Katowice Guide

Katowice
March - June 2014 Your Guide to Greater Silesia

Maps Events Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Shopping Hotels
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inyourpocket.com
about Street Art.
about visiting Tychy.
about Spring in Silesia.
March - June 2014 3 facebook.com/KatowiceInYourPocket
Contents
Feature
Tychy 6
Arrival & Transport 10
City Basics 14
Culture & Events 16
Restaurants 20
Cafs 33
Nightlife 34
Sightseeing
Essential Katowice 43
Sightseeing 44
Further Afeld
Silesian Suburbs 48
Nikiszowiec & Giszowiec 49
Chorzw 52
Zabrze 55
Gliwice 58
Auschwitz 61
Leisure 64
Shopping 66
Directory 70
Hotels 71
Maps & Index
Katowice Map 74-75
Chorzw Map 76
Zabrze Map 77
Gliwice Map 78
Region Map 79
Street Index 80
Listings & Features Index 82
Browar Obywatelski
IN PRINT
ONLINE
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E S S E N T I A L
C I T Y G U I D E S
4 Katowice In Your Pocket katowice.inyourpocket.com
Foreword
Welcome to Katowice and the latest edition of Katowice In
Your Pocket - Your Guide to Greater Silesia! Faithful readers,
or those familiar with the over 100 other guides that In Your
Pocket publishes throughout Europe and beyond, will be
quick to notice that IYP has a bit of a new look this issue. Thats
right no need for an eye exam IYP is now cleaner, sleeker,
sexier, and just as clever as ever. Weve tweaked this edition to
be both easier to read and easier to use, and there was actu-
ally nothing easyabout it, so we hope our readers will be hap-
py with the results of our eort. Let us know what you think
about it on Facebook (/poznaninyourpocket.com) or old-
fashioned email: editor_poland@inyourpocket.com.
Of course in addition to the new design, weve got plenty
of new content as well including the next installment of
our series exploring dierent Silesian Suburbs. We also
have plenty of events to recommendations in the coming
months including the 3rd edition of the Katowice Street
Art Festival (p. 18) and a preview of the Silesias proud
post-industrial heritage festival Industriada (p. 18). So
grab a coee, have a read, tuck us In Your Pocket and get
out there on the pavement and see Silesia.
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FEATURE
The town of Tychy has a lot
more than just beer and its oh
so near. Just a few train stops
south of Katowice lies this rap-
idly developing suburb which
is also one of the best relaxa-
tion destinations in all of Silesia.
Come explore the history and
hoppy heritage of this hopping
hamlet and lager legend.
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didnt guess, this concrete and glass 5 star Luxury Hotel is
built in the shape of a giant pyramid. It has 63 uniquely fur-
nished rooms spread out over 7 diminishing oors. The list of
amenities are indeed t for a pharaoh as you can choose to
go for a swim in the indoor poor, be pampered at their spa
or enjoy one of several gourmet restaurants and drink bars.
Although the Egyptian theme is a bit corny, Pyramida rmly
believes that within the slanted walls of their hotel you will
reach new level of rest and relaxation due to chakra-aligning
positive sources channelling through the structure New
age nonsense or a serious Silesian Shangri-la? Come nd
out for yourself.Qul. Sikorskiego 100, tel. (+48) 32 325 78
78, www.hotelpiramida.pl. 63 rooms (62 singles, 62 dou-
bles, 1 suite). PTHARUFGKDCwW
hhhhh
NEW
HOTEL TYCHY PRIME
This is a traditional three star Hotel option which promises
comfort, functionality and convenience. The Hotel is cen-
trally located in the heart of Tychy equidistant from the
Tyskie and Obywatelski Breweries and the Poprocany Park
and Lake. The Hotel itself oers 100 spacious rooms with
varying levels of comfort. Rooms aside, the Hotel also oers
a substantial stack of amenities, services, dining and enter-
tainment options. They have large conference and training
rooms fully equipped with the latest technologies to ac-
commodate up to 150 guests. On the premises there are
5 dierent restaurants and 3 dierent bars/clubs. At Hotel
Tychy, they go out of their way to care about your stay
and make sure you never go away.Qul. Jana Pawa II 10,
tel. (+48) 32 782 75 00, www.hoteltychy.pl. 108 rooms
(101 singles, 101 doubles, 9 triples, 6 suites, 1 apart-
ment). PTHARUFGKW hhh
Tychy
Tychy
SOMETHINGS BREWING IN THIS SLEEPY SUBURB
Although the ubiquitous Tyskie beer has become one of
the most recognisable Polish exports (not to mention is
reigning king of domestic brews for almost 200 years) few
visitors to Poland realise its name is actually derived from
the very Silesian town it has been brewed in since the 17th
century: Tychy. This now thriving Silesian suburb is locat-
ed a mere 20km South of Katowice and is well connected
to the Katowice mothership. Although it isnt as close to
nor as expansive as some of Silesias other urban centers,
Tychy has a lot to oer curious daytrippers, potential inves-
tors and vacationers alike.
The rather curious Polish name of Tychy (German Tichau)
is derived from the Polish word cichy or quiet. Tychy was
indeed nothing more than a sleepy village from the time it
rst appeared on a medieval map in the mid 15th century
until well into the 17th century. It was then that the lords
of beer arrived and deemed this land worthy to be brewed
upon (they were literally lords as well). And thus the Bro-
war Ksice [Kshownzhen-tse] began its illustrious 400
year mission to provide beer to the huddled masses (ok
mostly for themselves at the beginning). As the Brewery
grew, so did Tychy and by the late 19th century with the
Industrial Revolution barreling full steam ahead, Tyskie and
Tychy both grew rapidly and the brewery grew to be the
biggest of its kind in Europe before the Second World War.
After being occupied by the German army during WWII, Tychy
and the Brewery picked up where it left o. Thanks to large
scale investment in the Tyskie Brewery by the Polish State
(The Party liked to drink as well) the Tyskie empire continued
to expand during Communism. This is also when Tychy start-
ed to rst become known as somewhat of a socialist workers
paradise. The massive workforce employed at the brewery
were treated relatively well in the 60s and 70s and sporting
complexes were built and a beach and docks constructed on
the bucolic Lake Paprocany (Jeziora Paprocaskie).
To nd out more about the citys beer entwined history
visit the Tyskie Brewery which also houses the local City
Museum.
Modern day Tychy is of course still tied to its long and sto-
ried brewing tradition as the Tyskie Brewery continues to
pump out millions of hectolitres of beer a year and now
exports all over the world. Tychy itself has also remained
a destination for both vacationers and beer lovers. Lake
Paprocany oers endless fun for amateur and professional
sailors, swimmers and sun bathers. Most recently the City
broke down ground on what will be the biggest year round
Water Park Complex in all of Poland. The city also has a
full cultural calendar so plan your trip accordingly.
HOTELS
NEW
HOTEL PIRAMIDA SPA & WELLNESS
This is one of those rare architectural curiosities that man-
ages to walk the line between tacky and tasteful. In case you
8 Katowice In Your Pocket katowice.inyourpocket.com March - June 2014 9 facebook.com/KatowiceInYourPocket
ing bottling plant. Now producing over 8,000,000 hectolitres
of booze annually (or to put it another way, if you put all that
beer into half litre bottles and laid them end to end youd
have a line of beer 80,000km long), the rise of the brewery is
recorded inside the superb Brewery Museum, complete with
interactive displays in English and housed inside an old red
brick Protestant, neo-Gothic church built in 1902. Tours must
be booked in advance, and yes, theres a tasting session at
the end. The tours are conducted in Polish, English, German,
Spanish (unavailable in July & August), French, Italian, Czech,
Russian and in the Silesian dialect (if you ever wanted to hear
what that might sound like).Qul. Mikoowska 5 (entrance
from ul. Katowicka 9), Tychy, tel. (+48) 32 327 84 30, www.
tyskiebrowarium.pl. Open 10:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun. Last
entrance 2,5 hours before closing. Visitors must be over
18 and should call in advance to book a place on the tour.
Admission 12/6z.
Tychy Tychy
RESTAURANTS & NIGHTLIFE
NEW
BROWAR OBYWATELSKI
This is one of the most dynamic and rapidly developing spaces
in all of Silesia and is a model for the post-industrial potential
of the region as a whole. The Brewery was opened in 1897 by
Polish-Jewish businessmen and until WWI it grew steadily in
stature and quickly became a competitor to Browar Tyskie, the
biggest brewery in Europe at the time. Tyskie did the only rea-
sonable thing and bought ought Obywatelskie in 1918. The
Brewery continued on pumping out millions of hectaliters of
Polands leading lager until the last production facility was shut
down in 1999. Since then, the current owners of the brewery
have been slowly renovating the buildings on the premises
and turning them into meeting place for business, recreation,
dining and the arts. The Con Amore restaurant is the beating
heart but the much larger Industrialna conference center,
concert hall and ball is becoming more and more popular for
regional events. The expansive courtyard is used during the
yearly Industriada Festival in June (see Events) and also hosts
the impressive 3D Mapping Festival in July. Most recently the
Brewery has begun renovating the largest buildings on site
and over the next several years it will be transformed into one
of the most modern IT o ce centres in all of Silesia and em-
ploy hundreds if not thousands of workers. Tours of the com-
plex are available by request and we suggest you come make
a day/or a night of it.Qul. Browarowa 7, tel. (+48) 32 323 00
20, www.browarobywatelski.pl. Admission free.
NEW
RESTAURACJA CON AMORE
You will be pleasantly surprised to nd this thoroughly
modern Mediterranean restaurant tucked into the corner
of the Obywatelskie Brewery. They serve up mouthwater-
ing meat mains, exotic sh dishes, practically pisano pizzas
& pastas plus a few Silesian staples for good measure. The
star of the menu is undoubtedly the hot-stone beef tender-
loin. The succulent cut of meat is elegantly presented on a
slab of lava stone and served rare with assorted sauces and
sides. The stone is extremely hot so the longer the meat
sits, the more it cooks. If youre like me and you prefer your
meat a bit bloody, youll have to act fast! Without thinking
twice, this is the best steak Ive had this side of New York
City and it alone is worth a trip to Tychy. However If steak
isnt your thing you should still drop in as every dish here is
made with love and equally delicious.Qul. Browarowa 7,
tel. (+48) 601 89 06 94, www.con-amore.eu. Open 12:00
- 22:00. (20-75z). PAUGBSW
SIGHTSEEING
TYSKIE BREWERY (TYSKIE BROWARY KSICE)
The Tyskie Browary Ksice has been brewing beer con-
tinuously for nearly 400 years. The originally German-owned
brewery now produces the famous Tyskie Gronie, which is in-
deed Polands best selling beer, and Tyskie Browary Ksices
(or just Tyskie) impressive ensemble of buildings also includes
a superb museum which is open to the public for tours. Taking
about 2.5 hours and led by a friendly and informative, English-
speaking guide, the Tyskie tour takes visitors through fascinat-
ing brewing process. Starting in the immaculately preserved
Old Brewery, a masterpiece of original decorative tiles and
old copper vats installed during WWI that have had modern
brewing equipment cleverly put inside them, the tour fol-
lows the brewing process from start to nish and also oers
a fascinating insight into the history of the factory. Highlights
include the so-called Bachelors Quarters and the saucy tales
that go with them, a glimpse of the brewerys own railway
station and, across the road, a look inside the fabulous smell-
GETTING TO TYCHY
Tychy is well connected to Katowice by Silesian rail.
Trains leave for Tychy every 30 minutes from Katowice
central train station and the journey takes around 25
minutes and only cost 4z. If you are looking to get
to either the Tyskie Brewery or Obywatelskie Brewery
make sure to get o at the TYCHY train station. If you
are looking to get to Lake Paprocanskie or any of the
hotels in the center (Hotel Tychy, Hotel Pyramida) make
sure you get o at TYCHY LODOWISKO station. There
are also several buses from Katowice Brynw Ptla bus
stop which run once an hour (more often in summer)
and cost 3.80z. If you are planning to come by car head
South from Katowice on the E75 and drive about 20
minutes until you reach Tychy.
Arrival & Transport Arrival & Transport
a bit hellish for those uninitiated to the complexity of the
citys oneway streets and the constant presence of road-
work, so we recommend you ditch your vehicle at the earli-
est opportunity. Car crime is not unheard of and youll be
safest leaving your ride in one of the guarded parking lots
listed below. Street parking is also available and generally
operates under the control of a local parking warden. He
will be wandering along his patch wearing a bib of some
colour and will charge you around 1.50z per hour to park.
GUARDED PARKING
QE-5, ul. Sikorskiego, tel. (+48) 660 78 85 51.
SUPERVISED PARKING
QD-3, ul. Wojewdzka 12.
BY PLANE
KATOWICE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
(MIEDZYNARODOWY PORT LOTNICZY KATOWICE)
Katowice International Airport is located 34km north
east of Katowice in Pyrzowice, with frequent shuttle bus
connections to and from Katowice. Two terminals, A and
B, are situated side by side. Both feature spotless toilets,
money exchange counters, ATMs, refreshment stops, phar-
macy and car rental counters. There is an airport informa-
tion point on the ground oor of terminal A. Phones can be
found in terminals A and B and you can buy cards for them
at the Relay news kiosk there.
BY BUS
BUS STATION
(DWORZEC AUTOBUSOWY KATOWICE)
To call Katowice Bus Station (C-2, ul. Skargi 1) a bus station is
a bit of a misnomer. In reality travellers will nd themselves
faced with a small tin shed; give a child ten minutes with
some Lego pieces and they are sure to construct something
more durable. Its in here youll nd a small waiting room,
a Eurolines counter and all departures (odjazdy) and arrival
times (przyjazdy) noted up on the board (all tickets have
to be purchased directly from bus drivers). Outside the few
departure lanes oer no shelter from the elements. At least
you nd yourself in the heart of town: all you have to do is
walk forward and take a swift left turn at ul. Mickiewicza
(C-2) and within three minutes youll nd yourself staring at
the principal main street, ul. Stawowa (C-2). Youll have to
go further onto the Rynek (C-3) to nd the nearest tourist
information point, however. While it doesnt oer tickets or
phone cards, it does oer maps and advice and there is also
internet there. For info on local city buses see Public Trans-
port.QC-2, ul. Skargi 1, tel. (+48) 703 40 33 15, www.
pks-katowice.pl. Ticket of ce open 07:00 - 17:00.
9
8
Avis is Polands biggest car
rental company and oers an
complete range of vehicles for
rent throughout Poland. Also at ul. Wolnoci 90, Pyr-
zowice (Airport), tel. (+48) 601 35 48 12. Open 08:00
- 00:30 (on weekends call to make a reservation at the
Airport location).QE-2, ul. Powstacw 12, tel. (+48)
32 257 20 71, www.avis.pl. Open 09:00 - 17:00, Sat
09:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
Europcar oers a full
range of vehicles
from small hatch-
backs, through Mercedes and up to mini-bus and
vans. Check the website for additional oers. Also at ul.
Wolnoci 90, Pyrzowice (Airport), tel. (+48) 32 284 50
86, Open 09:00 - 23:30.QB-2, ul. Chorzowska 50, tel.
(+48) 32 209 57 45, www.europcar.pl. Open 09:00
- 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun The of ces can be stafed
outside of these hours for extra payment.
A wide range of cars
from the baby Ford
Fiesta to the spacious
Audi A6. Satellite navigation systems available. Order
through the website for special rates.QC-3, Al. Kor-
fantego 9 (Katowice Hotel), tel. (+48) 32 350 14 50/
(+48) 601 54 53 67, www.joka.com.pl. Open 09:00 -
17:00, Sat 09:00 - 12:00. Sun open on request.
CAR RENTAL
BY CAR
Poland is one of Europes leading nations in road fatalities,
a statistic that will surprise few who have had the pleasure
of using the roads here. A lethal combination of poor road
surfaces, networks unsuited to the volume of dierent traf-
c and, most of all, frustrated and aggressive driver behav-
ior result in the common sight of mangled wrecks around
the country. Be cautious and keep a safe distance between
you and the vehicle in front. The speed limit in Poland is
generally 50km/hr in cities (60km/hr between 23:00 and
05:00), 90km/hr outside urban areas, 120km/hr on dual
carriageways and 140km/hr on motorways. All cars must
have their headlights switched on at all times and carry
a red warning triangle, rst aid kit, replacement bulbs, a
national identity sticker and proper registration and insur-
ance documents. Poland also has strict drunk-driving laws:
0.2 is the maximum blood/alcohol limit, so forget
about having even a single beer. You can use your home
driving license or an international driving permit for six
months from the entry date on your passport. Carry your
license and passport at all times when driving.
Katowice is a straight 75km drive west from Krakw along
the A4 highway, one of the better stretches of road in the
country, but its smooth asphalt doesnt come free. Toll
gates can be found at either end at which you will need to
pay 18z if driving a car. This brings you in on Al. Grnolska
(F-5). The other major route in will bring you along route 79
onto ul. Chorzowska (B-1). Driving around Katowice can be
Arrival & Transport
surrounding towns. The tickets for the network are valid for
both buses and trams. A three-zone system is used, of which
Katowice is in zone-one and Chorzw in zone-two. Accord-
ingly, a one-zone ticket is required for the former and a
two-zone ticket for travelling between the two. A one-zone
ticket costs 3.20z and now also serves as a 15min ticket
allowing you to swap forms of transport (bus to tram and
onto a dierent tram for instance) within that time period. A
two-zone ticket costs 3.80z and also serves as a 30min tick-
et. There is also a three-zone/one-hour ticket available for
4.80z. A 18z 24hr ticket allows travel within all three zones,
though its hard to imagine getting your moneys worth out
of this without spending the whole day on the tram. Okay,
we admit, theres not much reason to get o.
Almost all travel within Katowice and Chorzw can be ac-
complished using trams, most of which run through the
stop at the Rynek. Tram numbers 6, 11 and 19 run between
the Rynek and Chorzw via the Park of Culture & Recreation
and is the most useful tram for getting there and back. Tick-
ets can be bought from any kiosk, or from bright yellow
machines found at many tram stops around the city. Make
sure you validate your ticket when entering the tram
or bus. The penalty for riding without a validated ticket is
90z (plus the price of the ticket) on the spot.
KATOWICE PUBLIC TRANSPORT COMPANY (KZK
GOP)Qtel. (+48) 32 743 84 46, www.kzkgop.com.pl.
TAXIS
AIRPORT TAXI SERVICE
Qtel. (+48) 784 84 68 66, www.taxipyrzowice.pl.
CITY TAXI
Qtel. (+48) 32 203 77 77, www.citytaxi.katowice.pl.
NEW
ECHO TAXI
Qtel. (+48) 32 201 42 00, www.echotaxi.com.pl.
TELE-TAXI
Qtel. (+48) 32 196 21, www.teletaxikatowice.pl.
The Airport has recently updated its Business Traveller ser-
vices for more comfortable arrivals and departures. Services
included an expanded Business Lounge, Fast Track check in
and a new Meet & Assist program that provides all encom-
passing concierge and valet services. For more info check
out their new website here.
Taxis wait directly outside and can deliver you to Katowice
for 125-160z. Airport Bus Service/Matuszek shuttle ser-
vice makes the same journey for only 25z (to Krakw for
50z), and departure times from in front of both terminals
are coordinated with ight arrivals. Dropping o at Pl. An-
drzeja (D-2), you can pay cash to the driver on the spot or
book ahead on their website: www.matuszek.com.pl.
Airport Busses arrive (and depart) in the new local bus
terminal located under the central train station in the
city center and you can nd their schedule here: www.
pkm.katowice.pl/pyrzowice.php. Full schedules for ights,
as well as other essential travel information can be found
at the user-friendly www.katowice-airport.com.Qul.
Wolnoci 90, Pyrzowice, tel. (+48) 32 392 72 02, www.
katowice-airport.com.
BY TRAIN
KATOWICE TRAIN STATION
(KATOWICE DWORZEC KOLEJOWY)
With a total investment estimated at 240 million Euros, the
new station will welcome 12 million passengers per year
with 520 trains running through it every 24 hours. The sta-
tion also incorporates an enormous and modern shopping
(Galeria Katowicka) and an underground parking lot, with
additional shopping and entertainment venues on Szew-
czyk Square. The regional bus station under the station is
already operational so if you are travelling somewhere in
Silesia beyond Katowice, or on your way to the airport,
head down one of the escalators in the main train terminal
to grab a bus.
Besides the bevvy of modern conveniences and prestige
the new station brings, perhaps the greatest advantage is its
location and full integration as a local, national and interna-
tional transport hub. Direct trains to Krakw run 1-2 times per
hour from platforms 1 and 2, taking anywhere from an hour
and fteen to two and a half hours depending on which train
you take. It is also possible to travel between the cities of the
Silesian Metropolis by local train from 05:01 until 23:51; the
trip to Zabrze is about 29 minutes, to Gliwice 41 minutes. Sta-
tion departure boards (odjazdy) are indicated by their yellow
timetables while arrivals (przyjazdy) are white. For connec-
tions to other destinations in Poland or abroad, check the
website or call the infoline.QD-2, Pl. Szewczyka, tel. (+48)
22 39 19 757 (from foreign mobile phones), www.pkp.pl.
Open 24hrs. Note that due to system maintenance seat
reservations cannot be made from 00:00 to 01:00.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
An extremely well developed system of trams and buses
operated by the wonderfully named KZK GOP provide
a simple and fast way of getting around Katowice and its
ENGLISH SERVICE TAXI
This is a totally new standard
of taxi service in Katowice. All
of their experienced drivers are uent in English and
all of the taxis in their eet are Audis and Mercedes.
Of course each car also comes equipped with air-
conditioning, wi- and on board credit card terminals
(Visa, Mastercard, American Express). Whether you are
going to and from the airport or travelling to a meet-
ing across town, your comfort and ease of travel is al-
ways paramount. So forget about being overcharged
by a shady driver barking demands in languages you
cant understand. This is a taxi you can truly trust. Qtel.
(+48) 607 61 51 21, www.e-taxi.katowice.pl.
-taxi
your nglish srvic taxi
City Basics City Basics
CUSTOMS
If you are travelling within the EU those over 18 can now
take 10 litres of spirits, 90 litres of wine and 110 litres of
beer. Most countries will not allow more than 800 ciga-
rettes from Poland. If purchasing art or books, you need
to consider their age and value. In order to leave the
country, art must be less than 50 years old and under a
certain value (varies depending by type; photos under
6,000z, other art under 16,000z, for example); if one of
these conditions is met, the gallery curator can then pro-
vide you with a zawiadczenie (permission document)
describing the artworks price and when and where it
was created. If the work exceeds the permitted age and
value, you must get permission from the Wojewdzki
Konserwator Zabytkw (Regional Curators O ce) to
take it out of Poland; bear in mind that this process will
likely take 2-3 months. Books must be less than 100 years
old and under 6,000z in value in order to leave the coun-
try; if neither applies, permission must be obtained from
the National Library. Obviously, problems arise when
purchases are made at bazaars or ea markets where
vendors cannot provide the necessary documents; if
there is any doubt about the value or age of your pur-
chase, we suggest you visit an Antykwariat (antiques
dealer - see shopping) for advice.
HEALTH & EMERGENCY
In case of an emergency those dialling from a land line or
public payphone should use the following numbers: 999
for an ambulance, 998 for the re brigade and 997 for the
police. Mobile phone users should call 112 to be forwarded
to the relevant department. English speaking assistance is
not necessarily guaranteed, and rests on the linguistic ca-
pabilities of the call operator.
English, German and Russian speakers have the option of
using separate lines specically designed for foreigners in
distress: dial +48 608 599 999 or + 48 22 278 77 77. Both
numbers can be reached from a mobile phone or a land
line and are hotlines in case you run into any troubles dur-
ing your stay. The lines are active year round with later
hours during the high-tourist season.
Further help can be provided by embassies and consulates,
of which a comprehensive list can be found in the direc-
tory section. If youve run out of money, however, then silly
you. No embassy will bail you out, and and your hopes will
rest on a Western Union money transfer. Most banks and
many exchange bureaus (kantors) can now carry out such
transactions, just keep an eye out for anywhere displaying
the Western Union logo.
For a list of clinics and hospitals check the directory section
at the back of this guide.
LAW & ORDER
In general Katowice is safer than most Western cities, and
visitors are unlikely to face any problems. Petty crime does
exist however, and travellers should be aware of where
their wallet is, guarding against pickpockets and opportun-
ists. Those travelling by car are advised to use a guarded
car park. Robberies on overnight trains are not unheard of,
especially on the routes connecting Warsaw and Krakw
with Prague and Berlin; book a couchette or a sleeper cabin
if possible. Also avoid being ripped o by opportunistic taxi
jockeys by using clearly marked cabs, something to bear in
mind around the train station and airport.
Staying on the right side of the law is signicantly easier for
tourists who accept that Polish beer and vodka are rocket
fuel and drink accordingly. If youre determined to make an
idiot of yourself then make sure its not in front of the law. In
recent years visitors - ranging from geniuses in Chewbacca
costumes to complete fools whove thought its perfectly
acceptable to drop their trousers and urinate in a city centre
fountain - have tested the patience of the local law enforce-
ment, which is decidedly low so dont push your luck.Those
who do may well be treated to a trip to Katowices premier
drunk tank (ul. Macieja 10), a chastening experience which
will set you back 250z for a 6-24 hour stay. In return for your
cash expect a strip search, a set of blue pyjamas and the
company of a dozen mumbling vagrants. Not to mention a
hefty ne (credit cards not accepted, of course).
The other well-known ways tourists can cross cops is by jay-
walking. If you are from a country which has no (or doesnt
respect) jaywalking laws, youll be surprised to see a crowd
of people standing obediently at a crossing waiting for the
lights to change. This peculiarity has extra eect if you are
aware of how little Poles respect the rules of the road in
a vehicle, where it often feels like a survival of the ttest.
The reason for the obedience of this particular rule is the
fact that the local city police (Stra Miejska) will quite freely
give you a 100z ne for crossing a road at a place where no
crossing is marked or a 100z ne when the walk light is
red. And dont think you are exempt by being a foreign visi-
tor. You are subject to the law too and your non-residency
means you will need to pay the ne on the spot.
FACTS & FIGURES
Territory
Poland covers an area of 312,685 square kilometers and
is the ninth biggest country in Europe. It borders the
Baltic Sea (528km) and seven countries, namely Belarus
(416km), Czech Republic (790km), Germany (467km),
the mysterious Russian exclave of Kaliningrad (210km),
Lithuania (103km), Slovakia (539km) and Ukraine
(529km).
Longest River
The river Vistula (Wisa) is Polands longest river at
1,047km and ows through Krakow and Warsaw before
reaching the Bay of Gdask (Zatoka Gdaska).
Highest Point
The highest peak is Rysy (2,499m) in the Tatra Moun-
tains along the southern border with Slovakia. In com-
parison, Katowices landscape rolls a bit more gently
with the citys elevation between 266-352m above sea
level.
Population (2012)
Poland: 38,533,299
Warsaw: 1,715,517
Krakw: 758,334
d: 718,960
Wrocaw: 631,188
Pozna: 550,742
Gdask: 460,427
Katowice: 307,233
Local Time
Poland is in the Central European (CET) time zone
(GMT+1hr). When its 12:00 in Katowice its 05:00 in
Chicago, 06:00 in New York City, 11:00 in London, 12:00
in Paris and Berlin and 19:00 in Tokyo. Polish summer
time (GMT+2hrs) starts and ends on the last Sundays of
March and October.
LANGUAGE SMARTS
Many Poles, particularly young people, have a healthy
command of the English language. Many are also adept
at other European languages with German being the most
commonly spoken. Older Poles will ercely contest that
they have forgotten the Russian taught to them at school
but most will still have a reasonable understanding.
Mastering the Polish tongue can be a terrifying ordeal,
often resulting in personal degradation as shop assistants
laugh at your ustered attempts. That aside, learning a few
key phrases will smooth your time in Katowice and may
even win you friends and admirers.
On the downside, Polish is one of the most di cult lan-
guages for native English speakers to learn. On the upside,
unlike in English, words in Polish are spelled the way they
are pronounced. This is a great help once you know how to
pronounce each letter/combination of letters. While many
letters represent the same sounds as they do in English,
below we have listed those particular to Polish, followed
by some basic words and phrases. Powodzenia (Good luck)!
Basic Pronunciation
sounds like on in the French bon
sounds like en as in the French bien
is an open o sound like oo in boot
c like the ts in bits
j like the y in yeah
w is pronounced like the English v
like the w in win
like the ny in canyon
cz and like the ch in beach
dz like the ds in beds
rz and like the su in treasure
sz and like the sh in ship
drz like the g in George
r is always rolled
Polish Words & Phrases
Yes Tak (Tahk)
No Nie (Nyeh)
Hi/Bye (informal) Cze (Cheshch)
Hello/Good day (formal) Dzie dobry (Jen doh-bri)
Good evening (formal) Dobry wieczr (Doh-bri vyeh-choor)
Good-bye Do widzenia (Doh veet-zen-ya)
Good Night Dobranoc (Doh-brah-noats)
Please Prosz (Prosheh)
Thank you Dzikuj (Jen-koo-yeh)
Excuse me/Sorry Przepraszam (Psheh-prasham)
My name is... Mam na imi... (Mam nah ee-myeh)
ImfromEngland. Jestemz Anglii (Yehstemzanglee)
Do you speak English? Czy mwisz po angielsku? (Che moo-veesh po an-gyel-skoo?)
I dont speak Polish. Nie mwi po polsku. (Nyeh moo-vyeh po pol-skoo.)
I dont understand. Nie rozumiem. (Nyeh row-zoo-me-ehm.)
Two beers, please. Dwa piwa prosz. (Dvah peevah prosheh.)
Cheers! Na zdrowie! (Nah zdrovyeh!)
Where are the toilets? Gdzie s toalety? (Gdjeh sawn toe-letih)
You are beautiful. Jeste pikna. (Yes-tesh pee-enk-nah.)
I love you. Kochamci. (Ko-hahmchuh.)
Please take me home. Prosz zabierz mnie
do domu.
(Prosheh za-byesh mnyeh doh
doh-moo.)
Call me! Zadzwo do mnie! (Zads-dvoan doh mnyeh!)
Airport Lotnisko (Lot-nees-ko)
Train station Dworzec PKP (Dvoar-jets Peh Kah Peh)
Bus station Dworzec PKS (Dvoar-jets Peh Kah Ess)
One ticket to Jeden bilet do (Yeh-den bee-let doh)
MARKET VALUES
Prices in Poland are still fairly competitive despite
increases over the last couple of years particularly in
the prices of cigarettes. Here are some typical everyday
products and prices.
Market values as of February 21, 2014
based on 1 = 4.13z
McDonald's Big Mac 8.80 z 2.13
Snickers 1.59 z 0.38
0.5ltr vodka (shop) 29.90 z 7.24
0.5ltr beer (shop) 2.99 z 0.72
0.5ltr beer (bar) 7.00 z 1.69
Loaf of white bread 3.79 z 0.92
20 Marlboros 14.70 z 3.56
1 ltr of unleaded petrol (98) 5.43 z 1.31
Local transport ticket (1 journey) 3.20 z 0.77
NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
April 20, 2014 Easter Sunday
April 21, 2014 Easter Monday
May 1 Labour Day
May 3 Constitution Day (May 3, 1791)
June 8, 2014 Pentecost Sunday
June 19, 2014 Corpus Christi
Full contents online:
katowice.inyourpocket.com
Culture & Events Culture & Events
PHILHARMONIC STAGES
SILESIAN PHILHARMONIC
(FILHARMONIA LSKA)
QC-2, ul. Sokolska 2, tel. (+48) 32 351 17 13, www.
flharmonia-slaska.eu. Box of ce open 10:00 - 17:00.
Tickets 5-110z.
THEATRE STAGES
ATENEUM PUPPET THEATRE
(LSKI TEATR LALKI I AKTORA ATENEUM)
QD-3, ul. w. Jana 10, tel. (+48) 32 253 77 79, www.
ateneum.art.pl. Box of ce open 09:00 - 13:00, 14:00 -
16:00, Sat 13:00 - 17:00, Sun 1 hour before the perfor-
mance. Closed Mon. Tickets 15-20z.
ROZRYWKI THEATRE (TEATR ROZRYWKI)
QI-3, Chorzw, ul. M. Konopnickiej 1, tel. (+48) 32 346
19 30, www.teatr-rozrywki.pl. Box of ce open 09:00 -
20:00, Mon 09:00 - 17:00; Sat, Sun 2 hours before the
performance. Note that opening hours may be subject
to change from May. Tickets 15-80z.
SILESIAN THEATRE (TEATR LSKI)
QC-3, ul. Rynek 10, tel. (+48) 32 259 93 60, www.
teatrslaski.art.pl. Box of ce open 10:00 - 13:00, 13:30 -
19:00, Mon 10:00 - 18:00, Sun 2 hours before the perfor-
mance. Ticket prices depending on repertoire.
CONCERTS
15.03 SATURDAY
SMINGUS
And here we thought this would have something to
do with Polish Easter Monday, aka migus-Dyngus...
nope. Smingus are a thoroughly Anglo-Saxon (UK/
US) rnb rock band, who debuted with Landslide in
2011. This year will see the release of their second
studio album along with some heavy touring.QC-3,
Klawiatura Klub Kulturalny, Al. Korfantego 6, www.
smingus.co.uk. Concert starts at 19:00. Ticket prices
undecided at the moment. Tickets available before
the concert.
05.04 SATURDAY
ZYGMUNT KONIECZNY
- VIOLA DA GAMBA QUARTET
This is the world premiere of Polish composer Zyg-
munt Koniecznys newest work - a reflection of his
recent interest in the viola da gamba, a string instru-
ment most popular during the Renaissance and Ba-
roque Era that is slowly making a comeback in Europe.
The string quartet will consist of a soprano, tenor, and
two bass viols - plus vocalist Joanna Lewandowska.
QE-3, Katowice Cultural Centre, Pl. Sejmu lskiego
2, tel. (+48) 32 609 03 31, www.ck.art.pl. Event
starts at 18:30. Tickets 25-35z. Available at www.
ticketportal.pl.
SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
POLISH NATIONAL
RADIO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Considered the leading Polish orchestra, the Polish
National Radio Symphony Orchestra was founded in
1935 in Warsaw. In September 2000 Joanna Wnuk-
Nazarowa became the general and programme direc-
tor. Recently Alexander Liebrich became the Orches-
tras artistic director and chief conductor. For years the
Orchestra acted as a cultural ambassador representing
Poland on the international art scene and has cooper-
ated with some of the greatest composers of the second
half of the 20th century presenting rst performances
of their works. They have also recorded more than 190
compact discs for many Polish and foreign labels (Dec-
ca, EMI, Phillips, etc.). A must for all classical bus.
The latest programme goes like this:
04.04 Friday
Grzegorz Fitelberg Concert Hall
(Pl. Sejmu lskiego 2, E-2)
Concert starts at 19:30.
Britten - An American Overture
Khachaturian - Violin Concerto
Vaughan Williams - Symphony no. 5
09.05 Friday
Panufnik - Lullaby
Prokoev - Symphony concertante for cello and orchestra
Dvok - Symphony no. 6
01.06 Sunday
The Childrens Day
L. Mozart - The Toy Symphony
Moss - Blue Monkey
13.06 Friday
The 150th Anniversary of Richard Strauss Birthday
R. Strauss - Electra
QE-3, Pl. Sejmu lskiego 2, tel. (+48) 32 251 89 03,
www.nospr.org.pl. Box of ce open 2 days before
each scheduled event, 15:00 - 17:00. Tickets 15-40z.
ART GALLERIES
BWA CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY
(GALERIA SZTUKI WSPCZESNEJ BWA)
QC-3, Al. Korfantego 6, tel. (+48) 32 259 90 40, www.
bwa.katowice.pl. Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. Ad-
mission 5.50/3z.
RONDO SZTUKI (GALERIA ASP RONDO SZTUKI)
QB-3, Rondo gen. Zitka 1, tel. (+48) 32 720 11 32,
www.rondosztuki.pl. Open 11:00 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 10:00
- 18:00. Closed Mon. Admission free.
CINEMAS
AMOK
QM-2, Gliwice, ul. Dolnych Waw 3, tel. (+48) 32 231 56
99, www.amok.gliwice.pl. Box of ce open 08:00 - 20:00,
Mon 12:30 - 20:00; Sat, Sun 15:00 - 20:00. Tickets 8-20z.
The Metropolitan Opera: Live in HD tickets 45/50z.
CINEMA CITY SILESIA
QA-1, Silesia City Center, ul. Chorzowska 107, tel. (+48)
32 605 05 55, www.cinema-city.pl. Box of ce open from
09:30 to 15 minutes after the last show. Tickets 16-30z.
HELIOS
QC-3, ul. Uniwersytecka 13, tel. (+48) 32 603 01 01,
www.helios.pl. Box of ce open depending on reper-
toire. Tickets 16-28z.
IMAX
QC-1, ul. Gliwicka 44, tel. (+48) 32 359 59 59, www.
cinema-city.pl. Box of ce open depending on reper-
toire. Tickets 21-30z.
RIALTO
QD-3, ul. w. Jana 24, tel. (+48) 32 251 04 31, www.
rialto.katowice.pl. Box of ce open 13:00 - 20:00; Sat, Sun
open 1 hour before the frst showtime. Tickets 10-15z.
CULTURAL CENTRES
KATOWICE CULTURAL CENTRE (CENTRUM
KULTURY KATOWICE IM. KRYSTYNY BOCHENEK)
QE-3, Pl. Sejmu lskiego 2, tel. (+48) 32 609 03 31,
www.ck.art.pl. Galleries open 11:30 - 19:00. Closed Mon.
Closed March 18-23. Admission free.
SPODEKQB-3, Al. Korfantego 35, tel. (+48) 32 258 32
61, www.spodek.eu.
OPERA STAGES
SILESIAN OPERA (OPERA LSKA)
QBytom, ul. Moniuszki 21-23, tel. (+48) 32 396 68 53,
www.opera-slaska.pl. Box of ce open 10:00 - 18:00,
Mon 08:00 - 16:00, Sun 2 hours before the performance.
Tickets 10-60z.
International
Competition for Jazz
Composition 2014
1st
Sign up today & submit
your jazz composition
until August 15, 2014!
The Final Gala / Oct. 25, 2014
Admission free
Needmoreinformation?
Pleasecontact with
IzabelaOlszowska:
+48326090336
izabela.olszowska@ck.art.pl.
www.sjf.ck.art.pl
2500
to win
Up to
THE ORGANIZERS
The Krystyna Bochenek Katowice Cultural Centre
The Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music
The Katowice City Hall
Culture & Events Culture & Events
EXHIBITIONS
29.03 SATURDAY - 30.04 WEDNESDAY
DJ VU?
A photo exhibition nostalgically celebrating all things
past, especially those near-forgotten tidbits of commu-
nist existence that bring tears to the eyes of todays forty-
somethings (and appear totally hipster to the youth). Rec-
ommended for both photography enthusiasts and those
wanting to nd out a little more about Polands not-so-dis-
tant past. Plus its free!QE-3, Katowice Cultural Centre, Pl.
Sejmu lskiego 2, tel. (+48) 32 609 03 31, www.ck.art.
pl. Open 11:30 - 19:00. Closed Mon. Admission free.
02.04 WEDNESDAY - 30.04 WEDNESDAY
KATOWICE THROUGH THE LENS 2013, 4TH
EDITION: THE FOUR SEASONS
This is a photo exhibition showcasing how visitors and citi-
zens view Upper Silesias main city and the changes its go-
ing through. The focus is on the four seasons, which is great
if youre on a one-time visit and curious as to how Katowice
looks during other times of the year. The winning shots will
be printed in calendar form!QE-3, Katowice Cultural Cen-
tre, Pl. Sejmu lskiego 2, tel. (+48) 32 609 03 31, www.
ck.art.pl. Open 11:30 - 19:00. Closed Mon. Admission free.
SPORT
07.04 MONDAY - 13.04 SUNDAY
BNP PARIBAS KATOWICE OPEN
BNP Paribas Katowice Open is a womens tennis tourna-
ment hosted for the rst time last year - it drew over 18
thousand spectators to Spodek then, and the organis-
ers are looking to draw even more this year. The tourna-
ments star will without a doubt be Agnieszka Radwaska,
ranked 3rd in the world and much beloved in her
homeland.QB-3, Spodek, Al. Korfantego 35, www.
bnpparibaskatowiceopen.com. Full schedule available
at www.bnpparibaskatowiceopen.com. Tickets 68-
360z. VIP tickets 250-390z. Available at www.kupbilet.
pl and Empik (Silesia City Center, ul. Chorzowska 107,
B-2; open 10:00 - 21:00, Fri 10:00 - 22:00).
THEATRE
12.04 SATURDAY
GAELFORCE DANCE
Gaelforce are the Ferrari of Irish dance- yup, thats right: fast,
furious, amingly red. Unlike the other river-dancing ensem-
bles, which are - presumably - Toyotas, Hummers, and the
occasional Lada or Polish Fiat, this troupe does everything
100% live. Also of note, their original choreographer and
star was the famed James Devine, a Guinness World Record
holder for tap-dancing speed, at a hummingbird-like 38 taps
per second.QP-3, Zabrze, Dom Muzyki i Taca, ul. Gen.
de Gaullea 17, www.makroconcert.com/pl. Performance
starts at 19:00. Tickets 120-170z. Available at www.even-
tim.pl and Empik (Silesia City Center, ul. Chorzowska 107,
B-2; open 10:00 - 21:00, Fri 10:00 - 22:00).
25.04 FRIDAY
LETZ ZEP - ZEPPELINS RESURRECTION
Tribute bands can be obnoxious and disappointing, but -
from what we hear - Letz Zep is neither. Theyre supposedly
the o cial number one tribute to Led Zeppelin (having
been awarded the Most Popular and Most Highly Rated
titles by the Authoritative Ticketmaster Organisation). If
that wasnt enough, Zep frontman Robert Plant com-
mented that he saw himself in the performers, and what
bigger compliment could a tribute band ask for?QP-3,
Zabrze, Dom Muzyki i Taca, ul. Gen. de Gaullea 17,
www.showtime.com.pl. Concert starts at 19:00. Tickets
130z. Available at www.eventim.pl and Empik (Silesia
City Center, ul. Chorzowska 107, B-2; open 10:00 - 21:00,
Fri 10:00 - 22:00).
05.05 MONDAY
STEVE HACKETT
A past member of Genesis, guitarist and singer-songwriter
Steve Hackett has been pursuing a successful solo career
since 1977, churning out over twenty studio albums in
that time. His newest, the 2012 album Genesis Revisited II,
is a sequel to Genesis Revisited from 1996 and features a
number of guest vocalists.QP-3, Zabrze, Dom Muzyki i
Taca, ul. Gen. de Gaullea 17, www.hackettsongs.com.
Concert starts at 20:00. Tickets 139-259z. Available at
www.ticketpro.pl and Empik (Silesia City Center, ul.
Chorzowska 107, B-2; open 10:00 - 21:00, Fri 10:00 -
22:00).
17.05 SATURDAY
MANOWAR
Manowar, totally loud and bombastic, have been doing
their heavy metal thing for almost 35 years now. Were
not kidding about the loud and bombastic part. The band
was featured in the 1984 Guinness Book of World Records
for delivering the loudest performance ever - and theyve
broken their own record twice since then. Get ready for
perforated eardrums. Death to false metal!QB-3, Spodek,
Al. Korfantego 35, www.imprezyprestige.com. Concert
starts at 20:00. Tickets 239-259z. VIP ticket 699z. Avail-
able at www.eventim.pl and Empik (Silesia City Center,
ul. Chorzowska 107, B-2; open 10:00 - 21:00, Fri 10:00 -
22:00).
22.06 SUNDAY
30 SECONDS TO MARS
Fun fact: to travel from Earth to Mars in 30 seconds, one
would need to be moving at a minimum of six times the
speed of light. Another fun fact: the American rock band
did a good job raising money for Haiti in the wake of the
2010 earthquake, and theyre good lads. Their newest al-
bum Love, Lust, Faith and Dreams came out last year and
peaked at no. 1 on UK rock album charts (and went golden
right here in Poland).QRybnik, City Stadium, ul. Gliwicka
72, www.imprezyprestige.com. Concert starts at 21:00.
Tickets 155-249z. VIP ticket 699z. Available at www.
ticketpro.pl and Empik (Silesia City Center, ul. Chorzows-
ka 107, B-2; open 10:00 - 21:00, Fri 10:00 - 22:00).
SILESIAN FESTIVALS
If youd told a Varsovian or Cracovian ten years ago that
within a decade Katowice would become THE centre for
innovative and trend-setting cultural festivals in Poland,
they would probably have scoed and rolled their eyes.
Well, in 2014 the jokes on them. While no one was look-
ing, Katowice slowly crept up on Polands many other sup-
posed cultural capitals to emerge as THE premier music,
art and lm festival destination in Poland, bar none.
For almost two decades in the 80s and 90s the only
cultural festivals of any note happening in Katowice
were the Rawa Blues Festival and Ars Cameralis. Grant-
ed, both of these are fascinating festivals in their own
right, however it was only in the last decade that things
really started to get rolling.
The tipping point came in 2010 when the O Festival
o cially moved its location from Mysowice to Kato-
wice and with it came tens of thousands of festival go-
ers from all over the world. In the same year the Tauron
Nowa Muzyka won the prestigious award for Best Small
European Festival. Suddenly, Katowice was cool! Every
year since, festival line-ups have gotten bigger and bet-
ter and the city, along with its many cultural organisa-
tions and residents, has wholeheartedly embraced the
inux of culture and visitors. Now instead of rolling their
eyes at the mention of Katowice people roll out!
16.05 FRIDAY - 25.05 SUNDAY
KATOWICE STREET ART FESTIVAL
Street art at its nest - installations, murals, music and the-
atre performances, workshops by prominent Polish and
foreign street artists willing to bring color and fun to the
admittedly grayish Katowice. This is the festivals fourth
edition, and its focus will be on artists residences, with
the goal of rediscovering forgotten or underrated parts of
the city.QEvent takes place in various locations, www.
katowicestreetartfestival.pl. Full schedule available at
www.katowicestreetartfestival.pl. Admission free.
14.06 SATURDAY
INDUSTRIADA 2014
Silesia is known for its industrial tourism - and it even
has its own festival now. Spend a day riding the narrow-
gauge railway, visiting mine shafts, learning about iron
casting and match production, touring the Szombierki
Power Plant, and generally exploring all the unique
things the region has to oer.QEvent takes place in
various locations, www.industriada.pl.
Courtesy of Katowice - Miasto Ogrodw Cultural Institution
Restaurants
Walkman with some Jaromir Nohavica, curl up in a corner
with a dark Kozel or two and prepare to be telePortered.
QC-1, ul. Gliwicka 6/1 (entrance from ul. Sobieskiego),
tel. (+48) 32 701 46 36, www.hospoda.pl. Open 15:00 -
24:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 02:00. (13-15z). AXW
FRENCH
CEST SI BON
Certainly one of Katowices ner restaurants, the service
may not be as cheerful as the interior full of lavender
plants, lilac tableclothes, dried owers, candleholders and
sun icons, but the food is top-notch, as testied by the long
list of companies Cest Si Bon does regular catering for. The
menu is in Polish, French and English, and still full of rich,
delicious dishes from the French onion soup with croutons
and Gruyere cheese, to veal escalopes served with foie gras.
A great way to forget youre in Katowice.QE-2, ul. Ligonia
4, tel. (+48) 32 781 68 48, www.cestsibon.pl. Open 12:00
- 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 20:00. (38-66z). PTAGSW
FUSION
RESTAURACJA SUNLIGHT
Located on the ground oor of the Angelo Hotel, its worth
getting a room upstairs just for convenient access to this
exquisite restaurant. A perfect cure for seasonal Silesian
depression, Sunlight justies its slightly hokey name with
a modern, spirit-lifting interior of warm colours and wall
to oor length windows. No eort is spared with the food,
including regularly reinvented seasonal menus which we
heartily recommend taking advantage of, in addition to the
regular card full of creative, locally-inspired fusion dishes.
Each plate is presented as a work of art and the menu even
includes accompanying wine recommendations. Two or
three course business lunches are served in the adjacent
Jazz Bar (Mon-Fri 12:00-16:00) for 38 or 45z respectively,
and the entire experience is one worth basking in.QB-2,
ul. Sokolska 24 (angelo Hotel Katowice), tel. (+48) 32
783 81 56, www.angelo-katowice.pl. Open 06:30 - 10:30,
17:00 - 22:00. (27-79z). PTAUGW
NEW
WODNA WIEA (STEAM PUNK)
Head south of Katowice about 40 minutes to the the lovely
suburb of Pszczyna and meet one of the most ambitious
restaurants in all the land. Steam Punk is a theme restaurant
inspired by Jules Verne Victorian era sci- fantasy, naturally. The
restaurant sits atop a seven-storey water tower which gives
you the impression you are both oating and swimming (70
leagues and 180 days!). The design is meticulous and magical
with vintage dental chairs, moving gears and light pumped
in through tubes and balls of electricity. The atmosphere is
perfect for the real sci- centerpiece, the food! Feast your
eyes, nose and mouth on the phantasmagorical concoctions
creeping out of the kitchen/lab. Delicious minimalist cuisine
painstakingly prepared using all sorts of funky techniques from
sous vide, molecular foam and homegrown fungi. The food is
more hearty then haute however and even though the dishes
ul. Uniwersytecka 13, Katowice
mobile +48 512 020 808
tel +48 (32) 603 01 91
katowice@viatoscana.pl
www.viatoscana.pl
Let us take you to a Mediterranean
climate where you can feel the
rhythm of a sunny day.
Our restaurant can be found in the
ALTUS BUILDING (QUBUS),
FIRST FLOOR.
Mediterranean
Cuisine
THE BEST MEDITERRANEAN
RESTAURANT IN THE REGION
Restaurants
Silesia is known to many as a sprawling post-industrial metrop-
olis that is more akin to a culinary wasteland than a growing
centre of world-class cuisine for cunning connoisseurs. The last
few years have brought drastic changes to the once dreary din-
ing scene and the service industry can now join the esteemed
ranks of the coal and steel industries in the area. Many culinary
trends have taken hold and ethnic cuisine of all shapes and
sizes are vying for your attention and appealing to your appe-
tite. Dont overlook the local fare either as there is a veritable
renaissance happening in Silesian cuisine as well as a plethora
of Polish places. The prices we list here in each handpicked rec-
ommendation reect the cheapest and most precious main
dishes on the menu. Tipping at least 10% for table service is
customary, though it may not always be deserved. Smacznego!
AMERICAN
CITY ROCK
If you crossed Hard Rock Cafe with a classic American diner in
a Polish laboratory, you might end with something like City
Rock, where motorbikes, guitars, 50s pinups, Elvis and even a
full-sized Formula 1 car are attached to the walls. The pre-pu-
bescent boy in you will love it and thats before the team of
local beauties appears to present you with the easy English
menu of Tex-Mex, fried food, ice cream sundaes, milkshakes,
pasta, pizza and obligatory Polish dishes - choose from lame-
named items like Easy Chick and Grinch Spaghetti, or why
not try to push your luck and ask the Miss Polska serving you
for a Porky Party? Incredibly popular and kind of great for all
the wrong reasons.QB-2, ul. Chorzowska 9b, tel. (+48) 32
201 05 05, www.cityrock.pl. Open 13:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat
13:00 - 24:00. (17-59z). PTAUGBSW
CAUCASIAN
FANTASMAGORIA
A bit geographically perplexing for those of us who havent
gotten the history lesson, Fantasmagoria specialises in
zakaukasko-wileska cuisine, which would refer to the
Caucasus region and the Lithuanian lands around Vilnius (a
journey between which would take several days as far as
we can tell). The restaurant itself has the homely feel of a
grandmothers kitchen and the wood-burning oven where
various meat dishes are grilled to perfection adds to the
atmosphere. Expect generous portions cooked simply and
well with a range of Georgian wines available to wash it
all down.QC-1, ul. Gliwicka 51, tel. (+48) 32 253 00 59,
www.fantasmagoria.katowice.pl. Open 13:00 - 22:00.
(17-46z). TA6UIGBSW
CZECH
HOSPODA
History and geography have preordained close ties be-
tween Silesia and the Czech Republic. While close doesnt
always mean friendly, this hopping Hospoda could down-
right double as the Czech Embassy for all the love it shows
to their southern neighbours. Of course the rst test of a true
Czech pub is its beer selection. Hospoda passes with ying
colours with delicious Bohemian brews like Cerna Hora,
Kozel Dark, Lobkowicz, Vit and Pilsner on tap plus at least 30
other bottles on deck (Gambrinus, Radogast, Budvar and a
boatload more). If youre wondering about the grub, czech
out their classic fried cheese, garlic soup and goulash with
dumplings. If youve never been to Prague, just throw on a
Wodna Wiea (Steam Punk)
Restaurants Restaurants
goulash (trust us, youll be licking the cutlery), plus stued
peppers, potato pancakes, pork loin, sh and more - all com-
plemented ideally by Hungarian wines and tokajs from their
adjoining shop. Portions are positively huge, with food prac-
tically spilling over the edges of the plate, and its worth not-
ing that you can ask for many of them in a smaller amount. A
new year round patio and cellar wine bar only make us more
enthusiastic to recommend this place than ever before.QD-
2, ul. Kopernika 9, tel. (+48) 32 257 01 32, www.czardasz.
com. Open 10:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 23:00, Sun 12:00
- 22:00. (28-49z). PTAUIGBSW
INDIAN
BUDDHA
No need to drive to Sosnowiec for Indian cuisine, the Indian
owned and operated Buddha has brought authentic ethnic
food to Katowice - a city more often known as culinarily
bizarre than a culinary bazaar. Marked by great service and
richly furnished with elegant antiques, tapestries, tiles and
gold silk place-settings, Buddha has a head start before the
food even arrives and fails to disappoint in that department
as well. If it says its spicy (gasp!) it actually is, the curries are
rich and portions are more than healthy. If youre looking
for a midweek x dont miss their new lunch buet for just
15 PLN! Overall a ne eort and more than worth the total
on the check, which arrives in a hand-crafted box.QE-2, ul.
Drzymay 9, tel. (+48) 32 608 00 50, www.buddha.info.
pl. Open 12:00 - 22:30. (22-50z). TAGSW
MASALA HOUSE - RESTAURACJA INDYJSKA
There is no shortage of good curry houses in Silesia
which is a sure sign of the growing cultural diversity as
well as the increasing refinement of the Polish palate.
Masala House is thoroughly authentic and they dont
pull any punches or spare any spices. Start off with a
crunchy samosa or spicy onion bhaji then move on to
a main dish of fish, chicken, beef, lamb or veggie and
curries. Play it safe with a tikka masala or take the gloves
off with some lamb rogan josh. Grab a mango lassi to
put out that fire or any other beverage you may desire.
Dont be shy if youre not a member of the red hot chilli
peppers fan club because there are plenty of milder
curries to choose from and the colourful menu (English
available) is chilli coded so you and your tongue know
what youre jumping into.QC-2, ul. Mickiewicza
32, tel. (+48) 32 253 00 43, www.masalahouse.eu.
Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 21:00. (20-50z).
TAVGBSW
INTERNATIONAL
AKOLADA
Set inside a glass-roofed red brick atrium in the atmo-
spheric Music Academy, this is a splendid venue in which
to enjoy the ner side of life. As far as restaurants go, there
is hardly anything typical about this place and its abun-
dant space. As you settle into your table the trickling
sounds of distant choirs and quivering quartets slowly
wash over you. The sonorous environs work to heighten
the senses and tempt the taste buds. The food picks up
on that note and the modern international fair proves
t for the philharmonic. With dishes such as green brus-
chetta with goat cheese, beetroot carpaccio with bryndza
cheese and other choice seasonal dishes, youll be singing
their praises by the end of your melodious meal.QD-4,
ul. Zacisze 3, tel. (+48) 32 201 03 46, www.akolada.
pl. Open 08:00 - 21:00, Sun 09:00 - 21:00. (10-39z).
PTAUGBSW
BIERHALLE
Dining in a shopping mall usually consists of being
queue barged by tracksuited teens ordering burgers and
putting the nishing touches to their acne, so Bierhalle
is quite a bonus for all who nd themselves exploring
the guts of the Silesia City shopping mall. The best beer
in Katowice should be the primary reason for your visit,
but the food is by no means a poor relation; especially in
a city where eating out is usually followed by a prompt
and painful trip to the toilet. The menu here is pretty
much as youd expect: big piles of dead animals, perfect
for lining the innards before putting their range of mi-
crobrews to the test. Order the likes of sausages, herring,
and even tortillas, delivered without incident by sta
dressed like theyve just nished milking cows.QA-1, ul.
Chorzowska 107 (Silesia City Center), tel. (+48) 32 605
01 61, www.bierhalle.pl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Fri 12:00
- 23:00, Sat 11:00 - 23:00, Sun 11:00 - 21:00. (15-40z).
PTAGSW
Buddha Indian restaurant
Katowice, ul Drzymay 9, tel. (+48) 32 608 00 50
katowice@buddha.info.pl, www.buddha.info.pl
scream European Fusion, there are a lot of familiar Polish ingre-
dients and even some staples to keep you grounded. A tip of
my top hat to the owners and sta and Ill be docking my bal-
loon again very soon.Qul. Kiliskiego 5, Pszczyna, tel. (+48)
781 04 00 00, www.wodnawieza.pl. Open 12:00 - 22:30,
Sun 12:00 - 20:30. (39-89z). PTAUGW
GERMAN
WUNDERBAR
A pleasing bar-restaurant kitted out with pots, pans,
chiming clocks and all manner of assorted country trum-
pery. The menu here is pretty much as you expect from a
Bavarian themed eatery, hunks of deceased animal served
in masculine portions. If you really mean business then
look no further than the Trough Wunderbar; a monster
meal that includes pork knuckle, Bavarian sausage, blood
sausage, apple, onin, sauerkraut and potatoes.QD-3, ul.
Plebiscytowa 2, tel. (+48) 32 781 76 90, www.wunderbar.
pl. Open 13:00 - 23:00. (33-69z). TAGBSW
HUNGARIAN
ZAKLTY CZARDASZ
Certainly one of Katowices nest and most unheralded res-
taurants, this aromatic Hungarian eort serves excellent eth-
nic cuisine in elegant surroundings hung with garlic and pep-
per garlands, wicker lampshades, latticework and vines. The
enticing menu oers a dozen ways to enjoy their delicious
SzvNk 0io FnsuioNro
ul. Ligonia 16 Katowice
phone +48 S11 272 S49
ExcriirN1 SiirsinN CuisiNr
Restaurants
BOHEMA
Entirely elegant, theres little bohemian about Bohema -
with its wine glasses and white tablecloth approach to ne
dining - except maybe the surprisingly moderate prices.
Appear in-the-know by taking your date to this obscure
restaurant on the south side and choose from a wide range
of Polish and European meat and sh dishes; curiosities in-
clude the goose stomach in Provencal sauce (has to be spe-
cially ordered), tenderloin in forest mushroom sauce and an
entire page of veggie side dishes entitled Vitamins at the
top - indicative of the character of the main courses. Classy
with a creme interior of black and white photos of 50s
starlets, the separate downstairs bar oers something a bit
more relaxed and the upstairs terrace is a delight in sum-
mer (only available for private parties).QF-2, ul. Bratkw
4, tel. (+48) 32 202 51 80, www.restauracjabohema.
com. Open 12:00 - 20:00, Sun 12:00 - 18:00. (17-72z).
PTAGBSW
CHERRY RESTAURANT & CAFFE
Put on your pumps, ruby red lipstick, maybe give yourself
a little mole near your upper lip, and channel your inner
starlet before sashaying into Cherry - Katowices attempt to
capture the atmosphere of a cinematic 1960s Manhattan
cafe. With large bright red diner booths and portraits of
Audrey and Marilyn looking on, this is the perfect place to
play breakfast at Tianys (you know, if Tianys had actu-
ally been a cafe in the lm). Breakfast is served weekdays
10:00 - 12:00, drop in for their daily lunch specials, or settle
in for a supper of some of the best meat and sh dishes
in town. Cherry manages to do what many thought im-
possible, make Polish food sexy! QD-3, ul. Dyrekcyjna 3,
tel. (+48) 781 37 30 00, www.cherry.katowice.pl. Open
10:00 - 22:00, Fri 10:00 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 - 23:00, Sun
12:00 - 21:00. (24-65z). TA6UBXSW
HURRY CURRY
Bringing some heat to the street and some spice to Kato-
vice, this new hot spot is turning heads and lling stom-
achs. Started by a couple of travellers with the simple idea
of oering a selection of curries from all over the world
served up quick and sold for cheap. Fancy fast food with
a curry kick! The results are utterly delicious and borderline
revolutionary for the citys budding ethnic restaurant scene.
With a limited but diverse menu, youll nd something
new just for you. The Butter Chicken is a sure bet and the
green Thai curry will knock your sox o! The atmosphere is
friendly and the service quick so even if youre in a hurry
you can make time for their curry. Top marks all around.
QD-3, ul. w. Stanisawa 1, tel. (+48) 511 43 36 63, www.
hurrycurry.pl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 01:00,
Sun 12:00 - 20:00. (12-33z). A6GBSW
LATAJCA WINIA
This modern bistro-pub oers a compelling selection of
local pork delicacies and an excellent array of local mi-
crobrews to complement them. Specialising in upscale
appetisers for carnivores, the Polish-only menu will pose
a challenge for foreigners, but perseverance is well re-
POLISH FOOD
Those wanting to take a quick foxtrot through the
world of the Polish kitchen should consider putting the
following to the test:
Soup: Keep your eyes peeled for Polands two signa-
ture soups; urek (sour rye soup with sausages and po-
tatoes oating in it) and barszcz (beetroot, occasionally
with dumplings thrown in). Table manners go out of
the window when eating these two, so feel free to dunk
bread rolls in them.
Bigos: Youll either love it or vomit. Bigos, a.k.a hunters
stew, is made using meat, cabbage, onion and sauer-
kraut before being left to simmer for a few days. If you
have second helpings then consider yourself a Pole by
default.
Gobki: Boiled cabbage leaves stued with beef, on-
ion and rice before being baked in a tomato sauce. Ur-
ban myth claims Polands King Kazimierz fed his army
gobki before his victory outside Malbork in a battle
against the Teutonic Order. The unlikely victory was
attributed to the hearty meal his troops had enjoyed
before hand.
Kiebasa: Sausages, and in Poland youll nd several
varieties made primarily with pork, but sometimes us-
ing turkey, horse, lamb and even bison. Few varieties
to watch for including Krakowska, a Krakw specialty
which uses pepper and garlic, kabanosy which is a thin,
dry sausage avoured with carraway seed and wiejska;
a monster-looking u-shaped sausage. Kiebasa was also
the nickname of one of Polands most notorious gang-
land gures of the 90s.
Pierogi: Pockets of dough traditionally lled with meat,
cabbage or cheese, though you will also occasionally
nd maverick llings such as chocolate or strawberries.
Placki: Nothing more than potato pancakes, often
paired with lashings of sour cream. Again, all your tra-
ditional folksy Polish restaurants will have these on the
menu, if not you have every right to raise a few ques-
tions in the direction of the kitchen.
quinn.anya/www.ickr.com/CC BY-SA 2.0
that saw our chicken stued with mushrooms and bacon get
a big thumbs up. Located opposite the theatre this is clearly
one of the citys more trendy resto-bars and a welcome break
from the adjacent Rynek.QC-3, ul. Teatralna 8, tel. (+48) 32
258 50 80, www.za-kulisami.pl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sun
14:00 - 22:00. (14-55z). PTAGBSW
ITALIAN
CRISTALLO
Climb a grand marble staircase to reach Cristallo, the stun-
ning show-piece restaurant of the Monopol Hotel. A glass
roof allows guests to watch the evening unravel above
them, while the discreet interiors of bare brick walls and
steel tubing lend a minimalist aesthetic to the experience.
Select from the imaginative Italian-inspired menu with
choices such as braised beef cheeks with herb polenta and
caramelized carrots or shrimp carpaccio with crispy black
sesame foam. You pay for the quality here, and it comes as
no surprise that diners trek across Silesia to do so.QD-3,
ul. Dworcowa 5 (Monopol Hotel), tel. (+48) 32 782 82
09, www.lhr.com.pl. Open 17:00 - 23:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 -
23:00. (25-90z). PTAUEGSW
LEN ARTE
In every city with a big enough restaurant scene to justify
the use of the phrase restaurant scene, there is inevitably
talk of superlatives. Wheres the best place for this, that and
the other? Well, without any hesitation, Len Arte takes the
cake for the best pizza pie in town. The incredible smells
wafting from their wood red oven will hit you way before
you queue up for a table. And wait you will (unless you call
ahead), as this is one of the hottest gastronomic tickets in
town. Once you make it inside youll see why their pies are
so divine. They have countless artisanal Italian products
prominently displayed behind the bar. Peperoncinis, pro-
sciutto, pasta, parmesan, pesto, porcini oh my! Choose from
an impossible list of pristine pizzas, scrumptious salads,
perfect pastas and delicious dolces. Top it all o with an
authentic espresso and youll be shouting Bravissimo along
with the rest of town. Their opening hours can change so
call ahead.QD-4, ul. Mariacka 25, tel. (+48) 32 308 84
30, www.lenarte.com.pl. Open 11:00 - 22:00, Fri 09:00 -
24:00, Sat 14:00 - 24:00, Sun 14:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon.
(15-35z). T6GBSW
warded by the quality and taste of all on oer. The schnitzel
is great as are the cold platters of mixed meat snacks. To
wash down what we could essentially describe as Polish
pork tapas youve got one of the best beer lists around. The
small, cheekily decorated interior is a bit cramped, but wall-
length windows allow you to prop up your elbows and do
some people-watching.QD-3, ul. Staromiejska 3, www.
latajacaswinia.pl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Fri 12:00 - 24:00,
Sat 16:00 - 24:00. (10-30z). AGBSW
PATIO
One of Katowices most popular restaurants with an exten-
sive menu of pizzas, pastas, grilled meats and sh, Patios
provisions are now oered in English, German, French and
Italian making it much easier for you to successfully order
what some claim to be the best steak in town. The interior is
designed to look like an exterior, with a wooden lattice ceil-
ing full of lights, fake owers, bird nests, pinecones, twigs
and other things youd sweep up from the yard; though
when the summer terrace is open, its a bit of mute point.
For a bargain, visit between 11:00 and 16:00 Mon-Fri, when
lunch is only 22z.QC-2, ul. Stawowa 3, tel. (+48) 32 781
55 55, www.restauracjapatio.pl. Open 10:00 - 23:00, Sun
12:00 - 23:00. (16-59z). PTAVGBSW
RESTAURACJA TAMARYND
Located in the ground oor of the M Hotel Sosnowiec, the
Tamarynd takes the hotel dining experience to a new level.
Serving up a mix of Mediterranean classics highlighted by
separate tapas and pizza menus plus a huge selection of
starters, soups, salads pastas and mains. With supremely
elegant interiors accentuated by chandeliers, mirrors cov-
ering the walls and a bright and colourful decor, the only
question youll be left asking is Are these prices for real?
Tamarynd gives you yet another reason to visit the up
and coming North Eastern borough of Sosnowiec. Qul.
Wojska Polskiego 199 (M Hotel Sosnowiec), Sosnowiec,
tel. (+48) 32 363 63 00, www.tamarynd.pl. Open 06:30
- 10:00, 16:00 - 22:00. (19-39z). PTAUXSW
RESTAURACJA VACANZA
Its rare that a hotel restaurant would warrant the trip for
those not staying upstairs, but Silesian dining is precisely the
kind of perfect storm that makes Vacanza an oasis of taste
in the midst of a culinary wasteland. Warm Mediterranean
interiors include a replace and sunny timber-beamed ter-
race, and it merely follows suit that the excellent menu be
an exploration of southern European tastes and ingredients.
With several banquet rooms on hand, its also worth con-
sidering if youre planning more than a casual dinner.Qul.
Olimpijska 4 , Siemianowice lskie (Vacanza Hotel), tel.
(+48) 32 606 83 83, www.stylehotels.pl. Open 11:00 -
23:00. (25-90z). PTA6UIGBSW
STARA SZKOA
A superb garden with a landscaped pond and bbq pit
make this a great summer destination. Conversely the
interior is a warm warren of timber rooms that include
wood-beamed ceilings, a replace and salvaged antique
detritus, from rusty cogs to abacuses. The food served
leaves no gap for seconds with buckle-bursting portions of
regional specialties, Ruskie dishes and the usual collection
of animals skewered and cooked in every way imaginable.
QS-1, ul. Grunwaldzka 46, Zabrze, tel. (+48) 32 273 01
30, www.stara-szkola.pl. Open 11:00 - 22:00. (13-42z).
TAIGBSW
STEKHOUSE DA DA
If there were such a thing as the beaten path in Katowice, Stek
House would certainly be o it, but its worth seeking out if
youre feeling particularly rapacious. With a variety of choice
cuts for carnivores, including the Argentine variety and beef
carpaccio; the soups are also delicious, highlighted by the gou-
lash and creme of broccoli with smoked salmon and roasted
almonds. Theres now an English menu, and the pleasant sta
are happy to help out. The intimate courtyard in front of this
ivy-covered building is a delightful spot to dig in and drink the
German beer on tap (Tucher), making an excursion to Dada
even more worthwhile during the warm weather months.QE-
1, ul. Gen. Zajczka 17 (entrance from ul. Poniatowskiego),
tel. (+48) 32 205 61 03. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 13:00
- 22:00. (33-115z). TA6GBSW
TATIANA
A long, thin restaurant with elegant, cleverly designed
wooden oors and ceilings, the organic design is enhanced
with enough bamboo and random reeds to attract a wild
panda. One of Katowices ner and suitably popular estab-
lishments, the menu features an extensive range of Slavic
and European dishes including steaks (the best in the
city?), Moscow borscht and duck breast in moustard and
honey sauce, and also changes every three months with
the seasons.QD-3, ul. Staromiejska 5, tel. (+48) 32 203
74 13, www.restauracjatatiana.pl. Open 11:30 - 23:00,
Sun 12:00 - 22:00. (20-85z). TAUIGBSW
ZA KULISAMI PUB-RESTAURACJA
We were told this place had been given a facelift under new
ownership but well be buggered if we could spot the dif-
ference in dcor. Bare bricks? Check. Wicker seating? Check.
Dim lighting? Check. The one thing that did appear to have
changed was the menu. A decent selection of dishes consid-
ering that this is a restaurant/cafe/bar in Katowice, ranging
from salads, pastas and seafood to a selection of meat dishes
atovice , ul. 5taromiej-la ,
tel. ]z/ zo]-;-s]
lontalt_ re-tauracjatatiana.pl
vvv.re-tauracjatatiana.pl
ul. Stawowa 3, Katowice
tel. 32 781 55 55, fax. 32 259 98 65
Open 10:00 - 23:00, Sun 12:00 - 23:00
www.restauracjapatio.pl
biuro@restauracjapatio.pl
characterised by
family traditions
and culinary experience
Restaurants
tre and a sushi canal built into the ne wooden bar, behind
which the masters are at their work. Choose from Nigiri, Maki,
Sashimi and classic Japanese dishes, washing it down with a
Japanese beer or a carafe of sake.QC-3, ul. Uniwersytecka
13, tel. (+48) 32 603 01 66, www.kyotosushi.pl. Open
12:00 - 22:00, Fri 12:00 - 23:00, Sat 13:00 - 23:00, Sun 13:00
- 21:00. (49-63z). PTAUGSW
NEW
SUSHI DO
Sushi Do has done and gone what no other Sushi joint in
Poland has dared to do grill up some damn meat! Using
a traditional Robata grill with white hot stones that reach
temperatures of up to 600 degrees Celsius, they grill up
all kinds of succulent skewers of marinated seafood, ex-
otic sh and delicious beef. As the name suggests, they Do
also oer an expansive menu of standard nigiri and maki
rolls plus the standard spring rolls, soups and beverages.
But we highly recommend you Sushi Dont and eat your
ll from the grill instead.QC-2, ul. 3 Maja 30 (Galeria
Katowicka), tel. (+48) 722 00 90 10, www.sushi-do.
pl. Open 11:00 - 21:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 22:00. (20-50z).
PTAUGBSW
MEDITERRANEAN
CASA 21
As soon as you step foot inside this brightly lit Casa you are
immediately assaulted by a wave of aromas and fragrances
seldom encountered in Silesia. With a focus on fresh sea-
food straight from the nets of the Mediterranean, their
expansive menu highlights such treasures of the deep as
octopus, tiger shrimp, tuna, sea bass and mussels. They also
serve up plenty of terric turf to go with their surf, so con-
sider a juicy T-bone steak or Argentinean beefsteak (both
served with green tomato chutney and frites). Rounding
out the mouth-watering menu are delicate pastas (pap-
pardelle with chicken and tru es!) and a smattering of
sultry soups salads and appetisers. As you might expect,
their wine list is exceptional and the well-trained wait sta
are ready to help you nd the perfect pairing. Upscale
Mediterranean dining has a new name in Katowice.QD-3,
ul. Wojewdzka 21, tel. (+48) 32 228 31 71, www.casa21.
pl. Open 11:00 - 22:00, Sat 12:00 - 23:00, Sun 12:00 -
22:00. (20-65z). PTA6UGSW
MEXICAN
EL MEXICANO
If youre anything like us and youve tried one too many
cabbage lled tacos in mexican kitsch-estaurants across
Poland, then youll understand our initial hesitation. But
as soon as we saw the tastefully colourful exterior of El
Mexicano, we knew this was something special. The small
and brightly coloured interior balances perfectly with
the straight ahead authentic Tex-Mex they serve. Mouth-
watering spices meld with fresh ingredients, almost all
of which actually belong in Mexican dishes (no kapusta
rancheros here!). They even oer imported chipotle
SICILIA
Moody waitresses, three sizes of pizza plus soup and pasta inside
a Mediterranean-feel restaurant with colourful tiles on the walls
and a fairly decent wine list. The service is far from fast and e -
cient and the food isnt going to win any awards, but if you dont
mind waiting as well as being made to feel like youre giving the
sta work theyd rather not be doing, this isnt such a bad place for
a spot of lunch when exploring the area. Also at ul. Chorzowska
107 (Silesia City Center, A-1).QD-2, ul. Kochanowskiego 2, tel.
(+48) 32 251 79 90, www.sycylia.com. Open 12:00 - 22:30.
(20-60z). PTAUVGSW
VIA TOSCANA
A sensory delight inside Altus Tower with interiors touting
archways, lampposts, vines and even mock balconies. Its
every much as delightful on the palette as it is on the eye,
with a menu featuring New Zealand lamb, Argentinean
beef, a great pickled salmon carpaccio and seafood. The
house specialty is octopus in a white wine sauce with
cherry tomatoes and arugala served over pappardelle
pasta. Equally suited to romantic trysts or hushed business
dinners, Via Toscania is further proof of Katowices growing
stature.QC-3, ul. Uniwersytecka 13 (Altus Tower), tel.
(+48) 512 02 08 08, www.viatoscana.pl. Open 11:00 -
23:00. (26-115z). PTAUXSW
JAPANESE
HANA SUSHI
A former swimming pool attached to one of Katowices
closed coal mines, this lovely brick building has been ret-
ted to house the citys best sushi house and Japanese res-
taurant. With the added advantage of being at the Silesian
City Centre, yet sovereign over its own independent space
and atmosphere (they even have their own separate parking
next door), Hana Sushi boasts a rich menu rife with Japanese
delicacies and hot dishes for those still suspicious of the su-
shi fad. If you dont feel like making your way to Silesias big-
gest shopping mall, enjoy free delivery by picking up the
phone, chop-chop.QA-1, ul. Chorzowska 109, tel. (+48)
32 605 09 77, www.hanasushi.pl. Open 11:00 - 22:00, Sun
12:00 - 21:00. (28-68z). PTAUVGSW
HOBU
A trendy venue with green, see-through plastic seats, piec-
es of origami and some zebra-print ttings. It looks hi-tech
and minimal, and the sushi sets play their part in winning
return customers. Those squeamish of raw-sh (particularly
hundreds of miles from the sea) havent been overlooked,
and the menu includes numerous cooked dishes including
teriyaki duck and teppanyaki.QD-3, ul. Plebiscytowa 10,
tel. (+48) 600 20 12 65, www.hobusushi.pl. Open 12:00
- 22:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 24:00, Sun 13:00 - 22:00. (35-
66z). PTAUVGBSW
KYOTO SUSHI
Located up the rst set of escalators inside the swanky Altus
Centre, this large, excellent Japanese restaurant comes with
lots of wood trimmings, a tinkling tranquility pond in the cen-
Ul. Chorzowska 109, Katowice, tel. 32 605 09 75/77, silesia@hanasushi.pl, www.hanasushi.pl
Hana Sushi has its own parking lot next to the restaurant, accessible from ul. ciegiennego.
A large selection of hot dishes | Home and office delivery
The Best Sushi Restaurant in Poland
according to Rzeczpospolita (One of Polands leading newspapers)
also oer a tempting lunch menu Fri 12:00 - 16:00 for 28
z.QC-3, ul. Warszawska 5, tel. (+48) 32 200 98 70, www.
krysztalowa.com.pl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 -
21:00. (38-94z). PTAGSW
U RENARDA
This particular restaurant is also one of the biggest winer-
ies in Silesia and just happens to be located in the cellar of a
gorgeously renovated medieval castle. I could probably stop
writing here... No? Ok Ill keep going. The entrance to this en-
chantingly romantic establishment opens up onto a pristine
park where theres a terrace to lounge on while you leisurely
sample the gourmet cuisine sipping a vintage Pinot Grigio. Get
the picture? Good. Now imagine that you can experience all of
this at unbelievably aordable prices and its located probably
less than a 20 minute train/taxi/drive from where youre sitting
right now... Consider that, dear reader. Oh and one more thing,
Renards is open for lunch and is also available for weddings,
banquets and other such large scale events. Now o you go.
Qul. Zamkowa 2 (Sielecki Castle), Sosnowiec, tel. (+48) 32
294 09 71, www.urenarda.pl. Open 12:00 - 20:00, Fri, Sat,
Sun 12:00 - 22:00. (12-76z). PTAUBXSW
SILESIAN
RESTAURACJA PATRIA
A welcomed entry on the Katowice culinary map, this
throwback restaurant highlights the simple pleasures and
hidden treasures of Silesian cuisine. They have rethought
from timber beams and plenty of other farm ttings This
delicious Polish home-cooking is served on beautifully
decorated ceramic dish ware, including the prerequisite
pre-meal smalec. Waitresses in traditional dress and disco
folk music round out what serves as one of the best in-
troductions to Polish cuisine in Silesia. Theyve even won
several culinary awards for their delicious dishes and
what is more, many Polish stars of stage and screen count
themselves as regulars. Most recently, the one and only
Slash paid them a visit to polish o some pierogi. Rock
and rolada! (If you happen to be in Sarnw, check out
their other location at ul. Podgrna 15, tel. 32 267 88 77.)
QD-3, ul. Wojewdzka 15, tel. (+48) 32 205 33 00, www.
chatazzalipia.pl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 20:00.
(8-44z). PTA6UEGSW
KRZYSZTAOWA
This crystal palace right o the square is a gorgeously
gaudy orgy of Polish folkish kitsch and deliciously decadent
food. This is the newest franchise of the Grand Dame of
Polish celebrity chefs, Magda Gessler in Katowice and it is
literally dripping with her curlicue style. The food is fabu-
lous and we happily worked our way through half a roasted
duck served with gingerbread sauce, red cabbage and
roasted potatoes. The rest of the menu is exhaustive and
extravagant with a comparably costly yet comprehensive
wine list. The service and atmosphere are up to snu but
careful not to hu and pu when they bring the bill at the
end of the meal. While dinner is the clear winner here, they
and habanero sauces if you want to re up those fajitas.
Besides great food and drink the atmosphere is relaxed and
theres absolutely no risk of being serenaded by a pimply
faced Politechnika student in a sombrero. Muchos Bravos
Mexicanos! QD-3/4, ul. Mariacka 18a, tel. (+48) 32 209
01 40, www.elmexicano.pl. Open 12:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat
12:00 - 24:00. (19-56z). PTAGBSW
POLISH
CAFE BISTRO MONOPOL
This regal bistro recently had its menu overhauled had its
art-deco decor totally redecorated. Located in the heart of
the City on the ground oor of the citys only 5 star Hotel
the very capable head chef has concocted the ideal sea-
sonal sensations for a light leisurely lunch or afternoon
brunch. Try the marinated salmon in yoghurt sauce or the
delicate pappardelle with porcini mushrooms.Their exten-
sive wine list will help you start your day in style. They are
open daily from 10am-4pm come early and come often.
QD-3, ul. Dworcowa 5 (Monopol Hotel), tel. (+48) 32
782 82 82, www.lhr.com.pl. Open 10:00 - 16:00. (15-
55z). PTAUGSW
CHATA Z ZALIPIA
Paying homage to the specic folk art tradition of the far-
away Maopolska village of Zalipie, the rustic cottage in-
terior of this pleasant peasant oering features elaborate
ower murals on the white walls, garlic garlands hanging
L/ CCClN/ DE MXlCC
Variacka 18a, Katowice, tel. J2 209 01 40, www.elmexicano.pl
and reshaped tired classics and created a wholly new fusion
of avours and forms. The elegant and aordable rotating
menu tempts with a host of atypical dishes such as goose
stomach, rabbit saddle and cow tongue. Usually when you
see creatures like these on a menu you either run for the hills
or expect pretentious plates and three digit bills. Neither is
the case here. The avours of the dishes are amazing and
the presentation simple yet complementary. The comfort-
able and laid back interior makes great use of the ground
oor of this historic 19th century building and even includes
a swanky bar. Though still an infant on the scene, Patria al-
ready looks to be the patriarch of the blossoming Silesian
renaissance.QE-1, ul. Mikoajowska 44, tel. (+48) 32 204
52 08. Open 12:00 - 22:00. (16-26z). TAGBSW
NEW
SZYNK OLD FASHIONED
If the name of this Silesian restaurant and bar conjures images
of some sort of pork shack, then you are on the right track. A
szynk is old Silesian slang for a bar as well as the rst ve let-
ters of the Polish word for ham, so pull up a stool and dig in.
They specialise in serving up straight forward, meaty and hearty
Silesian grub. They make there own sausage and cold cuts in-
house and have plenty of beers and beverages to help wash
them down. The prices are cheap, portions huge and having
just completed a recent renovation the atmosphere is warm
and welcoming.QE-2, ul. J. Ligonia 16, tel. (+48) 511 27 25
49, www.oldfashioned.republika.pl. Open 13:00 - 22:00, Sat,
Sun 14:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (15-70z). TAXSW
Cafs Restaurants
KAWIARNIA NA KOACH
This vintage truck serves up stellar kava and jumping java
drinks right out the back and o to the sides. They usually
park on the market square and set up tables and beach
chairs so you can sip your steaming latte while you lounge.
Because of ongoing construction youre more likely to nd
them near the Silesian University on ul. Bankowa during the
week and any number of other locations on the weekend
(check their FB page to nd out where theyll be today).
No matter where they are they oer up chilled coee bev-
erages in the hotter months as well as a choice selection
of cakes and cookies. Sourcing only fair trade Columbian
beans, they make a great cup of joe for the on-the-go and
in-the-know.QC-4, Bankowa 12, tel. (+48) 662 22 32 10,
www.kawiarnianakolach.pl. Open 08:00 - 16:00. Closed
Sat, Sun. S
MISS CUPCAKE
For a spell we thought Katowice might actually miss out on
the latest confectionary craze to conquer Poland. I speak
of the current cupped cake invasion in all its tiny frosted
fury. For the last few years in every major city across Poland
cake-cupperries have been popping up like mushrooms af-
ter a storm. This cozy cafe o cially puts the Silesian cupcake
drought to an end as theyve made it their daily mission
to serve up freshly-baked snack-sized cakes. They boast a
total of30 avors and counting with seasonal, holiday and
themed cakes making timely appearances. Grab a coee
while you munch or take a coupla cakes for lunch. If youre
tooth is sweet then shu e them feet over to this Lil Miss
for a quick x of American confectionary bliss.QC-2, ul.
Sokolska 9, tel. (+48) 531 98 40 80. Open 10:00 - 19:00,
Mon 12:00 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 20:00. AGS
MONOPOL
Inside the hotel of the same name the Monopols in-
house caf bar oers decent coee and plenty of class
with an interior that recalls Katowices golden age. Here
its all fresh cut owers, marble surfaces and sepia im-
ages of the city in its industrial heyday. Floor-to-ceiling
windows encourage hurrying passersby to gaze in with
envy.QD-3, ul. Dworcowa 5 (Monopol Hotel), tel. (+48)
32 782 82 82, www.lhr.com.pl. Open 08:00 - 23:00.
PTA6UGW
SCENERIA
Akants not so distant cousin, Sceneria is a similar mashup
of gallery and bar but is certainly more civilised and dare we
say rened. Sceneria is a ne art gallery that also happens
to serve scoops of delicious ice cream along with fruit cock-
tails, coee concoctions and a more than respectable list of
beers wines and spirits. This is the perfect spot to stop into
if youre looking to class up your night or lighten your day.
And who knows, that bucolic oil paint landscape hanging
in the back just might t into your suitcase. Heads up be-
cause the opening hours are at the whims of the whimsical
owner. This is indeed a unique and welcome entry to the
onward moving Mariacki march.QD-3, ul. Mariacka 12,
www.galeriaakant.pl. P6UEGS
BISTRO & CAFE KRYSTYNKA WRACA Z WIEDNIA
This bright little bistro is quite a refreshing take on the
cuisine and style of Vienna. If youre thinking starched
napkins and gilded portraits of mustachioed Habsburgs,
think again. Theres nothing haughty or hifalutin about this
delectable diner cum cosy cafe. They oer straight ahead
delicious food of the hearty soup and scrumptious schnit-
zel variety with a subtle tip of the hat to Austrian tradition.
They also do great service to Viennese cake and coee cul-
ture so make sure to stop by in the earlier hours for a java
jolt and to break the fast. In the colder months saddle up to
a big bowl of beetroot soup and a luscious latte. With food
and drink like this we are by no means surprised by Miss
Kristines illustrious return... we just hope she never leaves
us again.QE-2, ul. Kociuszki 45, tel. (+48) 32 733 38 20,
www.krystynka.com.pl. Open 08:30 - 20:00, Sat, Sun
10:00 - 20:00. TA6GSW
FANABERIA
Swap your shoes for a Turkish water pipe and a backgam-
mon board, lounging on the colourful carpets and cush-
ions of the glass atrium, or drink a Polish microbrew in one
of the fantastic hanging wicker basket seats of this groovy
tea house. Full of oriental ambience, Fanaberia features
bright red and blue walls, elegant chandeliers, curtains and
wall-hangings and oers coee, cakes and a large selec-
tion of teas from all over the world. If youd rather steep
yourself in alcohol, you wont nd a better selection in
the city than here with meads, wines available alongside
regional beers. And now theres a comic book library;
honestly, Katowice makes us proud every time we walk in
this place. Recommended.QE-2, ul. Wita Stwosza 6, tel.
(+48) 32 200 01 67, www.fanaberia.katowice.pl. Open
10:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 01:00, Sun 15:00 - 24:00.
PA6GSW
GESZEFT
Wonders never cease in this hip store for hipsters and lovers
of divine design. Weve never seen a place exude cool so
eortlessly and everything you pick up, look at or try on
makes you drool. Ease into the sleek coee bar and grab
a java drink to help you think. Wander the stylish salon
which has racks of Polish designer threads, KATO themed
knick-knacks and shoulder bags, funky jewelry and even
home decor. Look through arty books or grab a party mag
while you curl up in a window seat and search for reasons
to linger here a little longer. This unique boutique is one
stop shopping for temporary tourists, culture vultures and
erce fashionistas alike. For misses and misters, but not to
be missed.QA-2, ul. Morcinka 23-25, tel. (+48) 534 76 76
54. Open 12:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
A6UGSW
VEGETARIAN
DOBRA KARMA
Combining healthy food with hospitality, Good Karmas
vegetarian kitchen follows the principles of the Five
Transformations - an age-old Chinese eating philoso-
phy that endows their food with good energy. Fear
not, theres nothing self-righteous or spiritual about
the atmosphere, which has found favour with fami-
lies, students and hipsters alike. Set over two levels,
the brick interior full of folk touches and worn timber
feels more like a home than a restaurant and makes
for a great place to work or relax. The menu is mostly
veggie reinterpretations of Polski classics (lentil-stuffed
pierogi, the popular veggie cutlets), pastas and some
surprisingly stellar pizzas, while to drink theres deli-
cious coffee, organic sodas, and some primo beers from
the Czech Primator brewery. Well-hidden, but certainly
worth seeking out.QD-4, ul. w. Jacka 1, tel. (+48)
784 90 36 62, www.dobrakarma.com. Open 09:00 -
22:00. (7-24z). TA6GSW
ZOTY OSIO
We often judge a citys merits on whether or not it has a
proper vegetarian restaurant, and in this regard Katowice
scores some much-needed points. The cheekily named
Golden Ass features laidback music, bright psychedlic wall
patterns and tablecloths, and fertile murals wherein zodiac
characters, Buddha and Grecian urns are able to coexist as
peacably as the aging hippies, young activists, punk rock-
ers, and school teachers that make up the clientele. The
budget food shows a lot more creative air than the rest of
the local cuisine, and here you can pick up yers on every-
thing from yoga classes to alternative rock concerts.QD-3,
ul. Mariacka 1, tel. (+48) 32 253 01 13, www.wegebar.
com. Open 10:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. (12z).
TA6GSW
VIETNAMESE
LITTLE HANOI...AND MORE!
Set on a pedestrianised street in the heart of Katowice
within walking distance of the train station and
Katowices Market Square, Little Hanoi is a welcome
departure from eating dumplings, or even the low-
standard Chinese restaurants found across the country.
Granted, the minimal dcor containing the obligatory
lanterns, decent Vietnamese dishes and friendly staff
are not unique in Poland, but as far as eating options
in central Katowice go, this is a definite step in the right
direction. The spicy soup was a solid beginning, the
ribs were delicious and the beef Bo Sot Vang was excel-
lent. Wash it down with a Lime Nuoc Chanh and like
us youll be fortified for the evening ahead with hardly
a dent made in your wallet.QD-3, ul. Staromiejska 4,
tel. (+48) 886 62 33 88, www.littlehanoi.pl. Open
12:30 - 23:00, Mon, Sun 13:30 - 23:00. (20-60z).
PTAUGSW
Nightlife
Katowices nightlife is improving steadily, with more and more
bars and clubs opening that hold themselves to a higher cre-
ative standard. While there was a time when a Saturday night
on the town felt like creeping quietly through a cemetery, that
has all changed in a hurry with the emergence of ul. Mariacka
(D-3/4) as the citys nightlife headquarters. A pedestrianised
three-block stretch that was once all strip clubs and shady
gay saunas (ok, those are still there), the city has put a lot of
energy into cleaning it up and turning it into the high street it
should be. Despite some dreadful urban design decisions in-
cluding ugly, uncomfortable benches and strange sculptures,
the city is nally seeing results with a plethora of restaurants,
cafes, cocktail bars and clubs moving in to give the city centre
some buzz. In summer, Mariacka is full of outdoor seating and
ooded with people, but there are plenty of other hedonist
hideouts to discover elsewhere with the help of this guide.
The venues we list below are located throughout the Silesian
Metropolis, with the name of the town added to the end of
the address after a comma (with a map reference if applicable)
if it is not in Katowice proper; districts of Katowice are shown
in brackets. The opening hours we list are exible; basically if
people are drinking, the barman is pouring. Below is a list of
recommendations depending on what youre looking for.
ELITE
Katowice isnt exactly the place to take your twenty-
something arm trophy for a romantic weekend, but you
can probably pick one up while youre here. To that end try
the smart Archibar, sophisticated Cocktail Bar or taxi out
to Chorzws catty Czekolada. Early evening recs go to the
always classy Monopol (see Cafes) and sunset views from
the top of Altus Tower in Sky Bar.
LADS
Foreign funboys can mix with the locals in the context
of their own culture in the likes of Longman and
Spencer, before drinking enough Guinness to lurk
across the lively dancefloors of the newly opened
Rajzefiber, the classic City Pub (more Guinness!), or
lascivious Lemoniada. Bierhalle microbrewery is
also ideal for team piss-ups.
STUDENTS
Not the most discerning demographic, students will go
anywhere theres fun music and cheap drinks, namely Klub
Pomaracza or Carpe Diem ; those with more intent to
impress will try Spi, Genesis or Kato.
COUPLES
Couples looking for romance should nd it by sneaking
up to 27th oor of the Altus Tower for a sunset drink in
Sky Bar, or ruby your lips in Chorzws Manana, before
retreating to the fashionable connes of Cocktail Bar or
the cosy cushions of Fanaberia.
ALTERNATIVE
Katowice has a fair number of cult venues with the hard-
living ruba i Przyjaciele, careless Gugalander, sepia-
spirited Kredens and artsy-DIY Kato being among the
best obeat boozers in the city. Leatherheads and rockers
will ock to Caf Zaszyta and hipsters and beer loving
backpackers gravitate to Klawiatura and Biaa Mapa
respectively. Those with more elevated musical tastes will
nd few ner clubs than Hipnoza, whether theres a live
concert on or not.
Nightlife
BARS & PUBS
AKANT
This is funky antique shop/dive bar hybrid is something
strangely familiar yet still strikingly strange. The concept
is certainly original for Kato as is the general decoration
philosophy with vintage clothes, mugging mannequins,
broken bikes, rugged luggage and general knick-knackerry
covering the walls and spilling over into every nook and
cranny. One entire wall of the basement bar is covered
with rare musical instruments procured from a 1960s yard
sale. A dim slightly reddish candle icked hue covers ev-
erything and completes the n-de-siecle picture perfectly.
This is an ideal place to either cut loose completely or nd
that porcelain goose youve been dreaming about inces-
santly. Bettingly, the opening hours depend on the hu-
mourous owners... humour.QC-3, ul. Teatralna 9, www.
galeriaakant.pl. PUEXW
ARCHIBAR
This is as cool as Katowice gets, so if you dont like it you
may as well take the rest of those sleeping pills. Groovy little
Archibar is set inside the Architects Union with an interior
that makes use of lots of plastic and black and white pho-
tos. In the background its all ambient grooves, arty projec-
tions and a load of Meccanno-style contraptions support-
ing the lights. It looks good and so do the patrons, many of
whom appear to be businessmen trying to impress babes
half their age. They are branching out into light breakfast
(from 8 am every day but Sunday) and lunch fair with
healthy soups, salads and starters.QC-3, ul. Dyrekcyjna 9,
tel. (+48) 32 206 83 50, www.archibar.pl. Open 08:00 -
24:00, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 02:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. AGW
BIAA MAPA
This alabaster ape drapes itself in cool and drowns itself in
sudsy pools of amber nectar nightly. Open less than a year,
this premium primate has already achieved cult status. Youll
see why as soon as you squeeze through its monkey bars.
Warm woods, exposed brick and inviting design greet you
and direct your focus to the star of the show... the wall of
beer! Over 100 bottled varieties of Polish, Czech, Belgian,
English and Irish artisanal beers and ales on hand plus a ro-
tating cast of 10 brews on tap. And dont fear the beer, the
knowledgeable sta is eager to oer advice and help you
navigate their seas of suds. Come for a coee and sandwich
during the day and ght with all your might to order that
rst pint of the night. QC-2, ul. 3 Maja 38, tel. (+48) 881 22
80 48, www.bialamalpa.pl. Open 12:00 - 24:00, Fri 12:00
- 01:00, Sat 14:00 - 01:00, Sun 16:00 - 24:00. AXW
BOB
A bit of a legend round these parts, BOBs interior is remi-
niscent of an American rocker bar and you almost expect
everyone to be drinking out of pitchers. Theres a good,
cheap selection of pub grub on hand - including tacos and
nachos - to complement the cheap beer and a foosball
table for showdowns with the shaved heads that favour
this place. Known for its lunatic Friday karaoke nights (every
LATE NIGHT EATS
AMBASADA LEDZIA
Only open for a few months and this embassy of her-
ring has taken Katowices main party strip by storm. This
Silesian incarnation of a Cracovian establishment of the
same name has a similar style, philosophy and thank-
fully the very same chef as the original. The formula is
seemingly well known by now - cheap Polish tapas and
even cheaper beer and booze. However, what makes
them a big sh in the little sh game is their singular
style, festive atmosphere (the owing beer) and the su-
perb quality and originality of their food. They currently
oer 10 types of herring, including exotic avours such
as curry, spicy and beet marinated, plus several more
traditional varieties to choose from. If youre not a fan of
the slippery shies try a hot dish such as pork knuckle,
potato casseroles or try a slice of apple pie or NYC style
cheesecake. They recently broke ground by adding a
humus plate to their menu and they could very well be
the rst in Kato to do so. Well done Ambassador!QD-4,
ul. Mariacka 25, tel. (+48) 781 69 94 26. Open 09:00 -
04:00. (4-12z). GW
LA STALLA
If you nd yourself in need of a more substantial, even sit-
down meal in the middle of the night, these folks are right
in the centre and ready to accommodate you at all hours.
Home to an enormous year-round terrace with a few rural
touches, La Stalla isnt a bad spot to stop by in the after-
noon either, though the food is pretty straightforward and
unlikely to win any awards: pizza, zapiekanki and quick
eats in addition to local and Euro main courses. Theres
beer from Germanys Tucher on tap as well, though when
we stopped by on the way home on a Saturday night we
didnt nd any reason to hang around.QC-2, ul. Wawelska
1, tel. (+48) 32 204 85 95, www.noclegi-katowice.com.
pl. Open 24hrs. (5-35z). PAUXW
LORNETA Z MEDUZ
Modern European in style, stubbornly Soviet in concept,
Lorneta z Meduz has revived the 1975 business plan of
at rate prices pegged at 8z and 4z for food and drink,
respectively. Your drink - be it beer, coee, vodka, wine,
tea or juice - comes in a quantity proportional to that
price, while the limited food options would all appear
to be answers to the Jeopardy category Snacks That
Go With Vodka: namely, herring in oil (ledz), bread
smeared with lard (smalec), and the Double Jeopardy
winner - pig trotters in gelatin (galaretka). Egads.
Though the interiors are respectable enough - with
two old maps of Kattowitz dressing up the walls and
the stools of the window bar making a decent place
for people watching - the takeaway coee would seem
the safest bet for food or drink if its too early to start
boozing.QD-3, ul. Mariacka 5, tel. (+48) 32 200 06 60,
www.lornetazmeduza.pl. Open 24 hrs. (8z). GS
Sky Bar
Nightlife Nightlife
other week), weekend benders end at BOB and youll nd
high-heeled casualties stumbling around the city centre
asking strangers where it is.QC-2, ul. Chopina 8, tel. (+48)
32 726 10 65, www.bob.katowice.pl. Open 10:00 - 24:00,
Fri, Sat 10:00 - 05:00, Sun 14:00 - 24:00. PAXW
NEW
BROWARIAT
The brew brothers behind Browariat literally built the bar
around several Bavarian craft beer brands. Schonram and
Camba brews are on tap and in bottles in a colourful variety
of hand crafted ales, dunkels, stouts and IPAs. Each style has
its very own corresponding glass, stein or ute. They also of-
fer a selection of beers from a visiting brewer on a rotating
basis (currently they feature the Dutch Jopen). Choose which-
ever tasty beverage suits your fancy and settle into one of the
many cozy corners or stylish nooks of the sprawling pub. This
year of great beer has brought Katowice yet another delight-
ful den of sud-sippery.QD-3, ul. Francuska 11, tel. (+48) 535
00 97 68, www.browariat.com. Open 17:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat
17:00 - 02:00, Sun 18:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. AG
C4
Rail slide into this alt dive thats lled with bass music, skate
culture and heady micro brews. If none of these things
grab your attention then you best walk on by... But if you
checked o any of these boxes, follow the pedestrian un-
derpass to the wrong side of the tracks and get ready to get
jacked. Lotsa love for artisanal beer here oering dozens of
bottled beer from all over the world and 5 microbrews on
tap. C4 nights are soundtracked by DnB, dubstep and/or
reggae DJs. Even in the colder months the parties spill out
onto the impromptu beer garden and expertly placed stair-
case. Rub elbows with all sorts of sordid characters from
the K-vice DIY underground... light years away from your
Hotel bar. Come C4 yourself!QD-3, ul. Wojewdzka 26,
tel. (+48) 504 48 48 89. Open 16:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 17:00
- 03:00, Sun 17:00 - 24:00. ABXW
CARPE DIEM
With continents painted on the walls and antique motor-
bikes with sidecars you can drink in, Carpe Diem seems to
embrace a sense of travel. Ironically, youre in Katowice; and
while you could probably do better than this bar in Krakow
where its sister venues are located, you could certainly do
worse here. This candlelit dive possesses a grotty charm
and youthful, devil-may-care attitude betting the name,
keeping its sticky tables and oor populated with students
early evening to late night. The upside is neverending drink
specials (3.50z beers on Mon and 3.99z beers on Weds);
the downside is it took about 2.5 minutes for someone to
spill beer on us (at 19:30!).QC-2, Pl. Wolnoci 14, tel. (+48)
669 99 85 81, www.carpediem.pl. Open 12:00 - 04:00,
Sat, Sun 16:00 - 04:00. PUEX
CITY PUB
One of the places that always comes up when enquiries
are made about the best places to drink in town and its
cult status is unquestionable. The seemingly small bar is
delightfully deceptive as the ground oor houses two bars,
numerous private rooms, several larger rooms and a decked
out dance oor not to mention a swanky VIP lounge in the
basement. The true charm of City Pub is that it manages
to walk the line between being a Pub and a Club. Curl up
with one of the best poured Guinness in Silesia during the
week and on the weekends dive into their den of sweaty
delinquency. A classic!QC-2, ul. 3 Maja 23, tel. (+48) 32
253 97 99, www.citypub.pl. Open 12:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat
12:00 - 03:00, Sun 14:00 - 24:00. PAUXW
COCKTAIL BAR
A more pragmatic albeit unimaginative name would be
hard to nd. Long and narrow like a fashion runway, the
dark drapes, white leather upholstered walls and limited
seating give Cocktail Bar that extra air of exclusivity that the
expensive and expansive list of expertly prepared drinks
just couldnt accomplish on its own. Utterly elegant, so-
phisticated and civilised, Cocktail Bar is for those who value
the art of a good drink, the virtue of being able to hold
and hear a conversation among friends and makes a great
escape from the drunken din just beyond the threshold.
Recommended.QD-3, ul. Mariacka 6, tel. (+48) 32 250
30 49, www.lemoniada.pl. Open 14:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat
14:00 - 05:00. PAGW
GUGALANDER
A cult venue draped in darkness and lled with wobbly
tables and chairs, Gugalander is an ideal place to meet
Katowices idle artists and queens of the scene. With a spo-
radic repertoire that includes club nights, jam sessions and
proper rock concerts, its a veritable cultural centre, though
the main occupations remain heavy drinking, chain-
smoking and erce foosball matches. Its also one of the
cheapest places to drink, highlighted by 6z mad dog shots,
and the Katowice bar we long for on those nights when
were running around writing about places we cant stand.
QE-3, ul. Jagielloska 17a (entrance from ul. Krlowej
Jadwigi), tel. (+48) 508 71 42 09, www.gugalander.art.
pl. Open 10:00 - 01:00, Fri 10:00 - 04:00, Sat 12:00 - 04:00,
Sun 16:00 - 24:00. AUEXW
KATO
Once a discreet DIY bohemian art bar, since moving from
the city fringes to front and centre on Katowices main
street, this hipster hangout has become the place to be
seen, losing some credibility and sensibility in the process.
Despite being inside a perfectly sound structure, the bar
is made almost entirely of unpainted plywood, from the
tables to the wheat-pasted walls covered in graphic non-
sense, all in an attempt to convince the shabby-chic clien-
tele that they havent gone mainstream on Mariacka, but
are merely squatting. Since a recent expansion, tattooed,
counter-culture queens and their jacks continue to spill
onto the seasonal sidewalk tables as Kato has developed
into one of the most dening alternative nightlife venues
in town, bolstered by a solid selection of Czech and Polish
microbrews.QC-1, ul. Mariacka 13, www.kato.shwrm.
com. Open 15:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 02:00. GBW
WINE BARS
PROSECCO BISTRO & WINE BAR
This mighty ne wine bar, bistro and shop is an absolute
revelation and nigh on revolution for the Katowice culi-
nary landscape. Their divine wine list is the main attraction
and is carefully curated. The over 160 Old and New World
wines are available for purchase to take away or to uncork
right away. The knowledgeable sta can help you pair
your bottle with a gourmet meal or light snack from their
ever-evolving daily menu. Choose from specials such as
Beef Wellington with white wine foam and carrot mousse,
or duck cont with plums and orange sauce. They also of-
fer plenty of lighter fare such as daily burger specials, fried
calamari, mussels in white wine, soups and quiches so you
can eat, sip and run. Bravissimo!QD-3, ul. Mielckiego 6,
tel. (+48) 32 201 50 92. Open 08:30 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 -
24:00, Sun 13:00 - 22:00. PAUGW
WINIARIA BURGUNDIA
Hidden away down the same dark alleyway as City Pub,
Wineria Burgundia features both a shop and bar in which
to indulge ones taste for the grape. By far the best of the
citys wine bars, nd a slightly snobby albeit enjoyable and
relaxed atmosphere. A really admirable selection of world
wines for all tastes and budgets.QC-2, ul. 3 Maja 23, tel.
(+48) 32 253 75 19, www.burgundia.com.pl. Open 10:00
- 21:00, Sat 11:00 - 21:00. Closed Sun. PAGW
DISCO POLO!
No, its not an equestrian sport involving bell-bottomed
jockeys (good guess, though), Disco Polo is a rather pe-
culiar and uniquely Polish sub-genre of dance music.
In fact you may have already been exposed to it with-
out even realising it. It could have been blaring from a
suped-up Fiat Duze rolling by, pulsing from a radio in
a abka convenience store or been the soundtrack to
that local wedding you attended a few months back.
This cult genre rst emerged in the early 90s as folk mu-
sicians and wedding bands nally were able to upgrade
their antiquated audio gear and buy some shiny new
keyboards with built in drum machines (and 70s disco
presets). By mixing a little Italo Disco (read: Eurotrash
Techno) into their Casiotone folk-anthems, a music rev-
olution was born. Disco Polo quickly conquered every
wedding hall, village disco and nightclub throughout
the land. By 1995 there were Disco Polo programmes
on every major radio and television station and even
former Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski used a
Disco Polo song during his presidential campaign that
year. Times were good and Disco Polo labels like Blue
Star and bands such as Bayer Full, Boys and Shazza
were pumping out the hits and rolling in the zlotties.
But alas, the good times couldnt last forever.
Disco Polo was scoed at from the very beginning by the
likes of intellectuals, music critics and professional musi-
cians who viewed it as hokey and primitive (which it was/
is). The tide began to turn for the genre as a whole when
a few scandals involving disco polo artists and local ma-
a bosses started to make headlines in 96 and 97. These
scandals coincided with a huge drop in cassette and CD
sales. By the late 90s the wedding party was o cially over
and the long national hangover had begun. Public opin-
ion and the mainstream media quickly turned and openly
derided and lampooned the jovial genre.
Nowadays, the Disco Polo genre is about as respected
as Country & Western or Smooth Jazz. Nonetheless,
Disco Polo artists continue to break album sales records
and tour regularly despite being the butt of almost
every musical joke. The truth is, while its been o cially
cool to make fun of Disco Polo for the better part of
a decade, its every red-blooded Poles guilty pleasure.
Fanatic band Wikipedia/User: FxJ/CC BY-SA 3.0
IS ALWAYS A BRILLIANT IDEA!
Katowice Mielckiego 6 tel.: +48 322 015 092
proseccobistro@gmail.com
facebook.com/proseccokatowice
OPEN DAILY
MON FRI 8.30 - 23.00
SATURDAY 12.00 24.00
SUNDAY 13.00 22.00
Nightlife Nightlife
KATOWICE FOR BEER
LOVERS
After a dozen or so hangovers (and extra trips to the
shop for bog roll), Polish beer generally leaves one with
an understanding of why vodka is so popular in Po-
land. Silesia has the honour of being home to the two
worst oenders Tyskie and ywiec which enjoy
ubiquitous national distribution and sadly also bear the
mantle of Polish beer abroad. Basically a diet of these
two gets boring fast for anyone with a real a nity for
beer. What too often goes unrealised is that Poland ac-
tually has hundreds of independent micro-breweries
that produce delicious beer. More and more bars in Ka-
towice are popping up serving ambitious brews from
tap and bottle. Some are even declaring it to be the
year of beer!
Biaa Mapa has perhaps the largest selection of draft
and bottled beers in Katowice and will even please the
fairer sex with their oerings of enhanced beers (think
berry beer, chocolate beer and lemon beer). They of-
fer a constantly changing selection of craft beers from
around the globe but with a specic emphasis on the
many Polish micro-brews gaining prominence. Beer
experts, buckle up!
Its super trendy, but the beer in ul. Mariackis Kato is
also super tasty. The selection of bottled micro-brews
is always in ux but there are plenty to choose from;
we recommend Magnus, a sweet dark beer from the
Jagieo Brewery in far eastern Poland. If youre looking
for something more local, head to Latajca winia
to try a draught from the Castle Brewery in Raciborz.
80km southeast from Katowice, Raciborz is about as
far from the city as you can go without leaving Silesia,
but Silesian beer it is, and their quality brews include a
honey lager, dark bock beer and the mysterious green
pilsner.
If you want to stack these national ales against their
Czech counterparts make sure to stop into Hospoda
and immerse yourself in a sea of Czech suds from Ko-
zel Dark to Rychtar to Radogast. If German Beer is your
thing than head to the brand new Browariat for a
bucket of Bavarias nest brew. The last of the great new
breed of beer pubs is Namaste Travelers Club which
has a solid oerring of micro-brews on tap but perhaps
the most impressive list of domestic and imported bot-
tles in the city. Na zdrowie (to your health); literally.
ADULT ENTERTAINMENT
QUEENS
This well-regarded club features two bars, one wherein
girls go-go dance on a table in the middle and it would
be di cult to stand up from some of the seats without
picking a stripper up on your shoulders. Theres also a
Jacuzzi and outdoor pool in the warmer months and
a sauna and highly suggestive massage services avail-
able year round. Queens also seems to operate an es-
cort service, making their girls, who have been charm-
ingly described as no pros, simply girls of next door,
study or are housewives, available for business and
family functions, movie dates and birthdays (their sug-
gestions). This could be the way to nally become the
cool uncle at the next family barbecue.Qul. Ceglarska
35, Gliwice (Ligota Zabrska), tel. (+48) 32 305 30
20, www.queensnightclub.pl. Open 18:00 - 05:00.
PAX
KREDENS
Stued with broken-spined books, old luggage, dusty
sewing machines and springy sofas, Kredens dishevelled
bohemian spirit wouldnt be out of place in jazzy Krakw,
where antique furnishings, candlelight and newsprint col-
lages have become par for the course. In Katowice it stands
out as one of the most interesting places in town, and one
of the few that you might actually want to return to. With a
menu of low budget eats from pierogi to pizza and shock-
ingly cheap Murphys on draft, you may not have any rea-
son to leave.QD-4, ul. w. Jacka 9. Open 08:00 - 24:00;
Fri, Sat 08:00 - 02:00. PAXW
LONGMAN CLUB
Katowices likeable London-theme pub, Longman has all
the requisite trappings, from those bloody red telephone
boxes to the double-decker bus, plus that well-deserved
pint of Guinness youve been working towards since you
made that rst fateful step into the local train station.
Theres even a menu of proper local pub grub if drinking
your dinner is ill-adviced (not by us, mind you). Weekends
see Longman come to life with scores of students descend-
ing to take advantage of the cheap alcohol and quite often
each other; keep an eye out for occassional theme parties.
QC-1, ul. Gliwicka 10, tel. (+48) 32 253 78 62, www.
longman.katowice.pl. Open 12:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 -
03:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. PABXW
MAD MICK
The requisite Hipster Burger Bar and Bistro has nally
planted its ag rmly in Silesian soil. The trend has spread
like wildre across the Polish plains and now Katowice has
its own jumping joint to boast about. Mad Mick (the ac-
tual name of the owner whose likeness doubles as their
logo) sticks to his guns and serves up thick slabs of juicy
steaks and mouth watering burgers day and night. With a
vast array of Polish/Czech microbrews and ciders to chase
down your chow of choice, settle into a comfy seat before
you meet your meat. Besides the full menu of carnivorous
treats, Mick also oers up salads, snacks, and sandwiches
and a boatload of breakfasts to boot. Their kitchen takes or-
ders up until an hour before closing. Youve been warned...
a quick early lunch can easily turn into a long late night
munch. Come early, come often. QC-3, ul. Warszawska
13, tel. (+48) 535 46 68 66. Open 11:00 - 24:00, Fri 11:00 -
02:00, Sat 12:00 - 02:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. PGSW
MAGAZYN BAR LOUNGE
This is the newest kid on the block and theyve raised the
hipness bar by a factor of 10. Head inside and the rst thing
that strikes you is the uber cool modern decor which fea-
tures a mix of semi posh plush furniture, found objects (bar-
rels and pallets), pop art and retro photography. The hang-
ing light bulb installation and beckoning hand sculptures
both literally pull you into the bar which is by far the real star.
Head to the danceoor to cut some rug then back to the bar
stocked with tonnes of high class vodkas and whiskeys to be
shot, sipped or slammed. They also have good old Grolsch
on tap for you lager lovers. Without a doubt this is the place
to be scene and herd so go get an angular haircut, slap on
an ironic t-shirt and look disinterested.QD-3, ul. Mariacka
18, tel. (+48) 668 85 95 46. Open 13:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat
15:00 - 05:00, Sun 15:00 - 23:00. AUEGW
MAY KREDENS
A great little bar in the spirit of its sister venue, full of wob-
bly furnishings, candlelight, clutter and clippings on the
wall. Less space means there are less intriguing nooks to
fold yourself into, and the slightly more central location
means it can get absolutely packed. No surprise consider-
ing May Kredens oers one of the best bar atmospheres
in Katowice, with two enormous additional incentives:
Murphys and Paulaner - on tap and at the lowest prices
weve ever seen.QD-3, ul. w. Stanisawa 5, tel. (+48) 509
49 46 51. Open 09:00 - 24:00, Fri 09:00 - 03:00, Sat 10:00
- 03:00, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. PAXW
NAMASTE TRAVELLERS CLUB
(KLUB PODRNIKW - NAMASTE)
Yet another great bar for Katowices beer acionados. They
oer a constantly uctuating cast of dierent casks pumped
out of 5 taps as well as over 120 bottles of tasty brews from
around the world. This global philosophy applies to more
than just the beer as this true travellers club organises weekly
meetings where world travellers show slides of far o places
and exotic faces. The occasional professional traveller has also
been known to pop in for a pint or two to regale the crowds
with their thrilling tales or at least hawk their latest book. Be-
sides the amazing beer they have one of the best gardens in
town to go with it. The atmosphere is always lively and ex-
ceedingly friendly so kick back on the grass, raise a brew and
make a new friend or two.QC-1, ul. Jana III Sobieskiego 27,
tel. (+48) 503 45 17 04, www.namaste.katowice.pl. Open
16:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 01:00. AGBW
SKY BAR
A display of model aeroplanes, cocktails galore and impressive
views of the city from the 27th oor of the Altus Centre mark
this interesting adventure inside the Qubus Prestige hotel out
as one worth further investigation. FYI, you can visit here for
free form Mon-Fri 10:00 - 18:00 but theres a 10z entrance fee
after 18:00 for non-hotel guests.QC-3, ul. Uniwersytecka 13
(Qubus Hotel Prestige), tel. (+48) 32 601 01 00, www.skybar.
pl. Open 18:00 - 02:00, Sat, Sun 16:00 - 02:00. PAGW
SPENCER PUB
A stylish English pub with smart wood furnishings, classic
black and whites and plenty of green, Spencer is an ideal
place to loosen the tie after a grueling week of powerpoint
presentations, whiteboard marker fumes and breathmints.
Making the decision easier is the amiable English-speaking
sta, solid line of pub grub like steaks and sh and chips,
one of the best selections of whiskey in town, and the
black gold commonly referred to as Guinness on draught.
Weekends see live bands entertaining a full house, so get
there early to get a seat.QD-3, ul. Wojewdzka 21, tel.
(+48) 32 251 54 73, www.spencerpub.com.pl. Open
12:00 - 01:00, Sat, Sun 14:00 - 01:00. PAGW
JAZZ CLUBS
HIPNOZA JAZZ CLUB
This intimate, laid-back concert venue books some of
the citys best international gigs, the reputation and
subsequent turnout for which often exceeds the size
of the space. Packed with interesting characters sitting
on truly comfortable couches and lazyboys beneath
foil-wrapped ducts and rotating psychedelic spirals
on the walls, theres also a decent food menu if you
get a snack attack. Recommended.QE-3, Pl. Sejmu
lskiego 2, tel. (+48) 32 785 71 31, www.jazzclub.
pl. Open 10:00 - 02:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 02:00.
PAUBXW
KATOFONIA
If youre looking to catch some live music in Katowice,
its worth dropping by this solid jazz and blues venue on
the high street to see whats on for the evening. From
10z entry for top touring blues rock bands to free entry
for student jazz jam ensembles, you never know wholl
be rocking the large stage in the corner of this dimly lit
bar, but the autographs of all of them are scribbled on
the wall as you head up the stairs. As you might expect,
the decor consists of guitars, trumpets and photos of
BB King on the wall, though there are a few nice touch-
es like the saxophone beer tap and drum light xtures.
Overall the vibe is chill and the crowd primarily stu-
dents and musicians supporting their pals, plus older
couples seeking a relaxed evening of entertainment. If
youre looking for a bit more of an aged and smokey
snifter sipping type of vibe, check out their new up-
stairs whisky bar (open Wed - Fri 19:00 - 01:00 and Sat
19:00 - 04:00).QD-3, ul. Mariacka 18a, tel. (+48) 32
201 01 84, www.katofonia.pl. Open 14:00 - 02:00, Fri,
Sat, Sun 16:00 - 04:00. PAEXW
Nightlife Nightlife
heads here to hike it up, let it hang out and have some real
fun. A cover gets you into this amazing multi-coloured as-
sault on the senses with strobing lights, a receded dance-
oor and a very sexy VIP section; alternatively you can escape
to the adjoining Sofa Club for a bit more space and pseudo-
sophistication. In Genesis, the music may not be cutting
edge but thats no reason not to get armpit deep in the ac-
tion, joining the neighbourhood nymphs who go epileptic
on the dance-oor deep into the pink daze of dawn.QC-2,
ul. Matejki 3, tel. (+48) 602 71 71 22, www.klubgenesis.
pl. Open Sat only: 21:00 - 04:00. PAUXW
INQBATOR
Hit them on a Saturday and youll struggle to nd a bet-
ter venue in town for electro sounds. As such its a highly
charged crowd youll nd staring into space with cartoon
smiles while repetitive beats shoot reworks into what is
left of their brain. The walls quite literally drip with sweat,
while the murky interiors look like theyve been thrown to-
gether as an afterthought by a stoned student with time
on his hands. Completely excellent.QD-3, ul. Dworcowa
2, tel. (+48) 668 37 24 33, www.inq.pl. Open Fri, Sat only:
16:00 - 06:00. AXW
KLAWIATURA KLUB KULTURALNY
Located in the space of the former Redakcja, Klawiatura has
picked up right where the former cafe and culture club left
o. In fact they havent changed the interior at all besides
adding some piano accents and splashing their slick logo
around. Appearances aside, Klawiatura focuses much more
attention on delicious food and great live music than its
predecessor ever did. Having just opened this autumn their
menu has relished the abundance of ingredients and their
kitchen has churned out all kinds of pumpkin soups, wild
mushroom pastas, and Thai eggplantok so they like to
experiment. The club has already hosted numerous con-
certs from local and international acts and judging by their
packed calendar, the future will be bright. Looks like they
got it right this time.QC-3, Al. Korfantego 6, tel. (+48)
32 203 42 33. Open 10:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00.
PAEGW
KLUB POMARACZA
Continuing the Katowice trend of mistaking a club for an
airport, this mega-fun factory just upped the ante and
went for a total redesign. Once you clear the metal detec-
tor, ample cover-charge and grabby security guards hit the
massive dance and be prepared for total sensory overload.
The oor is beset with all manner of synchronized light-
ing eects, LED Screens, smoke machines and more lasers
than the Death Star. Dancers wiggle away on platforms and
perches, lovely ladies watch from the balconies above and
couples cuddle in the plush booths all around. But this is
just the start! There are a total of 3 dance oors, 6 bars, 2
VIP sections spread over 3 oors. They claim this is one of
the most modern Dance Clubs in all of Central Europe and
its hard to disagree.QC-2, ul. Matejki 3, tel. (+48) 513 60
03 00, www.klubpomarancza.pl. Open 21:00 - 06:00.
Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. PAUXW
LEMONIADA
The cult of Lemoniada has captured Katos party crowd.
The well established club attracts ocks of would be pa-
trons willing to wait 90 minutes in a queue stretching onto
the Mariacka promenade. Professional security patiently
weeds out the impatient and the underdressed even as
VIP-card members and the moneyed whos who oat up
the stairs and through the glass door with ease. Inside, the
cellar-style labyrinth is pimped out with bright, trance-
inducing colours, the dance oor is packed wall to wall
and a team of bar sta struggles to understand shouted
orders. Velvet curtains screen o privately reserved rooms
tucked into nooks and corners all around. A passage allows
access to the Fashion TV lounge. Bring loads of cash and
your A-game.QD-3, ul. Mariacka 4, tel. (+48) 883 99 53
72, www.lemoniada.pl. Open Fri, Sat only: 22:00 - 05:00.
PAUXW
OLD TIMERS GARAGE
Much in character with the industrially eccentric nature
of Katowice, a private collector has built a shrine to clas-
sic automobiles from near and far. Old Cadillacs, a model
T-Ford, a rare Russian ZiL and even a Delorean - Great Scott!
This funky garage is no museum. It was built for bands,
with live rock or blues two or three nights a week, plus
regular theatre events and even some poetry readings
for you overachievers out there. In keeping with their vin-
tage style, the bar is bedecked in Buicks and oers a wide
variety of classic cocktails, beers and a hearty helping of
whiskeys to get your engine started. Katowice may not be
the Motor City but its got plenty of rubber soul so jump in
your roadster (or a taxi) and hit up this jumping joint. Good
ole times guaranteed!Qul. Gen. Jankego 132, tel. (+48)
605 41 84 06, www.old-timers.pl. Open 17:00 - 24:00.
AEGW
RAJZEFIBER
Theres a new king in town and just a few months after
lowering his drawbridge he already has legions of loyal
subjects crashing his castle nightly. Rajzeber has truly
achieved a rare and almost impossible feat by successfully
lling a huge gap in Katowices nightlife with serious style
and enviable ease. No other club in town has thought to
oer an ambitious lineup of great live music AND hot DJs
plus oer a menu of quick bar food and rocking cocktails.
Upon entering the second oor club for the rst time
we had the feeling wed been coming here for years. The
place was totally packed and already jumping at 19:00 on
a Saturday. When we came back at 23:00 there was a line
30 people deep waiting to get in! Theres a rising fever for
Rajzeber. QC-2, ul. 3 Maja 23/3, tel. (+48) 32 201 70 59,
www.rajzefber.com. Open 17:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 17:00 -
05:00. PAXW
MICROBREWERIES
BIERHALLE
No matter how many hangovers you endure drink-
ers will find themselves returning to the scene of the
crime, Bierhalle, time and time again. The reason for
this is the best beer in the city. Theres a number of
brews to choose from, ranging from pilsner to amber
marcowe with the wheat standing out as our personal
fave, but we encourage you to have a go at them all.
Primarily a restaurant, the design is all heavy timber,
bare brick and industrial flourishes, while efficient
staff dressed as peasant wenches work miracles hoist-
ing heavy tankards and keeping track of the deluge of
food and drink orders. You wont want to leave.QA-1,
ul. Chorzowska 107 (Silesia City Center), tel. (+48) 32
605 01 61, www.bierhalle.pl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Fri
12:00 - 23:00, Sat 11:00 - 23:00, Sun 11:00 - 21:00.
PAUGW
SPI
Few places have reinvented themselves so fully and
completely in recent memory then Spi. In 2011 the
storied dance brewery shuttered their doors for a reno-
vation. At some point one of the powers that be ended
up on a plane to Ibiza and the decision was made to
purchase a sound system and light display that would
make David Guetta go deaf and blind. In a year and a
half s time the massive two floor club was given a face-
lift, tummy tuck and a boob job and what youll find
inside will literally blow your mind. They claim its the
most modern night club in Poland and from the looks
of it they arent just blowing smoke (machines)... If you
consider yourself a fan of serious clubbing and great
beer - it is your destiny to dance here.. till you cant
hear... for a year.QC-1, ul. Opolska 22, tel. (+48) 32 781
11 32, www.spiz.pl. Open 21:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon,
Tue, Sun. PAUXW
RUBA I PRZYJACIELE
Katowices o cial dive bar seems to be one of the last sauce-
slingers standing on what was once a street full of sleaze and
spirits. Three basic brick rooms with chairs on the ceiling, shot
glasses and ashtrays glued upside down above the bar, darts
and small garden out back, this rocker bar of friends throw-
ing their hair to Aerosmith, Korn and Polish punk bands is
a great place to meet people you wont remember in the
morning.QD-3, ul. Mariacka 16, tel. (+48) 504 06 79 03.
Open 10:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 03:00. BXW
WCIEKY PIES
Full of bare bricks and dangling chains, drawings of blood-
drinking rottweilers and other canines too menacing to be
kitsch, its a pretty docile atmosphere for a place desper-
ate to bare its teeth. The streetside terrace never seems to
be open and its mostly couples drinking the cheap beer
in the basement bar interior which has absolutely no ro-
mantic value, leaving one to wonder whos going to drink
all those 6z mad dog shots. Drop the leash, please.QC-2,
ul. Sowackiego 16, tel. (+48) 698 63 56 16. Open 15:00 -
23:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 02:00. ABX
CLUBS
CLUB GARAGE
Essentially three venues in one, Club Garage is the agship
of the enormous underground entertainment centre that
also includes the Krgielnia Galaktyka bowling club and
Black 8 billiards hall (see Leisure for both). Designed with
a clever-corny automotive theme, the dozens of actual car
seats remounted on platforms, plus a mock convertible
you can actually climb inside with a drink are nice touch-
es, though theres nothing original about the ubiquitous
chrome, leather, license plates and airbrushed corvettes on
the walls. Tons of seating, a large stage and a dance-oor
with a projector make Garage a versatile venue for concerts
and weekend student rave-ups.QC-1, ul. Dbrwki 10,
tel. (+48) 32 781 08 60, www.clubgarage.pl. Open 17:00
- 24:00, Fri, Sat 17:00 - 04:00. PAXW
GENESIS MUSIC & DANCE CLUB
Genesis has grown up a bit without really changing at all.
While the shenanigans next door at Pomaracza now si-
phon o most of the students, a slightly more mature crowd
ul. Mariacka
Courtesy of Katowice City Council.
in its hand and the Nazis probably snatched it from here
as they rumbled east to the capital. And while the Sovi-
ets returned with it after the war, destroying many of the
buildings on the Rynek in the 1950s to make room for their
modern monuments to concrete, for example, it was pre-
destined that Katowice would never be belle of the ball. A
blue collar city to this day, Katowice and its neighbours in
Upper Silesia were born into the working class, growing up
during the industrial revolution and put to work in sooty
mine shafts, factories and railway yards. The areas history
is inextricably entwined with the manufacture of coal and
steel and the stacks, shafts, slag heaps and massive waves
of migrants that followed the discovery of the regions
mineral resources. As such, any mention of tourism in the
district is usually preceded by the word, industrial. Indeed
the derelict factories and foundries, blackened chimneys
and abandoned maintenance yards of Silesias industrial
boom represent the hulking bulk of Silesias tourist oer-
ings, and the region is ripe for renegade tourists eager to
explore evidence of a bygone era. Those interested in in-
dustrial tourism are advised to get their creased hands on
a copy of Silesias Industrial Monuments Route - which can
be picked up free of charge in any Silesian tourist informa-
tion o ce - and while weve covered many of the entailed
sites in this very guide, the region has plenty more to oer
than we have space to include here.
Katowice, for its part, has become a growing business cen-
tre as youll glean from the glittering capitalist monoliths
built in recent decades. Those seeking more conventional
interpretations of the word attraction will nd plenty of
churches including Christ the King Cathedral - the coun-
trys largest, one of the best museums in southern Poland
in the Katowice Historical Museum, and anyone paying
attention will notice a number of discreetly handsome
townhouses, particularly along ulica 3-go Maja between
the Rynek (C-3) and Plac Wolnoci (C-1). Conventional
charm has obviously never been a strength of Katowice,
however, as best evidenced by the bonkers Spodek build-
ing (B-3). Yes, its always been the shaft (literally) for Kato-
wice, and while being a tourist in this city may feel a bit like
getting dressed for the theatre and ending up at a Board
of Education meeting, we hope you enjoy it for its oddi-
ties, and remember that some things look most beautiful
through beer goggles.
Katowice cannot be described as a booming tourist des-
tination by any stretch of the imagination. However the
city, and indeed the entire Silesian Metropolis continues
to steadily add interesting museums and attractions to a
growing list of eclectic and just downright odd sites that
make this city absolutely unique. Nope you wont nd a
castle, or palaces, nor any hip bohemian districts either. Uh,
no, no ancient ruins. No Old Town per say. But what you
will nd is a boatlad of Industrial Tourism that will take you
literally underground and through the abandoned factory
oors that was once the booming heart of Polands Indus-
trial Revolution. As you will undoubtedly notice (careful
where you step!) Katowice is also in the throes of a mas-
sive renovation and revitalization project that will result in
a literal face-lift and a heart transplant of the city center.
Though the end is nally beginning to come into view and
a new Katowice is on the horizon, construction is constant
and rubble is rampant. So as you explore the city just re-
mind yourself of the old adage Beauty is in the eye of the
beholder.
No, Katowice wont be winning any European beauty pag-
eants any time soon (our guess is 2018), and unlike other
urban casualties (hello to our friends in Warsaw), the city
cant claim to have been beaten by the Ugly Stick during
World War II. No, Katowice was born with that heirloom
Essential Katowice
Oko Miasta Courtesy of Katowice City Council.
Spodek Courtesy of Katowice City Council.
Guido Mineshaft Courtesy of Katowice City Council.
Katowice
Sightseeing
INDUSTRIALLY DESIGNED & THOROUGHLY MINED,
THIS DYNAMIC CITY IS WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED
Cou Cou Cou Cou ourte rr sy off Kat Katowi o ce eeeeee Cit City C y Coun ouncil cil cil il cil..
Sightseeing Sightseeing
CEMETERIES
KATOWICE JEWISH CEMETERY
(CMENTARZ YDOWSKI)
Established in 1868, Katowices Jewish Cemetery (just
west of D-1 on our map) is one of the citys oldest burial
grounds and contains almost 1,500 graves. Largely de-
stroyed by the Germans and their henchmen during
WWII, today a Holocaust memorial inside remembers
those who lost their lives to Nazi genocide. Like many
Jewish cemeteries in PL today, Katowices in a state of
utter disrepair. Though purportedly still in use, rumours
that the site is undergoing renovation works will appear
completely baseless to anyone who visits and sees the
crumbling walls and strands of barbed wire surrounding
the site, beyond which graves are barely visible beneath
the overgrowth of weeds, vines and tall grass. A sad testa-
ment to the history and present state of Katowices Jew-
ish community, gaining access to this necropolis through
proper channels is almost impossible without prior ar-
rangement, you can pick up the key from someone in the
Jewish community so call ahead to arrange a meeting.
Once you get in, the cemetery oers little more than an
occasion for some depressing thoughts and grim photos
if you have a camera with a good zoom lens.QD-1, ul.
Kozielska 16, tel. (+48) 32 253 77 42. Open by prior ar-
rangement.
only single corner tower on any church in the city, hides
a sumptuous Art Deco interior including some ne sculp-
tures, pews, lamps and stained glass. The church is also no-
table as being Katowices o cial garrison church.QD-2, ul.
M. Skodowskiej-Curie 20, tel. (+48) 32 251 35 11. Open
06:45 - 09:00, Sun 06:45 - 12:00.
ST. MARYS CHURCH (KOCI MARIACKI)
Katowices oldest existing Catholic parish church was built
from Silesian dolomite, not the usual red brick, between
1862 and 1870 to a design by the famous Breslau (Wrocaw)
architect Alexis Langer. Originally planned on a far grander
scale than it was eventually built, the 43m-long, 31m-wide
neo-Gothic building features an eye-catching, trademark
Langer 71m octagonal tower and a feast of good things
inside. The altar in the transept supposedly dates from the
15th century, whilst the wonderful stained glass windows
on either side of the nave representing sin and virtue are
the work of Adam Bunsch (1896-1969). The Chapel of the
Holy Sacrament includes a likeness of Father Emil Szramek
in traditional Silesian dress. Szramek was the parish priest
from 1926 until his arrest by the Gestapo in April 1940. Sent
to a number of concentration camps including Dachau,
where he quickly became a spiritual leader for other incar-
cerated Silesian priests, he was murdered on January 13,
1942.QD-4, Pl. ks. Emila Szramka 1, tel. (+48) 32 258 77
44, www.mariacki.wiara.org.pl. Open 07:00 - 19:00.
WOODEN CHURCHES
CHURCH OF ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL
(KOCI W. MICHAA ARCHANIOA)
Like the other wooden church of note in the area, this one,
which also happens to be the oldest ecclesiastic building in
Katowice, began life elsewhere, in this case in neighbouring
Syrynia way back in 1510. Moved to Katowice in 1938, and
worth a trip to Park im. Tadeusza Kociuszki where it can be
found for that reason alone, access inside is usually denied
by a security guard, meaning that the 17th-century pulpit,
late Gothic 16th-century sculpture of the Holy Mother and
Child from Dbiesko and 17th-century belfry must be real
treasures indeed. Contact the Katowice Historical Museum
to arrange a private tour or just show up on Sunday for the
12:00 Mass.QG-1, ul. Kociuszki 112, tel. (+48) 32 205 40
61, www.mhk.katowice.pl. Open from dawn till dusk. No
visiting during mass please.
MONUMENTS
JZEF PISUDSKI
The work of the Croatian sculptor Antun Augustini (1900-
1979), most famously remembered for his Monument of
Peace sculpture outside the UN headquarters in New York,
the dashing statue of Polands greatest modern military
hero dates from before WWII but didnt make it to Poland
until the collapse of Polish Communism, a system in which
Pisudski was strictly taboo. Shipped from its creators Croa-
tian museum in 1990 and renovated before nally being
placed where it is today in 1993, the statue sees our hero
RED ARMY CEMETERY
(CMENTARZ ONIERZY ARMII CZERWONEJ)
Moved to its current location at the far southern end of Park
im. Tadeusza Kociuszki to make way for the city-centre
Silesian Insurgents Monument in 1967, this small Red Army
Cemetery is surprisingly well kept compared to similar
cemeteries in Poland. The nal resting place of about 300
Soviet soldiers who gave their lives in the liberation of Ka-
towice from the Germans in 1945, check out the hammer
and sickle fence around the perimeter and the small me-
morial in the centre regularly garnished with fresh owers.
QPark Tadeusza Kociuszki (Brynw).
CHURCHES
CHRIST THE KING CATHEDRAL
(KATEDRA CHRYSTUSA KRLA)
Building work began on Zygmunt Gawlik and Franciszek
Mczyskis impressive neo-Classical Cathedral on June 5,
1927 with the digging of a symbolic spade of dirt, although
it wasnt until October 30, 1955 that it was nally conse-
crated. A series of minor hiccups including WWII and some
typical interference from the post-war communist regime
meant that there was no shortage of setbacks for arguably
whats the most beautiful building in the city and, some-
what surprisingly, the largest cathedral in Poland. Its rst 12
years leading up to the outbreak of the war saw the walls
go up and little else, with the end of hostilities heralding a
new burst of activity numbering some six years and involv-
ing the arrest of the parish priest, the local bishops being
thrown out of the diocese and a communist-approved
priest brought in to supervise the buildings completion.
The latters legacy to the Cathedral was his decision to al-
ter the design of the dome, dropping it by some 38m from
its original design and turning what promised to be a truly
splendid looking church into something a little more com-
pact and comical. In 1957 the displaced bishops returned,
and during the period 1962-65 the interior was adapted to
the way it more or less appears today. Although somewhat
plain, the interior is truly breathtaking. Of particular inter-
est is St. Barbaras Chapel on the left-hand side of the nave.
The patron saint of miners, Gerard Grzywaczyks sculpture
of Barbara overlooks an altar made from coal and a monu-
ment to lost miners. Hidden away above the large dome
are ve bells, of which the largest weighs in at a mammoth
3.5 tonnes. The monument of Pope John Paul II outside
commemorates the late church leaders visit to the Cathe-
dral in June 1983, and a new chapel inside was recently
consecrated in his name.QE-2, ul. Plebiscytowa 49a, tel.
(+48) 32 251 21 96, www.parafa.katedralna.katowice.
opoka.org.pl. Open 06:30 - 19:00, Sun 07:00 - 19:00 No
visiting during mass please.
GARRISON CHURCH OF ST. CASIMIR
(KOCI W. KAZIMIERZA)
Polands rst Functionalist Catholic church, Leon Dietz
dArmy and Jan Zarzyckis breathtakingly simple design is
worthy of further investigation. Built between 1930 and
1933, the plain exterior, which can also claim to have the
TOURS
PTTK KATOWICE
Feeling a bit lost or uncertain about Katowice? Take
a guided tour with the citys one and only English-
speaking guide and get an inside perspective on what
Katowice has to oer (sometimes you need a second
opinion). Demand for the service being what it is, drop-
ping by the o ce wont do; ring PTTK to make an ar-
rangement and youll probably make their day as well.
Services available year round.QC-3, ul. Rynek 13, tel.
(+48) 32 253 03 62, www.pttk.katowice.pl. Open
09:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:15 - 16:00. Closed Sun.
SILESIATRIP.PL
Silesia Trip is a useful and comprehensive way to com-
fortably explore much of the region around Katowice.
Oering pick-up services from both the Katowice and
Krakw airports, Silesia Trip has a plethora of tours, lo-
cales, and sights included in their itineraries, including
everyday trips to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Tyskie Brew-
ery. Tours are available in English, Polish and Russian and
are targeted for those who have a particular interest in
the history, culture and people of Eastern Silesia. Their
multi-lingual website lists all the details. They may be
changing their o ce location this spring so check their
website rst if you plan on paying them a visit.QC-3,
Rynek 13, tel. (+48) 502 11 63 31, www.silesiatrip.pl.
Open 09:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun.
Sightseeing Sightseeing
MUSEUMS
KATOWICE HISTORICAL MUSEUM
(MUZEUM HISTORII KATOWIC)
This outstanding museum showcasing some of the more
interesting aspects of the life and times of the city and its
people is divided into three main sections. Wearing a pair
of silly slippers provided in the price of the ticket, wander
the well thought-out rooms on three oors including a su-
perb recreation of house interiors of the middle and upper
classes of the city from 20, 50 and 100 years ago, a ne his-
tory of the city in all its good and bad forms from its origins
until the present day and a small gallery of religious art.
Sadly the exhibits remain in Polish only, but thanks either to
the cleverness of the curators or maybe just by sheer uke,
most of the things on display make a lot of sense. One of
the best museums in southern Poland, and well worth
visiting when youre in the city.QD-4, ul. Szafranka 9, tel.
(+48) 32 256 18 10, www.mhk.katowice.pl. Open 10:00
- 17:30, Tue, Thu 10:00 - 15:00, Sat, Sun 11:00 - 14:00.
Closed Mon. Admission 8/4z, family ticket 12z. Sat free.
Guided tours 12z per person.
SILESIAN MUSEUM (MUZEUM LSKIE)
Housed inside a glorious neo-Renaissance turn of the cen-
tury hotel, the Silesia Museum dates back to the 1920s and
oers a glimpse into the regions archaeology, ethnography
and history by way of a number of temporary and perma-
nent exhibitions over three oors. As well as the usual glass
cases full of bones and pots, particularly outstanding and
not to be missed is the Gallery of Polish Painting 1800-1945,
showcasing some of the nest Polish artists of the 19th and
20th century, including no less than ve paintings by the
countrys great creative genius Stanisaw Wyspiaski. Since it
moved into the Grand Hotel in 1984, the tenure of the Silesia
Museum has always been considered temporary and the re-
location of the collection to a new site that is currently under
construction on the former grounds of the Katowice Coal
Mine is planned for early 2014 (at the earliest).QC-3, Al. Ko-
rfantego 3, tel. (+48) 32 258 56 61, www.muzeumslaskie.
pl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 19:00, Fri 12:00 - 16:00,
Sat 12:00 - 18:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Last en-
trance 30 minutes before closing. Admission 12/7z for
all exhibits, 9/5z for temporary exhibits only, 6/4z for
permanent exhibits only. Sat free for permanent exhibits.
PLACES OF INTEREST
PARACHUTE TOWER
(WIEA SPADOCHRONOWA)
Originally 50 metres tall, the parachute tower was built
in 1937 for the training of parachute jumpers, however it
found its place in the Polish national consciousness when
for two days in 1939, Silesian scouts defended the city of
Katowice from this tower. Exchanging re with German
troops into the evening of September 4th, the tower was
nally destroyed when the foul-playing Germans used an
antitank gun to rid themselves of the darn kids. The tower
that stands in the park now is a 35m reconstruction of the
original and the only parachute tower in Poland today. The
scouts heroic defence of the tower, doomed as it was, grew
so legendary that it became the literary subject of poems
and songs. A granite obelisk commemorates their brief but
noble ascent into adulthood atop that fabled tower.QF/L-
1, Park Tadeusza Kociuszki.
RYNEK (MARKET SQUARE)
Until recently, one could easily be forgiven for standing in the
middle of the market square and trying to nd the market
square. At the moment, you cant stand in it at all as the entire
area is one enormous construction site. While inconvenient,
the current mess should portend good things to come for
Katowice. Before work got underway, Katowices Rynek was
basically a large tra c roundabout and tram stop surround-
ed by a faded collection of mis-matched buildings in archi-
tectural styles that had mostly fallen out of favour, if they ever
engendered any enthusiasm to begin with. For years the city
has known that turning its market square into, you know, an
actual market square would be a crucial step toward becom-
ing a respectable Polish city and a plan to modernise and
pedestrianise the Rynek that has apparently been in place
since 2008 is now nally being put into action. The rst step is
the modernising of the Soviet-era monstrosity at ul. Myska
that uglies up an entire block of the Rynek and transforming
it into the new City Hall. That work has recently been com-
pleted and is a huge improvement, though work on the mar-
ket square itself looks like it will continue indenitely. Note
that the Ryneks construction has thrown public transit o
signicantly, so tourists should check their routes online at
rozklady.kzkgop.pl (there is an English version).QC-3.
SILESIAN PARLIAMENT
(GMACH SEJMU LSKIEGO)
A standing testament to Katowices short-lived golden
age, the Silesian Parliament complex covers an entire city
block between Jagielloska, Reymonta, Ligonia and Lompy
streets and was the largest structure in PL before Stalin
gifted Warsaw with a certain monstrosity. Completed in
1929, the Parliament complex served as the governing
seat of Silesia after the province was inexplicably granted
autonomy following WWI. Unfortunately Hitler failed to ob-
serve the regions sovereignty when he reclaimed it for the
Reich after a short 19 years of self-government. After WWII,
the new Polish government stripped Silesia of its prestige,
confused by how Katowice could possibly have ever been
considered the second capital of PL, however briey. To-
day the Parliament buildings still house the o ces of the
Silesian Voivodeship, though many have changed function
and more still are solely occupied by wistful memories of
bygone days.QE-3, Plac Sejmu lskiego.
SPODEK
In 1958 the Association of Polish Architects ran a competition
to design a new stadium in Katowice. Won by a Warsaw com-
pany and designed by Maciej Gintowt and Maciej Krasiski,
the resulting Wojewdzka Hala Widowiskowo-Sportowa w
Katowicach (translating something like Katowice Province
Spectator & Sports Arena) was built in stages between 1964
astride a stallion when its a well known fact he always fa-
voured his mare, Kasztanka (Chestnut). Originally planned
to form the centrepiece of a series of statues relating to
the Silesian insurgents which never came to being, the
monuments sword vanished in 1994 and was later found
in some nearby bushes by a bunch of nosy kids.QD-3, Pl.
Chrobrego.
SILESIAN INSURGENTS MONUMENT
(POMNIK POWSTACW LSKICH)
Supposedly the largest and heaviest monument in Poland,
this vast bronze edice is one of Katowices most famous
landmarks, commemorating the three post-WWI Polish
armed uprisings against the German authorities of Upper
Silesia in 1919, 1920 and 1921. The monument symbolizes
the heroism and sacrice of the insurgents with an enor-
mous bronze wing for each uprising. Designed by Gustaw
Zema and erected on the site of the citys Red Army ceme-
tery in 1967, the monument was assembled from 350 parts
and weighs a hulking 61 tonnes. The highest wing reaches
14 metres tall, making it the tallest monument in PL if you
disqualify the 32-metre high Wujek memorial cross on the
other side of town and probably a dozen other monuments
in the country. But give it a push, its heavy.QB-3, Al. Ko-
rfantego.
SILESIAN SCOUTS MONUMENT
(POMNIK HARCERZY WRZENIA)
When the commander of the Polish Army retreated from
the region to avoid entrapment on September 2nd 1939,
Katowice was left in the hands of these strapping young
volunteers - the Polish boy and girl scouts. Establishing
critical defence posts throughout the city, the out-num-
bered, ill-equipped and inexperienced scouts repelled the
advancing Germans for two days in a valiant, if ultimately
suicidal eort to protect the city. This monument in front
of the hideous Silesia Hotel remembers and honours their
martyrdom. Designed by Micha Brachmaski, the bronze
sculpture stands 4.5 by 4.1 metres and depicts four scouts
stepping out of a broken wall with the inscription, All that
is ours to give, we shall give to Poland.QC-3, Pl. Obron-
cw Katowic.
and 1971, and at 246,624 square metres is the one of the
largest, certainly one of the strangest and, to some, the most
beautiful piece of reinforced concrete in Poland. Nicknamed
Latajcy Spodek (Flying Saucer) the building was originally
going to be built in the Park of Culture & Recreation but be-
cause of its avant-garde appearance nally landed in the city
centre. Holding 11,000 people part of the building was in use
in 1969, though the grand opening only took place on May
9, 1971. The reason for this delay was simple - in their wis-
dom the designers had picked a landsite suering medium
mine damage. That meant the possibility of cave-ins and
collapse so the building was road-tested by 3,500 stamping
(and dare we say it, nervous) soldiers. Given the thumbs-up
by equally relieved engineers the building has been inspiring
and amusing people ever since. A popular basketball venue
(it hosted the nal stages of EuroBasket 2009), Spodek is also
Katowices number one place for international rock con-
certs, having hosted a disparate collection of stars including
Charles Aznavour, Metallica, Depeche Mode and Robbie Wil-
liams over the years. Today it also houses the Olympic Spodek
hotel, and according to urban legend, the classic tune from
Spielbergs Close Encounters of the Third Kind plays every
time the buildings lights go on. Given the circumstances we
can hardly say the claim sounds far-fetched.QB-3, Al. Kor-
fantego 35, tel. (+48) 32 258 32 61, www.spodek.eu.
THE KAROL SZYMANOWSKI ACADEMY OF
MUSIC (AKADEMIA MUZYCZNA IM. KAROLA
SZYMANOWSKIEGO)
By virtue of being one of the handful of aesthetically pleas-
ing buildings in Katowice, the citys Music Academy was
recently voted by locals as one of their top ve favourite
things about Kato. This handsome red brick neo-Gothic
building was built at the turn of the century, and in addition
to its good looks is also home to the most modern concert
hall and the largest music library in the country. One of the
leading music schools in PL, it can claim well-known con-
temporary composer Henryk Grecki, who both studied
and later taught at the academy, as its most famous alma
mater. If you are interested in a tour of the building call
ahead to arrange a time. Also, make sure to check their con-
cert schedule to catch what will surely be an unforgettable
musical experience. But tickets are usually scarce so make
sure you reserve a ticket in advance.QD-4, ul. Zacisze 3,
tel. (+48) 32 779 21 00, www.am.katowice.pl.
TOURIST INFORMATION
CITY INFORMATION OFFICE
With a several-storey, blinking blue and yellow neon
sign, Katowices City Information O ce is hard to miss
and isnt it just downright adorable to see them trying
so hard? The super-friendly sta can oer time-killing
suggestions in English or German and they stock a
range of materials about the many things youll prob-
ably never see or do across Silesia. Free maps and lots
of information on daily cultural events, as well as three
new computers.QC/D-3, ul. Rynek 13, tel. (+48) 32
259 38 08, www.katowice.eu. Open 09:00 - 18:00,
Sat 09:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun.
Courtesy of Katowice City Council.
Nikiszowiec & Giszowiec
Silesian Suburbs
Prospective foreign travellers putting together their Polish tourist itineraries have
a tendency to regard Katowice and the greater Silesian Metropolis surrounding it
as an acne-scarred unwanted stepchild. However what few people know is that
this is one of the most dynamically developing regions in all of Poland with a lot
to oer the open minded tourist, businessman and post-industrial enthusiast.
This section takes you on a guided tour of Silesias most interesting Suburbs,
Towns and Cities starting o right in Katowices backyard - Nikiszowiec.
The former workers districts of Nikiszowiec and Giszow-
iec are home to some highly unique early 20th century
architecture as well as an excellent modern art gallery, a
magnicent church and a few additional obeat attrac-
tions. These two forgotten attempts at plebeian paradise
are earmarked on Silesias Industrial Monuments Route
(available at all Silesian tourist information o ces) and of-
fer intrepid visitors a confounding, yet fascinating glimpse
at a foregone age. These neighbourhoods are slowly com-
ing back to life as cafes and bars are creeping in and more
and more curious tourists are poking around. Pack yourself
a lunch, grab your camera, and o you go.
NIKISZOWIEC
From the Wilson Gallery it is a short eight minute walk
(or one busstop) down ul. Szopienicka into Nikiszowiec
proper; youll know it by its uniquely uniform architec-
ture, gruesome water tower, leering smokestacks and the
church spire marking its centre. Make a left onto ul. Zoi
Nakowskiej (towards Eurohotel and the ice rink complex)
and then your rst right to o cially enter the district on ul.
Rymarska and youll pass the new Tourist Information
O ce inside a recently unveiled branch of the Katowice
Historical Museum at number 4. Here you can pick up
a handy free map as well as other information about the
district. The museum illustrates the everyday lives of the
regions miners and other blue-collar folks through a series
of ethnographic exhibits, including an interesting gallery of
painting by Nikiszowiecs renowned Janowska Group, and
shouldnt be missed.
Built between 1908 and 1912 to house workers in the
backyard of their place of employment - the large smoke-
churning Wieczorek (formerly Giesche) coal mine - the
enclosed residential complex of Nikiszowiec is composed
of six compact four-sided three-storey blocks with inner
courtyards. Distinguished by its uniformity of style - red
brick buildings accented with red-painted windowfram-
ing, and narrow streets joined by handsome arcades - the
neighbourhood was designed by Georg and Emil Zillman
of Berlin-Charlottenburg to be a completely self-su cient
community for 1,000 workers with a school, hospital, police
station, post o ce, swimming pool, bakery and church.
Thanks to WWI and the subsequent Silesian Uprisings -
during which time Nikiszowiec saw erce ghting, and was
afterwards incorporated into Poland - St. Annes Church
(Pl. Wyzwolenia 21) wasnt able to be nished until 1927,
but became the crowning glory of the neighbourhood as
soon as it was. Though it would ironically seem be a social-
ist planners wet dream, Nikiszowiec actually makes a hap-
py, handsome departure from the communist botch-job of
downtown Katowice and has become a prized location for
amateur photographers and budding lmmakers due to
the fact that it has remained virtually unchanged since the
Second World War. City marketers have also recognised the
districts uniqueness with increasing eorts to draw tourist
attention to the area and a campaign afoot to fasten Niki-
szowiec to the UNESCO Heritage List. Though the district is
generally safe to wander, you should still exercise sensible
precautions about where you stick both your nose and that
fancy new digital camera; and who you do it in front of.
Despite supposedly being a self-su cient community that
has now grown to over 7,000 people, bars, restaurants and
other indoor places to refuel or pass some time are shock-
ingly few and far between in Nikiszowiec. The relatively
recent opening of the districts rst restaurant - SITG (ul.
Krawczyka 1) - is an absolute godsend, otherwise youd
best pack a lunch or head on to Giszowiec where youll nd
several cheap places to eat. To get there, head back to ul.
Szopienicka and catch the bus for a few stops until you ar-
rive at the next populated area.
GETTING THERE
Tourists should plan on rst visiting Nikiszowiec
(8km/15min from the city centre), the closer and more
compelling of the two districts, before continuing on
to Giszowiec (10km/20min away) as time and interest
allow. Getting there is simple: Take bus 674 from the
Katowice Train Station (D-3) or we recommend catch-
ing bus 30 from Al. Korfantego in front of the Katowice
Hotel (H-3); the more direct and straightforward of
the three routes, this also allows you to get o right
at the stop named Nikiszowiec Szyb Wilson. Though
o the map in our guide, both districts are still within
Zone 1 of Katowices public transport network, mean-
ing passengers only need a normal 3,20z fare ticket.
All of the above-mentioned buses can be caught at
stops in Giszowiec or Nikiszowiec and taken back into
town. There are also random minibuses that run regu-
larly between Giszowiec and Katowices market square
(Rynek). These buses stop at all Giszowiecs busstops,
but youll have to ap your arm at them to get them to
pick you up. The fare is a negligible 2-5z and the drivers
are exible with dropos along their route.
Co Co Cou Cou ou ou ou ou CCo rte rte rt rte rte esy sy sy syy of of off of Kat Kat Kat Kat Ka ow owi owi ow owi w cce ce ce e cc Cit CCCCC y CC y CC y C yy Cou oun oun oun un oun ouncil il.
Courtesy of Katowice City Council
Nikiszowiec & Giszowiec Nikiszowiec & Giszowiec
ST. ANNES CHURCH (KOCI W. ANNY)
A welcome diversion from the smokestacks dominating
the rooine of the districts other side, this magnicent
building incorporates Baroque design with two bell towers
and a timepieced steeple, while blending into its surround-
ings without any of the ghastly and gratuitous exterior
decoration associated with the style; make sure you take a
stroll down ul. w. Anny for the most photogenic views. If
youre lucky enough to get inside, take notice of the amaz-
ing 5,350 pipe organ and highly ornate Zillman chandelier.
QPl. Wyzwolenia 21 (Nikiszowiec), tel. (+48) 32 356 96
22, www.sw-anna.wiara.org.pl. Open 08:00 - 18:00, Sun
08:00 - 17:00. No visiting during mass please.
WILSON SHAFT GALLERY
(GALERIA SZYB WILSON)
Just north of the centre of Nikiszowiec (3km by o cial mea-
sure), this seemingly obscure and certainly under appreci-
ated modern art gallery is arguably Katowices best art space
and one of the primary highlights of a trip to Nikiszowiec. Lo-
cated in the pithead building and bathhouse of the old Wil-
son shaft of the Wieczorek mine, the buildings now occupied
by the gallery date back to 1918, and were designed by the
same Zillman brother tandem behind the Nikiszowiec hous-
ing district. The dilapidated mineshaft, where excavations
began back in 1864, can still be seen in glorious ruin behind
the gallery buildings, having ceased operation in 1997. Taken
over by the Pro Inwest company and adapted into exhibi-
tion and o ce spaces, the area around the Wilson shaft is
now lled with brightly-painted outdoor sculptures in sharp
contrast to the industrial surroundings, as well as a muraled
entrance wall full of colourful pop culture icons (making it
hard to miss). The gallery itself comprises an impressive 2,500
square metres divided into three halls, the largest of which
wouldnt look dissimilar to a gymnasium if the installation art
was swapped for basketball hoops. Full of seriously bonkers,
yet compellingly high quality sculpture, graphic and instal-
lation art by both local and international artists, exhibitions
change regularly with permanent installations - some dis-
turbing, some playful, some political - hidden throughout
the dozens of small nooks spidering throughout the build-
ing. The closest thing to a contemporary art museum in Ka-
towice, its an admirable and highly recommendable venue
where the security guards are noticeably as passionate about
the art as the owners must be. Not only is it admission free,
but the mini-buet here is the only eating option in the
district aside from SITG - a banquet hall prone to wedding
parties. To get there jump o bus 30 at the Nikiszowiec Szyb
Wilson stop on ul. Szopienicka, or bus 920 at the Janw Os-
wobodzenia stop on ul. Lwowska.Qul. Oswobodzenia 1
(Nikiszowiec), tel. (+48) 32 730 32 20, www.szybwilson.
org. Open 09:00 - 19:00. Admission free.
GISZOWIEC
While Nikiszowiec is a refreshing, at times fascinating, high-
ly photogenic adventure out of downtown Katowice, we
cant pretend to promote the same thing about its fraternal
twin Giszowiec. While equally unique and unexpected, un-
INDUSTRIAL ETHNOGRAPHY MUSEUM
(MUZEUM HISTORII KATOWIC,
DZIA ETNOLOGII MIASTA)
Located in Nikiszowiec, this recently opened branch of the
Katowice Historical Museum is unique in its emphasis on
ethnography and folk culture, approaching the topic from an
urban, rather than rural, perspective. A collection of artefacts
and cultural assets tells the everyday stories of Upper Silesias
working class (primarily miners) from the period of early in-
dustrial development (mid-19th century) to the 1960s. More
specically youll see evidence of how this large demographic
has lived, worked and celebrated over the years through
exhibits of clothing, ceremonial costumes, tools, household
items, religious objects and art. A separate permanent exhibit
narrows in on the Janowska Group - a collection of Nikiszow-
iec miners including Theophilus Ociepka, Paul Sparrow, Erwin
Swka and Ewald Gawlik (more of Gawliks work can be seen
in two Giszowiec galleries) who gained renown for their
painting. The helpful Nikiszowiec tourist info centre is also in
the building.Qul. Rymarska 4 (Nikiszowiec), tel. (+48) 32
353 95 59, www.mhk.katowice.pl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sat,
Sun 11:00 - 15:00. Closed Mon Last entrance 30 minutes
before closing. Admission 8/4z, family ticket 12z. Sat free.
like Nikiszowiec, Giszowiec simply isnt what it once was.
Thats not to say there arent a few places of note, however.
Another workers colony from the same sibling pair behind
Nikiszowiec, in the case of Giszowiec the Zillmans took a
completely dierent conceptual approach, designing an
ideal garden city for local miners based on the ideas of
famous British urban planner Ebenezer Howard. Modelled
on rural English cottages, the original dwellings of Giszow-
iec are low, freestanding, sloped roof houses surrounded
by garden plots. Built between 1906 and 1910, the neigh-
bourhood was arranged as a web of streets extending
from Plac Pod Lipami - the central square surrounded by
public buildings, shops, a restaurant, school and tavern. The
project included a public laundry, a womens bathhouse,
theatre, quarantine barracks for the diseased, a prison and
a strict set of guidelines to ensure the precious English vil-
lage atmosphere wouldnt be lost; these included statutes
governing everything from which garden plants could be
grown to which animals could be kept. Possession of a
goat, for instance, would be enough to see you expelled
from this Utopian colony. Originally built for workers at the
Wieczorek coal mine, when the new Staszic coal mine
opened nearby in 1964 additional dwellings had to be pro-
vided and the minds of the day decided to demolish their
ideal garden city in favour of ten-storey apartment blocks
fashioned out of pre-cast concrete slabs (as you do). The
result was the labyrinth of hideous tower blocks you see
when you arrive at Giszowiec today. In 1978 the destruction
was stopped when some clever conservator decided to try
and enter the urban structure of Giszowiec into the Registry
of Historic Places; he succeeded, but only after two-thirds
of the original buildings had been demolished, the charm
of the remaining third being utterly overshadowed by the
soulless new buildings surrounding them. As such, a trip to
Giszowiec today entails steeling your stomach through the
maze of concrete monoliths at its northern edge in order
to reach the centre square where youll nd the Munici-
pal Cultural Centre and Dworek Pod Lipami restaurant
(food?!) sharing the main building, as well as the Gaw-
likwka - a small gallery dedicated to the art of late native
folk painter Ewald Gawlik. En route youll pass a few of the
original cottage dwellings, and while well admit theyre
charming, if youve ever seen a rural residential neighbour-
hood during your lifetime, theres not a whole lot to remark
about them (O look, this one has owers. O look, this one
looks just like that one!). Undoubtedly the most interest-
ing building in the area is the old schoolhouse at Pl. Pod
Lipami 2, which still functions as a kindergarten. With a
metal stag head and cross (Jagermeister, anyone?) adorn-
ing the clock-tower and yard full of playground equipment,
the building possesses a spooky evocative power, particu-
larly at nightfall when the clock-face suddenly becomes as
luminous as a full moon.
The afore-mentioned Gawlikwka at Plac Pod Lipami 3 is
also worth a quick visit; if Gawliks canvases of rural Silesian
life capture your interest, here you can pick up a map of all
the places youll nd them hidden in the district. Curiously
enough, the largest collection is inside a tiny hairdresser
at ul. Pod Kasztanami 34, the interior of which also
makes it a bit of a museum in more ways than one. All told,
Giszowiec stills captures some small town charm, despite
being a shadow of what it must have been. If you enjoy
the small pleasures of being a stranger in a strange land,
an excursion out to these two historic labour communities
might just be the bizarre highlight of your time in Silesia.
MUNICIPAL CULTURAL CENTRE
At the very centre of Giszowiec, if youre lucky you may be
able to catch one of the frequent events held here (check
their website to see whats on). The Dworek Pod Lipami res-
taurant is also here and represents the best place to eat in
the area. They also sell some additional English-language
info including the History of Giszowice and Giszowiec In
Old Postcards.QPl. Pod Lipami 1 (Giszowiec), tel. (+48)
32 206 46 42, www.mdk.katowice.pl. Open 08:00 - 20:00.
RESTAURANTS
DWOREK POD LIPAMI
Yet another feather in the cap of Silesias culinary land-
scape. Located in Giszowiec, one of Katowices more
quaint and quiet quarters, this majestic manor special-
izes in large banquets, conferences, outdoor parties
and weddings t for a king. The full-service restaurant is
the heart of the operation and its divine dining room is
open daily for groups of any size and shape. The menu
is truly a sight to behold highlighted by Silesian spe-
cialties, classic Polish dishes and International ne din-
ing staples. How about shrimp cocktail, escargot and
steak tartare to start things o followed by roast pork
knuckle and beef roulade?! Few restaurants this side
of Paris oer this kind of world class selection of food,
drink and atmosphere. If youre looking to be the host
with the most, bring your guests to the best.QPl. Pod
Lipami 1 (Giszowiec), tel. (+48) 32 793 95 51, www.
dworekpodlipami.katowice.pl. Open 10:00 - 22:00.
(17-45z). PTAUGBSW
SITG
At long last a restaurant has nally opened in the
uniquely preserved industrial neighborhood of
Nikiszowiec. And what a place it is indeed. SITG is an
upscale Polish restaurant specialising in Silesian dishes.
Where else will you get a chance to try some pogaskie
krupy ze szpyrk i kwane mlyko (pagan groats with sour
milk)? If youre looking for some more traditional de-
lights have no fear for their kitchen is well stocked with
Polish staples like stewed pork ribs and the indomitable
pork knuckle. While you dine you may not help but no-
tice the space in the place. In fact it can t just about
the number of people you might want to invite to a
certain nuptial aair... Hosting a conference? They can
also take care of all your o-site catering requests.Qul.
Krawczyka 1 (Nikiszowiec), tel. (+48) 32 707 59 19,
www.sitgrestauracja.com. Open 08:00 - 20:00. (12-
40z). PTAUGSW
TOURIST INFORMATION
NIKISZOWIEC INFORMATION OFFICE
Located inside the Industrial Ethnography Museum,
this should be the rst port of call for anyone on a
self-guided tour of Nikiszowiec. Here you can pick up
a handy free map of the district as well as other helpful
information about what to see and tips on how to get
around. The museum exhibits are also fascinating if you
have the time.Qul. Rymarska 4 (Industrial Ethnogra-
phy Museum, Nikiszowiec), tel. (+48) 32 255 14 80,
www.katowice.eu. Open 10:00 - 17:30, Sat 11:00 -
14:30. Closed Mon, Sun.
Courtesy of Katowice City Council
Chorzw Chorzw
As with much of the Upper Silesian industrial metropolis,
theres a bit of a gray area concerning just where Katowice
ends and Chorzw [whore-zyoov] begins. Technically
speaking Chorzw lies a mere 7 km northwest of Katowice.
Luckily the winds of commerce have paved paradise and
put up a whole lot of shops in the form of Silesian City
Center, which marks the beginning of the end of Katowice.
A few tram stops/tra c lights further on ul.Chorzowska
brings you to the Silesia Park - one of the largest urban
parks in Europe - and Chorzw has the lucky distinction
of claiming it within its borders. While just a few years ago
we would probably have recommended a trip to Chorzw
consist solely of a day trip to the Park to explore its many
attractions, we can now honestly recommend digging
deeper and exploring Chorzw proper, i.e. the place be-
yond the pines.
Since this is Poland, history is ones rst consideration when
endeavouring to discover a new city. Silesia as a whole has
a somewhat parallel history to the rest of Poland which
can be boiled down to the development of heavy indus-
try in the 19th and early 20th century. The city of Chorzw
is no exception and it was only o cially formed in 1934
after the Silesian Uprisings and subsequent peace ac-
cord awarded Silesia back to Poland. Chorzw eectively
consolidated four industrial factories and their surrounding
infrastructures into one sprawling industrial town. Before
the industrial revolution left its indelible mark, various vil-
lages existed in this location since the 12th century. Polish,
German and Czech inuences in the region led to constant
name changes throughout the centuries. Beginning with
the 12th century Chorzw was known as Zversov, Coccham,
Charev, Charzow, Knigshtte and nally Hajduki (which
loosely translates to Bandits). After only just coming into
existence, Chorzw fell under Nazi control during the
WWII. Through a bit of luck or a at out uke, the citys vast
industrial infrastructure mostly escaped WWII intact, which
led to its rapid growth and increased importance in post-
war communist Poland. Since 1989, Chorzw, like much of
Silesia, has been slowly transitioning from heavy industry
to a more diverse economy.
Back to the present, the most logical place to start your
exploration of the centre is the most illogically named lo-
cation in the whole city: the Rynek. While this word tech-
nically translates to market square and usually connotates
a huge open space with pedestrian markets and bucket-
loads of charm (i.e. Krakow), overly ambitious city plan-
ners decided to convert their market square into a high-
way underpass (sigh). Youll have to give them the benet
of the doubt and soldier on to the absolute highlight of
Chorzw, its high street - ulica Wolnoci (I/J-1). On this
long pedestrian promenade (just look out for trams!) youll
nd the towns primary shopping, dining and nightlife
opportunities. Once youve tired of cruising the strip turn
onto the towns most promising side street - ulica Jan So-
bieskiego III (J-1/2). Here youll nd some of the newest
and coolest bars, restaurants and even a microbrewery to
boot!
Unlike neighbouring Zabrze, Chorzw has a signicant
lack of museums for your perusal. With that said Chorzw
has many other recreational, cultural and nightlife oerings
to keep even the most demanding visitor busy for days. The
Silesia Park (L-7) is indeed an endless bastion of entertain-
ment options for the whole family all year round. The Park
is by no means however the end all be all of the towns im-
pressive cultural oerings. The Chorzw Cultural Centre
(Chorzowskie Centrum Kultury) is a veritable hub of activity
and hosts countless events and concerts year round while
the Teatr Rozrywki (Entertainment Theatre) presents
some of the best musical theatre, drama and concerts in
the whole country.
Like all of the towns and cities in the vast Silesian me-
tropolis, Chorzw has undergone and is undergoing rapid
changes that are transforming the city at a torrid pace. The
gastronomic, entertainment and recreation options are al-
ready truly world class and you can now nd some of the
nicest hotel and spas in the region in this somewhat un-
assuming city. Weve highlighted numerous places on the
following pages, all of which are worth your time and at-
tention. If theres one thing you should seize from this brief
intro though, Chorzw is truly the City of Leisure.
GETTING TO CHORZW
Its hard to screw this up. Only 7km from Katowice, Chorzw
can be easily reached using public transport. First step is
to buy a ticket, which can be done at any kiosk. Katowices
transport system in based on zones, and with Chorzw ly-
ing in zone 2, youll have to buy a ticket to Zone 2; basically
just make sure the ticket you have is a 3.80z fare. Though
there are many ways of getting to Chorzw the fastest are
the number 6 tram from Katowices Rynek trams stop, or
catch express buses 820 or 830 from the Rynek bus stop
(dierent location than the tram stop); the same ticket is
valid for bus or tram. The tram gives you stops at the Zoo
and along the Silesia Park, while the bus ows with tra c
down the highway. Both methods run regularly and likely
take the same 20 minutes to get to Chorzws Rynek. Chor-
zow has no proper bus station, so thats that.
Like the bus, if driving to Chorzw by car youre taking na-
tional route 79, aka ul. Chorzowska from Katowice, which
takes you past the Silesia City Centre shopping mall and the
enormous Silesia Park. From the west (Germany), you come
in on freeway A4 via Wrocaw and Gliwice. Youll nd park-
ing around the Rynek with several other small lots nearby -
carparks are marked on the map in the back of this guide. A
guarded parking can be found a bit further from the centre
on ul. Modzieowa (E-4).
RESTAURANTS & CAFES
MAANA BISTRO & WINE BAR
Another excellent destination in Chorzw, this ace cafe bis-
tro hits all the bases with delicious coee, ne wines and a
great menu thats presented as a magazine full of savoury
sandwiches and creative mains like guinea fowl on polenta
with pear and rosemary mouse. Its all stylishly presented
and the modern Parisian atmosphere of the small casu-
ally elegant interior makes this a great spot to stop for a
light lunch or some after work down-time with a friend.
Recommended.Q I-1, ul. Wolnoci 15, Chorzw, tel.
(+48) 508 29 36 40, www.bistromanana.pl. Open 09:00 -
21:00, Fri, Sat 09:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 20:00. (18-47z).
P T A 6 G B S W
PIZZERIA POD DREWNIANYM BOCIANEM
This eclectic if not eccentric bistro has been serving up piz-
zas in the heart of Chorzw since 1996, which in the local
restaurant biz is pretty much a lifetime. Their expansive
menu has the wingspan of a stork that its and aps over
countless culinary delights (including soups, salads and
pastas) before returning to nest in so many pizza crusts.
With over 60 pies to peruse this bird makes it hard to choose.
Drop in for breakfast or organize a party here for the kiddies.
Whatever your needs, this friendly restaurant will succeed
to feed you and your brood and guarantee youll all leave
with a smile.Q H-1, ul. Dworcowa 1, Chorzw, tel. (+48)
32 241 41 33, www.drewnianybocian.com.pl. Open
11:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 23:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00.
(20-60z). P T A G B S W
REBEL GARDEN
Wheres the last place youd look to nd a rocking resto-bar
with great food, a huge beer selection and a jam packed
calendar of cultural events? How about in front of the gates
of a zoo?! This is exactly where youll nd this rebellious
and rambunctious culture garden. Theyve been operating
from this little corner of paradise for just over three years
and, not so surprising, theyve managed to attract quite a
lot of attention. Local bands, national acts, poetry festivals,
belly dancers, travel photography, art exhibitions and the
list goes on... In the warmer months it becomes the Rebel
Beer Garden and the parties and concerts move outside,
presumably so the animals can hear better. With a full
menu of Polish and American bar food (kielbasas, burgers,
fried cheese etc.) its time to heed the Rebel call. Q Al. Gen.
Pelican Fountain and Gondola in the Silesia Park
J. Zitka 7 (Silesia Park), Chorzw, tel. (+48) 504 44 30
07, www.rebelgarden.pl. Open 11:00 - 23:00, Fri 11:00
- 24:00, Sat 10:00 - 24:00, Sun 10:00 - 23:00. 6 U G
B W
SZTYGARKA
We dont think we can come close to describing all that
Sztygarka is in one review so here are some of the main points
you need to know: 1) its an exquisite ne dining restaurant to
rival any in town; 2) its a cafe and bar that hosts tonnes of live
jazz blues and rock concerts; 3) its a boutique hotel and day
spa; 4) its a modern gastronomic and entertainment complex
built on the terrain of an expansive coal mine complex that
dates to the 1920s and was converted to its current glory in
the early 1990s. Few places in Silesia strike such a perfect bal-
ance between rugged industrial architecture, modern design
and contemporary cuisine. Highly recommended for private
events or a night out youll never forget.Q I-5, ul. Piotr Skargi
34, Chorzw, tel. (+48) 32 241 53 65, www.sztygarka.pl.
Open 13:00 - 21:00, Sun 12:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat. (14-49z).
P T A U I G B S W
NIGHTLIFE
CZEKOLADA
Absolutely the last thing youd expect to nd in Chorzw,
its easy to be sceptical of a place that tries as hard as
Czekolada. A look-at-me-please lounge featuring Fashion
TV and a barsta that seem to have borrowed their disposi-
tions from the catwalk, Czekolada backs it up with expertly
made chocolate drinks. Dark patterned walls and no over-
head lighting create an intimate atmosphere, oset by
street-side wall-length windows. Thoroughly impressive, it
doesnt take long to realise that this modern, seductive lo-
cale is the real deal.Q H-1, ul. Dworcowa 6, Chorzw, tel.
(+48) 32 771 84 46, www.klubczekolada.pl. Open Wed,
Fri, Sat only: 20:00 - 02:00. P A X W
Gra ti in Chorzw
Zabrze Chorzw
While it might sound like little more than a drunken
scrabble entry, the town of Zabrze is actually a worthwhile
detour from Katowice, particularly for those with an active
interest in Upper Silesias industrial heritage and architec-
ture. As the train from Katowice chugs you past dilapidated
maintenance yards, landlls and power plants with open
ames torching the sky during the short trip west to Zabrze,
it is indeed impossible to escape the industrial heritage of
the region. The citys three primary attractions are two mine
shafts (Luiza and Guido) and the aboveground museum
dedicated to the industry of crawling around in them, af-
ter all. Fortunately for you, however, the toxic clouds and
heavy pollution which once saw the area christened the
Black Triangle (the other points being Chorzw and Bytom)
disappeared along with communism.
To properly trace the history of Zabrze you need to track
back to the 13th century when the ruling Piast dynasty
actively encouraged German settlement in the region and
little towns like Zabrze were the result. It wasnt until the
end of the 18th century, however, that Zabrze really made
a name for itself. Apparently Zabrzians were especially
naughty in the year 1790 and when Santa came round dol-
ing out the coal, he dumped it all on Zabrze, turning this
quiet backwater into a hotbed of industry and manufac-
turing. The Queen Luiza mine was opened the very next
year, marking the beginning of 200 years of non-stop coal
extraction, the history of which you can learn by visiting
the site today.
Although Poles still made up a signicant proportion of the
population at the beginning of the 20th century, this was
a German town rst and foremost, a fact demonstrated in
1915 when it was renamed Hindenburg in honour of the
German Field Marshall and future president. Along with
Bytom and Gliwice, it was one of only three towns in Up-
per Silesia that remained German after World War I and the
subsequent Silesian Uprisings and continued to be known
as Hindenburg (yes, named after the same man of zeppelin
fame) up until 1945 when it came under Polish jurisdic-
tion as part of the mucky fallout of WWII. Those Germans
who hadnt already ed the marauding Red Army were
expelled and the town was re-christened Zabrze. In spite
of the aggressive Polonization that followed, traces of the
towns German past are still evident all around the city cen-
tre: particularly the antiquated, but still functioning clinical
hospital complex between ul. 3 Maja and ul. Buchenwald-
czykw (R-3), which features over a dozen buildings dating
from 1858 to 1905, crowned with a gorgeous timber and
brick water tower. The facade and interiors of the nearby
Museum of Mining (S-3) are also a beauty in themselves,
but even if you arent interested in drills and lanterns, make
sure not to miss the square across from it with its immense
Silesian miner monument, fountain and general bustle of
activity - the closest thing to a main square Zabrze pos-
sesses. Much of the fun of visiting Zabrze simply entails
walking around and appreciating its grandiose and often
incomprehensible turn-of-the-century architecture.
Today Zabrze is part of the urban tangle known as the Up-
per Silesian Metropolitan Union or the Silesia Metropolis
of which Katowice plays the role of capital. Possessing a
population of about 200,000 and wedged between the
growing town of Gliwice and the booming suburb of
Chorzow, Zabrze once again faces a bit of an identity crisis.
As it famously carries the historical moniker of the largest
village in Poland, there is something to this besides mere
historic tax evasion. Village life compared to city life in Po-
land happens at a much slower pace and change comes
much slower, for better and worse. Zabrze, like most of
Silesia is in the midst of a massive sea change. Factories
have been replaced by shopping malls and heavy indus-
try is being replaced by the soft skilled service industry.
Zabrze is a testament to how imperfect and lopsided this
transition is. On the ip side it is fascinating to see a town
in ux. So get out there and explore the winding streets,
meandering lanes, sprawling parks and many monuments
to the towns industrial past. Weve recommended plenty
of great food and drink for you to nd along the way and
some top notch sleeps that will entice you to stay. While
the restaurant and nightlife options arent much when
compared with the rapidly developing Katowice, time and
pressure have transformed more than a few lumps of coal
into diamonds in the rough. While this town is far from
beautiful, it has a palpable post-industrial charm that is
more than worth digging for.
TOURIST INFORMATION
ZABRZE TOURIST INFORMATION
Zabrze actually has a lot to oer, but youre unlikely to
discover much of it simply by tumbling out of the train.
At least make this your rst stop after you do so. Only a
couple blocks from the station, Zabrzes new tourist info
centre has plenty of handy maps, brochures, pamphlets
and other city info provided by a multilingual sta who
know their city inside-down and upside-right. Theres
even a computer with free internet and t-shirts with
words on them that no one back home has any chance
of pronouncing.QS-2, ul. Powstacw lskich 2/1,
Zabrze, tel. (+48) 32 271 72 76. Open 10:00 - 18:00,
Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
REDEN MINIBROWAR
Polish microbrews and breweries are popping up all
over Silesia like mushrooms after a storm these days.
This smart little bistro brews up three tasty beers on site
and serves up plenty of delish Polish dishes to help you
keep your balance. The warm wooden interiors comple-
mented by exposed copper kettles are the perfect envi-
rons for sipping away the day. If you come early/often
enough you may catch a glimpse of the master brewer
whipping up a batch of one of their signature light, dark
or (so delicious it isnt even funny) honey brews. Come
for the beer, stay for the food and leave...only if you have
to.Q C-1, ul. Jana III Sobieskiego 17, Chorzw, tel.
(+48) 32 771 14 15, www.minibrowar-reden.com.pl.
Open 13:00 - 23:00, Mon 15:00 - 23:00, Sun 12:00 -
23:00. A G W
SZUFLADA 15
Our favourite place to go out in Chorzw and certainly one
of the best in the region, this veteran music club and res-
taurant still feels as fresh as ever. Modern and understated
in design, half-open psuedo-shelves protrude from the
dark walls, while the upstairs smoking section (dubbed
the Ice Lounge) features some creative touches with silver
icicles angling across the room and a sweet roof deck. The
downstairs is given over more for dining from the exten-
sive menu of international dishes with an emphasis on
Mexican (nachos, chili, quesadillas), pasta and pizza, as DJs
spin Girltalk-esque mashups from the stage area on week-
ends. With no proper dance-oor, the patrons dictate the
energy level, though occasional live acts do come through.
Worth reserving a table on crowded weekends.Q I-1, ul.
Wolnoci 15, Chorzw, tel. (+48) 32 771 94 35, www.
szufada15.pl. Open 15:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 02:00.
P A E X W
SIGHTSEEING
CHORZW CULTURAL CENTRE
CHORZOWSKIE CENTRUM KULTURY
This handsome and fully modern municipal theatre is the
cultural heart of Chorzw and one of the premier event
venues in all of Silesia. Hosting a full programme of con-
certs, from rock to jazz to classical, as well as a kids pro-
gramme that rivals any other in the region. The highlight
of the centre is the listening experience itself as the two
oor auditorium has been fully renovated and is one of the
best acoustic environments in Poland. Many national and
international stars grace this beautiful stage so make sure
to keep a close eye on their calendar (check our events sec-
tion or their website) for upcoming concerts and events.
Q I-1, ul. Sienkiewicza 3, Chorzw, tel. (+48) 32 349 78
60, www.chck.pl.
CHORZW MUSEUM (MUZEUM W CHORZOWIE)
This humble little musuem never seems to be at full
strength exhibition wise and is quite often inexplica-
bly closed. Set in a handsome building only a block re-
moved from the high street, should you make it indoors
youll nd some oil paintings and furniture, plus a per-
manent exhibition on the history of money - the glass
cases packed with old coins and banknotes from the
12th century onwards of which have little directly to do
with Chorzw.Q J-1, ul. Powstacw 25, Chorzw, tel.
(+48) 32 241 31 04, www.muzeum.chorzow.pl. Open
09:00 - 15:00, Wed 09:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 14:00.
Closed Mon. Admission 3/1.50z, families up to 4, 4z.
Sun free.
SILESIA PARK
(PARK LSKI)
Despite the clunky communist name, this is by far the re-
gions best attraction and an absolute no-brainer for any-
one with some spare time and who enjoys having, well,
fun. Spanning 620 hectares, it claims to be the biggest
park in Europe and who are we to claim otherwise? We
get lost in here routinely. Among the outstanding attrac-
tions are an outdoor ethnographic museum, a massive
zoo, a planetarium, a huge indoor playhouse (Sala
Zabaw Lizzy), a brand new gondola that whisks you
from one end of the park to the other plus countless other
attractions to be enjoyed in the warmer months. O cially
located in Chorzw, take tram 6 from Katowices Rynek
tram stop, which makes several stops along the course
of the Park, including at the zoo, on its way to Chorzws
Rynek.Q Al. Rana 2, tel. (+48) 32 793 70 08, www.
parkslaski.pl.
ST. LAWRENCES CHURCH
(KOCI W. WAWRZYCA)
Built in 1599 in the village of Knurw, immediately south-
west of neighbouring Gliwice, this charming little wooden
church was abandoned by its congregation in 1926 when
it became too small to accommodate the worshippers in its
parish. Empty and slowly falling to pieces for almost a de-
cade, the good people of Chorzw adopted it, took it apart,
and moved it to its current location in September 1935. Of
special interest, should you be lucky enough to visit when
the doors are open, is the wooden sculpture of the Beautiful
Madonna of Knurw, which is believed to have been made
in 1420.Q I-5, ul. Konopnickiej 29, Chorzw, tel. (+48) 32
780 99 61, www.wawrzyniec-chorzow.katowice.opoka.
org.pl. Open by prior arrangement only.
ZOO
PLs largest zoo is a massive 50 hectare extravaganza with
2,500 animals of 300 species from all over the world, includ-
ing crowd favourites such as hippos, rhinos, Siberian tigers
and the cheetah cubs born here in 2011. The kids will be
thoroughly enthralled thanks to a petting zoo and Dinosaur
Valley, which features 16 rather silly concrete dinos. The
sheer size of the place makes renting a wooden handcart
designed to pull them around money well spent indeed.
Q Promenade Gen. Jerzego Zitka 7, Chorzw, tel. (+48)
666 03 14 96, www.zoo.silesia.pl. Open 09:00 - 16:00.
From April open 09:00 - 17:00; Sat, Sun 09:00 - 18:00.
From May open 09:00 - 19:00. Last entrance 1 hour be-
fore closing. Tickets 10-15/5-8z, family ticket 25-38z.
Zabrze Zabrze
RESTAURANTS & CAFES
BISTRO WERANDA
A close second for discovery of the year in Zabrze, this hearty
and happy bistro oers up delicious meals accompanied
by the vanguard of Polish micro-brews (Ale Browar, Pinta,
Ciechan etc.). If a veranda sounds a bit snooty then you
have the wrong idea. Their sprawling balcony feels more like
a neighbours porch (cue the chirping parakeet) and is the
perfect spot to settle into some of their Slavic soul food or
just enjoy a relaxed afternoon mood. From Polish pancakes,
crunchy cutlets and pierogi to soups, sandwiches, salads and
a host of daily and weekly specials - their kitchen will be sure
to put a smile to your plate. Try the homemade cakes and
cookies and remember theres always time for one more
beer. Bravo.QR-1, ul. Jagielloska 19, Zabrze, tel. (+48)
517 37 29 67, www.bistroweranda.pl. Open 07:00 - 23:00,
Fri, Sat 07:00 - 24:00, Sun 11:00 - 23:00. AGSW
LSKIE RANCHO
Right, so, this Silesian ranch is just about as kitschy and
confused as you might expect an American style ranch to
be in the middle of Poland. But once you get beyond that
fact there are plenty of attractions, piles of food and buckets
of booze to explore. The whole ranch complex includes a
restaurant and a Cowboys and Indians saloon. The restau-
rant and bar both serve up plenty of plates of Polish and
Italian-inspired dishes to meet your group or parties wishes.
Nothing too fancy but hearty food to t the mood. This
place screams family friendly and is the perfect place for that
Wild West themed wedding youre planning.Qul. Webera
18, tel. (+48) 609 34 07 96, www.slaskierancho.pl. Open
12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (20-43z). PTAGSW
GUIDO MINESHAFT
Although its the Krlowa Mine that tends to hog the
limelight, a visit to the Guido shaft is by no means a
poor mans substitute. Constructed in 1855 the Guido
experience allows hard-hatted visitors to plunge an ini-
tial 170 metres below ground while they learn about
the world of coal extraction. Descent is via one of those
scary-looking cages and from there its non-stop action
as visitors view numerous tunnels and shafts that have
been recreated to look just like they did at the height
of the industrial revolution. The full immersion experi-
ence is helped by staged exhibits, like horses pulling
coal-laden carts and a Jesus lookalike pu ng away on
a pipe. Along the way are numerous pieces of clunky,
rusty machinery, including drainage pumps from 1914
and various drilling equipment that looks like it could
have played a part in that hangover you had on New
Years Day. This is a full-on interactive masterpiece that
doesnt just settle for displays of Davy Lamps and long-
since-dead equipment. Of course it does that, but it
also goes further with a separate art oor consisting
of multimedia exhibits and cinematic presentations, as
well as sound eects during the tour that include bray-
ing horses and equipment going kerchung, kerchung.
The descent continues to -320m where you can travel
by the wuppertale suspension railway or maybe even
see a concert, exhibition or another cultural event of
some wort which are often held here. All visits to Guido
are conducted with a tour guide; unfortunately if you
would like to take that tour in English youll have to out-
lay a hefty fee for a translator on top of the admission
cost: 190z for the -170m level, and an additional 210z
for level -320m level (400 z). Your call; either way make
book your tour in advance by phone Mon-Wed 08:30 -
15:30 and Thu-Sun 08:30 - 19:30. Prices are subject to
change so call ahead. To get to the mine from the cen-
tre of Zabrze take bus T3 (temporary replacement for
the number 3 tram), or regular buses 7, 23, 47, 111, 198
or 199, getting o at the Skansen Guido stop; the trip
takes ten minutes.Qul. 3 Maja 93, Zabrze (Centrum
Poudnie), tel. (+48) 32 271 40 77 ext. 51 83, www.
kopalniaguido.pl. Open 09:00 - 20:00, Tue, Wed
09:00 - 14:30. Closed Mon. Please call in advance.
Admission 21-38/18-33z.
GETTING TO ZABRZE
Few things in life are easier than getting to Zabrze from
Katowice. Trains are frequent between the two cities
and depending on which you get on your journey time
will be anything from 18 to 25 minutes with tickets
retailing from approximately 5-15z. The train station is
located smack in the centre of town at ul. Dworcowa 2
(R-2) and is a tiny and typically cheerless aair featur-
ing one track and two ticket windows - one of which
should be open 24 hours. Credit cards are not accepted
and, ttingly, theres no ATM. However help isnt far
away; head across the street to nd the local tourist info
o ce (Pl. Dworcowy 5) and were sure the people there
can tell you where the nearest bank machine is if you
catch them between 08:00 and 20:00, Sat, Sun 11:00-
19:00. Also in the station itself are a few kiosks, food
stands and slot machines, as well as the obligingly grim
train station bar and a large secondhand clothing store.
If travelling by car, approaching from the east (Kato-
wice) or west (Germany), youll likely do so via the A4
freeway. Take the exit just before (if coming from Ka-
towice) or just after (if coming from Germany) Gliwice
- ul. Wsplna - and follow the signs to Zabrze.
NIGHTLIFE
BRAMA
All good bars are hard to nd, and this one is no exception:
hang a right o ul. Niedziakowskiego onto Cieszyska,
make a right into a back lot and attempt to open a menac-
ing windowless security door. It doesnt look like much on
the outside but inside youll nd one of the best bars in
Zabrze, and well tell you why: the hanging chairs at the
bar are brilliant, theres a replace, a great playlist of reg-
gae and world music, regular alternative gigs, loads of
board games, a friendly bar sta and a carefree bohemian
atmosphere. You wont then be surprised to hear they are
enthusiasts of many a tasty Polish and Czech micro-brew
as well. This place is more than worth the trek so saddle up
to that swinging seat and take a load o your feet. Book in
person at the bar for reservations.QP/R-1, ul. Cieszyska
3, Zabrze, tel. (+48) 508 72 78 25. Open 17:00 - 02:00, Fri,
Sat 17:00 - 03:00. GW
IMPRESJA
First impressions go a long way and we were thrilled when
we stumbled into this Epicurean sanctuary on a sweltering
day in June. Soon after our arrival we were sipping a deli-
cious local beer on their terrace and savouring a plate of
bacon-wrapped plums with chives. This gorgeous space is
an elegant and artistic standout with its handsome post-
industrial interiors highlighted by stark modern art. A grand
piano takes a prominent place in the main dining room and
you can almost hear music echoing o the walls. It has the
prices and vibe of a culture cafe yet the menu and class of a
gourmet bistro. They graciously organise all sorts of cultural
events and concerts as well as business meetings and fairy
tale wedding receptions. In one word, impressive.QR-1, ul.
Park Hutniczy 10, Zabrze, tel. (+48) 32 271 78 12, www.
impresja-zabrze.com.pl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat
12:00 - 03:00. AUGBW
SIGHTSEEING
ST. JADWIGAS CHURCH
(KOCI P.W. W. JADWIGI)
Built much more recently than most other wooden church-
es in Silesia, the decision was taken to construct this highly
unique 1929 structure out of timber instead of brick due
to uncertainty over the stability of the ground beneath it,
which had been stripped by mining. Designed by Charles
Kuttentodta, St. Jadwigas is large, wondrous conglomera-
tion of polygons with the main section being a 12-sided
oval (what are those called?) surrounded by four low octag-
onal towers crowned with copper spires. The interior is full
of ornamentation added to and restored since the time of
its creation, including the high ceiling nished with ceram-
ic tiles which had to be changed as recently as 2006 due to
damage. Unfortunately its a bit of a trek southeast from the
centre down ul. Wolnoci to see it, but if youve got a car
thats on the way back to Katowice anyway.Qul. Wolnoci
504, Zabrze, tel. (+48) 32 271 46 77, www.sw-jadwiga.
info. Open during mass and by prior arrangement.
ST. JOSEPHS CHURCH
(KOCI P.W. W. JZEFA)
If youve been in Poland even for just an hour, chances are
youve seen your share of churches. But you havent seen
one like this. Looking less like a church and more like the
result of an unholy union between an old shoe factory
and a Roman aqueduct, this monumental brick behe-
moth owes its brutal design to Dominik Bhm of Cologne
and was completed in 1931. One immediately notices
several un-church-like characteristics about the building:
it has no steeple (in the traditional sense of the word),
it completely lacks outside ornamentation, it has a win-
dow deciency, and all of the roofs are at. The strange
faade of this boxy monstrosity features three rows of four
empty arches - the buildings only design motif - with no
windows in the square anking chapels, only two tall
faceless slabs of red, irregular brick on either side of the
entrance. Its an imposing sight and it has to be seen to be
understood. To do so follow ul. Roosevelta west to just be-
yond the pale of the IYP map (P-4).Qul. Roosevelta 102,
Zabrze, tel. (+48) 32 271 05 68, www.swjozef.zabrze.
pl. Open 06:45 - 19:00, Sun 06:45 - 18:30. No visiting
during mass please.
ZABRZE CITY MUSEUM - CAFE SILESIA -
(ZABRZE MUZEUM MIEJSKIE)
A suitably quaint yet thor-
ough city museum that cov-
ers the breadth and width of
Zabrzes short but dynamic
History. The permanent ex-
hibit leads you past ancient
tapestries, documents, pho-
tographs and random indus-
trial ephemera that all tell the
story of the biggest village in
Poland. The exhibit covers the
development of the village of
Biskupice (Biskupitz) from its
founding in 1254 through to its increased Germanication
in the 14th-17th centuries up through the coal boom of
the late 18th century that eventually led to Zabrze nally
showing up on the map in 1905 only to be promptly re-
named Hindenburg by the ruling German elite a decade
later. Zabrze resurfaced and permanently rejoined the Pol-
ish fold after WWII and has been growing and developing
ever since. The temporary exhibitions cover two oors of
this historic town house that was formerly known as the
Cafe Silesia. Formerly is the key. If you come expecting a
grand cafe (like we did) you will be gravely disappointed
by the few scattered tables and an automatic coee maker
waiting for you on the second oor next to the temporary
exhibitions. All things considered, tickets are only 3z (2z.
reduced rate) and the tour can be done in less than an hour
so it is well worth the investment to nd out where you
are and where it came from.QS-3, ul. 3 Maja 6, Zabrze,
tel. (+48) 32 777 05 01, www.muzeum-miejskie-zabrze.
pl. Open 09:00 - 16:00, Thu 09:00 - 18:00, Sat, Sun 10:00
- 14:00. Closed Mon.
Gliwice Gliwice
Welcome dear reader to one of Silesias most interesting
and indeed historical cities. The times are indeed changing
and the city is growing into a more modern version of itself
as it slowly but surely shakes o the shackles of its industrial
past. Much sets Gliwice apart from other cities in the Up-
per Silesian Metropolitan area, but perhaps nothing more
than its historic cultural centre with a proper Rynek (Market
Square) as its nucleus. The centre is surrounded by a wealth
of spires, monuments, fountains and turn of the century
masterpieces. Certainly, Krakw this aint, but a journey from
Katowice to Gliwice, though it wont overwhelm you, is still
likely to summon the declaration, Alright, this is a bit more
like it.If youre searching for a diamond amongst the debris
and dross of the sometimes depressing Silesian landscape,
youll nd yourselves richly rewarded in Gliwice. Besides
the various museums and landmarks to explore there is a
bevvy of new bars, cafes and restaurants to explore so pull
up your boots and pull a Gulliver through Gliwice.
One signicant leg Gliwice has up on its neighbours is
history. Some 500 years before even a hundred families
had made the communal mistake of moving to Katowice,
Gliwice was building fortications around its already well-
developed medieval city centre. Today traces of the citys
ancient past can be seen in the 14th century defensive
walls along Plac Rzeniczy (M-2/3) and ul. Grodowa (M-3),
and Piasts Castle (M-3) which now houses a branch of the
Gliwices well put together city museum.
GETTING TO GLIWICE
Getting to Gliwice is pretty straightforward as the city
is easily accessed by frequently running trains from
Katowices main station. Lying another 10 to 15 min-
utes beyond Zabrze, the journey takes about 30-45
minutes depending on your choice of train and should
cost you between 8 and 20z. Gliwices train station is
a small, e cient aair comprising little more than a
bankomat, newsstand and kiosk. Ticket windows are
open 05:30-21:00 and they even accept credit cards.
The bus station is in the same building and a bit more
grisly consisting of one small shabby room. Here, ticket
windows are only open on the rst ve and nal ve
days of the month from 07:00-16:00, and they dont
take plastic. Dont bother, you can buy tickets from the
driver. The building hasnt been renovated in decades
and is rumoured to be up for replacement by a fash-
ionable new EU-funded number in a few years, but we
wont be holding our breath that long. Just northeast
of the centre at ul. Bohaterw Getta Warszawskiego 12
(O-1), a 7 minute walk down ul. Zwycistwa will send
you straight into Gliwices Rynek.
If travelling by car, getting to Gliwice is a snip. Only
27km west of Katowice, Gliwice is just o the A4 free-
way, the stretch between Katowice and Gliwice of
which is free. So whichever direction you are coming
from, hop on the A4 and get o at the Gliwice exit fol-
lowing the signs to the Centrum. Boom.
Gliwices primary historical claim to fame didnt come until
modern times however. Most with even a cursory knowl-
edge of 20th century history can tell you that the rst shots of
WWII were red on Westerplatte, a peninsula outside Gdask
in northern Poland. But only the most committed bo n can
claim to know the story of Hitlers spurious excuse to launch
his oensive into PL. That narrative can be found here, in little
Gliwice, which at that time was a border town under Ger-
man rule known to locals as Gleiwitz. Looking to legitimise
his intended hostile takeover of Poland, Hitler crafted a mock
attack on the Gliwice Radio Tower using SS units dressed
as Polish soldiers to seize the tower on the night of August
31, 1939. American journalists were taken to the site of the
charade the following day and shown the bodies of soldiers
supposedly killed during the attack (in fact the dead were
inmates of Dachau concentration camp). Hitler now had the
perfect pretext to roll his troops eastwards into Poland, and
the rest, as they say, is history - of which you can learn more
at the Gliwice Radio Tower Museum (ul.Tarnogrska 129).
Thanks to the discovery of mining minerals in the area, at
the turn of the century Gliwices population had grown to
over 60,000, with the city home to four catholic churches,
two protestant and one synagogue. Facing Pl. Inwalidw
(M-3), the synagogue came to a ery end when it was
torched on Kristallnacht in 1938, and over the course of the
next several years the towns Jewish population was deci-
mated as part of the Nazis nal solution. Today traces of
Jewish heritage are limited to two overgrown cemeteries
on ul. Na Piasku (O-2) and ul. Poniatowskiego. Dating from
1815 and 1902 respectively, the two now stand as haunting
and poignant epitaphs to the past.
Though it was one of only three Silesian cities (along with
Bytom and Zabrze) to have remained in German hands
after WWI, Gliwice was transferred to the map of Poland
in 1945 after the Second World War, the Germans were
purged and the town was re-christened. The post-war
Polonisation of Gliwice saw the city emerge as an impor-
tant centre of science, with the town frequently nding
itself dubbed as the chemical capital of Poland. Yet for all
this, and the communist mismanagement that followed
WWII, modern day Gliwice is surprisingly easy on the eye
and makes a pleasing diversion from Katowice. A wander
about the ancient streets of the Old Town reveals a large
number of bars and restaurants well worth investigation,
and Gliwice boasts a solid live music scene for a city of its
size; dont be afraid to let the nightlife - which arguably ri-
vals that of Katowice - extend your visit. Lastly, if youve the
good fortune of amicable weather, a day spent in Chopin
Park (N-1/2) is always a pleasure with the Palm House (N-
2) standing out as its primary highlight.
RESTAURANTS & CAFES
DOBRA KASZA NASZA
Heres something new for you: an entire restaurant devot-
ed to the humble groat in all its many shapes and forms.
Kasza (aka kasha or kashi) has been a staple of the Polish
diet for the better part of a millennium, although it often
gets a bad rap for being boring. The creative grain brains
at DKN designed an elaborate menu of simple sauce and
side pairings that show o this wonder-grains delicious
versatility. Try the buckwheat groats with bacon, dried
plum and horseradish sauce or the chicken curry and black
olives on pearl kasha with garlic sauce. Choose from a
dozen kasha creations or order from the full menu of more
traditional Polish soups, salads, sides and mains. The warm
and tastefully arranged lounge atmosphere will beckon
you back for more and more. Say it with me now, groats
are great! QM-3, Rynek 3, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 533 52 32
46. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 23:00. (10-29z).
TAUGBSW
MITA
If you happen to arrive to Gliwice by way of a trains ca-
boose and in need of a caeine boost, make this bright
bistro your rst roost. Start o with a fantastic foundational
cup of joe (have it there or take it to go). If youve got an
appetite, grab a bite of sugary delight in cupcake, cookie
or even pie form. If youre feeling a bit more peckish then
dig in to one of their savory soups, salads, sandwiches or
specials (oered daily). The crisp white design and layout
is easy on the eyes and soothing on the soul. So whether
youre coming or going, this friendly and fragrant space is
sure to leave you with a huge smile on your face. QM-3,
ul. Dworcowa 40, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 798 29 92 59, www.
mietabistro.pl. Open 07:00 - 19:00, Sat 08:00 - 17:00, Sun
12:00 - 18:00. (5-30z). AUVGSW
SUPERNOVA
Walk through their doors and immediately be teleported
to another space and thyme where food and wine in-
tertwine to approach the celestially divine. Their expe-
rienced gastronauts have crafted a unique menu that is
intriguing without being intimidating. We studied the
menus many microcosms before settling on our culinary
constellation of choice. The seasonal special of two-way
goose was perfectly matched with a crisp glass of white
whine. The tender meat was delicate and delectable
and the sides and sauces simply soared. The service was
superbly swift and suitably subtle making for a stellar
experience overall. This is one of the brightest stars in
the Silesian gastronomic galaxy and we cant wait to fur-
ther explore their culinary universe.QM-3, ul. Grnych
Waw 42, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 32 400 42 30, www.
supernova.gliwice.pl. Open 11:00 - 22:00. (22-58z).
PTA6UGBSW
ZOTY OSIO
Gliwices alternative lifestyle grubbing grounds: appar-
ently there are people in Poland that dont eat pork cut-
lets everyday and you can meet them here - a friendly
ensemble of pasture grazing young revolutionaries,
yoga instructors, buddhists, musicians and middle-aged
school teachers. The walls and windowsills of Zoty Osio
have been thoroughly yered and the delicious meat-
free meals cost the same as a kebab, while being sig-
nicantly more indy and digestible.QN-2, ul. Kodnicka
2, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 533 53 22 07, www.wegebar.
com. Open 11:00 - 20:00, Sun 12:00 - 18:00. (9-12z).
TA6GSW
NIGHTLIFE
HEMINGWAY
The best bar in town comes with maritime paraphernalia
attached to the vaulted walls, and even a bust of the man
himself. Absurdities include a metal Marlin head sticking
out of a wall, while the club downstairs has been known to
get seriously lively. Though its hard to imagine Hemingway
overly enraptured by the mojitos served here, its most
certainly a destination to stick on your agenda.QM-3, ul.
Raciborska 2, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 32 332 74 60, www.
hemingwayclub.pl. Open 08:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 08:00 -
04:00, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. PAUXW
MINISTERSTWO LEDZIA I WDKI
This governmental fish dishes out what for the masses
really wish: small portions of throwback snacks and
beverages at scandalously low prices. This nostalgic
nationwide trend has officially reached Gliwice and we
couldnt be happier. Judging from the standing room
only crowd at the bar, locals tend to agree. With Litovel
and Bracia on tap, Passport whisky on the rocks plus
a bevvy of top grade Polish vodkas all for just 4z, you
might want to get comfortable. Tiny plates of slippery
Baltic fish are the star of the snack show along with
several other bread and meat based chasers for 8z. Per-
haps the best bit is the laid back atmosphere and stylish
design (no half-baked socialist-realist decor here). This
Ministry is turning drinking into artistry.QM-3, ul. Raci-
borska 2, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 731 00 13 13, www.msiw.
eu. Open 24 hrs. GW
Gliwice Town Hall
Auschwitz Gliwice
expect, the bohemians have come to roost beneath the bat-
tered lampshades and strange chandeliers in such numbers
that nding a table might prove impossible. With so much
atmosphere in one place, you kind of wish Gramofon would
spread the love around the region a bit.QM-3, ul. rednia
12, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 32 270 40 80, www.pubgramofon.
pl. Open 13:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 13:00 - 04:00. PAXW
SIGHTSEEING
ALL SAINTS CHURCH
(KOCI WSZYSTKICH WITYCH)
The 15th century All Saints Church is one of the dening
landmarks of Gliwice, and though modied through the
ages it remains a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
Recent excavations suggest that the immediate surrounds
functioned as a cemetery from as early as the 12th century,
while the brick church itself is a feast for the eyes, and stued
with intricate statues of the saints. The tower oers sweep-
ing views of the city, but is only accessible with a PTTK guide
on Sundays between May and September at precisely 16:00
and 17:00; cost 5z.QM-3, ul. Kocielna 4, Gliwice, tel.
(+48) 32 230 83 48, www.wszystkichswietych.org. Open
08:30 - 18:30. No visiting during mass please.
PIASTS CASTLE (ZAMEK PIASTOWSKI)
Dating back to the 14th century, Piasts Castle is thought to
have been erected in concert with Gliwices city wall and
other fortications. Changing owners and undergoing sev-
eral stages of reconstruction and renovation over the centu-
ries, the castle is today a bit of a hodge-podge of styles and
materials. In the 1950s it was renovated to become part of
the city museum and has since been called Piasts Castle,
though there is no evidence to suggest it ever belonged
to the Silesian Piast dynasty. Thanks to a little love from the
EU, the castle completed a major 3-year renovation in 2008
and now has a multimedia permanent exhibition on the life
and times of the city and its people. Visitors are given a thor-
ough presentation of the regions primeval history from the
Stone Age to the Middle Ages with a bevy of archaeological
ndings, including the crowd-pleasing skeletons of a wooly
mammoth and shaggy rhino. The history of Gliwice from its
13th century founding to 1989 is also on display via a variety
of media, as well as an ethnographic exhibit portraying vil-
lage life and a tourist info centre.QM-3, ul. Pod Murami 2,
Gliwice, tel. (+48) 32 231 44 94, www.muzeum.gliwice.pl.
Open 10:00 - 16:00, Tue 09:00 - 15:00, Wed 09:00 - 16:00,
Sat 11:00 - 17:00, Sun 11:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon Last en-
trance 30 minutes before closing. Admission free.
ST. MARY OF THE ASSUMPTION CHURCH
(KOCI WNIEBOWZICIA NMP)
Poland is known for its wooden architecture, and you wont
nd many better examples than this church. Originally built
in 1493 in the town of Zbowice (without using a single
nail!), the church was transported and rebuilt in its current
location in the last century.Qul. Kozielska 29, Gliwice
(rdmiecie), tel. (+48) 32 231 09 50, www.wnmp.
gliwice.pl. Open 08:00 - 12:00, 17:00 - 19:00.
RADIO STATION GLIWICE
RADIO STATION GLIWICE
(RADIOSTACJA GLIWICE)
Head Gliwice way, namely to ul. Tarnogrska 129, to
take a look at the 110.7 metre radio tower, which actu-
ally rates as the worlds tallest wooden structure and the
last wooden telecommunications tower in existence -
and it still works! Constructed between 1934 and 1935
by the German Lorenz company (with a helping hand
from Siemens and Telefunken), the Silesian Eiel Tower
has survived the vicissitudes of time, which is something
of a miracle bearing its history in mind. On August 31,
1939, this site became the centre of what was to be-
come known as the Gleiwitz incident. On the orders of
Reinhard Heydrich (who would later achieve infamy in
his brutal role as SS commandant of the regions of Bo-
hemia and Moravia), a crack team of SS troops dressed in
Polish army uniforms staged a mock attack on the tower
(which was then on German soil). To make the assault all
the more convincing the bodies of numerous enemies of
the system were left scattered around, and the pretend
operation was then used as the pretense Hitler needed to
launch an attack on Poland the next day. With that WWII
kicked o. Unlike the majority of German communica-
tions towers it survived the war intact and in peace time
was utilized by the communist authorities, its many pur-
poses including the jamming of western radio programs.
In 2005 a museum was opened, its exhibits serving as a
tribute to the events of 1939.Qul. Tarnogrska 129, Gli-
wice (erniki), tel. (+48) 32 300 04 04, www.muzeum.
gliwice.pl. Open 10:00 - 16:00; Sat, Sun 11:00 - 16:00.
Closed Mon. From May open 10:00 - 16:00; Sat, Sun
11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission 5/2z. Sat free.
Guided tours in English and German are available for
200z per group.
PUB GRAMOFON
One of Gliwices best venues, Pub Gramofon follows the
Krakowian model of hip hangouts with eclectic antique fur-
nishings, candlelight, classic wallpaper and newspaper clip-
pings all over the walls. Add to that a large menu of local food
and two bars over two levels, with a small upstairs dance-
oor that gets hot and heavy on weekends. As you might
For centuries the town of Owicim was a quiet backwa-
ter community, largely bypassed by world events. That
changed with WWII when Owicim, known as Auschwitz
under German occupation, became the chosen site of the
largest death camp in the Third Reich. Between 1.1 million
and 1.5 million people were exterminated here, etching the
name of Auschwitz forever into the history books; count-
less lms, documentaries, books and survivor accounts
have since burned it into the collective consciousness.
Visitors to Poland, particularly to Krakw and Katowice,
are faced with asking themselves whether or not they will
make the eort to visit Auschwitz. It is a di cult question.
There are few who would say they actually want to visit
Auschwitz, though many are compelled to do so for their
own reasons. For those of us who dont feel so compelled,
its easy to give reasons for not going: not having enough
time, already knowing as much as we need or want to
know about it, not feeling personally connected enough to
the site or the history to need to visit, or being uncomfort-
able about the prospect of visiting a site of such emotional
resonance at the same time as hundreds of other tourists.
Having been there, we can tell you that all of these expla-
nations for avoiding Auschwitz are perfectly reasonable
until youve actually visited the site; youll be hard-pressed
to nd anyone who has made the trip and recommends
against going.
The Auschwitz Museum and tour present one of the most
horric acts in human history with a level of tact, pas-
sion, poignancy and professionalism that is so profound,
GETTING TO AUSCHWITZ
The town of Owicim lies 33km south-east of Ka-
towice and there are several ways of getting there,
though the easiest may be just signing on for an or-
ganised tour through a local company like Silesia Trip
(see Tours). Direct trains go every couple of hours from
Katowice central station and there are numerous bus
options both big and small.
Buses leave frequently from Katowices main bus sta-
tion (C-2, ul. Skargi 1), with the earliest at 07:50 Mon-
Fri, 09:00 on weekends. A one way ticket costs about
11.50z with the journey taking 60-70mins. The bus
makes several stops along the way, and weekday buses
will drop you o right at Auschwitz I; however weekend
buses will only get you to the Owicim train station
(ul. Powstacw lskich 22), which is 1.5km away.
From there hop on local buses 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 or 29 to
make the short trip to the museum; you can purchase
the 2.60z fare from one of the nearby kiosks.
Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau are located
3km apart (with the train station strategically between
them). From April to the end of October free museum
buses shuttle visitors regularly between the two parts
of the camp; from November to the end of March the
buses run once an hour. Alternatively, catch a cab for
a rich 15z.
To get back to Katowice, you need to catch a bus from
the Owicim train station. Again, local buses 24, 25, 26,
27, 28 or 29 make the trip from Auschwitz I to the train
station for 2.70z. Buses from there back to Katowice are
frequent, but the last one leaves at 17:05 Mon-Fri (Sat
17:15, Sun 20:14), so mind the time.
MEETING CENTRE
INTERNATIONAL YOUTH MEETING CENTRE
(MIDZYNARODOWY DOM SPOTKA
MODZIEY)
Education centre planning international seminars
on anti-Semitism, racism, nationalism, international
relationships, processes of democratisation and con-
temporary Poland. International youth exchange pro-
grammes, conferences and lectures are also available.
Additionally, they oer 100 beds, seminar rooms and
library.Qul. Legionw 11, Owicim, tel. (+48) 33
843 21 07, www.mdsm.pl.
it almost makes as lasting an impression as the site itself.
Without being heavy-handed, the history of the site is pre-
sented in all of its contexts and guests are perhaps spared
from fully surrendering to their emotions only by the sheer
relentlessness of the information. No matter how much you
think you know on the subject, the perspective gained by
visiting is incomparable. Whether or not you choose to go
to Auschwitz is up to you to decide. However it should be
understood that Auschwitz is not a site of Jewish concern,
Polish concern, German concern, gypsy concern, historical
concern... It is a site of human concern. As such, everyone
should visit.
VISITING

THE AUSCHWITZ MUSEUM
Arriving at the Auschwitz Museum can be chaotic and con-
fusing thanks to large crowds, numerous ticket windows
with dierent designations, and excessive signage that
contradicts itself. This can be avoided by going as part of an
organised group tour, organised by a local tour company. If
you are visiting independently however, or in a small group,
nd the queue for the desk marked Individual Guests. Dur-
Auschwitz Auschwitz
A BRIEF HISTORY
1940: In April a Nazi commission decides to open a
concentration camp in Owicim, primarily because
of the excellent transport links it enjoys. Using existing
Polish army barracks as a foundation the construction
of Auschwitz I is completed on May 20th. On June 14th,
728 Polish political prisoners from Tarnw become the
rst inmates of Auschwitz I, soon followed by 12,000
Soviet POWs.
1941: The rst experiments with Zyklon B gas are con-
ducted on 600 Soviet POWs on September 3rd.
1942: Auschwitz II-Birkenau and Auschwitz III-Monow-
itz are established.
1944: Jewish crematoria workers in Birkenau stage an
armed uprising on October 7, blowing up Crematorium
IV. Hundreds escape but are soon captured and put to
death.
1945: Liquidation of Birkenau begins in January with
the burning of documents and destruction of gas
chambers, crematoria and barracks. All prisoners who
can walk, approximately 58,000, are sent on arduous
death marches. About 15,000 die during this evacua-
tion. On January 27 the Red Army liberates Owicim,
where roughly 7,000 prisoners too weak to move have
been abandoned to their fate. In the months after the
war the Auschwitz barracks are used as an NKVD prison.
Post-war: The Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum is
established. In 1979 UNESCO includes Auschwitz I and
II on its list of World Heritage sites. In the same year it
is visited by Pope John Paul II. His successor, German
Pope Benedict XVI visits in 2006. On December 18th,
2009 thieves steal the infamous Arbeit Macht Frei sign
from above the main entrance gate, cutting it into
pieces and abandoning it in the woods in northern PL;
the sign has been replaced by a replica.
ing peak tourist season between the hours of 10:00-15:00
the museum makes it obligatory to buy a ticket and become
part of a guided tour, however in the o season it is possible
to explore the museum for free without a guide any time.
Be that as it may, we strongly recommend the guided tour,
which is excellent, profound and professional; afterwards
youll nd it hard to imagine getting as much out of your
visit had you explored the grounds on your own. Tours in
English depart most frequently, and there are also regularly
scheduled tours in German, French, Italian, Polish and Span-
ish. Tour departure times change frequently; exact times can
be seen online at auschwitz.org.pl and it would be wise to
look them up before visiting. The museum makes a big ef-
fort to provide the tour in the native language of each guest,
and tours in languages other than those just mentioned can
be easily arranged if done in advance.
After purchasing your ticket and headphones, your experi-
ence typically begins with a harrowing 20 minute lm of
narrated footage captured by the Soviet Army when they
arrived to liberate the camp in January 1945. The lm (not
recommended for children under 14) is not guaranteed
year-round however, in which case your tour of the camp
begins straightaway with a live guide speaking into a mi-
crophone which you hear through your headphones.
Visiting Auschwitz is a full days excursion so prepare accord-
ingly (comfortable shoes). The guided tour of Auschwitz I
takes around 2 hours, so make sure youve eaten breakfast.
After completing the tour of the rst camp, there is only a
short break before the bus leaves for Auschwitz-Birkenau
II; in order to stay with the same tour guide, you need to
catch that bus, so it would be wise to pack some food for
the day (though there is some limited food available at the
museum). The tour of the second camp is shorter, lasting
1-1.5 hours. Buses regularly depart back to Auschwitz I, or
you can walk or catch a cab to the train station 1.5km away.
At Auschwitz I there are restrooms (have change available),
a fast food bar and restaurant; there are also restroom facili-
ties at Auschwitz II-Birkenau. If exploring Auschwitz without
a guide, it is highly recommended that you pick up the of-
cial guidebook (5z), whose map of the camp is crucial to
avoid missing any of the key sites; these can be picked up at
any of the numerous bookshops at both sites.QAuschwitz
I open 08:00 - 16:00. From April open 08:00 - 17:00.
From May open 08:00 - 18:00. From June open 08:00 -
19:00. Last entrance 1 hour before closing.
Auschwitz II - Birkenau open 08:00 - 17:00. From
April open 08:00 - 18:00. From May open 08:00 -
19:00. From June open 08:00 0 20:00. Last entrance
1.5 hours before closing.. An individual ticket for a
foreign language guided tour of both camps costs
40/30z. Tours for groups up to 10 people, 250z. For
larger groups 300z.
The lm costs 3.50/2.50z (included in the price of a
group tour). Headphones cost 5z per person (includ-
ed in the price of a group tour). O cial guidebook 5z.
AUSCHWITZ I (PASTWOWE MUZEUM
AUSCHWITZ - BIRKENAU)
Your tour of Auschwitz I begins by passing beneath a rep-
lica of the infamous Arbeit Macht Frei (Work Makes You
Free) entrance gate. [The original sign was actually made
by inmates of the camp on Nazi orders and is no longer on
display after it was stolen in December 2009 and found in
pieces in northern Poland a few days after the theft.] From
the entrance gate, the prescribed tour route leads past the
kitchens, where the camp orchestra once played as prison-
ers marched to work, before starting in earnest inside Block
4. Here an overview of the creation and reality behind the
worlds most notorious concentration camp is given, with
exhibits including original architectural sketches for gas
chambers, tins of Zyklon B used for extermination and
mugshots of inmates. Most disturbing is over seven tonnes
of human hair once destined for German factories, which
does much to demonstrate the scale and depravity of the
Nazi death machine.
Transported to Auschwitz in cattle trucks, newly arrived
prisoners were stripped of their personal property, some of
which is displayed in Block 5 including mountains of arti-
cial limbs, glasses, labelled suitcases, shaving kits and, most
aectingly, childrens shoes. Block 6 examines the daily life
of prisoners with collections of photographs, artists draw-
ings and tools used for hard labour while the next set of
barracks recreates the living conditions endured by prison-
ers: bare rooms with sackcloth spread out on the oor, and
rows of communal latrines, one decorated with a poignant
mural depicting two playful kittens.
JEWISH CENTRE
AUSCHWITZ JEWISH CENTRE & CHEVRA
LOMDEI MISHNAYOT SYNAGOGUE
(CENTRUM YDOWSKIE)
This centre located 3km from the Auschwitz museum
maintains the towns restored synagogue, shows a lm
with testimonies of Holocaust survivors and oers a
specially tailored programme for those who call ahead.
It also features a permanent exhibition on Jewish life
in the town of Owicim before World War II.QPl. Ks.
Jana Skarbka 5, Owicim, tel. (+48) 33 844 70 02,
www.ajcf.org. Open 09:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat. Ad-
mission 6z.
Block 11, otherwise known as The Death Block, is argu-
ably the most di cult part of the tour. Outside, the Wall of
Death - against which thousands of prisoners were shot by
the SS - has been turned into a memorial festooned with
owers; it was here that Pope Benedict XVI prayed during
his ground-breaking visit in 2006. Within the terrifying,
claustrophobic cellars of Block 11 the Nazis conducted
their rst experiments with poison gas in 1941 on Soviet
prisoners. Here the cell of Father Maximilian Kolbe, the
Polish priest starved to death after oering his life to save
another inmate, is marked with a small memorial, and tiny
standing cells measuring 90 x 90 cm - where up to four
prisoners were held for indenite amounts of time - remain
intact.
The remaining blocks are dedicated to the specic suer-
ing of individual nations, including a block dedicated in
memory of the Roma people who perished. The tour con-
cludes with the gruesome gas chamber and crematoria,
whose two furnaces were capable of burning 350 corpses
daily. The gallows used to hang camp commandant Rudolf
Hoss in 1947 stands outside.Qul. Winiw Owicimia
20, Owicim, tel. (+48) 33 844 81 00, www.auschwitz.
org.
AUSCHWITZ II - BIRKENAU (PASTWOWE
MUZEUM AUSCHWITZ - BIRKENAU)
Having completed the long tour of Auschwitz I, some visi-
tors decline the opportunity to visit Auschwitz II - Birkenau,
however its here that the impact of Auschwitz can be fully
felt through the sheer size, scope and solitude of the sec-
ond camp. Added in 1942 Birkenau contained 300 barracks
and buildings on a vast site that covered 175 hectares. Soon
after the Wannsee Conference on January 20, 1942, when
Hitler and his henchmen rubber-stamped the wholesale
extermination of European Jews, it grew to become the
biggest and most savage of all the Nazi death factories,
with up to 100,000 prisoners held there in 1944.
The purpose-built train tracks leading directly into the
camp still remain. Here a grim selection process took place
with 70% of those who arrived herded directly into gas
chambers. Those selected as t for slave labour lived in
squalid, unheated barracks where starvation, disease and
exhaustion accounted for countless lives. With the Soviets
advancing, the Nazis attempted to hide all traces of their
crimes. Today little remains, with all gas chambers having
been dynamited and living quarters levelled. Climb the
tower of the main gate for a full impression of the com-
plexs size. Directly to the right lie wooden barracks used
as a quarantine area, while across on the left hand side lie
numerous brick barracks which were home to the penal
colony and also the womens camp. At the far end of the
camp lie the mangled remains of the crematoria, as well
as a bleak monument unveiled in 1967. After a comparably
brief guided tour of the camp, visitors are left to wander
and reect on their own before catching the return bus to
Auschwitz I.QOwicim, tel. (+48) 33 844 81 00, www.
auschwitz.org.
Leisure
Though it wouldnt appear so on rst, second or third
glance, Katowice and the surrounding areas possess a star-
tling number of recreational areas and leisure opportunities.
Though known more for its industrial attractions and poor
air quality than its nature conservation record, Silesia has
some of the largest urban green spaces, not only in Poland,
but all of Europe. Chorzws Silesia Park is a veritable lei-
sure sections worth of activities in itself, and though were
tempted to stop there, its only one of an incredible four
parks in the immediate area that weigh in at an impressively
over-sized 70+ hectares. If youre searching for daytime al-
ternatives to drinking and tumbling down mineshafts, they
do exist. From horse-riding to star-gazing, from climbing to
ying, Silesia oers plenty of opportunities for you to get up,
get out and get busy.
ADRENALINE SPORTS
LASERHOUSE
This excellent 600 square metre laser tag arena near the
centre of Katowice is equipped with strobe lights, ores-
cent gra ti, dry ice, dynamic music and elaborate back-
drops to fully immerse gamers into an exciting futuristic
world. Engage your opponents in a sci- shootout while
using barrels and tire pyramids for cover, or take a crack
at the challenging laser maze with varying levels of di -
culty. Laser Tag games are 30mins and cost 15z weekdays
before 17:00, 18z after 17:00 (20z on Fridays). Weekends
are 18z before 16:00, 20z after 16:00. Attempts at the la-
ser maze are 5z. Prices may increase slightly in 2014. Also
at ul. Wojska Polskiego 47 in Sosnowiec, and ul. Bolesawa
Chrobrego 6 in Rybnik.QD-1, ul. Kamienna 9, tel. (+48)
32 229 00 21, www.laserhouse.pl. Open 10:00 - 22:00,
Sun 11:00 - 22:00.
BOWLING & BILLIARDS
BLACK 8
Inside a large underground entertainment complex on
the outskirts of Katowices city centre, Black 8 is for those
with more than a drunken or passing interest in pool. The
only professional billiards club in Kato, Black 8 is home to
15 Dynamic II billiards tables and two high-quality snooker
tables. Having organised the Polish Billiards Championships
this place knows more than a thing or two about racking
em up and knocking em down. Black 8 is also a restaurant
oering a large menu of Polish standard fare and of course
a lengthy drink menu to quench the players thirsts. Tables
cost 8-18z/hr for billiards and 15-25z/hr for snooker. Eve-
ning reservations would be wise.QC-1, ul. Dbrwki 10,
tel. (+48) 32 781 08 60, www.clubbilard.pl. Open 12:00
- 24:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 02:00.
KRGIELNIA GALAKTYKA
Located inside a 2000 square metre entertainment centre
that includes the Black 8 billiards club, a music club (Club
Garage) and a restaurant, this popular bowling alley fea-
tures 8 lanes (plus 2 for kids), planetary graphics, comput-
erised scoring and a stocked bar. True bowlers may nd the
setup which forces you to walk through every lane a bit
frustrating, but not nearly as much so as the lanes them-
selves: extremely narrow, bowling has probably never been
harder and you can forget about trying to put any spin on
the ball. Still, its a fun atmosphere. Depending on the day
of the week and time of day, lane rental costs 20-69z/hr
plus 2z shoe rental; check website for full details. Reser-
vations recommended.QC-1, ul. Dbrwki 10, tel. (+48)
32 781 08 60, www.kregielniagalaktyka.pl. Open 12:00
- 24:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 02:00.
Sil Sil Sil Sil Sill Si SS esi esi esi es esi esi esi esi esi ees a P a P a P a P a P a P a P a P aa Park ark ark ark rk ark ark ark a
Leisure
HORSE RIDING
KATOWICE RIDING CLUB
Indoor or outdoor riding, as you like. Beginner lessons
30z/30min. Experienced riders 40z/1hr.Qul. Francuska
180a (Muchowiec), tel. (+48) 32 251 34 84. Open 15:00 -
19:00, Sat, Sun 14:00 - 19:00. Closed Mon, Fri.
INDOOR PLAYGROUNDS
CIUCIUBABKA
Basically the best babysitters out there, Ciuciubabka gives
your kids an opportunity to wear themselves out in a safe,
supervised environment full of slides, ballpits, inatible
bouncy things, jungle gyms, arts and crafts and a lot more.
The desert island every kid wants to get left on. Everybody
wins. Tickets prices for weekdays/weekends: rst half hour
6/7z, second started half hour 5/6z, one hour 11/13z, un-
limited playtime 19/21z.Qul. Jaboniowa 52 (Jzefow-
iec), tel. (+48) 32 725 26 58, www.ciuciubabka.com.pl.
Open 16:00 - 20:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 20:00.
SALA ZABAW LIZZY
Located on the eastern fringe of the Silesia Park youll nd
what is apparently the largest kids playpen in PL. This fun-
house used to be known as Rura Park but Lizzy changed the
name but still has plenty of game. Designed for ages 3 to 12,
this indoor rumpus castle is full of ball pits, slides, labyrinths,
building blocks and more. A birthday party magnet, theres
even an attached pizza place.QAl. Atrakcji 1, Chorzw,
tel. (+48) 32 725 16 63, www.parkslaski.pl. Open 14:00
- 20:00; Sat, Sun 10:00 - 20:00.
OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS
& PARKS
NEW
POKAZOWA ZAGRODA UBRW
Qul. orska 5, Pszczyna, tel. (+48) 32 447 05 03, www.zubry.
pszczyna.pl. Open 09:00 - 18:00. From April 09:00 - 19:00.
Last entrance 30 minutes before closing. Admission 9/6z.
SILESIA PARK (PARK LSKI)
QL-7, Al. Rana 2, Chorzw, tel. (+48) 32 254 73 76,
www.parkslaski.pl.
RACQUET SPORTS
SZKOA TENISA PROSERV
Indoor and outdoor tennis courts.QG-1, ul. Ceglana 67,
tel. (+48) 601 48 18 32, www.proserv-tenis.pl. Open
08:00 - 22:00. Indoor courts: 45-60z per hour; weekends
55z per all day.
SPA & BEAUTY
CITY SPA & WELLNESS
Customised treatments for men and women in this cen-
trally located house of luxuries: facials, hand, foot and body
treatments, hairdressing and a lot more.QE-2, ul. Henryka
Jordana 19, tel. (+48) 32 251 01 99, www.cityspa.com.pl.
TERMY RZYMSKIE
Found in the impressive Paac Saturna (see Apartments),
these Roman baths were reportedly constructed based on
plans for the baths at Pompeii and include a series of pools,
baths and saunas which combine ancient and modern-day
methods to relax and regenerate you, plus a restaurant and
bar. The entire complex is something to behold, not least of
all for its obligatory nude-only policy. The only exception is
Mondays when bathing suits are allowed in the pools, while
Wednesdays from 15:00-19:00 are for women only. The sur-
prisingly low prices and bold dress code have garnered this
place plenty of attention, but the fact remains that facilities
are of the highest quality in PL.Qul. Dehnelw 2, Czelad,
tel. (+48) 32 290 13 90, www.termyrzymskie.eu. Open
15:00 - 22:45, Sat 10:00 - 23:00, Sun 10:00 - 22:00.
VISUAL STUDIOTERESA WONIAK
East of the centre, Visual Studio oers hot stone massage,
4 hand massage, hand and foot treatments, permanant
make-up, acupressure and a range of other treatments. And
if you believe in the power of the talisman you can even
have your fortune read.Qul. Bohaterw Monte Cassino 1
(Zawodzie), tel. (+48) 32 256 26 63, www.vstudio.com.pl.
Open 09:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 19:00, Sun 12:00 - 19:00.
SWIMMING & DIVING
CENTRUM FITNESS MONOPOL
This city centre complex oers a swimming pool, dry
sauna, steam sauna, gym and tness center within splash-
ing distance of the train station.QD-3, ul. Dyrekcyjna 2,
tel. (+48) 32 782 81 00, www.ftnessmonopol.pl. Open
06:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 08:00 - 20:00.
GRDEK DOLOMITE QUARRY
Qul. Petwonurkw, Jaworzno.
ORKA GROUP
Scuba diving lessons in the excavated basin of the quarry.
Diving equipment also for sale.Qul. Petwonurkw 1, Ja-
worzno, tel. (+48) 33 822 82 60, www.orkasa.pl. Open
08:00 - 18:00.
Shopping
Ges Ges Gee zeft
Shopping
FASHION & ACCESSORIES
International designer clothing and fashion brands can be
found in Katowices shopping malls, namely the peerless
Silesia City Centre (F-1). High quality Polish brands to peel
an eye for include Reserved, Vistula, Tatuum and Carry. On the
opposite end of the spectrum, you should nd no trouble lo-
cating secondhand clothing stores around the city, ranging
from self-respecting retailers to those who oer a room of
rummage bins; just look for the words Tanie Odziez. Finally,
the clothing market around Plac Synagogi on ul. Mickie-
wicza (H-2) is a great place to get stockings with runs in them
and underwear stretched and displayed on a steering wheel.
GESZEFTQA-2, ul. Morcinka 23-25, tel. (+48) 534 76
76 54. Open 12:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
A6UGSW
FOOD & SWEETS
NEW
KOPALNIA CUKIERKW
This candy factory makes hand made treats and scrump-
tious sweets in all shapes and sizes. Their colorful hard can-
dies come in fun ower forms, classic lollipops, whimsical
wands and even little lumps of black coal! Finally some-
thing to put in your kids stockings if theyve been naughty
and nice.Qul. Plebiscytowa 9, tel. (+48) 533 87 94 99.
Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun.
NATU
A nice little community shop selling 100% organic food
and ecological products with European certicates: fresh
fruit and produce, food for special dietary needs, macrobi-
otic products, natural cosmetics and cleaning products, etc.
QE-2, ul. Powstacw 10, tel. (+48) 32 257 23 66, www.
natu.pl. Open 08:00 - 18:30, Sat 08:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
NATURA
Ideal for those with dietary needs, Natura sells a range of
organic and health food products, honeys, preservative free
juices, cold-pressed oils and the like.QE-2, ul. Kociuszki
57, tel. (+48) 601 70 70 57. Open 09:00 - 17:00, Sat 09:00
- 13:00. Closed Sun.
a suggestion and will easily stay open longer if you so de-
sire.QE-2, ul. Powstacw 10, tel. (+48) 32 608 63 71,
www.galeriafox.pl. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00.
Closed Sun.
GALERIA SZTUKI WSPCZESNEJ PARNAS
Modern art, illustration, painting, sculpture, glass, yada,
yada.QD-2, ul. Kochanowskiego 10, tel. (+48) 32 257 03
00, www.parnas.com.pl. Open 11:00 - 17:00, Sat 10:00 -
13:00. Closed Sun.
KARABELA
These knowledgable antiques dealers specialise in paint-
ings, furniture, jewellery, clocks, silver, glass and ceramics,
old military equipment, old photographs and books. Very
professional, and they even speak English and German.
QC-2, ul. Stawowa 5, tel. (+48) 32 258 98 83, www.
antyki.katowice.pl. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat 10:00 - 13:00.
Closed Sun.
BOOKS, MUSIC & FILM
EMPIK
Located in the massive Silesian City Center, this is the best
place in town to nd English language paperbacks, guide
books, a few foreign newspapers and a decent range of
CDs and DVDs. One stop shopping for all your mass media
wants and needs.QA-1, ul. Chorzowska 107 (Silesia City
Center), tel. (+48) 22 451 03 94, www.empik.com. Open
10:00 - 21:00, Fri 10:00 - 22:00.
KOMIS PYTOWY (RECORD STORE)
The largest selection of vinyl weve ever seen in PL is hidden
in this courtyard o one of Katowices main streets. Bargain-
priced, though not extremely well-organised used CDs, as
well as music-related DVDs, posters and shirts.QC-2, ul. 3
Maja 19, tel. (+48) 32 253 99 45. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sat
10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
24HR SHOPS
PIAST
QM-3, Pl. Piastw 6, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 32 231 91 67.
TAX FREE SHOPPING
Non-EU residents are entitled to claim
a VAT refund when the purchased
goods are exported in an unused
condition outside the EU in personal
luggage. Shop wherever you see the
Global Blue logo. The minimum to-
tal purchase value with VAT per Tax
Free Form is 200pln. Keep the Tax Free Form, have it
stamped when leaving the nal point of departure
from the EU and reclaim your money. For full details
check www.global-blue.com.
ALCOHOL
Nothing says Ive been to Poland like a suitcase of booze
and an increased alcohol tolerance. Indeed, if retracing your
activities while in Katowice you may have to concede that
alcohol makes the most logical memento. While Polish beer
elicits mixed reports from the foreign community, Polish
vodka stands alongside the best, and the country is rightful-
ly seen as the ancient home of the wicked sauce. Belvedere
and Chopin are the elite brands youll nd in fancy gift sets,
but dont miss ubrwka (bison grass vodka), Krupnik
(herbal honey vodka), odkowa Gorzka (bitter stomach
vodka) and Goldwasser with its signature gold akes.
CENTRUM WINA
Traditional Polish vodka, mead and other high-octane drinks
made from natural ingredients, aged in oak barrels and sold
to you in fancy packages.QA-1, ul. Chorzowska 107 (Silesia
City Center), tel. (+48) 32 605 09 34, www.centrumwina.
com.pl. Open 10:00 - 21:00, Fri 10:00 - 22:00.
VINOTEKA 13
An elite and elaborate selection of Italian wines, brandies,
tinctures to sample and speculate about purchasing.QI-3,
ul. Dyrekcyjna 5-7 (entrance from ul. Dworcowa 5), tel.
(+48) 32 782 82 07, www.vinoteka13.pl. Open 10:00 -
19:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
WINIARNIA BURGUNDIA
A really admirable selection of world wines for all tastes
and budgets in this shop/wine bar hidden in a courtyard
near the train station. Another location in the Altus Cen-
tre (H-3, ul. Uniwersytecka 13). Closed for one night every
two weeks for wine tastings. Call ahead to be safe.QC-2,
ul. 3 Maja 23, tel. (+48) 32 253 75 19, www.burgundia.
com.pl. Open 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 11:00 - 21:00. Closed
Sun.
AMBER & JEWELLERY
W. KRZY
One stop shopping for all your gold, diamond, pearl
and luxury watch needs. They stock hot brands such as
Chopard, Girard Peregaux, Rado, Omega. A great excuse to
break out that new Platinum Mastercard.QD-3, ul. Staro-
miejska 15, tel. (+48) 32 253 98 39, www.krzys-jubiler.pl.
ART & ANTIQUES
DESA
Sales and appraisals of art, antiques, crafts, china, collect-
ibles, decorative items and jewellery in this classy down-
town gallery. Also at ul. Mariacka 5 (D-3).QI-3, ul. Dwor-
cowa 13 (entrance from ul. w. Jana), tel. (+48) 32 253 94
70, www.desakatowice.pl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00
- 13:00. Closed Sun.
GALERIA SZTUKI FOX
A unique and welcoming gallery specialising in modern
art, paintings, sculpture, graphics and hand-made jewel-
lery. Fox also oers decor services, and - somewhat surpris-
ingly - exquisite teas and all the associated equipment you
might need to prepare them. The opening hours are merely
Shopping Shopping
ORGANIC FARMA ZDROWIA
Were not sure what it says about the organic farming in-
dustry and health food market when the only place to nd
a store like this is in a shopping mall, but here it is: a small,
expensive selection of soy and gluten-free products, natu-
ral spices, oils, honeys, and other health-conscious goods.
QA-1, ul. Chorzowska 107 (Silesia City Center), tel. (+48)
32 605 02 96, www.organicmarket.pl. Open 10:00 -
21:00, Fri 10:00 - 22:00.
GIFTS & SOUVENIRS
ANWA
Local hand-made porcelain, glass and ceramics.QD-3, ul. Koch-
anowskiego 2 (entrance from ul.Wojewdzka), tel. (+48) 32
251 39 23. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
CEPELIA
A larger than average version of the national folk art chain
selling a range of related arts and crafts from kitsch to quint-
essential including some ne tapestries, wood carvings and
even complete folk costumes for both men and women.QC-
3, Al. Korfantego 6, tel. (+48) 32 259 87 44, www.cepelia.pl.
CERAMIKA BOLESAWIECKA
This wonderful shop oers a great selection of Polands
famous Bolesawiec folk ceramic. If youre in need of a
fool-proof gift from Poland, you really cant go wrong here.
QC-3, ul. Dyrekcyjna 4, tel. (+48) 32 350 20 99, www.
ceramicboleslawiec.com.pl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sat
09:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun.
KURKA BEZ PIRKA
A charming shop promoting art by young local artists,
Kurka Bez Pirka specialises in handicrafts and ber arts,
but oers a wide range of art and accessories, includ-
ing graphic prints, ceramics, hand-made jewellery, home
decor items, gift baskets and even paintings and draw-
ing by students from Katowices Academy of the Arts.
QE-2, ul. Powstacw 4, tel. (+48) 691 40 10 40, www.
kurkabezpiorka.pl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00.
Closed Sun.
NEW
SADZA SOAP
This is the ultimate must-have souvenir for the Silesian
enthusiast in your family. A lump of pristine coal that you
can use to clean o all that coal dust you picked up from
visiting one of the regions many mines. Ok, so it may be
a novelty, but it is actually made of high quality soap with
absolutely deft design. Yet another perfect stocking stuer.
You can purchase your very own clean coal for around 25
z and you can get them online or in selected museums
and info points around town. Email them for more info.
Qmail@sadzasoap.com, www.sadzasoap.com.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
FRIVOL PERFUMERIE
Perfume, make-up, cosmetics and beauty care products
from the worlds top brands - including Calvin Klein, Cli-
nique, Chanel, Estee Lauder, Armani, Gucci and more - all
sexily displayed in this modern-minimal showroom in-
side Sosnowiecs Fashion House Outlet Centre.Qul. Orlt
Lwowskich 138, Sosnowiec, tel. (+48) 32 296 51 50.
Open 10:00 - 21:00, Sun 10:00 - 20:00.
MARKETS
CLOTHING MARKET
This outdoor market running along the right hand side of ul.
Mickiewicza towards ul. Stawowa is a great place to acquire
the styles of yesteryear at suitably bargain prices. With most
of the vendors peddling clothing, particularly stretched out
stockings, padded bras and faded blouses, here youll also
nd a row of produce vendors (along ul. Stawowa), some
random baked goods and cheap perfume beneath the
blue and white striped tents.QC-2, Plac Synagogi.
TARGOWISKO MIEJSKIE
You havent really experienced Poland until youve smelt
the unique fragrance of fruit, vegetables, sh and Chinese
cotton that make up the main things for sale in a classic
outdoor Polish market. This small market south of the train
tracks comes with red and white striped awnings and a
good selection of the aforementioned things for sale at
bargain prices. Keep in mind that on Mondays some of the
venders may be closed.QD-2, Pl. Miarki, tel. (+48) 32 250
40 08, www.ztm.katowice.pl. Open 07:00 - 17:00.
SHOPPING MALLS
3 STAWY
This 49,000 square metre shopping complex southeast of
centre includes an underground parking lot and a Real hy-
permarket with 60 boutique shops and some well-recog-
nised brands including Reserved, KappAhl, Smyk, EMPIK and
H&M hedged inside. Self-standing nearby are Media Markt,
Go Sport and a few others youve never heard of. Get there
by taking bus numbers 672, 674 or 910 from ul. Mickiewicza
near Rynek.QG-5, ul. Puaskiego 60, tel. (+48) 32 209 14
60, www.3stawy.pl. Open 09:00 - 21:00, Sun 09:00 - 20:00.
ALTUS
Once Katowices most modern edice, Altus began the Sile-
sian capitals post-communist march to modernity, and at
27 stories and 125 metres tall was until recently the tallest
building in all of southern PL (now completely eclipsed by
Wrocaws 225m Sky Tower). A thoroughly unique culture,
entertainment, business and retail centre all contained in
one glittering package, within Altus 69,000 square metres
youll nd a diverse range of ways to spend a typically drea-
ry day in Silesia; in fact, with one of the best hotels in town
(Qubus Prestige) occupying the upper oors, its conceiv-
able you could spend your entire trip to Kato within the
Altus connes.
Home to a cinema (Helios), tness centre, casino, atrium
gallery and several ne restaurants (Via Toscana, Kyoto
Sushi), Altus also contains a plethora of retail boutiques
and salons (including an Apple Macintosh service store),
banks, cafes and a rooftop bar with views of that incred-
ible city youll be perfectly content to miss. The complex is
so vast they even have superuous space leftover for of-
ces and conference facilities. Serviced by an underground
parking lot with 566 spaces, theres even a car wash. Now
thats thorough.QC-3, ul. Uniwersytecka 13, tel. (+48) 32
350 50 50. Open 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 11:00 - 18:00.
GALERIA KATOWICKA
The mighty Galeria Katowicka nally shed its cranes and
opened its vaulted doors to a giddy and gasping public
in September 2013, in concert with the completion of
the nal part of the three-stage modernisation of the
Katowice Train Station. Featuring over 250 shops and
service points - including a supermarket, several conve-
nience stores, media and appliance outlets, all the top
Polish and foreign clothing and shoe brands not to men-
tion a slew of jewellery and interior design boutiques -
the mall literally spills out onto Plac Szewczyka, which
is covered in new restaurants and cafes, and includes an
underground parking lot with 1,200 spaces. Essentially
the cornerstone of the modernisation and general beau-
tication of the entire city centre, Galeria Katowicka and
the new train station were designed to smoothly blend
into the citys architecture and act as a convenient cor-
ridor of commerce for travellers, business profession-
als and locals alike. An unavoidable aspect of any visit
to the city, those who werent around to enjoy the old
train station will probably never understand just what a
blessing this commercial and transport complex really
is.QC-2, ul. 3 Maja 30, tel. (+48) 32 41 41 290, www.
galeriakatowicka.eu. Open 09:00 - 21:00, Sun 10:00 -
20:00.
PASA MONOPOL
The only Likus Concept Store in the region, Pasa Monopol
oers high-class boutique brands inside the rened interior
of the ve-star Hotel Monopol. Exclusive signature stores
include Vinoteka 13 - bringing you high quality wine from
Italy, while within the arcades youll nd known designer
brands like Versace and Dono da Scheggia. Theres also
Lanora, Olsen and beauty treatments at Face2Face hair-
dresser.QD-3, ul. Dyrekcyjna 5-7. Open 10:00 - 19:00.
Closed Sun.
SILESIA CITY CENTER
Located mid-way between Katowice and Chorzw on
the site of an old 1904 coal mine, the spectacular Silesia
City Center easily trumps everything else in the region.
A combined retail, gourmet and entertainment complex,
the original 65,000 metre-square building was opened
in 2005 and in October 2011 hotel heiress Paris Hilton
descended upon Silesia to open a new wing with 60
additional shops, 2 more restaurants, a dentist o ce,
massage studio, beauty salon and additional parking,
bringing the total number of spaces to 3500 - the largest
lot in Silesia. Designed to blend in with the surround-
ing Gothic architecture, this shopping mall has over 300
shops including Tesco, Saturn and EMPiK superstores, a
Cinema City movie complex, Pure Fitness Club, and is
even a decent place to eat thanks to the upstairs Bier-
halle restaurant and Hana - a magnicent sushi restau-
rant located externally in the mines former swimming
pool. Other features include the preserved, red brick St
Barbaras Chapel and the remains of the tower that once
lowered the miners underground - now the symbol of
the commercial centre. Get there via tram numbers 6, 11
or 19.QA-1, ul. Chorzowska 107, tel. (+48) 32 605 00
00, www.silesiacitycenter.com.pl. Open 10:00 - 21:00,
Fri 10:00 - 22:00.
Hotels Directory
Katowice and Silesia in general is rst and foremost a busi-
ness destination although it is quickly becoming a premier
event hub for festivals, concerts, conferences and sports
competitions. Reecting this fact is the presence of an
ever expanding choice of a broad range of Hotel options
with the lions share going to business class hotels. Still, you
can nd some decent low-price options especially if youre
willing to lay your head a bit further from the action. With
the business crowd disappearing o to home at the end
of the week, most hotels oer substantial discounts over
the weekend. In fact, with the increasing irrelevance of of-
cial rack rates these days due to online booking discounts,
special oers and other price variations, we no longer nd it
particularly instructive to list room prices in our guide. Case
in point, anyone who uses the Hotel Calculator function
on our website - katowice.inyourpocket.com - will nd
a better rate than the o cial prices we once printed; as
such, we encourage you to do just that and you can thank
us later. Hotelsare located in various cities and suburbs
throughout the Silesian Metropolis. Happy pillow hunting.
Dobranoc!
KATOWICE
ANGELO HOTEL KATOWICE
Q B-2, ul. Sokolska 24, tel. (+48) 32 783 81 00, www.
angelo-katowice.pl. 203 rooms (181 singles, 181 dou-
bles, 5 suites, 17 apartments). P T H A R 6 U
F G K D W h h h h
BEST WESTERN PREMIER KATOWICE HOTEL
Q ul. Bytkowska 1a, tel. (+48) 32 721 11 11, www.
bestwesternkatowice.pl. 168 rooms (61 singles, 74 dou-
bles, 30 suites, 1 apartment). P T H A R 6 U F
G K D W h h h h
BOUTIQUE HOSTEL PATRIA
Q E-1, ul. Mikoajowska 44, tel. (+48) 32 204 52 08. 7
rooms (7 singles, 7 doubles, 7 triples, 7 quads). A 6 G
CAMPANILE
Q F-5, ul. Sowiskiego 48, tel. (+48) 32 205 50 50, www.
campanile.com.pl. 77 rooms (77 singles, 77 doubles).
P T H A 6 U G K W h h
DIAMENT PLAZA KATOWICE
Q D-3, ul. Dworcowa 9, tel. (+48) 32 746 70 00, www.
hotelediament.pl. 45 rooms (9 singles, 32 doubles, 4 suites,
1 apartment). P T H A 6 U G K W h h h h
IBIS BUDGET KATOWICE CENTRUM
Q C-4, Al. Rodzieskiego 18, tel. (+48) 32 350 50 40,
www.ibisbudget.com. 124 rooms (124 singles, 124 dou-
bles, 4 triples). P T A 6 U G W h
JOPI HOSTEL
Q E-2, ul. Plebiscytowa 23, tel. (+48) 32 204 34 32, www.
jopihostel.pl. 9 rooms (3 singles, 4 doubles, 2 quads, 32
dorm beds). A 6 G W
DENTISTS
MED CENTRUM
QC-1, Pl. Wolnoci 4, tel. (+48) 32 352 56 50, www.
medcentrum.pl.
PRYWATNE POGOTOWIE DENTYSTYCZNE
DENTAL - SERVICE
QD-5, ul. Krasiskiego 25A, tel. (+48) 32 256 29 85,
www.dentalservice.com.pl.
LANGUAGE SCHOOLS
LINGUA HOUSE
Also at ul. Gliwicka 12/11 (C-1). tel 32 781 77 81QD-5, ul.
1 Maja 33, tel. (+48) 32 256 10 40, www.lingua-house.pl.
PROFI-LINGUA
QC-2, ul. Mickiewicza 28, tel. (+48) 32 253 05 20, www.
prof-lingua.pl/ogolny/katowice.
PRIVATE CLINICS
INTER-MED
Qul. Grabowa 32 (Wenowiec), tel. (+48) 32 253 61 98,
www.inter-med.pl.
LUX MEDQB-2, ul. Sokolska 29, tel. (+48) 22 332 28
88, www.luxmed.pl.
SAD-MEDQC-3, ul. Teatralna 9, tel. (+48) 32 782 40
40, www.sadmed.com.pl.
REAL ESTATE
PIKQD-2, ul. Kociuszki 26/7, tel. (+48) 32 781 95 82,
www.pik.gratka.pl.
PROLOKUMQC-3, Al. Korfantego 9, tel. (+48) 32 781
09 99, www.prolokum.pl.
TRANSLATORS

& INTERPRETERS
EKSPERT
QA-1, ul. Johna Baildona 16/2, tel. (+48) 500 26 56 78,
www.ekspert.katowice.pl.
EUROBUSINESS - HALLER
Qul. Obroki 133, tel. (+48) 32 355 38 01, www.haller.pl.
GROY
QC-2, ul. 1 Maja 9, tel. (+48) 32 352 10 01, www.groy.pl.
24HR PHARMACIES
APTEKA AKADEMICKA
Qul. Tysiclecia 41 (Osiedle Tysiclecia), tel. (+48) 32
254 05 21.
APTEKA BLISKO CIEBIE
QC-2, ul. Mickiewicza 10, tel. (+48) 32 258 11 11.
APTEKA EUROPEJSKA
QD-3, ul. Wojewdzka 7, tel. (+48) 32 251 77 62.
CONSULATES & EMBASSIES
LATVIA
Qul. Krlowej Aldony 19 (Saska Kempa), Warsaw, tel.
(+48) 22 617 11 05, www.latvia.pl.
LITHUANIA
QAl. Ujazdowskie 14, Warsaw, tel. (+48) 22 625 33 68,
pl.mfa.lt.
SLOVAKIA
Qul. Litewska 6, Warsaw, tel. (+48) 22 525 81 10, www.
mzv.sk/varsava.
SLOVENIA
Qul. Starociska 1/23-24, Warsaw, tel. (+48) 22 849 82
82, www.warsaw.embassy.si.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
Changing money is increasingly less fretful to do, but
as with most international destinations it is still worth
comparing rates particularly at entry points such as
airports or in major tourist areas. We check rates of a
selection of money exchange o ces (kantors) every
four months. Below are their buying rates (how many
zoty you would get for one unit of foreign currency) for
21.02.14 compared to the following rates published
by the National Bank of Poland (NBP) for that morn-
ing: Euro 1 = 4.1308z, US$ 1 = 3.0101z, GBP 1 =
5.0210z.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
1 Euro = 3.32z, 1 Dollar = 2.42z, 1 Pound = 4.11z,
No commission.Qul. Wolnoci 90, Pyrzowice (Air-
port, Terminal A), tel. (+48) 32 781 81 95.
FIFTY-FIFTY
No commission.QC-3, ul. Mickiewicza 6, tel. (+48) 32
258 44 04.
MAX KANTOR
No commission.QC-2, ul. Stawowa 10, tel. (+48) 694
99 21 67.
- 76 AlR-CONUl1lONLU ROOMS Wl1H
1v ANU BA1HROOM
- lRLL WlRLLLSS lN1LRNL1 HO1SPO1
- RLS1AURAN1 Wl1H
lN1LRNA1lONAL CUlSlNL
- COMlOR1ABLL CONlLRLNCL ROOMS
- MONl1ORLU CAR-PARK
SOWISKIEGO 48, 40-018 KATOWICE, TEL: +48 (032) 205 50 50, FAX: +48 (032) 209 06 06
EMAIL: KATOWICE@CAMPANILE.COM
Hotels Hotels
QUBUS HOTEL GLIWICE
QN-3, ul. Dworcowa27, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 323001100, www.
qubushotel.com. 89 rooms (35 singles, 44 doubles, 6 suites, 4
apartments). PTHAR6UGKW hhh
ROYAL
Q M-3, ul. Matejki 10, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 32 400 00 00,
www.hotelroyal.com.pl. 50 rooms (14 singles, 36 dou-
bles). P T H A F L G K D W h h h
PROMNICE
NOMA RESIDENCE
(PROMNICE HUNTING LODGE)
Q Zameczek Myliwski Promnice, tel. (+48) 32 219 46
78, www.promnice.pl. 13 rooms (13 singles, 13 doubles).
T H A R 6 G K D W h h h h
PYRZOWICE
DESILVA INN KATOWICE AIRPORT
Q ul. Rwnolega 2, Pyrzowice, tel. (+48) 32 393 88 88,
www.desilva.pl. 77 rooms (77 singles, 77 doubles, 77
triples). P T H A R 6 U G K W h h h
SOSNOWIEC
M HOTEL SOSNOWIEC
Q ul. Wojska Polskiego 199, Sosnowiec, tel. (+48) 32 363
63 00, www.mhotelsosnowiec.pl. 55 rooms (51 singles,
50 doubles, 4 suites). T H A 6 U F L G K W
h h h
ZABRZE
DIAMENT ZABRZE
Qul. Cisowa 4, Zabrze (Zaborze Poudnie), tel. (+48)
32 721 10 00, www.hotelediament.pl. 38 rooms (12
singles, 22 doubles, 4 suites). THA6GKW
hhh
IBIS KATOWICE - ZABRZE
QR-1, ul. Jagielloska 4, Zabrze, tel. (+48) 32 777 70
00, www.accorhotels.com. 114 rooms (114 singles, 114
doubles). PTHAGKW hh
ORODEK KONFERENCYJNO-SZKOLENIOWY IN-
NOWACJA (CONFERENCE & TRAINING CENTRE
INNOVATION)
Qul. Jagielloska 38A, Zabrze, www.oks.polsl.pl. 34
rooms (1 single, 21 doubles, 5 triples, 3 quads, 4 apart-
ments). HARG
WILLA AMBASADOR
Qul. 3 Maja 78, Zabrze (rdmiecie), tel. (+48)
32 271 50 44, www.mosir.zabrze.pl. 28 rooms
(26 singles, 26 doubles, 7 triples, 2 apartments).
PAGKW
KATOWICE
Q C-3, Al. Korfantego 9, tel. (+48) 32 258 82 81, www.
hotel-katowice.com.pl. 230 rooms (136 singles, 78 dou-
bles, 16 suites). T H A 6 U G K W h h
LA STALLA
Q C-2, ul. Wawelska 1, tel. (+48) 32 204 85 95, www.
noclegi-katowice.com.pl. 19 rooms (15 singles, 15 dou-
bles, 4 apartments). A G K W
MONOPOL
Q D-3, ul. Dworcowa 5, tel. (+48) 32 782 82 82, www.
lhr.com.pl. 108 rooms (12 singles, 93 doubles, 3 apart-
ments). P T H A 6 U F L G K D C W
h h h h h
NOVOTEL KATOWICE CENTRUM
Q C-4, Al. Rodzieskiego 16, tel. (+48) 32 200 44 44,
www.accorhotels.com. 300 rooms (216 singles, 84
doubles). P T H A R 6 U F G K D C W
h h h h
OLYMPIA SPODEK
Q B-3, Al. Korfantego 35, tel. (+48) 32 606 85 85, www.
stylehotels.pl. 30 rooms (29 singles, 26 doubles, 1 apart-
ment). P T H A R 6 U G K D C W h h h
PARK HOTEL DIAMENT
Q F-2, ul. Wita Stwosza 37, tel. (+48) 32 720 00 00, www.
hotelediament.pl. 186 rooms (181 singles, 173 doubles,
5 suites). P T H A 6 U F G K W h h h h
QUBUS HOTEL PRESTIGE KATOWICE
Q C-3, ul. Uniwersytecka 13, tel. (+48) 32 601 01 00,
www.qubushotel.com. 150 rooms (94 singles, 14 dou-
bles, 36 suites, 6 apartments). P O T H A R 6
U F G K D W h h h h
SENATOR
Q D-5, ul. 1 Maja 3, tel. (+48) 32 258 60 81, www.senator.
katowice.pl. 48 rooms (47 singles, 47 doubles, 1 apart-
ment). H A R 6 U G K W h h h
SILESIAN HOTEL QUALITY AND ECONOMY
Q G-4, ul. Szybowcowa 1a, tel. (+48) 32 606 88 00, www.
silesianhotel.pl. 181 rooms (18 singles, 157 doubles, 6
apartments). P T H A R 6 U F G K D C W
h h h
SLEEP CITY
Q A-1, ul. Johna Baildona 22e, tel. (+48) 509 75 29 35,
www.sleepcity.pl. 12 rooms (12 apartments). T A R
U G W
TWJ HOSTEL KATOWICE
Q ul. Klimczoka 7, tel. (+48) 32 202 30 25, www.
twojhostel.pl. 66 rooms (10 singles, 15 doubles, 19 tri-
ples, 15 quads, 43 dorm beds). A U G K W
BYTOM
TWJ HOSTEL BYTOM
Q ul. Strzelcw Bytomskich 87A, Bytom, tel. (+48) 32
782 17 00, www.twojhostel.pl. 93 rooms (15 singles, 25
doubles, 27 triples, 17 quads, 9 Five-person rooms , 54
Dorm beds). T A R G W
CHORZW
ARSENAL PALACE
Q K-5, ul. Paderewskiego 35, Chorzw, tel. (+48) 32 606
84 84, www.stylehotels.pl. 115 rooms (111 singles, 83
doubles, 1 apartment). P T H A R 6 U F L
G K D C w W h h h h
HOTEL BELLA NOTTE
Q K-4, ul. Paderewskiego 35, Chorzw, tel. (+48) 32
606 82 82, www.stylehotels.pl. 45 rooms (43 singles, 43
doubles, 1 suite, 1 apartment). T H A R 6 U L
G W h h h
CZELAD
HOTEL SZAFRAN
Q ul. Bdziska 82, Czelad, tel. (+48) 32 784 31 00,
www.hotelszafran.pl. 116 rooms (2 singles, 85 doubles,
22 triples, 7 apartments). P T H A R 6 U F G
K W h h h h
HOTEL RYCERSKI (KNIGHTS HOTEL)
Q ul. Bdziska 53, Czelad, tel. (+48) 32 763 58 88,
www.hotel-rycerski.pl. 26 rooms (24 singles, 19 dou-
bles, 1 suite, 1 apartment). T H A R 6 G K W
h h h
PAAC SATURNA
Q ul. Dehnelw 2, Czelad, tel. (+48) 32 290 13 90, www.
palacsaturna.pl. 11 rooms (11 apartments). T H A
G K D C w W
GLIWICE
DIAMENT ECONOMY GLIWICE
QN-2, ul. Zwycistwa 42, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 32 231 18
21, www.hotelediament.pl. 27 rooms (7 singles, 20 dou-
bles). TA6ULGKW hhh
DIAMENT PLAZA GLIWICE
QN-2, ul. Zwycistwa 30, Gliwice, tel. (+48) 32
721 70 00, www.hotelediament.pl. 67 rooms
(29 singles, 31 doubles, 5 suites, 2 apartments).
PTHA6LGKW hhhh
POLISH EASTER
Palm Sunday (13/04/2014) marks the o cial begin-
ning of Polands Easter festivities perhaps the coun-
trys most sacred holiday. Leading up to the season you
may see decorative handmade palms for sale around
town. These traditional decorations are made from a
variety of dried owers and plants, and are taken to
church on Palm Sunday to be blessed, after which they
decorate peoples homes throughout the holiday.
As a deeply Catholic country, Poland takes its Easter
(Wielkanoc) celebrations seriously; throughout the
period visitors can expect bars and restaurants to be
either empty or closed beginning on Good Friday
(18/04/2014). On Easter Saturday (19/04/2014)
Poles, typically children, bring brightly decorated bas-
kets of food to church to have these blessed as well.
Polish Easter baskets traditionally contain a piece of
sausage, bread, egg, poppy-seed cake (mazurek), some
salt, horseradish and a ram made out of dough - each of
which has a symbolic meaning, of course. Also included
are pisanki - painted boiled eggs which have been pre-
pared in the lead-up to Easter by the whole family.
Rezurekcja (Resurrection), a traditional mass with proces-
sion, is held Saturday night or Easter morning depending
on parish tradition. On Easter Sunday (20/04/2014),
families gather together to celebrate with Easter break-
fast from their Easter baskets, accompanied by urek
(Polish rye soup) and other traditional foods. Each person
places a small piece of the blessed food on their plate
before exchanging wishes with other members of the
family. The symbolic dough ram is placed on the table to
symbolise the resurrection of Christ.
Things thankfully take on a more lighthearted air on
Easter Monday (21/04/2014). Known as mingus
Dyngus, this day is dominated by public water ghts
and everyone is given carte blanche to drench any-
one they see with water. As a foreigner, you are not
exempt from this practice, so move fast if you see
someone armed with a water pistol or a bucket and a
grin. Although its never pleasant to have a jug of water
thrown over your head, this is an improvement from
the past when young people were beaten with Palm
Sunday sticks. Apparently either will bring you luck.
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Street Register Street Register
1 Maja D-5
3 Maja C-2/3
Al. Grnolska F-1/4/G-5
Al. Korfantego A/B/C-3
Al. Rodzieskiego B-3/C-4/5
Alpejska G-4
Andrzeja D-2
Astrw F-2
Bankowa C-4
Barbary E/F-1
Bazaltowa G-2
Boczyka A-5
Bratkw F-2
Broniewskiego A-3
Brzozowa A-4
Ceglana G-1/2/3
Chopina C-2
Chorzowska A-1/B-1/2/3
Cicha A-1
Czempiela E-2
Czerwiskiego B-3
Damrota D/E/F-4
Dbrowskiego D-3
Dbrwki C-1
Duga D-5
Duskiego E-1
Dobra A-1
Drezewna D-5
Drzymay D/E-2
Dunikowskiego A-1
Dworcowa D-3
Dyrekcyjna C/D-3
Fiokw F-1/2
Floriana D-5
Francuska D-4/E/F/G-3
gen Zajczka E/F-1
Gliwicka C-1
Gowackiego E-1
Grna A-5
Grnicza F-1/2/3/4/G-5
Grabonia B-5
Graniczna D-5/E-4/F-4/5
Grayskiego A-2/B-2/3
Grundmanna B/C-1
Hercena F-1
Jagielloska E-3
Jana III Sobieskiego C-1/2
Jasna A-1
Jordana E-1/2
Kamienna D-1
Karbowa F-4
Karoliny A-5
Katowicka A-4
Kiliskiego E-1
Klonowa A-4
Kobyliskiego D-3
Kochanowskiego D-2
Konckiego E-2
Konopnickiej D-2
Kopalniana C-5
Kopernika D-1/2
Kordeckiego D-2
Kociuszki E-2/F/G-1
Kowalska B-5
Kozielska D-1
Krahelskiej D-5
Krasiskiego D-4/5
Kraszewskiego A-5
Krta B-5
Krlowej Jadwigi E-3
Krzemienna G-3
Krzywa D-2
ks. P. ciegiennego A-1
Leopolda A-5
Ligonia E-2/3
Lompy D/E/F-3
Lotnisko G-4/5
Ludwika A-5
Mariacka D-3/4
Mariacka Tylna D-3
Marii Curie-Skodowskiej E-1/2
Markiefki A/B-5
Miarki D-5
Mickiewicza B-1/C-2/3
Mielckiego D-3
Mieroszewskiego A-5
Mikoowska D/E-1
Misjonarzy Oblatw MN A-2/3
Myska C-2/3
Modrzewiowa A-4
Moniuszki C-3/4
Morcinka A-2/3
Morwowa A-4
Nadgrnikw B-5
Narcyzw E/F-2
Normy A-5
Nowograniczna C-5
Ofiar Katynia F/G-5
Okrzei A-2/3
Olimpijska B-3/4
Opolska C-1/2
Ordona A-3/4
Paderewskiego D/E/F-5
PCK E-1/2
Piastowska C-3
Pilotw F-4
Piotra B-5
Pl. Andrzeja D-2
Pl. Bolesawa Chrobrego D-3
Pl. Budnioka B-2
Pl. Grunwaldzki A-3
Pl. Gwarkw A-3
Pl. kard. A. Hlonda E-1
Pl. Matejki C/D-1
Pl. Miarki D-2
Pl. Obrocw Katowic C-3
Pl. Oddz. Modziey Powstaczej
D-2
Pl. Rostka D-1
Pl. Sejmu lskiego E-3
Pl. Synagogi C-2
Pl. Szewczyka C-2
Pl. W. Wajdy A-5
Pl. Wolnoci C-1/2
Plebiscytowa D-3/E/F-2
Pocztowa D-3
Podchorych E-2
Podgrna D-3
Polna F-3
Poniatowskiego E-1
Porfirowa G-2
Powstacw E-2/3/4
Prosta D-4
Prowansalska G-4/5
Przemysowa D-4
Puaskiego D/E/F/G-5
Reja D-5
Rejtana D-5
Reymonta D/E/F-3
Rodaska G-4
Rwnolega D-5
Rana F-2
Rybnicka E-3
Rymera E-2
Rynek C-3
Sabaudzka G-4
Sdowa C/D-1
Sienkiewicza E/F-3
Sikorskiego E-5
Skalna E-1
Skargi C-2
Skowroskiego D-5
Sowackiego C/D-2
Sokolska A-3/B/C-2
Sowiskiego F-4
Stalmacha E-1
Staromiejska D-3
Starowiejska D-3/4
Stawowa C-2
Stefana Batorego D-2
Stlickiego A-1/2/B-1
Strzelecka D/E-1
Stwosza E/F/G-2
Al. Harcerska K-6/7/L-6
Al. Wycieczkowa I-7
Astrw L-3
Bankowa J-2
Bolesawa Chrobrego J-1
bpa Krasickiego J-2/3/K-3
Chopina J-2/3
Cmentarna L-1
Dbowa L-4
dra Rostka H/I-1
Drzymay K-1
Dworcowa H-1
Dzieronia K-4
Faski H/I-2
Gajowa I-4
Gaeczki K/L-3
gen. Dbrowskiego I-2/J-1/2/K-1
Grna I/J-1
Jagielloska I-1/2
Jana Sobieskiego J-1-2
Karpiskiego I/J-3/4
Kaszubska J-3/4
Katowicka
H-2/I/2/3/J-3/K-3/4/L-4/5
Kazimierza Wielkiego H/I-1
bpa Bogedaina H/I-3
Kiliskiego J/K-2
Konopnickiej I-3/4
Kopernika J-2
Kociuszki H-3/4/H6/I-4/5/6
Krzywa J-1/K-1/2/L-1/2
Styczyskiego D-2
Szafranka D-4
Szeligiewicza E-2
Szkolna C-3
Szmausa F-1
Sztygarska B-5
Szybowcowa G-4
cigay A/B-5
w. Jacka D-4
w. Jana D-3
w. Pawa C/D-1
w. Stanisawa D-3
Teatralna C-3
Topolowa A-3/4
Uniwersytecka C-3/4
Wajdy A-5
Warszawska C-3/D-4/5
Wawelska C-2
Wizowa A-4/5
Widok A-1/2
Wierzbowa A-4
Wilimowskiego D-1
Wodna C/D-4
Wojewdzka D-3/4
Wrbewskiego A-5
Zabrska C-1/2
Zacisze D-4
elazna B-1
ogay B-5
wirki i Wigury D-1/E-2
Lwowska I-5/J-3/4/5
Modzieowa K/L-3/4
Moniuszki H-2/3
Mocickiego J/K-5
Paderewskiego J/K-4
Parkowa I/J-5/6/K/L-6
Pl. AKS K/L-4/5
Pl. Dworcowy H-1
Pl. Hutnikw I-2/3
Pl. Kopernika J/K-1
Pl. Matejki J-2
Pocztowa H-1/2
Pogodna I/J-4
Poniatowskiego H/I-3/4/J/K-4
Powstacw I-1/2/J-1
Rejtana H-7
Roosevelta I/J-4
Rana L-2
Rycerska I-6
Rynek H/I-2
Sienkiewicza I-1
Sowiaska H/I-6/7
Starego Zdroju K-1/2
Szabatowskiego I-2/3
Urbanowicza L-1
Willowa L-1/2
Wolnoci H-1/2/I/J-1
Wybickiego J-4/5
Zjednoczenia J/K-1/2
wirki i Wigury L-2
1 Maja P/R-3
3 Maja R/S-2/3/4
al. Bohaterw Monte Cassino S-4
al. Korfantego P-1/2
Armii Krajowej S/P-3
Bankowa S-3
Boboli S-2
Bohaterw Warszawskich R/S-3
Bolesawa miaego P-4
Bracka P-4
Brodziskiego P/R-3/4
Broniewskiego S-3/4
Brysza S-3
Brzozowa P-1
Brzski P/R-3/4
Buchenwaldczykw R-3
Bytomska S-1
Chemoskiego P-1
Chodkiewicza P/R-4
Cieszyska P-1
Cmentarna S-2
Dbrowskiego R-1
Dembowskiego S-4
Domaskiego P-4
Dubiela P-1/2
Dworcowa S-2
Dyboskiego S-3
Fabryczna P-3
gen. De Gaullea P/R-2/3/4
Goethego R-2
Gry w. Anny R-2
Akademicka N/O-3/4
Arkoska N-4
Banacha O-3/4
Bankowa M-3
w. Barbary N-2/3
Barlickiego N-2
Basztowa M-3
Bednarska M-3
Berbeckiego, gen. M/N-2
Biaej Bramy M-3
Bohaterw Getta Warszawskiego
N/O-1/2
Bolesawa Krzywoustego
N/O-3/4
Bytomska M-3
Chudoby N-2
Czstochowska O-2/3
Dolnych Waw M-2/3
Dubois M/N/O-1/2
Dunikowskiego N-3
Dworcowa N/O-2/3
Fredry N/O-1/2
Gorzoki O-3
Grnych Waw M-3
Grodowa M-3
Gruszczyskiego M-2
pl. Inwalidw Wojennych M-3
Jagielloska O-2
Jana Pawa II M-3/4
Kaczyniec M-3
w. Katarzyny O-2
Jagielloska R-1/2
Jana Sobieskiego P-3/4
Kamienna S-4
Karowicza S-3
Klimasa S-3
Klonowa R-4
Kobyliskiego R-3
Kochanowskiego P-1
Kotaja P-1
Kowalska R-2
Kolika R-1
Krakusa S-2
Krasiskiego R/S-3
Krlewska P/R-3
ks. Londzina R-1
Kupki R-3
Lutra S-3
Malczewskiego P-3
Mehoffera R-3
Mczennikw Majdanka P-1
Miarki R-2
Michaa Archanioa P-4
Mikulczycka R-1
Narutowicza P/R-3
Niedziakowskiego R-1
Nocznickiego P-1
Opolska S-4
Orkana P-4
Padlewskiego S-3
Panieskie Skay P-4
Piastowska S-2
Kaszubska O-3/4
Kodnicka N-2/3
Kochanowskiego M-4
Kolberga O-1
Konarskiego O-3
Konopnickiej M-2
Kocielna M-3
pl. Krakowski N-3
Krlowej Bony M-3/4
Krtka M-3
Krupnicza M-3
Kujawska O-4
Lutycka N-4
uycka N/O-4
Matejki M-3
Marzanki M-4
Mastalerza O-1
Mielckiego M-3/4
pl. Mickiewicza M-3
Mikoowska M-3/4
Mitrgi O-2
Mleczna M-3
pl. Mleczny M-3
Myska M-2
Moniuszki O-2/3
Na Piasku O-2
Nasyp O-2
Nowy wiat M-4
Obotrycka M/N-4
Okopowa O-2
Orlickiego M-2
Pilicha P-3
pl. Dworcowy S-2
pl. Kazimierza Wielkiego P-1
pl. Krakowski S-3
pl. ks. Pieruszki S-3
pl. Teatralny R-1
pl. Traugutta R-2
pl. Warszawski S-3
pl. Wolnoci S-2
Podgrna P-2
Popiecha S-3/4
Powstacw lskich R/S-1/2
Przelotowa P-4
Przerwy-Tetmajera P-4
Puaskiego R-2
Reymonta P/R/S-4
Roosvelta P/R/S-4
Rana R-2
Raskiego P-4
Sdowa R/S-4
Siedleckiego S-1/2
Sienkiewicza S-4
Sierotki P/R-4
Skoczylasa R-1
Sodczyka R-2
Spichrzowa R/S-4
Spokojna P-1
Stalmacha S-2
Staromiejska P-2
Staszica R-1
Stefana Batorego S-4
pl. Piastw O-2
Piramowicza O-3
Piwna O-2
pl. marsz. Pisudskiego M-2
Plebaska M-3
Pod Murami M-3
Powstacw Warszawy M-2
al. Przyjani N-2
Pszczyska M/N-4
Raciborska M-3
Rybnicka M-4
Rynek M-3
pl. Rzeniczy M-2/3
Sienkiewicza M/N-1/2
Skadowa N-1
Skodowskiej-Curie O-4
Sobtki M-4
Stalmacha M-4
Strzody N-3
Studzienna M-2/3
Szkolna M-3
Szczepaniakowej P-4
Szcz Boe R-3
Szenwalda S-4
Szramka S-4
Szymanowskiego R-3
lska S-2
rednia S-2
w. Barbary R-2
w. Cecylii S-4
w. Floriana S-3
w. Jerzego S-3
w. Marcina S-4
w. Urbana S-4
wierkowa P-4
Targowa S-3
Topolowa P-1
Torowa P-2
Tuwima R/S-4
Wajdy P-2
Wallek-Walewskiego R-3/4
Wandy S-2/3
Wska S-4
Widery R-1
Wadysawa Jagiey S-4
Wadysawa okietka P-4
Wolnoci P/R/S-2/3
Wonicy R-1
Wyczkowskiego R/S-4
Wyzwolenia R-2
Zgody R-1
rednia M-3
witojaska O-1
Tarnogrska O-1/2
Tkacka M-3
Toszecka N-1
Udzieli O-1
Warszawska N-1
Witkiewicza O-1
Wodna M-3
Wrocawska N-3/4
pl. Wszystkich witych M-3
Wybrzee Armii Krajowej
M/N-1/2
Wybrzee Wojska Polskiego
M/N-1/2
Wysoka M-3
Wyszyskiego, kard. M/N-2/3
Ziemowita, ks. M-3/4
Zimnej Wody O-3
Zwycistwa M/N/O-2/3
Zygmunta Starego M-3
KATOWICE
CHORZW
ZABRZE
GLIWICE
Gliwice photo by Lestat
Index
Gl i wi ce
ul. Ceglarska 35
www.queensnightclub.com
Open: 18:00 - 05:00
tel. 032/ 305 30 20
American Bar Erotic Show Dance Go-Go Dance
We invite you to Queens nightclub.
Discretion is of our highest concern, as immediately
evidenced by our parking lot.
The interior design of the rooms and equipment
complement each other to create an intimate, erotic
atmosphere.
We dedicate the greatest care to the cleanliness of
the club.
Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
Exclusives Ambiente
Sie werden im Nachtclub Queens erwartet.
Diskretion ist unser hchstes Gut. Schon der
Abstellplatz fr Ihren Wagen zeigt Ihnen dies.
In den Innenrumen unseres Clubs bieten wir Ihnen
den Luxus fhrender Unterhaltungsbetriebe.
Dies alles ist die Garantie Ihrer Zufriedenhiet.
Zapraszamy do klubu nocnego Queens w Gliwicach.
Niepowtarzalnie najlepszy klub w kraju.
Poznaj nasz Amerykaski Bar.
Taniec Go - Go, Drink Bar, Jacuzzi, Masae, Bankiety
FEATURES INDEX
Currency Exchange 70
Disco POLO! 36
Facts & Figures 14
Guido Mineshaft 57
Katowice For Beer Lovers 38
Language Smarts 15
Late Night Eats 35
Market Values 14
National Holidays 15
Polish Food 24
Radio Station Gliwice 60
Tychy 6
Akant 35
Akolada 23
All Saints Church 60
Altus 69
Ambasada ledzia 35
angelo Hotel Katowice 71
Anwa 68
Archibar 35
Arsenal Palace 73
Auschwitz I 62
Auschwitz II - Birkenau 63
Auschwitz Jewish Centre &
Chevra Lomdei Mishnayot
Synagogue 63
Best Western Premier Katowice
Hotel 71
Biaa Mapa 35
Bierhalle 23, 41
Bistro & Cafe Krystynka wraca z
Wiednia 33
Bistro Weranda 56
Black 8 64
BOB 35
Bohema 24
Boutique Hostel Patria 71
Brama 56
Browariat 36
Browar Obywatelski 8
Buddha 22
C4 36
Cafe Bistro Monopol 30
Campanile 71
Carpe Diem 36
Casa 21 28
CentrumFitness Monopol 65
CentrumWina 66
Cepelia 68
Ceramika Bolesawiecka 68
C'est Si Bon 21
Chata z Zalipia 30
Cherry Restaurant & Caffe 24
Chorzw Cultural Centre 54
Chorzw Museum 54
Christ the King Cathedral 44
Church of St. Michael the
Archangel 45
City Information Office 46
City Pub 36
City Rock 20
City Spa & Wellness 65
Ciuciubabka 65
Clothing Market 68
Club Garage 40
Cocktail Bar 37
Cristallo 27
Czekolada 53
Desa 66
DeSilva Inn Katowice Airport 73
Diament Economy Gliwice 73
Diament Plaza Gliwice 73
Diament Plaza Katowice 71
Diament Zabrze 73
Dobra Karma 32
Dobra Kasza Nasza 59
Dworek Pod Lipami 51
El Mexicano 28
Empik 67
Fanaberia 33
Fantasmagoria 20
Frivol Perfumerie 68
Galeria Katowicka 69
Galeria Sztuki Fox 66
Galeria Sztuki Wspczesnej
"Parnas" 67
Garrison Church of St. Casimir 44
Genesis Music & Dance Club 40
Geszeft 33, 67
'Grdek' Dolomite Quarry 65
Gugalander 37
Hana Sushi 28
Hemingway 59
Hipnoza Jazz Club 39
Hobu 28
Hospoda 20
Hotel Bella Notte 73
Hotel Piramida SPA & Wellness 7
Hotel Rycerski 73
Hotel Szafran 73
Hotel Tychy Prime 7
Hurry Curry 24
Ibis Budget Katowice Centrum71
Ibis Katowice - Zabrze 73
Impresja 56
Industrial Ethnography Museum
50
Inqbator 40
International Youth Meeting
Centre 61
Jopi Hostel 71
Jzef Pisudski 45
Karabela 67
Kato 37
Katofonia 39
Katowice 72
Katowice Historical Museum 46
Katowice Jewish Cemetery 44
Katowice Riding Club 65
Kawiarnia na Koach 33
Klawiatura Klub Kulturalny 40
Klub Pomaracza 40
Komis Pytowy 67
Kopalnia Cukierkw 67
Kredens 38
Krgielnia Galaktyka 64
Krzysztaowa 30
Kurka Bez Pirka 68
Kyoto Sushi 28
Laserhouse 64
La Stalla 35, 72
Latajca winia 24
Lemoniada 41
Len Arte 27
Little Hanoi...and more! 32
Longman Club 38
Lorneta z Meduz 35
Mad Mick 38
Magazyn Bar Lounge 38
May Kredens 39
Maana Bistro & Wine Bar 53
Masala House - Restauracja
Indyjska 23
M Hotel Sosnowiec 73
Mita 59
Ministerstwo ledzia i Wdki 59
Miss Cupcake 33
Monopol 33, 72
Municipal Cultural Centre 51
Namaste Traveller's Club 39
Natu 67
Natura 67
Nikiszowiec Information Office 50
Noma Residence 73
Novotel Katowice Centrum 72
Old Timers Garage 41
Olympia Spodek 72
Organic Farma Zdrowia 68
Orka Group 65
Orodek Konferencyjno-
Szkoleniowy 'INNOWACJA' 73
Paac Saturna 73
Parachute Tower 46
Park Hotel Diament 72
Pasa Monopol 69
Patio 26
Piast 67
Piast's Castle 60
Pizzeria Pod Drewnianym
Bocianem 53
Pokazowa Zagroda ubrw 65
Prosecco Bistro & Wine Bar 37
PTTK Katowice 44
Pub Gramofon 60
Qubus Hotel Gliwice 73
Qubus Hotel Prestige Katowice
72
Queens 39
Radio Station Gliwice 60
Rajzefiber 41
Rebel Garden 53
Red Army Cemetery 44
Reden Minibrowar 54
Restauracja Con Amore 8
Restauracja Patria 31
Restauracja Sunlight 21
Restauracja Tamarynd 26
Restauracja Vacanza 26
Royal 73
Rynek 47
Sadza Soap 68
Sala Zabaw Lizzy 65
Sceneria 33
Senator 72
Sicilia 28
Silesia City Center 69
Silesian Hotel Quality and
Economy 72
Silesian Insurgents' Monument
46
Silesian Museum 46
Silesian Parliament 47
Silesian Scouts Monument 46
Silesia Park 54
Silesia Park of Culture &
Recreation 65
SilesiaTrip.pl 44
SITG 51
Sky Bar 39
lskie Rancho 56
Sleep City 72
Spencer Pub 39
Spi 41
Spodek 47
ruba i Przyjaciele 40
St. Anne's Church 50
Stara Szkoa 26
Stekhouse Da Da 27
St. Jadwiga's Church 56
St. Joseph's Church 57
St. Lawrence's Church 54
St. Mary of the Assumption
Church 60
St. Mary's Church 45
Supernova 59
Sushi Do 28
Szkoa Tenisa Proserv 65
Sztygarka 53
Szuflada 15 54
Szynk Old Fashioned 31
Targowisko Miejskie 68
Tatiana 27
Termy Rzymskie 65
The Karol Szymanowski
Academy of Music 47
Twj Hostel Bytom 73
Twj Hostel Katowice 73
Tyskie Brewery 9
U Renarda 31
Via Toscana 28
Vinoteka 13 66
Visiting the Auschwitz Museum
61
"Visual Studio" Teresa Woniak 65
Willa Ambasador 73
Wilson Shaft Gallery 50
Winiaria Burgundia 37
Winiarnia Burgundia 66
W. Krzy 66
Wodna Wiea 21
Wcieky Pies 40
WunderBAR 22
Zabrze City Museum- Cafe
Silesia - 57
Zabrze Tourist Information 55
Zaklty Czardasz 22
Za Kulisami Pub-Restauracja 27
Zoty Osio 32, 59
Zoo 54
SUSHI-DO Restaurant & Grill
Galeria Katowicka Ground oor
ul. 3-go Maja 30 Katowice
www.sushi-do.pl

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Katowice

March - June 2014 Your Guide to Greater Silesia

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