Best City Breaks in Poland: Top Destinations for Short Getaways
Best City Breaks in Poland: Top Destinations for Short Getaways
Poland is the perfect destination for a city break, blending rich history and vibrant culture.
Ideal for short breaks to Poland or weekend escapes, its cities captivate with medieval charm, cobbled market squares, and towering church spires that feel straight out of a Christmas card. Whether you're strolling through the colourful streets of Krakow, exploring the Gothic beauty of Torun, or discovering the lesser-known gems of Wroclaw - without the overwhelming crowds - Poland’s city breaks promise a refreshing escape.
But there's more than just urban allure. Beyond the charming city gates, you'll find golden beaches in the north, culminating in the spa resort town of Sopot, while Zakopane in the south offers thrilling ski resorts and snow adventures in the Tatra Mountains.
Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cultural adventure, city breaks to Poland offer unforgettable experiences for every traveller.
Why Choose Poland for a City Break?
Exploring Poland Cities
Poland is quickly becoming one of the top destinations for city breaks, and it's easy to see why.
The country’s major cities, like Krakow city, offer a stunning mix of medieval architecture, vibrant market squares, and a lovely old town atmosphere. The city centre of Krakow, with its main square and iconic Wawel Royal Castle, is a perfect base for exploring the city’s rich history.
Just over an hour from Krakow, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a hidden gem, while the Tatra Mountains to the south provide stunning natural beauty and a perfect day trip for those looking for outdoor adventure. For history buffs, the Jewish Quarter and Auschwitz-Birkenau are essential sites, offering a sobering insight into Poland’s role during World War II and Nazi occupation.
Poland’s city breaks also offer plenty of art galleries, trendy restaurants, and nightlife, especially in Krakow and Wroclaw. Whether you’re strolling through charming streets, exploring hidden gems, or taking in Baroque architecture, Poland’s cities offer a great place to explore European culture and history.
Top City Break Destinations in Poland
- Wroclaw
- Krakow
- Sopot
- Torun
- Zakopane
1. Wroclaw and its islands
Market Square, Wroclaw
One of the best holiday destinations for a short stay in Poland is Wroclaw.
Filled with cobblestoned backstreets and grand townhouses, Wroclaw has the sort of Cinderella architecture that will keep you reaching for your camera. It was the European Capital of Culture in 2016 and has been the capital of the Lower Silesian province for a long time, both of which prove that Wroclaw has history and culture in abundance. The fairytale is completed by a stunning market square in the heart of the centre, where you’ll find dozens of alfresco cafes, bars and local breweries making the most of the stunning scenery.
For those looking to explore beyond the city centre, Wroclaw’s Ostrów Tumski is its oldest district, filled with historical charm and peaceful streets. If you're a fan of quirky landmarks, keep an eye out for the city’s famous dwarfs, scattered throughout the streets.
The city is also famous for its islands. There is more than a dozen sprawled along the Odra River playing host to parks, boat rides and Wroclaw’s grand cathedral.
- Top Sight: The Market Square in Wroclaw is one the largest squares in Europe and has the oldest restaurant in Europe.
Discover the best of this cultural hub with our Winter Short Break in Wroclaw.
2. Krakow City and its Cobblestones
Krakow, Poland
Krakow is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture, and a must-visit destination for any traveller.
If it’s your first time on holiday in Poland, you have to see Krakow City. Its meandering cobblestone streets, grand royal palaces, and soaring spires of ancient churches make it an unrivalled example of European architecture. UNESCO agrees, listing not just Krakow’s individual buildings but the entire Visit the Kraków Old Town district as a World Heritage site.
Krakow is also the best place to discover Poland’s rich Jewish heritage. The renovated Kazimierz district, with its bookshops, restaurants, and synagogues, offers a glimpse into the vibrant community that once thrived here. The city is also a starting point for visits to Auschwitz-Birkenau, with many operators offering day trips to the concentration camps nearby.
- Top Sight: Soak up history, culture, and great people-watching while sipping coffee in the Main Market Square in Old Town Krakow.
Experience the highlights first hand with our Essential Warsaw & Krakow itinerary.
3. Sopot and the Sea
Sopot, Poland
Sopot is a perfect destination for a short break in Poland, offering a mix of coastal charm and rich history.
Known for its long, powder-soft beaches, this 19th century spa town was once a favourite of kings and Kaisers. Today, it’s home to the longest wooden pier in Europe, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the Baltic Sea. Alongside the beach, gourmet fish and chip spots and recently renovated spa facilities add to its appeal, making it one of the best beach destinations in Europe.
For a unique sight, don’t miss the Crooked House (Krzywy Domek) on Monte Cassino street, a quirky architectural gem that houses cafes and bars – perfect for a stop before exploring the rest of the small town. Sopot is also a great place to explore Polish cuisine, with fresh seafood and classic dishes like pierogi served in the many restaurants by the sea.
For a well-rounded trip, pair Sopot with nearby Gdansk, where you can dive into the history of Lech Walesa’s Solidarity movement.
- Top Sight: The Sopot Pier is a must-visit, offering stunning views and the chance to relax by the Baltic Sea.
Our Gdansk Short Break takes you to explore the unmissable coastal Sopot.
4. Torun and its Medieval Old Town
Torun, Poland
Little known and all the better for it, Torun’s beautiful timber-framed townhouses and red brick churches make up a medieval old town that is one of the best-preserved in Europe.
With fewer visitors, this is a Poland holiday destination where you can explore the Gothic town walls and ornate baroque churches at your own pace.
The city is also the birthplace of Nicholas Copernicus, the famous astronomer, and his House Museum is a must-see, filled with fascinating artefacts from his life. But Torun is equally famous for something sweeter - gingerbread. The city has been baking pierniki (Polish gingerbread) for centuries, and you’ll find traditional bakeries and even a Gingerbread Museum, where you can try your hand at making your own.
- Top Sight: The House of Nicholas Copernicus Museum offers an insightful glimpse into the life of the great astronomer.
Take the Classic Poland Group Tour to experience the ancient wonders of Torun.
5. Zakopane and the Tatras
Zakopane, Poland
With prime access to top ski runs in the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane is Poland’s winter capital.
But you don’t need snow to enjoy this mountain retreat. In summer, the region offers stunning hikes through glacial valleys, past waterfalls and mountain lakes.
The iconic Toblerone-shaped log cabins scattered across the foothills belong to the Gorale, an independent community with distinct folk traditions. In the evenings, you can enjoy Gorale dances and listen to fiddles by the fireside.
- Top Sight: Stroll along Krupowki Street, Zakopane’s bustling Walking Street, where you can people-watch and sample Oscypek, a traditional smoked cheese unique to the area.
Krakow & the Tatra Mountains tour invites you to enjoy the thrilling activities and wonders of Zakopane.
Best Time to Visit Poland
Poland is a great place to visit year-round, with each season offering something unique. Spring brings Poland’s cities to life, with Krakow city, Wroclaw, and other major cities filled with blooming parks, lively market squares, and trendy restaurants. It’s a perfect time to explore Old Town areas and admire the medieval architecture.
Summer in Poland
Tatra Mountains in Summer
Summer is ideal for a city break or a day trip to the Tatra Mountains, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, or the Baltic coast, where Sopot’s beaches offer relaxation just over an hour from Gdansk. History buffs can visit Auschwitz-Birkenau or explore the Jewish district in Krakow, filled with historic synagogues and museums.
Winter in Poland
Christmas in Poland
Winter is a magical time, with Christmas markets in Old Town Krakow and Warsaw’s Main Square drawing tourists with festive lights, local restaurants, and traditional Polish treats. Zakopane, Poland’s winter capital, offers top skiing in the Tatra Mountains, while history lovers can explore the Wawel Royal Castle, the Jewish Quarter, and memorials to Poland’s Nazi occupation.
No matter when you visit, Poland’s rich culture, natural beauty, and historic charm make it an unforgettable trip.
4. Zakopane and the Tatras
Visit with Regent
Discover the best of Poland’s cities with Regent’s expertly crafted tours. Whether you're exploring medieval architecture, visiting Wawel Castle, or uncovering the past at Auschwitz-Birkenau, our tours offer a seamless and unforgettable journey through Poland’s most iconic destinations.
See more of our top tours:
Ready to Book Your Poland City Break?
Whether you're craving a weekend escape or a deep dive into Poland’s historic cities, now is the perfect time to plan your trip. Explore medieval architecture, vibrant market squares, and must-see sights like Wawel Castle, the Jewish Quarter, and the Tatra Mountains.
Talk to our Travel Specialists today to begin planning your unforgettable adventure today!