Things To Do
in Przemyśl

Przemyśl is a historic town in southeastern Poland, perched near the San River and not far from the Ukrainian border. Its fortress walls and winding streets reflect centuries of Polish, Ukrainian, and Jewish influences. The well-preserved Old Town, hilltop viewpoints, and riverside paths give the city a intimate, atmospheric charm.

Today it serves as a compact gateway to the Subcarpathian region, offering culture, history, and easy access to surrounding natural spots.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the Old Town
morning
:

Kickstart your journey by wandering through the picturesque streets of Przemyśl's Old Town. Admire the beautiful, historic architecture, including St. Joseph's Church and the impressive Przemyśl Cathedral. Grab a coffee at a local café while soaking in the charming atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the Przemyśl Museum, which offers fascinating exhibits reflecting the city's rich history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the serene Bishop's Hill Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside. Make sure to stop by local artisan shops to find unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Polish restaurant, savoring local dishes such as pierogi and bigos. After your meal, catch a performance at the Przemyśl Theatre if there’s an event running. End your evening with a walk along the San River, reflecting on the day's adventures.

day 2
Discover the Fortress of Przemyśl
morning
:

Start the day with a trip to the Przemyśl Fortress, one of the largest fortifications in Europe. Explore the historic bunkers and learn about the fortress's role in World War I through the informative exhibits. Enjoy the surrounding nature as you hike the trails within the fortress area.

afternoon
:

After lunch, continue exploring various fortifications and take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the fascinating military history. Visit the nearby Citadel, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the city and the San River valley. Capture some stunning photographs of the landscape.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Polish restaurant, savoring local dishes such as pierogi and bigos. After your meal, catch a performance at the Przemyśl Theatre if there’s an event running. End your evening with a walk along the San River, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee/tea in cafe$2-4
🍝Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant$25-40
🏨One night in a mid-range hotel$60-100
🚌Public transit day pass$3-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact and walkable historic center
  • Rich multicultural influences and architecture
  • Scenic river setting with easy access to nature
  • Affordability and authentic local experiences
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Fewer high-end dining and mainstream tourist services
  • Some attractions are seasonal or depend on local events
  • "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 it cost?
  • "Mówię tylko trochę po polsku" - I speak only a little Polish

Places to Visit in Przemyśl

Visit one of these nice places.

Przemyśl Castle Hill and Fortified Walls

Elevated viewpoints overlooking the San River with remnants of medieval fortifications and sweeping cityscapes.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

Historic church with distinctive architecture and interior details perfect for interior and exterior shots.

Rynek (Market Square) and Town Hall

Vibrant hub with colorful buildings, arcades, and daily life that makes for dynamic street photography.

Bridge over the San River

Scenic bridge framing river reflections, especially at sunset or in misty mornings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Przemyśl

Przemyśl's cuisine blends Polish and regional Central European flavors with Ukrainian and Jewish influences, featuring hearty soups, dumplings, and rustic breads.

Przemyśl Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pierogi ruskie

Potato and cheese dumplings that are a staple across the city, often served with sour cream and fried onions.

Must-Try!

Barszcz czerwony z uszkami

Bright beet soup paired with tiny mushroom-filled dumplings, a comforting classic.

Gołąbki

Cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice, a common family favorite in regional eateries.

Kopytka

Soft potato dumplings typically served with mushroom sauce or butter and herbs.

Placki ziemniaczane

Crispy potato pancakes often enjoyed with dairy or applesauce, a popular street-food option.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rynek w Przemyślu (Market Square)

Seasonal stalls with fresh produce, baked goods, regional cheeses, and prepared foods.

San Riverfront Market Stalls

Casual spots along the riverside offering quick bites, pastries, and coffee.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is temperate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with average highs around 22-26°C (72-79°F), while winters are cold, often near or below freezing. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and changing foliage, with rainfall spread fairly evenly throughout the year. Overall, it experiences a continental influence with relatively moderate precipitation and occasional snow in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Poles typically greet with a firm handshake and a polite greeting such as 'Dzień dobry' or 'Dobry wieczór'.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated in appointments and social gatherings.

Communication

Polite, respectful conversation is valued; some older residents may speak Ukrainian or have family ties to border regions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Przemyśl is generally safe for visitors, with typical urban precautions recommended: keep valuables secure in crowded areas, be mindful at night in secluded streets, and use licensed taxis or trusted transport. Border areas can experience heavier traffic around holidays; follow local guidance and cross at legitimate checkpoints if traveling to neighboring regions. In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical help.

Tipping in Przemyśl

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, leave about 10-15% if service is not included in the bill; rounding up for taxis and small services is common.

Payment Methods

Cash (Polish złoty) and card payments are widely accepted in shops, cafes, and restaurants; contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming trees; shoulder crowds, great for outdoor strolls and city photography.

Summer

Warm days with longer daylight; expect more visitors around the market and riverside; perfect for al fresco dining.

Autumn

Cooling air and colorful foliage; ideal for quiet walks along the river and hill trails.

Winter

Cold, with potential snow; city lights and frost-covered landscapes create a cosy, tranquil atmosphere; some outdoor activities may be limited.

Nightlife Guide

Przemyśl at Night

Przemyśl offers a quiet, small-town nightlife scene with cozy bars, cafes, and occasional live music. Expect friendly atmospheres, often with local patrons and seasonal events rather than a large club scene. Many venues are centered around the Market Square and riverside areas, where you can enjoy a drink, meet locals, and listen to acoustic performances.

Hiking in Przemyśl

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pogórze Przemyskie ridge trails

Gentle to moderate hikes with forest scenery and regional viewpoints near Przemyśl.

San River Gorge trails

Scenic routes along the river offering varied terrain and river panoramas.

Airports

How to reach Przemyśl by plane.

Rzeszów–Jasionka Airport (RZE)

Major regional airport about 110-150 km away by road; connections to Poland and Europe with road/train links to Przemyśl.

Lviv International Airport (LWO)

Nearby international airport in Ukraine, approximately 80-120 km away by air; border crossing may be required to reach Przemyśl from some routes.

Kraków John Paul II International Airport (KRK)

Larger hub about 230-260 km away; good option for international connections with ground transfer to Przemyśl.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is compact and walkable, with most sights clustered near the Market Square. Some hills near the castle offer short, steep sections, but overall the area is navigable on foot. Parking can be limited in peak times, so walking or short rides are often preferable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Polish residents

Predominant ethnic group with deep local roots and a strong sense of regional identity.

Ukrainian minority

Historical ties to the region; influences in cuisine, culture, and daily life.

Roma communities

Small communities present in the area with distinct cultural contributions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

A popular sport in local clubs and recreational leagues; match days bring community spirit to town streets and pubs.

Basketball and volleyball

Common in schools and gyms, with local teams sometimes hosting regional competitions.

Winter sports nearby

In winter, nearby hills provide opportunities for snowshoeing and light skiing when conditions allow.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is usually light to moderate within the town, with better options for walking and cycling in the center. Rail connections exist to major Polish cities and nearby Ukrainian routes, while car travel is feasible but can be slower during border or market days. Parking in the center can be limited; use designated lots or street parking where allowed.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Przemyśl.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants offer vegetarian soups, pierogi fillings, and salads; look for dumplings with cheese or mushroom fillings and avoid meat broths. When in doubt, ask for vegetable-based broths and sides.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Przemyśl includes local clinics and a regional hospital. EU visitors should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable; for non-EU visitors, private clinics and pharmacies can provide urgent support, and emergency services are available by dialing 112.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide