Things To Do
in Elbląg

A local market near the city center where you can buy fresh produce, smoked fish, baked goods and seasonal specialties from regional producers — ideal for sampling local flavors.

In warmer months vendors and food stands pop up along the river promenade selling fish sandwiches, grilled sausages and homemade cakes.

Poles often use formal greetings in initial meetings; a firm handshake and eye contact are customary. Use Pan (Mr) and Pani (Mrs/Ms) with surnames until invited to use first names.

The population is predominantly Catholic; dress modestly in churches, keep voices low and avoid disruptive behavior during services.

Be punctual for appointments and meetings; directness is normal but maintain politeness—saying 'dzień dobry' and 'dziękuję' goes a long way.

When visiting Polish homes, hosts may ask guests to remove shoes — it's polite to bring clean shoes or offer to take them off when invited.

Tipping 10% in restaurants is appreciated for good service; rounding up or leaving small change for cafés and taxis is common. For guided tours or boat crews, 5–10% is customary if service was good.

Poland’s currency is the złoty (PLN). Cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels; cash is useful for small vendors, markets and some taxis. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common.

Warmest and busiest season (June–August): pleasant temperatures for boating, cycling and outdoor dining; festivals and markets are active. Book accommodation early and expect more tourists at canal departure points.

September–November brings crisp air, beautiful fall foliage in nearby forests and quieter streets; excellent time for hiking and photography as crowds thin, though some tourist services may reduce hours.

December–February can be cold with below-freezing temperatures and possible snow; city is atmospheric and cheaper but some outdoor attractions and boat services close or run limited schedules.

March–May sees warming temperatures, blooming parks and the gradual return of boating season; unpredictable weather means layers and waterproof gear are useful.

Network of trails through forested uplands and glacial hills offering short to medium hikes, viewpoints and varied terrain a short drive from the city.

Gentle flat walks along the historic canal towpaths ideal for long walks, cycling and photography — sections link small villages, locks and inclined plane sites.

Coastal walks across reed beds and beaches with birdwatching opportunities; best at low tide and in calmer weather for dramatic skies and open landscapes.

Flat agricultural landscapes crisscrossed by small dikes and channels — pleasant for easy hikes and cycling with a cultural focus on rural architecture and drainage heritage.

Vegetarian options are increasingly available in restaurants and cafés — pierogi with cheese/potato, salads, soups and vegetable mains. However, smaller or very traditional places may have limited choices, so ask staff or look for vegetarian symbols on menus.

Vegan choices exist but are more limited than in large cities; order salads, vegetable pierogi when available, or seek out cafés that list plant-based options. Communicating 'jestem weganinem' helps; carry a translation card for special requests.

Gluten-free options are possible but not yet ubiquitous; many restaurants can accommodate with salads, fish dishes and potato-based sides. If very sensitive, bring staples and check labels at markets.

Dedicated halal or kosher restaurants are rare in Elbląg; larger nearby cities (e.g., Gdańsk) have more options. For halal/kosher needs, plan ahead or seek vegetarian dishes as alternatives.