Things To Do
in Rzeszów
Rzeszów is a vibrant city in southeastern Poland, blending a historic Old Town with a growing cultural scene. Set on the San and Wisłok rivers, it sits amid rolling hills and easy access to the Carpathian foothills. The Market Square (Rynek) and the Baroque Fara Church anchor the city’s well-preserved core, while modern cafés, galleries, and shops give it a contemporary pulse.
With a university presence and frequent festivals, Rzeszów invites day-trippers and weekend explorers to savor Polish hospitality and authentic regional flavors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Market Square, where the vibrant atmosphere will greet you with local vendors and street performers. Enjoy a fresh pastry and coffee at one of the charming cafes that line the square, soaking in the sights and sounds. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to the Rzeszów Town Hall, marveling at its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
In the afternoon, explore the Rzeszów Castle and learn about its fascinating history as you walk through its picturesque gardens. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine, such as pierogi or bigos. After your meal, visit the Underground Tourist Route, where you can wander through the ancient cellars and discover the stories hidden beneath the streets.
As evening falls, find a cozy restaurant in the Old Town for dinner, where you can indulge in local delicacies and enjoy a glass of Polish vodka. After your meal, take a peaceful walk along the Wisłok River, appreciating the serene views and the illuminated skyline. End your day by relaxing at a local bar with live music, immersing yourself in the vibrant cultural scene.
Begin your day with a visit to the Rzeszów Regional Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the area. The museum houses a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the region's past and stunning artworks. Afterward, take a short walk to the nearby Lubomirski Palace, where you can admire its grand architecture and lovely gardens.
For lunch, try a local eatery that specializes in Rzeszów’s traditional dishes, offering a taste of the region's culinary heritage. Post-lunch, head to the Ethnographic Museum, where you can explore the folk traditions and crafts of the region, immersing yourself in the local culture. Don’t forget to visit the nearby park for a leisurely stroll among the greenery.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring live traditional Polish music, enhancing your dining experience. After your meal, take a leisurely walk back to the Market Square, where you can find street performers and local artisans showcasing their talents. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a quaint pub, reflecting on your culturally rich day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 💧Water bottle (0.5L) | $0.80-1.50 |
| 🚎Public transport ticket (1 ride) | $0.60-1.30 |
| 🥖Groceries (basic items) | $5-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night, 2 people) | $50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic center with charming architecture
- Strong local cuisine and markets
- Excellent base for day trips to Łańcut and the Carpathian foothills
- Compact, walkable city center with a friendly vibe
- Smaller nightlife compared with bigger Polish cities
- Less variety in large-scale tourist attractions
- Some attractions may have limited English signage in off-peak hours
- "Dzień dobry" - Good morning / Hello
- "Proszę" - Please / Here you go
- "Dziękuję" - Thank you
- "Przepraszam" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ile to kosztuje?" - How much does it cost?
- "Czy mówi Pan/Pani po angielsku?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mówię po angielsku" - I speak English
Places to Visit in Rzeszów
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful townhouses, the Town Hall, and lively street scenes create classic urban photography opportunities.
Baroque details and stately exterior offer striking architectural shots.
Scenic riverside paths, bridges, and reflections—great for sunset photography.
Architectural facade and interior galleries provide opportunities for cultural photography.
Narrow lanes, courtyards, and historic doorways perfect for candid and detail shots.
Food in Rzeszów
Rzeszów Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato and cheese dumplings often served with butter or fried onions.
Must-Try!
Cabbage and meat stew, deeply savory and served with bread or potatoes.
Tangy rye soup usually served with sausage and egg.
Soft dumplings commonly served with butter, mushroom sauce, or breadcrumbs.
Local sausages paired with mustard and bread at markets or grills.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market hall offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and ready-to-eat bites.
Seasonal stalls and small eateries with pierogi, zapiekanki, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Dzień dobry' (good day) or 'Dobry wieczór' (good evening) and shake hands when meeting. Polite and reserved conversations are typical in public.
Public spaces value courtesy; avoid loud behavior in quiet areas and during religious or cultural sites visits.
Safety
Tipping in Rzeszów
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% is appreciated if service is good.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common, especially in cafés and shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blossoming trees; layer up and plan outdoor strolls between showers.
Warm to hot days; ideal for riverfront walks, markets, and outdoor cafés; bring sunscreen and water.
Colorful foliage and harvest events; cooler evenings—carry a light jacket.
Possible snow and cold snaps; dress in warm layers and enjoy festive lights and indoor venues.
Rzeszów at Night
Hiking in Rzeszów
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle forest and garden paths around the castle offering scenic, easy hikes.
A variety of moderate hikes in the foothills within a comfortable drive from Rzeszów.
Riverside routes with opportunities for short hikes and wildlife viewing near the city.
Airports
How to reach Rzeszów by plane.
The city's main international airport with connections to Warsaw and various European destinations; easy to reach by car or taxi from the city center.
A larger international hub about a couple of hours away by train or car; useful for long-haul connections via major European routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable university presence gives the city a youthful, energetic vibe with affordable dining, coffee shops, and events.
Longstanding residents contribute to a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and traditional neighborhoods.
People visiting for the markets, castles, and nearby countryside to balance urban and rural experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs like Stal Rzeszów and regional sports culture support weekend matches and community involvement.
Popular indoor sports with local teams and recreational leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rzeszów.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for mushroom and potato dishes, salads, and dumplings. Ask for 'bez mięs' (without meat) and 'wegetariańskie' on menus; many places can adapt soups or mains to suit vegetarian diets.