While most people head to Warsaw while visiting Poland, Gdańsk should definitely not be overlooked while planning a trip to the country. A majority of this small city was completely destroyed during World War II, but was rebuilt into the beautiful place that it is today that is full of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lots of towers that provide you with a stunning view of the whole city. Here’s everything you should check out while you’re here.
Piwna Street
Located in the old town, which is totally walkable, Piwna Street is a lovely and quiet place to walk around and get a feel for the city. Enjoy some coffee at one of the countless cafes around here and check out the little shops. You can people watch and take in the beautiful buildings all around you. Make sure you stop at a restaurant and try pierogi, traditional Polish dumplings.
St. Mary’s Basilica
Right on Piwna Street is St. Mary’s Basicila, which is one of the main attractions here. It is actually the biggest brick church in the world. You can check out the inside of the church for free, and if you want to climb the tower for 10 Polis Zloty, which is about $2.50. Go up the 400 steps to see an incredible views of the whole city.
The Royal Chapel
If you want to see a unique building, you have to take a look at The Royal Chapel, which is an orange building with a patina green door and window frames that dates back to the 1600s.
Dluga Street
Dluga Street is Gdańsk’s main drag that’s full of gorgeous townhouses and artists, musicians, and will give you a great sense of the city’s personality. Visit Uphagen House, which was a merchant’s house in the 18th century that was redone after it was destroyed in the war and is now a part of the Gdańsk City Museum. Continue on to Dlugi Targ Street where you’ll find the area where the main market of the city used to be.
Neptune’s Fountain
Also located on Dlugi Targ Street is the best known statue in the city. Neptune’s Fountain portrays the God of the Sea in bronze and is considered one of the main attractions of the city. During Christmastime, this is also the area where a giant Christmas tree is set up with lots of dazzling lights.
Motlawa River
Motlawa River runs through the city and connects to the Baltic Sea. There’s a promenade that goes all along the river and is dotted with restaurants and cafes. You’ll see lots of boats and you can even take a kayak historical tour around the river if you want to see the city from a different point of view. There’s also a footbridge that was added in 2016 that actually lights up at night.