Europe > 🇵🇱 Poland
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Poland can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Poland; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Poland?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Poland?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in Poland
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Gdańsk | GDN | |
| Katowice | KTW | |
| Kraków | KRK | |
| Poznan | POZ | |
| Szczecin | SZZ | |
| Warsaw | WAW | |
| Wrocław | WRO |
🚗 Should You Rent a Car in Poland?
Poland offers a rich mix of experiences — from historic cities like Kraków and Gdańsk to wild eastern forests, serene northern lakes, and the epic Tatra Mountains. Whether you should rent a car in Poland depends on your plans, timing, and travel style. Let’s weigh your options.
🚆 Why You Might Not Need a Car in Poland
Excellent Train Network 🚄
Poland’s rail system connects major cities quickly and comfortably. For instance, you can travel from Warsaw to Kraków in under 2.5 hours or reach Poznań from Gdańsk in just 3 hours. These fast, frequent trains make intercity travel easy — even without a car.
City Centres Aren’t Car-Friendly
Many Polish cities prioritise pedestrians and public transport. Parking is often limited, expensive, or restricted, especially in places like Wrocław, Gdańsk, and Kraków. You’ll likely find it easier to explore these historic centres on foot or by tram instead of by car.
Budget-Friendly Public Transport
Buses are widely available and reach more remote destinations such as Zakopane (gateway to the Tatras), the Hel Peninsula (beaches), or the Białowieża Forest (home to wild bison). As a result, you can stick to public transport and still experience much of the country.
🚄 Major Rail Improvements in Poland Since 2008
Poland’s railways have improved dramatically since 2008. Back then, the trains were often slow, outdated, and inconsistent. Today, Poland runs modern high-speed services like the Express InterCity Premium (EIP), which whisk you between cities at up to 200 km/h. For example, Warsaw to Gdańsk now takes just under 3 hours — a big improvement from 15 years ago.
Moreover, Poland rebuilt key railway infrastructure. Authorities replaced tracks, introduced modern signalling, and launched new rolling stock. Many train stations now feature cleaner platforms, brighter halls, and better accessibility. These upgrades create a smoother, more appealing experience for both locals and tourists.
In addition, the network is now more integrated. Trains run more frequently, connections are better aligned, and national routes connect seamlessly with local ones. As a result, travelling by train in Poland now feels closer in quality to Western Europe — a clear sign of huge progress since your 2008 visit.
🚘 Why Renting a Car Does Make Sense
Freedom in Rural Areas 🌲
Poland’s natural gems often lie far from train stations or bus routes. National parks like Bieszczady, Drawa, or the Masurian Lakes become much easier to explore when you have your own wheels.
Chasing Castles and Countryside
The Eagle’s Nests Trail — a chain of medieval fortresses between Kraków and Częstochowa — practically begs for a road trip. With a rental car, you can stop where you like and soak up the scenery at your leisure.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Destinations
Lesser-known places, such as Lublin, Lanckorona, or the UNESCO-listed wooden churches of southern Poland, often lack good railway links. Here, a car gives you the flexibility to discover Poland’s quieter corners.
🛣️ Driving in Poland — Practical Notes
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Roads are generally well-maintained, although drivers can be assertive
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Winter weather (November–March) may bring snow and ice on smaller roads
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Speed cameras are common, even in rural areas
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Motorway tolls exist but are increasingly automated
💡 Car Rental Tips
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Renting from Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) usually provides the best choice of vehicles and international flights
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Confirm whether cross-border travel is allowed — popular for trips into Slovakia, Czechia, or the Baltics
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Manual cars are more common and cheaper than automatics, so book early if you need an automatic
🧭 Conclusion
So — should you rent a car in Poland?
✅ Yes, if you’re after adventure, countryside trails, lakes, or freedom to explore beyond the train lines.
🚫 No, if you’re visiting only the cities or sticking to a budget — Poland’s public transport is efficient, frequent, and affordable.
