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A Guide to Poland

The latest travel Information on Poland, includes ideas on Things to See and Do, Local Events, Embassy Contacts and much more, all from a first-time visitors point of view.

Overview of Poland

One of Europe's most underrated countries, Poland offers a huge amount for travellers of all stripes - from the wild scenery of its mountainous south, with its great skiing and hiking, to the stunning old towns of Krakow, Zamosc and Gdansk and the wilderness of the Bialowieza National Park and the Great Malsurian Lakes in the country's north.

Top Things To See in Poland

The Polish capital Warsaw still deserves your attention even though much of it was destroyed in the war. The Old Town was reconstructed from original plans and paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries - it's hard to believe it's barely half a century old when you stroll its quaint cobbled streets. The Palace of Culture and Science gives you an unforgettable view of Warsaw from the 30th floor observation deck. Warsaw Rising Museum features films, testimonials, slides and artefacts from the time when Warsaw residents were active in the resistance. The Krakow Gate, built in the late 14th century and remodelled in 1782, is considered to be an architectural symbol of Lublin and is the primary entrance into the Old Town; it also houses a historical museum. Krakow has a charming medieval atmosphere and has some brilliant historical sites to explore. Wroclaw is a city of 100 bridges, many of which cross canals or connect 12 of the city's islands. Important sights include the 15th-century Town Hall, now the Historical Museum; the Ethnographic Museum in the Royal Palace; and the Cathedral on Ostrow Tumski (Cathedral Island).

Top Things To Do in Poland

Hiking There's little more inspiring than a hike in some of Poland's national parks and nature reserves. Nature enthusiasts can visit the Kampinos National Park, near Warsaw, while the Bieszczady National Park, part of the Carpathian mountain range, contains the surviving fragments of the Great Bieszczady Forest, home to the brown bear, lynx, wolf and wildcat. Polish countryside The Polish countryside lends itself perfectly to horse riding and enthusiasts have a large choice of riding schools to choose from. Polish stud farms are internationally renowned and welcome guests. Inexperienced riders may prefer riding a Hucul - a very rare Polish mountain pony. Sleigh rides A horse-drawn sleigh ride is a magical experience, though be sure to have either warmed beer or heated honey vodka afterwards. Snow falls throughout Poland during the winter months so these types of rides are on offer all over the country. Poland actually has some of the best beaches in northern Europe. They have beautiful sands and waters to enjoy relaxing or swimming.

Poland Climate

Temperate with warm summers, crisp, sunny autumns and cold winters. Snow covers the mountainous area in the south of Poland (mid December to April). Rain falls throughout the year. The most pleasant times to visit Poland are May-June and September, when it's still warm but unlikely to be too hot.

Public Holidays in Poland

2010: 1 Jan New Year's Day. 5 Apr Easter Monday. 1 May Labour Day. 3 May National Day. 13 May Ascension. 3 Jun Corpus Christi. 15 Aug Assumption. 1 Nov All Saints' Day. 11 Nov Independence Day. 25 Dec -26 Dec Christmas.

Poland Health

You will need an up to date Tetanus vaccination. You may also need Diphtheria, Hepatitis A and Rabies vaccinations. Mains water is normally chlorinated, and whilst relatively safe may cause mild abdominal upsets. Make use of the public wells for better tasting water or bottled water is available.

Further Health Information

We strongly advise you to check health requirements for the country you are traveling to with your GP, practice nurse or travel health clinic as health requirements and vaccinations can change at short notice. See Staying safe and healthy on the FCO website for more information.

Poland Duty Free

From Poland to the UK you can bring - 200 cigarettes; or 50 cigars; or 250 gms of tobacco, 4 litres of still table wine, 1 litre of spirits or strong liqueurs over 22% volume; or 2 litres of fortified wine, sparkling wine or other liqueurs, 16 litres Beer, 60cc/ml of perfume and other goods including souvenirs up to the value of £300

Poland Currency

The currency is the Zloty.

Poland Passport & Visa Requirements

If you are British, Australian, Canadian, American or from any other European country then you will need a passport. Passports must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the length of your stay.

Poland Embassy/Consulate

Embassy of the Republic of Poland in the UK 47 Portland Place, London W1B 1JH, UK Tel: 0870 774 2700. Website: www.polishembassy.org.uk Opening hours: Mon-Fri 0830-1630.

Poland Travel Advice

Overall, travelling to Poland is easy and the stay is pleasant. However, for up to date information, you should check www.fco.gov.uk

Visit the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Website for the latest Poland information and travel advice For the latest travel advice on Poland please visit the Foreign & Commonwealth Travel website at http://fco.gov.uk/travel.

DISCLAIMER
We've tried to make the information on this site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. Verify critical information (like passport, visa, health, customs and transport requirements) with relevant authorities before you travel. Travel Guide © 2010 Flightline Essex Ltd. All Rights Reserved. E&OE.