Today, we’ll talk about what to do in Wrocław, from chasing some famous dwarfs to having the best views from river Oder. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie enthusiast, or simply looking to explore a new place off the beaten path, this dynamic city has something special in store for you. Let’s talk about all things to do in Wrocław.
Wrocław, a Polish town not too far away from the Czech borders, is a hidden gem for anyone looking for a hipster town with a picturesque architecture, lively cultural scene, and charming cobblestone streets with lots of dwarfs. In today’s article, I will talk about my experience of visiting this Polish city and what one can expect to see.
What to do in Wrocław
Wroclaw offers lots activities to suit every interest and taste. Nestled along the banks of the Odra River, the old town in Wrocław is a vibrant tapestry woven from centuries of history and culture, making it a captivating destination for both locals and tourists.
Wondering around the old town
The heart of this enchanting area is the Market Square (Rynek), one of Europe’s largest medieval squares, where colorful facades adorned with intricate details tell tales from as far back as the 13th century.
Dominating this square is the stunning Gothic-style Town Hall, which dates back to 1330 and features an astronomical clock that has fascinated visitors for generations. As you wander through its cobbled streets, you’ll encounter charming little nooks overflowing with lively cafés and shops that echo stories from when Wrocław was part of various kingdoms—including Poland, Bohemia, Austria, and Prussia—each leaving their indelible mark on architectural styles found throughout the old town.
Stare Jatki, a c historic street in Wrocław, beckons visitors with its cobblestone path that whispers tales of the past. This quaint alleyway, tucked away near the bustling Market Square, is adorned with colorful facades and artfully crafted sculptures that pay homage to the artisan tradition of this vibrant city. It’s a street where you can buy a souvenir or two, or just enjoy looking at the homemade goods.
Museums and paddleboats
For history lovers, a visit to Wroclaw’s numerous museums is a must-do. Discover the city’s tumultuous past at places like Panorama Racławicka or Muzeum Narodowe, where exhibits showcase Poland’s rich cultural heritage. If you’re craving some outdoor adventure, head to Park Szczytnicki for a leisurely stroll among lush greenery or rent a paddleboat on Odra River for a unique perspective of the city. I rented a paddleboat and went a little around the river myself which is definitely a great way to see the town from a different perspective but also cool down on a hot day. It’s not that expensive as well, depending on the boat chosen you can pay as little as 100 PLN.
Cathedral Island (Ostrov Tumski)
Truth to be told, Wrocław is quite a small town and you can easily get to see everything in just a day. Ostrov Tumski is an island that is very popular among people of any age and is a place to have a drink at. It’s great to just have a seat and look around, whether it’s sunrise, sunset, or if you’re just looking somewhere for a shadow on a hot day.
For those looking to unwind and relax, treat yourself to a spa day at one of Wroclaw’s luxurious wellness centers or enjoy an evening opera performance at Opera Wrocławska. With so much to see and do in this dynamic city, your itinerary will be brimming with unforgettable experiences!
The other side of the town
Centennial Hall
On the other side of the town you can find the Centennial Hall, a masterpiece of modernist architecture, which stands as a testament to human ingenuity and historical significance. Designed by the renowned architect Max Berg and completed in 1913 to commemorate the centenary of the Battle of Leipzig, this UNESCO World Heritage site has been pivotal not only for its unique structural innovations but also for its role as a cultural hub.
Its vast dome—a groundbreaking feat at the time—was one of the largest reinforced concrete structures in Europe, symbolizing progress and unity. Over the years, the Centennial Hall has served various purposes: from hosting large-scale exhibitions and concerts to being an important center for community gatherings and events that celebrate local traditions.
Multimedia Fountain Shows
Right in front of it, is the Multimedia Fountain, which is known for its shows. Set against the stunning backdrop of the iconic Pergola at Słowacki Park, this extraordinary attraction features an intricate dance of water jets that shoot up to 18 meters high, choreographed to a symphony of music ranging from classical compositions to contemporary hits. As dusk falls, the atmosphere transforms; vibrant colors projected onto mist create a dreamlike ambiance while synchronized lights illuminate the fountain’s contours. Whether you come around during the day or at night, you won’t regret it.
Japanese Garden Wroclaw
The Japanese Garden Wrocław, a serene oasis nestled within the sprawling Szczytnicki Park, is a breathtaking embodiment of traditional Japanese landscape design that captivates visitors with its harmonious blend of nature and artistry. Established in 1913 for the World Expo, this meticulously curated garden showcases an array of carefully arranged elements such as koi-filled ponds, meandering pathways, and lush plant life that reflects Japan’s rich horticultural heritage.
The intricate stone lanterns and graceful bridges are not merely decorative; they serve as symbols of Zen philosophy and contemplation. As you wander through the garden’s tranquil spaces, you’ll encounter an impressive collection of flora including cherry blossoms in springtime and vibrant maple trees in autumn.
Sky Tower
The Sky Tower in Wrocław stands as a striking emblem of modern architecture and urban ambition, soaring to 212 meters and captivating the skyline with its sleek silhouette. This impressive structure, completed in 2012, is not only the tallest building in Poland outside of Warsaw but also serves as a multifunctional space that harmoniously combines residential apartments, office spaces, and retail areas. Visitors are often drawn to the panoramic observation deck on the 49th floor, where breathtaking views of Wrocław’s historic landscape unfold against the horizon—an ideal vantage point to appreciate both the intricacies of Gothic churches and contemporary developments alike.
What to do in Wrocław? Try to find all the dwarfs!
Wandering through the charming streets of Wroclaw, you might just trip over a whimsical little dwarf, and that’s no accident! The dwarfs in Wroclaw are not just adorable statues; they’re historical symbols born from the city’s rich past of resistance against oppression. Originating in the 1980s as part of a peaceful protest movement against communism known as the Orange Alternative, these pint-sized figures began popping up to spread joy and defiance.
Today, there are over 400 dwarfs (unofficially around 2,000) scattered throughout this vibrant city—each one with its own quirky personality and backstory! You can find them perched on benches like the beloved “Wrocław Dwarf,” sipping coffee at cafés or playfully hiding around Market Square. Take a stroll down Świdnicka Street to spot “GastroDwarf,” who is always ready for a bite to eat, or head towards Ołbin Island where “Dancing Dwarf” sways cheerfully beneath leafy trees.
So if you found yourself with plenty of time and unsure of what to do in Wroclaw – each encounter sparks delight and curiosity, reminding everyone that even small things can make big impacts—and perhaps coaxing out your inner child along the way! Some shops sell maps which show the most famous and known dwarfs, and it’s quite fun to try to find them. Sometimes they’re on unexpected places, for example, we found the motocyclist dwarf in front of a church!
How to pronounce Wrocław
Have you ever found yourself unsure of how to pronounce the name of a city, like Wrocław? The correct pronunciation may seem tricky at first glance, but it’s actually quite straightforward once you get the hang of it.
To pronounce “Wroclaw,” start by saying “vrohts-wahv.” The ‘W’ is pronounced as a ‘v,’ and the emphasis falls on the second syllable. Think of it as breaking down the word into smaller parts: “Vrots” and then “wahv.”
How to get fromWrocław airport to city centre
Arriving in Wroclaw and wondering how to get from the airport to the city centre? No worries, I’ve got you covered!
Once you land at Copernicus Airport Wroclaw, you have a few options for transportation. One of the most convenient ways is taking a taxi directly outside the terminal. It’s quick and hassle-free, perfect after a tiring flight.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice, hop on one of the public buses that operate between the airport and various parts of the city. It may take a bit longer than a taxi ride but can be an adventure in itself as you soak in your first views of Wroclaw. You can take the bus number 106 taking you to Bastion Sakwowy, just by the river and across the old town.
Getting the right ticket for your travel around Wrocław
Be aware that tickets are checked frequently in the city, so make sure you buy your ticket correctly. In town, you can do so by paying on terminal in trams or buses, similarly like in London for example. The terminal doesn’t give you a ticket, but if an inspector checks you, you use your card as verification. Be aware there are lots of different types of tickets, including 15, 30 or 60 minutes. From personal experience, it’s worth buying a 24-hour ticket if you know you want to move around the city by a public transport, as always checking your ticket, and whether you have a good one, is quite annoying.
Alternatively, there are car rental services available at the airport if you prefer exploring on your own schedule or venturing beyond just the city centre.
Where is Wrocław
Now that you have a better idea of what to do in Wroclaw, let’s talk about where this vibrant city is located. Wroclaw is situated in western Poland, on the Oder River. It is the largest city in Lower Silesia and serves as an important cultural and economic hub for the region. I drove from Prague, which is about 4 hours on a good day, and can get difficult if there are restrictions on the way. I preferred the way through Liberec, as this was way more convenient and comfortable.