Wrocław (pronounced NOT “roe-claw,” but actually, somehow, “vrots-waff”) is actually a pretty popular Polish tourist destination, and is one of the largest cities in Poland, with the fourth largest population. So why was this uniquely appealing cultural hub only a pitstop on our trip through Poland? We got to this Eastern European country with the intention of targeting Kraków and Warsaw as our main Polish stays in the time that we had. But we would have been doing ourselves a disservice by skipping over this beautiful, less touristy city, so we had to squeeze it in, even if the visit was brief.
Where It Is
Wrocław is situated in southwest Poland, not far from Prague, right on the Oder River. We actually went a little out of our way on our drive between Prague and Kraków in order to experience this little melting pot, which draws from Prussian, Austrian, and Bohemian influences to form a unique riverside city. In addition to its diverse culture, Wrocław’s economy has also gotten it on the 2015 list of best cities in the world to live! Go Wrocław.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
This is obvious…everyone loves Wrocław.
Its unparalleled beauty
The Market Square (Rynek) is actually considered one of the most stunningly beautiful squares in all of Europe, if not THE most beautiful (and wowza this is saying something, because Europe is BRIMMING with breathtaking squares). Wander the streets, hang out on the square, marvel in the medieval architecture (including the incredible Gothic-influenced Town Hall). There are some beautiful sites to see!
The oldest restaurant in Europe
If you’re hungry, stop at what is allegedly the oldest restaurant in all of Europe, Piwnica Świdnicka, and peruse its extensive menu and indulge in typical Polish cuisine. I spent my very first hours in Poland in Wrocław, and ate my first pierogi of approximately thirty over the course of the next several days. Yiiiikes! (No regrets though. I’d do it again. I’d probably even challenge myself and try to go for forty).
Dwarf cuties
A really cool piece of Wrocław history: starting in 2005, these small dwarf figurines have been popping up all over the city. The first one was unveiled on Świdnicka Street to commemorate the Orange Alternative, which was the underground Polish anti-Communist movement that used absurdities to offset the rigid and boring style of oppression, in the place where their happenings used to occur. Today, there are more than 300 dwarves all over the city (and counting!), and people come from everywhere to try to find them all!
My suggestion? If you’re going to be in Poland, make a quick stop (at the least) in Wrocław. If nothing else (I mean, if the beauty isn’t reason enough for ya), it’s always nice to go somewhere where the chances of you getting poked in the face by some tourist’s selfie stick are minimal.
