Poland

Electricity

The electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. The standard two-pin European style plugs are used.

Language

The national language is Polish; however, English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Money

The official currency of Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN), which is subdivided into 100 groszy. While cash remains the preferred payment method, especially for smaller transactions, credit cards and digital payments are increasingly common, particularly in major cities. Visitors will find ATMs (known as 'bankomats') easily accessible in most urban areas, and they are often available 24 hours a day. In addition to ATMs, mobile payment systems such as BLIK, Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used, making cashless transactions a breeze for many.

Money can be exchanged at various locations, with banks, hotels and currency exchange offices (kantors) offering the best rates. Kantors are prevalent in cities and larger towns and generally operate from 9am to 7pm on weekdays, with some staying open until 2pm on Saturdays. In tourist-heavy areas, some kantors may even operate around the clock.

Banks are typically open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm, although opening hours can vary slightly depending on the branch. A few banks also operate on Saturdays, usually closing by 1pm. It's worth noting that in rural areas, cash may still be the primary method of payment, and card acceptance might not be as widespread as in urban centres.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants in Poland, with 10 percent to 15 percent being the standard for good service. When paying the bill, it's customary to hand the money directly to the waiter or waitress. Saying 'thank you' ('dziękuję') signals that they can keep the change. Alternatively, rounding up the bill is also common, such as paying 50 PLN for a 47 PLN bill.

While tipping isn't the norm in hotels, leaving a small daily tip of around 10 PLN for housekeeping is considered polite. Tipping is also appreciated for services such as guided tours, where a 10 percent to 15 percent tip is standard for a job well done.

For taxis, it's typical to round up the fare or leave a tip of about 10 percent, especially for longer rides or if the driver assists with luggage. For shorter trips, rounding up the fare is usually sufficient.

In spas or salons, tipping isn't expected but is appreciated for good service. A tip of 10 percent to 15 percent is common if guests feel the service warrants it.

Health

There are few health risks associated with travel to Poland, as it's generally considered safe for visitors. After Brexit, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) was replaced by the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC provides access to state healthcare in Poland and other EU countries, but it isn't valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland. It's important to note that the GHIC isn't a substitute for travel insurance, as it may not cover all medical expenses or repatriation costs.

Medical facilities in Poland are of good quality, with standards comparable to Western Europe. However, not all doctors or nurses will speak English, so it's a good idea to have a basic understanding of Polish medical terms or travel with someone who can assist with translation if needed. If travellers are bringing prescription medication, they should make sure to carry a signed and dated letter from their doctor detailing the medication, its dosage and the medical condition it treats. This documentation can help avoid any issues at customs and ensure travellers have access to necessary medications.

While Poland has a well-developed healthcare system, travellers should also be aware of recent health advisories. In November 2024, traces of the polio virus were detected in sewage samples in Warsaw. While no actual cases of polio have been reported, health authorities have recommended ensuring that vaccinations are up to date, particularly for young children. Polio vaccinations are free for those under 19 in Poland.

Safety

When travelling to Poland, it's important to stay vigilant about petty crime. Pickpocketing is the most common issue in crowded places, especially in major cities such as Warsaw and Kraków. Visitors should be cautious around busy transport hubs, markets and tourist sites, and keep their wallet, phone and other valuables secure, preferably in an anti-theft bag or money belt.

Passport theft can occur, so travellers should always store their passport safely, either in a hotel safe or on their person, and avoid leaving it in unattended bags. Fraud can also be a concern, particularly in areas with a high volume of tourists. It's important to be cautious when engaging with street vendors or accepting unsolicited offers, as these can sometimes be scams. Regarding cybercrime, public WiFi networks can be risky, so travellers should avoid accessing sensitive information such as bank accounts unless using a VPN.

Adventure tourism in Poland is popular, with outdoor activities including hiking, skiing and mountain climbing. However, visitors should always make sure they're prepared, that they've check the weather and that they're using licensed operators for safety.

While Poland itself is safe, the ongoing armed conflict in Ukraine can affect border regions, and some areas may experience increased tensions or logistical disruptions.

Local customs

Family holds a central place in Polish society, with many individuals deeply valuing their close-knit family units. In fact, the concept of 'family' extends beyond just relatives to include close friends, who are often regarded as part of the inner circle. These strong social bonds play an essential role in day-to-day life and cultural traditions.

When attending social events or gatherings in Poland, it's important to note that formality is often observed, particularly in more traditional settings. Whether it's a family gathering, a formal dinner or a professional event, visitors should expect that introductions may be made by the host, and interactions can be somewhat reserved at first.

Poles tend to use formal titles when addressing others, so visitors shouldn't be surprised if they're expected to use the prefixes Pan (Mr.) for men and Pani (Ms.) for women. This shows respect, especially when meeting someone for the first time or in formal contexts.

It's also customary to offer a handshake when greeting someone, particularly in formal situations. It's worth noting that Poles may use the more casual first names among close friends or family, but formal address remains the norm in most settings until a closer relationship is established.

Doing business

Poland has an interesting mix of the old and the new, and this is apparent in the business world too. Women can expect a kiss on the hand rather than a handshake from the older generation and one can expect to be warmly offered drinks during meetings; it is impolite to refuse. Although the Polish are hospitable and friendly, business is still conducted formally. Punctuality is important, dress should be formal and conservative (a suit and tie are the norm) and business cards are exchanged. Use titles and last names unless otherwise indicated. English is widely spoken, though attempting some basic Polish phrases will be appreciated. Business hours in Poland are traditionally 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday, and lunch breaks are not a given as they are often unpaid.

Duty free

Travellers to Poland over 17 years, arriving from non-EU countries, do not have to pay duty on 250 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; 1 litre wine and 1 litre spirits; cosmetics and medicines for personal use; gifts up to the value of €430. Travellers to Poland arriving from within the EU do not have to pay duty on 800 cigarettes or 200 cigars or 1kg smoking tobacco; 10 litres spirits, 90 litres wine and 110 litres beer. Prohibited items include birds and poultry arriving from countries infected with avian influenza. The export of all articles of artistic, historic or cultural value are subject to special regulations.

Communications

The international access code for Poland is +48 and WiFi is available in towns and cities.

Passport & Visa

For individuals requiring a visa, a passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay. Visa-exempt nationals generally need a passport valid for the duration of their stay, with the exception of nationals from the European Economic Area (EEA) countries.

The Schengen Area is a borderless region that includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

All of these countries issue a standard Schengen Visa, which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all Schengen Area nations. The Schengen visa typically comes with a multiple-entry option, meaning that once issued, the visa can be used for multiple visits within the Schengen Area without needing a new visa for each entry.

Entry requirements

US nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Passports must be valid for three months beyond period of intended stay.

UK nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Passports must be valid for three months beyond period of intended stay.

Canadian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Passports must be valid for three months beyond period of intended stay.

Australians require a passport valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

South African passport holders require a visa for travel to Poland. Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay.

Irish nationals require a passport valid on arrival, but no visa is necessary.

New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay. A visa is not needed for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Useful contacts

Polish National Tourist Office, Warsaw: +48 (0)22 536 7070 or www.pot.gov.pl.

112 (Fire Department, Ambulance) 997 (Police).