Gniezno might not be the first place you think of when planning a trip to Poland, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. This is where Poland’s story began—quite literally. As the country’s first capital, Gniezno is where the roots of the Polish state lie. It’s the place where kings were crowned, where Saint Adalbert is buried, and where the cathedral has played a central role in Polish history for over a thousand years.
What makes Gniezno even more appealing is its peaceful, walkable city center. Stroll past colorful facades, spot playful bronze rabbits tucked along the streets, and take a seat at one of the many welcoming terraces. You’ll also find a historic locomotive depot where you can wander among old steam trains, which is something a bit different from the usual city sights. And if you’re curious about Poland’s deeper origins, make sure to visit Ostrów Lednicki, a nearby island that many believe is the true birthplace of the Polish nation.
In this blog, I’ll share what to see and do in Gniezno—from major highlights to lesser-known spots—and explain why this small but fascinating city is well worth a place on your travel itinerary.
What Is Gniezno Known For?
Gniezno may be modest in size, but it’s one of the most important places in Poland when it comes to history. It was the first official capital of the country, the starting point of the Polish state, and the city where the earliest kings were crowned. The tomb of Saint Adalbert, Poland’s patron saint, is still here today. That alone makes it one of the most meaningful historical destinations in the country. And if the many school groups I saw are any indication, Gniezno’s story is a key part of how Polish children learn about their national heritage.
If you want to truly understand Poland, Gniezno is the place to start. This is where it all began: kings, Christianization, national identity. In the year 1025, Bolesław I was crowned king here. While the term “capital” didn’t mean exactly the same thing back then and historians may debate the technicalities, Gniezno is now proudly known as Poland’s first capital.
The city’s cathedral is its beating heart. Not because it’s the most beautiful church you’ll ever see, but because it holds deep historical and symbolic meaning. Inside lies the tomb of Saint Adalbert, a 10th-century missionary who was killed in Prussia and is honored as a national hero. His dramatic life story is told in intricate detail on the cathedral’s bronze doors, an extraordinary piece of medieval art that reads almost like an ancient graphic novel.
Where to Stay in Gniezno
During my visit, I stayed at the Pietrak Hotel, a traditional hotel right on Gniezno’s lively main street. The location couldn’t have been better: right in the city center and just a short walk from all the main sights. The hotel has a charming old-fashioned feel, with vintage furniture, heavy curtains, and a nostalgic atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
That said, Gniezno is compact enough to explore in a single day, so staying overnight isn’t a must. It also works well as a day trip from Poznań, which is just a 30-minute train ride away. If you base yourself there, you’ll find a wider range of accommodation options. I recommend checking into one of the beautifully designed rooms at City Solei Boutique Hotel, or staying at Hotel Kolegiacki, where you can enjoy a stunning view from the rooftop terrace.
Top Things to See in Gniezno: 8 Sights and Tips
#1 Visit Gniezno Cathedral
You don’t need to be a church enthusiast to see just how important this place is to Poland. Gniezno Cathedral has been at the heart of Polish history for over a thousand years. This is where Saint Adalbert is buried, and where Poland’s first kings were crowned. Including Bolesław the Brave, who became king here in the year 1025. For many Poles, this cathedral is more than a religious site, it’s a national symbol, and that alone makes it the top attraction in Gniezno.
The current Gothic cathedral dates back to the 14th century, or is a faithful reconstruction built after World War II. It stands on the foundations of much older churches, going all the way back to the 10th century. Inside, you’ll find baroque chapels, ancient tombs, and tall Gothic arches that speak to the building’s long and layered history. It’s not an overly ornate place, but it carries the quiet weight of centuries.
At the ticket office, you can arrange an audio guide or book a guided tour, which is especially worthwhile if you’re curious about the deeper stories behind what you’re seeing. Entry to the main cathedral is free, but there’s a small fee for extras like the catacombs, the bell tower, and the famous bronze doors.
#2 Climb the Cathedral Tower
If you’re after the best view in Gniezno, prepare to stretch your legs. A steep but manageable staircase winds its way up the cathedral’s south tower. As you climb, you’ll pass old church bell mechanisms and historic photographs—including some of Pope John Paul II’s visits to the city.
At the top, a beautiful panoramic view awaits. You’ll see the red rooftops of Gniezno spread out below you, the green countryside of the Wielkopolska region stretching into the distance, and the glimmering surface of Lake Jelonek on the city’s edge. Tickets are available at the small visitor center next to the cathedral.
#3 Take a Closer Look at the Gniezno Doors
It’s easy to walk right past them if you’re not paying attention, but on the cathedral’s southern wall hang two massive bronze doors that are true medieval masterpieces. Known as the Gniezno Doors, they were made around the year 1175 and depict the life of Saint Adalbert in 18 detailed panels, from his early years to his martyrdom. In an age when most people couldn’t read, this was how stories were shared: a visual narrative carved in bronze, almost like a medieval comic book.
Because the doors are mounted on the exterior of the church, you can only view them from a distance. But for a better look, head next door to the cathedral museum. There you’ll find life-size replicas of the doors, complete with scene-by-scene explanations (in Polish). You’ll notice tiny details that are hard to spot on the originals: figures, gestures, and expressions that bring Saint Adalbert’s story to life.
#4 Follow the Rabbits Along the Royal Trail (Trakt Królewski)
Keep your eyes open—Gniezno is full of little bronze rabbits hiding in plain sight. You’ll find them perched on benches, peeking from sidewalks, or leaning casually against lampposts. They’re not just decorative, but they’re part of the Trakt Królewski, or Royal Trail, a walking route that connects the city’s most important landmarks. Along the way, you’ll see statues of Poland’s earliest kings, as well as these playful rabbits scattered throughout the city.
Each rabbit tells a story, sometimes tied to local history, other times inspired by quirky folklore. If you download the companion app, you can listen to short audio clips as you walk, adding a fun and informative twist to your stroll. The route isn’t rigid, so you can explore it at your own pace and in whatever order you like. Some of my favorites? The Napoleon rabbit near the house where Napoleon is said to have stayed, and the cheeky, slightly tipsy rabbit on Stary Rynek (the main square), a nod to the old distillery that once stood there.
#5 Wander Around Gniezno’s Old Town
Gniezno’s old town is compact, quiet, and wonderfully easy to navigate. Don’t expect busy shopping streets or big-name stores. Instead, it’s all about narrow alleyways, colorful facades, and a picture-perfect market square. A main street cuts through the city, passing straight over the old market square and leading directly to the grand cathedral. This is where the city comes to life, with cheerful terraces, buzzing cafés, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
At the heart of it all is the Stary Rynek, the old market square and a true highlight of Gniezno’s historic center. It’s lined with pastel-hued houses, charming outdoor seating areas, and historic buildings that give it real character. Look down and you’ll notice lines marked on the ground, reminders of how the square was once laid out centuries ago. It’s a lovely place to slow down and soak in the atmosphere.
#6 Take a Stroll Around Lake Jelonek
If you’re craving a bit of peace between sightseeing stops, head to Lake Jelonek, just a short walk from the city center. It’s only about ten minutes from the cathedral, and suddenly you’re by the water, surrounded by greenery. A flat path circles the lake, around two kilometers in total, perfect for a light walk or simply a relaxed wander. On weekends and late afternoons, it’s a favorite spot for locals, many of whom come here to jog, walk, or just unwind.
One of the best things about this spot is the view. It offers a stunning perspective of the cathedral rising above the city, making it an ideal place to snap a photo. Sunset is especially beautiful here, casting soft light over the rooftops and lake. Although on the day I visited, the clouds didn’t quite cooperate. And if you’re looking for Gniezno’s most popular photo op, you’ll find it here too: the large “GNIEZNO” letters by the lake make for a classic tourist shot.
#7 Sip a Local Brew at Dobry Browar
After a full day of exploring kings, churches, and quirky city trails, it’s time to relax, and what better way than with a local beer? Dobry Browar, a microbrewery right in the center of Gniezno, is the perfect place to wind down. They brew their own craft beers on-site, and the selection is always changing. Whether you’re into crisp pilsners, hoppy IPAs, smooth wheat beers, or dark stouts with hints of coffee, there’s something to suit every taste.
Inside, you can see the gleaming brewing kettles up close, and even pour your own beer from the wall taps. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the menu is surprisingly good. I tried one of the burgers, which I can absolutely recommend. As a vegetarian, I was happy to see that two versions were available in a meat-free option. A great spot to end the day.
#8 Explore the Gniezno Locomotive Depot
In the mood for something completely different from cathedrals and monuments? Then make your way to Gniezno’s historic locomotive depot. This fascinating site dates back to 1875 and was once a key junction in Poland’s railway network. Today, parts of the depot are open to visitors, and it feels like stepping onto a forgotten film set. Complete with crumbling warehouses, rusted tracks, a massive turntable for locomotives, and rows of old train cars in various states of decay and restoration. The star of the show is the roundhouse, the largest of its kind in Europe.
If you’re visiting in May, try to catch the annual Steam Days festival. That’s when the whole depot comes to life with working steam trains, live demonstrations, and even train rides for visitors. Sadly, the depot isn’t open year-round, and I missed it during my off-season visit, so it’s definitely worth checking ahead before you go.
#9 Discover Polish Roots at Ostrów Lednicki and the Wielkopolska Ethnographic Park
If you’re keen to go beyond Gniezno and explore Poland’s deeper history, a fantastic day trip awaits just outside the city. Start with Ostrów Lednicki, a small island in Lake Lednica that’s considered the birthplace of Poland. It was most likely the home of Mieszko I, Poland’s first ruler. Many believe it’s also where he was baptized, the moment that marked the beginning of Christian Poland. A short ferry ride takes you to the island, where you can explore ancient stone walls, the remains of a royal palace, and wooden huts reconstructed in traditional style in a peaceful, green setting.
Just ten minutes down the road, you’ll find the Wielkopolska Ethnographic Parc in Dziekanowice, an open-air museum that brings Poland’s rural past to life. It’s a picture-perfect 19th-century village, complete with wooden houses, a windmill, a schoolhouse, and a small church. Everything is arranged as if the villagers had just stepped out for a moment. During the summer season, the park hosts craft demonstrations, and you can even buy handmade goods and local specialties. Don’t miss the old manor house on the edge of the grounds, it’s well worth a look.
Together, these two sites offer a vivid window into both the royal and everyday sides of Poland’s past, a must-see for anyone interested in history.
#10 Marvel at Colorful Poznań
After Gniezno, Poznań makes for a natural next stop, and it’s just as vibrant as it is convenient. Only half an hour away by train, the city instantly feels larger and more energetic, yet it still holds onto its charm. The old town square is one of the prettiest in Poland, with candy-colored townhouses, an ornate town hall, and a wonderfully quirky tradition: every day at noon and 3 p.m., two mechanical goats appear on the clock tower and butt heads. It’s a bizarre, uniquely Poznań show that both locals and tourist love.
Poznań is full of contrasts. You’ll find centuries-old churches and castles standing beside modern cafés, bold street art, and cultural spaces. One place you shouldn’t miss is Stary Browar, a former brewery turned into a creative blend of shopping center and art gallery. The city is easy to explore on foot, and there’s no shortage of great food. Be sure to try the famous St. Martin’s croissant, a sweet local specialty, and for dinner, head to Ptasie Radio, a beautifully decorated restaurant serving Polish dishes and regional wines in a cozy, contemporary setting.
I visited Gniezno, Poznań, and the surrounding area at the invitation of the Polish Tourism Organization.
