Venice of the North. A walk along Wrocław's bridges.

"The City of a Hundred Bridges" or "the Venice of the North" – that's what people say about Wrocław for good reason. The capital of Lower Silesia is crisscrossed by branches of the Oder and its tributaries, as well as numerous canals and islands. It was the water that shaped the character of the city – and made bridges its symbol.

How many bridges does Wrocław have?

There are over 130 bridges in Wrocław alone (and if you include footbridges and smaller crossings – the number exceeds 300). That's the most in Poland and one of the highest figures in Europe. No wonder the city is compared to Venice or Amsterdam.

Which bridge is the largest?

In terms of span and modern construction, the Rędziński Bridge stands out – an impressive cable-stayed bridge over the Oder, forming part of Wrocław's motorway bypass. Its distinctive pylon, more than 120 meters high, towers over the area and has become one of the city's new symbols.

Bridges – pride and history

Not all bridges impress with scale. Some of them charm with atmosphere and history:

• Most Grunwaldzki – a steel suspension bridge from the early 20th century, one of Wrocław's most recognizable landmarks. Monumental, elegant, connecting the city center with the eastern part of the city.

• Most Tumski – the oldest preserved bridge in the city, leading to Ostrów Tumski. In the evening, lit by gas lamps, it creates an exceptionally romantic atmosphere.

• Most Zwierzyniecki – an Art Nouveau structure near the Centennial Hall and the zoo, combining elegance with early 20th-century history.

Walking around Wrocław, it's hard not to cross at least a few bridges – often without even noticing that you've just moved to another island or river channel. Each of these structures has its own history and perspective on the city: some offer wide panoramas of the Oder, others let you peek into peaceful, green corners.

If you really want to feel the atmosphere of the "Venice of the North", plan a walk along the bridges – preferably at sunset. That's when Wrocław shows its most picturesque face.

Information:

You can decide the length of the tour yourself. You can get the map you need at the reception.