In big cities, banks that will provide for all tourists’ financial needs are
easy to find, although lengthy queuing can be expected – especially at
lunchtime, when many cashiers’ windows are closed. Most banks are open from
8am right through to 6pm. Money can also be changed in the numerous bureaux
de change, which sometimes offer better rates than banks and usually do not
charge a commission, as banks commonly do. Money can also be changed at the
cashier’s desk of superior standard hotels, although rates there are
definitely less favourable. An additional fee is also charged for changing
money out of business hours. In tourist areas, near railway stations and in
market squares you may come across touts offering what seems to be an
advantageous street exchange. This is invariably an attempt at fraud: in
exchange for foreign currency, the unlucky buyer will be duped with a wad of
newspaper clippings, bank notes that have been withdrawn from circulation or
fake notes – any of which may result in a great deal of trouble for the
hapless visitor.

Credit cards are accepted in many places in Poland, especially now that
Polish banks issue them to their customers. Credit cards are accepted in
hotels, the better restaurants and clubs, car rental agencies and smart
shops. Establishments usually post the logos of accepted cards on the door;
however, it is wise to ask about any additional conditions for payment by
card, such as the minimum value of a purchase.

Privately owned shops are often willing to give a discount for cash payment,
since they will in any case lose money in commission on a credit card
transaction. As elsewhere, credit cards can also be used for withdrawing
money in banks or from cash dispensers.

The official Polish currency is the złoty  (meaning “gold”).
One złoty is divided into 100 grosze . In January 1997,
four zeros were knocked off the złoty, so that 10,000 złote became 1 Polish
New Złoty (PLN). The old banknotes were then withdrawn from circulation.
They are no longer legal tender and can be exchanged only in banks, but
unfortunately, they are used by criminals for fraudulent purposes; visitors
beware.