Travel tips: What to see and do whilst visiting the Polish city of Gdansk
Gdansk, a historic port city in Poland, offers a quirky experience of both the hustle and bustle of a city and the tranquillity of a magnificent coastline on the Baltic Sea.
There is a reason why Gdansk is one of the most visited cities in Poland, with over three million visitors each year, writes Travel News Blitz’s Bianca Wright.
Known for the battle of Westerplatte, where the German forces attacked the Polish military by targeting the transit depot, enabling successful entry into Poland and marking the start of World War II.
The city is a place that will arouse your senses, whether your trip is to venture back in history, exploring museums and historic buildings or hitting vibrant streets full of delicious food, shops, street performers or hitting the waves of the Baltic Sea with a surfboard.
Main town
A place, destroyed in World War II, underwent a total reconstruction in the 1950s-60’s that saw the rebuild of the townhouses, iconic landmarks such as the Town Hall and the Neptune fountain, in the hope of reinstalling historical features of Baroque, Renaissance and neoclassical architecture that once stood pre-1793.
Royal Route
Your journey through the main town can begin on the Royal Route, a place of art, history and science.
There, you can explore the wonders of the centuries, uncovering mysteries of the past and exhibitions.
Starting at the Golden Gate, you can experience a beautiful walk through Dluga street, known as the ‘long street’, a place featuring stunning views of the Mannerist restored houses lined on either side with plenty of cafes and shops to enjoy along the way, ending at the Green Gate that connects you to the market.
Known as the tourist hub, expect the area to be crowded but with a vibrant feel to it.
Main Town Hall
Situated along the Royal Route, the beautiful Gothic and Renaissance building was once a place that housed the authorities back in the mid 15th century and has now opened its doors as a museum.
Within its walls, you can expect to be driven back in history, featuring one of the most beautiful Renaissance halls in Northern Europe, the White Room and the Red Room.
The Red Room was a place where former council members would meet and was known as the Great Council Hall features a breathtaking fireplace, an ornate ceiling that will mesmerise you and 16th-century Venetian decor.
The White room, known as the White Hall, was previously used as a room for citizenship ceremonies, signing of international treaties and royal audiences.
With its 19th century white coloured ceilings, grand marble fireplace and stunning paintings of previous Polish Kings, your eyes will not get bored.
In peak season, you can purchase tickets to climb the town hall tower to access unbelievable panoramic views of the city that will take your breath away.
Artus Court
This must be one of the most unbelievably breathtaking buildings situated on the Royal Route.
What used to be a place for meetings, balls and events became a venue for traders to exchange grains.
Within its walls, you can see one of the most precious and unique antiques, an incredible 10.64-metre-high and lined with 530 tiled stoves that is known as ‘The King of all stoves.’
The museum also features artwork and replicas that relate to myths and legends dating back in history to ancient times and the Middle Ages.
The Neptune Fountain
Situated outside the historic Artus Court is the beautiful Neptune Fountain, originally built in 1634.
The statue underwent reconstruction in the 1950’s after being destroyed in WWII and had more recent work done in 2011.
Designed by Abraham Van Den Blocke, the statue was built as a representation to symbolise the city's maritime power and the sea reflecting wealth.
It is believed that years ago, Neptune grew angry with visitors tossing gold coins into the fountain, causing it to block.
He reacted by turning them into gold flakes, which then became the famous liquor in Gdansk known as Goldwasser.
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St Mary’s Basilica
This incredible brick-built Gothic church and co-cathedral is something you can’t miss even if you wanted to.
Situated in the main town, the amazing architectural building known for its 82 metre tower dates to 1502.
One of the world’s biggest brick churches, with its seating capacity at 25,000, this roman catholic landmark is known as the Crown of Gdansk.
There is a baroque Royal Chapel that was funded by Poland's king John III Sobieski, which features an original facade and three domes.
Within the church, there are over 30 chapels to explore, over 300 tombstones, the famous astronomical clock, a beautiful 15th-century high altar, statues and beautiful artwork.
Are you feeling energetic? Then why not attempt to climb the 400 steps to the tower, where you will feel you're touching the skyline, and your views will be for miles.
The city also offers museums featuring key information and things from WWII, the amber museum, you can access boat rides or just sit and relax on the river, where there is a choice of various bars and restaurants and watch the world go by within beautiful scenic surroundings.
For tranquility
Maybe city life is not for you! That’s okay, as Gdansk has you covered with its beautiful coastline for a more relaxing experience in Poland.
Featuring over 23 kilometres of sandy beaches and dunes, whether you are seeking a busy, fulfilled day amongst other tourists or a more private day sunbathing, it has everything you require.
Brzezno Beach
Probably the most popular beach located in Gdansk, Brzezno beach is well loved not just by tourists but also residents, with a coastal footpath to enjoy a walk, bike ride or sunbath on its sandy beach.
The beach features a 140-metre-long pier that sits facing the Gdansk Bay.
You could say this is why this beach is the most popular, as within the pier you can have access to many food establishments, a medical access point for any concerns or emergencies and for those who can’t survive without internet, here they have two points where free Wi-Fi can be used.
Stogi Beach
This beach offers fine sand for sunbathers, located just outside the city.
It is easily accessible from the city on a tram, having been awarded the Blue Flag for many years, makes is extremely popular.
However, if you're looking for a picturesque view, this one may not be for you, as just to the side of you is a port that is situated amongst its high cranes, making it a bit of an eyesore.
Jelitkowo Beach
This beach offers privacy for a much more relaxed and authentic experience.
With no tourist facilities surrounding it, you can wind down in a beautiful setting overlooking the Baltic Sea, just be sure to pack a picnic and some drinks for hydration on those hot summer days.
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Food and Drink
Surely you cannot experience a country and their culture without trying its cuisine?
Well, Poland's cuisine will offer you some real taste experiences, with all homemade traditional products being used, it will not disappoint.
With the Baltic Sea on its coastline, cod is a very popular dish in Gdansk, cooked in a variety of ways makes it even more delicious than your standard fish and chips.
Don't fancy fish? Then why not try the Goose Pierogi with Cranberries? This is a local dish that is typically served with dumplings, a hearty soup for those cold days.
If so, then Zurek is the one for you. Served in a bread roll, this soup features hard-boiled eggs and sausages in a tangy-flavoured soup.
There are also many street food stalls that you can experience.
There is the popular Zapiekanka - a toasted sandwich topped with mushrooms, cheese and a selection of other toppings at your request.
Wash your food down with a choice of popular Polish drinks. You may opt for full Polish tradition and select the herbal liquor Goldwasser, Piwo, the local craft wheat beer, or opt for a cocktail.
Whatever you choose, they have you covered.
Events
July-August
St Dominics Fair
St Dominic’s fair is a tradition dating back over 760 years, starting in 1260.
Traders from all over Europe would come together in Gdansk and sell artisan crafts, luxury items, textiles, food, livestock and imported goods.
When the war hit the fair, it unfortunately came to a halt, and after being closed for 33 years, it reopened in the 1970s.
It lasts for three weeks, typically starting at the end of July to mid-August and has now become one of the busiest fairs in Gdansk with over 70,000 visitors arriving daily and higher amounts on weekends.
The Market offers stalls filled with artisan items, vintage items, unique things and much more.
With its hustle and bustle atmosphere and colourful streets, this would not be an experience you would like to miss.
July 9-12
FETA - International Festival of Open-Air and Street Theatres
This is a festival you don’t want to miss. Dating back to 1997 and renowned for being the largest open-air theatre festival in Poland and Eastern Europe, the four days will blow your mind.
Organised by the Gdansk Archipelago of Culture, the festival features performers playing their roles in urban spaces like the local parks, pavements and squares within Gdansk.
You can expect to see acrobatics shows, street performers, dance and more.
This is a festival that will suit all ages, from young children to older people, where Gdansk showcases the greatest showmen/women.
Think you have a talent and would like to perform? Well, this is your opportunity to have fun and join in whilst on your holidays.
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Baltic Sail
August 21-24
This festival offers people who love sailing the opportunity to come on board and enjoy a cruise around the Gulf of Gdansk.
This festival originated in 1996, initiated by the German port city of Rostock, and an agreement was made by countries in the Baltic region to offer visitors who have an interest in the history of sailboats and maritime customs.
The sailboats are situated on the banks of Motlawa, near Targ Rybny Square customs.
Narrations Festival
Mid - November
For all you Art fanatics, this one is made for you. This festival boasts of contemporary art hosted in public places throughout Gdansk.
Organised by the Institute of Urban Culture and the Gdansk City Gallery, the festival is held each year in different districts, making it a point of reference for the curators and inspiration for artists, featuring art and performances provoking and removing the visible layers to reveal hidden meanings of art.
Christmas Market
Christmas, a time for joy and love. Gdansk has one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, situated in the Coal Market Square of the Main town, extending towards the Golden Gate.
The market features artisan stalls where you can purchase handmade items, Christmas novelties, jewellery, real fur hats, food and drink stalls.
There are also a few rides that the whole family can enjoy, lots of appearances from Santa and live concerts being held on the stage. The markets run from November to December 23.
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