Katowice is the capital of the Silesian Voivodeship and the center of the Silesian agglomeration. Did you know that the name Katowice is genetically Slavic and Old Polish? Its meaning has not been fully understood and it could have originated from:

• the nickname Kat, which was probably given to the first settler (a blacksmith), hence his descendants are called Katowicy and the settlement is named Katowice

• the word 'kąt,' which means 'a place located in a corner, off the beaten path'

So what is worth seeing in Katowice?

1. Market Square

Located in the center of Katowice, the market square is one of the main squares in the city center. One characteristic feature of the square is the network of tram tracks crossing it in several directions. There is a shaded playground for children in the square.

Katowice Market Square is a pleasant place to relax. An interesting fact is that the channel of the Rawa River runs under the square, which is why there is a characteristic fountain shaped like a flowing river. There are wooden sun loungers, trees providing shade on hot days, many benches, and gastronomic establishments near the fountain.

2. Neon Signs

Katowice was once called "Polish Las Vegas" - it was supposedly the most illuminated city in Poland! Neon signs adorned the cityscape, and today many of them have lit up its streets again! Since 2010, Katowice has seen the appearance of 100 new and reconstructed neon signs - in the vicinity of the Market Square, you can see miniature versions of the old neon signs and completely new ones. Be sure to pay attention to them!

3. Stroll through Nikiszowiec

Nikiszowiec is a historical monument - a century-old workers' settlement in Katowice that has been perfectly preserved, untouched by modern buildings or advertisements. Taking a walk through this extraordinary place is a real journey back in time!

Easy

directions_walk child_friendly

A Walk Through Nikiszowiec

straighten 1.2km

timer 19min

north_east 12m

south_east 14m

4. Trzy Stawy (Three Ponds)

The Three Ponds Valley, locally known as Sztauwajery, is one of the largest green areas in Katowice for relaxation, sports, and recreation. You will find kilometers of asphalt paths here for a family bike trip, rollerblading, or a stroll with a stroller, all leading past picturesque ponds.

Valley of Three Ponds in Katowice

...

5. Silesian Park in Chorzów and Elka Railway

In Chorzów, 6 km from Katowice, lies the enormous Silesian Park - the largest park in Poland and one of the largest in Europe! It is a vast green area with kilometers of asphalt paths for biking, rollerblading, and walking. The park is so big that a chairlift-gondola line was built along its length, which is a fantastic attraction! The park includes a Japanese garden, rose garden, zoo, planetarium, "Legendia" amusement park, stadium, and many other attractions. A weekend is definitely not enough to explore the entire park!

Chorzów - Silesian Park and Elka Chairlift

Silesian Park - the largest park in Poland and one of the largest in Europe! It offers kilometers of asphalt paths for cyclists, rollerbladers, and pedestrians. Within the park: a zoo, the amusement park "Legendia" ...

6. Silesian Freedom and Solidarity Center in Wujek Coal Mine

In Katowice, in the heart of Silesia, in a place that played an important role in the history of Poland, you will find the Silesian Freedom and Solidarity Center. It is an extraordinary museum that presents the period of communism in Poland from World War II to the fall of the system. Thanks to interactive elements and fascinating exhibitions, it is a perfect place for a family visit with older children and teenagers to learn about this difficult history of our country.

Silesian Center for Freedom and Solidarity in Wujek Mine

In the heart of Silesia, Katowice, a place that played a significant role in Poland's history, you'll find the Silesian Center for Freedom and Solidarity. This unique museum brings you closer to the era of communism in Poland from World War II until the fall of the system. ...

7. Historic Silver Mine in Tarnowskie Góry

Not far from Katowice, in Tarnowskie Góry, you will find the Historic Silver Mine (along with the nearby Black Trout Adit, less than 5 km away), the only facility in the Silesian Voivodeship (and one of 17 in Poland) listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mine's incredible charm lies in walking through low, narrow corridors and taking an underground boat crossing!

Historic Silver Mine in Tarnowskie Góry

The Historic Silver Mine (along with the Black Trout Adit located less than 5 km away) is the only site in the Silesian province (and one of 17 in Poland) listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ...

What to see near Katowice?

The surroundings of Katowice also offer many extraordinary places! See where you can go for a nearby day trip.

10 ideas for a day trip around Katowice

Silesia - 10 ideas for a day trip ...

Legend of the Treasure Keeper

Silesia is a region of mines and underground corridors. The former work of miners was very difficult - while visiting Katowice with children, you can tell them about the legend of the Treasure Keeper, who, according to ancient beliefs, watched over the safety of miners.

The Treasurer - The Good Spirit of the Mine, Legend and Coloring Page for Kids

Legend of the Treasurer - The Good Spirit of the Mine ...