Poland’s fourth-largest city, the colourful and carefree Wrocław might just be our favourite weekend destination. Visit for its cobblestone squares, Romanesque architecture and delicious food
27 September, 2022
Wrocław, Poland.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Take a direct flight from London Stansted to Copernicus Airport Wroclaw, from where the city centre is just a 25-minute drive.
