Poland on the Cheap: A Backpacker’s Guide

Tucked in the middle of Eastern Europe, Poland remains one of the best-kept secrets of the continent. From the rugged mountains of the Tatras down to the vibrant, pulsating streets of Krakow, this land is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, diverse in landscape. The best part? It is ridiculously affordable.
For broke backpackers, Poland is a paradise. Starting accommodation for five dollars every night, meals that don’t make one go broke, and nearly free attractions-this country is just perfect for travelers on broke budgets.
However, Poland has a lot more going for it than just affordable prices: it is steeped in history, with pulsating cities and stunning scenery. From the somber memory of Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum to the breathtaking Masurian Lakes, the array of attractions Poland offers would appeal to the most seasoned traveler.
In this blog, we take you through some of the secret treasures of Poland-how one gets by in this fantastic country with money still in his pocket. Be it that you are a professional backpacker or just starting to be one, get ready to find the magic of Poland on a budget.

How to get there:

From Germany

  • Berlin to Warsaw: Take the Berlin-Warszawa Express train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof to Warsaw Central Station (approximately 5.5 hours, €30-€60).
  • Dresden to Wrocław: Catch the regional train from Dresden Hauptbahnhof to Wrocław Główny (approximately 2.5 hours, €10-€20).

From Czech Republic

  • Prague to Kraków: Take the bus from Prague’s ÚAN Florenc station to Kraków’s Main Bus Station (approximately 6 hours, €10-€20).
  • Ostrava to Katowice: Catch the regional train from Ostrava hlavní nádraží to Katowice Main Station (approximately 2 hours, €5-€10).

From Slovakia

  • Bratislava to Kraków: Take the bus from Bratislava’s Mlynské Nivy station to Kraków’s Main Bus Station (approximately 5 hours, €15-€25).
  • Košice to Rzeszów: Catch the regional train from Košice železničná stanica to Rzeszów Główny (approximately 4 hours, €10-€20).

From Ukraine

  • Lviv to Przemyśl: Take the bus from Lviv’s Main Bus Station to Przemyśl’s Main Bus Station (approximately 4 hours, €10-€20).
  • Kyiv to Warsaw: Catch the overnight train from Kyiv’s Central Station to Warsaw Central Station (approximately 10 hours, €20-€40).

From Belarus

Grodno to Suwałki: Catch the regional train from Grodno’s Central Station to Suwałki Main Station (approximately 4 hours, €15-€25).

Minsk to Białystok: Take the bus from Minsk’s Central Bus Station to Białystok’s Main Bus Station (approximately 6 hours, €20-€30).

When to go:

Spring (March to May)

  • Weather: Mild temperatures (10-20°C/50-68°F), occasional rain
  • Pros:
  • Fewer tourists, lower prices
  • Beautiful blooming flowers and greenery
  • Festivals like Warsaw’s Jazz Festival and Kraków’s Film Festival
  • Cons:
  • Some attractions might still be closed after winter
  • Occasional chilly evenings

Summer (June to August)

  • Weather: Warm temperatures (20-30°C/68-86°F), occasional heatwaves
  • Pros:
  • Longer days, perfect for exploration
  • Vibrant festivals like Wrocław’s Good Beer Festival and Warsaw’s Summer Jazz Festival
  • Access to outdoor activities like hiking and cycling
  • Cons:
  • Peak tourist season, higher prices
  • Crowds and long queues at popular attractions

Autumn (September to November)

  • Weather: Comfortable temperatures (10-20°C/50-68°F), golden foliage
  • Pros:
  • Fewer tourists, lower prices
  • Stunning autumn colors
  • Harvest festivals like Warsaw’s Apple Festival
  • Cons:
  • Some attractions might start closing for winter

Winter (December to February)

  • Weather: Cold temperatures (-5 to 0°C/23-32°F), occasional snow
  • Pros:
  • Lowest prices for accommodation and attractions
  • Magical Christmas markets and festive atmosphere
  • Skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the Tatra Mountains
  • Cons:
  • Shorter days, colder weather
  • Some attractions might be closed or have limited hours

Best Time for Broke Backpackers:

  • September to October: Comfortable weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices make autumn an ideal time for budget travelers.
  • April to May: Spring’s mild temperatures and fewer crowds make it an excellent alternative.

Events and Festivals:

Kraków’s Film Festival (May)

Kraków’s Main Market Square Christmas Market (December)

Warsaw’s Jazz Festival (April)

Wrocław’s Good Beer Festival (June)

Warsaw’s Summer Jazz Festival (July)

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary

  • Day 1: Krakow
  • Explore Krakow’s historic Old Town (free)
  • Visit Wawel Castle (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Enjoy traditional Polish food at a milk bar (10-20 PLN / $2.50-5 USD)
  • Day 2: Krakow
  • Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum (45 PLN / $11 USD, book in advance)
  • Walk through Kazimierz, the Jewish Quarter (free)
  • Relax in Planty Park (free)
  • Day 3: Krakow
  • Visit the stunning St. Mary’s Basilica (10-15 PLN / $2.50-3.75 USD)
  • Explore the bustling Main Market Square (free)
  • Take an overnight bus to Warsaw or Gdansk (20-30 PLN / $5-7.50 USD)

1-Week Itinerary

  • Day 1-2: Krakow (same as above)
  • Day 3-4: Warsaw
  • Explore the Old Town and Royal Route (free)
  • Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum (25 PLN / $6.25 USD)
  • Enjoy a picnic in Royal Lazienki Park (free)
  • Day 5: Torun
  • Visit the birthplace of Copernicus (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Explore the medieval Old Town (free)
  • Try traditional Torun-style gingerbread (5-10 PLN / $1.25-2.50 USD)
  • Day 6-7: Gdansk
  • Explore the colorful Old Town (free)
  • Visit the European Solidarity Centre (15 PLN / $3.75 USD)
  • Walk along the Motlawa River (free)

2-Week Itinerary

  • Day 1-3: Krakow (same as above)
  • Day 4-5: Warsaw (same as above)
  • Day 6-7: Torun (same as above)
  • Day 8-9: Gdansk (same as above)
  • Day 10-11: Wroclaw
  • Explore the picturesque Old Town (free)
  • Visit the stunning Panorama of Raclawice (30 PLN / $7.50 USD)
  • Relax in Szczytnicki Park (free)
  • Day 12-14: Zakopane (Tatra Mountains)
  • Hike to Morskie Oko lake (free)
  • Take a scenic train ride to the Tatra National Park (10-20 PLN / $2.50-5 USD)

1-Month Itinerary

Return to Krakow or Warsaw for departure

Week 1: Krakow, Warsaw, Torun, Gdansk (same as above)

Week 2: Wroclaw, Zakopane (same as above)

Week 3:

Visit the stunning city of Poznan (free)

Explore the Great Masurian Lakes region (free)

Relax in the scenic town of Szczawnica (free)

Week 4:

Visit the historic city of Lublin (free)

Explore the Bialowieza Forest (free)

Transportation:

Poland has a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to get around without a car.

Types of Public Transportation in Poland

1. Buses (Autobusy)

  • Urban buses (Miejskie Autobusy): connect city centers to suburbs
  • Inter-city buses (Autobusy Podmiejskie): connect cities and towns
  • Long-distance buses (Autobusy Długodystansowe): connect major cities

2. Trams (Tramwaje)

  • Operate in larger cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk
  • Efficient way to travel short distances

3. Trains (Pociągi)

  • PKP (Polskie Koleje Państwowe): national rail carrier
  • Regio trains: connect smaller towns and cities
  • InterCity and Express trains: connect major cities
  • High-speed trains (Pendolino): connect Warsaw to Krakow, Gdansk, and Wroclaw

4. Metro (Metro)

  • Only in Warsaw (one line) and Krakow (under construction)

5. Funiculars (Kolejka Linowa)

  • Connect city centers to nearby hills or scenic areas (e.g., Krakow’s Zakopane)

6. Water Trams (Tramwaj Wodny)

  • Operate in coastal cities like Gdansk and Szczecin

How to Use Public Transportation in Poland

1. Tickets and Fares

  • Buy tickets at:
  • Ticket machines (automaty biletowe)
  • Ticket counters (kasy biletowe)
  • Newsstands (kioski)
  • Online platforms (e.g., PKP’s website)
  • Fares:
  • Urban buses: 2-4 PLN ($0.50-1 USD)
  • Inter-city buses: 10-30 PLN ($2.50-7.50 USD)
  • Trains: 10-50 PLN ($2.50-12.50 USD)

Popular Public Transportation Apps in Poland

  • JakDojade (iOS, Android)
  • PKP (iOS, Android)
  • Google Maps (iOS, Android)
  • Rome2rio (iOS, Android)

Useful Polish Phrases for Public Transportation

“Ile kosztuje…?” (How much does… cost?)

“Bilet, proszę” (Ticket, please)

“Gdzie jest…?” (Where is…)

“Kiedy odjeżdża…?” (When does… depart?)

Top things to do:

Northern Poland

Gdansk
  • Explore the colorful Old Town (free)
  • Visit the European Solidarity Centre (15 PLN / $3.75 USD)
  • Walk along the Motlawa River (free)
  • Relax on Stogi Beach (free)
  • Gdansk Shipyards (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • St. Mary’s Church (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Neptune’s Fountain (free)
  • Gdansk Museum (20 PLN / $5 USD)
Torun
  • Visit the birthplace of Copernicus (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Explore the medieval Old Town (free)
  • Try traditional Torun-style gingerbread (5-10 PLN / $1.25-2.50 USD)
  • Walk along the Vistula River (free)
  • Torun Cathedral (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Planetarium (15 PLN / $3.75 USD)
  • Torun Museum (20 PLN / $5 USD)
Szczecin
  • Explore the stunning Old Town (free)
  • Visit the Szczecin Castle (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Relax in the scenic Jasne Błonia Park (free)
  • Walk along the Oder River (free)
  • Szczecin Philharmonic (20 PLN / $5 USD)
  • National Museum of Szczecin (15 PLN / $3.75 USD)

Central Poland

Warsaw
  • Explore the Old Town and Royal Route (free)
  • Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum (25 PLN / $6.25 USD)
  • Enjoy a picnic in Royal Lazienki Park (free)
  • Walk along the Vistula River (free)
  • Warsaw Cathedral (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • National Museum of Warsaw (20 PLN / $5 USD)
  • Fryderyk Chopin Museum (20 PLN / $5 USD)
Lodz
  • Explore the industrial heritage of the city (free)
  • Visit the Lodz Museum of Art (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Walk along Piotrkowska Street (free)
  • Relax in the scenic Poniatowski Park (free)
  • Lodz Cathedral (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Textile Museum (15 PLN / $3.75 USD)
Poznan
  • Explore the stunning Old Town (free)
  • Visit the Poznan Cathedral (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Relax in the scenic Citadel Park (free)
  • Walk along the Warta River (free)
  • National Museum of Poznan (20 PLN / $5 USD)
  • Poznan Palmiarnia (15 PLN / $3.75 USD)

Southern Poland

Krakow
  • Explore the historic Old Town (free)
  • Visit Wawel Castle (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Walk through Kazimierz, the Jewish Quarter (free)
  • Relax in Planty Park (free)
  • Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum (45 PLN / $11 USD, book in advance)
  • Schindler’s Factory Museum (20 PLN / $5 USD)
  • Krakow Museum (20 PLN / $5 USD)
Zakopane (Tatra Mountains)
  • Hike to Morskie Oko lake (free)
  • Take a scenic train ride to the Tatra National Park (10-20 PLN / $2.50-5 USD)
  • Relax in the scenic town of Zakopane (free)
  • Tatra Museum (15 PLN / $3.75 USD)
  • Zakopane Cable Car (20 PLN / $5 USD)
Wroclaw
  • Explore the picturesque Old Town (free)
  • Visit the stunning Panorama of Raclawice (30 PLN / $7.50 USD)
  • Relax in Szczytnicki Park (free)
  • Walk along the Oder River (free)
  • Wroclaw Cathedral (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • National Museum of Wroclaw (20 PLN / $5 USD)

Eastern Poland

Lublin

Majdanek Museum (15 PLN / $3.75 USD)

Explore the historic Old Town (free)

Visit the Lublin Castle (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)

Walk along the Vistula River (free)

Relax in the scenic Krakowska Gate (free)

Lublin Museum (20 PLN / $5 USD)

Bialystok

  • Explore the stunning Old Town (free)
  • Visit the Bialystok Castle (10 PLN / $2.50 USD)
  • Relax in the scenic Branicki Palace Park (free)

Food:

It is hearty and delicious, aptly reflecting the rich history and cultural heritage of the country. From traditional dishes passed down through generations to modern twists on classic favorites, Poland’s food scene is an unsailed culinary adventure.
Polish cuisine pleases both stomach and soul with dishes in which the base is usually made of meat, potatoes, vegetables, and groats. Probably one of the most representative foods of the Polish tradition is pierogi-dumplings with meat, cheese, potatoes, or fruit, usually topped with fried onions and sour cream. Another very important dish is bigos-serious stew with meat, sour cabbage, and beans.
The tantalizing smells of Polish street food waft through the streets and markets. Sample fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods at a local market-or rynku-if you will. Enjoy a traditional Polish zapiekanka-an open-faced sandwich filled with mushrooms, cheese, and ham-or treat yourself to a warm, sugary pączki (doughnut) from a street vendor.
The various regions of Poland make for different types of cuisine. In the north, Gdansk boasts a very famous fish soup, while Kaszuby boasts a type of blood sausage called kaszanka. To the south, sample hearty Highlander dishes, including oscypek, a type of smoked cheese, and kiełbasa, a type of sausage. And to the east, try the flavors of Polish-Lithuanian fare, such as zurek, a sour rye soup, and kibinai, meat-filled pastries.
The beer of Poland is legendary, and popular brands include Żywiec and Tyskie. Try cold beer in a traditional pub or “piwiarnia.” For the teetotalers, Poland has various flavorsome juices, teas, and coffees. Classic Polish vodka is flavored mostly with fruits or herbs and is a must-try.
Eating out in Poland is affordable and delicious. Try a “bar mleczny” for traditional, no-frills dining at very economical prices. You can try a “zakąska” for quick, tasty bites. In mid-range restaurants, you have very good value for money; main courses start from about 20-30 PLN ($5-7.50 USD).
Food plays a significant role in Polish culture, especially during holidays and feasts. Sample the traditional Polish Christmas Eve dinner of Wigilia, featuring 12 courses for the 12 apostles. Join in the fun and drinking at harvest festivals where traditional foods and drinks are plentiful.
Polish cuisine is indeed a very rich tapestry of traditional flavors, regional dishes, and even modern twists on them. Everything from comfort food to delicious street food, with regional dishes thrown in for good measure-just about something for every taste and budget imaginable. Come and explore the flavors of Poland-your taste buds will be delighted!
For the interested reader, there is much more to be learned about Polish food from cookbooks on Polish cuisine, food blogs, and guides to Polish culture. Be one a foodie, an enthusiast of history, or just looking for something new, Poland’s food scene has got something to make anyone happy.

Culture:

Polish culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from a rich history, resilient people, and a strong sense of tradition. Located at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe, Poland has been shaped by its complex past, influenced by various cultures, and enriched by its diverse heritage.

Poland’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in its history, which has been marked by struggles for independence, foreign occupations, and resilience in the face of adversity. The country’s national identity is built around its proud heritage, folklore, and traditions. The Polish people have always been known for their warm hospitality, welcoming nature, and strong family ties.

Family plays a vital role in Polish culture, with close-knit relationships and respect for elders being deeply ingrained. Traditional Polish families often gather together for special occasions, such as holidays and celebrations, which are filled with music, dance, and delicious food. The concept of “dom” (home) is sacred in Polish culture, representing a sense of security, comfort, and belonging.

Polish folklore is a treasure trove of colorful traditions, music, and dance. The country’s diverse regions have their unique folk costumes, songs, and dances, which are proudly showcased during festivals and celebrations. The polka, mazur, and waltz are popular traditional dances that have been passed down through generations.

Art and literature have always been integral to Polish culture, with renowned authors like Adam Mickiewicz, Juliusz Słowacki, and Cyprian Kamil Norwid contributing to the country’s rich literary heritage. Polish art has been shaped by various styles, from Gothic to Baroque, and has produced famous artists like Jan Matejko and Stanisław Wyspiański.

Music is an essential part of Polish culture, with classical composers like Frédéric Chopin, Ignacy Paderewski, and Krzysztof Penderecki leaving an indelible mark on the world music scene. Traditional Polish music, such as folk songs and patriotic anthems, continues to inspire and unite the nation.

Polish cuisine is a reflection of the country’s cultural diversity, with dishes like pierogi, bigos, and zapiekanka showcasing the blending of influences from various regions. Traditional Polish food is hearty, flavorful, and often served with a warm smile.

Catholicism has played a significant role in shaping Polish culture, with the majority of Poles identifying as Catholics. The country’s strong spiritual heritage is evident in its beautiful churches, shrines, and religious festivals.

Poland’s cultural landscape is also influenced by its vibrant cities, each with its unique character and charm. From the historic Old Towns of Kraków and Warsaw to the scenic coastal towns of Gdańsk and Szczecin, each city tells a story of Poland’s complex past and resilient spirit.

In conclusion, Polish culture is a rich and dynamic entity that has been shaped by its complex history, resilient people, and strong sense of tradition. From its vibrant folklore to its world-renowned art and literature, Poland’s cultural heritage is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.

Accommodations:

But to a poor backpacker, it could be challenging finding relatively cheap accommodation, especially in another country. Fortunately, Poland offers a wide variety of budget hostel options that could suit the needs of travelers on broke budgets.
There has recently been a real boom in hostels in Poland, with loads of new places opening up in Krakow, Warsaw, and Gdansk. These hostels offer a great mix of comfort, convenience, and affordability that make them an ideal choice for the broke backpacker.
One of the best things about hostels in Poland is their price. On average, a bed in the dorm might cost around 20-40 PLN ($5-10 USD) per night, while a private room usually costs between 80-150 PLN ($20-37.50 USD) per night. For this reason, it is way cheaper than what you would get in Western Europe, making Poland a decent destination for all budget travelers.
But the thing is-for the best and most unique hostel experiences-when it comes to those fancy, really expensive ones, don’t go in search of them but seek the cheapest, for they are practically guaranteed to hold the craziest and most unforgettable times. Shared kitchens turn into impromptu party zones, dorm rooms into a night of games, and other travelers suddenly become long-term friends. The cheapest hostels often possess a raw energy that’s hard to find in upper-scale establishments.
In these no-frills hostels, you will run into like-minded travelers whose common motives are essentially the same as yours: to have a blast, meet new people, and be exposed to energetic Polish culture. The staff members are very friendly and knowledgeable, always taking time to point out a few inside spots-the best bars, clubs, and everything else.
So, the more lowly hostels translate into more genuine, unpredictable, and wild times in Poland. Your wallet-and your sense of adventure-will thank you.

Nightlife:

Nightlife in Poland is a force unto its own, comprising bars, clubs, and live music venues in one dynamic, eclectic mix that caters for every taste and style. From underground caverns to rooftop bars, Poland’s cities come alive after dark, inviting partygoers into the country’s infectious energy.
The nightlife of Poland is deeply steeped in the country’s history, character, resilience, and joie de vivre. From traditional pubs to trendy cocktail bars to avant-garde clubs, each city bursts with every type of nightlife, each with its unique atmosphere and charm.
Not only is it one of the main features but also a key feature that defines Polish nightlife: affordability. Compared to most places, Poland is an extremely affordable place to party; in relation to Western Europe, beers and cocktails are pretty cheap compared to other places. It therefore makes it easy to indulge in a night out without breaking the bank.
Nightlife in Poland is also incredibly varied, with each different city offering something a little different. In large cities like Warsaw and Krakow, you should expect an extremely cosmopolitan experience with international DJs, live music, and themed parties. Smaller towns have a much more intimate, local feel, with family-run bars and cozy pubs serving up traditional Polish drinks and snacks.
The Polish party crowd are warm and hospitable, infectiously enthusiastic. Locals are eager to share the secrets of their city, let alone party secrets, making it incredibly easy to strike up a conversation and make new friends on the dance floor.
At night, especially as night wears on, the cities in Poland take on a kaleidoscope of colors and sound. Neon-lit streets pulse with energy as basement bars and underground clubs throb with electronic beats. Summer nights bring outdoor festivals and concerts, taking advantage of Poland’s picturesque parks and riverbanks.
The nightlife in Poland is also deeply in tune with the country’s festivals and events. Throughout the year, cities burst into events fully felt with music, art, and even tradition, which draws crowds into an electric atmosphere impossible to resist.
In Poland, the party often spills out into the streets: impromptu gatherings and after-parties spring up in the most unlikely of places. It is not an unusual sight to see a group of people singing traditional Polish songs or dancing in the street at 3 am.
Generally speaking, nightlife in Poland is unrepeatable and will leave you breathless, wanting for more. Be you a seasoned party animal or just looking for a taste of local culture, the vivid party scene of Poland has got something to offer for everyone.

Backpacking Poland costs:

Daily Expenses:

  • Accommodation: $5-7 (hostel dorm or camping)
  • Food: $3-5 (street food, markets, or grocery stores)
  • Transportation: $1-2 (public transportation or walking)
  • Attractions: $1-2 (free walking tours, parks, or museums)
  • Miscellaneous: $1-2 (souvenirs, snacks, or unexpected expenses)
  • Total: $10-15 per day

Weekly Expenses:

Total: $70-105 per week

Accommodation: $35-49 per week

Food: $21-35 per week

Transportation: $7-14 per week

Attractions: $7-14 per week

Miscellaneous: $7-14 per week

Conclusion:

As we near the end of our broke odyssey through Poland, one thing’s certain: this astonishing country serves up a heady cocktail of history, culture, and natural beauty at a price that’s hard to beat.
With a bit of planning and flexibility, with an added flair for going off the beaten track, even the most broke backpacker can get a taste of the best Poland has to offer without breaking the bank. Be it from Warsaw’s crazy nightlife to Krakow’s beautiful buildings, from the Tatra Mountains with their stunning scenery to the peaceful Masurian Lakes, there is so much variety, both in landscape and attractions.
Remember, Poland is a country that gratifies curiosity, creativity, and a feeling of adventure. Never be afraid just to try new foods, drinks, and experiences. Chat with locals and absorb the infectious energy of its vibrant cities.
Sometimes, for as little as $10-15 a day, Poland remains the top destination among poor and broke backpackers who dream of lifetime memories and no hurt budgets. Whether seasoned traveler or a first-time adventurer, Poland promises to captivate, inspire, and leave you wanting more.