Amazing 14 Best Small Towns in Poland, it is a country located in Central Europe, boasts a rich history that dates back to the first century. Despite being overlooked by many travelers, Poland offers a plethora of historic structures, a vast Baltic shoreline, hills and lakes formed during the Pleistocene Ice Age, and unique flora and fauna species that cannot be found anywhere else in Europe. In addition to the well-known cities of Warsaw and Krakow, there are also charming villages and small towns in Poland that are definitely worth a visit.
Chocholow
Chochołów, a quaint village with just over 1,000 residents, is a treasure trove for those who appreciate history. The town is unique in that it is made up of nearly all 19th century wooden structures built by the Góral highlanders, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
Situated amidst the majestic High and Low Tara Mountain Ranges, this town finds itself nestled in a picturesque setting. Its surroundings boast of ethereal evergreen forests, which transform into a winter wonderland with a blanket of snow. During the summer months, these forests provide an idyllic backdrop for visitors, offering captivating hiking trails to explore.
Zlotoryja
Złotoryja, reputedly the most ancient towns in the nation, is situated near the foothills of Kaczawa, commonly referred to as the ‘Land of Inactive Volcanoes’. Formerly a renowned center for gold mining, Złotoryja offers its most picturesque view from the 13th Century Church of Birth of Saint Virgin Mary.
Adjacent to the quaint medieval town stands Baszta Kowalska, also recognized as the Blacksmith’s Tower, which overlooks the city and stands as one of the numerous leaning towers in the country. While exploring this area, it is highly recommended to visit the Gold Mining Museum to gain insight into the town’s illustrious history of gold mining.
Biecz
Situated at the base of the majestic Carpathian Mountains, lies a magnificent town that was once recognized as one of the most significant trading hubs in Poland. Biecz is renowned for its rich history, including being the birthplace of Wacław Potocki’s “Chocim War.” Often referred to as the “little Krakow” in modern-day Poland, this charming town is distinguished by its late-Gothic parish church, which is home to a 1633 music sheet and is considered the most prominent landmark in the area. Take a stroll through the narrow streets, marvel at the historic hall at the Chodor House, and explore the museum at the Kromerówka.
Malbork
Malbork, a charming little town in Poland, boasts of one of the largest fortifications in the world – the Malbork Castle. Situated amidst the wetlands and waterways of the Vistula Delta, this town is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Poland. The Malbork Castle, which is the largest Gothic structure in Europe, is a sight to behold and adds to the town’s picturesque beauty.
Jaroslaw
Host to Europe’s second biggest trade fair during the 16th and 17th century, Jarosław once welcomed businessmen from all around the globe. Today, the underground cellars and storage facilities are a primary tourist attraction.
Much of the town’s extravagant past has faded but the imposing townhouses remain till date as a reminder of the times gone by. Admire the town’s historic palaces and fortifications to know more about the history and architecture.
Visit the Orsetti House which houses a museum entirely dedicated to Jarosław. Explore the many churches and synagogues to learn about the prominent personalities who lived here. But, most of all, appreciate the brilliant layout of the town which has almost remained untouched since it was first built in 1375.
Rydzyna
Rydzyna, a charming town located in the province of Wielkopolska, is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Polish Baroque” due to the numerous baroque palaces and structures that adorn the streets. The majority of the town’s architecture can be attributed to the 17th century architects Jan Stier and Pompeo Ferrari.
Today, the historic structures from the 18th and 19th century complement the town’s surroundings, including the Rydzyna Castle, which is the most historically significant edifice in the area. Other notable structures include the St. Stanisław’s Church, built in the late Baroque style and serving as the final resting place of the town’s founder, as well as the Holy Trinity Figure, erected in honor of the 1709 plague that devastated the town’s population.
Reszel
Reszel, a town with a rich history, was once a moated community of a prehistoric Prussian Tribe. Despite being ravaged by battles and their aftermaths, Reszel still retains its medieval charm and serves as a reminder of the past. The Gothic Episcopal Castle and St. Peter’s church, both designed in the Gothic-style and dating back to the 14th century, are the most prominent structures in the town.
However, there are other remarkable structures worth exploring, such as the Classicist town hall from the 19th century, St. John’s Church, the Jesuit Complex from the 15th and 16th Century, and the nearby Catholic shrine of Święta Lipka, which has been a highly revered pilgrimage site for Germans, Polish, and Lithuanians since the 17th century.
Tykocin
Tykocin, a small town situated by the River Narew, has a rich history and is known for being a favorite stop among Polish Kings and Lithuanian princes to indulge in alcoholic refreshments. In its heyday, Tykocin boasted an impressive number of establishments, including 36 beer taverns, 15 vodka joints, and 10 mead inns.
This town is also home to over one hundred historic structures, such as the Tykocin Castle, the baroque Church of the Holy Trinity, the Jewish Cemetery (one of the oldest in the country), and the Baroque Tykocin Synagogue, which is not only one of the best-preserved synagogues in Poland but also a popular tourist attraction.
Chelmno
The town’s name is derived from the ancient Polish word ‘chelm’, meaning hill. Situated near the River Vistula, Chełmno is a town that spans across nine hills and was once a highly developed town during the State of the Teutonic Order.
Although its former glory may have diminished over the past centuries, this delightful little town boasts a remarkably well-preserved medieval center. At the heart of the market square stands a magnificent Renaissance town hall, surrounded by five awe-inspiring Gothic churches.
Legend has it that one of these churches may have housed the relics of St. Valentine, which is why both locals and tourists occasionally refer to Chełmno as the “town of love”. The presence of numerous “lover’s benches” scattered throughout the town, promising a blissful love life, serves as evidence of this belief.
Kazimierz Dolny
Situated on the banks of the Vistula River, Kazimierz Dolny held great significance as a hub for grain trading in the region. However, it has now gained recognition as one of the most well-preserved historic towns in the country.
Thanks to its vibrant art scene, this charming town has been a magnet for creative minds from around the world since the 19th century, with some even choosing it as their summer retreat. The streets of Kazimierz Dolny are adorned with a variety of art and sculpture galleries, catering to diverse tastes.
Noteworthy landmarks in the town include the Parish church of St. Bartholomew and John the Baptist, the remnants of Kazimierz Dolny Castle, St. Anne Church, and numerous historic granaries. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque hillsides, Kazimierz Dolny offers a serene and scenic environment.
Zakopane[SEE MAP]
Zakopane, a quaint resort town, has earned the title of the “Winter Capital of Poland” due to its stunning Tatra Mountains and abundance of restaurants and shops. While the town maintains a relaxed atmosphere year-round, it becomes a hub of activity during the winter months as visitors flock to explore its numerous hiking trails and bustling streets, particularly Krupowki. Be sure to try the local delicacy, Oscypek, a smoked cheese specialty.
Sanok is one of the Amazing 14 Best Small Towns in Poland
Sanok, a Royal Free City, is situated below the majestic Carpathian Mountains and along the San River. The town’s breathtaking panoramic views, coupled with its remarkable history and architecture, defy adequate description. With a history spanning nearly a millennium, Sanok is home to notable landmarks such as the Sanok Castle and the Icon collection, one of the largest in Central and Eastern Europe.
In addition to these attractions, the Old Town and the Museum of Folk Architecture draw visitors from far and wide. For those who appreciate nature and outdoor activities, Sanok offers a splendid 70-kilometer trail that caters to both hikers and bikers.
Wieliczka
Wieliczka, located in the Krakow metropolitan area, is renowned for being the residence of the historic Wieliczka Salt Mine, one of the world’s oldest operational salt mines. Notably, this charming town upholds the Easter tradition of Siuda Baba, making it one of the few remaining regions in Poland to do so.
Sandomierz
Sandomierz, a former urban center in not just Lesser Poland but the entire country, is renowned for its Old Town – the most visited attraction in this small town. While there, take the time to discover the underground tourist route and numerous castles and churches. Additionally, the Collegium Gostomianum is a noteworthy institution, considered one of the oldest schools in the country. The Sandomierz Cathedral, initially built in 1360 and later restored in the 18th century, is also of great significance.
