Poland's 13 public holidays: what actually closes and how to plan around them

Poland has 13 official public holidays a year, and on each one government offices, city halls, tax offices, courts, and large shops or malls typically close, while public transport switches to a reduced Sunday-style schedule. If you're visiting, the practical question isn't which festival to chase but how to work around these closures and the busier travel days that come with them.

Which days are public holidays in Poland?

The 13 official holidays are: 1 January (New Year's Day), 6 January (Epiphany), Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, 1 May (National Holiday), 3 May (Constitution Day), Pentecost Sunday, Corpus Christi, 15 August (Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary), 1 November (All Saints' Day), 11 November (Independence Day), and 24, 25, 26 December (Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, second day of Christmas). Sundays are also standard days off, and Sunday or holiday work is only permitted in limited cases under the Labour Code, with a compensatory day off required within six days.

What actually closes?

On public holidays, government offices, city halls, tax offices, and courts close entirely. Large retail stores and shopping malls close too. Small owner-run convenience stores may stay open, and gas stations and some pharmacies typically remain accessible. If you're relying on shops for supplies, plan ahead — don't assume a supermarket or mall will be open.

How does transport change?

Buses and trams run on reduced or Sunday-level frequency during public holidays. Long-distance trains sell out quickly around long weekends, and ticket prices tend to rise during these peak periods — so book ahead if your trip coincides with a holiday or the days around it. At borders, expect longer waits for security checks and clearance during public holidays, summer/winter holiday periods, and other peak travel seasons.

Should you plan toward or away from these dates?

If your trip involves official business — visa matters, registration, or tax issues — avoid public holidays entirely, since the relevant offices are closed on all of them. For general travel, be aware that holidays and long weekends bring reduced transport frequency, pricier and scarcer long-distance train tickets, and slower border crossings, so building in extra time or booking transport early is worth it. Beyond these logistics, there isn't enough detail here to say whether the atmosphere is better on or around a given holiday — that would need separate research into specific cultural events.

Practical connectivity note

If you're navigating reduced transport schedules or need to check office hours on the go, having mobile data sorted before you arrive can help — see /destinations/poland for eSIM options.

FAQ

Are shops open on Polish public holidays? Large stores and malls are generally closed; small owner-run convenience stores, gas stations, and some pharmacies may stay open.

Will public transport run normally on a holiday? No — expect reduced or Sunday-level schedules for buses and trams, plus possible train ticket shortages and price increases around long weekends.

Can I sort visa or tax paperwork on a public holiday? No — government offices, city halls, tax offices, and courts are closed on all 13 official public holidays, so schedule such tasks around them.

Sources

• https://www.gov.pl/web/your-europe/working-time-setting-and-settlement
• https://polandradar.com/polish-public-holidays-2026-complete-list-expats/
• https://granica.gov.pl/KAS_Tourist_Guide_Book_2024.pdf