If you’re searching for the ideal destination for your summer road trip, take a ride through the southwest of Poland. Pre-book your rental car, collect it from Warsaw Airport, and head towards Kraków and Wroclaw. The long days, sunny weather, and busy city life of the summer months await you, and the following are some not-to-be-missed places along the way.
A road trip through Poland – starting in the capital
Exploring Poland by car means immersing yourself in captivating history, picturesque towns, and wonderful countryside. Your journey begins in Warsaw, the capital city of Poland. While much of the city was destroyed in World War II, it has been rebuilt remarkably. The Old Town, with its UNESCO World Heritage designation, now offers the perfect mix of historic charm and modern dynamism.
Don’t miss the Royal Castle, once the residence of the Polish kings, now a state museum. Take a stroll in the Łazienki Park this summer — especially beautiful now with its blooming gardens, open-air concerts, and wandering peacocks.
Youthful and energetic Kraków
Historically, the royal capital of Poland, Kraków, remains its cultural centre today. The city comes alive in the summer months. Its medieval Old Town is filled with street performers, open-air cafes, and cultural festivals.
Explore the historic Wawel Castle and St. Mary’s Basilica, or walk down the cobblestone streets. With its many universities, Kraków has a lively student culture and draws artists, musicians, and creatives. Warm evenings in the summer are perfect for immersing yourself in the lively nightlife or dining alfresco in the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz.
Auschwitz – a powerful and sobering experience
About 1.5 hours from Kraków is the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. Not a light-hearted stop, but an important and moving place to visit to understand Poland’s World War II history. The preserved barracks and exhibits are a powerful reminder of the atrocities that occurred here and provide an opportunity for reflection. Note: not recommended for children under 14 years old.
Wrocław – charm and bridges
Wrocław, sometimes called the “City of a Thousand Bridges,” is especially lovely during the summer season. Its squares filled with flowers, riverbank cafes, and boulevards lined with trees are ideal for walking around. Its architecture reflects Polish, German, and Czech influences, which provide the city with its unique visual identity.
Look out for the Wrocław gnomes — over 400 diminutive statues spread across the city. Spend some time exploring hidden courtyard areas or take a boat ride down the River Oder.
Renting a car and what to bring
Booking your rental car online ahead of time ensures a wider selection and better prices. If you’re searching for a car rental at Warsaw Airport, be sure to compare rates from providers like addCar Rental, DiscoverCars, Avis, and Hertz to find the best deal. Choosing to rent a car gives you the flexibility to explore Poland at your own pace and make spontaneous stops along the way.
To pick up your car, bring with you a valid driver’s license, passport, and credit card for the deposit. Choose a car for long drives and keep your luggage minimal if you have several stops along the way. With all this in your possession, you’ll be ready to take the road and enjoy a scenic summer journey.
Final Thoughts
A road trip from Warsaw Airport to Krakow and Wroclaw this summer offers up the best of Poland — from cultural attractions and historical cities to peaceful parks and active nightlife. Car hire is the ideal method of viewing it all at your own speed. So, if you’re traveling to Poland this summer, don’t hesitate to hire a car from Warsaw Airport, get behind the wheel, and enjoy the freedom to explore it all.
