Church in Krakow, Poland
Poland is filled with great places to visit, whether you’re a city dweller or a nature lover. From its bustling cities and historic towns to its lush forests and treasure trove of hidden lakes, you can experience it all on your Poland rail travel adventure. Get your Eurail pass and get ready to discover a country as diverse as it is magnificent!
The many faces of Warsaw
Although completely destroyed in World War II, Warsaw (Warszawa) has returned to former glory. Enjoy its rich history, its architectural attractions (like the stunning 17th-century Wilanów Palace), its monasteries, museums and more. Then, enjoy Warsaw’s vibrant nightlife, including artistic hotspots like the Praga District. That, plus incredibly hospitable locals, and it’s easy to see the appeal. More things to do in Warsaw
Warsaw’s historic Old Town (Stare Miasto) has its own stop on the city tramline.
Krakow’s indomitable spirit
Once the capital of Poland, Krakow (Kraków) remains one of the highlights of Eastern Europe. Don’t miss Wawel Castle, nestled atop a limestone hill in the center of town. The 700-year-old Salt Mines (Wieliczka) are a labyrinth of halls and corridors, lakes and caves. There’s no shortage of religious attractions, either. Try the Church of the Holy Trinity and Dominican Monastery for a taste of history and stunning architecture.
From tram stop Kraków Glówny, the splendid Mariacka Basillica (Bazylika Mariacka) is less than a 10-minute walk.
A moment of remembrance
In your European travel adventure, you’ll have the opportunity to visit many historically significant landmarks. The Nazi extermination camp Auschwitz (Oswiecim) is certainly one of them. The largest of its kind, the concentration camp is the location where 1.5 million people lost their lives during World War II. In addition to all the fun you’ll have on your trip, take some time to acknowledge the things no one should ever forget.
Every day, ten busses leave from Krakow Central Station and arrive at the Auschwitz entrance in less than an hour.
Bieszczady Mountains
Lush mountain landscapes, quaint wooden churches and extraordinary wildlife call this picturesque and secluded area home. Unless skiing is your thing, be sure to visit in summer or autumn for the most beautiful scenery and weather.
Depending on the season, there are usually direct trains from Krakow and direct (night) trains from Warsaw to the Bieszczadys.
Slowinski National Park
The massive sand dunes on the banks of Lake Łebsko are a stunning natural attraction. It used to be a training ground for Rommel's Afrika Korps. Now, it’s a biosphere reserve and haven for rare bird species. Well worth the trip just for the dunes, the park also offers other activities and attractions.
From Krakow, take the train to the town of Łeba. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the sand dunes.
Table Mountain, PolandWhen to go
The height of tourist season runs from May to September, so expect more tourists, and more bodies on the beach. September and October are a little quieter, and the weather is still warm and pleasant. Love skiing? Use your Poland rail pass between December and March for spectacular skiing adventures.
Wianki Festival
Krakow traditionally celebrated the high point of summer with pagan rituals and old-world style. Today, bonfires, fairs, fireworks and especially a lot of music make this an unforgettable event.
The festival site is located at the banks of Vistula River, next to the Wawel castle. It's a 30-minute walk from the central train station to the castle, which lies in the heart of the old city centre.
Zielona Góra Grape Harvest
Harvest celebrations have been around since harvests themselves. Make the trip to Zielona Góra for wine tasting, music, games, graffiti contests, and more.
Zielona Góra is a 4-hr train ride from Berlin.
Audioriver
Last year, more than 15,000 people attended this 3-day music festival, celebrating independent and world music, with a heavy emphasis on electronica. The city of Płock comes alive with music.
Plock is a 3-hr train ride from Warsaw.
DIALOG International Film Festival
This thought-provoking film festival in Warsaw celebrates independent filmmakers and performances.
All festival sites can be reached by metro from Warsaw's central station.
