Throughout Europe, there are numerous beautiful and thriving countries to visit and live in.
In particular, Poland stands out as one of the most economically developed countries.
Poland offers residents higher average salaries, lower taxes, and lots of opportunities for affordable housing.
Poland also boasts a centralized location, making it a hub for European travel.
Poland also has its own set of attractions, from international cities and fine cuisine to numerous national parks and outdoor green spaces.
Let’s look at 10 of the safest cities in Poland.
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1. Lublin
At the top of our list is the Polish city of Lubin.
Somewhat off the tourist path, this Polish gem offers cobblestone streets, quaint and cozy markets and shops, and a generally relaxed atmosphere.
The Polish people are known for their kindness and hospitality and Lubin definitely lives up to expectations.
Crime is low and safety amongst the residents is rated as high.
There may not be as many attractions in Lublin, compared to other cities in Poland, but that’s probably one of the reasons it ranks so safe.
Fewer people and transients mean less potential crime.
Lublin is a university city, so there is an influx of students and people at certain times of the year.
In the summer, the town is much quieter, as the students are away.
2. Gdansk
Situated near the Baltic coast is the Polish city of Gdansk.
A vibrant city with a healthy amount of tourist activity, Gdansk is regularly ranked as low in crime and high in overall safety.
More recently, Gdansk has been recognized as up-and-coming tech commerce and developmental city.
With more and more start-ups choosing to locate in Gdansk, the city may be seeing some substantial growth in the near future.
The interest in this Polish coastal city is already starting to cause a rise in housing prices, but the potential for a better salary is still off-setting the increases, as of now.
3. Bialystok
As the largest city in northeastern Poland, Bialystok is safe, even by Polish standards.
Another of the more quiet cities in Poland, it is situated to the east of Warsaw and is one of the closest Polish cities to the border with Belarus.
With mild summers and numerous forest tracks surrounding the city, Bialystok is a good visit for those searching for a few more outdoor attractions.
Overall, residents report very little crime and a general attitude of communal support and interaction seems prevalent throughout.
Housing prices and general living conditions seem to be favorable to both residents and tourists.
4. Szczecin
Another of Poland’s cities which is located relatively near water and the coastline, Szczecin is the greenest city in Poland, with lots of parks and green spaces.
This means there is also a commitment to environmentally-sound practices, which is echoed by many of the residents and businesses located here.
Szczecin has a predominantly English-speaking population, which is comforting for many tourists.
Szczecin is also relatively close to Berlin, which makes international travel a bit easier.
Nights are slow in Szczecin, with most establishments shutting down by 11 pm.
These self-imposed curfews significantly cut down on the incidents of crime or violence in the city.
5. Rzeszów
One of Poland’s smaller *big cities, Rzeszów offers an excellent example of what old Poland once looked like.
The smaller city structure offers relatively easy movement throughout.
Its Market Square region offers visitors and residents views of historic architecture, cathedrals, and synagogues.
The average age of residents in Rzeszów is only 39, so there’s a younger spirit emanating from the city.
At the same time, many residents seem to relish the slowed-down pace of living in Rzeszów.
Rzeszów’s cost of living is also quite affordable, which helps to promote prosperity and better than average living conditions.
6. Poznań
The fifth largest city in Poland, Poznań is known as an important city for culture and commerce.
Poznań is also host to a number of cultural and historical places and events, including the Renaissance Old Town, Gothic Cathedral, and Saint John’s Fair.
Many areas of the city are actually listed or designated as historic monuments.
Poznań is considered one of the most business-friendly cities in Poland, which can prove beneficial for the local economy, as well as the strength of the country.
Poznań is currently regarded as the second most prosperous city in Poland, falling just behind Warsaw at the #1 spot.
7. Warsaw
Poland’s capital city has long been a destination city, known for its importance in culture, economics, and politics, both nationally and globally.
Warsaw is the largest listing on our safest cities list, which is the primary reason it lands at #7.
Although crime is relatively low, there are also approximately 1.8 million people living here.
With its large population, as well as its status, as an international travel destination, there are some chances of pickpockets or petty theft occurring.
Overall, Warsaw offers visitors and residents a plethora of attractions and opportunities, which include cultural, historical, and modern themes.
The Warsaw Grand Theatre, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Warsaw Polytechnic University, the Złote Tarasy mall, and countless examples of eclectic architecture are just some of the notable attractions around the city.
8. Lodz
Known as the center of the textile industry in Poland before WWII, and was still an important industrial center for the country up to the early 90s.
From the 90s to now, the textile industry has shifted dramatically, seeing major textile manufacturers moving away from Lodz.
Lodz is centrally located in the country, offering access to a number of nearby cities and attractions.
Its central location has also made it popular for various foreign companies looking to establish offices and factories in Europe.
Lodz’s cost of living is ranked high, as well as the quality of life score.
Residents and visitors can enjoy a number of museums and cultural exhibits throughout the city.
Travel in Lodz benefits from its tram network, which efficiently moves people throughout the city.
Additionally, Poland’s film industry is located here, which gives Lodz a bit of international culture and flare.
9. Bydgoszcz
Known for its impressive and numerous architectural examples, this 8th largest city in Poland is #9 on our list of safest cities.
Bydgoszcz is also recognized as one of the most environmentally-sound cities in the country.
Straddling the rivers Vistula and Brda, Bydgoszcz is host to a number of different water and land-based sports, as well as outside activities.
In previous years, various different European basketball, volleyball, and football tournaments have taken place here.
Bydgoszcz can also lay claim to having the largest city park in Poland.
Residents of Bydgoszcz report low instances of crime and a generally safe atmosphere, even well after dark.
10. Katowice
If you’re looking to buy a place after visiting Poland, Katowice offers some of the most reasonably-priced real estate and residential housing in the country.
Air quality, lack of crowded spaces, great healthcare, and parks and green spaces are also considered excellent selling points for this southern Polish city.
Katowice is known for its unique and modern architecture, much of which is very photogenic.
It also has a relaxed and progressive feel, with many younger residents leading this city in the 21st century.
Tourist and residential travel seems to remain free from crime or harassment, and many residents report summer activities lasting safely into the evenings.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Poland
Poland is a popular travel destination. With its central location, railway travel options, and generally safe conditions, Poland is a great hub for lots of European exploration.
- Keep valuables and money out of sight – although travelers in Poland report few problems, it’s best to avoid attracting unwanted attention, especially in public spaces. FYI- train stations are considered the most likely areas to run into such problems.
- Avoid Borders with Belarus, Ukraine, and Russia– With current conditions regarding Ukraine and Russia so unpredictable, it’s best to avoid these areas altogether, for the foreseeable future.
- Keep Track of Drinks at Bars or Restaurants– Although infrequent, there have been growing reports of women’s drinks being spiked. Of course, this is as much an international problem as a Polish problem, but being aware is key to remaining safe.
Poland Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Poland Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Do They Speak English in Poland?
Yes, English is spoken throughout the country, although more prevalent in larger cities.
It’s also advised to learn a few Polish words or phrases.
The Polish people will appreciate your efforts.
Is the Tap Water in Poland Safe for Drinking?
Yes, water is deemed safe throughout the country.
Still, some areas will be more encouraging of drinking bottled water, as older generations and their memories still approach tap water with some trepidation.
Can I Hitchhike in Poland?
Poland is known as one of the more friendly hitchhiking countries in the EU.
Travelers are often able to catch rides and are usually encouraged to strike up a conversation to explain where they’re traveling from.
The Poles are as curious as they are courteous.
Bydgoszcz is 2nd the most safest city in Poland first is Białystok
Wrocław is the safest in my opinion
Spent a week in Krakow at the end of May 2022. Great people and had an awsome time! I plan on going back this year.
This is quite wrong at least in my opinion, Poznan should not be on this list, quite literally the only city I ever felt threatened in while walking alone at night.
Krakow is a great place and has amazing people, i think it should be in top 3, no like seriously, visit!
I visited Poland once and I must say, what a great place to live there. I’ve been to 3 cities for exact but I don’t remember the names, I also think it is great for travelers to visit there.