Tips for Adjusting to Poland’s Climate as an Expat

Published on November 1, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Living in Poland is an exciting adventure that promises cultural discoveries and a history-rich environment, but it also requires skillful adaptation to local climate variations.

Whether you’re a newly arrived expatriate or considering this big leap, understanding and getting accustomed to Polish seasons is essential to fully appreciate your stay.

With winters that can seem endless for those coming from milder climates and surprisingly hot summers, each period brings its own challenges and opportunities.

This article provides practical and essential tips, ranging from appropriate clothing to seasonal habits, to help you settle comfortably and make the most of your life in Poland, regardless of the time of year.

Embracing the Seasons in Poland

Poland experiences a marked continental climate with four distinct seasons, each offering its own challenges and opportunities for expatriates. This climatic alternation profoundly influences the lifestyle, activities, and daily habits of Poles.

Polish Winter

The Polish winter, stretching from October to March, is characterized by often sub-zero temperatures that can drop to -10°C in the eastern part of the country, even reaching -25°C during cold waves from Russia. Snow covers the entire territory, particularly mountainous regions like the Tatras and Sudetes.

To face this period, it’s essential to invest in an appropriate wardrobe including a thick, waterproof coat, insulated and slip-resistant boots, multiple layers of thermal clothing, and quality gloves, hats, and scarves.

At home, maintenance becomes crucial: regularly check the central heating system, insulate windows with thermal seals or plastic film, maintain a stable indoor temperature between 20-22°C, and ventilate briefly but regularly to prevent humidity.

Poles adopt the concept of hygge during winter, prioritizing warm moments indoors. It’s also the ideal season to discover winter sports in resorts like Zakopane, explore traditional Christmas markets, enjoy comforting dishes like bigos or żurek, and participate in carnival celebrations (Karnawał) in February.

Spring

Spring, from late March to June, sees temperatures gradually rise, moving from 6-14°C in April to over 20°C in June. This transition period remains marked by frequent showers, particularly in May.

Recommended clothing includes easily adjustable layered pieces, a light raincoat or windbreaker, waterproof walking shoes, and some sweaters for still cool evenings.

Regarding housing, it’s time to gradually reduce heating, perform spring cleaning (a Polish tradition called porządki wiosenne), air out rooms extensively, and maintain outdoor spaces if you have a garden.

Polish spring comes alive with the celebration of Easter (Wielkanoc), a major tradition with its decorated eggs and family meals, the opening of botanical gardens and national parks, the start of the cycling season on numerous designated paths, and the first cultural festivals like the Spring Music Festival in Warsaw.

Summer

Summer, from June to August, brings mild to warm temperatures ranging between 15 and 22°C depending on the region, sometimes even exceeding 30°C inland. Paradoxically, it’s also the season of the heaviest rainfall, particularly in July, with frequent thunderstorms.

For this period, plan light clothing in breathable materials, a compact umbrella or light waterproof jacket, sunglasses and sunscreen, as well as more elegant attire for cultural events.

Summer home maintenance requires using fans or air conditioners in moderation, installing shades or blackout curtains to block heat, closing windows during the hottest hours, opening them wide early in the morning and late at night, and protecting indoor plants from direct sun exposure.

Polish summer is the festival season, with major events like the Opener Festival in Gdynia, the Jazz Music Festival in Krakow, numerous outdoor concerts and street theater performances. It’s also the time to enjoy Baltic beaches despite still cool water, explore the Masurian Lakes for sailing and water activities, hike in national parks in full bloom, and discover local farmers’ markets offering seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Autumn

Autumn, from September to October, is renowned for its golden landscapes in the Bieszczady and Beskid forests. Temperatures gradually decrease while remaining mild until mid-October. This season, described as “golden” by Poles, is distinguished by its glowing colors in the plains and mountain ranges.

Bring wool sweaters and vests, a waterproof mid-season jacket, sturdy hiking boots, and some warmer pieces for cooling evenings.

For housing, begin gradually turning the heating back on, check insulation before winter, clean gutters and drains, and prepare windows and doors for the cold season.

Polish autumn offers unique opportunities: mushroom picking, a true national passion, observing European bison in nature reserves, hiking in forests with fiery colors, participating in grape harvests in emerging vineyards, and discovering film festivals like the one in Warsaw.

Season	Average Temperature	Precipitation	Key Activities
Winter	-10°C to 5°C	Low (snow)	Winter sports, Christmas markets
Spring	6°C to 20°C	Moderate to high	Cultural festivals, cycling
Summer	15°C to 30°C	High (thunderstorms)	Music festivals, beach activities
Autumn	5°C to 15°C	Moderate	Mushroom picking, hiking

To integrate into local seasonal habits, observe that Poles radically change their wardrobe and lifestyle according to the seasons. In winter, they prioritize indoor activities and family gatherings around hearty meals. Spring marks the return of outdoor activities with café terraces opening at the first rays of sun. Summer sees a mass exodus to the lakes and Baltic coast during the July-August school holidays. Autumn is dedicated to forest walks and preparing preserves for winter, a tradition still alive in the countryside.

Also adopt the Polish rhythm regarding collective building heating, typically activated from October 15 to April 15 according to local regulations, which may require using supplemental heaters during transition periods. Invest in seasonal equipment like mandatory winter snow tires, and familiarize yourself with municipal snow removal services. Participate in seasonal community events organized by osiedla (residential neighborhoods) to build connections with your neighbors and understand local practices. This immersion in the natural rhythm of Polish seasons will greatly facilitate your adaptation and enrich your expatriation experience by allowing you to fully live each facet of this country with marked climatic contrasts.

Adapting Your Equipment to Face the Climate

Clothing Adapted to Seasonal Climate Variations in Poland

Poland experiences a marked continental climate, alternating cold and humid winters, warm and sometimes stormy summers, and often unpredictable seasonal transitions.

Winter: Fabric Choices, Layering, and Equipment

• Choose thermal clothing to layer: technical underwear, wool or fleece sweaters, lined pants, insulating jackets, and waterproof coats.
• Prefer materials such as merino wool, synthetic down, and technical fabrics that offer both warmth and moisture wicking.
• Sturdy and waterproof boots essential for walking on snow or ice; choose them with slip-resistant soles for more safety.
• Essential accessories: insulating gloves, hat covering the ears, scarf, and thick socks to protect extremities.
• For both city and mountain, a puffy coat or long cardigan ideally completes the outfit.

Equipment	Recommended Material	Main Function
Underwear	Synthetic/wool	Insulation, moisture management
Sweater/Fleeces	Wool, fleece	Warmth, comfort
Coat	Down, technical fabric	Insulation, waterproofing
Boots	Leather, synthetic	Waterproofing, grip
Accessories	Various	Extremity protection

Summer: Light Clothing, Sun Protection, and Waterproofing

• Prefer light and breathable clothing: cotton t-shirts or technical materials, canvas pants, shorts, dresses, and skirts.
• Add a light sweater for cool evenings or mornings, especially in spring or at altitude.
• Protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat, and high SPF sunscreen.
• Always carry a light waterproof jacket or windbreaker to face frequent summer thunderstorms.

Essential Accessories Year-Round

• Compact umbrella for sudden showers.
• Light gloves in spring or autumn.
• Comfortable and waterproof shoes for urban or forest walking.
• Insect repellent useful in forests in summer.

Maintenance and Durability

• Wash technical clothing at low temperature and avoid fabric softeners to preserve their properties.
• Dry boots well and waterproof them regularly to extend their lifespan.
• Store accessories (gloves, hats, umbrella) in a dry and airy place to prevent moisture.

Where to Buy These Items in Poland and Make Economical Choices

• Major local chains (CCC, Reserved, Cropp, Sinsay) and international stores (Decathlon, H&M, Zara) offer clothing adapted to all seasons.
• For more qualitative items at reasonable prices, prioritize seasonal sales (winter and summer) and outlets present in large cities.
• Local markets and independent shops offer traditional accessories (hats, wool scarves) at attractive prices.
• Compare materials: a garment in blended wool or technical synthetic can be more affordable and just as effective as a 100% wool or down item.
• For specific equipment (boots, technical jackets), check promotions and availability in sports or mountain stores.

Tips for Economical Purchases Without Sacrificing Quality

• Buy off-season to benefit from significant discounts.
• Invest in versatile, layerable basics.
• Prioritize quality over quantity: a well-chosen coat will last several seasons.
• Maintain regularly your equipment to extend its lifespan.

Adapted, well-maintained, and intelligently purchased equipment guarantees comfort and safety facing Polish climate variations.

Preventing Climate Impacts on Health and Well-being

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends, for adaptation to climate changes, strengthening the resilience of health systems, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and integrating health into all adaptation policies. For Poland, these strategies are particularly relevant due to the increasing frequency of heat waves, extreme cold episodes, and flood risks.

Main WHO Recommendations Adapted to Poland:

• Promote the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions and air pollution.
• Invest in adapting the health system, with particular attention to resilience facing extreme climate events.
• Involve civil society and health professionals in mobilization for climate action.
• Consider the health impacts of mitigation and adaptation measures in economic and fiscal policies.
• Develop local action plans for managing climate-related health risks, particularly in vulnerable urban and rural areas.

Impacts of Polish Climate on Expatriates’ Health and Well-being:

Season	Health Risks	Examples of Impacts
Cold Winter	Hypothermia, respiratory infections, seasonal stress	Fatigue, social isolation, worsening of chronic diseases
Hot Summer	Heat stroke, dehydration, air pollution	Sleep disorders, migraines, asthma
Variability	Difficult adaptation, biological rhythm disruptions	Stress, anxiety, decreased productivity

Recommended Preventive Measures:

• Appropriate Clothing: prefer multi-layer clothing in winter (thermal layer, windbreaker, hat, gloves), and light, covering, and breathable fabrics in summer.
• Balanced Diet: consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals to strengthen immunity, prefer warm dishes in winter, hydrate regularly in summer.
• Climate Stress Management: adopt daily routines (light therapy, outdoor activities during sunny hours, relaxation, meditation), arrange living space to maximize exposure to natural light.

Beneficial Physical and Mental Practices:

• Practice regular physical activity adapted to seasonal conditions: brisk walking, swimming, cycling, home yoga in winter.
• Join clubs or leisure groups to promote social integration and mental well-being.
• Use wellness and weather tracking applications to anticipate extreme episodes and adjust habits.

Testimonials from Expatriates Who Successfully Adapted:

“I learned to appreciate walks in the snow, well-equipped and with friends. This helped me stay active and not suffer from winter blues.”

“In summer, I joined a hiking club to discover Polish nature. This allowed me to better handle the heat and create connections.”

“At first, the lack of light in winter affected me a lot. Light therapy and creating positive routines really changed my experience.”

Summary of Key Tips for Expatriates in Poland:

• Plan clothing equipment adapted to climate variability.
• Maintain healthy eating and good hydration year-round.
• Take care of mental health through social and physical activities.
• Stay informed about weather alerts and local health recommendations.
• Create positive habits to strengthen resilience facing climate changes.