Activity	Description
Wander Through Market Square	Visit the historic heart of Wrocław with its colorful townhouses, Gothic Old Town Hall, and lively cafes.
See Wrocław From Above at Sky Tower	Enjoy panoramic views from the 67th floor of Sky Tower, the tallest building in the city.
Explore Ostrów Tumski, the Islands District	Discover Wrocław’s religious landmarks, including the Gothic cathedral and Centennial Hall, on this picturesque island.
Discover Dwarves on Wrocław’s Streets	Spot hundreds of dwarf statues, part of an eccentric art project, around the city.
Stroll and Relax in Park Szczytnicki	Enjoy this large city park with tree-lined promenades, rose gardens, and open-air concerts.
Experience Dwarven lore at Krasnal Gallery	Visit the museum dedicated to dwarves, featuring medieval books, sculptures, and carvings.
Tour the Stunning Panorama of Racławice	View the 19th-century cycloramic painting depicting the Battle of Racławice.
See Wrocław From the Oder River	Take a river cruise along the Oder to see landmarks and enjoy scenic views.
Taste Craft Beers at Wrocław’s Breweries	Explore over 30 microbreweries and pubs in Wrocław’s booming craft beer scene.
Visit the Historic University of Wrocław	Tour the Baroque campus of the University of Wrocław, including the ornate Leopoldina assembly hall.
Experience Arts and Culture at Cultural Centers	Enjoy events and exhibitions at cultural hubs like Centennial Hall and the Wrocław Contemporary Museum.
Attend Wrocław Multicultural Days	Participate in this festival celebrating diversity with music, dance, cuisine, and cultural displays.
Explore Wrocław’s Vibrant Nightlife Scene	Discover the city’s nightlife with bars, pubs, and clubs in areas like Plac Solny and Świdnicka Street.
Unwind in Japanese Garden and Centennial Hall	Relax in the scenic Japanese Garden and visit the iconic Centennial Hall.
Visit the Historic Ossolineum Library	Explore one of Central Europe’s most important manuscript and book collections at the Ossolineum.
Take a Day Trip to Jelenia Góra Valley	Enjoy hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the unique underground town of Walim in this scenic valley near Wrocław.

From medieval sites and Habsburg-era buildings to bustling markets and lively festivals, Wrocław provides something for every type of traveler. Here are the 15 best things to do in Wrocław, Poland in 2024:

Wander Through Market Square

Name and Location: Market Square (Rynek) in central Wrocław

History and Significance: This medieval square is the historic heart of the city, featuring landmarks like Gothic Town Hall, the Old Town Hall, and 16th-century townhouses.

What to Expect: Stroll amid the ornate painted facades. See the astronomical clock ring out on the hour. Browse for crafts, amber, and handicrafts.

Visitor Information: Always open. Surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants. Accessible by foot, tram, and bus.

The heart of historic Wrocław, the bustling Market Square is beautifully framed by pastel-colored townhouses and lined with al fresco cafes and restaurants. The Gothic Old Town Hall dominates the square and contains the Museum of Bourgeois Art with its ornate interiors and medieval underground.

Other landmarks surrounding the plaza include the late-Gothic St. Elisabeth’s Church and the Baroque St. Mary Magdalene Church.

See Wrocław From Above at Sky Tower

Name and Location: Sky Tower in central Wrocław

History and Significance: At 212m high, this skyscraper offers 360 degree views over Wrocław from its 49th floor observation deck.

What to Expect: Ride the high-speed elevator up and look out over the cityscape, Oder River, and beyond. Photograph the panorama. Visit the rooftop cafe/lounge.

Visitor Information: Open 10am-midnight daily. Admission ~10 PLN. Next to Market Square downtown.

For panoramic views of Wrocław and the Oder River, head up to the observation deck at Sky Tower. At 212 meters tall, this futuristic high-rise has the fastest elevator in Poland whisking visitors up 67 floors.

The 360-degree vistas from the viewing platform reveal Wrocław’s maze of red-tiled roofs, church steeples, bridges, and green spaces. Views are especially breathtaking at sunset.

Explore Ostrów Tumski, the Islands District

Name and Location: Ostrów Tumski in Wrocław

History and Significance: This historical island neighborhood contains Wrocław Cathedral and landmarks tracing to the city’s early medieval origins.

What to Expect: Visit majestic Gothic churches and charming alleys. See the botanical gardens and museum in the former royal palace. Don’t miss the iconic Bridge of Thieves.

Visitor Information: Access via Tumski Bridge from downtown. Cathedral and gardens open daily. Guided tours available.

This scenic district located on an island contains Wrocław’s religious heart with landmarks like the twin-towered Gothic cathedral, the former residence of Polish royalty at the 14th century Imperial Castle, and the striking Centennial Hall.

Cross the picturesque Tumski Bridge to enjoy charming cobblestone streets, riverside parks, and peaceful plazas throughout Ostrów Tumski.

Discover Dwarves on Wrocław’s Streets

Name and Location: Dwarf statues throughout Wrocław

History and Significance: These small bronze dwarf figurines act as Wrocław’s quirky mascots. Over 300 are hidden around the city streets. Finding them has become a local tradition.

What to Expect: Spot and photograph the imaginative dwarf statues in surprising spots as you explore. Get a guidebook and try to find them all!

Visitor Information: Dwarves are scattered all around downtown Wrocław and beyond. Free discovery activity, any time.

Part of an eccentric city art project, keep your eyes peeled for the hundreds of dwarf statues scattered around Wrocław. Each bronze dwarf sculpture has a unique personality and is usually found by notable city landmarks, street corners, parks, and other locations. Trying to spot these iconic mini-statues has become a favorite activity for both locals and visitors in Wrocław.

Stroll and Relax in Park Szczytnicki

Name and Location: Szczytnicki Park in Wrocław

History and Significance: This is the largest green space in Wrocław, covering over 800 acres. Established in 1785, it offers nature trails, gardens, and family attractions.

What to Expect: Follow shaded walking paths. Ride the cable car over the park. Relax on the grass or at an outdoor cafe. Don’t miss the Japanese Garden and Multimedia Fountain.

Visitor Information: Located east of downtown. Open 24 hours daily. Free admission, charges for some attractions.

Covering nearly 100 hectares, this expansive city park provides a pleasant natural oasis with tree-lined promenades, green lawns, rose gardens, lake areas for rowing and swimming, mini-zoos, and al fresco cafes.

Throughout the year, the park hosts free open-air concerts, festivals, and events. A great place to join locals relaxing, exercising, and enjoying the outdoors within the city.

Experience Dwarven lore at Krasnal Gallery

Name and Location: Krasnal Gallery in Wrocław Old Town

History and Significance: This exhibition space is devoted to the origin tales and artistic interpretations of Wrocław’s dwarf mascots. The gallery houses a private dwarf collection.

What to Expect: Learn about dwarf lore, symbolism and creation. See a rotating display of dwarf figurines in different themes and media. Shop for souvenirs.

Visitor Information: Small admission fee. Located in Market Square area. Open 1pm-7pm daily. Guided tours available.

To learn more about Wrocław’s whimsical dwarf craze, visit this delightful museum fully dedicated to dwarves and their myths and legends throughout history.

See tiny miner tools, medieval books about magic and dwarves, dwarf effigies, antique sculptures, and intricate carvings. Kids and adults alike will enjoy being immersed in dwarven lore at this charming gallery.

Tour the Stunning Panorama of Racławice

Name and Location: Panorama of Racławice, Wrocław

History and Significance: This giant 19th century cycloramic painting depicts the 1794 Battle of Racławice in stunning detail. An icon of Polish patriotic art.

What to Expect: Stand in awe of the massive 15 x 120 meter panoramic canvas from inside the viewing rotunda. An immersive sight. Audio guides provide context.

Visitor Information: Open Wednesday-Monday. Tickets ~20 PLN. Near downtown at Purkyniego 11. Timed entry recommended.

This monumental 19th century cycloramic painting depicts the Battle of Racławice between Polish rebels and Russian forces in 1794. The canvas is 15 meters high by 114 meters long and wraps around the circular interior of the purpose-built rotunda.

Visitors stand on an observation walkway to view this remarkable panoramic painting and visual illusion in awe. An underseen highlight just outside the Old Town.

See Wrocław From the Oder River

Name and Location: Oder River in Wrocław

History and Significance: The Oder River winds through Wrocław, offering scenic views of landmarks like Ostrów Tumski as it passes under ornate bridges.

What to Expect: Take a riverboat sightseeing cruise for unique vantage points. Relax at riverside cafes and parks. Don’t miss evening light reflections.

Visitor Information: Cruises and electric boats daily May-September. Board at stops like Ostrów Tumski, Piaskowy Bridge.

From April to October, river cruises along the Oder provide a scenic perspective of Wrocław from the water. Sightseeing options range from short 45-minute cruises to longer multi-hour tours that include meals.

Cruises pass landmarks like Ostrów Tumski, the botanical gardens, Centennial Hall, and Wrocław’s many ornate bridges. Specialty cruises feature live music, comedy, or dining experiences.

Taste Craft Beers at Wrocław’s Breweries

Name and Location: Breweries in Wrocław, Poland

History and Significance: Wrocław has a booming craft beer scene, with local breweries offering tours, tastings, and distinctive ales. The city has centuries-long brewing traditions.

What to Expect: Sample creative brews you won’t find elsewhere. Take a behind-the-scenes peek at production facilities. Don’t miss tavern-like taprooms to savor your drinks.

Visitor Information: Major breweries like Spiż and Stu Mostów in downtown area. Tours and tastings average ~20 PLN.

Wrocław has a booming craft beer scene with more than 30 microbreweries and pubs to sample unique ales and lagers. Top picks include Browar Stu Mostów (Seven Bridges), which serves beer made on-site, and CK Browar for creative brews in a post-industrial space.

Multi-tap alehouses like Setka and AleBrowar are also great spots for local hops fans. Many breweries offer behind-the-scenes brewing tours as well.

Visit the Historic University of Wrocław

Name and Location: University of Wrocław in downtown Wrocław

History and Significance: Founded in 1702, the university features elaborate Baroque and Rococo architecture. Notable alumni include Copernicus.

What to Expect: Tour the splendid ornamental Leopoldina Hall and grand lecture rooms. Climb the Mathematical Tower for views. Don’t miss the charming courtyards.

Visitor Information: Main campus on Plac Uniwersytecki. Opening hours vary. Guided tours available for a fee.

Established in 1702, the University of Wrocław’s elegant Baroque campus features elaborate halls, an impressive library with elaborate ceilings, and the ornate baroque Leopoldina assembly hall.

Visitors can tour the historic buildings and soak in over 300 years of academic history. Don’t miss the beautiful Aula Leopoldina and Mathematical Tower with city views.

Experience Arts and Culture at Cultural Centers

Name and Location: Wrocław, Poland

History and Significance: Wrocław has an array of multidisciplinary cultural centers that host performances, exhibits, films, lectures, and workshops.

What to Expect: Attend concerts, theater, author readings and more. Browse rotating artwork. Don’t miss engaging workshops. Check event calendars online.

Visitor Information: Venues include Wrocław Philharmonic, Grotowski Institute, Awangarda Gallery. Programs often free or low cost.

Wrocław is home to many restored industrial complexes reinvented as vibrant cultural hubs. Centennial Hall hosts concerts, festivals, and exhibitions in its landmark 1910s dome.

Art galleries and events fill the post-industrial spaces of the Wrocław Contemporary Museum. Pawilon Czterech Kopuł showcases contemporary art within a former market hall.

Attend Wrocław Multicultural Days

Name and Location: Wrocław Market Square

History and Significance: This lively annual June festival celebrates cultural diversity through performances, cuisine, and educational offerings from over 20 countries.

What to Expect: Sample global cuisine and enjoy music/dance shows on Market Square stages. Don’t miss parades in traditional dress and fun activities for kids.

Visitor Information: Most events free and open to all. Runs for 3 days. Market Square easily accessible downtown.

Celebrating diversity each June, this popular festival transforms the Market Square with live music, dance, cuisine, crafts, and cultural displays from over 20 nationalities.

Polish culture mixes with Ukrainian, German, Jewish, Georgian, Czech, and more for a vibrant three-day event. The multicultural festival truly represents Wrocław’s blended heritage.

Explore Wrocław’s Vibrant Nightlife Scene

Name and Location: Clubs, bars, pubs in Wrocław

History and Significance: Known as a student town, Wrocław offers lively nightlife with many nightclubs, pubs, cocktail lounges open late catering to various tastes.

What to Expect: Dance at hot underground clubs. Sip artisanal cocktails. Don’t miss unique options like neon bowling or themed bars. Evening street life feels magical.

Visitor Information: Nightlife concentrates downtown/Old Town. Check online event listings. Cover charges vary by venue.

Wrocław offers some of Poland’s best nightlife with many clusters of bars, pubs, and clubs. The pedestrian Plac Solny area buzzes with students popping between dive bars and cafes.

Świdnicka Street has hip lounges housed in old townhouses and warehouses. The Podwale district along the Oder has laidback riverside hangouts. And Wrocław’s craft beer scene fuels many lively pubs.

Unwind in Japanese Garden and Centennial Hall

Name and Location: Wrocław, Poland

History and Significance: These architectural landmarks in Szczytnicki Park feature early modernist and Japanese landscape design. Both were built in 1913.

What to Expect: Relax amid serene greenery, ponds and pavilions. See the soaring dome of Centennial Hall. Attend cultural events and workshops.

Visitor Information: In Park Szczytnicki, 30 min walk from Market Square. Garden always open, Hall open daily 10am-6pm .

Created for the 1913 Centennial Exhibition, this scenic 10-hectare garden features pagodas, bridges, water features, and over 700 plant species that evoke Japanese landscape design.

Adjacent, the iconic Centennial Hall with its domed roof provides lovely park views through its huge windows. Strolling through the gardens and relaxing inside the open hall are excellent ways to unwind.

Visit the Historic Ossolineum Library

Name and Location: Ossolineum National Institute in Wrocław

History and Significance: This historic library founded in 1817 safeguards invaluable manuscripts, books, and artwork spanning ten centuries.

What to Expect: View rotating exhibits of rare manuscripts and books. See treasures like Copernicus and Chopin original scores. Don’t miss the ornate hall and statues.

Visitor Information: Located downtown at Szewska 37. Open Wednesday-Saturday. Guided tours should be booked in advance.

Founded in 1817, the Ossolineum contains one of Central Europe’s most important manuscript and book collections with over 400,000 objects.

The National Ossoliński Institute has been situated in Wrocław since World War II after relocating from Lviv. Explore the library’s priceless literary treasures and enjoy scenic gardens on the grounds.

Take a Day Trip to Jelenia Góra Valley

Name and Location: Jelenia Góra Valley near Wrocław

History and Significance: This scenic natural valley features hot springs, hiking, and historic mountaintop castles perfect for a day trip from Wrocław.

What to Expect: Trek mountain trails and visit cliffside ruins. Relax in therapeutic waters. Don’t miss postcard views of the Stołowe Mountains.

Visitor Information: Reach by rental car/bus tour in 1-1.5 hours from Wrocław. Consider staying overnight at a spa resort.

This scenic valley in the Table Mountains just outside Wrocław provides a quick mountain escape. Popular activities include hiking through wooded trails, touring the medieval Cistercian abbey in Henryków, climbing the watchtower in Karpniki for panoramas, and exploring the unique underground town of Walim carved into the sandstone cliffs. Jelenia Góra makes an easy day trip from Wrocław.

Conclusion

Blending urban energy with laidback riverside charm, Wrocław entices visitors with its medieval architecture, bohemian spirit, lush parks, and diverse culture. Use this list of top 15 attractions and activities to fully experience this underrated Polish city in 2024.

From strolling Market Square to seeking mischievous dwarves to sipping local beers, Wrocław has so much waiting to captivate you. Let the colorful city charm you when visiting next year.