Zalipie, located in southeastern Poland, is a charming village known for its tradition of painting colorful floral motifs on the walls of its houses, creating a vibrant and unique atmosphere. The original reason for the floral motifs was to cover chimney smoke that would darken the interior walls. Each year there is a design competition to encourage the continuation of the tradition. Do keep in mind, this is a neighborhood and some of the homes in Zalipie are open and welcome visitors.
How to get to Zalipie
By Car: Zalipie is about a 2 hour drive from Krakow. You can rent a car or hire a taxi for a convenient journey.
By Public Transport: There are limited public transport options to Zalipie and unfortunately no direct routes. You can take a train or bus to nearby towns like Tarnów or Dąbrowa Tarnowska, then hire a taxi or arrange for local transportation to reach Zalipie.
By Tour: The most convenient way to explore the town, without having to worry about the hassle of commuting.
Things to Do in Zalipie
Admire the Painted Houses
The easiest way to view the painted houses is by taking a stroll through the village. Each house is uniquely decorated, showcasing the creativity and artistic talent of the villagers. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for walking around the village.
Keep in mind that the painted houses are NOT all next to each other. Head to Felicia Curyłowa Museum to get the most updated information about the village.
Visit the Felicia Curyłowa Museum
By visiting the Felicia Curyłowa Museum, you get to dive in deeper dedicated into the history of Zalipie’s floral painting tradition and see exhibits showcasing the work of local artists. This museum provides the best overview of the area. Remember to confirm the opening hours of the Felicia Curyłowa Museum and any other attractions or workshops you plan to visit.
Visit St. Josephs Church
Don’t forget to visit the local church as it is also decorated in the traditional flower paintings.
Attend the Flower Festival
If you’re visiting in June, don’t miss the annual Zalipie Flower Festival, where villagers decorate their houses with fresh flowers and floral arrangements. Enjoy live music, traditional food, and cultural performances during this colorful celebration.
Explore the Surrounding Countryside
Take a walk or bike ride through the picturesque countryside surrounding Zalipie. Enjoy scenic views of rolling hills, lush farmland, and meandering rivers.
Try Local Cuisine
Sample traditional Polish cuisine at local restaurants and taverns in Zalipie. From the savory, dumpling-filled pierogi to the robust, slow-cooked bigos (hunter’s stew), Polish food is all about bold, satisfying flavors. Try the kielbasa sausage, often seasoned with a blend of spices and smoked to perfection, or savor the creamy, beetroot-infused borscht. I recommend checking out Bistro u Zosii Food Truck, Kolorowa Budka Ice Cream Truck, or Restauracja Stara Zagroda.
Participate in Workshops
Experience Zalipie’s folk art tradition firsthand. Get creative and try your hand at painting floral motifs under the guidance of local artists.
Accommodation
While Zalipie is primarily a day-trip destination, nearby towns like Tarnów offer a range of accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts.
Visiting Zalipie offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the colorful world of Polish folk art and tradition. This village is truly off the beaten path. From admiring the painted houses to participating in workshops and attending cultural events, there’s plenty to see and do in this charming village. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, explore the surrounding countryside, and discover the beauty of Zalipie’s floral-painted heritage.
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