Travel documents
Since 21 December 2007, Poland has been a member of the Schengen Area comprising 26 European countries that have abolished passport and any other type of border control at their common borders. Third-country nationals may enter Poland if they are in possession of a valid travel document and a visa (if required).
For more information (including visa requirements), visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Time zone and weather
The current time and weather conditions in Kraków.
Safety
Although Kraków is generally a safe city, it is a popular tourist destination so travellers should beware of some petty crime incidents such as pickpocketing and should always remain vigilant, especially in crowded public areas. In June, which is high season in Kraków, the city is bustling with tourists and you may experience some late night noise from numerous bars and pubs, especially in the city centre. However, the safety of citizens and tourists is secured by Straż Miejska (Kraków City Guard), which can be reached at an emergency telephone number – 986 (or 112 from a mobile phone).
Useful telephone numbers
Nationwide free 24-hour emergency telephone numbers are listed below:
- Ambulance services: 999
- Fire brigade: 998
- Police: 997
- Straż Miejska (Kraków City Guard): 986 (to access these services from a mobile phone, dial 112)
- Poland Travel Hotline: +48 801 888 844, +48 22 278 77
Money
The official Polish currency is the złoty, abbreviated to zł. It is divided into 100 groszy, abbreviated to gr. The available denominations are:
- Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 groszy and 1, 2, 5 złotys.
- Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 złotys.
A bureau de change in Polish is known as kantor. Bureaux de change in Poland change cash only, charge no commission, and accept major world currencies. A transaction takes a few seconds and there’s no paperwork involved. You don’t need to present your passport or fill out any forms.
Credit cards are widely accepted for buying goods and services, and cash machines are widely available.
Travel tips
Electricity: 230V, 50Hz AC. Plug sockets are round with two round-pin sockets. If you are travelling from Canada, United States, United Kingdom, or Ireland, you will need a plug converter.
Water
Although Polish tap water is deemed safe to drink, we recommend you drink bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive.
Internet
Most restaurants and cafes in Kraków offer free Wi-Fi to customers.
