10 days road trip to Poland – Complete Travel Guide
Welcome to Poland, a country where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create a captivating tapestry of experiences. Nestled in the heart of Europe, Poland boasts a rich heritage that spans centuries, from the medieval cities steeped in tales of knights and kings to the resilient spirit that endured the trials of the 20th century. It’s a land of contrasts, where vibrant modern cities like Warsaw and Kraków coexist with serene countryside landscapes dotted with charming villages and pristine lakes. As you explore Poland, you’ll find yourself enchanted by its historic architecture, savoring hearty Polish cuisine, and uncovering the profound stories etched into its landscapes. Join me on a journey through this multifaceted nation, where every corner reveals a new chapter in its remarkable narrative. I was on a 10-day road trip to Poland and enjoyed it so much. Here is the itinerary I followed:
Gdansk – 4 days – Road trip to Poland
Day 1:
Begin your road trip to Poland in Gdańsk by immersing yourself in the city’s rich history. Start with a visit to the iconic St. Mary’s Basilica, one of the largest brick churches in the world. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Lunch: Head to the charming Long Market (Długi Targ) for lunch. This historic square is lined with colorful townhouses and hosts numerous restaurants and cafes serving traditional Polish cuisine.
Afternoon: Explore the historic streets of Gdańsk’s Old Town. Stroll along Long Street (Ulica Długa) and visit the Neptune Fountain. Don’t forget to stop at the Gdańsk Crane, an iconic symbol of the city’s maritime history.
Evening: Dine at a waterfront restaurant along the Motława River, enjoying fresh seafood and Baltic views as the sun sets.
Day 2:
Start your day at the European Solidarity Centre, a museum that chronicles the history of the Solidarity movement, a pivotal moment in Poland’s history. It’s both informative and inspiring.
Lunch: Sample traditional Polish pierogi (dumplings) at one of the local restaurants. Try various fillings, both savory and sweet.
Afternoon: Visit the Gdańsk Shipyard area, where the Solidarity movement was born. Explore the Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers and the nearby Solidarity Square.
Evening: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Gdańsk’s nightlife at ul. Piwna and ul. Długa, where you’ll find a plethora of bars and clubs.
Day 3: Malbork Castle – daytrip from Gdansk
A day trip to Malbork Castle is a must for your road trip to Poland. It offers a captivating journey through medieval history, architectural splendor, and the intriguing legacy of the Teutonic Knights. It’s a must-do excursion for history enthusiasts and those seeking to uncover Poland’s rich heritage. Here is how to organize your day:
Morning:
Start early. Begin your day trip from Gdańsk to Malbork Castle by taking a morning train. The journey is a little over an hour, and the scenic ride offers glimpses of the Polish countryside.
Arrive at Malbork: Upon arriving in Malbork, you’ll be greeted by the imposing sight of Malbork Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest brick castle in the world and an architectural masterpiece.
Explore the castle: You can explore the castle by yourself or join a guided tour to make the most of your visit. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through the castle’s complex history, from its construction in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights to its role as a fortress and residence.
Explore the Courtyard: Stroll through the castle’s vast courtyard, surrounded by majestic Gothic buildings. Marvel at the intricate details of the architecture, including the decorative brickwork and stunning Gothic arches.
Lunch:
Enjoy a lunch break at the Castle Cafe, where you can savor traditional Polish dishes. Try pierogi, a local favorite, or choose from a variety of other options.
Afternoon:
Visit the Museums: Malbork Castle is not only an architectural wonder but also houses several museums. Explore the exhibitions to learn more about the castle’s history, medieval weaponry, and the Teutonic Knights.
Climb the Towers: Ascend one of the castle’s towers for panoramic views of the surrounding area. From this vantage point, you can truly appreciate the grandeur of the castle and its strategic location along the Nogat River.
Stroll Along the River: After your castle exploration, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Nogat River. Enjoy the tranquil scenery and perhaps stop for some ice cream at a local vendor.
Souvenir Shopping: Before departing, explore the souvenir shops near the castle entrance. You’ll find unique gifts and mementos to remember your visit.
Evening:
Return to Gdańsk: Catch an evening train back to Gdańsk, allowing you to reflect on the historical wonders you’ve encountered during your day trip to Malbork Castle.
Day 4: Sopot – Krzywy Domek – daytrip from Gdansk
Continue your road trip to Poland by visiting Sopot.
A day trip to Sopot, with its lively promenade, stunning beach, and quirky Krzywy Domek, promises a delightful blend of seaside relaxation and whimsical exploration. It’s a perfect escape for travelers looking to experience the charm of the Polish Baltic coast. Here all you can do on a day trip to Sopot:
Morning:
Begin your day trip to Sopot by taking a morning train from Gdańsk. The short, scenic journey along the Baltic Sea coast sets the perfect mood for your adventure.
Arrive in Sopot: Arriving in Sopot, you’ll be greeted by the lively atmosphere of this charming seaside town. Stroll down Monte Cassino Street, a bustling promenade lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Visit the Krzywy Domek: Your first stop is the Krzywy Domek, or Crooked House, a whimsical architectural wonder that defies gravity. Marvel at its crooked façade, which resembles something out of a fairy tale. The building houses various shops, galleries, and eateries. Don’t forget to snap some playful photos in front of this quirky landmark.
Lunch:
Dine by the Sea: Enjoy lunch at one of Sopot’s many seaside restaurants. Savor fresh seafood while gazing out at the Baltic Sea. Try local fish dishes for a taste of Polish cuisine.
Afternoon:
Relax on the Beach: Spend your afternoon on the beautiful Sopot Beach. Soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or simply relax on the sandy shore. Beachside vendors offer snacks and refreshments.
Explore the Pier: Walk along the Sopot Pier, known as the Molo. It’s one of the longest wooden piers in Europe and offers stunning views of the coastline. At the end of the pier, you’ll find the iconic “Sopot” sign, perfect for photos.
Shop and Stroll: Return to Monte Cassino Street for some leisurely shopping. Explore boutiques and souvenir shops, where you can find unique treasures to remember your visit.
Evening:
Dinner with a View: As the day winds down, dine at a restaurant with a view of the Baltic sunset. Sopot offers a variety of dining options, from casual to upscale, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while savoring the coastal ambiance.
Return to Gdańsk: Catch an evening train back to Gdańsk, bringing an end to your enchanting day trip to Sopot and the Krzywy Domek.
Warsaw – 3 days – Road trip to Poland
Next stop of your road trip to Poland is Warsaw.
This 3-day itinerary allows you to experience the rich history, culture, and modernity of Warsaw. It combines visits to historic sites, museums, and leisurely strolls through the city’s charming neighborhoods for a well-rounded exploration of Poland’s dynamic capital.
Day 1:
Start your day in Warsaw’s picturesque Old Town (Stare Miasto). Wander through cobblestone streets, admiring colorful buildings and historic architecture.
Visit the Royal Castle (Zamek Królewski), a symbol of Poland’s royal history. Explore its opulent chambers and art collections.
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Polish lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Explore the Warsaw Uprising Museum (Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego) to learn about the city’s resilient spirit during World War II.
Take a leisurely stroll along Krakowskie Przedmieście Street, known for its charming atmosphere and historic buildings.
Evening: Dine in the Old Town at a restaurant with outdoor seating to savor the ambiance. Consider trying local dishes like kielbasa (sausage).
Day 2:
Visit the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews. Explore the interactive exhibits and gain insight into Poland’s rich Jewish heritage.
Walk to the nearby Łazienki Park, a lush oasis in the city.
Lunch: Have lunch at a café within Łazienki Park. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Afternoon: Explore Wilanów Palace and its magnificent gardens. Discover the royal history of this splendid baroque residence.
Evening: Head to Nowy Świat Street for dinner. This vibrant street is lined with restaurants and shops, making it a perfect place to dine and shop for souvenirs.
Day 3:
Visit the Palace of Culture and Science (Pałac Kultury i Nauki), an iconic skyscraper offering panoramic views of Warsaw from its terrace.
Explore the Copernicus Science Centre (Centrum Nauki Kopernik), a hands-on science museum perfect for all ages.
Lunch: Have lunch at a café in the Powiśle district, known for its trendy atmosphere.
Afternoon: Spend a relaxing afternoon in the Multimedia Fountain Park (Park Fontann). Enjoy water shows and the serene surroundings.
Explore the trendy Praga district, known for its artistic vibe and street art.
Evening: Dine at a riverside restaurant along the Vistula River, enjoying the view of the Warsaw skyline.
Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local bar or jazz club to experience Warsaw’s vibrant nightlife.
Krakow – 2 days – Road trip to Poland
Krakow is the last stop of your road trip to Poland. This 2-day itinerary allows you to experience the essence of Kraków, from its rich history and architecture to its vibrant cultural scene. While it’s a shorter visit, it provides a meaningful exploration of this captivating city.
Day 1:
Begin your day at Rynek Główny, the Main Market Square, by admiring the stunning St. Mary’s Basilica (Kościół Mariacki) and the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice).
Climb the tower of St. Mary’s Basilica for panoramic views of the city.
Lunch: Enjoy a meal at one of the square’s many restaurants, sampling traditional Polish dishes like pierogi or kielbasa.
Afternoon: Visit Wawel Castle, a historic royal residence. Explore the castle grounds, the Wawel Cathedral, and the State Rooms.
Stroll along the Vistula River and take in the picturesque views.
Evening: Dine in the Kazimierz district, the city’s former Jewish quarter. Experience the local ambiance and try Jewish-inspired dishes.
Day 2:
History and Culture
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. Take a guided tour to learn about the sobering history of this former Nazi concentration camp.
Lunch: Return to Kraków and have lunch at a café in the Kazimierz district.
Afternoon: Explore the Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory Museum to gain insight into Kraków’s World War II history.
Visit the MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art for a different artistic perspective.
Evening: Wrap up your visit with a farewell dinner at a restaurant in the historic center. Savor Polish cuisine and reflect on your Kraków experience.
Last day of your road trip to Poland: Goodbye and farewell! Hope you enjoyed your time in Poland.
What if you have more time on your road trip to Poland?
Wrocław: Known as the “Venice of Poland” due to its numerous canals and bridges, Wrocław offers a charming Old Town with colorful buildings, a lively market square, and a rich cultural scene. Don’t miss the iconic Wrocław’s dwarfs, small bronze statues scattered throughout the city.
Zakopane: If you enjoy the outdoors, head to Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains. It’s a haven for hiking, skiing, and exploring the stunning natural beauty of Poland’s highlands.
Białowieża Forest: Discover one of Europe’s last and largest primeval forests. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the European bison, a symbol of conservation success.
Toruń: Explore the beautifully preserved medieval Old Town of Toruń, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its gingerbread tradition. It’s also the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus.
Bieszczady Mountains: For a more remote adventure, visit the Bieszczady Mountains in south-eastern Poland. It’s a paradise for hiking, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility.
Poznań: Discover the historical Poznań Old Town, renowned for its colorful merchant houses and the iconic Old Market Square. Poznań is also home to one of Poland’s most significant cathedrals.
Gniezno: Visit Gniezno, Poland’s first capital and an essential city in Polish history. Explore the Gniezno Cathedral and learn about the country’s origins.