Ultimate Long Weekend Guide to Katowice, Poland

Discover the hidden gems of Poland's industrial heartland in Katowice.

22 April 2023

Katowice is a vibrant city in southern Poland known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling modern industries. As a tourist, you can explore the city's many museums, galleries, and historic landmarks, including the Silesian Museum and the Cathedral of Christ the King. You can also sample traditional Polish cuisine, shop for local crafts and gifts, or take a trip to nearby attractions like the Tatra Mountains or the UNESCO-listed Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

First Impressions:

Check into the stylish Q Hotel Plus Katowice in the heart of the city
Take an afternoon stroll around bustling Rynek to soak up the atmosphere
Visit the Silesian Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Polish art and history
Head out for a traditional Polish supper at the rustic Piwnica Rycerska
Finish off with a nightcap at quirky café-bar Figa Cafe, with its eclectic décor and live music

Day 2

Parks and Palaces:

Start the day with brunch at Café Fleuri, a charming patisserie with delicious cakes and pastries
Visit the Palace of Culture and Science, for fantastic views over the city
Head to the nearby Silesian Park, with its beautiful gardens and lake
Visit the contemporary art exhibitions at the International Congress Center with its strikingly modern design
Dine at the elegant and innovative Biała Małpa, with its inventive use of local ingredients

Day 3

Discovering Katowice:

Explore the local market on ul. Staromiejska, with its colourful stalls and fresh produce
Visit the neo-Gothic Cathedral of Christ the King, one of the largest churches in Poland
Check out the trendy street art murals in the trendy Dolnych Wałów district
Take in a show or event at the sleek and modern Spodek Arena complex
Sample traditional kielbasa sausage at Śląska Prohibicja, a rustic restaurant with a wide selection of Polish beers

Day 4

Outside the City:

Hire a car and head out to the spectacular Tatra Mountains National Park, just two hours away
Take a cable car up to the summit of Kasprowy Wierch for stunning panoramic views
Visit the charming town of Zakopane, with its wooden chalets and mountain crafts
Stop for a hearty lunch at regional speciality restaurant, Karczma u Braci, with its traditional folk decor
Return to Katowice late afternoon for a last supper at the acclaimed Kuchnia Otwarta restaurant, serving modern Polish cuisine with a twist.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Katowice, Poland by plane is to fly into Katowice International Airport (KTW), which is the main airport in the region with connections to many major cities in Europe.

Car

Driving to Katowice by car is possible via several major highways, including the A4 and A1. There are many car rental options available at Katowice International Airport and in the city center.

Train

Traveling to Katowice by train is a great option for those coming from neighboring countries. The main train station in Katowice is Katowice Railway Station, which is connected to many major cities in Poland.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Katowice, as it is a landlocked city. However, the city is located near several major rivers, such as the Vistula River, which can be explored by boat as part of a larger European river cruise.