Best things to do in Poznan

The city's historical central plaza, Stary Rynek is home to an array of colorful and interesting buildings. Established in the 11th century, it has undergone numerous transformations, including severe damage during World War II. Its reconstruction was rapid and successful, and today the large square boasts a number of fashionable bars, cafes, restaurants, and stores. Some of its most striking buildings include the Renaissance-style old town hall, weighing house, arsenal gallery, guardhouse, and the row of 16th century merchants' houses. Weather permitting, you can enjoy a Polish beer and plateful of pierogi (Polish dumplings) on one of the bustling terraces.

As you admire the elegant townhouses lining Rynek of Wroclaw, bear in mind that at the end of World War II, this area was little more than a pile of bricks. A symbol of Poland's ability to rise from the ashes, this square underwent careful restoration after the war. See a replica of a medieval pillory used to flog people for over three centuries. Take in the variety of architectural styles, ranging from Baroque to Art Nouvea. At the center of the area, visit the Gothic town hall, considered a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The historic building houses a museum and a basement restaurant.

Park Cytadela offers a numerous walkways and open spaces for jogging, skating, cycling, or just wandering. The site of the Fort Winiary was turned into a park in the post-war period. See the remains of 19th-century fortifications and various open-air sculpture displays. The park also features a military museum, nine military cemeteries, and an amphitheater. At the top of the steps that form the main entrance to the park, you'll find the heroes' monument overlooking the cemeteries.

Surrounded by parks and woodland, Malta Lake is mostly known for major kayak and rowing events. It also features an ice rink, dry ski slope, zoological garden, water park, narrow-gauge railway, and several historical sites, including the mound of freedom. This artificial lake was formed in 1952 and covers an area of 64 hectares (158 acres). It was named after a crusading order, Knights of Malta, on whose land it was built. Walk around the lake and watch ducks and swans splashing, or take the mini-train to the zoo. Try your hand at mini golf, or stop for a bite to eat in one of the many cafes and restaurants. A nearby mall offers great views of the lake from its top floors.

Get in touch with nature at one of the oldest and largest zoos in Poland at Wroclaw Zoo & Afrykarium, founded in 1865. A few thousand animals live here in habitats designed to recreate their native environments, and the diversity makes the zoo one of the most visited attractions in Poland. Check out popular areas like the African exhibit, oceanarium, children's petting zoo, and ropes course. The zoo's residents are very active, so keep your camera ready to grab a shot of lemurs, alligators, rhinos, and giraffes. Simply purchase your tickets from the kiosk when you arrive.

Commemorating the Orange Alternative underground protest movement, Wroclaw's Dwarfs represent protest in a fun way all over the city. The Orange Alternative protest resisted the authoritarian communist regime through absurd acts, such as installing a dwarf statuary, which made it difficult for the police to arrest people as protesters. Over 300 dwarfs populate spots throughout the city, which today represent many different marginalized groups. The city's tourist office offers maps and smartphone apps marking all the dwarfs' locations and providing an ideal way to tour the city, since the tiny sculptures stand near major sites and attractions. Keep your eyes open for the jolly "tourist" dwarf, your very own representative.