Islands, Dwarfs and Gothic style in Wroclaw
Describing Wroclaw in few words? I will say: "Islands, dwarfs and gothic town hall". If you like to be in a city, which is not crowded and touristy. I recommend to visit Wroclaw! Compared to the other well-known Polish cities, this is one of the most unique one that i have visited. A growing city that becomes more popular every year, situated on the Oder River with 12 islands and 300 bridges. The history of the city dates back over thousand years, and its extensive heritage combines almost all religions and cultures of Europe. It has been part of many nations and kingdoms. In 1945 Wroclaw became a part of Poland again. A thriving multicultural centre, a growing student community with a student population of over 130,000, making it one of the most youthful cities in Poland – wrote on his blog Sel from Netherlands.
What struck me first when I walked in the city, that there was a quiet, nice atmosphere and totally not mass touristy. I felt that I was in Venice when I walked through the 12 islands with 112 bridges. Definitely worth a walk through this islands, there is even an island tour. You can even kayak or join a kayak tour which is certainly an excellent option to discover the city and the islands, as well as doing some sport.
I wondered why i saw small dwarfs everywhere? After I had informed, according to the city connoisseurs, there was 350 dwarfs scattered around the city. The dwarfs may seem like cute and slightly, but the statues are a sign to the Orange Alternative. An anti-Soviet movement that uses absurdity to stage peaceful and subversive protests in an attempt to undermine Poland's communist government. There is even a guidebook or you can download the application to find all the dwarfs who are scattered over the city.
What you should definitely try in Poland, is to take a look at the soviet style Mleczny bar (Milky bar). Where a flavourful list of dishes for less price have been influenced by Poland's rich history. The ex-Socialist Milk Bars are a culinary experience which reflects a fusion of culture, politics and history. The dishes were not high class, but more important was that I liked the idea and there were only local people present.
One of the most unique sights in the city I found out, was the three-dimensional 360-degree panorama painting. Painted in the 19th Century, Racławice Panorama is one of the few panorama paintings left in Europe and the only one in Poland. This cyclorama painting takes you back to 1794 and makes you feel like you are standing in the middle of the Polish uprising against the Russian Empire in The Battle of Racławice. Entrance fee is 30 Polish zloty.
For the people who love art, I can highly recommend to join a street art walking tour. Especially the way how the guide tells you the story behind the hidden art is so unique. This (tip based) street art tour will held in the district "Nadodrze" with a lot of nice piece work street art and to learn about its social importance. De guide showed also us the unique places as well as film sites where some Hollywood movies were made, including “Bridge of Spies" directed by Steven Spielberg. Inform the hostel/hotel or Travel agency about this street art tour.
Want to see and enjoy the sunset from a building? (not a joke) It is literally Wroclaw on your feet. The Sky Tower is the place to be at 200 meters high, from the 49th floor the highest you can go. The entrance is around 11 Zloty
Our guide brought us to this unique restaurant called"Motyla Noga" which was a former prison in medieval times. The atmosphere is calm, the menu is Spanish influenced. The place is very popular, so it's good to be on time.
One of the nice sights of wroclaw is "Hala Targowa", the historical market hall built between 1906-08 when the city was part of Germany. I think the best place for different aperitifs as local and international. I went there when i was hungry which was maybe not a good idea. But the snacks were very tasty and fresh.
What I noticed was that they also have good homemade ice-cream in Poland. So in spring or summer it is worth to taste some of the Polish ice-cream. After some recommendations we went to the best ice cream of the city, the place called "Polish Lody Naturalne" on the plac. Berna 3 street.
Rejs pub a cozy bar where you definitely need to drink a beer. It is a cute and small place but always lively and packed. Decorated with Star Wars posters, film reels and Mr. Moon smiling from the corner of the ceiling. A place where you easily get in contact with other people.
About me
My name is Sel, born and raised in the Netherlands.Traveling since already 5 years, excited to see and discover many cities and countries. I set up this page to share my travel tips, experiences and advices from own view and taste. To inspire or help you to travel too. Feel free to contact or ask about any tips