From spotting an elusive lamp lighter to swooning over Baroque architecture, from marvelling at the colourful market square to eating at communist-era milk bars, there are lots of things to do in Wrocław.
Wrocław | Poland
On a bend of the Oder River, spread across numerous islands and bridges, lies Wrocław (pronunciation: VROTS-wahf) – a Polish gem with a captivating past and an undeniable charm. Its history is a rich tapestry woven from Bohemian, Habsburg, Prussian, and Polish threads, leaving behind a unique architectural blend and a resilient spirit that defines the city today.
Step into Wrocław’s heart, and you’re immediately struck by the stunning Market Square, a vibrant expanse surrounded by colourful historical townhouses and dominated by the magnificent Gothic Old Town Hall. Wander beyond, and you discover a city shaped by water: picturesque islands like Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island) beckon with ancient churches and gas lamps lit by hand at dusk. The sheer beauty lies in these details – the intricate facades, the graceful bridges, and the countless whimsical bronze dwarves hiding around every corner.
So, why visit Wrocław? We knew nothing about Wrocław but decided to go anywhere because cheap airline tickets on a Thursday evening even to an unknown city was too much of a temptation. We are glad we did because we absolutely LOVED Wrocław! There are lots of things to do in Wrocław. Wrocław offers a compelling mix of breathtaking beauty, profound history that feels incredibly accessible, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. It’s large enough to offer endless exploration but compact enough to feel intimate. It provides a unique perspective on Central European history, boasts vibrant culture, and simply has an undeniable, gentle magic that captivates every visitor. Come discover this enchanting city; we promise it will steal your heart.
WHERE IS WROCŁAW? Before we travelled to Wrocław, we did not know anything about Wrocław. If you are like us, Wrocław is a city in the lower Silesian region of southwestern Poland. Wrocław is the third largest city in Poland. Kraków is about 270 km southeast of Wrocław.
Things to do in Wrocław
HIGHLIGHTS OF WROCLAW
- Tour the timeless Market Square of Wrocław
- Be dazzled by the grandeur of the Aula Leopoldina
- Spot the elusive lamp lighter of Wrocław
- Climb to the top of the Witches’ Bridge
- Spot the bronze dwarves of Wrocław and learn about their history
- Explore the atmospheric Ostrów Tumski
- Eat at the milk bars of Wrocław
⭐ Booking your trip via the links on this page will earn us a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support – Mohana & Aninda.
How to Reach Wrocław
Wrocław is well-connected to other European cities.
BY AIR | Wrocław Nicolaus Copernicus Airport has connections to most European countries. From the airport which is located about 10 km from the city, you can take bus 106 to the city centre. If you are arriving late or have large luggage, it is best to book a pickup to ensure you reach your hotel safely and comfortably.
BY TRAIN | Wrocław’s buttercup-yellow train station has regular connections to neighbouring cities such as Berlin and Prague. Local companies run services throughout Poland. For the best deals, book your train tickets on Omio.
BY BUS | Companies such as Flixbus run buses to cities in neighbouring countries and also within Poland. For the best deals, book on Omio.
USING PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN WROCLAW | We bought the 72 hr public transport ticket which covers trams and buses, including the airport buses, in Wrocław. Other options, including single tickets, are also available. You can buy tickets at kiosks throughout the city. You can also pay by card on the tram / bus.
Kiosks are also available at the airport and train station. Options are available in both Polish and English and both cash and card are accepted. Remember that in Wrocław, tickets are not validated and you have to validate it on the bus / tram.
Where to Stay in Wrocław
There are lots of hotels to choose from in Wrocław.
B&B Hotel Wrocław Centrum | We stayed at the B&B Hotel in Wrocław and recommend it. The hotel is a short 10 minutes walk from Rynek. The rooms are simple but spacious, service is good, and prices are very reasonable. The reception is open 24×7. Breakfast is available on request, and they also have a bar for guests. If you are driving, they have a car park.
Korona Hotel, Wrocław | If you want to stay right on market square, the Korona Hotel is perfect for you. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the hotel is recommended by travellers.
Things to Do in Wrocław: Exploring the City Centre
Explore the Historic Market Square of Wrocław
The main attraction of Wrocław is its postcard-perfect market square (Polish: Rynek). Picture this: colourful buildings lining a vast, bustling plaza dotted with little bronze dwarves (more on that later) and dominated by a magnificent Gothic Town Hall. The market square is the beating heart of Wrocław and we found ourselves drawn immediately to what is one of the loveliest market squares we have visited in Europe. The market, one of the largest in Europe, was founded according to Magdeburg law as early as the rule of Polish Duke Henry I the Bearded between 1214 and 1232. The pastel-painted houses that line the square were built by patricians over the following decades and were more of the most important residences in Wrocław. The market square was damaged during World War II; however, most of the buildings remained untouched and the square was painstakingly restored. Between 1996 and 2000, tram tracks were removed and the square was completely pedestrianised which makes it a wonderful traffic-free area to spend time on, especially if you are travelling with kids. We spent hours just soaking in the lively atmosphere, sipping spritzes at a charming cafe bar called Literatka, and watching the world go by. Wrocław’s market square is more than just a pretty sight; it’s where the city’s pulse is strongest. On sunny days, the whole city, young and old alike, pours out into the Rynek: buskers playing live music at every corner, teenagers laughing with friends, children with ice creams tottering around playfully, tourists posing for photographs, and grandparents cooing over grandkids. It is a slice of beautiful, bustling life. Logistics are easy; the market square is centrally located and the hub of activity and it is well-connected by public transport. You absolutely must start here to orient yourselves and feel the historical grandeur that defines Wrocław. It sets the perfect tone for everything else you’ll explore. Trust me, you will spend way too long taking photos here.
TIP: Arrive early if you want the market square to yourself and take some photographs without the crowds. It gets very busy and stays very busy throughout the day.
Climb 247 Stairs to The Witches’ Bridge
The climb up to the slender bridge that connects the two towers of the St. Mary Magdalene Church is a workout, yes – 247 steps feels like plenty! But trust us, the panoramic reward from the top is utterly worth the effort. The climb is less strenuous than we anticipated, but beware if you have vertigo. The height combined with the crowd didn’t make it the most exciting experience for me but Aninda thouroughly enjoyed it. Go early when the doors open is our recommendation. From this vantage point, we gained an incredible perspective of the Market Square and the pastel buildings that hem it, the winding Oder River, and the terracotta rooftops stretching out below. The view, perhaps the best in Wrocław, is absolutely stunning which makes a visit to the Witches’ Bridge one of the top things to do in Wrocław.
LEGENDS OF THE BRIDGE: The bridge is known as the Witches’ Bridge or the Penitent’s Bridge and there are two separate stories.
The bridge’s first nickname, Witches’ Bridge, comes from its use during the Witch Trials of the 15th–17th centuries, a time of widespread fear over witchcraft and the occult in Europe. Texts like Malleus Maleficarum and King James VI’s Daemonologie fueled mass hysteria, leading to the persecution of thousands—mostly women seen as healers, widows, or outsiders. Accused witches were taken up to the narrow bridge at At St Mary Magdalene Cathedral where they were forced to walk across the bridge’s narrow railings. If they made it across, they were “proven” to be aided by Satan and burned at the stake. If they fell—plunging 45 meters—they were deemed innocent, but died anyway. A deadly, no-win trial.
The second nickname for this suspension bridge is Penitents’ Bridge, inspired by the legend of a free-spirited girl named Tekla. Tekla lived for the moment—she wore fine dresses, went to parties, and refused both marriage and housework. Her father, enraged by her defiance, cursed her to endlessly sweep the bridge. No matter how hard she tried, she could never escape. As she aged and weakened, a kind witch named Martyna came to help. After hearing Tekla’s story, Martyna sought help from a wizard, who granted her one wish. She used it to free Tekla. When she returned to the bridge, Tekla had vanished—never to be seen again. For years, parents would bring their rebellious daughters here as a warning. On the bridge, you can see a cute statue of Tekla and Martyna with her broom and her familiar, a cat.
Spot the Bronze Dwarves of Wrocław
Hunting for Wrocław’s quirky bronze dwarves became our delightful obsession! Scattered throughout the city, these small, whimsical statues represent various professions and historical events. We found them peeking from doorways, riding bikes, kissing in front of the marriage registration hall, and even chilling on lampposts. It’s like a city-wide scavenger hunt that encourages you to explore hidden corners that you might otherwise miss. You don’t need a map initially; just keep your eyes peeled as you wander. They are everywhere! Finding a new dwarf brings a surprising burst of joy. You absolutely must join the dwarf hunt; it’s a fun, free, and utterly charming way to discover Wrocław and , and undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in Wrocław.
HISTORY OF THE BRONZE DWARVES OF WROCLAW: The history of Wrocław’s bronze dwarves is rooted in the 1980s Orange Alternative movement. This anti-communist group, known for its absurd protests, used the dwarf symbol to mock the regime. When authorities painted over anti-government graffiti, activists led by Waldemar ‘Major’ Fydrych simply painted cheerful dwarves over the patches, turning censorship into a joke and making the dwarf a symbol of playful resistance. Decades later, starting in the early 2000s, the city began placing bronze dwarf statues to commemorate this history and embrace the symbol.
In 2025, a bronze dwarf, Papa Dwarf (Papa Krasnal), was placed on Świdnicka Street, the main street where the Orange Alternative’s happenings often took place. This was followed by the first five dwarf figures which are smaller than Papa Krasnal and designed by Tomasz Moczek being installed in August 2005. These included the Fencer near the University of Wrocław, the Butcher in Stare Jatki arcade, two Sisyphuses on Świdnicka Street, and the Oder-Washer-Dwarf, near the Piasek Bridge. The initiative quickly grew, with hundreds of unique dwarves sponsored by businesses and individuals popping up across the city. Nobody knows how many there actually are with estimates running between 300 and 400.
To learn more about the history of the dwarves and to spot more of them, join the Following the Dwarves walking tour which take you on an interesting off-beat history tour of Wroclaw.
Marvel at the Aula Leopoldina and the Oratorium
If you can visit one and only one place in Wrocław besides the market square, let it be the Aula Leopoldina. The Aula Leopoldina is one of the main attractions in Wrocław. After all, few places have taken my breathe away as the Aula Leopoldina did because stepping inside it felt like entering a dazzling a dream. Designed in the late Italian Baroque style, the Aula Leopoldina is breathtakingly ornate. The walls and the ceilings are adorned with stunning frescoes, intricate stucco work, and imposing statues in shimmering shades of pink and blue, peach and gold. Portraits of important figures grace the walls of the hall. The hall was designed by Christophorus Tausch who was a pupil of the famous Italian architect and painter, Andrea Pozza. The sheer scale and detail of the artistry is sure to leave anybody speechless! It’s a true testament to the historical prestige of the university.
HOW TO VISIT THE AULA LEOPOLDINA? This Baroque masterpiece is located inside the University of Wrocław and is open to guests for a small ticket. We recommend checking opening hours before you go. Various types of tickets are available: you can opt for two halls or four. If you are on a budget and opting for two halls, visit the Aula Leopoldina and the Oratorium Marianum. If you want a few minutes to have the wall to yourself, go straight to the Aula Leopoldina when the doors open. Don’t forget to spend a moment marvelling at the gorgeous staircase.
You can either queue up for tickets at the counter or book a skip the line ticket which includes a guide who can provide more insight into the history and symbolism of the various motifs that adorn Aula Leopoldina.
Visit the Beautiful Churches of Wrocław
Wrocław is dotted with stunning churches, each with its own history and architectural style, and we made a point of visiting several. Beyond the prominent Cathedral on Ostrów Tumski, churches like St. Elisabeth’s with its tall tower (climbable for more views!) and the Church of the Holy Cross offer incredible interiors and peaceful refuges. Many are centrally located and free to enter, though donations are welcome. We found moments of quiet contemplation inside these historical buildings particularly moving. You must step inside some of Wrocław’s churches; they are not only places of worship but also incredible repositories of art, history, and architectural beauty, offering insight into the city’s spiritual and cultural past.
Visit the Museums of Wrocław
Wrocław has an incredible wealth of museums, and depending on how many days you have in the city, you can visit as many or as few as time will allow. The National Museum, with its extensive collection of Polish art, and the City Museum, detailing Wrocław’s complex history, were particularly insightful. There are also niche options like the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Hydropolis (more on that later!). Museum locations vary, so check specific addresses and opening times online. We found purchasing a Wrocław tourist card can offer discounts. The museums in Wrocław provide crucial context for understanding the city’s fascinating past and vibrant cultural scene, enriching your entire visit.
Things to do in Wrocław: Experiencing Cathedral Island
Photograph the Beautiful Most Tumski
Most Tumski, the bridge leading to Cathedral Island, is undeniably one of Wrocław’s most romantic spots. Adorned with countless “love locks” left by couples, this old iron bridge offers picturesque views of the river and the historic buildings on Ostrów Tumski. We loved capturing the sunset from here, as the light bathes the island in a warm glow. It’s easily accessible on foot from the city centre. The atmosphere is usually peaceful, a gentle transition from the city bustle to the island’s tranquillity. You must take your camera (or phone!) to Most Tumski; it’s an iconic, charming landmark offering stunning photo opportunities and a touch of romantic folklore. Don’t miss the dwarves at either end of the bridge!
Wander through Cathedral Island
One of the main places to see in Wrocław is Ostrow Tumski. Ostrów Tumski, or Cathedral Island, is Wrocław’s oldest part and possesses a distinctly serene and spiritual atmosphere. Cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured facades, historic churches, and the dominant spires of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist create a picturesque and peaceful enclave. We enjoyed simply wandering, admiring the architecture, and soaking in the tranquillity, a stark contrast to the bustling Market Square. It’s easily accessible via Most Tumski. While compact, allow ample time to explore the churches and enjoy the quietude. Wandering through Cathedral Island feels like a step back in time, offering beautiful historical buildings, a peaceful ambiance, and the chance to potentially see the traditional lamp lighter. Because cathedral island is steeped in history, it is best explored with a guide on a guided tour such as the Ostrów Tumski walking tour which tells you tales that goes beyond the walls of the cathedrals.
Catch the Elusive Lamp Lighter of Wrocław
One of the most unique things to do in Wrocław is spotting the lamp lighter light the gas lamps on Ostrow Tumski. Is is unique because there are only two cities in the EU– Zagreb and Wrocław– that have gas lamps that are regularly lit by a lamp lighter. Every evening, just after dusk when Ostrow Tumski transforms into an atmospheric island straight out of a book of magic, a lamplighter dressed in a traditional cape (that makes him look like one of the professors at Hogwarts) appears seemingly out of thin air and walks around the island manually lighting the gas lamps. It’s a truly magical and increasingly rare sight! There’s kind of a set schedule (around dusk) but no guaranteed sighting; it requires a bit of luck and patience and perhaps it is the fact that he is so elusive and the task so fleeting that adds a layer of mystery to the lamp lighter. We used this Wrocław lamp lighter timetable and though it dates back to 2021, it was roughly accurate. We recommend being on Cathedral Island around sunset and lingering as darkness falls. If you see a clump of tourists, you may have spotted him! On the day that we were there, the lamp lighter started at the cathedral end and made his way to Most Tumski but we cannot confirm if that is the route he follows every evening. Even if you catch him, the moment passes quickly but it truly is an enchanting experience that connects you directly to Wrocław’s gas-lit past and adds a touch of old-world romance to your evening.
Things to do in Wrocław: Tasting Local Food & Drinks
Eat Polish Classics at Communist-era Milk Bars
For an incredibly authentic and budget-friendly culinary experience, we sought out Wrocław’s Bar Mleczny, or Milk Bars. These cafeterias, a remnant of the communist era, serve simple, traditional Polish dishes like pierogi, soups, and potato pancakes at incredibly low prices. Don’t expect fancy decor; it’s basic but clean, and the focus is entirely on hearty, home-style cooking. You’ll find these milk bars scattered throughout the city; look for the “Bar Mleczny” sign. Menus are in Polish, so have a translation app handy on your phone. Ordering might involve pointing, but it’s part of the adventure! Eating at one of these milk bars is a tasty step back in time as they offer incredibly affordable, authentic Polish comfort food in a no-frills, truly local setting. Locals recommend Jacek i Agatka, Bar Mleczny Mewa and Bar Karmazyn. Note that some of them are closed on Sundays.
Down Some Polish Vodka at Local Pubs
Experiencing Polish culture wouldn’t be complete without trying some Polish vodka, and doing so in a local pub is the perfect setting. Wrocław has a fantastic pub scene, ranging from traditional, cosy spots to more modern bars. We enjoyed sampling different flavoured vodkas (try the cherry or hazelnut!) and soaking in the lively evening atmosphere. Pubs are plentiful in the city centre and around the Market Square. Remember to pace yourselves! It’s a social experience and a chance to interact with locals and, of course, a fun way to warm up (literally!) and enjoy the city’s nightlife.
Decorated with beautiful frescoes, SW. Jan is one of the prettiest places to grab a drink in Wrocław.
Drink some Tea at Herbaciarnia Targowa
Stepping in Herbaciarnia Targowa is like stepping into a magical world straight out of the pages of Harry Potter. Entering the dimly lit space is like entering a fortune teller’s secret room in a different century. Soft golden light pools on dark wooden tables, sparkles off glassware. There’s a soft glow to the entire space. Vintage chandeliers, candlelit tables, framed relics, and comfortable sofas make for a cosy experience. They have a vast selection of teas, from Chinese specialities to Silician ones, and a whole collection of Yerba Mate teas. They also do coffees and delightful homemade cakes. They have multiple locations but this location inside Hala Targowa is the most beautiful one and the one we recommend. Make sure to reserve; Herbaciarnia Targowa is very popular with locals and tables fill up very fast.
Things to do in Wrocław: Shopping
Pop into Hala Targowa for a Taste of Local Life
If you have read our travel guides, you know that we love visiting markets be it Chow Rasta Market in Georgetown Penang or the Kalenić Green Market in Belgrade. It was no different in Wrocław. For an authentic taste of local life in Wrocław, we headed to Hala Targowa, the historic market hall near the Oder River. Located just a few minutes from the marvellous halls of the University of Wrocław, this bustling indoor market is a sensory overload in the best way! The high-ceiling hall with its unique reinforced concrete trusses is filled with stalls selling everything from fresh produce and flowers to local cheeses, salumi, pastries, and traditional crafts. We stopped by to admire the beautiful produce and pastries, and were it not for the latest British guidance on imports, we would have surely bought some kielbasa to take home. There are a few eateries here, including a milk bar; we ate pierogies and bigos at one of them and can recommend the food: home-cooked local fare for reasonable prices. The eateries get very busy at lunch, so you may have to wait in line. Hala Targowa is also home to Wrocław’s most atmospheric tea room.
Soak in the Vibes at the Sunday Market at Hala Świebodzki
For a truly local experience, we recommend checking out the Sunday Market held at the old train station, Hala Świebodzki. This sprawling market is a treasure trove of everything from antiques, vintage clothing, and second-hand books to local crafts and bric-a-brac. It’s less polished than Hala Targowa but full of character and potential bargains. It’s located west of the centre, easily reached by tram. Go early for the best finds and be prepared to rummage! The atmosphere is lively and authentic. You must soak in the vibes at Hala Świebodzki; it’s a fantastic place to find unique souvenirs, practice your haggling skills (gently!), and experience a bustling local tradition away from the main tourist circuit.
Grab a Bargain at the Weekend Flea Market
In addition to Hala Świebodzki, Wrocław often hosts smaller weekend flea markets in various locations. These can pop up in squares or along the riverbanks, offering a chance to browse for antiques, collectibles, and second-hand goods. We stumbled upon one near the market square and found some interesting old postcards, lots of paintings, and beautiful vintage glassware and crockery. Locations can vary, so it’s worth checking local listings or asking at your accommodation if there are any happening during your visit. If you love picking up knick-knacks on your travels and enjoying browsing through the wares at a flea market, we highly recommend Wrocław’s flea markets.
More Things to Do in Wrocław
Tour the Centennial Hall and the Pavilion
A visit to the Centennial Hall and its surrounding Pergola and Japanese Garden is one of the top things to do in Wrocław. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an impressive concrete dome, a pioneering work of modernist design. We hear that the Multimedia Fountain show is also a spectacle not to be missed although it was dry and closed when we visited in the winter. What we loved most was a walk through the pavilion with its creepers and trailers. It is one of Wrocław’s most instagrammable places especially in spring and summer when the foliage is at its verdant best. The Centennial Hall located a bit outside the city centre but easily reachable by tram. There’s an exhibition inside the hall detailing its history. It was closed in the winter when we visited, but if you are visiting the summer it is a helpful guide to the history of the building.
Visit the Hydropolis
Prepare to be surprisingly captivated by Hydropolis, Wrocław’s interactive water knowledge centre. Housed in a historic underground reservoir, this modern museum uses innovative technology and immersive exhibits to explore the fascinating world of water in all its forms – from deep-sea creatures to urban water systems. We weren’t sure what to expect, but we left genuinely impressed and educated. It’s located south of the city centre but well worth the slight detour. Allow a couple of hours to fully engage with the exhibits. You must visit Hydropolis; it’s a unique, engaging, and beautifully designed museum that offers a refreshing perspective on an essential element and is genuinely fun for all ages.
Ride a Tram through the Neighbourhoods of Wrocław
When we visit a new city, we often make it a point to hop onto a bus or a tram and go all the way to the last stop and then come back. We do this because it offers us a glimpse of the city beyond the boundaries of the city centre. For a few pounds, we get a glimpse of local housing and local shops, residents out and about their daily lives, and a general feel of the urban landscape beyond the glamour of the centre. In Wrocław, hopping on a tram is an excellent way to see more of the city beyond the central tourist areas. The extensive tram network is efficient and affordable. We chose a route randomly and enjoyed watching the different neighbourhoods unfold, from grand boulevards to quieter residential streets. It’s a relaxed way to cover more ground and get a feel for the city’s layout and diverse character. We recommend having a look at a map beforehand to choose a route that interests you. Riding a tram through the neighbourhoods is one of the best things to do in Wrocław because it is a practical, insightful, and authentic way to gain a broader perspective of Wrocław’s urban landscape.
Stroll along the Oder River in Wrocław
We can all agree that a riverside stroll on a lovely evening is one of the nicest ways to relax, can’t we? The Oder River is Wrocław’s lifeblood, and strolling along its banks offers lovely views and a different perspective of the city. Numerous bridges connect the various islands and riverbanks; afterall, Wrocław is a city of islands. We enjoyed walking from Most Tumski towards the city centre, passing by university buildings and green spaces and admiring the sky-piercing steeples of the cathedrals. There are also opportunities for boat trips (which we’ll get to!). Bring a book and a small picnic– perhaps pick up some deli meat and cheese or a pastry from Hala Targowa– and enjoy some quiet moments along the Oder River.
Go on a Sunset Boat Ride in Wrocław
One of the best things to do in Wrocław is going in a boat ride at sunset. Wrocław is a magical city at all hours but at sunset, it transforms to ethereal. Imagine a sky shot with red and gold and in the foreground a river of golden light running through. The horizon is a darkening sketch of steeples and bell towers, all burnished with gold. Imagine the grand buildings of Wrocław, the pastel coloured facades in the gilded light. As dusk settles on the water, the sky shifts from gold to purple and street lights come on and the Oder transforms to a sheet of liquid metal that reflects every ounce of light that ripples its surface: it is beautiful. Seeing Wrocław from the water as the sun sets is unforgettable, so book a sunset boat ride. Several tour operators offer boat trips along the Oder River, providing stunning views of the city’s islands, bridges, and historical buildings illuminated by the golden hour light. Departure points are usually near the Market Square or Ostrów Tumski. Prices and durations vary, so shop around.
Be Mesmerised by the Racławice Panorama
Prepare to be truly immersed at the Racławice Panorama, a monumental 360-degree painting depicting the Battle of Racławice. Housed in a circular building, this massive artwork, combined with clever lighting and terrain, creates an incredibly realistic illusion of being present at the historical event. It’s a unique and awe-inspiring experience that is more than just painting; it is truly a powerful historical diorama that offers a moving and unforgettable artistic and historical experience unlike any other. Located near the National Museum, you usually need to book tickets in advance, as entry is for specific time slots. Audio guides are available and highly recommended for context. Tickets are 50 PLN / £10 (2024, adult).
Enjoy Some Quiet at the Wrocław Botanical Gardens
For a peaceful escape from the urban bustle, we highly recommend spending time at the Wrocław Botanical Gardens. Founded in the early 19th century, these extensive gardens offer a beautiful collection of plants, themed sections like the rock garden and the palm house, and serene pathways for wandering. It’s a lovely place to relax, breathe fresh air, and admire nature’s beauty. Located on Ostrów Tumski, it’s easily accessible after exploring the island’s historical sites. There’s an entrance fee. You must visit the Botanical Gardens for a moment of tranquility and natural beauty; it provides a refreshing contrast to the city sights and is a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll and quiet contemplation.
Things to Do in Wrocław: Day Trips
If you have an extra day or two in Wrocław, consider the following day trips.
The Churches of Peace in Świdnica and Jawor
The Churches of Peace in Świdnica and Jawor are two of the most beautiful churches in Poland. These 17th century Lutheran churches are UNESCO heritage monuments. They are called Churches of Peace after the named after the Peace of Westphalia of 1648 which granted the Lutherans of Silesia the permission to build three churches from wood, loam and straw outside the city walls, without steeples and church bells. Two of the three churches exist today; the one in Głogów was destroyed by fire in 1758.
We visited by Church of Peace in Świdnica by train from Wrocław and we were mesmerised by it. The Baroque architecture is absolutely stunning! Every inch of the church is exquisitely carved and painted; the oldest parts of the church date back to the 1600s. The ceilings of the church are decorated with paintings from 1694 to 1696 by two painters from Świdnica – Chrystian Sussenbach and Chrystian Kolitschka. On the day we were visiting, a musician was playing the organ and the mellifluous music added to the atmospheric interiors of the church. Allow at least an hour to visit each church.
If you want to visit both the churches in Świdnica and Jawor, it is best to book a tour such as the Jawor and Swidnica churches tour that takes you to both the churches without the hassle of planning public transport or driving. Besides having a guide will help you understand the paintings and the motifs.
TIP: If we visit these churches again, we will book a guided tour such as the one linked above. The architectural details are full of symbolism and it is difficult to understand them without a guide. If you would like to know more about the painting, the statues, and the sculptures, book a guide.
Ksiaz Castle
Ksiaz Castle is one of the main attractions in Lower Silesia and sees over 300,000 visitors annually. The beautiful pink castle with its Baroque rooms and antique furniture is absolutely stunning! Discover the enchanting Książ Castle, one of Poland’s largest and most fascinating fortresses. Perched atop a forested hill in Wałbrzych, it combines Gothic, Baroque, and Neo-Renaissance styles, offering breathtaking architecture and panoramic views. Explore the opulent interiors, including the stunning Maximilian Hall and Princess Daisy’s Apartments, which reveal the glamour of aristocratic life. Delve into the castle’s mysterious WWII past with guided tours of secret Nazi tunnels built beneath it as part of the enigmatic Project Riese. Surrounded by the scenic Książ Landscape Park, the castle is perfect for nature walks, photography, and cultural events such as concerts and flower festivals. Ksiaz Castle is inaccessible by public transport; book a tour such as this Ksiaz Castle tour from Wroclaw to visit it.
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