Expats eyeing up Poland have so many cities to choose from. And each one offers its own flavor of culture and its own balance of pros and cons.

Unfortunately, far from getting to see a wide range of options, most of us only ever hear about Warsaw, Kraków, and (maybe) Gdańsk.

For expats looking to discover authentic local experiences away from crowded tourist hotspots, it’s time to learn about the lesser-known Polish cities that still offer exceptional quality of life, cultural richness, and a great atmosphere.

We’ve put together a list of our very favorites below.

1. Zielona Góra

This is the wine capital of Poland—that alone is enough to draw a lot of attention to Zielona Góra.

Here in the west, you will find a fairly relaxed lifestyle with plenty of cultural events. It’s a small city (a little over 140,000 residents) but it plays host to a prestigious annual wine festival celebrating its viticulture heritage dating all the way back to medieval times.

With plenty of green spaces, affordable housing, and a growing expat community attracted by local tech opportunities, it’s a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility without isolation.

2. Białystok

Located near the Belarusian border in northern Poland, Białystok boasts multicultural roots reflected in its diverse architecture, cuisine, and community life.

Expats often come for affordability, but there is also a lively cafe scene and proximity to nature reserves such as the beautiful Białowieża Forest. There are also a ton of stunning views, a grand cathedral, and even Branicki Palace (sometimes called the “Polish Versailles”).

It’s perfect for anyone craving some urban appeal but still wants to have easy access to nature.

3. Rzeszów

A rapidly growing economic hub in southeastern Poland, Rzeszów is a top choice for expats seeking employment opportunities in aerospace, IT, and automotive industries. And that economic success has paid off in a very high standard of living.

But this mid-size city (about 200,000 residents) isn’t just a great place to find work. It’s also teeming with history.

Despite its economic boom, it maintains a comfortable, small-town atmosphere with charming streets and a welcoming community for foreigners. The only downside? In recent years, it has started to increase its visibility as a tourist destination, which might deter you from enjoying the city.

4. Opole

Famed for its music scene, Opole hosts Poland’s oldest song festival, drawing talent from across the country. But the city is more than a single yearly festival.

There is music and art to appreciate year round here, and that makes it a great choice for many expats—especially those that value lots of cultural opportunities.

The city’s manageable size (around 130,000 residents), combined with excellent public services and a picturesque setting along the Odra River, makes it a delightful place to settle and raise a family. But if you are looking for more hustle and bustle, this probably isn’t the best choice for you.

5. Tarnów

Another smaller city, Tarnów is renown for boasting some of the greatest pieces of Renaissance architecture in all of Poland. At only 105,000 inhabitants, it also has a pretty laid-back feeling.

Although the city offers a lots of historical sights, it is a fully modern area with all the conveniences you’ve come to expect in the 21st century. But at the same time, its beautifully preserved old town makes you feel like you are living in another time—but at a fraction of the cost and tourist foot traffic as other similar places in Europe.

Expats appreciate its lively market squares, cafes, and accessible countryside, providing a peaceful yet connected lifestyle. The only downside? This is the hottest city in the country. If you don’t like warm weather, you will probably want to look elsewhere.

6. Koszalin

Near the Baltic coast yet less crowded than nearby resort towns, Koszalin offers views of the water without inflated prices and chintzy tourist traps all over the place.

At 100,000 residents, you can expect a pretty quiet experience.

The city has extensive bike paths, parks, and—of course—proximity to beaches. It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and expats seeking a peaceful environment with sea air and ample recreation opportunities.

Choosing the Right Polish City to Live In

All of these cities have something to offer you as an expat. And so do the major cities like Warsaw and Kraków, for that matter.

What makes a town perfect for one person, might disqualify it for another. For that reason, it’s important to spend time in cities to get a good understanding of how you like it and if you want to call it home.

Need help making the leap to Poland? Our experts help people get dual citizenship in the country, and we’ve helped countless clients relocate. Contact us for your free consultation call to get started.