The Perfect 2-Week Poland Itinerary: How to see the best of Poland in 14 days

A perfect 2-week Poland itinerary includes 3 days in Warsaw exploring the rebuilt Old Town and POLIN Museum, 3 days in Krakow visiting Wawel Castle and Auschwitz, 2 days hiking the Tatras in Zakopane, 2 days in colorful Wroclaw, 2 days on the Baltic coast in Gdansk, and 1-2 days visiting Malbork Castle. This comprehensive route covers Poland's cosmopolitan cities, medieval castles, mountain villages, and Baltic beaches with efficient 2-4 hour train connections between destinations.

Poland offers an incredible variety of experiences, from cosmopolitan cities to mountain villages, Baltic beaches to medieval castles. This comprehensive 2-week itinerary covers the country's highlights while allowing time to actually enjoy each destination rather than just rushing through.

Days 1-3: Warsaw

Start your Polish adventure in the capital city.

Day 1: Explore the reconstructed Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site), visit the Royal Castle, and walk along the Royal Route to Lazienki Park.

Day 2: Morning at the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, afternoon at the Warsaw Uprising Museum. Evening walk along the Vistula riverfront.

Day 3: Copernicus Science Centre, Wilanow Palace, or day trip to Zelazowa Wola (Chopin's birthplace).

Where to stay: City center for walkability, or Mokotow for a quieter residential feel.

Days 4-6: Krakow

Take the train to Poland's cultural capital (2.5 hours from Warsaw).

Day 4: Explore the magnificent Main Market Square, climb St. Mary's Basilica tower, and wander the Cloth Hall. Evening in the Kazimierz Jewish quarter.

Day 5: Morning at Wawel Castle and Cathedral. Afternoon exploring Kazimierz's cafes, galleries, and street art.

Day 6: Day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau (book in advance) or Wieliczka Salt Mine. Both are emotionally and physically demanding, so choose one.

Where to stay: Old Town or Kazimierz for atmosphere.

Days 7-8: Zakopane and the Tatras

Head south to Poland's mountain capital (2 hours from Krakow).

Day 7: Take the funicular up Gubalowka for panoramic views. Explore Krupowki Street, try oscypek (smoked cheese), and enjoy the mountain village atmosphere.

Day 8: Hike to Morskie Oko, Poland's most beautiful mountain lake (moderate difficulty, 4-5 hours round trip). Alternatively, take the cable car up Kasprowy Wierch for stunning views.

Where to stay: Central Zakopane for convenience, or a mountain pension for authenticity.

Days 9-10: Wroclaw

Travel northwest to Lower Silesia's charming capital (3.5 hours from Zakopane).

Day 9: Explore the colorful Market Square, hunt for the famous bronze dwarfs, and visit Cathedral Island at sunset for the gas lamp lighting.

Day 10: Centennial Hall and Japanese Garden, Panorama of Racławice, and evening in the lively university district.

Where to stay: Old Town for easy access to attractions.

Days 11-12: Gdansk and the Baltic

Head north to the Baltic coast (4 hours from Wroclaw).

Day 11: Explore the stunning Long Market, visit St. Mary's Church tower, shop for amber on Mariacka Street. Evening along the Motlawa River.

Day 12: Morning at the European Solidarity Centre. Afternoon trip to Sopot for the famous pier and seaside atmosphere. Optional: evening in Gdynia for a different coastal vibe.

Where to stay: Gdansk Old Town or Sopot for beach access.

Days 13-14: Malbork and Return

Day 13: Visit Malbork Castle, the world's largest brick castle (45 minutes from Gdansk). Plan at least 3-4 hours for the extensive grounds and exhibits. Return to Gdansk or continue to Warsaw.

Day 14: Travel back to Warsaw (2.5-3 hours by train). Final shopping at Hala Koszyki or Hala Gwardii, last walk through the Old Town, departure.

Transportation Tips

• Trains: PKP Intercity connects all major cities efficiently. Book express trains in advance for best prices.
• Buses: FlixBus and Polski Bus offer budget alternatives.
• Car rental: Useful for mountain areas and flexibility, but not necessary for cities.

Budget Considerations

• Accommodation: 150-400 PLN per night for mid-range hotels
• Food: 50-150 PLN per day depending on dining choices
• Transportation: 200-500 PLN total for train tickets
• Attractions: Most museums 20-50 PLN entrance

Best Time to Visit

May-September: Warmest weather, longest days, but busiest tourist season.

April and October: Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, beautiful autumn colors.

December: Christmas markets and festive atmosphere, cold but magical.

Two weeks allows you to experience Poland's remarkable diversity without feeling rushed. From the rebuilt splendor of Warsaw to the medieval charm of Krakow, the mountain majesty of Zakopane to the Baltic beauty of Gdansk, this itinerary showcases why Poland is one of Europe's most underrated destinations.

Looking for more European travel inspiration? Explore our guides to living in Warsaw or join our expat community to connect with people who can share insider tips about Poland and Central Europe.