Discover the 'Youthful' City of Eastern Europe with $29 Flights – Where 800 Gnomes Await

Cobbled squares, colourful houses while boats gently sway along twisty water routes.

Sounds familiar? No way, we're not talking about an Italian travel instead to Wrocław, a city located in Poland dubbed ‘the Venice of Eastern Europe ’.

It gained its name from the 12 islands that comprise Wrocław, with each one linked by bridges (There are 130 in total) and canals reminiscent of the well-known sinking city. Italy .

It’s likely you've never come across Wrocław before, unless perhaps you have some prior knowledge. Chelsea fan. Fans will be descending upon Poland ahead of the Europa Conference League final tonight.

However, if you're looking for a relaxed — and budget-friendly — urban getaway, it's worth giving Wrocław a shot.

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How to get to Wrocław

It's quite simple to reach Wrocław from the UK, thanks to direct flights available. Port Lotniczy the main airport of the city, located only 12 kilometers away from downtown.

The most affordable flights listed on Skyscanner at present can be booked for travel in June, operated by various airlines. Ryanair from Glasgow for just £29 return.

Nevertheless, the budget airline also offers flights departing from several UK airports, including Manchester , East Midlands and London Stansted .

What activities can you enjoy in Wrocław?

The Market Square lies at the center of Wrocław’s Old Town and serves as an excellent starting point for visitors. The city is readily accessible from here. walkable , make sure you take time to stroll through the streets and admire the architectural marvels dating back to the 12th century.

Ranging from the classic to the somewhat contemporary, the modernist Centennial Hall stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, constructed in 1911. You can join a guided tour or look at its lineup of musical events, theatrical productions, and shows.

Wrocław is also heaven for those who love markets. You have the Hala Świebodzki, a foodie haven set up in a former railway station, along with the Hala Targowa, constructed back in 1908, offering a variety of goods like fresh produce, dairy products, confectionery, and lots of floral arrangements. Nestled within this area is also Café Targowa, quite renowned among locals.

As Eastern Europe If you were answering about Venice, you wouldn’t want to miss strolling alongside the city’s waterways and crossing its numerous bridges linking the various islands. Cathedral Island stands out as possibly the most renowned—dating back to the 10th century—and also one of the loveliest.

If you're looking for something distinct, visit Nadodrze, a vibrant artistic district known for its street art. Don’t miss Roosevelt Street’s ‘colorful courtyards’.

Plus, with all the sights and activities in Wrocław, make sure you stay alert for the city’s tiniest tourist draw: the Wroclaw Gnomes. Over 800 adorable little figures hide throughout the town, starting this charming trend way back in 2001 when an emblematic gnome statue, representing Poland’s resistance against communism, appeared on one of the major thoroughfares.

Ever since, they've appeared everywhere, and each September sees a festival celebrating them. Visitors can obtain a map online for this purpose. Wrocław Tourism Board’s website to trace a path through the city.

If you're still uncertain about reserving a journey to Wrocław, newzealandadventure’s recommendation remains invaluable. Patrycja Zaras suggests pairing it with a break to Krakow instead.

These two cities form an ideal duo," remarks Patrycja, hailing from Poland. "Nowhere embodies Poland's intricacy quite like Krakow, a place where a rich past converges with some of the nation's finest architectural gems. After soaking up the atmosphere around its castles and enjoying tranquil moments along the Vistula River, take a swift three-hour train ride over to Wroclaw.

'It’s a lively city brimming with young vitality, innovative flair, and fashionable eateries that might make your Instagram audience question whether you’ve stayed in Poland.'

Where to eat and drink in Wrocław

Looking for some refreshments after all that sight-seeing? Patrycja has got you covered with her top picks in Wrocław:

• BABA . An upscale eatery offering Polish fare, led by a woman chef. Don’t miss out on trying one of their innovative cocktails as well.
• Piekarnia Plon A must-visit bakery awaits you. Whether it's croissants or sourdough loaves, every item here is delightful.
• Charlotte. When you visit Poland, this well-known bistro franchise is an essential stop. Treat yourself to one of their celebrated breakfasts featuring freshly made breads, jams, and spreads.
• Piwnica Świdnicka One restaurant in Europe that has been satisfying diners since 1273 is among the most ancient.

Is Wrocław currently secure?

The Foreign Office hasn't released any new advisories before the finale tonight. Still, with an estimated 70,000 soccer fans set to descend upon Wrocław, things could get quite busy. Chelsea face off against Real Betis , it’s crucial to remain aware that tensions might escalate.

Reports of fan clashes have surfaced, including an altercation outside a restaurant where supporters confronted each other, though law enforcement stepped in.

The police in Wroclaw released a statement asserting that ensuring the safety of both residents and tourists remains their top 'priority'.

'The officers in uniforms responded right away following the incident, preventing any additional rise in tension or negative actions,' states the report.

'The supporters dispersed in various ways, and presently the law enforcement agents from the criminal investigation unit are undertaking efforts to pinpoint their identities.'

'The quantity of preventative and active law enforcement agencies and their presence is significantly high in areas where locals and sport enthusiasts congregate or travel, ensuring everybody feels secure.'

The police further explained that they will have officers walking the beat as well as conducting surveillance using both helicopters and drones to enhance security.

Alternative Europe

At newzealandadventure, we're all about sharing with our audience off-the-beaten-path and lesser-known options as exciting alternatives to common European urban getaways.

If you adore Paris, why not give it a go? Tromsø , frequently called 'The Paris of the North'. Don't let its remote locale deceive you; this is the biggest city in the north. Norway is surprisingly refined, with plenty to see beyond the Northern Lights .

If you enjoy holidaying in Portugal, but want to venture beyond Lisbon and Porto, head to Bragga , this less-explored 'Portuguese Rome', which was formerly a key part of the Roman Empire. Boasting intricate architecture, historic structures, and an energetic food culture, the city offers all the charm of Rome but with much fewer tourists.

And for those travelers who love keeping their heads in the sky, this European capital It stands taller than the rest — and surprisingly, it’s also one of the tiniest.

Have a tale you'd like to tell?

Reach out via email newzealandadventureLifestyleTeam@newzealandadventure.co.uk .

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