A stress-free easy weekend in Lodz guide

Are you planning a weekend in Lodz Poland and looking for an exciting itinerary? Look no further! Lodz, the third-largest city in Poland, is known for its vibrant culture, industrial heritage, and remarkable architecture.

With so much to explore, it can be overwhelming to plan a weekend itinerary for Lodz. But worry not, as we have curated a perfect weekend itinerary for you that covers the best attractions and experiences Lodz has to offer.

a weekend in Lodz in Poland
Lodz City Centre

Why should you visit Lodz?

From discovering the rich history of the city at Piotrkowska Street, the longest commercial street in Europe, to exploring charming destinations such as the artistic neighbourhood of Księży Młyn, our Lodz itinerary includes something for everyone.

And if you are a foodie, don’t miss out on the delicious local cuisine and craft beers at Off Piotrkowska, a trendy gastronomic hub in the heart of the city.

Get ready for an exciting and unforgettable weekend in Lodz. Let’s dive into our Lodz itinerary and make the most of your trip to Poland!

The perfect Lodz Itinerary

Here’s an itinerary for a Saturday and Sunday in Lodz, Poland. Use this Lodz weekend trip itinerary to plan a visit to find discover hidden gems, beautiful architecture and more of Lodz Poland.

While we have written this post around a weekend in Lodz being a Saturday and Sunday you can use this for any day of the week if you need to.

Your weekend in Lodz itinerary – Saturday

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Lodziarnia Donizetti, known for its delicious waffles and ice cream.
  • 10:00 AM: Head to Piotrkowska Street, the longest commercial street in Europe, and take a stroll to admire the impressive architecture of the buildings, street art and shops. Rosa’s passage, created by artist Joanna Rajkowska is a brilliant mirror installation that is one not to miss in Łódź
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Herbst Palace, a 19th-century palace in Lodz, Poland once owned by the Herbst family that has been turned into a museum. It features exhibits of furniture, art, and artifacts that showcase the city’s cultural heritage, including a collection of paintings by Polish and European artists
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Polish lunch at Manufaktura, a leisure complex featuring shopping, entertainment and arts centre that also houses many restaurants and cafes
An old red brick building on Lodz that has been repurposed
Manufaktura, leisure complex in Lodz
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the charming Księży Młyn neighbourhood, known for its picturesque old buildings, street art, and artistic vibe
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the Central Museum of Textiles, a unique museum that showcases the city’s textile industry history and displays impressive collections of fabrics, garments, and accessories
  • 6:00 PM: Have dinner at Off Piotrkowska, a trendy gastronomic hub with a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from
  • 8:00 PM: Catch a movie at Silver Screen, a modern cinema complex with a wide selection of films.

Sunday:

  • 10:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to the Botanic Garden of Lodz University, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city with a rich collection of plants and flowers
  • 12:00 PM: Visit the Poznanski Palace, a magnificent 19th-century palace and former residence of a textile merchant. Today it now houses The Museum of the City of Lodz, it has exhibits art & objects pertaining to the city’s history & culture
  • 2:00 PM: Have lunch at Andels, a restaurant located in the iconic former textile factory that has been transformed into a modern office and cultural complex
  • 4:00 PM: Discover the fascinating history of Jewish culture in Lodz at the Jewish Cemetery and the Radegast Train Station, both important historical sites in the Łódź Ghetto from World War 2.
  • 6:00 PM: End your weekend with a relaxing drink at the DOKI gastro bar. This unique bar restaurant in Lodz is made from a towering stack of shipping containers that have been transformed into a chic establishment.

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Tours in Lodz

If you’re looking for something a little different for your weekend in Lodz to our suggested itinerary above, you might want to consider doing a tour.

There are many half-day tours you can do during your weekend getaway in Lodz, here are a few suggestions that you may find interesting:

The Lodz Private walking tour has options for 3, 5 or 7-hour tours. This experience covers the most important historical and cultural attractions of the city. The tour begins on Piotrkowska Street, the main street of the city, and continues through the industrial district of the city, where visitors can learn about the history of the textile industry in Lodz.

The tour also includes visits to important landmarks such as the White Factory, the Poznanski Palace, and the Jewish Cemetery. Visitors can learn about the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Lodz as well as the city’s unique history and modern development. The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who can provide insight and answer any questions visitors may have. Get the latest prices and booking for this Łódź private tour.

Lodz Private Traditional Polish Food Tour: If you’re a foodie looking to experience traditional Polish cuisine in the city of Lodz, the Lodz Private Traditional Polish Food Tour may be a great option for you. The tour takes you to some of the best traditional Polish food spots in Lodz. You’ll get to try a variety of dishes, including pierogi, kielbasa, and more, as well as some local drinks.

The tour is about 3 hours long and can accommodate dietary restrictions. If you’re looking for a fun and tasty way to experience traditional Polish food in Lodz, the Lodz Private Traditional Polish Food Tour is worth considering.

During the Lodz Private Vodka Tasting Tour, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a variety of different vodkas, learn about the history and production of this popular spirit, and enjoy the local culture and atmosphere of Lodz.

The tour is private, which means you’ll have the undivided attention of your guide and can customise the experience to suit your interests and preferences. This tour is a great option for anyone who wants to learn more about Polish culture and cuisine, and who enjoys trying new and unique experiences. You can also book a Polish Beer Tour as well if Vodka is not for you.

Shopping in Lodz

Lodz is a great city for shopping, with many options for visitors who love to shop during their weekend in Lodz. Here are some of the best places to shop in Lodz:

  1. Piotrkowska Street – This is the main shopping street in Lodz and it is home to many local and international brands. You can find a variety of stores, from clothing boutiques to bookshops, as well as restaurants and cafes. Piotrkowska Street is the longest commercial street in Europe measuring 4.2 kilometres long, starting at Independence Square and finishing at Liberty Square
  2. Manufaktura Complex – This is a large shopping and entertainment complex that includes a wide range of shops, cool restaurants, and cafes, as well as a cinema, bowling alley and modern art museum. The complex is located in a renovated industrial area and has a unique and trendy atmosphere
  3. EC1 – This is a newly opened cultural and commercial centre that includes a shopping mall, a museum, a planetarium, and a cinema. The mall features a variety of stores, including fashion brands, beauty and cosmetics, and electronics
  4. Designer’s Avenue – This is a shopping centre that is home to a range of local designers and artists, showcasing unique and handmade products, from fashion to jewellery to home decor shops
  5. Lodz Market – This is a traditional outdoor market that is open on weekdays and weekends. Here you can find fresh local produce, as well as clothing, accessories, and household items.

So whether you’re looking for a shopping street, a mall, local designers, or a traditional market, Lodz has plenty of options to explore and enjoy.

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Eating in Lodz

Lodz is known for its diverse cuisine, influenced by Polish, Jewish, and German traditions. Here are some traditional foods that are specific to the region and that you may want to try during your weekend break:

restaurants and cafe on Piotrkowska Street in Lodz
Eating on Piotrkowska Street
  • Łódzki macaron: A type of handmade pasta that’s similar to Italian tagliatelle. It’s typically served with a sauce made from meat, mushrooms, or vegetables.
  • Schabowy po łódzku: A breaded pork cutlet that’s fried and served with boiled potatoes and a side salad.
  • Zupa Pomidorowa z ryżem: A tomato soup with rice, often served with a slice of bread.
  • Kaszanka: A type of blood sausage made with buckwheat or barley, served fried or grilled with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes.
  • Łódzkie kluski z Makiem: A sweet dish made with boiled potato dumplings and a poppy seed filling, served with butter and sugar.
  • Żeberka w Sosie śliwkowym: Pork ribs roasted with a plum sauce and served with boiled potatoes or mashed potatoes.
  • Łódzkie Rogaliki: A sweet pastry made with yeast dough and filled with a mixture of nuts, poppy seeds, and sometimes jam.

These are just a few examples of the delicious and traditional Polish foods that Lodz has to offer. Enjoy your trip and happy eating!

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When is the best time to visit Lodz?

The best time to visit Lodz is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city’s attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. The city also hosts several festivals and events during this time, such as the Four Cultures Festival, which celebrates the city’s multicultural heritage.

If you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October). These seasons offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists, making it easier to enjoy the city’s sights and sounds without the crowds.

Winters (December to February) can be very cold with snow and ice, but the festive holiday markets and decorations can make for a charming winter vacation. The city’s museums and indoor attractions are also great options during the winter months.

Places to stay in Lodz

When it comes to accommodation, there is no shortage of recommended hotels in this Polish city. From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, there’s something for every budget and taste. Some of the best places to stay in Lodz are:

Lodz city centre
Traditional buildings in Lodz
  1. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lodz – This 5-star hotel is situated in the city centre, close to major tourist attractions. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and spa.
  2. Ambasador Centrum Hotel Lodz – This elegant 4-star hotel is located in the centre of Lodz, close to Piotrkowska Street. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, gym, and spa.
  3. Novotel Lodz Centrum – This 4-star hotel is situated in the heart of the city, near major tourist attractions. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and spa.
  4. Vienna House Andel’s Lodz – This 4-star hotel is located in a restored 19th-century textile factory, close to major tourist attractions. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, gym, and spa.

All of these hotels offer luxurious accommodations and are located in the heart of Lodz, close to major tourist attractions. They also offer great amenities such as on-site restaurants, bars, gyms, and spas, making them a perfect choice for visitors who want to experience the best of Lodz.

For more options, we recommend that you search Booking.com or Hotels Combined

Getting to your Lodz weekend break

Wizz Air is the only airline that currently offers direct flights to Lodz Wladyslaw Reymont Airport (LCJ) from other major cities in Europe. Flights are available from cities such as London, Milan, and Frankfurt.

Many international bus companies operate direct bus services to Lodz from cities across Europe, such as Berlin, Prague, and Vilnius. Some of the major bus companies that offer these routes include Flixbus, Eurolines, and PolskiBus.

There are several direct train connections to Lodz from other cities in Poland, including Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk. There are also some direct trains from other European cities, such as Berlin and Vienna. Train services are provided by PKP Intercity and RegioJet.

It’s important to note that transportation options and schedules may vary depending on the season and other factors, so it’s always a good idea to check with the individual airlines, bus companies, or train operators for the most up-to-date information. Use the best VPN for travel to check prices.

Here are some transportation options for getting from Lodz Wladyslaw Reymont Airport to your hotel in the city:

  1. Book a private transfer – have the driver waiting for you inside the airport holding a sign with your name on it, and be whisked off to your city hotel
  2. Taxi – Taxis are available outside the airport terminal and are a convenient way to get to your hotel. The ride to the city centre takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is around 30-40 PLN (7-10 EUR)
  3. Bus – Bus line 65 operates between the airport and the city centre, with stops at the main train station (Lodz Fabryczna) and other locations along the way. The ride takes about 30-40 minutes and the cost is around 3.80 PLN (less than 1 EUR)
  4. Shuttle bus – Some hotels in Lodz offer shuttle bus service from the airport. Check with your hotel to see if this is available.

As for the main train station and bus station in Lodz, both are located in the city centre and are within walking distance of many hotels and tourist attractions.

The main train station is Lodz Fabryczna, and the main bus station is Lodz Kaliska. It’s also worth noting that the city has a good public transportation system, with buses and trams that can take you to different parts of the city if needed.

Why should you visit Lodz for a weekend getaway?

Lodz is a hidden gem that offers a perfect city break for those looking for a cheap weekend getaway. With its rich history and vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Lodz.

From strolling through the beautiful parks to exploring the impressive museums and galleries with contemporary art, a Lodz weekend is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

So why not plan your next weekend getaway in this charming city and experience all that Lodz has to offer? We hope this guide has provided you with some helpful tips and inspiration for your upcoming trip to Lodz, is a great place with many places well worth visiting.

Poland Travel Expert is your ultimate guide to all things Poland. Your next trip to Poland will not be complete without our detailed Poland guides, Poland itineraries and Poland travel tips.


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Author Bio: Mark Wyld

Mark Wyld is a Father, husband, traveller, and writer at Poland Travel Expert and other blogs. I have accumulated a wealth of experience over multiple visits to Poland. Thanks to our friends in Poland, we stay connected to the nation’s pulse, ensuring that our content is up to date with our first-hand experience. The information on this website is backed by genuine expertise.