Things to do in Ostrów Tumski

One of the largest of its kind in Europe, Wroclaw Market Square truly encapsulates Wroclaw’s slogan as “The Meeting Place.” Always humming with locals, students and visitors, it is the perfect place to relax for a few hours. Marvel at the meticulous reconstruction of buildings destroyed in World War II completed by local residents and others who restored the square to its former glory. Notice the attention to detail that includes a recreation of the stone pillory that was used for public punishments for more than 300 years.

Wroclaw Town Hall is one of Poland’s largest and most intriguing town halls. Its construction spanned several centuries, resulting in a façade that reflects a mixture of different architectural styles. Admire the building’s distinctive exterior, check out the exhibits housed at the art museum inside and have a drink in its popular cellar bar.

For animals of all kinds, visit Wroclaw Zoo, a beloved destination located on Wroclaw’s Great Island. The zoo is enormous. Home to over 1,100 different species of animals across 82 acres (33 hectares), it is the third-most biodiverse zoo in the world. Come and learn about its more than 10,000 animals, from the okapi to lion to many species of lemur.

Wroclaw University is one of the city’s most important centers of learning, with a history that stretches back to the late 17th century. There are more than 40,000 students enrolled at the university and nine Nobel Prize winners have been educated here since the early 20th century. Past professors have included famous names like Alois Alzheimer and Robert Bunsen. Explore the interior of the main university building, check out the exhibition dedicated to its history and enjoy the views from terrace of the Mathematical Tower.

Wroclaw Cathedral is among the most important religious buildings in the city. Also known as the Cathedral of John the Baptist, the building is dedicated to St. John the Baptist who is the patron saint of Wroclaw. See the fine artwork and artifacts, including the largest pipe organ in Poland, housed inside this famous landmark. Take in the gorgeous views over Wroclaw visible from the top of the cathedral’s grand towers.

Water-rich Wrocław used to have more than 300 bridges before World War II. Of the 100 or so that are left today, Most Tumski (Tumski Bridge) is one of the most loved. Cross this romantic bridge to get to a small, but interesting river island in Wrocław and for a chance to find true love.

Wroclaw’s Botanical Gardens (Ogród Botaniczny) are among the loveliest gardens in the city. Spread across 18 acres (7.5 hectares), the gardens are home to more 11,500 different species of plants. Go for walk along the gardens’ pleasant paths or enjoy one of the outdoor events that regularly take place here.