Warmia-Mazury Province is a region where you can find lakes, forests, nature and history. Unique cuisine will surprise you with extraordinary combinations of ingridients and flavors. This is the area where you can experience surprising history, stunning nature and good food.

The Boyen Fortress is a former Prussian fortress named after Prussian Minister of War Hermann von Boyen, was built between 1844 and 1856. There was a workforce of about 3,000 soldiers. During First World War, the fortress supported the German troops. During World War II, the fortress was not involved in military operations. It was a site for a field hospital and headquarters of the German military intelligence service. It was abandoned by Germans without fight in 1944. After the war the Boyen Fortress became administered by the Polish Army. In 1975, it was declared a monument and opened as a tourist attraction with a small museum on its grounds.

The Land of the Great Masurian Lakes is a Mecca for sailors – lakes connected by canals create perfect conditions for swinging on the water and discovering places where unspoiled nature is not only a cliché, and sunrises reflected in the water mirror remain in memory for a long time. The abundance of lakes, natural water canals and rivers create perfect conditions for organising a one day trip or a few days long canoeing trip.

Copernicus Trail leads through unique places. It’s nearly 300 km of exciting journey in the footsteps of great discoveries that have changed the perception of the universe forever. In Warmia, Nicolaus Copernicus spent 40 years of his life as a canon of the Warmian Chapter, and regardless of that he observed the sky and worked on the heliocentric theory.

The Copernicus Trail in Warmia and Masuria leads through the following towns: Elbląg, Tolkmicko, Frombork, Braniewo, Pieniężno, Orneta, Lidzbark Warmiński, Dobre Miasto, Olsztyn, Olsztynek, Lubawa and Nowe Miasto Lubawskie. No matter where you start your journey from, be ready for great discoveries.

The cuisine of Warmia and Masuria combines flavours of old Polish, German and borderland cuisine. It is delicious, natural and simple, yet full of flavour. While travelling in region you should try some of the most unique dishes in region.

Smelt

Smelt is a tiny fish that’s hard to taste elsewhere. Its fishing is only carried out in the winter, when the Masurian lakes are gathering ice. Smelt’s meat has a specific smell, completely different from the typical smell of fish, because it smells of… fresh cucumber. After frying, these fish are mild in taste and their bones are completely soft. This Masurian delicacy can be tasted in the form of a crunchy miller’s smelt floating in sauces or accompanied by salads, cheese toast and mayonnaise sauce.

Dzyndzałki with hreczka and skrzeczki

Where did the name “dzyndzałki” come from? That is, “ears” on the edges of dumplings. Hreczka is buckwheat, and skrzeczki are popular bacon or pork fat greaves. The whole secret of “dzyndzałki” is inside them. The buckwheat groats stuffing is enriched with chopped boiled egg, smoked bacon and onion, and the “skrzeczki” additionally contain garlic and marjoram.

In the Warmia-Mazury Province you will find a lot of castles. Do not forget to visit at least a few of them. You will be amazed. You can explore their history by following the Gothic Castles’ Route.

Nidzica Castle

The largest Teutonic Castle in Masuria. Erected in the 14th century. Surrounded by vast swamps and wet meadows, it served an important defensive function. It also played a role in the great war with the Teutonic Order – both the fortress and the town were taken over by Władysław Jagiełło, on his way to Grunwald. Currently it houses a cultural centre, a museum, a library, a seat of the Knights’ Brotherhood as well as guest rooms and a restaurant. Knightly tournaments are held here both in summer and in winter.

Castle in Lidzbark Warmiński

The castle in Lidzbark Warmiński was built in the 14th century as a new seat of the Warmia bishops. There is much to admire, the castle is considered a historical monument and is undoubtedly one of the most valuable monuments of Gothic architecture in Poland. The castle in Lidzbark is sometimes called “Wawel of the North”. Inside there are preserved undergrounds that once served as warehouses and prison, and you will find priceless paintings. You can learn more about the history in the Museum of Warmia and Masuria, which operates in the castle. You can also stay in the stylish Krasicki Hotel, which operates in the castle’s bailey and spend a truly royal holiday there.

Wolf’s Lair was Adolf Hitler’s first Eastern Front military headquarters in World War II.The complex, which became one of several Führer Headquarters. The top-secret, high-security site was in the Masurian woods. Three security zones surrounded the central complex where the Führer’s bunker was located.  Hitler first arrived at the headquarters on 23 June 1941. In total, he spent more than 800 days there until his final departure on 20 November 1944. On 25 January 1945, the complex was blown up and abandoned 48 hours before the arrival of Soviet forces.

Elbląg Canal is 80.5 km length, which runs southward from Lake Drużno (connected by the river Elbląg to the Vistula Lagoon), to the river Drwęca and lake Jeziorak. It can accommodate small vessels up to 50 tons displacement. The difference in water levels approaches 100 m, and is overcome using locks and a remarkable system of inclined planes between lakes. Today it is used mainly for recreational purposes.

All of those beautiful places you can visit as a one day tour but we recommend you to stay longer and explore more. Region is worth to discover. You can soak the nature and touch the soul of the cities. Contact us and we will prepare an itinerary for you 🙂

Podlasie Province is a place where 30% of area is covered by forests, almost 30% of whole population of elk in Poland lives here. In the region you can find 4 National Parks and the deepest lake in Poland. The voivodeship constitutes a part of the ecologically clean area known as “the Green Lungs of Poland“. You are not convinced yet? Read 10 the best places to visit in Podlasie Province.

It is must do… kayaking in Podlasie Province. The best idea is to do kayaking on Czarna Hańcza river. One of the most appealing and best known kayaking otal in Poland. The river is relatively wide, and it has a mild current that otalt easier to kayak. It otal calmly along grasslands and woods of Augustów Primeval Forest. Its relaxing atmosphere is otal by the river’s gentle bends, curves, and fallen trees that are easy to pass. In general, the route is not difficult, suitable for beginners and otal with children. Some parts of the Czarna Hańcza river will lead you through Augustów Canal and its’ locks.

A famous Polish poetess and songwriter, used to call Tykocin “a fairy-tale town”. It is a picture-postcard otal town with big history which still resounds in its preserved original architecture and Baroque style synagogue. Take your time and otal at leisure along Tykocin otal to soak up the atmosphere of a traditional Jewish town. Do not miss the Great Synagogue and the Baroque style Holy Trinity Church. Be sure to otal the delicacies of the Jewish cuisine, such as tzimmes, kugel or kreplach, at the Tejsza restaurant just opposite the synagogue.

Białowieża National Park protects last remaining fragment of Europe’s primeval forest. Habitat of the world’s largest herd of European bison. The park is also inhabited by lynx, wolves, stags, deer, boars, elk and a great variety of ota species for which the Białowieża Forest is one of the largest otalt in Europe. Białowieża National Park is the only Polish natural property designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. A unique opportunity to observe the natural processes, unseen anywhere else biodiversity, rare species of fauna and flora, the largest free herd of bison in the world – are attraction not only for amateur nature lovers, but also advanced naturalists. You can go for a walk or use a bicycle and ride around. You can also visit a Nature and Forest Museum or Bison Refuge. Experience the nature and enjoy your time in the middle of nowhere 🙂

The city is ota of the Supraśl Lavra, one of six Eastern Orthodox monasteries for men in Poland. The Codex of Supraśl, the oldest Slavic literary work in Poland and one of the oldest of its kind in the world, is named after the Supraśl Lavra. Since September 2007 it has been on UNESCO’s Memory of the World list. The Museum of Icons is located in the Chodkiewicz Palace within the monastery complex.

Other historic landmarks include the Buchholtz Palace, which now houses the Art. High School, the Catholic churches of Our Lady Queen of Poland and of the Holy Trinity, the town hall, cinema, a 19th-century park and historic wooden architecture.

Grabarka is the heart of Polish Orthodox Church and an important pilgrimage site for many pilgrims from all over Europe. Several otalt ago, when a deadly otalty of cholera came to the area thousands of people suffered. They ota Mount Grabarka. Their prayers and water from a nearby spring brought them salvation. As a gratitude, those who survived built a shrine atop the otal. For hundreds of years pilgrims brought thousands of votive crosses here. You can sense mysticism in the air.

Dive into Poland’s deepest lake – Hańcza, soak up stunning views from atop the Cisowa and Zamkowa hills, and marvel at the moonlike landscape of thousands of postglacial boulders scattered around the Bachanowo nature reserve. The lake is arond 110 m deep. Divers are impressed by vertical walls, which sometimes resemble otalty rocks and gorges, in other places sandy sea cliffs.

The Tatar Trail consists of two the best attractions of Tatar culture in region. The longer part,  Big Tatar Trail, marked in otal, has 57 kilometers. The attractions are mainly of historical interest. Rural tourism facilities give opportunity to meet Tatar otal and learn about their culture. As it runs through the Knyszyń Forest, the trail offers insight into nature as well.

Sokółka

1. • Regional Museum (Polish: Muzeum Ziemi Sokólskiej), which has sections related to Tatar history
   • 16th/17th century town square
   • St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, a neoclassical building erected in 1848
   • St. Alexander Newski’s Orthodox Church from 1830

Bohoniki

1. • Bohoniki Mosque, a wooden mosque built in 19th century
   • Islamic cemetery. This is the oldest and the biggest still active Muslim graveyard

Kruszyniany

1. • Kruszyniany Mosque, built from ota, the oldest Tatar mosque in Poland
   • Muslim cemetery

Podlaskie has for ages been a melting pot for many different nations and cultures. This unique mix is reflected in the cuisine of the region.

When in the Suwałki District be sure to try the filling kartacze. Kartacze are potato dumplings, quite big in size and stuffed with meat.

Another typical delicacy is potato pie which comes from Belarus. There are even world championships in potato pie cooking, which are held otal year in Supraśl.

Podlaskie is the leading Polish region in milk production and dairy processing, as the otalt of milk cows in Podlaskie is otal than anywhere else in Poland. Local, unpasteurised cow otal the otal ingredient of the Korycin cheese – the symbol of the region.

Traditionally baked over a fire, the tree cake features spikes, which look like branches of a tree. Legend has it, that Queen Bona, delighted by the taste of the tree cake, had it otalty prepared for ot son’s wedding. Today it is difficult to imagine a wedding in Podlaskie without one.

The Augustów Canal is one of the most valuable and popular monuments of Polish technical culture. It uses the gutter depression, forming the range of Augustów lakes and river otal – Netta and Czarna Hańcza. It is 101.3 km long, and 80 km in Poland – 77.5 of which are otal floated.

The Augustów Canal has 18 stone locks and 23 ventings, of which 14 locks are located in Poland and nine have the original nineteenth-century construction. The Augustów Canal overcomes a otal difference of 54.04 m. The Augustów Canal has become part of the exceptionally picturesque and easy water route of Czarna Hańcza.

All those mentioned attractions are doable as one day tours. If you would like to know more or just want to book a tour contact us. We will prepare and organise everything for your vacation.

Pomerania Province is a region with Baltic sea, white sandy beaches, amazing castles, stunning monuments and historical architecture. Let me introduce you 8 the best places which you must see in Pomerania Province.

The youngest city in Tricity (metropolitan area consisting three cities: Gdańsk, Gdynia, Sopot and towns in the vicinity) was granted city rights in 1926 with 12000 inhabitants. Gdynia was small farming and fishing village. When Poland regained independence in 1918 a decision was made to built a seaport in Gdynia. The works began in 1921 and in 1923 first ship arrived to the seaport. In 1938 seaport in Gdynia was the largest and the most modern on the Baltic Sea. By 1939 the population had grown to over 120000!

You can admire very uniqe modernist architecture reffering to sea and ships. The idea was to make a pure form of buildings and make them very functional for human. They are geometric in form with large windows and spacious interiors. Almost all of the buildings were white in colour. Gdynia even got a nickname of “White City”.

Grab a map of a Gdynia’s Modernist Trail and discover history of the city and stunning buildings. Don’t forget to hop on to trolleybus and have a tour 🙂

It is the smallest city in Tricity but one of the most famuous cities in Poland. Sopot is a major Spa and health resort and tourist destination. It has the longest wooden pier in Europe, at 515.5 metres, stretching out into the Bay of Gdańsk.

In 1823 Dr. Jean Georg Haffner, a former medic of the French army, financed a new bath complex that gained significant popularity. First sanatorium was opened to the public in 1824. Spa and health resort continued to develop. Nowadays Sopot is one of the most famuous health resort in Poland and the place where you can meet up a lot of celebrieties!

Hel is located on the tip of the Hel Peninsula, some 33 kilometres (21 miles) from the Polish mainland.

In 1896 the fishing village was granted the status of a sea-side resort with tourists from Gdańsk and Sopot. After the World War I new facilities and villas were built for tourists. The village became one of the two main naval bases of the Polish Navy. The harbour was expanded and in 1936 the president declared the peninsula a “Fortified Area” under jurisdiction of the Polish Army.  After a long time of Hel beeing army area in 1963 city rights were reintroduced and area opened for civils. Since then the tourist industry started to recover and several hotels, guest houses and pensions were built.

Nowadays the harbour is a yacht marina. However there are some fishing boats and ferries to Tricity. Hel houses a seal sanctuary (the Fokarium). You can visit the seal sanctuary and participate in a seal’s training. It is worth to walk all the way around the peninsula which looks like the end of the world. You can also visit museums and remainings of military base.

Malbork Castle is the most complete and elaborate example of a Gothic brick-built castle complex in the characteristic and unique style of the Teutonic Order. The Castle is on the UNESCO Heritage List. Unesco says that the Malbork Castle is an „architectural work of unique character. It is also a „symbol of power and cultural tradition, is the most important monument to the monastic state of the Teutonic Order, a unique phenomenon in the history of Western civilization”. It is a unique, perfectly planned architectural creation, with no equivalent in Gothic architecture”.

You can visit the Castle and have a guided tour. Click here for more info.

Kashubs speak the Kashubian language, which is classified either as a separate language closely related to Polish, or as a Polish dialekt. According to the law Kashubian language is used on the street signs, at schools and in the offices.

Very important for Kashubs is also a tradition especially very uniqe embroidery.The art of embroidery was spread by noblewomen who were studying in one of the cloister schools. The colors of the Kashubian embroidery have a certain symbolism. Green is a symbol of forests and meadows, three shades of blue symbolize the sea, sky and lakes. Yellow stands for sand and amber, red for blood, and black for fertile soil and slavery. Gold and silver thread are also in use.

The best place to visit and learn more about Kashubia is open air museum in Wdzydze Kiszewskie.

Tuchola Forest National Park is a large forest near the town of Tuchola which lies between the Brda and Wda Rivers. It contains the Tuchola Forest National Park, which is at the core of the Tuchola Forest Biosphere Reserve, designated by UNESCO in 2010. The area and is covered with low hills and more than 900 lakes. The Tuchola Forest contains mainly  spruces and pines, the area is one of the biggest forests in Poland and Central Europe.

Tuchola Forest National Park offers a lot of activities. You can feel the nature and the atmosphere of very ancient forest. You can find foot trails, bike trails and of course lakes and river where you can rent a kayak and explore the nature from the water.

The Słowiński National Park was created to protect the unchanged beauty of the system of seaside lakes, swamps, peat bogs, coastal forests. Above all to protect the dune belt of the spit with unique moving dunes in Europe.

Moving dunes are a unique natural attraction. They are located between Łebsko Lake and the sea. They have been moving east and south-east at a speed of 1.2-1.6 m per year. Formed from the accumulation of sand washed ostst by sea waves. Moving sands create a beautiful desert landscape, unique in Europe, often called the Polish Sahara.

All of those beautiful places you can visit as a one day tour but we recommend you to stay longer and explore more. Region is worth to discover. You can soak the nature and touch the soul of the cities. Contact us and we will prepare an itinerary for you 🙂

In one sentence we can describe the region but it has a way more to offer. Discover with us main attractions of West Pomerania Province!

Szczecin is a capital city of the Province so I would like to show you what you can do in the area around main city. I will describe 10 the best attractions in the region. All of them are doable as one day tour.

Międzyzdroje is a seaside resort on the Island Wolin on the Baltic coast. The town is often referred to as The Pearl of the Baltic. It is situated between wide sandy beaches with high cliffs and the forests of the Woliński National Park. You can even meet żubr (European bison) in the special sanctuary. They live in a large area so they feel at ease.

Wealthy industrialists and business magnates from Szczecin, Berlin, London and other cities of Poland erected their extravagant villas along the Baltic shore from 19th century. They appreciated its baths, health clinics and favourable climat.

A  wooden pier on the Baltic sea was constructed and eventually upgraded in 1906. The pier was 360 metres in length and the coffee-house situated at its very end still operates to this day.

Świnoujście is located on the three Island: Uznam, Karsibór and Wolin. Świnoujście directly borders the German seaside resort of Ahlbeck on Usedom (Uznam), both are freely connected by a street and by 12 km (7 mi) of beach promenade. There is a big port and ferry terminal so you can take cruise to Sweden. In 19th century the city became a health resort after discovering brine and mud sources. Nowadays Świnoujście is one of the most popular spas in Poland.

Between Island Uznam and Wolin there is ferry connection (for pedestrians and cars). It is uniqe in Poland to have a ferry in the city center. You can also take a one day tour to Ahlbeck in Germany by small ship or by bike.

Dishes with lavender, rose, fuchsia and other garden decorations are served along with recipes for these dishes and a large dose of culinary knowledge during the “Culinary Edible Flower Festival”. It is held annually in the Thematic Gardens Hortulus in Dobrzyca. The garden is divided for two parts and it is only a few kilometers from the Baltic Sea. They are connected by a garden passion that has been implemented for 25 years. The first contains as many as 30 different garden concepts such as rock, forest, water, but also Japanese, French and English as well as author’s. The second feature is the hornbeam labyrinth and the tower in the shape of a double DNA helix with a view of the Stone Circle or the Celtic Calendar or the gardens of the seasons.

Kołobrzeg has excellent location at the mouth of the Parsęta River in the vicinity of forests, mud deposits and water that provides shelter to many rare birds and plant species.

It provides a unique combination of a seaside resort, health resort, an old town full of historic monuments and tourist entertainment options. In Kołobrzeg you can find kilometeres of beautiful beaches with white, soft sand and spas where you can improve your health or just relax.

Połczyn-Zdrój is located in the central part of the West Pomeranian Province. The surroundings of Połczyn-Zdrój, due to lakes, beech forests and numerous moraine hills, are called „Połczyn Switzerland”. The city is famous for spas where treatment is carried out. Already in the 17th century sources of mineral water were discovered. Since then Połczyn was visited by more and more patients and the city was gaining popularity. The offer of spa treatment today includes balneotherapy, kinesitherapy, hydrotherapy, electrotherapy, thermotherapy, light therapy and climatotherapy.

Crooked Forest is a grove of oddly-shaped pine trees located near the town of Gryfino.

There is no such strange forest all over Poland.This is a unique natural curiosity – „Crooked Forest”. It is a cluster of about 100 deformed pines. They were probably planted in 1934.

It is definitely a good idea for one day trip from Szczecin.

Just above the trunk instead of growing vertically – it turns at an angle of 90 degrees and bends with a wide arch upwards. All trunks are bent northwards. The view these trees is amazing. Around this place are regular pines, so it looks like someone had to contribute to the trees’ sow. Was the pine tree deformation intended? This nature of the curves of common pine trunks is very rare. They clearly show that they were created as a result of the work of human hands.

When you look on the map of the seashore you will notice lakes nearby the coast. If you would like to spend your time in an active way take a bike tour from Mielno to Dąbki ( 30km long). You will have an opportunity to admire stunning views of sea and lake on the same time. The piece of land between them is only a several dozen meters. For sure you will meet birds and other small animals or even Wild animals like boar or deer.

Many attractions are also opreapred for the youngest, including historical stories, rituals and drills.

There is an extraordinary place close to Międzyzdroje (20 km south). It is small town where you can find a Center of Slavs and Vikings. A village with 27 houses, gates and defensive walls. During the tour you will see houses, tools, you can also see how people worked and learn about their professions. Village ost the way of living between 9th and 11th century. Every year in the summer a Festival of Slavs and Vikings is organized. Visitors can participate in oststps. The range of professions is impressive: from stained ost to blacksmithing, or from spinning silk threads from silkworm cocoons to making tar, boat construction, weaving, dyeing, pottery, ancient medicine, singing oststps and much more.

During World War II in Borne Sulinowo Germans started the construction of a large military base and various testing grounds. Most of the local inhabitants were resettled. After the war, the area was taken by the Red Army. The town was erased from all maps. In official documents of the surrounding communes the area was called „forest area” and remained a secret for 50 years. With the change of political system in Poland town became a part of Poland.

Every August you can participate in Interational Gathering of Military Vehicles. The event offers concerts, cavalry show and variety vehicles rides, including tanks!

In Borne Sulinowo you will find a lot of abandoned buildings. So you can explore and feel like in the ghost town 🙂 To make the area more attractive for visitors city government decided to make a trail. It is 13,5 km long and it connects 21 buildings.

Are you ready to visit West Pomerania Province? Contact us and discover Poland’s true flavours!

Is Poland on your bucket list and trying to note all must see in Poland? We are coming with a helpful hand. This won’t be next boring text about polish attractions around Krakow. That you can find anywhere else. We point one attraction for a region (province) of Poland. Just one. Feel invited!

If your dream was to go to Venice but somehow you’re going to Poland, don’t worry. Bydgoszcz is a city on water. Based on rivers, canals and islands is a perfect place to stay in Poland. It’s both natural and urbanized. Perfect match. It’s off the beaten path but all those who decide to arrive here are amazed! Bydgoszcz was listed in finals of the contest for Best European Destination 2020. Already convinced to travel to Bydgoszcz? If yes here you will find an article about what to do in Bydgoszcz.

Travel to Poland and want to discover more than just well known places? The other 11 ideas for Poland day trips you will get in the next article on this blog. In the next article you will doscover the rest of 16 best attractions in Poland to see. Subscribe our newsletter to be sure that you won’t miss that.

Coming to Poland may seem a complicated undertaking. Poland is a thriving country where young people speak English. All airports, train stations, bus stops and metro stations have signs in English. Poles are extremely friendly and helpful. Nature is breathtaking, architecture is amazing and history very rich.

If you want to visit Poland and experience all its charms, plan your trip and let Poland delight you  🙂

You wonder if you should visit Poland? Is it Worth it? We say „YES” and tell you how to plan trip to Poland.

Let’s answer a few question!

The best time to come to Poland is between May and September because of the weather. It is warm outside and all the touristy places are open. High season is from June to September. It is summer time and you can enjoy sun. All museums, restaurants and tourist attractions are open. Restaurants usually have tables outside so you can enjoy your meal sitting outside and relaxing on the sun.

Do not be afraid coming to Poland during the winter time. There is a lot of snow everywhere. You can enjoy your time in the city strolling around, drinking muled wine, visiting christmas markets and soaking atmosphere. In the mountains you can go skiing, hiking or even try dog sledging. If you like atmosphere of Christmas you can find great tour packages in reasonable prices here.

First! Book your flight to Poland.  Try to find a flight in a good price. Planning your travel to Poland start searching a few months before your estimated time of travel. You will have a chance to find a cheap flight to Poland when you will be flexible with dates. First find your flight and then plan a days off at work.

The biggest airport in Poland is in capital city – Warsaw. So try to find flight to Warsaw. However Poland has 12 international airports in smaller cities. National carrier flying to and from US and in Europe in a qiet good prices is LOT Polish Airlines. You can find flights for instance from:

• Atlanta
• Chicago
• Dallas
• Denver
• Detroit
• Houston
• Las Vegas
• Los Angeles
• Minneapolis
• New York
• Orlando
• Phoenix
• San Francisco
• Seattle
• Washington DC

Poland offers wide range of places to stay. You will find accommodation in Poland in genius 4 and 5 star hotels, guest houses and also hostels or apartments to rent. Good choice you will also find on popular websites like booking.com or AirBnB. When staying in rented apartment you can experience being as Poles. We recommend to stay in eco-friendly farms or houses in remote places in the middle of nowhere. Those kind of places usually offers food from their own farms made in a traditional way. Hosts speaks english or use a body language 🙂  They are very hospitable, you will feel as a family member. Try to use this website to book your very unique place to stay.

All those places you can book online in advance. However you have to remember that only hotels and some hostels are open 24 hours. Apartments and some hostels can have a check-in on request or the host will send you a codes to open the door.

Nowadays it is easy to travel around Poland. You can:

• travel by bus
• travel by train in Poland
• rent a car

Poland Railways are very efficient. Prices are affordable, connections fast and country is well-covered by train networks. You can buy ticket on the train station but we recommend to do it online before departure (you will get the ticket by e-mail). We reccommend to travel by train in Poland because it is the most efficent mean of transport. You can relax and admire Poland landscape.

If you want to be very mobile and independent you can rent a car at the airport. You do not need international driver license. But you have to be aware that it is different to drive in Poland then in US. Driving in Poland is a great topic for next blog article so stay tuned 🙂

Remember that roads in Poland are differrent and the average speed is 60km/h (around 40mph) so be aware that  time of driving can be longer than you expect. You have to be patient while driving  but you will have amazing views and time to enjoy your time in the car.

Poland is in European Union but you will  not pay Euro here. So the currency is Polish Złoty (PLN). The Exchange rate is around 3 to 4 złoty to one US dollar. You can find Exchange boureau (in Polish „kantor”) in cities. Avoid to exchanging money at the airports, train stations and banks.They charge big commission. You can easily withdraw money in ATM or simply pay by credit card al most everywhere (even in a small grocery stores in countryside). It is worth to have some change to pay for example for using restrooms which usually has to be paid cash. Single use of toilet cost around 3pln which is 1USD.

Poland is an affordable country where you can find accommodation in a reasonable price. It is easy to find a restaurant with traditional food and had a dinner for around 10USD with something to drink 😉 See below a few examples of prices:

• ticket to cinema theater – 6USD
• double room in 4* hotel – 80USD
• gas – 1USD/liter (4USD/gal)
• Happy Meal in McDonald’s – 3USD
• two hours tour with guide – 60USD

If you take trip to Poland, you will have to choose how to organize your stay: taking care by yourself or ask for help the local tourist agency? Programming a trip on your own, remember to choose the dates and define the route first, then to take care of transportation and accommodation.

If it sounds too complicated we can handle it! Just let us know what you are thinking of and we will tailor-made an itinerary for you. Feel uncomfortable with a dedicated, tailor-made propositions? Do you prefer to be a part of the group with the same travel enthusiasts as you? We have a plenty of tours that you can sign up for. It’s a perfect option for everyone looking for a relaxed atmosphere in small groups and assistance of professional English-speaking guides and tour leaders. We guarantee that you’ll have a chance to see all the most interesting places in Poland even if you haven’t heard much about our country before and simply don’t know what is worth visiting.

What is #must see in Poland? (click to see offers)

• Kraków
• Warsaw
• Toruń
• Bydgoszcz
• Gdańsk
• Food tour

I hope that you are already convinced to visit Poland and you know what to do to have a unforgetable trip to Poland!

Contact us and discover Poland 🙂

List two places that you think of when you think about travel to Poland… Warsaw and Krakow? These are two beautiful cities, which also offer a lot of attractions in their area.

And what if you’ve been to both places? A lot of fantastic, accessible and not very popular places await you all over Poland .. Discover unexplored! Travel to Poland and discover it’s true flavors with us ☺

If you are looking for uncrowded places, close to nature, with the best food and interesting history, you should come to Bydgoszcz and experience Kujavian-Pomeranian region. If you want to fallow motto “Poland undiscovered – go off the beaten path” go with us! In the area you will find beautiful cities with rich history, new flavors, traditional food and surprising dishes. You can sleep in the middle of nowhere in magical places. You can also visit the smallest Vineyard ever!

Below you will find a list of 8 unknown places that you would dream of after reading this! Those are our favorite places and recommendations (we put them in random order because we love all of them the same ☺)

City of legends and legendary city at the same time. City that has the most beautiful and the best preserved medieval downtown in whole Europe! Thats why it is listed on Unesco Heritage list. This is a must see in the region. In Toruń you can literally travel in time and find yourself as a medieval townsfolk.

Torun – must see

During your stay in Toruń you can taste and make yourself a famous Torun gingerbraed. There is a Living Museum of Gingerbread which offers a workshop with making your own gingerbread with great stories about this tasty cookie.

Climb the Torun Town Hall Tower to admire the view of the whole city from different perspective.

All Torun tours you will find here ☺

The town is stretching on the nine hills with view on Vistula river. Chełmno, which is one of the cities of the European Route of Brick Gothic features an old Cistercian-Benedictine monastery and as many as six gothic churches. Chełmno, thanks to the medieval walls and historic sites, is called the “Polish Carcassonne” or the “Little Krakow”.

Chelmno – city of lovers

Usually called “city of lovers”. On the Valentines day tere is a big celebration and festivities. You cannot leave Chełmno without a symbolic kiss on the Bench of Lovers, which is supposed to bring happiness in love. The bench is located in the Nowe Planty city park, next to the city walls, not far from the promenade. It is worth going for a walk around Planty and admire the view and atmosphere.

You can also combine visiting Chełmno with other places. We offer Chełmno and Torun tour. If you prefer natural sites and polish local wine you better choose Chelmno and vineyard tour.

It is absolutely a magical place with stunning view for Lower Vistula Valley.Vistula is a queen of Polish rivers as we Poles call it. This is the longest river in Poland.

Vineyard is only 33 km North from Bydgoszcz so it is a fantastic option for one day tour. You can admire the view while sipping a wine and warm your face in the sun strolling between grapevines.

The polish vineyard Przy Talerzyku refers to the history of Kuyavian-Pomeranian wine growing and monastery tradition of wine making dating back to the beginning of the 13th century.

Wine production from hand-picked and selected fruit. This boutique wine production, in which everything has its own rhythm and the sequence of events is the result of a lifetime passion for creation.

Do you want to see the view from Vineyard? Simply click here.

Kujavian and Pomeranian region has an amazing places to stay overnight. You can choose an agritourism spots. They offer accommodation in a beautiful surroundig but also a very homey atmosphere. Very often those places have some animals like chickens, goats, cows, horses. Usually owners have fruit trees or grow some vegetables. Then hosts offers meals made of their own products. Kids have fun feeding the animals and ta king care about plants. Adults can just relax in the atmosphere of slow life in the harmony with nature.

Frymark is a famous farmers marketwith regional products. Frymark takes place in Bydgoszcz every Sunday in the city center. At the market you can find regional products, both food and handicrafts. Regional and eco-friendly farmers and craftsmen come to the city and sell their products. These include meats, cheeses, cakes, fruit, juice, honey, preserves as well as clothes, jewelry, small home furnishings. Frymark is an absolutely unique place where you can get to know regional food, taste it, take it home with you. Remember the taste and smell of Poland.

Our guides will take you there!

What to do in Inowrocław? Another city in our list of favorite places in the region. Extraordinary city with interesting history and … very salty!

What to do in Inowrocław? Inowrocław has rich deposits of rock salt, which have been mined here since ancient times, hence the term “city on salt”. However, since the closure and flooding of the “Solino” mine, salt has not been mined in the traditional way. The city is a military garrison. In the city, the highly mineralized water “Inowrocławianka”, which is reportedly the most salty drinking water sold in Poland, is being poured. There are also graduation towers in the brine park.

You can visit region in a few days participating the tour ☺

Every year we have two food festivals in Poland which take placenear Bydgoszcz. The Local Food Festival in Gruczno takes place in August and the Plum Festival at the beginning of September. Both festivals are a great opportunity to try Polish food, visit stands with products from organic farms and also to admire the handicrafts.

Are you interested in other food festivals in Poland? Let us know! It’s not the coincidence that our name is Tasty Tours!

Local Food Festival takes place in Gruczno. Just 40 km north from Bydgoszcz. Every year in August over 150 stalls with food and craft is open for two day (always on the Weekend). You can find tere whatever you need and whatever you want to taste. Farmers offer meat, fish, bread, sweets, cakes, preserves, product from milk like cheese, yoghurt and so on. You can find tere also fruits, juices or even whole dishes. Local folk artists offer they art. They sell clothes, jewelry, decorations, tools, pots, home furnishings and many more.

Plum Festival sounds weird but it is two days full of plums ☺ Everything is about plums. Strzelce Dolne is 20 km from Bydgoszcz nearby the Vistula river. This is a real capital of plum for about 200 years. And the unique taste of the jam is due to the growing in the climate of the Lower Vistula Valley “Hungarian plum”, processed by housewives in a variety of ways. All participants of the event can see how frying jam in traditional boilers looks like and taste the old country cuisine. Each participant will be able to experience how much of love the housewives put in pots with real plum jam. You can also find other regional delicacies at the stands, including tinctures – such as the creamer known in Krajna and Pałuki, among others, cold meats are also popular – healthy, because without preservatives. It is worth appearing at the Plum Festival. It is a unique opportunity to look at the process of frying jam, but also to taste honey, cured meat and bread with lard.

Are you curious? See what we offer.

Kujawsko – pomorskie province is totally unknown place on the map of Poland but it doesn’t mean it is not interesting. There are a lot of things to do and to see. The huge advantage is calm atmosphere and real locality! See the website of Kujawsko-Pomorskie region and inspire to discover Poland undiscovered!

Do you plan trip to Poland and wondering what to see here? We have many ideas that you may like!  We know many more places and events with unique character.

Are you interested in travel to Poland? Let us know!

Daria and Aneta

Did you know that 10 million Americans have Polish roots? If you’re reading this probably you’re one of them. You’re wondering why Poles emigrated to America? How your ancestors had emigrated from Poland? You were thinking many times about their long journey and dreams about living in America. This article is based on our own research in archives and experience gained with tourists.

At the time Poland was divided by partitions (1772-1918) we can not say that Poland as a state exist. Who lived in the area? Poles, Russians, Ukrainians, Belarusians, Prussians, Austrians and Jews lived as neighbors. It was a cultural, religious and language melting pot. Catholics, Protestants, Orthodox and Jews.

Everyone mixed together trying to live in harmony and prosperity.

Not every farmer had enough of the land to feed the whole family, often multi-generational family. It happened that the peasant had family or friends in America to whom they could go. It made things much easier. They had support from loved ones. For instance they were receiving instructions how to get prepared for a long and exhausting journey. What to watch out for, what to do and how to get a ticket for the ship, as well as what to do after arriving in the States. Sometimes farmers even received money from them for a ticket to American paradise. For one person. So they were going and leaving family in hometown. They arranged their lives in America. Tried to settle down and continue bringing the wife with the children. Sometimes it took up to several years before the family met again in exile.

Very often agents who “portray America” as a land of milk and honey, greeting the open arms of everyone who would like to live in it, “helped” in the trip. The US needed hands to work. The turn of the century was the moment when industry developed. Factories, mines and other companies needed employees. Desirable were young engineers and ordinary, even illiterate workers (peasants). Agents helped in purchasing tickets for the ship and train to get to the port. They also arrange accommodation and meals while waiting at the port for departure. There have been frauds. Sometimes happened that agent took money and disappeared! They ordered extra payments for every small service. Some of them were even accused of human trafficking. Agents were often employed by shipowners or companies who needed employees in America. But also they opened travel agencies with the appropriate permits from shipowners to sell the tickets.

For many emigrants journey to America was the first in their lives. They never went outside of the village or the nearest town. The first challenge after buying a ship ticket was to sell property and belongings. Money were needed to travel and start living overseas. Those funds were checked by immigration officials already in New York. So the reason was to allow the immigrant live on their own without support of the government. The challenge was also to reach the nearest railway station. The goal was to reach the nearest seaport, with the possibility of sailing out to a new life. This rail journey to the port lasted up to 4 days. Then a few days had to wait in the port for departure. The trains were very crowded, travel conditions were very difficult, accommodation in the port was in Spartan conditions but the worst was waiting on the ship …

Before boarding there was first inspection. It was “sifting” sick, criminals or disabled people. Everyone except the ones just mentioned could get on board and very often see the sea and ocean for the first time. Poor immigrants were third-class passengers, and their deck was usually below the waterline. The decks above were reserved for middle and upper class representatives. Luxury and wealthiness of the first class contrasted with the conditions in the place where poor immigrants from Europe spent their cruise. Poor food and sanitary conditions made the transatlantic cruise a truly traumatic experience. Fortunately for emigrants, travel time from Europe to America was shorter almost every year. In 1912, the average transatlantic traveled this route in about 7-8 days. (Do you remember movie Titanic? Recall the scenes with Jack and Rose dancing on the table or trying to escape the water on the lower decks? You see more or less how immigrants spent their journey. By the way Titanic sank in 1912.)

Arriving into the New York Bay the eyes of travelers turned on the horizon with Liberty Island and Manhattan skyscrapers. For a Polish peasant from a village, such a view was indescribable. Like from another world. But neither Manhattan nor Liberty Island were the places they had to go first. Immediately after arriving to the United States, they were transported to immigration station.

The port that most immigrants approached was New Yorks Ellis Island. An island of tears, on which an immigration office was located and every immigrant had to go through them … not always with success. The office on Ellis Island was established in 1892 and operated continuously until 1954. This office received about 12 million immigrants at that time! That was the place where all the documents, health condition (physical and mental) was checked. There was even a literacy check where ability of reading and writing was checked. Usually, the entire immigrant screening process lasted 3 to 5 hours. However some had to stay on the island for longer, several weeks or months to undergo treatment. Only 2% of all visitors were sent back to their home country. It was mainly due to illness (mental or physical) or criminal past.

Today the National Museum of Immigration commemorates all those who came to America for seraching a new life. And the Ellis Island Foundation provides thousands of passenger lists of ships. You can find your ancestors and by putting some effort to trace the fate of your family.

Ellis Island worked a bit like today’s airports. After checking documents and health condition, it was possible to go to the exchange office. People could exchange the money without any commission. There was also a ticket office where immigrants could buy a train ticket to their destination.

Some immigrants stayed in New York and looked for their happiness here. Part of them joined a family that had settled elsewhere in the States and began a new life there. Some immigrants directed their first steps to industrialized places. It was easy to get a job in a steel mill, mine or factory.

I believe that most of them never regret their decision about migration. They had a hard life but better then in their homeland. They settled down, they had kids and families in United States. These people created this country and Americans customs, traditions and lifes.

Do you imagine your grandmas and grandpas travelling overseas? Wearing elegant suits, handling bags with all they possessed. Do you think that they had sparkles in their eyes seeing Liberty Statue on horizon or their eyes were full of fear?

We found a unique movie about immigrants, sit and watch here… (it is only 30minutes :))

If you would like to reveal your ancestors story – contact us. We will help!

Aneta and Daria

Psst… here you can learn how to prepare to your perfect heritage tour 🙂

Easter is the oldest and the most important Christian feast in Poland. It is a movable feast. It is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon in spring. One of the most beautiful celebrations in calendar. Not as much as Christmas but different and special.  Not as spectacular in many ways it is, however, a beautiful symbol of the resurrection of Jesus Christ but also nature coming back to life after a long and tiresome winter.

Main religion in Poland is Christianity so for many Poles the Easter preparations starts with 40 days Great Lent before the Ressurection Day. Traditionally, during Lent people were not supposed to eat meat, sweets, alcohol and tobacco in their diet and stick only to light foods and small portions.

On the Easter Friday families gather for a celebratory dinner (possibly excluding meat). Grandmothers and mothers make pound cakes and whole families would make wydmuszki (hollow egg shells) to make Pisanki (Easter eggs). They dip them in hot wax and scratch out the patterns or simply use paints and vegetable broths to colour them.

The eggs, which dominate the Easter table, symbolise life and rebirth. Beautifully decorated, they have adorned Polish tables at Easter for centuries. Although the methods of colouring and decorating eggs have evolved, the tradition has stood the test of time. Traditional patterns on Easter eggs are prepared with hot wax applied to the shell. Eggs are then covered with paint, and finally the wax is removed to reveal the patterns that have been created. The most common symbols on Easter eggs include lambs, crosses, flowers and other spring motifs. You have to imagine that Easter egg is a piece of art. In Poland it was a celebration of Easter especially on the countryside. You can even participate in workshop of making Easter eggs. There is an open air museum where you can make your own Easter eggs in a traditional way!

The decorated eggs are put on the Easter table as a decoration and very often are also used for entertainment. The simple game includes two participants that pick one egg each and hit them against each other. The person whose egg didn’t crack wins.

This day is probably the most fun for kids since every house prepares what in Poland is called Święconka – a ceremonial basket filled with a variety of foods. Each basket is different in size, shape, decoration, content, however all of them have things in common. Each Easter basket must have a piece of sausage, bread, salt, pepper, hard-boiled eggs, fresh cress or oats and, of course, a small sugar or butter lamb. These are the basic requirements but depending on the area. You can find different food in the baskets. During a visit to a church a priest blesses the foods.

On Easter Sunday after the Sunrise Service, families sit down and eat together. Tables are covered with a white cloth and are decorated with Easter eggs, fluffy chicks, and catkin or fresh flowers, which create a spring atmosphere. The basket with blessed food is placed in the centre. Easter breakfast begins with sharing blessed eggs, a tradition with similar symbolic significance to the sharing of the Christmas wafer. The food that was blessed on the previous day is eaten first. Then follow the traditional sour rye soup, meat, cold cuts, pâté, stuffed eggs, and for dessert: babka (sweet yeast cake), cheesecake and mazurek (pastry with a generous layer of chocolate or dulce de leche decorated with dried fruit and nuts). Usually breakfast takes around 3 hours 🙂

No matter how much you hear about different traditions around this day it is mostly about eating and spending time with your family and friends. Have no shame and help yourself to your third piece of mazurek!

Easter in Poland isn’t really about gifts, however, small presents are given to children. Children believe that a giant Easter Bunny goes from house to house and hides sweets somewhere in the room or the garden the night before Holy Sunday. Children love being given chocolate bunnies, chicks and lambs.

Who knows, maybe it’s true?

Śmigus–Dyngus – Wet Monday is celebrated on the second day of Easter. On this day, people splash others with water: both relatives and strangers. The tradition comes from old pagan customs related to the symbolic awakening of nature and spring cleansing of dirt and illnesses. Girls that were soaked on this day increased their chances of getting married.

There are probably a few other regional Easter traditions and customs, however, you should know now enough to get by and be able to enjoy Easter in Poland. Focus on food and just go with the flow.

Happy Easter!

Aneta and Daria

I know you think that Poland is not a big state. I know you dream to come over and meet someone related to you. It would be like a fairy tale. But this does not happen really often. That’s why I want you to keep your expectations in check. Sometimes after the visit Poland you get the impression that you know less than before your travel. I would give you an example which happened to me:

We do walk a lot in Poland. Prepare comfortable shoes and get ready for a longer distances 🙂 We love walking. If you are not able to walk a lot – inform your guide before your arrival. It will give him time to organize your itinerary as convenient as possible. Not all the places such as local archives are well prepared for disabled people.

Christmas is one of the most important religious holidays in Poland. Preparations for the celebration start 3 weeks before Christmas Eve. These days Advent starts after November 30th, around  St. Andrew’s Eve, on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. This is a time of preparation, both spiritual and physical. The time when we should focus on what will come, forgive all faults and resolve conflicts. It ends on Christmas Eve, December 24th.

In a real Polish home, everyone is involved in Christmas preparations. In addition to church traditions, this joyful time also fulfills tasks at home. At this time Poles cook, clean, decorate the house and Christmas tree and also buy presents for the loved ones.

St. Nicholas comes 6th of December. There is still a lot of time until Christmas but atmosphere is contagious. In the morning, children run out of their beds and look into the shoes cleaned the previous evening in search of a small gift from  St. Nick. Only the youngsters  get gifts, which are hidden most often in the shoes. Good children would get gifts. As for the bad children, they would get coal.

Christmas Markets are getting more popular every year. It is nowadays a tradition to buy some gifts during those markets. Usually you can find Christmas Market in big cities. They are open from the end of November til the end of December. You can feel the atmosphere of Christmas long time before because whole Poland is covered with snow in the winter.  Stalls are full of hand craft, extraordinary goods, food and mulled wine. You can spend all day strolling around, buying traditional hand craft, tasting regional food and breathing in the polish christmas spirit.

Today it is difficult to imagine Christmas in Poland without presents. Shops and malls begin their marketing offensive soon after All Saints Day (1 November). Poles joke that the minute the All Saints Day grave candles are removed from shop shelves, they are replaced by tree ornaments and chocolate Santas.

People are trying to buy the most beautiful gifts for their kids and family. We have XXI century so some people do shopping online so the Polish Post Office and other postal companies are extremely busy and it may take longer to get a parcel with your order than usual.

Malls, large shops and open-air markets are full of shoppers like never before. During Christmas Poles eat a lot so before they shop for food. The preparation of traditional dishes requires a variety of different ingredients which you can easily find in supermarket chains and buy from local producers.

Christmas time is a time for family and relatives. But at this special time of year one cannot forget about friends, workmates, former classmates and various distant relatives. More or less the mid-December is period of „Christmas Eves” at the workplace. People gather together at work, shool, in friends apartments and restaurants to celebrate togheter. To talk, to eat and to give each other small gifts as a Secret Santa (each person draws another one and buy a small gift without telling out loud who is the person 🙂

Santa visits and Christmas parties are held at preschools and schools as well as at workplaces for the children of employees. On such occasions kids perform in Christmas plays and Santa Claus pays a visit to them.

Usually people sent Christmas and New Year’s cards by post but nowadays it is more popular to send them by e-mails. Poles now also exchange Christmas e-cards for sending text messages (often containing rhymes of significant or minute artistic value), phone each other or convey greetings via social media.

Christmas in Poland begins with a festive supper on Christmas Eve, 24 December, and continue celebrating for two more days. The traditional Christmas Eve feast is meatless and differs from the food served on the 25 and 26 December. Culinary preparations for Polish-style Christmas are very long. It can take even a few weeks to prepare one dish. For example Gingerbread should age for a three weeks then baked. Meats and fish has to be prepared earlier too because of marinating. If someone plans to serve home-made pierogi (filled dough pockets or dumplings), an afternoon should be set aside for their preparation.

If you think that the celebration and the food itself ends after Christmas Eve you are wrong. It’s just the beginning. The 25th of December is the day of Christ’s birth. Polish families go to church, everybody sings carols, enjoys themselves, and of course wine and dine the whole day. As well as this, the next day is the time that family members visit each other and very often people have to eat a couple of dinners before they get back home.

Nowadays most of our Christmas decorations are shop-bought, but a growing number of children and even adults enjoy creating hand-made ornaments. Traditionally these have been made of straw, nuts and Apple. People make ornaments from coloured paper, crepe paper and cardboard. You can decorate just a Christmas tree (it has to be done on Christmas Eve by the whole family together) or the whole house incuding doorway and garden or backyard.

Well, that’s basically it. Although the religious aspect of Christmas, the 25th of December is the most important day of the holiday season, the truth is that it’s the Christmas Eve that has the largest number of traditions and customs. Also, for many families, it’s the most important time to meet and spend time together.

Christmas traditions in Poland are full of magic and meaning. The customs, which have been passed down through the centuries, are deeply rooted in religion, family and nature.

I hope you now know a little bit more about this time of year in Poland and you are able to enjoy it as much as we do! You can come and experience it by yourself… check our tours: Christmas Markets and Advent in Poland 🙂

Merry Christmas! (Wesołych Świąt!)

One of world tourism trends for 2020 is discovering new destinations. Poland is well know of Krakow and Auschwitz. Rest of the state fulfill criteria of being untouched location. They are simply unknown. Every step you take you can find something new. Those are: great food, natural landscapes, interesting monuments, complicated history and famous hospitality. We’ve prepared for you 10 facts about Poland that most people don’t know. We hope you will find them interesting.

Our country is one big surprise. Here are some facts about Poland that surprised even me (and I’m local!).

Name of our state derives from tribe „Polanie” which conquered other Polish tribes. That was in 10th century. The name means exactly: people leaving on the open glades (fields). If we’re talking about country names: we have some quirky names for some countries, like: Włochy for Italy. Even the wisest men do not know why? It is possible that ‘Włochy’ derives from ‘włosy’: hair. So the legend is that long, long time ago one hairy Italian came to Poland. Local folks didn’t know how to name foreigner so they called him ’Hairy Man’ – Ta boom!

But… it was working only 14 months before Poland was in partitions. For next 100 years or more the country was not existing. Polish history is more complicated than Game of Thrones. Once Kingdom of Poland was one of the European powers, 100 years after was not even existing! Kings were great but sometimes also showing their weaknesses as jealousy or greediness. Wars and battles were not helping. Now, in 2020 we celebrate 100 years of our independence from foreign powers.

You can find very odd seeing man bowing down to grab and kiss woman’s hand to say ’Hello’. It is not as frequent as it was 20 years ago. Although it’s still applicable in many situations: Name Day, Women’s Day etc.

Many young women feel strange about it. Some are even shocked (as they call themselves ’feminists’). But don’t worry! To be honest this old custom hides nothing else but kindness.

You pass the magic border between being young and matured. People call you ‘Ms’ instead ‘hey, you’ ? Then you know that’s the moment you should start celebrating your Name Day! You quit showing your birthday cake on Facebook and erase birthdate from profile bio. Only your relatives and best friends celebrate with you this date. For the rest of the world (as your boss and workmates) you bring random cakes and chocolates. You get some hugs and a bottle of wine instead. Your boss gives you flower (just one!) and he kiss your hand (look up!). That’s it! You can ask when this moment comes? Depends on the name. For Maria, Andrzej, Jan and few others who has extremely popular name it comes faster that for the others. Reasonable age is 40.

Oh yes! We drink a lot but we produce even more! We are third biggest exporter of beer in European Union! Producing 36,9 hectoliters of golden liquid we are behind Germany and United Kingdom. Well known Polish brands allover the Europe are: Tyskie beer, Lech beer and Zywiec beer. But … when you come here please do not try them! Those mentioned are huge concerns and their products are simple and low quality ones. If you’re beer lover try local and regional products. Our Tastytours.pl is first DMC that created its own Beerwalk. You can find it and taste it in Bydgoszcz.

More about Beerwalk you’ll find here.

Poland exports high quality amber from Baltic sea. Most of the people do not know that name ‘amber‘ is restricted only for product from Baltic sea! Amber is so called ‘Gold of the North‘ and it’s well know from ancient times. What is an amber? That’s fossilized resin that is 40 milion years old. Resin was as a plaster on injured trees (by borers or birds).

As pierogi is most popular polish dish, ‘Zapiekanka‘ is simple comfort food. What is ’zapiekanka’? It was very popular during the times of Peoples Republic of Poland. ‘Zapiekanka’ is half baguette topped with cheese and mushrooms. You get in on paper tray and you will be asked if you want it with ketchup or garlic mayo (my recommendation is to choose ketchup!).

There are many examples of well known inventors who are Poles.

Among them Maria Curie Sklodowska, the only one in the world who won two Noble Prizes in two different science disciplines.

Other polish invention was latex condom (!) produced for the first time by Julius Fromm in 1912.

Last name works as adjective and need to match gender in Polish. If it is woman the ending is – ska (ex. Kowalska). For man it is – ski (ex. Kowalski). But there is an exception: most of the Poles in US convert their surname to male version not to confuse the others.

Did you like the 10 facts about Poland that most people don’t know? Would you like to get more posts like this? We have at least 100 more facts and curiosities to surprise you! You can also subscribe to our newsletter.

Maybe we missed some Poland facts? Let us know in comment!

Check out the website of Polish Tourism Organisation and inspire yourself to explore Poland!

Bydgoszcz is modern city called sometimes Small Amsterdam or Venice. In the past it was the vibrant inland port. Let’s walk around the Old Town and Mill Island and discover Bydgoszcz best tourist spots! Let’s see Bydgoszcz water tourism!

Bydgoszcz is the 8^th largest city in Poland, with around 360,000 inhabitants. It has four universities, several large companies such as PESA (a tram and rail car manufacturer) and a large NATO training facility at which soldiers from all around the world are based. However, what distinguishes Bydgoszcz from other cities is the relaxed atmosphere, abundant green spaces and a river at the heart of the city. A lot has changed in recent years and now citizens of Bydgoszcz are proud to call this place home!

Why not come for a walk?

Master Twardowski – the legendary sorcerer

The legend has it that a long, long time ago Bydgoszcz was visited by a well-known sorcerer by the name of Master Twardowski who became immortal by signing the pact with devil with his own blood. To commemorate the stay of the great sorcerer in Bydgoszcz, his figure is shown in the window of tenement house no. 15 twice a day at 13:13 and 21:13. Don’t miss him, he may just fulfill your dreams!

TIP: Looking for more magic, should try ‘Devil Węgliszek’s Magic Rocks’ also known as Bydgoszcz cookies. You will find them at the Tourist Information Office and in the Katarynka Café at 4 Batorego Street.

Old Port and “Man Crossing the River” – city landmarks

If there is one picture to be taken in Bydgoszcz, it will definitely be the view of the Old Port. The characteristic sculpture of a man crossing the river was created in commemoration of Poland’s entry into the European Union. The figure has been balancing over the water for the last dozen years and only twice in this time it has been taken down (once for renovation, and once as a result of damages done by a drunk tourist).

TIP: If you have a chance, it’s definitely worth visiting Bydgoszcz in May or June when the SlackLine Games are taking place. In this unique championship participants race 12m above the river surface, on 30m long web spread in the heart of the city.

The Red Castle also known as the Polish Mail

Located at 6 Jagiellonska Street (but also visible from the Old Port) is an impressive redbrick building that now serves as the regional headquarters of the Polish Mail. In olden days, the building was the only place in the town where one could communicate with the rest of the world by sending a letter or making a phone call. Although the building only dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, the Polish Mail had existed in this place 100 years prior.

TIP: Look at the Clock on the tower at the junction of Pocztowa Street and the Old Port. If you look carefully enough, you can spot icons of a mail and a telegraph which have been preserved from the old times.

Market hall

In the place of the former Evangelical church, a modern market hall was established in the early 20th century. Already 100 years ago, one could visit the hall to stock up on fish, seafood and fresh crayfish. The new indoor establishment gave an end to fish stalls which used to be located at the nearby Fish Market.

Currently, the hall is waiting for a new owner which will hopefully bring new life to the space.

Mill Island

Wyspa Młyńska is a 6-hectare green oasis in the heart of the city. After many years of renovations, it is now regarded as the most beautiful place in the Old Town. Situated in the central part of the island is large redbrick Rother’s Mill. The island is also home to many museums and art galleries such as the Archaeological Collections Museum, European Money Center, Modern Art Gallery and a gallery of a well-known painter of the turn of the 19th and 20th century – Leon Wyczółkowski. Alternatively, you can have dinner with a ‘Venice view’ at one of the restaurants located on the island.

TIP: For great views of the city and island, take an elevator to the top floor of the Modern Art Gallery (located in the Red Granary).

TIP: On Saturdays there is no admission fee to enter the museums!

Small and large chair – be childish

On the Island, just behind the playground, there is an installation of two chairs. Try climbing onto the larger one to feel the struggles of a baby – to which this is a great challenge.

The mobile Museum of Childhood installed these chairs when it visited Bydgoszcz.

TIP: There is a bench near the chairs that was designed by the winning student of a design challenge organised by one of the local universities (UTP). The idea of the competition was to reward projects that combined practicality with original design aesthetics.

Just like Venice

100 years ago, Bydgoszcz Mill Island was built like a Polish Venice.

On the section of Brdy Młynówka surrounding Młyńska Island there was once a distillery, sawmill, tannery, chocolate factory and even laundries operating here. Some of these small buildings, factories and houses even had their own marinas and water garages where boats were moored. Unfortunately, over the years the island has lost its unique Venetian character. Gondolas can no longer access the river as the current is too fast, so all that is left is to enjoy “little Venice” from a view and appreciate its interesting industrial history.

The cathedral – small but stunning

St. Marcin and Mikołaj Cathedral is a Gothic building erected in the 15th and 16th centuries. What is special about it is its unusually colourful interior. At the main altar there is a picture of the Mother Mary that is said by some to grant miracles. An interesting fact is that the Mother of God in the painting has a gentle smile, which is unusual for the works from this period. The painting’s eyes also follow your every step (so be careful!). All this being the works of an unknown painter. Take a closer look and try to spot the figure in the lower left corner which represents the commissioner of the painting. On either side of the painting stand the patrons of the church: Saint Marcin and Saint Nicholas.

Open: from morning service till 7 PM

The view from the river

One of the best ways to spend a summer’s day in Bydgoszcz is to take a cruise on a water-bus. You can choose between two routes, each of which take about 80 minutes. You can buy tickets directly from the captain before departing. Solar powered ships also run from the beginning of May to the beginning of September.

If you enjoy heights and don’t mind climbing stairs, visit water tower – it’s the heighest point in the city from which you can get a great view (maybe you can even point out all the places you’ve already checked off your list?).

More at www.visitbydgoszcz.pl

If you want to book a private tour see our tours in Bydgoszcz www.tastytours.pl/bydgoszcz

Visit famous Farmers Market in Bydgoszcz and some good regional restaurants. In this article you will find tips about local food in Bydgoszcz and hidden spots with good food. Also I will give you some hints about local street food and milk bar.

Are you the one who can walk more than a mile to get to recommended regional restaurant ‚only for locals’, sniff around to find the unique flavors of the city or maybe you travel to experience live cooking with Italian „signora” the real homemade pasta? If you can say yes then you’re a food traveller.

Well, you are then in the right place 🙂 I recognize places by it’s flavors and my favourite souvenirs are local spices and traditional recipes. Good news is that Bydgoszcz is quite a good place to start journey into the polish cuisine. The best place to start is Frymark Bydgoszcz Farmers Market.

My second choice would be Katarynka Bistro. Simple polish cuisine with the view on the Old Market Square and very reasonable prices make this place one of my favorite. Get there before 14.00 and you can eat two course lunch with 19 PLN.

Want to buy local beer? Choose Osowa Gora brewery. You will find the choice of their beers in local shops and supermarkets. Interested in beer walk? Check our offer and have the best walking tour in town (Bydgoszcz Beer Walk).

Need some sugar? Find my post about 5 best places for ice cream break here.

See more about Farmers Market in Bydgoszcz on tripadvisor:

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g274823-d14012101-Reviews-FRYMARK_bydgoski-=

I hope you got hungry as I did.

Have a tasty tour!

Daria.

Ice cream dream 🙂 Best ice cream in Bydgoszcz

Let’s have a walk of your dreams. Let’s eat the best ice cream in Bydgoszcz! Personally, summer is my favorite season for guiding, because every, every single group want to eat an ice cream or … three. So I can tell a word about it, believe me. This is also my favourite type of food tour … ice cream tour. In numbers it will be around 865 calories and 1,1 km In distance.

Ice cream, gelati – when we think about creamy cold dessert. Who’s not the ice cream lover – hands up! I see no one! Great, so let’s talk about polish and Bydgoszcz cold scoops 🙂 and let’s have a walk. Thanks God it’s spring and all gelaterias are open!

N 2 Sowa Cafe, Mostowa str. And many other places. Sowa is the local treasure, sweet treasure of Bydgoszcz. Cakes, pralines, coffee, bread, sweet rolls: Mr Sowa is the real king of every sweet tooth! When you really want to break the regime you should try his ice desserts in the restaurant. If a scoop is enough take cookie or salty caramel – both are knocking you dead!

N 3 Moodie Foodie, Gdańska 24 st. Hand made ice creams and desserts which are more than art. Coffee served by great and talkative barista Michał.

N 4 Przystań na Lody located on Stary Port 5 is the most visible point on ice creamy map of Bydgoszcz. You will find different flavors every single day. Sometimes you fall in love, sometimes not but still worth trying.

N 5 Primo Cafe, one and only, open only in spring and summer season, with original and top secret receipts kept by owner (who’s the only master in this cold business). „Coldheart” owner is producing around 40 flavors. Some are simple as chocolate, vanilla or strawberry (tastes like heaven, sorbet)

If you ask me I would go to all of them. If I had to pick just one to die for: it would be the last one (don’t tell that to the others).

If you would like to join one of our food tours and get a closer look (and deeper taste) of what we eat as locals get to our offer and pick one of our #tasty tours.

Bydgoszcz local food tour

What to see in Bydgoszcz in one day? Where to go and what do do? In this article we will show you some attractions that you can visit within a day, located in the Old Town. In the other articles you will read about Downtown and Gdańska Street and other places.

If there is one picture to be taken in Bydgoszcz, it will definitely be the view of the Old Port. The characteristic sculpture of a man crossing the river was created in commemoration of

Poland’s entry into the European Union. The figure has been balancing over the water for the last dozen years and only twice in this time it has been taken down (once for renovation, and once as a result of damages done by a drunk tourist).

TIP: If you have a chance, it’s definitely worth visiting Bydgoszcz in May or June when the SlackLine Games are taking place. In this unique championship participants race 12m above the river surface, on 30m long web spread in the heart of the city.

The Red Castle also known as the Polish Mail is located at 6 Jagiellonska Street (but also visible from the Old Port) is an impressive redbrick building that now serves as the regional headquarters of the Polish Mail. In olden days, the building was the only place in the town where one could communicate with the rest of the world by sending a letter or making a phone call. Although the building only dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, the Polish Mail had existed in this place 100 years prior.

TIP: Look at the Clock on the tower at the junction of Pocztowa Street and the Old Port. If you look carefully enough, you can spot icons of a mail and a telegraph which have been preserved from the old times.

In the place of the former Evangelical church, a modern market hall was established in the early 20th century. Already 100 years ago, one could visit the hall to stock up on fish, seafood and fresh crayfish. The new indoor establishment gave an end to fish stalls which used to be located at the nearby Fish Market.

Currently, the market hall is waiting for a new owner which will hopefully bring new life to the space. Nevertheless, you can still have a look inside to feel the atmosphere of old times.

Open: Mon -Fri 10:00 – 17:00

Mill Island – Wyspa Młyńska is a 6-hectare green oasis in the heart of the city. After many years of renovations, it is now regarded as the most beautiful place in the Old Town. Situated in the central part of the island is large redbrick Rother’s Mill. The island is also home to many museums and art galleries such as the Archaeological Collections Museum, European Money Center, Modern Art Gallery and a gallery of a well-known painter of the turn of the 19th and 20th century – Leon Wyczółkowski. Alternatively, you can have dinner with a ‘Venice view’ at one of the restaurants located on the island.

TIP: For great views of the city and island, take an elevator to the top floor of the Modern Art Gallery (located in the Red Granary).

TIP: On Saturdays there is no admission fee to enter the museums!

100 years ago, Bydgoszcz Mill Island was built like a Polish Venice.

On the section of Brdy Młynówka surrounding Młyńska Island there was once a distillery, sawmill, tannery, chocolate factory and even laundries operating here. Some of these small buildings, factories and houses even had their own marinas and water garages where boats were moored. Unfortunately, over the years the island has lost its unique Venetian character. Gondolas can no longer access the river as the current is too fast, so all that is left is to enjoy “little Venice” from a view and appreciate its interesting industrial history.

St. Marcin and Mikołaj Cathedral is a Gothic building erected in the 15th and 16th centuries. What is special about it is its unusually colourful interior. At the main altar there is a picture of the Mother Mary that is said by some to grant miracles. An interesting fact is that the Mother of God in the painting has a gentle smile, which is unusual for the works from this period. The painting’s eyes also follow your every step (so be careful!). All this being the works of an unknown painter. Take a closer look and try to spot the figure in the lower left corner which represents the commissioner of the painting. On either side of the painting stand the patrons of the church: Saint Marcin and Saint Nicholas.

Open: from morning service till 7 PM

One of the best ways to spend a summer’s day in Bydgoszcz is to take a cruise on a water tram. You can choose between two routes, each of which take about 80 minutes. Tickets are available directly from the captain before departing. Solar powered ships also run from the beginning of May to the beginning of September.

More at www.visitbydgoszcz.pl

If you want to book a private tour see our tours in Bydgoszcz www.tastytours.pl/bydgoszcz