František Reismüller, Director of the Czech Tourism Authority – CzechTourism, explains how travel between Czechia and Poland is changing and why visitors increasingly seek regional destinations, active holidays, and high-quality experiential stays.
What are the most recent trends in travel and prevailing tourist preferences concerning Czechia and Poland?
The travel patterns between the Czech Republic and Poland are shifting significantly. Instead of quick visits across the border, Polish visitors are now choosing longer stays focused on experiences. They are travelling further inland to seek out premium service and a wider range of activities. While sightseeing remains a draw, active holidays featuring skiing, cycling, and spa retreats are booming. An interesting notion: thanks to a 13% surge last year, the number of nights Polish tourists spend in the Czech Republic is now equal to that of Slovak visitors.
One of the most significant shifts we can see is the discovery of the Czech regions. Although Prague is still the top destination, Polish tourists are venturing further afield in search of a more authentic local vibe. They are attracted to natural landscapes that offer high-quality infrastructure without the crowds. They visit festivals and family activity centres, and South Moravia is also in vogue as the nearest wine-growing region, as are, for example, historical sites with information available in Polish. Interest in spas is also on the rise again. To support this, we have launched 14 “dream itineraries”. These three-night trips are designed to showcase the diversity of our regions, with each route offering a unique experience tailored to different travel dreams.
Czech tourists are following a similar trend, heading to Poland to discover hidden gems off the beaten path. While the Baltic Sea and the classic Kraków–Wieliczka–Auschwitz route remain popular, more people are now flocking to major cities and high-end wellness hotels. Across the board, travellers are looking for ease of access, eco-friendly options, and top-tier quality. These neighbouring markets are a cornerstone of tourism for both nations, with plenty of room for future growth.
