Szczecin is the 7th largest city in Poland. It is located in the very north-west of the country at the Oder river. In the region of Pomeranian Voivodeship. The city has a fascinating history, and various powers shaped the city. Such as the Swedes, Russians, Germans, the Romans and of course the Polish. Most of the city got heavily destroyed during the 2nd world war. Nevertheless it was rebuilt very nicely.
If you are wondering what to do in Szczecin, this underrated travel destination in Poland offers a mix of history, scenic river views and a unique atmosphere that might surprise you.
Discover the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle
The Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes is one of the best ways to understand this underrated Polish city and its history. The castle is quite large and may not even look like a castle. Many influences have shaped the castle’s appearance today.
The renaissance building was renovated in 1950, back to its 1652 appearance. The castle is pretty massive, it has five wings, four towers, two courtyards and a newly renovated terrace.
From the castle the Griffin dynasty ruled Pomerania, the region between Germany and Poland at the Baltic sea. The dynasty ruled between the 12th to mid 17th century.
The castle of Szczecin is apparently located on a hill. Depending on which side you arrive you can feel it or not. Viewed from the river side it is on a hill.
You can book a guided tour at the tourist information there. On Mondays there aren’t any tours that will show you the inside of the castle.
Be sure to check out the bell tower. There are many steps leading up to the tower, it is not for the faint of heart. My fear of heights set in, but I pushed through. Overcoming the fear of heights and the many stairs was worth it – at the top you are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city.
In the second courtyard you can find the clock tower, with a beautiful decorated clock – if you do the tour listen closely to the story of the jester – who is also displayed at the decoration of the clock.
Passing through the building at the 2nd courtyard, you come to the newly renovated terrace. Here you have a different perspective of the city and the castle.
Explore Szczecin with the City Tour Red Line
One of the best ways to explore this underrated travel destination is by following the city tour red line. It is a literal red line on the ground leading from one attraction to another – in total 42 sites. On the sights are signs where you can get more information about the history of the place. This city tour is a 7 km long loop route. It takes 1-2 hours depending on your pace. Additionally to this city tour you can download the app Experience Szczecin. It gives you an auditive description of the places. It is a great way to get to know the city even before you are there.
If you rather join a guided tour you can book a 2 hour tour that leads you to the best sights of the city.
The old town hall and the Rynek square.
The history of the old town hall dates back to the mid 3rd century. The building was first made out of wood and then it was built as a brick town hall. Back in the dates trading took place at the ground floor and basement. In the basement you can find a restaurant nowadays. It is an interesting building, for sure something you should not miss. Including the adjacent Rynek square with its colourful houses. The resemblance to Swedish towns is unmistakable.
Visit the Cranes at the River – Łasztownia und Kranosaurier
The Cranosauruses are a famous landmark in Szczecin that has historical importance.
In the middle ages Szczecin had the largest sea ports of the Baltics. After the 2nd World War Szczecin had the 5th largest shipyard of Europe. The cranes are a memory of the importance of this business.
You should visit the riverside at night. The cranes are lit up and create a great atmosphere.
Next to it is the Maritime Science Center, where exhibitions and workshops are held.
Szczecin Underground Routes
Under the train station of Szczecin you can find 18 meter underground bunkers. It is the largest non military shelter of Poland. It was built in the 2nd World War and offered shelter for 5000 people. Nowadays the bunkers are open for visitors. In 60 exhibitions you can learn more about Szczecins history and life in the bunkers. It is definitely a hidden gem/alternative activity of Szczecin. At the underground routes of Szczecin you take guided tours and buy tickets.
Wander Through Central Cemetery – One of Europe’s Largest
The Cmentarz Centralny is, with almost 170 hectares it is the largest cemetery of Poland and the third largest of Europe. It is not only a cemetery, it is one of Szczecin most beautiful parks. You can wander around the huge cemetery, take in the heavy atmosphere. Or check out the church and a monument at the cemetery.
Experience the Unique Atmosphere of Szczecin
Although most of the city got destroyed in the 2nd world war it got rebuilt quite beautifully. It has similarities to Swedish cities; it is clean, advanced and spacious. It is rather easy to get around the town, either by foot or public transportation.
The spaciousness of the city was something that fascinated me. The streets are broad, lined by trees. The city is very green. Besides the cemetery park there are two other big parks, Park im. Kasprowicza and Park im. Zeromskiego.
How to get to Szczecin
Szczecin has a little airport, the Solidarity Szczecin-Goleniów Airport. But the bigger airport of Berlin is not too far away. The easiest way to reach the Berlin airport is by flixbus, it is an around 2 hour bus ride. Of course there are also connections to the city of Berlin. You can also check blablacar, since many people commute regularly between the cities. Although there is a railway it is currently under construction.
As you can see Szczecin has a lot to offer and you can learn a lot about the history while doing a walking tour. It is indeed not an overcrowded city and ideal for anyone looking for an alternative city destination in Europe. It is a great destination for a trip from the multicultural Berlin, and worth more than just a short day visit. There is so much to see and learn.
The author of the blog
Lisi is an adventurous, mostly solo traveler from Austria. She likes to travel slowly, discover underrated countries/regions, and of course, learn about cultures. She has been traveling the world and creating travel content since 2016. With a degree in tourism management and a passion for travel and cultures, she wants to tell stories that inspire her readers and help them travel more consciously.
