A tower with a viewing terrace, a rectangular market square and trips on the Oder give visitors different ways to experience Krapkowice. The town’s history also leaves its mark, while cycling and nature feature across Krapkowice County. Whether you’re mainly interested in architecture, want to choose an activity on the water or plan to explore routes through the wider region, the options vary by location and type of experience.

Town history between the Baszta and the Market Square

The Krapkowice Baszta, the tower of the Upper Gate, was built in the second half of the 14th century and remodelled around 1580. Today, it houses a tourist information office and exhibition rooms on several floors. A viewing terrace with a telescope adds another reason to visit alongside the exhibitions. The building thus combines its historic function with information, exhibitions and views.

Krapkowice Market Square features a typical medieval layout: a fountain stands in the middle of the rectangular square, with old townhouses along its sides. Narrow access streets lead to the square. Those interested in the structure of a historic town centre will find a different scene here than at the Baszta: rather than a single building, the square’s shape, rows of houses and streets define the impression.

Krapkowice Castle lies within the town’s administrative boundaries, near the Old Town. This imposing Late Renaissance building has a square plan. It is thought that the castle already existed in the 13th century, before Krapkowice was granted town rights in 1275 by Władysław, Duke of Opole. These two dates mark different historical reference points: the castle’s presumed early existence and the later granting of town rights.

In Otmęt, the castle ruins retain remains of living quarters, the ruin of the southeastern tower, the perimeter wall and a semicircular bastion at the southwest corner. The oldest surviving sections of wall date from the 16th century. The local attractions therefore include both a surviving castle and ruins with visible structural features from different parts of the complex.

Stories along the way and activities on the water

The Obuwniczy Szlak is about six kilometres long and shares stories and legends from Krapkowice’s past centuries. It features mysterious bronze shoes and QR codes. The shoes are named Laciek, Mieszczuch, Kopytko, Pepoż, Rogatek, Rolszpila, Tempel and Wyczynówka. The route thus combines a set distance with stories visitors can discover at each marker.

For those who prefer to be on the water, Port Jachtowy Krapkowice, at the mouth of the Osobłoga where it meets the Oder, offers several options: kayaks, pedal boats and boats are available to rent. Trips on the Oder are also offered, with views of Krapkowice’s medieval castle. Renting a boat and taking a trip on the river are different ways to spend time on the water.

In Żużela, within Krapkowice municipality, children and adults can interact directly with animals under the supervision of their hosts. Selected animal species may be photographed and fed. Mini Zoo Żużela also offers children educational activities with games and entertainment, as well as a small playground, a carousel and bouncy castles. These activities and facilities are a distinct focus within the municipality.

Cycling and nature in Krapkowice County

Krapkowice County lies in the central part of the Opole Voivodeship, along the upper Oder and at the foot of Góra Świętej Anny. The “Doliny Odry” settlement landscape extends across the municipalities of Walce, Zdzieszowice, Krapkowice and Gogolin. The Oder and Osobłoga valleys provide a regional setting for walks, cycling and birdwatching. The county also includes the Łęg Zdzieszowicki and Żywocickie Łęgi Natura 2000 sites.

Cyclists can use an interactive cycling map of the county. It shows a detailed network of routes, roads and cycle paths; when choosing a route, you can take into account the time available, your preferred distance and the difficulty level. This offers a practical basis for planning a cycling trip around the time you have, rather than just a single destination.

Another regional option is Lake Srebrne in Januszkowice. It has a swimming lake, fishing spots and accommodation on the water. These options broaden the focus beyond Krapkowice’s town history and Oder boat trips, adding a distinct attraction in the county.

Discover more destinations: Zabierzów, Kujau, Gogolin, Zellin, Kamień Śląski, Moschen, Mallnie, Rogów Opolski, Krapkowice, Zdzieszowice, Oleszka.

Go to the main travel overview: Opole.