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The pretty city that's the most underrated in Europe - perfect winter holiday

This city is comparatively overlooked, welcoming 5.8 million visitors in 2022.

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By Grace Piercy, News Reporter

View of the old town square of Wrocław, Poland, with the traditional Christmas Market and snowfall

Wroclaw holds an incredible Christmas market every year (Image: Getty)

A city in one of Europe’s most picturesque countries is hugely underrated and could be the perfect winter holiday destination. Wroclaw  isn't quite as famous as Warsaw or Kraków, and is tucked away in Poland's southwest, close to the border with Czechia.

Wroclaw is overlooked, with 5.8 million visitors in 2022 compared to the more than 11 million who visited Kraków  in the same year. While low numbers might suggest people look elsewhere, in Wroclaw's case, it is a blessing for people who want to enjoy the beauty of Poland without clashing with other tourists. The city is also a great spot to visit if you’re hoping to explore some Christmas markets. Located in the Old Town Market Square, the market features wooden stalls selling crafts, food, and drinks, along with festive decorations, a large Christmas tree, and attractions such as carousels and food vendors. Eurochange called it “one of the best in Europe” if you're looking for excellent value for money and an authentic experience. 

Christmas night market place in Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw saw half the visitors Krakow did in 2022 (Image: Getty)

They said two nights of accommodation for two adults costs just £47, and food and drinks are “very affordable”, with mulled wine at a Christmas market being just £3.

The city is a Polish historical hub and boasts a host of landmarks from centuries past. Among them is the Main Market Square, a medieval clearing in the city centre founded according to Magdeburg law under Polish Duke Henry I the Bearded, a member of the Piast dynasty. 

The square has been perfectly preserved by city officials and houses the Museum of Bourgeois Art, and Wroclaw Africarium. Just down the road is the city's pride and joy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of outstanding universal value. 

Centennial Hall, which was built between 1911 and 1913 by Max Berg, "transcends national boundaries" and is "of common importance for present and future generations of all humanity".

Centennial Hall has been dubbed a "landmark in the history of reinforced concrete architecture" and a vital reference for generations of architects exploring the material. 

When it was completed in the early 20th century, the hall boasted the largest reinforced concrete dome in the world. In the 21st century, it continues to provide space for exhibitions, an assembly hall, an auditorium for theatre performances, an exhibition space, and a sports venue.

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