Poland is a popular European country known for its unique history of fighting the communist era and emerging as an independent country with stunning geography. Its fascinating landscapes, vibrant culture, rich history, and historical places are renowned and considered one of the most beautiful places on earth. Visitors can enjoy the sea, learn about the Jewish heritage, hike in the Tatra mountains, savor the delicious pierogi, and explore Europe's most ancient old-growth, Białowieża Forest. Tourists get wowed by Poland's scenic beauty and are excited to experience cool outdoor activities in the pretty landscapes. Here are the ten most attractive popular spots to visit in Poland for 2022.

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10 The Auschwitz-Birkenau

Auschwitz-Birkenau was once the largest of all the Nazi German concentration camps and is now the top place to visit in Poland. People come to see the museum built in memory of the 1.5 million people exterminated during the Second World War. Tourists walk into the still-standing buildings and ruins that have been chiefly transformed into memorials documenting victims' lives. In the monument consisting of 2 sites, people will learn about the Auschwitz-Birkenau story, left precisely as it was when the Nazis abandoned it, and spot the gas chambers and crematoria that Nazis attempted to hide and destroy before they abandoned the camps.

9 Białowieża Forest

Occupying more than 3,000 kilometers and bordering Poland and Belarus, Białowieża Forest is among Poland's unique and untouched natural wonders. Listed among the UNESCO World Heritage sites, the wild forest is home to a wide variety of old trees, such as oaks, the region's specialty. Tourists experience many activities like biking, hiking, walking, and watching wild creatures, including golden eagles, European bison, and deer.

8 Wroclaw Market Square

Known as one of the oldest cities in Poland, Wroclaw square is today the heart of the city. Dating back over a thousand years, it was part of Austria, the Kingdom of Prussia, Hungary, and Germany before it returned to Poland in 1945. Visitors in Wroclaw stroll the 11 different streets branching out from it, admire the new buildings and colorful houses added over the centuries, and visit the two Town Halls. It is recommended to visit the Świdnicka Cellar, one of the oldest restaurants in Europe, and chill at the many cafés and shops in the area.

Related: Backpacker's Guide On Where To Stay In Wrocław, Poland's Medieval City

7 Krakow Old Town

Being the largest town in Central Europe and serving as the city's social and political life since the Middle Ages, the Main Square of Krakow is very popular among Poland tourists. Travelers come from all over the world to visit the famous Cloth Hall, an old market dating from the 14th century, where they can find original handicrafts and have a glimpse of the Renaissance era. It is also recommended to visit the charming St Mary Basilica and stroll the beautiful streets of Krakow while admiring the town's incredible architecture and the artsy cafés and bars.

6 Malbork Castle

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malbork is the world's largest medieval castle. It served as a religious and military center for an extended period, then was destroyed during WWII. Malbork took three decades of hard work and dedication to be renovated and transformed into a beautiful gothic castle. Tourists visit the castle's sites and stroll through tapestry rooms, impressive courtyards, and beautiful ancient kitchens.

5 Slowinski National Park

Slowinski National Park features over 32 kilometers of beautiful coastline. Located on the Baltic Coast and famous for its moving dunes, it is home to wild forests, lakes, and meadows. Tourists spend all day admiring the wind and waves hitting the shorelines, causing a unique phenomenon making the dunes on the beach move up to 10 meters per year. People walk into beautiful trails to the top of the highest dunes for incredible views over the park and the desert and enjoy fresh air and bird watching.

4 Masuria Lake District

Located in northeastern Poland and surrounded by beautiful hills, Masuria is home to over 2,000 lakes connected by rivers and canals. The area attracts visitors from all over Europe, especially water lovers who come to swim, sail, and canoe the blue waters of Lake Śniardwy, Poland's largest lake. Tourists also come to explore organic farms, visit charming towns, and hike in wild forests. A popular hike is the Wolfschanze (Wolf's Lair), which was Hitler's hidden headquarters during WWII.

3 The Tatras Mountain

Covering almost 800 square kilometers, the Tatras Mountain range borders Slovakia and Poland. The mountains are famous for their beautiful trails cutting through valleys, lakes, past caves, and splendid villages. Tatras beautiful mountains attract skiers who enjoy the snow-covered peaks in winter months. The Tatras are also famous among hikers and adventure seekers who come from all over Europe to experience the most challenging trail, the Orla Perć trail, also considered one of the most dangerous in Europe.

2 The Crooked Forest

Located in a small village in northwestern Poland, the mysterious Crooked Forest is a great place to explore and ideal for amazing photos around the perfectly straight pine trees. The forest features about 400 bent trees in a U shape just above ground level, with their trunks straightening up soon after. The trees were discovered in the 1930s, and there's never been an explanation of why they look that way, but some accept the theory that they were "modified" using special tools in order to bend the wood and use it for furniture construction.

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1 Isle of Usedom

The Isle of Usedom is a sea island divided between Germany and Poland. It is a gorgeous, sunny destination with an extensive shoreline. Visitors love the fact that they can visit two countries while strolling on the island from one end to another. Tourists, especially those looking for a peaceful holiday, come to enjoy the golden beaches or soak up the summer sun. For people wishing to stay for the night, there are comfortable little beds and breakfasts overlooking stunning views of the water.