Olsztyn

Olsztyn lies on the Lyna River, but within Olsztyn's city limits lie no fewer than 15 lakes in a landscape formed during the last Ice Age. As a result, the lakes are very beautiful and there are great opportunities to take some walks in the beautiful countryside that surrounds both the city and the lakes.

The old town with the castle complex and the beautiful St. Jakobs church from the 14th century certainly deserves a visit. The church is included in the "Gothic Route through Europe", which also includes Haderslev Cathedral, and the church is considered to be one of the best preserved brick buildings from the Gothic period in Poland. The castle is today the seat of the Warmia and Mazury Museum, which has several very interesting exhibitions covering both archaeology and art. There is also a quite exceptional collection of religious icons, if that is of interest. There are also several events held at the castle throughout the year, but you might want to ask at the hotel reception, it would be a shame to miss a romantic "soiree" at the castle.

Olsztyns grew big and strong in the 19th century and even became the capital of Warminsko. A new town hall in the Dutch Renaissance style appeared, as well as several courthouses and beautiful buildings, not to mention the neo-Gothic churches, especially St. Mary's. St Joseph's Church.

You can also visit the planetarium and astronomical observatory, housed in the old water tower, where on a cloudless day you can see the entire sky. There's also a great view of the beautiful city.