Celebrating Easter in Poland: Our 1-Week Itinerary 

Last Updated on January 20, 2026

Spending Easter in Poland with my family was truly unforgettable. In this guide, I’m sharing everything from the heartwarming Polish Easter traditions to yummy food to try.

Spring had just arrived and it was Easter in Poland. With the sun coyly poking through thick clouds, Poland was slowly awakening from a long winter slumber. The Easter markets were in full swing, oozing an infectious atmosphere with its lively beer gardens, bratwurst stands, and colourful arts and craft stores.

While it wasn’t as warm as we’d imagined, everything else about our Poland trip was exactly how we wanted it to be. After all, it was a real vacation. I wasn’t there for work, I had no intention to pitch stories from the trip, and I even left my laptop and camera at home! It was a blessing to be able to focus on spending quality time with my little family in a new place.

So why did we choose Poland? For once, Alberto had been to a country that I hadn’t (don’t tell him I said this!). He was really eager to show me the country that he knew a thing or two about. Plus he’s had a love affair with Poland since his first visit and really wanted me to share his love.

As it turned out, Poland at Easter didn’t disappoint.

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Celebrating Easter in Poland

This year, Easter Sunday falls on April 5, 2026. Known locally as Wielkanoc, it is Poland’s most significant holiday, marking both religious tradition and the arrival of spring. If you are visiting, keep in mind that celebrations span the entire Holy Week, so plan for a long, festive weekend. I’ve found that this season is a magical time to visit, as the country finally sheds its winter coat for the vibrant colors of spring.

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Easter in Poland – A Short Summary

We spent a glorious week road-tripping through southern Poland, and it’s an itinerary I’d repeat in a heartbeat. 

• Our journey started in the capital, Warsaw, where I was surprised to find – instead of modern, characterless tall buildings that I’d expected – a small and adorably charming Old Town that had been restored after being completely destroyed during World War II.
• And then we hopped on a rental car and drove south to Krakow, another city overloaded with medieval beauty. We did a Schindler’s factory tour to learn about Krakow’s history under Nazi occupation and feasted on some of the best foods I’ve had in Europe. I was completely obsessed with the roasted pork knuckles that crackled in an aromatic brew. Kaleya absolutely loved the freshly steamed pierogi oozing with flavourful meat (Poland’s unofficial national dish).
• From Krakow, we made a detour to Auschwitz. The world’s biggest concentration camps, this is where over 1.1 million people were killed during the war. It was a sobering experience but definitely eye-opening. 
• To lift our spirits, we headed further south to Zakopane, a ski resort at the edge of the Tatra Mountains, to catch the last bit of winter. I was like a little kid in a candy store when we were out playing in the snow—but you should have seen Kaleya. She was literally flipping out in the snow.

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Getting Around Poland

By Car Rental

We rented a car  this road trip through southern Poland, from Krakow to Zakopane. Having a car gives you the freedom to make the detour to Auschwitz and stop at scenic mountain viewpoints in the Tatras that aren’t easily accessible by train.

We found the road conditions to be excellent, though the drive to Zakopane can get busy during Easter. Remember that manual cars are the standard, so be sure to request an automatic in advance if you prefer one.

Search for car rentals in Warsaw here 🚘

By Bus

The bus network is a reliable and budget-friendly alternative, particularly for reaching smaller towns or if you’d rather not drive to the mountains. Large operators like Bookaway connect Krakow to Zakopane frequently. The buses are modern and usually equipped with Wi-Fi, making them a comfortable way to navigate the southern regions if you aren’t renting a car.

By Train

For the leg between Warsaw and Krakow, the train is the most efficient option. The high-speed Pendolino trains are fast and comfortable, whisking you between the two cities in just 2.5 hours. It’s a great way to see the countryside without the stress of driving. For the best rates and to ensure a seat during the busy holiday season, I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance on bookaway.

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Detailed 1-Week Easter in Poland Itinerary

To truly do justice to these historic cities and the rugged Tatra Mountains, you’ll need at least a week to explore Southern Poland. I’ve mapped out our itinerary to help you plan your own spring adventure. 

Click to download your map.

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Day 1-2: Start in Warsaw, Poland

We flew into Warsaw as flights there were the most affordable. While the N7 highway is the most direct way south later, we recommend taking the Royal Route. On Palm Sunday, head to St. Anne’s Church to see the towering, hand-woven palms; it’s a photographer’s dream. On Holy Saturday, the atmosphere shifts as families bring their lace-lined Święconka baskets to the Archcathedral of St. John to be blessed.

For dinner, head to U Fukiera in the Old Town Market Square. It’s a local institution with a rustic, floral-heavy charm. Be sure to order their Żurek, a creamy, fermented sour rye soup that is the perfect, comforting end to a day of exploring.

Search for flights to Warsaw here ✈️

Where to Stay in Warsaw 🏨

• Luxury: Hotel Bristol – A neo-Renaissance landmark on the Royal Route with opulent rooms and world-class service. Check rates here.
• Mid-range: H15 Boutique Hotel – A stylish hotel set in a 19th-century building, perfectly located for exploring. Check rates here.
• Budget: Safestay Warsaw Old Town – A friendly hostel right at the edge of the historic center, ideal for meeting other travelers. Check rates here.

Where to Eat in Warsaw 🍽️

• U Fukiera: A legendary Old Town institution draped in floral charm. Come for the rustic, fairytale atmosphere and their world-class, creamy żurek soup. Read reviews here.
• Zapiecek: The ultimate spot for handmade pierogi. With its folk-inspired decor and bustling energy, it’s a delicious immersion into local culture. Read reviews here.
• Prasowy: This historic “Milk Bar” offers a soulful, budget-friendly glimpse into local life. It’s authentic, nostalgic, and serves incredibly hearty home-cooking. Read reviews here.

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Day 3-5: Warsaw → Krakow (Easter in Krakow Poland)

Today’s drive takes you south to Krakow, Poland’s spiritual soul. The journey covers about 186 miles (300 km) and takes roughly 5 hours. The road conditions are fantastic, honestly better than many parts of Western Europe. Once you arrive, head to the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), the heart of Krakow. We spent hours at the Easter Market, snacking on grilled oscypek (smoked sheep’s cheese) and admiring the pisanki (hand-painted eggs).

During your stay, make the 1.5-hour detour to Auschwitz. It is a sobering, heavy experience, but it is an essential one. Visiting here isn’t about “sightseeing”, it’s about bearing witness.

If you would rather skip driving, trains between Warsaw and Krakow run often and are easy to book. The train gets you from Warsaw to Krakow in 2.5 hours instead of the 4–5 hours it would take by car.

Where to Stay in Krakow 🏨

• Luxury: Hotel Copernicus is located on Krakow’s oldest street, showcasing stunning frescoes and a rooftop terrace with views of the castle. Check rates here.
• Mid-range: Hotel Wentzl overlooks the Main Market Square, offering unparalleled views of the lively Easter festivities. Check rates here.
• Budget: Portal House Apartments enjoy a central location, with the Main Market Square just a 5-minute walk away and many key attractions close by. Check rates here.

Where to Eat in Krakow 🍽️

• Wierzynek: Dining here is a journey through history. Since 1364, this legendary establishment has served royalty with opulent, tradition-steeped Polish cuisine. Read reviews here.
• Starka: Tucked in the Jewish Quarter, this cozy gem offers soulful comfort food and incredible house-infused vodkas. It’s an authentic, heartwarming experience. Read reviews here.
• Morskie Oko: Step into this rustic cellar for a taste of highlander culture. Hearty regional dishes and folk music create an immersive atmosphere. Read reviews here.

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Day 6-7: Krakow → Zakopane

The final leg of your trip takes you from Kraków to Zakopane, covering approximately 68 miles (110 km) with a driving time of about 2 hours. Zakopane sits in the Tatra Mountains and is the center of highlander culture, where Easter feels like it has been frozen in time. On Easter day in Poland, watch for locals dressed in traditional Góral attire with embroidered trousers and bright floral skirts parading in horse-drawn carriages.

Make sure to take the cable car up to Kasprowy Wierch. In early April you can see a striking contrast with spring flowers blooming in the valleys and deep snow still covering the summits. During our visit, the mountains were covered in snow and our daughter had such a blast playing with the snow!

The road from Krakow to Zakopane, known as the Zakopianka, can get very congested during the holidays. What was supposed to be a two hour drive could easily take four, so it is best to leave early. Keep an eye out for brown signs along the way, as they point to the most scenic mountain viewpoints and historic wooden churches. Trains and buses from Krakow to Zakopane are also widely available if you prefer not to drive.

Where to Stay in Zakopane 🏨

• Luxury: Aries Hotel & Spa is a stunning five star property that masterfully blends traditional highlander architecture with modern elegance right in the heart of the city. Check rates here.
• Mid-range: Hotel Aquarion Family & Friends offers a great mix of comfort and convenience with easy access to the mountain trails and the local water park. Check rates here.
• Budget: Villa Vita Krupówki, one of the Tatras’ most popular resorts, is perfectly situated on Zakopane’s bustling main street, Krupówki. Check rates here.

Where to eat in Zakopane 🍽️

• Bąkowo Zohylina Wyżnio: This rustic wooden tavern offers a soulful immersion into Highlander culture. Feast on flame-grilled meats accompanied by spirited, live folk music. Read reviews here.
• Gazdowo Kuźnia: Housed in one of Zakopane’s oldest buildings, this spot oozes heritage. It’s the ultimate place to sample authentic, grilled oscypek cheese. Read reviews here.
• Karczma Przy Młynie: A charming, off-the-beaten-path gem. Its traditional Podhale architecture and hearty mountain dishes provide a cozy, soulful end to your journey. Read reviews here.

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Easter in Poland Traditions

Since I first experienced Easter in Poland, I’ve been fascinated by how these traditions have remained largely unchanged for centuries. It’s a time when the country sheds its winter gray and bursts into life with unique Polish Easter customs that are as much about folklore as they are about faith. Here’s how the week unfolds.

Palm Sunday: Towering Works of Art

The celebrations officially kick off on Palm Sunday, but you will quickly notice that the traditional green palm fronds are nowhere to be found. Instead, the local community carries intricate palms crafted from dried flowers, colorful crepe paper, and willow branches.

In smaller, charming towns like Lipnica Murowana, this practice evolves into a serious and spirited competition. Locals build towering palms that can reach heights of over 30 meters. These structures are so massive that they must be carefully hoisted into position using ropes. It is a truly spectacular experience to see these vibrant, handcrafted pillars standing tall against the backdrop of the region’s historic town squares.

Holy Thursday: Commemorating the Last Supper

Holy Thursday brings a noticeable shift in the atmosphere as the region commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus with his disciples. It is a quieter and more reflective day, offering a peaceful moment of contemplation before the busier weekend ahead. Most local churches hold solemn evening services, and in some of the more traditional communities, you might even come across dramatic live reenactments of the biblical events.

One of the most poignant traditions to witness is the Visitation of the Seven Churches. This practice involves locals moving in a steady procession to visit various places of worship throughout the evening. It provides a unique opportunity to see the beautiful, historic interiors of several different churches while experiencing the deep sense of heritage and community that defines this time of year.

Good Friday: Reflection and Processions

Good Friday in Poland is a deeply solemn and spiritual affair that transforms the atmosphere of the entire country into one of quiet reverence. You will find that many people attend services to observe the Stations of the Cross, and in several regions, the streets become the stage for dramatic processions that reenact the Passion of Christ.

It is a day dedicated to fasting and contemplation, offering a moving contrast to the colorful celebrations seen earlier in the week. As you walk through the silent towns and villages, the sense of history and devotion is truly palpable, making it a powerful time for visitors to witness the depth of the local faith.

Holy Saturday: The Blessing of the Baskets

On Holy Saturday, the atmosphere shifts toward a more intimate and communal celebration as families prepare for the upcoming feast. You will see people of all generations heading toward their local churches carrying small wicker baskets known as święconka. These baskets are typically lined with intricate lace and filled with a variety of symbolic foods that carry deep meaning.

Each item in the basket is chosen with care. You will notice colorful pisanki, which are hand-decorated eggs representing new life, alongside staples like bread for prosperity and salt to ward off evil. The baskets are traditionally finished with a fresh sprig of green boxwood for a touch of color. It is a truly heartwarming experience to witness these gatherings, as they offer a genuine and vivid window into the heart of the local culture.

Easter Sunday: Celebration and Family Meals

Easter Sunday serves as the vibrant heart of the entire holiday season. The solemnity of the previous days gives way to a noticeably brighter energy as churches fill for joyous morning services celebrating the Resurrection. It is a day of renewal and togetherness that you can feel in every town square and village home.

The focus then shifts to the family table for a long and festive meal. These gatherings are a wonderful display of local hospitality, featuring a spread of roasted meats, eggs, and traditional sweet breads. It is a time for sharing stories and laughter, and the atmosphere is one of pure celebration. The day after Easter in Poland is known as Śmigus Dyngus, or Wet Monday. It has a reputation for surprising first time visitors. Here is what happens on that day.

Easter Monday in Poland: Śmigus-Dyngus (Wet Monday)

Easter Monday brings a completely different kind of excitement to the Polish landscape. What started long ago as an ancient courtship ritual has since evolved into Śmigus Dyngus, a nationwide and lighthearted water fight that takes over the streets.

You will see people using everything from tiny water pistols to literal buckets of water to douse each other in the spirit of the holiday. If you find yourself walking through the city center or exploring a quiet village lane, you should definitely stay alert. It is all meant in good fun, and getting splashed is actually considered a sign of good luck for the year ahead.

On a practical note, this is the one day you should be extra careful with your belongings. We recommend keeping your phone and camera tucked away in a waterproof bag if you plan to be out and about during the festivities. Of course, the best way to experience the day is to simply lean into the local tradition and join the chaos yourself.

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Easter in Poland Food

If you think Polish cuisine is just about pierogi, think again. Easter (or Wielkanoc) is Poland’s grand culinary masterpiece. It is a time when tables groan under the weight of hearty, traditional dishes that have been perfected over centuries. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a marathon of flavors that celebrates the end of Lent and the arrival of spring.

The Easter Sunday breakfast is the most important meal of the year. It’s where families gather to share the contents of the Święconka (blessed basket) in a celebration that is both deeply personal and incredibly delicious.

The Savory Stars

• Żurek (Sour Rye Soup): This is the undisputed king of the Polish Easter table. It’s a fermented sour rye soup that is tangy, creamy, and packed with flavor. Usually, it’s served with a halved hard-boiled egg and chunks of white sausage. Some places even serve it in a hollowed-out loaf of crusty bread, a must-try for any food lover.
• Biała Kiełbasa (White Sausage): Unlike the smoked sausages you might be used to, this is a raw, uncurled sausage flavored heavily with garlic and marjoram. It’s usually steamed or boiled and served with a side of pungent horseradish.
• Eggs (Pisanki): You’ll find eggs prepared in every way imaginable,stuffed, deviled, or simply hard-boiled. They are the ultimate symbol of rebirth and are always the first thing eaten during the festive breakfast.

The Sweet Finale

Polish desserts during Easter are as much about art as they are about taste. The “Big Three” you need to look for are:

• Mazurek: This is a flat shortcrust cake that serves as an artistic canvas. It’s topped with a thick layer of caramel, chocolate, or nut paste, and decorated intricately with dried fruits and almonds. It’s very sweet and very dense, so a small slice goes a long way.
• Babka Wielkanocna: A tall, flute-shaped yeast cake that looks like a pleated skirt. It’s light, airy, and usually glazed with lemon or vanilla icing.
• Sernik (Polish Cheesecake): Made with twaróg (a dry, curd cheese), this is much heavier and less sweet than a standard New York cheesecake. It’s often studded with raisins and topped with a chocolate glaze.

Be brave with the Chrzan (horseradish). Poles love it served plain or mixed with beets (Ćwikła). It is incredibly potent and provides the perfect, sharp contrast to the rich, fatty meats on the table. It will definitely clear your sinuses, but the meal wouldn’t be complete without it!

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Travel Insurance for Poland

I have traveled to 150 countries and if there is one thing I have learned, it is that you should never leave home without travel insurance. Whether it is a medical emergency in the Tatra Mountains or a flight cancellation during the busy Easter season, having coverage provides essential peace of mind. 

I personally use and recommend SafetyWing because it is affordable and provides the security you need for a road trip through Poland. It covers everything from unexpected hospital stays to lost luggage. You never expect things to go wrong, but being prepared allows you to focus on the adventure instead of the logistics.

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How to Stay Connected in Poland

While Wi-Fi is common in Polish hotels and cafes, having reliable data is a lifesaver for navigating procession routes and looking up local customs while visiting Poland at Easter. I recommend getting an eSIM because you can buy and install it online without having to find a local phone shop.

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store and offers affordable plans for Poland and the rest of Europe. I have used Airalo on all my recent trips and it is very easy to set up. The connection has always been fast and reliable, which is perfect for checking maps while driving through the mountains or looking up local traditions during your trip. It is a simple way to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming fees.

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Enjoy Your Trip to Poland!

Thank you for reading this far! I hope this guide has helped you navigate the beautiful traditions and logistics of celebrating Easter in Poland. In all honesty, no trip has captured our hearts quite like this one. Experiencing the blend of ancient ritual and spring energy is something every traveler should do at least once.

If you have any questions or need more tips to fine-tune your itinerary, feel free to leave a comment below! I’m always happy to help.

Here are more of my articles about traveling around Europe to help you with your trip planning:

• A 1-Week Czechia Road Trip
• My 7-Day Portugal Itinerary
• Best Winter Destinations in Europe
• Most Beautiful Places in Europe to Visit
• Best Christmas Markets in Germany
• A 10-Day Slovenia Itinerary
• Things to Do in Ljubljana
• Driving in Switzerland
• Weekend in Amsterdam
• Weekend in Bucharest
• How to Visit Tulip Fields in the Netherlands
• How to Plan a France Family Trip
• Austria with Kids

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

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