Poland Travel 2025: Top European Destination Offers Safe and Welcoming Experience for International Visitors

As of June 2025, Poland is considered one of the safest destinations in Europe for international travelers. The U.S. Department of State maintains Poland at a Level 1 travel advisory, which is the lowest level and simply advises visitors to exercise normal precautions. This assessment was confirmed in the most recent update on June 5, 2025, following a routine review of local conditions. The designation reflects Poland's stable security environment, efficient public services, and generally low crime rates. News outlets highlight that American tourists and other international visitors can travel with peace of mind, supported by the country’s robust infrastructure and welcoming atmosphere.

There are no COVID-19-specific entry requirements for Poland as of June 2025, so travelers do not need to show proof of vaccination or recent test results. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently issues a global Level 2 advisory for polio. All travelers are strongly encouraged to ensure their routine vaccinations, including those for polio and measles, are fully up to date, especially since Europe has seen periodic outbreaks of these diseases.

While violent crime is rare, travelers should remain aware of the risk of petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft, particularly in large cities like Warsaw. Simple precautions like keeping valuables secure, staying alert in crowded areas, and knowing the local emergency number—112 for police, fire, or medical assistance—will help keep your trip trouble-free. Public transportation in Poland is efficient, inexpensive, and reliable, but travelers using buses or trams must purchase and validate tickets immediately upon boarding to avoid fines. For taxis, always use clearly marked vehicles with company identifiers and make sure the driver’s license and meter are visible. At airports, travelers should use only taxis from designated stands to avoid unregistered and potentially unsafe services.

If planning to drive, be aware that Poland has one of the highest road fatality rates in the European Union. Roads can be narrow, poorly lit, frequently under repair, and are often shared with pedestrians and cyclists. Driving after dark poses additional risks, and nearly a quarter of road fatalities involve pedestrians. American travelers must have both a valid U.S. driver's license and an International Driving Permit, as IDPs cannot be obtained within Poland. For stays longer than six months, a Polish driver’s license is necessary.

Due to the ongoing conflict in neighboring Ukraine, Poland has accepted a significant number of Ukrainian refugees, resulting in visible humanitarian support efforts and increased security at borders and major transport hubs. However, this situation has not undermined the overall safety or vibrancy of Poland’s cities, and daily life for visitors continues as usual.

In summary, Poland in summer 2025 remains a highly attractive and safe destination for global tourists. The Level 1 travel advisory encourages visitors to enjoy their experience while exercising general travel awareness. Staying current with health precautions and following local laws and customs ensures a safe, enjoyable visit to Poland this season.