Things To Do
in Nowy Sącz
Nowy Sącz is a historic town in southern Poland, the capital of the Sądeczczyzna region in Lesser Poland Voivodeship. It sits at the foot of the Beskid Sądecki and along the Dunajec river, offering a blend of medieval streets and modern cafes. The Old Town centers on a lively market square lined with colorful townhouses and a centuries-old parish church.
As a convenient gateway to the Beskidy mountains and nearby spa towns, it makes a great base for exploring southern Poland.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Nowy Sącz Market Square, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the old buildings. Grab a traditional Polish breakfast at one of the local cafes, sampling fresh pastries and brewed coffee. Take a leisurely stroll around the square and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as locals begin their day.
After lunch, explore the Nowy Sącz District Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the region through fascinating exhibits. Spend some time wandering through the museum's gardens, which are perfect for a quick respite amidst the art and history. As the afternoon sun begins to set, enjoy a walk along the River Dunajec, where you can take in the serene views.
In the evening, dine at a traditional Polish restaurant in the city center, savoring local delicacies such as pierogi and żurek. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, taking in the beautifully illuminated historic buildings. If you're in the mood for some entertainment, check out a local theater performance or live music event to experience the vibrant cultural scene.
Embark on a short trip to the Beskid Sądecki mountain range for a day of hiking and nature exploration. Start early with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation to fuel your adventure ahead. Once you arrive, take in the stunning mountain views and fresh air as you prepare for your hike.
Spend the afternoon hiking the scenic trails, where you’ll encounter lush forests, picturesque valleys, and perhaps even some local wildlife. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the beauty of nature, resting at one of the many scenic lookout points. As the day unfolds, feel the tranquility of the mountains and take plenty of photos to capture the memories.
After returning to Nowy Sącz, enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a cozy restaurant known for its mountain cuisine. Reflect on your day of adventure while savoring hearty dishes inspired by the region's culinary traditions. Wind down with a drink at a local pub, where you can mingle with residents and share stories of your hiking exploits.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two in a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $60-90 |
| 🚆Local transport (day pass) | $2-5 |
| 🧺Groceries for one week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich medieval and renaissance architecture with a relaxed pace
- Gateway to the Beskidy and clear river valley trails
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Limited English signage in some older parts
- "Dzień dobry" - Good morning / Hello
- "Proszę" - Please
- "Dziękuję" - Thank you
- "Przepraszam" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mówi Pan/Pani po angielsku?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Nowy Sącz
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful townhouses, the Town Hall, and a lively backdrop for street photography.
Hilltop ruins with panoramic views over the Dunajec river valley and surrounding hills.
Riverside path with bridges, reflections at golden hour, and scenic composition opportunities.
Food in Nowy Sącz
Nowy Sącz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dried dumplings filled with potato and curd cheese, usually served with fried onions and sour cream.
Must-Try!
Elastic rye soup often served with sausage and hard-boiled egg; a warming starter or light meal.
Potato dumplings with a shallow indentation, typically paired with gravy or mushroom sauce.
Smoked sheep’s cheese (often grilled) served with bryndza or honey, a regional mountain treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market square with seasonal produce, breads, pastries, and regional snacks.
Morning stalls offering dairy, cured meats, honey, pickles, and handmade pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite 'Dzień dobry' or 'Dobry wieczór' when entering shops; handshake is common.
Respect lines, avoid loud talking in religious sites, and dress modestly when visiting churches.
Safety
Tipping in Nowy Sącz
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is common if service is good. A small tip for bar staff is appreciated.
Cash is accepted widely, but credit/debit cards and contactless payments are common in most restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; expect occasional rain showers but ideal for hiking, river walks, and outdoor festivals.
Mild weather and colorful foliage; perfect for strolls in parks and along the river, plus harvest markets.
Cold temperatures and possible snow; enjoy cozy cafes, winter markets, and scenic snowy landscapes.
Milder days with blooming trees; ideal for city walks and nearby hikes as trails thaw.
Nowy Sącz at Night
Hiking in Nowy Sącz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike up to hilltop ruins with views of the Dunajec river valley.
Forest trails with varying difficulty, ideal for day hikes and nature photography.
Airports
How to reach Nowy Sącz by plane.
Kraków airport about 150-170 km from Nowy Sącz; easy access by car or bus/train connections.
Located in Poprad, Slovakia, roughly 70-90 minutes by road; convenient for visits to the Slovak Tatras and the area around Nowy Sącz.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Polish nationals with a significant elderly population and families; a growing number of students and remote workers.
Visitors from Poland and neighboring countries exploring the Beskid Sądecki region and nearby spa towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local pastime with community clubs and matches in the region.
Nearby hills in Beskid Sądecki and spa towns offer winter sports.
Seasonal hiking on forest trails and mountain routes in the Beskidy.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nowy Sącz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer pierogi with potato and cheese, mushroom dishes, and veggie soups; request meat-free broths and specify no lard or meat stock if needed.