other two parts of ‘Tricity’, Gdynia and Sopot. Sopot is Poland’s premier coastal resort town, with fancy restaurants, grand hotels and a long stretch of sandy beach. Gdynia on the other hand is less glitzy but also less touristy, with a top-rated Naval Museum that houses ships and weapons from the past four centuries.
• Head to W4 Food Squat for a casual food hall dinner before experiencing the epic nightlife of Electricians’ Street
• See the gargoyles of St. Mary’s Street
• EAT! I know I sound like a broken record but once again, this is a city with incredible food on offer. Manna 68 is the best vegetarian restaurant I’ve been to in my life, Zafishowani is fantastic for fresh seafood, OSTRO serves up divine pizzas and Pierogarnia Mandu Gdańsk Śródmieście is the best-rated spot for dumplings

Where to stay in Gdańsk

I’ve added a star to where I’ve stayed personally, the other recommendations are based on online reviews and suggestions from friends who have visited recently.

Budget:

• Olympic Hostel (great value for money and close to the train station)
• Hostel Mamas & Papas (top-rated social hostel with on the outskirts of town but easy train/bus links)

Mid-range:

• ⭐ M&J Apartments have a bunch of well-equipped apartments throughout Gdańsk, Gdynia and Sopot with stylish interiors and comfortable furnishings (the one I stayed in is no longer available but all their options offer excellent value for money
• Liberum Residence Old Town (charming Old Town hotel with comfortable rooms)
• Craft Beer Central Hotel (stylish 4* affordable hotel right next to the train station)
• MONTOWNIA Lofts & Experience (industrial design hotel with phenomenal reviews, 9.7/10 from more than 2000 reviews on booking.com which is almost unheard of!)

Luxury:

• Hotel Gdańsk Boutique (maritime-themed boutique 5* hotel with easy access to the old town)
• Podewils Old Town Gdańsk (cute 5* hotel with antique style interiors)
• Relais & Châteaux Hotel Quadrille (adults only hotel set in a grand building in Gdynia)
• Rezydent Sopot (top-rated fancy hotel in Sopot)

2 week Poland itinerary FAQs

I hope this detailed guide to two weeks in Poland has helped you plan your trip to one of the most underrated countries in Europe! If you have any 2 weeks in Poland itinerary questions then please let me know in the comments.

MORE EUROPE TRAVEL INSPIRATION:

• The perfect two month Europe itinerary
• The perfect three month Europe itinerary (super detailed!)
• The most beautiful train rides in Europe
• 27 Europe holiday ideas to inspire you
• How to use a Eurail Pass
• Is a Eurail Pass worth it?
• The ultimate Italy bucket list

MORE EUROPE TRAIN ITINERARIES:

• The perfect Europe Christmas market itinerary by train
• 5 day Switzerland itinerary by train
• 10 day Switzerland itinerary by train
• 3 week Scandinavia itinerary by train
• Northern Italy & Switzerland itinerary by train
• 4 day Norway itinerary by train
• 2 weeks in the Balkans without flying (buses not trains sorry!)

MY GO-TO TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES

Flights ✈️ I use Skyscanner to find the best flights for my trip and then I’ll always book direct with the airline to protect myself from having to deal with dodgy third parties if anything goes wrong.

Trains 🚂 If I’m travelling through Europe, I try to travel by train wherever possible! For an extended trip (2+ weeks) I’ll calculate if a Eurail Pass is worth it, or I’ll book point-to-point tickets through RailEurope or the local train operator.

Accommodation 🛎️ I book almost all of my accommodation through booking.com, they have a user-friendly website + app and many of their options are free cancellation, easily cancelled with a simple click of a button.

Activities 🗽I use GetYourGuide, Klook and Viator to look for activities in the places I visit, or I just Google ‘things to do in [city]’! P.S. If you book anything on Klook you can use the promocode FINDINGALEXXKLOOK to get 10% off

Travel cards 💳 I’m a Wise gal through and through, they’ve been my chosen travel card for more than five years now. You can easily top up your card from your bank account or through Apple Pay, convert your money to local currency, and spend money with minimal fees and the best exchange rates around.

Travel insurance 🩺 I use Cover-More NZ travel insurance for my own trips, I have a comprehensive policy and I’ve only had good experiences with them. Cover-More also has an Australian company, but if you’re from elsewhere then two popular insurance options for global travellers are SafetyWing (cheaper policy, lower coverage) and World Nomads (more expensive but significantly better coverage).

Luggage 💼 I travel with Samsonite Cosmolite suitcases, one 75cm check in bag and a 55cm carry on bag, and I absolutely adore them and will never travel with anything else! They are SUPER lightweight (2.8kg and 1.9kg respectively) so I have much more space for my actual stuff.

Camera gear 📸 I use a iPhone 15 Pro Max for phone photos/videos, and my camera kit includes a Lumix S9 (incredible lightweight full-frame camera, a game changer for travel creators!) with a 20-60mm lens, a Lumix G9 with an 8-18mm and 12-60mm lens, a DJI Mini 3 Pro drone and a GoPro Hero 10. I do all my writing and editing on my ASUS Zenbook 14, it’s lightweight but powerful enough for photo editing and intense blogging sessions.