Wroclaw, Poland: 31 Best Things to Do and See

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.

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