With borders on the Baltic Sea in the north and the Tatra Mountains in the south, Poland pleasantly surprises with its historic sites, the impressive architecture of its castles and cathedrals, the culture and vibrant energy of its cities, and the warmth and hospitality of its people. The country’s medieval capital Krakow rivals Prague for architectural magnificence; the modern capital Warsaw is a truly 21st-century city; and Wroclaw was chosen as one of the European Capitals of Culture.
Away from the large cities, much of the countryside feels unchanged and unspoiled. While large parts of the country are flat, the Tatra Mountains along the southern border have well-marked hiking paths leading through dense forests, along wide rivers, and through scenic mountain passes. In northeastern Poland, the Masurian Lake District is covered by interlinked lakes and waterways perfect for kayaking and canoeing.
