Our adventure in Sandomierz will begin with a place that will take us into the heart of the city's history - the Underground Tourist Route. This is a fascinating journey back in time that will allow us to discover the secrets hidden beneath the surface of the Old Town. The 470-meter-long route leads through a system of former merchant cellars and warehouses, reaching up to 12 meters below the level of the market. The entrance to the underground is located at 10 Market Square, and tours are guided at full hours. Tickets can be purchased on site or online, and prices range from PLN 20 for a discounted ticket to PLN 24 for a regular ticket (as of August 2023). During the approximately 40-minute tour, you will learn about the fascinating history of the city, the legends associated with the underground and their role in the lives of Sandomierz's former inhabitants. It is worth remembering to wear warm clothing, as the temperature in the underground is much lower than on the surface. This is an attraction suitable for the whole family, but due to the stairs and narrow passages, it may be difficult to access for people with limited mobility.

Once on the surface, head toward Sandomierz's Royal Castle, which towers over the city at 12 Zamkowa St. This impressive building, although largely reconstructed, houses a fascinating museum. The castle is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission tickets cost between 10 and 15 zlotys (check the museum's official website for current prices). In the museum we will see archaeological, historical and ethnographic exhibitions, which will introduce us to the history of Sandomierz and the region from the earliest times to the present. Of particular interest is a collection of medieval stove tiles and a collection of militaria. The castle courtyard offers a beautiful view of the Vistula River valley, which is worth immortalizing in a photograph.

The next point of our trip is Opatowska Gate - a symbol of Sandomierz and the only surviving city gate. It is located at 40 Opatowska Street and is open for tours daily. Climbing the 30-meter tower is quite a challenge (more than 100 stairs), but the view from the observation deck of the panorama of the city and its surroundings will reward any effort. Tickets cost PLN 12 for regular and PLN 10 for reduced (as of August 2023). The various floors of the gate house interesting exhibitions on the history of the city and the region. This is a place that is sure to delight adults and children alike, offering not only beautiful views, but also a history lesson in an unusual setting.

After an intensive tour of the historic buildings, it's time for a moment of respite in a natural setting. We invite you to the Queen Jadwiga Gorge - one of the most picturesque places in Sandomierz. This 10-meter deep and about 500-meter long loess ravine is a true wonder of nature in the heart of the city. The entrance to the gorge is located on St. Queen Jadwiga Street. Walking through the gorge is not only an opportunity to relax, but also a fascinating lesson in geology and nature. The walls of the gorge, entwined with tree roots, create unusual formations that will delight both adults and children. The gorge is accessible all year round and does not require an entrance ticket, but it is worth remembering to wear appropriate footwear, especially after rain, when the paths can be slippery. It's the perfect place for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

After relaxing in nature, return to the city center to visit the Sandomierz District Museum, located in the Royal Castle at 12 Zamkowa St. The museum offers a wealth of exhibits depicting the history of the city and region from prehistoric times to the present. Of particular interest is the collection of sacred art, including unique Gothic paintings and sculptures. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and tickets cost from 10 to 15 zlotys (check the museum's official website for current prices). For families with children, the museum has prepared special tours and interactive exhibitions that bring the history of the region to the youngest visitors in an accessible way.

We will end our journey through the culture and history of Sandomierz with a visit to the Cathedral Basilica of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is located at 1 Katedralna St. This Gothic church, built in the 14th century, impresses not only with its architecture, but also with its rich interior design. Of particular note are the Byzantine-Ruthenian frescoes adorning the chancel, unique in the country. The basilica is open to the public every day, outside of service hours. Admission is free, but take advantage of an audio guide (additional fee), who will talk in detail about the history and symbolism of this unique place. For families with children, special worksheets have been prepared to introduce the symbolism and history of the cathedral in a fun way.

It is worth remembering that all the listed attractions are located within the Old Town, in close proximity to each other, making it easy to visit even with small children. Between the various points of interest, you can take a break for a meal in one of the numerous restaurants in the Market Square or in cozy cafes hidden in historic townhouses. For the youngest tourists, we also recommend a visit to the local ice cream parlors, serving delicious homemade ice cream - an ideal snack during the tour.

When planning a trip to Sandomierz, it is worth taking into account some practical tips that will help make your stay even more comfortable and memorable. First of all, the best time to visit the city is from May to September, when the weather is favorable for walking and sightseeing. During this time there are also numerous festivals and cultural events that will further enhance your stay.

As for transportation, Sandomierz is most easily reached by car or bus. The city does not have its own airport, but the nearest airports are in Rzeszow (about 100 km) and Lublin (about 120 km). For those traveling by train, the nearest train station is Sandomierz, from where the city center can be reached by city bus or cab.

Accommodation in Sandomierz offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses and apartments. It's a good idea to book in advance, especially during the summer season and during popular events such as the Unusual Film Festival or the Jagiellonian Fair.

For families with children, we recommend planning a sightseeing tour at a pace suitable for the little ones. Many attractions, such as the Underground Tourist Route and the Opatowska Gate, offer special discounts for children and teens. You should also consider purchasing the Sandomierz Tourist Card, which provides discounts to many attractions and museums.

If you want to get to know the city from a different perspective, we recommend using the services of local guides or taking part in thematic tours, such as the 'Sandomierz Trail of Vineyards' or 'Following the Footsteps of Father Matthew'. This is a great opportunity to get to know lesser-known corners of the city and hear fascinating stories and legends.

For lovers of active recreation, the Sandomierz area offers numerous biking and hiking trails. It is worth renting a bicycle and taking a trip to the nearby Pieprzowe Mountains or along the picturesque banks of the Vistula River.

Remember that Sandomierz is not only monuments and museums. It is also a city of vibrant culture and art. During the summer season, concerts and outdoor performances are often held in the Market Square and nearby cafes. It's worth following the local calendar of events so you don't miss interesting cultural events.

Finally, don't forget about local specialties. Sandomierz is famous for its excellent wines produced in the surrounding vineyards. It's worth visiting one of them or tasting local liquors in restaurants in the Old Town. For the youngest tourists, we recommend a visit to the World of Father Matthew, an interactive exhibition based on the popular series, which is located at Market Square 5.

Sandomierz is a city that delights at any time of the year. Whether you go here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, you are sure to find something to enjoy. The richness of history, culture and nature will make every day spent in this charming city full of unforgettable impressions and discoveries. We wish you a successful trip and unforgettable moments in Sandomierz!