Let`s Create a City!

Let’s Create a City!
A Handbook for Newcomers
to Wroclaw
www.wroclaw.pl
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Check out these places!
Top 5 tourist attractions in Wrocław
Wrocław is becoming an increasingly popular destination for both Polish and international
tourists. Indeed in its Scout Report 2007 (published in September 2007), BudgetTravel.com
named Wrocław one of the best 10 yet-to-be-discovered places in the world. The author praised
Wrocław for having “the prettiest plaza in Poland and perhaps in all of Central Europe.” To get you
started on your discovery of Wrocław, below you will find a list of the top five tourist attractions in
Wrocław. Enjoy!
MARKET SQUARE (RYNEK)
The Market Square pulses with life day or night. The Old Town Hall (Ratusz) is one of the most
important historic monuments in Poland. A pearl of gothic and renaissance architecture, the
building is rich in beautifully carved stone details and boasts a striking astronomical clock. Many of
the colorful buildings on the Market Square have retained their historic names: Under the Seven
Electors, Under the Golden Sun. Under the Golden Dog and the Hansel and Gretel houses.
CATHEDRAL ISLAND
Cathedral Island (Ostrów Tumski) is the oldest part of Wrocław. Picturesquely situated along the
Odra River, this former stronghold today offers a feast to the eye and senses. Don’t miss the
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the spiritual center of Wrocław. Also take a stroll through the
lovely Botanic Garden. Established in 1811 as a research institute of the University of Wrocław, the
Garden showcases plant collections brought to Wrocław from natural habitats around the world.
WROCŁAW UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1702, Wrocław University is an important national center of learning. For tourists a
must see is the main university building, including the Aula Leopoldina and Oratorium Marianum
– richly decorated baroque auditoria where ceremonies, distinguished lectures and concerts are
held. Also make the climb to the mathematical tower and the astronomical observatory where
you’ll find a great view of Wrocław!
RACŁAWICE PANORAMA
For a fascinating view of 19th century mass media, visit the Racławice Panorama, a monumental
painting that depicts the Battle of Racławice of April 4, 1794. Painted to commemorate the 100th
anniversary of the pivotal moment of the Kościuszki Insurrection, the Panorama today attracts
some 1,600 visitors on a daily basis. The work measures 120 x 15 meters, and is displayed in a
specially-constructed rotunda.
[ vW
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t scw
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]
ław
If this is your first visit to Wrocław, you are in for a pleasant surprise.
Wrocław – a place many of you may never have heard of – is today is a
vibrant, historic city on the forefront of change in New Europe.
Here at the Municipality of Wrocław, we are convinced that the city will
prove to be not only a good place for you to work, but also a great place to
live.
Whether you are making the move to Wrocław to join your
comapny or to accompany a spouse or partner, getting your bearings in a
new place can be a daunting task. This publication aims to help expats and
their families to get oriented quickly in Wrocław so they can settle down
and enjoy life in this intriguing and fun metropolis on the Odra River.
Wrocław is full of young people. As a university town, it is home to more than 130,000 students
that are enrolled in 22 higher education institutions. But Wrocław’s youth and dynamism can
also be attributed to its history. In the aftermath of the devastation and shifting national borders
wrought by the Second World War, Wrocław was entirely resettled by Poles, who in a pioneering
spirit began raising the city from wartime destruction and making it their new home. So in effect,
everyone is a newcomer to Wrocław.
This unique heritage explains in part why Wrocław is a particularly friendly and accessible city. The
superior quality of life is enhanced by Wrocław’s location on verdant islands that are connected by
more than 100 bridges. The city’s busy calendar of cultural events offers something for everyone
year round. The natural beauty of the surrounding countryside also makes Wrocław an ideal
gateway for weekend excursions or longer vacations.
So welcome to Wrocław. We hope that you too will soon be calling it home.
Rafał Dutkiewicz
Mayor of Wrocław
CENTENNIAL HALL
At the time of its completion in 1913, Centennial Hall required superlatives to describe. Not only was
it the largest reinforced concrete structure in the world, it also featured the biggest dome to have
been constructed since the Pantheon in Rome 18 centuries earlier. Added to UNESCO’s prestigious
list of World Heritage Sites in 2006, the complex is one of the most important achievements in 20th
century architecture.
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At a Glance
Getting There
Wrocław is the capital of the province of Lower Silesia
and Poland’s fourth largest city. Ranked as the 33rd
largest city in the European Union, Wrocław
is a strong economic, academic and cultural center.
Five key factors make Wrocław an interesting and fun
place to live:
4. Quality of Life – Wrocław is a vibrant
entertainment and cultural center. Spread out
along the Odra River, this green city offers ample
opportunities for living active lifestyles. Many expats
also find Wrocław a very safe place to live,
especially for their children.
Situated in the geographic center of Europe, Wrocław is
easy to reach by air, road and rail. The city is four hours
by car from Berlin, Prague and Warsaw. Five European
capitals are within 400 kilometers of the metropolis.
1. Superb Location – situated strategically between
Prague, Warsaw and Berlin, Wrocław offers
a developed transportation network that connects
the metropolis with the whole of the continent and
beyond. Wrocław can serve as an excellent base to
explore Lower Silesia, Poland and Central Europe.
5. Central European Microcosm – Wroclavians
share a common heritage not only with other Poles,
but also in part with citizens of today’s Austria,
Czech Republic and Germany. While very much
future oriented, today’s Wroclavians identify with
the city’s multicultural and multi-layered heritage.
Wrocław’s Copernicus Airport is located ten kilometers
from the historic center of the city. Like other regional
airports in Poland, Copernicus has grown significantly
over the last decade and continues to expand its services
for international business travelers and tourists. In 2007,
the airport served 1.2 million passengers, a jump of
48% over 2006 levels. From autumn 2007 to summer
2008, 10 new routes will have been launched including
Barcelona, Bournemouth, Bristol, Doncaster Sheffield,
Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf Weeze, Frankfurt Hahn, London
Luton and Rome. Copernicus Airport offers professional
VIP, ground and cargo services. A new passenger
terminal is currently in the works that will steadily
increase the airport’s annual passenger capacity to
3.2 million by 2010 and 5.7 million in 2012.
2. Strong Business Center – international business
and entrepreneurship thrive in Wrocław. The city
offers a competitive and dynamic setting for
investors, and an excellent place to build a career.
3. Youthful Optimism – what strikes most first
time visitors is the large number of young people
in Wrocław, something that lends the city
a distinctly optimistic and forward looking feel.
In Wrocław every sixth resident is a student.
Basic facts about Wrocław:
• Population: 633,700
• Metropolitan Wrocław’s population: 945,000
• Capital of Lower Silesia
(population of approx. 3 million)
• Within driving distance to Prague, Berlin, Warsaw
The following cities are served via Copernicus
International:
Connections
By Air
Destination
Airline
Flights
per week
Barcelona Girona
Ryanair
2
Bournemouth
Ryanair
3 (start 3.04.2008)
Bristol
Ryanair
4
Brussels
PLL/LCT
6
Copenhagen
Cimber Air
6
Cork
Centralwings
2
Doncaster Sheffield
Wizz Air
2
Dortmund
Wizz Air
4
Dublin
Centralwings
3
Ryanair
4
Düsseldorf
Lufthansa
6 (start 30.03.2008)
Düsseldorf Weeze
Ryanair
3 (start 1.04.2008)
Frankfurt
PLL LOT
7
Frankfurt Hahn
Ryanair
3 (start 30.03.2008)
Glasgow
Ryanair
3
Liverpool
Ryanair
3
London Gatwick
Centralwings
4
London Luton
Wizz Air
5
London Stansted
Ryanair
10
Milan Malpensa
Munich
Volare
3
Lufthansa
14
PLL LOT
14
Nottingham East Midlands
Ryanair
4
Oslo
Norwegian
Rome Ciampino
Centralwings
Shannon
Ryanair
3
Warsaw
PLL LOT
51
2
3 (start 31.03.2008)
Visualization of New Airport Terminal. Completion Date: 2010.
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You Are Not Alone
Poles are known for their hospitality, and overall they
are open to and curious about newcomers. Indeed one
of the most popular weekly entertainment programs on
Polish TV stars groups of foreigners living and working in
Poland. Increasingly, people on the street speak English
(along with other foreign languages), and they are willing
to point the way. For more information about life in
Poland, visit www.poland.gov.pl.
short cut
While precise statistics are not available, in recent years
the size of the expat community in Wrocław has grown
significantly, largely due to the success in attracting major
international investments to the city and region. Today
more than 3,000 companies with foreign capital run
operations in Wrocław. The 30 leading foreign investors
alone have spent well over €5 billion launching ventures
in the Wrocław agglomeration.
GETTING STARTED IN POLISH!
While the language may seem difficult – especially
the seemingly endless combinations of consonant
clusters that make pronunciation a real challenge
– Poles tend to be very receptive to foreigners who
try to communicate in Polish. So break the ice!
Here are 15 useful words and phrases to help you
get started:
Cześć! [chesht]
Hi, Goodbye
(like Ciao in Italian)
Dzień dobry [gin dobry]
Good morning, Hello
Dobry wieczór
[dobry vyechohr]
Good evening
Dobranoc [dobranotz]
Good night
Proszę [proshe]
Please or you’re welcome
Dziękuję bardzo!
[jeankooye bard-zo]
Thank you very much
Jak się masz? [yak shye mash] How are you? (informal)
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Tak/Nie [tak/nye]
Yes/No
Przepraszam [psheprashaam]
Excuse me/I apologize
Nie mówię po polsku.
[nye moovye po polsku]
I don’t speak Polish
Poproszę piwo
[poproshe peevo]
I’d like a beer, please
Na zdrowie! [na zdrovye]
Cheers! To your health!
Do zobaczenia we Wrocławiu!
[dough zobaachenya
ve vrotswaviyu]
See you soon in Wrocław!
Sense of Community
Consular Services
International Friends of Wrocław
Your country’s embassy or consulate can be a good
source of information about life in Poland. Many
embassies or consulates can provide information on
everything from approved health care providers to
schools and emergency services, so it may be useful to
contact and register with them. Most embassies and
consulates are located in Warsaw and Krakow. However,
Wrocław is home to nine consulates: the General
Consulate for Germany; and the honorary consulates of
Austria, Bulgaria, Denmark, the Netherlands, Mexico,
Philippines, Sweden as well as the United Kingdom and
Northern Ireland.
Many of the expat families have become active in
International Friends of Wrocław (IFW). IFW serves
as an informal social club and support network for
international families or singles living and working
in Wrocław. At present, the IFW brings together
approximately 125 families representing 25 nationalities.
Club members meet and socialize regularly in spacious
premises located on the Market Square provided by the
Municipality of Wrocław since 2004. The life of IFW and
its calendar of events depend largely on the priorities
and commitments of its members. The club hosts a
weekly Coffee Morning every Wednesday at around
11.00. The IFW also strives to build links between its
members and the larger town community.
IFW also serves as an information clearinghouse where
expats exchange ideas and contacts related to expat life
in Wrocław. The bulletin boards in the club’s entry way
post members’ recommendations for schools, weekend
getaways, good restaurants, doctors, real estate agents,
massage therapists, etc. etc.
The IFW’s message to newcomers to Wrocław is simple:
don’t be alone. The IFW offers a great place to make
new friends and serves as an invaluable resource that
will make getting settled here that much easier. For
information about life in Wrocław or joining the IFW,
visit their webpage at:
internationalfriendsofwroclaw.googlepages.com.
In recent years, the IFW has worked closely with the
Wrocław Art Academy and a local oncology hospital, and
the Club has organized art exhibits and charity events to
help support these local organizations.
Here is a list of just some of the activities IFW members
are involved in at the beginning of 2008:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Cooking Club
Ikebana Workshop
Yoga
Beauty Club
Style Workshop (Pattern making and fitting)
Cheese Workshop
Flower Arrangement Workshop
English, Japanese and Polish Lessons
Cultural Club
Oil Painting Club
Seasonal Baking Club
Additionally, on most Sundays, club members meet up
for a two hour mountain bike ride at Mt. Ślęza, about 30
kilometers south of Wrocław. IFW also organizes regular
field trips to places like Bolesławiec to visit the worldfamous ceramic factories, or to other large production
facilities for a unique behind-the-scene look at the innerworkings of international companies.
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Finding housing in any new city can be a real challenge.
Wrocław is no exception. The housing market here has
changed dramatically in recent years: new apartment
complexes and homes have cropped up across the
city; at the same time, historic buildings are undergoing
renovation adding diversity in terms of choice of living
options.
But with the boom in the real estate market, and
accompanying improvement in quality, housing prices
have gone up significantly. Indeed, one thing that
surprises newcomers is that housing costs in Wrocław
can reach as high as those found in many West
European cities – whether you are looking to rent or
buy. (Another big surprise is the high living standards
available in rental properties!)
The challenge can be compounded by a wide array
of other differences – cultural, language and legal,
to name a few. Based on the experience of some
foreigners living in Wroclaw, finding a good real estate
or relocation agent may be the key to getting settled
and feeling at home.
Here are a few tips to help you in your search for an
agent:
• Find an agent that speaks English or another foreign
language you feel comfortable doing business in
• Make sure the agent is willing to search for
housing in the part of town that meets your family’s
requirements
• It’s important the agent understands and adheres
carefully to the procedures regarding renting
a property. A properly-worded contract,
for example, will be important when you complete
other formalities pertaining to your stay as
a foreigner in Poland (see pages 14–15)
• A good agent may be willing to assist you in
navigating the labyrinth of administrative tasks
associated with moving to a new location such
as arranging for utilities, getting a telephone
or cable TV
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Housing Basics
Be prepared to answer some basic questions before
meeting with your agent:
1. How large an apartment do you need?
• How many people will be living with you?
• How many rooms are required?
2. What’s your budget?
• How much money can you spend on
housing on a monthly basis?
3. What are your lifestyle priorities?
• Do you want to live in the center of action
in the Market Square or are you looking
for a quieter setting surrounded by parks,
greenery and recreation centers?
• Is it important to be within walking
distance to your work? Do you need easy
access to public transport? Do you need
a guarded parking facility or a private
garage for your car?
Another thing to keep in mind before you launch your
housing search: major road works are underway in every
part of the city, so getting around Wrocław, especially
during rush hour, can take time. When considering
which neighborhood is best for you, it may be useful to
determine first whether your priority is living in close
proximity to work, your children’s schools, shopping
centers or recreation complexes. To help you narrow
down your search, the map on pages 12–13 is intended
to introduce you to key city neighborhoods where a wide
choice of quality rental property is available.
REAL ESTATE IN POLISH
Whether surfing the Internet, scouring the newspaper or
working with an agent, this list of key Polish words should
assist you in your hunt:
Nieruchomość
Real estate
Umowa najmu
Rental contract
Wynajem
For rent
Mieszkanie
Apartment/flat
Dom
House
Dom szeregowy
Terrace or attached house
Sypialnia
Bedroom
Salon
Living room
WC
Toilet
Łazienka
Bathroom
Kuchnia
Kitchen
Piętro
Floor (as in 1st, 2nd, 3rd floor)
Ogród
Garden
Ulica
Street
Dzielnica
Neighborhood/area
Czynsz
Rent
Koszty eksploatacyjne
Facility or maintenance charges
short cut
Making the Move
The information on the housing and real estate
market in Wrocław was prepared with the
support of:
9
Housing Sampler
The following case studies should give you a sense of
the range of housing available on the Wroclaw rental
market in terms of size, location, quality and costs.
Prices are given in Polish Zlotys (PLN).
Case Study 3: Midtown Historic Apartment
Type of housing
Apartment in historic townhouse
Location
Śródmieście
Street
ul. Prusa
Area
85 m2
Floor
3rd with elevator/lift access
Number of rooms
Four rooms, kitchen, bathroom, toilet, large entrance hall
Description
Furnished apartment in recently renovated, beautiful historic townhouse. Furnishings
and appliances are new.
Odra Riv
er
Parking
Public parking , 5 minutes walk
Environs
Colorful neighborhood in transition with a wide variety of small stores and services.
Near the Botanic Garden, Cathedral Island and other historic landmarks.
(
Access
Good access to the center by car, public transport and on foot
Other features
Rooms with 3.8 meter-high ceilings. Apartment windows look out onto the
'
Nowowiejski Park and the historic townhouses in the area.
&
)
Price
PLN 2,500/month + electricity, water and heating
*
Case Study 4: Large and Luxurious
Case Study 1: Kawalerka
Type of housing
Kawalerka (Polish for “single-room flat”)
Location
Wrocław-South: Grabiszynek
Street
ul. Rymarska
Area
30 m2
Floor
2nd
Number of rooms
One room with attached kitchen; bathroom with toilet; small entry hall.
Description
Furnished apartment, new appliances including dish-washer. Bathroom contains a
shower and high quality tiles. Wood windows with external shades, burglar-proof door.
TV and stereo equipment.
Parking
No dedicated parking
Environs
Close to park and recreation areas
Access
Very good access to center and A4 Motorway
Other features
Located in new, fully monitored apartment complex. Excellent location for someone
who places emphasis on security and active leisure time possibilities.
Price
PLN 1,800/month + electricity, water and heating
Type of housing
Apartment/Flat
Location
Wrocław-South/Krzyki
Street
ul. Poranna
Area
95 m2
Floor
Situated on the 3rd and 4th floors, no elevator
Number of rooms
Three rooms on two floors. Downstairs: living room with attached kitchen, toilets.
Upstairs: two bedrooms, bathroom and closets.
Description
Finished to a very high standard: marble, steel, wood, designer fittings
Parking
30 m2 garage next to entrance gate
Environs
Well-maintained neighborhood with variety of small stores and services (hairdresser,
post office, etc.)
Access
Well connected to city center by public transport and by car. Easy access to A4
Motorway.
Other features
Picture windows with a beautiful view of Ślęża Mountain, 30 kilometers to the south
of Wrocław.
Price
PLN 4,000/month + electricity, water, heating
Case Study 5: Single-family Home
Case Study 2: Two-rooms in Muchobór
Type of housing
Attached single-family home in terrace-style complex
Type of housing
Apartment
Location
Wrocław-South/Krzyki
Location
Muchobór Wielki
Street
Near ul. Świeradowska
Street
ul. Trawowa
Area
186 m2
Area
55 m2
Floor
Two floors plus completely renovated basement
Floor
3rd
Number of rooms
Ground floor: Living room with fireplace and outdoor terrace, kitchen with new
Number of rooms
Two rooms, kitchen, bathroom, toilets, entryway
appliances, small entryway, toilet; Upstairs: three bedrooms, closets, large bathroom
Description
Furnished apartment with fully equipped kitchen. Bathroom finished with high quality
with bathtub and shower; Basement: heated and tiled.
fittings.
Completed in 2000, the home is finished to a high standard. Partially furnished with
possibility of complete furnishings. Small garden.
Dedicated indoor parking
Environs
A neighborhood with many new housing developments, a variety of small stores and
Parking
Two-car parking garage
services. Offers open spaces, meadows, fields and places to walk.
Environs
Located on a quiet street with single-family homes; stores, shopping centers, fitness
Access
Good access by car to the city center and to the airport
Other features
Apartment finished using natural materials, such as wood. Pleasant furnishings. Stereo
Access
Excellent access to center of town
and TV equipment included.
Other features
Ideal for a family
PLN 2,000/month + electricity, water, heating
Price
PLN 7,000 + all maintenance and utility costs
Price
10
Description
Parking
club and other services nearby. Parks within walking distance.
11
Stare Miasto (Old Town)
Muchobór-Maślice
Śródmieście (Midtown)
The economic and cultural center of the
city, rental property is available in two
areas:
• Rynek (Market Square): Pre-war rental
properties found usually on upper
floors without lifts.
- Prices: PLN 40–80/m2. Rentals in
new buildings (limited availability) go
for PLN 60–100. Apartments of
more than 100 m2 with parking are
extremely rare.
• Just-off Rynek: within a radius of a 15
minute walk, this city center area offers
more options:
- New buildings completed to a very
high standard with monitored
entrances and underground parking.
Usually furnished, prices range from
PLN 50–70/m2.
- Pre-war townhouses can vary in
quality. Most refurbished apartments
are available in buildings awaiting
general renovation. Apartments
Szczecin
can feature high ceilings and
enomous rooms.
- Prices: PLN 30–40/m2, however
furnishing and decorating costs can
push the price tag up to new
apartment rent levels.
Muchobór: Situated close to the airport,
access to most areas of Wrocław is fairly
easy by car. Public transport: limited.
Housing available in low three–four storey
buildings with dedicated parking spaces or
underground garages. Usually furnished,
average apartment sizes range from
30–100 m2. Prices: PLN 30–40/m2
A mostly historic neighborhood dominated
by old townhouses dating back to the early
20th century. Pre-war apartments are
large and spacious; many have undergone
extensive interior modernization. Overall,
the area appears run-down due to lack of
extensive revitalization.
• Buildings are multi-storey without lifts.
• Limited dedicated parking
• Excellent location for easy access to
Old Town. Public Transport: city bus,
tram.
• Prices in historic buildings:
PLN 20–25/m2
• Newly-built apartment complexes
offer high standards.
• Prices: PLN 40–60/m2
Maślice: Two types of rental properties:
1. Similar to those found in Muchobór
2. Attached terrace houses with gardens
and garages. Size: 100–120 m2;
Prices: PLN 30–40/m2. Access by car:
good. Public transport: limited.
Poznań
Odra R
iver
Zakrzów
So
M
Maślice
aś
li
2
o
steg
ywou
Krz
iego
Sienkiewicza
ska
a
ińsk
iecka
Gajowice
Halle
kie
g
Partynice
W
yso
ka
Cz
Berlin
Ołtaszyn
Bielany
Prague
Borowska
gow
a
noska
a
osk
kon
Kar
ek
ola
do
wa
Klecina
Wy
ści
Karko
a
Grota-Roweckiego
So
ls
ow
Kraków
a
elk
Biskupin
Armii Krajowej
Gaj
Krzyki
rm
o
Bardzk
Ka
iego
Huby
o
ra
Borek
Oporów
Bielany
Sępolno
Olszewsk
Tow
n
skieg
Gra
Grabiszyn
Wrocław-South
Piłsu
d
icza
kiew
Mic
Śl.
Krzemien
Old
ńska
biszy
Gajowicka
Muchobór
Pl
K. Wielkiego
Zalesie
w
Str
Klec
iń
M
z
a
sk
i
ldzk
nwa
ru
ac G
Rynek
Ślęż
na
a
m
ego
Po
ws
tań
có
Graniczn
Kochanowskiego
a
ska
Kiełczów
Wilczyce
Zacisze
Wyszyń
sk
ick
ości
gn
ka
Jedn
Żernic
Pomorska
Le
j
owe
rod
Na
Wrocła
w
Brückn
cza
Kiełczowska
Zgorzelisko
era
1
Lotn
i
12
Stary
Mirków
a
nautów
Situated just outside the city limits to the
south of Wrocław and the A4 Motorway.
• Housing is mixed: new single-family
homes, newly built apartment
complexes, old pre-war structures.
• Access by car: very good both to the
city center as well as to the
motorway.
• Near to greenfield investments such
as LG Technology Park and the
shopping centers at Bielany Junction.
• Apartments: PLN 30–50/m2
• Houses: PLN 50–80/m2
3
iego
Psie Pole runs from midtown Wrocław to
the far northeast edge of the city, and pools
the largest quantity of rental property.
Three areas are worth considering:
Around Kromera Square, 20 minutes
1 by foot to the city center. Public
transport: Tram. Close to the Odra;
colorful historic neighborhoods.
Price: PLN 35/m2.
The area offers access to green, open
2 spaces along the Widawa River. Public
transport: city bus or train. Access by
car difficult due to bridge work.
Price: PLN 20–40/m2.
Just outside the city limits, new
3 developments feature single-family
detached and terrace houses for rent.
Price: PLN 30–40/m2.
ck
Królewiecka
International Airport
Warsaw
sk
bie
Kosmo
Encompassing some nine neighborhoods
this enormous area runs from the center
of town to the city’s southern edge.
Large parks, green spaces and offers
ample recreation opportunities. Housing
is mixed: historic single family and multifamily dwellings, newly built apartment
complexes.
• Rentals often found in new
developments of a high standard with
garages and security. Detached houses
and villas with private gardens also
available.
• Access by car: Excellent
Public transport: well developed
• Prices in Borek, Grabiszynek, Krzyki,
Oporów: PLN 50–100/m2
• Prices in Klecina, Wojszyce, Partynice,
Ołtaszyn and Wysoka: PLN 30/m2
Psie Pole (Dogs’ Fields)
Wojszyce
Wielka Wyspa (The Big Island)
The Big Island features charming, historic
neighborhoods with large parks and ample
recreation opportunities along the river.
Largely pre-war single family and multifamily dwellings; rentals are also available
in vintage 1970’s blocks. If renovated,
living standards can be very comfortable.
• Moderate prices: PLN 20–40/m2
• Access by car difficult
• Well-developed public transport
13
Closing the Deal
Other Formalities
Once you find an apartment you will need to negotiate
a rental contract, make a down payment and arrange
for utilities and services, including heat, water,
electricity, telephone, Internet and TV.
Every country has its rules and bureaucracy. Here we
touch on the key formalities you will most likely have to
go through to legalize your stay in Poland.
A properly worded rental contract must include
information about the apartment owner, in particular,
their legal basis for ownership, such as a notary act.
Once again, most expats recommend using a reputable
real estate or relocation agency to assist in not only
finding the right apartment, but also in helping manage
the contract process. A good real estate agency will
also help you avoid being over-charged on rent.
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The role of the agency includes:
• Negotiating and preparing a proper rental
agreement
• Preparing a hand-over report
14
Residence Registration
Polish law requires that citizens and temporary residents
inform the authorities of their place of stay while in
Poland. While rarely checked, the piece of paper
confirming your place of residence (in Polish: meldunek)
is a prerequisite for completing other formalities such as
acquiring a temporary resident permit or a work visa.
While the owner of your rented apartment or house
does not need to be present for the actual registration,
you will need their cooperation in order to complete the
process. In particular, at the time of registration, you must
present a rental contract that contains information stating
the landlord’s legal basis of ownership of the house or
apartment.
If you will be the first to live in a newly-built apartment,
you must also present a copy of the developer’s
contract, which proves ownership rights, and a technical
acceptance certificate that confirms that construction
work has been completed and the apartment is ready for
habitation.
Residence Permits
BEFORE YOU MOVE IN
Here are some words and expressions in Polish that you might
need to know before you move into your new apartment or
house.
Biuro nieruchomości
Real estate agency
Umowa najmu
Rental contract
Prąd
Electricity
Gaz
Gas
Woda
Water
Telefon
Telephone
Internet
Internet
Usługi telekomunikacyjne
Telecommunication services
Radio i telewizja
Radio and television
Protokół
zdawczo-odbiorczy
Hand-over report
Zapisać liczniki
Recording opening balance
on utility meters
In Wrocław, resident and work permits are handled by
specialized divisions in the Lower Silesian Voivodship
Office (Dolnośląski Urząd Wojewódzki. Abbreviation:
DUW), the representative of the central government in
the region. In the case of resident permits, you will deal
with the Foreign Citizens’ Office at DUW.
Under European law, EU citizens have a right to reside in
any of the 25 member-states, so their application process
for temporary residence is fairly straight forward and
somewhat automatic. For other foreigners, the process
takes longer, is more complicated and costly. Most
importantly, for non-EU citizens in particular, you must
launch the application process for temporary residence 45
days before your right to stay in Poland expires.
While the procedures may differ depending on the
country of origin, in applying for temporary residence, be
prepared to:
1. Complete the temporary residence application
form. The application is in three languages, but
must be completed in Polish.
2. Attach a copy of your passport or another valid
travel document.
3. Attach a copy of the document confirming your
place of stay in Poland.
4. Attach a copy of the document confirming your
legal right to occupy the apartment or house you
are living in.
5. Attach a confirmation that you have Prove that you
are covered by medical insurance.
6. Demonstrate you have enough funds to support
yourself while in Poland (might be a credit card,
a recent bank statement or an employment contract).
Work Permits
Citizens of the European Union and Island, Norway,
Liechtenstein and Switzerland do not need a permit to
work legally in Poland. However, they must secure a
temporary resident permit if they intend to work for
more than 90 days in the country.
Non-EU citizens must receive a work permit to get a job
in Poland. Work permits for foreigners are handled by the
Social Policy Department at DUW. The actual application
for a work permit is usually made by the employer.
READ MORE ABOUT IT
Make sure you get reliable professional advice to help you
navigate quickly through the Polish legal system as it pertains
to your particular situation. But if you would like to read more
about the rules and regulations regarding living and working
legally in Poland, check out the websites below:
www.udsc.gov.pl: Practical information in English, French
and German.
www.poland.gov.pl: Loads of information. Click on
Foreigner in Poland
www.paiz.gov.pl: Click on the Polish Law link for
information about living, working and running a business in
Poland.
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According to many expats and their guides in Poland,
a properly worded rental contract is key to moving
forward with these apartment-related formalities, and,
more importantly, for registering your whereabouts for
legal purposes and securing temporary Polish residency
too.
• Photographing the apartment at the time of signing
the contract
• Recording the opening balance on utility meters
• If needed, arrange for a sworn translation of rental
contract and assist in finding a multi-lingual lawyer
accustomed to dealing with an international
clientele
On average the agency fee will run approximately the
equivalent of one-month’s rent.
www.duw.pl: The webpage of DUW. Click on
Cudzoziemcy under the Poradnik Klienta and the
BIP DUW. Clearly presented, but unfortunately only in
Polish.
15
Getting Out
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Wrocław is a lively city day or night. With so many
thriving, dynamic companies based in Wrocław
along with the large pool of young professionals and
students living in the city, the demand for quality
entertainment activities is high.
16
CULTURAL CALENDAR
February
Festival of Polish Contemporary Music Musica
Polonica Nova; Meeting of Shanty and Folk Music
March
Wrocław Jazz Festival Jazz on the Odra; Festival
of Creative Advertisement Wizualia; Festival of
Harpsichord Music; Students’ Song Festival
ŁYKEND
April
Singing Actor’s Festival; Acoustic Avantgarde
Festival Energia Dźwięku; Wrocław Gospel
Workshops; Amateur and Independent Film
Festival KAN
May
Thanks Jimi Festival; Festival of Jewish Culture
SIMCHA; May With Early Music International
Festival
June/July
Festival of Film Music; Chamber Music Festival
– Evenings in the Arsenal
July
Brave Festival – Against Cultural Exile;
International Photography and Multimedia
Festival FotoSpace; International Film Festival
Era New Horizons; Three Baroques Festival
July/August
Wrocław Non Stop; International Festival
of Organ and Chamber Music
August
International Double Bass Competition; Outdoor
Electronic and Club Music Festival Creamfields;
Techno Music Sensation White; International
Festival of Early Music Forum Musicum; Wrocław
Summer Guitar & Folk Festival
September
International Festival Wratislavia Cantans
October
International Festival of Storytelling
Opowiadania; International Festival of the
Culture of Movement Ocelot; Wrocław Blues
Festival; Ethno Jazz Festival
November
Wrocław Industrial Festival; International Festival
of Creative Television PRIX VISONICA;
International One-Man-Show Festival WROSTJA;
Wrocław Guitar Festival
December
International Festival of Independent Cinema
Offensiva; International Festival of Scenographers
and Screenwriters Interscenario
For more than a half a century, Wrocław has forged
an international reputation for its lively cultural scene.
Grotowski’s Laboratory Theater, Tomeszewski’s
Pantomime Theater and the Open Theater Festival all
attracted visitors to Wrocław and placed the city in the
global spotlight.
Today, as in the past, Wrocław is a city that celebrates
culture – in a big way. Whether you are an aficionado
of the fine arts and theater, or you enjoy street festivals
and hip galleries, you won’t be bored in Wrocław.
Throughout the year, large scale events are organized
by both leading cultural institutions and private groups.
The musical traditions of the city where Chopin,
Brahms and Paganini gave concerts are still alive today.
Wratislavia Cantans attracts classical music fans from
around the world. The Wrocław Opera not only
performs its rich repertoire in the recently restored
opera house; the company also organizes “super
productions” for audiences of thousands in atypical
venues such as on the Odra River or at Centennial Hall.
The historic center of town serves as a magnet
for visitors and residents alike. More than 200
restaurants, cafes and pubs can be found in and
around the Market Square alone. The round-theclock street life is particularly vibrant from late
spring through early autumn when outdoor cafes and
restaurants fill up with local residents and tourists.
Even the neighborhoods off the Market Square are
becoming increasingly popular, such as the area
surrounding old White Stork Synagogue. There
Włodkowica Street is becoming a popular place to
visit galleries, boutiques, cafes and restaurants.
As Poland’s trendiest city, Wrocław is increasingly
being dubbed by the press and the vox populi as the
country’s entertainment capital. And with restaurants
specializing in a variety of international cuisines, even
the pickiest of eaters will quickly discover a new
favorite haunt.
If you don’t want to club hop after a good meal you
can always catch the latest film at one of several
popular movie theaters conveniently situated across
the city, including five large state-of-the-art multiplex
cinemas. Most foreign films can be seen in their
original language versions with subtitles or dubbed in
Polish.
POLISH CUISINE
Polish cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and
local chefs and restaurateurs are taking
an increasingly creative approach to traditional dishes.
Winter or summer, start out your meal with a soup. In
main dishes, pork, of course, figures prominently. However,
more and more fish and poultry are being served in homes
and restaurants. Here are a few of the most typical hearty
dishes in a Polish meal. Enjoy!
Żurek
A sour rye soup,
served with white
sausage and egg.
Kotlet schabowy
A breaded pork chop.
It takes a pro to get
this standard right!
Pierogi ruskie
Dumplings stuffed
with potatoes and
white cheese.
Sernik
Each bakery or
restaurant has its
own take on this
cheesecake.
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Celebrate Culture!
But the city’s annual cultural fare is constantly being
augmented by fresh initiatives: Wrocław Non Stop
is a two-week cultural marathon; the Brave Festival
promotes indigenous cultures and their art traditions;
Era New Horizons is fast becoming one of the most
prominent film festivals in Poland.
17
The Active Life
Wrocław is an extraordinarily verdant city in part due
to its riverfront location. In fact, with more than a third
of Wrocław taken up by parks and open spaces, it’s
one of the greenest city in Poland.
With so much nature available within the city limits,
leading an active lifestyle is not difficult in Wrocław:
runners can take part in the annual Wrocław Marathon;
golfers can take advantage of three golf facilities in
Wrocław and its immediate environs, including an
18-hole course; ice skaters can enjoy several covered
facilities and even an outdoor rink at Centennial Hall.
Explore the Region
Wrocław is home to one of only three horse
racetracks in Poland. Built in 1905–1907,
Partynice is a great place to spend free time
with family and friends in an amazing historic
setting. During the spring and summer months,
Fort Wrocław – a reconstruction of a medieval
fortified settlement at Partynice – offers a variety
of entertainment and education programs.
One of the lures of life in Wrocław is the easy access
the city offers to the historic sites and unspoiled nature
of the surrounding province of Lower Silesia. Whether
you want to pop out of town for an evening meal and
a drive through the countryside, or pack up and spend
a weekend away from home with the family without
getting on a plane, Lower Silesia offers everything from
rugged mountains to pristine lakes; from castles and
monasteries to health resorts.
Once outside the city, you can visit historic monuments
of international acclaim, including the two Churches of
Peace that were added to UNESCO’s World Heritage
List in 2001. If you enjoy bird watching or kayaking, then
don’t miss the Barycz River Valley – Poland’s largest
scenic park – where you will find the biggest complex of
ponds in Europe.
The Lower Silesia landscape is dotted with more than
160 castles and palaces. Some have been carefully
restored and transformed into classy hotels and
with information about what’s happening in and around
Wrocław.
Y
Milicz
AN
Polkowice
Lubin
Wołów
www.wroclaw-life.com
Zgorzelec
www.okis.pl (in Polish)
www.cojestgrane.pl (in Polish)
Wrocław
Złotoryja
Jawor
Świeradów Jelenia Góra
Cieplice
CZ
EC
H
Oława
Szczawno
Kamienna Góra
RE
Legend:
PU
Świdnica
Wałbrzych
Jedlina
BL
Health Spas
Strzelin
Dzierżoniów
Przerzeczyn
Ząbkowice Śl.
IC
Castles, Palaces with
Hotels/Conference Centers
18
Oleśnica
Środa Śl.
Czerniawa
www.activepoland.com
www.rekreacja.wroc.pl (in Polish)
Legnica
Lwówek Śl.
Lubań
www.wroclawweekly.pl
www.junglebook.uni.wroc.pl/leisure
Trzebnica
Bolesławiec
www.wroclaw.pl
www.itwroclaw.pl
Rural tourism, known locally as agrotourism, has
undergone a veritable boom over the last decade.
Farmers across Lower Silesia have revamped their
properties and created inviting guesthouses that offer
city dwellers quaint retreats to escape the hustle and
bustle of urban life.
Góra
Głogów
GE
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Looking for something to do? Check out these sites
The beautiful Sudety Mountains can be reached in
1.5 hours by car from Wrocław. All year round the
Sudety’s peaks and trails tempt lovers of hiking, biking,
skiing, rock climbing and paragliding. The dramatic rock
formations and beautiful vistas make the mountains a
perfect destination for active holiday enthusiasts. But the
hidden treasures of Lower Silesia are its natural springs
and spa towns that have brought tourists to the region
for centuries. Ornately decorated hotel complexes and
pump rooms attract spa-goers and health seekers from
near and far.
Lower Silesia
RM
Swimming pools, fitness clubs and solariums are
available in most neighborhoods. Central Wrocław is
also home to one of the largest water parks in Poland,
which includes multiple pools, a hi-tech solarium and
a full-service health spa.
conference centers, while others function as museums
or are preserved as mythical ruins.
Kudowa Polanica
Duszniki
Kłodzko
Lądek
Długopole
19
Education
However, depending on personal family priorities and
the education systems in countries of origin, some
international families have placed their children in
Polish public and private schools, and they’ve been
pleased with the results. Many expats have discovered
that Polish public schools are open to newcomers and
work hard to meet specific learning needs of foreign
students. Parents have also been pleased by the high
academic standards available. Finally, the children of
expats tend to adapt extraordinarily well: they catch on
to Polish quickly and thrive in the multicultural setting.
Key International Schools
BISC Wroclaw is the sister school of the British
International School of Cracow (BISC) in operation
since 1995. The Wrocław branch of BISC opened in
2006 in response to an invitation of the Municipality of
Wrocław. The curriculum at BISC Wrocław is based
upon the British educational system for 3 to 18 year
olds. BISC Cracow is a member of ECIS (European
Council of International Schools) and CIS (Council of
International Schools), and is accredited by two English
examining boards: Cambridge University and AQA.
BISC Wroclaw will be seeking similar memberships and
accreditations.
20
The EKOLA International School has
been offering primary, middle and high school
education in Wroclaw since 1990. EKOLA
participates in international projects under the
auspicious of the Socrates-Comenius program.
The school has been awarded with the Westallen
Peace Prize for promoting peace, tolerance
and intercultural understanding. In March 2006,
EKOLA received International Baccalaureate
World School status; in September 2006, it
became a Cambridge International Centre
offering secondary education leading towards
International General Certificate of Secondary
Education.
Wrocław International School (WIS) opened
its doors in September 2002. At present,
students come from 20 countries; 50% from
the Far East. The school operates two facilities
in Wrocław: a purpose-built complex near
the city center for grades 5 through 10; and a
second campus seven minutes away for children
from pre-school through grade 4. The school’s
program is based on the New Zealand National
Cirriculum. In January 2005, WIS received
“Regular Membership” status of the European
Council of International Schools (ECIS). The
school is also pursuing authorization as an IB
World School. At present it is also a “candidate
school” for the Primary Years Programme (PYP)
and the Middle Years Programme (MYP).
Bilingual Middle Schools
Gimnazjum is the Polish term for the three year lower
secondary schools that teach children aged 13–16.
At present five public bilingual gimnazja operate in
Wrocław where courses are taught in both a selected
foreign language and in Polish.
Bilingual Middle Schools
Languages
Gimnazjum 10
Spanish-Polish
Gimnazjum 26
English-Polish
Gimnazjum 30
French-Polish
Gimnazjum 48
German-Polish
Gimnazjum 49
English-Polish
Bilingual Classes in High Schools
Liceum is the Polish term for the three year secondary
schools that teach students aged 16–19. The licea’s
curricula are designed to prepare students heading to
university. Upon completion of liceum, students take a
qualification exam referred to in Polish as the Matura
(Maturity Exam). At present five public bilingual licea
operate in Wrocław.
Bilingual Classes in High
Schools
Languages
Liceum 5
English-Polish
Liceum 8
French-Polish
Liceum 9
Spanish-Polish
Liceum 13
German-Polish
Liceum 14
English-Polish
Primary Education
A broad range of private and public pre-schools and
elementary schools exist in Wrocław that can cater
well to the needs of international families. For specific
recommendations or suggestions, please contact the
International Friends of Wrocław, your embassy or
consulate, or the international schools listed in the
directory.
THE POLISH SCHOOL SYSTEM
School
Ages
Pre-school
3–6
Grade
Primary School
6–13
0–6
Lower Secondary School
(Gimnazjum)
13–16
1–3
Upper Secondary School/High
School (Liceum)
16–19
1–3
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A key concern for parents when relocating is getting
their children settled in quality education institutions.
At present four international schools operate in
Wrocław: a German-Polish primary school – Diakonia,
as well as the Wrocław International School, Ekola and
BISC Wrocław.
21
Continuing Education
If you are intent on learning Polish, you have a number
of options in terms of schools and study programs.
Some schools offer private tutorials, group lessons
and even courses on-line. Others include entertaining
extracurricular programs such as city walks in Polish
that aim not only to help you kick-start your practical
Polish, but also assist you in getting settled quickly in the
city by directing you to the best places to shop, get your
hair done or where to spend your free time. Some even
offer summer language courses for adults and camps for
children.
The University of Wrocław and the Wrocław University
of Technology both offer language programs for
foreigners. The School of Polish Language and Culture
for Foreigners at the University of Wrocław has been
teaching Polish as a second language to multilingual,
multi-cultural groups for more than three decades. The
school offers semester-long programs, internet writing
classes, intensive summer courses as well as language
programs for exchange programs between Polish and
German youth. The Department of Polish as a Foreign
Language at the Wrocław University of Technology
specializes in courses for international university students
wishing to study in Poland.
The directory on pages 26–27 provides a list of schools
in Wrocław that specialize in teaching Polish as a second
language.
Learning English
Many foreigners have also decided to use their time
as an expat to perfect their English language skills. The
options in terms of schools and programs are immense.
Over the last 15 years, Poles have embraced the English
language. Its exploding popularity has meant the number
of schools has grown exponentially.
To get you started in your search for the right school,
visit www.wroclaw.pl for a list (in Polish) of schools
that teach English and other popular foreign languages.
Here’s how to find the list: on the www.wroclaw.pl
homepage, click on przewodnik miejski (city guide), then
on szkoły, edukacja (schools, education), and finally szkoły
językowe (language schools).
22
Polish Universities
Wrocław University of Economics
Universities in Wrocław are open to international
students. In 2006, six higher education institutions
launched a joint promotion program aimed at attracting
students from around the world to Wrocław. You can
learn more about the program by reading Study in
Wrocław available at: www.studyinwroclaw.uni.wroc.
pl/studyinwroclaw.pdf.
The Wrocław University of Economics is Wrocław’s
business and management school. The university’s
student body counts about 18,000. Key faculties
include: economic sciences, management, computer
science and finance, engineering and economics, and
regional economy and tourism (the latter located in
Jelenia Góra). In terms of English-language programs,
the school offers a three-year bachelor program and
a two-year masters program in finance. Additionally,
the school offers a European doctoral program in
economics, management and finance as well as an
executive management program in English.
At www.ae.wroc.pl/english you will find a more
complete explanation of programs available in English.
Three schools in particular offer programs of broad
interest in English:
University of Wrocław
The University of Wrocław boasts a 300-year-old
academic tradition. It is the largest university in the
region and educates more than 40,000 students
annually, including 1,300 doctoral students at 10
faculties. All faculties provide at least one masters
program in English; some of the bachelor-level
programs are also available in English. At the doctoral
level, students may study in English in any area they
choose. To download a prospectus, learn more about
the study program in English or find a list of course
coordinators, visit: www.international.uni.wroc.pl.
Wrocław University of Technology
The Wrocław University of Technology is a leading
national higher education institution that educates
more than 32,000 students in 12 faculties in Wrocław
and other major cities of Lower Silesia. The school
offers engineering and masters degree courses and
doctoral programs. For more information in English,
visit: www.pwr.wroc.pl and click on “English version”
in the upper-right corner of the page.
SURVIVING IN THE JUNGLE
For a broad take on studying and living in Wrocław
prepared largely by and for students, visit www.
junglebook.uni.wroc.pl. The website includes loads of
practical information related to studying in Poland. The
heart of the site contains information about living and
relaxing in Wrocław. For a “hard copy” of the Jungle
Book, a PDF download is available at:
http://international.uni.wroc.pl/dz-book.pdf.
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Learning Polish
23
Costs of Living
Just in Case…
While rental costs in Wrocław tend to be higher than
most expats expect, many have found that prices of
food and other leisure time activities are lower than in
their home countries. Here we try to give you a sense
of basic costs.
Beyond education, another concern for international
families relocating to a new place is the health care
system. Like so much else in Wrocław, health care
facilities have changed significantly over the last decade
in part due to major nationwide reforms that opened
the way for private medical care. While some expats
have identified excellent doctors and clinics in the
public healthcare system, most foreigners living and
working in Wrocław have recommended signing up
with a private medical center that offers a wide range
of packages for companies, families or individuals.
Here are some of the benefits you can expect to
receive:
For a family of three you might expect to spend PLN
1,000–1,500 a month for groceries and the occasional
meal out.
Below is a list of the prices of individual items often
thrown into a weekly shopping basket (as of January
2008):
Item
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One of the best ways to see any country is by car. This is
3.00
Milk (1 liter)
2.80
Eggs (10)
4.00
• First aid and emergency treatments
Butter (0.2 kg)
4.00
• A wide range of dental services
Apples (1 kg)
3.50
Tomatoes (1 kg)
6.50
Yoghurt (0.15 liter)
1.50
Cheese (1 kg)
25.00
Chicken (1 kg)
5.50
But before you head out, be aware that Polish roads can be
2.00
Orange juice (1 liter)
3.00
Daily press
2.00
Brand-name cigarettes
8.00
Candy Bar
1.40
Daily newspaper
1.50
Other costs:
congested and dangerous. To assist foreign tourists, the National
Council for Road Safety has prepared an introduction to
travelling in Poland titled “Welcome to Poland.” The document
is available to download in English, German, Russian and Polish
on: www.krbrd.gov.pl (click on your preferred language
version in the bottom right-hand corner of the councils
homepage.)
During the summer months the council operates a hotline for
tourists in English, German, Russian and Polish. Between 8 a.m.
and 8 p.m. you can call 0 800 200 300; + 48 608 599 999.
24
20.00
Water (1.5 liter)
especially true in Poland. Once at the helm you can explore
the life and hidden treasures of Poland far off the main road.
• Staff that is generally fluent in foreign languages
Bread (1/2 kg)
Ham (1 kg)
GETTING AROUND BY CAR
Price in PLN
• Outpatient clinics with a range of specialists on
hand during opening hours
Item
Price in PLN
Coffee in a restaurant
5.00
Lunch in a restaurant
30.00
Bus/Tram – one way ticket
Public transport – monthly pass
2.00
90.00
Parking (per hour)
3.00
Taxi (per kilometer)
3.00
Beer (in a pub)
5.00
Pizza
Petrol/Gas (1 liter E 95)
15.00
4.50
Cinema ticket
15.00
Haircut
60.00
• Preventive medical care
• 24-hour emergency hotlines: a healthcare
professional will make an initial medical assessment
over the phone, and if necessary will send a doctor
to your home or an ambulance
• Should hospitalization be necessary, some clinics
operate their own private hospitals or can
guarantee rooms for patients in existing private
hospitals
Before you choose a health care provider or providers,
consult with your embassy or consulate, other
international families in Wrocław, or colleagues at
your workplace to find out where they have found
reliable medical professionals. A list of major private
medical companies can be found in the directory on
pages 26–27, along with a list of telephone numbers for
medical emergencies.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Universal Emergency Number
(from mobile phones):
112
Police:
997
Fire Department:
998
Ambulance:
999
Municipal Guard:
986
District Heating Emergencies:
993
Power Supply Emergencies:
991, +48 71 329 1081
Gas Supply Emergencies:
992
Water Supply and Sewage
Emergencies (Water Company):
994
Veterinary Emergencies:
(24-hour emergency hotline:)
Internet Medical Information
INFORMED:
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Taking the July 2007 Economist’s Big Mac Index as a
starting point, a Big Mac in Poland costs on average
PLN 6.90, as compared to the $3.41 you would pay
in the United States or the €3.06 in the Euro Zone.
(Based on January 2008 exchange rates, the price of a
Big Mac in Poland equals $2.79 and €1.91)
In terms of shopping, whether you prefer making
your purchases in sleek new shopping centers and
hypermarkets or filling your wicker baskets at quaint
market halls or neighborhood stores, shopping in
Wrocław is a breeze. The newly built shopping
complexes in the city center and at the edges of town
provide easy access and variety under one roof. But
small neighborhood businesses have not lost their
appeal in Wrocław. Additionally, specialty stores are
appearing in and around the city that cater to the
growing international community.
+48 602 130 980,
+48 71 337 3636
+48 71 372 6816
www.informed.com.pl
25
Municipality of Wrocław
Resident Service Centers
(Residence Registration, Car Registration, Driver’s
License, Identification Cards, etc.)
Consulate of the Republic of Philippines
ul. P. Włodkowica 18, 50-072 Wrocław
Mobile: +48 600 813 452
Business Associations
Resident Service Center I/
Centrum Obsługi Mieszkańca I
Municipality of Wrocław, ul. G. Zapolskiej 2/4
Office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday:
8.00–15.15, Wednesday: 8.00–17.15
Tel. +48 71 777 76 59
(information in Polish)
Resident Service Center II/
Centrum Obsługi Mieszkańca II
Municipality of Wrocław, pl. Nowy Targ 1/8
Office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday:
8.00–15.15, Wednesday: 8.00–17.15
Regional Authorities
(Visas and Residence Permits)
AmCham Wrocław
Wrocławski Park Technologiczny
ul. Klecińska 125, 54-464 Wrocław
Tel: +48 605 678 817, Fax: +48 71 354 89 16
e-mail: amcham.wroclaw@pmg.pl
Contact: Joanna Bensz, Wrocław Branch Director
Lower Silesian Voivodship Office/
Dolnośląski Urząd Wojewódzki
Foreign Citizens Department
pl. Powstańców Warszawy 1, 50-951 Wrocław
Office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday:
8.15–15.30, Wednesay: 8.15–17.30
www.duw.pl
Polish-German Chamber of Industry and
Commerce – Wrocław Branch
Pl. Solny 20, 50-063 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 794 83 35
e-mail: imakowiecka@ihk.pl
Contact: Iwona Makowiecka,
Wrocław Branch Director
International Community
Tourist Information:
International Friends of Wrocław
Rynek 13, (above the Tourist Information Office)
e-mail:internationalfriendsofwroclaw@gmail.com
www.internationalfriendsofwroclaw.googlepages.
com
Tourist Information Center
Rynek 14, 50-101 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 344 31 11, Fax: +48 71 344 2962
e-mail: info@itwroclaw.pl
General Consulate of the Federal Republic of
Germany
ul. Podwale 76, 50-499 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 377 2700, Fax: +48 71 342 4114
Consulate of the Republic of Austria
ul. Buska 9/5, 53-326 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 361 7560, Fax: +48 71 361 7561
Consulate of the Republic of Bulgaria
ul. ks. P. Skargi 7/1, 50-082 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 783 3928, Fax: +48 71 346 0136
Consulate of the Kingdom of Denmark
Rynek 7B, 50-106 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 372 3950
Consulate of the United States
of Mexico
ul. Przejście Garncarskie 12,
50-106 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 344 6856
Tel/Fax: +48 71 344 77 21
Fax: +48 71 344 52 67
Consulate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
ul. Oławska 2, 50-102 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 344 49 85, Fax: +48 71 344 52 71
e-mail: consnl@centrum-niderlandzkie.pl
Consulate of the Kingdom of Sweden
ul. Mydlana 2, 51-502 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 302 13 00
e-mail: administration.swecons.wro@volvo.com
Consulate of the United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland
ul. Oławska 2, 50-123 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 344 89 61
26
British-Polish Chamber of Commerce
– Wrocław Branch
ul. Oławska 2, 50-123 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 344 14 77
Mobile: +48 604 505 028
e-mail: wroclaw@bpcc.org.pl
Contact: Ilona Chodorowska,
Wrocław Branch Director
Tourist Information & Cultural Center
Sukiennice 12, 50-107 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 342 0185, Fax: +48 71 342 2898
e-mail: wroclaw-info@itwroclaw.pl
Education
International Education
BISC Wrocław
ul. Trwała 17/19, 53–335 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 79 66 861, Fax: +48 71 79 66 862
e-mail: wroclaw@bisc.krakow.pl
www.bisc.wroclaw.pl
Diakonia
(German-Polish Primary School)
ul. Wejherowska 28, 54-239 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 798 2600 (internal 203)
Fax: +48 71 798 2601
e-mail: diakonia@diakonia.pl
www.diakonia.pl
International School Ekola
ul. Zielińskiego 56, 53-534 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 361 4370
e-mail: ise@ekola.edu.pl
www.ekola.edu.pl
Wrocław International School
ul. Zielińskiego 38, 53-534 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 782 2626, Fax: +48 71 782 2620
e-mail: wis@fem.org.pl
www.wis.fem.org.pl
Lauder – Etz Chaim
(Jewish Primary and Middle School)
ul. Żelazna 57, 53-429 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 332 41 21
e-mail: lauder.etzchaim@gmail.com
www.etzchaim.jewish.org.pl
Bilingual Public Middle Schools
Gimnazjum 10
(Spanish-Polish)
ul. Piotra Skargi 29/31, 50-085 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 344 34 03
www.gimnazjum10.wroc.pl
Gimnazjum 26
(English-Polish)
ul. Grochowa 13, 53-523 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 361 23 41
www.gim26.wroc.pl
Gimnazjum 30
(French-Polish)
ul. Jantarowa 5, 55-330 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 361 34 15
www.gim30.ac.pl
Gimnazjum 48
(German-Polish)
ul. Hauke Bosaka 33, 50-447 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 343 5279
www.lo13.wroc.pl
Gimnazjum 49
(English-Polish)
Al. Brücknera 10, 51-410 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 324 6900, Fax: +48 71 324 6901
www.lo14.wroc.pl
Bilingual Public Upper Secondary School
(High Schools)
Bilingual Liceum 4
School complex 3
(Spanish-English)
ul. Piotra Skargi 29/31, 50-085 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 344 34 03
www.lo9.wroc.pl
Liceum 5
(English-Polish)
ul. Grochowa 13, 53-523 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 361 92 66
e-mail: vlo@lo5.wroc.pl
www.lo5.wroc.pl
Berlitz
ul. Krupnicza 2/4,
Tel: +48 71 372 35 45, Fax: +48 71 344 70 18
wroclaw@berlitz.pl
www.berlitz.pl
Active English and Languages Education
Center
pl. Nowy Targ 28
Tel. +48 71 341 91 10
biuro@activeschool.z.pl
www.activeschool.com.pl
Cambridge School
ul. Kościuszki 29/6
Tel: +48 71 341 97 55
biuro@cambridge.edu.pl
cambridge.edu.pl
First Wrocław Golf Club
ul. Żwirowa 37
Tel: +48 71 349 13 30
klub@wroclawgolf.pl
www.wroclawgolf.pl
Polish Language School for Foreigners
DWSE TWP
ul. Wagonowa 9
Tel: +48 71 355 14 38, Mobile: +48 691 206 262
e-mail: polish.language.school@dswe.wroc.pl
www.dswe.wroc.pl
Rycerski Klub Golfowy Krobielowice
Krobielowice Palace, 55-080, Krobielowice
Tel: +48 71 390 58 15
info@golfclub.com.pl
www.golfclub.com.pl
Sports and Fitness Complexes
Active Fitness Club
ul. Grabiszyńska 281, 53-234 Wrocław
tel. +48 71 360 94 55
info@activefitness.pl
Gymnasion
www.gymnasion.pl
Coeducational Fitness Center
ul. Czysta 2-4
Tel: +48 71 343 70 93
email: wroclaw@gymnasion.pl
Fitness Center for Women in Magnolia Park
ul. Legnicka 60
Tel: + 48 71 338 52 84
email: magnolia@gymnasion.pl
Liceum 14
(English-Polish)
Al. Brücknera 10, 51- 410 Wrocław
Tel: + 48 71 324 69 00, Fax: +48 71 324 69 01
e-mail: sekretariat@lo14.wroc.pl
www.lo14.wroc.pl
Redeco
ul. Rogowska 52 A
Tel: +48 71 357 63 59, 359 77 77
e-mail: rezerwacja@redeco.pl
www.redeco.pl
Polonica
ul. Wyszyńskiego 31/9
Tel: +48 71 710 15 90, Fax: +48 71 322 29 52
polonica@polonica.edu.pl
www.polonica.edu.pl
Lektor
ul. Oławska 25
Tel: +48 71 372 52 92, 346 00 73, 346 00 75
e-mail: biuro@lektor.com.pl
www.lektor.com.pl
Wrocław Aqua Park
ul. Borowska 99
Tel: +48 71 336 77 78, 771 15 00
www.parkwodny.wroc.pl
Golf Clubs
City Golf Wrocław (driving range)
ul. Grabiszyńska, Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 338 14 15
biuro@citygolf.wroclaw.pl
www.citygolf.wroclaw.pl
Liceum 13
(German-Polish)
ul. Hauke-Bosaka 33, 50 – 447 Wrocław
Tel/Fax: +48 71 34 352 79
e-mail: lo13@www.lo13.wroc.pl
www.lo13.wroc.pl
School of Polish Language and Culture
for Foreigners
University of Wrocław, pl. Nankiera 15
Tel: +48 71 375 25 70, Fax: +48 71 375 28 04
www.sjpik.uni.wroc.pl
World Class Fitness
ul. Świeradowska 51-57
Tel: +48 71 336 14 70
wroclaw@worldclass.pl
www.worldclass.pl
Heather
ul. Kuźnicza 57/58 m. 8
Tel/Fax: +48 71 342 20 10
e-mail: heather@heather.com.pl
www.heather.com.pl
Hotel Gem
ul. Baudouina de Courtenay 16, 51-606 Wrocław
Tennis hall: +48 71 348 38 89
e-mail: hala@hotelgem.com.pl
Swimming pool: +48 71 372 88 53
e-mail: basen@hotelgem.com.pl
www.hotelgem.com.pl
Polish Language Schools
University School of Physical Education
al. Ignacego Jana Paderewskiego 35
51-612 Wrocław,
Swimming pool: +48 71 347 34 44
Tennis hall: +48 71 347 30 47
www.awf.wroc.pl
Reinhold Fitness
(opening in spring 2008)
Arkady Wrocławskie,
ul. Powstańców Śląskich 2-4
Tel: +48 71 784 40 03
www.reinholdlifestyle.com
Spiska Recreation Center
ul. Spiska 1
Tel. (+4871) 367 60 08
e-mail: spiska@mosir.wroc.pl
www.mosir.wroc.pl/CMS/centra/spiska.html
Sportwerk
ul. Kozanowska 69
Tel: +48 71 353 98 80
www.sportwerk.wroclaw.pl
Toya Golf Country Club
ul. Rakowa 5, Kryniczno, 55-114 Wisznia Mała
Tel: + 48 71 388 76 00
golf@toya.pl
www.toyagolf.pl
Medical emergencies
“Magiczna”, ul. Traugutta 105,
Tel: +48 71 341 34 50
“Magiczna”, ul. Szybowcowa 3,
Tel: +48 71 351 86 19
“Magiczna”, ul. Bezpieczna 6,
Tel: +48 71 327 40 60
“Magiczna”, ul. Niemcewicza 6b,
Tel: +48 71 795 62 20
Major Private Medical Centers
EuroMediCare
EMC Instytut Medyczny S.A.
ul. Pilczycka 144-148, 54-144 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 711 74 00
0 801 000 880 (not available for gsm)
www.emc-sa.pl
Lim Medical Centre
Szewska Centrum, 1st floor
ul. Szewska 3A, 50 – 053 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 377 26 26
www.cmlim.pl
Lux Med Medical Clinic Wrocław
ul. Legnicka 51/53, 54-203 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 798 82 55 to 58
www.luxmed.pl
Medicover Centre Wrocław
ul. Grabiszyńska 165, 53-437 Wrocław
Tel: + 48 41 95 96
0804 22 95 96 (not available for gsm)
www.medicover.com/pl
Promedis
ul. Rękodzielnicza 16, 54-135 Wrocław
Tel: +48 71 78 09 900
www.promedis.pl
Staying In Touch
Adults and children
T. Marciniak Lower Silesian Specialist Hospital
Centre of First Aid Healthcare
ul. Traugutta 116
Tel: +48 71 789 01 65
All emergencies
Children
J. Korczak Lower Silesian Pediatric Centre
Al. Kasprowicza 64/66
Tel: +48 71 323 64 36
24-hour emergency pediatric care
Wrocław Medical Academy Hospital
Pediatric Surgery und Urology Clinic
ul. Skłodowskiej-Curie 50/52
Tel: +48 71 733 13 13
surgical emergencies
24-hour pharmacies
“Katedralna”, ul. Sienkiewicza 54/ 56,
Tel: +48 71 322 73 15
“Krynicka”, ul. Krynicka 7- 9,
Tel: +48 71 336 05 43
“Non-stop” ul. Lotnicza 24,
Tel: +48 71 792 72 07
“Pod Lwami” pl. Jana Pawła II 7a,
Tel: +48 71 343 67 24
“Przy pl. Hirszfelda” ul. Krucza 24,
Tel: + 48 71 338 12 42
“Św. Wincentego”, ul. Św. Wincentego 39 – 41,
Tel: + 48 71 322 39 35
“Pułaska”, ul. Pułaskiego 49 A,
Tel: +48 71 789 91 38
• Poland’s country code: 48
• Wrocław city code: 71
• To make direct international calls
from a land line, dail 00 followed
by the country code, city code
and number.
• For intercity calls inside Poland
from a land line, precede the
telephone number with 0 + city
code.
• To make a local call in Wrocław,
dial 0 + 71, then the telephone
number.
short cut
Useful Numbers
Advena
ul. Działkowa 36/4
Mobile: +48 692 423 538, +48 693 643 354
advena@advena.edu.pl
www.advena.edu.pl
We have made every effort to compile a full,
representative list in each of the above categories. The
information may change following publication date.
Let’s Create a City!
A Handbook for Newcomers to Wrocław
Publisher:
Wrocław Agglomeration Development Agency
Editorial Team:
Juliet D. Golden, Lucyna Kwaśniewicz,
Tomasz Gondek
Graphic Design:
Roksana Orfin-Grabowska
Photographs:
Ekspert Nieruchomości, Łukasz Giza, Tomasz Gondek,
Grzegorz Hawałej, Stanisław Klimek, Adam Marecik,
Municipality of Wrocław Collections,
Roksana Orfin-Grabowska, Wrocław International School
With Special Thanks:
Ekspert Nieruchomości, International Friends of Wrocław
27
Wrocław Agglomeration
Development Agency
ul. Ofiar Oświęcimskich 36
50-059 Wrocław, Poland
tel. +48 71 783 53 10
fax +48 71 783 53 11
e-mail: araw@araw.pl
www.araw.pl
28