Best things to do in Wroclaw, Poland
Last Updated: April 1, 2026
DISCOVER THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN WROCLAW, POLAND - THE DWARF CITY
HOW TO GET HERE | WHERE TO STAY | THINGS TO DO | WHERE TO EAT | WHERE TO PARTY | STAYING SAFE
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Follow the map and find the Wroclaw Dwarfs
Wrocław goes by many names, for example, the Venice of the North or, my favourite, Dwarf City.
Despite its numerous canals and bridges, I am not convinced by 'Venice of the North' as it doesn't hold that same enclosed, romantic vibe.
However, with over a thousand bronze dwarfs scattered across the city, each doing a unique and fun activity, the name Dwarf City couldn't be more accurate.
Wroclaw is famed for these cute, enchanting and captivating little characters, and they're waiting for you to discover them.
In this guide to Wroclaw, Poland, I'll explain the history of the Wroclaw Dwarfs, show you where to see the historic Lamp Lighter and all the best things to do in Wroclaw. Furthermore, I'll delve into where to drink, where to eat and the best places to stay in the city.
Firstly, though, I will tell you how to pronounce Wroclaw, as it's not easy for the English amongst us. One of the locals told us, "Think of the Tina Turner song, what's love gotta do, got to do with it..." Then, say what's love, but in that Tina Turner way. Or, you could simply pronounce Wroclaw as Ver-rosz-wav.
All of this and more from my four days in the majestic and beautiful city in June 2025.
So sit back and enjoy your next city break.
What's Wroclaw, Poland Like?
The main square is a vast expanse of sublime restored, colourful, distinctive and uniquely shaped buildings with cobbled mosaic flooring.
Bars and restaurants spill into the square with tables and chairs everywhere. Look a little closer, and you'll find around twenty to thirty little bronze dwarfs getting up to no good.
Further out, the buildings get more grand, often in a glamorous and majestic baroque style. Like in the square, the restaurants, bars and dwarfs spill out onto the road, as cars are frozen out of many streets.
Numerous churches tower overhead in all directions, with impressive and regal-looking spires and towers dominating the skyline. Statues and art are celebrated throughout the city, each with a deep and important meaning.
Wroclaw is a social city, with numerous universities, art galleries and museums.
Night after night, thousands of students take up residence in the many bars throughout Wroclaw, filling the atmosphere with laughter, song and the smell of pizza and other fast food options.
Waterways and canals divide the city, with bridges traversing every few meters, as trees and green spaces add further places to relax and lap up the chilled vibes Wroclaw provides.
Despite all of this, your lasting impression of Wroclaw will be its spectacularly clean and spacious streets, friendly people and dedication to beautifying every inch of the city.
How to Get To Wroclaw
Luckily, Wroclaw has a small international airport. Although having seen the building work on the runway, and with Wroclaw's popularity growing, it won't be small for long.
Further to the international airport, Wroclaw has a large train and bus station. Therefore, I will give a detailed look at how to get to Wroclaw from each of these locations.
As always, I'll start with the airport.
How to get to Wroclaw from the airport
As mentioned, Wroclaw Airport is small. You won't get lost. Nevertheless, you have a few options available to you for getting to Wroclaw: driving, taking a taxi, or taking a bus.
Frankly, the quickest way is to drive. Wroclaw Airport is only a twenty-minute drive from the centre. However, that doesn't include waiting for your car to arrive, learning the roads and understanding the driving conditions. Likewise, you'll need to find somewhere to park, which isn't always easy or free.
I opted for the bus, which was cheap, easy and clean. Once you exit the airport, turn right and in front of you will be a couple of bus stops. Aim for the last one, which is labelled with the bus 106. It's about a minute walk, if that.
The 106 meanders through the outskirts before dropping you off around thirty-five minutes later at Renoma. Jump off at Renoma and walk north to the main square, which will take less than ten minutes.
Unbelievably, the bus only cost us 4.60zł (£1.82) each way for the two of us. You pay at the machine or on the bus with your card. However, heads-up, we couldn't get our Revolut card to work on the bus. We had to use our normal, at-home bank card.
If you don't like the sound of a ten-minute walk to the main square, you can cross the road and take tram 7 to Oławska, which takes four minutes.
Once there, you have a minute walk east to the main square.
How to get to Wroclaw from the train station
From Wroclaw train station, you once again have a few options. Realistically, the best two are to walk or take the tram.
The walk to the main square is an easy one and will take about twenty minutes, maybe a couple of minutes longer if you have large bags.
Again, if the walk doesn't suit you, take the tram. Exit the train station to the north and turn left. There will be several tram stops in front of you.
Numerous trams leave the train station regularly. Yet they all stop in slightly different locations near the main square.
For the least amount of walking, I'd aim to jump on tram 18, which drops you roughly two or three minutes south of the main square at Świdnicka.
How to get to Wroclaw from the bus station
Wroclaw Bus Station is a minute's walk south of the train station. You just have to cross the road.
However, the route into the main square is different. Similarly, though, you have plenty of options depending on the time of day.
Your best bet is to exit the bus station on the train station side (Flix bus users, you are already here).
Depending on the time, you can walk through the train station and take a bus or tram as described above.
Alternatively, buses leave for the centre from outside the bus station. Look for bus N or 110. They stop just east of the centre, leaving a short five-minute walk.
Finally, walk to the main crossroads (the one with the big hospital). There, you'll see numerous bus and tram stops. Take either bus K or 113, or tram 8 or 18.
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Wroclaw, Poland?
I loved Wroclaw and hunting all the dwarfs, which, by the way, takes as long as it takes. Nevertheless, other than the thousand or so dwarfs, there isn't much else to do. Hence, you won't need more than two whole days in Wroclaw.
Any longer and you will be looking for things to do rather than doing things you want to do.
The Best Time Of The Year To Discover The Best Things to Do in Wroclaw, Poland
There are many fantastic times of the year to visit Wroclaw, Poland.
The city springs to life throughout the year, including during the Christmas, Easter and the summer markets (December, April and June).
These are always fun times to discover the city. After all, the markets and festivities are some of the best things to do in Wroclaw.
However, keep in mind that these times bring excessive crowds. June isn't too busy, but the district's schools fill the city with groups of schoolkids on the way to the mountains. They do take over, so if you don't like kids, June might not be for you.
Other than during the markets, the summer is a beautiful time to visit Wroclaw, as you'll get the sun and the colourful delights of the flowers and greenery.
Where to Stay Whilst Visiting Wroclaw, Poland
While not a big city, Wroclaw is one of Poland's largest and most populous cities. However, outside of Poland, Wrocław is relatively unheard of as a city break destination.
Nevertheless, accommodation is everywhere, and if a building isn't a restaurant, bar or shop, it is likely to be a hotel, hostel or holiday accommodation.
Therefore, you can expect to find fantastic places to stay and at reasonable prices across the city, and with fairly short notice.
That said, as always, if you want to guarantee the best place to stay in Wroclaw, book it up as early as possible.
Now, for where to stay in Wroclaw.
If you aim to stay anywhere within a five-minute walk of the main square, you will be in the perfect location. From there, all the best things to do in Wroclaw are walkable. Likewise, you'll be near the best restaurants, most of the bars and clubs and of course, the original cheeky little bronze dwarfs.
Below is a quick rundown of the only place I've stayed. Despite a couple of issues, I would recommend it for a long weekend. Maybe even anything up to three or four nights. Any longer, and you'd want to find somewhere a little more sleep-friendly.
Widok na Rynek
- What: An apartment in an old, almost haunted-style building.
- Where: On Wroclaw's main and fabulous square. (map)
- Why: You can't beat it for location, and it's great value for money. Plus, you have everything you need in a home away from home.
- Why Not: The bed was truly uncomfortable, and you can hear everything outside, so sleeping isn't always easy.
Step off the main square and into the large, dark and creaky wooden staircase that spirals in a square shape up around six floors. Due to the building's age, there is no lift. Hence, I hope you're not staying on the top floor or have heavy bags.
We saw a couple of other holidaymakers staying in other apartments, so I assume there are several holiday lets in the large building.
We were in room 10, which opened into a good-sized entrance area. Off there was a small, but well-equipped bathroom, a poky and uncomfortable bedroom with sublime views and a large, spacious and bright living room and kitchen with more spectacular views over the main square.
The building had character and appeal, but still felt somewhat rundown.
However, considering the price and location, the bad bits are easy to overlook.
Furthermore, our wonderful hosts left us bottled water, a couple of sweets, tea, coffee and everything we needed.
Despite the horrific bed and noise from the square, I'd happily stay here again. There are too many good points, and they outweigh the bad.
In June 2025, I paid 1,003zł (£204.29) for two people for four nights.
Further Accommodation
Those of you who have read a few of my travel guides will know I never expect people to jump straight into bed with me. To phrase it differently, jump into a bed I once slept in.
My choice of where to stay could be very different to yours. After all, I tend to aim for the cheaper places and spend more on food and drink once there.
Consequently, I always offer a few other options to help your quest of finding the best places to stay in Wroclaw.
Below are three links to my favourite accommodation sites, and the three I would use for searching future accommodation in Wroclaw.
As long as you've taken my advice above regarding the location, you'll be grand.
Best Things to do in Wroclaw, Poland
Although I suggest only a couple of days in the city, there are plenty of things to see and do. I merely think some of them aren't all they're hyped up to be, such as the exquisite-looking National Museum, pictured below. Secret - it's a church art gallery.
Again, this goes for the Wieża Matematyczna (university museum and viewing platform). While interesting, and with sparks of occasional brilliance, there weren't enough exhibits to make it a 'must-see' in Wroclaw. Yet, its cheap entry fee makes it worth a visit if it's raining.
Likewise, many other activities can be completed in a short period, hence the two whole days.
Luckily, the best thing to do in Wroclaw, Poland, is one that can take up as much time as you so wish to give it, and that's hunting down the dwarfs.
I'd suggest merging the dwarf finding with the other city highlights. They cover the city and lead you to most of the attractions.
That brings me to this: all the best things to do in Wroclaw, Poland, are easily walkable. However, if you don't like walking or can't walk for long, Wroclaw has a fantastic network of buses and trams that crisscross the city. They, too, will get you to or very near to whichever attraction you are visiting.
Here is my list of things I think you should do if you have two days in Wroclaw, Poland...
Discovering Wroclaw, Poland: The Highlights
Hunt down the Wroclaw Dwarfs
- Why: We're all big kids, and if we're honest, the Wroclaw Dwarfs are why we're here.
- Where: Scattered throughout the city. I'll give you the location of the dwarf shop where you can buy the maps. (map)
- How long: It could be a day, it could be three. It depends on how good you are at spotting them.
- How much: Hunting all the dwarves is free, but if you want the sticker collection and maps, it will cost 50zł (£9.86).
Firstly, there are thousands of dwarves strewen across Wroclaw and now, beyond too.
The city has become famous for these little bronze statues, and people travel thousands of miles to see them.
Each dwarf is living its best life and doing its own thing. Some are clinging to lamp posts. Some are riding bikes, lions and diggers. Others are studying hard with books, laptops or eating pasta, cakes and ice cream.
If you can think of something, one of them is doing it. Although I don't recall seeing any of them doing that, no...
Anyway, within these thousand dwarves, there are nearly one hundred that are on or near the main square and Cathedral Island.
These special dwarves are part of a treasure hunt, well, dwarf hunt. You can purchase two maps with stickers and stick them in when you see them.
If you complete the maps, you win a chocolate and a badge. I know I'm not a kid, but there was no stopping me; I was determined to win that chocolate.
Those of you visiting Wroclaw with kids, this will keep them quiet for days. Those of you, like me, who are kids, you'll do well to do it in a day.
Learn about Wroclaw on a free walking tour
- Why: You'll learn things about the city you'd never have known, and it's a good way to see Wroclaw.
- Where: I went with Walkative, and the meeting point was next to the Monument of Alexander Fredro. (map)
- How long: Our tour ran for nearly three hours. Usually it's around two and a half hours.
- How much: Well, it's a free walking tour, so it's free. Nevertheless, they expect a tip. We all paid 100zł (£20) each.
You'll notice I always bang on about doing free walking tours and, to do them on the first morning of your trip.
That way, you'll know about the city, the buildings and the names that crop up from time to time as you walk around.
Here in Wroclaw, Poland, that's no different.
Do the walking tour on your first whole day in the city.
Truthfully, I wouldn't say it was the best 'free' walking tour I've ever done, but it was interesting and I'd wholeheartedly recommend it. Furthermore, it's not the most walking I've ever done on a walking tour either. In truth, there was very little walking.
That's not a bad thing; it simply means that most of the best things to do in Wroclaw are close together, which they are.
Our guide, as they always do, made the tour stand out with his dry wit and comic interjections. Likewise, he was very knowledgeable, adding his own experiences to the stories. He also gave great recommendations and helpful hints as we wandered the inner workings of Wroclaw.
Enjoy a relaxing River cruise
- Why: It brings a new perspective to the city and a relaxing way to explore.
- Where: Numerous companies hang around Most Piaskowy (map) and Przystań Kardynalska (map).
- How long: I went with Katamaran Wroclaw. Despite saying forty-five minutes, it was more like fifty-five. Other tours may differ.
- How much: Costs depend on who you book with. Our tour was 65zł (£12.90) each - cash preferred. Don't tell the taxman.
When the weather is on your side, there is no better way to explore a city than via its peaceful and calm waterways.
With a nickname of 'Venice of the North', it's no surprise that the city has numerous canals and waterways running through its heart, passing the best buildings and attractions in Wroclaw.
If, like us, you're lucky and it's not a busy day, you might even get a private cruise. When we bought our tickets, the captain said even if no one else joins, we would leave in fifteen minutes. And we did. I think that's fantastic.
Your friendly captain then slowly meanders up and down the waterways, pointing out the main buildings, top bars and the best things to do in Wroclaw.
Other than the odd car, all you can hear is the boat gliding through the water and the wind in your hair. It's pure perfection.
I highly recommend the river cruise, and I'm sure whoever you go with will provide a similar tour, as they tend to follow the same route.
Climb the tower of Koscioł Garnizonowy
- Why: You'll see spectacular views over the main square and beyond.
- Where: Up that church tower in the corner of the main square. (map)
- How long: You'll want half an hour to climb, have a look and then come back down.
- How much: The church is free, but the climb to the top of the tower costs 16zł (£3.19) per person.
Starting with those views...
Frankly, you couldn't ask for a better or more beautiful view of Wroclaw's main square.
From the top, you'll look down on the old town hall and the reconstructed and beautiful facades of the colourful buildings below.
However, if you struggle with small spaces, spiral staircases or heights, this might not be for you. The climb consists of a very narrow staircase that winds its way up the tower, and to throw you off your game, occassionally there are larger steps thrown in for fun.
Nevertheless, for me, it's worth the rotations and extra leg day when you feel the breeze in your hair and look down at the main square.
Wroclaw has numerous churches, but for me, this is the most impressive, so if you only do one, do this once you've climbed the tower.
Inside is a grand but modest building with one of the most magical and gorgeous organs I've ever seen at one end and a spectacular stained glass window at the other.
Watch the lamplighter light up the city
- Why: Truthfully, not too sure, but it is a blast from the past, so why not?
- Where: Hang around Wroclaw Cathedral as the sun sets, and you'll see the crowds. (map)
- How long: You can stay and watch the lamplighter light as many lights as you like. I think you'll be done in fifteen minutes.
- How much: My favourite price for an activity on holiday - free.
Ok, so this isn't one of the best things to do in Wroclaw, Poland. However, it is something to do in Wroclaw. I feel like this has been blown into something bigger than it is, which means I should write about it.
I sigh as I write this because, if I'm honest, watching the Wroclaw Lamplighter felt like we (we, being us and the crowds of onlookers) were stalking an unenthusiastic, rather rotund gentleman in a cape and top hat committing arson.
Yes, it made me smile and think of what it must have been like 'back in the day' that your grandparents talked about, but in truth, it was just a guy going about his work.
If you're in or around the cathedral at the right time, watch the lamplighter light the lamps. That said, I wouldn't feel like I've missed something if I hadn't seen it.
Throughout the year, the lamplighting times change according to the hours of darkness. Normally, it's half an hour before sunset, and then he will turn them off one by one before sunrise.
Take in the views from the top of Wrocław Cathedral
- Why: The views are sublime.
- Where: Inside Wroclaw Cathedral, on Cathedral Island. (map)
- How long: Roughly twenty to thirty minutes should do it.
- How much: Visiting the cathedral is free, but the climb to the top of the tower costs 25zł (£4.93) per person.
Climbing the towers of Wroclaw Cathedral couldn't be easier.
Once inside the cathedral, turn left, and the little pay booth is tucked around the corner. Pay your money, head under the stone-arched entrance and climb a few steps to the lift. Yes, a lovely lift.
This lift whisks you to the top in a matter of seconds, where the views of Wroclaw unveil themselves in all their glory.
Whilst the views from the towers of Koscioł Garnizonowy are the best of the main square, I think these views are the best in Wroclaw and cover a far wider radius. Not to mention, with the lift, it's a lot easier too.
Again, as you're here and taking in the views, don't forget to appreciate the peace and ambience of the cathedral's interior. The inside is very similar to Koscioł Garnizonowy on the main square, only with a smaller stained glass window.
Hint, just outside the cathedral, there are several little bronze Wroclaw Dwarfs that may or may not be on your map...
Digest the battle of Racławice at the Racławice Panorama
- Why: It's unlike anything I've ever seen and surprisingly and strangely interesting.
- Where: Over the road from the National Museum. (map)
- How long: It's a half-hour show.
- How much: We bought the Panorama and National Museum combo tickets, which cost us 50zł (£9.86) each.
The more observant of you would have noticed that the cost I've given covers entry to both the Panoramic and the National Museum.
Likewise, you will have noticed earlier in the blog that I say the National Museum isn't great, and whilst beautiful on the outside, it is very much an art gallery with a couple of relics thrown in.
If, like me, you're not into art, and most of it is very 'samey art', it's not worth the effort. Hence, you could get this cheaper by booking the Panoramic alone.
However, if you want to book both, you must do it at the Panoramic centre, not the museum.
Anyway, the panoramic.
You enter through a long, dark tunnel that winds up to a staggering 360-degree tapestry of a battle scene, famed throughout Poland. It depicts the unlikely defeat of Russia's Red Army in the battle of Racławice.
As you move around the battle, you're told what's happening and who the key players are.
Overall, I thought it was an interesting and unique way to showcase some of Poland's history.
Where to Eat in Wroclaw, Poland
Having been to Poland on many occasions, I always thought Polish food was a thing! Not only that, but it was delicious.
However, it turns out that due to Wroclaw's complex history and its shifting boundaries, the food in Wroclaw is neither entirely Polish nor German.
Likewise, since World War II, Wroclaw has become a diverse city formed by people from all over Poland and beyond.
Therefore, the food has become a mishmash of cuisines.
That doesn't mean the food is bad, because it isn't; it's delicious. It just means there isn't an identity to the food yet.
Thankfully, that means you will find a wide range of foods in Wroclaw, from English fish and chips to Austrian schnitzel and many hearty Eastern soups, broths and stews.
Most meals do involve meat, eggs, or cheese, so heads up to vegans: you will be restricted to mainly hummus, oatmeal, and salad. Yet, there are one or two corkers out there for you, which I'll add below. We found that if you find a restaurant you like, most will change ingredients to make you a similar meal. My advice is to ask, and you will get some fantastic meals.
Locals Only bistro and deli
- What: A small student hangout serving a great breakfast. (veggie friendly and one vegan dish)
- Where: North of the river and behind Kampus Grunwaldzki. (map)
- How much: This beautiful 'locals toast', a vegan oatmeal bowl, two hot drinks and two fresh juices cost 121zł (£23.88). (menu)
Having heard good things about this place, I had to try it out, and I was not disappointed.
Even though it's a little out of the way, Locals Only is worth the walk. While you're here, you might find a couple of nearby Wroclaw Dwarfs, so keep an eye out.
Surrounded by student campuses, it's hardly surprising that Locals Only has a student vibe. With a faint murmur of music and friendly staff, you could easily relax with a cuppa and a cake and let your worries vanish.
However, I suggest you come for breakfast.
The Locals toast is a must and is close to one of the best meals I had in Wroclaw. Every ingredient was fresh, flavoursome and tasty.
This is the place to be!
Atelier Cafe
- What: Bagel experts with a cracking breakfast and delicious cakes and bakes. (Veggie friendly)
- Where: A few minutes walk north of the main square, opposite Wieża Matematyczna. (map)
- How much: A bagel, the breakfast above, two smoothies and two hot drinks cost 154zł (£30.42). (menu)
Another fantastic student hangout with a taste for superb food.
Much like my last suggestion, Atelier Cafe has a young and exciting aura to it. Known for its cakes and bagels, you can grab something on the go or for a sit-in breakfast.
Me being me, I went for the Atelier breakfast, and I recommend you do too. There was a choice of dips, eggs, and cheeses with a side bowl of bagel, croissant and toast. I love a good-sized portion, and this was certainly that.
Due to its location, the cafe is always busy, so you might have to wait for a table, but trust me, it's worth the wait.
Again, everything tasted delicious and fresh. Day two, breakfast has to be here.
Restauracja Piwnica Swidnicka
- What: Historic restaurant in the heart of the city. Said to be the oldest in Poland. (Veggie friendly with a vegan option)
- Where: In the old town hall in the main square. (map)
- How much: Two fantastic main meals and four beers cost 244zł (£48.61). (menu)
Under the old town hall is this modernised medieval restaurant that could easily be mistaken for an old castle.
It describes itself as the oldest restaurant in Poland. Whether that's true or not is up for debate, but either way, it's bloody old for a restaurant.
In truth, I feel the modernisation has removed some of the charm. However, in some of the rooms, glimpses of its ancient past still shine through.
When it comes to the food, meals are hearty, warming and large, just as I imagine a king's meal in his castle to be.
My meal, pictured above, was fantastic; the mix of warm snitzel and cold potato worked a charm. The flavours were on point and tasted fresh and perfectly cooked.
Alongside the unique building and great food came fantastic service, which altogether made for a perfect experience.
Heads up for vegans - there wasn't anything on the menu, but if you ask, they will make you something fantastic and in keeping with the other meals by exchanging some ingredients.
Pod Przykrywka
- What: A small and friendly veggie and vegan restaurant. (veggie and vegan freindy)
- Where: Almost on the river with views of Wieża Matematyczna. (map)
- How much: Two mains, a side and four beers cost 150zł (£29.64).
First impressions of the place are that it looked like a small work canteen, which isn't normally the vibe I'd go for.
Similarly, admittedly, as a meat-eater in a veggie/vegan restaurant, I wasn't blown away by the menu or the number of choices within it.
However, the little outside seating area on the road was relaxing and had views over part of the beautiful Wieża Matematyczna.
Furthermore, the service was fantastic, if not a little slow at times. The waitress made time to speak with everyone and was very pleasant to chat with.
Yet, the main reason for Pod Przykrywka making it onto this 'best things to do in Wroclaw' blog is that the food tasted insanely good. All the flavours were there, as were the textures and overall presentation.
If you're veggie or vegan, this is a must. Those who aren't, I'd still suggest giving it a go. Let me know your thoughts in the comments at the bottom of the blog.
Mloda Polska bistro and pianino
- What: A magical and tasty restaurant with quality vibes, but at a decent price. (veggie friendly with vegan options)
- Where: On the smaller Plac Solny (where all the flower merchants are), just off the main square. (map)
- How much: Two magnificent starters, two main meals and a couple of beers cost 253zł (£50.49). (menu)
This has to be my favourite restaurant in Wroclaw.
Everything you want a restaurant to be is here in Młoda Polska.
You may recall me saying above that Wroclaw doesn't have a traditional local food. We were also told that the restaurant's name translates to Modern Poland, and that they planned to create dishes that could be dubbed new, fresh and vibrant 'local' dishes.
All I can say is if these dishes are going to be local Wroclaw dishes, I'm coming back year after year.
Sitting outside, you have the perfect spot for people-watching over the colourful Plac Solny. Inside is a clinical, crisp and clean restaurant with a classy vibe.
However, despite everything being magnificent, the food steals the show. The fresh, bright, colourful and well-presented meals are sublime. The incredible flavours are beyond anything I could dream of. From the starters to the last bite, life doesn't get any better.
Again, vegans will have to ask for a vegan variation from the menu, but I'm told that it is also the best in Wroclaw.
Bez Lukru Kuchnia Roslinna
- What: Quirky, hipster, and fun vegan restaurant. (veggie and vegan friendly)
- Where: One street north of the main square. (map)
- How much: Two mains and two beers cost 158zł (£31.53). (menu)
Bez Lukru has to be the hipster's restaurant of Wroclaw.
With a fun and funky vibe, this beautifully decorated restaurant serves up some of the best veggie and vegan food in Wroclaw. Likewise, a gentle melody plays overhead, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
Whether you're here for breakfast, lunch, dinner or elevenses, you're in for a treat. It's so good we came for dinner and again the next day for a cheesecake and a drink.
The food is tasty, morish and reenergizing. Furthermore, from the picture above, you can see it's going to be healthy.
If food were a creative passion, Bez Lukru would win awards.
This is one place you cannot miss during your visit to Wroclaw.
Kawastrofa
- What: Small and quaint little cake shop. (Veggie and vegan friendly)
- Where: On one of the large islands within the Oder River. (map)
- How much: Two lovely juices and two epic cheesecakes cost us 72zł (£14.23).
Frankly, it's fairly obvious from the pictures what to expect.
It's a small and friendly little cake shop serving up some of the tastiest treats in Wroclaw.
Beautifully baked homemade goods are served with a smile in a lush, green environment.
We went for two cheesecakes so we could try half each. Both were full-bodied and scrumptious. Every cake in the shop looked exquisite and frankly, I would happily eat here until I've worked my way through each one.
If this were in Central Park, these cakes would sell for $20 a pop, and even then, it would be worth it.
Where to Party in Wroclaw, Poland
Due to the numerous university campuses in the city, Wroclaw is a lively, hip and young city with nightlife to match.
Wherever you are in the city, you'll hear and see people partying into the early hours.
Yet, the thing that makes Wroclaw better than most places is that, despite its crazy nightlife, nothing is over the top or in your face.
You can easily have a chilled and relaxed evening in a calm and carefree environment, yet next door, people are going wild and letting their hair down.
You'll find everything from classy cocktail bars to riverside beach bars.
Throughout Wroclaw, there are several 'nightlife areas', each with a unique and friendly vibe, and I suggest you give them all a try. However, the two main areas have to be;
Firstly, the main square. Here you'll find many bars with large outdoor areas and a lot of people enjoying beer, cocktails or ciders.
Secondly, and probably my favourite area, is under the train tracks on Bogusławskiego Street, roughly a ten to fifteen-minute walk south of the main square. Under the train tracks, the street is awash with nightlife. Every building is a bar or restaurant, and whilst busy, it is a very relaxing and fun place to be.
However, I am going to start the drinking section with one of my favourite cocktail bars in Wroclaw, and it is in neither of these areas...
Wdech/Wydech
- What: Vivid and exciting rooftop cocktail bar.
- Where: Within the scurry of small islands in the middle of the Oder River, surrounded by Wyspa Słodowa. (map)
Once you exit the lift and enter the wonderful world of Wdech/Wydech with its super-friendly staff and bright neon lights, you cannot help but smile.
It's unlike any other rooftop bar I've been to, and for so many reasons. Even part of the roof is missing, allowing the weather in.
As well as the wicked and wacky decor, there are views over the River Oder and beyond, which, as night falls, light up in the skyline.
I loved it, and the vibe was chilled and relaxing, and everyone was laughing and joking, living their best life
Nevertheless, the cocktails were the highlight. They were the best in the city. I don't think you can beat them, and when you combine that with the views and atmosphere, why would you go anywhere else?
I highly recommend the whisky cocktail with ice cream. That is one thing I am bringing home with me. Simply wow.
Pub Hustawka
- What: Small microbrewery and shots bar within a row of cool bars.
- Where: Under the train track on Wojciecha Bogusławskiego. (map)
I've mentioned Pub Hustawka as it was the pub I was in, and I'd recommend it. Fantastic service, great vibes and amazing drinks.
However, the truth behind the mention is that I wanted to introduce the whole street to you.
Wojciecha Bogusławskiego is a narrow street with a train track running overhead, and from the regular shaking of the buildings and roar of trains, it is a popular train line.
Under the train tracks is a row of magical bars and restaurants, each a narrow, fun, lively place. Together, they combine to create a sensational vibe and a terrific evening with a bustling atmosphere.
Yes, it's a short walk from the main square, but it's worth the effort, and somewhere you could visit every night of the week and never be in the same place twice.
If it's vibes you're after, this is the place to be.
Malgosia
- What: A chilled underground and overground bar with a good aura.
- Where: Under the watchful gaze of the Kościół Garnizonowy, just off the main square. (map)
Malgosia is a trinity of bars. Firstly, there's the small, often busy bar area. Then, there are the compact, underground cave-like arches and finally, the large pub-style garden next to the church.
Each area is completely different, and you wouldn't associate one with the other. However, they are all fun and a great place to enjoy a cold beer or cocktail.
Sadly, every time we went or walked past, it was quiet, but I'd love to see it in full swing. I get the impression it would be a barmy and buzzing place with a unique experience in Wroclaw.
After all, who wouldn't want three nights in one?
Kalambur
- What: Imagine a hippy commune in the middle of a Moroccan Souk.
- Where: Halfway between the Oder River and the main square. (map)
If my last suggestion was always quiet, this one was always manicly busy.
Outside, the tables are taken up 24/7, normally with students enjoying a lunchtime relief from studying or late in the evening, celebrating the end of another hard day's work.
Inside is somewhere I'd expect to see in Arabian Nights.
An aroma of incense fills the bar, and the decor looks as though someone has bought everything on a trip to the Far East and Morocco.
It's quirky, fun and unique with a young and energetic atmosphere.
Plus, the drinks are great value for money.
BIALY NALEW
- What: A funky and loud cider bar.
- Where: On the main square, right under our apartment. (map)
My final bar is another 'one off' kinda place.
Having seen and heard the crowds on our first couple of nights (mostly local speaking crowds), we knew we had to investigate.
It turns out to be a cider bar, and being from the West Country, England, if there's one thing I know, it's cider.
You could easily mistake the inside for a McDonald's cafe, with tiered flooring. One floor for ordering and one for sitting in.
Then, when you see the bar, you realise this isn't a McDonald's. Hell, it's not even a normal bar.
There are a couple of other drinks on offer, but basically, you have a choice of three types of cider and, if you're lucky, some nibbles.
I'd describe the ciders as a rough farmer's cider, and my god, they're good. Outside is the place to be, drinking from paper cups, lots of loud chatter and banging music. It felt like being back at Glastonbury.
Truthfully, a one-off, and somewhere I'd never expected to see in the middle of Wroclaw, Poland.
Is Exploring Wroclaw Safe?
The simple answer is yes, Wroclaw is safe to visit.
Whether you're a family exploring Wroclaw for the first time or a single female traveller, you will be safe here.
During my trip to Wroclaw, I didn't witness anything that made me feel remotely worried. In truth, it's one of the most enjoyable, relaxing and safe places you can visit.
In part, this is due to the high levels of students who wander the streets late into the night. There is always someone around, and that helps. Plus, everyone you meet is friendly, helpful and happy.
Crime
Poland is known as being a safe country to visit, with Wroclaw often listed among the top ten safest cities in Poland.
As with many places in Europe, cops patrol the streets fairly regularly, and it's not unusual to pass a few every couple of hours.
Nevertheless, as I always say, be sensible, don't hang around in areas away from the centre that feel unsafe and be aware of your surroundings.
Road Safety
Thankfully, many of the roads in and around the centre of Wroclaw are pedestrianised, or partially blocked by a restaurant, so cars don't tend to get in the way. If they do, they are travelling at a speed that shouldn't cause any harm.
However, there are a few people who use one of the streets as a sort of drag race. You'll know when it's happening as you'll hear the idiots before you see them.
Natural Disasters
Due to its location, Wroclaw doesn't suffer many natural disasters.
That said, as you explore the city, you will, no doubt, hear about the 1997 flood that wreaked havoc throughout Wroclaw. Although when it comes to flooding in a place like this, I think, probably wrongly, you always have time to get away. Hence, I wouldn't worry about that happening during your stay.
As it is, Wroclaw's flood defences have been much improved since 1997, so I wouldn't let that stop you from visiting Wroclaw.
Leave a comment
Admittedly, this guide to Wroclaw, Poland, was anything but dwarf.
It went on a bit, so thanks for sticking with me. However, I hope you found this blog interesting and helpful.
As you may have guessed, I loved the city and highly recommend a visit, even if it's just to search out the Wroclaw Dwarfs.
Please, as always, let me know your thoughts on my guide to the best things to do in Wroclaw, Poland and, if you've been, your thoughts on the city.
Have a blast, and if you have any questions, please leave me a comment below or send me a message on Instagram, and I'll do my best to help.
Enjoy!
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