Poland in shoulder season — best decision I made

Visited Poland in shoulder season deliberately and the decision paid off completely. Auschwitz-Birkenau without peak crowds is a totally different experience. Wrocław felt lived-in rather than touristy. Found a small place doing the best bigos I've ever tasted — something that would have been invisible in high season when everything fills with visitors.

warm and hospitable locals was particularly magical with fewer people around. The weather was fine. The prices were better. If you have flexibility, avoid peak season.