January 14, 2026
Often overlooked by tourists, Łódź, now one of the biggest cities in Poland, might very well surprise you with its eclectic character and rich history. Only one hour away from Warsaw, it still remains ignored by most travelers ; from Poland and abroad.
Once the leading industrial power of the country with a mixed population creating a melting-pot of cultures, languages and religions ; and textile tycoons building factories, villas and palaces all around, it still faced a decline at the end of the 20th century. And its reputation declined simultaneously, stuck between underestimated architectural styles and an underappreciated history. This city has since started to reinvent itself while rediscovering its past, refusing to fit into one box.
The visuals of Łódź and the stories they tell
What struck me when I moved to Łódź for the first time last year, was how different it looked from other Polish cities. No rynek ( squared marketplace traditionally found in the centre of every town ) or old town with a defined, homogenous style ; I quickly realised its beauty was to be found and understood in its contrasts and not just seen.
Industrial past vs Opulence
Walking around Łódź feels like putting together the pieces of a historical puzzle. The red bricks of the monumental former textile complexes built during its industrial revolution in the 19th Century often neighbour the owners’ old residences. Designed in times of opulence, only a few steps usually separate the two ; letting you go from repurposed factories now hosting restaurants, art centres, cinemas and shopping malls to palaces turned into museums filled with antiques and stories of the past. A new dynamic development of Łódź smoothly mixing tourist attractions and history of the city. Walking around Manufaktura or Księży Młyn before visiting the Poznański Palace or the Herbst Villa will make you feel like you’ve just stepped into different lives.
Traditional designs vs Post-war Poland
Łódź is also a place of hidden gems. You will spot a lot of them (especially the neoclassical fronts) while going along its main street, Ulica Piotrkowska, but some Art Nouveau rarities can be found in unexpected areas. Willa Klindermanna, for example, is worth admiring for its fine glasses and windows but is still easy to miss ; hidden among quiet buildings, in a neighbourhood still split between ruins and modern constructions.
But instead of clashing, the styles seem to mix, to offer something unique and new and create space for the more recent socialist modernism and contemporary creations. Often perceived as austere grey blocks, the post-war towers and their proximity to oldest, more conventionally appealing architectures, actually add to the character and personality of Łódź.
A fresh impulse in a city often overlooked
In recent years, a lot has been done to bring a creative and dynamic cultural wave to Łódź. Through learning, entertainment and inspiration, it gives much to explore and even more to think about.
The museum offer of the city, on top of the history and architecture axes, will now fit everyone’s tastes, as science and the arts have been focused on, with places like EC1 or the modern and Avantgarde art museums hosting different exhibitions. This recently acquired trendy vibe can be felt in different areas of Łódź, like in its nationally famous street art scene showcasing incredible murals all around town. Or through the country’s film school, making it the cinematic capital of Poland. The eclectic and warm night scene complements the daily life of the inhabitants in popular places along Piotrkowska street, like Off Piotrkowska which became known as one of the coolest spots to stroll along during the day and gather for a drink in the evening.
Artists, creative minds and organisations have been bringing people together since the early 2000s through festivals and gatherings. The city’s many NGOs are organising events, fairs and meetings throughout the year ; and some festivals have become a really big deal in Łódź and beyond. I was lucky enough to be around for the last Light Move Festival and to witness the entire city centre come to life with beautiful images and stories lighting up the facades. Many more local events have now gained recognition on a global scale, for instance the Design festival, Summer festival or the festival of Good Taste ; gatherings of international artists and professionals. The cultural efforts made in the past few decades have definitely paid off : the city’s revitalisation will keep you stimulated and entertained.
Łódź is a city that rewards curiosity and exploration. Despite not being a touristic place in the classical sense, the charm of imperfection and appeal of driven and creative communities make it a rare gem. The impulse of initiatives and connections staged in eclectic places filled with contrasts has won me over and might seduce you too!
Read all the articles conected to the project ” Odkryj Łódź” : https://levelupngo.com/project/odkryj-lodz/
Author : Sacha Lefèvre