Lublin
Lublin Travel Guide
Lublin is a vibrant city in eastern Poland, known for its rich historical, cultural, and modern appeal. Renowned for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks like Lublin Castle, the Old Town boasts a delightful blend of medieval architecture and modern attractions. Tourists can visit numerous museums, savor traditional Polish dishes, and immerse themselves in the festive ambiance of local events. Whether for its historical importance, cultural festivities, or welcoming locals, Lublin is a destination that promises a rewarding exploration.
Things to Know Before Going to Lublin
- Lublin is a compact city that is easy to explore on foot.
- Average tips range from 5-10% of the bill, but it is considered more of a personal preference rather than an obligation.
- The city's name comes from the name Lublya, that has been reduced form of the Slavic name Lubomyr.
- The motto of Lublin is “The City of Inspiration.”
- Lublin had been the capital of Poland twice, but only for a few months.
Lublin Tips From Locals
- Meet at “the baobab” in Litewski Square, a popular gathering spot for locals before exploring the city.
- Eat onion flatbread from bakeries near the Old Town, enjoying the local delicacy, cebularz.
- Dance on the Culture Bridge over the Bystrzyca River, where locals gather for spontaneous performances.
- Ride the historic ZIUtek trolleybus to experience a piece of Lublin’s transportation heritage.
- Visit the Antiques Fair at Plac Zamkowy to browse unique items and immerse yourself in local culture.
Where is Lublin?
Lublin is a city located in eastern Poland, about 153 km (95 mi) southeast of Warsaw. It is the capital and largest city of Lublin Voivodeship (province).
Where to Stay in Lublin?
Here’s a quick table of which areas in Lublin are great for tourists:
District | Best For | Best Attractions | Average Trip Cost |
Old Town | History and Culture | Lublin Castle, St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Old Town Market Square | $25 per person |
City Center | Accessibility | Multimedia Fountain, Lublin Museum, restaurants | $25 per person |
Czartoryski Park | Relaxation and Nature | Czartoryski Palace, parks, and green spaces | $25 per person |
Lublin Village Open Air Museum | Cultural Experience | Traditional Polish architecture, themed events | $25 per person |
Best Hotels in Lublin
Lublin hotels offer a blend of luLublinury and convenience, providing eLublinceptional services and amenities for your trip to be more comfortable. Even though luLublinury hotels in Lublin may make you break the bank, they will be worth every penny thanks to their services. However, there are always mid-range and budget hotels in Lublin to enhance your days and make your city tour seamless. Tailored for everyone, finding what kind of accommodation you want won’t be as hard as you think. Now, here are some of the best hotels in Lublin we recommend and why:
Hotel | District | Affordability | Why To Stay There? |
Focus Hotel Premium Lublin | City Center | High | Modern, upscale hotel with amenities like a fitness center and restaurant. Great location near attractions. |
Campanile Lublin | City Center | Low to Moderate | Budget-friendly option with simple but comfortable rooms. Close to the Old Town and train station. |
Hotel Alter | Old Town | Moderate to High | Charming boutique hotel in a historic building. Excellent location in the heart of the Old Town. |
Hotel Grodzka 20 | Old Town | Moderate | Small hotel with a great location on a quiet street in the Old Town. Simple but clean rooms. |
Best Hotel Agit Congress & Spa | Czartoryski Park | High | Upscale hotel with a spa, fitness center, and conference facilities. Set in a peaceful park setting. |
Find best hotels in Lublin here!
Best Lublin Attractions
Here are the must-see attractions in Lublin, Poland:
- Lublin Castle: A historic landmark with impressive architecture, housing the Lublin Museum and offering panoramic views from the tower.
- Old Town: Wander through charming cobblestone streets, visit historic churches, and enjoy the vibrant cafe culture.
- Majdanek Concentration Camp: A significant and somber site providing a profound historical experience.
- Botanical Garden of UMCS: A serene escape with a diverse collection of plants, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Lublin Open Air Village Museum: Explore traditional rural architecture and lifestyle through various exhibits and reconstructed buildings.
Is Lublin Safe for Tourists?
Yes, Lublin is generally considered a very safe city for tourists, both during the day and night.
Is Lublin Expensive to Visit?
No, Lublin is generally an affordable city to visit compared to other European destinations. The average price of a 7-day trip to Lublin is $955 for a solo traveler, $1,715 for a couple, and $3,215 for a family of 4.
Currency & Exchange in Lublin
The official currency in Lublin, as in the rest of Poland, is the Polish Zloty (PLN). The best way to exchange currency in Lublin is at reputable exchange offices like Kantor Wymiany Walut KORAB or Kantor Tavex.
Spoken Languages in Lublin
Polish is the official and predominant spoken language in Poland. 97% of the population declare Polish as their mother tongue. Additionally, English is quite commonly spoken in Lublin, especially among the young population.
How Many Days Are Enough to Visit Lublin?
Spending at least 2-3 days is essential to explore the main attractions in Lublin. However, for visitors who want to delve deeper into the city and relax, they can spend 4 or 5 days in Lublin.
What to Do in Lublin?
- Explore Lublin Old Town: Stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the colorful buildings, historic gates, and vibrant squares.
- Visit Lublin Castle: Discover the 14th-century castle, home to the Lublin Museum, and enjoy panoramic views from the castle tower.
- Tour Saint John the Baptist Archcathedral: Experience the beauty of this cathedral, known for its stunning frescoes and historical significance.
- Discover Grodzka Gate: Visit this historic gate that connects the Christian and Jewish quarters, symbolizing Lublin's multicultural heritage.
- Learn at Majdanek State Museum: Take a guided tour of this former concentration camp to understand its history during World War II.
- Visit the Lublin Open Air Village Museum: Explore traditional Polish rural life through exhibits and reconstructed buildings in this expansive open-air museum.
- Relax at Litewski Square: Enjoy multimedia fountain shows during summer evenings and unwind in this central square surrounded by cafes and shops.
- Stroll through the Botanical Gardens: Spend a peaceful afternoon exploring diverse plant species in these beautiful gardens.
- Enjoy Lake Zemborzycki: Engage in outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, and picnicking at this recreational area.
- Walk along Krakowskie Przedmieście Street: Discover a lively pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for dining and people-watching.
When is the Best Time to Stay in Lublin?
The best time to visit Lublin is during late spring to early autumn, from May to September.
Summer | Spring | Fall | Winter | |
Temperature (°C/°F) | 20-25°C / 68-77°F | 10-15°C / 50-59°F | 5-10°C / 41-50°F | -5-0°C / 23-32°F |
Activities | Sightseeing, outdoor festivals, walking tours, visiting the old town | Exploring parks, cultural events, historical tours | Museum visits, autumn festivals, historical exploration | Ice skating, winter markets, indoor activities |
Rates | Higher due to tourism | Moderate | Moderate | Lower (off-season) |
Crowd | Moderate to high | Low to moderate | Low | Low |
Clothing | Light clothing, sunscreen, hat | Light jacket, layers | Warm layers, jacket | Heavy winter clothing, boots, gloves |
What to Pack for Lublin Trip?
- Summer: Light clothes (T-shirts, shorts, dresses), comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, reusable water bottle.
- Spring: Light jacket or sweater, layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, umbrella or rain jacket, hat, sunscreen.
- Fall: Sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, jacket or coat, comfortable walking shoes, scarf, gloves, hat, umbrella or rain jacket, optional sunscreen.
- Winter: Heavy winter coat or parka, warm layers (sweaters, thermal shirts), sturdy insulated boots, hat, gloves, scarf, thermal socks and underwear, moisturizer.
What to Eat in Lublin?
Here are the must-try foods in Lublin:
- Pierogi: These are dumplings filled with various ingredients like potatoes and cheese, meat, mushrooms, or fruit. They can be boiled, fried, or baked.
- Bigos: Also known as "hunter’s stew," this hearty dish combines sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, and various meats, often with mushrooms and spices.
- Żurek: A sour rye soup typically served with sausage, hard-boiled eggs, and sometimes mushrooms. It's a comforting and flavorful dish.
- Gołąbki: Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of meat and rice, simmered in a tomato sauce.
- Kielbasa: Polish sausage available in various types, often grilled or served with mustard and bread.
- Lublin Stew: A regional variation of stew featuring locally sourced ingredients. It may include meats, vegetables, and unique seasonings.
- Lublin Tart: A traditional tart that varies with seasonal fruits or other local ingredients.
- Lublin Cheese: Look out for local cheese varieties, which can be a delicious snack or addition to meals.
- Kompote: A sweet fruit drink made by boiling fruits with sugar, served chilled or warm.
- Żubrówka: A Polish vodka flavored with bison grass, known for its unique taste and often enjoyed straight or in cocktails.
- Pączki: Polish donuts filled with jam or other sweet fillings, often enjoyed during festive occasions but available year-round.
- Sernik: A rich and creamy cheesecake made with twaróg (a type of Polish curd cheese), often flavored with vanilla or citrus.
- Makowiec: A poppy seed roll, commonly served during holidays but delicious anytime.
Lublin Nightlife
Here are some of the most popular nightlife spots in Lublin:
- Café Mięsna: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and wide selection of craft beers and cocktails. Often features live music and DJ sets.
- The Olive: A stylish bar offering a range of cocktails and a vibrant ambiance, ideal for both casual and special occasions.
- Pub Sphinx: Located in the Old Town, this pub is popular for its extensive drink menu and hearty snacks.
- Koziołek: A cozy pub known for its traditional Polish dishes and a good selection of local beers.
- House of Beer: A must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts, featuring a variety of local and international brews.
- Klub 30: A lively nightclub offering dance floors, DJ performances, and a dynamic party atmosphere.
- Biała Gęś: Known for its unique decor and great selection of cocktails, this spot is perfect for a night out with friends.
- Hades: A popular club with a mix of electronic music and themed parties, attracting a younger crowd.
- Lublin Lounge Bar: Offers a more upscale experience with a relaxed setting, ideal for enjoying cocktails and socializing.
- Piano Bar: A sophisticated venue featuring live piano music and a refined atmosphere, great for a more laid-back evening.