Where is Poland Located?

Where is Poland located on the map? Poland is an independent nation located in Eastern Europe. Check out the following images to see location of Poland on maps.

Poland Location in World Map

Poland is located in Central Europe.

Location Information of Poland

Latitude and Longitude

Poland is located in Central Europe, bordered by Germany to the west, the Czech Republic and Slovakia to the south, Ukraine and Belarus to the east, and Lithuania to the north. The country has a coastline along the Baltic Sea to the north. The geographic coordinates of Poland are between Latitude 49° 00′ N and 54° 50′ N and Longitude 14° 07′ E and 24° 09′ E. Its central location in Europe places it at the crossroads of many important historical and geopolitical developments.

Capital City and Major Cities

Capital City: Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital and largest city of Poland, is located on the Vistula River in the central part of the country. With a population of over 1.7 million in the city proper and over 3 million in the metropolitan area, Warsaw is the political, cultural, and economic heart of Poland. The city is known for its modern skyline, historical buildings, and cultural institutions. Warsaw’s history includes significant destruction during World War II, but the city has been rebuilt and is a testament to Poland’s resilience.

Key landmarks in Warsaw include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Park, the Warsaw Uprising Museum, and Palace of Culture and Science. The city is also a major center for international business, education, and technology in Poland and the wider region.

Major Cities

1. Kraków
   Kraków, located in the southern part of Poland, is the second-largest city and one of the most historic cities in the country. It was the capital of Poland until 1596 and is considered the cultural capital of the nation. Kraków is home to the Wawel Castle, St. Mary’s Basilica, and the historic Main Market Square, one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, and nearby is the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, a sobering reminder of the Holocaust.
2. Łódź
   Łódź is located in central Poland and is the third-largest city in the country. It is an important industrial and cultural center, historically known for its textile industry. Today, the city has become known for its burgeoning film industry, with the Łódź Film School being one of the most prestigious in Europe. The city also boasts the Piotrkowska Street, one of the longest commercial streets in Europe, lined with historical buildings and cultural venues.
3. Wrocław
   Wrocław, located in the western part of Poland, is known for its picturesque setting on the Oder River and its medieval architecture. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from both Polish and German traditions. Market Square, Ostrów Tumski, and Centennial Hall are some of the city’s most famous attractions. Wrocław also has a reputation as a university city, with several universities and academic institutions.
4. Gdańsk
   Gdańsk is a major port city on the Baltic Sea, known for its maritime history and historical significance. Gdańsk played a pivotal role in the fall of communism, as it was the birthplace of the Solidarity movement in the 1980s. The city is famous for its Old Town, which features stunning architecture such as the Gdańsk Crane and the Main Town Hall. It is also known for its shipyards and proximity to the Westerplatte, where World War II began.
5. Poznań
   Poznań, located in western Poland, is an important cultural and economic center. The city is known for its historic landmarks such as the Old Market Square, Poznań Cathedral, and the Royal Castle. Poznań is also a major academic center, with universities and research institutions. The city’s economy is bolstered by industries such as automotive, manufacturing, and trade.

Time Zone

Poland operates in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is UTC +1:00 hours during standard time. However, the country observes Central European Summer Time (CEST) during daylight saving time, from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October. During this period, the time zone shifts to UTC +2:00 hours. Poland’s time zone is aligned with most European countries, including Germany, France, and Italy, which allows for synchronization of business and cultural activities across the continent.

Climate

Poland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Due to its geographical location in Central Europe, Poland experiences relatively moderate weather, though regional differences exist due to its varied topography, including mountains in the south, plains in the center, and a coastline in the north.

Spring and Summer

Spring in Poland typically begins in March and lasts until May, with temperatures gradually rising from 5°C (41°F) in March to 15°C (59°F) in May. Summers (June to August) are mild to warm, with average temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F), though some years can see higher temperatures, particularly in the central and southern regions. This is the best time to visit Poland, as it is characterized by long daylight hours and pleasant temperatures, with occasional rain showers.

Autumn and Winter

Autumn (September to November) is a season of transition, with temperatures dropping from 18°C (64°F) in September to 5°C (41°F) in November. This season is known for colorful foliage and cooler evenings. Winter (December to February) can be cold, especially in the northern and eastern regions, with temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) to 5°C (41°F). Snow is common, particularly in the mountain regions, making it a popular destination for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.

Poland’s coastal regions, such as Gdańsk and Szczecin, tend to have milder winters due to the influence of the Baltic Sea, while the southern regions, particularly in the Tatra Mountains, experience colder winters with heavy snowfall.

Economic Status

Poland has a high-income economy that is among the most advanced in Central and Eastern Europe. It is the largest economy in the region and the sixth-largest economy in the European Union (EU). Over the past few decades, Poland has transitioned from a centrally planned economy to a market-driven one, with strong sectors in manufacturing, services, agriculture, and information technology.

Key Economic Sectors

1. Manufacturing
   Manufacturing is a crucial part of Poland’s economy, with industries such as automobiles, machinery, chemicals, and electronics playing an important role. Poland is a major hub for the automotive industry, hosting production plants for companies such as Volkswagen, Fiat, and Toyota. The country is also a significant producer of steel, textiles, and furniture.
2. Agriculture
   Agriculture has traditionally been a central part of Poland’s economy, and the country is one of the largest agricultural producers in Europe. Key products include cereals, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products. Poland is one of the top producers of apples in Europe and has a significant export market for agricultural goods.
3. Information Technology (IT)
   Poland has a rapidly growing IT sector, with a significant number of technology startups and established companies providing services in software development, cybersecurity, and IT consulting. The country’s skilled workforce and competitive labor costs make it an attractive destination for outsourcing and IT investments.
4. Energy
   Poland is one of the largest producers of coal in Europe, and coal remains a significant part of the country’s energy mix. However, Poland is working to diversify its energy sources by investing in renewable energy, nuclear power, and natural gas. The shift toward greener energy sources is a significant focus for the Polish government in response to the EU’s sustainability goals.
5. Tourism
   Tourism is an important sector for Poland’s economy. The country has seen an increase in international visitors, particularly to cities like Kraków, Warsaw, and Gdańsk, as well as natural attractions like the Tatra Mountains and the Masurian Lakes. Cultural tourism is also growing, with increasing interest in historical sites such as Wieliczka Salt Mine and the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial.

Tourist Attractions

Poland is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and historical landmarks. The country’s diverse attractions include medieval towns, vibrant cities, and breathtaking natural landscapes.

1. Kraków and Wawel Castle
   Kraków, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Poland, offers a wealth of historical and cultural attractions. The Wawel Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as a symbol of Poland’s royal history. The Main Market Square is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, while the St. Mary’s Basilica offers breathtaking views and art.
2. Wieliczka Salt Mine
   The Wieliczka Salt Mine, located near Kraków, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a historic salt mine that dates back to the Middle Ages and offers tours through its vast network of tunnels, chambers, and galleries. Visitors can see underground chapels, salt sculptures, and the famous Chapel of St. Kinga.
3. Białowieża Forest
   The Białowieża Forest is a UNESCO-listed natural site located on the border between Poland and Belarus. It is one of the last and largest remaining parts of the primeval forest that once covered much of Europe. The forest is home to the endangered European bison and is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
4. Tatra Mountains and Zakopane
   The Tatra Mountains, located in southern Poland, offer some of the best hiking, skiing, and snowboarding opportunities in the country. Zakopane, a resort town in the foothills of the Tatras, is famous for its wooden architecture, vibrant folk culture, and winter sports.
5. Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial
   The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial in Oświęcim, a sobering and significant historical site, is the former Nazi concentration and extermination camp. It serves as a powerful reminder of the Holocaust and attracts millions of visitors annually.
6. Gdańsk and its Old Town
   Gdańsk, located on the Baltic coast, is famous for its medieval architecture and maritime history. The Long Market and Neptune’s Fountain are central features of the Old Town, and the Gdańsk Crane is an iconic symbol of the city’s history.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens traveling to Poland for tourism or business purposes do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, travelers must have a valid U.S. passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay. It is recommended to carry proof of sufficient funds and a return or onward ticket when entering the country. For longer stays or work-related visits, U.S. citizens must apply for the appropriate visa.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

1. Distance from New York City to Warsaw
   The distance between New York City and Warsaw is approximately 4,700 miles (7,560 kilometers). Direct flights typically take around 9 hours.
2. Distance from Los Angeles to Warsaw
   The distance from Los Angeles to Warsaw is approximately 5,900 miles (9,500 kilometers). Flights typically take about 10 to 11 hours, depending on the specific route and layovers.

Poland Facts

Size	312,685 km²
Residents	38.43 million
Language	Polish
Capital	Warsaw
Longest river	Vistula (1,022 km)
Highest mountain	Rysy (2,503 m)
Currency	Zloty