On our small group tour of Poland, you'll create unforgettable memories as you explore this beautiful country's history, culture, and landscapes. Each place you visit will leave its own unique and lasting impression. But we've compiled things from different categories that will come up again and again throughout the tour. Here's our list of 10 things you will definitely remember after your Poland tour (in alphabetical order).
Amber
Fossilized tree resin has been treasured for its color and natural beauty since Neolithic times, and it’s said that the finest amber is found in Poland, along the shores of the Baltic Sea. We highly recommend exploring Gdańsk and Kraków. Here, you can marvel at the incredible variety of amber—its colors, shapes, and fascinating inclusions—right in the heart of these historic cities.
Another Beautiful Church
Considering that Poland was christened in 966 and Catholicism remains its dominant religion, with 95% of the population identifying as Roman Catholic, it’s no surprise that even the smallest villages have their own church. As we travel, we’ll pass by many of them, and chances are they’ll be at least 100 years old.
Beverages
If the Mythbusters set out to determine whether Polish vodka is truly the best in the world, they’d likely end up too drunk to deliver a verdict! With its wide range of flavors, types, and styles, Polish vodka is definitely worth sampling while you're here. We also suggest trying some local beers—especially in Gdańsk—where you'll find amazing, unique brews. Just be prepared, as they tend to be stronger than those in the U.S. For a taste of medieval Poland, don’t miss the chance to try mead—it’s a truly unique experience!
John Paul II
John Paul II is one of the most important peoplein Poland’s modern history, and nearly every town has at least a street named in his honor. Many places also feature squares or monuments dedicated to him, often near the main square or the most significant church. While some of these statues are true works of art, others might leave a lasting impression for all the wrong reasons! Don’t be alarmed if you come across a monument of a figure in a skullcap that looks nothing like anyone you recognize—it’s often labeled as “Contemporary Art.” That said, we’ll encounter a few that are genuinely impressive.
Marian Devotion
Polish people have a deep devotion to Mary of Nazareth, the Mother of God, whom they honor as their Queen, Mother, and Protector. Her image is present in every church, and many of the country’s most stunning temples are dedicated to her. You’ll truly feel the strength of this devotion when you visit sacred sites like Święta Lipka or Częstochowa.
Pierogi
You’re likely familiar with pierogi, those delightful dumplings. Undoubtedly, Polish pierogi are the best in the world. While making them can be a lengthy process, once they’re ready, you might find it hard to leave the table until you’ve enjoyed every bite. They come in various varieties, but the most popular include pierogi ruskie (potato and cheese), pierogi z mięsem (meat), and pierogi z kapustą i grzybami (sauerkraut and mushroom).
Shrines and Crosses by the Side of the Roads
Nearly every village features its own cross or small shrine, even in settlements too small to have a church. Small figurines or simple wooden crosses have long served as focal points of spiritual life, believed to offer protection to the community. You’ll find them in central locations, often at crossroads or on the town’s outskirts. Some people even place statues by their fields or properties for added safety. This tradition is still vibrant in Poland, and wherever you go, you'll encounter these small expressions of faith.
Squirrels
On our first day of the tour at Łazienki Park in Warsaw, you’ll discover that Polish squirrels are quite unique—they're red! You can find plenty of them in parks and small forests near larger cities, and they can be so friendly that they’ll take food right from your hand. However, it’s best not to encourage this behavior, as you might soon find your snacks have disappeared, with the little beggars still looking for more!
Teutonic Knights
To be precise, the full name of the Teutonic Order is the Order of Brothers of the German House of Saint Mary in Jerusalem, but try saying that without stumbling! It would take a lot of time, and you’ll quickly realize during the early days of our tour that it would take plenty of time off our tour. The Teutonic Order plays a significant role in our history, especially in northern territories. They came, they saw, they conquered, and posed a real threat to the Kingdom of Poland. Even the secularization of the Order brought another challenge to our borders.
World War II
World War II profoundly affected our country, with our tragedy linked to two significant dates: September 1 and September 17, 1939. While the first date is widely recognized, the second marks the Soviet invasion, in accordance with the treaty between the Third Reich and the USSR. Both dictators, Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin, aimed to erase Poland from the map of Europe, dismissing it as “a mere bastard of the Treaty of Versailles.” For nearly five years, millions suffered under German and Soviet occupation, leading to the near annihilation of the Polish nation, which includes not only Poles but also Jews, Ukrainians, Belarusians, and the German minority. However, the end of World War II in 1945 did not mean true independence for us; it marked the beginning of a long and brutal era of communism and an inhumane system.
Experience the magic of Poland on our Polish Delight Tour! Discover the beauty of historic cities, savor mouthwatering local cuisine, and connect with the rich culture that makes this country so special. From breathtaking landscapes to warm-hearted locals, each moment will inspire and delight you. Don’t miss your chance to explore Poland in a way you’ll never forget—sign up today!
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