Wroclaw

Wroclaw is the capital of the Lower Silesia region, situated on the South Western Polish border. Historically the region has been part of an important trade route giving it superb transport facilities which have caused it to be one of the fastest growing regions in Poland. When the Germans gave up the city after occupation during World War II, it had suffered heavily. The renovations of the Old Town and ancient buildings are excellent and the city has more character and charm than some of the other larger cities in Poland. The city offers great museums and galleries to complement its industrial success, which is offset by a good amount of green space within the centre, including Japanese gardens. Built in the shadow of the Sudety mountains, Wroclaw has had to deal with the subsequent run-off and has over a hundred different bridges, varying in design and structure. Outside the city there is some spectacular scenery, which is popular with cyclists due to the gentle inclines and terrain which ranges to open farmland to dense forest. Ancient villages which have remained unchanged for centuries are tucked away up here too and can be easily visited by bus.

Attractions

Sudety mountains – Hiring bicycles or taking part in a tour is an excellent way to take in the rivers and countryside, stopping off at Romanesque villages, convents and castles.

Raclowice Panorama – This celebration of a failed attempt to maintain Poland’s independence is one of the most prolific exponents of “Mass Culture”. The painting was commissioned and woven in Brussels and is now housed in the specially built exhibition room known as a “Rotunda”. In addition to this 114 metre long masterpiece, there is a video detailing the history of the battle itself and similar artwork.

Wroclaw Zoo – With it’s ancient looking walls and lush vegetation, a very natural feel has been accomplished here. There are all the species you’d expect from a modern zoo and conditions appear to be pretty good. Wroclaw also has a Botanical Garden with glasshouse, miniature bridges and rock exhibits as well as the peaceful Japanese Garden.

National Museum at Wroclaw – The opposing looking building and grounds hold an extensive collection of artwork covering Poland’s unsettled history. It can get quite hard work after a while, and the affiliated Ethnographic Museum offers a refreshing change with a rare insight into Silesian folk culture.

Shopping

Reflecting the city’s industrial and commercial successes, there is no shortage of shopping centres, Galarie Centrum for example offering high-end fashion and some pretty impressive lifts. Covered markets sell more traditional wares as well as fresh fruit vegetables, although a decent command of Polish or sign-language is required. Along the main street of Dominikański are situated even more independent fashion outlets which are often very reasonably priced.

Nightlife and Eating Out

The cobbled streets of the Old Town are home to some excellent cafes set amongst the colourful buildings and people. The food may not be to everyone’s tastes with snacks mainly composed of potato and cabbage, but the service and sights more than make up for it. The Market Hall has food stalls, again with fairly bland produce and a matching concrete setting, but is a good opportunity to quaff a few beers with the locals. The traditional restaurants can be great in the summer with extensive outdoor seating and hearty grilled food. For a quick snack, the kebab shops offer a quick and spicy bit of fuel.

The city sees itself as Poland’s answer to Venice, and so the mood tends to be relaxed with bars spilling out into the street and a pseudo-bohemian crowd. The smoky bars stay open pretty late most of the time, and the jazz can be enjoyed from a range of ancient but comfortable sofas. The clubs are a more abrasive experience and tend to play hard dance to crowds of whistle-wielding poles. Music festivals take place throughout the summer, with jazz and classical performances on the Odre river.

Tourist Information

Tourist Information CentreRynek 1450-101 Wrocławtel: (71) 344-31-11fax: (71) 344-29-62 e-mail:info@itwroclaw.pl

Airport

Wroclaw Airport serves scheduled and chartered flights across Europe, several routes now covered by low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizzair. The facilities are limited to a few information desks, a post office and chapel, but staff are helpful and there are often discounts on long-stay parking. The airport is not too far from the centre and regular buses run from the central bus and train stations. There is a taxi rank, but the roads can be congested owing to constant building and repair Wroclaw making the bus a safer option financially.