Poland, land of pierogies and forests, historic cities and conviviality. A warm welcome is a prerequisite, a toast over cherry liquor a rite of passage. In its cities it is arty and cultural, modern and historical, with a surprising beauty that destroys any myths that it’s all concrete and grey. The opposite is true; pastel colours and soft gables line old town squares that hum with the clink and chatter of morning coffee, trendy districts outlier the centres and throw art galleries, foodie hotspots and great bars into the mix. And even better, whether it’s Baltic Gdansk or regal Kraków, you’re never far from the beautiful Polish hinterland, from coast to forest to mountain. Explore four of our favourite Polish cities in the articles below, and discover how you can add to your stay with a sojourn into the wilds…