go! Bielsko – Biała

While the Old Town with its Market Square is the centre of food and drinking scene, for shopping you need to head to the neighborhood of 11 Listopada Street or to one of the shopping malls.

11 Listopada Street from its beginning has been the main shopping promenade in the city. Unfortunately, like many shopping streets in Europe, the street became a victim of the growth and development of modern shopping malls. These streets can hardly compete with shopping malls that own large parking, always have a good weather, and offer other comforts. Nevertheless, a walk on 11 Listopada is a must, even if only to imagine how buzzing this place must had been in the past, and to visit some of the small quirky shops. 11 Listopada Street is also one of the prettiest streets in Bielsko-Biała with a wonderful architecture and great vibe.

Klimczok Department Store

Klimczok Department Store is located just in the middle of the historical centre of Biała, by 11 Listopada Street. It was opened in 1989, just at the break of the communism. Even though it was highly controversial due to its modern design and unfortunate location (among old building), the opening of this department was a huge event. It was even transmitted on the national TV. The store had offered shopping opportunities unseen in Bielsko-Biała, or pretty much elsewhere in Poland, at that time. With its full shelfs of goods and an escalator (yes, that was something big back then), it offered a glimpse into the modern and western world.

Now, the department store is outrun by the modern shopping malls and it is still criticized for its appearance, but it has a rather interesting atmosphere, some interesting shops and well stocked supermarket Społem.