Poland : Safety by CityPoland sits in central Europe, bordered by Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, and Russia’s Kaliningrad region, with a northern coastline along the Baltic Sea.
The country is divided into 16 distinct administrative regions called voivodeships (much like a province), each with its own capital and cultural identity.
Warsaw, the national capital, is centrally located and combines historical landmarks—like its meticulously reconstructed Old Town—with modern museums, parks, and thriving nightlife.
Kraków, in southern Poland, is famed for its medieval architecture, royal history, and proximity to Auschwitz, a poignant historical site visited by travelers worldwide.
Historically, Poland’s identity has been shaped by resilience and cultural depth, enduring partitions, invasions, and occupations, including significant damage during World War II and decades under communist rule.
Today, its cities bring an architectural treasure trove, mixing Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles alongside stark communist-era structures.
Visitors come to Poland not only for its history but also for its natural attractions—like the Tatra Mountains in the south, the expansive Masurian Lakes district, and the Baltic beaches in the north.
Rich cuisine, famous hospitality, and comparatively affordable prices make Poland an increasingly popular European destination.
You’ll also love to see the safety rankings to make you feel more comfortable with the trip.
Warnings & Dangers in Poland
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Poland is generally a safe place to travel, considered low-risk overall. The crime rate is relatively low, and serious incidents involving tourists are uncommon.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Transportation in Poland is efficient and generally safe, presenting a low-to-medium risk overall. Official taxis—clearly marked with company logos and phone numbers—are reliable, but agree on a price or insist on using the meter upfront. Rideshare apps like Uber and Bolt are common in cities like Warsaw and Kraków. Public buses and trams run frequently. Watch out for pickpockets during rush hours. Long-distance trains operated by PKP Intercity are modern, safe, and comfortable.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
There's a medium risk of pickpocketing, especially in popular spots like Old Town squares, crowded trains, or bus stations. Stay alert, keep valuables tucked away, and consider a secure bag or money belt to keep belongings safe while exploring busy tourist areas.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Poland is a low-risk country for natural disasters. Major incidents like earthquakes or hurricanes aren't issues here. Spring flooding is likely the biggest inconvenience a traveler would face. Those traveling to the mountains will face increased risks like avalanches and thunderstorms.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
The risk of getting mugged in Poland is very low. Violent street crimes aren't common, but it’s wise to avoid wandering alone at night through isolated or dimly lit areas. Stick to busy, well-populated areas after dark for added peace of mind.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Terrorism risk is average in Poland. I would consider that a low risk, but it doesn't mean that an act of terrorism would be unheard of. Follow basic precautions like reporting suspicious activity and staying away from large demonstrations or events. It's also worth noting that as long as the Russia and Ukraine conflict is ongoing, missiles and debris can pass over or land near the Ukrainian border.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scams can be a medium risk in touristy areas. Common tricks include inflated taxi fares, street vendors overcharging, or bars with hidden prices. Your country's government advisory page will detail the most common forms of scams and fraud.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Poland is safe and welcoming for women travelers, with a low risk overall. Harassment or unwanted attention isn't widespread. That said, don't let your guard down, don't take drinks from strangers, and don't walk around alone at night.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water in Poland is generally safe to drink, giving you a low risk. Major cities have clean water supplies meeting European standards. However, if you’re unsure or staying in rural areas, bottled water is an affordable and worry-free alternative.
Safest Places to Visit in Poland
I also get a sense of how safe a country is by which website pops up first when I search for “Tourism in XX country.”
For Poland, the first thing that came up was the VisitPoland.eu website.
That’s the official tourism website and a sign that there aren’t overwhelming safety risks here.
Poland has something genuinely interesting, no matter your travel style.
If you’re into cities, start with Warsaw.
It’s vibrant, rebuilt from near-total devastation after WWII, with a lively urban vibe.
Check out the reconstructed Old Town, grab coffee at a trendy café, and visit the impactful Warsaw Uprising Museum.
Heading south, Kraków is arguably Poland’s most famous tourist destination.
Its medieval square, Rynek Główny, feels alive at every hour.
Nearby, Wawel Castle adds historic grandeur, and Kraków’s Kazimierz district is known for its rich Jewish heritage and energetic nightlife.
Just outside the city, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum is a sobering but essential visit, as is the fascinating Wieliczka Salt Mine, with its underground salt-carved chapels.
Nature enthusiasts should aim straight for the south.
Zakopane, nestled at the foot of the dramatic Tatra Mountains, is Poland’s outdoor playground.
Here, you can hike scenic trails in summer or ski slopes in winter.
The mountain views alone make the trip worth it.
If you’re exploring western Poland, consider Wrocław—a charming, youthful city known for colorful market squares, quirky bronze dwarfs scattered across town, and a laid-back vibe influenced by its large student population.
Poznań, nearby, is quieter but no less appealing, offering authentic Polish cuisine and beautifully preserved historical architecture.
On the Baltic coast up north, Gdańsk combines maritime history with stunning architecture.
The city is famous for the shipyards where the Solidarity movement began.
It also features a beautiful old town and vibrant waterfront district.
Neighboring Sopot is the favorite beach spot during the day, and after dark, it transforms into a nightlife adventure.
To the east, Lublin feels off-the-beaten-path but rewarding, featuring a picturesque old town and nearby Białowieża Forest.
This is one of Europe’s last ancient woodlands, home to wild European bison.
Places to Avoid in Poland
While there aren’t a lot of places to avoid or areas where government warnings suggest that you shouldn’t travel, we do need to go through a few items.
Given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine since early 2022, it’s wise to stay cautious around Poland’s eastern border with Ukraine.
While Poland itself remains safe, there have been occasional incidents of missile debris landing close to the border.
Keep an eye on local news and follow any advice from the authorities.
If you’re considering visiting adult venues in Poland, you might want to think twice.
The U.S. State Department says foreigners can be targeted at these locations.
Violations include inflated pricing and threat of violence or arrest if the bill isn’t paid.
No matter where you enjoy a nightcap, don’t take a drink from strangers due to concerns about drink spiking.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Poland
- In Poland, dial 112 for emergencies—this connects you to police, fire, or medical services and is free from any phone. While there are no dedicated tourism police, standard police assist all, including tourists.
- Poland uses the Regional Warning System (RSO) to send alerts about severe weather or hazards. Download the RSO app or enable local notifications on your device to stay informed. Additionally, monitor local news and weather services for updates.
- For real-time updates on mountain conditions, consult local tourist information centers or park authorities before heading out. They provide valuable information on trail conditions and weather alerts. You can also view safety information at the website lawiny.topr.pl.
- Polish is the official language. In major cities and tourist areas, many people, especially younger individuals, understand English. Learning basic Polish phrases can enhance your experience and help in areas where English is less common.
- Cities like Kraków can experience poor air quality during winter due to coal heating. Check air quality indexes online or via local news before outdoor activities, especially if you have respiratory concerns. I always carry leftover COVID masks when traveling so I don’t get caught off guard.
- If your passport is lost or stolen, report it immediately to local police to obtain a report, which is necessary for a replacement. Contact your embassy for assistance with the replacement process.
- Polish police can pull you over anytime to check IDs or paperwork, so keep your passport, driver’s license, and car rental documents handy. Staying friendly and cooperative usually makes these stops quick and hassle-free.
- If you’re planning to drive in Poland with a U.S. license, you’ll also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). It’s basically a translation of your license, and rental car agencies usually require it. You can easily get one through AAA or a similar agency before leaving home.
- Mobile devices are susceptible to theft and hacking. Before traveling, update all software and use reputable U.S.-based VPN and encrypted VoIP applications. Avoid connecting to unknown or open Wi-Fi networks to protect your data.
- The highest mountains in Poland are between 7,000 and 8,200 feet above sea level. While that’s not enough to cause serious altitude sickness concerns, you might find that you get short of breath above 5,500 feet. Give yourself a day to acclimate to the higher elevation if this is an issue with which you struggle.
So... How Safe Is Poland Really?
Countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia issue advisories for other countries, generally on a four-tiered scale.
One is the lowest, and four is the highest.
Poland ranks as Level 1 for all of those countries.
The United Kingdom doesn’t have any guidance that would make you rethink a trip to Poland.
That said, it’s important to read beyond the “Take Normal Security Precautions.”
The advisories detail things like crime-ridden areas, terrorism concerns, days when protests might be more likely, cultural etiquette, local laws, and health risks.
After reviewing all of Poland’s advisories from other countries, the biggest risks are pretty run-of-the-mill.
Even the war in Ukraine hasn’t raised the Poland risk, but it’s worth seeing if that changes.
There might be some debris from near the border, and it’s not unheard of to see missiles overhead.
How Does Poland Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Poland | 84 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Norway | 85 |
| Romania | 80 |
| Namibia | 71 |
| Germany | 85 |
| Chile | 79 |
| Mongolia | 71 |
| Netherlands | 75 |
Useful Information
Visas
U.S. citizens can travel to Poland visa-free for up to 90 days as tourists. Double-check that your passport has at least three months' validity beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen area. If you're staying longer or studying, you'll need to apply for a visa before your trip.
Currency
Poland uses the Polish złoty (PLN), not the Euro. ATMs are widely available, and cards are accepted almost everywhere, especially in cities. But it's still smart to carry cash for smaller shops, street vendors, or rural areas. Exchange money at banks or licensed exchange offices called "kantor."
Weather
Poland experiences cold, snowy winters (especially December-February), mild springs, warm summers (June-August), and cool, rainy autumns. Summers are popular for exploring cities or beaches, while winter is great for skiing or cozy markets. Pack layers year-round since the weather can change quickly.
Airports
Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) is Poland’s busiest international hub, conveniently close to the city. Kraków Airport (KRK) is another popular gateway for travelers visiting the southern region. Other major airports include Gdańsk (GDN), Wrocław (WRO), and Katowice (KTW), all offering international and domestic flights.
Travel Insurance
It's wise to get travel insurance for Poland, covering medical care, trip cancellations, or theft. Polish healthcare is good quality but can be costly without coverage. Double-check your policy includes activities you're planning, especially winter sports or mountain hiking, to avoid unexpected expenses. You might also need to get an adventure insurance policy.
Poland Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 1 | 2 | 7 | 13 | 19 | 22 | 24 | 23 | 19 | 13 | 6 | 2 |
| Low °C | -5 | -4 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 2 | -2 |
| High °F | 34 | 36 | 45 | 55 | 66 | 72 | 75 | 73 | 66 | 55 | 43 | 36 |
| Low °F | 23 | 25 | 34 | 39 | 48 | 54 | 57 | 55 | 50 | 43 | 36 | 28 |
Poland - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Gdansk | 68 |
| Krakow | 68 |
| Lodz | 84 |
| Poznań | 73 |
| Warsaw | 81 |
| Wroclaw | 78 |
Amazing Country
Poland is absolutely beautiful and one of the safest places I feel I have traveled to in the last 10 years. I remember growing up I had a school friend who came to America with his family from Poland and he always mentioned going back as nothing compared to his home country. I understand why. My wife and I visited late this summer and are going back next year.
Authoritarian country
You mean Russia?
No I don’t mean Russia
Probably the safest country in Europe – has very few non-europeans.
That’s a good thing compared to what we suffer in the USA!
USA is.Not Poland for sure.
Lgbtq people
Quick notice for lgbtq people, poland has made its entire country a lgbtq free-zone. PLEASE BE SAFE!
that is not true, only in the east of poland there are some provinces which are lgbt free zones, but for example Warsaw is very liberal, and majority of people there tolerate lgbt people, the president of Warsaw included
This lgbt free zones are not what you think they are. They means something like ‘here you will not see any rainbow flags, we will not treat you better just because you are lgbt.’ That’s all. There is no risk for any lgbt people there.
Bullshit. If that were true then what would be the damn point? Are people that bothered by flags? And preferential treatment for LGBT people? As if that happens. I’m not gay, and I’ve always wanted to visit Poland. This appalling bullshit has put me right off.
Lack of flags and acknowledgment is to prevent indoctrination. No one will hurt gay people here unless they start getting uppity…
Yeah because being indoctrinated by gay people is a huge problem. What is wrong with you? Those uppity gay people act like they have human rights. They do. I know a lot of gay people who are awesome and funny. Never met a homophobe who is awesome and funny. Usually dumb. Can’t travel to this country while they’re doing this all the time. Not because I’m LGBT, I’m not……
No one is aking you to come to Poland hahaha, you better back off and saty in your unsafe country
Excellent place to vacation with family.
People like you want special treatment and it’s not OK!!! Here in Marxist America, we can’t even fly our American Flag because it offends people.
I don’t care what you do in your bedroom! Most people mind their own business because we don’t care, we have our own stuff to deal with! I don’t like an ideology shoved down my throat!!! So please stop! Nobody cares!! I think I made myself clear!
If you don’t respect our Country and our heritage,you are not welcome here.Our country- our rules.Please go visiting somewhere else.Thank you.ohh one more think ,communism agitation in Poland is prohibited as well.
Dinsdale, Poland is a very safe and peaceful place. People there are more traditional, prefer a more family oriented society and has deep roots with their culture which has largely maintained their people through several wars and even not existing on the map for 123 years. They do not have to support the LGBT movement or promote it. In a world where Women and Men do not even know what gender she or he is, it is reassuring to know that there are still places in which some level of normality still exists. In my visits to Poland, I am very happy one does not witness the mass stabbings, shootings, over sexualised cultures which have taken over many other places in the world.
A general rule with traveling, If you don’t like it, you are free not to go!
To all others, I pleasantly hope you enjoy your trip to Poland. The people there are very kind.
Not true
It’s fake made popular by one man who wants to harm the ruling gov. There’s nothing like this in Poland
I’ve been violently attacked in eastern Poland for holding hands with my LGBT partner. Avoid eastern Poland. Western Poland is probably safe
good for everyone except LGBT people
oh man, in the name of my country, i’m sorry. It really isn’t safe here for LGBT people. You won’t be murdered, but the chances of being harassed and even attacked are high. Big cities are safer, but never 100% safe. To feel free as a gay person, this unfortunately isn’t yet the country to do it. But we’re slowly becoming better!!!
Eastern Poland only
I’ve been assaulted on the streets of eastern Poland holding hands with my lgbt partner. Eastern Poland is not safe for lgbt people. Western Poland is probably safe though.
Sam, it is not true. LGBT free-zone is a project of polish LGBT activist who prepared “LGBT free zone” logo, put it in various places and took photos of it to create fake news about LGBT free zones. Then he claimed it is “artistic project”.
There are few villages in Poland who voted for laws which locally “protect traditional families”, but it does not have any power, as local governments are very weak in Poland.
If you are visible LGBT some people may be rude to you in east part and poor villages, in bigger cities and West/North part you will be fine. Physical assaults are extremely rare.
There are unfortunately lots of insanely conservative people in Poland but there is no lgbt free zone and I’d say there is no risk for lgby people.
…
Nonsense. No such thing in Poland as LGBT free zones. It’s fake news created by government opposition and idiots like you.
Then why did the EU withhold EU money to regions that declared themselves LGBT+ free zones?
It is only in recent weeks that regions like the ones below backed down so they could receive the funds from the EU.
The southern region of Małopolska
The southeastern provinces of Lublin and Podkarpackie
The eastern Swietokrzyskie region
The full list of Powiats (regions) and Gminas (Districts) is below
Powiat białostocki
Powiat bielski
Powiat dębicki
Powiat jarosławski
Powiat kielecki
Powiat kolbuszowski
Powiat krasnostawski
Powiat leski
Powiat limanowski
Powiat lubaczowski
Powiat lubelski
Powiat łańcucki
Powiat łowicki
Powiat łukowski
Powiat mielecki
Powiat nowotarski
Powiat opoczyński
Powiat przasnyski
Powiat przysuski
Powiat puławski
Powiat radomski
Powiat radzyński
Powiat rawski
Powiat rycki
Powiat sztumski
Powiat świdnicki
Powiat tarnowski
Powiat tatrzański
Powiat tomaszowski
Powiat wieluński
Powiat włoszczowski
Powiat zamojski
Gminas
Gromnik (gmina)
Istebna (gmina), revoked by a court ruling
Jordanów (gmina wiejska)
Klwów (gmina),revoked by a court ruling.
Kraśnik,[95] withdrawn by city council in April 2021
Lipinki (gmina)
Łososina Dolna (gmina)
Niebylec (gmina)
Serniki (gmina),[100] revoked by a court ruling.
Szerzyny (gmina)
Trzebieszów (gmina)
Tuchów
Tuszów Narodowy (gmina)
Urzędów (gmina)
Zakrzówek (gmina)
Skierniewice
Radziechowy-Wieprz, repealed in October 2020 by the voivode of the Silesian Voivodeship, Jarosław Wieczorek
Times will change but we have to tell the truth for that to happen.
By the way, I have lived in Poland for 21 years now and it is an amazing country that runs deep in my soul and you will be hard-pressed to find another modern European country with the same diversity of fora and flora as Poland has.
Safe 100 % , people very nice
Clarification to misleading post
The reason EU is blackmailing Poland is because EU hates diversity. Everybody has to have the same worldview, and it has to be approved by the EU. Any dissent will be punished. Misleading propaganda is encouraged while rational discussion is deemed homophobic. Since Polish people had very bad experience with two major totalitarian sysyems of the XXc, many are naturally suspicious of its new incarnation.
Poland is not only safe, but very courteous and patient with foreigners (which Is more than I can say about France and the US). Very often if you ask them for directions they’ll guide you or walk with you. How can you rate this country’s safety (with 1 star), if you’ve never been (Dinsdale, yeah, you)? They may not understand you, or agree with you, but not only you’ll be safe, you’ll be treated fairly. I just wish every country was as safe, courteous , and as tolerant as Poland! You want some special LGBT attention? Go to San Francisco or LA, good luck being safe there!
Havent Been there, But the people seem amazing!
Hey KitKat, and Many of you other reviewers (But not the awful LBGQ antagonist person).. You all sound awesome, Never really thought of going to poland until I saw Something about the Salt-mine.. Wielicska I believe it is called (Plz. forgive any mispelling)… Then I started reading these reviews on travelsafe abroad… You people sound amazing (not the antagonist). I would super love to visit, Poland sounds amazing and I dig the way you guys (90% of the people in this review chat) roll! I Hope, when I finally make it there, I share a random smile or hello w/one of you all! (And for some reason..) if you ever get the inkling to come to the U.S. Minnesota isn’t bad…. There are some conservative small towns/villages… some liberal big ones…. but all in all I like to think the people there are very welcoming and kind also for the most part (The weather is colder though… One of the other things that turned me on about Poland is the temperate winters 😛 1 degree celsius is a beautiful temperature). In any case, Much Love, Stay Chill, and Many Blessings!
Cold as ice
Who has a colder personality? North Poles or South Poles?
You
You mean because they do smile like a brain damaged chimp at everything?
Poland od very safe country
Poland is a very safe country. It is a country much safer than Germany, France and Great Britain.
Poland seems like a fairly good European country many towns and cities to go to
Poland is a safe country. Love the food!
French Fries
Well Snaps… Went From Salt Mines to Poland to Polish Food…. Pardon my ignorance, I am still learning, but in thinking (at this exact moment) what I know about polish food… all I can think of is Polish Sausage (Which most likely isn’t even from Poland like French Fries aren’t from France! 😛 ) Hey Tourist, What is your favorite Dish?
Love Poland God bless
Poland is a wonderful country. it was rebuilt after WW11 and it will stand firm on morality and the traditional family principles. If you have other ways to live than this, find another country that meets your needs. Poland will not change. Why should it? God is for Poland.
Rafael
Have visited many times and decided to move to Poland. I could not agree with this statement more! This is a very good place to raise a family and a great place to travel!
good europe place
overall safe and very beautiful country but really anti-LGBT, keep that in mind.
and that is a good thing 🙂
btw, islam is right about lgbt. if you dont agree you’re racist.
Violence against LGBT is not as high as people make it seem. A country or society does not approve in a sex focused culture in many ways makes the place a better place to visit. Very safe country and people will show you respect if you show them respect as-well 🙂
Poland has the greatest music and the largest castle in the world
Safe, unless you're non-white or gay
Safe, unless you’re non-white or gay. Highly racist and homophobic society.
You guys are hilarious I love the comments I am going to Poland soon and I think it’s gonna be awesome
Lovely People
You will love it! Learn a few words and the people here will love you back.
Never had any problem
Sorry, but you are overoptimistic. A front country with several million of war refuges from Ukraine is not as safe as Germany or Finland which have nearly the same score. Additionally, there are gangs of football hooligans which terrorize whole cities and go unpunished as the police and courts are extremely corrupted. Finally, I you get sick or have an accident, better seek help abroad because the health service is totally inefficient and hardly anyone speak there English.
Do refugees from Ukraine bother you? These are almost exclusively women with small children. They live with Poles in homes and most often have a job. They won’t mug you in Lidl. Don’t worry.
Buy commercial insurance – you will be able to see a commercial doctor if necessary. Public health care can be weak when you get to a very small town. An English friend broke his leg skiing in Poland. He was delighted with the hospital where he was treated.
As you already compare with Finland – Finland has a border with Russia several times longer than Poland. And less guarded.
Awesome!
We visit every year, Krakow is a wonderful and beautiful city. Coming from US it is a great place to relax and let our kids explore the city and not worry about them. Medicine is old socialized service just like we have in the US …. Unless ….one has money and can afford better treatment…just like we have in the US. BTW cost for concierge care in Poland is much lower than what I pay for Mayo Clinic here.
I recommend visiting Poland to all as it is safe and wonderful. Poland is working to shake the communist damages and return to prosperity while US is now drowning in this ideology…
If this is Your opinion seriously stay in San Francisco as it is made for you. Love Poland
How much russia is paying You for this fake news?
Lyla
Idk tbh. I visited in 2017 and to be fair it wasn’t the best country i’ve been to. People weren’t very friendly and I got dirty looks from people everywhere i went. Felt a bit uncomfortable. Food wasn’t great but the landscapes and architecture of the country were nice. So, it was okay. Wont be heading back though.
This is Polands whole thing about it’s safety and how I’ve been there
My mom is Polish and I went to Poland once. It is the safest country I’ve ever been to. I’ve been to Mexico before but it wasn’t really safe. We had to be at a secure resort and it’s expensive. Poland should be much better. But be warned. I’m not LGBT, but to the LGBT do NOT go to the Eastern part of Poland. You won’t be murdered but you can get attacked. in the western part it’s kinda safe, BUT NOT 100%. You won’t get attacked, but you might be makes fun of. btw Poland is rated LEVEL 1 (exercise normal precautions) which means not much dangers. But pickpocketing and scams can occur, so be aware at all times.
It is nice and safe country, I hope no woke people will come over. They are ruining their own countries.
Probably the safest place in Europe aside small countries like Latvia and Denmark
Very very safe.