Travel Poland: Plan Your Bus & Train Journey
Traveling to Poland offers a unique experience, combining rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. Whether you're exploring Warsaw, the charming streets of Kraków, or the picturesque Tatra Mountains, planning your journey is key.
Our Poland travel guide provides you with essential Poland travel advice to help you navigate the best routes. Traveling by bus or train in Poland is both convenient and affordable, making it easy to visit popular destinations and hidden gems throughout the country.
Most Liked Bus Routes
Most Liked Train Routes
Best Places to Visit in Poland by Bus or Train
How to Get Around Poland
Getting around Poland is easy and efficient, thanks to the country's well-developed transportation network. Buses and trains are the most popular options for traveling between cities and regions, offering comfort and affordability.
For longer distances, trains provide a scenic and fast way to explore, while buses are perfect for reaching more remote areas. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in major cities like Warsaw and Kraków, making local travel convenient and hassle-free.
Poland by Bus or Train
Traveling by bus or train in Poland is an excellent way to explore the country's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. Trains are comfortable and efficient, connecting major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Gdańsk.
They offer a scenic journey, especially through the countryside. Buses are also a popular choice, providing affordable and extensive routes to even more remote destinations, making it easy to access smaller towns and rural areas. Both modes of transport offer reliable schedules, making them ideal for exploring Poland at your own pace.
Bus companies in Poland
There are over 72 bus companies operating in Poland. 58 companies offer intercity bus lines, 6 companies drive airport shuttles, 1 companies operate regional and local lines, 28 bus companies offer bus rental and 6 companies offer bus tours. The bus companies are located in 35 cities throughout the country. The majority of companies can be found in Warsaw and Krakow.58 intercity bus companies operating in Poland are very different in size. The largest Polish company Sindbad connects more than 335 cities, whereas the smallest intercity bus company Interglobus Follow me only has service to 1 cities.
Below we have listed some of the most popular bus companies in Poland. Full list of bus companies in Poland can be found here.
Other Ways of Getting Around Poland
In addition to buses and trains, there are several other ways to get around Poland. Domestic flights are a great option for covering long distances quickly, especially if you're traveling between major cities like Warsaw, Gdańsk, or Wrocław. Trams and trolleybuses are commonly used within cities, offering an affordable and efficient way to navigate urban areas.
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available for convenient, door-to-door transport, particularly in larger cities. For those seeking more flexibility, car rentals are a good choice, especially when exploring Poland's scenic countryside and national parks.
What to see in Poland?
As a visitor of Poland, you have lots of great Polish sights to visit. Some of the most popular sights are Fryderyk Chopin Museum (Warsaw), Malbork Castle (Malbork) and Tatra National Park (Zakopane). That said, there are a lot of other sights in Poland worth visiting! Some of the sights do not have an entrance fee, whilst others charge for entrance. Below you will find a list of the most popular sights in Poland:
Fryderyk Chopin Museum
museumMalbork Castle
monumental buildingTatra National Park
national parkWawel Castle
monumental buildingŁazienki Park
parkMorskie Oko
lakeBest Places to Visit in Poland
Poland offers a wide variety of destinations, each showcasing its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. The capital, Warsaw, is known for its beautiful Old Town, which has been meticulously rebuilt after World War II, and its impressive modern architecture. Kraków, with its well-preserved medieval core, is famous for landmarks like Wawel Castle and the Main Market Square.
For nature lovers, Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities year-round. Gdańsk, on the Baltic Sea, combines history with scenic beaches, while Wrocław is renowned for its picturesque old town and charming bridges. Each city in Poland offers a unique experience, making the country a top destination for travelers.
Krakow
Kraków, one of Poland’s most beautiful and historic cities, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to the stunning Wawel Castle, the historic Main Market Square, and the St. Mary's Basilica. Kraków's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with charming streets, cafes, and galleries.
The city is also a gateway to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a sobering and significant site for history enthusiasts. With its lively atmosphere, rich history, and cultural landmarks, Kraków is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Poland.
Popular routes from Krakow:
Warsaw
Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is a dynamic and modern city with a rich history. Despite being heavily damaged during World War II, the city has been meticulously rebuilt, with a stunning mix of historic and contemporary architecture. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Royal Castle.
Warsaw is also home to vibrant neighborhoods, expansive parks like Łazienki Park, and cultural attractions such as the Warsaw Uprising Museum and POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews. With its mix of history, culture, and innovation, Warsaw offers an exciting experience for visitors.
Popular routes from Warsaw:
Katowice
Katowice is a vibrant city in southern Poland, known for its rich industrial heritage and rapid transformation into a cultural and business hub. Historically a center of coal mining and heavy industry, Katowice has reinvented itself as a modern city with a thriving arts and entertainment scene.
Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Spodek Arena, the futuristic Silesian Museum, and the beautiful Katowice Greenery Park. The city is also home to a number of music festivals, making it a key destination for those interested in Polish contemporary culture. Katowice’s blend of history, innovation, and green spaces makes it a unique place to visit in Poland.
Popular routes from Katowice:
Bialystok
Białystok is a charming city in northeastern Poland, known for its rich cultural diversity, vibrant history, and lush green surroundings. As the capital of the Podlaskie Voivodeship, Białystok is home to beautiful parks, including the vast Planty Park, and impressive historical architecture such as the Branicki Palace, often referred to as the "Polish Versailles."
The city is also famous for its multicultural heritage, with influences from Polish, Belarusian, Jewish, and Tatar communities. Białystok offers a mix of cultural experiences, with a thriving arts scene, excellent museums, and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors exploring Poland’s eastern frontier.
Popular routes from Bialystok:
Poznan
Poznań is one of Poland’s oldest and most vibrant cities, located in the western part of the country. Known for its rich history, the city is a significant cultural and economic hub. At the heart of Poznań lies the Old Market Square, a charming area surrounded by colorful townhouses, historic buildings, and the iconic Town Hall, where you can witness the famous mechanical goats that "butt heads" every noon.
Poznań is also home to the beautiful Poznań Cathedral on Ostrów Tumski Island and offers a wealth of museums, parks, and modern attractions. With its vibrant atmosphere, excellent dining scene, and a blend of tradition and innovation, Poznań is a must-visit destination for travelers interested in Poland’s past and future.
Popular routes from Poznan:
Gdansk
Gdańsk is a historic port city located on the Baltic coast of northern Poland, renowned for its rich maritime heritage and stunning architecture. The city's Old Town, with its colorful, gothic buildings and medieval townhouses, is one of the most picturesque in Poland. The iconic Long Market (Długi Targ) leads to the Neptune Fountain, a symbol of Gdańsk's connection to the sea.
St. Mary's Church, one of the largest brick churches in the world, offers panoramic views of the city. Gdańsk is also known for its significant role in the Solidarity movement, which played a pivotal part in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe. With its beautiful coastline, rich cultural scene, and historical significance, Gdańsk is an essential destination for anyone traveling to Poland.
Popular routes from Gdansk:
Best Time to Visit Poland
The best time to visit Poland is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild, and the country is less crowded. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the picturesque cities and natural landscapes.
Summer (July to August) is also popular due to numerous festivals and events, though it tends to be more crowded and expensive, especially in tourist hotspots like Kraków, Warsaw, and Gdańsk. Winter (December to February) is perfect for those interested in winter sports, with popular ski resorts like Zakopane offering excellent opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking in the Tatra Mountains.
Travel Tips for Poland
Language: The official language is Polish. While many people in major cities speak English, learning a few basic Polish phrases can be helpful.
Currency: The official currency is the Polish złoty (PLN). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but it's advisable to carry cash when traveling to smaller towns.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in Poland. A tip of around 10% is generally expected in restaurants, and small tips are appreciated for taxi drivers and hotel staff.
Public Transport: Poland has an efficient and affordable public transport system, including buses, trams, and trains. Tickets for public transportation can usually be purchased at kiosks, online, or directly on the vehicle.
Safety: Poland is a safe country for travelers. However, always stay vigilant in busy tourist spots and avoid displaying valuables.
Weather: Poland has a continental climate, so be prepared for temperature changes. Summers can be warm, especially in the south, while winters can be cold, particularly in the mountains.
Travel Poland Overview
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Best Time to Visit | Late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) for mild weather and fewer crowds. |
Top Cities to Visit | Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw, Gdansk, Poznan, and Zakopane offer unique experiences. |
Must-See Attractions | Wawel Castle, Auschwitz Memorial, Tatra Mountains, Gdansk Old Town, and the Bialowieza Forest. |
Popular Activities | Hiking, skiing in Zakopane, visiting historical sites, exploring vibrant cities, and enjoying Polish cuisine. |
Getting Around | Affordable and efficient public transportation, including buses, trains, and trams. |
Cuisine | Famous dishes include pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter's stew), and kielbasa (sausage). |