According to data from the Polish Tourist Organization, which conducted a survey on our vacation plans at the turn of November and December 2025, more and more people are choosing to travel to the Polish seaside in winter. One in five respondents (19%) stated that in the winter of 2025/2026, they won't be visiting a mountain resort, but a larger city or seaside town . They're seeking peace and quiet on the Baltic Sea, escaping the crowds of tourists that flock to popular ski resorts at this time.
Why the north and not the south of Poland?
"Two years ago, we decided against a trip to the Polish mountains during the winter break because of the crowds on the slopes and the long lines for the lifts," Agnieszka (last name not provided) , a mother of two school-age children from Warsaw, told leba.pl. "We can't choose the date of the break, and we want the kids to get out of the city. It's peaceful by the sea, the air is fresh, there's plenty to see, and the weather has been great lately. Not to mention that the prices are more favorable."
Those who travel to the Baltic Sea in winter are those who value a peaceful holiday close to nature. The primary purpose of domestic winter trips remains rest and relaxation (35% of responses). Visiting tourist and cultural attractions comes second (14%), and winter sports (13%) comes third (tied with staying close to nature, away from civilization and crowds (also 13%), according to a report by the Polish Tourist Organization.
The Baltic Sea in winter? Only benefits
A winter getaway on the Baltic Sea is also an excellent idea for those who want to take care of their respiratory and immune systems. In winter, the coastal air can contain more iodine due to stronger winds and storms – crashing waves release sea spray containing iodine compounds into the air . You can also escape urban smog, which is particularly harmful to young children.
"I have the impression that since we started going to the Polish seaside in the winter, at the pediatrician's suggestion, the children are getting sick less often. My son has asthma, and my daughter has allergies, and winter in the city is a particularly difficult time for them. A trip to the Baltic Sea allows the children to catch their breath, " says Sylwia (last name not provided) from Bytom
What to do on the Baltic Sea in winter?
There are plenty of options. Nature lovers can choose from national parks nearby, including Słowiński National Park with its shifting sand dunes or Wolin National Park with its bison reserve. Those who enjoy sightseeing should look for lighthouses, museums, and historical sites open to the public.
Regardless of the location, you can also try three activities that are becoming increasingly popular in winter: amber searching, Nordic walking on the beach, and winter swimming.
