Cheap Holidays to Poland

Poland holidays are all about feeding your sense of adventure. Hike, bike, cycle and white water raft in the national parks, discover charming villages and lakeside towns and see why the cultural melting pot of Krakow has become such a tourist magnet. Holidays in Poland are a feast for the senses; alpine mountains, sparkling lakes and Gothic castles await you. The diverse country is steeped in history and is growing in popularity as a top break for those looking for excellent value and lots to do. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Krakow is the country’s cultural hub and has bars, restaurants, theatre and museums a plenty and for outdoorsy types, the spectacular countryside offers a vast range of activities at very good prices.

Places to Go and Things to Do

Spend Time at Rynek Glowny

Krakow's Grand Square, Rynek Glowny, is a must-see for visitors. Recognised as one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, this picturesque plaza is scattered with traditional townhouses and a medley of patio bars and eateries. Explore the underground exhibition where you'll uncover a treasure trove of Krakow's rich history, shop for souvenirs at the 13th century Cloth Hall mall and visit St Mary's Basilica, which overlooks the bustling square. This is the place to watch the world go by in Krakow.

Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine

Head to the Wieliczka Salt Mine for a guided tour through its labyrinth of tunnels, chambers and galleries, the deepest being 327 metres underground. The mine is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Look out for fascinating formations along the way including chapels, statues and chandeliers, all handcrafted from natural salt blocks. Explore its unique underground town and see the lakes running through the Erazm Bar훳cz Chamber where the water contains 320gm of salt per litre.

Party All Night

Once the sun goes down in Krakow its sleepy squares and cobbled courtyards come to life, with lively bars, pubs and clubs on every street corner. Popular tourist magnets include Kazimierz and the streets of Florianska and Szewska. Try local shots of vodka and if you're brave try an absinthe – but take care as these shots are extremely potent. Craft beer is big in Poland, so beer drinkers will have their pick of frothy pints. Head to Kolanko 6, Hard Rock Café and the 24-hour bar BaniaLuka for nights you simply won't forget.

Wander Around Wawel

Sitting south of the city's old town is Wawel Castle. Pass the huge iron doors at the entrance of Wawel Castle and the Cathedral (supposedly bearing magical bones of prehistoric animals) and explore the castle's five exhibition rooms before taking a walk across its spellbinding grounds - don't forget to climb up Wawel Hill to the stunning Sigismund Bell (cast in 1520) and enjoy panoramic views of the city below.

Essential Information

Getting Around

Taxis are easily found within towns and city centres and are fairly inexpensive. In the main cities, bike hire is available and there are cycle lanes in Warsaw and Krakow. There is a bus network that links villages and towns but InterCity trains offer a more comfortable and reliable service.

Travelling by bus or car

Poland's bus service is cheap but check with the local tourism office for schedules and reliability.

Driving in Poland can be a challenge at times – especially on country roads at night-time, so be careful. If you do choose to drive, you have to be a minimum of 21 (sometimes 25) and should keep to the right.

Passports and Visas

Passports should be valid for the proposed duration of stay. No other visa requirements are needed for British Citizens. For more information and advice, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/poland/entry-requirementsor the Foreign Office at www.fco.gov.uk/en/

Health and Safety

The EHIC is valid in Poland, and can entitle you to free emergency treatment. It is not a substitute for travel insurance though, so make sure you have that too. For more info, see www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/poland/health

Vaccinations

Make sure you check the latest guidelines with regards to medical advice and vaccinations with your GP ahead of your holiday. No jabs are currently required but routine boosters should be up to date.