10 Things to Do Year-Round in Gliwice Poland for History Green Spaces and Culture

Key Takeaways:

• Gliwice offers a rich blend of medieval architecture, science museums, botanical gardens, and cultural events all year long.

• The city balances industrial roots with artistic flair and peaceful nature spaces that are ideal for exploring in any season.

• Whether you’re into towers, art, parks, or food, Gliwice gives travelers an authentic Polish experience without tourist crowds.

Located in southern Poland’s Silesian region, Gliwice is a vibrant yet underrated city with deep historical roots and modern charm. Known for its beautifully restored Old Town, industrial-era landmarks, and scientific innovation, Gliwice is often overshadowed by nearby Katowice — but it absolutely holds its own. The city’s diverse past includes German, Polish, and Austrian influences, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and cultural offerings. Today, it’s a university town with leafy parks, cozy cafés, lively art events, and surprising attractions like the tallest wooden radio tower in the world. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, there’s always something worth discovering in Gliwice.

Table of Contents

1. Climb the Gliwice Radio Tower

2. Stroll Through the Palmiarnia Botanical Gardens

3. Discover the Historic Market Square and Old Town

4. Visit the Museum in the Piast Castle

5. Explore the Gliwice Canal by Foot or Bike

6. Catch a Show at the Gliwice Musical Theatre

7. Step Into the Future at the Silesian University of Technology’s Education Zone

8. Relax in the Park Chopina

9. Attend the Jazz in the Ruins Festival

10. Try Local Eats at Rynek Restaurants and Food Trucks

1. Climb the Gliwice Radio Tower

Standing at 118 meters tall, the Gliwice Radio Tower is the world’s tallest wooden structure — and a fascinating piece of 20th-century history. Built in 1935 using larch wood, it played a central role in a staged radio attack that sparked World War II.

Today, you can walk the grounds, explore an open-air exhibition, and learn about how the tower once broadcast Nazi propaganda. It’s an eerie yet captivating stop for history buffs. The nearby museum is small but informative, and the peaceful park setting contrasts sharply with the tower’s dramatic legacy. Best of all, entrance is free.

2. Stroll Through the Palmiarnia Botanical Gardens

Located in Chopina Park, Gliwice’s Palmiarnia Miejska (Palm House) is a lush escape into five climate-controlled pavilions filled with exotic plants, cacti, tropical fish, and turtles. Open year-round, it’s especially magical in winter when stepping inside feels like entering a jungle oasis.

The walkways take you through subtropical and desert zones, and the palm room with towering green fronds makes for great photos. Kids love the fish tanks, while plant lovers will enjoy the diversity and layout. It’s relaxing, educational, and surprisingly inexpensive to visit. Whether it’s cold outside or raining, the Palmiarnia never disappoints.

3. Discover the Historic Market Square and Old Town

Gliwice’s Rynek (Market Square) is the beating heart of the Old Town, framed by pastel-colored merchant houses and home to a 19th-century town hall. It’s a perfect place to grab a coffee, people-watch, or attend a seasonal market or outdoor concert.

The surrounding streets are full of character — with cobblestones, hidden courtyards, small galleries, and boutiques selling local goods. This area combines charm with walkability and feels both historic and lived-in. Make time to explore side streets and snap photos of Gothic and Baroque architecture. It’s compact but full of delightful surprises.

4. Visit the Museum in the Piast Castle

Tucked away near the center of town, the Piast Castle in Gliwice is one of the oldest buildings in the city, dating back to the 14th century. Today, it houses a branch of the Museum of Gliwice, showcasing archaeological finds, old weaponry, and rotating art exhibitions.

Inside, you’ll find vaulted stone ceilings, medieval tools, and stories from Gliwice’s layered past. It’s not a massive castle, but it’s well-preserved and gives you a window into regional history. The courtyard is quiet and photo-worthy, and entry fees are low. It’s a must-visit for anyone who enjoys castles, history, or cozy museums.

5. Explore the Gliwice Canal by Foot or Bike

Running through the city’s west side, the Gliwice Canal (Kanał Gliwicki) is a peaceful waterway that stretches for kilometers and connects to the Oder River. While originally designed for freight transport, today it serves as a scenic walking and cycling route.

Locals often use the canal path for jogging or long weekend strolls. You’ll pass bridges, boats, and open fields that feel far from the urban center. It’s a great way to explore Gliwice’s greener side and get a breath of fresh air. Bring a picnic or rent a bike to make it a full afternoon outing.

6. Catch a Show at the Gliwice Musical Theatre

For a night of culture, head to the Teatr Muzyczny w Gliwicach, the city’s premier venue for musicals, operettas, and theatrical performances. The theater, set in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, hosts productions that range from classic Polish plays to international hits and children’s shows.

Even if you don’t speak Polish, the atmosphere, costumes, and music make it a worthwhile experience. The interior is elegant but intimate, and ticket prices are very reasonable. Check the calendar online — performances run throughout the year, and there’s often something suitable for all ages. This is a great way to experience local arts in a lively setting.

7. Step Into the Future at the Silesian University of Technology’s Education Zone

Gliwice is home to one of Poland’s top science universities, and its Silesian University of Technology features an Education and Technology Zone that’s open to the public. This interactive space offers exhibitions on robotics, sustainability, and innovation — often designed with students and families in mind.

It’s a must-visit for tech enthusiasts or travelers curious about Poland’s role in Europe’s scientific future. Workshops and demos are regularly hosted, and the facilities are modern, clean, and engaging. Combine it with a campus stroll and discover a different, youthful side of the city.

8. Relax in the Park Chopina

If you need a calm place to unwind, Park Chopina is one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces. Lush, landscaped paths wind past fountains, flowerbeds, and quiet benches perfect for reading or journaling.

The park is also home to the Palm House, making it a two-in-one destination. It’s family-friendly and ideal for a picnic, a morning jog, or an afternoon nap under a tree. In spring and summer, it’s especially vibrant, with locals lounging, musicians busking, and children playing.

9. Attend the Jazz in the Ruins Festival

Each August, Gliwice hosts Jazz in the Ruins, an award-winning music festival set in the ruins of a former municipal theater. The setting is hauntingly beautiful — modern jazz riffs echoing between cracked walls and graffiti-covered stone.

The event draws musicians from across Poland and beyond, blending jazz with experimental, fusion, and world music styles. Food trucks and art stalls complete the scene, making it a true summer highlight. Even if you’re not a die-hard jazz fan, the atmosphere is worth it. It’s one of the city’s most iconic cultural experiences.

10. Try Local Eats at Rynek Restaurants and Food Trucks

Back in the city center, the Rynek and surrounding streets offer a variety of dining spots that highlight both Polish comfort food and international cuisine. Try pierogi stuffed with mushrooms, creamy żurek soup, or get a bite from the rotating lineup of food trucks serving tacos, kebabs, and vegan bowls.

Some favorites include Czekoladziarnia for desserts and Luft for local craft beer. Prices are affordable and most spots stay open late. Whether you’re after a sit-down dinner or a quick bite, Gliwice’s food scene is both satisfying and laid-back.

What to Do If You Have Kids?

Gliwice is a very family-friendly city, with plenty to keep kids entertained year-round. The Palmiarnia is a hit with younger travelers thanks to its turtles and fish, and Park Chopina offers room to roam, playgrounds, and seasonal events. For something interactive, the Silesian University’s Tech Zone often runs educational workshops for children.

During warmer months, head to the Gliwice Canal for a nature walk or take a picnic to the grassy areas near the Old Town. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the pace of the city makes it easy to explore without stress. Gliwice strikes the right balance between learning, play, and downtime.

Where Can I Find Free Events in Gliwice Poland Taking Place This Weekend?

If you’re in Gliwice and looking for something fun, social, and free to do this weekend, head to https://planmyweekend.ai. Our AI-powered tool finds the best live music, open-air events, museum nights, street festivals, workshops, and family-friendly activities happening near you — all in real time. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, this is the easiest way to stay in the loop and enjoy the city without spending a zloty.

Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to Gliwice

Gliwice is one of Poland’s best-kept secrets — a city that offers medieval beauty, industrial intrigue, modern science, and a welcoming local vibe. With fewer crowds than Kraków or Warsaw, you’ll find space to slow down, discover hidden gems, and connect with the culture in meaningful ways. Whether you’re climbing a wooden radio tower, sipping coffee on a cobbled square, or catching jazz under the stars, Gliwice delivers a travel experience that’s refreshingly real. Come for a weekend, stay longer — and you’ll likely find yourself planning your next trip back.