22 Most Beautiful & Famous Landmarks in Poland

The 22 Best Landmarks in Poland You Need to See!

There are many good reasons to visit Poland but the most important one is undoubtedly the country’s treasure trove of historically significant and architecturally stunning buildings.

They’re almost like a journey through time. On one hand, you have tall, modern buildings that reach for the sky, and on the other hand, you find detailed structures that share stories from the past.

Amidst the remarkable buildings, let’s not overlook Poland’s breathtaking natural beauty, such as the stunning Tatra Mountains with the magnificent Morskie Oko.

You see, Poland is a country of great diversity and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With the help of other travel experts, I compiled this comprehensive list including the best Polish landmarks you need to add to your itinerary.

From the major cities of Warsaw and Kraków to hidden gems – you’ll get to know the country from all of its sides.

Happy exploring!

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking.)

Famous Landmarks in Warsaw

1. Palace of Culture & Science

Recommended by me

One of the most famous landmarks in Poland can be found in the country’s capital city of Warsaw: The Palace of Culture & Science.

The Palace of Culture & Science stands as an iconic symbol of the city’s history and resilience. Rising 230 meters tall, this monumental building dominates the skyline and can be found in the bustling Śródmieście district.

What makes the palace truly special is its multifunctional character. Constructed in the 1950s, it serves as a cultural hub, housing theaters, museums, cinemas, and conference halls.

You can explore its history at the Museum of Technology or enjoy a panoramic view of Warsaw from its observation deck. Latter is one of the best things to do in Warsaw and shouldn’t be missed!

The palace is also a venue for concerts, exhibitions, and other events that offer a glimpse into Poland’s rich cultural heritage.

The Palace of Culture & Science is open daily, allowing you to explore it from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The entrance fee varies depending on the activities you wish to enjoy. The observation deck requires a separate ticket.

Tours you might find interesting:

2. Old Town Market Place

Recommended by Soline of On the Road Diary

The Old Town Market Place in Warsaw is a must-see when visiting Poland. As its name says, this place is the center of the Old Town of the capital city of Warsaw.

It has been a trading hub since the Middle Ages, offering visitors a unique insight into the vibrant history of the city. The colorful buildings surrounding this place were destroyed during World War II, but they have been rebuilt identically.

You can go there any time during the day or night, there will be something happening. Local artists can also be found displaying their work in the square. 

Gastronomy lovers will find a range of traditional Polish restaurants, bars, and cafés that offer everything from pierogies to traditional beer. A good address is the historical Bazyliszek Restaurant.

It’s easy to spend hours at the Old Town Market Place. Moreover, it’s a great starting point from which you can easily explore the rest of Warsaw’s winding streets and discover its hidden gems.

3. POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews

Recommended by Noel of Travel Photo Discovery

If you are planning on visiting Warsaw, one of the most historic and also beautiful architectural museums to explore is the POLIN Museum.

Located in a wonderful area that is originally the area of Jewish descendants that were cordoned off by the Nazis into this neighborhood, the Jewish Museum stands out as a national monument dedicated to showing the history of the Jewish people here in Warsaw.

The modern structure of the museum looks foreboding and ominous from the outside but airy and streamlined inside with sandstone-colored walls.

The glass panel exterior is inscribed with the word “Polin” in Hebrew and Latin. This originates from a legend about the Jewish people who initially settled in Poland.

The legend was formed when Jews fleeing from other European cities heard the word “Polin” from local birds in the area.

Inside you can learn more about the 1,000-year history of the Polish Jews settling in this area of Warsaw and tour the many exhibits and collections to the present year.

The museum is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm except on Saturdays when it’s open until 8:00 pm. The entrance fee is €10 and tickets for the POLIN Museum can be bought online.

Tours you might find interesting:

4. Wilanow Palace

Recommended by Baia of Red Fedora Diary

Wilanow Palace is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance, making it one of the most famous landmarks in Poland. 

Visiting Wilanow Palace should be one of the first things to do in Warsaw for anyone. Located around 10 kilometers south of Warsaw’s city center, it is easily reachable with public transportation. 

This magnificent structure, often called the “Polish Versailles“, oozes a timeless charm that captivates visitors with its sprawling gardens, awe-inspiring architecture, and captivating history. 

The Palace’s uniqueness lies in its seamless blend of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Rococo architectural styles, reflecting the tastes of its successive owners.

Originally a royal residence, it was built for King John III Sobieski in the late 17th century and later passed through various aristocratic families. Each period of ownership has contributed to the Palace’s distinctive character, resulting in a harmonious fusion of architectural influences.

Visitors can explore the intricately decorated interiors adorned with elaborately detailed frescoes, luxurious furnishings, and an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts.

The Palace also houses a museum, offering a glimpse into Poland’s past through its well-preserved exhibits. With so much to see and look at, it’s easier to spend one to two hours wandering the rooms before exploring its gardens. 

5. Uprising Monument

Recommended by Monica of This Rare Earth

One must-visit historical site that anyone spending a day in Warsaw should see is the Uprising Monument. It is located on the southern side of Krasiński Square. In 1999, the Supreme Court of Poland was constructed directly behind it. 

This striking memorial was unveiled in 1989 to commemorate the Warsaw Uprising, a significant event in the city’s history. What makes this monument so special is its artistic representation of the struggles of the Polish resistance fighters against the Nazi occupation. 

Visitors can observe the imposing structure, which stands at about 33 meters high, made of bronze blocks that resemble an open-air cage, with a group of figures inside trying to break free. 

The Uprising Monument is free to visit and always open to the public. Plan to spend at least 30 minutes admiring this powerful work of art and taking photos. 

A visit to the Uprising Monument is a must-do for anyone spending at least one day in Warsaw. You can pay tribute to the heroic men, women, and children who fought for freedom and independence.

6. Łazienki Park

Recommended by Holly of Four Around The World

It might surprise you to find one of the most beautiful parks in all of Poland is located right in the center of Warsaw. Łazienki Park is the largest park in Warsaw and home to some of the most stunning historic buildings in the country.

The name Łazienki means “baths” and the main attraction here is the “Palace on the Isle” that sits upon the central lake. No matter what season you visit, it is a stunning view.

There are often peacocks roaming the palace and in winter, the lake freezes over, making it a magical winter wonderland. This definitely makes it one of the best places to visit in Poland!

You can tour the palace as well as some of the other buildings and royal residences that are open to the public, for example, the Old Orangery, White House, and the Roman-inspired amphitheater. 

The gardens themselves are free to explore, with walking paths throughout. The Chopin Garden with a bronze Chopin statue is another popular spot. They also hold concerts in the park on weekends during the summer months.

Tours you might find interesting:

Famous Landmarks in Kraków

7. St. Mary’s Basilica

Recommended by me

As one of the best cities to visit in Poland, Kraków boasts lots of renowned landmarks such as the St. Mary’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Situated on the Main Market Square, this stunning basilica captures the essence of Polish history and religious devotion.

What sets St. Mary’s Basilica apart is its stunning exterior, adorned with intricate details, and the iconic twin towers that rise above the square.

Its interior is equally captivating, featuring a mesmerizing altarpiece by Veit Stoss that is a true masterpiece of woodcarving.

Open to the public, the basilica allows you to soak in its historical and spiritual ambiance. It’s typically open from early morning until late afternoon, providing a serene atmosphere for reflection and admiration.

Entrance to the basilica often requires a nominal fee, which contributes to its maintenance and preservation.

8. Wawel Castle

Recommended by Ella of Many More Maps

Located on Wawel Hill and overlooking the Vistula River, Wawel Castle is one of the top landmarks in Poland and a must-see whilst you’re in Kraków!

The castle complex was once the epicenter of Polish culture and history. Today, though, it’s one of the country’s top tourist attractions.

It’s been brought back to life as a massive museum complex that’s split into five distinct sections: the State Rooms, the Royal Private Apartments, the Crown Treasury and Armoury, Lost Wawel, and the Exhibition of Oriental Art.

Each section requires a separate ticket so choose wisely!

The museums are open on Mondays from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm and Tuesdays to Sundays from 9:30 am to 7:00 pm. Ticket prices vary depending on which section you want to enter.

The most expensive, the State Rooms, cost PLN 35 (don’t forget that Poland uses the Zloty, not the Euro!). The cheapest option is Lost Wawel, which costs just PLN 15.

The amount of time you’ll need to spend here totally depends on how many sections of the museum you want to visit. You could spend anything from an hour to an entire day at Wawel Castle!

Tours you might find interesting:

9. Town Hall Tower

Recommended by Madison of Madison’s Footsteps

For a unique view of the city, be sure to add a visit to the Town Hall Tower on your Kraków itinerary.

Located in the heart of the Main Square, this stunning tower dates back to the 14th century and has long been an iconic part of Kraków’s skyline. 

The most popular feature of the Town Hall Tower is its viewing platform which offers 360-degree views from 70 meters above the city.

From here, you can see some of Krakow’s most famous landmarks, including Wawel Castle and St. Mary’s Basilica. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you might even be able to spot the nearby Tatra Mountains!

Entrance tickets cost a modest PLN 10 (around $2.50) and, once admitted, visitors can climb the 110 steps to the viewing platform at the top.

The tower is open to visitors on Monday from 11:00 to 3:00 pm and Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 6:00 pm. Keep in mind, the staircase itself is very steep and narrow so it’s not a great activity for the mobility impaired or claustrophobic. 

Famous Landmarks in & Near Gdańsk

10. Gdańsk Town Hall

Recommended by Josh of A Backpacker’s World

The Town Hall in Gdańsk is one of the most famous landmarks in Poland due to its cultural and historical significance along with the impressive architecture of the building itself.

And who can forget the incredible view offered from the top of the Town Hall Tower?

The Gdańsk Town Hall is found on Długa Street, the main street in Gdańsk. You can visit the Town Hall itself which is mostly made up of museums for PLN 12 (Poland does not use Euros), and it’s great value for money.

The museums offer an amazing insight into the history of Gdańsk and Poland through exhibits and art. Around 30 minutes to one hour or so is more than enough in the Town Hall.  

Though it’s nice to visit the inside of the Town Hall, the main attraction is the Town Hall Tower. By climbing the tower, you get a beautiful view over the heart of Gdańsk.

Every direction is breathtaking, but the common favorite is towards St. Mary’s Church where you get the best view of the church.

Entry to the tower costs PLN 5 but it’s more than worth it. After all, it’s one of the best things to do in all of Gdańsk. 

11. Westerplatte

Recommended by Claire of Europe in winter

If you’re looking for historical landmarks in Poland, there’s possibly nowhere quite as significant as Westerplatte. 

Sitting close to the city of Gdańsk (you can easily reach Westerplatte by taking the 106 bus), Westerplatte is a peninsula that was the site of the Battle of Westerplatte, which signified the start of World War Two on September 1st, 1939. 

The German army was much bigger and better prepared, but Polish forces fought for seven days before surrendering. So nowadays, Westerplatte is both a site of historical significance and a symbol of Polish fortitude. 

There’s a memorial for all the troops who were lost in the battle, along with a museum where you can learn about the battle and its ramifications for the rest of the war (and subsequently, the world). 

There’s no charge for the monument, but the museum has a small entrance fee. It’s open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm year-round – perfect if you’re looking for things to do in Gdańsk in winter.

Allow at least three hours to travel to Westerplatte and see the memorial and museum.

12. Green Gate

Recommended by Pilar of TravelTheWorldPages

Gdańsk is one of the most beautiful cities in Poland and one of the best destinations in the world. The city is often compared to Amsterdam, for a good reason, as many of its artworks and architecture have a Dutch influence.

The Green Gate in Gdańsk is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks and is located in the city center. The building faces the river Motlawa and you can enter Long Street by crossing it.

The monument was built in the 14th century as a residence for the Polish Kings – although no member of the royal family ever lived there – and was inspired by the Antwerpen City Hall.

The Green Gate houses a branch of the National Museum in Gdańsk and the entrance fee is PLN 15 which is around $ 3.50. If you prefer, you can just admire the gate from outside if you are walking around the city center and cross it.

Due to its location right at the beginning of Long Street and close to the Golden Gate, Neptune Fountain, and Prison Tower, you can visit all these prominent landmarks in half a day.

Tours you might find interesting:

Natural Landmarks in Poland

13. Bialowieza Forest

Recommended by Ellis of Backpack Adventures

One of the famous landmarks in Poland is the European UNESCO World Heritage site of Bialowieza Forest.

The Bialowieza Forest is unique in Europe because it’s one of the last remaining primeval forests on the continent and it’s home to the largest herd of wild European bison in the world. 

Bialowieza is located in the northeastern part of Poland and stretches over the border with Belarus. It has a rich biodiversity and there is a good chance to see wildlife. Besides the European Bison, the forest is home to deer, wild boar, and wolves. 

To visit the Strict Forest reserve you will need a guide and a permit. This is the oldest part of the forest that is still untouched by human intervention. There are a number of guided tours to Bialowieza Forest that cost between €150 and €300.

Much cheaper is to visit the outer fringes of the forest which are equally beautiful and where you can still spot wildlife when exploring the hiking trails on your own.

Actually, your best chances to see European bison are outside the forest. You can arrange a Bison safari in the early morning when the bison venture out into the fields to graze. 

2 or 3 days are a good amount of time to explore the Bialowieza Forest. You can base yourself in the town of Hajnowka which you can reach by train from Warsaw or Bialystok.  

14. Morskie Oko

Recommended by Coni of Experiencing the Globe

If you enjoy hiking, the Tatra Mountains are the best place to visit in Poland. A lovely day trip from Zakopane is to Morskie Oko, a beautiful alpine lake, and the largest in the Tatras.

The well-signaled path will take you through a forested mountain, lead you past the Mickiewicz Waterfalls, and on a sunny day, you’ll get a panoramic view of the Biała Woda Valley, with Gerlah, the Carpathian’s highest peak, in the background. 

It’s a relatively easy hike, with less than 500 meters of elevation gain, and around 8 km each way. It should take you 2-3 hours to reach it. Most of the trail is asphalted, which makes it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

You can get to the beginning of the trail from Zakopane by car, bus, or taxi. The starting point is Palenica Białczańska Glade. Here you can buy an entry ticket to the Tatra National Park, one of the best national parks in Europe.

This is the most well-known sight in the Polish Tatras, so ideally visit in autumn or spring.

If you can, avoid the height of summer to have a more eco-friendly hiking experience, or trek the nearby, lesser-known but more demanding Valley of the Five Lakes instead.

Wintertime will make hiking trickier, but the frozen lake surrounded by snow-covered forest will make up for it.

Tours you might find interesting:

Other Landmarks in Poland

15. Auschwitz-Birkenau

Auschwitz-Birkenau is one of the most infamous landmarks globally and still maintains its historical significance in Poland today.

Millions of visitors have made the journey to pay their respects to the unfortunate victims. It’s free to visit the Polish landmark, however, it is recommended you take a guided Auschwitz tour to gain a deeper understanding of the atrocities that took place there.

Around half a day is enough time to visit both Auschwitz I and II (Birkenau).

In Auschwitz, you will walk under the Arbeit Macht Frei sign, as well as find out the important historical events that occurred, through photographs, information boards, and original personal belongings, which have stood the test of time.

At Birkenau, you will make the same journey that the doomed prisoners made along the infamous train tracks and through the instantly recognizable killing camp entrance.

Another harrowing experience is witnessing the terrible living conditions that the prisoners had to live through in one of the remaining housing huts.

Seeing Auschwitz in winter offers a more authentic experience, as it is quieter and provides that true feeling of the conditions that the prisoners faced.

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau from Kraków is the most popular trip, which is around 70 km one way.

Tours you might find interesting:

16. Wrocław Market Square

Recommended by Sonia of Happy Little Traveler

Wrocław is a captivating, vibrant, and colorful Polish city overrun and ruled by hundreds of cute little dwarfs. It’s a city where old is intertwined with new, and beautiful with shabby.

There are so many great things to do in Wrocław, but one that definitely can’t be missed is visiting Wroclaw Main Market Square.  

It’s one of the oldest and largest market squares in Europe with a history dating back to the 13th century. During World War II, about 60% of the nearby buildings were destroyed, however, in the 1960s, they were rebuilt to the appearance that you can admire today.

Currently, Wrocław Main Market Square is very colorful and always full of life. You can find many restaurants and cafes, shops, and certainly, you’ll come across street artists who will try to entertain you. 

The Town Hall, Pranger, St. Elizabeth’s Church, St. Mary Magdalene Church with the Bridge of Penitents, Zdrój Fountain, and the adjoining Salt Square are some of the must-visit spots there.

Additionally, you’ll find many Wrocław dwarfs in the area so keep your eyes wide open.

You can explore the charms of Wroclaw Main Market Square all day and all night and you don’t need to pay anything to do so. Reserve at least 3-4 hours to get to know the area really well.

17. Lublin Castle

Recommended by Kami of Kami and the Rest of the World

Lublin Castle is one of the most important landmarks in the region and among the many stunning fairytale castles in Poland.

Originally dating back to the 12th century, it was rebuilt numerous times – the current Neogothic look is from the 19th century.

Today, Lublin Castle is home to the branch of the National Museum, where you can see some of the well-known paintings by Polish artists as well as expositions about the region.

But the real reason to visit Lublin Castle is a gem hidden inside its walls – the Holy Trinity Chapel from the early 15th century, with impressive Byzantine-Ruthenian frescoes that miraculously remained intact until this day. 

Visiting the castle is one of the best things to do in Lublin, so be sure to include it in your itinerary. The museum is open every day except Mondays from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (on Fridays and Saturdays until 7 pm), and the chapel is open daily during the same hours.

Besides these two attractions, you can also visit the 13th-century tower (open daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm) – from the top, you can admire a nice panorama of Lublin Old Town.

Each of these places requires a separate ticket; the entrance to the museum is PLN 20, to the chapel PLN 15, and to the tower PLN 10. You can buy them online or at the castle.

Altogether, you can expect to spend around two hours visiting Lublin Castle.  

18. Malbork Castle

Recommended by Reshma of The Solo Globetrotter

Malbork Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Poland and is the largest Brick castle in the world. 

Initially, the castle was a fortress and a monastery for Teutonic Knights but during the Nazi period, it was used as a center for military groups.

Most parts of the castle were destroyed during the war but it was restored and it’s now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in Europe.

Pay around PLN 8 and take an audio-guided tour, which lasts about 2-3 hours, to explore all three levels of the Malbork Castle. You will learn about the ancient medieval heating system and also pass through St. Bartholomew’s chapel.

Please note that the castle is not open throughout the year, and the entry depends on the seasons. For precise opening times and entrance fees, visit the Malbork Castle Museum website.

If you visit on Mondays, entry is free but the exhibition section remains closed. For the other days, you can buy tickets on their website.

Tours you might find interesting:

19. Książ Castle

Recommended by Bec of Poland Travel Expert

Standing tall above the Pelcznica River, the magnificent Ksaiz Castle has to be one of the most beautiful castles in the world.  

The castle has a story like many others: Its lavish halls were once proudly used by rich and important people before it got ruined. For a while, no one paid attention to it but now it’s being restored to its stunning glory.

One thing that is helping with this restoration funding is the story of the Nazi Gold Train. It has bought the castle back into the limelight.

The area surrounding the castle was thought to be where the Gold Train was and Gold Hunters from around the Globe descended.

The best way to see Książ Castle is to do a  tour that also includes the tunnels. They run daily and have an extensive list of languages that they come in.

On the tour, you can learn about the most famous occupant, Princess Daisy, the mysterious elevator shaft, and see the stunning terraces. You can visit with an audio guide but there is something magical about hearing the stories from a knowledgeable guide.

Opening hours are 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and ticket prices vary. You can easily spend about two hours in the castle.

Tours you might find interesting:

20. Nikiszowiec, Katowice

Recommended by Emily of Wander-Lush

One of the most recognizable landmarks in Silesia, Nikiszowiec is a symbol of Poland’s industrial heritage and a must-visit in Katowice.

Nikiszowiec is a residential district that was purpose-built in 1908 to house workers from the nearby Giesche coal mine and their families.

The neighborhood’s charming brick buildings, known as “familoks”, are arranged around pretty squares, with a church, a post office, and rows of shops erected from the same distinctive red brick.

Just 30 minutes from the center of Katowice by bus, Nikiszowiec is an ideal place for a half day out. Arrive early to photograph the architecture and empty lanes before it gets too busy.

Follow your nose around the streets and shared courtyards, stopping to visit the cute souvenir shops and cafés (Cafe Byfyj is a popular choice for breakfast), or sign up for a walking tour to learn about Nikiszowiec’s past.

The small Ethnology Museum, with its display of artworks created by former miners, is a must-see.

Be mindful that Nikiszowiec is a residential area – please respect people’s privacy when walking around and taking photos.

21. Poznań Town Hall

Recommended by Claire of Tales of a Backpacker

The Town Hall in Poznań’s Old Market Square is one of the most important Renaissance monuments in Poland and Central Europe.

A Town Hall was first built here in the early 14th century, then a modest one-story building, which was transformed in the mid-16th century by Italian architect Giovanni Battista Quadro.  

He extended the Town Hall significantly, adding Renaissance features including the loggia (exterior corridors) and classical tower, as well as the magnificent Renaissance Hall, complete with stucco ceiling decoration.

Over the years the Town Hall underwent various changes and unfortunately suffered a lot of damage from disasters including fire and bombings from World War II, so most of Quadro’s original work was destroyed.  

However, as with many of the buildings in the Old Town, the Town Hall has been carefully restored to its Renaissance glory and stands tall over Poznań.

One of the most popular things to do in Poznań is to visit the Town Hall and see the clock tower, which strikes with two goat statues that butt heads. Crowds gather every day to see the goats!

The Town Hall is now home to the Museum of the History of the City of Poznań, although the museum is currently closed due to more renovation works, and as yet no date has been announced for the reopening.

Tours you might find interesting:

22. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Recommended by Marta of Where Life is Great

Located beneath the charming town of Wieliczka lies a remarkable underground world waiting to be explored – the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

This UNESCO-renowned salt mine is especially popular among travelers visiting Zakopane ski slopes as it lies close to Tatra mountains and makes for a perfect one-day trip from Zakopane or Kraków.

As you quickly descend below the surface, you will feel like stepping into another world – a world where walls, sculptures, and even chandeliers are carved from salt.

Notably, the most beautiful St. Kinga’s Chapel, entirely hewn from salt, is a true testament to craftsmanship.

You’ll find yourself walking through winding passages, descending staircases, and stumbling upon grand chambers adorned with glistening salt crystals. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’re about to embark on a journey of many steps.

For those planning a visit, the mine is open year-round, typically from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm. Entry fees vary depending on the tour type and duration, ranging from basic guided tours to more comprehensive packages.

The standard skip-the-line ticket costs around PLN 125 which is about $30.

To fully appreciate the site’s historical significance and architectural marvels, it is recommended to plan around two to three hours for the visit.

Tours you might find interesting:

Check out other famous landmarks in European countries:
– 16 Landmarks in Austria
– 22 Landmarks in Germany
– 27 Landmarks in France
– 24 Landmarks in Spain
– 26 Landmarks in Portugal
– 20 Landmarks in Greece

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