Discover Elbląg's Charm: A 4-day Budget Escape

Explore the hidden gems of Elbląg without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Elbląg, Poland is a great destination for budget travelers thanks to its affordable accommodation and food prices. Visitors can explore the picturesque Old Town, famous for its Gothic architecture, charming squares, and lively markets. For a unique experience, take a boat ride along the Elbląg Canal, a marvel of engineering and one of the only functioning waterways of its kind in the world.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival in Elbląg

  • Check into Hotel Młyn, a charming and affordable hotel located on the bank of the Elbląg River.
  • Visit the Gothic St. Nicholas Cathedral, the oldest church in the city, with stunning stained glass windows and a tower with panoramic views.
  • Wander through the Old Town Square, surrounded by colorful baroque houses and the iconic Town Hall Clock Tower.
  • Enjoy traditional Polish cuisine at Pod Modrym Fartuchem, a cozy restaurant featuring hearty soups, pierogi and meat dishes.
  • Take a relaxing stroll along the riverbank, watching the boats go by and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Day 2

Exploring Elbląg's Waterways

  • Take a unique journey on the Elbląg Canal, a marvel of 19th century engineering that uses a system of inclined planes to transport boats overland.
  • Visit the Historic Technical Museum, which showcases the history of transportation and industry.
  • Admire the beautiful architecture of the former granaries along the canal, now converted into modern apartments and offices.
  • Dine at Złota Taczka, a popular bakery and café serving fresh bread, pastries, and sandwiches.
  • Attend a concert or performance at the Teatr im. Aleksandra Sewruka, a cultural center for theater, music and dance.
Day 3

Nature and History in the Surrounding Area

  • Explore the nearby Jezioro Drużno nature reserve, a wetland area with abundant birdlife.
  • Visit the 14th century Malbork Castle, the largest Gothic castle in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Sample local beers and snacks at Piwnica Zamkowa, a cozy tavern housed in a historic cellar.
  • Spend a relaxing afternoon at the Hippocampus Spa & Wellness Center, featuring saunas, steam rooms, and massage treatments.
  • Catch a movie at the Kino Cinema 3D, a modern cinema with comfortable seats and state-of-the-art technology.
Day 4

Art and Culture in Elbląg

  • Explore the works of local and international artists at the Galeria El, a contemporary art space housed in a historic granary.
  • Take a self-guided walk along the Elbląg Street Art Trail, featuring colorful murals and graffiti art across the city.
  • Browse the artisanal crafts and souvenirs at the weekly Elbląg Bazaar, held every Saturday.
  • Savor traditional Polish sweets at Cukiernia Szwarc, a famous pastry shop known for its delicious babka and kremówka.
  • Enjoy a final meal at Restauracja Portowa, a maritime-themed restaurant overlooking the river, with fresh fish and seafood on the menu.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Elbląg by plane is to fly into Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport and then take a train or bus to Elbląg.

Car

The easiest way to get to Elbląg by car is to take the A1 highway from Gdańsk and exit at Elbląg.

Train

There are several train stations in Elbląg, but the best option is to take a train to Malbork and then transfer to another train to Elbląg.

Boat

Although Elbląg is located on a river, there are no regular boat services that connect it to other cities. However, it is possible to take a boat tour on the Elbląg Canal, which is a unique way to explore the area.

Bus

There are several bus companies that offer direct routes to Elbląg from various cities in Poland. The best option is to check PolskiBus or FlixBus for schedules and prices.

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