Bydgoszcz City Guide

Polish dishes like pierogi and barszcz are common. There are growing options for Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern food. Vegetarian and vegan choices are increasing. Late-night eats are mostly fast food or pizzerias.

Nightlife centers around Old Town and the river with pubs, bars, and some clubs. It’s decent but not extensive.

Coffee scene is developing with traditional and specialty cafes.

Tipping around 10% in restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory. Taxis often get a rounded fare or small tip. Small tips for other services are customary.

Buy SIM cards at Play, Orange, T-Mobile, or Plus stores in malls or city center. Prepaid SIMs must be registered with ID or passport, usually in person. eSIMs are available but may require a store visit for activation.

City is generally clean with regular waste collection.

Few 24/7 options exist. Some pharmacies rotate 24/7 service. Convenience stores like Żabka often have extended but not full 24/7 hours.

Supermarkets like Lidl, Biedronka, Auchan, Carrefour, and Netto sell a good range of local and international products. Fresh produce is available at local markets such as Rynek Bydgoski. Most stores open 7-10 AM to 9-10 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, but many close on Sundays.

Card payments are accepted in most places. Cash helps with small shops and markets.

ATMs from big banks like PKO BP, Santander, and ING are easy to find. Use bank ATMs to avoid extra fees on foreign cards.

Bydgoszcz has local schools in Polish. The International School of Bydgoszcz offers English instruction following an international curriculum. Contact schools directly for admissions and waiting lists.

Small but growing digital nomad scene. Some meetups and decent cafes with good Wi-Fi.

Plenty of green areas, especially along the river and in large parks like Myślęcinek.

Popular running routes along rivers and parks. Running clubs exist. Air quality can worsen in winter but is generally fine.

Multiple modern gyms cover different fitness needs.

Tennis courts at sports clubs; pre-booking often needed.

Padel is less common but growing in popularity.

Several studios offer yoga and pilates classes; some have English-speaking teachers.

Various clubs offer BJJ, Muay Thai, boxing, judo, and karate. English instruction may be available at some.

No local skiing; resorts are far south.

Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding available on the Brda river and nearby lakes.

No surfing; city is inland.

Some local lakes offer limited diving opportunities.

Public hospitals provide good care but can have longer waits. Private clinics are faster and more costly. Some hospitals have English-speaking staff, especially younger doctors. Pharmacies are common, with some open 24/7 on a rotating basis.

Tap water meets EU safety standards and is safe to drink.

Parks have playgrounds and there are kid-friendly cafes with play areas. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Exploseum, Myślęcinek Park with a zoo and amusement park, and the Water Tower.

Acceptance is limited. Some safe spaces but public displays of affection may draw mixed reactions.

Pet-friendly city with parks, accommodations, and vets. Dedicated dog parks exist.