When you think of Poland, images of historic cities, hearty cuisine, and vodka often come to mind. But Poland also offers an awesome shopping scene that is sure to delight bargain hunters and trendsetters alike. From the funky village boutiques of Krakow’s Kazimierz district to the glitzy luxury brands of Warsaw’s Nowy Swiat, there’s something for everyone when it comes to indulging in some Polish retail therapy.
Of course, finding the best places to go shopping and knowing what you should buy when you’re on a trip to Poland can be a little confusing. At Crown Currency, we know that you want to spend more time shopping and less time wondering where to go, and that’s why we’ve put together this complete guide to shopping in Poland. Here, you’ll find a list of unmissable Polish items, amazing shopping destinations, and some top shopping tips!
What to Buy When Shopping in Poland
Let’s kick things off by taking a look at some of the best things you can buy on a shopping trip to Poland. From delicious pierogies to intricate wycinanki, you’ll find some genuine Polish items that make amazing souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Pierogi
Filled with savoury ingredients, including potatoes, sauerkraut, meat, and cheese and topped with butter or sour cream, pierogi are delicious dumplings that are quintessentially Polish. You’ll find these in food stalls at local markets, and if you’re staying in self-catering accommodation, be sure to grab some frozen pierogi from the nearest supermarket.
Whether fresh or frozen, pierogi are a relatively affordable treat and you’ll be able to buy half a dozen for around zl20 Polish Zloty ($7.50 AUD).
Boleslawiec Pottery
If you’re looking for a truly unique souvenir from your travels to Poland, you can’t go wrong with some beautifully crafted pottery from Boleslawiec. Known for its distinctive blue and white patterns, you’ll find a huge range of Boleslawiec pottery items like plates, bowls, mugs, and vases that are perfect for adding a touch of Polish charm to your home.
Prices on Boleslawiec pottery vary depending on what you’re buying, but you can pick up a beautifully crafted plate for around zl81 PLN ($30 AUD) or a small bowl for zl50 PLN ($19 AUD).
Amber Jewellery
Poland is famous for its amber, and you’ll find exquisite amber jewellery in market stalls and high-end boutiques alike. From simple earrings to intricate necklaces, a beautiful piece of amber jewellery is a great item to pick up if you’re looking for a souvenir of your trip to Poland or a gift for a loved one.
As you might expect, the price of amber jewellery varies depending on what you’re buying. There are some pretty affordable options, though. For instance, the average price of an amber and silver bracelet is zl84 PLN ($32 AUD), or if you’re looking for something a little more special, a white amber necklace can cost up to zl260 PLN ($99 AUD).
Vodka
No trip to Poland is complete without trying its world-famous vodka. There are plenty of varieties to choose from, too, including clear and flavoured vodkas, each of which makes a great gift for any spirit enthusiast, and you’ll also find some of the world’s best vodka brands at unbeatable prices, including Zubrokwka and Belvedere.
When we say unbeatable prices, we really mean it. The average price of a bottle of vodka in Poland is just zl20 PLN ($7.50), and while higher-end brands may cost a little more, they are still much cheaper than the prices you’ll pay at home. So, make sure you stock up!
Kielbasa
Known for their rich flavour, kielbasa are Polish sausages that you’ll find filling the air at markets with their incredible, mouthwatering fragrance. There are loads of different varieties to choose from, too, including Kabanosy, which is famous for its deliciously smoky flavour. Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of street food, as you can also find kielbasa in many supermarkets and butcher shops, making it possible to cook yourself a traditional Polish meal back at your self-catering accommodation.
You can pick up a single kielbasa from a street food vendor for around zl15 PLN ($5.60 AUD), while a pound of kielbasa sausages will cost you an average of zl29 PLN ($11 AUD).
Pierniki
Another famous Polish food that also doubles as a great gift or souvenir, pierniki are gingerbread cookies made with honey and spices, including cinnamon and cloves. You’ll find these in abundance at Christmas time in Poland, but they are available year-round in various shapes and sizes and are often decorated with icing or chocolate and presented in beautiful gift boxes.
We recommend heading to a food market to find some of the best pierniki, where you can expect to spend around zl10 PLN ($3.70 AUD) per cookie. Or, for a ‘try before you buy’ experience, head to a pierniki cafe where you can sample these cookies before purchasing a selection of your favourites.
Wycinanki
If you’d prefer to pick up a souvenir that isn’t food-based, wycinanki make a wonderful choice. These are traditional Polish paper cut-outs inspired by nature, folklore, and everyday life, and you’ll mostly find them in rural areas and markets as framed artwork, bookmarks, and even Christmas tree decorations.
Each artisan will have their own price for their wycinanki, but generally speaking, they aren’t too expensive, and you can pick up some beautiful pieces for just a few Polish Zloty. Depending on how long you’re in Poland, some crafters may offer a bespoke service, but this will come at a higher price than purchasing ready-made wycinanki.
Best Markets in Poland
Now you know what you should take the opportunity to buy when you’re on a trip to Poland. But where should you go shopping for them? Below, we’re going to walk you through some of the best markets to find these products, and they’re especially good if you’re looking for one-of-a-kind, artisan souvenirs.
The Cloth Hall
Located in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, the Cloth Hall is one of the most iconic marketplaces in Poland. Dating back to the Renaissance era, you’ll find a huge range of Polish goods here, including amber jewellery, handicrafts, and leather goods, making it one of the must-visit places if you need to pick up a few gifts or mementos.
Wroclaw Market Hall
This historic market hall in Wroclaw is a foodie paradise, and you’ll find an abundance of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, bread, and other local delicacies here. There’s also a great atmosphere at Wroclaw Market Hall, and there is often live music to enjoy while you peruse the food stalls.
Gdansk Main Town Market
Situated within a picturesque square lined with colourful merchant houses, Gdansk Main Town Market is home to a mix of souvenir stalls, artisan workshops, and outdoor cafes. Be sure to break up your shopping trip here by checking out the Neptune Fountain and the Golden Gate while you’re here!
Poznan Old Market Square
One of the largest and oldest market squares in Poland, Poznan Old Market Square is located in Stary Rynek and boasts an eclectic mix of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s easy to lose an entire day shopping here, and with many outdoor cafes and restaurants to choose from, you’ve got the perfect opportunity to stop and refuel when needed.
Best Shopping Malls in Poland
Once you’re done exploring Poland’s beautiful markets, head to the shopping malls, where you’ll find upscale shopping opportunities and boutiques selling luxury goods, including beauty products and designer labels.
Zlote Tarasy
Head to the heart of Warsaw, and you’ll find Zlote Tarasy, which is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Poland. This impressive mall, with its glass roof, offers a huge selection of shops to explore, along with restaurants, a cinema, and even an indoor garden, making it not only a great place to indulge in retail therapy but also an excellent destination for a family day out.
Galeria Krakowska
Conveniently located right next to Krakow’s main railway station, Galeria Krakowska is a bustling shopping centre with a diverse range of stores, including fashion, electronics, cosmetics, and more. There’s also a food court here with a variety of dining options, which is perfect for resting and refuelling before you hit the shops again!
Arkadia
With over 200 stores spread across multiple levels, Arkadia is one of the largest shopping malls in Poland, and you’ll find a ton of items to discover here, from fashion and accessories to home goods and electronics. There is also a cinema, bowling alley, and a wide selection of restaurants and cafes to enjoy.
Manufaktura
Housed inside a former textile factory complex, Manufaktura isn’t just a shopping mall; it’s a cultural and entertainment hub. Along with its extensive retail opportunities, including beauty, fashion, and home decor stores, you’ll find museums, art galleries, restaurants, and a cinema. Its industrial-chic atmosphere and historic architecture also make it a really interesting place to spend the day splashing some cash.
Best Specialty Stores in Poland
Poland is home to some incredible produce and items that you won’t find anywhere else on Earth, and to get the real deal, it’s best to visit some specialty stores. Here are a few of our favourites, each of which is guaranteed to offer up a treasure you simply have to take home.
Galeria Artystyczna Wycinanki
Located in the picturesque town of Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains, Galeria Artystyczna Wycinanki specialises in wycinanki - the traditional Polish paper cutouts we spoke about earlier. You’ll find a huge range of designs here, from floral motifs to folklore scenes, all handmade by local artists.
Manufaktura Czekolady E. Wedel
Are you a chocolate lover? A trip to Manufaktura Czekolady E. Wedel is an essential stop on your Polish shopping adventure! Founded by the famous Polish chocolatier Emil Wedel, you’ll find a wide range of handmade chocolates here, along with pralines and other delicious confections. There’s also an on-site cafe where you can enjoy a cup of rich hot chocolate.
Galeria Bursztynu
This store, located in Krakow, specialises in traditional Polish folk art and handicrafts. Whether you’re looking for embroidered textiles, wooden carvings, pottery, or decorative items inspired by regional folk traditions, Galeria Bursztynu is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
Gdanska Wytwornia Wedlin
If you’re a fan of Kielbasa (Polish sausages), then a trip to Gdanska Wytwornia Wedlin is a must. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of artisanal sausages made using traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, from smoky kabanosy to hearty Krawowksa.
Best Places for Clothes Shopping in Poland
Looking for a new outfit? In Poland, you’ll find a mix of international brands, local designers, and boutique stores offering a range of styles and price points. Here are some of our favourite places for clothes shopping in Poland:
Galeries Lafayette
Located in Warsaw, Galeries Lafayette is a luxury department store offering a curated selection of high-end fashion brands for men, women, and children. Whether you’re looking for clothing, shoes, accessories, or cosmetics, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for here.
Krakowska Street
This bustling shopping street in Krakow’s Old Town is home to a variety of fashion boutiques, shoe stores, and accessory shops. There’s something for every budget here, too, with a mix of international brands and local designers, making it a great place to discover something unique.
Stary Browar
Stary Browar is a unique shopping centre housed in a renovated brewery complex in Poznan, and here, you’ll find a mix of fashion stores, lifestyle boutiques, and concept stores with something for everyone. If you’re looking to discover some hidden treasures and one-of-a-kind fashion finds, you absolutely have to visit Stary Browar.
Nowy Swiat and Krakowskie Przedmiescie
These two streets in Warwaw’s city centre are lined with a mix of high-end boutiques, designer stores, and international fashion chains. You’ll find everything from luxury brands to trendy fast-fashion retailers here, making it a super popular destination for clothes shopping in the capital.
Top Tip: No matter what you’re planning to buy, it’s a good idea to make sure you have plenty of cash on your before your shopping trip. You can find the best rates on AUD to PLN at Crown Currency Exchanges.
Tips for Shopping in Poland
Whether you’re shopping in markets or high-end fashion stores, there are some basic rules you should follow when shopping in Poland. Below, you’ll find some handy tips that will make the whole Polish shopping experience a breeze and make sure that you’re able to navigate things with ease.
Shopping Etiquette and Cultural Sensitivity
One of the best things you can do to remain culturally sensitive when shopping in Poland is to make the effort to learn a few basic greetings and pleasantries. A simple “Dzien dobry” (Good morning) or “Dziekuje” (Thank you) can help break the ice and ensure you’re able to show your appreciation for the service received. Don’t panic about your pronunciation too much, either - most Polish shopkeepers will appreciate the effort you’ve made to thank them in their native tongue.
Something that is very important to note is that while bargaining is common in some countries, it isn’t practised in Poland, especially in larger stores and shopping malls. As such, don't attempt to bring the price down on anything, as this can seem incredibly rude to the shopkeeper.
A great money-saving tip, now! As a tourist, you may be eligible for a tax refund on purchases over a certain amount. Make sure you ask the retailer about the process and keep your receipts so you can claim tax back on your items when you arrive at the airport for your return flight.
Practical Advice for Shopping in Poland
When it comes to practicality, the first thing you need to know is that opening hours in Poland vary between stores, and most are closed on Sundays and national holidays. With this in mind, take the time to plan your shopping trip to avoid disappointment or a wasted journey, taking the time to check online or call ahead to ask for specific opening hours. Likewise, it’s a good idea to do this on the day if there’s a certain store you want to visit, and smaller shops may have to close unexpectedly for various reasons.
Think about what you want to buy as well, and plan how you’re going to get those items back to your accommodation. For example, if you’re planning to buy items or bulky souvenirs, consider how easy it’s going to be to transport them back or ask whether that store has a shipping service. This is even better if they offer international shipping, as you won’t have to worry about getting the items back on the plane home!
Budget Your Money for Shopping in Poland
Before your trip, think about how much money you’re willing to spend while shopping in Poland, especially if you’re planning to pick up a few gifts and souvenirs. While Polish products and handicrafts are relatively affordable, costs can quickly add up in the excitement of shopping, but setting a budget in advance will help you stay on track and avoid overspending.
Likewise, to get an idea of prices, research some popular Polish products and souvenirs like those we’ve listed above. Doing this will help you determine whether or not you’re getting a good deal and avoid being overcharged for items, and give you a better idea of how many items you’re realistically able to purchase in line with your shopping budget.
Finally, many shops and markets offer sales and discounts, especially during seasonal periods or in the low travel season. Keep an eye out for these deals, as this can make your budget stretch further, and don’t be afraid to aks shopkeepers about any promotions they are running. This won’t be seen as bargaining and, as such, isn’t likely to cause any offence.
Get the Best Rates on Polish Zloty at Crown Currency
With so many wonderful things to buy, including some speciality items you won’t find anywhere else with the same level of authenticity, Poland really does offer an incredible shopping experience for any avid traveller. However, while some stores accept card payments, cash is the most convenient way to pay for your Polish goods, and you also remove the risk of being charged expensive International Transaction Fees by your bank or credit card company!
You’ll find the best rates on AUD to PLN at Crown Currency Exchange, with no commission fees or hidden costs, keeping more money in your pocket. Visit one of our many locations today and speak with our expert team, who will help you exchange your money and get you one step closer to your Polish shopping adventure.
