Poland is a country steeped in history and bursting with culture, offering a myriad of unique experiences for the discerning traveller. From the hustle and bustle of its vibrant cities to the tranquillity of its picturesque countryside, this country has it all, but if you won’t to go off the beaten path, here are 10 under-the-radar experiences you can have in Poland that will ignite your wanderlust.

Gdansk: A city of amber and a thousand years of history

With almost half a million inhabitants and a thousand years of history, Gdansk is the sixth largest city in Poland. Located on the Baltic Sea, it is home to the biggest port in the country. Known as “the city of amber” due to the amber trade, Gdansk was once one of the most prosperous cities in Europe. On your route, walk down Ulica Dluga and Mariacka streets, visit Artus Court and stroll through Oliwa Park.

Wrocław: A city that defies the under-the-radar label

Wrocław, despite being listed as an emerging destination, is far from under-the-radar. With its rich history and vibrant culture, it’s a favourite among many travellers. The city offers a variety of attractions, from its colourful Old Town to its impressive architecture. It’s a city that’s full of life and energy, and it’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in Polish culture.

Kaplica Czaszek: The Chapel of Skulls

Located in Kudowa-Zdrój, the Chapel of Skulls is a unique attraction. The walls and ceiling of this Polish church are decorated with thousands of skulls, with another 21,000 skeletons just below. It’s a chilling reminder of the transience of life and the inevitability of death. This macabre site is not for the faint-hearted, but it offers a fascinating insight into a different aspect of Polish history.

Rynek Underground: A hologram-filled medieval market

Beneath Kraków Old Town’s main square lies a hologram-filled medieval market vampire graveyard wonderland. It’s a unique experience that takes you back in time and offers a glimpse into the city’s past. As you wander through the underground passages, you’ll be transported back to medieval times, with holograms bringing the past to life. It’s a must-visit for history buffs.

Crooked Forest: A mystery of nature

The Crooked Forest in Gryfino is home to mysterious J-shaped trees. Countless stories attempt to explain this natural phenomenon, making it a fascinating place to visit. Some believe the trees were deliberately bent by humans for use in shipbuilding, while others think a unique gravitational pull caused the strange shape. Whatever the reason, the Crooked Forest is a sight to behold.

Wieliczka Salt Mine: An underground city of salt

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a subterranean wonder. This UNESCO World Heritage site isn’t just a mine; it’s an art gallery, showcasing the beauty that lies beneath our feet. As you descend into the depths, you’ll be greeted by a labyrinth of tunnels, chambers and chapels, all carved out of salt. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience.

The Bones of the Wawel Dragon

In Krakow, you can see the real bones which are said to have belonged to a Polish dragon. It’s a unique attraction that adds a touch of mythology to your visit. The bones are displayed at the entrance of Wawel Cathedral, and according to legend, they belong to the Wawel Dragon that once terrorised the city. It’s a fun and fascinating piece of local folklore.

The Neon Museum: A tribute to Poland’s Communist glamour

The Neon Museum in Warsaw is a colourful museum that preserves a program of Communist glamour in post-Stalin Poland. It’s a unique way to explore the country’s history. The museum is home to a collection of neon signs from the Cold War era, each one a piece of art in its own right. It’s a vibrant and visually stunning experience.

Crooked House: An architectural fantasy

Step into the pages of a fairy tale at the Crooked House in Sopot. This whimsically warped building looks like it was lifted straight out of a story book, offering visitors a glimpse into architectural fantasy. Its unique design captivates the imagination and invites curiosity.

Pyramid Rapa: A unique crypt of the Prussian family of barons von Fahrenheid

You don’t have to go to Egypt to see a pyramid. In the town of Rapa near the border with Russia, you’ll find a Polish pyramid and while it’s not nearly as impressive as the ones you’ll find in Giza, this unique crypt of the Prussian family of barons von Fahrenheid has become a bizarre tourist attraction. Baron Fredrich was fascinated with ancient Egypt and believed that pyramids had extraordinary properties affecting the dead bodies.