Łódź’s Ruin and Rise: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Poland’s most dramatic story of urban transformation unfolds on Łódź’s streets. On this walking tour, you’ll get to know the city that exploded from a rural backwater to an industrial powerhouse in less than a century.
You’ll see everything from the restored grandeur of a textile magnate’s palace to the tragic site of Europe’s second-largest Jewish ghetto, and get a sense of how Łódź became a “bubbling cauldron” of ambition, suffering, and relentless reinvention.
You’ll find out how visionary entrepreneurs like Israel Poznański built empires that made Łódź wealthier than entire regions, only to see it all collapse and rise again. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of the Lost Quarter’s bustling markets which vanished during the Holocaust.
On this tour, you’ll meet a city where explosive growth, devastating tragedy, and remarkable resilience created Poland’s most unique urban story – and a place still ”impatient for the world to notice.”
Available options
Łódź’s Ruin and Rise: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
What's included
VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
Lifetime access to this tour in English
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Detailed itinerary
1
This self-guided audio tour starts at the PURO Hotel Łódź Centrum.
2
On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to enter the gates of Poznański’s textile empire, where 4,000 workers once labored 15-hour days, now transformed into Manufaktura, Poland’s largest regeneration project since Warsaw’s reconstruction.
3
On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to stand in Israel Poznański’s palace garden, called the “Louvre of Łódź,” and learn how a Jewish entrepreneur became one of Poland’s wealthiest men.
4
On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to walk through Park Staromiejski, built over the former Łódź Ghetto’s no-man’s land.
5
On this self-guided audio tour, you'll discover the site of the medieval Old Town Market Square, where 200,000 Jews faced a horrific fate in World War II.
6
On this self-guided audio tour, you'll have a chance to follow part of the hidden Łódka River, one of 18 rivers that powered the textile mills which transformed Poland’s industrial landscape.
7
The tour ends at Plac Wolności (Liberty Square), recently resurrected as the city’s beating heart.
What's not included
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drink
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
This tour starts in front of PURO Hotel Łódź Centrum. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
Create an account
Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Lodz
Lodz, often referred to as the 'Manchester of Poland,' is a vibrant city known for its rich industrial heritage, diverse architecture, and cultural melting pot. Once a major textile and manufacturing hub, today it's a dynamic urban center with a thriving arts scene, historic landmarks, and a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy.
Top Attractions
Piotrkowska Street
Piotrkowska Street is the main artery of Lodz, known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free
Manufaktura
Manufaktura is a massive cultural and entertainment complex housed in a former textile factory. It features museums, shops, restaurants, and various cultural events.
Cultural
3-4 hours
Free to enter, museums have individual entry fees
Lodz Art Museum (Muzeum Sztuki w Lodzi)
The Lodz Art Museum is one of the most important modern art museums in Poland, featuring a diverse collection of Polish and international art.
Museum
1-2 hours
10-20 PLN
Lodz Ghetto Memorial
The Lodz Ghetto Memorial commemorates the Jewish community that was forcibly relocated to the ghetto during World War II. It's a poignant and important historical site.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Lodz Cinema Museum (Muzeum Kina w Lodzi)
The Lodz Cinema Museum is dedicated to the history of cinema, featuring a vast collection of film-related artifacts, equipment, and memorabilia.
Museum
1-2 hours
10-20 PLN
Must-Try Local Dishes
Łagman
A popular dish in Lodz, Łagman is a noodle soup with a rich, spiced broth, often served with meat and vegetables. It's a delicious and hearty meal that reflects the city's diverse culinary influences.
Main Course
Contains meat and gluten
Pączki
Pączki are traditional Polish doughnuts filled with jam or other sweet fillings. They are a beloved treat in Lodz and are especially popular during festivals and holidays.
Dessert
Contains gluten and may contain dairy or other allergens depending on the filling
Pierogi
Pierogi are dumplings filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, potatoes, or fruits. They are a staple of Polish cuisine and can be found in many restaurants and street food stalls in Lodz.
Main Course/Snack
Can be vegetarian or vegan, depending on the filling
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby parks and nature reserves
Cycling along the city's bike paths
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Strolling through the city's parks and gardens
Attending local festivals and events
Visiting museums and art galleries
Ice skating in winter
Visiting Christmas markets
Best Time to Visit
May to September
The peak season offers pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the city's attractions, outdoor activities, and festivals. The city is lively with tourists and locals enjoying the warm weather.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Polish
- Widely spoken: English, Russian, German
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Polish Zloty (PLN)
Time Zone
CET (GMT+1)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lodz is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Lodz Władysław Reymont Airport • 6 km from city center
By train
Lodz Fabryczna, Lodz Kaliska
By bus
Lodz Kaliska Bus Station, Lodz Fabryczna Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The tram system is the most popular and efficient way to get around Lodz. It's affordable and connects major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Balut District
Widawa District
Day trips
Lodz Zoo (Zoo w Lodzi)
5 km from city center • Half day
Lodz Zoo is one of the largest and most popular zoos in Poland, featuring a wide variety of animals, exotic plants, and beautiful gardens. It's a great place for families and nature lovers.
Spa Park
3 km from city center • Half day
Spa Park is a beautiful and historic park in Lodz, featuring lush greenery, walking paths, and a variety of recreational facilities. It's a great place for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.
Lodz Botanical Garden (Ogrod Botaniczny Uniwersytetu Lodzkiego)
4 km from city center • Half day
The Lodz Botanical Garden is a beautiful and educational garden featuring a wide variety of plant species, greenhouses, and themed gardens. It's a great place for nature lovers and those interested in botany.
Festivals
Lodz Film Festival (Festiwal Filmowy w Lodzi) • October
Lodz Design Festival (Festiwal Designu w Lodzi) • May
Pro tips
- Explore the city's industrial heritage by visiting the Lodz Ghetto Memorial and the Museum of the Factory
- Try local specialties such as Łagman, pączki, and pierogi for an authentic culinary experience
- Visit Manufaktura for a unique shopping and cultural experience, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums
- Take a stroll down Piotrkowska Street, the city's main artery, for a glimpse into its vibrant atmosphere and historic architecture
- Attend local festivals and events, such as the Lodz Film Festival and the Lodz Design Festival, for a unique and memorable experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
