Poland View All Poland Tours At a glance Despite a history full of conflict and struggle, Poland has preserved a land and culture of unbelievable beauty. From castles to cathedrals, medieval walls to one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, historic sites abound throughout the country. Polish people are known for their hospitality and warmth. Tradition blends with modern advances to create the exquisite art, food, and culture that visitors return for time and again. This country is a haven for academics and artists, contributing to its cultural wealth in the arts and sciences. Poland boasts a large and varied topography that includes mountains, lakes, rivers, forests, sea, and desert. Baltic beaches are a popular summertime destination for watersports, and the Polish mountains are ideal for hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. With twenty-three national parks, Poland places an emphasis on securing its national beauty. Why cyclists love it Diverse environs, abundant wildlife, rich culture, and remarkable history Ancient trade routes that highlight the unique landscape and history Beautiful countryside Routes that typically venture into neighboring Hungary, Slovakia, or the Czech Republic; some even continue on to Austria Friendly locals Tour spotlight Budapest to Krakow on the Amber TrailStarting in the artist’s town of Szentendre, you will bike along the Danube bend to Banska Stiavnica, an old mining town in the hills. Here, cycling will become a bit more challenging, crossing the Low Tatras and western portions of the High Tatras. The grit is worth it! Your reward is the superb panoramic views, overlooking the breath-taking Slovakian countryside. From above, you’ll see endless meadows and pastures, as well as traditional mountain villages. Tour details > Vienna to Krakow on the Amber TrailThis bicycle tour connects three countries: Austria, the Czech Republic and Poland, following ancient, amber trading routes. Cycle through wine growing land in South Moravia, and continue through steep-sided, valleys, riddled with caves. From here bike to Olomouc, second only to Prague in terms of impressive architecture. Skirting the Beskydy Mountains, you will get some fantastic views of the hillsides. Crossing the border into Poland, this bicycle tour brings you to the historically tragic, but vital town of Osvetim (Auschwitz). Finally, you will end your tour in the royal city of Krakow. Tour details > Poland stories On our blog: 7 Surprising things about bicycle touring Eastern EuropeThis guest post comes to us from our friends Tyler Robertson and Carolyn Bys at Two Wheel Travel. They’re Americans living in Poland, exploring Europe by bike, and “mapping the bicycle travel revolution.” Fast facts Language: PolishCurrency: Polish ZlotyPopulation: 38,187,488 (2010)Size: 120,728 square miles (312,685 square kilometers) - slightly smaller than New MexicoBorder countries: Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, and RussiaNational tourist office: www.poland.pl View All Poland Tours
