Poland’s main mountain regions are located in the south of the country. The Carpathians include the Tatras, Beskids, Pieniny and Bieszczady, while the Sudetes stretch across south-western Poland.
The Tatra Mountains are the highest mountain range in Poland. Their highest Polish peak is Rysy, which reaches 2,499 metres above sea level. The area offers an extensive network of hiking trails, mountain lakes, valleys and viewpoints, and attracts visitors throughout the year. In winter, many mountain resorts also offer skiing and snowboarding.
Zakopane, located at the foot of the Tatras, is one of Poland’s best-known mountain destinations. Other popular areas include the Beskids, Karkonosze, Pieniny and Bieszczady. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling, winter sports or simply spending time in nature, Poland’s mountain regions offer plenty of options.
Poland’s Baltic coast combines long sandy beaches, coastal forests, dunes, seaside resorts and historic port cities.
Popular destinations include Gdańsk, Gdynia and Sopot in the Tricity area, as well as Kołobrzeg, Świnoujście, Ustka, Łeba and the Hel Peninsula. In summer, the coast is popular for swimming, sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, cycling and beach activities.
One of the most distinctive natural attractions is Słowiński National Park near Łeba, famous for its moving dunes, coastal lakes, forests and wetlands. The park protects one of the most unusual dune landscapes in Europe.
The Baltic coast is also closely associated with amber, which has played an important role in the history and culture of northern Poland.
Poland has thousands of lakes, with some of the best-known lake districts located in the north and north-east of the country.
The Masurian Lake District is particularly popular with sailors, kayakers and nature lovers. Its interconnected lakes, rivers and canals make it one of Poland’s most important destinations for water-based recreation.
Visitors can also explore the Suwałki region, the Kashubian Lake District and other lake areas across northern Poland. In addition to sailing and canoeing, these regions are well suited to cycling, hiking, fishing and quiet holidays surrounded by forests and nature.
For many students, Poland’s lake districts can be an easy way to experience a very different side of the country during a weekend or holiday.
Poland has an active festival scene throughout the year, with major events dedicated to cinema, contemporary music, jazz, rock and the performing arts.
Film lovers can choose from events such as the Polish Film Festival in Gdynia, the Warsaw International Film Festival, TAURON New Horizons in Wrocław and ToruńCAMERIMAGE, an international festival dedicated to cinematography.
Music festivals include Open’er Festival in the Gdynia area and Jarocin Festival, one of the best-known names in the history of Polish rock music.
Festival dates and programmes change every year, so always check the organisers’ official websites before planning your trip.