Poland is a country full of history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. From historic cities like Kraków and Gdańsk to the scenic mountains of Zakopane, Poland offers unique and unforgettable experiences. If you’re planning a trip to Europe, Poland is a destination you should consider for its rich culture, delicious traditional food, and friendly people.

This article is here to give you a complete guide to help you plan your trip to Poland. From how to apply for a visa and understanding local culture to practical tips for a smooth journey, you’ll find everything you need to know. With this guide, you’ll be ready to enjoy Poland’s beauty and make your trip truly memorable.

If you’re planning a holiday to Poland, there are a few key things you need to know about entry and exit procedures. From visa requirements to customs regulations and transport options, this guide will ensure your trip runs smoothly and is filled with enjoyable moments.

For Indonesian tourists, the good news is that you will need a Schengen visa to enter Poland. As Poland is part of the Schengen area, this visa will also allow you to visit other countries within this zone. To apply for a Schengen visa, the following documents are required:

Schengen Visa Application Fee

The fee is approximately 80 Euros (around IDR 1.3 million), and processing usually takes up to 15 working days. Make sure to apply for your visa at least 3 weeks before your departure date.

When entering Poland, there are several customs regulations you should be aware of. Some items are strictly prohibited, including:

If you are bringing valuable items such as jewelry, cameras, or electronics in large quantities, make sure to declare them at customs. These items may be subject to tax depending on local regulations.

For currency, you are allowed to carry up to 10,000 Euros without declaration. If you bring more than that, you must declare it and follow the procedures set by customs.

Read more: A Comprehensive Guide to the Schengen Visa

Upon arrival in Poland, you will go through several procedures. It’s essential to be prepared with all the required documents. Here’s an overview of what to expect:

When leaving Poland, you will undergo similar immigration and customs procedures. Ensure that you are not carrying any prohibited items or exceeding the allowed limits.

Poland offers various transport options to make your travel within the country easy. From major airports like Chopin International Airport in Warsaw, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use online transport services.

To get around major cities such as Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk, public transportation like buses, trams, and the metro are convenient and affordable. If you wish to travel between cities, fast trains (PKP Intercity) and intercity buses are popular and economical options.

When traveling to Poland, understanding local laws and culture is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Poland is a country rich in history, culture, and traditions, so as a tourist, you are expected to show respect and comply with local customs. Here’s a guide on what you need to know before visiting Poland.

Polish people greatly value traditions that have been passed down for centuries. When visiting Poland, you will encounter a lot of politeness and formality, especially in introductions and social interactions. One key point to note is the dress code. In major cities like Warsaw or Krakow, casual yet neat clothing is generally acceptable. However, when visiting churches or places of worship, modest and respectful attire is highly recommended.

In terms of behavior, Polish people appreciate politeness and personal respect. Avoid rude behavior, speaking too loudly in public, or interrupting conversations. Using polite phrases like "dziękuję" (thank you) and "proszę" (please) will show that you appreciate their etiquette. Tipping is also common, with a tip of 10% to 15% of the total bill being expected in restaurants or cafes.

As a tourist, you must comply with local laws in Poland, especially those concerning alcohol and drugs. The legal drinking age in Poland is 18 years, and while alcohol is readily available in bars, restaurants, and stores, consuming it in public places like streets or parks is generally prohibited. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption in public areas to prevent issues with authorities.

Additionally, drugs are strictly prohibited in Poland, and drug-related offenses can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment. You should also maintain proper behavior in public spaces, particularly at historical or religious sites, as inappropriate conduct such as speaking loudly or vandalism can result in fines or legal consequences.

Poland is a predominantly Roman Catholic country, and religion plays a significant role in daily life. The Catholic Church holds considerable influence in Poland, and you will encounter many historic churches that serve as both places of worship and tourist attractions. When visiting religious sites, be sure to dress modestly and maintain silence while inside. Some churches may ask visitors to cover their heads or wear more conservative clothing.

Religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas are observed with great reverence in Poland. On these days, many stores and public services may close early or not operate at all. As a tourist, it is important to respect these traditions and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

Polish is the official language spoken throughout the country, although in major cities, many residents, especially younger people and those in the tourism sector, can speak English. However, learning a few basic Polish phrases can be very helpful in communication and will make the locals feel more appreciated. Some useful phrases to learn include:

Polish people highly value tourists who make an effort to speak their language, even if it's just simple phrases. This will make your social interactions smoother and more enjoyable.

Poland is a Central European country with an area of approximately 312,696 km² and a population of around 38 million people. Its capital, Warsaw, is the cultural and economic hub of the country. Poland offers various tourist attractions, such as the historic Old Town of Krakow, the UNESCO site of Auschwitz, and the natural beauty of the Tatra Mountains. Before traveling, it's important to understand the political, economic, and security conditions in Poland to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.

Poland is one of the fastest-growing countries in Europe. Despite this, visitors in major cities should remain vigilant against petty crimes like pickpocketing, especially in busy tourist areas such as terminals, stations, or markets. Always keep valuable items like wallets and passports in a secure place, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Poland is also relatively safe from natural disasters. However, during winter, temperatures can drop significantly, particularly in mountainous regions like Zakopane, which may pose challenges if you are not equipped with appropriate clothing.

Safety Tips While in Poland

Important Information

By understanding these security tips and respecting local laws, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Poland.

If you are planning a holiday to Poland, it’s essential to prepare for health-related matters to ensure your trip is comfortable and safe. Poland has a high standard of healthcare, particularly in major cities, but as a tourist, there are a few precautions you should take. Here is a health guide to help you before you travel to Poland.

Poland offers good healthcare services, especially in cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk. In these cities, you can easily find hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies that cater to your medical needs. Major hospitals such as Samodzielny Publiczny Szpital Kliniczny in Warsaw and University Hospital in Krakow provide adequate emergency services supported by professional medical staff.

If you have international health insurance, make sure it covers healthcare services in Poland to avoid costly treatment fees. Pharmacies are widely available and sell over-the-counter medicines like flu or fever medications. However, for certain drugs, you might need a prescription from a local hospital.

Before departing for Poland, it’s important to check if there are any health requirements you need to fulfill. Although Poland does not mandate any specific vaccinations for travelers from Indonesia, there are a few recommended vaccinations to protect your health during your trip, including:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Poland may have requirements related to vaccination or testing. Make sure to check the latest regulations regarding vaccination certificates or PCR tests before your departure to avoid issues upon arrival in Poland.

In case of a health emergency while in Poland, it’s important to know the key emergency numbers. Here are a few essential contacts you should keep on hand:

Samodzielny Publiczny Szpital Kliniczny: +48 22 599 1000

Central Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Interior: +48 22 508 2000

3. Hospital in Krakow:

University Hospital: +48 12 424 7000

Make sure to store this contact information in an easily accessible place. If you are carrying any special medications, bring the prescription along to facilitate medical care if needed during your stay in Poland.

Health Tips While in Poland

By properly preparing and following this health guide, you can enjoy your holiday in Poland safely and comfortably. Always be mindful of your health and follow recommended medical advice during your trip.

If you plan to travel to Poland, it’s important to understand the country’s climate and potential natural disasters. Knowing the weather and possible risks will help you better prepare for your trip and ensure a safe and comfortable holiday.

Poland has a temperate climate with distinct seasons. You will experience all four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and autumn. Below is a general overview of Poland’s weather conditions:

The best time to visit Poland is during summer, from May to September, when the weather is sunny and pleasant for sightseeing. However, if you’re looking to enjoy snow or winter sports, December to February is the perfect time to visit.

Poland is generally not prone to major natural disasters like earthquakes or tsunamis. However, there are a few natural events to be aware of:

The Polish government has a well-established emergency response system for natural disasters such as floods or windstorms. Information and warnings about potential disasters are typically broadcast through radio, television, and weather apps. Here are some tips if you find yourself in Poland during a natural disaster:

Tips for Handling Natural Disasters in Poland