Things To Do
in Nowe Miasto Lubawskie

Nowe Miasto Lubawskie is a small historic town in northern Poland, situated on the Drwęca River in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship. It preserves a charming town center with Gothic and nineteenth-century architecture and a laid-back, riverside atmosphere. The town serves as a regional hub for culture, markets, and outdoor recreation, with convenient rail and road connections to larger cities.

Nearby forests and lakes invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore nature, while local traditions provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your journey in the charming Old Town of Nowe Miasto Lubawskie, where you'll admire the beautifully restored medieval buildings. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Polish pastries alongside aromatic coffee. Take a peaceful stroll through picturesque streets, soaking in the historical ambiance.

afternoon
:

After exploring the sights, visit the Museum of Nowe Miasto Lubawskie to gain insight into the town's rich history and culture. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local eatery, sampling regional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the nearby park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and perhaps read a book or people watch.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy authentic Polish cuisine in a warm atmosphere. Consider joining a local event or festival if one is taking place, which often features live music and cultural performances. End the evening by enjoying a nightcap at a local pub, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

day 2
Nature Adventure at the Surrounding Lakes
morning
:

Begin your day early with a visit to the picturesque lakes surrounding Nowe Miasto Lubawskie, perfect for a day of rejuvenating in nature. Join a guided kayaking tour or rent a paddleboat to enjoy the tranquil waters and scenic views. Bask in the splendor of the natural landscape as you navigate the serene environment.

afternoon
:

After a fun morning on the water, find a lakeside spot for a picnic lunch, relishing delicious homemade sandwiches and fresh fruit. Spend the afternoon hiking along designated trails, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna, and stopping for photos of the breathtaking vistas. Connect with fellow adventurers or nature lovers, sharing stories and laughter.

evening
:

Return to Nowe Miasto Lubawskie just in time for sunset, giving yourself the chance to wind down at a local café. Treat yourself to a piece of homemade cake or ice cream as you relax and reflect on the day’s activities. Enjoy a peaceful evening walk through the town, appreciating the calm and starry night sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee in cafe$2-4
🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant$12-18
🏨Budget hotel per night$40-70
🚌One-way public transit ticket$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming, walkable town center with compact size
  • Affordable prices for food and accommodation
  • Rich natural surroundings with lakes and forests
  • Friendly locals and relaxed pace of life
  • Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
  • Public transport options can be sparse outside the town
  • Language barrier for non-Polish speakers in some places
  • Seasonal tourist fluctuations affect opening hours
  • "Dzień dobry" - Good day / Hello
  • "Proszę" - Please / Here you go
  • "Dziękuję" - Thank you
  • "Gdzie jest…?" - Where is…?
  • "Ile to kosztuje?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Czy mówi Pan/Pani po angielsku?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Smacznego" - Enjoy your meal
  • "Pomocy!" - Help!
  • "Czy mogę zapłacić kartą?" - Can I pay by card?

Places to Visit in Nowe Miasto Lubawskie

Visit one of these nice places.

Market Square and Town Hall

Colorful facades and the historic Town Hall provide classic townscape photography with a charming European vibe.

St. Nicholas Church

A prominent local church with Gothic touches; a great subject for architectural details and interior shots.

Drwęca River Bridge

Scenic views of the river and reflections, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Old Town Market

Cobblestone streets, market stalls, and traditional storefronts perfect for/documentary shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nowe Miasto Lubawskie

Nowe Miasto Lubawskie offers hearty Polish countryside cuisine with local fish from the Drwęca and fresh dairy. Expect comforting dishes made with simple, seasonal ingredients and plenty of home-style flavors.

Nowe Miasto Lubawskie Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pierogi z ziemniakami i serem

Potato and cheese pierogi, a staple of Polish cuisine and widely available in town eateries.

Must-Try!

Żurek

Sour rye soup often served with sausage or a hard-boiled egg; a comforting starter or main dish.

Placki ziemniaczane

Crispy potato pancakes, typically served with sour cream or applesauce.

Ryby z Drwęcy

Freshwater fish from the Drwęca River, prepared fried, baked, or grilled in local restaurants.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Targowisko Miejskie

Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and regional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The town experiences a humid continental climate with distinct seasons: warm summers and cold, often snowy winters. Average summer temperatures range around 18-25°C, while winter temperatures commonly fall below freezing. Precipitation occurs throughout the year, with higher rainfall in late spring and late summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Polish greetings like Dzień dobry (good day) or Dobry wieczór (good evening) are common; a firm handshake is typical when meeting someone.

Tables and queues

Wait your turn in queues and be patient; avoid loud behavior in sacred or residential spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Poland is generally safe for travelers; practice standard safety precautions such as securing valuables and staying aware in crowded areas. For emergencies, dial 112 (police, fire, medical) or 999 for medical emergencies. Travel insurance is recommended.

Tipping in Nowe Miasto Lubawskie

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated in restaurants if service isn’t included; typically 5-10% for good service. Cash or card tips are both acceptable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with budding trees; great for city walks and early garden photos. Pack a light jacket for cooler mornings.

Summer

Warm days with long daylight hours; ideal for river and lakeside activities, outdoor dining, and festivals.

Autumn

Harvest colors in the forests and along the river; pleasant temperatures for hiking and scenic photography.

Winter

Cold with possible snow; cozy cafes, festive markets, and serene snowy landscapes—bring warm layers.

Nightlife Guide

Nowe Miasto Lubawskie at Night

The nightlife in Nowe Miasto Lubawskie is low-key, centered around bars and cafes in the town center. In warm months, outdoor terraces and occasional live music or cultural evenings add to the atmosphere. For a livelier scene, consider a short trip to larger nearby towns where concerts and clubs may be more common.

Hiking in Nowe Miasto Lubawskie

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Drwęca River Greenway

Riverside trail offering scenic views and easy to moderate hikes.

Lakeside Forest Loop

Forest trails with lake viewpoints and birdwatching opportunities.

Pine Grove Nature Path

Shaded paths through pine forests with wildlife observations.

Airports

How to reach Nowe Miasto Lubawskie by plane.

Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN)

Major international gateway about 140-180 km northeast; trains or buses connect to Nowe Miasto Lubawskie.

Olsztyn-Mazury Airport (SZY)

Nearest regional airport about 90-120 km south; seasonal and domestic flights; road connections available.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights within a 20-minute stroll. Cobblestone streets add charm but can be uneven for some; bike lanes and pedestrian routes connect the riverfront to the market square.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A family-friendly town with schools, parks, and safe streets.

Students

A student population connected to regional high schools and nearby universities.

Older residents

A sizable older demographic contributing to a tranquil community feel.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular in schools and local clubs; matches can be watched in town stadiums.

Volleyball

Common in community centers and schools; local leagues sometimes host events.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads are generally calm with light traffic in town; regional trains and buses connect Nowe Miasto Lubawskie to Olsztyn and nearby towns. Car rental is available; taxis are common in the center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nowe Miasto Lubawskie.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose vegetarian pierogi, mushroom dishes, salads, and dairy options; many places can tailor meals upon request.

Gluten-free

Ask about gluten-free pierogi dough, soups, and sauces; some restaurants offer gluten-free options or alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Poland has a public healthcare system; residents and visitors can access basic services through NFZ facilities. For emergencies dial 112. International travelers may prefer private clinics for shorter wait times; carry travel insurance.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide