Bydgoszcz In Your Pocket City Guide

Bydgoszcz City Guide, Poland In Your Pocket

Although it looks like a crossword cipher gone wrong, there is some linguistic logic behind the hard syllables of this northern city's name: 'Bydgoszcz' comes from a combination of the Old Slavic words for ‘to be’ (or ‘to become,’ sort of) and ‘guest.’ As such the city's name is an extension of its atmosphere, and a warm invitation to enjoy some Polish hospitality. Pronounced 'Bid-goshch' (go on, you've got it), this Pomeranian town on the Brda River may not be a common site on European travel itineraries, but is one of Poland’s best kept secrets, thanks to postcard perfect views, a wonderful museum island, quaint waterfront, charming footbridges, old granaries, and even its own brand of Art Nouveau architecture.

Brda River, Katedra, and Wyspa Młyńska in Bydgoszcz. Photo by Robert Sawicki — The **Brda River** on which **Bydgoszcz** is based. On this particular bend of the city's main waterway is the museum district of Mill Island (Wyspa Młyńska), which features the Cathedral of Bydgoszcz (behind on left). Photo by Robert Sawicki.

Scratch below the scenic surface, and you’ll also discover dark tales of WWII horror, materialised in the gloomy Valley of Death and an absolute must-see: the Exploseum, a former Nazi explosives factory hidden away in the Bydgoszcz Forest. For rest, relaxation and family fun, there’s the Myślęcinek Forest Park just 5km from the centre, which boasts numerous attractions for all seasons, from the city Zoo to a winter ski slope (yes, even in this very flat part of the country). Whatever your interests, use this guide to get the most out of your visit, and we hope you fall in love with this city as much as we have.

Top Things to Do in Bydgoszcz

Myślęcinek Forest Park - What to See & Do

Explore Mill Island - Bydgoszcz's Cultural District

Get the Dirt on Bydgoszcz's Museum of Soap

The Brda River - What to Do on Bydgoszcz's River

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Bydgoszcz

Top Things to Do in Bydgoszcz Myślęcinek Forest Park - What to See & Do Explore Mill Island - Bydgoszcz's Cultural District Get the Dirt on Bydgoszcz's Museum of Soap The Brda River - What to Do on Bydgoszcz's River

Top Things to Do in Bydgoszcz

Myślęcinek Forest Park - What to See & Do

Explore Mill Island - Bydgoszcz's Cultural District

Get the Dirt on Bydgoszcz's Museum of Soap

The Brda River - What to Do on Bydgoszcz's River