While Wroclaw may not be as popular as other notorious Polish destinations such as Krakow and Warsaw, it’s one of Poland’s historical treasures with so much to offer. There are several historical, cultural, and spontaneous things to do in Wroclaw. It is a wonderful city for discovering delicious Polish cuisine, breathtaking views, and stunning architecture.
The majority of the city was left in ruins from the Battle of Breslau during 1945. Wroclaw was rebuilt with a fresh new face at the end of World War II. There are remnants of the devastation throughout the streets in honor of the city’s resilience.
Wroclaw is one of Poland’s oldest and most beautiful cities, featuring a network of 12 islands linked by over 100 bridges. Locals refer to Wroclaw as the holy flower of Europe.
Popular Things to do in Wroclaw
Situated on the second-longest river in Poland, the Oder River, Wroclaw is a sight to behold, especially if traveling by boat. If you’re wondering about what to do in Wroclaw, here are some attractions and experiences to check out.
Old Town
As many historical cities have an Old Town of their own, there’s nothing quite like Wroclaw. It’s considered one of the most picturesque market squares in Poland, and maybe even in Europe.
You will find the old town of Wroclaw right in the city’s heart. The bustling area is surrounded by charming Renaissance style and Malgosia gothic architecture. The buildings connect to a Baroque gate which leads to the Gothic St. Elizabeth’s Church.
A fun fact of Poland is that the country has one of the oldest restaurants in Europe – Piwnica Świdnicka, and this restaurant is located in the old town hall of Wroclaw.
The Penitent Bridge
Wroclaw offers a variety of viewpoints that overlook the colorful city, but Penitent Bridge takes the win. The bridge stands tall at 45 meters above the ground and connects the two towers of Mary Magdalene Church.
Although it is a journey to get to the top with over 200 stairs to climb, the view is worth it and one of the best views if you’re unsure what to see in Wroclaw.
Hunt for the dwarves of Wroclaw
The most interesting characters in Wroclaw are more than 250 dwarfs “hiding” all around the city. Some are easier to spot than others, but they are all created in entertaining displays.
The dwarf was the mascot of a protest group in the 1980s opposing the communist regime. The group is inactive now, but the mascot has been repurposed in a fun and modern way. Today, seeking out the dwarves of Wroclaw is one of the most fun things to do in Wroclaw.
Ostrow Tumski aka Cathedral Island
Ostrow Tumski is one of the many islands that make up Wroclaw and happens to be the oldest part of Wroclaw. Once you step foot into Ostrow Tumski, it feels like an entirely different world than the rest of the city.
Ostrow Tumski is known for its tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect getaway from the bustling streets of Wroclaw. To get to this serene oasis, you must cross over the Tumski Bridge, also known as Lovers’ Bridge.
For years, the bridge has been a popular romantic hot spot for couples in love to meet top a padlock on the bridge and toss the key into the Oder river as a sign of their love.
However, I wouldn’t encourage adding on to the locks because they are causing both rust and additional weight that compromise the bridge’s integrity. Volunteers are coming to cut the locks out to prevent them from overloading.
Catch the lamplighter in Wroclaw
Wroclaw is one of the only few European cities where you can still catch the vanishing tradition of lamplighters. The lamps in Wrocław’s Cathedral Island, Ostrów Tumski, are still gas-operated.
Whenever the sun starts setting, you will see a cool black-cloaked lamplighter walking around the island, lighting up all 103 original gas lamps.
Explore the Nadodrze District
For an eclectic experience, check out the Nadodrze district. The area is nothing short of charming with its cobbled streets and decorative 19th-century homes. It is famous for having some of the city’s most unique street murals.
At first glance, the district might look like it does not have much to offer, but it is one of Wroclaw’s most authentic locations. Being an artistic district, this is a hotspot for creatives worldwide to come for a breath of fresh air.
Nadodrze landmarks include an ornate 1868 train station, an above-ground WWII bunker, and the popular Nadodrze power plant, to name a few.
Piasek Island
Piasek Island, also known as Sand Island, is one of Wroclaw’s smaller but mighty islands. It is also home to one of the most important things to do in Wroclaw, the Panorama Raclawicka, located at Slowackiego Park in a massive circular building.
This painting illustrates the Polish victory won over Russian troops during the Battle of Raclawice.
Enjoy a cold delight at Lodziarnia Roma
From the various ice cream parlors around the city, you can imagine that the Polish love their Gelato. Lodziarnia Roma is a classic gelato store right outside the old town. This old parlor still uses traditional methods of making the Gelato. You can always find a queue here during lunchtime as people go for a sweet treat post-meal.
That said, if you have a sweet tooth, make sure you also try other traditional Polish desserts when you visiting Poland.
Grab a beer and bite to eat
If anything, Wroclaw is not one to shy away from its thriving nightlife. The Market Place, also known as Rynek, is a cultural center for a beer and bite to eat with various vibrant bars, clubs, and restaurants. Make sure to get familiar with some of the popular food in Poland and tasty Polish soups.
Many bars and clubs around Wroclaw have a quirky design theme making nightlife in Wroclaw an unique experience like no other.
Visit the Wroclaw Aquapark
Cool off at Wroclaw’s incredible water park for a tropical escape after a long day strolling under the sun. During the summer months, the water park tends to get quite busy.
It is one of Wroclaw’s largest recreational centers and includes several amenities such as indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, a gym, and more. On Tuesdays, the sauna is open to women only. With a day pass of around $15 USD, get access to paradise.
The Centennial Hall
The Centennial Hall, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, represents modern architecture at its finest. First opened in 1913, the hall is home to one of the country’s most captivating collections of Polish contemporary art. Also known as Hala Stulecia, the gallery has become one of the most sought-after things to do in Wroclaw.
Szczytnicki Park
Wroclaw is not all made up of colorful concrete structures. It offers a fair share of lush greenspaces throughout the dozen islands.
Just a short stroll from the Centennial Hall sits Szczytnicki Park – the city’s oldest and largest natural landscape with over 100 hectares. It features an opulent Japanese Garden and a beautiful 14th-century wooden church, the Church of St. John of Nepomuk.
Lesnica Castle
Another popular destination that makes the list of top Wroclaw things to do is a trip to Lesnica Castle. This 900-year-old castle sits just inside the city limits, and you can get there by tram or train from the Main Station.
Today, the castle serves as the Zamek Cultural Center. It features various art galleries displaying art pieces of different genres.
Alongside the castle is a 21-hectare park surrounded the Bystrycza river. While the castle possesses a tumultuous history, it has become one of Wroclaw’s most peaceful getaways.
Where to stay in Wroclaw?
While Wroclaw is not as big of a traveler’s destination compared to some other Polish cities, it still has a good range of accommodation options on offer. Here are some well-rated ones that are popular among visitors.
Hostels in Wroclaw
Chili Hostel: The hostel is near the Polish Theatre in Wrocław, and has a cozy yet modern vibe. There is a big common area/lounge to hang out with new friends. They also offer both dorms and private rooms catering to different travelers.
Grampa’s Hostel: This is your typical homely vibe hostel that also sits in a very convenient location. It is in the historic center, making it easy to visit some of the most prominent attractions in Wroclaw. The interior is colorful with positive vibes.
Luxury Hotels in Wroclaw
The Bridge Wroclaw – MGallery: The Bridge is a well facilitated luxury hotel that features spa, fitness center, bar, garden and a mean continental breakfast. It is also near the city center making it a great option for a relaxing getaway.
PURO Wrocław Stare Miasto: PURO is conveniently located right in the city center, just 500m from the market square. The clean, modern design is sure to bring a smile to the stylish traveler.
SleepWalker Boutique Suites: On the other design spectrum, you have the classy, elegance interior at SleepWalk Boutique Suites. The hotel is also located in the city center, making it a comfortable and convenient sleep nest.
Apartments in Wroclaw
Loft House Apartments: Big, spacious studio apartments suitable for business travelers and digital nomads. Each unit has a balcony, and there are also public amenities in the property like fitness centre and garden.
Q19 Apartments: Simple, modern apartments with great location. Nothing too fancy in design but every unit is very well equipped and has a patio.
