Holiday on a budget: The Venice of Eastern Europe

We’re all looking for a summer city break that’s full of charm, but doesn’t break the bank.

The ‘Venice of Eastern Europe’ might just be the answer. This southwestern Polish city is spread across 12 islands connected by picturesque canals — but with far fewer crowds and prices that are a fraction of its Italian cousin.

Cheap flights from Spain and the UK

Wroclaw, a city with about 670,000 inhabitants, is not only one of the most beautiful spots in Poland but also one of the most accessible and affordable for British travellers.

Flights can be found for under £30 (about €36), and the journey takes just around two hours. Wroclaw is also cheap if you are traveling from Spain. For example, you can fly from Malaga to Wroclaw at prices starting from €36.55.

Beyond its canals and bridges, Wroclaw has some quirky features of its own. All over the city, you’ll spot tiny bronze dwarf statues, each with its own character and story. Some are tucked into corners, others out in the open, but they’ve become something of a city-wide treasure hunt — great fun for both kids and adults.

One of the most spectacular parts of Wroclaw is Ostrów Tumski, also known as Cathedral Island. With cobbled streets and stunning Gothic architecture, it feels like stepping back in time. Every evening, a lamplighter in a traditional cape and hat appears to light the old gas lamps — a magical moment that’s as charming as it is rare these days.

Wroclaw, a budget-friendly destination

Wroclaw is also a win for budget travellers. You can enjoy a meal at a local restaurant for around £8 (€9.5), sip a cappuccino for under £3 (€3.5), or grab a pint of local beer for the same price.

Compared to the likes of Oslo — recently named the most expensive city break in Europe — it’s an absolute steal. In fact, just two nights in Oslo could set you back over £600, with dinner and drinks alone costing more than your entire trip to Poland.

Back in Wroclaw, the Old Town square is the heart of city life. In winter, it’s home to one of Poland’s best Christmas markets, but in summer, it hosts local fairs, outdoor concerts, and plenty of spots to sit with a drink and soak it all in.

And if you’re travelling with kids, the dwarf hunt adds a unique touch. Since 2005, these little figures have been appearing across the city — now numbering in the hundreds — and they’re one of Wroclaw’s most loved traditions.

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