As the capital of eastern Małopolska, Tarnów also makes an ideal base for exploring all of the fascinating sites and landscapes of the surrounding region, particularly if you have a car. In addition to Tarnów's own charms, eastern Małopolska is home to numerous historical and architectural landmarks, including picturesque castles in
Dębno and
Nowy Wiśnicz, the
Bochnia Salt Mine and nearby archaeological park, the charming small towns of
Gorlice,
Ciężkowice,
Zalipie and
Lipnica Murowana (home to the UNESCO-listed
St. Leonard's Church),
the best vineyards in PL, dozens of
historical wooden churches and tserkvas, plus literally hundreds of small
WWI military cemeteries. All are within less than an hour's drive from Tarnów and make for worthwhile detours.
Of course, if you haven't been to
Kraków yet, remember that it lies less than an hour to the west by car, as does the famous
Wieliczka Salt Mine and numerous other
attractions nearer to Kraków, which you can explore here. Visit
Kraków In Your Pocket for more info on all there is to explore in and around Małopolska.