Poland
Located right in the heart of Europe, Poland is a country full off fascinating history, hearty homemade dishes, architectural beauty spanning multiple periods, friendly and social people, bustling metropolises and large swatches of unspoiled natural sights. For history buffs, the country offers more than enough stories to tell—especially after finding itself right in the center of World War II. Following the war, a period of rapid reconstruction commenced, and then the emergence from communism in the late 1980s. Today, especially in Poland’s shimmering cities like Warsaw, Gdansk or Kraków, modernization and economic development is growing at a swift pace. Combine this development with the many monuments, museums and architectural gems from years past and Poland is truly a country that will constantly keep you guessing what comes next.
FLIGHTS TO POLAND
SAS flies to Poland via Oslo, Copenhagen or Stockholm (depending on route) from Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco and Washington D.C. With daily departures from multiple locations, you can easily find a departure to suit your travel plans. Book early to save on airfare and when you choose SAS, enjoy a 24-hour right of revocation on your flight tickets and online check-in 22 hours prior to departure. Passengers on intercontinental flights can enjoy food and drinks on board. In addition, WiFi is available for a small fee. We look forward to welcoming you on board!
If you are travelling with children under 2 years (without own seat) they fly either free of charge or with a 90% discount on the flight portion of the ticket price, depending on the destination. Children from 2-11 years get a 25% discount. The discounts do not apply to taxes and fees.
VISIT POLAND'S TRADITIONAL CITIES
Poland’s traditional cities of Kraków, Gdansk and Poznań are bursting with history, culture and a unique atmosphere sure to delight visitors of all ages. Kraków was essentially the only major Polish city to get through the Second World War relatively unscathed. Start in the Old Town, known as Stare Miastro. Here you will see a number of impressive churches, museums, palaces and the largest market square in Europe, Rynek Główny. Then, head over to the traditional Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, followed by the communist district, Nowa Huta, for the city’s best outdoor market, Plac Targowy. It’s open everyday, but Sunday is undoubtedly the best one to go for history lovers, where vendors sell tons of antiques, memorabilia, vinyl records and anything else your heart desires!
The port city of Gdansk has played a significant role in Poland’s history. Centuries of commercial activity have left Gdansk with a uniquely international culture and atmosphere. The architecture is greatly influenced by the wealthy merchants who’ve settled in the city and the Main Town is full of impressive medieval redbrick churches, numerous museums, cafes, restaurants and elegantly designed 18th century merchant homes. During the 20th century, the city suffered greatly, and despite its “ancient” appearance, most was rebuilt after 1945. The city itself is best described as a living museum, with some of the must-see attractions including St. Mary’s Church, the National Museum and the peninsula Westerplatte.
Due to its location on the Berlin-Warsaw railway line, Poznań is very often a visitor’s first impression of Poland. The city is buzzing with energy, from the old, narrow streets of Old Town to the many museums and impressive architectural sights such as the 16th century town hall, dominating the Old Town Square. From there, cross over on the holy island of Ostrów Tumski to get a close-up of Poland’s oldest cathedral, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. There are also plenty of small markets to browse through, and just southwest of the city center is Stary Browa, a newly renovated 19th century brewery that has been transformed into a cultural center and popular shopping mall.
WARSAW – A PHOENIX
A tumultuous history has shaped the Polish capital of Warsaw. It first became the capital city in 1596, and for many years was one of Europe’s most thriving cities until 1815, when the Russians took over. It wasn’t until World War I that Poland became independent again, only to be invaded by the Germans in 1939. In 1944, Hitler ordered the total destruction of the city, and more than 85% was left in ruins. But they didn’t give up. Restoration has been a long process that still continues today, and it’s no surprise that the symbol of Warsaw is the phoenix—the mythological creature that burned its nest but rose from the ashes. Warsaw has similarly risen from the ashes.
Today, visitors can see an eclectic mix of architecture—from modern, glassy designs to restored Gothic and communist concrete. There are many museums to relive the turbulent city history, and a visit to the Palace of Culture and Science (Palac Kultury i Nauki) is a must see on a visit to Warsaw. In addition, the lively city is buzzing with activity and life, some of the best restaurants in Poland and an exciting nightlife scene.
CHEAP SKI VACATION AND BEAUTIFUL HIKES IN POLAND
In Poland you can find fantastic nature, with some of the most popular activities including skiing and hiking, typically much less expensive than other parts of Europe such as Austria or France. Tucked into the Tatras, Zakopane is one of Poland’s top mountain resorts, full of visitors in both winter and summer, and also home to a number of historic wooden villas dating from the 19th and 20th century. Near to Poznań, you will find another top ski resort, Malta Ski, in addition to numerous hiking trails, thermal baths, amusement parks, saunas and plenty of activities for the whole family.
MORE THAN 1100 DESTINATIONS
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