Where?

Wrocław, Poland.

Why now?

Located in the Silesia region of southwestern Poland, the
handsome city of Wrocław is home to 12 islands,130 bridges and a
population of around 670,000. With a history dating back to the
10th century, its streets are notable for an unusual blend of
architectural influences, including Hungarian, Prussian-German and
Austrian.

The perfect day? Begin with a stroll through the vibrant
passageways of the Old Town to the marvellous Market Square, where
you’ll find plenty of artisan coffee houses at which to grab a cup
of joe and and watch the world go by – our favourite is OTO
Coffee Bar. Wander past Flemish-style villas and baroque
palaces, before carving out some time to visit the National Forum of
Music, Architecture Museum and Polish art-filled Four Domes Pavilion.

Don’t miss

Everyone knows that Poland’s Christmas Markets are worth
bookmarking, but Wrocław hosts an impressive number of cultural
events year-round. Next month, the Wrocław Guitar Festival welcomes
music enthusiasts with a diverse line-up of concerts, lectures and
masterclasses.

Where to stay?

Rest your head at the old-school Art Hotel. The
80-key property was purposefully designed to reflect the Old Town’s
fabric. Bedrooms flaunt a soft colour palette with centuries-old
artworks and antique furnishings. The in-house restaurant,
meanwhile, showcases a traditional Polish menu, and the finest
seasonal and regional produce. Standouts include watermelon and
tomato soup, trout fillet, sweet potato waffle and strawberry
tiramisu. There’s also a fully equipped gym and treatment rooms for
those who are craving some TLC.

Where to go for dinner?

La
Maddalena. Sitting pretty on the edge of the River Oder, this
contemporary space is worth visiting for its interiors alone –
think water-facing seating, blush-pink lampshades, potted plants
and dramatic, wood-shuttered windows. Our order? The baked oyster
served with cuts of bacon and grated parmesan cheese, followed by
the prawn risotto. If the fondant is on the dessert menu, order it
– and wash it down with a glass of red. There are also a handful of
vegan options and an entire plant-based tasting menu, too.

And for a drink…

There’s no menu at Wrocław’s speakeasy-style Cocktail bar by
Incognito – you just tell the talented mixologists what you’re
in the mood for and they’ll conjure up the perfect pour. Bare-brick
walls, leather banquette seating and floor-to-ceiling spirit
shelves make for a sultry set-up.

Who to take with you?

Poland is known for its breweries, so bring that mate who
considers themself a connoisseur of craft beer. They’ll appreciate
the pimped-up, boozy tents and beer gardens the city has to
offer.

Essentials to pack

Temperatures are getting frostier by the day for us northern
hemisphere folk. Stay cosy and seriously chic by packing this
Toteme striped roll-neck wool-blend
sweater.

How to get there

Take a direct flight from London Stansted to Copernicus Airport
Wroclaw, from where the city centre is just a 25-minute drive.