One of the oldest cities in Poland, Poznan centres around a pastel-coloured Old Town overlooking the Warta River. It was here that Catholicism first took root in Poland in the 10th century and the majestic Ostrów Tumski Cathedral remains one of the city’s most popular attractions today.
Things to do in Poznan
In the heart of Poznan is the Old Market Square, which was originally laid out in 1253. Many of its colourful Renaissance buildings now house cafes and restaurants where you can watch the world go by. An architectural highlight of the Old Market Square is the Poznan Town Hall, which features a three-tiered loggia and a clock with mechanical goats that butt heads at noon.
For insight into the people and events that have shaped the city, step inside the Town Hall to explore the Historical Museum of Poznan. Marvel at the 16th-century Grand Vestibule with its ornate coffered ceiling and admire the two 18th-century globes on display in the Court Room. Other highlights of the collection include a gold-plated bishop’s staff and objects dating from Prussian rule.
Another architectural landmark not to miss is the Poznan Cathedral, which is the centrepiece of Ostrów Tumski, an island between the forks of the Warta River. It was extensively damaged during World War II and has been reconstructed to expose many of its Gothic elements. Inside the cathedral are beautifully preserved Flemish tapestries and a lavish Baroque pulpit, as well as an altarpiece sculpted with panels depicting the Passion of the Christ.
Getting around Poznan
Poznan–Ławica Henryk Wieniawski Airport is a 15-minute drive from the centre of Poznan and has flights to destinations across Europe. Trains connect from cities throughout Poland to the Poznan railway station while both trams and buses travel throughout the city centre.