Welcome to Katowice, Poland!

Katowice is one of the largest cities in Poland with a population of over 295,000 people. It is known for its culture, history, and beautiful architecture. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Katowice:

1. Silesian Museum

The Silesian Museum is a must-visit for any tourist visiting Katowice. It houses a vast collection of over 100,000 art pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings, dating back to the 19th century. The museum also boasts of an impressive library, extensive archives, and multimedia exhibitions depicting the history, culture, and tradition of the Silesia region.

2. Spodek

Spodek is an iconic symbol of Katowice and an essential landmark in the city. It is a multi-purpose arena and one of the largest sports and entertainment halls in the world, accommodating up to 11,500 spectators. Spodek has hosted various concerts, sporting events, and cultural festivals, making it a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.

3. Nikiszowiec District

The Nikiszowiec District is an exceptional part of Katowice, representing the industrial architecture and design of the 19th century. It is a great place to learn about the history of Katowice and the Silesia region while exploring the picturesque alleys, pre-war tenement houses, and quaint courtyards of the district.

4. Cathedral of Christ the King

The Cathedral of Christ the King is a stunning example of modernist architecture, located in the heart of Katowice. The 40-meter-high tower and spire of the Cathedral are a dominant feature of the city’s skyline, making it an easy landmark to spot. The Cathedral is a beautiful example of modern Catholic liturgy and a peaceful place to visit.

5. Silesian Park

The Silesian Park is one of the largest parks in Europe, covering an area of over 620 hectares. It is a beautiful green oasis, perfect for nature lovers and those looking for some rest and relaxation. The park has various attractions, including a planetarium, a cable car, a water park, a zoo, and a nature reserve, making it an ideal place for a family day out.

6. Katowice Market Square

The Katowice Market Square is the heart of the city, bustling with activity and energy throughout the day. It is a historic square, dating back to the 19th century, and surrounded by beautiful architecture, cafes, restaurants, and shops. It is an excellent place to relax, soak up the atmosphere, and people watch, while enjoying a cup of coffee or a cold beer.

7. Altus Skyscraper

The Altus Skyscraper is the tallest building in Katowice, standing at 125 meters tall. It is a beautiful modernist skyscraper, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding region from its observation deck. The Altus Skyscraper is an architectural masterpiece and a must-visit for all tourists.

8. Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a powerful tribute to the victims of the infamous Nazi concentration and extermination camps located near Katowice. It is a humbling experience, providing a glimpse into the horrors of the Holocaust and its impact on European history. Visiting the museum is not easy, but it is a crucial part of any trip to Katowice to understand the region’s history.

9. St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church is an impressive Gothic church located in the center of Katowice. Its beautiful architecture, intricate stonework, and soaring ceilings make it a monumental masterpiece, a tribute to the city’s rich Catholic heritage. The church is a peaceful place to visit, offering a glimpse into the city’s past and present.

10. Śląskie Centrum Narciarskie

Śląskie Centrum Narciarskie is a modern ski resort, located in the nearby town of Wisła, just over an hour’s drive from Katowice. It offers visitors a range of winter sports activities, including skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, skiing lessons, and equipment rental. The resort is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Silesian Beskids.

5 Places to Avoid in Katowice

1. Stadion Slaski – The Stadion Slaski is an old and outdated stadium, and while it has historical value, it is not well-maintained and doesn’t offer any significant advantages to spending your day here.

2. Mariacka Street – Mariacka Street is a popular destination for nightlife and drinking. However, it is recommended to avoid this area at night, as there have been reports of pickpockets and other safety concerns.

3. Supersam Shopping Center – Supersam Shopping Center is an outdated and uninteresting shopping venue, it does not offer many options, and the experience is lackluster

4. Katowice Train Station Area – While Katowice’s train station is a useful and busy travel hub, the surrounding area is not very safe at night, so it is best to avoid traveling alone or walking around the station late at night.

5. Hotel Forum Katowice – Hotel Forum Katowice is located in a rather unpleasant part of the city, and the hotel itself is not well-maintained nor has useful amenities, and may make for a lackluster experience.