Can you pay in Dollars in Krakow? Does Poland use dollar?

Kraków, due to its low prices, is one of the most frequently chosen destinations for travel in Europe. Many Americans planning a trip to Krakow, Poland, often wonder if they can pay in dollars in Poland. Can you pay in dollars in Krakow? Can you exchange dollars at a currency exchange office in Kraków, Poland? Should you bring dollars to Poland?

Can you pay in USD in Poland?

Poland is a member of the European Union, but it stands apart from many EU countries by not adopting the euro as its currency. Instead, the official currency in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). While some establishments might accept euros, this is typically done at an unfavourable exchange rate. Importantly, US dollars (USD) are not accepted as a means of payment in legitimate shops or most businesses.

The US dollar is not a recognized currency within the European Union, and Poland adheres to this standard.

Can you use US dollars in Krakow?

And yes and no. Dollars are not an acceptable means of payment in Poland. We will not pay with them in any legal store or restaurant. Using unofficial services operating in the gray zone in tourism with dollars will manage to pay, even more willingly will be accepted.

When paying in dollars without an invoice or receipt, the exchange rate between the dollar and the zloty proposed by the seller will in most cases be unfavorable to us. As with the euro, you can check this by looking at the price list of horse-drawn carriages in Krakow. What’s more, dollar transactions made in cash only and may not come with a receipt, so in case of disputes there is no proof of payment.

Exchanging US Dollars in Krakow

Can U.S. dollars be exchanged for cash in Poland at exchange offices? Yes, in Krakow and Poland any exchange office will buy dollars from us and exchange them for cash in PLN. When using exchange offices in Krakow, it is worth noting that the currency exchange industry in Krakow is fairer than it is in another tourist city in Europe, Prague, but you should always be careful when making such a transaction.

After exchanging currencies at an exchange office (kantor) in Poland, you MUST get a printed confirmation of the transaction.

How to avoid being scammed at currency exchange offices in Poland?

• Avoid airport exchanges: Rates at airports and train stations are the worst. Wait until you’re in the city centre.
• Compare rates: Look for kantors displaying both the buying (kupno) and selling (sprzedaż) rates. Some may only show one rate (sell) to mislead customers.
• Exchange small amounts: Card payments are widely accepted in Poland. You won’t need much cash. Save yourself the hassle of exchanging leftover złoty back to USD.
• Be wary of kantors with unusually low rates.
• Always count your money before leaving the exchange office.

Kraków is very safe but carrying large amounts of cash is never a good idea, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Exchange rates and scams

The exchange rate between dollars and zlotys changes every day. It can be assumed that 100 dollars is an amount of +/- 400 zlotys. You can always find the current exchange rate on the official website of the National Bank of Poland (NBP) here at this address.

Card payment in Poland

In Krakow, the card can be used to pay for a ticket on the bus, for a parking space, at the doctor’s office, in a bakery, shop, pharmacy or restaurant, and even at a Christmas market.

In Poland, card payments are common (if someone tells you otherwise, it means they are trying to mislead you). If in a restaurant or other place say that you can’t pay by card, it is usually a misrepresentation, as the Polish local press has reported on such cases. Be cautious: If a business claims they don’t accept cards, they might be trying to avoid taxes or overcharge you. Always insist on a fiscal receipt (paragon fiskalny).

You can pay everywhere with your card as long as it’s Visa, MasterCard or Maestro. Only places focused on buisiness travel and foreign tourists will accept American Express (best restaurants and hotels). You can use Apple Pay and other forms of digital payments.

In Poland, it is best to pay with Revolut or other cards that do not charge foreign currency transaction fees. When paying by card in Poland, always choose to pay in zlotys rather than dollars.

What Money to Bring to Kraków?

You can take US Dollars if you want to exchange it in Poland but the most practical approach is to use Polish złoty or exchange only a minimal amount into PLN. Since credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted across the country, it’s highly recommended to bring a card that doesn’t impose fees for currency conversion when making payments in Kraków. There’s no tipping-culture in Poland as in the States.

• Carry a small amount of złoty: This is useful for minor purchases or places that don’t accept card payments, such as street vendors or local markets.
• Opt for a no-fee card: Cards like Revolut or Wise are excellent choices as they help you avoid unnecessary currency conversion fees.
• Avoid using dollars: Although some tourist-oriented services might accept them, you’ll typically get a poor exchange rate, making it an expensive option.