• Sunday 22 June 2025

Poznan WEEKEND Travel Guide

Last weekend our team member Ken went on a weekend break to Poznan, Poland. Read his blog about a relaxing 3-day escape in Poznań:

"I spent a long weekend in Poznań and it turned out to be a lovely surprise. It sits in western Poland and has a mix of historic charm, a young feel, and a relaxed pace that makes it ideal for a short break.

Day 1: First Impressions and Old Town Magic

We arrived on Friday afternoon and were struck straight away by how compact and easy to get around the city is. After checking into the hotel and dropping our bags, we headed for the Old Market Square. The colourful merchant houses look like something from a postcard, and the whole place has a lively atmosphere, especially when the mechanical goats appear on the Town Hall clock.
Dinner was classic Polish comfort food: pierogi and a hearty bigos stew at a small restaurant with outdoor tables. The square stayed busy into the evening with people out for the weekend and a few street performers adding to the mood. The Old Town is packed with spots to eat and have a drink, so it’s easy to wander and see what catches your eye.

Day 2: History, Art, and a Few Surprises

Saturday was our day to dive into the city’s culture. We started at the Imperial Castle, which looks more like an elegant palace than a fortress. It now hosts exhibitions and events, so the mix of old architecture and modern use gives it a fresh feel.
Next, we walked over to Stary Browar, a former brewery that’s been turned into a shopping and arts centre. Even if you’re not planning to shop, the building itself is worth a look. The industrial details mixed with contemporary art make it a great place to wander.
In the afternoon, we hopped on a tram to Lake Malta, only a short ride from the centre. The lakeside paths are perfect for a walk or cycle, and it felt like the kind of spot locals escape to when they want some fresh air.

Day 3: Slow Sunday and Farewell Views

Sunday was a slower start with breakfast in a local café before heading to Cathedral Island (Ostrów Tumski), the oldest part of Poznań. The cathedral is impressive, and it’s interesting to learn about the city’s role in Poland’s early history.

With a little time left before heading home, we wandered through Citadel Park. It’s a huge green space with monuments, old military structures, and plenty of quiet paths. It was a calm way to wrap up the trip and take in a last bit of the city.

Final Thoughts

Poznań isn’t usually the first place people think of for a European city break, which is probably why it feels so genuine. It’s friendly, easy-going, and full of small surprises. Three days was enough to get a good feel for the place, and I’d happily recommend it for anyone planning a relaxed weekend away."

Start planning your own Poznan adventure now!

Our expert teams in Cork, Bantry and Clonakilty are here to give you advice and recommendations. Get in touch:

Cork City: info@shandontravel.ie, 021 4277094 or 01 6965135

Bantry: (027) 50341 or bantry@shandontravel.ie

Clonakilty: (023) 8833220 or clonakilty@shandontravel.ie