San Francisco’s New Gateway to Europe: LOT Polish Airlines Launches Direct Flights from Warsaw

Published on November 24, 2025

In a significant step that opens new travel doors between Europe and the US, LOT Polish Airlines has announced the launch of its direct flight service between Warsaw and San Francisco, starting May 6, 2026. This new route is set to enhance tourism and cultural exchange between Poland and the West Coast of the United States, offering European tourists a seamless path to the iconic Californian city while giving American visitors easier access to the rich history and vibrant culture of Poland.

The direct flight will operate four times a week, on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. From Warsaw, passengers will depart at 11:15 AM on Thursdays and Sundays, and at 5:40 PM on Wednesdays and Saturdays. On the return journey, the flight departs from San Francisco at 3:50 PM and 10:15 AM, respectively. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, known for its comfort and efficiency, will be the aircraft used, with a flight duration of approximately 11.5 hours. This new connection not only offers convenience for travelers but also promises to boost tourism in both directions, linking two vibrant cities that are rich in culture and attractions.

For tourists from Europe, particularly from Poland and Central Europe, this new nonstop service offers a simplified travel experience to one of the most popular destinations on the US West Coast. San Francisco, with its iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and its proximity to Silicon Valley, presents an irresistible allure for those looking to explore the American west. Beyond its tech roots, the city’s diverse neighborhoods, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty have made it a top destination for international visitors.

In addition to this, the tourism opportunities for Polish travelers are vast. The flight provides a faster, more direct connection to San Francisco, bypassing the usual layovers in European hubs like London, Paris, or Frankfurt. Polish travelers, who often seek to experience the rich culture of the United States, will now have easier access to not just the urban charm of San Francisco, but also the natural beauty of California’s coastlines and national parks.

On the flip side, the new route is expected to open up Poland as a key destination for American tourists. While Warsaw has long been a cultural and political hub in Eastern Europe, this direct air link allows American tourists to explore Poland’s historical and natural attractions more easily. From the medieval streets of Kraków to the iconic Auschwitz memorial, the castles of Lower Silesia to the pristine landscapes of the Bieszczady Mountains, Poland offers a wealth of unique experiences.

Tourism authorities in both Poland and the US are excited about the potential of this new connection. Poland’s tourism body sees the new route as a golden opportunity to increase the country’s visibility in the US market. With direct flights now available, travel agencies are likely to offer more packaged tours that combine visits to San Francisco and other major US cities with the discovery of Poland’s rich heritage and landscapes.

The US is already a significant market for Polish tourism, with an increasing number of American tourists visiting the country each year. According to LOT Polish Airlines, over 800,000 passengers have flown between Poland and the United States in the past year alone, with much of that traffic focused on the airline’s existing routes to New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. The addition of San Francisco to the route network further strengthens LOT’s position as a bridge between the two continents.

Additionally, the new flights provide not just a boost to leisure travel but also enhance opportunities for business exchanges. With San Francisco being a global hub for technology and innovation, the new route also serves as a vital connection for professionals and entrepreneurs from both regions. With Silicon Valley nearby, many Polish companies in the tech and startup sectors are keen to expand their presence in the United States, and this new service provides an easier and more direct means of business travel.

As more European tourists flock to San Francisco to experience the city’s unique combination of natural beauty and urban culture, the new flight route is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy. Similarly, the boost in tourist traffic to Poland will help to further diversify the travel market, attracting more international visitors to explore the country’s growing tourism sector.

The introduction of direct flights from Warsaw to San Francisco represents more than just a new airline route; it is a gateway to cultural exchange and tourism growth for both Poland and the United States. As more travelers from Poland venture to the iconic sights of San Francisco, and as American visitors discover the history and charm of Poland, this new connection is poised to make a lasting impact on tourism in both directions. The spirit of travel, exploration, and mutual discovery has never been more accessible. From the historic streets of Warsaw to the stunning vistas of San Francisco, a world of new adventures is now just one flight away.