Wolsztyn is a town situated in western Poland on the western edge of the Greater Poland Voivodeship. It lies within the historic Greater Poland region, positioned on the small Dojca River, which serves as a headstream of the Obra. The municipal area also encompasses Wolsztyn Lake and Berzynskie Lakes. Administratively, Wolsztyn functions as the seat of both Wolsztyn County and Gmina Wolsztyn.

The current settlement was established around 1285 on a causeway across the swampy Dojca River, likely by Cistercian monks from Obra Abbey. It developed into a wool trade center and received market rights in 1424, with town privileges confirmed in 1519. The town passed through various political entities, including Prussia and the German Empire, before returning to Poland after World War I and enduring occupation during World War II.

Wolsztyn features landmarks such as a Baroque parish church of the Immaculate Conception from the 18th century and a historical palace built in the Classical style in the early 20th century. This palace, located next to Wolsztyn Lake, now operates as a hotel and restaurant alongside an adjacent park. The town also contains several museums dedicated to local figures like Robert Koch and Marcin Rożek.

The town is internationally known for its railway heritage, hosting the annual Steam Locomotives Parade in May. The locomotive roundhouse is unique in Europe for supplying standard gauge steam locomotives for regular national rail services. Visitors are drawn to the depot, which houses rare locomotive series and historical carriages, as well as the nearby Pszczew and Przemęt Landscape Parks.

Wolsztyn had a population of 12,504 as of 2021. The local economy includes corporations such as Inter Groclin Auto SA. Transport access is facilitated by numerous bus links to Poznań and Zielona Góra, as well as railway connections to Leszno and Zbąszyń. The town serves as a junction for regional travel and offers various dining options and sports teams.