The 10 Most Instagrammable Places in Poznań

1. Old Market Square

This iconic square is undoubtedly one of Poznan’s most photogenic locations, offering stunning shots at any time of day. For the best photos of the town hall and the vibrant row of merchant houses nearby, visit the market before noon when the facades are beautifully illuminated by the sun. The bustling atmosphere of the market presents ample opportunities for capturing intriguing shots, whether it’s the sight of giant soap bubbles, street performers, details of the tenement houses, elegant fountains, or charming restaurant gardens.

2. Opera House

Adorned with neoclassical splendor, the Opera House, dating back to 1909, stands as a magnificent architectural gem in Poznan. Guarded by sculptures of a woman with a lion and a man with a panther, and crowned with a statue of Pegasus atop, its grandeur is matched by the beauty of the fountain and surrounding flowerbed, particularly enchanting on sunny days.

3. Bishop Jordan Bridge

Serving as both a pedestrian and bicycle thoroughfare, this bridge links Cathedral Island with Śródka District, boasting a picturesque setting. From here, visitors can enjoy a splendid view of the cathedral’s rear facade and Porta Posnania (“Gate of Poznań”). Renowned for its romantic ambiance, evidenced by the countless padlocks bearing lovers’ names adorning its rails, this bridge has stood in its current location since 2007, following a relocation effort that breathed new life into this charming structure.

4. Śródka

Nestled within the Śródecki Market (Rynek Śródecki) lies one of new Poland’s marvels—a captivating 3D mural that secured the 5th spot in the prestigious 2016 National Geographic Travel poll. Named “A Story of Śródka with a trumpeter on a roof  and a cat in the background”, this mural draws inspiration from vintage photographs of old Śródka. Today, it stands as the crowning jewel of this district, drawing visitors from far and wide. Yet, the area boasts more than just this artistic marvel; visitors can also discover other intriguing sights such as the Green Symphony installation adorning the wall of a nearby tenement. For aficionados of street art, a must-see is the mural tucked away in the courtyard of tenement No. 7 on “Za Bramką” Street.

5. Round House (Okrąglak)

Okrąglak, a testament to modernist architecture, emerged in 1954 as Poznan’s pioneering structure constructed from prefabricated elements. Initially met with skepticism for its perceived discordance with the surrounding architectural landscape, Okrąglak gradually won over the hearts of Poznań’s residents. Eventually hailed as the epitome of beauty in the latter half of the 20th century, its allure extends beyond its exterior façade. The true gem lies within—the staircase, a marvel stretching from the first floor to the summit. Weekdays offer the opportunity to explore the interior of the Round House. Repurposed as an office and service hub, the building is closed on weekends.

6. Citadel Park

For photographers seeking captivating shots, Citadel Park offers an ideal canvas, albeit requiring ample time and a leisurely stroll, given its sprawling 100-hectare expanse. Within this vast landscape lie intriguing outdoor sculptures, with “Unrecognized” by Magdalena Abakanowicz standing as a highlight — a masterpiece from the most renowned contemporary Polish artist. The park also hosts sculptures spanning from the 1960s to the 1980s, including pieces like Don Quixote, Rose, and Animal, each boasting distinctive aesthetics. Moreover, numerous meticulously tended flowerbeds beckon visitors, with the Rosarium bursting into a kaleidoscope of thousands of roses during the summer, while autumn unveils a breathtaking display as trees adorn themselves in vibrant hues. Additionally, the hammocks nestled amidst the blossoms at Umberto restaurant provide picturesque backdrops for unforgettable photographs.

7. Jeżyce

Nestled beyond Poznań’s city center, the district of Jeżyce beckons with its myriad of captivating restaurants, cafes, and a treasure trove of magnificent Art Nouveau townhouses dating back to the early 20th century. Meandering through the streets of Jeżyce reveals architectural gems —townhouses adorned with asymmetrical facades boasting graceful, undulating lines, adorned with intricate floral motifs, wrought-iron balconies, and captivating details. Particularly noteworthy are the residences lining Roosevelta and Krasickiego Streets, each exuding timeless elegance and charm.

8. Old Brewery

Old Brewery has rightfully earned its reputation as Europe’s and the world’s most beautiful shopping mall, owing to its breathtaking architecture both inside and out. Within its walls lie charming nooks and crannies adorned with captivating works of modern art, providing ample opportunities for striking photographs. The building’s distinctive silhouette presents a unique perspective from every angle, with perhaps the most captivating view unfolding from the parkside. While professional photoshoots require permission from the Old Brewery Directorate, capturing stunning Instagram-worthy shots can be done hassle-free.

9. Palm House

Step into the Palm House, where verdant hues dominate the interior, transporting visitors to far-flung, exotic locales beyond Greater Poland. Amidst the lush greenery, each pavilion offers a cornucopia of photographic opportunities, evoking the illusion of tropical escapades. Encounter a diverse array of botanical wonders — from palm trees adorned with lush foliage to intriguing cacti, including no really inviting “mother-in-law chairs,” and vibrant citrus trees. Delve into the aquatic pavilion, where giant floating leaves dance upon tranquil waters. Please note that professional photoshoots within the Palm House incur a fee of 100 PLN.

10. Imperial Castle

The Imperial Castle stands as a captivating subject for photography enthusiasts, offering a plethora of visual delights. Particularly photogenic is the section facing the garden, where the enchanting Fountain of the Lions, reminiscent of its counterpart in the palace and fortress complex of Alhambra in Granada, Spain, graces the landscape alongside two charming restaurants. Upon closer inspection of the castle’s facade, one discovers a treasure trove of bas-reliefs depicting captivating scenes—a knight locked in combat with a dragon, iconic characters like Little Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel, as well as symbolic figures such as King David with his lyre, alongside whimsical depictions of squirrels and majestic lions, each waiting to be unearthed.

Venturing inside the castle unveils a realm of photographic opportunities. The grand staircase, adorned with elegant lamps and flanked by marble walls, serves as a stunning backdrop for capturing timeless moments. Moreover, from the vantage points of windows and balconies overlooking the garden, visitors are treated to a magnificent panorama encompassing Mickiewicz Square and the Imperial Quarter, offering vistas worthy of framing.