Recommendation for visiting Poland

Poland offers a rich mixture of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a country where medieval castles sit alongside modern architecture, where you can hike in dramatic mountains one day and relax by a quiet lake the next. And of course, there is the food – hearty, affordable, and deeply satisfying.

Here are some recommendations to help you make the most of your visit.

Start with the Cities

Warsaw – Poland’s capital is a fascinating blend of old and new. The Old Town, beautifully rebuilt after the Second World War, is perfect for a relaxed stroll, while the modern city centre showcases skyscrapers, cafés, and vibrant nightlife. For history lovers, the Warsaw Uprising Museum is a must. If you want a quieter moment, enjoy Łazienki Park with its famous Palace on the Water and resident peacocks.


Kraków – A city straight out of a fairy tale. Its medieval Main Square (Rynek Główny) is one of the largest in Europe, full of street performers, flower stalls, and horse-drawn carriages. Wawel Castle and the cathedral offer a glimpse into Poland’s royal past, while the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, is a lively area with cosy cafés and street art. Don’t miss a trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine nearby – wandering through its underground chambers carved entirely from salt is an unforgettable experience.


Other cities worth mentioning:

  • Wrocław with its charming market square and quirky dwarf statues hidden all over town.
  • Poznań, known for its Renaissance architecture and lively student scene.
  • Lublin, a smaller city full of history and an emerging cultural hub in eastern Poland.

Explore Poland`s Nature

If you think Poland is only about cities and history, think again. Its landscapes are varied and surprisingly wild.

  • The Tatra Mountains – Located in the south, this is Poland’s most dramatic mountain range. In summer, hikers enjoy trails with panoramic views, while in winter, Zakopane turns into a skiing hotspot. Even if you don’t ski, the wooden highland houses, cheese stalls selling oscypek, and mountain folklore are worth experiencing.
  • Masurian Lakes – Called “the land of a thousand lakes”, this is the perfect place for sailing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water.
  • Białowieża Forest – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe and home to the mighty European bison.
  • The Baltic Coast – Sandy beaches, seaside resorts like Sopot, and picturesque cliffs near Gdynia make northern Poland a great summer destination.

10 Things to see in Poland

If you are short on time and wondering what the absolute highlights are, here is a quick list of ten must-sees:

  1. Wawel Castle in Kraków – A symbol of Poland’s royal heritage.
  2. Warsaw Old Town – Rebuilt after WWII, it’s a UNESCO site full of charm.
  3. Wieliczka Salt Mine – Underground chapels and sculptures made entirely of salt.
  4. Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum – A powerful historical site near Kraków.
  5. Malbork Castle – The world’s largest brick castle, built by the Teutonic Knights.
  6. The Tatra Mountains and Zakopane – For hiking, skiing, and mountain culture.
  7. The Masurian Lake District – A paradise for water sports and peaceful nature.
  8. Gdańsk’s Long Market – Colourful facades, maritime history, and Baltic charm.
  9. Białowieża Forest – Europe’s last primeval forest and home of the European bison.
  10. Wrocław’s Market Square and Dwarfs – A lively square and a quirky treasure hunt across the city.

This list can be your travel checklist – perfect if you want a taste of Poland’s variety in just a few stops.

Taste Poland

Food is one of the best ways to experience Polish culture. Traditional dishes are simple, filling, and often have roots in peasant traditions – but they are delicious.

  • Pierogi – Dumplings stuffed with a variety of fillings.
  • Bigos – The famous hunter’s stew.
  • Żurek – Sour rye soup with sausage and egg.
  • Gołąbki – Cabbage rolls stuffed with rice and meat.
  • Sernik – Polish cheesecake.
  • Pączki – Sweet, fluffy doughnuts filled with jam or cream.

Tip: Visit a bar mleczny (milk bar) – an affordable canteen offering traditional Polish comfort food.

Practical Tips for Travellers

  • Currency – Poland uses the Polish złoty (PLN), not the euro. Cards are widely accepted, but it’s useful to carry some cash for smaller shops.
  • Transport – The rail network is well-developed, with fast trains linking major cities. Buses are reliable for smaller towns, and domestic flights are available too.
  • Language – English is commonly spoken in cities, less so in rural areas. Learning a few phrases like dziękuję (thank you) or proszę (please/you’re welcome) will always earn a smile.
  • Safety – Poland is considered a safe country to travel in, with low crime rates compared to many European destinations.

Discover More

To encourage more travellers to experience Poland, we have prepared a special campaign: “Hard to read, easy to…”. The idea comes from the fact that for many people, the Polish language may seem complicated at first glance – with its long words and unique sounds. But don’t worry! While Polish might be hard to read, the country itself is easy to love, easy to enjoy, and easy to experience.

Through this campaign we want to show that Poland is not only a place full of rich history and deep cultural traditions, but also a modern, welcoming, and vibrant country that opens its doors wide to visitors from around the world.

Check it out, let yourself be inspired, and fall in love with Poland. Because even if the words on a sign may look tricky, the warmth of the people, the beauty of the landscapes, and the richness of the culture will make you feel at home instantly. https://www.jamboree2027.org/poland/ .

On the HoC Base, you can find materials that can be used in contingents' social media.