INTRODUCTION
Poland is the site of much 20th century history. Visitors can take a trip to the capital of Warsaw, where the pre- and post- World War II cultures come together. Tourists can also walk around Auschwitz, one of the worst Nazi concentration camps. Krakow is the country's second largest city, and many argue it is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. If looking for beaches, one can go to the 14th century town of Gdansk which offers access to the Mediterranean sea or if looking for mountains, Zakopane, bordering Slovenia is the best place to go.
Warsaw
Krakow
Lodz
Wroclaw
Poznan
Gdansk
Szczecin
Bydgoszcz
Lublin
Katowice
Bialystok
Czestochowa
Gdynia
Torun
Olsztyn
Radom
Kielce
Rzeszow
Opole
Gorzow Wielkopolski
HISTORY
Poland was formed in the 10th century under the Piast dynasty. Poland became a center for the migration of people especially since it wasn't touched by the Black Death which hit Europe from 1347-1351. The 16th century gave rise to the golden age of Poland when it formed the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and became the largest country in Europe. Constant attacks from inside and outside the empire lead to the division of Poland in 1791 to the countries of Russia, Prussia, and Austria. It wasn't reformed until after WW1. However, it was again split in WW2 when it was divided under German and Soviet control. The Soviets instituted a communist government in Poland until 1989 when a Parliamentary government was set up.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Climate: Poland is a very cold country in the winter so make sure you take plenty of warm clothes. Summers have been known to be quite sunny and warm so pack accordingly.
Capital: Warsaw
Languages: Polish
Currency: Zloty - Currently 1 PLN = 0.2983 USD
Power: 230 V, 50 Hz
ATTRACTIONS
Czartoryski Museum
Great Masurian Lakes
Malbork Castle
BiaowieŸa National Park
LODGING
Hotel Chopin
Hotel Matejko
Grand Hotel
PERSONAL STORIES