UPDATED 11 December 2025
Poznań is a unique city on the map of Poland – the capital of the Wielkopolska (Greater Poland) region, officially home to around 540,000 people, and in 2023 alone it welcomed more than 4 million visitors from Poland and abroad. Why is it worth coming here, and what should you see in Poznań during a weekend or a longer stay? The billy goats on Poznań Town Hall, pyry z gzikiem (potatoes with curd cheese), St Martin’s croissants and the distinctive local dialect are just the beginning.
If you’re wondering what to see in Poznań and what the most interesting Poznań attractions are, we’ve put together a list of places that are truly worth visiting: from Ostrów Tumski in Poznań and Cytadela Park, through the Poznań Palm House, the Old Zoo and the New Zoo (with practical information about tickets), to the Imperial Castle, Enea Stadion and other Poznań attractions. The city offers both relaxed family strolls and attractions for teenagers, and it’s also a great base for exploring interesting places around Wielkopolska. It’s no coincidence that people say: Poznań – a city of experiences.
What is Poznań famous for?
You may associate Poznań with pyry z gzikiem, billy goats, the word “tej!” and St Martin’s croissants. All of these associations are perfectly correct and a source of pride for the city’s residents, but that’s not all the city is known for.
Poznań owes its popularity, among other things, to the Poznań International Fair, which hosts numerous world-class trade events, the Renaissance town hall standing in the middle of the Old Market Square, Lake Malta, one of the best-known artificial lakes in the whole of Poland, and Ostrów Tumski, which witnessed many key moments in the formation of the Polish state.
It’s a beautiful city that’s also worth visiting for its surroundings. Around Poznań you’ll find smaller towns and villages hiding plenty of attractions for the whole family.
The biggest attractions in Poznań
Poznań is a city with many attractions, but it’s the ones below that have built its reputation around the world. We’ve prepared a round-up of the most interesting attractions in the capital of Wielkopolska, broken down by district.
The Old Market Square and Poznań Town Hall – the classics to start with
If this is your first visit, start with the Old Market Square. This is where the Renaissance Poznań Town Hall stands, and where the famous billy goats butt heads every day at 12:00. It’s an absolute “must see” when someone asks: what to see in Poznań in one day?
While you’re in the area, you can’t miss a stroll around the Old Market Square, with its many restaurants and cafés and, above all, its picturesque townhouses and charming little streets. On the Old Market Square it’s worth looking up, because the townhouses have very original decorations.
Here you’ll also find beautiful fountains and the famous Bamberka – a public well commemorating the settlers who arrived in Poznań from the Bamberg area in the 18th century.
On the Old Market Square, right next to the town hall, you’ll also find the Pillory, which marks the spot where criminals were punished in public view. It depicts an executioner belonging to the court bench, holding a sword (the symbol of the death penalty) and a birch rod.
Heading towards the Old Town, it’s worth stopping at the Poznań Parish Church (Fara). It’s one of the symbols of Poznań and looks stunning both outside and inside. If you’re lucky, you might catch one of the organ concerts. The sound and the sacred ornamentation of the Fara will make a huge impression on you!
The Old Town
It’s just a stone’s throw from the Old Market Square. Walk a few hundred metres from the square and you’ll reach the Royal Castle, which offers an excellent viewpoint over the Poznań skyline. You’ll find it on Przemysł Hill. Inside is also the Museum of Applied Arts, with collections of objects in various materials, furniture, textiles and jewellery. Another stop on a tour of Poznań’s Old Town is the Imperial Castle, built for the last German emperor and King of Prussia, Wilhelm II. In 1939 it also served as a residence for Adolf Hitler. Today it houses interesting exhibitions and intriguing, beautifully decorated halls. The castle is located on Święty Marcin Street.
Next to the castle you’ll also find a corner dedicated to the Polish cryptologists who broke earlier versions of the German Enigma. The exhibition is hidden inside a booth that resembles a cipher machine. While you’re near the castle, be sure to take a walk along Św. Marcin Street, whose redevelopment stirred up plenty of controversy among Poznań residents. Its modern look features a small amount of greenery and minimalist touches. Next to this street you’ll find Plac Wolności (Freedom Square) with its modern fountain. This is where the city’s biggest protests and Christmas markets take place. There is also a branch of the Raczyński Library on Plac Wolności.
Cytadela Park / Cytadela Poznań – the biggest park in the city
Cytadela Park (often simply called Cytadela Poznań) is the largest green space in the city – perfect for a longer walk, a picnic or a run. On the grounds of the former fortress you’ll find the Armaments Museum, the “Poznań” Army Museum, numerous outdoor sculptures and war cemeteries.
It’s a good Poznań attraction for those who want a break from the hustle and bustle of the city but don’t have time to leave town. In summer you’ll easily spot locals here with a blanket, a takeaway coffee and a book.
Poznań Palm House – the tropics in the middle of the city
If the weather lets you down, the Poznań Palm House in Wilson Park is a great option. It’s one of the largest palm houses in Europe – the collection numbers around 1,100 plant species spread across several pavilions, plus an aquarium with exotic fish. It works well both as a peaceful Poznań attraction for adults and as an interesting nature lesson for children. A walk among palms and cacti while it’s grey outside is an easy way to feel the tropical vibe for a little while.
Ostrów Tumski Poznań – where Polish history began
This is the place you’ll find just before Poznań’s Śródka district and beyond the Old Town, although you could say it also counts as part of the Old Town’s surroundings. In Ostrów Tumski it’s worth seeing Poznań Cathedral, the Genius Loci Archaeological Reserve, the Archdiocesan Museum, the Palatium Ruins and the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Porta Posnania ICHOT. All these places will reveal the history of Poznań, but also of Poland. What’s more, Ostrów Tumski is beautiful, and the area itself and a walk around it will be deeply satisfying for anyone visiting Poznań.
Śródka
Walk a few hundred metres on from Ostrów Tumski and you’ll find yourself in the very heart of Poznań’s Śródka. It’s worth lingering here a little longer to take in the beautiful surroundings and visit the nearby cafés and restaurants. Poznań’s Śródka has a great atmosphere, although its history is not exactly a happy one – it was hemmed in by a system of fortifications, which prevented it from developing.
Poznań’s Malta
From Śródka it’s literally a stone’s throw to Poznań’s famous Malta. You can walk there or take a tram or a city bike. Malta is a complex that includes the Termy Maltańskie water park, canoeing courses, a ski slope and sledging hills. At its centre lies an artificial reservoir, namely Lake Malta. A walk around the lake is a great way to escape the city bustle. The circuit is only 5 km. And if you’re planning a longer walk, head up along the lake and you’ll reach the New Zoo, where a visit will take you at least half a day, because Poznań’s zoo is truly enormous! You can also get there on the historic “Maltanka” narrow-gauge railway, which runs from Śródka right up to the gates of the New Zoo.
The most interesting museums in Poznań
Poznań hides many interesting museums that will satisfy the curiosity of even the most inquisitive history fans. While in the capital of Wielkopolska, it’s definitely worth visiting the Poznań Croissant Museum on the Old Market Square. In the museum you’ll learn everything about the tradition and baking of St Martin’s croissants, and get to know Poznań’s dialect and history better. Also on the Old Market Square, the Henryk Sienkiewicz Literary Museum awaits you, with exhibitions devoted to the writer’s work and his books. Another museum dedicated to the memory of a famous artist is the Józef Ignacy Kraszewski Studio-Museum on Wroniecka Street. Here you’ll find a collection of more than 3,000 volumes and first editions of books, along with manuscripts and letters to publishers.
You can’t skip the National Museum in Poznań, home to the National Museum’s Gallery of Painting and Sculpture, with works by Malczewski, Monet, Matejko and Velázquez, among others. Nearby, on Św. Marcin Street, the historic Museum of the Poznań Uprising awaits you, as does the Pharmacy Museum of the Wielkopolska District Pharmaceutical Chamber on Marcinkowskiego Street. While in Poznań it’s also worth visiting the Chocolate Museum, where you’ll learn to make your own chocolate and discover all the secrets of this sweet treat. Tasting is practically compulsory here! Another must on the list of Poznań’s most interesting museums is Porta Posnania ICHOT, which you’ll find next to Ostrów Tumski, on the River Cybina. It’s an interactive centre presenting the history of Ostrów Tumski.
Lovers of archaeological digs simply must also visit the Genius Loci Archaeological Reserve at 3 Ignacego Posadzego Street. This place hides perfectly preserved structures of the 10th-century defensive rampart of the Poznań stronghold! A treat for anyone curious about early medieval engineering. The museum has a modern layout with a range of multimedia educational materials that present the history of the stronghold from different perspectives in an engaging way.
And have you ever heard of the Bambers? They’re an ethnic group that played a major role in repopulating the deserted villages around Poznań at the beginning of the 18th century. You’ll find the Bamber Museum on Mostowa Street in Poznań, with exhibitions devoted to the clothing, rural cottages and everyday objects of the settlers from Bamberg. No list of Poznań’s most interesting museums would be complete without the Poznań Potato Museum on Wroniecka Street. You may be surprised that a side dish you know so well hides so many stories, which you’ll discover on a visit to this establishment.
The best spots in Poznań for Instagram photos
Poznań is a city full of atmosphere that’s worth showing off on your Instagram. If you’re looking for interesting corners for memorable Instagram photos, be sure to visit:Stary Browar – a shopping centre located on Poznań’s pedestrian street, Półwiejska Street to be precise. It’s the favourite spot of Poznań’s influencers. The courtyard is especially impressive, with its many restaurants, outdoor seating areas and an interesting view of Stary Browar’s architecture.
The Old Market Square – the townhouses impress everyone, especially with their beautiful colours. Admittedly, the Old Market Square is currently being renovated, but you may still manage to capture an interesting shot.
The streets off the Old Market Square – trust us, every street leading off the Old Market Square has its own unique atmosphere. Be sure to take a look at Gołębia, Świętosławska, Wrocławska and Żydowska Streets.
Malta – especially at sunset, it looks amazing in photos. You can also venture on a walk along the River Cybina into the forest – here you’re sure to discover charming corners full of nature.
Młyńska 12 – the atmospheric staircase in this restored townhouse is hugely popular with photographers shooting wedding sessions.
Śródka – here the most atmosphere comes from the local cafés and restaurants, but also from the famous three-dimensional mural, based on a photograph from the 1920s, which makes a perfect backdrop.
Ostrów Tumski – or more precisely the bridge connecting Ostrów Tumski with Śródka – a spot worth photographing at any time of year. According to urban legend, a couple who hang a padlock with their initials on it will enjoy a happy and harmonious marriage.
Plac Wolności – the steps of the Empik store and the atmospheric fountain at the exit from Plac Wolności are impressive and make the perfect spot for a souvenir photo. Just watch out for the crowds that flock here whenever events are held.
Sołacki Park – one of the most beautiful parks in Poznań. The ground is carpeted with ivy, and there’s no shortage of beautiful, spreading trees. The park is at its loveliest in spring and autumn. A perfect place for a walk!
The Ballet School courtyard – a place with real character, which you’ll find by the Old Market Square. Worth including when planning your tour of the city centre.
The Grand Theatre in Poznań – the theatre’s steps and the lions at the entrance are impressive, and opposite there’s also a beautiful park where many people like to spend their time.
Cytadela – it can’t be left off the list of Poznań’s most beautiful corners worth capturing on your Instagram. The atmospheric avenues with their many sculptures and the restaurant located here draw real crowds in the spring and summer season.
Jeżyce – here it’s simply worth going for a walk with a camera in hand. Exploring the beautiful side streets of Jeżyce will bring you plenty of joy.
Child-friendly places in Poznań
If you’re heading to Poznań with children, keep the following in mind:
The Poznań Palm House – here children can admire beautiful plants, but also feed the fish swimming in the open tank inside the palm house. Right next to the Palm House is also Wilson Park, where you may come across some ducks.
The Croissant Museum – in the museum you and your children can bake your own croissants together and learn about the city’s history.
The Old Market Square and the billy goats – a must at 12:00 that you have to show your children. The head-butting billy goats on the town hall tower are the biggest attraction for the little ones.
The New Zoo and the Old Zoo – both zoos are worth visiting with children. For the former, it’s a good idea to take the Maltanka railway right up to the zoo gates. The little train is a big hit with the youngest visitors.
Cytadela – 100 hectares for the little ones to explore. You can bring a bike or roller skates – the children will find plenty of space to ride around, and when they get tired you can take them to the museums and show them the famous tanks standing in front of the building.
Porta Posnania ICHOT – here you’ll find lots of educational toys and a playroom for children. You can also pick out accessories for a knight and make your own ducal seal.
Termy Maltańskie – a must for all little fans of water attractions. There are water playgrounds, pools and slides, as well as the flower saunas so prized by locals. The whole family will find something for themselves here. A perfect place to relax together.
How to get around Poznań?
Poznań isn’t a big city, and you can even see its main sights on foot. Be warned, though, that some attractions are several kilometres apart, so it’s worth considering alternative ways of getting around the capital of Wielkopolska. Especially as it’s a bike-friendly city. What’s the best way to explore Poznań?
On foot – the capital of Wielkopolska is worth exploring on foot, especially as most of the attractions are located around the city centre. On top of that, on every corner you’ll find charming little squares, parks with benches and picturesque streets lined with cafés, bakeries and restaurants.
By bike – Poznań is a city that’s friendly to cyclists and their two-wheelers. In the centre you’ll find plenty of cycle paths where you can comfortably get around by bike or e-scooter. Of course, if you’re not bringing your own bike on the trip, there are city bikes waiting for you, which can be rented using an app and a bank card.
By public transport – in Poznań, trams and buses will take you to practically every corner of the city, but bear in mind that public transport fares here are among the highest in the country, so it’s worth thinking about buying a 24-hour ticket rather than a short-term one. You can buy tickets via jakdojade.pl, SkyCash and mobilet.
By car – this is the option for those who want to get around the outskirts of the city and visit Cytadela or Malta. In the centre it’s definitely better to get around on foot or by bike. That way you won’t miss any of the city’s charms!
Where to stay in Poznań?
There’s no shortage of hotels, hostels and apartments to rent in Poznań. You’ll find cheap accommodation on booking.com or trivago.pl. It’s also worth looking at the nearby hostels in the very heart of the centre, usually around Wrocławska Street, which has a reputation as the city’s top party street. In the centre you’ll also find rooms at the Ibis Hotel, PURO Hotel, Altus, Andersia, Novotel and Hampton by Hilton – here you certainly won’t be short of luxury, and the old town will be just a few steps away.
Where to eat regional delicacies in Poznań?
While in Poznań, it’s worth trying the local cuisine. The best place to do so is Pyra Bar for pyry z gzikiem and other potato dishes. You’ll also discover the flavours of the region at the restaurants Bamberka, Bulwar and Hyćka. For roast duck, head to Hacjenda. For somewhat more refined dishes, drop in to Restauracja Rynek and Ratuszova. You’ll find St Martin’s croissants in practically every patisserie, but be careful – not all of them hold the proper certificate.
If you’re looking for atmospheric restaurants, take a stroll around the Old Market Square and its side streets. You’ll find plenty of interesting places here, many of which also hide beautiful gardens. These include Barcydzieło, MOMO and The Mexican. In search of a nice atmosphere and good food, it’s also worth heading to Jeżyce, which hides many lovely cafés and restaurants.
Vegans and vegetarians will find something for themselves too! In Poznań you’ll find many restaurants and cafés serving plant-based dishes. People with special dietary needs will also find places serving gluten-free food.
Poznań nightlife – where to go for a drink?
Poznań’s top party street is Wrocławska Street. Here you’ll find clubs and pubs where you can enjoy a drink or a beer, or sing karaoke. While you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth dropping in to Hocus Pocus, which usually hosts karaoke, Kultowa, where you can dance the night away at a rock disco, and Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa for a quick shot and a snack. Another interesting spot is Hola Hola, where you can enjoy delicious cocktails, including in the outdoor seating area.
Heading deeper into the Old Market Square, it’s worth dropping in to Whiskey in the Jar for a steak and a tasty Jar, Stacja Cafe Pub, which has a very atmospheric interior, Brovaria, which will satisfy more elegant guests, and Dragon Social Club, which attracts the city’s artistic crowd. Those looking for a dance floor and good music to dance to are best whisked off to Czekolada on Wrocławska Street, Cubra Libre, also on that street, or Czarna Owca on Jaskółcza Street.
The spring and summer season in Poznań
Poznań is friendly to tourists and residents alike, and has a lot to offer, especially on warmer days. When visiting the city, you can’t miss the famous KontenerART, located right on the River Warta on the Chwaliszewo side. Here you can relax in the open air, enjoy a drink and grab something to eat from the street food trucks.
Apart from the “containers”, it’s also worth heading to the Nocny Targ Towarzyski night market on Kolejowa Street, outside the city centre. Here too you’ll find food trucks and good spots for a drink, and it also hosts numerous concerts by well-known performers. A place more friendly to families and children is the City Beaches, which you’ll find in Szelągowski Park in Winogrady, in Chwaliszewo, in Rataje and in Wilda. The beaches are open from 1 June to the end of August. Here you’ll find deckchairs for relaxing and plenty of attractions for children and adults. As every year, Stary Browar hosts the Letnie Brzmienia festival, featuring numerous open-air concerts. Fans of Polish music are sure to enjoy it. At the turn of June and July, the Malta Festival also takes place, with street theatre, musical events and many other attractions.
Where to go shopping in Poznań?
If you’re in the capital of Wielkopolska for some “shopping”, it’s worth heading to Stary Browar – the place draws people mainly with its architectural craftsmanship, but it’s also worth knowing that you’ll find more luxurious brands here. The idea behind this place is 50/50 – 50% of the whole devoted to business and 50% to art. At Stary Browar you’ll certainly manage to shop for clothes, but also eat well and relax in the nearby park.
Galeria Avenida – ironically nicknamed the “bread bin” by Poznań residents because of its appearance and the combination of a railway station with a shopping centre, which surprised even the locals, it’s located right by the Main Railway Station. Most importantly, this place has just about every shop imaginable. A big downside is the paid toilets, for which it’s better to have some change, as card payment isn’t always possible.
A great alternative is Galeria Posnania, located in Rataje, close to the Rataje roundabout and Poznań University of Technology. The place is very spacious and nicely designed. You’ll find every fashion store imaginable here, as well as interesting restaurants with beautiful interiors, a cinema and a bowling alley.
The once-popular Galeria Malta, located by Poznań’s Malta, no longer attracts much interest, and urban legend has it that it will soon be converted into a business venue. The situation is similar with Kupiec Poznański, which, despite its central location, isn’t the main shopping destination, losing out to the nearby Galeria MM, on Święty Marcin Street. It’s worth dropping in here, not only for shopping but also for the Kosmos club. We advise you to have some change ready here too, for the toilets and the indoor car park.
What to see around Poznań?
Poznań isn’t the only place worth exploring. Its surroundings also offer interesting historical, sporting and natural attractions. While in the capital of Wielkopolska, you may also be tempted by a trip beyond the city limits.
Kórnik
In Kórnik you’ll see a remarkable 19th-century neo-Gothic castle, which also houses a museum with paintings by Polish and European masters, numerous numismatic collections and Polish militaria. According to legend, the castle chambers are haunted by the ghost of the White Lady – Teofila Działyńska – whose portrait comes to life, and her figure heads out onto the castle terrace to meet a knight on a black horse. In Kórnik, nature lovers will also be drawn to the Arboretum, whose 40 hectares hold a collection of trees and shrubs from the temperate zone of the northern hemisphere.
Szreniawa
In Szreniawa the National Museum of Agriculture and Agri-Food Industry awaits you, presenting heritage from the history of the Polish countryside, farming and the agri-food industry from all over Poland. You’ll also meet farm animals here (a great attraction for the little ones), and you can visit the Szreniawa Brewery, which produces exceptional beers.
Luboń
Not far from Szreniawa is Luboń, home to the Industrial Architecture Trail, where you can admire a hundred years of history of Luboń’s factories.
Puszczykowo
Puszczykowo – you’ll be welcomed by the Arkady Fiedler Museum and Literary Studio, which brings together the most interesting mementoes from the traveller’s life. You’ll also find the Garden of Tolerance here, with the Gate of the Sun from Bolivia and a statue from Easter Island. On the museum grounds stands a 1:1 replica of the ship Santa Maria, which impresses young and old alike! Puszczykowo is set in an extraordinarily picturesque location, on the edge of Wielkopolska National Park. As you delve into the narrow, wonderfully green streets of this little town, beautiful, grand villas and streets listed on the heritage register will appear before your eyes. While in Puszczykowo, it’s also worth taking a look at the railway station, which has existed since 1897.
Rogalin
A place known for its Palace, which houses the collections of the aristocratic Raczyński family. When you come here, plan a walk through the park with the Rogalin Oaks – trees that are hundreds of years old and truly impressive. Among the local population, Rogalin itself is famous for its wonderful cycling routes, which lead directly into the heart of Wielkopolska National Park – to Lake Kociołek and Lake Góreckie, which is very popular in summer.
Śrem
Here you’ll find the most recognisable building on the entire city skyline – the Water Tower. Built in 1909, it stands 44 m tall. Inside is a tank with a capacity of around 240 m3, which supports the entire roof structure.
Puszcza Zielonka
The Puszcza Zielonka forest will welcome you not only with beautiful nature but also with the Wooden Churches Trail. As many as 12 charming little churches await visitors. It’s also a popular destination for cycling trips. Mountain biking fans should head for Singletrack Maximus.
Lusowo
Lusowo is home to the Museum of the Wielkopolska Insurgents. Filled with exhibits related to the Wielkopolska insurgents, it tells the story of the battles fought by the people of Wielkopolska beyond the region’s borders in 1919-1920.
Swarzędz
Here you’ll find the Prof. R. Kostecki Open-Air Museum and Museum of Beekeeping. A unique collection of beehives awaits you, along with an exhibition devoted to useful insects in Poland and around the world.
Let Poznań invite you in!
Poznań is a unique city and the capital of Wielkopolska. It attracts tourists at any time of year, especially as there’s always something to see. The city invites you in with its beautiful, atmospheric streets, interesting museums and attractions for the youngest visitors. Those seeking stronger thrills after dark won’t be bored either – Poznań has no shortage of clubs and pubs where you can party the night away, for example on a weekend trip with friends. Lovers of good food won’t be disappointed either – Poznań has plenty of great cafés and restaurants, and while you’re here you simply must try the local delicacies.
We hope our guide to Poznań has encouraged you to visit this beautiful city, and that you’ll soon be able to share your impressions with us.
