Currency
Poland uses the zloty (PLN). It is not part of the eurozone, so euros are not widely accepted for payment, though some tourist-facing businesses near the border or in major cities may take them at unfavourable rates. Use a kantor (currency exchange office) for cash — they offer much better rates than airport or hotel exchanges. ATMs (bankomats) are plentiful in cities and towns. Cards are accepted in most restaurants, shops, and hotels.
Language
Polish is the official language. It is a West Slavic language and can be challenging for English speakers — the spelling and pronunciation are not intuitive. That said, English is widely spoken in Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw, and Gdansk, especially by younger people and anyone in tourism. In smaller towns and rural areas, German may get you further than English.
Emergency Numbers
- General emergency (EU): 112
- Police: 997
- Fire: 998
- Ambulance: 999
All work from mobile phones. English-speaking operators are available on 112.
Health
No vaccinations are required for entry. Tap water is safe to drink throughout Poland. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC or its UK replacement GHIC) is valid in Poland for EU and UK citizens. Private medical clinics in major cities are fast and reasonably priced if you need treatment.
Safety
Poland is a safe country by European standards. Violent crime is rare in tourist areas. Standard urban precautions apply — watch your pockets on crowded trams and in tourist areas, and don't leave valuables visible in cars. The areas near the Belarus and Russia (Kaliningrad) borders have restricted zones and heightened security; avoid these areas unless you have a specific reason to be there.
Practical Tips
- Tipping is customary in restaurants — 10–15% is standard if service isn't included.
- Business hours: shops typically open Monday–Saturday 9:00–18:00, with shopping malls open later. Sundays have restricted trading hours under Polish law — large shops are closed on most Sundays.
- Pharmacies (apteka) are well-stocked and easy to find in cities.
- Wi-Fi is available in most cafes, hotels, and restaurants. SIM cards from Polish operators (Orange, Play, T-Mobile) are cheap if you need mobile data.