23 Best Places in Wroclaw Poland in 2024 – Visitor Guide
In this post, we will visit the city of Wrocław and explore the best places in Wroclaw, Poland. This city, which reflects Austrian, Bohemian, and Prussian influences, is the 4th largest city in Poland. It’s a cultural city boasting many theaters, hosting major festivals, and offering a lively nightlife as more than 130,000 students make their home here while studying at university.
Located on the Odra River, this beautiful city includes 12 islands, 130 bridges, and many beautiful green spaces with more than 14 parks and gardens. The city attracts more than 5 million visitors annually.
We spent two days here. We’ll take you through the highlights of our stay in the historic city of Wrocław and help you understand what you can expect to experience in this city.
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Wrocław Introduction
Wrocław is pronounced “vrowt·swaaf.” This city is found in central Europe’s Silesian Lowlands. The population of Wroclaw is over 638,000, and it is Poland’s third most populous city.
Its rich history began as the first capital of Silesia in 1138. Over the centuries, the city has endured destruction by the Tartars and rule by Bohemia, Prussia, and Germany. During World War II, the Soviet army besieged the city. Throughout its history, the city has been known by several names, including Breslau, Brassel, and Vratislav.
After the Great War, the city was assigned to Poland following the Potsdam Conference. Today, it is a beautifully restored city and a major commercial center.
Next, let’s talk about what to see in Wroclaw.
The Best Things To Do in Wroclaw
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere, Wroclaw has become a popular destination for tourists worldwide. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, foodie, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, there is something for everyone in this charming city.
Keep reading to discover our Wroclaw tips and the best places to visit in Wroclaw!
Rynek (Market Square)
When you head to the city center, you’ll arrive at the Wrocław market square. It’s the second-largest market square in all of Poland. This massive community gathering place sits just behind the size of the market square in Krakow – and that one is Europe’s largest medieval town square.
This beautiful market square is enormous. When we arrived, vendors lined the route toward the square. Within the square is a wonderful collection of beautiful architecture, historic buildings, restaurants, pubs, churches, and people.
It is one of the grandest market squares in all of Europe and tops our list of the best places in Wroclaw.
Old Town Hall
On the east side of the square is the Old Town Hall. It was once a residence for King Augustus II the Strong and bore the name Pod Polskim Królem (Under the Polish King). This is a 2-story Gothic building and was built over 250 years between the 13th through 16th centuries.
Over the centuries, the building sustained much damage, though it is restored to its former glory. The Town Hall has hosted many important historical events and honored guests through the years.
Within the town hall, you’ll find the City Museum of Wrocław. Also in the cellar of the building is one of the oldest restaurants in Europe – the legendary Piwnica Świdnicka, established in 1273. It’s the third oldest Polish business in the country.
Hunt for Wrocław’s Dwarves
Scattered all around the city are little dwarf statues (krasnale). We had no idea hunting for them would be so much fun.
You see one, then another, and soon, it becomes addicting to find more of these little gnomes.
Some are in plain sight. Others are a bit more difficult to spot. Some are at ground level, and others are in higher places. Some are hidden in corners, others behind objects. There are now nearly 600 scattered in the city, each one different.
This tradition began with a single dwarf figurine that commemorated the mascot of the Orange Alternative protesters, who were opposers of the 1980s communist regime. When police covered anti-regime slogans, the Orange Alternative group painted dwarves graffiti-style on the spots covered by the police. At one point, the city was marked with nearly 1,000 graffiti dwarves throughout the land.
The first of the current dwarves was installed in 2001 Świdnicka Street, where most of the group’s shenanigans occurred.
Maps and GPS coordinates are available at tourist shops for those who want to go dwarf hunting.
The International Dwarf Festival (Wrocławski Festiwal Krasnoludków) takes place in Wrocław every year in September.
Wrocław Cathedral
Venture to Cathedral Island (called Ostrow Tumski). Here, at the oldest part of Wrocław, you can see The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. The church stands across the Odra River from the main old town section.
This iconic Gothic church boasts double spires; the portal is an important medieval element. There have been four church buildings at this location over the centuries. In 1244, construction began here on the first brick building in the country.
Inside, the dark interior includes restored altar elements. The side chapels are showcases for old pieces of art. Music lovers will appreciate witnessing the largest pipe organ in Poland, once the largest organ in the world.
One of the most magnificent things to experience during a visit is the panoramic view from the church towers. We climbed up 40 steps and took an elevator to the top of the bell tower, offering incredible city views.
During WWII, the Cathedral was over 70% destroyed. Pictures show the extent of the destruction. Rebuilt in 1951, today, it appears as it would have before the war. Unfortunately, much of what was originally inside has been lost.
Outside the church stands a monument of Mary, nearly 1,000 years old. This monument escaped destruction during WWII.
Witness the Wrocław Lamplighter
The Wrocław Lamplighter is a unique and captivating occupation that dates back to the 19th century. In the days when street gas lamps were the norm, the lamplighter’s job was to ignite and extinguish the city’s street lamps at dusk and dawn, respectively.
Today, Wrocław is one of the few cities in Europe that still employs a lamp lighter. The tradition is carried on by a gentleman who can be seen lighting the 103 gas lamps on Wrocław’s Cathedral Island throughout the year.
With his distinctive cape and top hat, the lamplighter uses a pole and hook attachment to fulfill his duties. Catching a glimpse of this jolly figure in action has become a must-do activity for visitors exploring the area in the evening.
Monument to the Anonymous Passerby (Przejście)
Head out to the corner of Swidnicka Street and Piłsudskiego. On this corner is a sculpture of children and adults coming out of the ground. This is the Monument to the Anonymous Passerby. Representing the period of martial law in Communist Poland, the monument created by Jerzy Kalina depicts 14 lifelike persons sinking into the ground on one side of the street and emerging out of the ground on the other side.
It’s noted to be a memorial to citizens who were killed or otherwise went missing during the martial law period of the 1980s. It was installed in December 2005 to mark the 24th anniversary of the restrictive martial law period from December 1981 until July 1983, attempting to squash political opposition.
Take a Boat Ride on the Odra River
Water is everywhere in this city, earning Wrocław the title of Venice of the North. There are nearly 130 bridges in the city that enable people to navigate over the waterways. In fact, in all of Europe, there are only two cities that have more bridges: Venice and Amsterdam.
You can enjoy drinks at several beach bars on the waters that surround the Odra River. You can also ride the river on kayaks or boats, which is what we did.
Seeing the boats here, we found a boat dock and set off on a 90-minute boat ride. This is a wonderful way to spend a relaxing afternoon when experiencing the best places in Wroclaw.
Walk to Tumski Bridge
There are dozens and dozens of bridges in the city. One of the most famous is the Tumski Bridge, which connects Ostrów Tumski and Wyspa Piaskowa. Today, the bridge is open to pedestrians only.
It also has the nicknames Lovers Bridge and Cathedral Bridge. When we visited, the bridge was full of love locks left by lovers as a memory of their feelings. A vital part of the ritual was throwing the lock key into the Odra River.
Today, the padlocks have been removed due to concern about the weight added to the bridge. The lock cleanup has also made for easier viewing of the river from the bridge.
There is a dwarf at one end of the bridge with a story about the bridge. It is also one of the bridges you can cross to get to the city’s cathedral.
Parish Church of St Mary Magdalene
The Parish Church of St Mary Magdalene in Wroclaw, located in the Old Town east of the Market Square, is a magnificent medieval structure that has undergone numerous enhancements throughout the centuries.
This brick-built church is truly a sight to behold, especially with its remarkably intricate portal on the south wall, which was rescued from a nearby abbey in 1546. Today, the church serves as a cathedral for the Polish Catholic Church and offers visitors the opportunity to climb the towering 72-meter (236-foot) high tower for breathtaking panoramic views.
Photographs by Radosław Drożdżewski (User:Zwiadowca21), CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Racławice Panorama
A sight not to be missed is the Racławice Panorama – a building in the round with a massive in-the-round painting. Television screens in the lobby show a documentary that describes the panorama and its history while you wait.
Inside, you’ll see a 360-degree depiction of two significant war periods with Russia and a memorial to one of the most legendary uprisings in Polish history. 1894 commemorated the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Racławice, a Polish uprising against a Russian invasion. On this occasion, a gigantic cyclical panorama was painted and installed in Lwów to commemorate the battle. After WWII, the painting was brought to Wrocław.
The panorama spans 375 feet around and 50 feet high and depicts the peasant army wielding scythes and doing battle against Russian forces, whom they defeated.
The circular painting captures the chaos and heroism of the peasant uprising and is a unique way to experience this history. You can see it today, although, during the communist period in the country, the Soviet government kept it closed for 40 years as they didn’t endorse promoting uprisings against Russia. It was reopened in 1985 and is a star attraction in the city today.
We recommend arranging for tickets in advance to see the half-hour show.
Andrzej Otrębski, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Centennial Hall
One of the sights we saw on our tour was Centennial Hall (Hala Stulecia). It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, along with the Four Dome Pavilion.
It was built between 1911-1913 when the area was under German rule. The architect Max Berg designed the structure.
Inside, the circular central space can seat nearly 6,000 people. The building is known for its pioneering engineering work and as a landmark work of reinforced concrete architecture. With a dome made of reinforced concrete that spans 226 feet in width, this was the largest building of its kind on earth at the time of its construction.
The hall features a Visitor Centre open from Thursday to Sunday between 10 am and 6 pm for a small entrance fee.
Just outside the hall’s main entrance is an attraction called The Pergola, which is a multimedia fountain. We spent some time here watching the show accompanied by music through the park speakers as the water projected up to 40 meters in height from over 300 nozzles that rotated, gyrated, and pulsed. Some nights, you can even see fireworks and laser shows outside. It’s one of the only fountains of its type in the world. The water shows run hourly between May through September, starting at 10 am.
Ossolineum
Ossolineum in Wroclaw is the oldest operating publishing house in Poland. It was established in Lviv in 1827 and moved to Wroclaw after World War II. It offers a wide range of Polish and international titles under the National Classic brand. Visitors can explore the stunning Baroque palace building, featuring a vast library and reading rooms. The beautiful garden, adorned with manicured hedges and a charming fountain, adds an element of elegance and serenity to the experience.
Szlomo Lejb, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Wrocław University
Wrocław is a big university town with more than 20 universities in the city hosting more than 130,000 students. A place you can add to your visit is the campus and museum at Wrocław University. It was founded in 1670 by the Jesuits and, since the beginning of the 20th century, has produced 9 Nobel prize winners.
The University of Wroclaw Museum is located by the picturesque Odra riverbank. Housed in the university’s main building, designed by Christoph Tausch, it boasts a stunning Baroque style, making it one of Poland’s and Central and Eastern Europe’s most treasured architectural gems. With its magnificent sculptural decor and paintings, the museum offers visitors a captivating glimpse into this region’s rich history and artistic heritage.
Today, on the grounds, you can visit the Wrocław University Museum. Inside are several exhibition halls that cover the University’s achievements and are surrounded by baroque-style architecture. There is also an Oratorium dating back to 1733, a magnificent music hall.
Raki_Man, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Wrocław Botanical Garden
The Wroclaw Botanical Garden, known as the Ogród Botaniczny, is a vibrant and diverse natural attraction. Spanning over 7.5 hectares, this garden houses an impressive collection of 11.5 thousand plants and their cultivars. Visitors can explore various plant species, including mountain, rock, water, marsh, and tropical plants. The garden is a separate institute of the Faculty of Biological Sciences of the University of Wrocław and is recognized as a historical monument.
In addition to its botanical wonders, the garden offers many open-air activities and events, such as concerts, children’s activities, and gatherings for gardening enthusiasts. Its picturesque location near Ostrów Tumski makes it a popular spot for leisure and photo shoots, attracting locals and tourists alike.
Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Basilica of St. Elizabeth
If you enjoy visiting old churches, put the Basilica of St. Elizabeth on your list. It is in the Old Town section. It’s among the oldest churches in the city, with a history dating back to the 12th century. Over the centuries, it has endured significant events, including hail damage, destruction during WWII, and a mysterious fire in 1976.
Inside are Gothic and Renaissance altars and over 100 tombs of notable local citizens who have passed away. You can reach a tower and view the city from the top after putting in about 300 steps through a narrow, twisting stairwell.
There had been an 18th-century pipe organ inside the church; however, in 1976, a fire destroyed it. Since our visit when the organ was unavailable, it has been reconstructed. So, if you visit this Basilica, you might see when there is an organ concert scheduled so you can listen to the new instrument.
The National Museum in Wrocław
If you want to add a museum to your list of best places in Wroclaw, consider the National Museum in Wroclaw. This museum is known as one of Poland’s most important museums. Initially established in 1947 as the Silesian Museum (Muzeum Śląskie), it was promoted in 1970 to the status of a National Museum.
Located on the south bank of the Odra River, its collection includes nearly 200,000 items. The artifacts include medieval Silesian sculptures, eastern European paintings, and historical art that span the period of the Middle Ages to the present day. Much of the collection comes from pre-war German museums and art once installed in art galleries in Lwów.
Six permanent exhibits include:
- Silesian stone sculpture from 12th to 16th century
- Silesian art from 14th to 16th century
- Silesian art from 16th to 19th century
- Polish art from 17th to 19th century
- European art from 15th to 20th century
- Miracle-Workers
Marek Śliwecki, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The City Museum of Wrocław and Royal Palace
The City Museum of Wrocław brings together several distinct institutions: the Archaeological Museum, the Historical Museum, The Museum of Military, the Old Jewish Cemetery, the Museum of Bourgeois Art, the Museum of Medallic Art, and the Henryk Tomaszewski Museum of Theatre.
The architectural objects of the City Museum of Wrocław are located throughout the city. Each is in the city’s central area except for the Old Jewish Cemetery.
The museum’s collections are historical and significant monuments with essential ties to Silesia.
The main branch of the museum is inside the Baroque Royal Palace. If you see one museum while visiting Wrocław, this should be it. Originally a residence of Frederick the Great of Prussia, the palace was home to Prussian Hohenzollern kings from the 17th to 20th century.
Today, the Royal Palace houses several free, permanent exhibitions. You can visit the restored royal apartments and Beyersdorf Room, decorated in Dutch design and harken back to the 17th century.
Plan to visit this museum, palace, and Baroque gardens for most of the day.
Tomasz Smolinski, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Museum of Illusions Wroclaw
Wroclaw is home to a museum of illusions where science meets art. It’s a place full of crazy inventions, mysterious artworks, and optical illusions. Physics and optics merge in this interactive exhibit. In an upside-down world, you’ll experience drawing with light, shadow creations, and strange moments. Take your time exploring this museum alone and experience the illusions at your own pace.
And if you make your way here, you’ll also be close to several other notable city attractions that we didn’t explore, but you can, including the Wrocław Zoo and the Japanese Garden.
Zoo Wrocław & Afrykarium
The city zoo is the oldest in Poland, dating back to 1865. See over 12,000 animals spanning over 1,000 species.
This zoo includes an African aquarium complex called the Afrykarium. Here, you can see many different African aquatic habitats. Making their home here are crocodiles, hippos, manatees, and sharks.
The Wrocław Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Plan for a full day for a visit to the zoo.
Photographs by Radosław Drożdżewski (User:Zwiadowca21), CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Japanese Garden
Created initially as a temporary attraction for the Global Exhibition in 1913, the Japanese Garden – Szczytnicki Park was reconstructed in the 1990s with specialists from Japan assisting the effort.
You can visit these gardens between April and October. The gardens are located north of Centennial Hall. Wander among the streams, water cascades, and beautifully manicured gardens for a tranquil retreat.
Puchatech K., CC BY-SA 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/, via Wikimedia Commons
Visit a Miniature World at Kolejkowo Wroclaw
See a large and vibrant miniature model of Lower Silesia at Kolejkowo. The model displays rural life and lets tourists explore mountain expeditions where they can interact in various roles. Be a rescue operator, forester, skier, construction worker, or one of many other roles.
Located in Skyscraper Sky Tower, witness miniature models of architectural masterpieces from the greater Wroclaw area.
Travelarz, CC BY-SA 3.0 PL https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/pl/deed.en, via Wikimedia Commons
St. Giles Church
St. Giles Church, located in Wroclaw, Poland, is the oldest active church in the city. Built in the 13th century, it has withstood the test of time, surviving the Tatar invasions. Although small in size, this church holds great historical significance. It was constructed under the order of Victor, the dean of the Wroclaw cathedral chapter house.
The church is often overshadowed literally and metaphorically by the larger cathedral building it stands beside. You can find relics of Saint Zygmunt Gorazdowski, known as the “Lviv apostle of mercy.” The church also houses a memorial plaque dedicated to the pioneers of Wroclaw City.
Despite bearing some damage during World War II, it remains a place of gathering and prayer for the local Polish community. Keep in mind that it is open only during mass.
Lvova Anastasiya (Львова Анастасия, Lvova), CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Hydropolis
Hydropolis in Wroclaw is a unique multi-museum dedicated to water. Housed in a remarkable neo-Gothic water tank from 1893, this groundbreaking gallery spans over 4,000 sqm (43,056sqft). With more than 70 installations and eight interactive sections, Hydropolis offers a captivating exploration of the fascinating world of water.
Discover the countless uses of this inorganic, transparent, tasteless, and odorless substance, delve into its religious and artistic significance, explore its role in the environment, and learn about its vital importance to human life and reproduction.
You can also escape the hustle and bustle in the relaxing aquatic relaxation center. Come and experience an extraordinary adventure at Hydropolis!
Jacek Halicki, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Best Places in Wroclaw
See Wroclaw Via a Tour
A tour is an excellent way to see more of the best places in Wroclaw. We saw someone advertising a tour when we were in Market Square, so we booked a two-hour electric cart tour one afternoon. That saved us some walking on a hot day, and we were shown the sights and saw places we wouldn’t have seen on our own if just traveling on foot – plus informative explanations by our guide.
Here are the top tours to consider for your trip to Wrocław:
Old Town Wrocław Walking Tour
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with 56 reviews!
Tour length – 2.5 Hours, Cost $
Discover Wroclaw’s Old Town’s fascinating history, art, and culinary delights on this small-group walking tour. You’ll enjoy an intimate and immersive experience as you stroll through the charming cobbled streets and visit iconic landmarks like Wroclaw University, the Town Hall, and the bustling Market Square.
Unlike bus tours, this walking tour grants access to hidden gems and secret corners of the city that are off-limits to larger groups. Perfect for first-time visitors, this tour offers a comprehensive overview of Wroclaw’s history and highlights in just a few hours, saving you time and ensuring a memorable experience.
2-Hours Private Electric Car Tour with a Guide
This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with 48 reviews!
Tour length – 2 Hours, Cost $
See more than 30 of the most interesting places in Wroclaw. Operating since 2013, this company knows the city well. Get picked up from your hotel and see the city in a modern electric car.
Sites on the itinerary include the Wrocław Market Square, Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island), Centennial Hall, and more.
This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with 55 reviews!
Tour length – 4 Hours, Cost $
Enjoy a fun experience in Wroclaw by joining a lively pub crawl. Your guides take you to the local hotspots, where you can try a variety of beers and get a taste of the city’s nightlife. Your party group will stroll the old town and market square and look for dwarves along the way. Play drinking games and enjoy VIP entry to the final club of the evening.
What Is Included With This Tour?
- 3 beers or shots
- Free shot at each bar
- Free VIP club entries
- Drinking games
- Drink discounts
Best Places in Wroclaw
Where to Stay in Wrocław
This hotel is rated 8.8 on Expedia with 663 reviews!
This 4-star hotel is conveniently located in central Wrocław and is a short walk from the Main Railway Station. Modern hotel rooms feature classic and Scandinavian styles. You can be in the old town in a short 10-minute walk from the hotel. Bicycles are available for rent.
The morning breakfast buffet includes an organic and eco option. Kid-friendly meals are available in the hotel restaurant.
Korona Hotel Wroclaw Market Square
This hotel is rated 9.2 on Expedia with 258 reviews!
Situated on the market square, just a breath away from the Gothic Old Town hall, this 15th-century historical building named “Under the Golden Crown” is a fully renovated 3-star hotel.
Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, room service, and free WiFi.
This hotel is rated 9.2 on Expedia with 424 reviews!
Art Hotel is an elegant hotel located in the heart of Wroclaw within blocks from Market Square. You’ll find easy access to theatres, museums, art galleries, and over a hundred restaurants and pubs.
The rooms are cozy and furnished with stylized furniture, noble fabrics, and flowers.
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Where to Eat in Wroclaw
This restaurant is rated 4 Stars on TripAdvisor with 1831 reviews!
Price range: $$ – $$$
When in Poland, be sure to experience traditional Polish food. We found one of the best menus during our travels at Kurna Chata. Inside and outside seating are available at this charming Polish restaurant.
The portion sizes are ample. Our borscht came in the most enormous soup pots we’ve ever seen, and oh, was it fantastic! We also enjoyed potato pancakes with forest mushrooms. And the vegetarian gołamkis were terrific. Well done here!
This restaurant is rated 5 Stars on TripAdvisor with 142 reviews!
Price range: $$ – $$$
Enjoy European cuisine featuring German and Polish food at this restaurant and brewery. Emphasizing quality ingredients, the chefs seek to focus on the natural flavors. You’ll also want to try the beer here; the service is top-notch.
Vertigo Jazz Club & Restaurant
This restaurant is rated 4.5 Stars on TripAdvisor with 291 reviews!
Price range: $$ – $$$
Enjoy music to the accompaniment of live jazz. An intimate and warm atmosphere is found for the best live music performances in the city. The excellent restaurant and attention to detail will make your evening memorable. Listen to various musical genres as artists bring swing, blues, Latin, pop, funk, and more to the stage.
Best Places in Wroclaw
Annual Events in Wroclaw
May: Gitarowy Rekord Guinessa – It’s one of the biggest guitar music festivals. It brings together thousands of guitarists to set a new world record for most guitarists playing ‘Hey Joe’ by Jimi Hendrix.
July: Vertigo Summer Jazz Festival – Jazz sounds in the Vertigo project accompany evenings in Wroclaw. Concerts are presented nearly every day of the month at the Vertigo Jazz Club and other bars and pubs in the city.
August: New Horizons Film Festival (Międzynarodowy Festiwal Filmowy Nowe Horyzonty)- The biggest film festival in Poland and regarded as one of the most significant film events in Central Europe. It showcases uncompromising, innovative, and original cinema worldwide, pushing the boundaries of film language, expression, and storytelling. With a wide range of films exploring new horizons, this festival offers both established and emerging filmmakers a platform to present their captivating works.
August: Dni Fantastyki (Fantasy Days) – Held at the Leśnica Castle, this fantasy event attracts writers, filmmakers, and creators of fantasy.
September: Jazz nad Odrą – This annual jazz extravaganza lasts nearly a week. Enjoy a series of jazz performances on the banks of the Odra river.
December: New Year’s Eve Party at the Rynek
Best Places in Wroclaw
Fun Facts About Wroclaw
The Jimi Hendrix Influence
Wroclaw deeply admires Jimi Hendrix, even though he never actually visited the city. However, his spirit can be felt annually during the vibrant and energetic Jimi festival, which has been a part of Wroclaw’s culture for nearly two decades.
Poland’s finest guitarists congregate yearly in Wroclaw to pay homage to Hendrix by playing his iconic song “Hey Joe.” In fact, in 2019, Wroclaw made history when a massive ensemble of 7,423 guitarists joined forces to break the Guinness world record for the most significant performance of “Hey Joe.”
It’s safe to say that Hendrix’s influence continues to resonate and inspire in the lively atmosphere of Wroclaw.
Prior Capital of Silesia
Wroclaw, once the capital of Silesia, held significant political importance in this region until approximately a millennium ago. Though Silesia has since integrated into Poland, the historical significance of Wroclaw as the former capital remains.
Best Places in Wroclaw
Where is Wroclaw?
Wroclaw is located in the southwestern region of Poland, near the border with Germany. It is the largest city in western Poland and serves as the capital of Lower Silesia province. Wroclaw is situated on the Oder River and has a population of over 600,000 people. Its central location makes it easily accessible by car, train, or plane, with an international airport just 10 kilometers from the city center.
Best Places in Wroclaw
Trains To and From Wroclaw
We traveled into Wroclaw by train. The central railway station is Wrocław Główny. It’s easy to arrive in Wroclaw from most metropolitan cities in Poland. The building itself is an architectural gem. Though it has undergone several renovations, many unique qualities remain preserved, including the decorative structure, spacious hall, and platform hall.
Wrocław Główny is located in the hub of the city. The main bus station is close by. You can be in the central Market Square in roughly a 15-minute walk.
You can find tram and bus options from the train station to travel outside the city center.
Rent a Car in Wroclaw With Discover Cars – Click To Book
Best Places in Wroclaw
Wroclaw – Know Before You Go
⏰ Time Zone: Central European Standard (GMT+1) (March to October is GMT+2)
✈️ Closest Airport: Wrocław Nicolaus Copernicus Airport (WRO)Airport
💰 Currency: Polish Złoty
🔌 Electricity Socket: In Poland, you’ll encounter two types of plugs: type C and type E. Type C consists of two round pins, while type E has two round pins and a hole for the socket’s male earthing pin. The electricity supply in Poland operates at 230V voltage and 50Hz frequency. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this universal travel adaptor.
Best Places in Wroclaw
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Wroclaw, also known as the “Venice of Poland,” is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Here are some of the things Wroclaw is known for architectural beauty, bridges and islands, dwarfs, a University city, and its historic market square.
Wroclaw is indeed a fantastic destination for tourists. It offers a rich cultural scene, architectural delights, and safety. Its vibrant energy is comparable to cities like Berlin, Lisbon and Barcelona. This student city also provides a youthful vibe with trendy bars.
The number of days you should spend in Wroclaw depends on your personal preferences and the activities you plan to do. However, many travelers find that spending 2-3 days in Wroclaw allows them to experience the city’s main attractions and get a feel for its vibrant atmosphere.
Yes, Wroclaw is considered a walkable city. Exploring Wroclaw on foot is the best way to experience the city. The compact nature of Wroclaw’s city center allows visitors to easily navigate its streets and explore its historic buildings, charming neighborhoods, and vibrant atmosphere.
Best Places in Wroclaw
Books About Wroclaw and Poland
Get ready for your visit to Wroclaw with some reading:
Uprooted: How Breslau because Wroclaw during the century of expulsions by Gregor Thum
DK Eyewitness Poland – This is the book we referenced to help craft our three-week Poland itinerary.
Best Places in Wroclaw
Listen To Our Wroclaw Poland Podcast
Hear about our adventures in this city and listen to our podcast about the best places to visit in Wroclaw, Poland.
Read About Other Cities To Visit In Poland
Best places to visit near Gdansk
Best Places in Wroclaw
Conclusion
The best places to see in Wroclaw, Poland, are just waiting for you to discover them! From exploring the Old Town and its stunning architecture to trying delicious Polish cuisine and experiencing the vibrant nightlife, there is enough to keep you busy for several days in this fantastic city.
Thanks for reading. We hope to see you at the places where we go!
Julie & Art
#wroclaw
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