7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Bydgoszcz
Summary: Planning a quick weekend getaway is a great way to save money while still seeing new places. Here are 7 fun weekend getaways for digital nomads living in Bydgoszcz.
As a digital nomad living in Bydgoszcz, you have the unique opportunity to explore a variety of destinations on your weekends. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems off the beaten path, the surrounding areas offer a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are seven weekend getaways that provide a perfect escape from your routine, ranging from bustling cities to serene landscapes.
Torun
Just a short journey from Bydgoszcz, Torun is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and as the birthplace of the famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Stroll through the charming Old Town, visit the Copernicus House, and indulge in the city's famous gingerbread. The city also offers a vibrant cultural scene with museums, galleries, and theaters.
How to Get There: Torun is easily accessible by train, with frequent services taking about 45 minutes from Bydgoszcz.
Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to participate in a gingerbread-making workshop, a fun and delicious way to engage with Torun's culinary heritage.
Where to Stay: Consider staying at Hotel 1231, a boutique hotel with a picturesque riverside location and a modern twist on medieval architecture.
Where to Eat: Pierogarnia Stary Torun offers a delightful taste of traditional Polish dumplings, with a variety of fillings to choose from.
Gdansk
The coastal city of Gdansk is a gem on the Baltic Sea, boasting a rich history as a powerful maritime city. Explore the Royal Way, marvel at the grandeur of the Main Town Hall, and relax on the sandy beaches. The city's maritime museum and the iconic crane over the Mot?awa River are also must-see attractions.
How to Get There: Gdansk is about a 2-hour train ride from Bydgoszcz, with multiple connections available daily.
Travel Tip: Take a leisurely boat tour along the Mot?awa River to see Gdansk from a different perspective.
Where to Stay: Hotel Gda?sk Boutique offers luxury accommodations with a maritime theme and a brewery on-site.
Where to Eat: Kubicki is the oldest restaurant in Gdansk, serving traditional Polish cuisine in a historic setting.
Biskupin
For a journey back in time, visit the archaeological reserve of Biskupin, an ancient fortified settlement dating back to the Iron Age. This open-air museum allows you to walk through reconstructed houses and learn about prehistoric life in Poland. They often host festivals and reenactments, providing an interactive historical experience.
How to Get There: Biskupin is best reached by car, approximately a 1-hour drive from Bydgoszcz.
Travel Tip: Check the reserve's calendar for special events like the annual Archaeological Festival, which brings history to life with demonstrations and activities.
Where to Stay: Nearby, the town of ?nin offers several cozy guesthouses, such as Pensjonat nad Jeziorem.
Where to Eat: Restauracja Biskupi?ska serves hearty Polish meals, perfect after a day of historical exploration.
Malbork Castle
The imposing Malbork Castle is the largest castle in the world measured by land area and a stunning example of medieval military architecture. Originally built by the Teutonic Knights, this fortress is now a museum that showcases the history and artifacts of the knights and the castle itself.
How to Get There: Malbork is accessible by train from Bydgoszcz, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours.
Travel Tip: Consider hiring a guide or using an audio guide to fully appreciate the rich history of the castle.
Where to Stay: Hotel Centrum Malbork offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the castle.
Where to Eat: Gothic Café & Restaurant provides a medieval dining experience with a modern Polish menu.
Kruszwica
Kruszwica is a lesser-known destination that boasts the legendary Mouse Tower, a remnant of a medieval castle on the shores of Lake Gop?o. The town's history is steeped in legends and provides a tranquil setting for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Enjoy the scenic views, take a boat ride on the lake, or explore the local nature trails.
How to Get There: The best way to reach Kruszwica is by car, with the drive taking about 1 hour from Bydgoszcz.
Travel Tip: Climb the Mouse Tower for a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding countryside.
Where to Stay: Hotel Austeria Conference & Spa offers a relaxing retreat with spa facilities and a view of the lake.
Where to Eat: Restauracja Karczma nad Gop?em serves traditional Polish dishes with a lakeside view.
Kashubian Switzerland
For a nature-filled weekend, head to the region known as Kashubian Switzerland. This area is characterized by its rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque lakes. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, cycling, and kayaking opportunities. The region also has a unique culture with its own language and traditions.
How to Get There: The best way to explore Kashubian Switzerland is by car, as it allows you to visit various natural sites at your own pace. It's about a 3-hour drive from Bydgoszcz.
Travel Tip: Don't miss the viewpoint on the Wie?yca Hill, the highest point in the region, offering breathtaking views.
Where to Stay: Szarlota, a resort nestled by a lake, provides comfortable lodgings and outdoor activities.
Where to Eat: Restauracja Energetyk in Kartuzy offers a menu filled with regional Kashubian specialties.
Wenecja
Not to be confused with Venice, Italy, Wenecja in Poland is a quaint village known for its medieval ruins, narrow-gauge railway museum, and the nearby Biskupin archaeological site. It's a perfect spot for history buffs and those looking for a peaceful countryside retreat. The village is surrounded by lakes and nature reserves, making it ideal for picnics and leisurely walks.
How to Get There: Wenecja is best reached by car, and the drive from Bydgoszcz takes around 1 hour.
Travel Tip: Take a ride on the historic narrow-gauge railway for a unique journey through the picturesque countryside.
Where to Stay: There are charming bed and breakfast options in the area, such as the cozy Dom na Skraju.
Where to Eat: The nearby town of ?nin has several dining options, including Restauracja Ratuszowa, known for its regional cuisine.
These destinations offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, all within reach for a weekend getaway from Bydgoszcz. Whether you're looking to explore medieval castles, relax by the lakeside, or immerse yourself in local traditions, there's something for every digital nomad in this part of Poland.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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