Other Poland

News websites

  TVN24: One of the leading news channels in Poland, offering news in Polish and English. 

 Polish Press Agency: The official news agency of Poland with current news and analysis. 

 

International sources

Schengen.News: Provides news about visas, borders, and migration, as well as current events in Poland. 

 

Social media and mobile apps:

 Subscribe to official pages of news agencies on social media (Facebook, Twitter).

  Use news reading apps like Google News to customize news feeds by interests and location.

 

Radio and television

 Polskie Radio: State radio station providing news and analytical programs. 

 TVP Info: National TV channel covering the latest news and events. 

 

Newspapers and magazines

Gazeta Wyborcza: One of the largest daily newspapers in Poland; provides access to major news in several languages.

Rzeczpospolita: A leading business publication covering economic and political news. 

 

News resources in foreign languages

 

English language

The First News (TFN): The site publishes news about Poland, including politics, economy, culture, and sports.

Notes from Poland: The site publishes news on politics, society, culture.

Poland In (TVP World): A TV channel and news portal covering events in Poland and the world.

TVN24 – English Section: A site with news in English for an international audience.

 

Ukrainian language

Nasze Słowo: Portal for the Ukrainian diaspora in Poland; covers news, cultural events, and issues related to Ukrainians in the country.

Портал українців у Польщі – Yavp.pl: A useful resource with news, tips, and information for Ukrainians living in Poland.

 

Russian language

Sputnik Polska: News about Poland and international events.

RuPoland: A useful resource with news and information for Russian-speaking residents of Poland.

 

German language

Polen Heute: News and analysis about Poland for a German-speaking audience.

Deutsche Welle (DW) – Sektion Polen: An overview of Polish and international events in German.

 

Other languages

Radio Poland (Polskie Radio): The site has news sections in English, Russian, Ukrainian, Belarusian, and other languages.

Many Polish news outlets offer news translation through social media or mobile apps, including:

Twitter: Channels aimed at an international audience, such as TVN24 or Notes from Poland.

InYourPocket: Guide to Polish cities with news and events.

There are many stereotypes about Poland and Polish people, some of which have a basis, while others are myths. 

 

Poles constantly drink vodka

This is one of the most common stereotypes. Vodka is indeed part of traditional holidays and events, especially in rural areas. However, modern young people prefer other drinks, such as beer or wine, and the culture of alcohol consumption is changing.

 

Polish winters are very harsh

While winters in Poland used to be very cold, the climate has changed, and in recent years winters have become less severe, and summers can be quite hot.

 

Poles are conservative Catholics

Although about 90% of Poles identify as Catholics, the level of religious practice is declining, especially among youth. In major cities, you can find a more liberal attitude toward religion and cultural diversity.

 

Polish cuisine consists only of pork chops and potatoes

Polish cuisine is known for its traditional dishes, but in recent years it has become more diverse and modern, with influences from world cuisine.

 

Poles do not speak foreign languages

While the older generation mainly speaks only Polish and some Russian, young people are increasingly learning English and other foreign languages, especially in cities and universities.

 

Poland is a dangerous country with a high crime rate

The crime rate in Poland is no higher than in other European countries. However, like everywhere, you should be cautious and take standard precautions, such as using guarded parking lots for cars.

 

Poles are hospitable and friendly

This stereotype is true. Poles are known for their hospitality and love having guests, especially during holidays such as Christmas and Easter. Guests can often expect a warm welcome and a bountiful table.

 

Poles have a negative attitude towards foreigners

In recent years, Poland has faced a new wave of migrants, which sometimes causes tension, particularly in the context of economic problems and political instability. Surveys show that in recent years the attitude towards migrants has become more positive, especially among the younger generation. However, historical traumas related to World War II and the communist regime have also left a mark on the perception of foreigners and changes in society. Nevertheless, authorities and public organizations are working to improve the integration of migrants and overcome biases. Integration support programs and Polish language courses for migrants are becoming increasingly popular, which contributes to better mutual understanding and reduces tension.

 

These stereotypes help to better understand the culture and society of Poland, but it is important to remember that they do not always accurately reflect reality. Poland is a modern country with a diverse and changing society.

Jakdojade: An application for using public transport in Poland. It helps plan routes, shows schedules, and allows you to buy tickets for buses, trams, or the metro. The app is available in English.

 

Uber, Bolt, Free Now: Taxi apps to help you quickly and safely move around the cities of Poland. They offer the option of paying by card and cash, as well as various promotions.

 

Pyszne.pl, Wolt: Apps for ordering food from restaurants.

 

Revolut: A banking app to help you manage finances, exchange currencies at favorable rates, and make international transfers without additional fees.

 

SkyCash: An app for purchasing transport tickets, paying for parking, and even buying cinema tickets. It is convenient for daily use and helps avoid queues.

 

mObywatel: An official app that allows you to store digital versions of your documents, such as an ID card and driver's license. Very useful for those who frequently use electronic services.

 

Zomato: An app for searching restaurants and cafes where you can check out menus, read reviews, and book a table.

 

E-podróżnik: An app for searching and purchasing tickets for buses and trains throughout Poland. Supports several languages, including English.

 

Going: An app to help you learn about cultural and social events in major Polish cities. You can buy event tickets and share them with friends.

 

MeetPoland: An app for planning travel around Poland; offers information about attractions, cultural and natural sites, as well as recommendations for restaurants and leisure spots.

Music Festivals

 

Open'er Festival (Gdynia)

One of the largest music festivals in Poland, attracting world stars. The festival takes place on the grounds of a former military airport and offers a variety of music genres from rock to electronic music.

   

Pol'and'Rock Festival (Kostrzyn nad Odrą)

One of the largest free rock festivals in Europe. The event attracts tens of thousands of rock fans from around the world.

   

Sunrise Festival (Kołobrzeg)

One of the largest electronic music festivals in Eastern Europe, specializing in trance and house music.

 

Film Festivals

 

Krakow Film Festival

One of the oldest film festivals in Europe, showcasing documentaries and short films from around the world.

   

OFF Camera (Krakow)

A festival of independent cinema that draws attention to young and talented directors.

   

Cultural and Historical Festivals

 

Jewish Culture Festival (Krakow)

One of the largest Jewish culture festivals in the world, featuring concerts, exhibitions, workshops, and lectures.

   

Warsaw Uprising Festival

An event dedicated to the memory of the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, featuring concerts, historical reenactments, and exhibitions.

 

Štukmistrzów Carnival (Lublin) 

A unique street art festival featuring jugglers, magicians, acrobats, and circus performers.

   

Festivals of Art and Literature

 

Toruń Fantastic Film Festival

A festival dedicated to fantastic films, including science fiction, fantasy, and horror.

   

Wrocław Cantate Festival

An international choral music festival featuring choirs from around the world.

   

Other Significant Events

 

Wianki

A traditional Polish celebration marking the summer solstice. The event includes wreath-making and their release into water, along with folk dances and music.

   

Folk Festival in Zakopane

One of the oldest and largest folklore festivals in Poland, showcasing highland costumes, music, and dances.

   

These events and festivals offer a unique opportunity to experience the culture, music, and art of Poland, providing unforgettable experiences and a deep understanding of the country's rich cultural heritage.

Main Locations with Public Restrooms

 

Shopping Centers and Stations: Free toilets can be found in major shopping centers and most gas stations. At stations, toilets are usually paid, costing around 2 zlotys.

 

Restaurants and Cafes: In many restaurants and cafes, toilets are free for customers, but sometimes a small fee might be charged for non-patrons. In tourist spots like McDonald's or KFC, toilets might be paid.

 

Parks and Public Places: Some parks and public places have automated toilets. For example, Warsaw has 22 automated toilets that can be located via the Warsaw 19115 app.

 

Useful Mobile Apps

 

Warsaw 19115: The app helps locate the nearest public toilets in Warsaw, indicating their exact location, opening hours, and accessibility for people with disabilities.

 

Flush: An international app for finding public toilets, which also works in Poland. It shows the nearest toilets and reviews about them.

 

Features of Use

 

Paid Toilets: Most public toilets charge a small fee, typically 2-5 zlotys. Payment is made before use, often in cash.

 

Tips for Foreigners

 

Alternative Locations:

In case of need, restrooms in large hotels can be used, as they are usually located in the lobby and available for visitors.

When visiting cafes or restaurants, it is recommended to purchase something small to access the toilet without additional expenses.

 

Public toilets in Poland may not be as numerous as in some other European countries, but using the above-mentioned apps and knowledge of key locations, you will easily manage this task.

Online Courses and Apps

 

PolishPod101: A popular app offering podcast-like audio lessons covering various levels—from beginner to advanced; it focuses on listening and comprehension as well as includes essential vocabulary and grammar.

   

Babbel: Offers interactive lessons that include reading, writing, listening, and pronunciation; the app is available on a subscription basis and provides structured lessons.

 

Duolingo: A free app with a gamified approach to language learning; lessons consist of short tasks to help learn basic words and phrases.

 

Preply: A platform for finding tutors offering personalized lessons in Polish.

   

Memrise: An app focused on expanding vocabulary and improving listening skills through videos with native speakers and practical exercises.

 

In-Person Courses

 

School of Polish Language and Culture at the University of Wrocław: The University of Wrocław offers various Polish language courses, including year-long preparatory courses, summer intensive courses, and individual lessons. These courses are suitable for students planning to study in Poland and anyone wishing to improve their language skills.

 

Jagiellonian University: The Summer School of Polish Language and Culture in Krakow offers intensive courses for young people and adults who want to deeply study the Polish language and culture.

 

Additional resources

 

Polish podcasts and audiobooks: Listening to Polish podcasts and audiobooks helps improve listening comprehension and expand vocabulary. Try podcasts such as "PolishPod101" or "Real Polish".

   

Courses at language schools: Local language schools offer various courses for foreigners, including intensive summer courses and corporate training.

 

Self-study resources: Websites like Clozemaster and Glossika offer interactive exercises for learning Polish using spaced repetition and contextual learning methods.

 

Learning the Polish language opens doors to the rich culture and history of Poland, as well as improves daily interactions with locals. The choice of the appropriate method depends on your goals, budget, and learning preferences.

Main national holidays

 

New Year - January 1

Celebrated with fireworks and street parties. Poles often spend the evening with family and friends, prepare traditional dishes, and make New Year's resolutions.

 

Epiphany - January 6

This day commemorates the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus. Parades and processions are held, and blessed letters K+M+B are written above the doors of houses.

 

Easter - March 31 and April 1 (Easter Monday)

Easter is the main religious holiday, celebrated with special services in churches and family meals. On Easter Monday, the tradition of pouring water on each other is observed.

 

Labor Day - May 1

A holiday dedicated to work and workers. Parades and rallies for workers' rights are held on this day.

 

Constitution Day - May 3

Celebrates the anniversary of the adoption of the first Polish constitution in 1791. Military parades and public speeches are held on this day.

 

Trinity Sunday - May 19

A religious holiday celebrated with church services and the decoration of homes with greenery.

 

Corpus Christi - May 30

A Catholic holiday accompanied by processions through streets decorated with flowers and greenery.

 

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - August 15

A religious holiday that also coincides with the Polish Armed Forces Day. Church services and military parades are held.

 

All Saints' Day - November 1

On this day, Poles visit cemeteries to honor the memory of the deceased by decorating their graves with candles and flowers.

 

Independence Day - November 11

A holiday dedicated to the restoration of Poland's independence in 1918. Patriotic parades and events are held.

 

Christmas - December 25 and 26

The holiday is celebrated with family dinners, gift exchanges, and church services. December 26 is also celebrated as the Second Day of Christmas.

Poland offers many unique attractions and cultural sites worth visiting. Here are some of the most popular and interesting:

 

Warsaw

Old Town: The historical center of Warsaw, rebuilt after World War II. You can see the Royal Castle and the market square with cozy cafes and restaurants.

Lazienki Królewskie: A huge park with palaces, gardens, and an amphitheater, where concerts and cultural events are held.

 

Krakow

Wawel Castle: A castle that is a symbol of Polish history and culture, with museums and art collections.

Cloth Hall: A Renaissance market gallery where you can buy souvenirs and crafts from local artisans.

St. Mary's Basilica: Famous for its unique architecture and history, with a daily trumpet signal from the tower.

 

Wroclaw

Old Town and Market Square: Delightful medieval buildings and numerous cafes and restaurants.

Tum Island: The oldest part of the city with beautiful churches and views of the Oder River.

 

Zakopane

The Tatra Mountains: A popular place for outdoor enthusiasts: hiking, skiing, and other sports.

Krupowki Street: The main street of Zakopane with numerous shops, restaurants, and markets.

 

Gdansk

Old Town: Beautifully restored after the war, with cozy streets and historic buildings.

Museum of the Second World War: A modern museum dedicated to the history of the war and its impact on Poland.

 

Malbork 

Teutonic Knights Castle: The largest brick castle in the world, included in the UNESCO heritage list, with museums and historical exhibitions.

 

Auschwitz

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum: A tragic site that commemorates the victims of the Holocaust, with exhibitions and tours dedicated to the camp's history.

 

Białowieża Forest 

Białowieża National Park: One of the last and largest remaining parts of the primeval forest in Europe, where you can see bison and other rare species of animals.

 

Slupsk Sand Dunes 

Słowiński National Park: Unique sand dunes on the Baltic Sea coast that constantly change under the influence of the wind.

 

These places offer diverse experiences and allow for a deeper understanding of Poland's culture and history. Plan your visit with local holidays and events in mind to fully enjoy your trip.

Polish culture is rich in traditions and norms of behavior that are important to know and observe to successfully integrate into society. Here are the main aspects of Polish etiquette:

 

Greetings and Addresses

Formality: When meeting in Poland, it is customary to shake hands while maintaining eye contact and smiling. Use formal titles: "Pan" for men and "Pani" for women, adding the last name. First names can be used only after an invitation from the Polish side.

Handshake: A handshake should be firm, especially between men. Women can offer their hand first, and some men may kiss a woman's hand as a sign of respect.

Addressing people: Formal titles remain important, and it is not recommended to use first names without establishing close relationships.

 

Invitations to Visit

Punctuality: Being late is considered impolite. If you are invited to someone's home, arrive on time.

Gifts: Guests invited to dinner are expected to bring gifts: flowers (an odd number, avoid yellow chrysanthemums, red and white flowers), wine, sweets, or confectionery. Gifts are usually opened immediately.

Shoes: It is customary to remove shoes when entering Polish homes. Hosts may offer you slippers.

Table Manners: Begin eating only after the hostess invites you. Food is served in the European style: fork in the left hand, knife in the right. Try all dishes offered by the hosts and do not refuse seconds.

 

Public Behavior

Public Norms: It is important to behave discreetly and politely in public places. Loud conversations and aggressive behavior are considered unacceptable.

Tipping: It is customary to leave a tip of about 10% for good service in restaurants and taxis.

Religion: Poland is a country with deep Catholic traditions, so respectful attitudes towards religious holidays and customs are important. For example, avoid discussing communism or the Holocaust unless the topic is initiated by the Polish side.

 

Business Etiquette

Formality: Formal communication style is expected at business meetings in Poland. Address colleagues by title and surname.

Honesty and Trust: Poles value honesty and trust in business relationships. Building strong personal connections contributes to successful cooperation.

Levels of Administrative Division

Voivodeships 

 Poland is divided into 16 voivodeships, which are the largest administrative units. A voivode, appointed by the government, and a voivodeship sejmik, elected by the population, govern the voivodeship.

 Voivodes represent the central government at the regional level, while sejmiks are responsible for economic development, infrastructure management, and education.

Powiats 

Voivodeships are divided into 314 powiats (counties), which include both rural and urban areas with powiat rights. The powiat is governed by a powiat council and a starosta.

 Urban areas with powiat rights combine the functions of a municipality and a powiat, managed by a city council and a mayor.

Gminas 

 Gminas are the basic administrative units and are divided into three types: urban, urban-rural, and rural. There are 2477 gminas in total in Poland.

 The management of a gmina is carried out by the gmina council (municipal council) and a directly elected head of the gmina, who may be called a mayor in large cities, a burgomaster in small towns, and a voyt in rural gminas.

This local self-government system allows for efficient management of regions and provides services to residents at all levels, from rural communities to large cities.