Cześć i dzień dobry! Welcome to Wroclaw, a beautiful and vivid Polish city overrun and ruled by dwarfs. If you’re into charming old towns, delicious food, big yet cozy cities with many green spaces, some weird architecture, as well as places from famous TV series – Wroclaw is a place for you. Get ready, we’re taking you for a pleasant and long walk through the city streets among which you’ll discover many great things to do in Wroclaw, Poland.
Wroclaw is our city, a city where we’ve spent many years before our digital nomads’ journey and where we come back each year. We love it, we know it well, and we think it’s a shame that it’s still in the shadow of other popular names like Krakow or Gdansk. Let’s change it!
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A few words about Wrocław
Wrocław is the third biggest city in Poland located in southwestern Poland, not far from Germany and the Czech Republic. It’s the capital of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship, one out of 16 Polish administrative divisions. Wrocław is a popular travel destination for Poles, and unfortunately often overlooked by foreign visitors in favor of Krakow or Warsaw.
An interesting thing is that Wrocław became part of Poland again only in 1945, after 610 years of being part of various countries like the Kingdom of Bohemia, the Kingdom of Hungary, the Habsburg monarchy of Austria, the Kingdom of Prussia, and Germany.
Wrocław, Poland FAQ
Wrocław is known for its beautiful old town and the hundreds of dwarfs that took over the whole city. It’s also surrounded by rivers and canals featuring many bridges and footbridges thanks to which it’s often called Venice of Poland. What’s more, Wrocław is featured in the famous Netflix TV series – High Water, which focuses on the devastating 1997 flood of the century.
Of course! Wroclaw is charming and colorful. It’s a city where old is intertwined with new, and beautiful with shabby. Wrocław offers a wide variety of activities – from searching for cute little dwarfs scattered around the city, exploring nooks and crooks of the old town, to visiting interesting museums and eating delicious food… Wroclaw will please every traveler’s taste.
You can discover the most popular places in Wrocław in two or three days as the city is quite compact and the main attractions aren’t too far from each other. Although if you want to get to know it better, without rushing, we recommend staying for at least a week.
According to the Internet, it’s pronounced vrowt-swaaf (en-us) or vrot-swaaf (en-gb). Although we, as Polish people, can’t read it correctly from this. So we found a YouTube video for you, where you’ll hear correct Wrocław pronunciation in Polish.
Wrocław is a walkable city and the main landmarks aren’t too far from each other. Sometimes you might need public transport (bus/tram) but don’t worry as the city is well connected – use jakdojade.pl to quickly find connections. You can also easily rent a bike or electric scooter and move around even quicker.
Dwarfs hunting in Wroclaw
Dwarf hunting is a very popular thing to do in Wrocław among tourists, fun for both small and big ones. These cute little creatures started to take over Wrocław about 20 years ago and now no one really knows how many of them are here. The latest information we found says that there are more than 800 of them all around the city (May 2023).
How to find all the Wroclaw’s dwarfs?
You can spot them all over the city, not only in its center. The two most popular options to help with the search are:
- Head to the Krasnal Information located in Market Square where you can buy maps with dwarfs locations, as well as many dwarf souvenirs
- Download the “Wrocławskie Krasnale” app on App Store or Play Store
Of course, you can also hunt for them without any help, while sightseeing in the city.
Where exactly did these dwarfs come from?
The genesis of the dwarfs in Wroclaw comes from the Orange Alternative (pl. Ruch Pomarańczowa Alternatywa). It was a movement that was peacefully fighting against the absurdities of the communist times, in the 1980s, with the help of humor. During that time activists painted anti-communist slogans and inscriptions all over the city. Authorities painted them over and then in turn, as an act of protest, activists decorated them with the figure of a smiling dwarf in an orange hat and a flower in hand.
The first dwarf, Papa Krasnal (eng. Papa Dwarf) appeared in Wrocław in June 2001. Once he was an engaged activist of the Orange Alternative, now he’s resting on a well-deserved retirement, performing the function of the chairman of the Wroclaw Council of Dwarfs (which shouldn’t be surprising as he’s the biggest, the oldest, and probably the wisest of all.
Other dwarfs started moving into Wrocław in 2005 and we guess they really like the city as new ones are constantly coming!
Our video from Wroclaw
Things to do in Wroclaw Old Town
Wroclaw Main Market Square
Wroclaw Main Square (pl. Rynek Wrocławski) is one the oldest and largest market squares in Poland and in Europe. Brick houses started to appear in the square in the 13th century, and during the following years, they came through many architectural changes. During World War II about 60% of the buildings around the market square were destroyed. Later, in the 60s, they were carefully rebuilt, to the look you can admire today.
The most peculiar thing about the Wrocław market square is the fact that its central part, the mid-market block, is twisted by 7° clockwise compared to the rest of the buildings. Why it looks like that is a mystery – one says it was the builders’ mistake, other that it was a planned action to simply create a larger commercial square.
Currently Wrocław Main Market Square is vibrant, colorful, and always full of life. You’ll find there many restaurants and cafes, shops, and certainly, you’ll come across street artists who will try to entertain you. Visiting Wrocław Market Square is the best thing to do in Wroclaw that simply can’t be missed.
Important note for dwarf hunters: Market Square (and its surroundings) is a place where you’ll find most dwarfs.
Points of interest in Wroclaw Main Market Square: Town Hall, Cloth Hall, St. Elisabeth’s Church, St. Mary Magdalene Church, Zdrój Fountain, and Pranger. Also, just around the corner, there’s Salt Square, another market square in the city. Market Square (and its surroundings) is also a place where you’ll find a lot of dwarfs!
In Wrocław Market Square you’ll also find the Tourist Office & Dwarfs Information Center (both close to Salt Square).
Oh, one more thing – the square looks truly amazing at night! If you get a chance – see for yourself.
Discover: Accommodation options in Wroclaw Old Town
Wrocław Town Hall
Wrocław Town Hall (pl. Ratusz we Wrocławiu) is one of the oldest town halls in Poland, as well as one of the best-preserved. It was built in several stages over about 250 years, between the end of the 13th century to the 16th century. Over the next few hundred years, it was renovated and rebuilt several times. Thankfully, during World War II Town Hall suffered only moderate damages and full renovation after the war ended in 1953.
Currently, Wrocław Town Hall houses a Museum of Bourgeois Art (pl. Muzeum Sztuki Mieszczańskiej), which is a branch of the Wrocław City Museum (pl. Wrocławskie Muzeum Miejskie).
In Town Hall cellars, you’ll find Piwnica Świdnicka (eng. Świdnicka Cellar) – it’s the oldest medieval restaurant in Poland and one of the oldest in Europe. It’s been operating since 1273!
Right in front of the Town Hall you’ll find a pranger (pl. Pręgierz). It’s a place that was used for punishments. Depending on the crime a person was tied to it for several hours, whipped, or even executed. Currently, pranger is a popular meeting place.
Book now: Private Wroclaw Old Town Guided Tour
The Salt Square
The Salt Square (pl. Plac Solny) is one of three market squares in Wrocław, it acts as an auxiliary market for the main market square. It exists since 1242. In the past traders sold mainly salt from the Wieliczka and Bochnia salt mines, but also honey, wax, or leather goods. Currently, many flower stands dominate the area and some of them are open even 24h a day! Wouldn’t buying flowers at midnight (either for yourself or a loved one) be a unique thing to do in Wrocław?
Interesting fact: under Salt Square, there is a bomb shelter that was created during World War II. It can fit about 300 people.
Explore local attractions
St. Mary Magdalene Church with Bridge of Penitents
Among the must-have things to do in Wrocław is visiting St. Mary Magdalene Church (Kościół Św. Magdaleny). It was built in the 13th century (1226-1232), which makes it one of the oldest churches in Wrocław. Like many other buildings in the market square, it was heavily damaged during WWII – about 70% of it was destroyed. The reconstruction started in 1946 and ended in 1953.
If you want to take a good look at Wroclaw from above, be sure to head to the Bridge of Penitents (pl. Mostek Pokutnic). It’s a footbridge at an altitude of 45m that connects two towers of Mary Magdalene church. Oh, and there you’ll also find two more dwarfs – Tekla and Martynka.
Keep in mind that there is no elevator to the top, and you’ll have to climb all 247 stairs. But the views are definitely worth it! We can also recommend visiting during golden hour.
Entrance to Bridge of Penitents cost
Entrance to Bridge of Penitents costs 18zł for a normal ticket and 12zł for a reduced one (October 2024). For current prices and opening hours visit visitwroclaw.eu website.
Why is the bridge called the Bridge of Penitents?
The legend says that women who instead of starting a family and living faithfully to one man preferred to lead a debauched lifestyle were locked up there. As punishment, they had to sweep the bridge and weren’t allowed to leave it. It’s said that up to this day, you can hear the sounds of sweeping as well as groans and wails of the spirits of the penitents who died there!
Here you can read (in Polish/English/German) a slightly different and more extensive version of this legend, featuring Tekla i Martynka (two dwarfs on the bridge).
Interesting fact. The bridge of Penitents is also called the Witches’ Bridge (pl. Mostek Czarownic). Why? Well, during the times when witches were hunted, crossing the narrow bridge was a test – when a person suspected of witchcraft managed to walk from one end of the footbridge to another, she was accused of possessing evil powers that helped her (and later such a person was burned at the stake). When she failed to pass the test and fell down then, well… the problem solved itself. But at least she was acquitted and cleared of charges, right?
Book now: Wroclaw 3.5-Hour City Tour with University & Cathedral
St. Elizabeth’s Church with an observation deck
St. Elizabeth’s Church (pl. Bazylika św. Elżbiety) is located on the market square. It’s most popular for its observation deck on the church tower, at an altitude of 75m. To get there you’ll have to climb more than 300 stairs, but panoramic views over the city will make up for the effort.
The entrance to St. Elizabeth’s Church tower costs 15zł for a normal ticket and 10zł for a reduced one (October 2024). For current prices and opening hours visit visitwroclaw.eu website
In front of St. Elizabeth’s Church also take a look at Hansel and Gretel houses (pl. Kamieniczki Jaś i Małgosia). These are two medieval buildings built in the 15th century, connected by an arched gate. Because of that gate, many think that buildings look like they are holding hands, like Hansel and Gretel from the fairy tale.
If you’re wondering which building is which: Hansel (Jaś) is the smaller and simpler one, and Gretel (Małgosia) is taller and richly decorated.
Four Denominations District
Four Denominations District (pl. Dzielnica Czterech Świątyń) is a small area in the Wrocław Old Town where you can find four places of worship for different denominations located in close proximity. These are Orthodox Cathedral, Roman Catholic Church, Augsburg Evangelical Church, and the Synagogue.
Neon Side Gallery
Visiting Neon Side Gallery (pl. Galeria Neonów) without a doubt is one of the best and most unique things to do in Wroclaw. It’s located in the small, hidden courtyard between Ruska and Antoniego streets, in Four Denominations District. Once you pass the gates you’ll find yourself in a completely different world, filled with neon signs, murals, workshops, and art galleries.
The place was created in 2005 when a local man bought here the first neon that was supposed to be destroyed. Now the place hosts about 30 neon signs that in the past shops, companies, restaurants, etc used for advertising. The courtyard is worth seeing at any time of day, but after dark, it’s most impressive.
Discover: Accommodation options in Wroclaw
The Shambles
The Shambles (pl. Stare Jatki) are often considered as a hidden gem near Wroclaw Market Square. It’s a short street, one of the oldest in the city, where in the past butchers were located. Today it’s a place where you can find many small art galleries and the Slaughtered Animals Monument (pl. Pomnik ku czci Zwierząt Rzeźnych).
Mathematical Tower Of Wroclaw University
Mathematical Tower Of Wroclaw University (pl. Wieża Matematyczna Uniwersytetu Wrocławskiego) is located just a few steps from the market square. It was built in the 18th century and initially used as an astronomical observatory. Currently, it’s another great city viewpoint – from the terrace at a height of 42m, visitors can admire great views over Słodowa Island and the Old Town.
The tower is part of the Museum of the University of Wrocław which also includes: Aula Leopoldina, Oratorium Marianum, and some expositions. To enter the Mathematical Tower, you’ll need to buy a ticket, and the price depends on how many parts of the museum you want to visit (2,3 or 4). To check current prices visit muzeum.uni.wroc.pl website.
Słodowa Island
Another great thing to do in Wrocław, especially while near the Mathematical Tower, is visiting Słodowa Island (pl. Wyspa Słodowa). It’s one of a few Oder Islands (pl. Wyspy Odrzańskie) in the city. It’s a really popular meeting place, especially on warmer days in spring and summer. On Słodowa Island you’ll find some restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy a meal with nice views over the Odra River and Old Towns’ buildings.
While on Slodowa Island, you can also take a walk across other islands in the area: Mlynska Island (pl. Wyspa Młyńska), Sand Island (pl Wyspa Piasek), Bielarska Island (pl Wyspa Bielarska), and Tamka Island (pl. Wyspa Tamka).
Walk along the Wrocław city moat
After a lot of sightseeing, you’ll need a relaxing walk among green spaces, direct your steps to Wrocław city moat (pl. Fosa Miejska we Wrocławiu). It starts near the OVO building and runs up to Sikorski Bridge where it almost connects with the Oder River. What we see today are the remains of the original 13th-century fortifications. Along Wrocław city moat you’ll find places like:
- Partisan Hill (pl. Wzgórze Partyzantów) – remains of the old fortification system, a lovely green area with multiple places to sit and relax while watching swans, ducks, and other birds. From 2024 you can also wander around the magnificent, recently renovated Bastion Sakwowy.
- Nicolaus Copernicus Park (pl. Park Mikołaja Kopernika) – a tiny yet beautiful park full of green spaces. There is also a small carousel, great for entertaining little ones.
- National Forum of Music (pl. Narodowe Forum Muzyki) – a postmodern building completed only in 2015 housing a large concert hall.
- Royal Palace (pl. Pałac Królewski) – building housing the Wroclaw City Museum
- Wrocław Opera House (pl. Opera Wrocławska)
- Unique-looking OVO building
- District Court and Prison (pl. Sąd okręgowy i Areszt śledczy) – unique castle-looking red buildings, dating back to the mid-19th century
- Świebodzki Railway Station (pl. Dworzec Świebodzki) – a station which has been out of use since 1991, the oldest one of 3 Wrocław railway stations. Currently, it’s a place with pubs, restaurants, and the Museum of Games and Computers of the Past.
Book now: Wrocław Old Town Walking Tour
Things to do in Wroclaw near Cathedral Island
Cathedral Island (pl. Ostrów Tumski) is the oldest part of Wrocław, featuring many religious buildings. Once it was indeed an island on the Oder River, but in the 19th century Jérôme Bonaparte ordered to bury it.
Right before sunset, you can also spot a gas lamplighter on Cathedral Island. He walks around and lights up 103 original gas lamps. It’s the only place in Poland with such a unique attraction!
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (pl. Katedra św. Jana Chrzciciela) dates back to the 13th century and is probably the most impressive building in Ostrów Tumski. Its towers are almost 100m high and one of them serves as a great viewpoint over the city (there’s an elevator). Also, there is the largest pipe organ in Poland in the center of the church.
Entrance to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is free, although entrance to the tower with observation terrace, baroque chapels, and altar of St. John the Baptist is paid. You can check current prices on the katedra.archidiecezja.wroc.pl website.
Collegiate Church of the Holy Cross and St. Bartholomew
Collegiate Church of the Holy Cross and St. Bartholomew (pl. Kolegiata Świętego Krzyża i kościół św. Bartłomieja) is a two-storey brick church with two towers on Cathedral Island, just a few steps from Cathedral. The upper church is dedicated to Holy Cross, and the lower one to St. Bartholomew.
Tumski Bridge
Another great thing to do in Wrocław is explore Tumski Bridge (pl. Most Tumski) which connects Cathedral Island with Sand Island (pl. Wyspa Piasek). It’s also called Lovers Bridge as not that long ago it was full of padlocks that lovers left there to celebrate their feelings. It’s not the case anymore and after the renovations dwarfs keep an eye out for those wanting to hang a padlock again.
From the bridge, you can admire lovely views over the Oder River, Bulwar Dunikowskiego, and part of the Nadodrze district.
Book now: Wroclaw Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour
Botanical Garden of the University of Wrocław
Botanical Garden of the University of Wrocław (pl. Ogród Botaniczny Uniwersytetu Wrocławskiego) was established for medical students in 1811. It’s the second-oldest botanical garden in Poland where nowadays you’ll find about 11500 plants from different parts of the world.
The Botanical Garden is open from 1st April to 31st October. Entrance cost 30zł for a normal ticket and 20zł for a reduced one (October 2024). To check current prices and opening hours visit ogrodbotaniczny.wroclaw.pl website.
Things to do in Wroclaw near Dunikowski Boulevard
Xawery Dunikowski Boulevard
Xawery Dunikowski Boulevard (pl. Bulwar Xawerego Dunikowskiego) is located opposite Cathedral Island. It stretches from Market Hall up to Peace Bridge (pl. Most Pokoju), but you can continue a nice stroll up to the Grunwald Bridge. Bulwar Dunikowskiego is an amazing place for walking, exercising, meeting with friends, or just relaxing by the river with great views. For us, relaxing on the boulevard is one of the best things to do in Wrocław – we love it!
Along the boulevard, you’ll also find marinas with kayaks to rent, and boats in which you can go on a cruise. For the great panoramic views climb a small hill, Bastion Ceglarski, right next to the marina with kayaks – from there you can admire Ostrów Tumski and the crown of the Panorama Racławicka building.
Book now: Wrocław Long City Walk and Cruise
National Museum in Wrocław
National Museum in Wrocław (pl. Muzeum Narodowe we Wrocławiu) is home to one of the largest collections of art in Poland – more than 200.000 pieces are there! It’s located along Dunikowski Boulevard close to Panorama Racławicka in a beautiful 19th-century building covered in ivy.
Entrance to the National Museum is free on Saturdays and paid on other days. Normal ticket costs 35zł, and reduced one 25zł (October 2024). You can check current prices and buy online tickets on bilety.mnwr.pl website.
Panorama of the Battle of Racławice
Panorama Racławicka is located in a unique-looking building that resembles a crown. It’s a huge (15x114m), 360-degree painting created by Jan Styk (along with some other artists) created at the end of the 19th century to commemorate the 100th anniversary of winning the Battle of Racławice. The most remarkable thing about it is the fact that they finish painting it in… 9 months!
Entrance to Panorama Racławicka cost 50zł for a normal ticket and 35zł for a reduced one (October 2024). You can check current prices and buy online tickets on mnwr.pl website.
Wroclaw’s Manhattan
Staying on the subject of art, and places to visit in Wroclaw near Bulwar Dunikowskiego, we have to mention famous (or sometimes infamous) buildings called Wroclaw’s Manhattan, or even more affectionately: sedesowce (toilet seat apartments should be the good translation). They were designed by a local architect and built between 1970 and 1973.
What’s the story behind them? Well, ironically those buildings were supposed to bring a bit of Mediterranean vibe to Wroclaw, with plants hanging from the facade, rounded windows, white color, and hanging gardens on the terraces. Unfortunately, rounded windows weren’t delivered, the white color was replaced with gray, and gardens were never built either. And thanks to that, it turned out to be a great example of brutalism architecture. Currently, visiting Wroclaw’s Manhattan is one of the most unique and unusual things to do in Wroclaw, which some love and some hate.
Discover: Accommodation options in Wroclaw
Grunwaldzki Bridge
Grunwaldzki Bridge (pl. Most Grunwaldzki) is the most recognizable suspension bridge in Wrocław. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century, between 1908-1910. From the bridge, you can admire amazing views over places like Ostrów Tumski, or Wroclaw’s Manhattan.
Market Hall
Wroclaw Market Hall (pl. Hala Targowa) is one of the biggest produce markets in Wrocław. It’s located at the beginning of Bulwar Dunikowskiego, right next to the Sand Bridge, in a building built at the beginning of the 20th century. Today, on the two floors, dozens of sellers offer a wide variety of products from Poland and all over the world. While outside, don’t forget to take a look at its clock tower. It’s definitely a place that you can’t miss while in Wrocław.
Explore local attractions
Things to in Wroclaw near Centennial Hall
Centennial Hall
Centennial Hall (pl. Hala Stulecia) is one of the most famous Wrocław landmarks. It was designed by the architect Max Berg and built between 1911-1913 when the city was part of the German Empire. Since the beginning, Centennial Hall has served as a multi-purpose building where many concerts, performances, exhibitions, cultural events, and business summits take place. In front of Centennial Hall, you’ll find a needle-like sculpture called Iglica, set up in 1948.
Centennial Hall became one of Poland’s official national Historic Monuments in 2005 and one year later a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s one of the most impressive concrete structures in the world. Unfortunately, to visit the Centennial Hall center you have to take part in one of the events held there.
Pergola & Multimedia Fountain
Two things that you can’t miss while near Centennial Hall are a lovely stroll around Pergola (a 640m long path among two rows of 750 concrete poles crowned with a grating overgrown with vines) and watching a multimedia fountain show.
In the center, Pergola features a huge multimedia fountain that offers spectacular shows synchronized to music and lights. Shows take place every day from May to October and vary in length and type of music. All are free and you can check the repertoire on the pik.wroclaw.pl website.
Daytime shows are presented every full hour from 10AM-5PM, while evening shows take place every full hour from 6PM-8 or 9PM. Night shows are particularly dazzling as then animations, photos and films are projected on water.
Check out this video to see how spectacular the Wrocław Multimedia Fountain show is:
Japanese Garden
Japanese Garden (pl. Ogród Japoński) is another beautiful place near Centennial Hall, a real gem for lovers of plants and walks in green areas. The garden is part of a bigger green area in the city – Szczytnicki Park (pl. Park Szczytnicki). Its first version was created in 1913 by Japanese gardener Mankichi Arai for the Centennial Exhibition event.
Many years later, in the 1990s, the idea of revitalizing the Japanese Garden came up and works were finished in 1997. Unfortunately, 2 months after reconstruction most of the garden was destroyed during the Millennium Flood (yes, one that the High Water Netflix series is about). Finally, in 1999 the Japanese Garden opened again and works until this day.
The Japanese Garden is open from April to the end of October. The entrance costs 21zł for a normal ticket and 14zł for a reduced one (October 2024). To check current prices visit zzm.wroc.pl website.
Wroclaw Zoo & Afrykarium
Wroclaw Zoo and Afrykarium (pl. Wrocławskie Zoo i Afrykarium) has been open since 1865. And it’s the oldest zoo in Poland! Inside 33ha you’ll find over 1000 species. It’s a great thing to do in Wroclaw for a family with kids.
Entrance to the Zoo and Afrykarium costs 70zł for a normal ticket and 60zł for a reduced one (October 2024). You can buy tickets online on bilety.zoo.wroclaw.pl or at the ticket offices/ticket machines on the day of your visit.
Things to do near Wrocław Główny train station
Wrocław Główny train station
Wrocław Główny train station (pl. Dworzec Główny PKP Wrocław) is the biggest and most important train station in the city. It’s located in a castle-looking building from the middle of the 19th century (1857). In our opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful train stations in Poland. We highly recommend seeing it not only from the outside but also from the inside. Also, use the escalators and see the main hall of the train station from the upper floor.
Trzonolinowiec building
Seeing the Trzonolinowiec building is a unique thing to do in Wrocław. It’s a weird-looking building in Wrocław city center, located no more than a 5-minute walk from the train station.
Its first version was built in 1967, and its construction was an attraction in itself. You see, its construction began from… the top floor. We won’t be rewriting the whole complicated building process but will leave a link where you can read it by yourself. Here you can even watch a short video from the 60s showcasing the building.
In 1974, after the reports of the residents that the building was wobbling during strong winds, Trzonolinowiec was rebuilt. They stiffened the structure and supported it more on the ground level. Currently, the building is often called “domek na kurzej nóżce” which can be translated to a house on a chicken leg.
Things to do in Wroclaw near Sky Tower
Sky Tower Skyscraper
Sky Tower with a height of 212m is the tallest building in Wrocław, and the 4th tallest in Poland (as of December 2022). Its construction finished in 2012 and currently serves as a residential, business, commercial, and recreation complex. Take a good look at the shape of the building as for many it resembles something interesting and peculiar!
On its 49th floor, there is a viewpoint that offers amazing views over the whole city. The entrance to the Sky Tower viewpoint costs 49zł for a normal ticket and 35zł for a reduced one (October 2024). You can buy tickets online on bilety.skytower.pl website, or in the ticket office on the ground floor.
Inside Sky Tower, you’ll also find Kolejkowo – one of the most popular attractions in the city, loved by both kids and adults. It’s a large venue with mock-ups featuring a range of detailed miniature worlds with model trains and Wroclaw landmarks. The level of the figures’ detail is truly amazing. In this YouTube video, you can see what it looks like.
Discover: Accommodation options in Wroclaw
Monument of an Anonymous Passerby
Heading from the Sky Tower towards the Market Square you’ll come across very interesting sculptures called Monument of an Anonymous Passerby (pl. Pomnik Anonimowego Przechodnia). It’s the series of bronze figurines looking as if they disappear into the pavement on one side of the road intersection and reappear on the opposite one. Many say that it’s the metaphor of people going underground in 1981 due to martial law, and getting out of it in 1983 when it ended.
Sculptures were created by Jerzy Kalina and unveiled on 12/13 December 2005, on the same date that 24 years earlier martial law was introduced throughout Poland. The Monument of an Anonymous Passerby is considered as one of the most interesting monuments in the world.
Across the street, opposite the monument, is the Capitol Theater. Nothing too special here, but it’s worth taking a look at the theater building as well as at the colorful jester sculpture called Arlecchino (pl. Arlekin) created by Italian artist Alessandro Mendini.
Book now: Wroclaw 2-Hour Private Guided Tour by Electric Car
Old Jewish Cemetery
Old Jewish Cemetery (pl. Stary Cmentarz Żydowski) is a historic necropolis-museum, founded in 1856, where burials took place until 1942. It features a large complex of tombs, sculptures, and small grave architecture – there are about 12.000 tombstones on 5ha. Many distinguished Wroclaw residents lie here, such as doctors, artists, politicians, and scientists. During World War II, the cemetery became an area of military operations, and traces of those events are still visible on some tombstones.
During your visit pay attention to the symbolism on the tombstones. For example, you’ll find hands on the tombstone of a person who was a descendant of Aaron, a helmet on an army officer, or a broken tree/flower on a tombstone of a person who died suddenly.
Old Jewish Cemetery is located about a 15-minute walk from Sky Tower. Entrance costs 15zł for a normal ticket and 10zł for a reduced one (October 2024). The entrance is free on Thursdays. For current prices and opening hours visit visitwroclaw.eu website.
Explore local attractions
Off the beaten track & Wroclaw hidden gems
If you want to discover less touristy areas of Wrocław and see where ordinary life takes place, check out those city districts located close to the Old Town:
- Przedmieście Oławskie
- Przedmieście Świdnickie
- Nadodrze
- Krzyki
- Ołbin
- Grabiszyn
Get lost among their streets and maybe you’ll discover some unique places and hidden gems. Here are some of them.
Colorful Backyards on Nadodrze
In the Nadodrze district (close to Cathedral Island) you’ll find spectacular Colorful Backyards (pl. Kolorowe Podwórka). As the name already suggests it’s a colorful place, a backyard, full of various street art.
Artists used free and blank spaces on the buildings to create spectacular paintings, murals, sculptures, and even installations with the use of everyday items. If during Wroclaw city break you’d like to visit a unique place, and slightly off the beaten track, be sure not to miss it.
Discover: Accommodation options in Wroclaw
Hydropolis
Hydropolis, or rather Hydropolis Centre for Ecological Education (pl. Centrum Edukacji Ekologicznej Hydropolis), is an interactive museum where water and the environment play the main part. Inside you’ll learn about things like the role and importance of water, the physics behind water’s various states, and you’ll see a water printer and many interesting models and replicas. In our opinion, it’s a great thing to do in Wroclaw for both small and big ones.
Hydropolis is located on the outskirts of the Przedmieście Oławskie, about a 20min walk from Wrocław Główny train station, or 30min from Wrocław Main Square. Entrance to the Hydropolis costs 45zł for a normal ticket and 36zł for a reduced one (October 2024). For current prices and online tickets visit hydropolis.pl website.
Here you can take a look at a short video presenting Hydropolis:
Depot History Centre
Depot History Centre (pl. Centrum Historii Zajezdnia) is located in the building of the old bus hall on Grabiszynska Street. It’s a place of modern historical exhibitions and educational projects about the history of post-war Lower Silesia and Wrocław. The main exhibition is “Wrocław 1945–2016” and shows the stages of the city’s revival after the war. The exhibitions at the museum consist of thousands of photos, films, and multimedia presentations
Entrance to the Depot History Centre costs 20zł for a normal ticket and 10zł for a reduced one (October 2024). For current prices and opening hours visit zajezdnia.org website.
Wroclaw shopping malls
Wrocław boasts a large number of shopping malls. Close to the city center, you can find: Wroclavia (our favorite), Renoma, Galeria Dominikańska, or Pasaż Grunwaldzki. Little further are: Magnolia, Korona, or Bielany Wrocławskie.
Wroclaw parks
Wrocław also boasts a great number of green spaces. We visited many of them, and here are some of our favorites: Park Wschodni, Park Grabiszyński, Park Szczytnicki, Park Zachodni, Las Osobowicki, and Park Południowy.
Wroclaw Christmas Market
Wrocław Christmas Market (pl. Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy we Wrocławiu) is one of the best Christmas markets in Poland and also one of the most beautiful in Europe. It’s located on the Wrocław main Market Square, Salt Square, Świdnicka Street, and Oławska Street. It’s usually open from mid-November to the end of December. There you’ll be able to try Polish and international cuisine, as well as buy many products perfect for gifts, decorations, souvenirs, etc.
Our advice: if you’re not a fan of crowds visit Wrocław Christmas Market on any other day than on the weekend, as it can get REALLY busy then and can take away all the joy.
Discover: Accommodation options in Wroclaw
Take advantage of guided tours
If you don’t want to put too much effort into planning, you can always take advantage of the guided tours and let someone else take care of all the details. During your time in Wroclaw, you can for example take part in this Wroclaw Old Town Walking Tour or if you’re a foodie this Wroclaw Food Tasting Tour might be a great choice for you too.
For a wide selection and many more well-reviewed tour options be sure to visit GetYourGuide or Viator website.
Polish food to try while in Poland
Want to try typical Polish cuisine? Look for foods like:
- pierogi
- bigos
- śledzie w śmietanie
- pączki
- żurek
- kotlet schabowy
- barszcz
- Polish crispy bread & rolls
Book now: Wroclaw Food Tasting Tour
Restaurants & food places to visit in Wroclaw
We won’t lie in saying that the Wroclaw food scene is AMAZING! That was one of the reasons we love living here. So far in no other city, we came across so many great restaurants offering high-quality food (but Nice is close!).
Our favorite restaurants in Wroclaw:
More recommendations of great food places to visit in Wroclaw:
Ice creams, sweets, and snacks:
Wrocław Coffee scene:
If you’re a coffee lover you might want to check these places:
Of course, there are also world-popular chains like Starbucks, Costa Coffee, So! Coffee, or Green Caffè Nero.
Wrocław Craft Beer scene
Are you a beer lover? Yes? You’re lucky as Wroclaw can boast of good craft beers. You can try them in places like:
How to get to Wroclaw, Poland?
Wroclaw is located about 360km from Warsaw, 270km from Krakow, 180km from Poznań, and 480km from Gdańsk. The most convenient way to get to Wrocław is by car, bus, or train.
Airports near Wrocław
Wrocław has its own airport. The next closest ones are in Poznań (180km away) and Katowice (205km away). The easiest way to get from Wrocław airport to the city center is to take a bus (line 106 or 206) which arrives near the main train station. You can also take a taxi or rent a car. From other airports, you can take direct buses to Wrocław. To learn more about connections that might interest you visit rome2rio.com website.
Where to park in Wrocław?
If you choose to travel by car you need to know that cars are successively being pushed back from the city center and it’s quite hard to find a parking place for a car in the center.
Your best option is probably to find accommodation with parking space and then travel by bus/tram in the city center. But if you must use a car we think your best shot is to park in shopping malls (like Wroclavia or Galeria Dominikańska), as they are cheaper than parking meters and usually it’s easier to find an available spot there.
For great car rental deals visit Rentalcars website.
To Wrocław by bus
You can easily get to Wrocław by bus, especially from other big Polish cities. For example, the trip from Krakow will take about 3h15min (€8-25) and from Warsaw about 4h15min (€15-35). To learn more about bus connections that might interest you visit rome2rio.com or Flixbus website.
To Wrocław by train
You can also get to Wrocław by train, as Poland is quite well connected by trains. For example, a trip from Katowice will take about 2h (€10-16), 4.5h from Warsaw (€13-21), and 5h from Gdańsk (€14-22). However, we feel obligated to warn you that trains are often unreliable and delayed. To learn more about connections that might interest you visit rozklad-pkp.pl website.
For great train ticket deals visit Trainline website.
Things to do in Wroclaw – Summing up
Wrocław is such a beautiful Polish city, isn’t it? If you’re into charming old towns full of history and hidden gems, hunting cute little iron creatures, amazing food scene, big yet cozy places with many green spaces, and weird architecture – it’s a perfect place for you! Hope our locals’ Wroclaw travel guide helped you choose the best places to visit in town, and as you can see, there are plenty of them. Enjoy your time and let us know later if you fell in love with Wrocław too.
Our opinion about Wrocław
Before we started our digital nomads journey we had lived in Wrocław for many years. During that time we got to know it pretty well and without hesitation, we can say that this is our favorite city in Poland. Until today we really enjoy coming back, and we still treat it as our Polish home. While traveling we miss it sometimes, especially its amazing restaurants. Really!
What we don’t like about it? Well, it’s a big and usually busy city that sometimes can be overwhelming (especially during the summer months and December). It’s also full of horrible graffiti on the walls even in the city center and there are lots of homeless/drunk people too. Pollution/smog is also a huge drawback but thankfully it’s noticeable almost exclusively during the autumn/winter. But no place is perfect and overall we like living in Wrocław.
Book now: Wroclaw Private Old Town Guided Tour
Accommodations and map
Check out various recommended places below.
Where to sleep in Things to do in Wrocław?
Ibis Styles Wroclaw Centrum
Ibis Styles Wroclaw Centrum is a modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of Wrocław. The hotel features 133 comfortable rooms equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can also enjoy a buffet breakfast, fitness center, and 24-hour reception desk services during their stay.
Jungle Apartments
Jungle Apartments is an excellent choice for travelers visiting Wrocław, offering a unique and stylish accommodation option. Guests will enjoy the lush jungle-inspired decor, spacious and well-equipped apartments, and the convenient location close to the city's attractions.
Retro Apartment Old Town
Retro Apartment Old Town is a charming and comfortable accommodation located in the heart of Wrocław's historic district. This stylish apartment offers a unique retro-inspired interior with vintage furniture and decor, as well as modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and TV. Guests can enjoy the convenience of a fully equipped kitchen and a comfortable living room, making it a perfect choice for a short or long stay.
Hotel Mercure Wroclaw Centrum
Hotel Mercure Wroclaw Centrum is a stylish 4-star hotel located in the heart of the city. Its prime location provides easy access to many popular tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops. The hotel features modern rooms and suites, a fitness center, restaurant and bar, and conference facilities.
Accommodations photos source: booking.com
Guys, I’m seriously impressed, well done on your fantastic post and the charming introduction to Wroclaw. So much work has gone into this and I loved hearing all about your city. I listened to the pronunciation video but I’m still struggling. I think I prefer the Polish version. Those cute little gnome statues would engage me for days. Ah well, I’ll keep September in mind and maybe it works out for a visit.
Carolin | Solo Travel Story