Things To Do
in Gorlice

Gorlice is a small town in southern Poland, situated at the foothills of the Carpathians (coordinates 49.6547, 21.1597). It blends a compact historic center with easy access to forested hills and rural scenery. The town serves as a serene base for exploring Magurski National Park and the Beskid Niski region.

Its friendly atmosphere makes it a comfortable stop for travelers seeking culture, nature, and authentic regional cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Visit the Gorlice Countryside
morning
:

Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hiking adventure in the stunning countryside surrounding Gorlice. The lush green hills and scenic trails offer breathtaking views, perfect for nature enthusiasts. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the captivating landscapes.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the natural beauty, soaking up the tranquility of the outdoors. After lunch, explore the nearby nature reserves, where you can spot diverse flora and fauna native to the region. Take time to relax and connect with nature while breathing in the fresh air.

evening
:

Return to Gorlice for a relaxing evening, perhaps exploring local markets to pick up handmade crafts and souvenirs. Opt for dinner at a family-run bistro where you can indulge in homemade pierogi and other Polish delicacies. End your day with a stroll under the stars, relishing the peaceful ambiance of the countryside.

day 2
Art and Culture Exploration
morning
:

Devote your morning to immersing yourself in Gorlice's vibrant arts scene by visiting local galleries and studios. Engage with artists at work and gain insights into their creative processes and inspirations. Many openings and exhibitions showcase the talents of Polish artists, providing a unique cultural experience.

afternoon
:

With a newfound appreciation for the local arts, enjoy sampling international cuisine at one of the unique fusion restaurants in town. Explore more artistic shops selling handcrafted goods, where you can find perfect souvenirs. A visit to the nearby theater might intrigue you with its eclectic program during your stay.

evening
:

As the sun sets, attend a local performance or concert that showcases both traditional and contemporary Polish music. Experience the rich tapestry of Gorlice’s cultural scene while enjoying the warmth of the local crowd. Wind down your evening with a leisurely drink at a nearby bar or café, chatting with locals about their lives and the rich culture around.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee in a cafe$2-4
🛏️Mid-range hotel per night$50-90
🚌Local transportation (one-way)$1-3
🧺Groceries for a day$10-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, scenic base for exploring southern Poland
  • Affordable and friendly; easy access to Magurski National Park
  • Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
  • Smaller transport network; plan around bus schedules
  • "Dzień dobry" - Hello / Good morning
  • "Proszę" - Please / Here you are
  • "Dziękuję" - Thank you
  • "Przepraszam" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ile to kosztuje?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Czy mówię po angielsku?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Czy można zapłacić kartą?" - Can I pay by card?
  • "Pomocy!" - Help!
  • "Czy są opcje wegetariańskie?" - Are there vegetarian options?

Places to Visit in Gorlice

Visit one of these nice places.

Rynek Gorlice (Market Square)

Colorful townhouses, a historic town hall, and activity around the central square provide classic street photography opportunities, especially at dawn or dusk.

Ropa River Bank

The riverfront and old bridges offer scenic reflections and tranquil landscapes perfect for nature photography.

City Park and hill viewpoints

Elevated viewpoints near the town center offer panoramic views over Gorlice and the surrounding hills, ideal for golden-hour shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gorlice

Polish cuisine in Gorlice reflects hearty regional flavors: simple, flavorful dishes built around meat, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. Expect warm, satisfying meals in family-run eateries, with fresh bakery items and traditional soups a common find.

Gorlice Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pierogi ruskie

Dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, and onions; widely available in local restaurants and markets.

Must-Try!

Żurek

Sour rye soup often served with sausage and an egg, a comforting staple in chilly weather.

Kiełbasa regionalna

Smoked local sausage, typically enjoyed with bread, mustard, and pickles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gorlice Market Square (Targ Miejski w Gorlicach)

Weekly market where you can sample regional produce, baked goods, and simple takeaway snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gorlice has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons: warm summers, cold winters with snowfall, and transitional spring and autumn periods. Precipitation occurs year-round, with wetter late spring and autumns and occasional summer thunderstorms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and etiquette

Poles typically greet with Dzień dobry (good morning/hello). Say please (proszę) and thank you (dziękuję). Address people as Pan/Pani and maintain a courteous tone in shops and public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

The town is generally safe for travelers with low crime rates. Common-sense precautions apply: keep valuables secure in crowded areas, be cautious on rural roads after dark, and have emergency numbers (112) handy in case of any incident.

Tipping in Gorlice

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary in Poland at about 5-10% in restaurants if service is satisfactory. You may round up bills or leave a small tip for good service in bars and casual eateries.

Payment Methods

Card payments are widely accepted in towns like Gorlice, though a small cash reserve is handy for markets or smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with fresh greenery. Great for city walks, markets reopening, and early hikes after the snow melts.

Summer

Warm to hot days with occasional thunderstorms. Excellent for outdoor activities, riverside photography, and long sightseeing hours.

Autumn

Cool, crisp air and colorful foliage. A perfect time for scenic drives, forest walks, and landscapes rich with reds and golds.

Winter

Cold and often snowy, with shorter daylight hours. Cozy cafes, nearby snow sports, and atmospheric, quiet towns.

Nightlife Guide

Gorlice at Night

Gorlice offers a relaxed nightlife scene centered on neighborhood bars and cafes. Expect casual atmospheres, occasional live music in the warmer months, and social gatherings rather than large clubs. Many venues close earlier than big-city nightlife hubs, making it a good spot for a quiet evening out.

Hiking in Gorlice

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Magurski National Park trails

Several marked forest trails offering varying difficulty and rewarding viewpoints just outside Gorlice.

Beskid Niski foothill paths

Gentle to moderate hikes through rolling hills with scenic valley and village scenery.

Airports

How to reach Gorlice by plane.

Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport (RZE)

Main international gateway for the region, located roughly 140-180 km from Gorlice; good for connections to Europe and beyond.

Kraków John Paul II International Airport (KRK)

Larger international hub about 150-210 km away; frequent flights to many destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gorlice’s town center is compact and walkable, with most sights, cafés, and shops within a short stroll. Reaching surrounding natural areas is straightforward by local bus or short taxi rides.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Polish

Predominant demographic, with a mix of aging residents in smaller towns and families in surrounding villages.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Widely followed with local matches and community leagues.

Hiking and cross-country skiing

Accessible trails in the nearby hills and Magurski National Park; suitable for year-round activity.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in Gorlice. Public transport includes regional buses; car travel is convenient, though rural roads can be narrow and winding. In winter, weather can affect travel conditions on the approach to the hills.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gorlice.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local spots offer vegetarian versions of classic dishes; look for pierogi with potato-cheese fillings, mushroom dishes, and vegetable soups. When ordering, ask for clarification on broth and meat-mix tenders, and consider simple salads or sides as substantial meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in Gorlice with a county hospital and several clinics. For emergencies, dial 112; carry your health insurance information and local contact details when traveling.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide