2-Day Solo Adventure: Sightseeing and Nightlife in Poznan, Poland

Poznan, Poland

2 days

Medieval gothic cathedral
Baroque Collegiate church
Poznan Gate museum by the Cybina river
Aerial view of the Cytadela park lake and Rosarium
Statue and architecture of the main square

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 1

Exploring the Heart of Poznan

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Old Market Square, the heart of Poznan. Here, you can admire the colorful merchant houses, the Town Hall, and the famous Poznan Goats. Don't forget to explore the small streets around the square, filled with charming boutiques and galleries.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Polish lunch in one of the many restaurants around the Old Market Square. Try pierogi, bigos, or zurek for a true taste of Poland.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Royal Castle. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city. Then, visit the nearby Poznan Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Poland.

Dinner

For dinner, try some Polish street food in the Jezyce district. Here, you can find food trucks serving everything from zapiekanka to kielbasa.

Evening

Spend your evening exploring the vibrant nightlife in the Stary Browar area. This former brewery has been transformed into a shopping, arts, and entertainment complex.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Malta Lake. You can rent a bike or a kayak, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake.

Lunch

Have lunch in one of the lakeside restaurants, enjoying the view and the fresh air. Try some local fish dishes for a change.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the New Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try the ski slope or the toboggan run nearby.

Dinner

For dinner, head to the trendy Srodka district. Here, you can find a wide variety of restaurants serving both Polish and international cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Citadel Park. Enjoy a peaceful evening walk, admire the war monuments, and visit the Army Museum if you're interested in military history.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

Old Market Square

1
Old Market Square

A vibrant square in the heart of Poznan, surrounded by colorful townhouses and filled with restaurants and shops.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Town Hall

2
Town Hall

A historic city hall located in the Old Market Square, known for its Renaissance style and the famous Poznan Goats show.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Poznan Goats

3
Poznan Goats

A traditional show held at the Town Hall where two mechanical goats appear and butt heads at noon.

Attractions
Landmarks
Royal Castle

4
Royal 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.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Poznan Cathedral

5
Poznan 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.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Cultural Experiences
Stary Browar

6
Stary Browar

A shopping and cultural center located in a former brewery, featuring shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Attractions
Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Malta Lake

7
Malta Lake

A man-made lake offering various recreational activities such as rowing, mini golf, and skiing in winter.

Attractions
Parks
Sports
New Zoo

8
New Zoo

Located near Lake Malta, the New Zoo is a large zoological garden housing a variety of animals from around the world. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.

Attractions
Citadel Park

9
Citadel 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.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
Army Museum

10
Army Museum

A museum dedicated to the history of the Polish military, featuring a collection of weapons, uniforms, and other military artifacts.

Museums

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Rogal świętomarciński

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

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

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

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

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

Sernik

A traditional Polish cheesecake, usually made with a sweet curd cheese. It's a popular dessert in Poznan.

Paczki

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyzł PLN

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112, 999

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type E

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.

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Poznan is one of the oldest cities in Poland, with a history dating back over 1000 years?

1 of 10

Places near by Poznan, Poland

Gniezno Cathedral

Gniezno Cathedral

A Gothic cathedral known as the burial place of ancient Polish kings.

1h
52.2 km / 32.4 mi
How to get there
Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, Ostrów Tumski

Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, Ostrów Tumski

One of the oldest churches in Poland located on the island of Ostrów Tumski.

1h
56.4 km / 35.0 mi
How to get there
Kórnik Castle

Kórnik Castle

A historic castle and arboretum located in Kórnik.

45m
32.1 km / 19.9 mi
How to get there
Rogalin Palace

Rogalin Palace

A historic palace and park complex known for its oak trees.

30m
19.3 km / 12.0 mi
How to get there
Old Town, Toruń

Old Town, Toruń

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture.

2h
148.7 km / 92.4 mi
How to get there
Malbork Castle

Malbork Castle

The largest castle in the world by land area, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3h
234.5 km / 145.7 mi
How to get there
Wrocław Market Square

Wrocław Market Square

One of the largest market squares in Europe, surrounded by elegant townhouses.

2.5h
180.1 km / 111.9 mi
How to get there
Biskupin

Biskupin

An archaeological site and a life-size model of an Iron Age fortified settlement in Poland.

1.5h
80.3 km / 49.9 mi
How to get there
Łódź

Łódź

Known for its modernist architecture and the Piotrkowska Street – one of the longest commercial thoroughfares in Europe.

2h
133.7 km / 83.1 mi
How to get there
Bydgoszcz

Bydgoszcz

A city known for its Art Nouveau architecture and the Bydgoszcz Canal.

2h
147.3 km / 91.5 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in Poland