Poland

Etiquette

• Poles can seem reserved with strangers at first but are warm once acquainted — a polite “Dzień dobry” goes a long way.
• Dress modestly and remove hats in churches. At Auschwitz-Birkenau keep a quiet, respectful manner throughout the visit.
• Carry some cash for small shops, tips and restrooms. Restaurant tipping is about 10%.
• If you are offered a toast it is polite to join in; “Na zdrowie” means “to your health.”

Tipping

• Currency is the złoty (PLN); tip in cash.
• Restaurants: about 10% for good service. Careful — saying “dziękuję” (thank you) as you hand over payment can mean “keep the change,” so state the amount you want to pay if you want change back.
• Cafés & bars: round up to the next few złoty.
• Taxis: round up the fare.
• Hotels: 5–10 PLN per bag; a few złoty per day for housekeeping.
• Guides & tours: 10–20 PLN per person for a good guided tour.

Useful phrases

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