Poland
Central Europe • POL
Last updated: June 3, 2026
Poland is a captivating destination that blends a turbulent, heroic history with vibrant, modern cities and stunning natural landscapes. From the medieval charm of Krakow to the bustling capital of Warsaw, visitors can enjoy rich cultural heritage, hearty cuisine, and warm hospitality.
Visa Requirements
Poland is part of the Schengen Area, allowing citizens of many countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, to enter for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least three months beyond the intended date of departure
- Proof of travel health insurance covering the duration of the stay
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the visit
- Return or onward travel ticket
Popular Attractions
Krakow's Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture, the massive Main Market Square, and the historic Wawel Royal Castle.
Auschwitz-Birkenau: A solemn memorial and museum dedicated to preserving the history of the Holocaust through the former Nazi concentration camp site.
Warsaw's Royal Route: A beautiful stretch of streets connecting major landmarks, including the Royal Castle and Lazienki Park, showcasing the city's meticulous reconstruction.
Wieliczka Salt Mine: An incredible underground world of carved chapels, chambers, and salt lakes that showcases centuries of mining history.
Tatra Mountains: Poland's highest mountain range, offering breathtaking hiking trails, ski resorts in Zakopane, and spectacular Alpine scenery.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Remove your shoes when entering someone's home, as it is considered respectful and standard practice.
Always offer a firm handshake and maintain eye contact when greeting someone for the first time.
Be punctual for social and business appointments, as arriving late is often seen as disrespectful.
Do not talk about sensitive political or historical topics unless invited to do so, as these can be complex and emotional subjects.
When visiting churches, ensure you dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees to show proper respect.
Safety Tips
Keep your belongings secure in crowded tourist areas to prevent pickpocketing, which can occur in major transport hubs.
Only use official, marked taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps to avoid being overcharged by unlicensed drivers.
Be cautious when crossing the street, even at crosswalks, as drivers may not always yield immediately.
Familiarize yourself with the local emergency number, which is 112 for all emergency services across the country.
Carry a form of identification, such as a passport or a copy of it, as required by law for tourists.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourcePolio
Source: CDC
Adults traveling to Poland who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an accelerated vaccination schedule.
View sourceOther
Source: CDC
Meningococcal
Source: CDC
Polio
Source: CDC
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Core Vaccines
Routine vaccinations as per national guidelines.
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceTdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Routine booster recommended, especially for travelers.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination recommended for all children and adults not previously vaccinated.
View sourceHepatitis B vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Poland. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Poland.
Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule.
View sourceHepatitis A vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Poland. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
Travelers allergic to a vaccine component should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given. Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, are immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.
View sourceTdap
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers for protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).
View sourceMMR
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to ensure protection against measles, mumps, and rubella.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect bite precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent insect-borne diseases, especially in rural areas.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Recommended to reduce the risk of insect-borne diseases, especially in rural areas.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to Poland due to potential exposure through food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Seasonal influenza
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers during flu season (fall/winter).
View sourceRabies pre-exposure vaccination
Source: CDC
Rabies is present in some terrestrial wildlife species in Poland. Pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.
Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.
View sourceTick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) vaccine
Source: CDC
For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas, TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary. TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found.
Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the need for vaccination based on your travel plans.
View sourceSeasonal flu
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers during flu season to reduce the risk of influenza infection.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities where they may encounter animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may engage in activities that increase the risk of exposure to blood or bodily fluids.
View source