Poland: Wroclaw

[bjorn]

Wroclaw is the Venice of Poland. Like its Italian counterpart, Wroclaw is romantic, wonderful to wander through, and charmingly historic. Situated on the Oder River and its tributaries, the city and its islands are linked by century-old bridges. Peaceful waterways, lush greenery, and Gothic architecture add to Wroclaw's serene atmosphere. The Old Town Square is amazingly restored with pastel colors and cobble stone streets, students hang out at the many cafes, and the museums house hundreds of artistic wonders. Wroclaw is a true artistic escape.

The cultural capital of Lower Silesia, there is always something going on in Wroclaw. Festivals spring up like wild flowers come summer. The city is also a great base for trips to the Sudeten Mountains, where hiking, skiing, bike trails, and castle ruins await.

When to go:
Wroclaw doesn't really have a tourist season. It is great to visit anytime, but spring and summer - when the flowers are in bloom and the festivals are in progress - might be the most enjoyable time.

What to Do:
History/Ruins:
There are churches and bridges everywhere in Wroclaw. Most of the churches were constructed in the 14th century, and house beautiful religious paintings. Wroclaw's ninety bridges gracefully span Odra River. To get a sense of Polish history, visit the Panorama learn about the Kosciusko and the Battle of 1894.

Museums:
The Historical Museum, the National Museum, the Archdiocesan Museum, and the Raclawice Panorama are Wroclaw's attractions. There are enough things to see for at least two or three days.

Shopping:
The Centum Department store was built in 1929 for the Wetheim company. The historic building is worth visiting even if you aren't shopping. Check out the antique ceramic and glass elevators.

Food/Culinary Info:
Visit Wroclaw's Market Hall, a short walk from the university - it combines the best in dining and shopping. Food is sold in stalls downstairs and crafts are sold upstairs. There are also 24-hour supermarkets throughout the city.

Natural Wonders:
The Botanic Gardens are a pleasant place to wander and picnic.

Arts:
Wroclaw's beautiful Opera House offers an extensive repertoire from September to April. The Music Theater features popular musicals in Polish.

Festivals/Events:
Festivals in Wroclaw include the International Oratorio-Cantata Festival in September, the Contemporary Drama in May-June, and the Jazz Festival in March. The city is an important cultural center and there is always something going on. Co Jest Grane, a monthly cultural magazine lists it all.

Nightlife/Bars:
With eight universities, Wroclaw is a student town. There is plenty of after-dark activity, ranging from dinner and drinks at a pub, to dancing to the wee hours at a student club.

Cafe Quotient:
Cafes circle the old town square. If you have a coffee craving, or the urge to splurge on a decadent Polish pastry, look no further. There are other places to caffeinate, but nothing beats this historic location.

Cost:
Costs are a bit lower than Krakow and Warsaw. Like most of Poland, Wroclaw is inexpensive for most travelers. There are plenty of ways to cut costs, including staying at hostels, eating at milk bars or markets, and traveling by train rather than bus.

Getting Around:
Trains leave from Wroclaw Glowny to all points. Berlin, Prague, and Poznan are popular destinations from Wroclaw. Buses (to anywhere) are slower and more expensive. For instance, the train to Krakow is 4 hours and the bus is 7 hours. There are also trams and local buses in town, but you will rarely use them - the city is compact and easily walkable.

Safety:
The standard safety advice applies: be aware of your belongings, and think before you head out alone or late at night. Wroclaw is pretty safe, but use caution wherever you travel.

Language:
Polish is spoken. Bring a phrasebook, learn a few words, and you should be fine.

Party/Social Scene:
Wroclaw is pleasant, interesting, and very Polish. Visit on your way in or out of Poland, or if you have a real interest in Polish history or architecture. The nightlife here is low key, but student oriented, as there are several universities in the area.

Other Info:
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