Wrocław: The City That’s Hard to Say But Easy to Love

Ah, Wrocław (or as the locals call it, “Vrot-swaff”). What can we say about this charming little city in western Poland? For starters, we can say that even if you can’t pronounce the name, you’re going to love it here.

Let’s start with the basics. Wrocław is the fourth largest city in Poland, with a population of around 600,000 (not counting the hordes of tourists who flock here each year). It’s situated on the Oder River and is known for its beautiful architecture, cozy cafes, and a certain sausage that we won’t go into here.

One of the first things you’ll notice about Wrocław is the abundance of dwarves. Yes, you read that right. Dwarves. These little figurines are scattered throughout the city, hidden around corners and peeking out from under bushes. Legend has it that they’re all part of a secret society of dwarven craftsmen who work tirelessly to maintain the city’s infrastructure. We can’t confirm or deny this, but it’s fun to look for them anyway.

Another thing that sets Wrocław apart is the fact that it has not one, but two town squares. The Old Town Square is the larger of the two, with colorful buildings and bustling market stalls. The smaller Market Square is more intimate and picturesque, with a stunning fountain as its centerpiece. Whichever one you choose, you’re guaranteed to find plenty of people-watching opportunities.

One of our favorite things to do in Wrocław is to take a boat ride down the Oder River. You’ll get a different perspective on the city, and you might even see some of the aforementioned dwarves from a new angle. If you’re feeling brave, you can even rent a kayak and paddle through some of the city’s canals.

If you’re a fan of sweet treats, you’re going to be in heaven in Wrocław. The city is famous for its lody (ice cream), and you’ll find gelato shops on practically every corner. We recommend trying the local flavors, like krówka (caramel) and sernik (cheesecake). And if you’re feeling indulgent, try a wafelki (waffle cone) filled with fruit, chocolate, and whipped cream. You won’t regret it.

We could go on and on about Wrocław’s charms, but we’ll leave you with this: if you’re looking for a city with heart and character, Wrocław is the place for you. Sure, it might take a few tries to get the pronunciation right, but once you’re strolling through those medieval streets, tasting the ice cream, and spotting the dwarves, you’ll know it was all worth it.