Overview of Poland

Quick Overview

Extensively open to the Baltic Sea, Poland is a Central European country that is largely flat and low-lying, apart from the mountainous ranges in its southern part (the Carpathians and the Sudetes), which reach nearly 2,500 m.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: east of Germany, facing the Baltic Sea.

• Latitude/longitude: 52°13' N, 21°00' E.

• Local time: Heure : 5678

• Capital: Warsaw.

• Nature of the state: parliamentary republic.

• Official language: Polish.

• Currency: zloty.

• Population: 38,420,687 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 312,679 km².

• Density: 123 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Mount Rysy (2,499 m).

• Lowest point: Raczki Elbląskie (-2 m).

• Coastline: 528 km.

• Driving: on the right.

Tourism

From its sometimes painful history, the country has retained a rich heritage, a vibrant culture, and enduring traditions. Its geographical position offers a rather attractive coastline, as well as countless lakes, rivers, and forests ideal for outdoor activities. All of this makes Poland a highly interesting destination.

Each year, Poland gradually approaches 20 million visitors (19.623 million in 2018), primarily from Germany (around 40% of arrivals), neighboring countries (Ukraine, Russia, etc.), or the United Kingdom. France sends approximately 250,000 tourists per year.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner travelers.

• By air: France-Warsaw.

• Entry requirements: passport or ID card.

• Currency to bring: euros.

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks:

• Best period for climate/crowds/prices:

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★; Adventure ★★; Culture ★★★★; Relaxation/holidays ★★/★★★.

Useful Addresses

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 33/188 (rank in 2018)

• GDP per capita: $29,600 (2018)

• Average monthly income: ()

• Inflation: +2% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: +4.9% (2017)

• Population below poverty line: 17.6% (2015)

• Life expectancy: 77.9 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: -0.4 (2017)

• Population growth: -0.16% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 99.8% (2016)

• Urban population: 60.1% (2018)

• Press freedom: 58/180 (rank in 2018)

• Political regime: flawed democracy (54/167 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook