Currency and exchange

Foreign currencies can be brought to Poland without any restrictions. They can be exchanged either at a bank or at a currency exchange bureau called "kantor" in Polish, which can be found almost everywhere: at railway stations, shopping centres, hotels etc. Kantors usually offer better exchange rates than banks, and they normally charge no extra fees. However, only cash is handled there.
In small towns only the most popular currencies (USD and EURO) are handled. In big cities, USD, EURO and almost all other West European currencies are accepted. Banks cash travellers checks at a small commission (1% - 3%). Banks with the biggest number of branches in almost all Polish towns are PEKAO S.A. and PKO BP.
Foreigners are allowed to open an account in Polish banks, but money can also be got out of the cash machines (the so-called BANKOMAT) installed in numerous places , mostly along busy streets or in frequently visited places. Credit cards issued by most foreign banks are accepted. However, it is strongly recommended for incoming students that they visit their own bank before leaving for Poland and make sure that their cards can be used in cash machines abroad.

Credit Cards
American Express, Master Card, Visa and other credit cards are accepted to make payments in hotels,restaurants, travel agencies, gas stations and in larger stores.

Money
Zloty (PLN) is the official Polish currency. There are 5 notes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 PLN (zloty) and 9 coins: 1, 2 & 5 PLN (zloty) and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 & 50 groszy. 1 PLN (zloty) equals 100 groszy.