Things to do in Poznan: Best attractions for Sunderland fans before Europa League game

Sunderland fans travelling to Poznan for a Europa League group stage game will have plenty to look forward to away from the football, with the Polish city offering a fascinating mix of history, culture, food and family-friendly attractions.

From its colourful Old Market Square and historic cathedral to traditional Polish cuisine and one of the country's biggest zoos, there is plenty to explore before heading to the stadium.

Whether you are arriving early for the European away trip, staying for a few days or travelling with the family, Poznan has something to suit almost every type of visitor.

FootballGroundGuide takes a look at some of the best things to do in Poznan for Black Cats fans before the Europa League action gets underway.

1. Explore Old Market Square

Old Market Square, or Stary Rynek, is the historic heart of Poznan and an obvious starting point for any visit to the city.

The colourful square is surrounded by historic merchant houses and is home to the impressive Poznań Town Hall, one of the city's most recognisable landmarks.

One of the most unusual attractions is the pair of mechanical goats on the Town Hall tower, which famously emerge and butt heads at noon each day.

The square is also packed with restaurants, cafes and market stalls, making it a good place to grab something to eat, pick up souvenirs and soak up the atmosphere before the game.

2. Visit the Croissant Museum

Sunderland fans with a sweet tooth should make time for the Poznan Croissant Museum, which celebrates one of the city's most famous culinary traditions.

The attraction explores the history of the St Martin's Croissant, a traditional pastry that is closely associated with Poznan.

Visitors can learn about the origins and cultural importance of the pastry, while demonstrations provide an insight into how the distinctive croissants are made.

It is a fun way to experience a piece of local culture and gives travelling supporters the perfect excuse to sample one of Poznan's signature treats.

3. Take a walking tour of Poznan

One of the easiest ways to get a feel for Poznan is to explore it on foot.

Walking tours provide an opportunity to discover the city's historic architecture and learn more about its past, with routes covering areas including the Old Town and imperial district.

There are also free walking tours available, making this an affordable option for Sunderland fans looking to see as much of the city as possible without spending a fortune.

For supporters arriving in Poznan for the first time, it is a particularly useful way to get your bearings before matchday.

4. Discover Poznan Cathedral

The Basilica of St Peter and St Paul is located on Cathedral Island and is one of the most historically significant buildings in Poznan.

It is regarded as the oldest cathedral in Poland, and its impressive architecture reflects the importance of the city throughout the country's history.

The cathedral's crypt is particularly interesting, containing remnants of the original altar and baptismal font.

A visit here offers a quieter alternative to the busy Old Town and provides supporters with a chance to explore one of Poznan's most important religious and historical landmarks.

5. Spend the day at Poznan New Zoo

Families travelling to Poznan can escape the city centre with a visit to the New Zoo, the second-largest zoological garden in Poland.

Spread across around 120 hectares, the attraction is particularly well known for its aviaries, which are home to a wide variety of owls and support breeding programmes for golden eagles.

There are plenty of larger animals to see too, including African elephants, giraffes, zebras and Siberian tigers, alongside European bison, which are native to eastern Poland.

Given the huge size of the zoo, visitors can also make use of the miniature railway that runs around the perimeter, making it easier to travel between the different exhibits.

6. Sample traditional Polish cuisine

No European away trip would be complete without sampling some of the local food, and Poznan provides plenty of opportunities to try traditional Polish dishes.

Pierogi are an obvious choice, with the popular dumplings available with a wide range of fillings. Potato pancakes are another local favourite worth trying during your stay.

Restaurants such as Pierogarnia Stary Mlyn provide an opportunity to experience traditional Polish cooking while taking a break from exploring the city.

For away fans, trying the local cuisine is an easy way to make the trip feel more like a proper European adventure rather than simply an overnight football visit.

7. Discover Poznan's unusual attractions

Poznan has plenty of attractions away from the traditional tourist trail, making it worth exploring some of the city's more unusual sites.

The Medieval Execution Pole is one example, offering a glimpse into the darker side of Poznan's history and providing something rather different from the city's churches, squares and museums.

There are various other hidden gems dotted around the city, meaning Sunderland supporters willing to venture away from the main tourist areas can discover a different side of Poznan.

For anyone with a few hours to spare before the game, seeking out some of these unusual locations can be a fun way to explore the city.