Staying Safe in Poland
Local Laws
When visiting Poland, it's a good idea to be aware of their laws and customs. They have a very strict approach to driving under the influence, with absolutely no tolerance for alcohol. The blood alcohol limit is very low, at 0.02%, and breaking this rule can land you in jail and facing fines.
You'll also find that drinking alcohol or being visibly drunk in public spaces, like parks or picnic spots, is against the law. If caught, you could be arrested or taken to a sobering-up center, and you'll have to cover the costs.
When you're out and about, be mindful of where you take photos. There are certain buildings where photography is not allowed, so keep an eye out for any signs indicating these restrictions.
For those who hold Polish citizenship in addition to another nationality, it's important to know that Poland doesn't recognize dual nationality. This means you'll need to use your Polish passport for both entering and leaving the country. Everyone visiting Poland needs to carry a valid form of identification, like a passport.
Smoking is not permitted in public areas or on public transport. Generally, the dress code is quite conservative, and you might need to dress more modestly when visiting religious sites.
There are also rules about what you can bring into or take out of the country. This includes things like hazardous materials, weapons, drugs, and protected animal species.
If you plan on driving in Poland, remember that seat belts are mandatory for everyone. You'll also need to have your headlights on at all times, no matter the season.
Children under 12 years old or shorter than 4'11" must be in a car seat in the back, and using your mobile phone while holding it is prohibited. Traffic fines can be quite significant, and if you're not a resident, you might be required to pay them on the spot in cash.
To rent a car, you need to be at least 21 years old and have had your driver's license for a year.
While public gatherings and protests are common and usually peaceful, it's wise to be cautious in crowded places and stay updated on local news. When crossing the street, always use designated pedestrian crossings and make sure cars have come to a complete stop before you step out.
Lastly, it's advisable to be discreet with public displays of affection related to LGBTQIA+ relationships, as there have been reports of violence.
LGBTQ+ Travellers
While same-sex sexual activity is legal, Poland lacks comprehensive legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, with no recognition for same-sex marriage or civil unions, and a ban on same-sex adoption. Social attitudes generally remain conservative, particularly outside of major cities, though a significant recent development is the official abolition of all "LGBT-free zones" by April 2025.
Urban centers like Warsaw and Krakow offer more accepting environments and visible LGBTQ+ friendly venues, but public displays of affection may still attract unwanted attention, and discretion is advisable for travelers.
Scams
When visiting Poland, it's helpful to be aware of a few common ways travelers can be targeted. You'll want to keep a close eye on your belongings in busy places like popular tourist attractions, markets, and on public transport such as trams, trains, and at main train stations, as pickpocketing can be an issue.
When it comes to taxis, some drivers might try to overcharge you, take a longer route than necessary, or even operate without proper licensing. There have been reports of incidents involving these unlicensed vehicles.
In bars and clubs, especially those that seem to have special offers for tourists, be mindful of drink spiking and credit card overcharging, as these are becoming more frequently reported.
You might also encounter individuals who pretend to be helpful, perhaps offering assistance with buying tickets or finding parking, only to then ask for payment. It's also worth knowing that some people might pose as police officers and try to demand money or personal information.
When exchanging currency, be a bit cautious at some exchange offices ('kantors') as you might not get the best rate.
A common trick involves children offering roses, then asking for money with a made-up story. Single male travelers should also be aware that some women might try to lure them to clubs that are known for being overly expensive.
Finally, booking tours through your hotel could mean paying a much higher price than necessary. And in some restaurants, a service charge might be added to your bill without it being clearly communicated beforehand.
Crime
While serious violent crime isn't something you'll typically encounter in Poland, you should be aware that minor offenses, especially in bigger cities like Warsaw and Krakow, are more common. This can include things like muggings, carjackings, and theft from cars.
You'll want to keep an extra eye on your belongings, as pickpocketing is quite frequent. This is particularly true in crowded tourist spots, around hotels, at markets, near ATMs and currency exchange offices, and on public transport like trams and trains.
Thieves often focus on busy railway stations in cities such as Gdansk, Gdynia, Sopot, Warsaw, and Krakow, as well as on longer train and bus journeys. There are also reports of thieves sometimes opening or breaking passenger-side doors and windows when traffic is slow or stopped, to grab bags.
Although it's rare, there have been some instances of racially motivated attacks reported. Overall, though, Poland is generally considered a safe place for visitors, with a low incidence of crime specifically aimed at tourists.
