This summer, many Britons are opting for city breaks in Eastern Europe rather than venturing further afield, according to travel industry insiders.
Rise of Eastern European Destinations
Alessandro Petazzi, CEO of Lastminute.com, told the Daily Mail that the most sought-after destinations are either smaller cities such as Krakow and Gdansk or European capitals like Berlin and Copenhagen. Eastern Europe has witnessed the most significant growth in the city escape market, with Gdansk seeing a 97 percent increase in bookings and Bucharest recording a 71 percent rise. Krakow also experienced a 58 percent surge in popularity over the past year.
Petazzi attributed this trend to low-cost airlines opening new routes, making flights from London or Manchester to cities like Gdansk and Krakow more accessible and affordable. This comes amid a jet fuel crisis affecting the travel industry, with Wizz Air's chief executive recently warning that European flight prices are currently cheaper than they will be in the coming months.
With Poland set to be a standout destination this summer, here is a guide to the country's top cities to visit.
Krakow: The Budget-Friendly Favourite
Krakow has long been a popular choice for Britons seeking affordable city breaks. Which? previously named it the UK's favourite European city-break destination, awarding it full marks for food, drink, and cultural attractions. Visitors praised its historic gems, including Wawel Royal Castle and the town hall tower. The medieval square, the largest of its kind in Europe, offers a vibrant atmosphere, while the Jewish quarter provides further exploration opportunities.
The Wieliczka salt mine, an underground attraction just outside the city, also impressed tourists. Krakow ranks highly for value for money, with flights from London starting at £16 each way in June with Ryanair.
Gdansk: A Rising Star on the Baltic Coast
Gdansk, a historic port city, is rapidly gaining popularity, drawing 4.5 million visitors in 2024. Known for its colourful merchant houses and maritime history, visitors can stroll along Long Market and Long Street, see the medieval Gdansk Crane, climb St. Mary’s Church for panoramic views, and visit the European Solidarity Centre. Riverside restaurants along the Motlawa offer dining options.
Despite being Poland's sixth-largest city with a population of nearly 500,000, Gdansk is famed as the site where World War II began in 1939. Its attractions include St. Mary's Basilica, one of the largest brick churches in the world. Flights from London start at £15 each way in June with Wizz Air.
Zakopane: The Alps of Poland
Zakopane, a mountain town in southern Poland, has been dubbed the 'Alps of Poland' for its emerald lakes, wooden chalets, purple wildflower meadows, and thermal baths. It offers excellent value, with a pint and pizza costing under £10. Surrounded by the dramatic Tatra Mountains, the town remains less discovered than Alpine resorts but is only a two-and-a-half-hour flight from the UK.
TUI will include Zakopane in its Lakes & Mountains programme for summer 2026. The nearest airports are Poprad-Tatry in Slovakia and Krakow in Poland. Flights from the UK to Poprad start at £29 with Wizz Air, and a pint costs around £2.50.
Wroclaw: The Colourful Canal City
Wroclaw boasts a pastel-coloured market square, canals, and a lively restaurant scene. Visitors can explore the Rynek market square, Ostrow Tumski (Cathedral Island), and the Market Hall for local food. The city is famous for its 300 tiny bronze dwarf statues hidden throughout the streets. Flights from London start at £15 each way in June with Ryanair, and pints cost just £2.50.
Warsaw: The Resilient Capital
Warsaw, Poland's capital, offers a blend of historic and modern attractions. The Old Town, meticulously rebuilt after World War II and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features the Royal Castle. A Tripadvisor reviewer praised the castle's restoration and exhibitions. Visitors can also relax in Lazienki Park and explore the Warsaw Rising Museum. Flights from London start at £17 each way in June with Ryanair.
