Alternative European city breaks

Wroclaw, Poland

Although tricky to pronounce, Wroclaw is a city of history and awe. A more manageable version of Krakow (but not without its quirky differences), Wroclaw has absorbed Bohemian, Austrian and Prussian influences to become a melting pot of stunning architecture, culture and commerce. Centralised by the magnificent market square (Rynek), the city boasts 12 islands (of which Cathedral Island is a particular gem for lovers of Gothic architecture), over 130 bridges and bankside parks flanking the winding Oder River. Poland’s fourth largest city is also a major industrial, commercial and educational centre for the region, and this, combined with a lively cultural centre, buzzing nightlife (the city’s contemporary side is home to gems such as art and party space Neon Side Gallery) and large student community culminate in a thriving, has-to-be-seen city.