Poland travel guide for Britons

British passport holders do not need a visa for short tourism or business trips up to 90 days. The stay must be within any 180‑day period. No ETIAS is required for UK citizens as they are exempt.

If you intend to work, study longer than 90 days, or reside, you must apply for the appropriate Polish visa before arrival.

The Embassy of Poland in London is the main point of contact for consular assistance. Address: 47 Portland Place, London W1B 1JH. Phone: +44 20 7499 3100. Email and opening hours are listed on the official embassy website.

A typical two‑week itinerary (Kraków 4 nights, Warsaw 3 nights, day trips to Auschwitz‑Birkenau and Wieliczka, plus internal transport) costs roughly £1,200‑£1,500 per person.

Breakdown (2026 estimate):

- Flights from London to Warsaw/Kraków: £80‑£150 round‑trip.

- Mid‑range hotels: £50‑£80 per night.

- Meals: £20‑£35 per day.

- Train travel between cities: £30‑£60.

- Entrance fees (e.g., Auschwitz‑Birkenau, Wieliczka): £15‑£25 each.

Direct flights from London (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted) to Warsaw Chopin Airport take about 2 h 15 min; to Kraków John Paul II Airport about 2 h 30 min. Low‑cost carriers also serve Gdańsk (≈2 h 20 min).

Poland uses Type E plugs (compatible with Type C). Voltage is 230 V, frequency 50 Hz. Bring a UK‑to‑EU plug adapter; UK 230 V appliances work without a transformer.

In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving about 10 % is customary. For taxis, round up to the nearest złoty. Hotel staff and guides appreciate small tips, but are not expected.

Dial 112 for any emergency (EU-wide). Specific services: 999 for ambulance, 997 for police, 998 for fire. The Polish Mountain and Water Rescue number is 985.