Things To Do
in Łomża
Łomża is a historic town in north-eastern Poland, nestled along the Narew River. Its compact center blends medieval and Baroque architecture with leafy riverside promenades and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The town serves as a quiet base for exploring the Podlaskie region’s forests, nature reserves, and churches.
Visitors can enjoy a slow-paced feel, market life, and easy day trips to nearby natural areas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Market Square, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the surrounding buildings. Stop by a local café for a traditional Polish breakfast, enjoying fresh bread and a warm cup of coffee. As the sun rises, the square comes alive with vendors setting up their stalls, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Spend the afternoon visiting the Łomża Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 15th century. After exploring the cathedral, take a leisurely walk along the scenic banks of the Narew River, where you can take in the lush greenery and spot local wildlife. Stop for lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling regional specialties like pierogi or żurek.
As the sun sets, head to a local pub to enjoy a taste of Polish craft beer while mingling with friendly locals. Consider catching a cultural performance at the Łomża Cultural Center, which often hosts live music or theater events. End your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the charming ambiance of the city.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk in the nearby Łomża Landscape Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. As you traverse the well-marked trails, listen for the sounds of birds singing and watch for deer and other wildlife. The morning light filtering through the trees creates a magical atmosphere perfect for photography enthusiasts.
After your nature walk, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the natural beauty of the park. Explore the various educational trails that provide insights into the local ecosystem and conservation efforts. In the afternoon, consider renting a bicycle to cover more ground and discover hidden gems within the park.
Return to the city for dinner at a cozy restaurant that specializes in local cuisine, where you can taste dishes made from seasonal ingredients. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Narew River, enjoying the peaceful sounds of water flowing and the vibrant colors of the sunset. Settle down at a riverside bench to reflect on your day in nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $1-2 |
| 🧺Groceries (basic weekly) | $25-60 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel night | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, compact town center with a riverside setting
- Affordability and easy day trips to nature
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Less English spoken in some older establishments
- "Dzień dobry" - Good morning/Hello
- "Proszę" - Please / Here you go
- "Dziękuję" - Thank you
- "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ile to kosztuje?" - How much does this cost?
- "Czy mówi Pan/Pani po angielsku?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Łomża
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful townhouses, arcades, and the historic town hall provide quintessential Polish townscape shots, especially with market activity and seasonal decorations.
Wide river views with willows and boats; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography along the water.
Impressive Gothic and Baroque features; offers exterior and interior shots with architectural details.
A vantage point for city silhouettes and river reflections during the golden hour.
Food in Łomża
Łomża Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dilled potato and cheese dumplings, often pan-fried or boiled; widely available in traditional Polish eateries across Łomża.
Must-Try!
Potato dumplings filled with seasoned meat, a staple in the broader Podlaskie culinary tradition; look for them on regional menus.
Sour rye soup often served with sausage or egg; a warming starter or main in many local restaurants.
Grilled Polish sausage, commonly paired with mustard, bread, and a cold drink at local eateries and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers market near the Market Square where you can find fresh produce, breads, cheeses, honey, and prepared snacks from local sellers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Dzień dobry (Good morning/Hello) when entering shops or talking to strangers; maintain polite, orderly conduct in queues.
Dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum when visiting churches or sacred sites; non-photography rules may apply inside some interiors.
Safety
Tipping in Łomża
Ensure a smooth experience
In Poland, tipping around 5-10% in restaurants is common if service is not included; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip at cafés and bars is appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels; cash is still handy for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; ideal for river walks, outdoor markets, and terrace dining. Expect occasional rain; pack a light rain layer and sunscreen.
Mild to cool weather with colorful foliage around the town and along the river. Great for walks and photography; bring a light jacket.
Cold temperatures and possible snow; some outdoor areas may be less accessible. Cozy cafes and indoor cultural sites are good alternatives.
Fresh air and blooming trees, with a mix of sunny and rainy days. Great for outdoor strolls and early-season markets; wear sturdy footwear for damp paths.
Łomża at Night
Hiking in Łomża
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day trips offering flat, scenic trails along the river with birdwatching opportunities.
Local woodlands with short to moderate hikes, ideal for nature walks and photography.
Airports
How to reach Łomża by plane.
Major international hub; about a 2.5–3 hour journey by train or car from Łomża; good for international connections.
Regional airport serving seasonal flights; roughly 90–110 kilometers from Łomża with road/train connections.
Smaller regional option; serves domestic flights and select seasonal routes; typically accessed by road from Łomża.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Polish residents with traditional cultural influences from the Podlaskie region.
Small Belarusian and Lithuanian influences in the broader region; diverse heritage reflected in some churches and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and local club activity in the area; matches and training are common in community stadiums.
Widely played in schools and clubs; community leagues and events occur in sport halls.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Łomża.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetarian options such as pierogi fillings with potato/cheese, mushroom dishes, soups, salads, and sides. When in doubt, ask for meat-free versions of staples like żurek or pierogi.