Things To Do
in Augustów

Augustów is a picturesque town located in northeastern Poland, known for its beautiful lakes and lush forests. It serves as a gateway to the Augustów Canal and the surrounding nature reserves, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town boasts a charming blend of history and natural beauty, offering visitors a range of activities from boating to hiking.

With its welcoming atmosphere and stunning landscapes, Augustów is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Lakes
morning
:

Start your day with a peaceful boat ride on Lake Necko, soaking in the serene views of the surrounding forests.

afternoon
:

Visit the Augustów Canal Museum to learn about the region's rich history and the significance of the canal for local transportation.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, followed by a stroll along the promenade to enjoy the sunset over the lake.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike in the Wigry National Park, where you can explore diverse flora and fauna along well-marked trails.

afternoon
:

Visit the Orthodox Monastery in Wigry for a glimpse into local spirituality and architecture.

evening
:

Experience traditional Polish cuisine at a local tavern, followed by a visit to a nearby bar for live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$2
🏨Night at a budget hotel$40
🚌Public transportation ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and lakes
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Wide range of outdoor activities available
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Some areas may have language barriers for non-Polish speakers
  • Public transportation can be infrequent
  • "Dzień dobry" - Good morning
  • "Dziękuję" - Thank you
  • "Proszę" - Please
  • "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Tak" - Yes

Places to Visit in Augustów

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Necko

Capture stunning sunrise or sunset photos against the backdrop of tranquil waters and surrounding forests.

Augustów Canal

Photograph the unique architecture of the canal locks and the charming boats that cruise through the waterways.

Wigry National Park

A beautiful nature reserve ideal for capturing wildlife and picturesque landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Augustów

Augustów offers a delightful culinary experience characterized by fresh fish from the lakes, local produce, and traditional Polish dishes.

Augustów Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sernik

A rich cheesecake often made with local curd cheese, it's a must-try dessert in the region.

Must-Try!

Zrazy

Thin slices of meat rolled with fillings, typically served with potatoes and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Augustów Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts, open on weekends.

Climate Guide

Weather

Augustów experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm and pleasant, averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities, with spring bringing blooming flowers and autumn showcasing vibrant foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is common when greeting someone, and it's polite to use titles like 'Pan' for Mr. and 'Pani' for Mrs.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal, and keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.

Respect for Nature

As Augustów is surrounded by nature, it's important to respect the environment and dispose of waste properly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Augustów is generally a safe town for travelers. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's recommended to keep copies of important documents in case of loss or theft.

Tipping in Augustów

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy blooming flowers and moderate temperatures, making it perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect warm weather, ideal for boating and swimming in the lakes, with vibrant local festivals and events.

Autumn

Witness the stunning fall foliage, great for photography and peaceful hikes with cooler temperatures.

Winter

Experience snow-covered landscapes, perfect for winter sports like skiing and ice fishing.

Nightlife Guide

Augustów at Night

Augustów's nightlife is vibrant but laid-back, with a blend of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to various tastes. Many establishments feature live music, especially during the summer months, creating a lively atmosphere. Popular spots include lakeside bars and traditional Polish taverns where you can enjoy local beer and spirits. The nightlife is family-friendly, with options for all ages, making it a welcoming environment for visitors.

Hiking in Augustów

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wigry National Park Trails

These trails offer various levels of difficulty, taking you through pristine forests and alongside beautiful lakes.

Augustów Canal Trail

This scenic route follows the canal, perfect for leisurely walks while enjoying the sights of the waterway and its wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Augustów by plane.

Suwałki Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Augustów, this small airport offers limited domestic flights and serves as a convenient arrival point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Augustów is a walkable town with many attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks and parks. Visitors can easily explore the lakeside promenade and nearby attractions on foot, making it convenient for tourists to navigate without a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The town has a mix of local families, seniors, and young adults, creating a diverse community with a strong connection to the natural surroundings.

Tourists

Augustów attracts both domestic and international tourists seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, especially during the summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rowing

Due to its numerous lakes and waterways, rowing is a popular sport in Augustów, with many local clubs and competitions.

Ice Fishing

During the winter months, ice fishing becomes a traditional pastime for locals, attracting enthusiasts from around the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Augustów is generally light, with the town being easily navigable by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect Augustów with nearby towns and cities, though schedules can be infrequent. Biking is also popular, with dedicated paths along the lakes, making it an eco-friendly option for exploration.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Augustów.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat preparations to ensure your meal meets your dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are becoming more common, it's recommended to inform your server about any dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Augustów is generally good, with several clinics and a hospital available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and most healthcare professionals speak basic English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide