We don’t call it the Golden Polish Autumn for nothing!
The landscape is just a blaze of colour as summer melts away to make room for the new season and visitors can enjoy the top attractions without battling with summer crowds…and temperatures. Plus, with so many direct flights from the UK, it’s never been easier to jet off to Poland for an extra well deserved break – especially with low-cost options available that won’t break the bank either.
September and October can be lovely months to travel and Poland is a great choice at this time of year.
Poland’s great cities offer world class attractions and they will all be less crowded right now. For visitors planning to make the most of their trip and stay a little longer, it’s easy to take a train to some of the country’s hidden gems, seeing them at their most beautiful in the autumn colours.
Poland’s rail services are an efficient, cost-effective (and environmentally friendly!) way to get around so you don’t need to stay in one place – have a little adventure and get more out of your visit.
Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Poland this autumn
Wroclaw and The Japanese Garden
The vibrant city of Wroclaw in western Poland is a great place to visit all year round but it’s pretty as a picture in autumn. Among its many attractions, the Japanese Garden is a standout. Sitting within the Szczytnicki Park, one of the largest and oldest parks in Wrocław, it’s one of the most serene and tranquil spots to admire the dazzling seasonal colours.
Książ Castle in Wałbrzych
About an hour away by train from Wroclaw in the fairytale setting of Książ Landscape Park, Książ Castle is the third largest castle in Poland and one of the largest castles in Europe. Originally built in the 13th century, as a result of conflict and wars, it has undergone extensive renovations in its 700 year history. Visitors can explore its richly decorated interiors, including the grand ballroom and the ornate chapel, but a real treat is wandering around the ornamental gardens and terraces as the autumn hues add that little bit of magic.
Warmia & Masuria
This historic region of Poland boasts stunning, picturesque landscapes and a rich architectural beauty. In Warmia, visitors can admire a heady mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles in the local buildings – all of which look very photogenic in the autumn light so don’t forget your camera! However, one of the top things to do in this area is to go walking in the tranquil countryside where the scenic landscapes are bursting with lakes, forests and rolling hills
The Great Masurian Lakes is another area of exceptional beauty and a top spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Covered in lush forests and several national and landscape parks, such as the Masurian Landscape Park, the region is ideal for hiking, bird-watching, or simply taking a long walk for those moments of pleasure in unspoilt nature.
Kielce and the open air museum
For visitors interested in experiencing traditional Polish rural culture and history, the Kielce Open Air Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and the rest of the city is worth a look too. It is very easy to reach as it sits on the main bus and train lines that run between Warsaw and Kraków.
The museum features a collection of historical buildings such as farmhouses, chapels, and windmills, which have been relocated and preserved from various parts of the Kielce region. Visitors can explore these authentic structures to get a sense of how people lived and worked in the past. The museum also hosts various cultural events and workshops that highlight traditional crafts, customs, and folk art.
Chęciny Castle
Another attraction that shines in autumn is Chęciny Castle in the small town of Chęciny which is surrounded by a wonderfully scenic area at the foot of the Świętokrzyskie Mountains.
About 15 km south of Kielce, Chęciny offers a glimpse into Poland’s medieval past and it’s a great destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. It’s a charming spot for an easy, relaxed day trip for anyone keen on exploring the historical and natural landmarks.
Zakopane – colour therapy for the soul!
We couldn’t talk about autumn colour palettes and not mention Zakopane. This stunning pocket of the country is an easy train ride or drive from Krakow. The term ‘fairytale setting’ is often used to describe pretty European towns but it could have been coined with this place in mind. Magical Zakopane could be mistaken for a real life watercolour painting at this time of year and a relaxing day excursion for anyone looking to add on another experience to their Krakow city break.
Foraging in Tuchola Forest
The tradition of foraging is deeply rooted in Polish culture and by the time September rolls around, edible mushrooms are plentiful in Tuchola Forest – a popular spot for Polish families to go mushroom picking, gathering up ingredients for cooking tasty, traditional dishes.
https://www.poland.travel/en/
Come and say hello to the Golden Polish Autumn.
How to get here:
Poland’s major cities are well serviced with flights from the UK with Ryanair, Wizzair, LOT, easyJet, Jet2 and British Airways.
