21 hours ago
The little-known Polish city that ticks every box
It might not sit atop many bucket lists when it comes to picking a city break, but this undiscovered gem just 50km from Poznan ticks just about every box.
Gniezno, Poland's first capital, is teeming with history and culture – an experience to satisfy the budding history buff or just the curious onlooker alike.
And what better time to explore something a little bit different and off the beaten track than during the city's 2025 heritage celebrations?
Take a leisurely walk back in time along the cobbled streets of the Old Town, thronged with historic pastel townhouses, buildings and churches.
Leaf back a page in Poland's history books to discover the very cradle of the country's origins with a rich tapestry of stunning architecture.
The sprawling Gothic cathedral in the Old Town is one of the most iconic landmarks in the country, having witnessed the crowning of several Polish monarchs dating back 1,000 years to the first King of Poland, Bolesław the Brave.
The cathedral's intricately carved bronze doors are famous for depicting the story of St Adalbert of Prague, one of Poland's patron saints.
Enjoy an iced coffee gazing at the multitude of statues, murals and public art installations that draw inspiration from the country's rich and vibrant cultural heritage.
The Archdiocese of Gniezno Museum at the cathedral showcases a stunning collection of medieval art including paintings, sculptures and fabrics.
Coffin portraits take pride of place in the exhibition alongside a plethora of Christian artefacts and antiquities.
The museum also houses a fascinating collection of church utensils including St Adalbert's chalice.
The Old Town's 'Rabbit Chase' is a collection of bronze bunnies that the kids will love scavenging for in one of a number of family-friendly activities.
Alton Towers it isn't but there are plenty of playparks, green areas for a game of football - and don't forget your swimming trunks for the indoor aquapark with an array of flumes, slides and a lazy river.
The heart of the town is located in its red-brick market square known as Stary Rynek – an eclectic assortment of architecture that seamlessly blends the ancient with the contemporary.
The focal point for city life that often slows to a crawl, the square is the ideal place to watch the sunset with a cocktail.
While the city may be rooted to its past, the culinary experience on offer is anything but.
Whether you are after a quick bite on the go, some hearty comfort food or a first-class dining experience, then Gniezno has you covered.
No visit to Poland would be complete, of course, without a little sample of pierogi, the famous Polish dumplings that simply can't be missed. Or bigos, a fantastic hunter's stew that is slow cooked with a variety of meats and wild mushrooms.
For those with a sweet tooth, you are in for something of a treat when it comes to Gniezno's local pastries.
The St Martin Croissant, a crescent-shaped pastry stuffed with almonds, honey, ground nuts and fruit is a speciality of the region and simply must be sampled before you leave.
Cafes and restaurants are scattered along the Old Town but if you are on a tight budget, visit one of the location's 'milk bars' which offer traditional Polish food at prices to suit every pocket.
Craft ale lovers should set aside a few hours – if not a few aspirin – for a visit to the Dobry Brewery which offers a selection of homemade beers including their own Gnieznienskie Pilsner.
As the sun sets on this beautiful location it might not be Amsterdam or Berlin when it comes to nightlife but then again, isn't that the whole point?
Instead, unwind, relax and drink in the chill with a cold Polish beer enjoying some local music.
For the aspiring thespians, the Alexsander Fredro Theatre, named after the renowned Polish playwright and the 'Father of Polish comedy', stages a range of productions throughout the year from classical Shakespeare to more contemporary performances.
From July 18 to 20, the Slavic Culture Festival will celebrate the anniversary of the Royal Coronation with a number of cultural activities and events.
Attractions will include a Piast village for children with a workshop and educational stations, a shepherd's glade, theatre and stage performances, craft shows, firework displays and music concerts.
From August 8 to 13, come and celebrate the 'Millennium of the Coronation of Bolesław the Brave', a unique and not to be missed outdoor performance dating back to the middle ages that is this year commemorating the 1,000th anniversary of the king's coronation.
All in all there are worse ways to get away from it all and if you are tired of the same old bustling metropolises and tourist traps, immerse yourself instead in one of European travel's best kept secrets.
Getting there: Gniezno is served by Poznan Airport and Ryanair flies here from both Dublin and Cork. Other major cities in Poland are also well-serviced with Ryanair and Aer Lingus flights.
Find out more: Visit and start planning your journey today.
