Summer in Poland: Which are the top 12 places that we recommend you visit this year?
Are you looking for new experiences? Discover the freedom of travel with Kaizen Rent and enjoy the holiday of a lifetime. Check out 12 amazing destinations we recommend visiting this summer in Poland.
Weather in Poland in summer, autumn and winter
From June to August, Poland offers ideal conditions for voyaging. Temperatures usually range from 20 to 25°C, and the pleasant, warm evenings are perfect for impromptu trips and longer routes. Although there are occasional showers, especially in July, these make the landscapes lush and green, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable road trip.
For every season. For every mood. For everyone - with Kaizen Rent!
In Poland, you can experience it all, and with a car rental, you have the freedom to choose your own route and travel at your own pace. Kaizen Rent can provide bespoke solutions to meet your holiday needs, ensuring convenience and satisfaction at every stage.
Check out our TOP 12 tourist attractions and get inspired. Poland is waiting, and with Kaizen Rent every trip is pure pleasure!
Stop 1: The Royal Route in the capital – a journey through Polish history
Start your summer adventure with Kaizen Rent in the heart of Warsaw (The capital of Poland). Begin your exploration at Castle Square, the perfect starting point for discovering the city's main attractions, traversing the Royal Route – one of the most representative tourist routes in Poland. This majestic route connects the most important monuments of the capital, offering an unforgettable experience for both history and architecture lovers.
Royal Castle and Castle Square
One of the most iconic castles in Poland, the former seat of the Dukes of Mazovia later became the royal residence of the kings of Poland from the 16th century onward. It was within its walls that the groundbreaking Constitution of May 3 was adopted in 1791—the first in Europe and the second in the world. Although the castle was destroyed during World War II, it was meticulously rebuilt and today captivates visitors with its opulent interiors and rich art collection, featuring masterpieces by Rembrandt and Canaletto.
Krakowskie Przedmieście and Nowy Świat
Continuing, you will reach Krakowskie Przedmieście, where you will pass, among others, the Presidential Palace, the University of Warsaw and the Church of the Holy Cross, where Fryderyk Chopin's heart is buried. The street turns into Nowy Świat, full of elegant tenement houses, cafés and boutiques, ideal for a short break.
Łazienki Królewskie and the Palace on the Isle
The next point is Łazienki Królewskie – a vast park with romantic alleys, ponds and the classicist Palace on the Isle, the summer residence of King Stanisław August Poniatowski. It is highly recommended to take part in the free Chopin concerts held at the composer's monument in the summer.
Wilanów Palace
The Royal Route ends at the baroque Palace in Wilanów, the former residence of King Jan III Sobieski. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the palace presents richly decorated interiors and numerous works of art, being a testimony to the splendour of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
what? shall we move on?
Stop 2: Malbork Castle – the largest brick fortress in medieval Europe
Distance from Warsaw: approx. 285 km (about 4 hours by car)
Leaving behind the Royal Route in Warsaw, your journey takes you north to one of the most iconic medieval landmarks in Poland – Malbork Castle. A scenic drive of around four hours will bring you to the city of Malbork, where this colossal Gothic fortress rises majestically above the Nogat River.
Malbork Castle is not only the largest Gothic castle in the world, but also a powerful symbol of the once-mighty Teutonic Order. Its monumental red-brick architecture attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, offering a fascinating glimpse into the medieval past and military power.
Construction began in the late 13th century, and from 1309, the castle served as the seat of the Grand Masters of the Teutonic Order and the capital of the Teutonic State.
Together, they form a massive complex covering around 21 hectares. Inside, you’ll find over 200 chambers, including chapels, dining halls, armouries, and living quarters—each offering insight into the lives of knights and rulers.
Given its vastness, it’s highly recommended to spend at least two days exploring the castle and its museum collections in depth. In 1997, Malbork castle, one of the famous castle in Poland, was officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, affirming its exceptional cultural and historical value.
Renting a car from Kaizen Rent for a short period allows you to fully appreciate this architectural masterpiece and easily continue your road trip through northern Poland.
Stop 3: Tri-City – Gdańsk, Sopot and Gdynia – relaxation by the Baltic Sea
Distance from Malbork: approx. 60 km (1-hour drive)
After visiting Malbork, it is worth heading further north – to the Polish coast of the Baltic Sea. Just a drive of a lifetime away from the vibrant life of the Tri-City – a unique combination of historical Gdańsk, resort Sopot and modern Gdynia.
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Gdańsk – history and atmosphere of the port city. A walk along Długi Targ, the historic Crane, St. Mary's Basilica or the European Solidarity Centre – Gdańsk combines history with a message of atmosphere. In the summer, life is vibrant, and evenings by the Motława River are perfect for one of the restaurants.
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Sopot – beach, pier and relaxation. Sopot is the heart of paid recreation. Here you will find the longest wooden pier in Europe, a beach and the famous Bohaterów Monte Cassino Street. A great spot for unwinding, taking a dip in the sea or strolling along the seafront.
- Gdynia – modernity and nature. Gdynia is a great place for advanced architecture, maritime museums and beautiful views from the Orłowski Cliff. You can also go on a boat cruise or visit the Gdynia Aquarium.
Stop 4: The Land of the Great Masurian Lakes – the pearl of Polish sailing
Distance from (Gdańsk): approx. 220–250 km (3.5–4 hours by car)
After a rest on the Baltic Sea, it's time to head deep into Poland to discover one of the most beautiful and greenest regions of the country - the Land of the Great Masurian Lakes. It's a magical location full of tranquil waters, lush green woods and picturesque villages. It's also a mecca for sailors and nature lovers.
Masuria has over 2,000 lakes, the largest and most popular of which are:
- Śniardwy – the largest lake in Poland
- Mamry – the second largest, ideal for sailing
- Niegocin, Tałty, Bełdany – connected by canals and creating water highways
Main Masurian cities and resorts:
- Giżycko – the capital of Polish sailing with the Boyen fortress and a marina
- Mikołajki – known as the "Pearl of Masuria", with a beautiful promenade and marina
- Ruciane-Nida and Węgorzewo – ideal for a quieter holiday and contact with nature
Masuria is a paradise for all those looking for peace, closeness to nature and active recreation. Driving with Kaizen Rent, you can easily visit various Masurian towns and stay wherever you like.
Stop 5: The Białowieża Forest is an ancient woodland and the home of the bison.
Distance from the Masurian Lakes: approx. 230–260 km (4–4.5 hours by car)
After an idyllic rest among lakes and sailboats, it's time to immerse yourself in true, wild nature. Białowieża Forest - this is the last lowland primeval forest in Europe, where nature has ruled by its own laws for thousands of years. Here you will find mighty oaks, hornbeams and spruces of impressive size, as well as... the largest mammal in Europe - the bison, which is a symbol of this region.
Białowieża National Park
The central part of the forest is Białowieża National Park, the oldest national park in Poland, established in 1932. Its heart is the Strict Reserve, accessible only with a licensed guide. Walking around its grounds, you can admire mighty oaks, some dating back to the times of King Władysław Jagiełło, and a wealth of flora and fauna, including rare species of birds and insects.
European Bison Show Reserve
For those who want to see the symbol of the forest – the European Bison – up close, the European Bison Show Reserve is the perfect place. In addition to European Bison, you can also see wolves, lynxes, deer, wild boars and other animals characteristic of this region.
Museum of Nature and Forestry
The Museum of Nature and Forestry in Białowieża offers interactive exhibitions dedicated to the forest ecosystem, it's past and natural processes. It is a great spot to start exploring the region and better understand its uniqueness.
Educational trails and natural attractions
- Żebra Żubra: a popular nature trail leading through diverse forest habitats.
- Szlak Dębów Królewskich: a route leading past the oldest and most impressive oaks in the forest.
- Place of Power: a mysterious place shrouded in legends, considered a point of exceptional energy.
Cultural heritage
Białowieża is not only a place of natural beauty, but also has a rich past. It is deserved to visit the Palace Park, established in the 19th century around the no longer existing Tsar's palace, and the Church of St. Nicholas with a unique iconostasis made of majolica.
This is a stop for those who want to experience peace, wilderness and immerse themselves in a world that looks almost the same as it did hundreds of years ago.
Stop 6: The Old Town in Zamość – the pearl of the Renaissance in Eastern Poland
Distance from Białowieża Forest: approx. 200 km (around 3.5 hours by car)
From the wilds of the Białowieża Forest we head southwest to a wholly different world – the world of Renaissance harmony and architectural genius. Welcome to Zamość, a city designed from scratch in the 16th century as an “ideal city” and listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Zamość was founded by Hetman Jan Zamoyski, and its creator was the Italian architect Bernardo Morando, who created a unique combination of Italian Renaissance and Polish tradition. The result is a historic centre that delights with its symmetry, colours and craftsmanship.
What's worth seeing?
Rynek Wielki and City Hall
The central administration of the city is Rynek Wielki - a place subject to the proper quarries with arcades. The dominant element is the Renaissance City Hall with characteristic fan-shaped stairs and clock towers, belonging to one of the facilities of this type in Poland.
Zamoyski Palace and Zamoyski Academy
Near the market square is the Zamoyski Palace - the former residence of the founder of the town and the Zamoyski Academy, protected in 1594 as one of the first higher education institutions in Poland. Both buildings are academic evidence of Jan Zamoyski's development of the city as a centre of science and culture.
Zamość Fortress
Zamość was also mandatory, equipped with a system of bastion fortifications. Fragments of the defensive walls and town gates, such as the Lublin Gate and the Lviv Gate, can still be accessed today. The Museum of Fortifications and Weapons, "Arsenał", is an interesting venue to visit to learn about the past of this military city.
Zamość Cathedral and Synagogue
The Cathedral of the Resurrection of the Lord and St. Thomas the Apostle to an impressive residential with a rich interior - residence of Jan Zamoyski. In turn, the Renaissance Synagogue, one of the best preserved in Poland, is responsible for the multicultural heritage of the city.
Thanks to the flexibility of journey by car with Kaizen Rent, you can also discover less obvious attractions - such as Roztocze National Park or picturesque border churches.
Stop 7: The Świętokrzyskie Mountains – ancient landscapes and spiritual heritage
Distance from Zamość: approx. 200 km (about 3 hours by car)
For your final stop, journey to the heart of Poland’s oldest mountain range – the Świętokrzyskie Mountains. Known as the "Holy Cross Mountains," this region offers a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient geological formations, and rich cultural heritage. The Świętokrzyskie Mountains are among the oldest in Europe, formed hundreds of millions of years ago, and are home to serene hiking trails that wind through lush forests and picturesque valleys.
Key attractions include:
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Łysica and Łysa Góra: The highest peaks in the range, offering panoramic views and a chance to explore ancient rock formations.
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Święty Krzyż Monastery: A historic Benedictine monastery perched atop Łysa Góra, famous for its relic of the True Cross and spiritual significance.
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Świętokrzyski National Park: A protected area featuring diverse flora and fauna, educational trails, and opportunities for peaceful exploration of the natural surroundings.
The region is perfect for visitors seeking tranquillity away from bustling tourist centres, combining opportunities for hiking, history, and reflection. With Kaizen Rent, you can easily reach this hidden gem and enjoy a memorable conclusion to your summer journey through Poland.
Stop 8: Royal Salt Mines in Wieliczka and Bochnia – underground wonders of Małopolska
Distance from Zamość: approx. 160 km (around 2 hours by car)
After a Renaissance feast for the eyes in Zamość, it's time to travel deep into the earth - literally. Heading southwest, you'll reach the Royal Salt Mines in Wieliczka and Bochnia - some of the oldest salt mines in the world and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
These are not just historical spots where miners work, but real underground cities, full of corridors, chapels, salt sculptures and lakes. A visit to these mines is a unique journey through 700 years of salt mining history in Poland, which can be experienced several dozen meters underground.
What's worth seeing:
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Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the oldest salt mines in the world, operating continuously since the 13th century. While exploring the Tourist Route, which leads through approximately 3 km of corridors at depths of 64 to 135 meters, you can admire impressive salt chambers, including the famous St. Kinga's Chapel - carved entirely of salt and decorated with salt chandeliers. The route also includes underground lakes and sculptures depicting scenes from the past of the mine. The tour lasts about 2-3 hours and takes place with a guide.
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Bochnia Salt Mine
The Bochnia Salt Mine, founded in 1248, is the oldest salt mine in Poland. In 2013, it was entered on the UNESCO World Heritage List as an extension of the entry for the Wieliczka mine. During the tour, you can use the Tourist Route with Multimedia Exhibition, which presents the past stories of salt mining and the daily life of miners in a modern way. One of the attractions is an underground boat ride through the flooded corridors of the mine. The tour takes place only with a guide and lasts up to 2.5 hours.
Both mines offer more than just sightseeing – they are an adventure, story and spiritual experience all in one. Walking through the corridors carved in salt allows you to understand how valuable salt, called "white gold", was once and what a great role it played in the history of Poland.
Thanks to a car trip with Kaizen Rent, you can conveniently travel between Wieliczka and Bochnia, as well as visit Krakow, which is just a dozen or so kilometres away – perhaps this is where you started or will end your journey. Ready for the next stop – the Old Town in Krakow?
Stop 9: Krakow's Old Town - a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Distance from Wieliczka: approx. 15 km (20–30 minutes by car)
After discovering the salt underground, it's time to travel to the heart of Małopolska - Krakow, the city of kings, legends and a unique atmosphere. If this is where you started your journey, you may already know its charm, but if you're just getting here now, get ready for one of the most fascinating destinations in Poland.
The Old Town in Krakow is a place that has been attracting tourists, artists and history buffs for centuries. It was one of the first to be added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1978 - and for good reason. It is a true pearl of European cultural heritage.
What's worth seeing? We have a few suggestions for you:
Main Market Square – the heart of the city
The focal point of the Old Town is the Main Market Square, the largest medieval square in Europe. Surrounded by historic tenement houses, it is bustling with life all year round. Visitors from around the world come to experience its vibrant atmosphere and explore its many attractions. On the Market Square, you will find St. Mary’s Church with an impressive altar by Veit Stoss and the Cloth Hall, a former market hall, today full of shops with souvenirs and works of art.
Wawel Hill – a symbol of Polish statehood
Walking along Grodzka Street, you will reach Wawel Hill with the Royal Castle and Wawel Cathedral – the place of coronation and burial of Polish monarchs. Be sure to see the Sigismund's Chapel – considered the most beautiful example of Renaissance in Poland.
Planty – a green ring around the Old Town
The Old Town is surrounded by a green belt called Planty, which was built on the site of a former moat. A multitude of flowers and lush greenery fill Planty, creating a peaceful retreat for visitors. It is an ideal place for a quiet walk and a moment of rest from the hustle and bustle of tourists.
Monuments and museums
You can't miss attractions like Florian's Gate, the Barbican, Collegium Maius or the interactive Rynek Underground Museum. Every step in Krakow is a journey through time.
Krakow's Old Town is the essence of Polish history and culture. Every stone here has its own story, and the atmosphere combines medieval heritage with a modern lifestyle. It's a place worth stopping for a while - for a walk, a concert at the Philharmonic, a coffee in Kazimierz or lunch in a historic cellar.
If this is where you start your adventure in Poland - great news: Kaizen Rent has a branch in Krakow, so renting a car is a convenient start to further exploration of the country.
Want to move on? Next stop: Old Town in Wrocław - the cultural pearl of Lower Silesia.
Stop 10: Tatra National Park - located in the heart of the Carpathian Tatra Mountains
Distance from Kraków: approx. 110 km (about 2 hours by car)
After exploring the magical Old Town of Krakow, it's time to head into the heart of the Polish mountains. The Tatra National Park (TPN) is one of the most valuable natural areas in Poland, covering the highest parts of the Krakow Mountains – the only mountains in the country with an Alpine character. As a part of the greater Carpathians range, the Tatras are home to Poland's highest peaks and represent one of the most striking landscapes in the Polish mountains. TPN spans 21,164 hectares and offers over 240 km of well-marked hiking trails of varying difficulty, making it a paradise for both beginners and experienced hikers. Whether you're seeking panoramic views, encounters with wildlife, or peaceful moments surrounded by nature, this area is a must-visit for any lover of the outdoors.
Key attractions:
- Morskie Oko: The largest and most popular lake in the Tatras, surrounded by picturesque peaks.
- Rysy: The highest peak in Poland (2499 m above sea level), offering spectacular views for experienced tourists.
- Kościeliska Valley: One of the most beautiful valleys in the Tatras, with numerous caves and rock formations.
- Kasprowy Wierch: A popular peak accessible both on foot and by cable car, ideal for lovers of panoramas.
- Dolina Pięciu Stawów Polskich: A charming valley with five lakes, surrounded by high peaks.
Nature and education:
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TPN is home to many protected species of plants and animals, such as chamois, marmots and golden eagles. For those interested in nature education, the TPN Nature Education Centre is available, offering interactive exhibitions and information about the Tatra ecosystem.
Practical information:
- Trails: Over 240 km of trails of varying difficulty, suitable for both beginners and advanced tourists.
- Tickets: Entrance to the park is paid; current prices and information are available on the official TPN website.
Tatra National Park is a place where you can experience the beauty of wildlife at every turn. It is a perfect stop for anyone who wants to feel the proximity of the mountains, try trekking or simply relax in beautiful natural surroundings.
Next stop? Wrocław – the heart of Lower Silesia and another fascinating Old Town!
Stop 11: Old Town in Wrocław – the pearl of Lower Silesia
Distance from Zakopane/Tatra National Park: approx. 350 km (about 5 hours by car)
After mountain hikes and contact with wild nature, it's time for urban discoveries. Heading northwest, you'll reach Wrocław - one of the most beautiful and atmospheric cities in Poland.
The Old Town in Wrocław impresses with more than just its architecture; it also boasts a rich history and a special atmosphere. It is a location where tradition and modernity converge, with every corner having its own story to tell.
What to see in the Old Town of Wrocław:
- Rynek – one of the largest and most beautiful markets in Europe with the Gothic Town Hall and fountain.
- Rynek – a majestic example of secular Gothic architecture, housing the Museum of Burgher Art.
- Ostrów Tumski – the oldest part of the city with a cathedral and atmospheric gas lanterns.
- University of Wrocław – a baroque pearl with the Aula Leopoldina.
- Tumski Bridge and the dwarves – a symbol of romanticism and fantasy in the urban space.
Wrocław dwarves
You can't miss the most charming residents of the city – the dwarves. Over 400 figurines scattered all over Wrocław encourage you to play an urban field game. Each dwarf has its own name and story – it's worth learning at least a few!
Wrocław is a city with a soul, alive with culture, science and art. A walk through its Old Town is a journey through the ages, but also a perfect moment to relax in one of the many cafés or restaurants overlooking the market square.
Ready for the last stop on your journey? The Tatra National Park awaits you – the highest mountains in Poland and true Alpine landscapes.
Stop 12: The medieval urban complex of Toruń – the pearl of Gothic architecture on the Vistula River
Distance from Wrocław: approx. 270 km (about 3.5–4 hours by car)
From Wrocław we head north-east, to the picturesque banks of the Vistula River, to discover another pearl of Polish history and architecture – Toruń. This is a city that has preserved its medieval urban layout almost intact, which is why it is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Old Town Hall and Market Square
The central point of the Old Town is the Old Town Square, where the impressive Old Town Hall stands – one of the most valuable monuments of secular Gothic architecture in Europe. It currently houses the District Museum, presenting rich collections of art and history of the region.
Nicolaus Copernicus House
Toruń is the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus. The historic tenement house on Kopernika Street houses a museum dedicated to the life and achievements of the great astronomer.
Teutonic Castle
In the southeastern part of the Old Town are the ruins of the Teutonic Castle, built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Order. It is an excellent.
Ready to head back to Warsaw? It's about 260 km away, or a 3-hour drive. Don't forget to stop by the Oporów Castle Museum on the way!
Looking for the best short-term car rental? See how easy it is with Kaizen Rent!
Whether you're travelling for a weekend in Poland, planning a full scenic route, or just need a car for a short term, Kaizen Rent’s car rental services give you the freedom to visit all 12 stops — including Kraków, Warsaw, the Tatra Mountains, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the picturesque countryside — at your own.
You can book your car in three convenient ways:
- Online – Reserve your vehicle anytime at www.kaizenrent.pl/en,
- By phone – Call our 24/7 customer hotline at +48 76 727 99 99,
- In person – Visit one of our Kaizen Rent branches or service points at major airports across Poland.
Summary
When organising a summer trip to Poland, you have a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant urban scene and the stunning beautiful places in Poland. Our route combines famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Malbork Castle, the Old Town in Kraków, Toruń and the Royal Salt Mines in Wieliczka and Bochnia, with amazing natural attractions - from picturesque hiking trails in the Tatra Mountains and Świętokrzyskie Mountains, through vast national parks and magical woodland of Białowieża, to the charming lakes of Masuria and the Polish countryside.
If you are arranging a weekend in Poland or a shorter trip, with short term car rental from Kaizen Rent you have the freedom and comfort to travel around the country at your own pace. With a car rental, you can easily visit the biggest attractions and discover many unique destinations that Poland has to offer.
This fascinating tour combines history, culture and natural beauty. You will see numerous fortresses, charming towns and stunning mountain and lake landscapes. Poland is a country that delights at any time of the year - from intense summer, through colourful autumn, to winter scenery in the mountains.
With a car rental from Kaizen Rent, you can make the most of your time - regardless of whether you are going on a longer trip or planning a short, weekend getaway. It is a great opportunity to relax and at the same time actively explore, using numerous hiking trails and discovering hidden gems of Polish nature and history.
Poland offers a multitude of attractions worth visiting and admiring - from historic cities, through vast national parks, to the highest peaks of the Carpathians. It is the perfect destination for any trip - regardless of whether you start your adventure in Warsaw, Krakow or another region.
Don't miss the chance to expand your journey plans and discover new spots full of culture, history and incredible beauty. With Kaizen Rent, road around Poland is pure pleasure - we provide comfort, flexibility and full control over your route. It's time to start planning and find your dream venues in Poland - a country that delights both tourists hungry for adventure and those looking for peace and relaxation. Poland is a real paradise on the map of Europe - don't wait, hit the road and discover its magic!
Do it on your own terms! Take the wheel of your rental car and hit the road — bustling cities, picturesque beaches, and breathtaking mountain landscapes await you. Renting by the day or for a short period adds flexibility to your travel plans, allowing you to adapt your itinerary as you go.
Whether you're planning to explore iconic Poland monuments, relax under the sun, or hike scenic mountain trails — with Kaizen Rent, you have the freedom to go wherever your curiosity takes you. If you need a car for a day or longer - a short-term car rental is the ideal choice for spontaneous getaways or well-planned road trips, giving you full control over your pace and destinations.
Discover Poland your way — rich in culture, history, and natural beauty.
Don't wait, it's time to start the adventure!
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