Skiing in Poland

In recent years, Poland has become an increasingly popular destination for winter holidays, mainly thanks to the modernization of ski resorts. Although Polish mountains do not reach the heights of the Alps, they offer well-groomed slopes, modern lift infrastructure, and good facilities for families with children as well as recreational skiers. The most famous areas are located in the Tatra Mountains, the Beskids, and the Krkonoše Mountains, where snow is often more reliable thanks to the colder climate than in some lower-lying regions of Central Europe.

How to choose a ski resort in Poland

1. Zakopane – Kasprowy Wierch (High Tatras)

Suitable for: advanced and sporty skiers
What you will find: high-mountain slopes, natural terrain, the only truly Alpine skiing in Poland

Kasprowy Wierch is the highest-altitude ski resort in Poland and offers an authentic high-mountain experience. The approximately 15 km of slopes are mostly sporty in character, not artificially snowed, and operation depends heavily on natural conditions. The area is especially popular with experienced skiers and freeriders.

Altitude: approx. 1,020–1,987 m

Access

• from Warsaw approx. 4–5 hours → Plan route
• from Kraków approx. 2 hours → Plan route

Where to stay: 

The widest range of accommodation is available directly in Zakopane, from where you can reach the cable car by local transport. Quieter alternatives include the nearby villages of Kościelisko or Poronin.

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2. Białka Tatrzańska (Tatras)

Suitable for: families with children, beginners, recreational skiers
What you will find: modern resort, wide slopes, excellent facilities

Białka Tatrzańska is one of the most modern ski resorts in Poland and is well known for its high-quality snowmaking. The slopes (mostly blue and red) are clear, wide, and ideal for family skiing. A major bonus is the thermal spa complex located very close to the resort.

Altitude: approx. 700–1,070 m

Access

• from Warsaw approx. 4–5 hours → Plan route
• from Kraków approx. 1.5 hours → Plan route

Where to stay: 

Accommodation is available directly in Białka Tatrzańska or in nearby villages such as Bukowina Tatrzańska and Czarna Góra, which offer very good value for money.

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3. Szczyrk Mountain Resort (Beskids)

Suitable for: families, intermediate and advanced skiers
What you will find: modern lifts, long slopes, interconnected areas

Szczyrk is one of the largest and most modern ski resorts in Poland. Thanks to significant investments, it offers high-quality infrastructure, long runs, and very good snow reliability. The area is suitable for both family skiing and more sporty riding.

Altitude: approx. 520–1,257 m

Access

• from Warsaw approx. 4–4.5 hours → Plan route
• from Kraków approx. 2 hours → Plan route

Where to stay: 

The widest choice is directly in Szczyrk, or in quieter nearby villages such as Wisła or Brenna.

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4. Czarna Góra (Sudetes)

Suitable for: families, recreational skiers
What you will find: clear slopes, modern facilities, a quieter atmosphere

Czarna Góra is a popular resort in the Sudetes offering good snow conditions, around 14 km of slopes, and solid services. Thanks to its location and modern snowmaking, it is also suitable for shorter stays or weekend skiing.

Altitude: approx. 800–1,205 m

Access

• from Warsaw approx. 5 hours → Plan route
• from Kraków approx. 3–4 hours → Plan route

Where to stay: 

Accommodation is available directly near the resort or in nearby towns such as Stronie Śląskie and Lądek-Zdrój.

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5. Zieleniec Ski Arena (Orlické Mountains)

Suitable for: beginners, families, weekend skiing
What you will find: stable snow conditions, a compact ski area

Zieleniec is known for its specific microclimate, which ensures very good snow conditions throughout most of the winter. The resort offers around 23 km of slopes divided into several smaller sectors forming a clear and compact ski centre.

Altitude: approx. 800–1,025 m

Access

• from Warsaw approx. 5–5.5 hours → Plan route
• from Kraków approx. 4–4.5 hours → Plan route

Where to stay: 

The highest concentration of accommodation is directly in Zieleniec, or in Duszniki-Zdrój and nearby villages.

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6. Szklarska Poręba (Krkonoše / Giant Mountains)

Suitable for: intermediate skiers, sporty riding
What you will find: longer slopes, mountain scenery, connection with the Czech Republic

Szklarska Poręba is located in the Polish part of the Giant Mountains and is best known for the Szrenica ski area. It offers longer and more demanding runs than most Polish resorts and often very good snow conditions.

Altitude: approx. 710–1,362 m

Access

• from Warsaw approx. 5–6 hours → Plan route
• from Kraków approx. 4.5–5.5 hours → Plan route

Where to stay: 

Accommodation is available directly in Szklarska Poręba, or in quieter surrounding villages.

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Practical tips for travelling and skiing in Poland

Travelling to Poland is very easy for Czech skiers and usually does not require any special preparation. Most resorts are accessible via regular roads without the need for motorway tolls or vignettes. Winter tyres are mandatory, and in mountain areas it is advisable to carry snow chains, especially during heavy snowfall.

Parking and ski pass prices

In recent years, Polish resorts have invested heavily in modern lift systems and snowmaking, resulting in a very good overall quality of services. Parking at ski areas is often free or available for a symbolic fee, and ski buses are common, especially in larger resorts. Another advantage is the more affordable prices of ski passes, accommodation, and dining compared to the Alps.

We recommend keeping an eye on local school holidays, especially in January and February, when resorts can be significantly busier. Outside the main season, Poland is an excellent choice for quiet skiing without crowds. As anywhere in the mountains, it is advisable to have good travel insurance, especially if you plan more advanced skiing or activities outside marked slopes.

Although Poland is a great budget-friendly option for a mountain holiday, you can reduce costs even further. Book your accommodation via Wakacje za benefity and pay for your stay using Edenred, Pluxee, or Up benefit points.