"The Venice of Poland": The city located on islands that is attracting Israelis

While Poland is becoming one of the most sought–after destinations among Israeli travelers, the city of Wrocław is emerging as one of the biggest surprises of recent years. According to tourism data in a study by Dr. Eran Ketter from the Department of Tourism and Hotel Management at Kinneret Academic College, the number of Israelis flying to Poland grew by 43% during 2025, making it one of the fastest–growing European destinations for the Israeli audience.

Against the backdrop of the search for urban vacations in Europe that offer culture, design, and history outside of the familiar and crowded cities, Wrocław offers an intriguing combination of impressive architecture, a youthful atmosphere, and relatively affordable prices. Here are 5 reasons to put it on your bucket list this summer.

Wrocław, sometimes referred to as the "Venice of Poland," spans numerous islands and is connected by more than 100 bridges along the Oder River. Alongside impressive Gothic and Baroque buildings, the city enjoys a contemporary design scene, vibrant cultural life, and a youthful atmosphere. Unlike more crowded cities such as Vienna or Prague, Wrocław offers a more relaxed pace and a more wallet–friendly vacation. One of the most special buildings in it is the Centennial Hall, built between 1911 and 1913, which is considered a milestone in the field of modern engineering and architecture at the beginning of the 20th century and a trailblazer in the development of reinforced concrete construction, and was even declared a World Heritage site.

The DoubleTree by Hilton Wrocław hotel is located within the OVO Wrocław complex. This is the first building in Poland built in the "blobitecture" style (a current in postmodernism where buildings are characterized by organic, rounded, and flowing shapes, without straight lines or sharp angles) and was designed by the Tel Aviv–based architectural firm Gottesman–Szmelcman. Its white, curved facade, illuminated spaces, and green inner courtyard have made it one of the buildings most identified with the city.

The OVO Wrocław complex functions as an integral part of the local cultural life. During the summer months, a free concert series called JazzOVO takes place there, featuring jazz, blues, soul, and swing performances. In addition, the complex hosts digital art exhibitions in collaboration with the city's Academy of Fine Arts, open–air yoga classes, fashion events, and various community programs.

Whether it is an urban summer vacation, a couples' weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a trip focusing on architecture and design, the hotel offers a broad response. The complex features 189 rooms and suites with views of the city and nearby parks, a spa, an indoor pool, and a central location that allows convenient access to the historic Market Square, Cathedral Island, and the National Museum.

Families will also be able to enjoy a unique route following more than 600 tiny dwarf statues scattered throughout the city – one of the most beloved attractions for visitors to Wrocław.

With the continuous growth in tourism to Poland and the sharp increase in the number of Israeli visitors, Wrocław offers an opportunity to discover a destination that is not yet at the center of attention for most travelers. Alongside developed tourism infrastructure, high–standard hospitality, and cultural richness, it offers a fresh alternative to the familiar European cities.

Poland currently enjoys significant momentum in the tourism industry, and Wrocław stands at the forefront of this trend. For anyone looking for a combination of history, architecture, contemporary design, and an authentic local atmosphere – it may be time to get to know one of the most intriguing cities in Central Europe.