Things To Do
in Kościerzyna

Kościerzyna is a picturesque town located in the Pomeranian Voivodeship of northern Poland, surrounded by beautiful lakes and forests. Known as the capital of the Kashubian region, it boasts a rich cultural heritage and is famous for its traditional crafts and vibrant folklore. The town offers a blend of historical architecture and stunning natural landscapes, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Visitors can enjoy local festivals, outdoor activities, and delicious regional cuisine throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kościerzyna
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Museum of the Kashubian Region to learn about the local culture and history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then take a stroll through the charming town center, including a visit to the historic Church of St. John's.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Polish restaurant and then take a leisurely walk by Lake Borzechowskie, enjoying the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head out early for a hike in the nearby forests of Bory Tucholskie National Park, where you can experience the area's natural beauty.

afternoon
:

After lunch, rent a kayak on one of the local lakes for an afternoon of paddling and exploring.

evening
:

Return to Kościerzyna, relax at a local bar, and enjoy some live music or entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$15
Coffee$2-$4
🍺Local beer$3-$5
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🏨Hotel night$50-$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities.
  • Some tourist attractions may have restricted opening hours.
  • Language barrier may exist, particularly in rural areas.
  • "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 Kościerzyna

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Borzechowskie

A tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for capturing sunset reflections.

Church of St. John's

A beautiful historic church with stunning architecture and intricate details.

Kashubian Landscape

The picturesque rolling hills and fields of the Kashubian region provide a stunning backdrop for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kościerzyna

Kościerzyna offers a delightful taste of Kashubian cuisine, featuring hearty dishes that reflect the region's agricultural roots and traditions.

Kościerzyna Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kaszubski Ziemniak

A traditional potato dish often served with meat and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Sernik Kaszubski

A local cheesecake made with fresh cheese and often flavored with fruit.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kościerzyna Market

A vibrant local market held weekly where you can find fresh produce, meats, and homemade baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kościerzyna experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm with average temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters (December to February) can be cold, averaging -5 to 5°C (23-41°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, with spring blooms and autumn foliage providing beautiful landscapes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Respect for Traditions

Show appreciation for local customs and traditions, particularly during festivals.

Dining Etiquette

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

Safety Guide

Safety

Kościerzyna is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Always secure your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas.

Tipping in Kościerzyna

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, typically around 10-15% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather perfect for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

The vibrant fall colors offer breathtaking views, especially in the surrounding forests.

Winter

Cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports and cozying up in local cafés.

Nightlife Guide

Kościerzyna at Night

Kościerzyna has a laid-back nightlife scene, with several bars and pubs that offer live music and entertainment. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle with locals. During weekends, you can find various events and gatherings that showcase local talent.

Hiking in Kościerzyna

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Czernica Nature Reserve

A beautiful area with trails that wind through forests and wetlands, ideal for birdwatching and nature photography.

Puszcza Darżlubska

A scenic hiking area with well-marked trails featuring diverse plant and animal life, perfect for a day out in nature.

Airports

How to reach Kościerzyna by plane.

Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport

Located about 60 km from Kościerzyna, this airport offers both domestic and international flights and is the main gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kościerzyna is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town center features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian areas, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require a bit of walking to reach, especially if venturing to the outskirts.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kashubians

The indigenous people of the region, known for their unique language and rich cultural traditions.

Polish Nationals

The majority of the population, who contribute to the diverse cultural landscape of Kościerzyna.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport in the region, with local teams playing in community leagues.

Ice Hockey

Enjoyed by many locals, ice hockey games can often be found during the winter months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kościerzyna is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns. Traffic congestion is rare, but it's advisable to be cautious of cyclists and pedestrians.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kościerzyna.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries have gluten-free options, though they may be limited.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Kościerzyna are adequate, with a local hospital and several clinics available. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are also readily available for common health needs.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide