Poznań in September

May through September gives you the best weather and longest days. July brings the Malta Festival, turning the city into an outdoor theater venue. But here's what guidebooks won't tell you – May and September offer perfect temperatures (15-20°C) without summer crowds. Summer means outdoor dining along Półwiejska Street and concerts in Cytadela Park. The downside? Hotel prices spike during graduation season in June. Winter has its charm if you can handle temperatures dropping to -5°C. The Christmas market transforms Stary Rynek into a fairytale, complete with mulled wine and regional crafts. Plus, you'll have museums and restaurants mostly to yourself. Avoid March – it's muddy, gray, and nothing's quite open yet. October can be lovely if you catch an Indian summer, but pack layers.