Sightseeing in Gdańsk: A Comprehensive Guide

Gdańsk, a city rich in history and culture, is one of Poland’s most popular tourist destinations. Here’s a list of must-visit attractions for a memorable experience in this enchanting Baltic port city.

Old Town (Stare Miasto)

• Start your exploration with the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire well-preserved medieval architecture. The Long Market (Długi Targ), lined with colorful historic buildings and bustling cafes, is the heart of this district.
• Don’t miss the Artus Court, a former meeting place for merchants featuring an impressive collection of Gdańsk art.
• The Neptune Fountain (Fontanna Neptuna) is another iconic landmark, showcasing Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, in a breathtaking Baroque setting.

The European Solidarity Centre

• Pay homage to the struggle for democracy at the European Solidarity Centre, which offers insight into the Polish Solidarity movement that played a crucial role in ending communism in Europe.
• The center features interactive exhibitions, documentary films, and an impressive museum dedicated to Lech Wałęsa, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and leader of the Solidarity movement.

Long Range Forts (Długie Kole Fortyfikacyjne)

• Take a trip back in time by visiting one of the Long Range Forts, a system of defensive structures built during World War I.
• Westerplatte, the first site attacked by the Germans at the beginning of World War II, is particularly poignant and offers stunning views of the harbor.

Gdansk Shipyard

• Explore the historic Gdańsk Shipyard, where the Solidarity movement was born in 1980. Today, it’s home to the European Solidarity Centre as well as various exhibitions dedicated to shipbuilding and maritime history.

The Motlawa River Cruise

• For a different perspective of Gdańsk, take a river cruise along the Motlawa. You’ll pass under the iconic bridges connecting the city’s districts, and catch glimpses of the shipyard, the Crane (Żuraw), and the Oliwa Cathedral.

Oliwa Cathedral and Park

• Visit the stunning Oliwa Cathedral, a 14th-century Baroque masterpiece housing the relics of Saint Wojciech, one of Poland’s patron saints.
• Next door, enjoy a stroll through the picturesque Oliwa Park, home to the Green Gate (Brama Zielona) and a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

With its vibrant history, charming architecture, and welcoming atmosphere, Gdańsk promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Enjoy your exploration!