Manufaktura Archives - Poland Tourist Information

Top 10 things to do in Lodz

What to see, what to do

Things to do – Updated 17 January 2023.

There’s a lot to see and do in the city. Here’s our list of the Top 10 things to do in Lodz. Click on the links for further information or to book a tour & buy tickets.

1. EC1

If Łódź's grand plan of reinvention and rejuvenation had a centrepiece, it would be EC1, which takes its name from the structure it once was, the city’s first heating and power plant, Elektro-Ciepłownia 1. The EC1 building is home to the most modern planetarium in Poland and a fascinating Science and Technology Centre.

Further information

2. Manufaktura

Manufaktura is a massive shopping mall complex of red-brick buildings occupying a large area of a former cotton factory dating back to the nineteenth century. In addition to multiple chain stores, you’ll find a multiplex cinema, an Imax theatre, several museums, cafes and restaurants. Check out the beautiful brick Factory Gate on the south side. It dates back to 1880.

Further information

Best highlights of Lodz walking tour

3. Jewish Cemetery

The Łódź Jewish Cemetery was opened in 1982 and was once the largest Jewish cemetery in Poland. Occupying around 44 hectares of land, the cemetery contains around 68,000 surviving memorials in addition to mass graves of victims of the Litzmannstadt Ghetto and the Holocaust, an area known as Ghetto Field or Polem Gettowym in Polish; which is the final resting place for 43,000 victims. Today over a hundred of the gravesites have been declared historical monuments and are in various stages of restoration. The mausoleum of Izrael Poznański is perhaps the largest Jewish tombstone in the world and the only one containing decorative mosaic. The cemetery continues to function as a Jewish burial site.

Further information.

4. Radegast Station

Radegast station on the north side of the city, was the main deportation centre (Umschlagplatz) for Jews being sent to the extermination camps at Chełmno and Auschwitz-Birkenau during Operation Reinhard. During WWII, the station was located just outside the Łódź Ghetto, one of the biggest Jewish ghettos in German-occupied Europe. During the period from 16^th January 1942 to 29^th August 29 1944, around 200,000 victims passed through the station on the way to their deaths. The station has been preserved and now holds a memorial to those lost in the Holocaust.

Further information.

5. City Museum of Łódź

The museum is housed in the impressive Neo-Baroque palace of 19th-century textile baron Izrael Kalmanowicz Poznański adjacent to the Manufaktura mall. Exhibits are dedicated to the city’s history and famous citizens.

Further information.

6. Herbst Palace Museum

The museum is a branch of the Museum of Art and is the former residence of the Herbst family, a very wealthy and influential family in the 2^nd half of the 19th century. The owners fled Poland before the start of WWII and took the art and furnishings with them; since then the interior has been restored and refurnished and is now back to its former glory. In addition to seeing the rooms within the palace, there is also a separate exhibition of Polish and European art from the 15th to early 20th centuries.

Further information.

7. Centre for Science & Technology

The Centre for Science & Technology occupies 8,000 sqm of exhibition space within the EC1 complex. It’s a hands-on experience that attempts to explain scientific principles such as electromagnetism and atomic physics. You can explore the insides of the giant furnaces and boilers and enjoy simulations, games and other multimedia elements.

Further information.

8. Pasaż Róży

Tucked away off ul. Piotrkowska 3 is a courtyard called Pasaż Róży where you’ll find a spectacular piece of public art designed by Joanna Rajkowska. The passage has been completely lined with mirror fragments arranged in swirling floral patterns. Well-worth a visit.

9. Museum of the Factory

You’ll find this industrial museum within the Manufaktura complex next to the multiplex cinema on the second floor. The exhibits include old textile machines and tells the history of the industrial fortune of Izrael Kalmanowicz Poznański. It shows how the factory developed in time, the production techniques for cotton cloth and the everyday lives of the ordinary factory workers.

Further information.

10. Teatr Wielki

The Teatr Wielki, located on Plac Dąbrowskiego, is the second largest opera house in Poland and one of the largest in Europe, with an auditorium which can seat 1074 people.

Further information.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Lodz?
The best time to visit Lodz is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

What are some must-see sights in Lodz?
Some must-see sights in Lodz include the Piotrkowska Street, the Grand Theatre, the Manufaktura complex, the Museum of Lodz, and the Central Museum of Textiles.

How can I get around Lodz?
Lodz has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, as well as the option to rent a bike or take a taxi. Walking is also a great way to explore the city.

Are there any good places to eat in Lodz?
Lodz is known for its traditional Polish cuisine, with many restaurants serving dishes such as pierogi, bigos, and kielbasa. There are also many international options available.

What is the currency in Lodz?
The currency in Lodz is the Polish zloty (PLN).

What is the language spoken in Lodz?
The official language spoken in Lodz is Polish. Many locals speak English, and you should be able to find people who speak German, Italian, Spanish and French in touristic places.

Are there any good places to shop in Lodz?
Lodz is known for its traditional markets and souvenir shops, where you can find items such as amber jewelry, hand-painted pottery, and hand-woven textiles. There are also many modern shopping centers and malls in the city.

Are there any good places to stay in Lodz?
Lodz has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. It's best to book in advance in high seasons.

Are there any good festivals or events in Lodz?
Lodz is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including the International Festival of Comics and Games, the Festival of Good Beer, and the FashionPhilosophy Fashion Week Poland.

Are there any good day trips from Lodz?
Some popular day trips from Lodz include the Pabianice, the Tomaszow Mazowiecki and the spa town of Uniejow,

Tours & experiences

Centre for Science & Technology City Museum of Łódź EC1 Herbst Palace Museum Jewish Cemetery Manufaktura Museum of the Factory Pasaż Róży Radegast Station Teatr Wielki

polandtravel

April 5, 2021

Lodz (Lodzkie)

Lodz region

Łódź province – updated 19 January 2023.

The Lodz (Lodzkie) region in Poland is located in the central part of the country and is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and economic development.

Lodz

The city of Lodz is the capital of the region and is known for its rich industrial heritage and cultural heritage. Lodz was once one of the most important textile centers in Europe, and many of the factories and mills from that era can still be seen today. The city also features several historic buildings, such as the Grand Theatre, which is a beautiful opera house, and the Poznanski Palace, which is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture.

Parks and gardens

The region is also home to several beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Botanical Garden of the Technical University of Lodz and the Piotrkowska Street Park, which is a beautiful park that runs along one of the main streets of the city. The region is also home to the Zdrowie Reservoir, which is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Museums

The Lodz region is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The city of Lodz is home to several museums, such as the Museum of Art, which features a collection of Polish and European art, and the Museum of the History of Lodz, which showcases the region's industrial heritage and the history of the city. The region is also known for its vibrant arts and music scene, and visitors can enjoy concerts, theater performances, and other cultural events throughout the year.

Industry and commerce

The region is also an important center of industry and commerce. The city of Lodz is home to several large manufacturing companies, including the Lodz Industrial Park, which is home to several leading companies in the automotive and electronics industries. The region is also home to several important research and development centers, such as the Institute of Textile Engineering and the Institute of Technical Sciences.

Unique blend

Despite its industrial development, the Lodz region remains a relatively undiscovered destination in Poland. Visitors to the area will find a unique blend of industrial heritage, rich culture, and beautiful landscapes that makes it a great destination for those looking to explore off the beaten path.

Tourist attractions

Some popular tourist attractions in the Lodz (Lodzkie) region of Poland include:

Piotrkowska Street: This is the main street in the city of Lodz, it is a pedestrian street and it is home to many cafes, restaurants, and shops. The street is also known for its Art Nouveau architecture, which is a must see for architecture enthusiasts

Museum of the History of Lodz: This museum showcases the industrial heritage and the history of the city of Lodz, it features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that provide an insight into the city's past.

Lodz Fabryczna: This is the main railway station of Lodz, it was built in 1866 and it is considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in Poland.

Manufaktura: This is a large shopping, entertainment and cultural complex, it was built on the site of an old textile factory, it features many shops, restaurants, cafes, a cinema and a theater.

Botanical Garden of the Technical University of Lodz: This garden is home to over 10,000 species of plants, it's a perfect place for nature lovers, and those who like to take a walk in a peaceful environment.

Zdrowie Reservoir: This reservoir is located on the outskirts of Lodz and it's a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Lodz Film School: This film school is one of the most prestigious in Poland, it offers tours of its facilities and visitors can learn about the history of Polish cinema and the film-making process.

Piotrkowska Street Park: This park runs along one of the main streets of the city of Lodz, it's a beautiful park that offers a peaceful environment to enjoy a walk.

Grand Theatre: This is a beautiful opera house, it offers a wide range of performances throughout the year, from operas to ballets.

Poznanski Palace: This palace is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture and it's open to visitors, it's one of the most beautiful buildings in Lodz.

These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that can be found in the Lodz region of Poland. The region is home to a variety of museums, historic buildings, parks, lakes, and other points of interest that offer something for everyone.

FAQ

Q: What are the main towns and cities in the Lodz region of Poland?
A: The main towns and cities in the region include the city of Lodz, which is the capital of the region, and other smaller towns such as Pabianice, Zgierz, and Radomsko.

Q: What types of accommodation are available in the Lodz region?
A: The region offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and apartments. Visitors can find accommodations to fit any budget, from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations.

Q: Are there any language barriers in the Lodz region?
A: The official language of the region is Polish, but many people in the region also speak English, especially in the tourist industry. Visitors may also find people who speak German and Russian.

Q: What is the cost of living in the Lodz region?
A: The cost of living in the region is relatively low compared to other parts of Europe. Visitors can find affordable accommodation and food, but prices can vary depending on location and the type of service or product.

Q: Are there any safety concerns in the Lodz region?
A: The region is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's important to take the usual precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Q: Are there any religious or cultural events that take place in the Lodz region?
A: The region has a rich cultural heritage and many religious and cultural events take place throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Wieniawski Festival of Classical Music, the Lodz Film Festival, and the International Festival of Street Theatres.