Polish tourists favor overseas destinations as Baltic coast loses appeal

Google search data shows a sharp decline in interest for traditional Polish holiday regions. Searches for the Baltic coast, Mazury, the Tatras and the Bieszczady fell 31.8 % year‑on‑year, while queries for trips abroad rose 12.5 % and the phrase “vacation abroad” jumped over 210 %. Italian seaside locations such as Bari, Rimini and the lakes Garda and Como are now the most searched European spots, with Albania gaining momentum as a budget‑friendly option.

Despite the drop in domestic interest, Poland’s tourism sector anticipates a record season on the Baltic Sea. Industry leaders expect up to 23 million visitors this summer, with some coastal towns reporting occupancy rates near 98 % for peak weekends and reports of over‑booking. Prices for two‑person accommodation range from about 500 zł for basic rooms to over 1 000 zł for premium hotels, reflecting strong demand even as the region vies with popular foreign destinations.