Currency & Payment

Poland uses the Polish złoty (PLN, zł), divided into 100 grosz. Although Poland is an EU member, it has not adopted the euro and is outside the eurozone, so the złoty is the everyday currency. You will need złoty for small shops, markets and some services, even though cards are widely used.

Exchange offices are called kantor and are common in cities, airports and tourist areas. Rates at independent city-centre kantors are often better than at airports or hotels. Compare the buy/sell rates displayed and check whether commission is charged. Withdrawing złoty from an ATM can also give competitive rates.

Cards are widely accepted across Poland, and contactless payment is very common. Visa and Mastercard work almost everywhere in cities. Even so, small shops, local markets and some places in rural areas may prefer or only take cash, so carry some złoty as a backup.

ATMs, called bankomat, are widely available in cities, stations and shopping areas. Watch out for foreign-card fees from your own bank and any operator fees. Always decline dynamic currency conversion (DCC) and choose to be charged in złoty to get a better rate. Bank-branded ATMs are generally more reliable than standalone machines.

Mobile payments are very popular in Poland. Apple Pay and Google Pay work wherever contactless is accepted, which is almost everywhere. Poland also has BLIK, a hugely popular local mobile payment system linked to Polish bank apps, used for in-store, online and person-to-person payments. Visitors generally rely on Apple Pay or Google Pay, as BLIK needs a Polish bank account.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, around 10% is common for good service. A fun local point: if you hand over cash and say "dziękuję" (thank you) as you pay, it can be taken to mean "keep the change", so say it after you get your change if you do not intend to tip the whole amount. Rounding up is normal for taxis and cafes.

Poland is generally more affordable than Western Europe, which many travellers find good value. Eating out, public transport and local goods often cost less than in the eurozone. Prices have risen noticeably in recent years, and Warsaw and popular tourist spots are pricier than smaller towns. Budget a little more than you might expect from older guidebooks.

Non-EU residents can claim a VAT (VAT/PTU) refund on eligible purchases above a minimum amount under the Tax Free for Tourists scheme. Ask the shop for a tax-free form when you buy, and get customs validation when you finally leave the EU. A minimum purchase amount and other conditions apply, and the refund is paid through the tax-free operator.