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When Germany introduced the national €9 travel ticket I knew I had to get to the border and to one of the closest cities in Poland. Szczecin caught my eye immediately with its gorgeous old town, welcoming atmosphere, and incredibly cheap ticket to cross the German-Polish border. Read on for my top tips on planning a day trip from Berlin to Szczecin, Poland.
Is Szczecin Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, Szczecin is one of Poland’s most underrated cities, and its blend of Hanseatic architecture, leafy boulevards, riverside views, and relaxed pace makes it a refreshing contrast to Berlin.
Though less touristy than Kraków or Gdańsk, Szczecin offers a unique experience for those who enjoy authentic, less commercialized destinations. It’s rich in history, full of unexpected beauty, and ideal for a low-key cultural getaway.
Travelling
If you live in Europe, you can easily hop on a train, flight, or car for a short journey to Szczecin.
Travelling from Berlin to Szczecin, we made use of the €9 ticket to travel to Pasewalk, a town on the eastern German border. From there, trains to Szczecin are frequent and it costs just under €10 per person to cross the border. The total travel time was around 2 hours 30 minutes, making Szczecin almost as close as Dresden from Berlin.
Do You Need a Passport to Travel from Berlin to Szczecin?
Both Germany and Poland are in the Schengen Zone, so you won’t need to show your passport at the border if you’re an EU/EEA citizen or traveling with a Schengen visa.
However, it’s always wise to carry valid ID or a passport, especially if you’re using international train services, as spot checks do occasionally happen.
Can You Do Szczecin as a Day Trip?
Yes – and it’s easier than many travelers expect. Szczecin is just over 2 hours by regional train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof, making it a perfect day trip for curious explorers.
You can:
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Arrive mid-morning
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Explore the Old Town, castle, and riverside
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Enjoy a slow lunch at a local café
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Return to Berlin by evening
💡 Tip: If you want to explore at a slower pace or enjoy Szczecin’s food and wine scene by night, consider staying over. Hotels are affordable and central.
Stare Miasto
The Stare Miasto, or ‘Old Town’, is one of the prettiest locations in Szczecin. The rows of colourful buildings are situated just up from the Oder River and are home to some gorgeous restaurants and bars.
Eating and Drinking
Wherever you choose to eat and drink, you won’t be short of options in Szczecin. I could have easily spent the whole day restaurant hopping and enjoying the local treats.
Babusya Bistro
Babusya Bistro is my absolute favourite restaurant during my time in Szczecin. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed every place I visited there – but nothing compared to the food here. The bistro is owned by a lovely couple, Tatiana is the Ukrainian chef and Tomasz is the embodiment of Polish hospitality, and the place is kitted out with traditional Ukrainian decorations.
What’s the Weather Like in Szczecin?
Szczecin experiences four distinct seasons, each offering its own charm. Spring (April–June) is mild and blooming – ideal for wandering the Old Town or riverside parks. Summer (July–August) is pleasantly warm, with average highs around 24°C (75°F), perfect for outdoor dining and exploring on foot.
Autumn (September–October) brings colourful foliage and crisp air – great for photography lovers. Winter (November–February) is cold and quiet, with occasional snow, giving the city a peaceful, festive feel – especially around the holidays.
💡 Tip: For a day trip from Berlin, late spring or early autumn offers the best blend of sunshine and manageable crowds.
Szczecin in Snapshots: A Visual Stroll Through the City
Szczecin is a city best experienced not just through words, but through its textures, colours, and contrasts. From Baroque facades glowing at night to quiet Gothic passageways tucked between cafés, this gallery captures the essence of a place both historic and hidden. Whether you’re planning your own day trip or simply daydreaming, let these scenes offer a glimpse into Szczecin’s quiet charm and architectural beauty.
Final Thoughts: A Surprising Escape Just Across the Border
Szczecin may not be the first destination that comes to mind when visiting Berlin, but that’s exactly what makes it special. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, relaxed pace, and easy train access, it offers the perfect blend of discovery and calm – without the tourist crowds.
Whether you’re wandering cobbled lanes, sipping coffee under Gothic arches, or simply enjoying the shift in atmosphere, Szczecin delivers a refreshing and memorable day away. If you’re craving something off the beaten path, this quiet Polish gem is well worth the journey.
Have you done a cross-border day trip like this? I’d love to hear your thoughts or tips — drop a comment or connect with me on Instagram @blogofsunshine.
since RB4 is starting from Pasewalk still we will have to by ticket to szczecin ? even having 49euro ticket?