Non-touristy Poland: places to visit in a weekend

Poland is beautiful at any time of the year. This country has a long history, so you'll find ancient palaces, medieval castles, and modern skyscrapers. For many tourists, this country is associated only with the most popular cities, such as Krakow, Lublin, or Warsaw. However, there are no less interesting places outside of them.

Gniezno

It's hard to write about the pearls of Poland without mentioning its first capital. There are legends about the foundation of Gniezno and the entire country. One of them says that three brothers once traveled these lands in search of a place to settle. Their names were Lech, Czech, and Rus. For a long time they wandered through dense forests until they saw a wide field with hills and lakes. On one of the peaks stood an oak tree where an eagle had built a nest. And then Lech decided that this would be his principality, and the bird would become its symbol. The other brothers went in different directions.

The most famous landmark of the city is the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary, which houses the Gnezna Doors, an outstanding work of art. By the way, it was here that the coronation of Polish monarchs used to take place.

We advise you to explore this religious building not only from the outside but also from the inside. You may think that the church looks like Notre Dame in Paris, and it is not surprising, because they have many similarities. In the very center of the building, you will see an exquisite tomb where the relics of St. Adalberg are kept.

This is not the only attraction of the first capital. There is really something to see here. The most popular area among tourists is the Old Town. Be sure to walk through the narrow streets and admire the architecture of different eras.

Istebna

If you like a relaxing vacation among the mountains and charming landscapes, you should definitely visit this village. Istebna is located in the Breskidy Mountains near the border with Slovakia and the Czech Republic. It is not easy to get here. You'll have to change several means of transportation, but it's worth it.

Despite its small size, the settlement is listed in the Guinness Book of Records. The fact is that the world's largest lace napkin is kept in the local cultural center. It has a diameter of 5 meters and consists of 8 thousand parts.

However, this is not the most interesting thing in the village. In the middle of Istebnya is the old church of the Good Pasterz. Its construction began in the eighteenth century. From the outside it looks quite ordinary, but inside you will find a bright interior filled with different colors and small details. This is in stark contrast to the calm nature surrounding the building.

But most tourists don't come to Istebna to appreciate the giant napkin or the church's design. They are interested in the variety of mountain routes offered by the Beskydy. There are trails suitable for beginners and true professionals. So no one will be left without their portion of vivid impressions.

Gorlice

Few people know that this small town was at the center of important historical events at different times. Many battles took place in this area, one of which became a turning point during the First World War. You can learn more about this in the local museum, where you will find a lot of interesting information about the town.

Nowadays, the city is popular among Poles, but, unfortunately, tourists know little about it. When you arrive here, you will be pleasantly surprised by the local atmosphere, cozy restaurants, and authentic locations.

The most interesting location there is definitely the palace of the Długosz family. It was built in the XIV century. Today it is not only a popular attraction, but also a luxury hotel with a large park around it. Here you can calmly and measuredly walk along quiet paths, enjoy nature and the architectural beauty of the building.

Solec Zdrój

When we talk about traveling in Poland, we first of all imagine medieval palaces, incredible architecture, and many kilometers of parkland. However, the country is also famous for its SPA resorts, which can offer world-famous wellness treatments at a reasonable cost.

For example, in the town of Solec Zdrój, located just a few hours' drive from Krakow, you will find some of the best thermal pools in Europe.

Here you can enjoy not only swimming in warm and sometimes even hot water, but also massage, body wraps and other treatments that will help you relax, improve your health, and get rid of back and neck pain.

Zamość

This town is different from anything you've seen in Poland. Its history dates back to the Renaissance, so Zamość has a luxurious and sophisticated look. By the way, the Renaissance city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here you will find everything: incredible architecture, narrow streets, cozy restaurants with national cuisine. However, the city has another interesting feature. It is home to one of the oldest zoos in Poland, which is definitely worth a visit. Just imagine, it was opened in 1918 on the basis of a nature reserve that had been operating since 1593.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told you what to see in Poland during your vacation.

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