Zamość. Just by mentioning this name, the perfect square, the famous market square of Zamość, surrounded by colourful tenement houses with characteristic arcades, almost immediately appears in the mind’s eye. It is no wonder that the city is so strongly associated with the market square – it is, after all, its absolute heart, and Zamość’s old town, it must be said, is truly unique. It would be hard to find another equally beautiful Renaissance town in Poland, or perhaps in the whole of Europe, designed from the absolute ground up as an ideal city. If you are planning a visit to Zamość, be prepared for something like a real time travel.

We have prepared for you, based on our own experience (although I admit, naturalising texts is a slightly different world from travelling, but analogies do happen!), a complete guide to help you discover all the tourist attractions of Zamość – both the most famous ones, besieged by crowds of tourists, and those lurking a bit off the main track. Zamość and its surroundings is a really great destination for a weekend or even a longer holiday, as the area offers plenty of interesting places and attractions for literally everyone, regardless of age or interests. Zamość offers attractions for children, but also Zamość attractions for young people. You will find out what is worth seeing in Zamość and its charming surroundings, you will learn about the fascinating history of the town and, which is probably equally important, you will find out where to eat well in Zamość. Welcome to Zamość, a true pearl of the Renaissance in the Lublin region! The town belongs to the Lubelskie Voivodeship and Zamość is also the capital of Zamość County.

Renaissance heart of Zamość: the Old Town and what to see there

The heart of Zamość beats, of course, in its Old Town, which, by the way, is not accidentally included on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. This is a truly remarkable place. Designed by the Italian master Bernardo Morando at the behest of the city’s founder, Jan Zamoyski, it still impresses today with its coherence and the sheer beauty of its Renaissance architecture. Walking through Zamość’s Old Town, one feels as if one has suddenly found oneself in some film setting (seriously, this impression is very strong!). What is a 1-day tour of Zamość like? You definitely need to start with the Old Town.

It is here, in the Old Town, that you will find the most important sights that you simply must see during your visit. Old Town Zamość monuments impress with their style. And do you know what? Renovated thanks to funds from the European Union, they now shine with a new lustre, reminding us of the former splendour of the city, which Jan Zamoyski dreamt up, and actually realised, as an ideal city. Was it really ideal? Well, that is a matter of debate, but it is certainly impressive. What is worth seeing in the old town of Zamość? Certainly the townhouses and the town hall.

A walk through the ideal square, i.e. the Great Square and its tenement houses

We start our walk around Zamość, how else, from the Rynek Wielki. This is, without a shadow of exaggeration, one of the most amazing squares we have had the opportunity to see in Europe. In accordance with the assumptions of this “ideal city”, it has the shape of, one could say, a perfect square measuring exactly 100 by 100 metres. The Rynek Wielki in Zamość is a symbol of the city.

On each frontage, with the exception of the northern one, stand eight beautiful townhouses. All of them are surrounded on the ground floor by these characteristic arcades, which add to the market’s extraordinary charm and cause Zamość to be sometimes referred to as the ‘city of arcades’. And what about the north side? There stands the emblematic symbol of the town, the Zamość Town Hall. Interestingly, it takes the place of two houses on this very northern frontage. And although it appears to be the focal point, the Zamość Town Hall does not stand in the middle of the square, but is moved slightly to the side. Apparently, according to a town tale, Jan Zamoyski, as the town’s owner, wanted to emphasise in this way that the position of mayor or town council, working in the town hall, was not the most important thing to him – the real power at that time resided in the palace, standing nearby.

The Town Hall gained its present shape, as we know it today, in the 18th century, when that impressive fan-shaped staircase and tall, slender tower were added. It is from this tower that the bugle call is played at high noon every day. And here is another curiosity: the trumpeter deliberately omits these western tower windows. Legend has it that Jan Zamoyski himself is said to have forbidden the sound to be played in the direction of Kraków, which is said to have somehow “trespassed” on the hetman. Today, Zamość Town Hall houses the Town Hall, the Municipal Police and the Tourist Information Office. However, in the basement of the Town Hall there is a tourist route which presents the history of the building itself, but we will tell you more about that later. The Zamość City Hall is a key institution for the citizens and the development of the city. UM Zamość offers a range of services, from registration matters to urban space management. On the UM Zamość website, you can check e.g. the stamp duty or download forms needed in departments such as the communication department. Information about tenders or job vacancies at the UM Zamość is published in the UM Zamość Public Information Bulletin (BIP). The City of Zamość has its own nip, and in the City Hall of Zamość you will find various departments, including the department of geodesy and real estate management or the department of environmental protection. The opening hours of the ID card department can also be found on the office’s website.

The Rynek Wielki in Zamość is also the place where the famous Armenian tenement houses reign. They are extremely interesting, full of colour, with characteristic attics, representing the Mannerist style, which is somewhere between Renaissance and Baroque. They were built in the 17th century and belonged to extremely wealthy Armenian merchants, to whom Jan Zamoyski granted this part of the city, seeing the potential. Most of them are now used by the Zamojskie Museum, so you have a great opportunity to look inside and admire the original door portals, ornate windows and stone and wooden decorations that have survived the centuries. Each of these townhouses has its own name and, of course, its own rich history.

• The Pod Madonną or Soltanowska Tenement House (Armenian 22): It’s easy to recognise, it’s this yellow tenement with a beautiful bas-relief of the Madonna and Child adorning the façade.
• The Under Marriage or Sapphire Tenement (Armenian 24): This one is blue in colour and derives its name from the heads of a man and a woman adorning the façade – hence ‘Under Marriage’.
• Tenement house Pod Aniołem, Pod Lwami or Bartoszewiczów (Armenianska 26): This red one is distinguished by a sculpture of the Archangel Michael. The collection in this tenement tells the history of Zamość in detail and it is worth noting the preserved ceiling with beautiful polychrome, a real rarity. This first tenement in the listing, often referred to as the “red tenement”, has a particularly rich history.
• Rudomiczovska tenement (Armenian 28): It is dark yellow and once belonged to a professor of the former Zamojska Academy, Basil Rudomicz.
• Wilczkowska Tenement House (Ormianska 30): Green, it stands closest to the Town Hall itself. It is decorated with bas-reliefs depicting the Virgin Mary and the Saints.

But that’s not all, you’ll also find other interesting tenement houses on the Market Square, such as the Tenement House Under St. Casimir or the Linkowska Tenement House. It is also worth, or even necessary, to pay attention to the Morando Tenement House, the corner one on Morando Street, which, as the name suggests, was designed by Bernardo Morando himself. Amazing, isn’t it? The Salt Market in Zamość is another place worth visiting, as is the Water Market, a former centre of commerce. Historical and architectural curiosities can be found in almost every corner of the old town.

Zamość Cathedral: history, architecture and those mysterious crypts

Not far from the Zamoyski Palace, at 1 Kolegiacka Street, stands an impressive temple – the Cathedral of the Resurrection and St. Thomas the Apostle. This Renaissance building, like basically the whole city, was built according to a design by Bernardo Morando. It was, of course, founded by the town’s founder himself, Jan Zamoyski, as an expression of gratitude for his numerous victorious battles, of which, let’s face it, he had quite a number. The Zamojska Collegiate Church was to the Ordinance what Wawel Cathedral was to the whole of the Republic – a place of great symbolic and practical significance.

The church contains crypts under the nave. And it is there that members of the Zamoyski family are buried. This historical place is a reminder of the family’s power. Interestingly, there is also a huge, over 40-metre-high bell tower next to the cathedral. It dates from the second half of the 18th century. You can climb to the top of it (yes, it’s possible!) and admire a truly magnificent panorama of Zamość’s Old Town from there. The bells in the bell tower bear the names Lawrence, Thomas and John.

Next to the cathedral is the so-called Infułatka, the former seat of the deans of Zamość. It was also built according to Morando’s design, which only confirms the coherence of this Renaissance vision. Today, it houses a religious museum. And believe it, it is worth a visit.

You will find real treasures there, such as liturgical vestments dating back to the 17th century and made in Florence. Also available here is a reliquary with the corner of the Virgin Mary’s robe, and the icing on the cake, something absolutely unique, is the coronation robe of King Michał Korybut Wiśniowiecki himself. Thinking of all these artefacts, one realises how rich the history of this place is. The history of the cathedral’s creation is closely linked to Zamoyski’s life.

A walk along the walls: Zamość Fortress and its menacing bastions

Zamość is, after all, not only beautiful townhouses and churches, but also a mighty fortress which has defended the city for centuries, with varying success. The Zamość Fortress was built between 1580 and 1618, practically in parallel with the Ideal City of Zamość. It too was commissioned by Jan Zamoyski and designed by the irreplaceable Italian architect Bernardo Morando. The history of Zamość Fortress is full of heroic moments.

It was built, interestingly enough, on the territory of the former village of Skokówka. Thanks to the damming up of the waters of the rivers Wieprzec (today better known as Topornica) and Kalinowica (today Łabuńka), lagoons were created. These protected the town from the south-west, making the Zamość Fortress one of the largest and, most importantly, the most modern in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and the Kingdom of Poland at the time. And is it possible to build something like this today, with this precision and vision? The walls of Zamość fortress have seen a lot.

An interesting story is connected in this context with the Swedish King Charles X Gustav. Jan Sobiepan Zamoyski, grandson of the town’s founder, anticipating the invader’s not-so-good intentions, threw a party for the Swedish king… under the walls of the town, what is more, serving the meal without chairs! This is said to be the origin of the now popular term ‘Swedish Table’. The last important wartime episode in the history of the fortress was its participation in the November Uprising. At that time, the fortress capitulated as the last point of resistance in all of Poland. One could say that the Zamość Fortress took part in many important “uprisings”. Tsar Alexander II finally ordered the Zamosc Fortress to be liquidated, dismantling part of the fortifications in 1866, which seems a sad end to such an impressive structure. The history of the fortress’ rise and fall is fascinating.

The Zamość Fortress, or rather its remains, is open to the public in fragments. You can, and should, take a walk along part of the ramparts and see the impressive bastions and gates. We especially recommend the Lviv Gate, through which you often enter the Old Town of Lviv in Zamość, and the Lubelska Gate, which is located between Bastions IV and V, on the corner of Akademicka and Królowa Jadwigi Streets. But it is also worth seeing this Old Lviv Gate. It is located at the head of Bastion VII. It represents the Mannerist style and in the first half of the 19th century it was, horror of horrors, walled up and used as a prison. Even Walerian Lukasinski was imprisoned there for a little over a year. The largest sculpture in the gate depicts St Thomas the Apostle and Jesus as the Risen Christ.

On the other hand, at the Old Lubelska Gate (also known as Janowicka), which is the oldest gate in Zamość (partly demolished in 1886 and fortunately reconstructed), there is a very moving Monument to the Children of Zamość. This place makes you reflect deeply on the difficult fate of the region during the war.

Muzeum Zamojskie: discover the history and culture of the region

The Zamojskie Museum is an institution that will really help you to better understand this rich history and culture of Zamość and the whole region. As we have already mentioned, most of the main collections are housed in those beautiful, historic Armenian townhouses on the Rynek Wielki. There you can admire not only the historic interiors themselves with their original door portals or ornate windows, but above all the various exhibitions. The monuments of Zamość and its surroundings present a wealth of history.

The Zamojskie Museum presents the history of these lands from the earliest times to the present. The collections in this red Bartosiewicz building, which we mentioned earlier, tell in detail about the history of Zamość itself. It is definitely worth going there and you should definitely pay attention to the preserved polychrome ceiling – it is something unique.

A branch of the Zamość Museum is the Museum of Fortifications and Weapons “Arsenal”. It is housed in three parts, located within the former fortress. The Arsenal houses an exhibition of Polish militaria from the seventeenth to the nineteenth century – a place where Hetman Jan Zamoyski collected his trophies and souvenirs from his numerous war expeditions. The New Arsenal, built in the first half of the 17th century, was located near the former Bastion II, south of the Zamoyski Palace. The second part of the museum is the Powder House.

In the Powder Room you will find exhibits that are a bit more contemporary, such as tanks, pistols, rifles and even an aeroplane (that’s for aviation enthusiasts!). The Prochownia also displays a very interesting, I think eye-catching, multimedia projection entitled “History of the Fortress and the City of Zamość”. It is presented on a large model, which makes it easier to understand. The third part of the Arsenal is the Pavilion under the Curtain. It presents military equipment dating from the 20th century. The entire Museum of Fortifications and Weapons is a real treat for lovers of military history, and the Powder House will certainly, oh yes, appeal to children and gentlemen! The Arsenal and the adjacent City Park are located on Zamkowa Street.

Zamość off the main route: places less known but less interesting?

Zamość has much, much more to offer than just the Old Town itself, although it is the undisputed star. If you have more time and are ready to get to know the city from a slightly different, perhaps less obvious side, there are many lesser-known but, in my opinion, equally fascinating attractions waiting for you. They allow you to delve deeper into the history, nature and even feel something of the everyday life of Zamość. As a Roztocze guide friend of mine used to say, “The most interesting stories often wait where the mass guidebooks don’t reach”. Sightseeing in and around Zamość offers plenty of opportunities.

Underground of the Town Hall: a journey through time under Zamość’s townhouses

We have mentioned the town hall and its undergrounds before. And although they may not be as spectacular as some of the undergrounds in major European metropolises, the tourist route in the Town Hall Underground allows you, in my opinion, to learn about the interesting history of this particular building, but also of the town itself. You will learn how the Town Hall has changed over the centuries, which seems quite natural for such an old building.

It’s worth descending into the depths, although it can be a little claustrophobic at first, and feel that unique atmosphere of the old times that hides right there under Zamość’s townhouses. Isn’t it fascinating that centuries of history are hidden under our feet?

Zamość zoo: an encounter with the wild inhabitants of Roztocze?

The Zamość Zoo, whose patron is Stefan Miler, is the only facility of its kind in the whole of the Lubelskie Voivodeship. What is more, it is one of the oldest zoological gardens in Poland, founded, imagine, as early as 1918. It is located near the Old Town, which is a big plus, and is a great place for a family outing if you have children. Zamość Zoo is home to more than 2,500 animals representing around 300 species. Such a real landmark of Zamość zoo are the brown bears, which have a large enclosure directly visible from Szczebrzeska Street. It’s an attraction that, well, always pleases the kids, but adults too often stop by to see them. Zoo Zamosc’s history dates back more than 100 years.

There is also a rope park called Zoolandia on the grounds of the Zoo. Which makes the visit even more attractive, especially, you guessed it, for younger tourists who need some exercise. The Zoological Garden, interestingly enough, adjoins the Roztocze, that beautiful wild land which, after all, also abounds in extremely diverse fauna, although it takes more luck to meet them in the wild.

The City Park: an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of the city

The Municipal Park in Zamość, officially called Jan Kanclerza Zamoyski Park, is practically directly adjacent to Zamość Old Town. It is an ideal place to simply relax after a busy day of sightseeing. It was designed in the years 1919-26 by Warsaw garden planner Walerian Kronenberg. It is considered one of the most beautiful and valuable city parks in Poland, especially from the interwar period. We had the pleasure of walking through this beautiful park.

The park is, as you can see immediately, very well looked after. You will find beautiful flower beds, interesting landscaping and also a pond. Above the pond there is a small viewing hill from where you can admire parts of the ramparts and the whole area, the view is really pleasant. An outdoor gym is available at the edge of the park and there is free parking next door, which is a great convenience. In the park, kids, but not only, can use the go-karts, which are powered by leg power – yes, adults can also ride this and, frankly, it’s great fun! There’s also a statue of a Girl squatting on the railing of one of the park’s bridges in 2023, one of the characters of the Lesmian Trail, well worth seeking out.

Rotunda: a place of remembrance and reflection that moves

The Museum of the Martyrdom of Zamość, located in the Rotunda, is admittedly a little further away from the very centre of the Old Town. Nevertheless, it is a place of great historical and, I would say, emotional significance. The Rotunda was originally part of the Zamość Fortress, built on a circular plan. The Rotunda Zamosc’s history is extremely difficult.

Unfortunately, during World War II it housed a German transit camp, run by the Gestapo. It was a place of mass executions of Poles, including children, which is shocking. After the executions, the Germans bestially burned the corpses. A visit to the rotunda, it must be said straightforwardly, induces a very deep reflection on the tragic history of the Zamojszczyzna region and the unimaginable cruelty of war. The monument to the Children of Zamojszczyzna at the Old Lubelska Gate also reminds us of these horrific events. In the cells of the rotunda you can still see clear traces and inscriptions left by the prisoners, which further enhances the impression and makes history tangible.

Zamość for gourmets: is it a culinary journey through the Roztocze?

Zamość is not only a feast for the eyes, but fortunately also for the palate. During our travels, and I used to travel quite a lot when writing texts about regional cuisine, we always try to discover local flavours. And the cuisine of Roztocze, I must admit, has a lot to offer. It is based, as is typical for rural regions, on simple, local products – often flour dishes, fish from ponds, traditional soups. It is here that tourists often look for these truly regional flavours and, importantly, they usually manage to find them in Zamość restaurants.

Zamojskie restaurants: from tradition to modernity

In the Rynek Wielki and, in fact, in the whole of Zamość’s old town, you will, thankfully, find many restaurants. They serve both classic Polish dishes and, for a change, international cuisine. Some of them offer regional specialities, including venison, which is quite characteristic of the Roztocze, which has its justification in the richness of the surrounding forests.

Zamosc’s Padua of the North, as a city that has historically been open to the world, also has places with a slightly more modern approach to gastronomy, which I think will please those looking for something less traditional. Our readers, whose opinions we always value, recommend the Bohema Restaurant, for example. It is located in the basement of an arcaded tenement, just off the Rynek Wielki. Apparently, from what I have heard, they serve excellent wild boar ragout there, as well as chicken. Another recommended restaurant in the heart of the Old Town is the Museum Restaurant Armenian Cellars, which the name itself suggests a reference to the city’s rich Armenian traditions.

We ourselves, the last time we were in Zamość, ended up in a certain restaurant (to be honest, I can’t remember the name anymore, forgive me!) where my wife ordered a pizza with arugula. And I remember that the waitress was very nice and the pizza was really tasty. So overall, the catering industry in Zamość seems to be well-developed, with visible care for guests. Of course, as everywhere, there are better and worse places, that’s probably clear.

Regional specialities: do you dare to discover the flavours of Roztocze?

The cuisine of Roztocze is simple, sometimes surprising, but always full of flavour. It is worth actively seeking out places that serve dishes prepared according to the recipes of local housewives. Delicious soups, well-cooked fish straight from the local ponds or traditional regional bakery products – these are things you simply must try when you are here.

Although there is no shortage of fast food places in Zamość and Roztocze, as probably in every place, we wholeheartedly encourage you to seek out these authentic regional flavours. Sometimes they require a bit more effort, but satisfaction is guaranteed. What is worth seeing in Zamość from a culinary point of view? Try the local specialities!

Ice cream and sweets: Zamość patisseries and ice cream parlours – a little something extra

You know what, whenever I am in Zamość, I just have to have an ice cream. And do you know what? In the Rynek Wielki alone and in the entire Zamość Old Town you will find at least a dozen places where you can buy literally everything – from classic scoop ice cream, through Italian ice cream, to those increasingly popular artisanal ice creams. The ice cream parlour Bosko Zamość is located on the Rynek Solny. It offers homemade ice cream, which is, I think, a great advantage. After a delicious lunch, or instead, it’s worth heading to one of Zamość’s patisseries or ice cream parlours for something sweet. Waffles? Hot chocolate? There’s plenty of choice.

But, I have to say, our absolute favourite ice cream parlour in the whole of Roztocze is this traditional ice cream parlour in Zwierzyniec – Lody u Bachty. I remember it from the times of communist Poland, when I visited Roztocze as a child, and I always, but always, like to invite my friends there, it is such a sentimental return to the past.

History and mysteries of Zamość – do we know everything?

The history of Zamość is, without doubt, extremely rich and full of fascinating events. This city, which is crucial, was not created by accident. On the contrary, it was consciously planned and built as a private noble town, which is unique in itself. Its history is inextricably linked, of course, with the figure of its founder, Jan Zamoyski, but also with the multiculturalism that coexisted here and the turbulent fate of the entire Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Old Zamość’s history runs deep. And how many secrets are still hidden within these old walls?

Jan Zamoyski: visionary, founder and creator of the “ideal city”

Jan Zamoyski, this eminent chancellor and Great Hetman of the Crown, was a true visionary, this goes without saying. Hetman Zamoyski’s history is the story of his successes. It was he who, in 1580, issued a location privilege and decided to set up his own town on the area of the former village of Skokówka, located in the Chełm Land (which was then part of the Kingdom of Poland). He dreamt up Zamość, as we know it, as an ideal city. Planned from scratch according to the Renaissance principles which he had admired, obviously, in Italy. The design, and not just any design, was drawn up by the Italian master architect Bernardo Morando.

He started the construction, logically enough, with his palace – the Zamoyski Palace. In 1589, Zamość became the capital of the Zamoyski Ordynacja Zamojska (Zamoyski Ordinance), created by Jan Zamoyski, this huge landed estate approved by the Sejm of the Republic (and, unfortunately, liquidated only by the communists after World War II). Hetman Jan Zamoyski was born in Skokówka and died in 1605. He was buried in the Collegiate Church in Zamość, which he himself founded. In front of the Zamoyski Palace, there is an impressive monument to Jan Zamoyski on horseback, created by Marian Konieczny. And this is how Hetman Jan Zamoyski looks at his city, which still enchants even today, despite the passing of centuries. The current mayor of Zamość continues to care for the city’s heritage.

Armenians in Zamość: rich history and their influence on architecture

Jan Zamoyski, demonstrating his foresight, granted the Armenians a part of the town, seeing in them, rightly so, the potential for the development of trade and crafts. The Armenians who arrived in Zamość in 1585 played a huge role in its development, which can still be seen today. They were wealthy merchants. They were the ones who built their, still admired, beautiful tenements at the Rynek Wielki.

These Armenian tenements, which we still admire today, are a tangible testimony to their wealth and, importantly, their influence on the architecture of the city. They represent that distinctive Mannerist style and adorn the Great Square, especially its eastern frontage, giving it a unique character. Today, most of the rooms in these tenements are occupied by the Zamojskie Museum, but walking along Ormiańska Street in Zamość, one can still, at least it seems to me, feel the spirit of this former multicultural community. In this small space, there functioned here, which today may seem almost exotic, a veritable cultural mix. Polish people lived here, as well as Greeks, Armenians and Jews. Fascinating, isn’t it? The monuments of Zamość and its surroundings show this diversity.

Zamojska Academy: the first private university in the Republic?

Jan Zamoyski cared not only for the economic development or defence of the city, which was his priority, but also for education, which shows his comprehensive vision. In 1594, he founded the Zamojska Academy in Zamość. It was, importantly, the third higher education institution in the country, and at the same time the first private university in the whole of the Commonwealth. The Hetman’s thought of caring for the youth and the future of the Commonwealth is still quoted to this day, for example at the Sejm, which shows how up-to-date his vision was.

The Zamojska Academy educated students for over 200 years, which is an impressive period. Its rector, among others, was Szymon Piechowicz. It was he who founded, and this is absolutely unique, the oldest pharmacy in Poland – the Rector’s Pharmacy. It has been in continuous operation since 1609 and, of course, is located in Zamość, on the Rynek Wielki. Basil Rudomicz, whom we have already mentioned in the context of the Rudomicz tenement house, was also a professor at the former Zamojska Academy. His diaries, by the way, are a valuable source of knowledge about those times.

Zamość in its turbulent years: sieges, wars and uprisings – is it over?

The 17th century was, needless to say, an extremely turbulent period for Zamość. The town, situated at the crossroads of important trade routes (including from Lublin to Lviv and from Ruthenia via Sandomierz to Krakow), was repeatedly besieged. Unfortunately, foreign armies began to arrive at the city walls. First the Khmelnytskyi, and in the middle of the 17th century, after heavy fighting, first the Cossacks and Tartars during the Khmelnytskyi Uprising, and later also the Swedes, during the famous Deluge, broke away from the fortress walls.

During the Deluge, the Zamość Fortress withstood the invaders, just like Jasna Góra, Gdańsk or Łańcut, thanks to the ingenious fortifications designed by Morand and the heroic attitude of the defenders, which deserves recognition. It was a real miracle. And remember the story with Charles X Gustav? The Swedish king, before abandoning the siege, proposed holding a farewell feast within the city walls. Which, as we have already mentioned, went down in history as the “Swedish Table”. The Zamość uprising is not only the story of the Khmelnytsky or November Uprisings, but also of numerous sieges and battles for the town.

In 1809, during the campaign of Prince Józef Poniatowski, the troops of the Duchy of Warsaw, fortunately, recaptured the city from Austrian hands and Zamość was annexed to the Duchy of Warsaw. Unfortunately, the city was surrendered to the Russians after Napoleon’s army withdrew. After the November Uprising, the Russians looted the famous Grunwald Swords from Zamość, which was a major blow. Faced with the development of threaded barrels in cannons, it was finally decided to close the Zamość Fortress project. Tsar Alexander II, decided to demolish the fortifications in 1866.

Despite all this turbulent history, numerous wars, sieges and destructions, Zamość has somehow amazingly preserved its unique character. Is it due to this original, ideal vision? Old Zamosc history shows its remarkable resilience.

Zamość and its surroundings: excursions outside the city, what is worth seeing?

Zamość is, you must believe me, an excellent base for exploring the beautiful Roztocze. Often referred to as the land of forests, lakes and that unique, unspoilt nature, this region has become increasingly popular in recent years, and rightly so. Zamosc and the Roztocze are, in my opinion, the perfect combination – history, architecture and wonderful nature. Which, as you can easily guess, makes them perfect places for a holiday getaway, whatever the season. Zamość and its surroundings what to see? The Roztocze!

Roztocze: a land of forests, lakes and this unique nature

The Roztocze is a simply beautiful, still in many places wild land. It boasts unspoilt nature, dark forests, clear rivers and, interestingly, unusual architecture, characterised by distinct elements of eastern culture. This is the area where Zamość lies, but also many, many other attractions, both natural and touristic. Zamość and its surroundings are tourist attractions of the highest level. Did you know that Roztocze has the most days of sunshine a year and, perhaps most importantly nowadays, the cleanest air in Poland? At least that is what the rankings of the European Environment Agency suggest. The Roztocze and Zamość can also be admired from a completely different perspective – from the cabin of a plane or a glider! Zamość airport in Mokre is only 3.5 km from the town hall in a straight line.

Zwierzyniec: the gateway to the Roztocze National Park

Charming Zwierzyniec is such a natural gateway to the Roztocze National Park. Situated on the River Wieprz, it is surrounded by forests literally on all sides. It was once the summer residence of the Zamoyski family. It is a perfect place to start your adventure with the Roztocze. The Directorate of the Roztocze National Park is logically located here. There is also the famous St John of Nepomuk Church, often referred to as the Church on the Water or the Church on the Island (although it is sometimes, wrongly in my opinion, referred to as the Palace on the Water – more reminiscent of Warsaw’s Lazienki Park, but in miniature!).

There is also the historic Brewery in Zwierzyniec, now owned by the Perla Lublin Brewery. There you can, and this is a big plus, taste the local beer in the charming courtyard. At the Church on the Island you will also find small buildings with a gastronomy where you can buy ice cream, waffles or casseroles, a summer classic. But as I’ve already mentioned, our absolute favourite ice cream parlour in Roztocze is the traditional one in Zwierzyniec – Lody u Bachty, it’s a piece of history! In Zwierzyniec you’ll also find the beautiful Echo Ponds and Beech Mountain, which of course lie within the Roztocze National Park. Natural beauty in a nutshell. Zamość and its surroundings: what to visit? Zwierzyniec for sure.

The Green Velo cycle trail: how to discover the charm of Roztocze on two wheels?

Zwierzyniec and the surrounding area, well, the best way to visit, in my opinion, is by bike. Many of the most beautiful places in the Roztocze are accessible this way. When planning our cycling trips, we often use bicycle hire. There is a rental in Zwierzyniec, at 22, 1 Maja Street. It offers, which is a great convenience, a large selection of bicycles (including mountain bikes, which is useful on some routes), free parking and even, which is very helpful, suggestions of bicycle routes for children and parents. The bike routes, logically enough, start in Zwierzyniec and lead to many attractions. From there, you can reach Góreck Koscielny, Florianka or the already mentioned Echo Ponds.

One of the proposed routes leads precisely in the direction of the Echo Ponds. From the Black Pond Zwierzyniec to Florianka is, let’s say, “a piece of cake”. And along the way, you can see a natural monument – a huge old tree that is impressive – and, absolutely adorable, meet friendly sheep that are happy, oh yes, to pose for photos with children! In Florianka, on the other hand, you will see the famous Polish ponies, always a highlight.

Another route leads to Góreck Kościelny, a picturesque village with a historic church. This cycle trail leads from Górecko Stare to Górecko Kościelne and is also, importantly, a section of the longer Green Velo trail. In Górecko Stare, just by the road, you will find a small shop. You know, the kind “from the People’s Republic of Poland”. You can buy soda or ice cream on a stick there – it is, seriously, a real time machine! Passing through Górecko Stare, you will reach a crossroads. A little further on, at the bend just before Górecko Kościelne itself, there is a small car park. From there, along a forest path (for which, to be honest, it is worth having mountain bikes), you will reach the dam. Below the dam, a small stream murmurs, creating a pleasant atmosphere. You can also opt for a guided tour along the less obvious paths of Roztocze.

Krasnobród: a picturesque town with… a Jurassic park?

Krasnobród is another picturesque town in the Roztocze that, in my opinion, is worth a visit. You can plan, as we often do, a trip combining Zamość, Zwierzyniec, Szumy and just Krasnobród. Returning to Zamość in the evening or stopping for the night somewhere in the area, the options are many. Krasnobród towers over the area with its observation tower. It offers a really beautiful view of the whole Roztocze, and it is worth climbing up.

Other attractions of Krasnobród are, of course, the Chapel “on the water” (formally the Roman Catholic Chapel on the Water) with a spring of water said to have healing properties. There is also the historic Chapel of St Roch, and, a big attraction especially for families with children, the Jurassic Park, or Dinosaurs Krasnobród. In Krasnobród, there is also a large bathing area, ideal for hot days, which in summer can be quite biting in the Roztocze.

In addition to the places mentioned above, the Roztocze offers, happily, many other attractions:

• Szumy nad Tanwią: This is the only such collection of cascading, small waterfalls in Poland. They are located, as the name suggests, on the River Tanew, in the Susiec Commune. Not far from the Lot car park, which makes it easy to access.
• Nowiny Quarry: located in Oseredek, about 10 km from Susiec. It actually lies on the road to the Guci Homestead. It is an interesting natural attraction, such a remnant of human activity blended into nature.
• Zagroda Guciów: This is a museum of a historic cottage. In addition, it offers delicious local food. There is also the possibility of staying overnight, which is convenient. For the way back to Zamość, or as a destination in itself, we recommend lunch or dinner right there. Tastes of tradition.
• Czartowe Pole: A nature reserve with beautiful views. There are also picturesque ruins of an old paper mill. According to Wikipedia, the name “comes from a legend associated with a clearing covered by the reserve, where it was said that only sorcerers roamed”. Is this true? Who knows!
• Zalew w Nieliszu: Located in the Roztocze region, a little further north of Zwierzyniec. It is the largest artificial reservoir in the whole of Roztocze. It is ideal for water sports, so if you like active recreation by the water, this is something for you.
• Jacnia: This is a village with a ski station in the Roztocze. This is, in my opinion, great proof that the Roztocze is attractive at any, but any, time of the year! It also has its charm in winter. Zamosc attractions in winter are mainly around the Roztocze.
• Kosobudy: A village where there is an enclosure for Polish horses. It lies, importantly, within the Roztoczański National Park, so it is a place naturally integrated into the park.
• Biała Góra: A mountain with an observation tower. Also located in the Roztoczanski National Park, offering further breathtaking views.
• Canoeing Roztocze: Canoeing on the rivers of the Roztocze, such as the Wieprz or Tanew. This is a great way to spend time actively in nature. You can kayak, for example, down the Zwierzyniec, which is a nice change. Although, as everywhere, sometimes you have to watch out for stones and shoals, especially at lower water levels. Visiting Zamość and the surrounding area by kayak is an interesting prospect.

Visiting Zamość: practical tips for travellers

When planning a visit to Zamość and the Roztocze, I think it is worth taking a few practical considerations into account. In order to make the most of your time and enjoy your trip without unnecessary distractions. Zamość is a city that has, as you may have already noticed, a lot to offer. Whether you are coming for just one day or planning a longer stay. But how do you go about it all? What is worth seeing in and around Zamość? A lot depends on your time and preferences.

How to get to Zamość? By car, train or bus?

Zamość is located in the southern part of the Lubelskie Voivodeship. It is about 85 km from Lublin. If you travel by car, you should reach Zamość from Lublin in about 75 minutes if the traffic is good. From Rzeszów, the journey will take about 2 hours. From Warsaw it is about 300 km to Zamość. So the journey by car will, inevitably, take several hours. It is worth mentioning that on Sundays the airport in Mokre, near Zamość, turns into a huge local market, popularly known as a stock exchange. If you like such places, full of hustle and bustle and surprises, you can see what you can buy there – from cars to moccasins for your wedding, and maybe even an antique sabre.

If you prefer to travel by train, Zamość can be reached directly from Wrocław (train IC 62100 goes via Kraków and Rzeszów) and from Lublin. From Warsaw to Zamość you unfortunately have to change trains. At present, the train route from Lublin to Zamość is electrified and runs through Rejowiec and Stalowa Wola, which is, in my opinion, a good solution, if only for ecological reasons. You can get closer to Zamość by rail.

You can also, as an alternative, consider travelling by bus. The company Flixbus, for example, offers direct bus connections from Warsaw to Zamość, which can be a convenient option for many, especially if you don’t like changing trains. What to see in Zamość as soon as you arrive? The Old Town!

Accommodation in Zamość: hotels, guesthouses or maybe cottages in Roztocze?

In Zamość and the Roztocze, you will find, importantly, a wide range of accommodation. Zamość and its surroundings offer accommodation in various standards. From hotels and guesthouses in the very centre of the town, to charming cottages and farmhouses in quieter surroundings, closer to nature. If you want to be in the centre of things, to be close to all the attractions of the Old Town, it is worth looking for accommodation within the Old Town or right next to it. We once had, for various reasons, booked accommodation in Lublin, but next time, oh yes, we will definitely stay in Zamość itself or somewhere in Roztocze. It’s a completely different atmosphere.

With a clear conscience I can recommend the Hotel Sukcesor in Zamość. It is located on Żeromskiego Street, really close to the Market Square. It offers comfortable, tastefully decorated rooms, each with a modern bathroom with a shower. Importantly, some have a kitchenette and fridge, which is a big plus. Their breakfasts are, by Polish standards, excellent. A wide choice of products, plus desserts – it’s really worth it. (It’s a pity that not all hotels take such care with the first meal of the day).

If you are looking for something surrounded by nature, typically in the Roztocze, a few dozen kilometres south of Zamość, in Ciotusza Nowa, there is Sielanka na Roztoczu. These are cottages for rent. They are furnished in a modern style, but, importantly, they have atmosphere and soul. They are surrounded by a nice garden and green forest, well-equipped – the perfect place for total relaxation, away from the hustle and bustle. There is also a log house in Kulikowo. It is so attractive, I hear, that it was even used for the recording of a music video for dance music! You can, of course, book accommodation on popular sites; the choice is large. There are also other charming towns in the vicinity of Zamość and the Roztocze, such as Zwierzyniec, Chełm, Józefów Roztoczański, Susiec and Tomaszów Lubelski, which also offer a variety of accommodation options; it is worth looking around. Attractions Zamość open now can be found in the centre or in the surrounding area.

Zamosc map: planning a sightseeing tour and these top attractions

In order to plan your visit to Zamość well, it is worthwhile, it seems obvious, to get a good map. A map of Zamość is available at various points. The Zamojskie Centrum Informacji Turystycznej i Historycznej (Zamość Tourist and Historical Information Centre), which is located in Zamość at Rynek Wielki 13, has fortunately prepared a mobile application. It is available in five language versions. Which, as you can easily guess, makes exploring Zamość easier, especially for foreign tourists. The app guides the user along a route covering the most important points of interest, such as the Rynek Wielki, the Salt Market, the Synagogue, the Lubelska Gate, St Catherine’s Church, the Zamość Academy, the Palace, the Cathedral, the Water Market, the Central House, the Franciscan Church, Nadszaniec, and many, many more. You can also use e map Zamość, which presents the city of Zamość spatial information system. Tourist Information in Zamość is also a place where you can find out more about all the attractions of Zamość and the Roztocze region, a calendar of cultural events and happenings or, last but not least, the current weather forecast. Zamość weather can be changeable, so it is worth checking it before you go.

Remember that Zamość’s Old Town is quite compact. Most of the attractions in the Old Town are therefore within a short, pleasant walk. The walking and sightseeing route around the castle fortifications is also a great way to get to know the city from a different and interesting perspective. In the summer, which is a nice option, at the Grand Market Square you can rent bicycles and explore the Old Town, the Town Park or the fortifications just on two wheels, which adds to the dynamism. Zamość and surroundings map is useful for planning further trips. Zamość attractions map is often available online or at information centres.

Calendar of events: what is happening in Zamość at the moment?

Zamość is, perhaps surprisingly, a city vibrant with cultural life. The life of Zamość is rich in events. Especially in the summer season. Many regular events, festivals and concerts take place here. Zamość’s calendar of cultural events is really rich and varied, there is plenty to choose from. Before you plan your weekend in Zamość, it is worth, in my opinion, checking what is happening in the city at the moment. Information about events in Zamość today can be found online. Maybe you will manage to find your way to the Zamość Theatre Summer, the “Prowincjonalia” Film Festival or other interesting artistic events. Information about current events can, of course, be found at the Zamojskie Centrum Informacji Turystyczny i Historycznej. Our city of Zamość events are promoted in many places.

To keep up to date with what is going on in the city, it is worth following Zamość news. The latest news from Zamość often appears in the local media, as well as on the ‘nasze miasto Zamość’ or ‘życie Zamościa’ Facebook profiles. Police information from Zamość or last-minute Zamość news, including those about accidents (also with 112), are sometimes published by the local police Zamość. Police Zamosc last-minute news today often reports important incidents. Zamość Television also reports important news. News from Zamość and the surrounding area, as well as Zamość and the mite, is widely available online and in the press. You can also check out last-minute news on local portals. E-zamość is also a source of information about the city.

For those looking for information on legal events, e-wokanda Zamość is available. Information on test results can be obtained via e lab results Zamosc, and hospital results Zamosc is available for patients. For the convenience of travelling by public transport, it is advisable to use the mzk zamość e-ticket. Shopping can be done at e.leclerc Zamość. What to see Travel blogs often recommend Zamość attractions.

Unforgettable moments in Zamość and Roztocze

A trip to Zamość and the Roztocze is, there is no denying, an unforgettable adventure, full of impressions. Zamość, that true pearl of the Renaissance. An ideal city conceived by Jan Zamoyski and designed by Bernardo Morando, it still impresses with its architecture, rich history and unique atmosphere. Zamość market square, town hall, Armenian houses, cathedral, fortress, city park, zoo – Zamość attractions are, as you can see, really diverse. Zamość tourist attractions are waiting to be discovered. And they will provide you, I am sure, with a lot of positive emotions and memories. You can, for example, admire the views from a plane, if you are ready for such an adventure. Go karting (apparently driving in Zamość is cheaper than in Warsaw, I once checked the price lists!). Look for Leśmian figurines scattered around the city. And even explore the Old Town… by melex, which is an option for those who prefer sightseeing by melex and prefer the convenience. Synagogue Zamosc sightseeing is also possible. You can also go on a night tour of the city or a Zamość castle tour (although the castle has not been preserved in its original form). A guided tour of Zamość will allow you to discover the most interesting places.

The Roztocze, on the other hand, offers what we often seek – the beauty of wild nature. Plus excellent bicycle trails (such as Green Velo). Charming towns (Zwierzyniec, Krasnobród). And memorials (such as the moving Rotunda). This is a region where you can spend time actively. But also, and probably just as importantly for many, to simply relax in nature. For example, at the Nielisz lagoon (the largest artificial reservoir in Roztocze!). Or at the bathing lake in Zamość, which neighbours the Rotunda in Zamość and is eagerly used by the people of Zamość themselves.

And the lagoon in Zamość? It is a modernised bathing lake. There is a beach with deckchairs, sanitary facilities and solar showers. You know what, the water sometimes resembles the one I saw in Croatia! (Maybe I’m exaggerating a bit, but the impression is very positive). What are the attractions in and around Zamość? There are plenty of them!

Zamość and the Roztocze are places that, I must admit, have stolen our hearts. The richness of history, the beauty of the architecture and the enchanting nature of the Roztocze create this unusual combination which is hard to find elsewhere. Remember the Rector’s Pharmacy – the oldest in Poland. Think about the fact that Marek Grechuta comes from Zamość and that Witold Paszt was strongly connected with it. Think of the heroic attitude of the defenders of the Zamość Fortress in the November Uprising. Zamosc’s history of the establishment of the fortress is noteworthy. About the “Prussian Homage” hidden in St. Catherine’s Church during World War II to save it from destruction. Recall the tragic story of Czeslawa Kwoka, the little girl from Zamojszczyzna who was murdered in Auschwitz. The history of Zamość has many faces. Old Zamość history reminds us of many events.

Zamość was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on 14 December 1992. Which, no matter how you look at it, confirms its absolutely unique value on a world scale. The area of Zamość is not huge, but its historical significance is. Representatives of the Zamoyski family, such as Marcin Zamoyski, took care of this town. They obtained funds for renovation, including from the European Union, which helped to preserve its beauty. If you want to become a part of the local community or enjoy municipal benefits, it is worth making out a Zamość Citizen Card. Zamość coat of arms, the city symbol, can be admired in many places. A map of Zamość is available at tourist information points and in apps. Wherever we are in Zamość, the most important information about the city is at our fingertips.

We very much hope that our complete guide to Zamość and its surroundings will inspire you to visit this remarkable place. Zamość and surroundings guide is something worth having at hand. Zamość and its surroundings interesting places are waiting to be discovered. There is so much to discover here, so much Zamość is worth seeing. That surely everyone, but absolutely everyone, will find something for themselves. You may, I admit, feel slightly overwhelmed by the amount of impressions, your head may ache, but… it will be worth it, I guarantee! Zamość and its surroundings attractions are a topic for many days.

This article was inspired by Marta and Karol. Thank you!