Originally founded in medieval times, Lublin’s old town boasts a collage of architectural patterns, dating mainly from the late Renaissance. Other features include two 14th-century gateways, the highlight of which being the Kraków Gate - a postcard favourite. The town square houses are mostly built in renaissance style, and recent renovations have restored many of the buildings to their former glory. With a generous 70% of these structures surviving the destruction of WWII, the old town is a wonderful glimpse into old Poland, and largely free from the buskers and kebab signs that fill Poland’s more travelled hotspots. 

A lap around the picturesque rynek (ENG: Market Square) will reveal a number of great spots for drinking and dining. Notable mentions include Jewish cuisine at Mandragora and Słodka, a fantastic art-deco Polish restaurant called Niepospolita, and a quaint little coffee spot at Akwalera. Whist exploring through the narrow cobblestone laneways, you will eventually stumble across one of two imposing churches that reside within the old city limits. The first is the Dominican Basilica and Monastery at the end of ul. Złota, dated from 1342 and in possession of a fantastic painting depicting the fire of Lublin in the 16th century. A block to the south-west, Lublin Archcathedral features stunning 18th-century frescoes and a fabulous treasury collection.

Down towards Grodzka Gate and Lublin Castle, you can drop in at Browar Grodzki, a brewery-restaurant that offers stunning views to the east. If local art is your kind of thing, make sure you stick your head into one of the following - Lublin Folk Art Gallery and Wirydarz.