Things To Do
in Szczecin

Szczecin, located in north-western Poland near the Oder River, is a vibrant port city known for its rich maritime history and stunning architecture. The city features a unique blend of Gothic, Baroque, and modern structures, making it a fascinating destination for architecture enthusiasts. Szczecin also boasts beautiful parks and green spaces, providing a refreshing contrast to its urban environment.

The city's cultural scene is lively, with numerous festivals, theaters, and art galleries that showcase both local and international talent.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Szczecin Philharmonic, an architectural gem, and enjoy a coffee at the nearby café.

afternoon
:

After lunch, stroll through the historic Old Town, visiting the Castle of the Duke of Pomerania and the Cathedral Basilica of St. James.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the Oder River, where you can enjoy the city lights.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a visit to Jasne Błonia Park for a morning walk and some fresh air.

afternoon
:

Explore the National Museum in Szczecin to learn more about the region's history and art.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a local pub to experience Szczecin's nightlife and enjoy some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$20
Coffee$2-$4
🍕Pizza$6-$12
🚌Public transport ticket$1-$2
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$30-$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical attractions
  • Beautiful parks and green spaces
  • Vibrant local cuisine and dining options
  • Limited English proficiency in some areas
  • Public transport may be less frequent at night
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn
  • "Dzień dobry" - Good morning
  • "Dziękuję" - Thank you
  • "Proszę" - Please
  • "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Tak" - Yes

Places to Visit in Szczecin

Visit one of these nice places.

Castle of the Duke of Pomerania

A historic castle with stunning architecture and picturesque views, perfect for capturing the essence of Szczecin.

Wały Chrobrego

A scenic promenade along the Oder River offering great views of the city and the waterfront.

Cathedral Basilica of St. James

A magnificent Gothic cathedral with impressive stained glass windows, ideal for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Szczecin

Szczecin offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its maritime heritage and local flavors, making it a food lover's paradise.

Szczecin Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Zupa rybna

A traditional fish soup made with fresh local fish, vegetables, and herbs, often seasoned with lemon.

Must-Try!

Pierogi

Polish dumplings filled with various ingredients such as potatoes, cheese, or meat, typically served with sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Szczecin Market Hall

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal bread, as well as street food vendors offering quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Szczecin experiences a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures averaging around -3°C (27°F) in January. Summers are warm, with average temperatures reaching around 22°C (72°F) in July. Spring and autumn are transitional, with mild temperatures and occasional rainfall, making them ideal for sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Poles typically greet with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact; using titles (Mr., Mrs.) is appreciated.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal; it's polite to finish everything on your plate as a sign of appreciation.

Politeness

Using 'please' and 'thank you' in Polish ('proszę' and 'dziękuję') is highly regarded and shows respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Szczecin is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and secure your belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's advisable to have travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Tipping in Szczecin

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up is also common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and market stalls.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a lovely time to visit, with blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer attracts tourists with warm weather, festivals, and outdoor events, making it vibrant and lively.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays, providing a magical atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Szczecin at Night

Szczecin's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues catering to various tastes. The city offers everything from cozy pubs serving local beers to trendy clubs featuring DJs and dance floors. Many establishments stay open late, especially on weekends, and cultural events like concerts and theater performances add to the lively atmosphere.

Hiking in Szczecin

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Nadodrzański Park Krajobrazowy

This landscape park offers various trails through beautiful forests and along the Oder River, suitable for hiking and nature walks.

Wzgórza Bukowe

Located just outside the city, this area features scenic hiking trails with panoramic views of Szczecin and the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Szczecin by plane.

Solidarity Szczecin-Goleniów Airport

Located about 45 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the primary gateway for travelers to Szczecin.

Getting Around

Walkability

Szczecin is a walkable city, particularly in the central areas where many attractions are within walking distance. The city features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian zones, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transportation is also available for longer distances, ensuring accessibility to various neighborhoods.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Szczecin, characterized by their interest in culture, nightlife, and modern amenities.

Students

With several universities in the city, students make up a significant portion of the population, contributing to the vibrant and youthful atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Szczecin, with local teams attracting passionate fans.

Basketball

Basketball also has a strong following, with local clubs competing in national leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Szczecin can be moderate, particularly during rush hours. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trams, making it easy to navigate without a car. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes available in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Szczecin.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants in Szczecin offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask for specific dishes.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, especially in larger restaurants; however, it's best to inquire directly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Szczecin has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. Emergency services can be accessed by dialing 112, and many facilities have English-speaking staff. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while visiting.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide