Category: General Information

Category: General Information

Top 10 things to do in Lodz

What to see, what to do

Things to do – Updated 17 January 2023.

There’s a lot to see and do in the city. Here’s our list of the Top 10 things to do in Lodz. Click on the links for further information or to book a tour & buy tickets.

1. EC1

If Łódź's grand plan of reinvention and rejuvenation had a centrepiece, it would be EC1, which takes its name from the structure it once was, the city’s first heating and power plant, Elektro-Ciepłownia 1. The EC1 building is home to the most modern planetarium in Poland and a fascinating Science and Technology Centre.

Further information

2. Manufaktura

Manufaktura is a massive shopping mall complex of red-brick buildings occupying a large area of a former cotton factory dating back to the nineteenth century. In addition to multiple chain stores, you’ll find a multiplex cinema, an Imax theatre, several museums, cafes and restaurants. Check out the beautiful brick Factory Gate on the south side. It dates back to 1880.

Further information

Best highlights of Lodz walking tour

3. Jewish Cemetery

The Łódź Jewish Cemetery was opened in 1982 and was once the largest Jewish cemetery in Poland. Occupying around 44 hectares of land, the cemetery contains around 68,000 surviving memorials in addition to mass graves of victims of the Litzmannstadt Ghetto and the Holocaust, an area known as Ghetto Field or Polem Gettowym in Polish; which is the final resting place for 43,000 victims. Today over a hundred of the gravesites have been declared historical monuments and are in various stages of restoration. The mausoleum of Izrael Poznański is perhaps the largest Jewish tombstone in the world and the only one containing decorative mosaic. The cemetery continues to function as a Jewish burial site.

Further information.

4. Radegast Station

Radegast station on the north side of the city, was the main deportation centre (Umschlagplatz) for Jews being sent to the extermination camps at Chełmno and Auschwitz-Birkenau during Operation Reinhard. During WWII, the station was located just outside the Łódź Ghetto, one of the biggest Jewish ghettos in German-occupied Europe. During the period from 16th January 1942 to 29th August 29 1944, around 200,000 victims passed through the station on the way to their deaths. The station has been preserved and now holds a memorial to those lost in the Holocaust.

Further information.

5. City Museum of Łódź

The museum is housed in the impressive Neo-Baroque palace of 19th-century textile baron Izrael Kalmanowicz Poznański adjacent to the Manufaktura mall. Exhibits are dedicated to the city’s history and famous citizens.

Further information.

6. Herbst Palace Museum

The museum is a branch of the Museum of Art and is the former residence of the Herbst family, a very wealthy and influential family in the 2nd half of the 19th century. The owners fled Poland before the start of WWII and took the art and furnishings with them; since then the interior has been restored and refurnished and is now back to its former glory. In addition to seeing the rooms within the palace, there is also a separate exhibition of Polish and European art from the 15th to early 20th centuries.

Further information.

7. Centre for Science & Technology

The Centre for Science & Technology occupies 8,000 sqm of exhibition space within the EC1 complex. It’s a hands-on experience that attempts to explain scientific principles such as electromagnetism and atomic physics. You can explore the insides of the giant furnaces and boilers and enjoy simulations, games and other multimedia elements.

Further information.

8. Pasaż Róży

Tucked away off ul. Piotrkowska 3 is a courtyard called Pasaż Róży where you’ll find a spectacular piece of public art designed by Joanna Rajkowska. The passage has been completely lined with mirror fragments arranged in swirling floral patterns. Well-worth a visit.

9. Museum of the Factory

You’ll find this industrial museum within the Manufaktura complex next to the multiplex cinema on the second floor. The exhibits include old textile machines and tells the history of the industrial fortune of Izrael Kalmanowicz Poznański. It shows how the factory developed in time, the production techniques for cotton cloth and the everyday lives of the ordinary factory workers.

Further information.

10. Teatr Wielki

The Teatr Wielki, located on Plac Dąbrowskiego, is the second largest opera house in Poland and one of the largest in Europe, with an auditorium which can seat 1074 people.

Further information.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Lodz?
The best time to visit Lodz is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

What are some must-see sights in Lodz?
Some must-see sights in Lodz include the Piotrkowska Street, the Grand Theatre, the Manufaktura complex, the Museum of Lodz, and the Central Museum of Textiles.

How can I get around Lodz?
Lodz has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, as well as the option to rent a bike or take a taxi. Walking is also a great way to explore the city.

Are there any good places to eat in Lodz?
Lodz is known for its traditional Polish cuisine, with many restaurants serving dishes such as pierogi, bigos, and kielbasa. There are also many international options available.

What is the currency in Lodz?
The currency in Lodz is the Polish zloty (PLN).

What is the language spoken in Lodz?
The official language spoken in Lodz is Polish. Many locals speak English, and you should be able to find people who speak German, Italian, Spanish and French in touristic places.

Are there any good places to shop in Lodz?
Lodz is known for its traditional markets and souvenir shops, where you can find items such as amber jewelry, hand-painted pottery, and hand-woven textiles. There are also many modern shopping centers and malls in the city.

Are there any good places to stay in Lodz?
Lodz has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. It's best to book in advance in high seasons.

Are there any good festivals or events in Lodz?
Lodz is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including the International Festival of Comics and Games, the Festival of Good Beer, and the FashionPhilosophy Fashion Week Poland.

Are there any good day trips from Lodz?
Some popular day trips from Lodz include the Pabianice, the Tomaszow Mazowiecki and the spa town of Uniejow,

Tours & experiences

Top 10 things to do in Krakow

What to see, what to do

Things to do – updated 17 January 2023.

There’s a lot to see and do in the city. Here’s our list of the Top 10 things to do in Krakow. Click on the links for further information or to book a tour.

1. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site located around 14km southeast of Krakow and is one of Poland's most popular attractions, welcoming tourists since 1722. Wieliczka Salt Mine is a subterranean labyrinth of tunnels, shafts and chambers, underground saline lakes, chapels with altarpieces, majestic timber constructions and unique statues sculpted in rock salt. The size of the mine is staggering, it reaches a depth of 327m and extends via horizontal passages and chambers for over 287 km distributed over nine levels. Only a small part of the mine is open to the public.

Further information

Wieliczka Salt Mine tickets and tours

2. Historic Centre of Kraków

Historic Centre of Kraków

The historic centre of Krakow has been featured on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1978. Packed full of restaurants, museums, galleries and bars, the medieval layout of the Old Town has not changed for centuries. The heart and focal point of the historic centre of Krakow is its graceful main market square, the largest medieval town square of any European city. Most visitors to Krakow visit the market square with its Cloth Hall, the Church of the Holy Mary, Wawel Hill and its Royal Castle, Wawel Cathedral with its outstanding Renaissance chapel, the Barbican and St. Florian’s Gate.

Further information.

Grand city tour through Krakow with Old Town and Jewish quarter

3. Wawel Royal Castle

Things to do in Krakow

Wawel Royal Castle and the limestone Wawel Hill are extremely important historical and cultural sites containing one of the most important collection of buildings in Poland. Wawel was once the seat of Polish rulers, the residence of kings and the focal point of many Polish historical events. The hill is a symbol of the Polish nation and has witnessed some of the greatest moments in Polish history. Many Polish kings have been laid to rest below Wawel Cathedral. Located south of the old town and next to the Vistula River, Wawel Hill showcases an incredible assortment of architectural delights including Renaissance, Gothic and Romanesque designs. Wawel Royal Castle and the Cathedral are must-see attractions and a walk around the castle courtyards and open spaces are highly recommended.

Further information

Wawel Castle private guided tour

4. Auschwitz-Birkenau

Things to do in Krakow

Auschwitz-Birkenau is synonymous with the Holocaust and the largest attempt at genocide in human history. More than a million Jews, and many Poles and Roma, were murdered here by German Nazis during WWII. Both sections of the camp, Auschwitz I and the much larger outlying Birkenau (Auschwitz II) have been preserved and are open to visitors. Everyone should visit Auschwitz at least once in their lives, it is a stern reminder of the horrors that human beings can inflict on each other and the only way to understand the extent and horror of the place and the atrocities that took place there.

Further information

Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial guided tour from Krakow

5. Schindler's Factory

The story of Oskar Schindler is well-known since Steven Spielberg's film Schindler’s List; however, despite the name of the museum, it covers all aspects of the German occupation of Krakow from 1939 to 1945 through a series of well-organised, interactive exhibits. Take a tram to Plac Bohaterów Getta, then follow ul Kącik east under the railway line to find the museum. Learn the story of Krakow and its inhabitants, both Polish and Jewish, during the war. The exhibition, ‘Krakow under Nazi Occupation 1939-1945’, is in the former administrative building of Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory. An amazing venue, not to mention subject!

Schindler's Factory tours and tickets

6. Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)

The Krakow Cloth Hall dates to the Renaissance and is one of the city's most recognisable icons. Dominating the centre of the Main Market Square, this building was once the heart of Kraków’s medieval clothing trade. The hall was once a Gothic structure but rebuilt in the Renaissance style after a fire in 1555. On the ground floor, you’ll find craft and souvenir shops and on the upper floor is the Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Painting.

7. St Mary's Basilica

Saint Mary’s Basilica is a striking 14th century brick Gothic church adjacent to the Main Market Square in Kraków, best known simply as St Mary’s. The church is dominated by two towers of different heights and is famous for its wooden altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss, which took over 10 years to complete prior to it being consecrated in 1489. The altarpiece has a central panel and two pairs of side wings and is intricately carved in lime wood. It measures about 13m high and 11m wide and is the country's largest and most important piece of medieval art. On every hour, a trumpet signal called the Hejnał mariacki is played from the top of the taller of Saint Mary's two towers.

Further information

 8. National Museum

The National Museum in Krakow is the largest museum in Poland and also the main branch of Poland’s National Museum. The collections of the museum number almost 780 000 objects, with the core of the collection being Polish art. You’ll find the museum on ul. Piłsudskiego, around 500, west of the Old Town.

Further information.

9. Rynek Underground

Beneath the city of Krakow and housed within the underground corridors of the market square, you will find a museum, which showcases how the city looked and felt during the Middle Ages complete with stone roads with potholes made by cartwheels during the 13th century. It consists of an underground route through medieval market stalls and other long-forgotten chambers.

Krakow Main Market Square Underground Museum guided tour

10. Kościuszko Mound

Kościuszko Mound was erected in commemoration of the Polish military hero Tadeusz Kościuszko between 1820 and 1823. It stands 34m high and includes soil from both the Polish and American battlefields where Kościuszko fought. A serpentine path leads to the top with a panoramic view of the Vistula River and the city. The memorial is located in Zwierzyniec, 3km west of the Old Town.

Further information.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Krakow?
The best time to visit Krakow is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

What are some must-see sights in Krakow?
Some must-see sights in Krakow include the Wawel Castle, the Main Market Square, St. Mary's Basilica, and the Kazimierz Jewish District.

How can I get around Krakow?
Krakow has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, as well as the option to rent a bike or take a taxi. Walking is also a great way to explore the city.

Are there any good places to eat in Krakow?
Krakow is known for its traditional Polish cuisine, with many restaurants serving dishes such as pierogi, bigos, and kielbasa. There are also many international options available.

What is the currency in Krakow?
The currency in Krakow is the Polish zloty (PLN).

What is the language spoken in Krakow?
The official language spoken in Krakow is Polish. Many locals speak English, and you should be able to find people who speak German, Italian, Spanish and French in touristic places.

Are there any good places to shop in Krakow?
Krakow is known for its traditional markets and souvenir shops, where you can find items such as amber jewelry, hand-painted pottery, and hand-woven textiles. There are also many modern shopping centers and malls in the city.

Are there any good places to stay in Krakow?
Krakow has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. It's best to book in advance in high seasons.

Are there any good festivals or events in Krakow?
Krakow is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Krakow Film Festival, the Krakow Carnival, and the Jewish Culture Festival.

Are there any good day trips from Krakow?
Some popular day trips from Krakow include the Wieliczka Salt Mine, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, and the Tatra Mountains.

Adventure experiences Krakow

Things to do in Krakow

What to expect from this tour

Fuel up your adrenaline thirst with this special offer combining off-road quad biking and extreme shooting experience. This expedition includes shooting with specially selected guns from over 30 types of firearms like pistols, submachine guns, various AK rifles, shotguns, quad ride through rough terrain and to end your day roast some meat and sausages while taking a break by the bonfire.

To start the journey, a qualified instructor will get you briefly through safety instructions. Then, hop on your ATV and get through the off-road track in beautiful Kraków's outskirts landscape. After the ride, you can load out your emotions shooting some targets with a variety of firearms. At the end of the adventure, participate in a great BBQ with a lot of food, drinks and beer so you can enjoy your day off even more. This offer will pump you up with the adrenaline you need, and you will forget about the whole world and focus on having great fun in good company.

Krakow Old Town Tours & Experiences

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Top 10 Things To Do in Kołobrzeg

What to see, what to do

Things To Do in Kołobrzeg – Updated 16 January 2023.

Discover Kołobrzeg

There’s a lot to see and do in the city. Here’s our list of the Top 10 things to do in Kołobrzeg. Click on the links for further information or to book a tour & buy tickets.

1. The Lighthouse

The most notable landmark in Kołobrzeg is the lighthouse at the entrance to the harbour, which you can climb for panoramic views. The base of the lighthouse houses a mineral rock museum.

Kołobrzeg lighthouse

2. The Kołobrzeg Pier

The Kołobrzeg Pier is the second largest pier in the region at 220m in length and 9m in width. A jetty positioned on the end of the pier enables small ships to sail for sightseeing excursions.

3. Museum of Polish Weapons

For enthusiasts of militaria, the Museum of Polish Weapons is a must. Exhibits include collections of swords, armour, halberds and more modern military technology from the early Middle Ages to present day. There is also a huge display of cannonballs and a panoramic display of the destruction of the city in 1945.

Further information.

4. Bolesław

Just 4km from Kołobrzeg is a tree named Bolesław, which is over 800 years old.. It’s the oldest oak tree in Poland.

5. Cathedral

The historically important cathedral in Kołobrzeg dates from the 14th century and was rebuilt after being badly damaged in 1945. One of the most impressive elements of the structure are its very tall and narrow stained glass windows. The cathedral was built in the Gothic style with five naves and two colossal conjoined towers, which occupy the entire width of the building. In the central nave, you’re find a unique Gothic wooden chandelier dating from 1523. Other objects in the cathedral are even older such as the bronze baptismal font dating from 1355. You’ll find the building at ul Katedralna.

6. History Museum

You’ll find the History Museum housed in Braunschweig Palace, the sister institution to the Polish Arms Museum. Exhibits include metrology (weights and scales) and old postcards of the city.

Further information.

7. Amber Museum

There’s no comparison with the Amber Museum in Gdańsk; however there’s still a good selection of, ‘the gold of the north’ on display. If the weather isn’t good, its an interesting indoor distraction to kill an hour or two!

8. Amphitheatre

Created after World War I and renovated a few times since then, Kołobrzeg’s large amphitheatre hosts around 35 concerts each year including the Sunrise electronic music festival.

Further information.

Kołobrzeg Town Hall

9. Town Hall

You’ll find the Town Hall just east of the Cathedral. During the summer, the area in front of the main entrance is very popular, there’s plenty of beer gardens. The Town Hall itself is a neo-Gothic structure and one wing of the building houses a modern art gallery.

10. Lontowa Tower

Also known as the, Powder Tower or Fuse Tower, the 15th century Lontowa Tower is part of the original city walls.

FAQ

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Kołobrzeg?
A: The best time to visit Kołobrzeg is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Q: Is Kołobrzeg a good place for families?
A: Yes, Kołobrzeg is a great place for families. The city has a variety of activities and attractions that will appeal to children and adults alike, such as the beach, parks, museums, and boat trips.

Q: Is there public transportation in Kołobrzeg?
A: Yes, there is a good public transportation system in Kołobrzeg. The city has buses and trams that connect the different parts of the city. Taxis are also readily available.

Q: What is the main language spoken in Kołobrzeg?
A: The main language spoken in Kołobrzeg is Polish, but many locals speak at least some English, especially in the tourist industry.

Q: What is the currency used in Kołobrzeg?
A: The currency used in Kołobrzeg is the Polish złoty (PLN). Credit cards are widely accepted in most shops and restaurants, but it’s always good to have cash on hand, as smaller establishments might not accept cards.

Q: Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in the restaurants in Kołobrzeg?
A: Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available in many of the restaurants in Kołobrzeg. Some restaurants offer a dedicated vegetarian menu, while others may have a few options on their regular menu.

Around & About in Kielce

Around & About in Kielce

Around Kielce – Updated 16 January 2023.

Świętokrzyski National Park

The park is located just 18km away from Kielce and includes the highest ridge of the Świętokrzyskie Mountains, which are the oldest in Poland. The Park is famous for its trees, of which 674 are regarded as monuments of nature and as such are under protection. The most treasured historical building of the Świętokrzyski National Park is the Benedictine monastery situated on Święty Krzyż Mountain, which dates back to the first half of the 12th century.

The Świętokrzyski National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, and it is also a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region.

Further information.

Kurozwęki Palace

Kurozwęki Palace & Estate

Kurozwęki is a village located 7 kilometres from Staszów and 54 kilometres from Kielce. The palace is a bit outside the centre of the village, but the access to it is well signposted. Today, the palace houses a hotel, you’ll also find restaurants, a bison herd, a mini-zoo and an Arabian stud farm.

Further information.

Museum of the Kielce Region Countryside Ethnographic Park

Just 20km away from Kielce you will find the Museum of the Kielce Region Countryside Ethnographic Park in Tokarnia, which aims to maintain the most valuable monuments of rural and small-town housing in the Kielce Region and present them in an environment similar to the original. The museum exhibits an interesting collection of horse-drawn vehicles.

Further information.

Bałtów Tourist Complex

Kielce is a good base to explore the region’s tourist attractions such as Poland’s first Jurassic Park, the Bałtów Tourist Complex; which contains a 1 km long educational path with 100 life-size models of dinosaurs, the Jurassic Museum, the Prehistoric Oceanarium, a zoo and the Sabathówka Witches’ Village.

Further information.

Krzyztopor Castle

Krzyztopor Castle is located in the tiny village of Ujazd, 35km from the town of Sandomierz. The castle is in ruins today but still attracts many visitors who are free to explore the grounds, ascend the turrets and ponder its remarkable, yet bizarre history. The castle was commissioned in the 17th century by Krzysztof Ossoliński, an eccentric magnate with a fantastical imagination and it took 13 years to build (1631 to 1644). The construction was supervised and designed by Lorenzo Muretto, an Italian architect who was one of the few people around during this time who could create Ossolinski’s dream.

Further information.

Top 10 things to do in Kielce

What to see, what to do

Things to do in Kielce – Updated 16 January 2023.

There’s a lot to see and do in the city. Here’s our list of the Top 10 things to do in Kielce. Click on the links for further information or to book a tour & buy tickets.

1. Kadzielnia Reserve & Amphitheatre

Kadzielnia is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kielce. The former quarry attracts visitors interested in music, extreme experiences such as ziplining and also geology enthusiasts. It is located on a hill as part of the Kadzielnia Range and is 295m above sea level. As a quarry back in the 18th century, it was a significant source of limestone, which was required primarily for road construction and you can still find traces of mining activity around the area. In the centre is the Geologists Rock and this is protected as part of the Kadzielnia Nature Reserve and is not open to tourists, instead visitors admire the rock from the surrounding paths and viewpoints surrounding the quarry. You’ll find a number of attractions in Kadzielnia such as the underground tourist route, the amphitheatre, a zip-line station and a waterfall. The Kadzielnia Amphitheater is one of the most unique and beautiful stages in the country. The surrounding rocks provide a natural backdrop and also enhance the acoustics. The amphitheatre has operated for more than 50 years and underwent a thorough modernisation in 2010, today it can seat as many as 5,430 spectators. During inclement weather, the stage and auditorium is covered with a retractable roof.

Further information.

Things to do in Kielce

2. Palace of the Kraków Bishops

The Palace of the Kraków Bishops in Kielce was built in the 17th century as a summer residence for the Bishop of Kraków, Jakub Zadzik. The architect of the palace was Tommaso Poncino of Lugano who designed the building using both Polish and Italian building traditions. The design included a loggia with marble columns and four hexagonal domed towers on its corners. Above the loggia’s arches were cartouches with the coats of arms of Bishop Zadzik, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and the Kraków chapter. At the rear of the palace is a geometric Italian garden surrounded by fruit trees. Currently the palace houses a branch of the National Museum with an important gallery of Polish paintings.

Further information.

3. National Museum

The National Museum in Kielce is located in the Palace of the Kraków Bishops. Its collections include exhibits of Polish and Western European art, antique weapons, coins, archaeology and natural sciences. The art collection includes Baroque and Rococo portrait painting to Realism and Impressionism.

Further information.

4. Kielce Cathedral

The full name for Kielce Cathedral is the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is actually a Roman Catholic church that has been given the status of cathedral and is located in the heart of the city next to the Palace of the Bishops of Kraków on Castle Hill. It was originally built during the 12th century but was subsequently destroyed by the tartars in 1260. Reconstruction of the building began in 1719 in the early Baroque style.

Further information.

5. Museum of Toys and Play

The Museum of Toys and Play is the largest and oldest museum of this type in Poland. It has an exhibition area of 631 square metres and thousands of exhibits. You’ll find historical and folk toys, dolls from all over the world, model cars, aeroplanes, boats, railway models, theatrical dolls and much more. Many of the exhibits are interactive and children are encouraged to get involved. The museum has two play areas, one indoors and the other in the courtyard, which is open during the summer. You’ll find the museum in the 19th-century market hall at Plac Wolności

Further information.

6. Rynek (Market Square)

Kielce’s historic market square has been the administrative heart of the city since the middle of the 14th century. On the west side of the square if the Neoclassical city hall and just to the left of this on the corner of Ulica Mała, you’ll find an adorable painted blue house with a small arcade containing a café, which dates from 1767. The house once belonged to the Bishop of Kraków’s cook.

7. Dworek Laszczyków (Laszczyks’ Manor house)

Ulica Jana Pawła II on the southern slope of Castle Hill is home to the only 18th century wooden mansion still standing in Kielce. It is considered to be one of the city’s architectural treasures and a visit there is a great way to tap into the folk culture of the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship. Today it serves as the administrative office of the Open-Air Museum of the Kielce Village and hosts temporary exhibitions.

8. Sanctuary of the Holy Cross Wood Relic

The Sanctuary of the Holy Cross Wood Relic and Museum of the Missionary Oblates of the Virgin Mary are located on Łysiec mountain, nowadays referred to as Święty Krzyż mountain. Święty Krzyż (Mount Holy Cross) is the second highest mountain in the region at 595m. If you believe local folk legend, the mountain was especially liked by witches and during their Sabbaths, they practised witchcraft and organised hellish parties and dances on the summit. Today, you can see remains of a 9th century stone rampart surrounding the top of the mountain in addition to the Benedictine monastery with its Relics of the Holy Cross Tree. The 1000 year old monastery is managed by the Missionary Oblates. Every year, the Holy Cross Sanctuary is visited by crowds of pilgrims, visitors and tourists, who want to see this unique place. In the church on the mountain you can see a valuable painting of Franciszek Smuglewicz, monastery porches, a sacristy, the Oleśnicki family’s chapel and the Museum of the Missionary Oblates of the Virgin Mary.

Further information.

Monastery Kielce

9. Karczówka Monastery

Karczówka Monastery was built shortly after the city of Kielce was spared from a plague epidemic in 1622 by the Bishop of Kraków to say thank you to God for sparing the city. In 1655, the monastery was destroyed by the Swedes and was re-built in the early 18th century. The structure is crowned by two copper-covered cupolas and is decorated in the Rococo style. It has a lovely chapel under the main tower with an altar piece made from lead discovered in Karczówka’s mines in 1646.

Further information.

10. Stanisława Staszica Park

You’re find this lovely 8 ha park at the southern foot of Castle Hill. It features a large pond, willow trees, a fountain, a mature forest and an aviary containing a variety of rare birds.

Around & About in Bydgoszcz

Around & About in Bydgoszcz

Around & about in Bydgoszcz – Updated 16 January 2023.

In addition to our recommended Top 10 things to do in Bydgoszcz, there are a number of other interesting places to visit in the city and in the surrounding area.

The Legend of the Archer

If you have time on your hands and have already explored our top recommendations, other interesting things to see include; The Legend of the Archer, a statue of a female archer unveiled in 1910 and to this day, nobody knows who the model was. Another interesting sculpture can be found in Nicolaus Copernicus Square. In the streets of Bydgoszcz, you may find dead tree trunks which have been turned into sculptures.

Toruń

The city of Toruń is only 46km away from Bydgoszcz and is definitely worth a day trip, the whole city has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Toruń is one of the oldest cities in Poland and has many monuments of architecture dating back to the Middle Ages. The city is famous for having preserved almost intact its medieval spatial layout and many Gothic buildings, all built from brick, including monumental churches, the Town Hall and many burgher houses.

Toruń was left mercifully untouched by World War II and a walk through the city today provides a complete picture of life back during medieval times. You’ll find Gothic parish churches in both the Old Town and the New Town in addition to medieval brick townhouses complete with Gothic façades, partition walls, stucco-decorated ceilings, vaulted cellars, and painted decoration.

Exploseum

The Exploseum is an open-air museum of industrial architecture combined with a museum of 20th century technology outskirts of the city, in Bydgoszcz Industrial Park. It is built around the World War II Nazi Germany munitions factory DAG Fabrik Bromberg and covers the life of the forced laborers (prisoners of war and concentration camp inmates of various nations), their acts of sabotage and  the history of the DAG and of Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite. A significant part of the 2 kilometre-long museum route are underground passages connecting the factory buildings. DAG Fabrik Bromberg was an explosives factory manufacturing smokeless powder, TNT and nitro-glycerine for the Wehrmacht.

Biskupin

Biskupin is an archaeological site located in the Kujawy region of Poland, near the village of Gąsawa. It is an open-air museum that reconstructs the life of an ancient fortified settlement of the Lusatian culture, which existed between the 8th and the 2nd century BCE. The settlement was discovered in 1933 and is believed to have been occupied by a tribe of the Lusatian culture, which was a Bronze Age culture that existed in the present-day Poland, Czech Republic and Germany.

Traditional techniques and materials

The reconstructed settlement features houses, fortifications, and other structures that were built using traditional techniques and materials, providing visitors with a glimpse of how life was for the people who lived there. The settlement also features a museum that contains artifacts discovered at the site, including pottery, jewelry, and tools.

Biskupin is one of the most popular archaeological sites in Poland and attracts many visitors each year, including history buffs, families, and school groups.

It is open all year round and offers guided tours, workshops, and other activities to visitors. The site has also a replica of a reconstructed boat that was used in the ancient times and is a popular attraction among visitors.

Top 10 things to do in Bydgoszcz

What to see, what to do

Things to do in Bydgoszcz – Updated 16 January 2023.

There’s a lot to see and do in the city. Here’s our list of the Top 10 things to do in Bydgoszcz. Click on the links for further information or to book a tour & buy ticket.

1. Mill Island

Mill Island (Venice of Bydgoszcz) is a historic area located in the Old Town of Bydgoszcz and is home to around 360,000 residents. It is a very popular area for locals and visitors because it is one the most beautiful scenic spots in the city, with a picturesque waterfront, locks and dams, footbridges, lawns, a canal waterfall, old trees and impressive red brick buildings.

2. Bydgoszcz Fara Church

The Church of St. Martin and Nicolaus is the oldest building in Bydgoszcz, erected between 1466 and 1502. The Gothic church is commonly known as Fara Church and is home to a 16th century painting entitled Madonna with a Rose or the Holy Virgin of Beautiful Love.

3. Man crossing the river

The work of Polish sculptor Jerzy Kędziora, the ‘Man crossing the river’ is an iconic sculpture of a young man attempting to cross the river on a wire. It was unveiled on 1st May 2004, the day that Poland joined the European Union.

Things to do in Bydgoszcz

4. The Water Tram

The best way to admire the sights of Bydgoszcz is to take the Water Tram, which starts at Rybi Rynek. Thousands of tourists take the tram each year, which will take you along one of two routes, the Old Town Route or the Sunny Route. The trams named Słonecznik I and II are modern, environmentally friendly vessels, powered by solar energy, which can carry 28 people on board.

5. Bydgoszcz Canal

Bydgoszcz Canal is a canal, 24.7 km long, between the cities of Bydgoszcz and Nakło in Poland, connecting the Vistula River with the Oder River, through their tributaries: the Brda River, the Notec River and the Warta River. The level difference along the canal is regulated by 6 locks. The canal was built between 1773 and 1774, at the order of Frederick II, King of Prussia.

Things to do in Bydgoszcz

6. Granaries on the Brda River

The Granaries on the Brda River are the symbol of the city and are used as the official city logo. Historically, the granaries were among many grain storehouses in the city, today, they are part of the Leon Wyczółkowski District Museum.

7. Museum of Waterworks

Located in the Las Gdański water intake and Water Tower in the Szwederowo district, the museum of waterworks was established using EU funds. The museum explains how waterworks operate, how does it get to the taps, what happens to waste water when you pull out the plug. In addition, the museum addresses environmental and health issues such as why we should care for water and why we cannot live without it.

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8. Museum of Soap and History of Dirt

Interactive time travel through the history of cleanliness, dirt and soap making, which has deep-rooted ties with Bydgoszcz.

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9. Forest Park of Culture and Recreation Myślęcinek

The park is extremely popular with the residents of Bydgoszcz due to its excellent transport links with the centre of the city. It covers 830 ha of wilderness, which includes 500 ha of forest.

10. Main Post Office

Still a working post office open 24 hours per day, this is one of the most spectacular buildings located on the Brda riverbank. It was built in the 19th century in the Prussian national style.

FAQ

Q: What is Bydgoszcz known for?
A: Bydgoszcz is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with many historical buildings and monuments such as the Old Market Square, the Gothic St. Martin’s Church, and the 19th century Opera Nova. It is also known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, such as the Botanical Garden, the Mill Island and the Park of Culture and Relaxation.

Q: What is the best time to visit Bydgoszcz?
A: The best time to visit Bydgoszcz would be from May to September, when the weather is warm and pleasant and the city’s many outdoor attractions can be enjoyed.

Q: How do I get to Bydgoszcz?
A: Bydgoszcz can be reached by plane, train or bus. The city has its own airport, Bydgoszcz Ignacy Jan Paderewski Airport, which has regular flights from Warsaw, Krakow and Gdańsk. The city is also well connected by train and bus to other major cities in Poland.

Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in Bydgoszcz?
A: Some popular tourist attractions in Bydgoszcz include the Old Market Square, the Gothic St. Martin’s Church, the 19th century Opera Nova, the Botanical Garden, the Mill Island and the Park of Culture and Relaxation, and the Leon Wyczółkowski District Museum.

Q: Are there any good hotels in Bydgoszcz?
A: There are many good hotels in Bydgoszcz to suit different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include the Hotel Pod Orlem, the Hotel Mercure Bydgoszcz Centrum, and the Hotel Focus.

Around & About in Bialystok

Around & About in Bialystok

Around & about – updated 16 January 2023.

Bialowieza National Park

There’s not a lot to see and do in Bialystok, it will only take a couple of days to see all the attractions on our Top 10 list; however, if you’re in the city and therefore in Podlasie, we highly recommend that you take a day trip to Bialowieza National Park. It is located around 95km away but will only take you 1½ hours in a car.

Bialowieza National Park is well-known for two reasons. Firstly, it is home to Europe’s largest land mammal, the European bison and secondly, the park shelters a sizeable chunk of original lowland primeval forest; which has remained undisturbed for hundreds of years. The forest has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve.

The park is called the “last untouched wilderness of Europe” and has an inner zone consisting of old-growth forest which has been living without much human intervention for over 800 years.

Alternative parks

If the trip to Bialowieza National Park is too far away, then don’t worry, there are another two National Parks that are much closer to Białystok.

Narew and Biebrza National Parks are around 36km away and they both have a lot to offer. There are also three Landscape Parks, 88 nature reserves and 15 protected landscape areas within the region.

Biebrza National Park

Biebrza National Park

Biebrza National Park is a protected area in northeastern Poland, located in the Masurian Voivodeship. It is known for its diverse wildlife, including large populations of European bison, elk, and beaver, as well as many bird species such as the black stork, crane, and white-tailed eagle. The park is also home to several rare and protected plant species. The park covers an area of about 58,000 hectares and is divided into two parts: the Biebrza Marsh and the Rospuda Valley. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.

Narew National Park

Narew National Park is a protected area located in northeastern Poland, in the Podlaskie Voivodeship. The park is situated along the Narew River, which is known for its unique, meandering course and the diverse range of habitats it creates, such as riverine forests, meadows, and marshes. The park covers an area of around 34,000 hectares and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including many species of birds, such as the white-tailed eagle and the black stork, as well as mammals like the European bison, elk and beaver. The park is also home to several rare and protected plant species. The park is popular destination for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers and kayakers. The park offers a good opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region, and also has a few hiking trails that can be taken to explore the park.

Podlaskie Museum of Folk Culture

The Podlaskie Museum of Folk Culture is not far from Białystok and features a great collection of the local folk art and typical examples of peasant houses and farm buildings characteristic of the region. The museum is located at the northern borders of Białystok, in the settlement of Wasilków, on the road to Augustów.

This outdoor museum has forty buildings and other cultural artefacts gathered from around the region. There are also two windmills, a cave-house, a Belarusian cottage, a forge and a lumberjack’s hut.

Wooden manor house

Among the collection is a relocated Neoclassical wooden manor house from the 1810s with a whole hamlet with five homesteads surrounding a central square. These homes are furnished with traditional furniture and pottery.

Top 10 things to do in Bialystok

What to see, what to do

Top 10 things to do – updated 15 January 2023.

There’s a lot to see and do in the city and surrounding area. Here’s our list of the Top 10 things to do in Bialystok. Click on the links for further information or to book a tour & buy ticket.

1. Branicki Palace

Built for a man who wanted to be the King of Poland, the Branicki Palace and gardens is a good way to kill a few hours whilst you are in Bialystok. It’s a beautiful palace with impressive gardens, complete with pavilions, sculptures and outbuildings. The gardens are free and are open all year. It is possible to see the interior of the palace, some parts can be accessed for free, other areas require that you purchase a ticket. The palace contains the Museum of the History of Medicine.

Bialystok is part of an area known as the ‘Green Lungs of Poland’ for the quality of its air, and this sprawling, ‘Planty Park’ that occupies over 35 acres near Branicki Palace is the perfect place to enjoy it.

Further information.

2. Girl with a Water Can Mural

Top 10 things to do in Białystok

Painted on the side of the four-storey high building at al Józefa Piłsudskiego 11/4 is a mural of a little girl appearing to water an actual tree and this has become a Bialystok icon. The official name for the art is The Legend of Giants, it was pained by Natalia Rak in 2013.

Further information.

3. The History Museum

There are a number of good museums in the city such as The History Museum, which showcases the history of Bialystok and Podlasie. A light show featuring a large model of Bialystok in its late 18th-century heyday is the highlight of this museum, which is an annex of the Podlasie Museum, which can be found at the Town Hall.

Further information.

4. Cytron Synagogue

Before World War II, Bialystok had 60 synagogues serving a population of over 40,000 Jews, or about half of the city’s population. Only three synagogue buildings survived the war, one of which was the Cytron Synagogue where the few hundred Bialystok Jews who survived the Holocaust worshipped after the war. Today it is a branch of the Podlasie Museum and is used as an art gallery and for special exhibitions.

Further information.

5. Rynek Kościuszki

The main market square and focal point of the city, the Rynek has been rebuilt several times and has an unusual trapezoidal shape. The square houses the Town Hall, which is home to the Podlasie Museum.

6. Ludwik Zamenhof Centre

A cultural institution founded to celebrate the organisation of the 94th World Congress of Esperanto that was held from 25 July to 1 August 2009 in Bialystok. The Zamenhof Centre offers the visitors a permanent exhibition, ‘Bialystok of Young Zamenhof’ and various temporary exhibitions, concerts, film projections, and theatre performances.

Further information.

7. Bialystok Cathedral

Białystok Cathedral

Dating from 1905, the grand neo-Gothic brick Roman Catholic cathedral in Bialystok is attached to a late-Renaissance parish church dating from 1627 and an 18th-century baroque presbytery. The actual name for the cathedral is The Metropolitan Archcathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Further information.

8. Museum of the History of Medicine & Pharmacy

Housed within the Branicki Palace, this museum features historical medical exhibits.

Further information.

9. Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit

The largest Orthodox church in Poland, which is topped with a cross weighing an impressive 1500kg. The large cross represents Christ, while 12 smaller crosses around it represent the apostles.

Further information.

10. St Nicholas’ Orthodox Church

A Byzantine style church built in 1846 with a central cupola.

Further information.

FAQ

Q: What is the population of Białystok?
A: As of 2021, the population of Białystok is approximately 297,000 people.

Q: What is the currency used in Białystok?
A: The official currency in Białystok and all of Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN).

Q: What is the best time to visit Białystok?
A: The best time to visit Białystok depends on your preference. Summer months from June to August are generally considered to be the best time to visit, as the weather is warm and pleasant and there are many outdoor activities and festivals to enjoy.

Q: What is the weather like in Białystok?
A: Białystok has a temperate continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature in the summer is around 21°C (70°F) and in winter is around -3°C (27°F).

Q: What is the official language in Białystok?
A: The official language in Białystok and all of Poland is Polish.

Q: What is the main mode of transportation in Białystok?
A: The main mode of transportation in Białystok is by bus and tram, but also have a railway station connecting the city with other cities in Poland. Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive, and there are also several bike rental companies in the city.

Q: How do I get to Białystok from the airport?
A: The Białystok-Sokółka Airport (BZG) is located about 25km from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to the city center. There is also a train service that connects the airport to the main railway station in Białystok.

Q: Are there any good places to eat in Białystok?
A: Białystok offers a wide variety of dining options, from traditional Polish cuisine to international cuisine. Some popular restaurants in the city include Karczma Bida Pod Lipami, Karczma Zielona, and Restauracja Pod Arkadami.

All Saint’s Day

All Saint’s Day

All Saint’s Day – updated 29 August 2022

Wszystkich Swietych (in Polish) occurs on 1st November every year and is a public bank holiday. Originally, this day was only used to celebrate the saints; nowadays it is also a day when Poles remember deceased family and friends and is known colloquially as The Day of the Dead.

All Saint’s Day

On All Saint’s Day, the Polish will happily travel hundreds of kilometres across Poland to visit the graves of their relatives, sometimes visiting three or four different cemeteries in different towns. All Saint’s Day is akin to a military exercise for some families involving days of planning and preparation. It can also be quite an expensive day with fuel costs to be considered in addition to the cost of flowers and candles for each grave.

The cemeteries in Poland are usually well maintained and extremely neat and tidy but in November, they are spruced up and decorated with thousands of candles and flowers. They are particularly impressive when it is dark and all of the candles are lit.

All Saint’s Day

The day is taken so seriously that regardless of the weather, you will see people cleaning the graves a few days prior to 1st November. A neglected grave is considered to be shameful and is frowned upon.

All Saint’s Day dates back to the early 4th century and is celebrated around the world by mainly Roman Catholics. The Polish version of the day has a pagan background linked to a time prior to Poland being a Christian country.

Wszystkich Swietych

Way back in the day, people believed that the souls of forefathers would return to this realm to visit their loved ones by gathering near the windows and doorway; which were left open. They would then enter the house and warm themselves by the home’s fireplace and enjoy the commemoration meal prepared for them. Usually, a bench was moved close to the hearth and on the bench, there would be a bowl of water, a towel and a comb so that the souls could wash themselves and comb their hair.

Another tradition was to light bonfires on crossroads to help souls to navigate their way home and to warm them up. This tradition was replaced with the lighting of candles on the graves.

Once the cemetery visits are complete, people will usually get together with their families to have a meal and spend some time together.

The 2nd November is known as All Soul’s Day (Zaduszki or Dzień Zaduszny) when practising Roman Catholics go to mass.