Summer is over which means it’s high time to take warm sweaters and jackets out of the closet and get ready for the cold weather. But don’t worry, if you’re planning to travel to Poland in the coming months, you should know that the winter atmosphere here can be magical, especially in a mountainous setting. What are the best places to visit in Poland during winter? 

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What should you know about winter in Poland? Weather & temperature

What should you know about winters in Poland before you get on a plane or bus? The average temperature in Poland during winter is around 0°C (32°F), with occasional spikes below freezing. The coldest month is January, while February is usually the snowiest.

It’s worth noting that in the mountains, temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F) or lower. Therefore, if you’re planning a trip to Poland, make sure to pack appropriate clothing, especially if you intend to visit any of the country’s ski resorts.

Why is a visit to Poland in winter a good idea?

Are you wondering if it’s worth visiting Poland in December, January or February? There are numerous reasons to do so, including:

  • Winter in Poland is a great time to enjoy traditional Polish cuisine, such as bigos (a hunter’s stew), pierogi (dumplings), and placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes).
  • The Christmas markets in Polish cities are some of the best and most magical in Europe.
  • If you’re a fan of winter sports, Poland is an excellent destination, with a number of world-class ski resorts in Zakopane, Karpacz, Szklarska Poręba, and many more.
  • Winter is also a great time to enjoy Poland’s spas and thermal baths, which are often located in picturesque mountain settings.
  • Poland offers a lot of historic sites that look even more beautiful when covered with snow.

Sounds convincing? So, what are the best places to visit in Poland during winter?

places to visit in poland in winter

Top places to visit in Poland

If you’re looking for inspiration, check out our list of top places to visit in Poland during winter:

  • Warsaw – the capital of Poland is a great place to visit at any time of year, but it really comes to life during the Christmas season. Be sure to check out the Old Town, which is decorated with festive lights, and explore the Christmas markets on Nowy Świat and Krakowskie Przedmieście.
  • Kraków – it’s another must-visit Polish city. The main square is beautifully decorated for Christmas, and there are also great markets to explore, along with a number of interesting museums and galleries.
  • Zakopane – this popular winter resort town in the south of Poland is located in the Tatras mountains. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. It’s an ideal place to visit in Poland if you love lots of snow and cold temperatures.
  • Bukowina Tatrzańska – this town close to Zakopane is a popular winter sports destination and offers a wide range of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and sledding. The town is also home to a number of thermal baths which are perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
  • Kołobrzeg – it’s one of the places to visit in Poland in winter. The city is located in northwestern Poland, on the Baltic Sea coast. Kołobrzeg is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic coastline. In winter, it mesmerizes with its peacefulness, which makes it an ideal destination for everyone who wants to unwind, enjoys long walks and would like to inhale iodine.

The takeaway

These are only a few of the best places to visit in Poland in winter months. If you’re planning a trip to this Slavic country, you should definitely put them on your bucket list.

Looking for more inspiration and unique destinations? Download the YouMap social mapping app!