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17 Great Things to Do in Szczecin, Poland

Even if Szczecin, Poland, is one of the largest cities in the country, only a few tourists decide to visit Szczecin. And those who do usually come here as one of the day trips from Berlin. But despite the massive destruction during World War 2, the city has much to offer. There are plenty of things to do in Szczecin that I’m more than happy to share with you today.

In the past, every time I visited Szczecin, it was in the passing, on the way somewhere else (mostly Berlin or the seaside). Recently I finally focused on the city only and decided to spend a weekend in Szczecin. I enjoyed it more than I expected, and as it turned out, I didn’t have enough to see and experience Szczecin attractions. That only proves what an underrated city it is.

Whether you only have one day in Szczecin or more, you are certainly in for a good time. With this Szczecin guide, you can plan your trip to Szczecin easily. And if you still have more questions about visiting Poland, join my Facebook group about traveling in Eastern Europe .

Table of Contents

Where is Szczecin, Poland

Szczecin, a city of around 400.000 inhabitants, is located in the very northwest corner of Poland. Warsaw , the capital of Poland, is about 550 km away from Szczecin, while Berlin , the capital of Germany, is only 150 km away. The Baltic Sea is less than 100 km north of Szczecin.

Why visit Szczecin

Even if at first Szczecin might not seem like a very appealing place to visit, the city actually offers plenty of attractions.

The place has a long and turbulent history. It was first mentioned in the 1st century. It was incorporated into Poland in the 11th century, only to change its affiliation eight years later. Eventually, Szczecin returned to the Polish state after World War 2 (although the first years after the war were still uncertain), and for most of the time over the centuries, the city was part of Germany. This is why in today’s Szczecin, you will still find numerous German remnants, and some parts of the city might feel more like Berlin than any other place in Poland.

During World War 2, Szczecin was severely destroyed, and so the big part of the center is a peculiar mix of architecture that altogether might be hard to appreciate. But there are still numerous attractions that either survived the war or were rebuilt afterward, and that’s where you can see and feel the real beauty and charm of the city.

Since Szczecin is located not too far from the seaside, it is also known for its maritime industry, and you can clearly feel and enjoy its industrial vibe too. There are just so many layers to Szczecin, and it’s a pleasure to discover them all.

How to get to Szczecin

The funny thing is, it’s easier to get to Szczecin from Berlin than from many places in Poland. There are numerous regular daily connections between the capital of Germany and Szczecin, both by train and bus.

Arriving from any other place in Poland, the train is the best option. The main train station is located in the central part of the city, only a short walk away from some of the main attractions of Szczecin.

Szczecin also has its own airport, with flights to/from Warsaw and Krakow and a few cities in Norway, Ireland, and England.

Where to stay in Szczecin

Since this is a big city, there are plenty of accommodation options in Szczecin to choose from. Choose somewhere in the center to visit all the Szczecin highlights easily.

During my trip to Szczecin, I stayed in Moxy Szczecin City (9.1/10) and I can definitely recommend it. Here are a few other good places to stay in Szczecin:

• Hotel Zamek Centrum (8.9/10)
• Grand Focus Hotel Szczecin (9.0/10)
• Courtyard by Marriott Szczecin City (9.1/10)

How to get around Szczecin

While many attractions are in the center and you can easily walk there, you must use public transport to get to a few interesting places (like the central cemetery or Jasne Błonia).

During my trip, I got Szczecin Tourist Card that provided free public transport and discounts in numerous places (such as the castle). It’s cheap, 20 PLN (less than €5) for 24 hours or 30 PLN (less than €7) for 72 hours. You can get it online or in the tourist information offices – that’s where I got mine.

With the Szczecin Tourist Card, you can explore the city using trams and buses. I used Google Maps to figure out where which tram I needed to get to my destination.

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Things to do in Szczecin

And finally, without any further ado, here are the best things to do in Szczecin, in no particular order.

Find Szczecin’s Venice

One of the (literally) hidden gems of Szczecin is the so-called Venice, located conveniently only a few steps from the central railway station. You need to enter the random gate at 88/89 Kolumba Street, and you will be immediately transferred into a different world. The picturesque spot with the bridge leading to one of the islands on the Odra River is known as one of the seven wonders of Szczecin.

Along the waterfront, you will see rows of red brick buildings from the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th centuries: factory buildings and townhouses. It was a bustling area in the past, often visited by ships that loaded the goods directly from the factory buildings.

Today the place is a bit neglected, but you can’t deny its charm. Be sure to stop here when you are in the area.

Explore the city center

Even if a big part of Szczecin was destroyed during World War 2, and you can clearly see that, especially in the center of the city, it’s still worth exploring the central part of Szczecin to find some real gems and interesting places. This area is a peculiar mix of architecture, where buildings that survived WW2 stand next to those dating back to modern times.

Some of the spots you can’t miss are two remaining city gates: a port one and a royal one, both built in the Baroque style in the first half of the 18th century in place of the former city walls. Still today, they are an impressive addition to the Szczecin’s scenery, and it’s worth paying them some extra attention to admire all the fine details.

Other remarkable buildings you might stumble across include the Art Academy, the main Post Office, or the Palace of the Pomeranian Land.

It’s also worth stepping into the yards, as those can hide some real gems, such as the townhouse at 1 Św. Wojciecha Street – if you are lucky and the gate is open, you are in for a real treat!

See the Szczecin Philharmonic building

The building of the Szczecin Philharmonic is a new addition to the city’s scenery, dating back only to 2014. Nevertheless, it has already won numerous local and international architectural awards and was named the most beautiful modern building in Europe in 2015.

The structure is impressive, albeit in contrast to the surrounding scenery. You either love or hate it (I’m definitely in the first group), but you can’t deny its unique shape either way.

It is possible to join the guided tour of the Szczecin Philharmonic building (in Polish, German, or English); however, they don’t run daily. Be sure to check the official website of the Philharmonic and get your ticket online, as their number is limited too.

Unfortunately, during my trip to Szczecin, there were no tours. Still, I’m ready to go there again to see this masterpiece inside and learn more about it.

Admire Chrobry Embankment

Chrobry Embankment is one of the most popular attractions of Szczecin and is well-known for a reason. The impressive observation deck was built in the early 20th century. It was previously known as Haken Terrace (the name was changed to commemorate Boleslaw Chrobry, the first king of Poland, once the city returned to Poland after World War 2).

Despite the extensive war destruction of Szczecin, Chrobry Embarkment survived the difficult times mostly untouched. Today we can admire this one of the most interesting and monumental urban and architectural complexes from the beginning of the 20th century in this part of Europe.

The observation terrace is around 500 meters long, located high above the Odra River, and offers excellent views across the river and beyond. You can admire Szczecin’s grandest buildings along the embankment – the National Museum, the Maritime University, and the Provincial Office.

Chrobry Embankment is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Szczecin, so don’t miss it during your trip!

Enjoy the Łasztownia island

Across the Odra River from Chrobry Embankment, you will find the Łasztownia island, which is quickly becoming a new hotspot to hang out in Szczecin. It was a mysterious closed port island in the past, but it has changed in recent years, and now it’s a popular place for locals and visitors.

You can still find numerous industrial remnants that give the site a unique look and feel, the most popular ones being port cranes that sparkle in different colors in the evening. There is a small marina, numerous food trucks serving food from all over the world, a small beach, and an amusement park, and these are only a few of the attractions that Łasztownia offers.

This is also where you can get one of the best views in Szczecin over the majestic Chrobry Embankment.

Wander along the waterfront

Once you are near the Odra River (either on the Łasztownia or Chrobry Embankment side), stroll along the waterfront. It’s such a pleasant area, with great views over the cityscape and numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants. You might even go for a boat tour from here to see Szczecin from another perspective.

Visit Podzamcze district

After World War 2, 90% of Szczecin’s Old Town was destroyed. Today you can get a glimpse into the past in the Podzamcze district that covers the area of the former Old Town.

Even if this part of the city was mostly reinvented and is a peculiar mix of architecture, some buildings were rebuilt to resemble those from the past. The street grid also remained in its pre-war shape.

The center of Podzamcze is Sienny Market, originally dating back to medieval times. Even if it also didn’t survive the war, this is where you can mostly feel the old times charm as some of the townhouses and the Old Town Hall were restored.

Visit the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle

One of the biggest attractions of Szczecin and the whole region is the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle. Its origins date back to the 14th century, but the current look in the Gothic and Pomeranian mannerism architectural styles came at the end of the 16th century.

Over the years, the structure was rebuilt a few times, but the past two centuries were also unlucky for the castle. First, during the Prussian rule in the 19th century, many of the valuable elements of the decor and interior were destroyed; it was also heavily damaged during the World War 2 Allied air raids. After the war, the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle was rebuilt based on 17th-century paintings.

While this is not one of the most beautiful castles in Poland, it’s still an interesting place to visit. There is a good museum with some unique artifacts (like old maps or the witches’ chamber); you can also climb to one of the towers for the great panorama of Szczecin. Numerous details on the castle’s facade are worth paying more attention too.

An interesting fact about Szczecin Castle is that Catherine the Great, the famous 18th-century empress of Russia, was born and grew up here.

Admire the view from the Cathedral

Another great viewpoint to admire the panorama of Szczecin is the cathedral. This is Poland’s second-tallest church, so that you can expect some great views from the top. You only need to take the elevator to the upper part of the cathedral tower, and you can enjoy the panorama of the whole city.

This is also one of the oldest and most important churches in the region, dating back to the 12th century, with relics of a few saints inside, so besides going up to the tower, be sure to visit the cathedral inside too.

Visit the Central Cemetery

This might sound like a bit of a morbid attraction, but Central Cemetery is a must-place when visiting Szczecin. It is the largest cemetery in Poland and the third largest in Europe, with over 300 thousand burials since its opening at the very beginning of the 20th century.

But despite its sad function, it is a truly beautiful place, more like a park or garden than a cemetery, and a visit here will be an interesting addition to your Szczecin itinerary. Even if most graves are Polish, you can still find numerous German remnants around, showing the city’s complicated past.

The central cemetery is a bit far from the center, but you can quickly get there by tram.

Admire beautiful townhouses

One of the greatest testimony of Szczecin’s rich past is the beautiful townhouses lining the streets in the central part of the city. They mostly date to the late 19th and early 20th century and are a great example of the grand city architecture from that period.

The quarters where they were built survived the war (although not always in the best shape), and today, after major renovations, you can admire the beauty of the buildings around you. Take a closer look when wandering around, as some of the townhouses are really rich in detail. This whole part of the city reminded me a lot of Berlin actually, especially districts like Kreuzberg or Prenzlauer Berg .

One of the streets, Księcia Bogusława X, was turned into a pedestrians-only zone, and that’s where, besides the lovely surrounding, you can also enjoy numerous bars and restaurants.

Relax at Jasne Błonia park

Even if the park is located a bit away from the center, it’s worth taking the tram to visit this green oasis and relax in the beautiful surrounding. The Jasne Błonia Park was designed and created in the 1920s and is known primarily for the picturesque alley lined with the plane tree. There are 213 of them here, the largest number of trees of that kind in one place in Poland.

The whole park is a charming place, perfect for some lazy time. But there are a few spots here you don’t want to miss too (besides the plane trees), such as the beautiful building of the town hall or the interesting Monument to the Deed of Poles.

Visit Lentz Villa

Located near the Jasne Błonia Park, Lentz Villa has one of the most beautiful interiors in Szczecin (and it’s not too shabby from the outside too). Built between 1888 and 1889, this is one of the best examples of the Prussian eclectic style. Before World War 2, it was owned by local high society representatives who spared no expense on decor.

Even if the place was mostly renovated, you still can see and feel the vibe of the pre-war Szczecin here.

Explore the underground

Literally hidden at the train station, you will find one of the most exciting attractions in Szczecin – the underground. This is, in fact, the largest non-military shelter in Poland, dating back to WW2 times (although 18th-century underground corridors were used to create it).

At first, it was used as an anti-aircraft shelter, but after the war, it was transformed into the nuclear one. Around five thousand people could hide here, in the five underground levels. Today you can visit the place to explore the maze of underground corridors and learn more about 20th-century history on three dedicated routes.

You can access the underground from the train station, either from the street or the platform.

Try Szczecin pasztecik

Pasztecik is a legendary local delicacy from Szczecin that you must try. It’s a deep-fried dough (crispy on the outside but soft inside) with various stuffing, either meat or vegetarian. Pasztecik is best served with red borscht. It’s a very simple dish that was very popular during the communist times and still works as a great snack now.

There are a few places dedicated to serving pasztecik in central Szczecin (some of the addresses are: al. Wojska Polskiego 46, Księdza Kardynała Stefana Wyszyńskiego 10, Aleja Bohaterów Warszawy 42), you can also get it at the train station.

Learn more about Szczecin’s recent history

Once Szczecin was incorporated into Poland after World War 2, its history wasn’t always easy. Among other events, this is where three massive social unrest took place in 1970, 1981, and 1989, eventually leading to the fall of communism in 1989.

Centrum Dialogu „Przełomy,” hidden neatly under the square that was the scene of the biggest protests (next to the philharmonic), tells the story of the 20th century in Szczecin, starting from the incorporation of Szczecin into the Polish state as a result of the Potsdam Agreements in 1945. If you want to learn more about the city and its turbulent past, this is the place to visit!

Go for day trips

While Szczecin is often visited as one of the day trips from Berlin, you can plan your trip differently and use the city as a base to explore the surrounding area, both in Poland and Germany.

The Baltic Sea coast is pretty close; you can easily reach it by public transport from Szczecin. Places like Międzyzdroje or Świnoujście are just a short train trip away. If you have a car, you can also hop across the border and see German seaside towns.

The Wolin island in the past was an important pagan and Slavic center, and you can still find remnants of the past around. This is also where you will find Wolin National Park.

Another unique attraction is the crooked forest near Gryfino, only 30 km south of Szczecin. Nearby you can also visit Stargard, one of the oldest cities in Poland, packed with monuments and attractions.

Or you can go to the German capital, only 2 hours away, and spend an exciting day in Berlin. There are many options, and everyone should find something interesting for their taste.

Final thoughts on visiting Szczecin

As you can see above, Szczecin has plenty to offer and can be a great destination both as a day trip from Berlin and a city break. It might not be as popular as other cities in Poland: Krakow , Wroclaw , or Gdansk , but it will surely keep you busy with all its attractions. I’m already planning my next trip to Szczecin to catch up on things I had to miss this time!

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Poland
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Poland here.
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Poland check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Poland too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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Home » Travel Guides » Poland » 15 Best Things to Do in Szczecin (Poland)

15 Best Things to Do in Szczecin (Poland)

In West Pomerania, the city of Szczecin is a major seaport that first grew rich from trade on the Baltic in the Middle Ages. Known as Stettin in German, it’s a city that has passed between opposing powers for hundreds of years. The Dukes of Pomerania were replaced by the Swedes, followed by the Prussian Empire.

For visitors, Szczecin’s charm is in its Haussmann-style avenues and the majestic embankment that was constructed on the Oder at the start of the 20th century. Some things to keep on your agenda are subterranean tunnels used as a Cold War bunker, museums on technology and contemporary history and a state-of-the-art concert hall that looks like something from another planet.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Szczecin :

1. Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle

Founded in the 14th century, the castle for the Dukes of Pomerania got its marvellous Late Renaissance architecture in the 1570s.

After the Peace of Westphalia it was the seat of Szczecin’s Swedish governor, before the Queen of Poland moved in at the start of the 18th century.

A lot of the Renaissance elements were lost during Prussian rule in the 1800s, but these have been restored since the Second World War by referring to an engraving of the property from 1653. The interior is a museum, guiding you around the loggia and restored state rooms and apartments, and revealing the artefacts discovered in excavations during the reconstruction after the war.

There are as many as 40 temporary exhibitions in the “Big Gallery” each year, dipping into another aspect of the castle’s turbulent history and roll-call of eminent owners.

2. Szczecin Philharmonic

You don’t have to be an expert on classical music to enjoy this concert hall, which won the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture in 2015. The Barcelona firm Barozzi Veiga came up with the design, which is quite unlike any other cultural venue in the world.

This translucent, white glass building has a mass of jagged peaks that look a little like townhouse gables.

The whole building has an icy glow at night, and has quickly become a modern symbol for Szczecin.

The main hall has a capacity of 1,000 and puts on a busy cycle of performances by the Szczecin Philharmonic Orchestra, which was founded in 1948.

3. Wały Chrobrego (Chrobry Embankment)

Raised almost 20 metres over the Oder River, this monumental embankment is more than half a kilometre in length.

The promenade, laid out just before the First World War, follows the riverside course of Szczecin’s Medieval fortifications, which were pulled down in the 18th century.

Solemn edifices stand high above the river atop grand stairways and terraces.

One building that turns heads is the Szczecin Voivodeship Office, built in the Neo-Renaissance style for the former Stettin Regency in 1911. If there’s a time to wander by the Oder it’s after sunset when the city is in lights and there’s a big choice of restaurants vying for your business.

4. Stare Miasto (Old Town)

The oldest quarter in Szczecin, below the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle, was completely levelled during the Second World War.

And unlike in cities like Warsaw, Poznań and Gdańsk there was no immediate reconstruction.

The project was delayed until 1994 and only a few monuments have been reconstructed so far, concentrated around the Rynek (Old Market Square) and built according to their original plans.

But even knowing that these aren’t originals, the cobblestone square deserves to be seen for its colourful Baroque gabled townhouses and the reconstructed town hall, which has a museum about the tempestuous history of Szczecin.

5. Szczecin Cathedral

The largest place of worship in the Szczecin, the cathedral was founded in the 1100s and can hold 10,000 people.

The design we see today is from the end of the 19th century, after a storm in 1456 and then the Scanian War in 1677 razed the previous buildings.

This current version was also badly damaged in the Second World War and the restoration is ongoing.

Another big change was the denomination, as Stettin’s cathedral had been Lutheran since the Reformation and naturally became Catholic after the war.

On the east side of the chancel is a triptych made in 1981 but composed of fragments of destroyed altarpieces going back to the 1400s.

And in the cathedral’s 15 chapels are paintings, altarpieces, sculptures and architectural fragments from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries.

6. Szczecin Underground

In the Second World War Stettin’s German residents took refuge from bombing raids in this subterranean complex adapted from pre-existing 19th-century catacombs.

The tunnels have five levels, descending 17 metres underground and with a total area of 2,500 square metres.

After the war the shelter was turned into a nuclear bunker, which was finally decommissioned in 1990. You can take two separate themed routes through this thrilling and enigmatic network of tunnels.

The first deals with the Second World War and has reconstructed living quarters, and photos and artefacts from the time.

There’s also a Cold War route, detailing how the shelter was reinforced against a nuclear attack and showing Polish Civil Defence gear. Both tours last an hour.

7. Park Kasprowicza

Opening out to the north of the City Council Building, Szczecin’s main urban park covers more than 27 hectares, but also joins up with the neighbouring Rose and Botanical Gardens.

Planted with rare and exotic trees, the park is situated in an idyllic valley sloping down to the Rusalka Lake.

This body of water was created more than 300 years ago when the Osówka Stream was dammed.

The amphitheatre in the park can seat 4,500 and stages concerts in summer, while the most imposing monument rises to more than 22 metres and is topped with three eagles to commemorate the rehabilitation of Szczecin after the Second World War.

Try to come to the park in early spring when the lawns are carpeted with bright crocus flowers.

8. National Museum

With six locations across Szczecin, this museum was founded in 1945, picking up from the defunct German institutions before the war.

The main building is at Ulica Wały Chrobrego 3 and has a Historicist design from the 1910s.

This holds nautical collections, and also Poland’s most significant ethnography exhibition.

If we had to pick one branch of the museum to see it would be the Old Art Gallery at Ulica Staromłyńska 27. This has paintings by Max Slevogt, Lucas Cranach the Younger and Lovis Corinth, as well as liturgical art including column capitals and altarpieces.

Worthy of special mention is the 15th-century St John’s Polyptych, with sculpted and painted elements showing scenes from the Life of Christ.

9. “Upheavals” Dialogue Centre

Another location for the National Museum to seek out is this exhibition about Szczecin and Western Pomerania’s contemporary history.

“Upheavals” opened to the public in early 2016 and looks at the key moments from the last 70 or so years that changed history in this region and Poland.

That could be the inclusion of Szczecin into the Polish state after the Potsdam agreement in 1945, as well as the social unrest in 1970, 1981 and 1989 and Solidarity that eventually saw Poland regain its sovereignty.

The building is partly underground on Solidarity Square and has lots of interactive displays and multimedia from the time or showing the recollections of eyewitnesses.

The location of the museum is full of meaning as it was here in 1970 that the first shots were fired against protestors during anti-communist revolts that left 45 dead.

10. Museum of Technology and Transport

Established in 2006 in an old tram depot, the Museum of Technology and Transport is one of the largest museums of its kind in the country.

You can find out how people got around in the post war years via an array of Polish-built cars, motorcycles, trams and buses.

And as Szczecin was a bike and car manufacturing town for most of the 20th century the automotive displays are especially interesting.

Among the cars and trucks are models like the FDO Warszawa, FSC Żuk, ZSD Nysa, Star 25, Syrena, Mikrus, but also a Polski Fiat 125p and 126p, which were manufactured during communist times under a licence agreement from the Italian brand.

There’s also a tram driving simulator putting you behind the wheel of one of a Konstal 105Na, the most common tram model in Poland.

11. Puszcza Bukowa

To escape the city without leaving its boundaries you can make the 10-minute drive southeast, across the West Oder to this tract of beech woodland in the Bukowe Hills.

Keep your phone or camera ready because these woods are almost magical, with high, slender beeches and the mossy forest floor giving off a captivating green light.

At the centre is the appropriately named Jezioro Szmaragdowe (Emerald Lake), taken for the vivid green colour of its water.

The lake is actually a flooded chalk mine that dates back to the 1860s, and there’s a cafe today on the water’s edge.

Also by the lake are the remnants of German bunkers from the Second World War and an artificial grotto from 1880, designed to make the entrance to the chalk mine look more natural.

12. Kamienica Loitzów

There’s no missing this Late Gothic burgher house at Kurowa 1 between the Old Town and the Dukes’ Castle.

Painted in an arresting bright orange, this palatial townhouse went up in the 1540s and its first occupants were the Loitz banking family.

After they went bankrupt it was taken over by the Pomeranian dukes, and after the Peace of Westphalia it was the seat of Szczecin’s Swedish councillor.

The building was burned out in a bombing raid in the 1944, but the external decoration remained.

There’s a bas-relief of the Conversion of St Paul, sculpted in the mid-16th century, ornate tracery above the windows and beautiful angled windows on the staircase in the tower.

13. Różanka Rose Garden

A decade ago the rose garden in the western corner of Park Kasprowica was brought back to life after a period disrepair.

Set in two hectares, it was first planted in 1928 for the World Gardening Exhibition and came through the Second World War unharmed.

But an absence of funding at the end of the Communist era brought about a decline.

This was reversed in the second half of the 2000s when, with the help of photographs from the 1930s, landscape architect Małgorzata Haas-Nogal was able to recapture the garden’s former beauty.

There are 9,000 roses from 99 varieties, and trees like apple, hornbeam, maple, chestnut and Serbian spruce planted when the garden was first created 90 years ago.

Check in with the tourist office for details about summer classical concerts in the garden.

14. Central Cemetery

Szczecin has the largest cemetery in Poland and the third largest in Europe.

And although that may not sound like cause for celebration it’s a calm and fascinating space that rolls out like a park in the middle of the city.

The Central Cemetery is a Polish national monument, 116 years old and almost 170 hectares in size.

The landscaping and many stone monuments are what bring casual visitors to the cemetery, to spend a peaceful hour or two on leafy paths admiring the fountains, colonnades, yew tree hedges and formal flowerbeds.

The most striking sight is Pomnik Braterstwa Broni (Monument of Brothers in Arms), a military memorial from 1967 with two elements shaped like the wings the Polish hussars used to wear.

15. Tram Line 0

If you’re stuck for ideas on a Sunday in summer you could ride through the centre of Szczecin on a vintage tram.

This departs at 14:35 and 15:59 from the Dworzec Główny stop at the main train station and tickets cost 3,5zł for adults and 2,5zł for children.

The tram zigzags past sights you might otherwise have missed, like the Harbour Gate, Anchor Monument, Diet’s Palace, Żeromski Park, Grunwaldzki Square and Pomorzany (communist era housing estates from the 1970s and 80s). After completing a loop, the tour finishes on Ulica by the Oder, a short walk from the station.

15 Best Things to Do in Szczecin (Poland):

• Pomeranian Dukes' Castle
• Szczecin Philharmonic
• Wały Chrobrego (Chrobry Embankment)
• Stare Miasto (Old Town)
• Szczecin Cathedral
• Szczecin Underground
• Park Kasprowicza
• National Museum
• "Upheavals" Dialogue Centre
• Museum of Technology and Transport
• Puszcza Bukowa
• Kamienica Loitzów
• Różanka Rose Garden
• Central Cemetery
• Tram Line 0

Top 10 Things To See And Do In Szczecin, Poland

Szczecin, nowadays the capital of the West Pomerania Province and one of Poland ’s biggest cities, has a complex history, marked by its architectural make-up. When visiting, we recommend these attractions.

1. wały chrobrego.

2. The Pomeranian Ducal Castle And Tower of Seven Mantles

3. Bulwar Piastowski

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5. Szczecin Philharmonic

6. Jasne Błonia And Park Kasprowicza

7. Cathedral Basilica of St. James the Apostle

Cathedral, Church

8. Central Cemetery

9. Center for Contemporary Art ‘Trafostacja Sztuki’

Art Gallery

10. Café 22

Cafe, Polish

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21 Tips to Visit Szczecin Like a Local: What to See, Do & Eat

Visit Szczecin, Poland: Discover Charming Blends of Parisian Chic & Berlin Cool

Planning to visit Szczecin, Poland? Good choice. This lesser-known Polish city has it all: maritime ambiance, award-winning architecture, and plenty of free cultural events in open spaces. Plus, third-wave coffee culture has hit hard, so if you’re a caffeine fan(atic) like me , you’ll be in heaven!

I’d even go as far as to say that Szczecin is a blend of Berlin and Paris – a fusion of street art and contemporary trends, Hausmann architecture and manicured parks.

One thing that definitely struck me right away was the passion locals have for Szczecin, from people working at the tourism agency to strangers I had quick chats with during my stay.

In this blog post, I’m sharing 21 local-approved things to see, do and eat in Szczecin, plus FAQs to help you plan your trip.

Locating Szczecin in Space and Time

Szczecin is set close to the German border in the Polish province of West Pomerania. Located on the banks of the Oder River,  this is Poland’s third-largest city.

A town with a long history, Szczecin was first settled by the Vikings back in the 8th century, before falling under Polish, Swedish, French, German and, once more, Polish, rule.

During the 19th century, Szczecin boasted one of the most important ports in the Prussian Empire – and industrialization and trade helped make the city very rich. German was the predominant language between 1871 and 1945, before the city was officially transferred back to Poland.

Trapped behind the iron curtain, Szczecin suffered greatly and was relegated to a third-rate city. But since the fall of communism in 1989, Szczecin has sprung back to life. Today, you’ll discover a bustling hub where past and present artfully collide and residents optimistically look towards the future.

Where to Stay in Szczecin

Hotels in Szczecin are relatively affordable, especially if you’re coming from a country with a stronger currency like the Euro.

I stayed at Hotel Dana, which is set in an absolutely beautiful, century-old building. While the exterior has retained its 19th-century appearance, the inside has been refurbished to offer sleek rooms. Breakfast is also an experience at Hotel Dana – a buffet spread awaits in a luxurious restaurant with gold & black details and marble floors.

You can walk from Hotel Dana to the central business district in about 10 minutes, the iconic philharmonic orchestra in 15, and the waterfront and Westend Villa Colony in 20.

21 Things to See, Do, and Eat While You Visit Szczecin: Approved By Locals

As you can now tell, a city as rich in history as Szczecin definitely has some stories to tell – and plenty of places to discover. The below 21 spots are my top recommendations, approved by locals.

Szczecin Sights & Activities

Wander along the waterfront.

I had the chance to experience Szczecin during Zagle, a major sailing event that drove half the city – and many visitors – down to the docks along the Oder River!

This waterside event aimed to bring the public closer to the maritime world. Ships travelled to Szczecin from across the seven seas and people could climb aboard to get a little glimpse into a sailor’s life.

While Zagle, hosted by Sail Szczecin, is now over for the year, you can keep tabs on their next events via Instagram.  And, event or not, I’m pretty sure that Szczecin’s waterfront is a great place for a stroll and drink. On one side of the Oder, you’ll find little cafes and restaurants. On the other, the Wheel of Szczecin beckons.

See Szczecin From Up High

If you like taking in city views from above, make sure to purchase tickets to the Wheel of Szczecin. 80 meters high, this is the tallest Ferris wheel in Poland. Although offering panoramic rides during the day, the Wheel of Szczecin truly comes to life after dark, with its bright neon colours adding a little bit of magic to the skyline.

Get Waterfront Views from Castle Bridge

I discovered the best spot to get waterfront views in Szczecin quite by accident, as I was walking across the romantically named Castle Bridge to access the Ferris wheel.

Standing in the middle of this bridge will grant you practically a bird’s eye view of the Szczecin waterfront and both banks.

Pro tip : it gets very windy up here, so make sure you wear appropriate clothing!

Tour the Philharmonic Orchestra

When you visit Szczecin, you will likely end up in front of the iconic Mieczysław Karłowicz Philharmonic at some point. This is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The building has won many awards, including the prestigious EU Prize for Contemporary Architecture in 2015.

The exterior is a modern take on traditional Hanseatic homes (Szczecin was part of the Hanseatic  League – a trade group of over 200 Baltic cities across 7 countries in the Middle Ages). During the Second World War, many of Szczecin’s Hanseatic structures were destroyed. Today’s philharmonic pays homage to them.

Inside, the Philarmonic is an ode to minimalism: the only colours are (predominantly) white, followed by tones of grey and black. The spacious foyer and the upper levels are connected by a spiral staircase.

There is, however, one room that is an exception to the Philharmonic’s minimalist rule. The lavish main concert hall stuns with its gold and black tones. If you visit Szczecin during concert season (aka not during the summer break), you might even be able to catch a performance here.

If you’d like to go behind the scenes at the Mieczysław Karłowicz Philharmonic while you visit Szczecin, you’ll be able to do so by booking a tour conducted in English, German and Polish.

Explore the Lentz Villa

The many villas in Szczecin testify to the city’s wealthy industrial past. Perhaps the most prominent of these stately homes is the Lentz Villa.

August Lentz, the villa’s first owner, was a self-made man and wanted a home that reflected his hard-earned success. So he commissioned the best construction companies in Prussia to design the most ostentatious villa in the city, at the heart of the prestigious Westend Villa Colony.

Lentz moved in with his family in 1890 but unfortunately died in 1895. The villa was passed on to his daughter, then to a variety of wealthy merchants, before being sold to the city, occupied by the Nazis and, later on, the Red Army. Today, Villa Lentz hosts a wide range of art exhibits, both indoors and on the spacious grounds.

It was so much fun to wander around, imagining what life must have been like for the bourgeois who once walked these same halls. My personal highlight was the Oriental Room, instantly transporting me miles away from Western Pomerania.

If you’re interested in history, art, and architecture, make sure you fit in some time at the Lentz Villa while you visit Szczecin!

Walk the Westend to Discover More Villas in Szczecin

Although potentially the most impressive, the Lentz mansion is only one of many villas in Szczecin dotting the streets of the Westend. This part of town was named after the famous eponymous neighbourhood in London.

If you don’t have time to visit Willa Lentza, a stroll through the Westend will give you a good idea of what life was like for Szczecin’s wealthy merchants of the last centuries. You’ll find plenty of lovely old homes; some are private residences and others are now businesses.

Admire Szczecin’s Churches

Church of the holy family.

Irrespective of religious beliefs, Szczecin’s churches are fascinating spots where you can enjoy a moment of tranquillity while diving deeper into the city’s history.

Take the Church of the Holy Family, for example. This red-bricked Catholic parish at the heart of the Westend is the oldest in Szczecin.

The current church was built in 1936, but nuns have been operating an orphanage and hospital on the premises since the middle of the 19th century. Today, sisters still inhabit the property.

Visitors are welcome to walk around the grounds, where you’ll also find a small outdoor exhibit that goes into details about the church’s history.

Orthodox Church of Szczecin

With its golden dome, the Orthodox Church of Szczecin is definitely eye-catching.

This temple is the first Orthodox church in Western Pomerania. And, it has an incredible support system: this parish is almost 100% funded by local parishioners and the international Orthodox community.

Pro tip : to get the best shots of the Orthodox Church, make sure to look out the “Instagram window” at the Philharmonic during your tour. Just ask your guide – he or she will know what I’m talking about!

Snap Away at the City Hall

When you visit Sczcecin, you’ll soon notice just how colourful the city’s buildings are. Especially if, like me, you are coming from Berlin, where bright colours do not always dominate the streets.

One of my favourite buildings in Szczecin is the City Hall, built in neo-Baroque style in the 1920s and affectionately called “Spinach Palace” by residents of the time. Indeed, the stately property is a deep green and looks more like a palace than your typical city hall!

Stroll Along Ksiecia Boguslawa X

Sticking to the theme of colourful architecture, let me now introduce you to the beautiful Ksiecia Boguslawa X, a cobblestoned pedestrian street with serious Parisian flair.

This lovely avenue is flanked by pastel apartment buildings on both sides, the ground floors of which are occupied by bars and restaurants. Even if you’re not hungry, this is a fabulous spot to simply wander around and take your next Instagram shots.

Don’t Skip the Street Art

As you visit Szczecin, you’re likely to notice a number of artful murals – on building facades, schoolyard walls and even underpass pillars. Close the station, down by the docks or watching over the old town – you never know when you might stumble upon one!

Some murals remain from the communist era, where they were used as means of propaganda or for advertising purposes. Today, many new murals have been added by local artists, often inspired by the city’s maritime heritage.

You’ll be able to find out more about Szczecin’s murals and their whereabouts on the official tourism website .

Search for Mosaics in Szczecin

Just as it is a hub for street art, Szczecin has a mosaics trail – visitors can wander around the central part of town to uncover a series of mosaics, many of which are tucked away just out of sight.

While on the hunt for these works of art, you might find yourself walking to the back of a parking lot or insider a popular local diner (more on that in our food section)!

Step Back in Time in Stare Miasto

If this is your first trip to Szczecin, make sure you stop by the Old Town, or Stare Miasto. Sadly, much of this area was destroyed during World War II bombings, but like the impressive Altstadt in Dresden, Germany , everything got rebuilt as an exact replica of the original.

Stare Miasto is quite small, so you can definitely see everything in a couple of hours when you visit Szczecin. Below are a couple of sights you should not miss.

Hay Market Square

Hay Market Square is the colourful hub of Szczecin’s Old Town. On one side, you’ll find blue, pink, and yellow houses built in traditional Hanseatic style. On the other, you’ll see the Old Town Hall, Szczecin’s first city hall turned local history museum. The Old Town Hall was first built in the 15th century and almost entirely renovated in the 1970s.

Szczecin’s Ducal Palace

The Ducal Palace has always reminded me a bit of a wedding cake, with its white exterior topped by ornate embellishments. But like the city, the castle has changed hands – and appearance – many times throughout history.

It was first built by Pomeranian dukes in the 14th century. As the Swedes and Prussians took control of Szczecin, the castle was frequently renovated, with new wings and features added.

Fun fact: Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia and one of the most powerful women in history, was born and raised in the castle.

Today, visitors and locals can take part in castle life: the palace hosts free cultural events in the courtyard, and the grounds are open to all.

In Contrast: Discover Modern Szczecin

Szczecin may be a historic city, but that doesn’t mean that you won’t find seriously modern spots, like the new Hansa Tower.

As the name suggests, this skyscraper, shaped like a sail, also pays tribute to Szczecin’s maritime heritage. Boasting 28 floors (although 3 are underground) the Hansa tower is the tallest building in Szczecin.

Stroll Through Parks & Gardens

Did you know that Szczecin consists of 40% water and green space? For all of the city’s urbanness, you’ll find plenty of spots to reconnect with nature.

Leafy squares and parks with water features pop up where you least expect them, blending perfectly into the scenery. Locals love spending time in their parks – be it to sunbathe, play with the kids, or just chill with a book or coffee.

I stumbled upon Plac Jasne Błonia im. Jana Pawła II after walking around the Villa Colony. This expansive green square leads up to the City Hall. There’s a little train to take the visitors around – yes, it’s actually big enough to be worth grabbing a ride!

Cafes and ice cream parlours are only steps away, so you can grab whatever suits your fancy and enjoy it in the shade of the tall oak trees bordering the park.

Plac Jasne Błonia im. Jana Pawła II actually backs into the much larger Kasprowicz Park (which I, unfortunately, did not have the time to visit), crisscrossed with walking trails and housing a small lake.

Top Spots to Eat in Szczecin

As you visit Szczecin, you’re bound to be hungry! Another way I could describe my time in Szczecin is “I walked and ate” – which is my favourite way to discover a destination! So without further ado, here is my little Szczecin foodie list. It’s a mix of places I stumbled upon on my wanders and spots locals recommended to me.

Traditional Savoury Dishes

Paprykarz szczeciński

One of the first things I learned about food culture in Szczecin is Paprikarz szczeciński. This traditional Szczecin dish is a little bit like risotto, but with canned fish ground and mixed into rice and tomato paste.

Restaurants serve Paprikarz as an appetizer or entire meal. You can also purchase cans at the supermarket, but I’ve heard these don’t have the same flavour.

There’s an interesting story behind Paprikarz. During the communist era, Szczecin’s fishermen were away at sea for months on end. A group of them got bored and started playing around with ingredients onboard the ship. That’s how the first Paprikarz was created. Back at home, the dish spread like wildfire and soon become a pillar of Szczecin’s culture and even identity.

I sampled Paprikarz in two restaurants and must say it was delicious! I might even try making it at home.

Another Szczecin foodie tip is Pasztecik – a diner serving, well, Pasztecik (deep-fried rolls with a variety of fillings), since 1969.  

The one I tried after cluelessly ordering was cheese and spinach – and definitely a hit!  

Perhaps the best sign of all is that I arrived at 10:05 AM on a Saturday, a few minutes after opening, and local families were already lining up to order.

In terms of aesthetics, the diner is also very interesting: it has not be altered since the 1960s, so stepping inside gives you the impression of having jumped back five decades.  

What’s more, the walls are covered in beautiful mosaics. So if you stop at Pasztecik, it’s like killing two birds with one stone. You’ll be able to try a local specialty and tick another mosaic artwork off the list.  

Coffee and Sweets

#alternatywnie.

Google Maps actually pointed #Alternatywnie out to me as I was exploring that part of town, indicating that this was a highly rated coffee shop in my vicinity.  

Although this was slightly creepy of Google, I’m so glad I stopped by #Alternatywnie – a cafe that locals confirmed was a top spot in Szczecin.

If you’ve been following Berlin & Around for a while, you’ll know that I’m a huge fan of flat whites, so of course that was my drink of choice. And it definitely met my expectations!

Cafe Castemila

Cafe Castemila looks out on Plac Jasne Błonia im. Jana Pawła II, mentioned a bit higher up in our “Parks & Gardens” section.  

This pink-themed coffee shop doubles up as an ice cream parlour and offers a very inventive selection of drinks. I tried a rose petal latte, which I highly recommend if you like a bit of sweetness in your coffee.

Lody Marczak

This is a delicious, artisanal ice cream parlour with two locations in the city. Lody Marczak offers an array of rich and creamy flavours, as well as sorbets. To add a unique touch, their little spoons are made out of waffle material and 100% edible!

While enjoying our treats outside, we were privy to a band playing in front of the cafe across the street, with people were clapping and dancing to the music. I’m not sure if this is a regular occurrence on Saturday evenings, so you’ll just have to go see for yourself!

Practical Q&As for When You Visit Szczecin

Is szczecin worth visiting.

If you haven’t heard of Poland’s third-largest city, you might ask yourself, “is Szczecin worth visiting?”. Well, if you’re a foodie and coffee lover with a penchant for grand architecture and accessible culture, the answer is a resounding yes! Szczecin is definitely worth visiting, and not just for a day trip from Berlin .

Do They Speak English in Szczecin?

Everyone in Szczecin learns English in school, with German being optional. But that doesn’t mean that everyone speaks English in Szczecin. However, locals are friendly and open, and if you say “English?”, they will be quick to usher over a colleague who does master the language. From my experience, I’d say that someone in each customer-facing business does speak in English in Szczecin.  

How Can I Get Around Szczecin?

Szczecin is a very walkable city – if you enjoy walking, that is. Attractions aren’t necessarily a hop, skip and a jump away, but if you don’t mind walking 20 to 40 minutes, you’ll be able to reach most of Szczecin’s sights.

Alternately, you can take public transport to get around Szczecin. I personally did not do so, as I really enjoy walking. But if you opt for the tram or bus, it will cost you 1.50 zloty (circa 0.30€) for 15 minutes and 4 zloty (circa 0.90€) for 60 minutes on board.

As you visit Szczecin, you’ll soon realize that traffic lights are few and far between, but pedestrians have the right of way at all cross-walks. I crossed multiple major intersections not regulated by traffic lights and cars would slow down and wait for me to cross.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can just cross the street without looking both ways – please still be careful as you amble about!

How to Get a Covid Test in Szczecin (Accurate as of August 1, 2021)

In case you also need to get a Covid test while you visit Szczecin, I’ve outlined my experience below. I actually googled “how to get a Covid test in Szczecin” when the German government announced a last-minute change to re-entry requirements, meaning I would need to get an Antigen test to return home.

I couldn’t find any search results in English or German on where/how to get tested in Szczecin, but through my contacts at the tourism board and by reaching out to expats in this English-language Facebook group , I was successfully able to get my Covid test on a Saturday morning.

I went to the Medicus clinic in the center of town. While their website is in Polish only, you can easily translate it with Google Translate (like I did).

The clinic is open every day of the week, but please note that you can only get tested in the morning on Saturday and Sunday.

The Process

Upon arrival, you will first have to register at the general reception area on the 2nd floor and pay 150 zloty (30€).  They will then give you a declaration form to fill out, where you state that you do not have any Covid symptoms. Next, you’ll be sent one floor up to get tested.

As you need to sign forms, make sure to bring a pen ! I didn’t know this and had to walk around asking multiple people in the waiting room. That’s extra stress when you don’t need it!

I waited about 20 minutes to get tested and was then asked to stay at the clinic until my results were available (about 40 minutes later). All in all, everything worked out smoothly. It also helped that both the receptionist and lab employee spoke some English.

In Conclusion: If You Visit Szczecin Once, You Will Probably Be Back!

As you can tell from this novella…erm…blog post, I fell in love with Szczecin and cannot wait to return! There’s something in the city for everyone, whether you are a nature lover, history or culture buff, foodie, walker, sailor, you name it!

The only downside: it might be hard to just visit Szczecin once! Like me, you’re probably going to want to return, time and time again!

Feeling inspired to visit Szczecin? Save this post for later!

5 thoughts on “ 21 Tips to Visit Szczecin Like a Local: What to See, Do & Eat ”

Super informative guide. I’d never heard of this city before and now I’d love to visit. The Market square looks so pretty.

This is very timely as I’m planning a trip to Poland soon and looking for places to visit. Szczecin looks like an interesting blend of modern and historic with lots of cool buildings to admire.

You’ve just reminded me that this is on my list of places to visit in Poland! I’m hoping to visit Poland again by the end of this year so I’ll be sure to add Szczecin to my itinerary this time around.

Thank you for putting this gem on my Poland list! I’d never heard of it before, so I’m very happy to have come across this guide 🙂

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20 Best Things to do in Szczecin Poland 2024

If you’re looking for a vibrant, exciting, and lesser-known city to explore in Poland, look no further than Szczecin. Located on the Oder River in northwestern Poland, this dynamic city has history, culture, and entertainment options. From exploring its centuries-old architecture to tasting delicious regional dishes and enjoying the nightlife scene, there are many answers to the question, “What to do in Szczecin Poland?”

In this blog post, we will cover the top things to do in Szczecin so that you can make the most of your trip. We’ll discuss everything from exploring World War II monuments to visiting its excellent museums and enjoying a beautiful walk along the Oder River. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best things to do in Szczecin! 

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Table of Contents

The best things to do in szczecin – history and exploration, the best things to do in szczecin – outdoors, the best things to do in szczecin – churches, castles, and museums, the best things to do in szczecin – arts & entertainment, why visit szczecin, how to get around in szczecin, listen to our szczecin podcast, getting to szczecin, where to stay in szczecin, is szczecin worth visiting, take a tour in szczecin, what to eat in szczecin, know before you go – szczecin, frequently asked questions – faq, stare miasto.

No visit to Szczecin is complete without a trip to the city’s Old Town or Stare Miasto. This charming district is full of life, with its cobblestone streets lined with lively cafes and restaurants. It’s the oldest quarter in the city, and reconstruction after the war did not occur until the late 1990s. Explore the area’s unique buildings and reconstructed town hall, including a museum featuring Szczecin’s history.

Szczecin Walking Tour

Szczecin Walking Tour  – See 42 marked stations on a 7-kilometer route. You’ll see important historical buildings. Just follow the red line on the ground.  

Or take a Guided Walking Tour in Szczecin.

Solidarity Square

Solidarity Square – Memorial to the victims of December 1970   – A prominent feature here is the Angel of Freedom monument, commemorating the December 1970 events in the city.

Szczecin Underground City Trails

Szczecin Underground City Trails is a unique attraction located beneath Szczecin’s city center. This underground maze of tunnels and chambers was initially used as air-raid shelters during World War II, but it has since been transformed into a fascinating cultural venue. The biggest civilian shelter in the country was transformed into a nuclear bunker after WWII. Visitors can explore five levels of passages, admiring artwork created by local artists along their way. Szczecin Underground is a great way to discover an unseen side of the city and learn about its history simultaneously.  It is accessible from the train station.

Kamienica Loitzów

The Kamienica Loitzów is an iconic building located in the heart of Szczecin. This late Gothic burgher house near the Pomeranian Dukes Castle is a townhouse from the mid-1500s.  Initially occupied by the Loitz banking family, the old structure has been used for various purposes, including as a school, hospital, and prison. The building has retained its original architectural features throughout the centuries, making it an interesting sight. 

When considering what to see in Szczecin, many choices are offered from the great outdoors.

Waly Chrobrego Promenade

This beautiful Waly Chrobrego Promenade borders the Odra River. It’s a nice place to spend the afternoon and see historic buildings. It’s also home to the Maritime Museum (Muzeum Morskie). You’ll find a stunning view of the river and its surrounding landscape here. You can also stroll around Waly Chrobrego along its nearly half-kilometer stretch, admiring impressive architecture from centuries past. Take time to explore the historic monuments, statues, and fountains – all adding to Szczecin’s unique charm. When you’re tired from your walk, stop for a break at one of the many bars and restaurants located along Waly Chrobrego. Enjoy some traditional Polish cuisine or take in the beautiful views of the river.

This promenade was developed before World War I, following the historic location of Szczecin’s medieval fortifications, most of which were destroyed in the 18 th  century.

Jasne Błonia Square

Developed in the 1920s, this is Szczecin’s largest park at 50 hectares. This public park is near the city center and features lush greenery, peaceful walking paths, and a small lake. It’s a perfect spot for those who love nature and want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. There are more than 200 Plane Trees in this park, Poland’s largest concentration of this variety. You can also see the 22.5 meters high Monument of Poles’ Action monument, celebrating three generations of Szczecin residents.

Kasprowicz Park

Park Kasprowicza was created in the 1950s and named after the Polish poet Jan Kasprowicz. It’s the central urban park in the city, covering over 27 hectares. Visitors will find lush green spaces with exotic trees, ponds, and a large playground perfect for families with children. The impressive monument in the park boasts three eagles as a commemoration of Szczecin’s rehabilitation after WWII.

Kasprowicz Park also hosts concerts throughout the summer months in its 4,500-seat amphitheater. Be sure to check what’s on when you’re in town. 

Różanka Rose Garden

Różanka Rose Garden (Ogród Różany Różanka) is the perfect place for a romantic stroll in Szczecin. This beautiful garden in the western corner of Park Kasprowica features thousands of roses of different colors, shapes, and sizes. The aroma of the blooms will fill the air as you wander through two hectares of this enchanting oasis. The garden boasts nearly 100 varieties of roses, plus apple, chestnut, maple, and Serbian spruce trees. It’s a great spot to relax, breathe fresh air, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The garden also hosts various events throughout the year, from flower festivals to concerts.

Puszcza Bukowa

Located on the outskirts of Szczecin, Puszcza Bukowa or Beech Forest , is one of Poland’s largest nature reserves. This stunning reserve in the Bukowe Hills covers over 2,000 hectares and features a variety of landscapes – from dense forests to open meadows and natural lakes. A great spot to visit is Jezioro Szmaragdowe (Emerald Lake), which is a flooded chalk mine from the 1860s.  There are also the remains of German bunkers from WWII. Visitors can explore the area by foot or bicycle, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of this idyllic spot.

Wolin National Park

This is one of Poland’s smaller National Parks. About one hour from Szczecin, you’ll find hiking trails and lakes, and this park borders the sea. If you’re looking for a great day trip from Szczecin, consider Wolin National Park.

Camino de Santiago – The Pomeranian Way segment

In 2003, the Camino de Santiago European network reached the border between Germany and Poland in Zgorzelec.  The following year, the idea to demarcate the first section of the Way of St. James in Poland commenced. The Camino Polaco took several years to complete.  Today, Camino de Santiago enthusiasts can log more footsteps towards their pilgrimage by including Poland as part of their trail.

Cathedral Basilica of St. James the Apostle

The Cathedral Basilica of St. James the Apostle (Bazylika Archikatedralna pw. sw. Jakuba Apostoła) is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and one of the most impressive landmarks in Szczecin. It’s the largest church in the West Pomerania region, featuring 19 chapels, a fantastic pipe organ, and room for nearly 10,000 people.

This church took 500 years to complete, with construction beginning in the 13th century and ending in the 18th century. Visitors will find a breathtaking interior featuring stained glass windows, ornate columns, and an intricately decorated altar. And as the second tallest church in Poland, you can see spectacular views from the top of the church.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. James the Apostle is integral to Szczecin’s cultural heritage and a reminder of the city’s long and varied history.

Szczecin Central Cemetary

The Szczecin Central Cemetery (Cmentarz Centralny) is the largest cemetery in Poland and the third largest in Europe. This cemetery is located just outside the city center and dates back to the 19th century. The setting is reminiscent of a large park and spans nearly 170 hectares. Here, you can see a variety of monuments and sculptures from different eras, such as an obelisk dedicated to Polish soldiers who died during World War II.

The Central Cemetary has many gravesites, as over 300,000 burials have occurred here. Among the graves are famous local figures, such as writers, scientists, and politicians. It’s a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Szczecin and its inhabitants.

Pomeranian Ducal Castle and Tower of Seven Mantles

One of the most iconic places to visit in Szczecin is the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle . This Renaissance-style castle, dating back to the 14th, underwent several renovations over the centuries, making it one of the most impressive monuments in Poland. It was once the seat of Pomeranian Dukes between the 12 th  and 17 th  centuries. It was the seat of Szczecin’s Swedish governor before the Queen of Poland moved in during the early 18 th  century.

The castle is now open for visitors and offers a variety of attractions, including historical exhibits, stunning gardens, and an outdoor café. Take time to explore the castle’s impressive architecture and grand interiors.

The Royal Gate

The Royal Gate, or Plac Brama Portowa , is one of the most impressive landmarks in Szczecin. Erected in 1609 to commemorate Polish King Sigismund III Vasa’s coronation in Szczecin, it is perhaps the most outstanding baroque fortress gate in West Pomerania. The fortification was intended to defend the city from the north and was built in 1725.  It symbolizes the city’s past as an important trading hub. The gate is made of sandstone and features sculptures depicting scenes from the city’s history. It is also adorned with a giant statue of King Sigismund III Vasa, which adds to its grandeur.

Museum of Technology and Transport

The Museum of Technology and Transport in Szczecin is recommended for anyone interested in history and engineering. This museum showcases some of Poland’s most iconic pieces of technology, such as steam engines, vintage automobiles, and early telephones. You can try your hand at directing a tram using a simulator of a Konstal 105Na tram. The museum offers guided tours that allow you to explore the displays in detail and learn more about Szczecin’s fascinating history. It’s one of the largest museums of its kind in Poland.

Be Happy Museum

The Be Happy Museum in Szczecin promotes a mission of cultivating happiness, sharing good memories, and making the world a sweet place. This interactive museum focuses on the science of happiness, featuring exhibits exploring emotions, relationships, and positive psychology. You’ll find plenty of activities, from games to hands-on experiments. Some workshops and seminars allow you to learn more about the science behind happiness and how to live a more joyous lifestyle. 

National Museum in Szczecin

The National Museum in Szczecin is a must-see attraction for any art lover. This museum has six locations in the city and has an extensive collection of Polish and international artworks, showcasing some of the country’s best pieces from different eras.  The collection features nautical displays, an ethnography exhibit, liturgical art, and more. The National Museum in Szczecin is the perfect place to explore the visual arts, with something everyone can enjoy. 

Szczecin Philarmonic

The Szczecin Philharmonic (Filharmonia im. Mieczysława Karłowicza w Szczecinie) building dates is a newer addition to the city and hosts fantastic classical music performances.  This Philharmonic Hall accommodates a symphony hall and a chamber music hall.  Guided tours are available in Polish, English, and German, though they are not offered daily.  The building won the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture in 2015.  Designed by the Spanish firm Barozzi Veiga, the architecture of the translucent, white-glass building is unique.

Szczecin is not among the first cities people consider when planning a visit to Poland. But, it is a vibrant destination offering much to see and do for tourists. With many historic monuments, a lively nightlife scene, and an abundance of great restaurants – there are many reasons why you should visit Szczecin. From exploring the World War II sites to taking in the views along the Odra riverbank – you’ll always be energized in Szczecin. 

Szczecin’s population is nearly 400,000.  Today, Szczecin is a cultural center of western Poland with several theaters, a philharmonic orchestra, and a National Museum. It’s also an important shipbuilding center, and its proximity to the Baltic Sea makes it possible to get a ferry to Sweden and Denmark from nearby.  The landscape of rivers, lakes, woods, and parks makes up half of the city area.

For those looking for a unique, off-the-beaten-path destination – Szczecin is the perfect choice! 

Szczecin is straightforward to navigate and explore as a tourist. We found the city extremely walkable and got to most destinations by walking.

The city has many public transit options, including buses and trams connecting the main attractions. There are also plenty of rental bike companies in Szczecin which offer great rates for tourists wanting to explore on two wheels. Taxis are also widely available throughout the city center, making it easy to get around. For travelers wanting a more leisurely exploration of Szczecin, guided tours are available! 

Visitors can look into the  Szczecin Tourist Card  for transportation services and discounts on several attractions. It’s an affordable option that will cover you for several days.  The tourist card is available online and in tourist information offices.  With the card, you can easily explore Szczecin via trams and buses.

In episode 78, we check out what to do in Szczecin, Poland.  This is the first episode in a multi-part series where we’ll take you to multiple cities in Poland.  We spent 23 days traveling through western Poland and can’t wait to share our adventures with our listeners. Click the podcast player link below to listen to this episode.

We flew from the United States to the Berlin Airport (BER) in Germany.  The drive to Szczecin is about 90 minutes. We arranged for travel on FlixxBus for our journey. If you have time on your itinerary, consider spending a day or two in Berlin before traveling to Poland.

You’ll find lots of lodging options in Szczecin. Our accommodation was at the Luksus Apartamenty Mariaca . We would easily stay here again.

Here are three more top rated places to stay if you visit Szczecin

Hotel Zamek Centrum – The 4-star Zamek Centrum Hotel is located in the centre of Szczecin, right by the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle.

Hotel Focus Szczecin – Conveniently located near the city center and landmarks.

Park Hotel – Great location in the Stefan Żeromski Park.

Search for more lodging options through our Expedia or VRBO links below:

Absolutely. The city offers a wealth of history and culture. It is relatively affordable, especially compared to other popular European destinations.  And did you know Szczecin has been called the Paris of the north?

The heart of the city is a star-shaped square with diverging avenues.  The gentleman who created the town-planning project for the French capital also designed Szczecin. 

Szczecin Underground Routes and Old Town Private Walking Tour

Learn about the history of Szczecin with a private tour. See the underground route showcasing unique WWII inspired acoustics, lights, and exhibits. You’ll also see medieval ruins in Old Town.

Click to book Szczecin Underground Routes and Old Town Private Walking Tour

You can still eat at the first bar that served pasztecik szczecińsk.  The Bar Pasztecik was founded in 1969, and you’ll find it on Wojska Polskiego Avenue in the center of Szczecin. The dish is typically served with clear borscht.  And it’s a super affordable dish.

An American type of breakfast is hard to find in Szczecin. But you’ll find options for coffee and bakery items to get you started for the day.

• ✈️  Airport:  Berlin Brandenburg (code: BER)
• ⏰  Time Zone:  Central European Time (UTC+2)
• 💰  Currency:  Polish Złoty
•  🗣  Language:  Polish 
•  🔌  Electricity Socket:  Poland uses types C and E plugs. Plug type C has two round pins, and plug type E has two round pins and a hole for the socket’s male earthing pin. Poland operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. For visitors from other countries, Use this universal travel adaptor .

Szczecin, Poland, is the historic capital of West Pomerania, its major seaport, and many historical and cultural sites. For nearly 1,000 years, Szczecin was known as Stettin.

Szczecin is currently Polish. However, the city has a complex historical background due to its location near the German border and its strategic importance as a seaport. Known as Stettin in German, the town has been controlled by various nations, including Poland, Denmark, Sweden, and Germany.

Books to plan your trip to Poland

Check out our other posts about Poland

Two Days in Torun, Poland Best Places in Wrocław Poland

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Art Dobrucki is a travel writer and podcast host for The Places Where We Go. With his wife Julie, they bring their travel stories to curious travelers to inspire adventures. Art is also a composer and keyboardist with several albums to his credit. Check out more information on our About Us page.

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16 Great Day Trips from Krakow in 2024

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A Day Trip From Berlin to Visit Szczecin Poland

by Cheryl Howard | Apr 2, 2023 | Destinations , Europe , Poland , Szczecin | 26 comments

I’ve been to Szczecin so many times now that I’ve come to consider myself an unofficial ambassador. While I’ve lost track of exactly how many times I’ve been there, over the last 5+ years, I’ve taken different friends there on a day trip from Berlin on multiple occasions.

Szczecin is one of the most popular day trips from the German capital, as it’s less than two hours away and is very affordable whether you travel by train, car, or bus. Filled with historical sites, several museums, old and new architecture, and plenty of cool bars and restaurants, find out all the reasons why you should make the trip and visit Szczecin Poland. 

Back in 2018, I went with a group of other Berliners from my old Make Friends in Berlin Facebook group (which has since disbanded). We met up early one morning at Berlin Hauptbahnhof and made our way to Poland. As it was almost everyone’s first time there, I took them on my “standard Szczecin city tour”. 

Recommended reading: Another perspective about what to do in Szczecin , this article about the best hotels in Szczecin Poland , and this article filled with recommendations for other day trips from Berlin . 

If you want to visit Szczecin Poland and experience the city in the same way we did, follow our recommended highlights. 

1) Pierogies and Beer

Whenever I start to crave Polish pierogis and beer, I usually jump on a train just to visit Szczecin Poland for a quick fix.

One of the best places for pierogis is Harnaś , a traditional Polish restaurant set in the heart of the city’s Old Town. And this is where I brought our group of friends when we first arrived in Szczecin. Their pierogi game is tops and they have a few different types on their menu, including pierogi stuffed with cheese and potatoes topped with fried onion, pierogi with pork, herb, and garlic topped with red cabbage and fried onion, and baked pierogis with meat, a cream sauce, and smoked cheese. A plate of 5-6 pierogis will cost you around €6. 

Our tips:   To complete a perfect lunch or dinner, order a Polish beer and if it’s a nice day, grab a table on the terrace and entertain yourself by watching the action in the square. If you’re staying in the city for lunch and dinner, consider heading further into town and going to  Karczma Polska Pod Kogutem for even more authentic pierogi goodness. 

2) Stare Miasto

Stare Miasto is Szczecin’s oldest district in the city. Aside from the castle, you’ll find Hay Market Square, full of colorful buildings showing off traditional German architecture, as well as the Old Town Hall. Dating back to the 15th century, the building was completely ruined during the war but brought back to life in the 1970s. Nowadays, it serves as a Historical Museum which has everything from14th century-mint coins to 20th-century German postcards. The building’s also home to the Wyszak Family Brewery where you can get your inner beer geek on and soak up all of the artisanal suds your heart desires .

Our tips: While we fully endorse Harnas as one of the top places to eat around Hay Market, we also recommend the very hipster, Bajgle Króla Jana . I’ve personally dined there many times for breakfast, always opting for their yummy pastrami bagel. Their coffee isn’t bad either! On my list to visit at some point in the future is The Office – Craft Beer Pub , because yeeeees , I love me a good beer.

3) Ducal Castle

This Gothic Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle in Szczecin is a mainstay of the Old Town. The castle was originally built in 1346 with further additions being added over the years. Destroyed during the Second World War, reconstruction efforts began in earnest about a decade after the war ended.

These days the castle is a cultural center where you go to watch concerts, plays, or even opera performances. When I visited last summer, I came across a medieval festival that made me feel like I was in a Game of Thrones episode. The Castle Museum features regular exhibitions and also contains six sarcophagi of the Pomeranian dukes. In addition, the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle  has a restaurant , cinema, and gift shop.

While walking around the main courtyard, be sure to look up at the clock tower which displays an astronomical clock, much like in Brescia or Prague .

Our tips: To our regret, we didn’t spend much time here, but we left thinking about how nice it would be to watch a performance on a warm summer’s day (preferably, with a glass of wine in hand). 

4) The City Gates

When you visit Szczecin Poland, be sure to check out the two remaining historical Baroque city gates. Brama Portowa , the Harbour Gate built between 1714 – 1740, is decorated with depictions of a city panorama and the God of the River Oder, Viadrus. The other gate, Brama Królewska or Royal Gate, was constructed between 1725 – 1737 and showcases emblems of the black eagle of Prussia, as well as the Roman gods, Mars and Hercules.

5) Solidarity Square

A solid reason to visit Szczecin Poland is to check out Solidarity Square, located just outside of the city’s new philharmonic building. Taking the European Prize for Urban Public Space back in 2016, the square’s quite a place to behold as the city has done much to repurpose the space. Many events are held at the square and on less busy days, it’s full of locals walking around, skateboarding, and even rollerblading. As the site’s so picturesque in terms of its geometry and other fixtures, it’s a haven for photographers and yes, even Instagrammers looking for a cool shot that’s sure to garner plenty of likes. Our group of Berlin travelers certainly had a lot of fun here taking photos.

One of the first things that you’ll notice is the contrast of old versus new architecture, especially as you compare the striking bold white jagged exterior of the philharmonic building resting beside a very traditional German-styled building. The concrete foundation of the square’s also not level, as it was built to resemble waves in a tumultuous sea. The uneven square also serves as a rooftop for the Center for Dialogue Breakthroughs , a two-story museum with a permanent exhibition on the history of Szczecin and host to other cultural events.

Another prominent part is the Angel of Freedom monument, created by Czesław Dźwigaj , a famous Polish artist, sculptor, and professor. Built in 2005, the angel appears on a small boat, channeling through a sea of rough waters as reflected by the surrounding square. This 11-meter-high monument showing an angel clutching a crown of thorns is an iconic symbol of the Polish solidarity movement. It was at this square that 16 people protesting their poor work conditions were shot and killed by the Polish army and police. Their names are now engraved on four commemorative plaques at the sculpture’s base.

Other nearby attractions? Due to time, we didn’t get to visit some other nearby attractions like the  Church of Saints Peter and Paul and the Museum of Regional Traditions . If we return for another visit, we’ll likely stop by the highly recommended  Mała Tumska  for a traditional Polish meal (Mmmm!).

6) The Szczecin Philharmonic

Szczecin’s philharmonic building opened in 2014, spans 13,000 square meters, and includes two concert halls – one seating up to 1,000 people and another 200. Designed by the Barcelona-based architectural firm Studio Barozzi Viega , the building’s bold and modern look helped them take home the European Union prize for contemporary architecture in 2015.

The white zigzag-shaped facade of the building is covered in ribbed glass and gives off an ethereal glow by night. The architects note that the building’s design was inspired by the roofs of neighboring residential buildings, the city’s neo-Gothic churches, and even the tall cranes dotted alongside the river. The interior’s simple, minimalist, and monochrome, dominated by a series of skylights.

It’s also another paradise for Instagrammers or anyone looking for a new Facebook or Tinder profile picture (I offered tips to my friends on the best spots to pose). 

If you’re visiting Szczecin and don’t have an EU-based phone number, the wifi here is strong, fast, and free.

Our tips: Come here to enjoy a performance by the local orchestra, which has been around since 1948. Note, the concert halls aren’t open to the public when performances aren’t taking place. Otherwise, tour the inside to experience the grandness of the interior or grab a drink from the onsite café.

7) Wały Chrobrego

When you visit Szczecin, Poland, you could easily come to Wały Chrobrego and hang out here for the entire day without going anywhere else.

It’s one of the few places in Szczecin that wasn’t destroyed during WW2 and is one of the best places in the city to experience history. Built by Wilhelm Meyer- Schwartau between 1902 – 1921, this impressive 500-meter-long elevated promenade rests on the bank of the Oder River and is flanked on each end by oval roofed rotundas. In the center of the promenade and at the bottom of the embankment, is a beautiful fountain – now curiously empty of water and replaced by a tacky-looking boat sculpture. The top of the promenade features a tree-lined street, a bunch of restaurants, bars, and food trucks, as well as access to some of the city’s most notable architectural landmarks like the Maritime University , National Museum , and Szczecin’s Contemporary Theatre . Events like the Tall Ships Races and Days of the Sea are also held here. 

Offering panoramic views over the river, we stopped by one of the restaurants along the terrace – the American Western-themed  Colorado Steakhouse for a late afternoon cocktail.

Other nearby restaurants? We were so stuffed from our pierogi lunch that we didn’t have any more room in our stomachs to take on more food. If we had more time on our hands, we would have checked out Columbus Restaurant .

While Wały Chrobrego offers a great view over Szczecin, one of the top views in the city is found at Cafe 22. The restaurant and bar, located on the 22nd floor of a business skyscraper, is an excellent place to take a late breakfast, afternoon coffee and cake, and even a romantic dinner. Particularly unique are the views of the philharmonic building from above, as well as Ducal Castle. Visit Cafe 22 on Wednesday nights for live music, including jazz, swing, rock, and pop.

Our tips:  Order a dessert (the apple strudel is delicious) and pair it with some bubbly. Our group opted to taste some of the restaurant’s exotic and fruity cocktails and reported high happiness levels. Even better, visit Cafe 22 at sunset to see Szczecin’s cityscape on fire.

We regret missing out on this trip (I’ve been there several times before), but there’s also one more place in the city to get an aerial view over Szczecin, and that’s the Cathedral Basilica of St James the Apostle . Take the lift up 110 meters for some genuinely glorious city views. 

9) Galaxy Shopping Mall

We know, we know. There’s nothing remarkable about Galaxy Shopping Center . It’s just another mall that’s no different than any other mall anywhere else.

However, coming here as a tourist is way fun. There’s a massive supermarket inside where you can shop for local beers, Polish vodka, and tons of other treats not available in Germany. Standard shops like Mango or H & M often feature different clothing than you’d find at the same shops back in Berlin.

Shop to your heart’s content and load up on goodies before heading home.

10) Baltica Wellness And Spa

This is a recent addition to our Szczecin to-do list. Baltica Wellness And Sp a is one of the top spas in Szczecin; it’s the perfect place for weary Berliners to get a dose of health and wellness. Aside from their dizzying array of spa treatments, guests can spend time in the wellness area, which includes a sauna, jacuzzis, steam rooms, sensation showers, and even a snow room to cool down after the sauna. On a recent trip to Szczecin, I had a facial, massage, and access to the wellness area for only €60. Talk about a deal!  

We know this particular activity may be hard to fit into a mere day trip from Berlin, so we either recommend swapping out some of the above activities for a time at the spa or staying in Szczecin for at least 2 days. 

What do you think about these reasons to visit Szczecin, Poland? Have you been there? Are we missing any vital city tips? Drop us a comment below and let us know.

Visit Szczecin, Poland now. Make it easy and download this Google Map to spend your day  cherylhoward.com  style, featuring all of the places mentioned above.

Transportation Options In Szczecin

These are the main transportation options you have when you visit Szczecin, Poland: 

1) Szczecin isn’t very far from Berlin and makes for an easy day or weekend trip. If you want to take a break from the German capital, head there by train, bus, or car:

• You can get there by train on a second-class Berlin Brandenburg ticket for €33. This budget-friendly price includes the round-trip fare for up to five people. Depending on your connection, the journey will take anywhere from two or three hours.
• The bus is fairly cheap as well, averaging anywhere from €15 – 20 for a round-trip fare. The bus trip will take about three hours if traffic is light and construction zones are few. 
• Driving from Berlin to Szczecin will take you a little under two hours. If you’re visiting other parts of Poland, rent a car and take a road trip.

2) For those coming from anywhere else, transportation options to Szczecin’s city center include taking a train, bus, or taxi:

• From the airport  – The airport, Solidarity Szczecin-Goleniów Airport (SZZ) is 45 kilometers North East of the city. You can take a regional train from the airport’s station, Port Lotniczy Szczecin Goleiow to Szczecin Glowny, the city’s main station. The train runs four times daily, takes about 50 minutes, and a ticket will cost you just over €3 (14.80 złoty). You can take a Flixbus , leaving the airport twice daily with the journey to the city center taking 40 minutes. A ticket is around €5 (23.71 złoty) or more if you reserve a seat. You can also book an airport transfer with a minibus via PKS – buses run six-eight times daily (timed with flight landings), stopping at Szczecin Glowny, and at Place Rodła. The journey takes about 55 minutes and a ticket is just over €5 (24.90 złoty).
• From the train/bus station – The city’s main railway and bus station, Szczecin Glowny ,  is located in the middle of the city. Use public transit, walk, or take a taxi to get to arrive at your final destination.  

3) Getting around Szczecin, Poland:

• Taxis  – A recommended local company is  Night Taxi Szczecin .
• Ridesharing  – Uber and Bolt are available in Szczecin.
• Bikes  – Grab a bike with  Bike_S , the city’s bike-sharing service.
• Public Transit  – ZDiTM has an excellent public transit system with plenty of buses and trams. A single ticket fare can be purchased for a time, anywhere from 15 – 120 minutes, costing anywhere from €0.42 (2 złoty) to €1.05 (5 złoty). If you’re there for a day or longer, purchase a 24-hour, 5-day, or 10-day ticket. A 24-hour ticket costs €1.05 (5 złoty).
• Driving  – If you want to drive in Szczecin, consider renting a car with Herz  or Platinum Rent .

Where To Stay In Szczecin

Find a place to stay when you’re in Szczecin.

Paying For Things In Szczecin

Important information to consider when handling payments while you’re traveling around Poland.

1) Poiand uses the złoty:

• See  xe.com  to find out how your home currency compares to the złoty.
• Most places accept bank or credit cards. There also are bank machines throughout the city in case you need cash. 
• When paying by card, you may be asked which currency you want to pay in – choose to pay in the local currency to save money on the exchange rate.

2) Your money will go a long way in Szczecin as prices are lower here than in other  European destinations . You can splurge when it comes to  accommodation ,  eating out , and more.

3) If you can avoid doing so, exchange your money in the city center and NOT the airport, as exchange rates at the airport tend to be on the high side.

Good To Know About Szczecin

1) Experience a guided tour when you’re visiting Szczecin.

2) Love Poland as much as I do? Check out my Poland archive or read some of my favorite posts:

• Journey To Middle Earth At The Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland – Go deep underground on a journey to “Middle Earth” to see the Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland, which includes a cathedral made entirely of salt.
• Poznan Restaurants for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner – The next time you visit Poznan, Poland try out these delicious Poznan restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• The Pharmacy Museum in Krakow Is A Must See – Visit the Pharmacy Museum in Krakow, filled with over 22,000 objects and reproductions of ancient apothecaries.

For even more inspiration, consider these things to do in Krakow . 

*Disclosure  –  This post contains some affiliate links. If you book a tour or hotel through any of these links, I’ll earn a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

26 Comments

great tips! I’ve never been to Szczecin even though I’m Polish but hopefully will make it there this year as a day trip from Berlin 🙂

Thanks Aga. Glad you like the post and hopefully it will prove useful should you ever make the trip to Szczecin. <3

Yes, I love Poland as much as you do and will definitely check your other articles about the country. Szczecin looks fantastic! I all about beautiful architecture and good food.

Yeah, I’ve been so many times I’ve list count. Hope you enjoy Szczecin! 🙂

Wow such interesting architecture there, I especially love the philharmonic building and I want to try the pierogies.

Didn’t know this was so close to Berlin. Szczecin looks like a nice place to visit. Only been to Krakow but need to go back to Poland.

Yes, dangerously close to Berlin. The cravings for pierogis are real. 🙂

– Cheryl

Yes, the philharmonic building is my favourite as well! It’s basically Instagram heaven. <3

Looks like a really interesting place to go, Thanks for sharing this!

It’s a very lovely city!

Hi Cheryl. Please give me some more information about your one day trip to Sczcecin for 4 adults and 1 child (3years old) Thank you , Lina [email protected]

Thanks for your comment and reading my blog! All the general info we can offer is already contained in the article – we’ve listed different ways to travel there, approximate costs of travel, etc. We’ve also listed out things to do, places to eat, and more. There’s even a downloadable map. 🙂

If there’s something missing, please let us know the details and we can try to see if there is more info we can offer.

Kind regards, Cheryl

Thanks to your blog I got to enjoy a day trip to Szczecin today! I knew I wanted to do a day trip to Poland from Berlin however everything I was reading was discouraging, except for your blog. I followed most of your tips. My favorites were the view while having a coffee at Café 22 and also the beer and pirogies at Harnaś (the weather was picture perfect so I sat on the terrace!). I went solo and my Deutsch Bahn ticket was €22. It wasn’t available online, only at the train station. Thanks again for all of your great information!

Hey Raymond,

Wooo hooo. So glad to hear this news and that you enjoyed our tips. 🙂

PS: You can buy a ticket online. See the link above in the “Transportation Options In Szczecin” section.

Hello Cheryl, I am going on a bus trip in Sept 2020 in which I will have 1 free day in Berlin. Since I have been to Berlin previously and wanted to take a day trip to Poland, I had read many people on other sites who were saying not to do a day trip to Poland. I came across your blog who encourages it. I do have a couple of questions and concerns. My first is the ticket to Szczecin, can you only get the ticket at the train station? I also would like to know what timeframe you would suggest starting the day trip to Poland and how much time do you recommend to spend there? My concern is because I am doing a bus trip with a group, I want to make sure that I make it back before the group leaves the next day, I am fearful of being left in Poland. Thank you, Lisa

I’m not sure why people would advise you not to go to Poland? Szczecin is a great city well worth visiting. 🙂

You can buy a train ticket online – you’ll find the link in the “Transportation Options In Szczecin” section above. If you take the bus, you can also buy the ticket online.

In the same section, you’ll also find how long it takes to get there and back. That should help you plan your day. I usually leave Berlin between 8 – 9 am to get there before lunch. By 6 pm or so, I’m usually ready to come back to Berlin and arrive around 8 pm.

Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

Is August, 2022 a good time to visit Szczecin?

Hi Linda! Most definitely, this is a great time, as you can enjoy time eating and drinking on terraces, take in some water based activities, and more. Enjoy your time in Poland!

Hello, I am re-planning my son’s very belated graduation trip to Berlin (we were booked to go in May 2020, then December 2020…) and we are finally going in December. I’m looking at day trip possibilities. Does Szczecin have a Christmas market, and if so, do you know if it would be worth planning our day in order to visit it? thanks!

Hi Kayla! Great to hear that your family will finally be able to make such a nice trip! Yes, Szczecin has Christmas markets and would definitely be worth visiting. We also recommend these other day trips from Berlin as well. Enjoy your vacation.

Szczecin is not the same city which was before war. All bricks were moved to rebuild Warsaw — it’s heartbreaking. And the city’s old buildings are pretty dirty due to all the fumes and the city itself is quite a pathology, especially if you go to Bulwary at night. And it’s still pretty lame in comparison to other Polish cities like Warsaw, Cracow, Gdansk.

I can recomend Szczecin’s parks and cafes though, especially when it comes to cakes and coffees: the great place are Ciastki (next to the current city hall) and Chodzą słuchy (Rajskiego Street) owned by U Piekarzy. You can buy delicious coffee in Palarnia kawy who have their spots all over Szczecin (one is somewhere near Książnica Pomorska). You can also try some ice-cream (U Marczaka, Między wierszami). I would also recomend the neighbourhood of Szczecin, there are quite a few nice spots in Gmina Dobra (if you want to go swimming, I’ll recomend Stolsko lake — it’s cleaner than Głębokie and much more private but you can still have sausages and barbecue, there’s also a small playground so the kids won’t be bored, it’s in Stolec next to the amazing palace in Stolec, you can’t visit it though), especially for bicycling.

Thanks for your comment and recommendations! I’m sure our other readers will appreciate them. 🙂

This is a very helpful article. I am seeking a day trip from BErlin to the closest city in Poland to experience another country and this came in very handy. any other thoughts on another close by city in Poland which can make a good day trip from Berlin? Thanls

Hiya Rupal – Szczecin is definitely an option and Poznan is another. It’s a bit further and would make for a long day, but it could also be done. Enjoy! 🙂

For visit Szczecin i propose you: https://centrum-informacji-turystycznej.pl/informacja-turystyczna-szczecin

Hi Maciej! Thanks for the recommendation. Appreciated! 🙂

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Founded in 2010, cherylhoward.com is a travel blog profiling some of the world’s most unusual places and things.

I’m a Canadian from Toronto who’s been living in Berlin for the better part of a decade. I like travelling Europe and writing about unusual places and things, as well as creating unique itineraries for various destinations. Read more.

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Bengals Hosting Under-the-Radar Tight End Prospect for Visit Ahead of 2024 NFL Draft

Cincinnati hasn't taken a tight end in the draft since 2019.

• Author: James Rapien

In this story:

CINCINNATI — The Bengals are bringing in Iowa tight end Erick All for a Top 30 visit according to Ryan Fowler. He spent his first four seasons at Michigan, before transferring to Iowa. All had 75 catches for 864 yards and five touchdowns in 40 career games. He dealt with injuries that limited him in 2020 and 2022.

The Bengals haven't taken a tight end in the NFL Draft since 2019, but that could change later this month. Cincinnati has 10 selections and even if they don't add a top tight end like Brock Bowers or Ben Sinnott, they could still address the position.

The 6-4, 252-pound tight end might not have put up huge stats in college, but the film caught Louis Riddick's attention.

"He is a starting caliber tight end in the league that will be a problem as a route runner, and a very solid, versatile run blocker," Riddick tweeted.

All could be a Bengals target on day three of the draft if they don't take one in the first three rounds.

Iowa TE Erick All. If the medicals (knee rehab, past back issues) are behind him, he is a starting caliber TE in the league that will be a problem as a route runner, and a very solid, versatile run blocker. The tape is that good. @HawkeyeFootball — Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) April 1, 2024

Sources: Iowa TE Erick All has Top 30s scheduled with the Dolphins, Bengals and Vikings. Versatile Y/F with time spent at Michigan & Iowa in his five collegiate campaigns. — Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) March 13, 2024

Make sure you  bookmark this site for the latest Bengals news , exclusive interviews, film breakdowns and so much more!

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How gypsy rose blanchard spent nola visit with ex-fiancé ken urker, gypsy rose blanchard tattoos, dinner & sightseeing in nola ... full reconnect with ex.

Gypsy Rose Blanchard is real busy making up for lost time with her ex-fiancé, Ken Urker ... TMZ got all the deets on their Louisiana rendezvous.

GRB linked up with her former flame in NOLA this week -- and we're told the exes did a whole lot more than just getting matching husky tattoos in Cut Off, LA.

Sources close to Gypsy tell TMZ ... Ken flew Sunday from Texas to Louisiana to visit and support his ex amid her separation from Ryan Anderson .

For their 4-day visit -- we're told Ken is returning home Thursday -- the pair's been enjoying the local cuisine, and spent a day exploring the city's famous French Quarter.

While this might sound like a very romantic adventure, our sources insist nothing romantic is going on between them ... at this point.

We're told Gypsy is focusing on herself right now, but does appreciate Ken's support as she navigates a difficult time. As Ken's mom, Raina Williams , previously told us .. Ken felt compelled to be by Gypsy's side as soon as he learned about her split with Ryan.

Gypsy and Ken have always maintained a friendship -- our source says that remained even after they split, while GRB was still in prison.

They first connected in 2018 through the prison pen pal program, got engaged in 2019, but faced some hardships due to Gypsy's incarceration ... which, ultimately, resulted in their split.

By July 2022, Gypsy had moved on and married Ryan, but that relationship came to an end 3 months after she got outta prison .

Despite the big press tour after her release, Gypsy is now keeping a low profile -- staying with her dad -- and, last month, she even deleted her public Instagram and X accounts.

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Old news is old news be first.

I visited a McDonald's test kitchen to try its biggest menu overhaul in a decade. The burger patties are a big improvement, but the new Big Mac is too sweet.

• McDonald's is rolling out a new burger bun recipe in the US, UK, and Australia.
• It's also changing the way it cooks burger patties and stores some of its fresh ingredients.
• The new bread is good, but the new Big Mac tasted too sweet.

McDonald's burgers are getting a new look. The menu shakeup comes as the fast food chain prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, and constitutes the biggest change the chain has made to its food in 10 years.

I visited the McDonald's UK head office in East Finchley, London, to hear more about the changes, and to get a side-by-side comparison of the old and new burgers.

The McDonald's UK head office is housed in an unassuming building in North London.

It was my first time at the McDonald's UK head office. I was expecting some more glitz and glamor from a company with a $204 billion market cap, but the flag was a nice touch.

Inside is a test kitchen where chefs prepare new dishes.

The test kitchen is modelled on an actual McDonald's restaurant, with a similar layout and the same equipment you would find in an average store.

The biggest change is the new bun recipe

McDonald's has overhauled its buns. The new recipe is described as "a buttery, brioche-style" bun with a "soft and pillowy" texture. McDonald's has also scaled back the number of sesame seeds on each bun.

They look great, taking on a shine thanks to a light glaze. It's worth noting that while they are "brioche-style" they do not contain any egg, milk, or butter like a traditional brioche does.

The burger patties are also being cooked differently.

The beef patties at McDonald's are now getting a "tighter sear" on the grill. The idea is that by exposing them to more heat, you seal more moisture inside the patties for a juicier bite and a stronger grilled flavor.

Onions are now added during the grilling process, not after.

The onions found on hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and the Big Mac are now being added to the patties during the grilling process rather than after. This way they soften up more and take on some charred flavor from the grill and the meat.

Every ingredient has had a rethink, even the lettuce

The lettuce used at McDonald's stores isn't changing, but the way it is handled is. It will now only be kept out of the refrigerator for a maximum of 30 minutes, and kept at colder temperatures once out to retain more crunch.

The cheese may seem more gooey than before

The iconic McDonald's American cheese slice isn't getting any recipe changes, but McDonald's claims the hotter sear on the patties makes for more melty cheese than before.

So how do these method and ingredient tweaks actually taste?

Armed with all of the information I needed about the new recipes and cooking methods, it was time for me to try some new and old style burgers to see how the changes stacked up.

First up was the McDonald's Double Cheeseburger

The visual differences were pretty striking. The new bun looks much more appealing thanks to its glossy finish and darker toasty color. It was clear that the cheese had melted more in the newer burger, with the slice's edges drooping while the original burger's slices stayed rigid.

This change definitely felt like an upgrade.

The Double Cheeseburger is one of my favorite McDonald's menu items so I was apprehensive to try a new version, but it was a definite improvement. The bun has more bite to it now with a satisfying bready chew, and a stronger toasted taste.

The beef was also great, with an almost caramelized flavor thanks to the hotter sear. The only underwhelming change was the onion, which was more mildly sautéed than "charred."

Next up was the Quarter Pounder with Cheese

The buns were strikingly different once again. McDonald's say the newer versions have fewer sesame seeds, but I wouldn't say it's a drastic change.

The Quarter Pounder also doesn't benefit from grilled onions. It still has the larger onion pieces compared to the Big Mac and Cheeseburger options, but they're not added during the cook process. The only change is that they, like the lettuce, are being held out of the fridge for less time to maintain crunch.

I actually didn't think the Quarter Pounder tasted very different to the old version

Somewhat disappointingly, I barely noticed any change to the taste of the Quarter Pounder with Cheese. The texture of the new bun added to it again, but the meat didn't seem to benefit much from the new sear approach.

The sear is more noticeable on the thinner patties, but any charred flavor on the outside of the quarter pounder got lost in the thick, meaty inside as soon as I started chewing. If you were a fan of the original burger, you shouldn't be concerned about the new version.

Then it was time for the revamped Big Mac

The new Big Mac looks great. The glossy bun catches the eye once again, and the reduced sesame seed count emphasizes that even more.

It also seemed to stand up straighter than the older version, possibly due to the colder lettuce and new bun giving it more structural integrity.

Sadly, the new Big Mac didn't pass the taste test.

Biting into the new Big Mac ultimately led to disappointment. There were some definite areas of improvement — the sandwich felt hotter and fresher, the beef was juicier, and I was still enjoying the chewier bun.

The main issue for me was the brioche flavor added to the new buns. When combined with the other Big Mac ingredients, specifically the Big Mac sauce, it created a strange, overly sweet taste in my mouth which I just couldn't seem to get past.

I was left underwhelmed with the changes to the Big Mac.

The original Big Mac is, in many ways, a perfect burger. The sauce is slightly sweet but with plenty of tang to balance it, something that is lost in the new version. The bun was slightly too spongy, but in hindsight I see why that was the case.

The new bun seemed less able to withstand the toppings, which kept sliding out of the back of the burger every time I took a bite, while the old sandwich held firm. The new bready, buttery brioche-style version didn't have the requisite give needed to squeeze the fillings tightly enough to contain them.

McDonald's has made some positive steps, but I'd continue to make tweaks if I were in charge.

Overall I'd say the menu changes represent a step in the right direction for McDonald's. The new method of cooking the beef patties was probably my favorite change. All the new patties I tried felt hotter, juicier, and had a better grilled flavor than the many, many McDonald's burgers I've eaten in the past.

McDonald's also seems to be placing more emphasis on producing fresher food, with small changes to things like lettuce storage and grilled onions actually making a noticeable difference to the end product.

Only time will tell if people approve of the new menu.

A company of the size and reputation of McDonald's doesn't roll out significant changes without good reason. They put the new items through a rigorous testing process including plenty of tastings with members of the public, so they must be pretty confident people will enjoy the new offerings.

I will certainly still be dining at McDonald's in the future, although part of me will be hoping they at least scale back the buttery sweetness of those new Big Mac buns.

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