Poland’s medieval cities, rich history, and lively culture make it a must-visit European destination, where managing money wisely ensures a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Kraków, enjoying the nightlife in Warsaw, or visiting the stunning Tatra Mountains, this guide provides all the details – what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Poland (Polish Złoty (PLN)), cash safety tips, and important dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll navigate Poland’s payment systems smoothly and avoid unnecessary fees while making the most of your trip.
How to pay in Poland – cash or card?
In Poland, both cash and card payments are widely accepted, with a significant shift towards cashless transactions in recent years. Notably, contactless payments account for 85% of all card transactions.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: While major cities offer card payment options for buses and trams, some regional or rural transport services may still require cash.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Traditional markets and street vendors often prefer cash, though card acceptance is increasing.
Small Businesses: Some small or family-run shops and eateries might favor cash transactions, but this is becoming less common.
Tips and Gratuities: Tipping is customary, and cash is often preferred for this purpose.
Rural Areas: In less urbanized regions, electronic payment facilities may be limited, making cash essential.
You can use card for:
Hotels: Most hotels, especially in urban and tourist areas, accept major credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: Many dining establishments, particularly in cities, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets widely accept cards.
Car Rentals and Travel Agencies: Established agencies typically offer card payment options.
Online Bookings: Reservations for flights, hotels, and tours can usually be made using cards.
What’s the best currency to take to Poland
Polish Złoty (PLN) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Poland. Paying or withdrawing cash in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
While some hotels and shopping malls may accept Euros, this is not common practice, and the exchange rate may be poor. Therefore, it’s advisable to pay in PLN to avoid losing money.
US Dollars or British Pounds are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Poland
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Poland. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Poland
Establishments in Poland with POS machines readily accept Visa and Mastercards swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Poland
If you’re withdrawing money in Poland from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard cards. Some of them accept Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. ATMs usually do not accept others like American Express, JCB, UnionPay, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Poland
Bringing a small amount of Polish Zloty (PLN) before traveling can be useful for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, and small purchases. However, exchange rates outside Poland are often poor, and many foreign banks may not stock PLN.
Withdrawing PLN from ATMs in Poland is the easiest and most convenient option, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check with your bank for international withdrawal fees.
It’s best to exchange money in Poland at banks or licensed exchange bureaus (known as Kantor), which offer better rates than airports or hotels. If exchanging at the airport, do so only for a small amount.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards is advisable. You can exchange EUR, USD, or GBP at banks and exchange offices for good rates. While some businesses in tourist areas may accept EUR, the exchange rate used is often unfavorable, so paying in PLN is recommended.
Where to withdraw money in Poland
You can withdraw money in Poland at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Poland are those owned by popular banks such as:
Bank Pekao,
Santander,
Millennium,
BNP Paribas, and
Citi.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
Some international banks also have their ATMs in Poland namely Citi.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Poland.
Where to exchange currency in Poland
You can exchange currency in Poland at licensed exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Poland, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as Kantor. These are widely available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. Notable providers include Kantor Warszawa Centrum, Kantor Exchange Group and Kantor Max.
Banks: Major banks such as PKO Bank Polski, Bank Pekao, and mBank offer currency exchange services. These banks have branches throughout cities, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays.
You can find good currency exchanges using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Poland.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Is carrying cash in Poland safe?
In Poland, carrying cash is also considered safe, but standard precautions are recommended. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation.Carry only the cash you need and utilize credit or debit cards for most transactions, as they are widely accepted. When withdrawing money, use ATMs at reputable banks or inside shopping malls to minimize risks.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Poland
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
