Autumn city break in Poland: 5 less known destinations
What Exactly is a City Break?
First and foremost, let’s remember not to equate a city break with a full vacation. A city break is shorter, typically just a weekend, often spontaneous, and generally easy on the wallet. For this reason, trips within one’s own country or to neighboring states make excellent choices.
Here are our five top picks for autumn :)
Kazimierz Dolny
Kazimierz Dolny is a small town in the Lublin region, located along the Vistula River. Its intimate charm is mainly created by its picturesque architecture and beautiful views. While in Kazimierz, take a stroll down narrow streets, visit the local museum, explore the town square, and discover the legend of the Kazimierz rooster.
Roztocze and Zamość
Roztocze is well worth a visit, boasting not only the famous Roztocze National Park but also the town of Zwierzyniec, the Echo ponds, and the observation tower on Biała Góra. This beautiful area in southeastern Poland is ideal for those seeking tranquility and relaxation, and the October-November weather can really enhance its unique atmosphere.
While in Roztocze, don’t miss Zamość. In this city, founded in the 15th century by Jan Zamoyski, be sure to see the founder’s monument, the Zamoyski Palace, the Renaissance town hall, and the beautiful Lwów Gates—both the old and the new.
Toruń
For those who prefer larger cities and want to beat the autumn blues with some sweet indulgence, we recommend Toruń. This city of over 200,000 residents is not only one of the two capitals of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship (alongside Bydgoszcz) but also the birthplace of Polish gingerbread. You can find gingerbread practically on every corner, though insiders know the best are found at Iga Skarżyńska’s.
History enthusiasts should visit the Gingerbread Museum and explore everything connected with Nicolaus Copernicus, Toruń’s most famous resident.
Jelenia Góra
If you love the mountains, Jelenia Góra, nestled among the Karkonosze Mountains, is a must-visit. This former German city with a population of about 100,000 offers a wide range of attractions. Jelenia Góra boasts a beautiful town square and narrow, slightly eerie streets where remnants of tram tracks and old tram cars, which operated here until the 1950s, can still be found. For those intrigued by shady neighborhoods and tenements bordering abandoned buildings, we recommend Jelenia Góra’s “Pekin” area. These few streets will make Warsaw’s Szmulowizna or Kraków’s Krowodrza feel like high-standard, gated communities.
Just a stone’s throw from the city are the aforementioned mountains, including Śnieżka, the highest peak in the Karkonosze. However, bear in mind that reaching its summit is no easy feat—it stands at 1,603 meters above sea level, so be prepared and know your limits.
Bieszczady and Przemyśl
And if you’re looking to leave it all behind and go far away, we recommend the Bieszczady Mountains. These mountains are at their most beautiful in autumn. Be sure to visit the Bieszczady National Park, conquer the Połonina Wetlińska, and explore the Solina Lake. If you find yourself craving a bit of city life amidst the wilderness, head to Przemyśl, where you’ll find the beautiful Old Town square and the 11th-century Kazimierz Castle.