Szczecin. A city that we have always associated primarily with the port and the Oder, right?

It often seems to be somewhere on the edge of Poland, but in fact it’s the vibrant capital of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, located right on the border with Germany, just an hour and a half from Berlin. For years we heard stories from Dad, who studied Ship Design and Shipbuilding at the Naval Academy here, flying from Goleniów to Warsaw by plane.

These stories piqued our curiosity, and in fact, isn’t that how every journey begins? We decided to discover what to see in Szczecin and see for ourselves why the city is referred to as the ‘Floating Garden’.

It turned out that Szczecin’s attractions are extremely varied and that interesting places in Szczecin surprise you at every turn. Have you ever wondered what is worth seeing in Szczecin? Or what to see in Szczecin in one day, or what to do in Szczecin with your child? This comprehensive guide to Szczecin’s tourist attractions is just for you!

We have compiled a list of places you must visit, whether you are looking for historical sights, greenery, culture or just cool places in Szczecin.

Read on to find out what to see in and around Szczecin, because believe us, there is a lot! In this article, we present the most interesting places that make your stay in Szczecin unforgettable.

Szczecin: attractions for everyone – what can you find here?

Szczecin really has a lot to offer. It is a city where history is intertwined with modernity, and the ubiquitous greenery and the proximity of water make for a unique atmosphere, which you can feel immediately in the air.

Whatever your interests, you are sure to find something to your liking here. From majestic monuments and green oases of tranquillity to fascinating museums and unusual places that will live long in the memory.

The attractions of Szczecin are just waiting to be discovered! This is the real tourist attraction of West Pomerania.

The most important sights of Szczecin: castle, gates and ramparts

The heart of historic Szczecin beats on Castle Hill, where the Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes rises proudly.

It is the former seat of the House of Griffins, who ruled the Duchy of Pomerania for centuries. The castle witnessed many important events, such as the wedding of Prince Bogusław X with Anna Jagiellonka.

Inside the castle is a branch of the National Museum, where you can explore the turbulent history of the region and learn more about the Griffin dynasty.

In the mint courtyard there is an impressive bronze model of the castle. It’s also worth climbing the Bell Tower, which offers a truly beautiful panorama of the city! From here you can look down on Szczecin and admire its architecture.

The castle also has a Prison Tower and a Clock Tower, and the history of the House of Griffins, marked by tragic figures such as Sydonia von Borck, accused of witchcraft, and Duke Ernest Ludwig, with whom she was in love, is presented in a series of graphic works by Andrzej Maciejewski, which is quite unusual.

Walking around Szczecin, you will also come across the remains of the old fortifications. Szczecin, which was a fortress until the 19th century whose development was hampered by the defensive walls surrounding it, has retained two historic city gates.

The Port Gate, commissioned by King Friedrich Wilhelm I in 1724, had its gables dismantled during World War II and was hidden in the Arkona Forest. It now houses the Chamber Theatre of the Szczecin Society of Friends of the Arts.

There used to be a fountain with a statue of the goddess Amphitrite in front of the Port Gate.

The other surviving gate, the Royal Gate, adorns the area around the Philharmonic Hall. Undoubtedly, and this is something everyone will admit, one of the most characteristic places and most important viewpoints is the Chrobry Embankment, formerly known as the Haken Embankment.

It is a majestic, 500-metre-long observation deck located on the Oder River, offering a magnificent view of the river, the harbour and Łasztown.

Impressive public buildings, such as the headquarters of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship Office, the National Museum and the Maritime Academy, are located on Wały Chrobrego. Each of these buildings is an important element of the urban landscape.

There is a fountain at the foot of the Embankment, and the whole area is a popular meeting place for residents and tourists. Every year at the end of June/beginning of July, the Maritime Days are held here – one of the most important events in the city, and probably the most spectacular.

A walk through the Old Town: Sienny Rynek and townhouses

Although Szczecin does not have a classic Old Town in the sense of the historic buildings that survived the war, its reconstructed part, with Rynek Sienny at its head, forms a charming corner often referred to as the “New Old Town”.

The Sienna Market, which is the main Old Town square in the downtown district of the Old Town estate, was called Heumarkt (Horse Market) until 1945. The square is surrounded by Sienna and Mściwoja II Streets, and is also approached by Osiek Street.

At the entrance to Sienna Market, we are greeted by the beautiful building of the Szczecin History Museum, housed in the rebuilt Old Town Hall. This historic building originally dates from the 15th century, but was destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in the 1970s in Baroque-Gothic style. Today, you will find a branch of the National Museum in the Town Hall, telling the story of Szczecin’s history.

When strolling around the Market Square and Sienna Street, look out for beautiful townhouses. Probably the prettiest facade, in my opinion, is the blue building on Sienna 7 and the neighbouring, slightly pink building on Sienna 8.

Although Rynek Sienny is paradoxically not the main cultural or social centre of the city, its surroundings are pleasant to walk around and admire the restored architecture.

You will also find a souvenir shop from local artists next door. It also offers Szczecin paprykarz, and importantly, with a good line-up.

Szczecin: the green heart of the city – where to find respite?

Szczecin is a city that really surprises with its greenery, and the slogan ‘Floating Garden’ perfectly reflects its character.

Almost a quarter of the city’s area is water, and another 20 per cent is green. Numerous parks and forests provide a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life even in the city centre, which, let’s face it, is not so obvious in big cities.

Active leisure pursuits along the Oder River or the Emerald Lake are just some of the opportunities that attract residents and tourists alike.

Jasne Błonia: a park, a square and the largest concentration of plane trees

One of the largest green spaces in Szczecin is Jasne Błonia. This vast, grassy square was created on land once owned by the Quistorp family.

Jasne Błonia is famous for having the largest cluster of plane trees in Poland – these record-breaking trees have been growing here since 1926, which is perhaps impressive?

It’s the perfect place for Szczecinians to catch some sunshine, have picnics and spend time with loved ones.

At the southern end of Jasne Błoni rises the impressive City Hall building, often referred to as the Spinach Palace because of the colour of its facade.

A viewing axis connects the Office building with the Czynu Polaków Monument – a monumental sculpture in the shape of three eagles.

From the north-west, Jasne Błonia passes smoothly into Kasprowicz Park.

In spring, Jasne Błonia draws crowds with its blooming crocuses, reminiscent of the Chochołowska Valley in the Tatra Mountains, which is, for me personally, quite surreal in the middle of the city!

The visit of Pope John Paul II in 1987 is commemorated by a monument on the square, and it is actually worth mentioning that this is an important landmark for many visitors.

Kasprowicz Park: lake, bridges and sculptures

Adjacent to Jasne Błonia, Jan Kasprowicz Park is the largest park in Szczecin.

It’s a great place for long walks and bike rides, overgrown with lush trees.

Walking through the park, you will pass the Helena Majdaniec Summer Theatre, which hosts many of the city’s cultural events.

The park also features the picturesque Rusalka Lake with its fountain and the charming Japanese Bridge over the lake.

Look out for the interesting sculpture Firebirds by Władysław Hasior, located by the Summer Theatre, as it is truly… original.

Not far from the park, there is also the Rose Garden, which is worth a visit, especially in summer, even though it is not very large.

Arkona Forest: Quistorp Tower and Arkonka Swimming Pool

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, head for Arkoński Forest, a vast forest complex in the north-west of Szczecin, part of the Wkrzańska Forest, which also extends into the nearby Bukowa Forest, and is a really big area.

The Arkona Forest hides several interesting places. Here you will find the ruins of the Quistorp lookout tower, built as a tribute to the important Szczecin entrepreneur and philanthropist Johannes Quistorp.

Although the tower is dilapidated, its ruins are still an interesting monument, although if you are prepared to be slightly disappointed by the lack of a view, it is worth going there anyway.

Right in the centre of Arkonski Forest is Arkonka, a modern and very popular swimming pool – a swimming pool complex that attracts crowds in the summer, and it is well known that it can be crowded, but what more could you want on a hot day?

On your way back from Arkona Forest, you can walk through green areas all the way to Szczecin City Hall on Jasne Błonia, passing the Botanical Garden (which is more of a park than an organised garden, which some might disagree with) and the Rose Garden.

Szczecin: history and culture

Szczecin is a city with a rich and often complex history, which can be explored in many interesting museums and cultural institutions.

For centuries, it was the capital of the Duchy of Pomerania, ruled by the Griffin family, before passing under the rule of the Swedes, Brandenburgers, Prussians and Germans.

These diverse influences left their mark on the city’s architecture and culture, which can be seen at every turn if you look closely.

The National Museum in the Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes: griffins and regional history

One of the most important museums in Szczecin is the branch of the National Museum located in the Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes.

It is here, in the former seat of the Griffin family, that you can travel back in time and learn about the fascinating history of the Pomeranian Duchy and Szczecin itself.

The exhibitions present the fate of the dukes, the history of the castle and aspects of everyday life in bygone eras. You can find a lot of interesting information here.

Here you can see the Great Map of the Pomeranian Duchy by Eilhard Lubinus, learn about the history of Sidonie von Borck and view artworks inspired by her.

This is a must-see for all lovers of history and historic architecture, just like that, full stop.

Museum of Technology and Communication: Stoewer, Junak and the history of transport

The Museum of Technology and Communication in Szczecin is a unique place that tells the story of the city from a completely different perspective – through the prism of the development of technology and transport.

The museum is housed in the former Niemierzyn tram depot, from which the last tram of line 11 left in 2010, and this is already a piece of history, as you will admit.

Inside you will find a rich collection of exhibits connected with the history of the motor industry and public transport in Szczecin.

You will learn a lot about the pre-war production of cars and other equipment of the Stoewer brand, founded by Bernhard Stoewer and operating in Niebuszewo.

You will see the legendary Junak motorbike, also produced in Szczecin.

The museum presents the history of the trams and buses that run through the city, as well as many other interesting vehicles and equipment. Actually, looked at from a different perspective, it is a real treasure trove of knowledge for motoring fans.

It’s an interactive museum where you can learn more about the technology and history of transport, which is not only enjoyable for adults, but also provides great fun for the little ones, which, as my friend says, is always valuable.

The museum is located on Niemierzyńska Street. It is worth planning a visit and the entrance fee is not exorbitant.

The Centre for Dialogue Przełomy: Szczecin in the 20th century

Next to the Mieczysław Karłowicz Philharmonic Hall is the unique Centre for Dialogue Przełomy, a branch of the National Museum.

It is a place that tells the story of the difficult but extremely important years 1939-1989 in the history of Western Pomerania, with particular emphasis on Szczecin.

The Centre for Dialogue is located beneath Solidarności Square, which was the scene of the tragic events of December 1970.

The idea to create the Centre came from Agnieszka Kuchcińska-Kurcz. The project was carried out in cooperation with local authorities and institutions.

In 2016, the Centre for Dialogue Przełomy was named the best public space in Europe, which is a testament to its unique architecture and content value, and let me tell you frankly, it is really impressive!

Visiting this place gives you a better understanding of the recent history of Poland and the region, which is an invaluable history lesson. You can learn a lot of details from the publications available on site.

Szczecin Museum in the People’s Republic: a journey back in time

A real journey in time awaits you at the private Museum of Szczecin in PRL, run with passion by Justyna Machnik.

After seven years of collecting collections, she has opened a unique place that allows you to travel back to the 1950s-90s.

The characteristic interiors of the period have been recreated in small rooms: a living room, a kitchen with a characteristic sideboard, a shop and even a clerk’s office.

Ms Justyna has amassed a huge collection of everyday objects that perfectly reflect the realities of life in the People’s Republic of Poland.

Here you will see popular Majak clocks, Relaks shoes, Perhaps perfume, Pani Walewska, Brutal and many other symbols of that era.

Ms Justyna also guides you on the author’s walking tour “Szczecin on the trail of the People’s Republic of Poland”, which is, in my opinion, a great way to get to know the city.

It’s a fascinating history lesson and a sentimental journey for those who remember those times, and for younger people – an opportunity to learn about life in the People’s Republic of Poland, even though perhaps not everything seems comprehensible today. You can visit the museum on your own or book a guided tour.

Szczecin: unusual places and attractions – what else is hidden in the city?

Apart from the classic monuments and museums, Szczecin hides many unusual and original attractions that are worth discovering, because they are not places you will find everywhere.

These are places that add character to the city and make your stay in Szczecin even more interesting.

From mysterious undergrounds to vibrant islands and architectural gems, Szczecin has something to attract your attention.

Underground routes of Szczecin: shelters and secrets of the city

One of the most intriguing attractions of Szczecin is the Underground Routes of Szczecin, located in the basement of the Main Railway Station, actually the largest civilian shelter in Poland, built by the Germans in the 1940s, during the Second World War, when the city of Stettin was on German territory and was heavily bombed by Allied forces, so it seemed. The shelter was able to accommodate thousands of people, giving them shelter from the bombardments.

After Szczecin was incorporated into Poland at the end of the war, the underground began to serve as a training ground for the Civil Defence of the Polish State Railways.

Subsequently, the shelter was rebuilt as an anti-atomical shelter, which is already related to the realities of life in the People’s Republic of Poland.

Today, the Underground Routes of Szczecin are open to the public, offering several themed routes, and this, let me tell you, is a really interesting experience.

The red route “World War II” allows you to understand the reality of life in an underground shelter during the deadly air raids.

It’s a great place to learn more about the history of the city and feel the atmosphere of the time, although it’s not for people with claustrophobia.

Interestingly, part of the shelter was used as a set for the 1963 American film The Great Escape.

You explore the shelters on your own, wandering along colour-coded arrow-lined tour routes, which, for some, may be a drawback as there is no guide, but others will appreciate the freedom. Guided tours are also available for those who wish.

The Szczecin Underground Trails are open to everyone – they can be visited daily from 11 am to 4 pm.

Grodzka Island and Łasztownia: Jigosaurs, the Marine Science Centre and the atmospheric atmosphere

Łasztownia, surrounded by the waters of the Oder and Parnica rivers, is a former harbour island that has experienced a true renaissance in recent years and is becoming the new city centre.

The city of Szczecin acquired the island in 1283, and in 1299 a permanent wooden bridge, known as the Long Bridge, was thrown across the Oder. The new part of the city began to be used for port purposes – goods depots and granaries were located here, wooden loading platforms and quays were erected, and so it began.

During the Second World War, Lasztownia was bombed, and badly.

After the war it was built over by companies connected with the sea, and nowadays companies such as Polska Żegluga Morska, Żegluga Szczecińska and the Customs Office have their headquarters here.

Łasztownia is also often used as a venue for cultural activities and major music events, which brings the area to life.

You can get to Łasztownia from the left bank of the Oder with two bridges – the Long Bridge and the Castle Route.

When you leave the Long Bridge, you will enter the Szczecin Boulevards, a renovated waterfront that has become a popular place for walks, bike rides and meetings for residents and tourists, which is really cool, because you can see that the city is investing in public space.

It’s easy to catch the laid-back atmosphere of evenings on the Oder River at the Szczecin Boulevards.

Szczecin has made sure that the boulevards area is not banned from drinking alcohol in public places, which, let’s face it, contributes significantly to the atmosphere.

From the local confectionery factories, there is sometimes the smell of chocolate produced there, which is quite surprising and… pleasant.

The boulevards will take you to the Marine Science Centre.

You can also extend your walk by crossing the river and walking along the Piast Boulevard towards the Chrobry Embankment.

When you walk along the Customs Quay, or Szczecin Boulevards, just on the other side of the Oder, a view of the “new Old Town” will emerge, i.e. the Sienny Rynek and the townhouses surrounding it.

The Łasztownia area is home to several important symbols of Szczecin and the recently opened Maritime Science Centre, and this is, in my opinion, one of the highlights of recent years.

It is an impressive ship-shaped complex under construction (some associate it with Noah’s Ark) measuring 14 metres high and 100 metres long.

The Marine Science Centre, officially opened in 2023, stands on the Łasztownia waterfront (under the Castle Route) and is highly visible from the Chrobry Embankment.

It is an interactive space for learning about the sea, shipping and science in general, featuring thematic exhibitions, including the shipbuilding exhibition “All Ahead!”, as well as a Planetarium introducing the mysteries of the cosmos, which is, especially for children, very attractive.

A distinctive feature of the Łasztownia skyline is the Dźwigozaury – a group of three industrial cranes, historic harbour cranes that have been renovated, painted and illuminated, so that they now stand proudly on Łasztownia and light up the Szczecin skyline.

The originator of the name of this tourist attraction was Katarzyna Nosowska, formerly the singer of the band Hey, a Szczecin resident, who named them so in her song ‘Die from here’, and the name caught on, rather amusingly.

The harbour cranes have become a real landmark and symbol of Szczecin, and a popular meeting place, as can be seen in the evenings when they are illuminated.

There is no denying that Paprykarz Szczecinski is one of the symbols associated with the city’s history, and although not everyone likes it, it is a legend.

At Łasztownia you will find his monumental statue, which has become one of the most photographed objects in Szczecin, which is… surprising, but also charming. His fame has spread around the world among foodies.

When you’re at Łasztownia, don’t forget to visit the monument to the Paprykarz Szczecinski, a kind of local ‘must-do’.

Another peculiar attraction is an art installation dedicated to Krzysztof Jarzyna from Szczecin, the ‘boss of all bosses’ from the film ‘Poranek kojota’.

The idea for the installation came from blogger Paweł Krzych, and the initiative was realised as part of the Szczecin Civic Budget.

Krzysztof Jarzyna’s statue, thanks to its ‘mask’ form, allows you to turn into the ‘boss of all bosses’ and take a commemorative photo, which is simply brilliant in its simplicity.

A few metres behind the monument is also the “Szczecin” sign, a must in any self-respecting city, you know.

Connected by a drawbridge to Łasztownia is Grodzka Island, which covers an area of around 15 hectares, and this, looking at the map, is not a small area at all.

Formerly used for industrial purposes, it is now a popular recreational area, which is a great example of revitalisation.

Grodzka Island is home to a marina and the City Summer Zone, often referred to as Szczecin Beach.

It is an artificially created beach with sand, deckchairs and a beach bar (Wyspa Grodzka Pub), where you can relax in the summer, listen to good music, watch an open-air cinema and admire the view of the Chrobry Embankment and the Marine Science Centre, and there is a really, really cool atmosphere.

From the bridge leading to Grodzka Island you have a great view of the Old Town waterfront and Szczecin’s North East Marina.

In the summer, take a ride on Poland’s largest mill wheel, the Wheel of Szczecin, which is also located in this area, if, of course, you are prepared for some of the delays that sometimes occur.

The Archcathedral and White Eagle Square: climb the tower and the charm of the historic square

Walking around Szczecin, you will notice the tall tower of the Archcathedral Basilica of St James the Apostle, which, shall we say, dominates the city skyline.

This impressive church is the second tallest in Poland (after the basilica in Lichen in Wielkopolska).

It’s worth climbing the Basilica’s observation tower to admire the city’s skyline from on high, as the view from there is, let’s be honest, insane.

The Archcathedral Basilica of St James the Apostle is an important monument and place of worship.

Not far from the Archcathedral is the White Eagle Square. This pleasant place was the former Horse Market (Roßmarkt) in the medieval part of the city known as the Upper Town.

The Upper Town Square was home to the Upper Town Hall and the Cloth Hall, or so the story goes at least.

Today, the White Eagle Square is a popular place for walks and meetings of the inhabitants.

There is the historic White Eagle Fountain, made in sandstone and launched in 1732, which was the first part of Szczecin’s water supply system – who would have thought?

It is a charming corner where you can feel the spirit of the old city.

In addition to the tower of the Basilica and the Bell Tower at the Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes, another vantage point is Café 22 on the 22nd floor of the Pazim office building, which offers a 360° panorama, although it should be remembered that there is a discount for holders of the Szczecin Tourist Card, as well as a 22% discount for signing up to the café’s newsletter, so it’s not quite so straightforward.

Szczecin also boasts a unique pump trail.

Historic cast-iron pumps from the 19th century, such as Marianna, Małgorzata and Salomea, are scattered all over the city and are an architectural curiosity worth exploring on a walk, in my opinion.

Also worth seeking out is the “Great Arch” installation designed by Bernhard Heiliger, which was recommended to us by the wonderful Simon from the Tourist Information Point, and it was a hit!

Art Nouveau townhouses: the beauty of detail

Szczecin also impresses with the beauty of Art Nouveau architecture, which is not so common in Poland.

Walking around the city, it’s worth paying attention to the townhouses from the turn of the 20th century, decorated with fine ornaments and bas-reliefs, because the details there are, to be honest, amazing.

We would particularly recommend discovering such delights as the 1903 Art Nouveau tenement at 1 Świętego Wojciecha Street, which caught our eye as we walked from the Pionier cinema to the Port Gate area – a cinema with history, by the way.

This building, commissioned by the shipper Albert Netz, emerges from behind the early modernist Church of the Sacred Heart. Sacred Heart Church, whose façade is overgrown with ivy, providing a rather unusual contrast.

The building has well-preserved ornaments and bas-reliefs and a beautiful floor inside, which is, let’s face it, a rarity.

Continuing along St Adalbert Street, you will reach Anders Park, a small park that lies on the site of a former military cemetery.

A prestigious residential area with numerous Art Nouveau villas is Westend, whose name refers to the West End of London, an affluent district that already gives you some idea of the character of the place.

Among other things, there is the restored Lentz Villa, the residence of August Lentz (creator and director of the local chamotte factory), built by construction companies coming from Berlin, although August Lentz died suddenly, just five years after the villa was commissioned, which is, shall we say, a little sad. Today, the villa is the venue for numerous cultural events, and is an example of successful cooperation between private investors and the city.

Szczecin: gastronomic pearls – where to eat well and locally?

Every trip is also about discovering local flavours. Szczecin has some real gems in this respect, which you must try if you are going to be here.

From the legendary pasty, to local beer, to restaurants and cafes serving dishes from all over the world.

Where to eat in Szczecin? We have a few tips for you, which we hope you will find helpful.

Pasztecik szczecciński: a taste of tradition

Pasztecik szczeciński is a true culinary symbol of Szczecin, and that already means something, doesn’t it?

This legally protected product is on the List of Traditional Products.

The legendary Pasztecik bar at 46 Wojska Polskiego Avenue has been serving them according to an unchanged recipe for over 50 years, operating continuously since 1969.

The Paszteciki machine was imported in 1971 and is said to have been converted from a Soviet demobilised machine made for the Soviet army – what a story!

Paszteciki are yeast delicacies with a variety of fillings: meat (pork, beef), cheese and mushroom or with cabbage and mushrooms.

They taste great with a cup of hot red borscht.

We liked them very much at the restaurant at 10 Wyszyńskiego Street, from where we are sharing our impressions, but locals believe the tastier pasties are at the oldest one at 46 Wojska Polskiego Avenue, so if you are ready for a little culinary pilgrimage, it is worth going there.

Pasztecika Szczecińska Day falls on 20 October, a testament to how important a part of local identity this delicacy is, and it’s quite unique.

Not to forget the Szczecin paprikash either, as it is another legend.

The idea of this canned local delicacy, consisting of chopped fish meat, rice, onions, tomato paste, spices and oil, came to West Pomerania from West Africa as a prototype for the African dish Tiep bou dienn Sénégalais, learned during a stay in the ports off the coast of West Africa, which is, I must admit, fascinating.

The composition of the paprikash was developed in the mid-1960s by workers at local fish canneries.

Today, paprykarz is back in favour in new guises, such as at Ziemniak i Spółka, where it is served in a baked potato, or at Bajglach Króla Jana (Rynek Nowy 6), where paprykarz was the star in a round bun with a hole to celebrate the Tall Ships Races sailing regatta.

Browar Pod Zamkiem: local beer and cuisine

Lovers of beer and good food will certainly be attracted to Browar Pod Zamkiem, located in the vicinity of the Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes, on Panieńska Street – one of the oldest streets in Szczecin, destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt.

This corner of the city has been rebuilt and given new life, and it shows.

Browar Pod Zamkiem offers Polish cuisine, as well as vegan and vegetarian options.

But above all, it is famous for its own beer, brewed on site.

We had the chance to try a few types, Kamil said the Słoneczne beer was the best, while I ordered the classic beef tartare and Kamil ordered a dish called ‘Browarna kiełbasa’, because that’s what we were after.

The Warszewo Pils or March beers are definitely worth trying.

The Szczecin Tourist Card entitles you to a free beer tasting board, which is a great opportunity to get to know local flavours, and this is always a good investment!

Recommended restaurants and cafés: from Communist-era ambience to speciality coffee

Szczecin has a wide variety of restaurants and cafés to offer, for every pocket and every taste.

If you’re looking for a communist atmosphere and tasty, inexpensive food, be sure to visit Bar Turystyczny at 6A Edmund Bałuki Street.

Prices here are very reasonable – soups cost on average just over 5 PLN, and dinner dishes cost from a few PLN upwards, which is, let’s be honest, a rarity these days.

The flagship dishes are Ukrainian borscht, pancakes and leniwe, and it is worth trying there.

For lovers of plant-based cuisine, we recommend Restaurant Kuś mnie, located on Kuśnierska Street next to the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle (8/u1 Kuśnierska Street), serving delicious vege dishes.

If you want to enjoy the city’s skyline over a coffee, head to Café 22, located on the 22nd floor of the Pazim building.

Café 22 offers a view of Szczecin, and you can order a salad, burger or coffee there.

If you appreciate specialty coffee and alternative brewing methods (such as Aeropress, Chemex, V60 drip), check out the café at 35/u3 Wojska Polskiego Avenue, which you’ll find opposite the legendary Pasztecik Bar, although, let’s face it, it lacks a bit more variety in alternatives, but the base is good.

Another interesting place is the Miejsce café at 61 Wojska Polskiego Avenue.

The largest number of catering establishments, restaurants and cafés can be found on Deptak Bogusława X, Al. Wojska Polskiego or in Jagiellońska Street.

In the evenings, Deptak Bogusława becomes the social heart of the city, with popular venues such as Deptak Towarzyska bar, Deptak Shisha or Fanaberia Republika Rozmaitości café.

On Jana Pawła II Avenue, known as Avenue of the Fountains, you will find the Meeting restaurant.

On ul Tkacka 50 is the Palmyra restaurant serving Syrian cuisine.

Discovering culinary Szczecin is a real pleasure for the palate, and you can eat to your heart’s content!

Szczecin: transport and organisation of sightseeing

Visiting Szczecin is very convenient, and the city offers several transport options and facilities for tourists.

Although the centre of Szczecin can be explored mainly on foot, some of the other attractions can be reached by public transport or by other means.

The Szczecin Tourist Card will undoubtedly make it easier for you to organise your stay.

Public transport: trams, buses and the Szczecin Tourist Card

Public transport in Szczecin is well served by buses and trams.

With the Szczecin Tourist Card (SKT), you can travel around the city for a penny, in fact for free, and that’s a great option!

The city card allows you to travel for free on public transport for the duration of its validity.

In addition, the card entitles you to discounts on entry to many attractions, such as the National Museum or the Museum of Technology and Communication, as well as discounts at some restaurants and cafes (e.g. Café 22, King John’s Bagels), which is quite useful. Sometimes it is worth checking what the cost of an entrance ticket is without the card.

You can buy the Szczecin Tourist Card in a 24-hour version (cost 20 PLN) or a 72-hour version (cost 30 PLN).

It’s a great investment if you’re planning an intensive visit, and well worth considering.

Although the centre is compact, it’s worth hopping on a tram to some of the sites, such as the Arkona Forest or the former Bismarck Tower at the Goclaw loop.

We also took the bus to the main gate of the Central Cemetery, and it was convenient.

A city bus is also recommended to the Emerald Lake.

Another way to get around the city is the Szczecin City Bike (Bike_S), although availability varies, but overall, it gets the job done.

Getting to Szczecin: by train, plane and car

Although Szczecin is located in the north of Poland, getting there is quite easy, which may surprise some people.

From the south of the country, e.g. from Lower Silesia or the Lubuskie Voivodeship, the S3 expressway leads to Szczecin.

From the east, from Piła and Bydgoszcz, you can reach it via the S10 expressway / national road 10, so travelling by car is generally, convenient and fast.

You can also get there by train. The central train station, Szczecin Główny, is relatively close to the centre – a 15-minute walk from Sienna Square and 25 minutes from Grunwaldzki Square.

For us, the journey on the second-class PKP Intercity train from Wrocław took 5 hours, and the Lublin-Szczecin train cost 51 PLN per person, so, let’s just say, prices vary.

An alternative is to travel by plane. There are air connections from Warsaw and Krakow to Szczecin Goleniów Airport.

From the airport you can take a bus to the city centre (costing around 25 zł).

We took an unusual route back to Szczecin: we took a minibus from Szczecin Goleniów Airport to Warsaw Modlin (at a cost of 24.98 PLN per person by air with hand luggage), and then a minibus from Warsaw Modlin Airport to Lublin (at a cost of 60 PLN per person), because that’s just the way it worked out.

When it comes to accommodation in Szczecin, the city offers a wide range of hotels, guest houses, flats and hostels of varying standards, so there is plenty to choose from.

We, during our stay in Szczecin, stayed in a newly opened hotel belonging to a large hotel chain, right next to the Port Gate (you can shop in the arcade under the hotel building), and it was, shall we say, convenient, as everywhere was close by.

An overnight stay in a double room with breakfast cost us £420 per person for three days, which, for the city centre, is probably a reasonable price.

Other recommended places include the Residence Aparthotel, located near the Chrobry Embankment and the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle, offering flats, a gym and a restaurant, the Focus Hotel, close to historical monuments and city life, and a hotel decorated in the style of a circus at the Hay Market (ibis Styles Szczecin Stare Miasto), in the vicinity of the Old Town Hall and the Chrobry Embankment, which is quite original.

Also noteworthy is the Margi Daphne Suite with its standard and beautiful décor, which, at least in the photos, looks great.

Szczecin: memories and reflections from the trip

Szczecin really surprised us in a positive way because, let’s be honest, we weren’t expecting so much.

The city, which we associated mainly with the legendary Szczecin paprykarz, one of Europe’s largest Central Cemetery and the Oder River, after a few days of discovering its interesting places, made it to our list of cities definitely worth seeing in Poland.

We took a liking to the capital of West Pomerania at first sight, and this is no exaggeration!

The slogan of the green Szczecin is “floating garden”, and this slogan perfectly reflects the character of the city, where greenery (such as the huge Arkona Forest or the Emerald Lake) and water are omnipresent.

This is a city with majestic architecture, where impressive buildings such as the West Pomeranian Voivodeship Office, the Breakthroughs Dialogue Centre or the renovated Villa Lentz are very impressive, you will see for yourself.

The Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes, the former seat of the Griffin family, rises above the Oder River and, although it has been rebuilt many times, it has retained its Renaissance character.

Inside, you can take a look at the Witches’ Cell with replicas of torture instruments or the Griffin Crypt, and from the Bell Tower you can enjoy a view that will take your breath away.

Szczecin’s icon, the Mieczysław Karłowicz Philharmonic, has quickly become a symbol of the city with its unique architecture, which is well deserved.

It was built on the site of the former Konzerthaus, destroyed before World War II, and was designed by the Barozzi Veiga architectural studio, inspired by Hanseatic townhouses.

The acoustics of the Symphony Hall (also known as the Hall of the Sun because of its sunflower-shaped acoustic panels) are compared to the Golden Hall in Vienna, revered by musicians all over the world, and Higini Arau, who brought ceramic tiles from Mallorca, was responsible for it, and this is probably the best recommendation.

The smaller Chamber Hall is called the Moonlight Hall.

In addition to the Philharmonic Hall, the Breakthroughs Dialogue Centre also won awards, being named Europe’s best public space, which, let’s face it, does not happen very often.

Szczecin has skilfully exploited its landmarks to create quirky tourist attractions, such as the Paprykarz statue or Krzysztof Jarzyna’s likeness, which have become frequently photographed objects, which is, let’s say, rather eccentric, but it works!

We had the pleasure of strolling along Wały Chrobrego overlooking the Oder River, Łasztown and Grodzka Island, discovering the secrets of Szczecin’s Underground Trails, visiting the Museum of Technology and Communication in the former Niemierzyn depot, learning about the history of Stoewers and Junaks, and immersing ourselves in the atmosphere of communist Poland in the author’s museum of Mrs Justyna Machnik, and these were all, very different but interesting experiences.

The Museum of Stove Tales seeks to save the memory of the dying profession of stove-making, and the owners are involved in restoring the old tiled cookers and kitchen ovens that used to be the heart of every home, a commendable initiative, often working in collaboration with conservationists.

Szczecin also has its own mural trail and pump trail, which shows that the city cares about details.

It is a city that offers more than just typical attractions – it is a place where you can experience history, culture and nature in an unusual way.

Even such unusual places for a stroll as the Central Cemetery, the largest in Poland and the third largest in Europe, on Ku Słońcu Street, with its magnificent Main Gate and Cemetery Chapel designed by the city architect Wilhelm Meyer-Schwartau, become a beautiful botanical park with a Historic Route and posted information plaques, which changes the perspective on the cemetery.

The island of Grodzka is home to the City Summer Zone with a beach, sun loungers and beach bar, while the Lasztownia is home to the Marine Science Centre and the Cultural Centre of the Euroregion Old Slaughterhouse.

The juggernauts stand proudly on Łasztownia as guardians of the harbour.

From Chrobry Embankment you can see the harbour, Łasztownia and Grodzka Island.

The boulevards are located by the Long Bridge and the Castle Route, and the Fountain at the foot of the Embankment is a popular meeting place.

The renovated boulevards at Łasztownia encourage people to spend time on the Oder, which, let’s be honest, is very pleasant.

Pasztecik and paprykarz are flavours we will always remember, whether we like it or not.

We recommend that you discover Szczecin on your own, take a walk around Jasne Błonia and Jan Kasprowicz’s tree-lined park, see the Firebird sculpture, the Japanese Bridge on Lake Rusałka and the Summer Theatre, and have a look at the Rose Garden, although it is small.

We travelled around Szczecin mainly on foot, but it’s also worth seeing it from the perspective of two wheels, using the Szczecin City Bicycle, if you can find a free bicycle, as this is sometimes not always the case. You can also take a guided tour of the city, which will tell you many interesting facts.

The neighbouring town of Stargard is also worth a visit, as is Wolin Island, about 70 km away, with its Wolin National Park, offering beautiful scenery, magnificent cliffs and a bison reserve – a trip that takes a whole day.

In the area you will also find Krzywy Las, Lake Miedwie and Szczecin Lagoon.

There are other places of interest in the Szczecin area, but that is a topic for a separate publication, isn’t it?

Don’t forget about attractions for children: the Oceanarium at the Maritime Museum, the Carmen Parrot Park, where children can see, feed and play with colourful parrots, the Planetarium at the modern Professor Jerzy Stelmach Maritime Science Centre, the Museum of Technology and Communication with historic cars and trams, Głębokie Lake with a beach and the possibility to rent water equipment, the Tarzania Rope Park located next to Głębokie Lake, or the Kids Arena.

Szczecin is a city full of surprises that deserves a longer stay, as one day is definitely not enough.

It was a fascinating stay full of discoveries, and let me tell you, it was worth coming.

Szczecin is a city with enormous tourist potential and it is certainly worth putting it on your map of travels in Poland, and maybe even in Europe?