May Day is a time awaited by many Poles. The long weekend, which falls at the beginning of May, is a perfect opportunity to rest, relax and spend time with family or friends. However, apart from ordinary relaxation, May Day in Poland is also associated with certain traditions and customs that give this time a unique character. M

Outdoor grilling

One of the most popular May Day customs in Poland is outdoor barbecuing. It’s a great opportunity to meet friends or family and spend time eating together outdoors. The gardens, plots and even balconies resound with laughter, conversations and the smell of delicious roasted meat.

Weekend trips

May weekend is also a time when many Poles decide to go on short weekend trips. Popular destinations include cities, mountains, the seaside or simply spending time in nature. Discovering new places, visiting tourist attractions and relaxing walks are inherent elements of May trips.

 

Outdoor events

Many cities organize various types of outdoor events on the occasion of May Day. Concerts, festivals, fireworks displays and regional fairs are just some of the events that attract residents and tourists. This is a great opportunity to feel the atmosphere of celebration and integration with the local community.

Nature trips

For many people, the May weekend is a perfect time for active recreation in the bosom of nature. Hiking, cycling and kayaking trips are just some of the options that allow you to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature. Poland is rich in picturesque areas that encourage active spending time outdoors.

Poland is rich in tourist attractions that are worth exploring, and here is a list of five cities that are the perfect option for a May weekend getaway.

 

1. Cracow:

Krakow, the pearl of Małopolska, attracts tourists with its unique charm. It is a city full of history, monuments and culture. During the May weekend, it is worth visiting Wawel, the Old Town with the Main Square and the Cloth Hall, and Kazimierz – the Jewish district. Krakow is also famous for its excellent cuisine – be sure to try traditional Polish dishes in one of the numerous pubs.

2. Gdańsk:

Gdańsk is a pearl on the Baltic Sea, the charm of which is hard to resist. A May weekend by the sea is a perfect idea for a relaxing holiday. Walking around the Old Town, you will see beautiful tenement houses as well as the famous Neptune Fountain. Don’t forget about Westerplatte – a place that played a key role in the history of Poland during World War II.

3. Wroclaw:

Wrocław, called the Venice of the North, is a city that delights with its architecture and atmosphere. When walking around Wrocław, be sure to visit the old town with the market square and the famous Cathedral of St. Mary Magdalene. During the May weekend, it is also worth going for a walk around Ostrów Tumski – the oldest part of the city.

Building of University and the Odra at sunset in Wroclaw

4. Zakopane:

If you like mountains and beautiful nature, Zakopane is the perfect place for the May weekend. The capital of the Polish Tatra Mountains attracts tourists with its unique atmosphere and opportunities for active recreation. During the May weekend, it is worth going for a hike on one of the numerous mountain trails, and in the evening, visit Krupówki – the main street of Zakopane full of shops, restaurants and cafes.

5. Toruń:

Toruń, the city of Copernicus, delights not only with its history, but also with its beautiful architecture. During the May weekend, it is worth visiting the Old Town with the Gothic tenement house under the Star, the town hall and the church of St. John the Baptist. Don’t forget about a sweet delicacy – Toruń gingerbread, which you can find in numerous confectioneries in the city.

There is no doubt that Poland is full of beautiful and interesting places worth visiting. Whether you prefer visiting monuments or staying active in nature, you’re sure to find something for yourself in one of these five cities. Plan your May trip today and discover the charms of Poland!