A new tourist voucher program starts in April 2025, offering subsidies to encourage travel to the scenic Podlaskie Voivodeship in Poland. This initiative aims to boost the local economy by attracting visitors from other regions and supporting local businesses in the tourism sector.
The Podlaskie Tourist Voucher is set to provide financial assistance ranging from 200 to 400 PLN, depending on the accommodation standard chosen by tourists. Importantly, this year there are no income criteria for eligibility, making the program accessible to everyone, including singles and childless individuals.
According to the local government, a total of 2 million PLN has been allocated for this initiative, which is designed to encourage longer stays and promote the unique attractions of Podlasie. "We want to entice people to discover Podlasie, its attractions, and support local entrepreneurs," emphasized the program organizers.
To qualify for the voucher, travelers must come from outside the Podlaskie region and stay for a minimum of two nights. Accommodations must be booked at facilities that are registered in the official hotel registry. The amount of financial support varies based on the type of accommodation selected:
- 200 PLN for campsites, shelters, and agritourism farms;
- 300 PLN for one- and two-star hotels, guesthouses, and apartments;
- 400 PLN for three-star and higher hotels.
The voucher will be available as an online code that can be generated on the official website, podlaskibonturystyczny.pl. Tourists will need to present this code when paying for their accommodation. Each participant can generate one voucher for a single reservation, regardless of the number of accompanying guests.
The program will be rolled out in two phases to allow for flexibility throughout the year. The first phase runs from April 20 to May 31, 2025, for stays in April and May, followed by a second phase from June 1 to December 31, 2025, for reservations during those months. Organizers are encouraging early planning, as the number of vouchers is limited.
This regional initiative is particularly significant as it comes at a time when the tourism sector in Podlasie has been affected by external factors, including the ongoing migration crisis at the border with Belarus. Bogdan Dyjuk, a member of the regional government, noted, "We have fewer tourists from Poland and abroad. This voucher is an innovative regional solution aimed at helping to rebuild this vital sector of our economy."
In addition to providing financial support, the program aims to promote Podlasie as a safe and attractive destination for relaxation. Despite the challenges, the region is celebrated for its rich natural beauty, numerous national parks, and vibrant local culture. "We want to show that our region is very safe. We encourage residents from other parts of Poland to choose Podlasie as their vacation destination and explore new corners of the country," stated Łukasz Prokorym, the marshal of the Podlaskie Voivodeship.
Tourists considering a visit can look forward to exploring a range of attractions in Podlasie. Highlights include the historic Branicki Palace in Białystok, the UNESCO-listed Białowieża Forest, and the picturesque Narew National Park, known as the "Polish Amazon." The region also boasts the unique Open Window Land, Biebrza National Park, and the charming town of Supraśl.
With the launch of the Podlaskie Tourist Voucher, the local government is optimistic about revitalizing tourism and supporting the economic recovery of the region. The authorities are also in discussions with the Ministry of Sport and Tourism to potentially increase the funding available for the program, should interest exceed expectations.
As the April launch date approaches, both locals and potential visitors are encouraged to stay informed about the program details and to plan their trips to take full advantage of this unique opportunity. With its stunning landscapes and welcoming communities, Podlasie is poised to become a must-visit destination for travelers across Poland.
