In June I explored Poland from the Tatra Mountains to the buzzing capital of Warsaw with some memorable stops along the way. We began in Zakopane, where we stayed for two nights at Hotel Belvedere, located right next to the Tatra National Park and just a short walk from the town centre. Known mainly as a winter destination, Zakopane was incredibly beautiful (and busy!) in the midst of summer. We took the funicular up to Gubalówka for stunning panoramic views over the town and surrounding mountains. If you have an adventurous side, I’d also definitely recommend the gravitational slide!
One of the real highlights of the whole trip was a half-day hike to Sarnia Skala. The route was scenic and relatively short, but we took our time admiring the amazing views. Though our hotel receptionist described the route as “an easy walk,” it did include some steep elevation gains at times on uneven terrain. The weather on the day was perfect with sunshine and cool breeze, and the views along the route were absolutely spectacular over the surrounding peaks and valleys, and a gentle stream accompanying us for most of the way.
From Zakopane, we travelled by train to Kraków. All our journeys between cities were by train, and we were pleasantly surprised by how smooth and easy it was. The trains were punctual, comfortable, and had more than enough space for luggage which is a definite bonus when travelling with backpacks and suitcases.
We spent four nights in Kraków, a city full of character and history. We strolled around the Planty, the green park that encircles the Old Town, and soaked up the atmosphere of the busy streets and market square. One afternoon, we joined an electric buggy tour that took us through the Jewish District of Kazimierz and the former Ghetto area offering interesting insight into the city’s past. We also made day trips to two must-see sites: Auschwitz-Birkenau, a powerful and sobering visit that left a deep impression, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, an underground wonderland of salt-carved chapels, tunnels, and sculptures that was both fascinating and beautiful.
Our next stop was Lublin. It’s a smaller city with a lovely atmosphere, and I especially loved exploring the colourful Old Town with its narrow streets and historical buildings. We came across a cat café and spent a relaxing morning there surrounded by sleepy, purring cats. Another entertaining element in Lublin was following a walking route that led us to find the small goat statues scattered around town, such a fun way to discover different corners of the Old Town.
Our final night was in Warsaw. With limited time, we focused on seeing the Old Town, which has been impressively rebuilt after the Second World War. We also visited the rooftop garden of the University of Warsaw Library which was a peaceful green space with lovely views over the city and the Vistula River. Before wrapping up the trip, we made our way to the viewing platform at the Copernicus Science Centre, which offered a fantastic panoramic view and a great way to take in the scale and variety of the city below. Even in just a few hours, you could feel the energy and contrast of the capital compared to the other places we had visited.
Overall, this trip was a perfect blend of nature, culture, history, and city life. Travelling by train made it all very easy, and each destination offered something unique. Poland really surprised me in the best way – and I’m already missing the pierogis!
By Laura Baylis
Baltic Travel Company (all rights reserved)