Explore the Towers of Wrocław - A Self-Guided Walk

Your self-guided walking tour of Wrocław begins in the heart of the city at the Market Square (Rynek), one of the most stunning and lively squares in Europe. Surrounded by beautifully restored colorful townhouses, historic landmarks, and bustling cafés, this medieval square is the perfect place to soak in Wrocław’s atmosphere before setting off on your journey. At its center stands the Old Town Hall, an architectural masterpiece with intricate Gothic and Renaissance details, which once served as the city’s administrative hub. As you take in the vibrant surroundings, you might also notice the Wrocław dwarves, the city’s beloved miniature sculptures hidden throughout the square.

Before heading off, take a few moments to explore some of the notable sites around Rynek, including St. Elizabeth’s Church, one of the towers you’ll be climbing later for a breathtaking panoramic view. The nearby Salt Market (Plac Solny), once a trading hub, is now home to a charming 24-hour flower market, adding a touch of color to the historic setting. Whether you grab a coffee from a local café or simply admire the mix of architectural styles, starting your tour in Market Square allows you to immerse yourself in Wrocław’s rich history before setting off toward the first of three towers for a stunning bird’s-eye view of the city.

Ascending the tower of the Garrison Church of St. Elizabeth is a thrilling experience, offering visitors one of the best panoramic views of Wrocław’s Old Town. The climb begins with a narrow, spiraling stone staircase, consisting of over 300 steps that wind their way up through the historic Gothic structure. Though the ascent is steep and requires some effort, small windows along the way provide fleeting glimpses of the city below, building anticipation with each step. As visitors near the top, the air grows cooler, and finally, they emerge onto the open-air observation deck, standing 91 meters above the city streets, greeted by an unparalleled skyline.

At the summit, a breathtaking view of Wrocław unfolds, stretching across the colorful rooftops of Market Square (Rynek), the Oder River, and the many bridges connecting the city’s islands. In the distance, the spires of Ostrów Tumski rise above the skyline, blending medieval charm with modern development. The vantage point captures the essence of Wrocław’s rich architectural heritage, making the climb well worth the effort. Whether bathed in the warm glow of sunrise, the golden light of afternoon, or the hues of sunset, the tower of St. Elizabeth’s Church offers a truly unforgettable perspective on the city’s beauty.

Climbing up to the Penitents’ Bridge (Mostek Pokutnic) in St. Mary Magdalene Cathedral is a thrilling experience that offers one of the best panoramic views of Wrocław. The narrow, winding staircase leading to the top adds an element of adventure, making the climb as memorable as the view itself. Suspended 46 meters above ground, this medieval bridge connects the cathedral’s two Gothic towers, allowing visitors to gaze over the colorful rooftops of the Old Town, the Market Square, and even the Oder River on a clear day. The bridge goes by two names – the Witches’ Bridge and the Bridge of Penitence – reflecting the two legends surrounding it.

Legend of the Penitents’ Bridge

One of the most famous legends tied to the Penitents’ Bridge is the story of the Sinners’ Bell (Dzwon Grzesznika). According to local myth, the bell tolls on its own whenever an unfaithful woman or a dishonest person passes beneath it, revealing their sins to all around. This legend likely stems from the belief that the bridge was once used to punish young women who neglected their household duties, forcing them to repent by sweeping its heights. Whether fact or fiction, the tale of the Sinners’ Bell adds an air of mystery and intrigue to this already fascinating site. Today, visitors climb the bridge not out of penance, but for the spectacular view and the chance to experience one of Wrocław’s most legendary landmarks.

Legend of the Witches’ Bridge

According to some accounts, the bridge was also used as a method to identify suspected witches in a variation of the ‘trial by cold water’. Accused women were forced to walk across the bridge’s railing from the north to the south side; unsurprisingly and sadly, many fell the 45 meters to their deaths attempting this trial. Those who succeeded were accused of being helped by the devil and burned at the stake.

Legend of the Bell Founder

​The legend concerning the bell founder of St. Mary Magdalene Cathedral in Wrocław is documented in various sources. According to these accounts, an apprentice bell-founder made an error during the casting of the Sinner’s Bell. Fearing severe repercussions, he confessed to his master, who, in a fit of rage, killed the apprentice. Upon later inspection, the bell was found to be flawless. Overcome with guilt, the master bell-founder confessed to his crime and requested that the bell toll one last time before his execution. The Sinner’s Bell remained in the cathedral’s south tower from 1386 until it was destroyed in 1945. ​

Visiting the Collegium Maximum or Mathematical Tower at Wrocław University is a journey through history, science, and stunning panoramic views. Located within the main building of Wrocław University, this historic tower was once a hub for astronomical observations and mathematical studies. Built between 1728 and 1737, the Mathematical Tower was originally one of three planned towers within the university complex. Visitors begin their tour in the western section of the building, passing through temporary exhibitions on the first floor and an astronomy-themed exhibit on the second floor. The terrace is adorned with four statues representing allegories of different sciences, designed by Franz Mangoldt. With a single ticket, visitors can explore multiple attractions within the Museum of the University of Wrocław, including the Mathematical Tower, Aula Leopoldinum, Oratorium Marianum, and the Exposition.

The Mathematical Tower provides one of Wrocław’s best viewpoints. After climbing the winding staircase, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Oder River, Old Town, and Wrocław’s skyline, including its numerous church spires and bridges. The open-air terrace offers a unique bird’s-eye perspective on the city’s blend of Gothic, Baroque, and modern architecture.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is one of Wrocław’s most significant religious and architectural landmarks, towering over Ostrów Tumski, the oldest part of the city. Built in the 14th century in Gothic style, the cathedral’s origins stretch back even further, with archaeological research suggesting its foundations date to the 10th century. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, incorporating Renaissance and Baroque influences into its design. However, its most dramatic transformation came after World War II, when the cathedral suffered severe damage during the 1945 Siege of Festung Breslau. The towers, central nave, and much of its interior were devastated, with restoration efforts lasting until the late 1960s, and its domes being added only in the 1990s.

One of the cathedral’s standout features is its viewpoint tower, offering visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of Wrocław. Standing at 97 meters tall, the tower provides one of the highest observation points in the city. Unlike other towers that require a strenuous climb, visitors can easily reach the top by lift, making it an accessible attraction. From the summit, the spectacular views stretch across the Oder River, Ostrów Tumski, and the city skyline, providing a stunning contrast between Wrocław’s historic past and modern development. Open only between June and September, this viewpoint is a must-visit for photographers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience Wrocław from above.

Standing atop Wrocław’s tallest skyscraper, Sky Tower, at 205 meters, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city. From the observation deck on the 49th floor, visitors can take in a sweeping vista of Wrocław’s historic Old Town, the Oder River, and even the distant Sudetes mountains on clear days. As one of the highest viewpoints in Poland, Sky Tower provides a modern contrast to the city’s medieval skyline, blending historic charm with contemporary urban development. Whether visiting for the stunning views, photography, or a unique perspective on Wrocław, this towering landmark is a must-see attraction.