# Szczecin by Motorcycle – Top Sights and Travel Tips

- Link: https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/europe/poland-motocycle-ride-to-szczecin-what-is-worth-seeing/
- Published: 2024-11-06T00:28:47+01:00
- Author: Filip Chochół

Ten wpis jest również dostępny w języku:  [⌊Switch to Polski⌉Polski](https://warsawtravelers.pl/europa/polska-motocyklem-do-szczecina-co-warto-zobaczyc/)

 Table of contents

## Hello! 👋

In August 2023, we set out on a motorcycle journey from Warsaw to Szczecin. Thanks
to Krzysztof Jarzyna, the “boss of all bosses,” this city gained a bit more recognition.
Our route took us through the scenic landscapes of northwestern Poland, offering
beautiful views along the way. Finally, we reached one of the largest cities on 
the Oder River. Szczecin welcomed us with its unique atmosphere, intriguing architecture,
and spots perfect for exploring by motorcycle.

 [ ⌊Woman standing in Szczecin city courtyard, wearing sunglasses and a floral top, with historic buildings in view⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Szczecin city view over a river with bridges, port cranes, and red-roofed buildings under cloudy skies⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Where is Szczecin located?

Szczecin, the capital of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, is located in northwestern
Poland, near the German border. The city sits along the Oder River and the Szczecin
Lagoon, approximately 65 km from the Baltic coast. With a population of around 390,000
residents (as of 2023), Szczecin remains one of the largest cities in the country.
Additionally, it plays a key role as an economic, cultural, and educational center
for the region. Although recent years have seen a slight decline in population, 
the city continues to attract visitors with its unique atmosphere and convenient
location, offering both natural escapes and urban attractions.

_👉  __To learn more, we encourage you to visit the official **Visit Szczecin** 
website, managed by the Szczecin City Council. On this site, you’ll find not only
detailed information about attractions and events but also practical tips that will
certainly make planning your visit easier. __[Click here](https://visitszczecin.eu/pl)
and discover what Szczecin has to offer._

 [ ⌊Szczecin City waterfront promenade with historic buildings and boats along the riverbank⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-008-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Blue ornate fountain in Szczecin City park with trees and a walkway in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## What did we drive to Szczecin?

We took our first motorcycle, a [Yamaha Tracer 7](https://www.yamaha-motor.eu/pl/pl/motorcycles/sport-touring/pdp/tracer-7-2023/).
This journey quickly turned into a real test for us – we discovered that the Tracer
was a bit too small and slightly uncomfortable. And we’re using bit very lightly
here, as it was this trip that ultimately led us to upgrade to the larger BMW R1250GS.
The comfort this model offers is incomparable – though it’s still far from the coziness
of a living room sofa, the difference is truly significant. As you might read in
our other posts, the BMW R1250GS allows us to enjoy an entirely new quality of travel.

Our route to Szczecin began in Warsaw. Initially, we took the A2 motorway towards
Poznań; however, to avoid high toll fees, we exited the motorway just before reaching
Poznań. Along the way, we made a stop in Września for our favorite kebab, which 
has become a small tradition on trips like these.

After a short break, we continued our route along National Road 24, heading west.
The route took us through charming, less populated areas until we reached the entrance
to the S3 expressway. From there, the journey was straightforward and quick – the
S3 leads directly to Szczecin, providing a convenient route into the city.

 [ ⌊Szczecin drive by motorcycle—motorbike with rider and helmet at a gas station in Szczecin, Poland⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Two riders in helmets at Szczecin drive by motorcycle in Szczecin, Poland, at a gas station.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Motorcyclist at Szczecin Drive in Poland with helmet and hard luggage, taking a break by the road⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-006-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Motorcycle parked outdoors in Szczecin, with trees and a garden fence in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## How to get to Szczecin?

Szczecin, the capital of the West Pomeranian region, is well connected to the rest
of Poland, offering a variety of commuting options:

### 🚗 By car or ️🏍️ By motorcycle

Several main routes lead to Szczecin. The **A6 motorway**, forming the city’s southern
bypass, connects with Germany’s A11 motorway, allowing for a quick drive from Berlin.
The **S3 expressway** links Szczecin to southern Poland via Gorzów Wielkopolski,
Zielona Góra, and Legnica. To the east, the **S6 expressway** heads toward Koszalin
and the Tri-City area. Alternatively, **National Road 10** connects Szczecin with
Bydgoszcz and Toruń. These routes make access to the city convenient for both car
drivers and motorcyclists.

### 🚆 By train

The main train station is **Szczecin Główny**, offering direct connections to many
Polish cities. Travel time from Warsaw is about 5 hours, from Poznań around 2.5 
hours, and from Wrocław approximately 5 hours. International connections are also
available, including a route to Berlin, which takes about 2 hours.

### 🚌 By bus

Szczecin also has a well-developed network of bus connections. Regular routes include
domestic services from Warsaw, Poznań, Wrocław, and Gdańsk, as well as international
routes to Berlin and other European cities. The main bus station is located in the
city center, making it convenient for further travel within Szczecin.

### **✈️ By Airplane**

Szczecin-Goleniów Airport, located approximately 45 kilometers from the city center,
offers a limited number of international connections. As of the time of writing,
there are only one or two such flights available daily. In contrast, there are three
daily flights from Warsaw to Szczecin operated by LOT Polish Airlines. Considering
the time required to reach the airport and complete check-in procedures, traveling
by train may prove to be a more efficient option for many travelers.

## What can we explore here?

During our visit to Szczecin, we explored several tourist spots that gave us a deeper
insight into this unique city.

### Piast Boulevard

Piast Boulevard is a must-see spot on Szczecin’s map for anyone wanting to experience
the charm of the city’s riverside atmosphere. Stretching along the Oder River, the
boulevard attracts both locals and tourists with its beautiful views of the water
and the docked boats and ships. It’s an ideal place for a stroll, especially in 
the late afternoon when the setting sun casts warm hues on the water and buildings.

On the boulevard, you can find two restaurants offering a perfect spot to pause,
enjoy local flavors, and take in the river views. It’s an ideal place to sit on 
the terrace, sip coffee, or have a meal while soaking in the peaceful riverside 
atmosphere.

 [ ⌊Woman posing in front of a white boat on Piast Boulevard in Szczecin, Poland⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-011-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Holiday Szczecin catamaran docked at Piast Boulevard in Szczecin, Poland, with city buildings in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-013-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Woman posing beside a bronze statue on Piast Boulevard in Szczecin, Poland.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-012-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Bronze cat statue and duck at Poland’s Szczecin Piast Boulevard, with “KOT ZEGLAREZ UMBRIAGA” engraved⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-015-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Piast Boulevard in Szczecin, Poland, with a waterfront harbor crane and ships under cloudy skies⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-014-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

### Lasztownia

Łasztownia is a rapidly developing part of Szczecin, located across the Oder River
from Piast Boulevard. Once a port district, it’s now a recreational hub, attracting
both locals and tourists. One of Łasztownia’s standout attractions is the Ferris
wheel, which offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the river—a perfect
spot for photos and a relaxing moment with panoramic views of the entire area.

 [ ⌊Szczecin Boulevards, Poland: Ferris wheel and colorful lights along the waterfront at dusk⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-016-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

### Wały Chrobrego (Chrobry Embankment)

Wały Chrobrego is one of Szczecin’s most iconic spots, drawing both tourists and
locals alike. Situated on a high embankment above the Oder River, these viewing 
terraces offer impressive views of the river, nearby boulevards, and the ships docked
in the port. Designed in the early 20th century, Wały Chrobrego is a complex rich
in architectural charm, featuring monumental buildings like the National Museum,
the Provincial Office, and the Maritime University.

Strolling along Wały Chrobrego, you can admire the richly decorated facades of buildings,
fountains, and sculptures that give this place its unique character. In the summer
season, Wały becomes even livelier, hosting various cultural events and festivals.
It’s an ideal spot to relax with a view of the Oder, especially in the evening when
the entire city is bathed in the soft light of the setting sun.

 [ ⌊Woman sitting on steps at Szczecin Chrobry Embankment in Poland, with neoclassical columns and dome behind her⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-017-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Szczecin Chrobry Embankment building facade with domed roof at sunset under pink clouds⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-018-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Fountains splash in front of the Haken- und Terrasse memorial on Szczecin Chrobry Embankment, Poland⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-019-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Szczecin Chrobry Embankment: monumental stone arch with columns, Ferris wheel and harbor in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-021-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Szczecin Chrobry Embankment in Poland, with a grand building façade, steps, and a stone lion statue.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-020-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

### Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle

The Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle in Szczecin is a significant historical and architectural
landmark, tied to the Gryfit dynasty, who ruled Pomerania for over 500 years. Situated
on a hill in the city center, the castle impresses with its Renaissance architecture
and rich history, preserved within its walls for centuries. Although it was destroyed
and rebuilt multiple times, the castle is now carefully restored and open to visitors.

Inside the castle, visitors can explore chambers, art galleries, and exhibition 
halls that showcase the history of Pomerania and its rulers. The castle courtyard
is a popular venue for cultural events, concerts, and theater performances, giving
the place a unique atmosphere. For those wishing to see Szczecin from a different
perspective, there is also a viewing tower offering a beautiful panorama of the 
city and the Oder River.

 [ ⌊Couple wearing sunglasses in front of Szczecin Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle in Poland⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-023.jpg)

 [ ⌊Poland, Szczecin Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle courtyard with a central dome tower under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-025-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Woman posing at Szczecin Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle, wearing sunglasses and a floral top against city views⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-022-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Poland, Szczecin Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle—white historic courtyard buildings with green-domed tower under blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-024-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Poland, Szczecin Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle viewed from above with red rooftops, church spires, and cloudy sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-026-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

### Monument to Krzysztof Jarzyna from Szczecin – The boss of all bosses

During our visit to Szczecin, we couldn’t miss a unique attraction – the statue 
of Krzysztof Jarzyna from Szczecin, known as the “Boss of All Bosses.” This character,
created by Edward Linde-Lubaszenko, gained cult status due to his charisma and memorable
lines in the film Poranek Kojota (Kojot’s Morning). Krzysztof Jarzyna is portrayed
as a fearless, uncompromising boss with significant influence, someone who commands
both fear and respect. Although the film is a comedy, Jarzyna has become a symbol
of Szczecin’s humor and a bit of its laid-back attitude.

The statue of Krzysztof Jarzyna is located on Łasztownia, near the “Szczecin” sign
and the Paprykarz monument, making it easily accessible for visitors. It’s also 
an interactive art installation, allowing everyone to step into the role of Krzysztof
Jarzyna, even if just for a moment. The sculpture depicts his silhouette with his
signature dark sunglasses, behind which visitors can stand, creating the illusion
that they are the “Boss of All Bosses”. It’s a perfect opportunity for a memorable
photo with a uniquely Szczecin touch.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that the statue was created through an initiative
by local residents and was funded as part of Szczecin’s Civic Budget. The unveiling
took place on December 10, 2021—exactly 20 years after the premiere of Poranek Kojota.
The project was designed by Ewa Bone and Ewa Kozubal, who creatively captured the
character’s essence while encouraging visitors to interact with the installation.

 [ ⌊Sculpture of Krzysztof Jarzyna with large “ZCZECH” letters in Szczecin, Poland on a sunny walkway⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-028-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Bronze statue of Krzysztof Jarzyna in Szczecin, Poland, wearing sunglasses and holding a briefcase⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-027-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

### Szczecin Sign

On Łasztownia, right by the waterfront, stands a large white “Szczecin” sign that
has become a popular spot for souvenir photos. Although it’s not illuminated, it
draws attention during the day with its simple, elegant design that contrasts with
the surroundings. This photo spot is a must, allowing tourists to capture the city’s
atmosphere in a clean yet striking frame.

 [ ⌊Large “SZCZECIN” sign in Szczecin, Poland on a waterfront plaza under cloudy skies⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-029-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

### Paprykarz Szczeciński

Paprykarz Szczeciński is a cult Polish food product that gained popularity as early
as the 1960s. It’s a distinctive fish paste mixed with rice, tomato concentrate,
and spices, packaged in recognizable cans. The name refers to the city of Szczecin,
where the recipe was first developed. Over time, the product became a symbol of 
the city, and its taste evokes the seaside character of the region.

Moreover, in 2021, as part of Szczecin’s Civic Budget, a monument to paprykarz szczeciński
was unveiled on Łasztownia. The monument features an impressive, large-scale replica
of the iconic can, serving as a unique tribute to paprykarz and its significance
in the city’s history. For both tourists and Szczecin’s residents, this monument
has become an interesting attraction, reminding everyone of the area’s culinary 
heritage.

 [ ⌊Woman sitting in front of a large “PAPRYKARZ SZCZECIŃSKI” sign in Szczecin, Poland⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-030-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

### Emerald Lake

Jezioro Szmaragdowe is an artificial lake located in the Zdroje district of Szczecin,
within the “Puszcza Bukowa” Landscape Park. It was created in 1925 when an old chalk
and marl mine was flooded. The high calcium carbonate content in the water gives
it a distinctive emerald hue.

The lake covers an area of approximately 2.85 hectares and is surrounded by picturesque
beech forests. This setting makes it a popular relaxation spot for both residents
and tourists. Numerous hiking trails and walking paths encircle the lake, offering
opportunities to enjoy nature and unwind in a peaceful environment.

To reach Jezioro Szmaragdowe by public transport, you can take bus lines 64 or 66
and get off at the “Jezioro Szmaragdowe” stop. From there, a short walk will lead
you to Kopalniana Street, where paths guide you toward the lake.

 [ ⌊Woman sitting by Emerald Lake in Szczecin, Poland, in a sunny park setting with trees and calm water⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-031-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Tall trees and lush greenery in Szczecin Emerald Lake, Poland⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-034jpg-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Man posing with a motorcycle under the arched structure at Poland’s Szczecin Emerald Lake in green forest surroundings⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-033-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Couple wearing sunglasses by Emerald Lake in Szczecin, Poland, surrounded by lush green trees and calm water⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-032-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Lush green riverside at Poland’s Szczecin Emerald Lake with calm green water and a cloudy sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-035-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## What do we recommend to eat?

During our visit to Szczecin, we had the chance to try local specialties at two 
unique places:** Ziemniak i Spółka** and **Bar Pasztecik**.

**Ziemniak i Spółka** is a restaurant specializing in potato dishes. The menu features
a variety of offerings, from baked potatoes with various fillings to classic potato
pancakes. We particularly recommend the baked potatoes topped with ingredients such
as cheese, bacon, or vegetables. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make every
meal here a true delight.

**Bar Pasztecik** is a place with genuine tradition, renowned for serving pastries—
deep-fried yeast dough filled with meat, cheese, or cabbage. It’s best enjoyed with
a hot bowl of borscht, as together they create the perfect Szczecin duo! And is 
it healthy? Well, let’s just say that the deep oil adds depth of flavor… and the
calories? They’re just having a good time!

 [ ⌊Poland, Szczecin Pasztecik Bar interior with neon sign, mosaic wall art, and a white pasztecik bar van display⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-037-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Poland Szczecin Pasztecik Bar: basket of pasztecik and cups of tea beside a white car in a patio setting⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-036-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Summary and return to Warsaw

We chose to return from Szczecin via Bydgoszcz. This route was interesting, but 
also demanding. The journey took nearly the entire day. After hours of riding the
motorcycle, we were truly exhausted. This return trip was an important experience
for us. As relatively new motorcycle travel enthusiasts, we came to a realization.
The Yamaha Tracer 7 is great for shorter outings. However, it is a bit too small
and uncomfortable for longer journeys with two people. This trip reinforced our 
decision to upgrade to a larger and more comfortable bike.

Szczecin definitely won us over, and we will surely return. We saw a few places,
but we feel the city has much more to offer. Additionally, we need to add to our
mug collection. This time, I hope we can get our hands on one from Starbucks!

 [ ⌊Szczecin City photos of a historic building facade with decorative arches and tower in Poland⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-010-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Szczecin City photos: historic yellow harbor cranes with green machinery towers under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-szczecin-009-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)