Easy hikes and walks around Oświęcim

On the Mały Rynek (Small Market Square) in Oświęcim, there is a cozy mini-square with benches and greenery. Revitalization of the area: The entire vicinity of the mini-square has regained its splendor thanks to the Old Town revitalization programs. The adjacent historic tenement houses have been renovated, adding a unique, cozy atmosphere to this place.

In Oświęcim, the official Recreation Zone “Bulwary” is open, where you can borrow deckchairs completely free of charge and use the outdoor library. Outdoor library – books are available on-site (often organized as part of a bookcrossing initiative in cooperation with the Municipal Public Library in Oświęcim) as well as board and table games. Opening hours – all days of the week (from Monday to Sunday) from 15:00 to 20:00. Weather conditions – the operation of the zone (putting out deckchairs and books) is strictly dependent on good weather. During rain or strong wind, the zone is closed.

The Castle in Oświęcim is a medieval defensive stronghold located on a hill on the right bank of the Soła River. Currently, the site is home to the Museum of the Castle in Oświęcim, which presents the rich history of the city, the former Duchy of Oświęcim, and valuable historical and archaeological collections. It was here that a great diplomatic turning point occurred: in 1454, the last Piast duke of this region, Jan IV, bowed to the might of Poland and ceded the castle and his entire duchy as a fief to King Casimir Jagiellon. Three years later (in 1457), he completely sold these lands to him. The castle ceased to be a Silesian borderland and became Polish royal property for centuries. It is worth taking a look at the mighty, 13th-century Gothic tower, which remembers those events and that agreement! The history of the castle in Oświęcim dates back to the 11th century, when there was an early medieval agricultural settlement on the hill above the Soła. After it burned down, a fortified castellany stronghold was erected here. The first official documentary mention of it dates from 1179. It was then that King Casimir the Just transferred these lands to the Duke of Opole, Mieszko Plątonogi. Early Gothic tower – dates from the end of the 13th century, it is a defensive building type (bergfried) and is one of the oldest preserved brick structures in Lesser Poland. Royal history – the castle hosted prominent historical figures, including the future Queen of Poland, Bona Sforza. Underground tunnels – there are two corridors under the castle, including an air-raid shelter built by the Germans during World War II. Address: ul. Zamkowa 1, 32-600 Oświęcim Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (the museum is closed on Mondays).

The Amphitheatre on the Bulwary in Oświęcim (officially known as "Zielone Tarasy na Bulwarach" - Green Terraces on the Bulwary) is a modern, open-air performance venue located in the city center between Bulwary Street and Berka Joselewicza Street. The entire complex combines cultural, recreational, and logistical functions. Structure: The amphitheatre is characterized by a modern, open architecture integrated into the riverside landscape. The audience area is arranged in a cascade, in the form of green terraces with stairs and benches. Underground parking: Directly beneath the amphitheatre stage and square, there is a modern, 24-hour underground parking lot on the Bulwary. The venue is the main outdoor stage for city concerts, dance shows, and summer music festivals. Events organized by the Oświęcim Cultural Centre (Oświęcimskie Centrum Kultury) are held here.

Traditional playground and activity zone: Modern rope constructions, climbing walls, and a relaxation area as well as bike stations.

Water playground: equipped with a dozen jets and fountains, open daily from 11:00 to 18:00 (excluding days with bad weather).

A quick and extremely scenic trip north of Brzeszcze. The route runs along historic fish ponds, right by the right bank of the Vistula River. You can expect a mix of forest paths, gravel causeways, and open spaces with views of the ponds (including Rudak and Granicznik). The route is flat, not technically demanding, but extremely satisfying in terms of landscapes. An ideal suggestion for clearing your head and training in the wild nature of the "Frog Country".

It rarely happens that you can exercise with such views.