2-Day Essential Guide to Poznan, Poland
Poznan, Poland
2 days
About Poznan, Poland
Discover the vibrant city of Poznan, Poland, a perfect blend of rich history and modern allure. Explore the Renaissance-style buildings in the Old Market Square, including the stunning Poznan Town Hall. Visit the Poznan Cathedral, the oldest Polish cathedral, dating back to the 10th century. Enjoy the unique shopping experience at Stary Browar, a shopping mall housed in a former brewery. Don't miss the Malta Lake, ideal for leisure activities. Experience Poznan's vibrant nightlife in its numerous pubs and clubs. Taste the local cuisine, especially the St. Martin's croissant. Poznan also hosts various events like the Malta Theatre Festival and the St. Martin's Street Festival. A trip to Poznan offers a rich cultural experience, captivating history, and lively entertainment.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Historic and Cultural Journey in Poznan
Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to the Poznan Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Poland. Don't miss the Golden Chapel, the final resting place of the first Polish rulers.
Lunch
Have lunch in the Ostrow Tumski area, known for its quaint cafes and restaurants. Enjoy a meal while soaking in the historic atmosphere of this oldest part of Poznan.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the Citadel Park, a large green space that houses several monuments and museums. It's also a perfect place for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
Dinner
Dine in the Jezyce district, known for its vibrant food scene. Here, you'll find a range of restaurants serving both Polish and international cuisines.
Evening
Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Grand Theatre, one of the most beautiful opera houses in Poland. Enjoy a performance or simply admire the stunning architecture.
Attractions in Itinerary (12)
1Old Market Square
A vibrant square in the heart of Poznan, surrounded by colorful townhouses and filled with restaurants and shops.
2Town Hall
A historic city hall located in the Old Market Square, known for its Renaissance style and the famous Poznan Goats show.
3Billy Goats
The Billy Goats are a famous attraction in Poznan, where two mechanical goats emerge from the town hall clock tower at noon to butt heads. This is a tradition that dates back to the 16th century.
4Royal Castle
The Royal Castle in Poznan is a historic landmark that dates back to the 10th century. It was the residence of the first Polish rulers. Today, it houses a museum and offers panoramic views of the city.
5Stary Browar
A shopping and cultural center located in a former brewery, featuring shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
6Lake Malta
A man-made lake in Poznan, offering a variety of recreational activities such as rowing, canoeing, mini golf, and skiing in the winter. It's also home to the Malta Ski, the New Zoo, and the Termy Maltanskie thermal baths.
7Poznan Cathedral
Also known as the Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, this is one of the oldest churches in Poland and a significant historical landmark. It houses the tombs of the first Polish rulers.
8Golden Chapel
The Golden Chapel is a mausoleum where the remains of Polish rulers are kept. It is a part of the St. Peter and St. Paul Basilica and is known for its stunning golden dome.
9Ostrow Tumski
Ostrow Tumski, also known as Cathedral Island, is the oldest part of Poznan. It is home to the Poznan Cathedral and other historical buildings, offering a glimpse into the city's past.
10Citadel Park
A large park in Poznan, Poland, which is home to several monuments and museums, including the 'Poznan Army' museum and the 'Museum of Armoured Weaponry'. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
11Jezyce
Jezyce is a vibrant neighborhood in Poznan known for its market, food scene, and unique boutiques. It's a great place to explore local life and cuisine.
12Grand Theatre
One of the most beautiful neoclassical buildings in Poznan, the Grand Theatre hosts a variety of performances, including opera and ballet. It's a must-visit for culture and art enthusiasts.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Rogal świętomarciński
A croissant-like pastry filled with poppy seeds, nuts, raisins, and a hint of alcohol. It's a traditional treat in Poznan, especially on St. Martin's Day.
Pierogi
A classic Polish dish, these dumplings are often filled with a variety of ingredients such as meat, cheese, or fruits. They are a must-try when visiting Poznan.
Bigos
A traditional Polish stew made from sauerkraut, various meats, and a mix of spices. It's a hearty dish perfect for cold weather in Poznan.
Kotlet Schabowy
This is the Polish version of a breaded pork cutlet, similar to a schnitzel. It's a staple dish in Poznan and across Poland.
Gołąbki
Cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of meat and rice, then baked in a tomato sauce. This dish is a traditional comfort food in Poznan.
Zurek
A sour rye soup typically served with sausage and hard-boiled egg. It's a popular traditional dish in Poznan.
Kielbasa
Polish sausage is a staple in Poznan's cuisine. It can be served in a variety of ways, but is often grilled and served with bread and mustard.
Sernik
A traditional Polish cheesecake, usually made with a sweet curd cheese. It's a popular dessert in Poznan.
Paczki
These are Polish doughnuts, often filled with rosehip jam and covered with glaze or powdered sugar. They are a popular treat in Poznan.
Kasza Gryczana
Buckwheat groats, a staple in Polish cuisine. They are often served as a side dish in Poznan.
Wódka
Vodka is a popular alcoholic beverage in Poznan and throughout Poland. It's often served chilled and straight.
Piwo
Beer is widely consumed in Poznan. The city has a rich brewing history, with many local breweries producing a variety of styles.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Poznan, Poland is during the late spring and early summer months, from May to June, when the weather is warm and the city is full of vibrant colors. Additionally, the fall months of September and October are also a good time to visit, as the weather is still pleasant and the city is less crowded. However, if you're interested in experiencing Poznan's Christmas markets, then December would be the ideal time for your visit.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 3 | Fri | Constitution Day |
May 19 | Sun | Whit Sunday |
May 30 | Thu | Corpus Christi |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
November 11 | Mon | Independence Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Second Day of Christmas |
How to get around
Public Transportation
Poznan boasts a well-developed public transportation system, which includes trams and buses. The city's tram network is extensive and can take you to most major attractions and areas of the city. Buses are also available, especially for areas not covered by the tram network.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Poznan and can be hailed on the street, booked over the phone, or picked up from designated taxi ranks. They offer a convenient way to get around, especially if you're carrying heavy luggage or traveling in a group.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Poznan. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city, especially if you're familiar with the service and have the app on your phone.
Bicycle
Poznan is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and bike-sharing stations. The city's bike-sharing program, Nextbike, allows you to rent a bike from one station and return it at another. This is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and get some exercise at the same time.
Car Rental
Car rental services are available in Poznan, and can be a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding region. However, driving in the city center can be challenging due to traffic and parking restrictions. It's recommended to use public transportation or walk when exploring the city center.
Walk
Poznan's city center is compact and most of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is not only a cost-effective way to get around, but also a great way to soak in the city's atmosphere and discover hidden gems.
Train
Poznan has a central train station, Poznan Glowny, which connects the city to other major cities in Poland and Europe. It's a convenient way to travel if you're planning to visit other cities during your stay.
Important information
Currencyzł PLN
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112, 999
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Poznan, Poland as a first time visitor
1
Poznan is located in west-central Poland, about 3 hours drive from the capital, Warsaw.
2
The official language is Polish, but English is widely spoken, especially among younger people and in tourist areas.
3
The currency in Poland is the Polish Zloty (PLN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.
4
Poznan has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 60-75°F (15-24°C), while winter temperatures can drop to 20-30°F (-6 to -1°C).
5
Public transportation in Poznan is excellent, with a network of trams and buses that cover the city. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, ticket machines, or directly from the driver.
6
Tipping is customary in Poland. It's typical to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants and cafes.
7
Poznan is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and music venues.
8
The city is very safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
9
Poznan is a university city, so it has a large student population and a youthful, energetic vibe.
10
Polish cuisine is hearty and delicious. Be sure to try local specialties like pierogi (dumplings), kielbasa (sausage), and paczki (Polish donuts).
11
Poznan has a rich history and is known for its beautiful architecture, including Renaissance-style buildings and colorful townhouses.
12
The city has a number of parks and green spaces, making it a great destination for outdoor activities.
13
Poznan is a great city for shopping, with a mix of local boutiques, markets, and modern shopping malls.
14
Poland is part of the Schengen Agreement, so EU citizens can enter without a visa. Non-EU citizens may require a visa, so check before you travel.
15
Poznan has a strong cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters.
16
The city is also known for its annual events and festivals, including the Malta Theatre Festival and the Poznan International Fair.
17
Poland uses the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).
18
Poznan has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and vacation rentals.
19
Poland has a universal healthcare system, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
20
Poznan is a pedestrian-friendly city, with many of its key attractions within walking distance of each other.
Basic Polish to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Cześć | Cheh-sh-ch | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Do widzenia | Doh vee-dzen-ya | Saying goodbye |
Please | Proszę | Pro-sheh | Making a request |
Thank you | Dziękuję | Jenkoo-yeh | Showing gratitude |
Yes | Tak | Tahk | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Nie | Nee-eh | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Przepraszam | Pshe-pra-sham | Getting attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | Nie rozumiem | Nee-eh ro-zoo-myem | When you don't understand what was said |
Do you speak English? | Czy mówisz po angielsku? | Chy moo-vish po an-gyel-skoo? | Asking if someone speaks English |
Where is...? | Gdzie jest...? | Gd-jeh yest? | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Łazienka | Wah-zh-ehn-kah | Looking for a restroom |
Help | Pomoc | Po-mots | In case of emergency |
Food | Jedzenie | Yed-zhen-ye | Looking for a place to eat |
Water | Woda | Vo-dah | Asking for water |
Beer | Piwo | Pee-vo | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Wino | Vee-no | Ordering wine |
Check, please | Rachunek, proszę | Ra-hoo-nek, pro-sheh | Asking for the bill |
How much does it cost? | Ile to kosztuje? | Ee-leh toh kos-too-ye? | Asking for the price |
I'm sorry | Przykro mi | Pshih-kroh mee | Apologizing |
Good night | Dobranoc | Doh-brah-nots | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sleepwear
Light jacket or sweater
Raincoat or umbrella
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Hand sanitizer
Travel-sized first aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Airline tickets
Hotel reservation confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency (Polish złoty)
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Power bank
Travel adapter plug
Camera
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Bottled water
Books or e-books for the flight
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Reusable shopping bag
Travel guide and map of Poznan
Weather Conditions
Poznan, Poland experiences a temperate seasonal climate, with variations throughout the year. In the winter months, from December to February, Poznan can get quite chilly, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging around -1°C (30°F). It's not uncommon for the city to be covered in snow during this period. Therefore, if you're planning a winter visit, make sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Spring, from March to May, sees a gradual rise in temperatures, with averages ranging from 4°C (39°F) in March to 15°C (59°F) in May. This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the city's parks and gardens in bloom. Summers, from June to August, are generally warm but not excessively hot, with average temperatures hovering around 19°C (66°F) to 24°C (75°F). However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures up to 30°C (86°F). This is the perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Don't forget to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. Autumn, from September to November, is characterized by cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. The average temperatures during this season range from 10°C (50°F) in September to 3°C (37°F) in November. This is a beautiful time to visit Poznan, as the city's parks and forests are awash with autumn colors. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're adequately prepared. Also, keep in mind that the weather can change quickly, so it's wise to pack layers and always carry an umbrella or raincoat.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 2° / -3° | January is the coldest month in Poznan, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Be sure to pack warm clothing if you plan to visit during this time. |
February | 4° / -2° | February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. Snowfall is common, making the city look like a winter wonderland. |
March | 8° / 0° | March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures slowly rising. However, there can still be some chilly days, so pack a mix of warm and light clothing. |
April | 13° / 3° | April is a pleasant month to visit Poznan, with temperatures becoming more comfortable. The city starts to bloom, making it a beautiful time to explore. |
May | 18° / 8° | May brings warmer temperatures and longer days. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities. |
June | 21° / 11° | June is the start of summer in Poznan, with temperatures often reaching the low 20s. It's a great time to visit the city's parks and outdoor attractions. |
July | 23° / 13° | July is the warmest month in Poznan, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city. Be sure to pack light clothing and sunscreen. |
August | 23° / 13° | August is similar to July in terms of weather, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to enjoy Poznan's outdoor cafes and restaurants. |
September | 19° / 9° | September marks the beginning of autumn, with temperatures starting to drop. However, it's still a good time to visit, especially if you enjoy the fall colors. |
October | 13° / 5° | October can be quite chilly, especially in the evenings. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy quieter tourist periods and don't mind the colder weather. |
November | 7° / 1° | November is a cold month in Poznan, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy indoor activities and museums. |
December | 3° / -1° | December is a festive month in Poznan, with Christmas markets and lights. However, it's also one of the coldest months, so pack warm clothing. |
Did you know?
Places near by Poznan, Poland
Gniezno Cathedral
A Gothic cathedral known as the burial place of ancient Polish kings.
Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, Ostrów Tumski
One of the oldest churches in Poland located on the island of Ostrów Tumski.
Kórnik Castle
A historic castle and arboretum located in Kórnik.
Rogalin Palace
A historic palace and park complex known for its oak trees.
Old Town, Toruń
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture.
Malbork Castle
The largest castle in the world by land area, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Wrocław Market Square
One of the largest market squares in Europe, surrounded by elegant townhouses.
Biskupin
An archaeological site and a life-size model of an Iron Age fortified settlement in Poland.
Łódź
Known for its modernist architecture and the Piotrkowska Street – one of the longest commercial thoroughfares in Europe.
Bydgoszcz
A city known for its Art Nouveau architecture and the Bydgoszcz Canal.
