Attractions and Places To See around Toruń - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Toruń include a UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved medieval architecture. The city is situated on the Vistula River, offering scenic views and natural features like Kępa Bazarowa Island and Barbarka Forest. Toruń is known for its historical significance, including its connection to Nicolaus Copernicus, and offers a range of cultural and outdoor experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Toruń
- The most popular attractions is Teutonic Castle in Bierzgłowski Castle, a castle that was built between 1232 and 1270 by the Teutonic Order. Its location allowed for a direct view of the fortress in Toruń and served as an observation point.
- Another must-see spot is Toruń–Unisław Bike Path, a cycle way that runs along a former railway route. It is away from the road, providing a pleasant cycling experience at any time of the year.
- Visitors also love Elżbieta Zawacka Bridge Cycle Path, a cycle way on a bridge. It offers views of the Vistula River, especially at sunset.
- Toruń is known for its historical sites, cultural institutions, and natural areas. The region offers a mix of medieval architecture, museums, and outdoor recreational spaces.
- The attractions around Toruń are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 160 upvotes and more than 110 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Teutonic Castle in Bierzgłowski Castle
Highlight • Castle
The castle's location allowed for a direct view of the fortress in Toruń, and the castle itself provided an excellent observation point.
On the northwest side stood a building with a basement housing a chapel, refectory, and chapter house, connected to the southwest wing by cloisters.
The courtyard is enclosed by a wall with an entrance gate. The outbuildings included stables, barns, workshops, and a granary. In 1404, the castle housed as many as 189 horses: the knights' war horses, the cadets' horses, draft horses, post horses, mares, and foals. From 1386 to 1415, the castle was the seat of the Biergłowice commanders. During the Thirteen Years' War, in February 1454, the castle was occupied by the Prussian Confederation and became the administrative seat of the Teutonic Order's procurator. From 1474 to 1840, it was owned by the Toruń authorities. After a fire in 1522, the castle fell into ruin. Since 1840, when it passed into private hands, the southwest wing and gate tower were rebuilt. On November 3, 1908, another devastating fire broke out in the rebuilt buildings, destroying the roofing. In 1911, reconstruction was carried out according to a design by Conrad Steinbrecht. The history of the Teutonic Order (Full name: Order of the Hospital of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the German House in Jerusalem), as is almost always the case with "holy" organizations, is a centuries-long history of constant violence. Only the Reformation stopped this mercantile activity. However, it is worth mentioning the efforts to establish a university, a school for girls (very rare at that time) and a set of geometric and theological laws and treatises.
The castle was built in the years 1232-1270 (very quickly) by the Teutonic Order of the Hospital of the Blessed Virgin Mary from the German House in Jerusalem. Steep slopes defend him from the west and south, walls and moat from the north and east.
The location of the castle allowed eye contact with the fortress in Toruń, and the castle itself was an excellent observation point.
From the north-west there was a basement building housing a chapel, refectory, chapter house connected by a cloister with the south-west wing.
The courtyard closes the wall with an entrance gate. In the economic ward there were stables, barns, workshops and a granary. In 1404, there were as many as 189 horses in the castle: war steeds, knights, knechts, draft horses, post horses, mares and foals.
In the years 1386 - 1415 this castle was the seat of the Bierzłów commanders. During the Thirteen Years' War in February 1454, the castle was taken by the army of the Prussian Union and became the administrative seat of the Teutonic prosecutor. In the years 1474-1840 it was owned by the authorities of Toruń. After a fire that took place in 1522, the castle fell into ruins. From 1840, when it passed into private hands, the south-west wing and the gate tower were rebuilt. On November 3, 1908 another severe fire broke out in the rebuilt buildings, which destroyed the roofing. In 1911 a reconstruction was carried out according to the design of Conrad Steinbrecht. The history of the Teutonic Order (Full name: The Order of the Hospital of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the German House in Jerusalem), as it is almost always the case with "holy" organizations, is a centuries-old series of constant violence. Only the Reformation stopped mercantile activity this holiday. However, one should mention the efforts to create a university, a girls' school (very rare at that time) or a collection of geometrical and theological laws and treaties.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Romantyczny Palace in Turzno
Highlight • Historical Site
In July 1827, on his way to Gdańsk, Fryderyk Chopin stopped here for a few days.
When I am nearby during my cycling trips, I can't resist the temptation not to look here again.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Chapel of St. Barbara in Osada Leśna Barbarka
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Toruń–Unisław Bike Path
Highlight • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Nieszawa Market Square
Highlight • Settlement
It was in this place that, for the first time on Polish soil, seven Teutonic knights under the command of the later national master, Herman von Balk, settled on the Vistula River. This stronghold was the seat of the southernmost commandry of the Teutonic State. Around 1300, the Teutonic Knights built a fortified castle there, which was demolished in 1424. As a result of the turbulent history of history, in just over 200 years Nieszawa changed its location twice, moving almost 40 km up the Vistula to the place where it is currently located.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Bridge Over the Mień River
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Stawy Przysieckie
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Fort IV Stanisława Żółkiewskiego (Toruń Fortress)
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Elżbieta Zawacka Bridge Cycle Path
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Brąchnówko Palace and Park
Highlight • Historical Site
The first mention of the village dates back to 1423. It was then listed as a knight's estate in the Biergłowice prosecutor's office. Over the years, the estate was owned by, among others, Załuskowski, Kolbe, Łaszewski. Since the 19th century, Brąchnówko belonged to the Schedlin-Czarliński family. Emil Czarliński (1833-1913) built the current palace here. The last owner of the estate before the outbreak of World War II was Leon Schedlin-Czarliński. After the war, the State Treasury became the owner of the estate. The palace and park were devastated and neglected.
The palace was restored in 1994. It is an eclectic building with classicist features, two-story, on a square plan, with a basement, and a hipped roof. The elevations are decorated with modest architectural details: rustication, ground floor windows framed by pilasters and closed with decorative cornices, mezzanine windows divided by panels. In front of the entrance located in the facade, there is a driveway, above which there is a balcony supported by four pillars. On the south side, there is a second entrance with a small veranda, topped with a triangular gable. Side single-flight stairs lead to it. The park layout was quite large and surrounded the entire palace. Originally, it was an English park and had an area of about 2.5 hectares. Currently, it is much smaller. Fortunately, some of the park trees survived the period of neglect. These are plane trees, pines, chestnut trees, black locust and common hornbeam. Some of the trees have the status of a Natural Monument and are appropriately marked. The entire complex is currently owned by the Chełmża Commune.
(according to "Polish Monuments")
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Toruń.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
In 2026, the market after revitalization makes a very positive impression, compared to what it was just a few years ago, it encourages stopping for at least a short rest.
0
0
Ridden twice in one day, pedestrians couldn't care less that this is a bike path.
0
0
Gęś Gęgawa on the large Staw Przysiecki pond https://youtu.be/h6c0ULOnENU
0
0
I recommend a walk in winter or summer
0
0
The castle has an open chapel on the first floor.
0
0
Nice park, hotel, pond, restaurant
0
0
Beautiful ponds in the forests between Toruń and Przysiek, with an interesting history. It turns out that during World War II, the locals exploited peat here - quite heavily - which served as fuel and was free throughout the war.
0
0
Przysieckie Ponds - Rainy Winter https://youtu.be/mvzgAAXi59s
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Toruń?
Toruń is rich in history, particularly its medieval past. You can explore the ruins of the Teutonic Castle in Bierzgłowski Castle, a 13th-century fortress. The city's well-preserved Old Town features the Gothic Old Town Hall, the Leaning Tower of Toruń, and significant portions of the 13th-century Medieval City Walls and Gates, including the Sailor's Gate.
Are there any significant cultural sites related to Nicolaus Copernicus?
Yes, Toruń is the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus. You can visit the House of Nicolaus Copernicus, believed to be his birthplace, which is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. The Nicolaus Copernicus Monument stands prominently near the Old Town Hall, and he was baptized in the monumental St. John's Cathedral.
Where can I learn about Toruń's gingerbread tradition?
To delve into Toruń's centuries-old gingerbread-making tradition, visit the Museum Toruńskiego Piernika (Toruń Gingerbread Museum). It offers interactive workshops where you can learn about and even participate in making this famous local delicacy.
What natural attractions are there around Toruń?
Toruń is situated on the Vistula River, offering scenic boulevards and sightseeing cruises. You can also visit Kępa Bazarowa Island, a unique nature reserve on the Vistula with riparian forests and excellent views of the Old Town panorama. For more extensive nature, Barbarka Forest on the city's northern fringes provides hiking and biking trails.
Are there good cycling paths near Toruń?
Yes, Toruń offers pleasant cycling experiences. The Toruń–Unisław Bike Path runs along a former railway route, providing a smooth ride away from roads. Another option is the Elżbieta Zawacka Bridge Cycle Path, which offers great views of the Vistula River, especially at sunset. For more cycling routes, explore the Gravel biking around Toruń guide.
Where can I find hiking trails around Toruń?
The Barbarka Forest, located on the northern outskirts of Toruń, features well-marked hiking trails. For easy walks, consider routes like those found in the Easy hikes around Toruń guide, which includes paths around Ciechocinek Spa Park and Wypaleniska Wetlands.
Are there any scenic viewpoints of Toruń?
One of the most iconic viewpoints is the Panorama of Toruń from the Southern River Bank, offering a stunning vista of the Old Town skyline. The Elżbieta Zawacka Bridge Cycle Path also provides excellent views of the Vistula River and the city.
What outdoor activities are available for families in Toruń?
Families can enjoy cycling on paths like the Toruń–Unisław Bike Path, which is away from traffic. The Barbarka Forest offers easy hiking trails suitable for families. Additionally, the Osada Leśna Barbarka, near the Chapel of St. Barbara, has a playground for children and a bistro bar.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions or paths?
The Elżbieta Zawacka Bridge Cycle Path is noted as being good and accessible for cycling, suggesting it is suitable for wheelchairs as well. Many of Toruń's main attractions in the Old Town are pedestrian-friendly, though specific accessibility details for each site would require direct inquiry.
Are there any unique or lesser-known places to visit in the Toruń area?
Beyond the main sights, consider visiting the Romantyczny Palace in Turzno, a 19th-century manor with an English-style landscape park where Fryderyk Chopin once stayed. The Chapel of St. Barbara in Osada Leśna Barbarka is a charming, atmospheric chapel with a long history of pilgrimage.
What is the Old Town Market Square like?
The Old Town Market Square (Rynek Staromiejski) is the vibrant heart of Toruń's historic urban complex, laid out in the 13th century. It is surrounded by historic townhouses and features the Gothic Old Town Hall, the Nicolaus Copernicus Monument, and other charming elements like the Raftsman statue and the Figure of a Donkey.
What kind of museums can I visit in Toruń?
Toruń offers a variety of museums. Besides the House of Nicolaus Copernicus and the Toruń Gingerbread Museum, you can visit the District Museum located in the Old Town Hall, which showcases Gothic sculpture, Hanseatic silverware, and Polish art. The Centre of Contemporary Art Znaki Czasu presents modern art, and the House Under the Star houses the Museum of Far Eastern Art.
Most popular routes around Toruń
Most popular attractions around Toruń
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
