Legacy of the World War II Day Tour from Wroclaw

Wrocław , Poland

Legacy of the World War II Day Tour from Wroclaw

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About this experience

Take a sobering tour, that shows you the complicated heritage of World War II and its lasting impact on the province. Visit the former German Nazi concentration camp of Gross Rosen known for its deadly work conditions in the granite quarry.Find out about the German strategy of extermination through labour. See the mysterious legacy of World War II - the Riese Complex in the Owl Mountains. Enter into the tunnels, find out about potential hypotheses of its purpose, see the guard rooms and spacious hall excavated in stone

Available options

Legacy of the World War II Day Tour from Wroclaw

Pickup included

What's included

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

This tour is designed to show you the complicated heritage of World War II and its lasting impact on the province. You will learn about the inhumane system of forced labor and human suffering in the former Concentration Camp of Gross Rosen, you will visit a mysterious complex of underground tunnels whose purpose still eludes historians to this day, and you will discover facts about German aristocrat Helmuth James von Moltke, who established an anti-Nazi resistance group which became an important symbol in Polish-German reconciliation. The tour starts in the state museum and a former German Nazi concentration camp of Gross Rosen. Originally a sub-camp of Sachsenhausen, from 1941 it became the largest fully autonomous camp in the Silesian province and was known for its deadly work conditions in the granite quarry. Find out about the German state's machine of brutal forced labor and human annihilation. Experience the sobering feeling of visiting the former SS Cantine building, field crematoria, and memorial site while taking some time to reflect upon approximately 40,000 victims of Nazi terror.

Next you will visit sad and at the same time mysterious legacy of World War II is the Complex in the Owl Mountains. The program known under the code name Riese, which means giant in German, was a huge construction endeavour conducted from Autumn 1943 by the famous paramilitary organization Todt. The inmates, mainly from the Gross Rosen camp, worked in deadly conditions excavating the system of tunnels and shafts. Visit a part of the program in Walim, enter into the tunnels, find out about potential hypotheses of its purpose, see the guard rooms and spacious hall excavated in stone. Please note that there is a stable temperature of approx. 5-7 degrees Celsius and humidity of 98% through the whole year inside the tunnels, so please do not forget to take closed shoes and warm clothes with you. The visit in the complex takes approximately 1 hour.

What's not included

On the way to the tunnels, we arrange a stop in the local restaurant to have a lunch

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Wrocław

Wrocław, Poland's fourth-largest city, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and architecture. Known for its picturesque Market Square, charming old town, and numerous bridges, it offers a unique blend of medieval charm and modern energy. The city's rich history, diverse architecture, and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in Poland.

Top Attractions

Market Square (Rynek)

The heart of Wrocław, Market Square is one of the largest medieval market squares in Europe. Surrounded by colorful townhouses, historic buildings, and lively cafes, it's a must-visit.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Wrocław Cathedral

A stunning example of Gothic architecture, Wrocław Cathedral is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (tower climb: ~10 PLN)

Centennial Hall (Hala Stulecia)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Centennial Hall is an iconic example of early 20th-century modernist architecture. It hosts various events and exhibitions.

Architecture/Historical 1-2 hours Free (events and exhibitions may have fees)

Wrocław Zoo

One of the oldest and most renowned zoos in Poland, Wrocław Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and beautiful botanical gardens.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 hours ~40 PLN for adults, ~25 PLN for children

Panorama of the Battle of Racławice

A massive 360-degree painting depicting the Battle of Racławice, this panoramic artwork is a unique and immersive experience.

Historical/Cultural 1 hour ~20 PLN

Must-Try Local Dishes

Śląskie Kluski z Bryndzą

A traditional Silesian dish made with potato dumplings and sheep's cheese.

Main Course Contains dairy and gluten

Makowiec

A popular Polish pastry filled with poppy seed paste.

Dessert Contains nuts and gluten

Zapiekanka

A popular street food consisting of a half-baguette topped with various ingredients, typically mushrooms and cheese.

Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in Karkonosze National Park Cycling around Wrocław Kayaking on the Oder River Visiting the Japanese Garden Spa and wellness treatments Strolling through Market Square Exploring museums and galleries Attending festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and events.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Polish
Widely spoken: English, German
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Polish Złoty (PLN)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Wrocław is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or app-based services
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Copper Airport Wrocław • 10 km from city center

By train

Wrocław Główny

By bus

Wrocław Bus Station, Wrocław Airport Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is efficient and covers most of the city. Tickets can be purchased at stations or via the Jakdojade app.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Stare Miasto (Old Town) Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island) Naprzod Sródmieście

Day trips

Karkonosze National Park

60 km from Wrocław • Full day

A stunning national park in the Karkonosze Mountains, offering beautiful hiking trails, scenic views, and outdoor activities.

Jelenia Góra

80 km from Wrocław • Full day

A charming town in the Karkonosze Mountains, known for its historic architecture, museums, and proximity to nature.

Legnickie Pole

20 km from Wrocław • Half day

A small town near Wrocław, known for its historical significance and the Battle of Legnica museum.

Festivals

Jazz Festival • May Wratislavia Cantans • September Wrocław Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Explore the city's hidden gnomes (dwarfs) by joining a guided tour or using a gnome map
Visit the Panorama of the Battle of Racławice for a unique and immersive historical experience
Stroll through the Japanese Garden for a peaceful and scenic escape from the bustling city
Try local specialties like Śląskie Kluski z Bryndzą and Makowiec at traditional Polish restaurants
Use the Jakdojade app for real-time public transport schedules and navigation