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Wroclaw Travel Guide

Travel to Wroclaw - Poland’s Hidden Gem

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Wroclaw is the fourth largest city in Poland and is primarily a university town which gives the city a lively and youthful atmosphere, contributed to by the vast amount of bars and clubs located within the old town square area.

However, this vivacious atmosphere doesn’t detract from its appeal as a tourist destination due to its museums and cathedrals with their cultural and historical importance.

With Krakow becoming the new Prague it has left room for Wroclaw to become the new Krakow and being known as Poland’s hidden gem it is little wonder it is gaining this deserved reputation.

It is believed that the city is named after Wrocisław or Vratislav, often believed to be Duke Vratislaus I of Bohemia. However, another theory suggests that the city was named after the tribal duke of the Silesians or after an early ruler of the city who was called Vratislav.

The city was mostly destroyed at the end of the Second World War; however, it has now been restored.

Attractions in Wroclaw

Wroclaw has many attractions of both historical and cultural interest including the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, home to Poland’s largest church organ, the Town Hall which is one of the few buildings that survived the second world war and is now a museum and St. Elizabeth's Church which affords spectacular views of the city.

If you want to learn more about the area then be sure to visit the Panorama of the battle of Racławice, a 360-degree painting, depicting a Polish military victory. Of there are also the National Museum, the Opera House and the Ethnographic Museum which are all worth a visit.

Activities in Wroclaw

Take a guided tour of the city or perhaps take the time to enjoy a walk in Park Szczytnicki which is a large park that is popular with walkers, especially during the autumn when the changing colours of the leaves make it an incredibly beautiful spot. For a more exhilarating pastime whilst in the city be sure to visit the Aquapark Polkowice.

Relaxing

The city of Wroclaw is home to several squares, parks and gardens which provide ideal opportunities to relax and watch the locals going about their daily lives. Rynek, the central square is one of the biggest town squares in Europe and the main one in Wroclaw; here you can relax at one of the bars. Or perhaps visit Eastern Park on the Oława river which is beautiful when its numerous flowers are in bloom and you can watch the swans on the river.

Getting Around

The centre of Wroclaw is relatively small and therefore easily navigable by foot; however, Wroclaw does have an extensive public transport system with 60 bus lines and 25 tram lines. There are also numerous taxi companies within the city.