Niepołomice – a quiet place just outside Wieliczka

Niepołomice is a town that can enthrall you with its landscapes and relaxing atmosphere. It is a place full of character, which combines small-town charm with a wealth of history and culture that is still alive in the everyday lives of its inhabitants. Niepołomice is located just 15-20 minutes from the Grand Sal Hotel, which makes it the perfect choice for a short and magnificent trip.

Tips for visitors

Getting from Wieliczka to Niepołomice is easy and convenient – if you are not exploring Lesser Poland by car or bicycle, choosing the MPK bus will be the most convenient option. And as soon as you arrive in the Niepołomice Market Square, you will notice its unique ambience. Restaurants, cafés and small shops – the Market Square is undoubtedly the heart of the town’s life. It is a space where you can see the local rhythm of the day – sit in the garden, enjoy regional dishes and take a break from the daily rush. A stroll through the narrow streets around the Market Square will enable you to discover the charms of this small town which exudes peace, harmony and invites you to stay here for a while.

Niepołomice Primeval Forest – a natural forest full of history

Just a few minutes’ walk from the Market Square, you can encounter the Niepołomice Primeval Forest – one of the oldest and best-known forests in Lesser Poland. For centuries, it was a royal hunting ground for kings of the House of Jagiellon. Today, it is protected as a precious natural area and a true natural treasure, which makes it a great place for recreation, located nearby the Grand Sal Hotel!

Designated hiking and cycling routes spanning the old-growth forests and nature reserves showcase a variety of plants and animals. Along the way, you might encounter a wild boar, roe, deer and numerous species of birds. If you are lucky, you might spot some rare sights. A walk in the wilderness allows you to enjoy the silence and a breath of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. In the summer season, nature trails and resting points also make the Niepołomice Forest the perfect spot for families with children, who can discover the secrets of nature in an accessible and direct way.

Niepołomice – where history meets nature

Niepołomice is a unique town that offers much more than a quiet stroll through the market square. You can find the monumental Royal Castle, which dates back to the reign of King Casimir the Great, adjoining the vast Primeval Forest – a former royal hunting ground. The combination of Renaissance architecture and unspoilt nature means that there is a space for all visitors, regardless of whether they prefer sightseeing and discovering or relaxing in the lap of nature.

The town makes you slow down and experience its unique atmosphere. Peace and quiet go hand in hand with a wealth of culture – concerts, exhibitions and fairs in Niepołomice showcase local traditions and make the city a bustling cultural hub. The proximity to Wieliczka and Krakow make it even more attractive. It is a perfect option for a day trip that combines relaxation, inspiration and the authentic experience of a small town with a big soul.

The heart of Niepołomice beats in the market square

The city allows you to experience history and nature, as well as encounter local traditions that are still alive and cherished by the locals. The central Market Square is a space for events, including regular fairs, festivals and outdoor concerts, attracting both visitors and the local community. They fill the town with music, colours and the smells of regional cuisine, creating an irresistible atmosphere.

The Royal Castle – a Renaissance gem

The most important and recognisable landmark of Niepołomice is the Royal Castle, which is often referred to as the other Wawel Castle. It dates back to the 14th century – it was built by King Casimir the Great and for centuries it served as one of the most important royal residences in Lesser Poland. It was the residence of rulers, courtiers and their visitors, which was a testament to the power and ambition of the monarchs. Today’s Renaissance design is a result of later overhauls, which gave the building an elegant and harmonious shape that continues to delight visitors to this day.

Today, the Royal Castle is a museum and a cultural centre. It hosts exhibitions, concerts, meetings with authors and educational events that enable participants to explore the region’s history and art in its many facets. Its rooms can also be booked for dance parties and proms. The place is bustling with life regardless of the season, always offering something new and inspiring.

Niepołomice – small town with a big soul

Niepołomice offers a perfect blend of history, nature and small-town peace. On the one hand, it is home to the impressive Renaissance Royal Castle, and on the other, it offers the boundless greenery of the Niepołomice Primeval Forest, where you can breathe and relax while being surrounded by unadulterated nature.

Unforgettable traditions, flavours and atmosphere

The town is lively thanks to the many local traditions and events that attract visitors and locals alike. Fairs, concerts, festivals and regional flavours give it a unique character, and the friendly atmosphere makes everyone feel at home here. Niepołomice is a great destination for a short day trip when visiting Krakow and Wieliczka. If you are coming for a longer stay at the Grand Sal Hotel, make sure to include the attractions of Niepołomice on your list!

We can particularly recommend Niepołomice to visitors, who:

  • love history and want to see the castle dubbed the other Wawel Castle;
  • enjoy peaceful walks and dream of experiencing nature in the vast, charming Niepołomice Primeval Forest;
  • enjoy local events – fairs, concerts, festivals and family attractions in the Market Square;
  • enjoy a moment of respite over a good cup of coffee and like to watch the rhythm of the town from a café table;
  • want to explore the vicinity of Wieliczka and expand their trip by including new places.

It is an interesting and peaceful option for a short getaway – a perfect choice for those who appreciate authentic places with history and a friendly atmosphere. If you wish, we will be happy to help you with planning your visit to Niepołomice during your stay at the Grand Sal Hotel!