Tarnow is a picturesque city filled with beautiful Renaissance architecture. Explore the charming Old Town, discover the city’s rich Jewish heritage and visit some of the top museums and galleries in Poland. Venture out of the city to tour a famous winemaking region and hike in the mountains.
Things to do in Tarnów
The Tarnow Old Town is a maze of cobbled lanes, stone staircases and sunny squares. The main square is framed by magnificent buildings like the 16th-century Town Hall. Many of the brightly-painted Renaissance townhouses have been reimagined as al fresco cafes. Sit in the sunshine and sip a glass of “tarninówka” Polish gin.
Tarnow Cathedral is a treasured historic landmark and welcomes you with an impressive Neo-Gothic façade. Inside are ornate royal tombs and an extraordinary collection of religious paintings. Next door is the Diocesan Museum, where you can admire more religious art.
Tarnow Ghetto recall’s the city’s Jewish heritage and turbulent past. The ghetto was a Jewish stronghold during the Nazi occupation and features several evocative memorials, including the remains of an old synagogue. Read the informative panels and enjoy a meal at the Kosher restaurant. The Jewish cemetery is one of the largest in the country and is dotted with more than 6,000 headstones.
Warm weather, fertile soil and south-facing slopes make the Tarnow countryside prime wine-growing territory. The area is nicknamed the Polish Napa Valley and is strewn with boutique vineyards. Spend the day touring local estates and sampling fruity Riesling and Chardonnay.
The Dunajec River Gorge flows through the Pieniny Mountains and creates a canvas for adventure. Hike in the mountains, cycle along riverside trails and get your pulse racing with activities like canyoning and white-water rafting.
Getting around Tarnów
Tarnow is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, especially in the Old Town. Tarnow Train Station is a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. The town is one hour from Krakow by car or train and Krakow Airport is a one-hour drive away.