Things To Do
in Szubin
Szubin is a small historic town in north-central Poland’s Kuyavian‑Pomeranian region, known for its compact market square, green riverbanks and a relaxed small‑town atmosphere. The town blends wooden and brick architecture, a few preserved civic buildings and churches, and access to peaceful countryside ideal for cycling and short hikes. Szubin is a convenient base for exploring the Noteć River valley and nearby larger cities such as Bydgoszcz and Nakło nad Notecią.
Visitors will find a low‑key cultural scene, family‑run eateries and opportunities for outdoor recreation rather than big tourist crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Szubin's historic center, where you can enjoy traditional Polish pastries. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets to admire the well-preserved architecture and visit the town's small museum. Don't forget to capture the beauty of the town square, a perfect backdrop for your morning photos.
In the afternoon, indulge in a cultural experience by visiting the nearby 13th-century church, known for its stunning stained glass windows and serene atmosphere. Spend some time at a local market, where you can sample regional delicacies and perhaps purchase handmade crafts. Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the bistros offering pierogi and other local specialties.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local pub or restaurant to enjoy a hearty dinner while mingling with friendly locals. Consider joining an evening walking tour that highlights Szubin's ghost stories and folklore, a fascinating way to learn about the town's hidden history. Wind down with a nightcap at a café, reflecting on your day's discoveries.
Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading out to Biskupia Góra, a nearby natural reserve known for its scenic trails. Spend the morning hiking through lush forests and enjoying the fresh air, soaking in the tranquility of nature. The stunning landscapes provide various opportunities for photography, so keep your camera handy.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the designated rest areas, surrounded by breathtaking views of the countryside. The afternoon is perfect for bird watching, as the area is home to numerous species, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. After your meal, continue exploring different trails that lead to some hidden viewpoints.
Return to Szubin in the early evening and treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a restaurant featuring local cuisine. Share your day's adventures with fellow travelers, perhaps finding others who share your love for the outdoors. As night falls, take a quiet stroll along the riverside to absorb the serene atmosphere and the clear night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $1.5-3 |
| 🏨Mid‑range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🚌Local bus ticket | $0.7-1.5 |
| 🚕Taxi start / short ride | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic small‑town Polish atmosphere with friendly locals
- Good access to scenic river and countryside for outdoor activities
- Lower prices than larger Polish cities and uncrowded attractions
- Convenient base for short trips to Bydgoszcz and regional sites
- Limited nightlife and few tourist services compared with larger cities
- Fewer specialized dietary or international cuisine options in town
- Public transport links less frequent—car recommended for exploring wider area
- Some attractions and services may have limited seasonal hours
- "Dzień dobry" - Good day / Hello
- "Proszę" - Please / You're welcome
- "Dziękuję" - Thank you
- "Przepraszam" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Gdzie jest...?" - Where is...?
- "Ile to kosztuje?" - How much does it cost?
- "Czy mówi Pan/Pani po angielsku?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Szubin
Visit one of these nice places.
Picturesque civic heart of town with colourful facades, street life, and seasonal market stalls—best photographed early morning or at golden hour.
Natural river scenes, reflections, small bridges and reed beds provide landscape and wildlife opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Exterior and detail shots of local churches, old municipal buildings and small tenements that reflect the town’s layered history.
Green spaces and remnants of manor parks in and around Szubin offer atmospheric tree‑lined avenues and seasonal colour.
Nearby rural lanes, fields and fruit orchards create classic Polish countryside images—excellent in late spring blossom and autumn harvest.
Food in Szubin
Szubin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dumplings filled with potato and cheese, meat, or seasonal fillings (mushroom, cabbage, or fruit) — widely available in local restaurants and home‑style bars.
Must-Try!
Sour rye soup often served with sausage and egg; a classic Polish comfort soup you’ll find in traditional eateries.
Crispy potato pancakes served with sour cream, goulash or sugar — a popular casual dish in small restaurants and at markets.
Locally made kiełbasa and smoked cuts sold at butchers and markets; good to try with fresh bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market stalls near the market square sell seasonal fruit, vegetables, honey, baked goods and occasionally prepared snacks; best in spring–autumn.
Small bakeries and seasonal street stands offer fresh bread, paczki (doughnuts) and simple savory snacks—perfect for breakfasts and picnics.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Dzień dobry' (good day) when entering shops, and 'Do widzenia' (goodbye) when leaving are appreciated. Handshakes are normal for initial introductions.
Small towns value quiet—avoid loud behaviour late at night and respect neighbours and local customs.
In private homes, hosts may expect guests to remove outdoor shoes—follow cues or ask if unsure.
Poles can be reserved initially; being polite and slightly formal (using 'Pan/Pani' titles) is appreciated until a more casual rapport is established.
Safety
Tipping in Szubin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leaving 5–10% in restaurants for good service is common. Round up taxi fares or add a small tip; in cafés people often round up the bill or leave small change.
Cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are broadly accepted in shops and restaurants, but small vendors, market stalls and rural businesses may prefer cash (Polish złoty, PLN). Carry some cash for markets, bakeries and minor purchases.
ATMs are available in town and nearby larger towns; avoid exchanging currency at informal outlets—use bank ATMs or official exchange offices in larger centres.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures rise and landscapes green up; ideal for cycling, birdwatching and early flower photography. Some attractions and market stalls resume after winter; pack a light waterproof jacket for occasional showers.
Warm and often sunny, with long daylight hours—best season for outdoor activities, river paddling and enjoying markets and festivals. Expect more visitors on weekends; bring sun protection and insect repellent near water and fields.
Cooler, with colourful foliage and harvest activities—great for scenic photography and tasting seasonal produce. Evenings can be chilly; layered clothing recommended.
Cold with possible snow and freezing temperatures; quiet town atmosphere and fewer tourists. Some services may have reduced hours—pack warm layers, waterproof footwear and check transport schedules.
Szubin at Night
Hiking in Szubin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle riverside walks and longer trails following the Noteć, offering birdwatching, wetlands scenery and easy terrain suitable for families.
Unmarked but well‑used country paths through nearby woods and farmland—great for short hikes, mushroom foraging in autumn and enjoying seasonal colours.
Short circular routes connecting small villages and orchards around Szubin—ideal for relaxed walks, photography and experiencing rural life.
Airports
How to reach Szubin by plane.
The closest major airport (around 35–50 km by road); offers domestic and international flights and good road/train links to Szubin—about 40–60 minutes by car depending on route.
Larger regional airport roughly 110–140 km away; useful for international connections and budget airlines—approximately 1.5–2 hours by car or bus.
Major international airport further north (around 150–200 km); an option for flights into northern Poland and connections to Szubin by train or car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Szubin’s population includes families who have lived in the area for generations and an older demographic that maintains local traditions and community life.
Some residents commute to nearby larger towns like Bydgoszcz for work, combining small‑town living with urban employment.
Younger people and students often travel to regional centers for education but remain connected to local community activities and sports clubs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport locally—community clubs and amateur matches are common, and local kids play in school and community teams.
Cycling is popular for both transport and recreation; many locals use bikes for short trips and leisure rides along river and country lanes.
Fishing along the Noteć and surrounding waterways is a common pastime among residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Szubin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than in large cities; order pierogi with cheese/potato, vegetable soups, salads and mushroom dishes. Communicate 'jestem wegetarianinem' (I am vegetarian) and ask for no meat broth. Many cafés can adapt sandwiches and sides.
Vegan choices are limited in small towns—plan ahead, shop at grocery stores for basics, and look for vegetable‑based pierogi or salads in larger nearby towns like Bydgoszcz.
Traditional Polish cuisine relies heavily on wheat; gluten‑free options may be scarce. Bring snacks if you require strict gluten‑free meals and check with restaurants in advance.
Inform staff of allergies using simple Polish phrases and carry translations; most family restaurants are helpful but may lack formal allergen training.