1. By area, Poland ranks 69th in the world and 9th in Europe.

2. The word "Poland" comes from the name of the Polanie tribe, which means "people living in the open field."

3. About 35% of the 60 million Poles live abroad. Large Polish-speaking communities live in the USA, Canada, Great Britain, Germany, Australia, Brazil and Argentina.

4. Poland boasts 17 Nobel laureates (more than Japan, China, India or Australia), including four peace prizes and five in literature. Polish-born Marie Curie (Maria Skłodowska) was the first and only Nobel laureate in two different sciences and the first female professor at the Sorbonne.

5. Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus was the first to suggest that the Earth is not the center of the Universe.

6. Poland is ethnically homogeneous; only small national minorities live on the country’s territory: Ukrainians, Belarusians, Slovaks, Lithuanians and Germans.

7. Among the Slavic languages, Polish is the second in the number of speakers, after Russian.

8. Poland is the world's largest exporter of amber. Since ancient times, the country has been famous for its amber, which for more than 1000 years was transported along the Amber Route from the Baltic Sea to the Adriatic coast. Gdansk, a city in northern Poland, is a great place for amber shopping.

9. Before World War II, Poland was the European center of Jewry, with 3.3 million Jews living in the country. 450 thousand Poles saved Jews from death during the Holocaust. The state of Israel awarded 6,135 Poles the title of Righteous among the Nations, this is the largest number among all nationalities.

10. Nazi-occupied Poland was the only territory where any kind of assistance to Jews was officially punishable by death. Up to 50 thousand Poles were executed by the Nazis for saving Jews.

11. Polish “pies” (analogous to Ukrainian dumplings. – Ed.)– the most famous Polish dish outside of Poland.

12. In Poland, beer is often served with raspberry or blackcurrant juice (piwo z sokiem), which should be drunk through a straw. In cold weather, it is customary to drink hot beer with cloves and cinnamon, sweetened with honey (piwo grzane).

13. Poland is included “in the vodka belt of Europe.” The history of vodka production in the country goes back more than 500 years. The first Polish vodka appeared in the 11th century. It was called gorzalks and was used as a medicine.

14. Pope John Paul II (Karol Wojtyla) was the only Polish Pope. His tenure as papacy was the second longest in history. He is credited with helping hasten the end of communism in Poland and throughout Central and Eastern Europe. His ancestral home in Wadowice, near Krakow, is now a place of pilgrimage.

15. Catholicism is so popular in Poland that the country broadcasts a television channel dedicated to the Pope.

16. Poles more often than representatives of other nationalities won the title “World’s Strongest Man”. Pole Mariusz Pudzianowski is a five-time winner of this competition.

17. Poland has one of the best preserved Neolithic flint workings (3500-1200 BC) in the world. This is one of the most valuable archaeological sites in Europe.

18. One of the oldest salt mines in the world – the Wieliczka Salt Mine (Kopalnia Soli Wieliczka) – was built in the 13th century. It consists of corridors and galleries on seven underground levels at depths from 57 m to 198 m with a total length of more than 200 km. It is also called the "Underground Salt Cathedral" due to the three chapels and the entire cathedral that were carved out of the salt mountain by miners. Since 1978, the salt mine has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

19. Poles are well educated: 90% of young people have at least a secondary education. 50% of Poles have an academic degree.

20. Restaurant Piwnica Świdnicka in Wroclaw is the oldest in Europe. It has been in operation since 1275.

21. In Poland it is still customary to kiss women’s hands when they meet.

22. One of the most popular songs in Poland is Żeby Polska była Polską, which was written in 1976 and became an anthem for protesters against the communist regime. Speaking in 1982, Ronald Reagan titled his speech Let Poland Be Poland, and Queen Elizabeth II quoted the song when speaking in the Polish Parliament.

23. In Warsaw there is a street named after Winnie the Pooh - Kubusia Puchatka Street. The street has a length of 149 m.

24. Many Poles consider their name day a more important holiday than their birthday.

25. One of the Christmas traditions in Poland is watching the movie Home Alone.

Experts suggest getting to know the ten most popular tourist sites in Poland. The rating was created by TripAdvisor based on tourist reviews.

In tenth place is Warsaw Old city. By the way, it is old only in appearance, since in fact its central part was completely destroyed during the Second World War. And what tourists see now is a detailed and detailed reconstruction, which was completed only in the early 1980s!

Oliwa Cathedral is the main church of the Gdansk Archdiocese of the Roman Catholic Church in Poland. It is located in the Oliwa district of Gdansk. Official name- Basilica of the Holy Trinity, Holy Mother of God and Saint Bernard. This building dates back to 1186.

In eighth place is no longer Krakow, but Western Polish Wroclaw and its Old Town - one of the most beautiful in the country. Moreover, Germanic influences in architecture are noticeable here, since for centuries Wroclaw was a city within Germany and was once called Breslau.

The seventh place was taken by the famous cloth rows - in Polish Sukiennice. This is a building that is located in the Old Town of Krakow. Its name comes from the fact that cloth was previously traded here.

Well, the sixth place among the most popular tourist places is taken by Wawel itself - the castle complex, which began to be built in 1290. Wawel is a famous museum center in Poland. It houses famous collections of weapons, tapestries and historical documents.

It’s hard to believe, but fifth place also went to Krakow: this is the Cathedral of Saints Stanislaus and Wenceslas, opened in 1384 in the presence of King Casimir the Great. It is located on the territory of the Wawel architectural complex - the ancient residence of Polish kings when Krakow was the capital of the country.

In fourth place are also Krakow and St. Mary's Church, built in the Gothic style in the 14th and 15th centuries. This is one of the most famous churches in Poland.

Third place in the ranking is occupied by the Wieliczka Salt Mine, where salt was mined from the 13th to the 20th centuries. Now this is one of the favorite places among tourists. The mine was opened to the public in 1976 and listed two years later. world heritage UNESCO. It consists of corridors and galleries on seven underground levels at depths from 57 m to 198 m with a total length of more than 200 km.

In second place is the former factory of the German industrialist Oskar Schindler, also located in Krakow. Jews who were on the so-called “Schindler's list” worked here from 1939 to 1945. Steven Spielberg made a famous film about this under the same name. Now the factory building houses a museum, which was opened in 2010.

So, the first place was taken by the Old Town of Krakow, which, in theory, is not a surprise, because the former capital of Poland is generally recognized as one of the most beautiful cities Europe. In a word, in Poland there is something to see and see, the main thing is to choose, and the choice, you see, is considerable.

Poland is one of the countries with rich history, it has always attracted a large number of ancient monuments and picturesque landscapes. Today you will learn about the sights of Poland, what this country can be remembered for. It is better to plan your trip in advance. This is especially true of what to see in Poland.

What to see first in Poland?

This is a country with hospitable and friendly people, which makes you want to visit it even more. Let's move on to the main thing: what is so beautiful that you can see in a state located in the central part of the European continent?

1. Old Town of Warsaw

Architecture of the Old Town of Warsaw

You should start your trip around the country by getting to know the historical district of its official capital. It is represented by a market square with a large number of shops, cafes and restaurants for every taste and color. A positive feature of this landmark of Poland is the richness of the area with monuments of medieval architecture. It is interesting to know that the Old Town was founded back in the 13th century; initially it was surrounded by an earthen rampart, which was later replaced by brick walls. Don't forget to take your camera to take lots of beautiful photos.

2. Marienburg Castle

Marienburg Castle - residence of the Teutonic Order crusaders

The main attractions of the country include the “nest” of German knights. The brick bulk of this castle rises on the banks of the Nogat River, which flows 80 km from the border with the Kaliningrad region of the Russian Federation. Its history began 700 years ago, when the residence of the Teutons was officially moved from Venice to Marienburg. The fortress was repeatedly completed and decorated. In 1945, the castle suffered great destruction, but after the end of World War II it was literally rebuilt. Nowadays there is a museum within the walls of the building; interesting collections of weapons, amber jewelry, and armor are displayed there.

3. Tatras

Mountain slopes of the Tatras

So called mountain system The Carpathians, the highest point of which reaches 2499 m. This place attracts tourists not only with altitudes ranging from 1800-2500 m, but also with glacial cirques, mountain lakes in large numbers, and deep valleys. The rating of this attraction of Poland is rated as high, all because there is still ski resort, known as Zakopane. You can get here from the capital by train. The Tatras are also famous for their caves, of which there are really a lot.

4. Krakow Old Town

Shopping building "Cloth Hall" in the Old Town of Krakow

If you are planning to go specifically to Krakow, it is better to start exploring it from the Old Town, all roads from which lead to the market square. It represents a “state living room”; people used to gather there as local residents, and guests of the country. Krakow residents are proud of their square, because it is considered one of the largest in Europe, covering 200 * 200 m. A trip to the Old Town is worth it because the market ensemble has preserved in detail the layout of the times when trade was carried out with all of Europe.

5. Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle – royal castle on Wawel Hill

This is one of the best attractions in Krakow, represented by a large pedestrian area. A strange sculpture in the form of a dragon immediately attracts attention. Tourists love to take pictures against its background; there is a whole legend associated with it. The castle rises above the Vistula River and stands on a hill. The territory attracts with an abundance of flowers; processions are held here in honor of the celebration of May 1 and more. Entrance to the castle territory is free, but if you want to visit the underground tombs, climb the bell tower or find yourself in the royal chambers, you will need to pay money.

6. Wooden churches in the south of Lesser Poland

Wooden church in Dybno Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Po

Interesting places are located in the south and east of the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, where there is a whole group of historically valuable churches made of natural wood from an architectural point of view. Most of them have the appearance of a log house, and some represent various architectural styles. The buildings fit perfectly into the picturesque mountain landscape. From the description of this landmark of Poland you can find out that it is included in the UNESCO list.

Feel the atmosphere of Poland in this beautiful video!

7. Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum in Auschwitz

Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum in Auschwitz

Everyone knows that in one of the Polish cities during the Second World War there were three Nazi concentration camps. There is a museum in Auschwitz dedicated to this topic. It reminds us that hundreds of thousands of people died here at one time. 90% of them were Jews brought from various countries of occupied Europe. During the existence of the concentration camp, more than a million people were killed. When you enter this museum, it is impossible to remain indifferent. This Polish landmark has displays of items that were taken from victims by the Nazis.

8. Old Town in Gdansk

Embankment of the Moltava River in the Old Town of Gdansk

What to visit in Poland? The oldest part of the settlement of Gdansk deserves attention. During the Second World War, a huge number of buildings were damaged, and some completely turned into a pile of rubble. Very few buildings were saved. At the end of hostilities, the architecture was restored in accordance with the appearance of the 13-17 centuries. Where to go first in Poland? Of course, to the old city. It is decorated with many colorful buildings, some of them are decorated with drawings carved on wood and sculptural decorations. The view of the ancient center of Europe always leaves a vivid impression.

9. Masurian Lake District

Panorama of the Masurian Lake District

This d The sights of Poland are among the most beautiful; tourists are delighted with the beauty of the local nature. Masuria is a historical and ethnographic region in the northern part of the country. There are about 4 thousand lakes in this region, most of which are connected by canals and rivers. The total area of ​​Mazury is about 1700 km 2 . Here you can go sailing and kayaking.

10. Statue of Christ the King

Impressive statue of Christ the King

This landmark of Poland is one of the modern ones; its opening took place in 2010. The unique feature of the statue is that it is the tallest in the world (36 m). Before its appearance, the famous statue in Rio was considered such. If you drive along the highway towards Świebodzin, the figure of Christ with outstretched arms is clearly visible. The idea of ​​building the monument belongs to Canon Sylvester Zavadsky. They consider it their duty to show the statue of Christ to tourists.

Sights of Poland: what else to visit in Poland?

A trip to the country described will definitely be interesting. It contains simply a huge number of historically significant places that deserve attention. What to see in Poland when it seems like you’ve already seen everything?

11. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Central altar of the chapel of St. Kinga in the Wieliczka Salt Mine

30 minutes drive from the capital royal city Krakow is another landmark of Poland. This is about small town, which is inhabited by only 20 thousand people. Its uniqueness lies in the presence of salt mines. They were formed naturally; many years ago there was a large expanse of water there. in this direction are held regularly; tourists are shown places where salt was once mined.

12. Słowinski National Park

Landscape of Slowinski National Park

Thinking about what to visit in Poland? Head to the city of Leba, where there is interesting place in the form of a park area in the central part of the Polish coast. It was founded with the aim of preserving the natural beauty of the area. Meadows, lake systems, coastal forests, and unique dunes also needed protection. Reviews about this place are full of admiration; the park has picturesque lakes into which sea water flows during strong storms. The tourism infrastructure here is assessed as well developed.

13. Wilanów Palace

The majestic royal Wilanów Palace

Want to see Poland's most important landmark? Welcome to the palace, located on the southeastern outskirts of Warsaw. It is made in the Baroque style, and adjacent to it is a garden, which the Poles are proud of. The residence for the rulers was built at the end of the seventeenth century, and during its existence it was completed several times. It was within the walls of the palace that one of the first art museums in the country was opened, this happened in 1805, and on the initiative of S.K. Pototsky.

14. Wroclaw Cathedral

Catholic view Cathedral John the Baptist

Go ahead. What to see in Poland so as not to regret it? A beautiful and majestic building in the Gothic style, with neo-Gothic elements, deserves attention. This is already the fourth church on Cathedral Island; the first was built in the 10th century. Its feature was a nave 25 m long. The modern version of Wroclaw Cathedral has the appearance of a three-nave basilica with several entrances. This place is one of those that can be seen in Poland in 1 day. The cathedral is located in the central part of Wroclaw, namely between botanical garden and the river.

15. Zakopane

The town of Zakopane among the snow-capped Tatras

The city, located in the far south of the country, has many positive recommendations. Here it is considered one of the largest winter sports centers. Ski lovers are offered both simple, gentle slopes and difficult, steep ones. In some places the elevation changes reach 930 m. What to see in Poland, you ask? Head to Zakopane, where 10 ski centers await you.

16. Belovezhskaya Pushcha

Fauna of Belovezhsky National Park

This is the largest corner of the relict primeval lowland forest. It once grew throughout Europe, but gradually it was cut down. The trees survived only in the Belovezhsky region, which is in Poland and Belarus. The Pushcha is considered one of the most valuable natural sites, which is under the “protection” of UNESCO. A special feature of the national park is the richness and diversity of vegetation. Numerous animals live there, most of which are listed in the Red Book.

17. Lazienki Park

Palace on the water in the Royal Lazienki Park

In the very heart of the Polish capital there is a unique and very beautiful park area. The park was created back in the 17th century; it was originally planned that it would be nature reserve. There are not many animals here; squirrels and peacocks attract attention. The park's attractions include the Palace on the Water, the White House, the Roman Theater, the Egyptian Castle and more. They all have their own interesting story.

18. Old part of Zamość

Fort in the Old Town of Zamoska

Myself locality appeared according to the idea and desire of one person, who was the crown chancellor. His name was Jan Zamoyski, he wanted to have his own residence, which would be worthy of his high position. The result is a unique architectural ensemble, which includes a large number of masterpieces of historical and cultural significance. By the way, there are no problems with hotels in Poland, no matter what direction you choose, there are apartments everywhere, the main thing is to make sure you book in advance.

19. Churches of the world

Facade of the Church of Peace of the Holy Trinity in Świdnica

What interesting and unusual things to see in Poland? In some cities of the country there are wooden sacred buildings, which are considered the largest in Europe. Just over 15 years ago they were included in the UNESCO list. There is a Church of Peace in Jawor, Świdnica, and Głogów. Each has its own interesting story. They not only hold services, but also organize excursions.

20. Architectural and park complex of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska

The monastery complex of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is a center of pilgrimage in Poland

In this city there is an interesting religious complex, which looks like a structure made in the spirit of mannerism. The surrounding area has a park and several gardens. The multifunctional complex was erected in the 17th century, namely during the period of the Catholic church-political movement in Europe, when numerous religious buildings were “created” in memory of Golgotha.

21. Muskau Park

New Palace in Muskau Park

The uniqueness of this attraction lies in the fact that it is located on the territory of several countries. It was founded in 1815, the order was issued by the Prussian aristocrat Prince Hermann. He always wanted to have a personal garden that looked like a natural landscape. Having put in a lot of effort, he managed to make his dream come true, and modern people enjoy the results. In order to hide the artificial origin of the large garden, a variety of trees, shrubs, flowers and more were used.

22. Książ Castle

Beautiful and monumental Książ Castle

What to see in Poland? If you have the opportunity, do not ignore the beautiful and one of the largest castles in Europe; for the Poles this place is very significant. Its peculiarity is that it is surrounded by a beech forest, in which there are entire thickets of rhododendrons. The building is located near Walbrzych, namely on a rocky cape, surrounded by a natural gorge. In order to return the castle to its former splendor, it is currently being systematically restored and renovated inside.

23. Bieszczady National Park

The expanses of the Bieszczady National Park

In terms of its size, it ranks third in the ranking of national park areas. There are 23 of them in the country. It is Bieszczady that is located in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship, namely in the south-eastern side. Today, the area of ​​the park area is 292 km 2, it includes the most high points massif called Bieszczady. 80% of the entire park is represented by forests, where there are a huge number of plants, mosses, mushrooms, and lichens. There are also many animals here, interesting views birds, it is not surprising that the place is very popular among tourists.

24. Moshni Castle

Moshnensky Castle - a delightful building of the 17th century

This is not an ordinary palace, because it resembles a theater set. Just think, the structure includes 99 towers. The view evokes admiration not only among children, but also among adults. It is interesting to know that the beautiful castle never served a defensive function during its entire existence. This is the reason for the lack of interest in him from foreign conquerors, which allowed him to remain unharmed. Moshni Castle is a real “cocktail” of styles. Its facade is made in Baroque style, the wing on the east side is in neo-Gothic style, the western part corresponds to the classical neo-Renaissance style.

25. Jasna Gora

Catholic monastery Jasna Gora in Częstochowa Aneta Lazurek

We are talking about the main shrine of Poland. The monastery houses the miraculous icon of the Mother of God of Czestochowa, who is also the patroness of the country. This place is one of the popular pilgrimage sites; there are many myths and facts about it. What to see in Poland, namely in the territory of Jasna Gora? Attention is worth paying attention to the towering powerful bastions, the main temple and the chapel. Of particular interest is the Knight's Hall, where receptions of honored guests were once organized. The complex of buildings also includes sacristies, libraries with ancient printed publications and more.

26. Old Town in Torun

Medieval Old Town in Torun

It is worth noting that this Polish landmark is included in the List of National Heritage. The ancient part of the city is special because it contains unique architectural monuments. It is separated by a moat and a river, no exception are the city walls, which are only partially preserved. At one time, the Old Town was expanded, now in its central part there is the Old Town Square, the northwestern part is represented by the territory of the former monastery, and in the southwest there is a wedding church. During the Swedish siege, the described part of the city suffered greatly, then a large number of buildings were burned and destroyed. Only after 1945 did extensive restoration work begin. Today, the Old Town is deservedly considered the pearl of Toruń.

27. Old Powązki

Old Powązki – famous necropolis of Warsaw Krzysztof Belczyński

This is a cemetery where famous figures of Polish history and culture are buried. A considerable part of it is reserved for the graves of military personnel and victims of wars of the 19th-20th centuries. The attraction is located in Warsaw; it is interesting because some of the tombstones are real works of art. It is especially beautiful here on the night of All Saints' Day. On October 31, a large number of people come to the cemetery to honor the memory of the fallen, for which they light a huge number of candles on the graves.

28. Mountain of Crosses Grabarka

Wooden crosses of pilgrims on the Holy Mountain of Grabarka

Place with interesting name He is considered a saint; pilgrims come from all over the world to worship him. On major church holidays, a religious procession is held. This is the name for events when a large number of believers walk. Sometimes the distance from the settlement to the mountain reaches 100 km, all this time people carry heavy wooden crosses. This custom has been going on for 200 years. The mountain got its name due to the fact that on its top in the forest each pilgrim leaves his cross, of which a large number had already gathered there.

As you can see, there are really a lot of attractions in the territory of the country described, which is why tours to this destination are very popular. Experienced travelers recommend planning your trip in advance so as not to lose sight of all the most interesting and significant things. The most popular cities among tourists are Gdansk, Krakow, the capital. What is interesting about them was mentioned at the beginning. Whatever direction you choose, everywhere you will be impressed by the unforgettable atmosphere.

Also read about the best and get inspired for your next trip to Europe!

Sights of Poland

1. Malbork Castle

In ancient times, the route along the Vistula River was guarded by numerous Teutonic castles, but now they silently watch as the waters float peacefully past. The main stronghold of the Teutonic Order - Malbork Castle, or Teutonic Marienburg Castle, is a classic example of a medieval fortress, it is the world's largest brick castle and one of the most impressive in Europe. The Teutonic Knights built the castle in 1276 and immediately established themselves as formidable rulers, taking control of most of Poland.

Medieval belief that what more strength, the stronger the ruler, is clearly illustrated by this huge brick citadel. The interior includes arcaded courtyards, chapels, a treasury, a Knights' Hall and an armory. The castle houses several exhibitions, a collection of tapestries, coins and medals, as well as medieval sculptures and weapons. In summer, the courtyard is used as a venue for sound and light shows.

Official website: www.zamek.malbork.pl

2. Museum of the History of Warsaw (Museum of Warsaw)

The History Museum is one of the best museums in Warsaw, the capital of Poland. Its three floors are crammed with breathtaking exhibitions covering all aspects of the history and life of Warsaw from the city's founding to the present day. The museum was founded in 1936 and reopened in 1948 after being closed during the war. It currently occupies one side of the square in the Old Town. The museum is located in a quaint historical buildings and boasts 52 halls with permanent exhibitions, temporary exhibitions, a cinema, a library and a reading room.

Official site: www.muzeumwarszawy.pl

3. Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a unique underground complex that has been in constant use since its construction in the Middle Ages, and is now a UNESCO cultural heritage site. The Wieliczka Salt Mine isa series of labyrinthine tunnels, chambers, galleries and underground lakes located on nine levels and reaching a depth of more than 300 meters.

The world's first underground therapeutic sanatorium is located 200 meters below the surface, and allows the use of saline air solution to treat asthma. There is also a saltworks museum.

Official website: www.kopalnia.pl

4. Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is one of the main attractions of Krakow. It is located on Wawel Hill. The history of the castle dates back to the 11th century, when the first castle building was built. In the 14th century, after a severe fire, the castle was rebuilt. The remains of the very first building are located in the northern wing of the modern castle. Now the castle houses a historical museum.

Next to the castle is a church that was the main coronation site for Polish monarchs, as well as the final resting place for many of them. In the nave of the church there is the mausoleum of St. Stanislaus, the patron saint of Poland.

5. Bialowieza National Park

Belovezhsky national park, located on the border between Poland and Belarus, is a protected area that protects the last remnants of primeval forest. This ancient woodland is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Belovezhsky National Park is also the last place on earth where tourists can see bison.

6. Auschwitz Memorial Museum

The Auschwitz concentration camp actually consists of three camps - Auschwitz I, Auschwitz II-Birkenau and Auschwitz III. Together the complex forms the most large cemetery in the world, preserved as a somber monument to the victims of the Holocaust, and in memory of the hundreds of thousands of people killed there by the Nazis during World War II. The Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum was established in 1947 and visitors have access to both camps and are free to wander around the structures, ruins and gas chambers, as well as visit exhibits displayed in the surviving prison blocks at Auschwitz I.

Official website: www.auschwitz.org.pl

7. Gubałówka

Mount Gubalowka looms over the city of Zakopane in the south of the country. Gubałówka, uhOne of the most popular tourist attractions in southern Poland, the mountain offers amazing views of the Tatra Mountains and is home to the best ski resort in Poland.The best way to reach the top is by cable car, which takes you from the city of Zakopane in just three and a half minutes.

When the ski season ends, the summer toboggan run opens, and there are also excellent conditions for cycling and walking. There is also a restaurant serving traditional Polish dishes, cold beer and hot tea on the outdoor terrace. On the mountain there is a small wooden chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary.

8. Wawel Cathedral (Katedra Wawelska)

Wawel Cathedral witnessed most of the coronations and funerals of monarchs. dictators and presidents of Poland over many centuries. Grandiose funerary monuments and royal sarcophagi are concentrated here.

The Cathedral, an extraordinary artistic achievement and spiritual sanctuary of Poland.The building you will see during the tour is the third church on this site, it was consecrated in 1364, and the first church on this site was built in the 10th century, after which it was replaced by a Romanesque church in 1140, which burned down in 1305.

Wawel Cathedral is mainly a Gothic structure, but chapels were built in different styles around it later.Once inside, you will get lost in the maze of sarcophagi, tombstones and altars scattered throughout the nave, presbytery and ambulatory.Among the dozens of chapels, the main attraction is the Chapel of the Holy Cross with unique 15th-century Byzantine frescoes and a red marble sarcophagus from 1492. Don't miss the chapel during your tourSigismund on the southern wall, heroften called the most beautiful Renaissance chapel north of the Alps, with a gilded dome.

Wawel Cathedral is part of Wawel Castle and it is located near the old town of Krakow.

9. Pieskowa Skala Castle

One of three Renaissance castles in Poland that has remained untouched by time. Located in national park Ojcowski, surrounded by beautiful gardens, the castle is one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture in the country.

Although it was built during the time of Casimir the Great in the 14th century, the castle acquired its present beautiful facade two hundred years later, when two floors with balconies and loggias, a clock tower, a chapel and an arcaded courtyard were added to it. However, on the other side, the castle still resembles a medieval fortress, proudly towering over the river valley.

At the castle you can buy a guided tour of three small museums located inside it, this is the museum of Polish history and two art museums.

10. Jasna Gora Monastery

The Jasna Gora Monastery is one of the largest places of pilgrimage for Catholics in the world.Located in Częstochowa, the monastery belongs to the monks of the Pauline order.

The main attraction of the Jasna Gora Monastery is the famous icon of the Black Madonna of Czestochowa, or the Czestochowa Icon of the Mother of God.Legend has it that the icon was painted on a table made by Jesus himself.

The Jasna Gora Monastery is a symbol of the national unity of the Polish nation and the main center of pilgrimage in Poland. On average, 14,000 people visit the monastery every day to venerate the icon. It is believed that the icon saved the monastery from the Swedish invasion in the 17th century.

11. Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady (St. Mary's Church)

The Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, or St. Mary's Church, is the most famous church in Krakow, although it is not the most popular attraction. The basilica is located on Old Town Square. The church was built in 1222, but destroyed during the Mongol-Tatar invasion. The current church building dates from 1397, but it was modified after 1424, and in the 18th century there was a major renovation that resulted in baroque interiors.

The main attractions of the church are the walls and vault decorated with frescoes by Jan Matejko in 1890 and one of the largest (11 x 13 m) and most famous altars in Europe, made in Nuremberg in 1480.

Of course, the “most Beautiful places“This concept is somewhat subjective. But the attractions collected in this review will show how diverse the country is and how much you can see while traveling around Poland. Here we are talking about those places that are very convenient to visit if you don’t have much time - say, one day or a weekend.
1. Zywiec Lake. This is an artificial reservoir near the town of Żywiec in the Silesian Voivodeship. Although it serves economic purposes - there is a hydroelectric power station here - the lake is distinguished by its unique beauty, and therefore attracts a huge number of tourists. There are piers, beaches, you can surf and go yachting. Especially beautiful view The lake opens from Mount Żar, which belongs to the Lesser Beskids.

2. Koniaków, Istebna, Jaworzynka. This is the so-called Beskydy Truive. All three villages are part of the magnificent landscape of the Silesian Beskids, and are connected by one main road and several smaller roads. These places are also very famous for their traditions: local music and lace weaving skills are especially famous.


3. Skansen in the city of Sanok in the Subcarpathian Voivodeship. This is one of the largest open-air museums in the country. On an area of ​​38 hectares there are almost 100 wooden buildings in the spirit of local traditions.


4. Torun. This is one of the most beautiful and oldest cities in Poland. Toruń is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The city is also well known for the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus. And Torun is also the capital of... gingerbread!


5. Gniezno. It is the first capital of Poland. The first Polish archbishopric was formed here and the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is located here - one of the most revered and famous Polish churches. And how pleasant it is to wander through the narrow streets, the heart of which is the ancient Market Square!


6. Kamenczyk waterfall in the town of Szklarska Poreba (Elenegur County, Lower Silesian Voivodeship). This is the most high waterfall in the Polish Karkonosze. The water falls in a frame in three steps from a height of 27 meters. Behind the waterfall there is an artificial cave in which there is a large accumulation of amethysts and pegmatite. This cave is called “Golden Pit”. The waterfall itself is located at an altitude of 846 meters above sea level.

7. The village of Zalipie in the Lesser Poland region of Poland. It is famous for the fact that almost everything in it is painted! Local traditional patterns can be seen everywhere: on houses, fences, swings, furniture, stoves, trees, even kettles and washing machines! By the way - this is also a local feature - basically all the artists in Zalipye are women.


8. Bydgoszcz lies on the Brda River. The unofficial name of the city is “Bydgoszcz Venice”. And it’s hard to argue with this: looking at the centuries-old buildings reflected in the clear river waters and at the boats and boats slowly sailing through the city, you begin to feel like you’re in a medieval fairy tale. To the east of the city is the Bydgoszcz Canal, the oldest existing waterway in the country, connecting the Vistula and Odra.


9. Zegrzyn Lake. If the weather is good on a summer weekend, it means that the beaches near the lake, located 30 km from Warsaw, will be full of tourists. This artificially created reservoir on the Narew River is today one of the most popular Sunday destinations among residents of the capital and surrounding areas.


10. Routes for horseback riding in the Low Beskids. The so-called Transbeskid route is the longest among mountain routes of this kind. Its length is 400 km. When you travel along this road, you can meet colorful villages, picturesque valleys, mountain ranges, and magnificent national parks.


11. Palace in Bozkow near the town of Nowa Ruda (Lower Silesian Voivodeship). This beautiful 18th century building has been abandoned for several years now. But perhaps that is why it attracts tourists with its mystery and enigma.


12. Soltykov Jets. This is a natural reservoir in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship. In addition to magnificent vegetation, there are also deposits of minerals and paleontological fossils.


13. Lake Turkusovo on west coast Baltic. It is located on the site where chalk has long been mined. The color of the lake is somewhat unusual - blue with a green tint. This color is obtained due to the play of sunlight, which, penetrating into clean water and reflecting from the minerals located at the bottom of the reservoir, gives this effect. There are walking paths around the lake. If you climb the nearby hill, you can see not only this lake, but also the Baltic Sea itself.


14. The village of Zhelazova Wola near Warsaw. Frederic Chopin was born and spent his childhood here. Nowadays, in the house where the future composer lived, there is a museum, and near it there is a park and garden laid out in the 30s of the last century.


15. Rafting along the beaver route. This is a real treat for kayaking enthusiasts. The route passes through the West Pomeranian and Lubusz Voivodeships and is located among picturesque forests and rivers.


16. Moshni Castle. Located in the Opole Voivodeship, the architectural ensemble is one of the main attractions of Upper Silesia. It is now home to a disease treatment center. nervous system, however, part of the castle is open to the public.


17. Lake Nidzke. This glacial lake is one of the least untouched lakes in Masuria. Those who value contact and harmony with nature will especially like it here.


18. Rafting on the Dikaya (Divoka) Orlitsa River. Traveling along this river is not an easy task and is more suitable for those who have some experience. It is quite rocky, very cold and incredibly beautiful - an extreme pleasure for rafting lovers. The Wild Eagle flows in the Sudetes through the territory of Poland and the Czech Republic.


19. Museum of characters... before bed. Here are the heroes of the Polish analogues of the program “Good Night Kids”. The only museum of its kind is located in Rzeszow. And it’s not even clear who is more interested here - children or adults...


20. The city of Bielsko-Biala in the Silesian Voivodeship. One of the most beautiful Polish cities with many old buildings and, of course, the central Market Square. By the way, there are two unusual monuments here - to heroes... of cartoons. These are the dogs Rex and Bolek and Lolek, beloved by the Poles.

21. Ruins of Rabztyn Castle in Lesser Poland Voivodeship. This is a knight's castle from the 13th century. Part of it has been restored, but from most of the structure only the skeletons of the walls remain. Which, however, attracts a huge number of tourists. There are many legends associated with the castle. For example, that deep underground there is another castle - large and beautiful. And that its inhabitants sleep there. And only once a year they wake up, open the doors of luxurious halls and sit down at tables covered with delicious dishes. And then everything goes to sleep again - until next year...


22. Sheep Mountain. It is the second highest mountain in the Silesian Beskids. Its height is 1220 meters. Paths running through virgin nature lead to its top, where the geodetic station and observation point are located. And the view from the mountain is simply fabulous!


23. Vistula Žuławy. In northern Poland, several tens of kilometers from the sea, the Vistula leaves a large amount of river sediment, thereby forming sand dunes - they separate Żuławy from the Baltic Sea. A significant territory of Żuławy is located below sea level, and therefore an extensive network of dams and canals was built there - it is considered one of the densest in Europe.


24. Icons in Lancut. The town of Lancut in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship is famous for the Lubomirski Castle from the 17th century. To this day it has been preserved in excellent condition. The largest collection of icons in Poland is kept here. There are about 2,500 of them in the castle. Most of these icons were transferred after the war from destroyed churches located in the north-eastern part of Poland.


25. The village of Krasiejów in Opole County, Opole Voivodeship. Traces of ancient amphibians and reptiles were found here, and a paleontological pavilion was built at the site of the discovery. Now “Jurapark” is open there - an amusement park “inhabited” with dinosaurs.


26. Lavender fields. And not in Provence, but near Olsztyn! The lavender field near New Kavkov has existed since 2001. And although it is sometimes difficult for enthusiasts who grow this plant - after all, the local climate is not as suitable for lavender as Provençal - every year you can observe luxurious blooms here. At the same time, farmers try not to use chemical fertilizers and pesticides. And when the season ends, bouquets and sachets are made from dried flowers.


27. Underwater quarry in Piechcin (Kuyavia-Pomeranian Voivodeship). At its bottom lie real treasures - yachts, sailing boats, even two Fiat 126s in almost perfect condition. It is especially interesting here when there has been no rain for some time and the water is completely clear. This is one of the few quarries in Poland where diving is possible.


28. Mouth of the Warta (Lubskie Voivodeship). This is a kingdom of wild animals and birds living near water. There are 270 species of the latter here. All of them are under protection - after all, there is a national park here. In 2009 it was voted the best European tourist destination.


29. Underground bunkers in Szczecin. It is believed that there were almost 800 of them here! After the Second World War, 160 were opened. One of the most interesting is the anti-aircraft bunker. It is located at a depth of 17 meters and even had its own water supply. The thickness of its walls is 3 meters. There could be 2,500 people in the bunker at the same time.


30. Center of Slavs and Vikings in Wolin. Walking through this scansen is like traveling back in time. There are recreated huts from the early Middle Ages, where members of Slavic brotherhoods sometimes spend time. You can go into each of these houses and get acquainted with the interior. A festival of Slavs and Vikings takes place here every year.