Gizycko is a picturesque town nestled between a pair of cobalt-blue lakes. It’s set in the heart of the picturesque Great Masurian Lakes region and is surrounded by thick forests and rolling farmland. Relax on sandy beaches, explore a historic fortress and enjoy delicious Polish cuisine.
Things to do in Giżycko
Swim, sunbathe and build sandcastles on Plaza Gizycko. The beach stretches along the banks of Lake Niegocin and features honey-coloured sand and a family-friendly bathing area. Rent a rowboat and paddle along the shoreline and make a splash with water sports like windsurfing and jet skiing.
Explore Boyen Fortress, a 19th-century stronghold built to protect the Prussian border. It’s perched on an isthmus between the two lakes and features bastions, barracks, towers and defensive walls encircled by a moat. The small museum features a scale model of the fortress, as well as military memorabilia.
Check the timetable to see the Gizycko Swing Bridge in action. The hand-operated swing bridge dates back to the late 1800s and is one of the oldest in Europe. It spans across a narrow canal that links Lake Kisajno and Lake Niegocin. Watch as the bridge master spins the wheel to open the bridge and let boats pass.
Take your pick of cafes, bars and restaurants in the lively town centre. Fish caught in the surrounding lakes is a specialty. Enjoy it fried, baked and cooked into stews. Other local favourites include “plince z pomocka” potato pancakes stuffed with cottage cheese and cream.
Satisfy your appetite for adventure at Rope Park Wiewiora. Hidden in a sun-dappled forest, the park features an exhilarating high ropes course complete with zip lines. Tackle the advanced circuit or take things easy on the low ropes course.
Getting around Giżycko
Gizycko is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is in the Great Masurian Lakes region, a four-hour drive from Warsaw and 3.5 hours from Gdansk. Trains run between Warsaw and Gizycko in around five hours. Warsaw Chopin Airport is a 3.5-hour drive away.