Unique places and hidden gems to visit in Poland

Located in central Europe, Poland is full of natural beauty, delicious food, gorgeous national parks, historical landmarks and beautiful architecture. While Warsaw's Royal Castle and Krakow's old town Market Square rightfully draw millions of visitors each year, Poland also harbors countless extraordinary places that are unique and definitely worth seeing. While some of these unique attractions can be popular, others remain relatively unknown to international travelers. From underground cities to crooked forests, these unique destinations showcase Poland's diverse culture, history and natural wonders. This travel guide will give just a few of the best places in Poland worth visiting if you are looking for something you might not see elsewhere in Europe. 

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Holy Mountain of Grabarka

Known as the "Polish Mount Athos," the Holy Mountain of Grabarka stands as the most important Orthodox Christian sanctuary in Poland. What makes this site extraordinary is the forest of thousands of crosses surrounding the church, each planted by pilgrims seeking miracle cures or giving thanks for received blessings. According to legend, the site gained prominence in 1710 when locals seeking refuge from a cholera epidemic experienced miraculous healing after drinking from the mountain's spring. The current Church of the Transfiguration, rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1990, watches over this sea of crosses, while the healing spring continues to draw believers. During the feast of the Transfiguration in August, thousands of pilgrims arrive, many crawling on their knees around the church, creating one of Poland's most moving spiritual spectacles.

The Crooked Forest (Krzywy Las)

The Crooked Forest (Krzywy Las) in Poland's West Pomeranian region stands as one of nature's most bizarre and mysterious phenomena. Located near the town of Gryfino, this peculiar grove consists of approximately 400 pine trees that each bend sharply northward at their base, creating an unusual J-shape before curving back upright. Planted around 1930, these trees were allegedly shaped by human intervention during their early growth, though the exact method and purpose remain subjects of speculation. Each tree bends at roughly the same height of 3 feet, with the curved portion extending 3-9 feet sideways before resuming vertical growth. Some theorize the trees were manipulated to create naturally curved wood for shipbuilding or furniture making, while others suggest the bends resulted from heavy snowfall or even tank movement during the second world war. Despite numerous investigations, the true origin of these curved trunks remains one of Poland's most intriguing botanical mysteries. Today, this haunting grove draws photographers and nature lovers seeking to unravel its secrets.

Wieliczka Salt Mine 

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, located in southern Poland near Kraków, is one of the world's oldest and most remarkable salt mines, operating continuously from the 13th century until 2007. This UNESCO World Heritage site descends to a depth of 327 meters and features an intricate network of tunnels stretching over 287 kilometers. What makes Wieliczka truly extraordinary is its transformation into an underground art gallery, featuring magnificent chambers, chapels, and statues carved entirely from rock salt by generations of miners. The mine's crown jewel is the Chapel of St. Kinga, a stunning underground church adorned with salt crystal chandeliers, biblical relief carvings, and even a salt replica of Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper." The mine also contains underground lakes, historic mining equipment, and exhibits demonstrating traditional mining methods. Today, it attracts over a million visitors annually who come to explore its subterranean wonders, breathe the therapeutic saline air in, and marvel at this unique testament to both human ingenuity and artistic expression. This is an easy day trip from Krakow and one of the top tourist attractions in the country.  You can take a guided tour where you will be taught all about the history of the mine and the miners who worked there. 

The Living Museum of Gingerbread

Toruń's interactive gingerbread museum offers more than just displays. Visitors can learn to make traditional pierniki (gingerbread) using centuries-old recipes and wooden molds. Master bakers share stories of the spice trade while helping guests create their own edible souvenirs. The experience combines history, craftsmanship, and culinary arts in a uniquely immersive way. It is the perfect place to learn something new and enjoy a sweet treat at the same time. 

​Riese Complex

The Riese Complex (German for "Giant"), located in the Sowie Mountains of Lower Silesia near the border with the Czech Republic, stands as one of Nazi Germany's most ambitious and mysterious construction projects from World War II. This vast underground network consists of seven separate complexes, including the famous Książ Castle modifications and underground facilities at Włodarz, Osówka, and Rzeczka. Constructed between 1943 and 1945 using forced labor from concentration camps, the true purpose of this massive complex remains debated among historians, with theories ranging from planned headquarters for Hitler to secret weapons manufacturing facilities. The complex features an elaborate system of tunnels, chambers, and bunkers carved deep into the mountainside, with only about 10% of the planned construction completed before the war's end. Today, several sections of the Riese Complex are open to tourists, offering a chilling glimpse into one of the darkest periods of European history. Visitors can explore the reinforced concrete corridors, underground lakes and massive halls.  Other portions remain unexplored or flooded, keeping their secrets hidden beneath the Polish mountains.

Zalipie: The Painted Village

The small town of Zalipie in southeastern Poland has earned its nickname as "the painted village" through a unique folk art tradition that transforms ordinary buildings into vibrant works of art. Since the late 19th century, the women of Zalipie have decorated their homes, barns, wells, and even chicken coops with colorful floral motifs, creating a living gallery of Polish folk art. This tradition began as a practical solution to cover up soot marks from wood-burning stoves, but evolved into an elaborate art form featuring intricate patterns of roses, dahlias, and other flowers painted in bright blues, reds, yellows, and greens. The most famous house belongs to the late Felicja Curyłowa, now preserved as a museum showcasing the peak of this decorative style. The tradition continues today, with local artists maintaining the existing paintings and creating new ones, particularly during the annual "Painted Cottage" competition held after Corpus Christi. This remarkable village stands as a testament to how a simple homemaking practice transformed into a celebrated cultural phenomenon that draws visitors from around the world to this open-air museum.

Rynek Underground Museum

Beneath Krakow's magnificent Market Square lies a revolutionary museum that transports visitors back in time through 1000 years of the city's history. Opened in 2010 after extensive archaeological excavations, this 4,000-square-meter underground complex showcases medieval merchant stalls, ancient trade routes, and everyday life in medieval Krakow through cutting-edge multimedia exhibitions. Visitors can walk on glass bridges over original medieval market stalls, examine artifacts from daily medieval life, and experience holographic recreations of historical events. The museum's innovative use of technology, including touch screens, holograms, and fog screens, brings history to life in a way that makes it one of Europe's most modern and engaging historical exhibitions.

The Ruins at Westerplatte

On a peninsula near the northern city of Gdansk, stands a powerful reminder of World War II's opening chapter. It was here, at Westerplatte, that the first shots of World War II were fired when Nazi Germany attacked the Polish garrison on September 1, 1939. Today, the site serves as a moving memorial where visitors can explore the ruins of barracks and guardhouses that withstood seven days of heavy bombardment. The towering Monument of the Coast Defenders stands 25 meters (82 feet) tall, overlooking the Baltic Sea and commemorating the Polish defenders who, though vastly outnumbered, held their position for seven days against overwhelming odds. Walking trails wind through the grounds, connecting various bunkers and information plaques that detail the heroic defense and its significance in world history.

Skull Chapel (Kaplica Czaszek)

The Skull Chapel (Kaplica Czaszek) in the Czermna district, stands as a macabre yet fascinating testament to mortality and the fragility of human life. Built in 1776 by local parish priest Václav Tomášek, this small Baroque chapel's interior is lined with the bones and skulls of over 3,000 people who died during the Thirty Years' War, the Silesian Wars, and from various epidemics. The walls and ceiling are meticulously decorated with human remains, carefully arranged in intricate patterns, while beneath the chapel lies a crypt containing an additional 21,000 bones. What makes this chapel particularly unique is that Tomášek personally collected and cleaned each bone, working with his gravedigger over 18 years to create this memento mori. The altar, the central focus of the chapel, is one of the few areas free of bones, though it is flanked by skulls, including those of the chapel's founder and his assistant, who were added to the collection after their deaths. Today, this haunting sanctuary serves as both a tourist attraction and a powerful reminder of human mortality, bearing the inscription "Rise, you dead, the final judgment calls."

Auschwitz Concentration Camp

One of the most well known historical sites in the country, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum stands as a solemn testament to one of humanity's darkest chapters. Located in Oświęcim, about 70 kilometers west of Kraków, this UNESCO World Heritage site preserves the largest of Nazi Germany's concentration and extermination camps, where over 1.1 million people lost their lives during World War II. The site consists of two main parts: Auschwitz I, the main camp with its infamous "Arbeit Macht Frei" gate, and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, the larger extermination camp. The preserved grounds include original barracks, gas chambers, crematoria ruins, and thousands of personal items belonging to victims – from suitcases and shoes to eyeglasses and human hair. The museum's mission focuses on education and remembrance, with carefully curated exhibitions that document the systematic persecution and genocide that occurred here. Guided tours, led by knowledgeable educators, provide essential historical context while encouraging reflection on the consequences of hatred and the importance of preserving human dignity. Visiting requires proper solemnity and respect, as this is not just a museum but a cemetery and memorial to millions of victims. The site stands as a powerful reminder of the Holocaust and serves as a universal warning about the consequences of human cruelty and the vital importance of never allowing such atrocities to happen again

Kościuszko Mound

Rising dramatically above Krakow's western horizon, the Kościuszko Mound stands as a remarkable tribute to Polish national hero Tadeusz Kościuszko. Built between 1820 and 1823 by the citizens of Krakow, this artificial mound was constructed using soil from Polish battlefields where Kościuszko fought. Standing 34 meters (110 feet) tall, the mound offers breathtaking panoramic views of Krakow and, on clear days, the distant Tatra Mountains. The site includes a neo-Gothic chapel and a museum chronicling Kościuszko's life and his fights for independence in both Poland and America. The mound's construction involved a fascinating community effort, with people from all social classes contributing to its creation, making it not just a memorial but a symbol of unity for the Polish people as well as patriotic devotion.

Okopowa Jewish Cemetery

In the heart of Warsaw, Poland's capital, lies one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe, a poignant testament to the city's once-thriving Jewish community. Established in 1806, the Okopowa Cemetery spans 33 hectares and contains over 200,000 marked graves, with countless more unmarked beneath its grounds. Among its weathered tombstones and ornate mausoleums rest prominent rabbis, artists, scholars, and leaders of Warsaw's Jewish community. The cemetery's haunting beauty comes from its mix of elaborate Art Nouveau monuments, traditional Jewish symbols, and nature slowly reclaiming abandoned areas. Many graves feature intricate carvings and Hebrew inscriptions that tell stories of lives lived and lost, while others stand as silent witnesses to the devastating impact of the Holocaust on Warsaw's Jewish population.

Gdańsk Astronomical Clock

Inside Gdańsk's magnificent St. Mary's Church stands one of the world's most extraordinary timepieces. Created in 1464-1470 by Hans Düringer, this masterpiece of medieval engineering and artistry stands at 14 meters (45 feet) tall and remains one of the largest astronomical clocks in the world. Beyond merely telling time, this complex mechanism tracks the positions of the sun, moon, and zodiac signs, while also featuring an elaborate calendar of saints' days and church festivals. At noon each day, the clock's automated figures perform a small show, with Adam and Eve ringing bells and the Three Kings bowing before the Virgin Mary. The clock's survival through centuries of warfare and upheaval, including World War II, makes it not just a technological marvel but a symbol of Gdańsk's resilience and cultural preservation.

Błędne Skały (Errant Rocks)

Deep within Table Mountains National Park lies a natural labyrinth that seems to belong in a fantasy novel. Błędne Skały, which translates to "Errant Rocks," is a maze-like complex of towering sandstone formations carved by millions of years of erosion. These narrow passages, some barely shoulder-width, wind between massive rock walls reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet) high. The unique geological formation earned its name from visitors who frequently lost their way among its twisting corridors. The site has served as a filming location for several movies, including "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian," thanks to its otherworldly appearance. From the highest points, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the Sudeten Mountains stretching across the Polish-Czech border, while the unusual rock formations create fascinating plays of light and shadow throughout the day.

Rapa Pyramid

Hidden in the forests of northeastern Poland stands an enigmatic pyramid that seems oddly out of place in the European landscape. Built in 1811, the Rapa Pyramid serves as the tomb of the von Fahrenheid family and represents a unique blend of Egyptian revival architecture and Prussian nobility. Standing 16 meters (50 feet) tall, this mysterious structure was designed to preserve bodies through natural mummification, using a complex ventilation system inspired by ancient Egyptian pyramids. The pyramid's location was carefully chosen to align with the summer solstice, and its construction incorporates precise mathematical proportions based on the golden ratio. Today, this peculiar monument stands as one of the few pyramid tombs in Europe, surrounded by local legends and drawing visitors intrigued by its unusual history and architectural significance.

Świdnica Peace Church

The Peace Church in Świdnica is an example of religious tolerance and architectural ingenuity. Built in the mid-17th century following the Peace of Westphalia, this UNESCO World Heritage site represents one of the largest timber-framed religious buildings in Europe. Despite severe restrictions imposed on its construction – it had to be built outside city walls, using only wood, sand, and straw, and completed within one year – the result is a masterpiece of baroque architecture. The church's interior amazes visitors with its intricate biblical scenes painted on the ceiling, elaborate wooden galleries that can hold 7,500 people, and an ornate pulpit. The building's construction techniques, using no nails in its main structure, demonstrate remarkable engineering skill, while its survival through centuries of religious and political turmoil makes it a powerful symbol of persistence and faith. This church is one of a pair of peace churches that serve as some of the top attractions in the area. The other is the Jawor Peace Church.

Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Kraków

Step into the Church of St. Francis of Assisi in Kraków, and you'll find yourself immersed in an explosion of Art Nouveau color and design. The church's interior, painted by Stanisław Wyspiański in the late 19th century, features stunning floral motifs and the iconic stained glass window "God the Father - Let It Be," depicting God emerging from cosmic chaos in vibrant blues and greens. The walls bloom with intricate botanical patterns, each representing native Polish flowers, while geometric designs create a mesmerizing kaleidoscope effect throughout the space. Most breathtaking is the series of stained glass windows that bathe the interior in ethereal colored light, creating different atmospheres throughout the day. This masterpiece of Polish Art Nouveau showcases how religious architecture can embrace modernity while maintaining its sacred character.

Wrocław's Dwarves

Scattered throughout Wrocław's city center streets, squares, and alleyways are over 350 whimsical bronze gnomes, each telling a different story about the city's history and culture. This quirky urban art project began as a commemoration of the Orange Alternative, an anti-communist movement that used absurdist tactics to protest in the 1980s. Today, these diminutive citizens have become beloved city mascots, with new dwarves appearing regularly. Each figure represents a different aspect of city life – from firefighter gnomes outside the fire station to sleeping gnomes at hotels. Hunting for these charming creatures has become a popular tourist activity, with maps and mobile apps available to help visitors track down as many as possible. Local artisans continue to add new dwarves, making this an ever-evolving public art installation that brings smiles to visitors and residents alike. Finding a favorite gnome is a great way to keep kids engaged while exploring this lively city.

Malbork Castle

Rising majestically along the Nogat River, Malbork Castle in northern Poland is the largest castle in the world by land area and the largest brick building in Europe. Built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights, this castle is on the UNESCO World Heritage list and showcases the pinnacle of medieval architectural and defensive engineering. The castle complex, comprising three separate castles nested within each other, features innovative heating systems, sophisticated sanitation, and a unique amber museum housing precious amber artifacts from the Baltic coast. The Great Refectory, with its single palm-shaped pillar supporting a spectacular vaulted ceiling, demonstrates the medieval builders' extraordinary skill. During summer evenings, the castle hosts an impressive sound and light show that brings its history to life, while the meticulously restored interiors house museums displaying everything from medieval weapons to Gothic sculptures. Despite severe damage during World War II, painstaking restoration has returned this magnificent fortress to its former glory, making it one of Poland's most impressive historical monuments.

Vang Stave Church

Perched atop Mount Góra Parkowa in Karpacz, the Vang Stave Church is a remarkable example of both Norwegian and Polish cultural heritage. Originally built around 1200 in the Norwegian village of Vang, this wooden church was saved from demolition in 1842 when it was purchased by King Frederick William IV of Prussia and reconstructed in the Karkonosze Mountains. The church represents one of the finest examples of medieval Norwegian wooden architecture, featuring intricate dragon-head carvings, runic inscriptions, and original medieval construction techniques that used no nails. Its dark wooden exterior, adorned with carved portals and dragon-head decorations, creates a striking silhouette against the mountain backdrop. The church continues to function as a place of worship while also serving as a unique museum where visitors can admire its distinctive architectural style and learn about its incredible journey from Norway to Poland.

Elbląg Canal

An engineering marvel of the 19th century, the Elbląg Canal features a unique system that seems to defy the laws of physics – boats that travel on land. Built between 1844 and 1881, this remarkable waterway includes a series of inclined planes where boats are placed on rail-mounted trolleys and pulled up or lowered down hillsides, traversing a 100-meter difference in water levels. The system, designed by Georg Jacob Steenke, uses only the power of water to operate its ingenious mechanical system. The canal stretches for 84 kilometers (52 miles) and features five inclined planes where visitors can experience the surreal sensation of their boat being transported across grassy fields. This extraordinary feat of engineering remains one of only a few functioning systems of its kind in the world and offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century industrial innovation.

Wągrowiec Bifurcation

In the town of Wągrowiec lies one of Europe's most unusual hydrological phenomena – a place where two rivers, the Wełna and the Nielba, cross paths without mixing their waters. This rare natural occurrence, known as a bifurcation, creates an X-shaped intersection where each river maintains its distinct color, flow rate, and temperature as they cross. The phenomenon was first documented in 1887 and has puzzled scientists and attracted curious visitors ever since. Local legends attribute mystical properties to this crossing of waters, while scientists study it as an example of unique river dynamics. A viewing platform and educational panels help visitors understand this rare natural phenomenon, making it a fascinating stop for both nature enthusiasts and those interested in unusual geological features.

Green Mosque of Kruszyniany

Hidden in the northeastern corner of Poland, the wooden Green Mosque of Kruszyniany stands as one of the oldest Muslim temples in Poland, dating back to the late 17th century. This modest yet beautiful structure serves the Tatar community, whose ancestors settled in the region as warriors granted land by King Jan III Sobieski. The mosque's distinctive architecture blends traditional Islamic elements with local wooden construction techniques, featuring a green exterior that gives it its name. Inside, colorful mihrab (prayer niches) point toward Mecca, while traditional Islamic calligraphy adorns the walls alongside floral motifs typical of Tatar art. The surrounding Muslim cemetery, or mizar, contains centuries-old graves marked with wooden posts inscribed in Arabic and Polish, offering insight into the long history of Islamic presence in Poland. Today, the mosque not only serves as an active place of worship but also as a cultural center where visitors can learn about the unique heritage of Polish Tatars.

Planning Your Visit

Many of these destinations lie off the beaten path and may require advance planning. Consider renting a car or arranging private transportation, as public transport options can be limited. The best time of year to visit depends on your chosen destinations – the Painted Village blooms most vibrantly in summer, while the Underwater City is best viewed in late spring. Most sites offer guided tours in English, though advance booking is recommended. Local tourist offices can provide detailed information about access, opening hours, and seasonal conditions. 

Of course there are many other unique sites in Poland that I didn't cover in this article. If you are still looking for more consider the Krakow train graveyard,  the nuclear bunkers of Nowa Huta, the museum of soap and the history of dirt, the Carthusian church monastery where monks slept in coffins, or the old Prussian hags of Northern Pomerania, Whether you're an adventure seeker, history buff, or cultural enthusiast, these unique Polish destinations offer experiences that go far beyond the typical tourist trail.

Ready to travel to Poland? Contact me at stefanie@eurotravelsbydesign.com and I will custom create your perfect trip.