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No vacation in Poland is complete without visiting the country’s historic cities, and there’s no better place to get your finger to their pulse than on their picturesque squares. Many of them have served as meeting places where people have congregated for centuries, where local history has been made, and where the present-day atmosphere is most palpable. Take a tour of these five town squares in Poland and immerse yourself in the country’s urban charms, both old and new.
1. Old Town Square Market (Rynek Starego Miasta) – Warsaw
As old as the city itself, Old Town Square Market (Rynek Starego Miasta) is the historical center of Warsaw and one of the capital’s main tourist attractions. Dating back to the 13th century, the plaza was long the city’s prime commercial and cultural hub. Almost completely destroyed during the Warsaw Uprising of 1944, the site was meticulously restored to its former glory after the war. With its Renaissance and Baroque architecture, numerous restaurants, a selection of cultural institutions, and ever-present street performers, the square is not only a great spot for Poland sightseeing, but also a place where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere.
2. Castle Square (Plac Zamkowy) – Warsaw
While Old Town Square Market was a place where wealthy townsfolk gathered, Castle Square (Plac Zamkowy) was reserved for royal processions, making it one of the most important town squares in Poland. From the January Uprising in 1863 to the anti-government demonstrations in the 1980s, the space saw a number of momentous events in Polish history. Today the triangular square in front of the Royal Castle serves as one of Warsaw’s most popular meeting spots and draws tourists with its shops, restaurants, numerous street performances, and lively atmosphere.
3. Main Market Square – Krakow
Main Market Square has been the heart of the Krakow community for over 700 years and is probably the most impressive of the town squares in Poland. The well-preserved area is the largest medieval square in the whole of Europe and an astonishing historical monument, with a selection of the most important landmarks and monuments in Krakow. When touring the square, pay a visit to Town Hall Tower and St. Mary’s Basilica. Be sure to grab a meal or a drink at one of the establishments with culinary traditions that date back to the middle ages.
4. Market Square (Rynek) – Wroclaw
Surrounded by an array of Baroque and Classicist buildings, Market Square (Rynek) is the heart of Wroclaw’s pedestrian zone and a perennial must-see when visiting. Although heavily damaged during World War II, the square has been thoroughly renovated and today is the city’s liveliest and most charming spot. From Old Town Hall and traditional beer halls to department stores and cafes, there’s a great selection of places to visit in Wroclaw. There are free walking tours for those wishing to gain in-depth knowledge of the square and its history.
5. Old Market Square – Poznan
Ever since the city of Poznan was established back in the 13th century, Old Market Square has been the epicenter of all city activities. With as many as 12 streets beginning here, the square is the third largest of the town squares in Poland, topped only by the squares in Krakow and Wroclaw. Combining historical architecture and a variety of modern venues, such as bars, cafes, and restaurants, the square seamlessly connects the old with the new. If you’re looking for historical attractions, you’ll find several museums that display artifacts from various time periods.
An urban tour of Poland
Poland is a country of stunning natural beauty, but it’s also a country where city living has a long and rich history. Discover an age-old spirit, mingle with the locals, and get an insider’s view of Poland by spending time at these town squares in Poland.
