Some basic information you need to know before coming to Poland. A short survival guide about Poland.
Poland – survival guide
Currency in Poland
Polski Zloty, in English Polish Zloty (PLN), is the official Polish currency. Within the last 10 years there has been a debate on introducing the euro. However, the economic crisis, tensions in the euro zone, and the conservative Polish government make it a rather distant prospect.
Check out the current currency rate.
Foreign languages in Poland
According to the EF English Proficiency Index (2016), Poland is 10th (high proficiency) on the list of 72 countries. This index de- scribes the level of proficiency and fluency of this language within the populations.
Many young people in Poland speak good English. At the same time, the older generation learned Russian in schools. During communism it was the first foreign language. It’s also worth learning some Polish phrases. The Polish people will really appreciate it!
Costs of a taxi ride in Poland
There are two rates in Poland (First rate: 6 am – 11 pm; Second rate: 11 pm – 6 am and public holidays). The price of one kilometer by taxi
in Poland is around 3 PLN (rate 1) or 4,.0 PLN (rate 2). 6 PLN is the initial cost of taking the taxi.
Ask for the price before entering the taxi. Unfortunately, it might sometimes happen that taxi drivers try to overcharge you.
Opening hours in Poland
Many chain shops which also sell food (e.g. Zabka) can be found in Poland. These operate between 6 am and 11 pm. Large shopping malls are usually open between 9am and 9pm.
According to the new law shops and supermarkets are open only at the last Sunday of each month.
The majority of the museums are closed on Mondays. On other days they are open between 10 am and 5 pm (some of them stay open longer).
On working days, many restaurants serve food only till 9 or 10 pm. Some of the pubs in big cities are open 24/7.
Tap water in Poland
You can drink it safely in Poland. However, it’s rather unusual to get it for free at restaurants.
Tips in Poland
Polish people tip only when they are satisfied with the service. There is no obligatory amount in most situations. A 10-15% tip in restaurants is considered appropriate.
