South Poland’s most up-and-coming urban centre, Katowice is filled with booming science and industry, business and trade and plenty of culture. From 19th century Prussian architecture to modern skyscrapers, the cityscape spans Polish history and is well poised to bring its surrounding region of Upper Silesia into the world of 21st century tourism.

Like most Polish cities, the central attraction of Katowice is its historic Market Square. The cobblestone square and its surrounding streets form the Old Town of Katowice. The 1906 Old Train Station, the 1920s Silesian Parliament, and the 19th century St. Mary’s Church are all among the city’s historic landmarks. Unique sights in the area include the UFO-shaped Spodek sports centre and concert hall and the 50 metre Parachute Tower, used to train parachutists in World War II.

Katowice is located a little under 80 kilometres north-west of Krakow. The A4 roadway offers a direct connection between the two and the drive would last about an hour. Public transportation options are lengthy not direct, but it is possible to work out a connecting bus or train route from Krakow to Katowice.

Many of the city’s attractions from the 1920s Parliament building to the Theatre and Museum reference the region’s Silesian roots. The Silesians were an ethnic group who first inhabited this part of Poland. While the Prussian government officially founded Katowice after its conquering of the Silesian people, it was this group that originally settled the city.