Poznań is crossed by the Warta River and several smaller rivers including Cybina, Główna, Bogdanka, Różany Potok, Strumień Junikowski. The Warta River, the third biggest river in Poland, flows through Poznań from south to north for fifteen kilometres.

Within the city limits there are two natural lakes: Kierskie and Strzeszyńskie, and two artificial lakes: Rusałka and Malta. Additionally, there are about 100 ponds and reservoirs in Poznań. Jointly they provide for a considerable recreational infrastructure. Water in the swimming places is subject to fixed quality standards and is constantly examined by the State District Sanitary Inspectorate in Poznań.

Lake Malta with the surface of 65hectares was formed in 1952 as a result of damming of the Cybina River. It has become a globally known aquatic sports centre with one of the most beautiful regatta courses - the Malta Regatta Course. The surrounding areas were used to create the recreational infrastructure including the all-year-long ski slope, ice rink open in the winter season, summer sleigh track, bicycle paths and the New Zoo with the extra attraction of the Maltanka narrow gauge park railway.