Things To Do
in Iława

Iława is a charming town located in northern Poland, surrounded by beautiful lakes and lush forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Iława offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor activities and local traditions. The town is also famous for its picturesque waterfront and historical architecture, providing a scenic backdrop for exploration.

With a welcoming atmosphere, Iława serves as an ideal base for discovering the Masuria region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Town and Lake
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Iława Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll along the picturesque Jeziorak Lake.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a lakeside picnic lunch with local delicacies purchased from a nearby market, followed by water sports like kayaking or paddle boating.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant offering traditional Polish cuisine and enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake promenade as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at a local café, then head to the nearby Wzgórza Dylewskie Nature Reserve for hiking and birdwatching.

afternoon
:

After exploring the reserve, visit the local food market to sample regional products and enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro.

evening
:

Experience Iława's nightlife by visiting a local pub or bar, where you can enjoy live music and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$15
Coffee$2-$3
🍺Local beer$3-$5
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🛒Groceries (per week)$30-$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with lakes and forests.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Variety of outdoor activities available year-round.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during the summer tourist season.
  • Some barriers for non-Polish speakers in rural areas.
  • "Dzień dobry" - Good morning/Good day
  • "Dziękuję" - Thank you
  • "Proszę" - Please
  • "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Jak się masz?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Iława

Visit one of these nice places.

Jeziorak Lake

The largest lake in Poland, offering stunning views and sunsets, perfect for landscape photography.

Old Town Square

A historic area with colorful buildings and charming cafes, ideal for capturing the essence of Iława.

Wzgórza Dylewskie

A nature reserve with panoramic views, providing opportunities for breathtaking nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Iława

Iława offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the region's agricultural heritage and lakeside resources.

Iława Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sernik

A delicious Polish cheesecake made with twaróg cheese, often flavored with vanilla or citrus.

Must-Try!

Karp po Żydowsku

Carp prepared in a Jewish style, typically served with apples and raisins.

Pierogi

Traditional Polish dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat, often served with sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Iława Farmers Market

A vibrant market held weekly, where locals sell fresh produce, homemade goods, and regional specialties.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the town offer quick bites like zapiekanki (Polish-style baguettes) and kebabs.

Climate Guide

Weather

Iława experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and occasional heatwaves. Winters (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and snowfall common. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is a common greeting, and it's polite to make eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

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

Dress Code

Dress neatly, especially in restaurants or events, as Poles tend to appreciate a well-put-together appearance.

Safety Guide

Safety

Iława is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any location, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance.

Tipping in Iława

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, rounding up to the nearest whole number.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand is advisable for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, ideal for water sports and enjoying the lakes, though it can be crowded.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, offering a scenic backdrop for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snowfall, attracting visitors for winter sports like ice skating and skiing.

Nightlife Guide

Iława at Night

Iława's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs that cater to different tastes. The town's establishments often feature live music, DJ sets, and themed nights. Many venues are located near the lakeside, allowing patrons to enjoy the beautiful views while socializing. Local bars serve a range of drinks, including Polish beers and vodkas, alongside a friendly atmosphere that encourages mingling with locals.

Hiking in Iława

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trail in Wzgórza Dylewskie

This scenic trail offers various routes through the Dylewskie Hills, providing stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Lakeside Path

A beautiful path along Jeziorak Lake, perfect for leisurely hikes with picturesque views of the water and surrounding nature.

Airports

How to reach Iława by plane.

Olsztyn-Mazury Airport

Approximately 100 km from Iława, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Iława is a walkable town with a compact center, making it easy to explore on foot. The main attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a short distance from each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the town's layout encourages leisurely strolls along the lakefront and through the parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Iława's population consists of Polish residents, with a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals.

Tourists

During peak seasons, Iława attracts tourists from Poland and abroad, particularly nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Iława, with local teams competing in regional leagues and drawing enthusiastic support from the community.

Water Sports

Given its proximity to Jeziorak Lake, water sports such as kayaking, sailing, and fishing are favored activities among locals and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Iława tends to be light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, but many visitors find walking or cycling more convenient for exploring the local area. Parking is available in designated areas, but it's wise to check for any regulations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Iława.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants provide vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are becoming more available, especially in larger establishments, but it's best to confirm.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Iława is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital providing a range of medical services. Emergency care is available, and pharmacies are common throughout the town. It's advisable for travelers to carry health insurance and be aware of any necessary vaccinations prior to arrival.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide