I traveled alone in Poznań for 4 days, and it felt just right. I would have been happy to stay one more day to explore more of this fun city, but I felt that I managed to do a lot in those 4 days. That’s why my recommendation is to stay at least 4 days in Poznań, especially if you’re traveling with kids, as everything takes more time and requires more logistics.
I have a detailed post about things to do in Poznan, and in this post, you can read about the itinerary I followed each day in the city. I stayed at a cheap hostel, Retro Hostel, in a good location (the center of Poznan) with good reviews.
Day 1 – Pink Café, Old Town & Indian Food:
I arrived in Poznań in the afternoon and settled into the cozy Retro Hostel. After checking in, I noticed a charming pink café – Rozove Café. The place was filled with cute decorations and had a dreamy pink vibe. Even though I wasn’t too hungry, I couldn’t resist stepping inside and ordering a calming herbal tea. I sat by the window with my book, soaking in the soft atmosphere and enjoying the peaceful moment.
Later, I explored Poznań’s beautiful Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and colorful historical buildings. I passed through Frederic Chopin Park, a lovely green spot perfect for a quick rest. In the evening, hunger struck again, so I found Taj Mahal (permanently closed), an Indian restaurant with great prices. I ordered palak paneer with rice and a fresh veggie salad. The generous portion and warm spices made for a perfect end to my first day in the city.
Day 2 – Culture, Local Food & Nature:
I started the day at Jaglana Café, right next to the hostel. The place had a modern, healthy menu, so I ordered oatmeal with fresh fruits and a cappuccino. I then headed to the Royal Castle, a 13th-century building with a fascinating history and panoramic views from the tower. Afterward, I visited the quirky Croissant Museum, where I watched a fun demonstration of how Poznań’s traditional St. Martin’s croissants are made – and of course, I got to taste one fresh out of the oven.
For lunch, I stopped at Pierozak, a local spot known for its delicious pierogi (Polish dumplings). I ordered five different flavors – feta cheese, cabbage & mushrooms, spinach & cheese, duck, and more. They were all fresh, tasty, and affordable. Afterward, I strolled through a small market near the hostel, bought some fresh berries, and headed to the Botanical Gardens. The expansive gardens were filled with diverse plants and offered a peaceful break. I ended the day relaxing by Lake Rusałka, snacking on the berries while enjoying the calm waters. For dinner, I went to Why Thai for a flavorful pad thai paired with a refreshing glass of white wine.
Day 3 – History, Culture & Food Tour:
The morning started with light rain, but that didn’t stop me from searching for a cozy café. I found Lavenda Café, an elegant spot with a business vibe. I ordered avocado toast with scrambled eggs and a strong cappuccino. After breakfast, I visited the grand Imperial Castle, built for German Emperor Wilhelm II. Inside, there was an intriguing exhibit about the Enigma machine and the story behind its codebreaking during WWII – a must-see for history buffs.
Next, I wandered through Citadel Park, the city’s largest park filled with monuments, museums, and even a British WWII cemetery. In the evening, I joined a food & beer tour with a local guide named Piotr. It was an amazing experience, trying various local dishes and unique beers – including a hot beer mixed with eggs and sugar (it sounds strange but was surprisingly tasty!). We ended the tour with a unique dessert: beer pudding – much better than it sounds!
Day 4 – Biking, Street Art & Zoo Adventure:
I started my last day at Razowa Café (permanently closed) with a delicious vegan shakshuka. After breakfast, I rented a bike from Folk Hostel and set off to explore the city on two wheels. One of my first stops was the famous 3D mural in the Śródka neighborhood – a colorful piece depicting the area’s history, complete with a prince, musicians, and even a cat.
I continued biking around Lake Malta, a popular recreational spot with bike paths, attractions, and a small ski slope. Near the Maltanka Miniature Railway, I parked the bike and hopped on the cute little train that takes you to Nowe Zoo. This large, safari-style zoo gives animals plenty of space and feels more like a nature reserve. I spent hours wandering through the lush enclosures, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
To wrap up my trip, I returned the bike and headed to Posnania Mall, a huge shopping center near Lake Malta. I did some last-minute shopping, grabbed a bite, and reflected on the amazing days spent in Poznań.
Final Thoughts:
Poznań was a delightful surprise – full of culture, delicious food, beautiful nature, and budget-friendly options. Whether you’re into history, local cuisine, or simply exploring charming streets, Poznań has something for everyone. Highly recommended!