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What Should I Do in Bialystok?

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What Should I Do in Bialystok?

Bialystok is a city located in northeastern Poland, near the Belarusian and Lithuanian borders. It is the second-largest city in the Podlaskie Voivodeship with a population of almost 300,000 and is the capital of the rivalling neighbouring province of Lublin. With a rich heritage and numerous attractions, this city has become an increasingly popular destination for visitors both international and domestic. But with so much to offer, what should you do when visiting Bialystok?

1. Explore the Old Town

The Old Town of Bialystok is home to numerous historic churches, monuments and old buildings. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Branicki Palace, the residence of one of the biggest magnates from Poland’s Golden Age. Originally built in 1626 by the noble- family, the Branicki Palace has since been thoroughly reconstructed after being damaged in World War II. Nowadays it is one of the city’s main attractions, complete with a gorgeous park surrounding it and a large wing dedicated to museums and galleries.

The Old Town of Bialystok is also home to a bustling market square, complete with vendors selling fresh local produce, souvenirs and other goods. There is also a variety of restaurants, historic buildings and even a small jazz-club with live entertainment.

2. Get to Know Local Culture at the Museum of Podlaskie Voivodeship

Located in the heart of Bialystok, the Museum of Podlaskie Voivodeship showcases local art, culture and history in grand fashion. Visitors can explore the beauty of Bialystok through a variety of interactive displays and exhibits exploring various aspects of the city’s past and present. Other highlights include wooden sculptures, botanical gardens, an open-air art gallery and a library exhibiting local books and literature.

The museum also features a special section dedicated to Jewish heritage and culture, with specifically tailored programs and exhibitions exploring the city’s Jewish past. Visitors can learn more about the lives of Bialystok’s Jewish population, which once made up around a quarter of its total inhabitants, up until WWII when much of it was destroyed by Nazi forces.

3. Unwind at Suraż Lake

Suraż Lake is a picturesque natural oasis situated nearby Bialystok. It serves as a popular recreational spot for locals, who flock here to relax or go fishing. The lake also offers beautiful views and a great way to explore the stunning nature surrounding Bialystok. Visitors can rent boats and explore the lake, or take part in fishing contests organized by local clubs.

This idyllic spot has also become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years. Visitors can stroll through the nature trails around Suraż Lake, have a picnic beneath its willows or just soak up the atmosphere for awhile.

4. Visit Wigilia Headquarters

Wigilia Headquarters is a cultural spot located close to Suraż Lake. It serves as an important reminder of Białystok’s strong role in Poland’s military history, being located at the former site of one of the Wigilia Headquarters – the centre of operations for one of Poland’s largest military manoeuvres during World War II. At this spot visitors can explore various aspects of Poland’s campaigns such as its famous battles against Nazi tanks and invaluable support from fellow Soviet allies during WWII.

Today visitors can explore two open-air museums set up in honour of those soldiers who fought for Poland’s liberation from Nazi rule. There are also regular concerts held here and even military reenactments that take place throughout the year.

5. Taste local Cuisine

No visit to Bialystok would be complete without sampling some of its local cuisine. From classic żurek soup to renowned Zrazy meat dishes, this city has some surprisingly delicious dishes on offer.

For those looking for something traditional, try the kutia – a classic Eastern European dessert made from boiled wheat and poppy seeds, fruit jam and nuts. It is an essential part of Christmas dinners in Poland and is best served with vanilla ice cream or sweet curd cheese cake (sernik).

If you’re looking for something more savoury, taste some pierogi – Poland’s famous dumplings filled with mushrooms or meat. They are usually served with sour cream or soup but can also be enjoyed on their own or as part of larger meal such as golonka – pork knuckle boiled with vegetables – or bigos – a classic hunter’s stew made from sauerkraut and various types of meat.

6. Sample Some Local Beer

Białystok’s beer scene is definitely worth exploring for beer lovers. There are numerous craft breweries located throughout the city offering unique renditions of traditional beers for you to sample. The most popular ones include BąKBrewery, Ursa Major Brewing and Drekker Brewing Co., all situated in different parts of town. Visitors can take tours at these breweries to learn about beer-making process or just sit in one of their cozy tap rooms for an afternoon beer session.

Another unique option is Białystok Private Polish Beer Tasting Tour offered by GetYourGuide. This tour immerses visitors into the world of Polish beer culture with tastings and tours at some of Białystok’s best craft breweries presented by an expert sommelier. Along with a guided tour for an insightful look into the process beer brewing, guests will also get to sample a variety of brews from light lagers to robust stouts perfect for connoisseurs who appreciate good beer!

Conclusion

Bialystok offers plenty for visitors to explore, both in its vibrant city centre and lush surrounding nature. From exploring local culture at the Museum of Podlaskie Voivodeship to tasting some local brews at GetYourGuide’s Polish Beer Tasting Tour – there is something for everyone here! Whether you are looking for relaxing activities or more active ones – there are plenty places to discover what this beautiful city has to offer!

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What Should I Do in Bialystok?

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!