Krakow (Kraków in Polish), Poland’s second-largest city, draws over 14 million visitors every year — and honestly, we’re not surprised. This city has it all, from the majestic Wawel Castle, where you might just meet the famous Wawel Dragon, to the main square Rynek Główny, the largest medieval square in Europe, which is always packed with people — and pigeons. 😃

If you want to soak up an authentic atmosphere, don’t skip the historic quarter of Kazimierz, which is a hipster paradise these days, or grab the legendary zapiekanka at Plac Nowy.

Unlike many other Polish cities, Krakow was lucky enough to escape the devastating destruction of World War II, which is why today we can admire its medieval squares, castles and fascinating Jewish history.

In December, the Christmas markets here are absolutely magical.

How long should you spend in Krakow?

We’ve hooked you, and now you’re wondering how long to spend in Krakow? We recommend giving Krakow at least 3 days, but if you want to enjoy it to the fullest, 5 days is ideal. That way you’ll not only cover the best spots but also soak up the atmosphere in the local hangouts.

Where to stay in Krakow?

We prefer to stay right in the center, because in the end it saves a lot of time (and time is money, right). You’ll find the best apartments, breakfast included, at K4 APARTHOTEL KRAKÓW. The Avium Old Town Apartments are also great. If you don’t mind hostels, you’ll find cheap accommodation right in the center at Greg&Tom Beer House Hostel.

26 things to do and see in Krakow, Poland

Kraków (Krakow) is a genuinely lovely city for wandering and exploring. Let’s take a look together at the most interesting activities, sights and places you shouldn’t miss on your visit.

1. Rynek Underground beneath the Cloth Hall

Beneath the famous Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Main Square (Rynek Główny) you’ll find the Rynek Underground museum. This multimedia museum takes you back to medieval times, when the Cloth Hall served as a center of trade.

If you’d rather not queue for tickets and want a guided tour, check out GetYourGuide.

You’ll wander through reconstructed medieval market stalls and workshops, learning how trade worked in Krakow hundreds of years ago. The museum also displays original cobblestones and other artifacts uncovered during archaeological excavations in 2005.

The presentation is pretty modern and fun — there are even holograms.

2. St. Mary’s Basilica

St. Mary’s Basilica (Kościół Mariacki) is one of the most important Gothic buildings in Krakow. Its interior is literally packed with artistic treasures. What captivated us most was its blue ceiling dotted with golden stars.

Every day at 11:50 a.m., the main altar opens before your eyes. It’s the work of German sculptor Veit Stoss and ranks among the largest medieval works of art in Poland.

3. Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is a symbol of Polish national identity — Polish kings were crowned here and are also buried here. It sits on Wawel Hill above the Vistula River, and its history dates back to the 16th century.

During World War II, the Nazi administration was based here, so it’s a miracle it wasn’t destroyed by the end of the war. Today the castle houses five separate museums. If you don’t have time to visit them all, definitely don’t miss the State Rooms and the Royal Private Apartments.

Tip: If you’d rather skip the queues, you can use GetYourGuide to buy tickets, just like we did.

4. Wawel Cathedral

Wawel Cathedral is one of the most important buildings in Poland. Kings and other prominent figures are buried here, including Polish president Lech Kaczyński, who died in a plane crash in 2010.

You definitely won’t miss the Sigismund Chapel, a true celebration of Renaissance art. A ticket to the cathedral also includes entry to the Royal Crypt and the tower, which offers a superb view.

5. The Ethnographic Museum

The Ethnographic Museum, housed in the former 16th-century town hall of Kazimierz, takes you into the world of the various cultures of the Krakow region, Podhale and Silesia. Its three floors feature reconstructed 19th-century Polish village houses, so you can see what rural life looked like back then. On Sundays, admission is free.

6. Schindler’s Factory

Schindler’s enamelware factory, where Oskar Schindler employed many of the 1,200 Jews he saved from the Nazis, is now a museum.

Here you’ll learn not only about Schindler’s deeds and the stories of those he saved, but also about life in Krakow during the Nazi occupation. On Mondays, admission is free.

7. The Leaky Cauldron – for Harry Potter fans

It seems Poles love Harry Potter almost as much as I do. 😃 It’s not just Wrocław that has a pub inspired by the wizarding world — Krakow has one too, where you can order a butterbeer. It’s called the Leaky Cauldron, DZIÓRAWY KOCIOŁ.

8. Wieliczka Salt Mine

A short drive from the city (12 km) lies a huge underground complex where salt was mined for more than 700 years. Today it hides galleries, a chapel, restaurants and labyrinthine chambers. It’s an extremely popular trip, not just for foreign tourists but for Poles too.

That’s exactly why it’s a good idea to book your ticket in advance through GetYourGuide. And I’d recommend setting aside half a day for it.

9. Try at least one of 100 kinds of vodka

Not afraid of a bit of hard liquor? Krakow is famous for its vodka. It’s very cheap here, and you can sample all sorts of flavors — from the classic to various fruity variations. We recommend visiting the Wodka Café Bar, where you can choose from more than 100 kinds of vodka. Pair it with traditional Polish snacks — steak tartare or smalec (lard spread).

10. A cruise on the Vistula River

See Krakow from a different perspective on a cruise along the Vistula River. Cruises usually run from April to September, and you can choose whether you want just 30 minutes or several hours.

Some will take you all the way to the Benedictine abbey in Tyniec, about 12 km west of Krakow. If you prefer something more active, you can rent a kayak and explore the river on your own.

Tip: If you’re traveling as a couple, I’d recommend booking an evening cruise through GetYourGuide — super romantic.

11. Visit the MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art

Right next to Schindler’s Factory you’ll find the absolutely superb MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing works by contemporary artists from Poland and around the world. Besides its regularly changing temporary exhibitions, you can also see a permanent collection of more than 300 works of art. On Thursdays, you can view the permanent exhibition for free.

12. Planty Park

Planty Park is a green park that surrounds Krakow’s historic center on the spot where the city walls once stood. In summer it’s a lovely place to escape the heat. You can start or end at the 14th-century Florian Gate and the 15th-century Barbican fortress. Along the way you’ll also see the statue of Pope John Paul II, who was born in Poland.

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to stay in Krakow

4 accommodations — hotels and other lodging options

⭐ TOP CHOICE 🏨 Hotel

K4 APARTHOTEL KRAKÓW

The best apartments with breakfast right in the center of Krakow. Accommodation in the center saves time and makes exploring the city easier.

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Avium Old Town Apartments

Great apartments in the center of Krakow, ideal for comfortable accommodation during your visit to the city.

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Greg&Tom Beer House Hostel

Cheap hostel accommodation right in the center of Krakow, ideal for those who don’t mind traveling through hostels.

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13. Street art in Kazimierz

Kazimierz, Krakow’s historic Jewish quarter, is now full of street art. This district is home to plenty of amazing murals and artworks that give this part of town its unique character.

You can explore Kazimierz on your own or join an organized walk that takes you to the most interesting pieces of street art. Kazimierz is also a great place to discover local cafés, restaurants and bars.

14. The Kościuszko Mound

The Kościuszko Mound is a man-made hill built in honor of Polish national hero Tadeusz Kościuszko in 1823.

There’s a beautiful view of Krakow and the Vistula from here. If you’re lucky with clear weather, you can even glimpse the Tatra Mountains, more than 100 km away. Near the mound stands a fortress with an exhibition dedicated to Kościuszko and his life.

15. Go for a hike in the Wolski Forest

Just a few kilometers west of the Kościuszko Mound lies the Wolski Forest, a protected area full of hiking and cycling trails. When it snows, people even come here for cross-country skiing.

At the top of the forest sits the Piłsudski Mound, offering a stunning view of the surroundings. Around the forest you’ll also find the Krakow Zoo and Przegorzały Castle, which looks like it was built in the Middle Ages but actually dates back to the 1920s.

16. The Old Synagogue in Kazimierz

The Old Synagogue in Kazimierz is the oldest surviving synagogue in Poland and today serves as a museum of Jewish culture. Definitely stop by to admire the beautiful vaults and the exhibition that brings the life and traditions of Krakow’s Jewish community to life. The synagogue is open every day, and on Mondays admission is free.

17. Zakrzówek Park

If you head to Krakow in summer, cool off at Zakrzówek Park, where you’ll find a gorgeous water reservoir created in a former quarry.

18. Rynek Główny

Rynek Główny, Krakow’s main square, is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. It’s surrounded by stunning Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Every hour, a trumpet call rings out from the tower of St. Mary’s Basilica — a tradition dating back to the 14th century.

In December, there are wonderful Christmas markets here too.

19. The Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) – Krakow’s market hall

The Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) is one of the iconic buildings on Rynek Główny. This Renaissance structure originally served as a center of the cloth trade, but today you’ll find all sorts of stalls with souvenirs, jewelry and handmade goods inside. On the upper floor there’s the Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Art, where you can admire paintings and sculptures by famous Polish artists.

20. Climb the Town Hall Tower

The only surviving part of Krakow’s medieval town hall is its 70-meter-tall tower. Don’t miss it — enjoy the view of the main square and the rooftops of the historic center from the top. On the way up you can visit a small museum with historic photos and a model of the original town hall.

21. Try a zapiekanka

What exactly is it? It’s a halved baguette topped with mushrooms (pieczarki) and cheese as the base. Then you can add whatever you fancy: bacon, sausage, tomatoes, corn, pickles, onion or even ham. And to finish? A dressing! You can usually pick garlic, ketchup or something spicier.

The zapiekanka was born in the 1970s as a cheap, quick grab-and-go meal. Today it’s an inseparable part of Polish cuisine. And where to try it? The most famous zapiekanki in Krakow are at Plac Nowy (New Square) in the Jewish quarter of Kazimierz.

Zapiekanki are available almost everywhere, from little stalls to bigger bistros. Sizes usually range from 25 cm to 50 cm, so you can grab a small snack or go straight for a proper lunch.

22. Visit the Apteka pod Orłem pharmacy

On the other side of the Vistula in Podgórze stands the Apteka pod Orłem pharmacy. This wasn’t just any ordinary pharmacy — it was a place that played a key role during World War II.

During the Nazi occupation it was the only pharmacy in the Krakow ghetto, and its owner, Tadeusz Pankiewicz, did everything he could to help the Jews imprisoned there. The Under the Eagle pharmacy became a symbol of courage, and people remember it as a place where the fight was for humanity itself.

Today the pharmacy houses a museum that shows what daily reality in the ghetto looked like and everything Pankiewicz did to help those who had it the hardest. The exhibition is full of photos, objects from the occupation and documents that tell stories of pain, but also of courage.

23. Ghetto Heroes Square (Plac Bohaterów Getta)

Ghetto Heroes Square in Krakow is one of the most powerful memorials to the tragic history of World War II. It lies in the former Krakow ghetto in the Podgórze district, where the city’s Jewish residents were imprisoned and persecuted during the Nazi occupation.

Today the square commemorates their fates through 70 metal chairs scattered across it. Each of these empty chairs symbolizes the fate of the people who were deported from the ghetto and murdered in concentration camps.

The square was the place in the ghetto where residents were gathered, often before being transported to their deaths. Nearby you’ll find the Under the Eagle pharmacy (Apteka Pod Orłem).

Map of points of interest for your phone

24. The Barbican

Krakow’s Barbican is one of the most significant medieval fortifications in Central Europe and a real rarity in Poland. This massive Gothic circular bastion was built at the end of the 15th century as part of the city walls to protect the main entrance to the city, St. Florian’s Gate. Its seven towers, thick brick walls and 130 embrasures made it a nearly impregnable fortress that even withstood Ottoman attacks.

Today the Barbican serves as a historic monument and a popular venue for cultural events and exhibitions. On a visit you can walk through the original passageways, admire the defensive features and imagine the role the fortress played in Krakow’s history.

25. Collegium Maius

Collegium Maius, the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University in Krakow, is a true gem of Polish academic history. Built in the 14th century, this Gothic masterpiece served as the university’s main building and educated students, including such figures as Nicolaus Copernicus.

Today Collegium Maius is home to the university museum, which displays rare collections of historic books, globes and scientific artifacts. There’s also a replica of Copernicus’s observatory. One of the main attractions is the astronomical clock in the courtyard.

26. Auschwitz

From Krakow it’s only a short trip to Auschwitz — an emotionally demanding but hugely important visit for understanding history. Auschwitz, one of the first concentration camps, is a reminder of all the horrors that prisoners had to endure here.

Nearby is also Birkenau, a place created with the aim of the genocide of the Jewish people. Buses and trains run here regularly from Krakow, and you can also book a tour through GetYourGuide.

💡 Tip from Lukáš: I visited Auschwitz on an organized tour from Krakow (Lucie didn’t come — it’s an emotionally very heavy place). I remember how, at the end of the day on the way back, I just sat in silence, thinking that everyone should visit at least once, to appreciate life more. What those people went through I wouldn’t wish on anyone — and at the same time, I can’t comprehend that anyone was capable of doing something like this to other people. It’s not a relaxing trip, but it’s an important one.

👉 I’ve also written a separate article with my own experiences: Auschwitz-Birkenau: Visiting with respect — where you’ll find practical info on tickets, transport from Krakow, what to wear and what to expect from the visit.

Frequently asked questions

Wroclaw, or Wrocław in Polish, is one of those cities you’ll instantly fall in love with. Poland’s third-largest city is located in Lower Silesia and boasts a beautiful historic center, great cafes, museums, a Harry Potter pub, a nice zoo, and dwarfs scattered throughout the city.

In this guide, I will share with you the Wroclaw, Poland: 31 Best Things to Do and See. Let’s take a look at what the Polish city of Wroclaw has to offer, what to see, what to do, and when to visit.

Wroclaw: History of the City of Wroclaw

What to know about the history of Wroclaw before you go? And where did it get its name? The history of Wroclaw dates back to when the first settlers established their settlement at a strategic location by the Oder River, where important trade routes intersected.

The city emerged as a crossroads of ancient routes connecting Southern Europe with the Baltic Sea and the West with the East, all the way to the Black Sea.

In the 10th century, the Silesian region came under the rule of the Czech prince Vratislav, after whom the city likely got its name. At the end of the 10th century, it became part of Poland, and in 1000, during the reign of Bolesław the Brave, a bishopric was established, subordinate to the archbishopric in Gniezno.

In the 13th century, the city underwent a major transformation – it gradually unified into a single entity and was rebuilt according to German law. There was a large influx of German colonists, who were invited by the Silesian Piasts to support the development of the area. In 1261, Wroclaw became a city governed by a city council under Magdeburg Law.

In 1335, after the extinction of the Silesian branch of the Piast dynasty, Wroclaw fell to the Czech Crown and later came under Habsburg rule. During the Reformation in the 16th century, the city became one of the main centers of Protestantism. In 1741, Silesia, including Wroclaw, came under Prussian rule, and the city became an important stronghold of the Prussian kingdom.

During the Napoleonic Wars, the city was occupied by French troops, which led to the demolition of the old city walls. This paradoxically allowed for further development of the city. In the 19th century, Wroclaw became an important industrial and transport hub, thanks to the opening of the first railway section between Wroclaw and Oława in 1842.

In the first half of the 20th century, Wroclaw was part of Germany and became one of its main cultural centers. World War II brought immense losses to the city – by the end of the war, almost the entire city was destroyed. After the war, in 1945, Wroclaw became part of Poland again, and the process of reconstruction and settlement by Polish inhabitants began.

During the communist era, the city became one of the main centers of opposition to the regime. In 1980, a strong Solidarity movement emerged here, and in 1983, Pope John Paul II visited the city, which boosted the morale of the local inhabitants.

After the fall of communism in 1989, Wroclaw began to undergo a major transformation and today is one of the most important cultural, academic, and economic centers in Poland.

When to Go to Wroclaw? Weather and Tourism

Wroclaw is a great choice for a visit practically any time of year, but if you’re asking when the best time is, let’s put it this way: if you like warmth, go in the summer; August sees the most tourists, so if you want pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, I’d go for June or September…

Spring and autumn are also beautiful here, even if it can still be chilly. If you want to experience the magical atmosphere of the Christmas markets, then it’s clear, you must come in December.

Cheap Hotels Wroclaw: where to Stay

If you want cheaper but still clean and stylish accommodation, we recommend Legnicka Business Apartments. Even cheaper and right in the center are the apartments Staycity Apartments Sukiennice 6, but parking there is more expensive (450 CZK per day), so it’s more worthwhile if you travel to Wroclaw by bus.

Wroclaw, Poland: 31 Best Things to Do and See

Beautiful sights, viewpoints, dwarfs, or even a Harry Potter restaurant. Let’s look at everything you must see in Wroclaw. ❤️

1. Old Town and Rynek

Let’s start right in the heart of the city – in the historic Old Town. The Old Town is surrounded by a canal and used to have walls, which unfortunately Napoleon destroyed.
The most important part of the Old Town is, of course, Rynek, one of the largest squares in Europe.
Here you’ll see Gothic and Baroque buildings, the historic Town Hall, and even a “fake window”. Rynek is also full of cafes, restaurants, and various art shops where you can buy souvenirs.

2. Dwarfs at Every Turn

If you’re traveling with children (but even if you’re not), you can’t miss the iconic Wroclaw dwarfs. These small bronze statues began appearing in the 1980s as a symbol of resistance against the communist regime. Today, there are over 800 of them scattered throughout the city, each with its own name and story.

Become dwarf hunters with your children and try to find as many as possible! There are even maps and apps to help you find them. 😎

3. Ostrów Tumski: the Oldest Part of the City

Ostrów Tumski, or Cathedral Island in English, is the oldest part of Wroclaw, but beware, it’s not a real island. 😅

Although locals call it an “island,” technically it hasn’t been one for a long time. It used to be surrounded by the Oder River, but urban modifications to the river’s course changed its shape.

4. Tumski Bridge

When you go there, you’ll cross the historic Tumski Bridge, which is a symbol of love. The entire railing is covered with padlocks left by couples in love to symbolize their eternal devotion.

Then they throw the keys into the river with a romantic gesture. Which isn’t very ecological, but it is romantic.

On Tumski Island, there are several important churches whose towers dominate the entire city.

The most famous is St. John the Baptist Cathedral, easily recognizable by its two towers visible from much of the city. This Gothic temple will impress you with its majestic architecture and magnificent interior.

The island also has its charm during Christmas, when it is beautifully decorated and acts as the spiritual heart of the city.

5. Plac Solny

Right next to the Rynek, you’ll find the smaller Plac Solny square, where flower stalls are open 24/7. You can buy beautiful flowers here any time of day or night.
In addition, you’ll find great restaurants and the OP ENHEIM gallery, which focuses on modern art.

Plac Solny also has several cozy cafes where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and watch the city bustle.

6. Japanese Garden

If you’re looking for a place to relax for a while, definitely head to the Japanese Garden, located behind the Centennial Hall (UNESCO).

This space was created at the beginning of the 20th century and today, from spring to autumn, it is a pleasant place for relaxation.

Nearby, you’ll also find the Multimedia Fountain, where light and music shows take place in the evening.

The Centennial Hall itself is an architectural gem, built in 1913 and one of the most significant modernist buildings in Poland.

7. Wyspa Słodowa – a Place with a True Local Atmosphere

If you want to experience the true Wroclaw atmosphere, head to Wyspa Słodowa island. Especially in the summer months, it’s teeming with young people who come here to drink beer, chat, and enjoy the sun.

It’s the only place in Wroclaw where public drinking is tolerated. The island also often hosts concerts and various cultural events worth visiting.

8. Panorama Racławicka

An almost obligatory stop is the enormous painting Panorama Racławicka, which depicts the Battle of Racławice. This monumental painting measures 114 × 15 meters.

Next to the Racławice Panorama, there is also the National Museum of Art, where you can admire other works of art.

9. Nadodrze

If you like alternative culture and street art, definitely head to the Nadodrze district.

This area used to be rather neglected, but today it’s full of life, art, and small galleries. It’s a bit like Karlín in Prague – who among you remembers it as a dirty hole? I still do. . 😅

Here you can discover old German inscriptions on houses or visit the Neon Side gallery, where you’ll find a collection of old neon signs.

Nadodrze is also known for its cafes, bakeries, and local markets, where you can taste authentic Polish cuisine.

Nadodrze, literally translated as “above the Oder”, used to be a rather unsafe area with many pre-war tenement houses in a dilapidated state.

Old German inscriptions are still visible on the buildings, which were painted over after the war, but over time the paint began to peel, and the German past reappears.

10. Nightlife and Tips for Venues

Wroclaw is a student city, and its nightlife reflects that. You’ll find countless bars, pubs, and clubs worth visiting.

We recommend stopping by Bułka z Masłem or Mleczarnia, where you can enjoy both breakfast and evening drinks.

If you like craft beers, head to Alebrowar or the multifunctional space Recepcja, which also hosts various cultural events.

11. Fairytale Christmas Market

If you visit Wroclaw in winter, you must not miss the Christmas market on Rynek. It’s one of the most beautiful in Europe, and the entire city center transforms into a fairytale world full of lights, food stalls, and, of course, mulled wine.

12. Wroclaw University and its Beautiful Interiors

The Wroclaw University building is one of the most beautiful Baroque structures in Poland. Inside, you’ll find the magnificent Aula Leopoldina and Oratorium Marianum halls, richly decorated with frescoes and sculptures. You can also climb the Mathematical Tower for a beautiful view of the entire city.

13. Zoo and Afrykarium

Wroclaw Zoo is the oldest zoo in Poland and also one of the largest. One of the main attractions is Afrykarium – a unique oceanarium that takes you into the underwater world of Africa. They have sharks, stingrays, and other exotic animals.

14. Dzielnica Czterech Wyznań

In Wroclaw, there is a unique Dzielnica Czterech Wyznań (District of Four Denominations), where a church, synagogue, Orthodox cathedral, and Evangelical church stand side by side. This district is a symbol of religious tolerance and mutual respect.

15. Centennial Hall (UNESCO)

We mentioned the Centennial Hall earlier, now let’s look at it more closely. This architectural gem, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built in 1913, and was originally intended to be only a temporary structure. But don’t worry, even after more than 100 years, it still stands firmly in its place! The building hosts various exhibitions, concerts, and events, making it worth a visit inside.

16. Multimedia Fountain

Right behind the Centennial Hall is the Multimedia Fountain, where you can enjoy a free light show. The fountain is the largest of its kind in Poland, and during the summer season (from May to October), you can see a show every day, with evening performances being spectacular thanks to the light effects.

17. Monument of the Anonymous Passerby

This remarkable monument can be found at the busy intersection of Piłsudskiego and Świdnicka streets, next to the Arkady passage. Fourteen life-size bronze figures depict ordinary people “disappearing” underground on one side of the street and reappearing on the other.

The monument is a symbolic reminder of life during martial law, which was declared in Poland on December 13, 1981. The hidden “underground” world then represented the resistance and struggle of a part of Polish society against the totalitarian regime.

The monument was unveiled exactly 24 years after the introduction of martial law and refers to the brutal interventions of the secret police, who arrested people at night and took them to prison. During the unveiling of the monument, the voice of General Jaruzelski and the sounds of gunfire were heard, recalling the dark atmosphere of that time.

The sculptures were designed by Jerzy Kalina, whose plaster prototypes were created as early as 1977. This monument thus became not only a work of art but also a powerful symbol of the courage and perseverance of people during communist oppression.

18. Polinka Cable Car

Wroclaw is a city of bridges, with over a hundred of them, but it also has a cable car. Originally, the Polinka cable car was built as a practical solution for students who often got stuck in traffic jams on Grunwaldzki Bridge, allowing them to easily get between two faculties of the Wroclaw University of Science and Technology.

Today, however, the cable car has also become a tourist attraction, offering a unique view of the Oder River.

Tickets are very affordable (around 1 euro), allowing you to enjoy an unusual experience and a unique view of the city.

19. Guided Walk

Want to learn interesting facts about Wroclaw while enjoying a walk with other travelers? Go on a guided walk if you can manage English. These tours are a great opportunity to get to know the city from the perspective of passionate local guides who will show you Wroclaw as they love it.

We usually like to join free guided walks when we travel. It’s an ideal way to gain a new perspective on the city and learn more about it. We believe it will help you discover the beauty of Wroclaw too.

If you don’t have any friends in Wroclaw to show you around, participating in a guided walk is definitely the right choice. Tours are available in several languages, most often Polish, English, German, and Spanish.

You can book dates and available times for guided walks online – it’s necessary because the number of spots is usually limited.

20. Taste Traditional Polish Cuisine

What’s the best way to get to know local culture? Through food, of course! Let’s take a look at traditional Polish cuisine.

Pierogi

Pierogi are filled dumplings and definitely a symbol of Polish cuisine. And it’s no wonder – they’re simply delicious!

Traditional versions are Russian pierogi, filled with potatoes and cottage cheese. And if you think “Russian” means they come from Russia, you’re mistaken.

These dumplings are Polish, and recently their name has also been “neutralized” and the ‘Russian’ part is no longer added. You can taste pierogi in various places, but our favorite is Bar Pierożek on Księcia Józefa Poniatowskiego 3 street.

Traditional Polish Soups

Welcome to soup paradise! Taste pomidorowa (tomato soup), barszcz czerwony (red borscht), żurek (sour rye soup, traditionally served in bread), grzybowa (mushroom soup), rosół (broth), and many more.

Appetizers and Beer Snacks

Besides main courses, we recommend trying Polish appetizers. One typical appetizer you can taste in Wrocław is Gzik. It originates from Greater Poland but has become part of the local cuisine.

Gzik is a type of cottage cheese traditionally served with boiled potatoes. Other recommendations include pickled cucumbers and herring. You’ll also find steak tartare on almost every menu.

These delicacies are said to taste best with a shot of chilled vodka. We’re not big on meat or alcohol, so you’ll have to try it for us. Ambasada or Przedwojenna are very popular bars.

Pączki

Pączki are doughnuts, similar to Czech ones, but they often have more types of fillings than those sold in the Czech Republic. A very popular place to get pączki is the Dobra Pączkarnia chain. For a more traditional version, head to Cukiernia Łomżanka.

Food Tours in Wrocław

Of course, there are also gastronomic tours in Wrocław, during which you can taste local cuisine, and most of them include vodka tasting. The best place to find them is on GetYourGuide. You can book them in advance there (and cancel online if needed).

21. Flea Markets

Time is said to have stopped at the flea markets, allowing you to experience Wrocław as it was 20 years ago. The most popular flea markets are: Targowisko na Świebodzkim and Targowisko MŁYN.

If you want to experience something different from typical tourist attractions, we recommend visiting one of these markets on a Sunday morning.

22. Harry Potter Pub – Pod Trzema Miotłami

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, be sure to visit the magical pub Pod Trzema Miotłami (The Three Broomsticks), where you can experience the atmosphere of the wizarding world and enjoy a traditional Potter-themed drink – butterbeer.

23. Old Jewish Cemetery

A forgotten world of classicism, Art Nouveau, and mysterious symbols. The Old Jewish Cemetery is literally an open-air art gallery. More than 12,000 tombstones tell the stories of prominent doctors, artists, and ordinary people who died suddenly while traveling.

24. Hydropolis

What do Grunwald Bridge, ocean depths, and a raindrop have in common? You’ll find the answer at Hydropolis, Poland’s only water museum. The interactive exhibition will take you from space, through the oceans, to your kitchen tap. Do you want to play God and control a “water printer”? You can do it here.

Bonus: the building itself is a former waterworks, so history surrounds you at every turn.

25. WuWa Housing Estate

An experimental housing estate from 1929, where architects tested the future of living. Prefabricated houses, communal spaces, and even a kindergarten amidst greenery. An ideal place for a stroll for anyone who wants to see what “modernity” looked like a hundred years ago. And if you get tired of exploring, stop by the WuWa cafe for a coffee.

26. Sky Tower – Wrocław’s Tallest Building

Take the elevator to the 49th floor of the Sky Tower and enjoy views of the entire city and far beyond. This 206-meter-tall behemoth divides locals – some love it, others would rather tear it down. But one thing is certain, the view is unbeatable. And while you’re there, you can go shopping or visit the gallery inside the building.

27. City Moat

Wrocław’s city moat is a picturesque remnant of the 13th-century city fortifications. Originally serving as protection against enemies, today it is an oasis of calm in the heart of the bustling city. The best way to enjoy it is by strolling along the Old Town Promenade that surrounds it.

The moat was preserved thanks to Napoleon’s brother, Jérôme Bonaparte, who, after conquering Wrocław in 1807, ordered the city walls to be demolished and the space handed over to the inhabitants. Walking here means not only relaxing but also glimpsing the city’s history. In warmer months, you can relax under the trees, while in winter, the water surface transforms this area into a fairytale scenery.

28. Partisan Hill

Partisan Hill, also known as Wzgórze Partyzantów, is one of the most romantic places in Wrocław. Located near the city moat, it’s a great spot for those seeking peace, views, and a touch of history. The hill, originally part of the city’s fortifications, was transformed into a recreational area during the 19th century, when it housed a gazebo restaurant surrounded by greenery.

Today, you’ll find the remains of a neoclassical colonnade and pavilion, which add a nostalgic atmosphere to the place.It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or a rest after a long day of exploring the city. From the top of the hill, you’ll get a beautiful view of Wrocław’s historic center, making it a popular destination for romantic walks or evening sunset viewing.

29. View from the Tower Of St. Elizabeth’s Basilica

If you want to experience Wrocław from a completely different perspective, head to one of the viewpoints in the Old Town. One of the most famous is the tower of St. Elizabeth’s Basilica , which rises to a height of 90 meters. A narrow spiral staircase will lead you to the top, but the view that awaits you there is worth every drop of sweat. You’ll see the iconic red roofs of the Old Town, the winding Oder River, and a city panorama that will completely captivate you.

30. View from the Penitents’ Bridge

For a slightly different experience, head to the Penitents’ Bridge, which connects the two towers of St. Mary Magdalene Church. Located at a height of 45 meters, it offers a fascinating view of the square, historic buildings, and streets below you. According to legend, the souls of repentant sinners walk here, seeking forgiveness.

31. Where to Find the Best Cafes in Wrocław

If you love coffee as much as we do, you should definitely visit one of the local cafes. We particularly liked Parrot Coffee, Jolie – Brasserie Cafe, which also has great brunches, and Yerba Café, where you should have breakfast at least once.

32. Best Restaurants in Wrocław

For Indian food lovers, there’s Indieflavours, where almost everyone can find something to eat. In Wrocław, you’ll also find a good Czech restaurant Bernard, and right on the Market Square is the stylish Polish restaurant Pierogarnia Rynek 26.

I try to include restaurant tips for vegetarians and vegans in every article, because I know how difficult it can sometimes be to find decent food. But you won’t have a problem in Wrocław; there’s a great vegan restaurant called “Bez Lukru” Kuchnia Roślinna.

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

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