Drive to get the feel of the place and the people
Warsaw in Poland is like moving down history lane. It is a historically very rich city that draws tourists in huge numbers. Though you can mover around Warsaw in trains easily, hiring a car and driving it gives one the option to have the liberty of spending as much time one wishes at a particular place and not worry about timing of trains and buses. To absorb the culture and the place, you need to be driving in Warsaw and around it. You can soak in the pulse of the people and the culture in a much better manner if you can drive around safely.

Of course roads are not in good shape
There is a common perception among the Europeans and Americans that it is harder to be driving in Poland than in other European countries. And to an extent they are correct in their assessment with road conditions not being excellent at all places in Poland. Then there are few road signs to assist people. In short, the infrastructure in Poland is not developed to the same level as is evident in other European countries. However, you can drive around if you are adventurous by nature. Just remain vigilant as truck drivers and other car drivers can always surprise you by pulling ahead without any sings. Good thing about driving in Poland is the prices of petrol that are 2nd cheapest in Europe at just 68p a liter.

Poles can be reckless drivers
Remember the laws of the land that state that the minimum age of driving in Poland is 18and that dipper must be used by drivers at all times. Those found not using dippers are fined by the authorities. It is not just the driver but all occupants must wear seat belts and children below 12 or less than 1.5 m in height must be allowed in a car only if the car is fitted with a proper restraint. It is not just reckless driving by other drivers but also un-roadworthy condition of other cars that puts a tourist under risk in Warsaw and other places in Poland. Be prepared to ride on potholes during spring and rainy season.

The speed limits for driving are different depending upon areas and in residential areas; the prescribed limits are 20-50kmph. In built up areas, the normal speed limit is 50kmph but vehicles are allowed to run at a high speed of up to 90kmph between 0500 and 2300 hours. It is on motorways only that tourists can drive at high speeds of 130kmph.

If you think you can get past these obstacles to driving, you are welcome to drive in Poland. Beware of hitchhikers and prostitutes along road side and do not attempt to slow down or stop to give them lift. One important point to keep in mind is the safety of your documents. Never leave your ID, Passport, and driver’s license inside the car when you have parked it for some time on road. The prostitutes can be fun but they are not very clean and can even rob you.