How to Spend 24 Hours in Przemyśl, Poland!
If you’ve read any of my past posts about Poland, you should probably know how much I love Poland and have travelled around a lot of it due to living there. I recently visited Przemyśl, which is located almost on the border to Ukraine. It’s a sleepy, quiet city but still has a lot to offer. If you’re interested in finding out how to spend 24 hours in Przemyśl, then read on!
Contents:
Why Visit Przemyśl?
Why visit Przemyśl? Przemyśl, a city in southeastern Poland, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and architectural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for travellers. It’s the second oldest city in Poland; therefore, it is extremely worth visiting if you are interested in history.
Its strategic location near the border with Ukraine provides a unique blend of Polish and Eastern European influences evident in its cuisine, traditions, and festivals. Visitors can explore the city’s well-preserved Old Town, which boasts centuries-old structures like the Przemyśl Castle and the stunning Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
Additionally, Przemyśl is nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, with access to the Carpathian Mountains, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing – making it the perfect destination to visit if you are interested in the outdoors.
How To Get To Przemyśl?
How to get to Przemyśl? Getting to Przemyśl is relatively straightforward as the city is well-connected by various modes of transportation. If you are travelling from within Poland, you can take a train, as Przemyśl is a major railway hub with direct connections to major cities such as Kraków and Poznan. Trains are also very affordable in Poland; for example, it cost us around £8 from Kraków to Przemyśl – which is around 3 hours in total.
For international travellers, flying into Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport, located about 90 kilometres from Przemyśl, and then taking a bus or a car can be a convenient option. Przemyśl is, of course, accessible by road, with several bus services operating, such as Flixbus, making it easy for travellers to explore the region by car or bus.
What Is Przemyśl Famous For?
What is Przemyśl famous for? Przemyśl is renowned for its rich historical heritage, being one of the oldest cities in Poland rich with many cultural influences.
The city is famous for its impressive collection of well-preserved architectural landmarks, including the Przemyśl Fortress, a network of 19th-century fortifications that played a critical role during World War I.
Przemyśl is also a gateway to the scenic Bieszczady Mountains, making it a popular starting point for nature enthusiasts looking to explore the picturesque landscapes of southeastern Poland, so if you’re looking for how to spend 24 hours in Przemyśl, then be aware that 24 hours may not be enough!
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How To Spend 24 Hours in Przemyśl?
If you’re wondering how to spend 24 hours in Przemyśl, then check out this list of must-do activities and places to visit in Przemyśl!
1. Admire The View From Up Wieża Katedralna
24 hours in Przemyśl is perfect for exploring Wieża Katedralna, known for its spectacular panoramic views of the city’s historic architecture and picturesque landscapes from its vantage point – a beautiful clock tower.
Climbing the tower provides a unique and memorable experience, inviting tourists to appreciate the blend of architectural elegance and the city’s scenic beauty. There are quite a few steps to the top; however, it is very manageable – you can even book to have a private dinner at the top! (Hint hint to my boyfriend 😉 )
2. Get Good Luck From Švejk
Tourists visiting Przemyśl should seek good luck from Švejk, a beloved fictional character known for his quirky charm, as the city boasts a unique statue of him lounging comfortably on a bench.
This playful monument pays tribute to “The Good Soldier Švejk”, a Czech novel renowned throughout Central Europe, and provides a great photo opportunity that embodies the spirit of humor and resilience the character is famous for – don’t forget to rub his nose to get good luck!
3. Watch The Sunset at Kopiec Tatarski
If you’re visiting Przemyśl, then you should not miss a trip to Kopiec Tatarski, also known as the Tatar Mound, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
This historical mound, steeped in legend, is said to be the burial site of a Tatar chieftain, adding an element of mystery and allure to the site.
Whether interested in history, mythology or simply enjoying the picturesque scenery, Kopiec Tatarski provides a serene spot for reflection and photography. It’s the perfect viewpoint of the city and looks gorgeous at sunset or sunrise!
4. Try Przemyślana Pizza
If you only have 24 hours in Przemyśl, then you have to try Przemyślana Pizza! Experience a delightful twist on traditional Italian flavours infused with local Polish ingredients.
This unique food features regional specialities such as kielbasa sausage, mushrooms, and fresh herbs, providing a delicious fusion that reflects the city’s rich cultural offerings.
Enjoying this pizza satisfies your tastebuds and allows visitors to connect with Przemyśl’s vibrant food scene, making it a memorable part of the travel experience.
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5. Explore Zamek Kazimierzowski (Casimir Castle)
Inside, visitors can discover the well-preserved artefacts and learn about the castle’s strategic importance through the centuries, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
Tourists visiting Przemyśl should explore Zamek Kazimierzowski, a beautiful castle that offers a deep dive into the region’s medieval history and architectural grandeur. Originally built under the reign of King Casimir III the Great, this historical fortress stands atop a hill, providing stunning views of the city and its picturesque surroundings.
6. Go Shopping and Watch a Film at CH Galeria Sanowa
If you have 24 hours in Przemyśl and want to go shopping, you should visit CH Galeria Sanowa for a delightful combination of shopping and entertainment, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy modern shops.
This shopping centre offers a wide array of stores, from popular fashion brands to unique local boutiques, allowing visitors to find souvenirs and gifts or indulge in a little retail therapy.
After shopping, visitors can relax by watching the latest films in the comfortable cinema, providing a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for those looking to unwind. If you’re really lucky, you might even get a free ticket from someone whilst you walk past – like we did, and then end up watching a random Polish Christmas film 😉
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7. Expand Your Knowledge at the National Museum of Przemyśl
If you only have 24 hours in Przemysl and would like to learn more about it, then the National Museum of Przemyśl is the perfect place to start! Housed in a beautiful building, the museum showcases an extensive collection of artefacts, including archaeological finds, fine art, and ethnographic exhibits that trace the city’s evolution through the ages.
This institution not only provides a comprehensive understanding of Przemyśl’s past but also offers engaging exhibitions and activities, making it an invaluable destination for both history buffs and curious visitors.
8. Visit Some of The Many, Many, Churches
A visit to Przemyśl isn’t complete without visiting some of the city’s many, many churches (hey – it’s Poland after all!). There are lots of churches to appreciate the architectural beauty and historical significance that these sacred spaces hold in Przemyśl.
Each church, from the stunning Gothic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist to the intricately decorated Greek Catholic Church of St. Mary Magdalene, provides insight into the diverse religious heritage that has shaped the region.
By exploring these churches, visitors can admire impressive art and architecture while gaining a deeper understanding of the pivotal role religion has played in Przemyśl’s cultural and social fabric throughout the centuries.
9. Explore Rynek Starego Miasta w Przemyślu (The Old Town)
A visit to Przemyśl isn’t complete without exploring Rynek Starego Miasta, the city’s charming Old Town Square, to experience the heart of its historical and cultural life.
Surrounded by beautifully preserved Renaissance and Baroque buildings, the square offers a picturesque setting filled with vibrant cafes, shops, and local eateries where visitors can enjoy the delightful ambience.
Walking through the cobblestone streets provides a sense of stepping back in time, and the square often hosts markets and events, adding a lively and authentic touch to any visit.
10. Warm Up With Hot Chocolate From Selfier
Stop by Selfier to indulge in a delightful array of sweet treats and beverages, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing break. Known for its rich and creamy hot chocolate, Selfier offers an inviting escape where guests can enjoy not only drinks but also a delectable selection of cakes and pastries crafted with local flavours and international flair.
The cosy and modern atmosphere provides the ideal setting for enjoying these treats, whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth while exploring the city.
11. Eat Delicious Cake at Fiore
Fiore is a must-visit if you’re after a delightful culinary experience, where you can enjoy an exquisite selection of cakes and artisanal ice creams – it has to be one of the prettiest cafes I’ve ever visited.
Known for its homemade desserts, Fiore offers a range of flavours and beautifully crafted pastries that cater to both traditional tastes and adventurous palates.
The inviting and stylish ambience of the café creates the perfect setting for taking a break and indulging in sweet treats, making it a must-visit destination for dessert lovers exploring the city.
Przemyśl FAQ:
The closest airport to Przemyśl, Poland, is Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport (RZE), located approximately 90 kilometres to the west of Przemyśl.
Przemyśl was never part of an independent Ukraine but was historically within regions that experienced shifting borders. Before becoming part of modern Poland, it was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and later interwar Poland. During different periods throughout history, it has been under various administrations, including Polish, Austrian, and briefly Soviet control during World War II.
While Polish is the primary language spoken in Przemyśl, English is not commonly spoken among the general population, particularly among older residents. However, younger people and those working in tourism-related fields are likelier to have some English proficiency.
24 Hours In Przemyśl – Conclusion:
After reading this post all about how to spend 24 hours in Przemyśl, you’ve hopefully been inspired with some ideas on things to do and visit. How would you spend 24 hours in Przemyśl? Do you have any other recommendations on how to spend 24 hours in Przemyśl? If you liked this post, and would like to read some other similar posts, then these are what I’d recommend:
