Explore Poland
Here you will find many recommendations for exploring Poland.
Białystok
City where our ceremony will take place.
History
Branicki Palace (Palac Branickich) — Often referred to as the "Versailles of Podlasie,” this 18th-century baroque palace, was built by the Branicki family. The palace houses the headquarters of the Medical University of Bialystok, and it is open to the public. You can take a tour of the palace and stroll through the gardens.
Podlasie Museum (Muzeum Podlaskie) — The museum is located in the Branicki Palace complex and offers exhibits on the history, culture, and traditions of the Podlaskie region, including folk art, archaeology, and local crafts.
Białystok Cathedral (Katedra Białostocka) — The Białystok Cathedral is a neo-Gothic church with impressive stained glass windows and historical significance. It's a peaceful spot to take a break and reflect.
Market Square (Rynek Kościuszki) — Take a walk around the Market Square and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city center. The square is lined with colorful buildings, cafes, and shops, and it's a great place to relax with a coffee or ice cream.
Nature
Białowieża National Park (Białowieski Park Narodowy) — A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the last and largest primeval forests in Europe. It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Białystok. You can take guided tours or nature walks to see the famous European bison, explore the dense forest, and visit the Białowieża National Park museum.
Green Lungs of Białystok – The Park Area For a more leisurely day outdoors, visit the Green Lungs of Białystok, which consists of several parks and forests within the city, including Planty Park, Zwierzyniecki Park, and Kościuszki Park. These parks are perfect for a relaxing stroll, cycling, or even renting a boat on one of the local lakes.
Palace and Park Complex in Hryniewicze — Another lovely spot for nature lovers is the Palace and Park Complex in Hryniewicze, located a bit outside of Białystok. The 18th-century palace is set within a beautiful park with walking trails and a picturesque pond.
Food Scene
Try Restauracja Tatarak or Zielony Ogród for regional dishes like pierogi, borscht, and regional meats, or indulge in fresh fish dishes from nearby lakes.
Day Trips
Białystok is close to other interesting destinations, such as the town of Suwałki (known for its unique "Suwałki landscape" and lakes), and Tykocin, a historic town with a well-preserved synagogue and castle.
Warsaw
The capital of Poland.
History
Palace of Culture and Science (Pałac Kultury i Nauki) — One of Warsaw’s most iconic buildings. You can take an elevator to the observation deck on the 30th floor for panoramic views of the city. While the building itself is a relic of Soviet-era architecture, it's a good spot to gain a sense of the city’s scale.
Warsaw's Old Town — This UNESCO World Heritage site is a beautiful reconstruction of the city's historic center, which was rebuilt after being destroyed during World War II. Key sights include the Royal Castle (Zamek Królewski), where Polish kings resided, and Castle Square (Plac Zamkowy). You can visit St. John's Archcathedral and take a stroll down the cobbled streets, lined with colorful buildings and cozy cafes.
Royal Łazienki Park (Łazienki Królewskie) — A vast and beautiful park with palaces, lakes, and monuments. The Palace on the Isle (Pałac na Wyspie) is the park's central feature, but don’t miss the Chopin Monument (especially popular for open-air concerts in August) and the Amphitheater. If you're interested in classical music, there are often free concerts in the park on Sundays during the summer, showcasing Chopin’s works.
Wilanów Palace — This baroque royal residence, often referred to as the "Polish Versailles," is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. It's a bit outside the city center, but it's worth the trip for its art collections and stunning architecture.
The Royal Route (Trakt Królewski) — Walk along the Royal Route, which connects key landmarks such as the Royal Castle, Łazienki Park, University of Warsaw, and Wilanów Palace. The street is lined with grand buildings, churches, and gardens, and it’s an excellent way to get a feel for Warsaw’s royal past.
Culture & Museums
Warsaw Uprising Museum — This museum is dedicated to the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, one of the key events of World War II. The museum offers a powerful and interactive experience with exhibitions, photographs, and film that tell the story of Warsaw’s fight against Nazi occupation.
POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews — One of the most impressive and comprehensive museums in Poland that tells the 1,000-year history of Jews in Poland and covers everything from their cultural contributions to the tragedies of World War II.
Copernicus Science Centre — This interactive museum is both educational and fun, so we highly recommend it for families with kids. It's one of the best science museums in Poland and features hands-on exhibits on physics, astronomy, and more.
Modern Warsaw
Praga District — Historically, this area was less developed, but it's now an up-and-coming neighborhood known for its street art, quirky cafes, and alternative vibe.
Neon Museum — A fun stop in the Praga District showcasing vintage neon signs from the Communist era, which are a piece of Polish pop culture history.
Zachęta National Gallery of Art — A contemporary art museum in the center of Warsaw which showcases cutting-edge art and exhibitions from Polish and international artists.
Dinner
Zapiecek — For a true local experience, go here for pierogi (Polish dumplings). Zapiecek is known for its traditional Polish cuisine and offers hearty, homemade dishes such as bigos (hunter's stew) and żurek (sour rye soup).
U Kucharzy — A unique dining experience, where the kitchen is located in the middle of the restaurant, and chefs prepare your meal right in front of you. The menu focuses on classic Polish dishes prepared with modern techniques, offering a great combination of tradition and innovation.
Senses (Michelin-starred restaurant) — Senses is Warsaw's first Michelin-starred restaurant, renowned for its innovative approach to fine dining. The restaurant offers a seasonal tasting menu that emphasizes local ingredients and creative presentations.
Stary Dom Stary Dom (meaning "Old House") — This restaurant serves traditional Polish cuisine such as roast duck, schnitzel, and various types of pierogi. Located in a charming pre-war building, a elegant yet homey setting, the restaurant has a nostalgic feel.
Nightlife
Vistula Boulevards (Bulwary Wiślane) — A trendy spot along the river with outdoor cafes, bars, and places to relax. It's a perfect place for a summer evening walk, offering beautiful views of the Vistula River, the Poniatowski Bridge, and the skyline of Warsaw.
Pawilony — This is a maze of tiny bars behind Nowy Świat is perfect for bar-hopping. Each bar has its unique vibe, and drinks are affordable, drawing locals and tourists alike.
Level 27 — For rooftop views of Warsaw’s skyline, Level 27 is one of the best choices. It’s a stylish spot with live DJs to enjoy cocktails while taking in the panoramic view.
Nobu Warsaw Bar — Nobu’s bar is top-tier. It offers Japanese-inspired cocktails in a chic, intimate setting. It’s a quieter but elegant option, perfect for an upscale experience.
Gdańsk
Port city on the Baltic coast of Poland.
History
St. Mary’s Basilica — Climb to the top of one of the world’s largest brick churches for panoramic views of the city, and learn about the history of this Gothic masterpiece.
Museum of the Second World War — A must-visit for history enthusiasts, this museum provides a profound look into WWII and its impact on Poland and Europe.
European Solidarity Centre — This museum tells the story of the Solidarity movement that helped end communism in Poland. It has immersive exhibits and modern architecture
Westerplatte — The site where WWII began in 1939, Westerplatte offers historical monuments and ruins to explore, along with scenic views of the Baltic Sea.
Culture
Długi Targ (Long Market) — The main square is lined with colorful, Dutch-influenced buildings and highlights like the Neptune Fountain and Artus Court.
Amber Museum — Located in a medieval fortress, this museum is perfect for learning about the city’s amber heritage, with ancient and modern pieces on display.
Mariacka Street — Known for its beautiful amber shops and cafes, this picturesque cobblestone street is a great place to experience local art and culture.
Nature & Sea
Oliwa Park — A peaceful spot with ponds, a Japanese garden, and Oliwa Cathedral, where you can catch a short organ concert.
Cruise on the Motława River — Take a scenic riverboat cruise that offers views of Gdańsk’s shipyards, Old Town, and the route to Westerplatte.
Sopot Pier (Molo) — The longest wooden pier in Europe, offering beautiful seaside views. Nearby, you’ll find sandy beaches and seaside cafes in Sopot.
Stogi Beach — A popular beach with golden sands, beach bars, and calm waters, perfect for a Baltic Sea swim or relaxing in the sun.
Dinner
Pod Lososiem — Known for its Polish cuisine and historical ambiance, this restaurant also serves Gdańsk’s famous Goldwasser vodka.
Bazar Kościuszki — Located in Granary Island, this modern bistro has an excellent range of Polish and international dishes in a stylish space.
Riverside Restaurants on the Motława — Dine with a view at one of the eateries along the Motława River, with a variety options from seafood to international cuisine.
Nightlife
Granary Island (Wyspa Spichrzów) — A hub of trendy bars and restaurants, ideal for a night out with views of the river and illuminated Old Town buildings.
Bunkier Klubogaleria — Located in a former WWII bunker, this unique multi-level club features different music genres on each floor. You’ll find everything from techno to hip-hop in this underground atmosphere.
Flisak ’76 — This cocktail bar is a local favorite for its quirky, innovative drinks and cozy interior. It has a retro vibe, intimate seating, and well-crafted cocktails.
Brovarnia Gdańsk — Situated in a 17th-century granary, Brovarnia is a microbrewery that serves its own craft beers, including popular Baltic porters.
Riverside Bars on Granary Island (Wyspa Spichrzów) — Granary Island’s revitalized riverside area is packed with trendy bars and cafes that spill onto the riverfront. Places like Chmielna 10 offer craft cocktails with views of the Old Town across the water.
Day Trip to Sopot
Sopot Beach — Nice beach for sunbathing and swimming where you’ll also find beach bars, volleyball courts, and water sports rentals. Walk along Sopot Pier (Molo), Europe’s longest wooden pier, for scenic views of the Baltic Sea and coastline.
Water Sports and Boat Trips — Rent kayaks, jet skis, or sailboats, or take a short cruise along the coast. Many companies offer boat trips from the pier, including sunset cruises.
Kępa Redłowska Nature Reserve — Located between Sopot and Gdynia, this coastal cliff area is ideal for a nature walk, with trails that offer spectacular views of the Baltic Sea.
Nightlife — Visit Monte Cassino Street for everything from lively clubs like Sfinks700 for electronic music to Zatoka Sztuki for beachside parties with a view of the Baltic Sea.
Kraków
Historic previous capital (1038-1596).
History
Wawel Castle and Cathedral — Go here to explore Poland’s royal heritage and see the crown jewels, royal tombs, and the iconic Wawel Dragon statue by the Vistula River.
Rynek Główny (Main Market Square) — Europe’s largest medieval square is the heart of Kraków, lined with cafes, shops, and historical sites like St. Mary’s Basilica. Catch the famous trumpet call (Hejnał) from the basilica’s tower at the top of every hour.
Kazimierz District — Once the Jewish quarter, Kazimierz is a vibrant neighborhood filled with art galleries, cafes, synagogues, and museums like the Galicia Jewish Museum.
Schindler’s Factory Museum — Learn about Kraków’s WWII history at this museum, housed in Oskar Schindler’s former factory. It’s an immersive experience covering the Nazi occupation and the Jewish Ghetto.
Nature
Vistula River Boulevards — The Vistula River runs through all three of Poland’s largest cities (Warsaw, Gdańsk, and Kraków). You can stroll or cycle along Kraków’s Vistula River Boulevards to enjoy views of Wawel Castle and the surrounding scenery.
Zakrzówek Quarry — A short trip from Kraków’s center, Zakrzówek is a beautiful blue-water quarry that’s ideal for swimming, hiking, and scuba diving.
Planty Park — Surrounding the Old Town, Planty is a large park perfect for relaxing, walking, and taking in the historic architecture and many fountains.
Events & Festivals in August
Pierogi Festival — Try different types of Polish pierogi at this annual festival, featuring traditional and innovative fillings, held in the Main Market Square.
Kraków Live Festival — One of Poland’s biggest music festivals, Kraków Live Festival brings international and Polish artists to the city to perform, representing a mix of genres.
Summer Jazz Festival — Enjoy live jazz concerts at various venues in the city, including outdoor performances in Kazimierz and jazz clubs like Piwnica Pod Baranami.
Dinner
Pod Aniołami (Under the Angels) - A top choice for traditional Polish dining, this historic restaurant offers dishes like pierogi and roasted meats in a charming, medieval setting.
Copernicus — An elegant Michelin-recognized restaurant offering inventive dishes inspired by Polish cuisine. Copernicus mixes contemporary techniques with traditional flavors, using fresh local produce and sophisticated plating.
Vegab — A favorite among vegetarians and vegans, Vegab serve delicious, plant-based versions of classic street food like vegan kebabs. The menu is creative and flavorful.
Tante Suzie — If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, Tante Suzie serves up delicious burgers, BBQ, and comfort food with a modern flair. This casual yet stylish restaurant is a local favorite for a more laid-back dinner experience.
Nightlife
Kraków’s Old Town Pubs and Bars — Experience Kraków’s bar scene at hidden cellar bars like Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa, or check out the beer gardens in the Main Market Square.
Kazimierz District Bars — This area is known for its nightlife with places like Alchemia and Singer, both bohemian-style bars with candlelit atmospheres and vintage decor.
Day Trips
Wieliczka Salt Mine — A UNESCO World Heritage site just outside Kraków, this incredible underground world has carved salt chambers, chapels, and sculptures. At 1,073 feet (327 meters) below the surface, Wieliczka is one of Poland’s most popular attractions.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum — A moving experience, this former concentration camp provides an important historical perspective on the Holocaust. Guided tours are recommended to gain insight into its significance.
Tatra Mountains and Zakopane — If you’re up for a scenic day trip, head to Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains. August is ideal for hiking in the fresh mountain air (more info below).
Zakopane
The heart of Tatra Highlander culture.
Nature & Scenic Spots
Hiking in Tatra National Park — August is a fantastic time for hiking, with clear skies and mild temperatures. Explore popular trails like Morskie Oko (Eye of the Sea), a stunning lake nestled among peaks or tackle Giewont Mountain for incredible panoramic views.
Kasprowy Wierch Cable Car — Take the cable car up to Kasprowy Wierch for breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains. Once at the top, you can hike along ridges.
Gubałówka Hill — Accessible by a funicular railway from Zakopane, Gubałówka offers sweeping views over the town and the Tatra range. You’ll find food stands, shops, and plenty of photo opportunities at the top.
Dolina Kościeliska and Dolina Chochołowska Valleys — These scenic valleys are great for leisurely hikes and cycling, with mountain huts where you can enjoy Polish food.
Lake Czorsztyn and Dunajec River Rafting — At Lake Czorsztyn, you can explore two medieval castles or go rafting on the Dunajec River, surrounded by cliffs and forests.
Thermal Baths (Termy) — Relax at the nearby thermal baths like Termy Chochołowskie or Bukovina Thermal Baths. Both offer a mix of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and spa treatments — perfect for unwinding after a hike
Zakopane’s Adventure Parks — Test your skills at Gubałówka’s Rope Park, which offer obstacle courses, ziplines, and other outdoor activities. Great for families with kids.
Cultural Experiences
Krupówki Street — This main street is filled with restaurants, souvenir shops, and local craft stalls. Sample oscypek (smoked sheep cheese) and browse local artisanal products.
Willa Koliba Museum — Discover Zakopane’s unique architectural style at this museum, which features examples of traditional highland craftsmanship and Tatra-inspired art.
Visit a Highland Sheep Farm (Bacówka) — Learn about traditional highlander culture by visiting a bacówka, where you can see how oscypek cheese is made and try it yourself.
Dinner
Restauracja Zakopiańska — Situated in the heart of Zakopane, this elegant restaurant serves Polish and regional mountain dishes, including pierogi, mushroom soup, and grilled meats. The traditional wooden decor adds to the local atmosphere.
Karczma Bacówka — Visit this traditional mountain hut for an authentic dining experience. Enjoy grilled oscypek and stews. Enjoy mountains views sitting outdoors.
Zaborina — For a more upscale dining experience, Zaborina offers refined highland cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant is known for its roasted venison, wild boar, and herb-infused dishes, paired with wines from Poland..
Zapiekanki na Krupówkach — Zapiekanki na Krupówkach specializes in zapienkanki, which are Polish pizza-like baguettes. Great for quick bite before heading out for the night.
Nightlife
International Festival of Highland Folklore — This festival showcases the traditional music, dance, and costumes of the highlanders (Górals) from Poland.
Oscypek Cheese Festival — August is prime season for oscypek cheese! Here you can taste various types of this unique smoked cheese and learn about its regional significance.
Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa — A popular chain throughout Poland, Pijalnia is a lively bar offering affordable drinks in a fun, retro setting. It’s a great place to try traditional Polish vodka and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.
Szymoszkowa Ski Resort (Apres-Ski) — While primarily known for skiing in winter, the resort transforms into a lively après-ski venue in the summer. There are bars with outdoor terraces offering great views of the mountains, perfect for sunset cocktails.
Miejsce — A trendy bar with a modern, stylish vibe, Miejsce is known for its great cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. The venue often hosts local DJs and live performances, making it ideal for a night out.
Koziniec — A lively spot with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, Koziniec offers a traditional Zakopane vibe with a modern twist. It’s popular for its góralskie music, highlander folk dancing, and plenty of local vodka to enjoy.