From the airport to the city centre Poland
Poland's main international airports are in Warsaw (Frederic Chopin/Warsaw-Modlin airport), Krakow (John Paul II airport) and Gdańsk (Lech Wałęsa airport). Numerous cabs are available from airport exits to city centers. Official cabs are easy to identify, while the main VTC apps (Uber and Bolt) operate in the country. Of course, you can also use the various public transport networks, which are often cheaper than taxis/VTCs. All in all, transport (of all kinds) is very accessible in Poland, and offers good value for money.
Arrival by train Poland
Poland's rail network is well developed, with comfortable, regular trains at affordable prices. The main stations are in Warsaw, Krakow, Gdańsk, Wrocław, Łódź and Poznań. Trains offer a convenient and comfortable way to get around the country. Tickets can be purchased online (the website of PKP Intercity, Poland's national railway company, offers local prices and explanations in English), at station ticket offices or from vending machines in stations. The easiest options are to buy tickets online or from a vending machine. Indeed, communication can sometimes be complicated at the counter, due to the language barrier.
It is also possible to travel from France to Poland by train, but this is not the most convenient, shortest or cheapest option... Other European cities, such as Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Vienna or Bratislava are also accessible by train from Poland.
Public transport Poland
Poland's major cities have a comprehensive public transport network, including streetcars, buses and subways (as in Warsaw). Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at stations or directly from the driver. Some networks also offer mobile applications for purchasing tickets. Timetables and itineraries are generally available online or at transport stations.
Bike, scooters & co Poland
Many Polish cities offer bike and scooter rental services, with rental stations located throughout the city. Cycle paths are present in many cities. It's a pleasure to use them, as they're often very wide and safe. Just be sure to obey traffic regulations and wear a helmet when using these means of transport.
With a driver Poland
In Poland, the main cab and VTC providers include well-established companies such as iTaxi, Uber, Bolt and Free Now.
Local cab and VTC fares can vary according to various factors, such as distance traveled, time of day (peak/off-peak), traffic conditions and booking fees. Traditional cabs often use meters to calculate fares based on distance and time spent. Make sure the meter is running at the start of your journey.
By car Poland
Renting a car is an ideal way to explore regions less accessible by public transport. The main rental agencies are located at airports and in city centers. Polish freeways are well-maintained, with automatic toll booths. Secondary roads, on the other hand, can be more picturesque, but are less well maintained.
Accessibility Poland
Most major Polish cities, such as Warsaw, Krakow and Wrocław, offer public transport options accessible to people with reduced mobility, including buses and streetcars equipped with ramps and metro stations with elevators. Before traveling, it's a good idea to check the websites of local transit companies for specific information on the accessibility of public transport in the city you're visiting.
In some cities, there are also adapted cab services, specially designed for people with disabilities or reduced mobility. These cabs are equipped with access ramps or lifting devices to facilitate the entry and exit of passengers in wheelchairs. You can ask your hotel or contact local cab companies for recommendations on adapted cab services.
Finally, many Polish cities offer sidewalks and crosswalks accessible to strollers and wheelchairs, although some areas may be more difficult to navigate due to cobblestones or narrow sidewalks. Many stores, restaurants and tourist attractions are equipped with ramps and elevators to facilitate access for families with baby carriages. When traveling by public transport, check whether there are any specific rules regarding the use of strollers on buses, streetcars or subways. In most cases, strollers are allowed, but it's best to find out in advance.
Tourist traps Poland
Avoid taking unofficial or unauthorized cabs, especially outside airports, railway stations and tourist areas. Choose national cab companies or use reliable VTC booking applications. Make sure the cab has a working meter and ask for a fare estimate before you set off. Beware of drivers who refuse to use the meter or who offer excessively high fares. If you have any concerns about the fare or service provided, ask for a receipt at the end of your journey.
It's best to buy public transit tickets from ticket offices or official vending machines. Avoid buying tickets from street vendors or unauthorized persons. Make sure you validate your ticket before boarding the train.
Finally, if you wish to rent a car locally, make sure you do so from reputable, well-established rental companies. Avoid overly tempting offers from little-known or unreliable companies. Read the terms and conditions of the rental contract carefully before signing. Beware of hidden charges, extra taxes and misleading insurance policies. Ask for clarification on anything that seems ambiguous. Inspect the car thoroughly before picking it up, and report any existing damage to the rental company's representative. Take photos to document the initial condition of the vehicle.
