Practical information : Accomodation Poland
Budget & Tips
Polish hotels offer a wide range of prices, from youth hostels to mid-range and luxury hotels. Airbnb and aparthotels are plentiful in major cities, especially Warsaw. As the cost of living is lower in Poland than in France, you'll be able to find comfortable accommodation for very little money. VAT is applicable to hotel services and is generally included in the room rate. International credit cards and cash are the most widely accepted means of payment. Finally, to benefit from discounts, you can use hotel loyalty programs or book via sites offering special promotions and preferential rates.
To be booked
The peak tourist season in Poland is from May to the end of August, with a particular concentration in the summer months from June to August. During this period, you'll enjoy fine weather, festivals, outdoor activities and tourist attractions. As a result, tourist accommodation can be in high demand, especially in popular destinations such as Krakow, Warsaw, Gdańsk and mountainous regions such as the Tatras. It's advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you have specific preferences in terms of comfort, location or budget. During busy tourist periods, the best hotels tend to fill up quickly and it can be difficult to find last-minute availability.
What's very local
Apartment hotels are a big hit in big cities. They're great value for money options. They're often quieter than traditional hotels, and offer greater comfort: fully-equipped kitchenette, washing machine, etc. Ideal for a citytrip or a cross-country roadtrip.
For food lovers
In Polish hotels, breakfasts are often copious and varied, with a mix of hot and cold dishes. These include assorted cold meats and cheeses (often accompanied by pickles and tomatoes), a selection of fresh breads, croissants, brioches and rolls, served with butter, jam and honey, as well as eggs in all their forms, cereals, yoghurts, fruit and hot drinks. What sets these breakfasts apart from continental buffets are the traditional hot dishes. You can enjoy sausages, meatballs, hash browns or Polish pancakes(naleśniki) topped with jam or cottage cheese.
Smokers
Anti-smoking legislation in public places is strict and well respected. Cannabis smoking is strongly discouraged (remember: it's illegal in Poland). The Poles have zero tolerance, and you'll be quick to report the smell. City police regularly arrest tourists for smoking cannabis.
Tourist traps
Unscrupulous apartment promoters practice bait and switch. It's very difficult to anticipate scams. We advise you to avoid hasty deals that are a little too good to be true, and if possible not to pay in advance (except on secure sites that give you guarantees).