Useful Information

 

Accommodation

Most foreign researchers rent apartments in Poznań. Prices (as of 2024):

  • Studio / 1-bedroom flat: 2,000–3,000 PLN/month
  • 2-bedroom flat: 2,500–4,000 PLN/month
  • Utility bills: 500–900 PLN/month
  • Student dormitories may be available for short-term academic visitors (subject to availability)

Popular districts among academics:

  • Jeżyce – vibrant, close to the city center and universities
  • Grunwald – quieter, green areas
  • Wilda – undergoing revitalization, popular with young professionals
  • Stare Miasto – historic city center (more expensive)

Helpful websites for renting flats:

 

Public Transport

Poznań has a reliable and affordable public transport system:

  • Monthly ticket: 119 PLN (normal), 59 PLN (students)
  • The PEKA card is used for trams and buses; you can top it up online or at kiosks.
  • Buses and trams run frequently from early morning to midnight.

Taxis and Uber/Bolt are also available and affordable (10–30 PLN for most inner-city rides).

 

Healthcare

  • Researchers employed by Polish universities receive public health insurance (NFZ).
  • For full coverage, you must register at a local health clinic.
  • Emergency medical services: dial 112 (English-speaking dispatchers).
  • Recommended clinics for foreigners in Poznań:
    • Luxmed (private)
    • Medicover (private)
    • Medpolonia (English-speaking doctors available)
    • NZOZ Poznań Centrum

Note: Private healthcare is fast and relatively affordable (a basic consultation costs 150–300 PLN).

 

Banking and Finances

To open a bank account, you will need:

  • A passport or residence card
  • A PESEL number (or confirmation of application)
  • Employment or hosting agreement

Popular banks with English-language service:

  • mBank
  • Santander Bank Polska
  • ING Bank Śląski

Cashless payments are widespread; cards and phone apps (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are accepted almost everywhere.

 

Everyday Life & Shopping

  • Supermarkets: Biedronka, Lidl, Aldi, Carrefour
  • Shopping centers: Posnania, Stary Browar, Avenida
  • Open-air markets: Rynek Jeżycki, Rynek Wildecki (fresh produce, local food)
  • Pharmacies: Apteka Gemini, DOZ, Cefarm (some open 24h)

 

Family & Schools

If you’re coming with children:

  • Free public kindergartens and schools are available (mostly Polish-speaking).
  • International schools in Poznań:
    • Poznań International School
    • International School of Poznań (ISoP)
    • British International School

Most foreign researchers choose private childcare and schools for language reasons.

 

Language Support

  • Polish is the official language, but English is widely spoken at the university and among young people.
  • Universities and city institutions often offer free or subsidized Polish language courses.
  • Recommended language schools:
    • Glossa
    • Empik School
    • Centrum Języków Obcych UAM

Free basic Polish courses may be offered by the city for newcomers. Check migrant.poznan.pl for up-to-date info.

 

Culture & Free Time

Poznań is a lively city full of cultural events and green spaces:

  • Theaters: Teatr Polski, Teatr Nowy
  • Concert halls: Aula UAM, Zamek Cultural Center
  • Museums: Brama Poznania, Muzeum Narodowe
  • Parks: Cytadela, Malta, Park Sołacki
  • Language cafés, international meet-ups, jazz concerts, and food festivals are frequent.

 

Useful Links

  • EURAXESS Poland
  • Poznań International Office
  • Migrant Info Point – Poznań
  • Public Transport (ZTM)