Tarnów In Your Pocket

Eighty kilometres east of Kraków near the crossroads of two ancient trade routes lies the charming and hospitable city of Tarnów. Małopolska’s second city by size, Tarnów is absolutely dwarfed by Kraków but features many of the same cultural and architectural charms without the crushing crowds, inflated prices and occasional feelings of herd mentality that unfortunately come along with a tourist market the size of Kraków’s. On the contrary, Tarnów offers tourists the comforts of a small town with a long history and the cultural intrigue and activities of a much bigger city. In addition to a well-preserved medieval Old Town - which includes a glorious Cathedral, a cute market square and Town Hall, and many pedestrian avenues - in Tarnów visitors will discover several unique and worthwhile museums, wooden churches, historic cemeteries, castle ruins and a scenic overlook, as well as dozens of artistic and historical monuments at every turn. Those with a special interest in Jewish history should be extra motivated to visit Tarnów due to its deep Jewish heritage, many traces of which are still in evidence today in the city’s evocative Jewish district and large Jewish Cemetery. While the town’s nightlife may not have the sizzle of Kraków, there are still plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants, the best of which we list here, where you’ll find it easy to meet friendly local folks who are proud of their city and eager to present a good impression to foreigners. All told it’s enough to easily warrant spending at least one night, if not more, as in addition to serving as a quiet, even romantic retreat from Kraków, Tarnów also makes a superb base for exploring the wealth of other nearby sites in the region, including the Castle at Dębno, the folk art of Zalipie, and the salt mines of Bochnia. You’ll find more information on Tarnów and all the surrounding area has to offer on our website (tarnow.inyourpocket.com), but make sure you also pay a visit to the fine folks at the Tourist Information Office when you arrive for more insights.