Poland Road Trip Guide
Introduction
Poland, a country rich in history and natural beauty, is an increasingly popular tourist destination in Central Europe. Known for its vibrant cities like Warsaw and Kraków, Poland offers a blend of medieval architecture, cultural landmarks, and modern attractions. The country’s diverse landscapes, from the sandy beaches of the Baltic Sea to the rugged Tatra Mountains, make it ideal for a road trip. Well-maintained roads connect charming villages, historic castles, and national parks, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace. Poland’s warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and affordable travel costs further enhance its appeal, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and cultural immersion on the open road.
Car Rental Tips
Book in Advance
Generally, we recommend that you make your reservation one month in advance so that you could choose the desired vehicle and date.
If you proceed directly to the car rental store without an appointment, it is likely that the car you need might be unavailable.
- If you were already a QEEQ diamond member, you only need 1$ to freeze your booking and make the rest of the payment before pick-up, which does not affect your credit card limit.
Required Documents
Passport, Driver’s License, IDP(Optimal), Credit Card
International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, which allows you to drive legally in countries that need one. But sometimes if the country you are traveling to does not require one, you can leave this part.
If it is inconvenient for you to apply an IDP, generate a free driver’s license translation on QEEQ.com (Japanese site only).
Car Choices
The choice of your car depend largely on the duration of your trip, passenger number, luggage amount and road conditions.
- City Driving for small groups (1-3 passengers)
If you are a couple, or travel with a friend or two, or if you travel alone, a reasonably priced small car would be a good choice.
Compact size cars have 4 to 5 seats. We recommend sparing one passenger capacity so you could relax and have more space.
- 4 to 5 passengers including children and elderly
Medium and large size cars are recommended. These models could still possess a fair mount of space with 2 to 3 suitcases. SUVs are suitable for hybrid road conditions. Eco-friendly cars such as the Prius could save your spend on gasoline. Choose what you need giving you peace of mind on long trips.
- Traveling in a group of 6 or more
It would be a wonderful experience to choose a van for everyone to have his or her own seat. These models accommodate a passenger capacity from 7 to 12 people. While it is noticeable that large cars cannot make quick and sharp turns. So we recommend renting two small or medium-sized cars if you spend a lot of time driving through towns.
Online Booking Process
We are endeavoring to make your appointment as convenient as possible. Enter our website QEEQ.com, log in, enter the required information, and follow the instructions, you are free to rent your desired car.
Insurance
What Insurances Are Available?
- For Autopilot Cars:
- Insured: Protection for the person renting the car, including passenger accident insurance and personal accident insurance (PAI). This includes the personal safety of the driver, passengers, and their personal belongings.
- Automobile Insurance: protection for the vehicle of the renter. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is one example.
- Third-party Insurance: insurance that protects third parties other than the renter and the car rental company. Basic Third Party Liability (BTL) insurance, etc.
International car rental orders will include the basic insurance required for car rentals: Vehicle Damage Coverage, Theft Protection, and Third Party Liability Insurance.
The deductible is the maximum amount of money you’re liable for in the event your rental car is damaged or stolen as long as you follow the conditions of your rental agreement. For example, the deductible is 1000 dollars, if the damage to the rented car is less than 1000 dollars, the customer pays; if the damage is more than 1000 dollars, the customer pays up to 1000 dollars; and the store’s insurance company pays for the part exceeding 1000 dollars.
Many travelers want more comprehensive coverage and purchase additional insurance. Personnel, vehicle and third-party coverage varies by insurance type. Here are some examples of common types of insurance (note: more checks means more coverage):
When and How to Purchase Insurance
There are two ways to obtain insurance: one is to purchase insurance when booking the car online; the other is to purchase insurance at the local store where the car is rented when picking up the car.
Generally, insurances provided by rental car companies usually has narrower coverage, higher premiums, so purchasing insurance online when booking the car is highly recommended.
How to Choose Insurance
If you are traveling with limited budget, it is better to choose the kind of insurance policy with the most comprehensive coverage. The main reasons are:
- Firstly, repairing fee for the car would probably be higher abroad.
- Secondly, in case of an accident, the medical cost and compensation are very high.
- Thirdly, the wider the coverage, the less the troubles you would deal with, which saves tons of time and energy.
Taking automobile insurance as an instance, comparing to common insurance policies, the most comprehensive insurance coverage, including glasses, tires, chassis protection, and considerations for special road conditions such as sand and rocks, is very necessary, but basic insurance of car rental companies usually does not include full coverage as such.
Picking Up the Car
Check Before Departure
Before proceeding to the car rental shop, make sure you have brought with you all necessary documents for picking up the vehicle, and two international credit cards is recommended to ensure that there is enough credit limit for pre-authorization.
Proceed to the Car Rentals
If there is a pickup store nearby, you could just walk there, following signs for airport rental cars.
If the rental car center is far away, there is usually a free shuttle bus bound for the rental car center. Shuttle buses run every 10 minutes approximately, so take the bus when you see the logo of your car rental company.
If the shuttle is not available, you can contact the car rental company and wait for staff member to pick you up at designated location. In case you have difficulty communicating with the store staff, please call QEEQ and we will assist you in English or other languages.
Inspect the Car
When you receive your reserved vehicle, inspect the bodywork for damage. At that time, it’s a good idea to document the entire process with your smartphone camera or take a picture of the dashboard. Because if you forgot to check the condition of your vehicle before departure, you may be charged for wronged damage repairs when you return it.
Payment
Payment is due on the day of the rental unless you are paying online or purchasing a tour package.
Insurance is usually included in the rental price, but some car rental companies offer paid options for more comprehensive coverage.
Last but not least, keep all contracts and documents safe for possible further usage. Once you have received your keys, check the seat heights, mirror positions, secure child seats, and then you are ready to go!
Traffic Rules and Signs
Drive on the Right
In Poland, vehicles drive on the right side of the road. And overtakes are made on the left. Pay special attention if your country differs from that and spend some time to ajust to it.
Headlights
All vehicles are required to use headlights, night day and and all year round.
Car Rental Age
The legal car rental age is 21 years old. And the legal driving age is 18.
Speed Limit
In urban areas: 50 km/h
In a built up area between 11pm and 5am: 60 km/h
On two-lane roads outside build-up areas: 90 km/h
On A-class roads: 120km/h
On motorways: 120-140 km/h
Using a Phone
It is allowed to use your phone with a hands-free device while driving. But holding it with your hands is not allowed.
Drinking While Driving
While in some other European countries the blood alcohol content is 0.05 mg, in Poland the tolerance that is 0.02. The police can stop you to carry out a random breath test.
Safety Belts and Child Seat
Safety belts are required both for drivers and passengers from the front to rear. Child restraints are required for children under 150 cm up to 36kg, by exception, children of height 135-150 cm can be restrained with a seat belt only if they sit in the back.
Common Road Signs
Source and other road signs:
Highways and Tolls
The Main Toll Roads:
The motorways carrying a toll charge are the A1, A2, A4 and A8. The conditions of the roads in Poland are relatively good and access around Poland and to the German border is now possible with a recent motorway:
- A1: Rusocin, Stanisławie, Swarożyn, Pelplin, Kopytkowo, Warlubie, Nowe Marzy, Lisewo, Lubicz, Nowa Wieś
- A2: Konin, Września, Poznań, Nowy Tomyśl
- A4: Katowice, Myslowice, Jaworzno, Chrzánóv, Kreszowice, Kraków
Toll Payment
Here are the general toll charges:
- For private cars on the A1 up to 3.5ft the cost is 3.50 – 29.90 PLN
- For private cars on the A2 up to 3.5ft the cost is 15 PLN per section
- For private cars on the A4 up to 3.5ft the cost is 4.5 PLN per section
Note: 1 PLN equals 0.24 US dollar.
- The tolls are collected in two ways:
- The tolls are collected on the motorways from a toll-booth.
- Through the viaTOLL electronic system (A1 Ambergo, A1+A4 Autopay, and e-Toll network).
Refueling and Parking
Gas Service
Fuel Prices in Poland (Aug, 2024):
- Unleaded Gas:1.50 euros
- Diesel: 1.50 euros
There are chain gas stations and independent gas stations in Poland, with the latter offering cheaper refueling services, but also with less satisfying fuel quality. Try to avoid them as you can and stick to the chain stations like Shell, Orlen, BP, etc.
Parking
- You can park in marked parking spaces and public parking lot.
- There are parking meters in most cities, with a fee needed from Monday to Friday between 8AM to 6AM. You can pay with cash or SMS, and put the receipt inside the windshield.
- Note that it is illegal for parking wardens to directly collect the payment.
Here are some parking signs with meanings:
Beginning of zone where parking is prohibited.
Parking is prohibited on even days.
Accident Handling
If you are involved in a traffic accident, do not panic. Check whether the passengers are injured, help yourself and seek help from passersby. Emergency contacts are available at any time.
- Police: 997
- Fire: 999
- Ambulance: 998
Scratch
Ensure the safety of personnel→Move the vehicle to the side of the road without obstructing the traffic→Call 997→Take photos or videos of the condition of the vehicle →Register the accident by police and keep a proper record of the accident→Contact the rental car company and insurance company.
Theft
Call 997 → Police take notes → Insurance report → Verify information → Payment
Malfunction
Call the rental car company → They will send someone nearby to tow your car or change a tire.
If the rental car company is unable to help you, contact a towing service with the help of the police. Car repairs are very expensive sometimes, so it is important to have insurance.
Returning the Rental Car
To return the car, just drive back to the rental car company, but pay attention to the following things:
Refuel Before Returning
Usually, the basic rule for returning a car is to refuel the gas before returning it to the rental car company.
Even if the time is up, and there may not be a convenient gas station, it’s okay to drive for a while (about 5 kilometers or so) after refueling.
If you tried to return the car after the due time without refueling, or if you drove an excessive long distance after refueling, we will calculate the remaining time and charge you an additional fee.
Inspect the Car
When you arrive, we will have a representative inspect your vehicle for damage. If it had any damage, additional payment would be made.
Reconcile the Fee
When you return the car, the staff will check and record the vehicle and print the settlement list on site. Please check the list carefully, and if you have any unknown charges, you can raise them in person or call customer service to solve the problem.
Keep the Contract and Document
After returning the car, it is recommended to keep the contract and receipts in a safe place in case of needs.
Help after Trip
Traffic Citation
How to Pay Fine Ticket:
There are two main methods to pay a fine: ATM transfer or manual payment.
We recommend you to pay the fine as soon as possible, otherwise you may have to pay a late fee. If you can’t deal with it right away, tell the car rental company when you return the car, and you can let the company charge your credit card directly, but it usually requires a service fee.
Insurance Claim
If you bought a full coverage insurance, you would receive a fast claim settlement. The following documents should be prepared:
- Passport
- Driver’s License
- Credit Card Checkback History
- The Car Rental Contract
- Car Damage Deduction Bill
For more detailed information, check the terms and conditions of insurance company:
Unknown Charges after Trip
If you received an unexpected deduction when you return to your home country, it might be that your violation fee is paid by the car rental company, but usually the deduction amount will be more expensive than the violation fee because that includes the management fee charged by the car rental company. If you don’t know what the violation was, you can contact our customer service for help.
Here are some general fines for traffic violations in Poland:
For more you can visit:
Classic Routes
Lesser Poland
- Lesser Poland Panoramic Road
Experience the beauty of Lesser Poland on a scenic 134 km road trip from Cracow to Tarnów. This route guides you through the historical towns of Kazimierz, Wieliczka, Bochnia, Nowy Wiśnicz, and Lipnica Murowana, offering a journey rich in history and stunning landscapes. Along the way, explore UNESCO Heritage Monuments and immerse yourself in the region’s cultural heritage. The best time to travel is during spring or summer, when the lush green hills and vibrant countryside colors are at their peak. With excellent road conditions, this two-day trip is accessible for all drivers, providing a memorable experience on a fair budget.
Churches
- Wooden Churches Road Trip
The Wooden Churches Road Trip is a captivating 581km journey through Poland’s stunning landscapes and historical treasures. Starting in Cracow and concluding in Sanok, the route passes through Lipnica Murowana, Binarowa, Brunary, Sękowa, and Haczów. This trip offers a unique experience, featuring numerous attractions, including UNESCO Heritage wooden churches in Lipnica Murowana, Binarowa, and Haczów. The best time to embark on this journey is during the summer months, when the weather and road conditions are optimal. Suitable for drivers of all experience levels, this five-day road trip can be enjoyed on a reasonable budget, promising rich rewards and unforgettable memories.
Castles
- Malopolska Castles
Embark on a memorable journey through Poland’s stunning Malopolska region and discover some of its most renowned castles! This 116 km road trip through the towns of Dobczyce, Nowy Wiśnicz, and Niepolomice is a great way to experience the best of the region. Along the way, you’ll be able to admire UNESCO Heritage monuments and experience the local culture, all with excellent road conditions. Although some of the roads on the route are a bit narrow, the trip can be easily managed by any driver, and with a moderate budget. The best time to take this trip is in the spring or early summer, when the region is in bloom and the scenery is at its most beautiful. When you’re done, you’ll be rewarded with memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t wait to experience this unique road trip!
Circle Route
- The Ultimate Poland Road Trip
Embark on the Poland Road Trip, a 16-day journey covering 2368 km, starting in Warsaw and exploring the country’s rich history and culture. Ideal between April and October, the trip includes stops at UNESCO sites and stunning landscapes. Begin in Zamość, known for its architecture, then visit Rzeszów’s lively attractions. Explore Cracow’s historical sites like Wawel Castle, followed by Wałbrzych’s industrial heritage. Discover Poznań’s Old Market Square, Gdansk’s historical charm, and Hel’s coastal beauty. Conclude in Malbork with its UNESCO-listed castle. This road trip offers well-maintained roads, a fair budget, and unforgettable experiences for all drivers.
- North Poland Road Trip
The North Poland Road Trip is a 2089 km adventure starting and ending in Warsaw, designed for 10 days of exploration through Poland’s captivating regions. Best taken from April to October, this journey offers excellent road conditions and numerous attractions. Discover Poznań, relax at Baltic Sea resorts like Kołobrzeg and Jastarnia, visit the medieval Malbork Castle, and enjoy water sports in Giżycko. With several UNESCO Heritage sites along the way, this trip promises unforgettable experiences and memories. It’s also budget-friendly, making it accessible for all drivers.
Useful Information
Emergency Contact:
- Police: 997
- Fire: 999
- Ambulance: 998
Car Rental Companies:
- AVIS: 1-800-352-7900
- SIXT: 1 (888) 749 8227
- Budget: 800-218-7992
- Thrifty: 1-800-283-0898
- Hertz: 1-800-654-5060
- ACE: (877) 822-3872
- Dollar: 800-235-9393
- Yesaway: 1 424-800-4990
Websites:
- Official Tourism: https://goturkiye.com/
- Rules and Regulations: https://www.poland.travel/en/rules-regulations/
- Embassies: https://www.embassypages.com/turkey
- Traffic Laws: https://move2turkey.com/traffic-law-and-the-cost-of-traffic-violations-in-turkey-all-you-need-to-know/#google_vignette
Thank you for reading through to the end, enjoy your Turkey road trip!