Biking in Silesia, Poland

I want to do a bicycle route throughout some European countries. From the UK to Kraków, as the end destination. I am Silesian, but haven't resided in the country for some 20 years. The route will go through Wrocław, Katowice and Kraków (with one stop near Katowice to my hometown). So, my questions are:

-How is the infrastructure, is it bike friendly?
-Anything I need to know?
-What is the quality of bike shops, and (if possible) a rounded price quote.
-Are bike thefts still common? If so, are there good, safe places to store a bike (preferably with CCTV cameras) which are relatively common throughout cities?

I wish you luck on your journey, it will be a great way to see the country.


I highly doubt anyone on this forum can answer your questions, they only google around here.

Yes. Plan your route carefully using as many cycle paths as possible. The low driving standards here haven't improved however the number of cars has increased hugely.


I'm not sure of the quality, however most big towns and some smaller ones have specialist bike shops. There's probably a Polish-language forum for cyclists that lists the good ones, given how popular cycling is here. For spares/supplies, most shopping mall sports shops will stock at least the basics.


Yes and yes-ish. The bike racks outside shopping malls are relatively safe, and have cameras/guards nearby. Nevertheless, thefts do happen. Bring/buy a good bike lock.