Poland in summer feels like a completely different country from its cold, gray winter months. The days stretch long, the cities buzz with open-air events, and the Baltic coast fills up with sun-seekers. Be it a history lover or someone who prefers lakes and mountains, Poland has something for every kind of traveler.
This guide covers the weather during summer in Poland, top activities, seasonal events, packing tips, budget advice, and everything else you need to plan your trip.
Weather in Poland in Summer
Summer in Poland runs from June through August. Daytime temperatures usually range between 20°C and 30°C, with July being the warmest month. Nights stay cool, often dropping to 12°C–16°C. Rainfall is highest in summer, mostly as short afternoon showers or thunderstorms.
|
Month |
Avg. High (°C) |
Avg. Low (°C) |
Rainfall (mm) |
Humidity (%) |
|
June |
20-25 |
12-13 |
69 to 70 |
66 to 78 |
|
July |
23-26 |
12-16 |
70 to 90 |
69 to 78 |
|
August |
20-30 |
12-16 |
66 |
60 to 76 |
Poland’s weather during summer in Poland can shift quickly. A warm, sunny morning may turn into a rainy afternoon. The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) provides daily forecasts, so check before stepping out.
The warmest areas are in central and southwestern Poland, around cities like Wroclaw and Warsaw. The Baltic coast stays a few degrees cooler due to sea breezes. If you are checking the weather during summer in Poland, the best outdoor hours are typically between 10 AM and 7 PM.
Also Read: Is Poland Safe to Visit? Travel Safety Guide & Tips
Why Visit Poland in Summer?
One of Europe’s Most Affordable Destinations
Poland remains one of the cheapest countries to visit in Western and Central Europe. A budget traveler can get by on $30–$50 per day, covering food, transport, and a hostel bed. Places to stay in Poland during summer range from hostels at €10–€25 per night to mid-range hotels at €40–€70 per night.
Eating at a traditional milk bar (Bar Mleczny) costs between €4 and €7 for a full meal. These are great options for budget tips for traveling to summer in Poland without missing out on authentic local food.
Long Daylight Hours
Poland gets over 16 hours of daylight around the summer solstice in June. This means more time for sightseeing, walking tours, and photography spots in Poland during summer. Sunsets after 9 PM give you long, golden evenings to spend in parks or along riverfronts.
Nature at Its Best
Summer unlocks Poland’s outdoors. The Tatra Mountains open their best hiking trails, the Masurian Lake District fills up with kayakers and sailors, and the Baltic coast offers sandy beaches for miles. Outdoor adventures in summer in Poland are hard to match anywhere in Europe at this price point.
Festivals, Food, and Culture
From open-air music festivals to midsummer bonfires, festivals in Poland during summer keep the calendar packed. Cities like Krakow, Warsaw, and Gdansk host events almost every week between June and August.
Also Read: Things Not To Do in Poland: Essential Travel Tips
Top Things You Can Do in Poland in Summer
Walk Through Krakow’s Old Town
Krakow’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval centers in Europe. The Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) is the largest medieval town square on the continent. You can visit Wawel Royal Castle, climb the Town Hall Tower, and step inside St. Mary’s Basilica.
Summer evenings here are perfect for outdoor dining at one of the many restaurants lining the square. This is one of the top tourist attractions in summer in Poland.
Swim at Poland’s Baltic Beaches
The Baltic coast comes alive in summer. Sopot, located between Gdansk and Gdynia, is known for its famous wooden pier, the longest in Europe. Beaches at Sopot, Kolobrzeg, and the Hel Peninsula offer clean sand and calm waters. Sea temperatures reach 18°C to 22°C in July and August.
Head to the beach in the afternoon and stay for the sunset. This is one of the best activities to do in Poland during summer for families and solo travelers.
Hike in the Tatra Mountains
Zakopane, located about two hours south of Krakow, is the gateway to the Tatra Mountains. The hike to Morskie Oko, a crystal-clear glacial lake, is the most popular trail in the country. Entry to Tatra National Park costs around 11 PLN per person.
For a bigger challenge, try the trail to Mount Giewont, famous for the steel cross at its peak. Early mornings are the best time to start, as trails get busy after 10 AM.
Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Wieliczka Salt Mine near Krakow has been open for over 700 years. The underground tour runs about 2.5 hours and takes you through carved chambers, salt lakes, and the stunning Chapel of St. Kinga.
The mine stays at a cool 14°C year-round, making it a welcome break from summer heat. This is an ideal option for those wondering how to enjoy summer in Poland on a budget.
Kayak Through Masuria
Northeastern Poland’s Masurian Lake District has over 2,000 lakes connected by rivers and canals. You can rent kayaks, sailboats, or canoes and spend days paddling through quiet waterways surrounded by forests. This region is one of the top outdoor adventures in summer in Poland and a favorite among nature lovers.
Roam the Streets of Gdansk
Gdansk sits on the Baltic coast and is known for its colorful merchant houses, riverside promenade, and rich maritime history. Visit the European Solidarity Centre, walk along Long Market Street, and take a day trip to Malbork Castle, the largest brick castle in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Also Read: Poland With Kids: Family Travel Guide
Festivals & Events in Poland in Summer
Wianki Festival in Krakow
The Wianki Festival takes place every June in Krakow, tied to the Slavic celebration of midsummer (Kupala Night). Thousands gather along the Vistula River to float wreaths on the water, watch fireworks, and enjoy open-air concerts. Entry is free.
This is one of the most popular festivals in Poland during summer and a great photography opportunity too.
Open’er Festival in Gdynia
Open’er Festival is one of Poland’s biggest music events, held every July in Gdynia. It draws major international artists across rock, pop, and electronic genres. The 2025 edition ran from July 2 to 5. Tickets sell out quickly, so plan in advance.
Even outside the main venue, the city offers free pop-up events and street performances during the festival week.
St. Dominic’s Fair in Gdansk
Running since 1260, the St. Dominic’s Fair (Jarmark św. Dominika) is one of Europe’s oldest and most beloved summer markets. Held from late July to mid-August in Gdansk, it features over 1,000 stalls selling handicrafts, antiques, amber jewelry, and street food from across Poland. It is a great way to try seasonal foods in Poland during summer without spending much.
Also Read: Top 12 Churches in Poland
What You Can Wear in Poland in Summer
What to wear in Poland during summer depends on your activities and the cities you plan to visit. Days are warm, but evenings can turn cool, especially near the coast and in mountain areas. Dress in layers for comfort.
Packing tips for summer in Poland:
- Light cotton t-shirts and shorts for daytime
- A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets
- A rain jacket or compact umbrella (summer showers are common)
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or above) and sunglasses
- A reusable water bottle
- Modest clothing when visiting churches or religious sites
- Hiking boots if you plan to visit the Tatra Mountains
Poland has no strict dress code in public, but churches expect covered shoulders and knees. Swimwear is appropriate only at beaches and lakes.
Also Read: Top 10 Shopping Malls in Poland: Indian Traveler’s Guide
FAQs
How hot can it get in Poland in summer?
Temperatures in Poland during summer can reach 35°C to 37°C during heat waves. The highest recorded temperature was 37.4°C in Wroclaw in July 2022. Central and southwestern Poland tend to be the warmest regions. Coastal areas stay a bit cooler due to Baltic breezes.
Can you swim in Poland during the summer?
Yes, you can. The Baltic Sea warms up to 18°C–22°C between July and August. Beaches at Sopot, Kolobrzeg, and the Hel Peninsula are popular swimming spots. Poland also has thousands of inland lakes, especially in the Masurian Lake District, where swimming is common throughout summer.
What is the average temperature in Poland in summer?
The average daytime temperature between June and August ranges from 20°C to 25°C. July is the warmest month, with average highs around 25°C. Nighttime temperatures drop to 12°C–15°C. Mountain areas like Zakopane are cooler by a few degrees.
Is it sunny in Poland during summer?
Yes. Poland receives around 1,750 to 1,850 hours of sunshine per year, and summer months are the sunniest. June days last over 16 hours. Expect long stretches of clear weather, though short rain showers can pop up during afternoons.
Is it windy in Poland during summer?
Winds are generally light during summer. The Baltic coast can experience moderate sea breezes, especially in the afternoon. Inland areas are calm for most of the season. Strong gusts are rare outside of occasional thunderstorms.
Is Poland cheaper in summer?
Poland is affordable year-round compared to Western Europe. Summer is peak season, so hotel prices and flight costs rise slightly. Eating at milk bars, using public transport, and booking early help keep costs low. Budget tips for traveling to summer in Poland include staying in hostels, visiting free attractions, and cooking some meals yourself.
What can I see in Poland in summer?
There is plenty to see and do. Krakow’s Old Town, Wawel Castle, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, Gdansk’s colorful streets, and the Tatra Mountains are all at their best during summer. Tourist attractions in summer in Poland range from UNESCO heritage sites to national parks and Baltic beaches.
What adventure activities can I do in Poland in Summer?
Outdoor adventures in summer in Poland include hiking in the Tatras, kayaking through the Masurian Lake District, cycling along the Baltic coast, and rock climbing in Jura Krakowsko-Częstochowska. Sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding are popular on lakes and at the coast. Early mornings are best for mountain hikes.
What are the free things to do in Poland in Summer?
You can attend the Wianki Festival in Krakow for free every June. Walking through the Old Towns of Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk costs nothing. Many museums offer free entry on certain days. Beach access along the entire Baltic coast is free. If you enjoy warm weather, outdoor activities, and lively cultural events, summer in Poland is one of the best times to be there.
