Beautiful European city with far fewer tourists than Krakow or Prague | Europe | Travel

A lesser-known European gem is gaining recognition for its stunning beauty, rivaling Prague and Budapest but without the tourist crowds.

Wroclaw, a picturesque city in southwestern Poland near the border with the Czech Republic, offers a rich cultural experience without the crowds that typically fill more famous destinations like Krakow and Prague.

With the rise of low-cost air travel, exploring Poland has become increasingly accessible for Brits.

While Krakow, with its charming cobblestone squares and famous Christmas market, and Zakopane, known for its natural beauty, remain popular, Wroclaw often goes under the radar. Last year, Krakow welcomed twice as many tourists as Wroclaw, making Wroclaw an ideal choice for those seeking a quieter city break.

Wroclaw’s Main Market Square, adorned with colorful medieval buildings, is home to attractions such as the Museum of Bourgeois Art.

A highlight for architecture enthusiasts is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Centennial Hall. Built between 1911 and 1913 by Max Berg, this iconic concrete structure is famous for its vast circular space and ribbed dome, accommodating up to 10,000 people.

In 2006, the United Nations declared that the hall “transcends national boundaries” and is of “common importance for present and future generations of all humanity”.

In addition to its historical and architectural charm, Wroclaw boasts a vibrant scene of trendy bars and vegan-friendly restaurants. Despite economic forecasts predicting that Poland’s economy could surpass that of the UK by the end of the decade, Wroclaw remains a budget-friendly destination for Brits.

Dinner at a local milk bar will set you back between £3 and £5, while a fine dining experience rarely exceeds £25 per person. Beer lovers will find a pint costing around £2.50.

Transport within Wroclaw is affordable and convenient. A bus ticket costs around 60p, a 3km Uber ride costs around £3, and the city’s bike hire scheme offers the first 20 minutes free, then charges just 60p per hour.

Named European Capital of Culture in 2016, Wroclaw has established itself as a vibrant cultural hub. It’s also a popular spot for couples, with 24-hour flower shops and bridges adorned with love locks.

Getting to Wroclaw from the UK is easy, with Ryanair flights available from Manchester, Stansted, East Midlands, Bristol and Bournemouth, with one-way fares starting from £15.