Visitors have generally concluded that Krakow is overdone when wondering where to go to in Poland.
However, there are an increasing number of low-cost flights to lesser discovered Polish cities: Katowice, Poznan and Wroclaw. Poland’s inner charm is now being enjoyed by a range of guests.
Wroclaw is a definite reason not to pigeon-hole Krakow as the only city in Poland worth a visit. Wroclaw sits in the Lower Silesia region in the south-west of Poland and is well worth a visit. The Odra River snakes through it and underlines the scenic majesty of Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island).
Dwarf statues
430+ is a safe estimate of the number of dwarfs statues that pepper this quaint city. These figures that started appearing in 2001 make visiting Wroclaw an adventure. Some of the statues are of historical figures; under the guidance of Major Waldemar Fydrych, the Orange Alternative movement used non-violent means to defy communism in the 80s. Then there's Papa Krasnal a corpulent framed figure who was placed on Swidnicka Street, the scene of a 10,000+ protest parade. It all grew from there. Nowadays the dwarves have been popularised – reflecting themes of the places whereby they are positioned.
Wroclaw: A stair climbing sort of a city
Circa 400 steps separate view seekers from the lofty, 45 metres high Penitents Bridge at the St.
Mary Magdalene Church. It is well worth the hike. Enthralling narratives punctuate your ascent up the winding staircase. The wood bannister bridge rewards your exertions with an inspiring view of the expansive city of Wroclaw. The bridge is pitched between two towers and was first established in the 13th century.
For panoramic gazers adverse to stair climbing – the Sky Tower across the city from St.
Mary Magdelene Church offers a less leg intensive alternative. Plush, modern lifts carry visitors, at 30-minute intervals, up to the viewing area of the 212 metres high, 3rd tallest building in Poland.
Culinary delights await in Wroclaw
Broad appetites and tastes are catered for in Poland’s fourth biggest city (in terms of population).
This incorporates Vegan establishments, such as Vegan and Middle-Eastern themed Ahimsa - to a carnivorous wooden tabled haven: Butchery & Grill. In December the expansive Christmas markets cater for a wide range of tastes - all to be washed down with a warming mug of mulled wine. Local vodka and hand decorated, customised baubles facilitate the independent spirit.
Retail variety to rival most European cities
Wroclaw’s all-year-round retail experience sees a blend of independent outlets mingling in with the larger chains. The vegan-friendly concept store of Some Wear Else rubs shoulders with C&A. A healthy student population helps to promote this variety. A mix of high-end fashion houses and bargain stores also facilitates this objective. Wroclaw is a place that will surprise its visitors.
