Szczawnica is recognised as the most popular town in the region among hikers, canoeists, visitors to sanatoria and all those who prefer mountains to beaches for their vacation.

The one thing that one must do while in Szczawnica is to try a cup of the local waters from a small taproom in the heart of the town. A modest museum is to be found higher up the hill, housing an assemblage of Pieniny costumes. Though not large, the collection is worth seeing for the embroidered waistcoats typical for the region.

Offering fantastic views of the valley, the 722-metre-high Palenica Mountain can be reached by a chairlift. Once there, winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy a short downhill route and a small snowboard park to boot. It is at the chairlift terminal that the Dunajec Gorge foot- and cycle-path starts, going along the south bank of the river and then, after 3 km, entering into Slovakia (the border serves pedestrians and cyclists). Near to the Palenica Mountain, on the Szafranowka Mountain, the 700-metre-high alpine coaster is a hit with children and grown-ups alike. Szczawnica is also the place for a raft trip along the Dunajec River Gorge.

A unique microclimate and mineral water springs allow for the treatment of urinary, digestive and respiratory tract diseases as well as motor organ diseases.