Things To Do
in Gorlice

Gorlice is a charming town located in southern Poland, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It is nestled in the Beskid Mountains, making it a fantastic base for outdoor enthusiasts. The town boasts a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, with notable landmarks such as the Church of St. Mary Magdalene.

Gorlice is also famous for its connection to the oil industry, being one of the birthplaces of petroleum extraction.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Historical Heart
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, followed by a stroll through the town square.

afternoon
:

Visit the Gorlice Museum to learn about the local history and the oil industry, then enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a traditional Polish restaurant, followed by a walk along the scenic riverside.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Beskid Mountains, taking in the fresh air and stunning views.

afternoon
:

Visit a local food market to sample regional delicacies, then explore the local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a family-run bistro, followed by a visit to a local pub for some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Cup of coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🏨Hotel night stay$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Beautiful natural surroundings with outdoor activities
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Polish speakers
  • Public transport options may be limited outside city center
  • "Dzień dobry" - Good morning
  • "Dziękuję" - Thank you
  • "Proszę" - Please
  • "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ile to kosztuje?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Gorlice

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of St. Mary Magdalene

This Gothic church features stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows, making it a perfect spot for photography.

Gorlice Market Square

The vibrant market square is filled with colorful buildings and bustling activity, ideal for capturing the local life.

Beskid Mountains

The picturesque mountain range surrounding Gorlice offers breathtaking vistas and natural beauty, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gorlice

Gorlice offers a delightful culinary experience with its traditional Polish dishes and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy hearty meals that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.

Gorlice Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pierogi

Dumplings filled with various ingredients like potatoes, cheese, and meat.

Must-Try!

Bigos

A traditional hunter's stew made with sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, and different types of meat.

Kaszanka

A type of blood sausage that is often grilled or fried.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gorlice Market Square

A lively market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food vendors selling pierogi and sausages.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gorlice experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping to -5°C (23°F) and snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures and beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is customary when meeting someone; make sure to greet everyone in the group.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to say 'Smacznego' (enjoy your meal) before starting to eat.

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful of local customs, especially during religious events and festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gorlice is generally a safe destination for travelers. Standard precautions like keeping an eye on personal belongings should be observed. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it’s advisable to have travel insurance.

Tipping in Gorlice

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if the service is good; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is still widely used, but credit cards are accepted in most establishments. ATMs are available throughout the town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures start to warm up, with blooming flowers and greenery making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts many tourists; perfect for hiking and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Autumn

The foliage changes to vibrant colors, providing stunning landscapes for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures can lead to snow, ideal for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Gorlice at Night

Gorlice has a lively yet laid-back nightlife scene, with several bars and pubs offering a cozy atmosphere. The local pubs often feature live music and traditional Polish drinks like vodka and beer. While there are not many nightclubs, the social scene thrives in the form of gatherings in restaurants and bars where locals and tourists mingle.

Hiking in Gorlice

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Beskid Niski National Park

A short drive from Gorlice, this park offers well-marked trails through diverse landscapes, perfect for hikers of all levels.

Cisna-Lutcza Trail

This scenic trail provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, ideal for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Gorlice by plane.

Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport

Located about 100 kilometers from Gorlice, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gorlice is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other in the town center. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, and you can easily navigate on foot while enjoying the local architecture and shops.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Gorlice, enjoying the town's community-oriented atmosphere and educational facilities.

Retirees

The town is home to a significant number of retirees who appreciate the peaceful environment and access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Gorlice, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Winter Sports

During winter, skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains are popular among locals and tourists alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gorlice is generally manageable, with most roads leading in and out of the town being well-maintained. Public transportation options include buses, which connect Gorlice to nearby towns and cities, but services may be limited during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gorlice.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially salads and pierogi with cheese or mushrooms.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, but it's best to ask the staff for recommendations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Gorlice is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and most medical professionals speak basic English. It’s advisable to have health insurance for any potential medical needs during your stay.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide