Wroclaw’s Botanical Gardens (Ogród Botaniczny) are among the loveliest gardens in the city. Spread across 18 acres (7.5 hectares), the gardens are home to more 11,500 different species of plants. Go for walk along the gardens’ pleasant paths or enjoy one of the outdoor events that regularly take place here.
Established in the early 19th century, Wroclaw’s Botanical Gardens are the second oldest in the country. Although the area was originally founded for the purpose of ecological research, it has since been opened to the public and become a favorite leisure spot for Wroclaw’s locals. You’ll often see couples posing among the garden’s colorful flowers for wedding shoots.
Admire the many monuments and artworks erected throughout the garden. Try to spot the bust of Swedish botanist Carolus Linnaeus, which was added in the late 19th century. The garden is also home to an interesting 19th-century model depicting the geology of the Polish town of Walbrzych.
Don’t miss the garden’s cactus and palm houses. Examine the different tree species growing here, which include plane trees, oaks and beechwoods. Check out the large artificial pond dominating the center of the garden. It was created from a branch of the River Odra when Cathedral Island was still a true island.
One of the best times of year to visit the garden is in the late spring, when the rhododendrons, irises and powojniki are in bloom. See azaleas blooming in late May, or lilies and peonies in June.
Try to catch one of the many events held at the garden throughout the year, such as the annual Pumpkin Festival in autumn. Visit on a Sunday in the summer to hear classical music concerts.
The Botanical Gardens are open from March to October each year and there is an admission fee. Take the tram to Ostrów Tumski and follow the lane behind St. John the Baptist's Cathedral to reach the gardens.