Autumn City Break in Szczecin

Autumn is a great time to plan a weekend getaway with friends. If you're looking for a destination that combines sightseeing, relaxation, great food and unusual attractions, Szczecin is well worth a visit. The capital of Poland's West Pomeranian region offers plenty of ways to spend an enjoyable weekend, whatever the weather. Two days are enough to discover several sides of the city and experience its distinctive atmosphere.

Start your city break at Fabryka Wody, one of the region's major water and leisure complexes. Alongside its swimming pools and waterslides, visitors can enjoy Royal Tropic, a relaxation area normally reserved for adults, featuring hydromassage facilities, a leisure pool and an Aqua Bar. The complex also boasts an extensive sauna area, making it an appealing place to unwind when autumn temperatures begin to drop.

Looking for something different to do together? Head to Be Happy Museum, the Museum of Happiness, Illusions and Colours, located in the city centre. With its colourful installations, imaginative settings and optical illusions, the museum offers plenty of opportunities to take creative photographs and videos. It's an entertaining stop for groups of friends and an especially good option for a rainy afternoon, as the entire attraction is indoors.

History lovers shouldn't miss the Pomeranian Dukes' Castle, one of Szczecin's most recognisable landmarks. Once home to the Griffin dynasty, the Renaissance castle offers a fascinating introduction to the history of the city and the wider Pomeranian region. Although its courtyards are currently undergoing renovation, selected exhibitions and viewpoints remain accessible to visitors.

No weekend in Szczecin would be complete without discovering its local food. Paprykarz Fish Market is a popular place to explore fish and seafood dishes, including its own take on the city's famous paprykarz. Traditional Paprykarz Szczeciński is a savoury fish spread made with rice, tomatoes and spices. Another local favourite is the Szczecin pasztecik, a fried yeast-dough pastry with a savoury filling, traditionally served with clear beetroot soup.

For a different perspective on the city, explore Szczecin's growing street art scene. One highlight is a large mural dedicated to Gacek, the black-and-white cat that became an internet sensation, on Rugiańska Street. Another impressive mural on Bohaterów Getta Warszawskiego Street features a sailing ship and the crest of local football club Pogoń Szczecin. In the Golęcin neighbourhood, you can discover a mural celebrating the famous Szczecin paprykarz. Following these artworks is also a fun way to explore parts of the city beyond the usual tourist routes.

Planning an autumn weekend in Szczecin with friends? From water attractions and historic landmarks to local cuisine and colourful murals, the city offers plenty of reasons to visit. Find more travel inspiration and practical information at www.visitszczecin.eu.