40 most beautiful polish cities for a weekend getaway

🕗 10 minutes | February 27, 2025 | Written by Klara Krysiak

The most beautiful Polish cities offer a wealth of attractions and regional delicacies. Krakow, Gdansk, Warsaw, Olsztyn, and Wroclaw are just a few of the 40 cities we recommend visiting in Poland.

Both small Polish towns and the largest Polish cities boast rich histories, offering tourists various ways to spend their free time—from strolling through the Jewish quarter in Poland’s former capital, to searching for dwarfs in Wroclaw’s market square, sunbathing in Gdynia, or relaxing by the Vistula River with Warsaw's skyscrapers in the background. The tourist map of Poland is vast.

So, what do the most beautiful cities in Poland offer visitors?

Book flights to Krakow — this former capital of Poland takes the top spot in our list of the most beautiful Polish cities. Whether it’s a walk through the Old Town, a visit to the Cloth Hall, or listening to the evening bugle call from St. Mary’s Tower, Krakow has something for everyone.

Don't miss Kazimierz, the Jewish quarter filled with cafés and art galleries, and the majestic Wawel Castle. And for dessert? Venture a bit outside the city to the Wieliczka Salt Mine — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a truly unique experience.

Must-see: St. Mary’s Church, Cloth Hall, Wawel Castle, Kazimierz

Book flights to Wroclaw — this Polish city is full of bridges, charming gnomes, and colorful townhouses. In 2016, it earned the title of European Capital of Culture, and today it ranks among the top ten European cities with the most bridges.

When exploring Wroclaw, make sure to visit the Centennial Hall, Ostrów Tumski, and the interactive science center, Hydropolis. Movie buffs will love MovieGate, a museum featuring props from Hollywood productions.

Must-see: Market Square, Japanese Garden, Ostrów Tumski, Hydropolis

Book flights to Gdansk and discover the most beautiful port city on the Baltic Sea. Admire the Long Waterfront and the docked sailboats, as well as the city’s symbol—the historic crane.

Up for a walk around Gdansk? On the Old Town’s Mariacka Street, you'll find charmingly decorated merchant houses and can relax by the Neptune Fountain. Need a moment of peace? Head to Oliwa Park, especially beautiful in the summer.

Must-see: European Solidarity Center, Crane, Neptune Fountain, Mariacka Street, Museum of the Second World War

Book flights to Warsaw — the capital city of Poland offers a mix of historical landmarks and modern attractions. Explore the Royal Castle, Wilanow Palace, and the iconic Palace of Culture and Science with its breathtaking city views.

For a romantic walk, visit the Royal Łazienki Park and the Vistula boulevards. End your day at the Copernicus Science Center. Still got energy? The Warsaw Uprising Museum offers a deep dive into the city's rich history.

Must-see: Royal Łazienki Park, Palace of Culture and Science, Royal Castle, Copernicus Science Center

Torun sits on the Vistula River and is the birthplace of the great astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. The city boasts attractions such as the Interactive Center for Science Popularization and the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its Town Hall.

A visit to Torun is incomplete without tasting traditional gingerbread and stopping by the Museum of Gingerbread.

Must-see: Nicolaus Copernicus House, Museum of Gingerbread, Ruins of the Teutonic Castle

When exploring Poland's most beautiful cities, book flights to Poznan, a city known for the famous Goats on the Town Hall Tower. Foodies will forget all about their diet here—be sure to try the Saint Martin's croissants at the Croissant Museum.

After sightseeing, relax at the Malta Thermal Baths, and if you're a nature lover, visit the Palm House or the Zoological Garden.

Must-see: Town Hall, Old Market Square, Malta Thermal Baths, Palm House

Book flights to Lublin — this eastern Polish city delights visitors with its colorful Old Town and an underground historical route (where you'll get to know the city's history up close).

The city also offers the Museum of Lublin Village, which takes you back to the Polish countryside of past centuries, as well as the iconic Lublin Castle. Lublin is also a great base for trips to Kazimierz Dolny and other eastern towns.

Must-see: Lublin Castle, Old Town, Museum of Lublin Village

Sandomierz, often called the “Little Rome,” is a charming city on the Vistula River. In the Old Town, take a stroll through narrow streets and see the Gothic cathedral. Just outside the city, you can relax with a walk through the loess gorges.

Must-see: Queen Jadwiga’s Gorge, Sandomierz Royal Castle

The artistic Kazimierz Dolny is the perfect place to relax and wander among historic granaries, small art galleries, and picturesque ravines. The city’s highlight is its market square, which invites visitors to unwind among historic townhouses.

Must-see: Market Square, Castle Ruins, Granaries

Zamosc, designed by Italian architect Bernardo Morando, impresses with its perfect, geometric layout. The symbol of the city is the Great Market Square—one of the largest and most beautiful in Poland, surrounded by colorful townhouses.

Must-see: Great Market Square, Town Hall, Zamosc Fortress, Cathedral of the Resurrection

Book flights to Szczecin — this city is a summer paradise with its many urban beaches. Take a stroll along the Chrobry Embankment for breathtaking city views and sights of the port and the Oder River.

Are you a history enthusiast? In Szczecin, make sure to visit Sienny Market, the Pomeranian Dukes' Castle, and the National Museum.

Must-see: Chrobry Embankment, Pomeranian Dukes' Castle, National Museum

Why book flights to Olsztyn? This city is surrounded by lakes—a true haven for nature lovers and sailors. Of course, it had to be on our list of the most beautiful Polish cities!

When exploring the city's historical landmarks, be sure to visit the Market Square, the Warmian Chapter Castle, the beaches on Lake Ukiel, and Poland's second-largest planetarium, dedicated to Nicolaus Copernicus. It was in Olsztyn that the famous astronomer wrote his work: “On the Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres.”

Must-see: Warmian Chapter Castle, Lake Ukiel, High Gate

Visit the most beautiful seaside town in Poland—Sopot offers beautiful beaches and a spa-like atmosphere. A walk along the famous Monciak and the longest wooden pier in Europe are musts on Poland’s tourist map.

Spending the summer in Sopot? Dine in restaurants and cafés, or take advantage of the rich lineup of cultural events. In winter — head to a spa or take a relaxing walk.

Must-see: Sopot Pier, Bohaterów Monte Cassino Street (Monciak), Forest Opera

Why visit Gdynia? This Polish city is home to some of the best music festivals and cultural events, like the Open’er Festival, which attracts visitors from all over Europe.

Escape the city by walking along the seaside boulevard—enjoy the sea views and fresh air. There are also museums (like the Gdynia City Museum) and spaces for active recreation.

Must-see: Kościuszko Square, Gdynia Aquarium, Orłowski Cliff, Emigration Museum

Zakopane lies beneath the Tatra Mountains and is known as Poland's winter capital, although tourists flock here all year round. In summer, it's the perfect place for hiking in the Kościeliska Valley or to Morskie Oko lake. In winter, Zakopane transforms into a skiing and snowboarding hub. After an active day, indulge in local specialties like oscypek (smoked cheese) and kwaśnica (sauerkraut soup).

Must-see: Krupówki Street, Gubałówka Hill, Kasprowy Wierch, Wielka Krokiew, Chochołowska Valley

Book flights to Bydgoszcz — a city on the Brda and Vistula rivers, known for its granaries, Mill Island, and the Nova Opera. Thanks to its lush green spaces, Bydgoszcz is a perfect spot to experience the atmosphere of the Kuyavia and Pomerania regions.

Did you know Bielsko-Biala is a town in Poland surrounded by the Beskids? This makes it a great base for mountain hikes at any time of year. Besides, in Bielsko-Biala, you can visit the Polish Theatre, rope parks, or the market square. Discover one of the most beautiful cities nestled beneath the mountains.

Must-see: Sułkowski Castle, Polish Army Square, Szyndzielnia, Animated Film Studio, St. Nicholas' Cathedral

Jelenia Gora is a charming town located beneath the Karkonosze Mountains. While strolling through its market square, you can admire the colorful townhouses and the beautiful town hall. Jelenia Gora is also an excellent base for exploring the nearby Karkonosze National Park.

Must-see: Cieplice Spa, Pearl of the West, Krzywousty's Hill Viewpoint

Bialystok is the capital of green Podlasie, famous for the Branicki Palace, as well as picturesque parks and gardens. It is also the perfect starting point for discovering the charms of the region.

Book a flight to Katowice, a city that surprises with its transformation from an industrial hub into a center of culture and art. Today, it's known for its unique architecture, including places like Spodek and the Culture Zone. The city also offers plenty of green spaces, such as the Valley of Three Ponds, perfect for a stroll.

Must-see: Silesian Museum, Nikiszowiec

Book flights to Rzeszow — the dynamic heart of southeastern Poland, which is constantly developing and attracting more and more tourists. The city is worth seeing for its market square, the Main Town Hall, the Museum of Bedtime Cartoons, and the Regional Museum. Rzeszow is also an excellent base for trips to the nearby Bieszczady Mountains.

Must-see: Lubomirski Summer Palace, Regional Museum

Kolobrzeg is one of the most popular coastal towns in Poland, known for its wide beaches, picturesque pier, and health-promoting microclimate. Start your city tour at the lighthouse, marina, and downtown buildings. Kolobrzeg is also well-known for its spa offerings: saltwater and peat baths.

Must-see: Lighthouse, Pier, Polish Arms Museum

Krynica-Zdroj is perhaps the best-known spa town in Poland. Nestled in the Beskid Mountains, it offers a unique microclimate and natural mineral springs that have been the foundation of health and relaxation for years.

The city offers numerous attractions, including the Nikifor Museum, the cable car to Parkowa Mountain, and a promenade filled with cafes and shops.

Must-see: Mineral Water Pump Room, Gondola Lift to Jaworzyna Krynicka, Krynica Promenade

Discover one of the most beautiful cities in Lesser Poland, located at the confluence of the Dunajec and Kamienica rivers. Nowy Sacz is known for its rich history, reflected in the medieval defensive walls. It is also a great base for exploring the Beskid Sądecki and Pieniny mountains.

Must-see: Sądecki Ethnographic Park, St. Margaret’s Basilica, Royal Castle Ruins

Book flights to Zielona Gora — a city best known for its winemaking traditions. Each year, it hosts Winobranie, the largest wine festival in Poland. The city is also surrounded by hills and forests, making it an ideal place for hiking and cycling.

Must-see: Wine Park, Palm House, Old Town

Reszel is a charming town in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, best known for the Reszel Castle, which now serves as a museum and hotel. There is also a Gothic bridge over the Sajna River and the Baroque Church of Saints Peter and Paul.

Must-see: Reszel Castle, Gothic Bridge, Church of Saints Peter and Paul

Rankings of Poland's most beautiful cities often include Gniew, whose biggest attraction is the 13th-century Teutonic Castle. Once a fortress, today it draws tourists with events like battle reenactments and knightly tournaments.

Must-see: Gniew Castle, St. Nicholas' Church

Ustka, listed among the most beautiful Polish cities, attracts tourists with its perfect beach weather. Explore different parts of the city: walk along the promenade with a view of the Baltic Sea, try fresh fish, visit the lighthouse or the Blücher bunkers.

Must-see: Ustka Port, "Ustecka Mermaid” Sculpture

Elblag is an excellent base for exploring the Vistula Delta and the Elblag Canal—a unique hydrotechnical monument that attracts tourists from all over Europe.

Must-see: Old Town with St. Nicholas Cathedral, Elblag Archaeological and Historical Museum, Elblag Canal Cruise

Tykocin is situated on the Narew River in Podlasie. It draws tourists with its beautifully restored market square, historic Holy Trinity Church, Castle, and the Synagogue in Tykocin—one of the oldest and best-preserved synagogues in Poland.

Hel is one of the most picturesque places on Poland's map. It lies between Puck Bay and the open sea, at the end of the Hel Peninsula. Attractions? A walk along the seaside promenade, sandy beaches, pine forests, fresh fish in a local restaurant, and a visit to the Seal Sanctuary.

Must-see: Hel Seal Sanctuary, Museum of Coastal Defense, Lighthouse, beach walk to the famous "end of Poland" cape.

Visit the most beautiful town on the southwestern edge of Kashubia—Chojnice. It is surrounded by the beautiful forests and lakes of the Tuchola Forest National Park. In the center, you should see the Gothic Church of St. John the Baptist and fragments of the medieval defensive walls that remind of Chojnice's former glory.

Must-see: Minor Basilica, Człuchów Gate

Located in Lesser Poland, Biecz is often called "Little Krakow." There you will find the Collegiate Church of Corpus Christi (one of the most beautiful Gothic temples in Poland) and the Museum of the Biecz Land, which takes you back to the medieval times of Biecz. Don't forget to climb the town hall tower for a beautiful panorama of the city and views of the Low Beskids.

Swieradow-Zdroj is a spa town located in the heart of the Izera Mountains. It is famous for its healing mineral waters, peat, and microclimate conducive to regeneration. A walk through the Spa Park or enjoying the views from the gondola lift to Stóg Izerski will bring you true peace.

In Poland, it is worth visiting the Baltic Darlowo, known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque port, and the 15th-century Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes. Restaurants here serve excellent dishes made from fresh fish, and the town offers attractions for fans of active recreation—sailing or cycling trips.

Must-see: Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes, Lighthouse, and the famous drawbridge in the port of Darłówko.

Poland's most beautiful towns share one thing—beautiful nature and a serene atmosphere. Zwierzyniec in Roztocze is no exception—you will find ponds, forests, and charming alleys perfect for a walk.

Must-see: Church on the Island, Roztocze National Park

Cieszyn is a town on the Polish-Czech border. It is mainly associated with Castle Hill with the Rotunda of St. Nicholas—one of the oldest monuments in Poland, the Friendship Bridge connecting Polish and Czech Cieszyn, and the famous Cieszyn sandwiches.

Naleczow is a spa town known for its natural mineral springs and beautiful parks. It is an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate surrounded by nature. Walking through it, you will feel the atmosphere that has attracted both tourists and spa-goers for years.

Trzebiatow is located in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship and attracts tourists with its beautiful Old Town, medieval defensive walls, and the Gothic Church of the Virgin Mary. Walking through the streets of Trzebiatow, you will see the famous frescoes on the walls of the local tenement houses. Visit the Palace in Trzebiatow—a unique example of neoclassical architecture.

Looking for a Polish city with a romantic vibe? Welcome to Chelmno, where you can admire a perfectly preserved market square and massive defensive walls. The city is also famous for the relics of St. Valentine, which attract couples looking for blessings.

Must-see: Gothic Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, fragments of the medieval walls