Why Poznan is the Perfect European City Break
Poznan is one of Poland’s most underrated cities, and probably my personal favourite. Tucked between Warsaw and Berlin, it’s a place that mixes medieval history, quirky modern art, a buzzing food scene and some of the friendliest nightlife spots you’ll find in Central Europe. It’s also super budget-friendly (my family and I – 4 adults – visited in March and spent probably £350-400 between us on everything, including flights and accommodation), making it a brilliant destination for backpackers, students, and anyone looking for a city break without breaking the bank.
Things to Do in Poznan
1. Royal Castle
Poznan’s Royal Castle dates back to the 13th century and has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. Today it houses a museum, and from the tower you’ll get some of the best views over the city. If you have the time, I recommend going at noon or 3pm, as it’s generally quieter because everyone’s gathering in the square to see the goats.
- Address: Góra Przemysła 1
- Opening hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–17:00 (closed Mondays)
- Price: Around 20 PLN (£3.50)
- Budget tip: If you’re a student (or young person), you get student discount here and in most other attractions
2. Poznan Cathedral
Located on Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island), this is Poland’s oldest cathedral, dating back to the 10th century. Inside you’ll find the tombs of Poland’s first rulers.
- Address: Ostrów Tumski 17
- Opening hours: 09:00–17:00 daily
- Price: Free entry, small fee for the crypts and tower
3. Poznań Goats (Town Hall Clock)
Every day at noon and 3pm, two mechanical goats appear from the Town Hall clock in the Old Market Square and butt heads twelve times — a quirky local tradition. The legend goes that a cook saved two goats from the kitchen and they escaped to the tower, becoming local heroes.
- Where: Old Market Square (Stary Rynek)
- Best time: Arrive 10–15 minutes before noon to get a good spot.
4. Palmiarnia Poznańska (Botanical Gardens)
This tropical palm house is one of the largest in Europe, with 1,100 species of plants and an aquarium section. It’s a peaceful break from the city streets.
- Address: Matejki 18
- Opening hours: Tue–Sun 09:00–17:00 (closed Mondays)
- Price: Around 16 PLN (£3)
- Budget tip: If you’re a student (or young person), you get student discount in most other attractions
5. Old Zoo & New Zoo
Poznań has not one but two zoos. The Old Zoo is small, central and free, while the New Zoo is much larger and located near Lake Malta, with over 2,000 animals. Personally we LOVED the New Zoo. We went at the very start of the main season, so some animals were still in ‘hibernation’ but it was such a great way to spend the morning. It has a much more open and spacious feel to most zoo’s I’ve been to elsewhere in Europe. Be prepared to walk FAR, we walked 7.5km just to see it all.
- New Zoo address: Krańcowa 81
- Opening hours: 09:00–19:00 (summer), shorter in winter
- Price: Around 20 PLN (£3.50)
6. Imperial Castle
Built in 1910 for Kaiser Wilhelm II, this grand castle is a mix of Gothic and Romanesque revival styles. Today, it’s a cultural hub with exhibitions, concerts and film screenings.
- Address: Święty Marcin 80/82
- Price: Free to enter public areas, extra for exhibitions
- Budget tip: If you’re a student (or young person), you get student discount in most other attractions
7. Monument to the Victims of June 1956
This striking monument commemorates the workers’ uprising against the communist regime. It’s an important part of Polish history and a must-see for those interested in 20th-century Europe.
- Where: Plac Mickiewicza
8. Nierozpoznani (The Unrecognised)
These eerie headless statues by artist Magdalena Abakanowicz symbolise anonymous individuals in mass society. A brilliant spot for photos and reflection. This was something we hadn’t planned to visit as it’s a little out of the way, but it was one of my favourite attractions. We were the only people there, probably because it’s tucked away, but it’s worth the trek out to.
- Where: Citadel Park
9. Termy Maltańskie
If you’re after relaxation, head to this huge thermal bath complex by Lake Malta. It has pools, saunas, and a water park — great for both wellness and fun. Just a warning though, inside the spa (sauna, steam room etc) you can wear a towel but nothing else…
- Address: Termalna 1
- Opening hours: Daily 09:00–23:00
- Price: From 25 PLN (£4.50) for 2 hours
10. Museum of Armament
Also located in Citadel Park, this museum displays tanks, aircraft, and other military equipment. We went on a Monday – despite it being closed, but we could see every display from the outside, something my plane enthusiast dad was very happy about.
- Address: Aleja Armii Poznan
- Opening hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–17:00 (closed Mondays)
- Price: Around 10 PLN (£2)
- Where: Citadel Park
11. National Museum
One of Poland’s oldest museums, with impressive collections of Polish and European art.
- Address: Aleje Marcinkowskiego 9
- Opening hours: Wed–Sun 11:00–17:00
- Price: Around 20 PLN (£3.50)
12. Fontanna Wolności (Freedom Fountain)
This futuristic fountain is a popular meeting spot and looks especially striking when lit up at night. Unfortunately when I went in March, there was no water. I can only assume this was because there were still patches of ice and snow about so they empty it over winter to avoid it freezing over.
- Where: Plac Wolności
13. Croissant Museum
Yes, Poznan has its own museum dedicated to the city’s famous sweet treat — the St. Martin’s Croissant (rogal świętomarciński). Expect live demonstrations and tastings. This isn’t something we did as we ran out of time, but it would be something I’d do if I went back again.
- Address: Stary Rynek 41/2
- Opening hours: Daily, guided shows only (book ahead online)
- Price: From 25 PLN (£4.50)
Where to Eat and Drink in Poznan
Poznan is a budget traveller’s dream when it comes to food. Expect hearty Polish classics, cheap pierogi, quirky cafes and plenty of vegan-friendly options.
- Pierozak (any branch): Pierogi heaven — perfect if you’re travelling with fussy eaters.
- Piccolo Spaghetti Bar: A cult favourite for budget pasta lovers. Portions are big and prices tiny.
- Bar a Boo (chain): Casual Italian food with great pizza.
- Pizzaria Frontiera: Authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, highly rated by locals.
- Bajzel: A cool, artsy pub/restaurant — great food, great vibes.
- Taczaka 20: Modern Polish cuisine in a stylish setting.
- Chicas & Gorillas: Trendy cafe with excellent coffee and brunch options.
- Cacao Republika: Perfect for chocolate lovers. Try the hot chocolate — it’s legendary.
- Lavender Cafe & Lunch: A cosy spot for lunch or coffee breaks.
- H.P. Cukiernia Hanna Piskorska: Traditional Polish cakes and pastries.
- Pijalnia: A throwback Soviet-style bar chain, famous for dirt-cheap vodka shots and snacks.
Don’t leave Poznan without trying the St. Martin’s Croissant, filled with white poppy seeds and nuts. It’s even protected by EU law!
Where to Stay in Poznan
Accommodation in Poznan is affordable compared to most European cities. Here are options for every budget:
- Sleep in Hostel & Apartments (£): Budget-friendly and central, with both dorms and private rooms.
- Apartamenty Pomarańczarnia (£/££): Comfortable apartments close to the Old Town.
- Hotel Palazzo Rosso Old Town (£/££): Charming boutique hotel right in the historic centre.
- 5 Kolegiacki Square (££): Stylish rooms in an unbeatable location near the square.
- Andersia Hotel & Spa (££/£££): A modern luxury option with spa facilities.
Getting Around Poznan
Poznan is a very walkable city, but you’ve also got cheap and reliable transport options.
- Trams: The best way to get around. A single ticket is about 6 PLN (£1.10) and valid across buses and trams.
- Bolt: The Polish equivalent of Uber — incredibly cheap compared to Western Europe. A ride across the city often costs under £3.
- Insider tip: If you’re staying more than a day or two, grab a 24-hour or 72-hour ticket for unlimited tram/bus rides.
