What to Look Out For During a Sightseeing Tour in Gdansk, Poland?

Gdansk (formerly Danzig) is a major port city on the coast of the Baltic Sea in Northeastern Poland. It is the capital of the Pomeranian Voivodeship and the largest city in the region. This historic city has a wealth of attractions, activities and tours on offer for any traveller. With its enchanting medieval streets and harbour, beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage, it’s no surprise that Gdansk has become one of Poland’s top tourist destinations. However, to make the most of your time in this mesmerising city, you might be wondering what to look out for during a sightseeing tour?

The Rich History of Gdansk

Gdansk’s long history stretches back to the medieval times. The city flourished in the 13th and 14th centuries, becoming an important trading hub that saw influences from German, Polish, Dutch and British merchants. The city was also at the heart of medieval struggles, however it later played an important role in various trade alliance treaties.

One of the proudest landmarks of Gdansk is the Golden Gate, built in 1612 as a symbol of the Hanseatic Law. The Hanseatic League was a medieval trading alliance that kept peace in Europe until the 16th century. After this period, Gdansk was annexed by the Kingdom of Prussia. However, during WW2 it was destroyed twice, first by allied forces bombing it in response to Hitler’s invasion and then, during the post war shifts of power, by Russian forces who famously took Gdansk and renamed it Danzig. After independence, however, it reverted to its original name Gdansk.

Places to Go During a Sightseeing Tour in Gdansk

Today, Gdansk has multiple-lane boulevards and other beautification efforts, making it an exciting and modern looking city with cosmopolitan locals. It’s a safe, busy and vibrant city with an amazing range of things to do, see and eat. If you’re thinking of taking a sightseeing tour, these are some of the places that should be at the top of your list.

St Mary’s Church

St Mary’s Church is arguably one of the most impressive churches in all Europe, St Mary’s Church is surely worth a visit. Founded and constructed between 1343 and 1502, this is one of the largest Brick Gothic buildings in the world. The interiors of the church are no less impressive than the exterior and feature two main organs with 3100 pipes, an astronomical clock as well as a historical clock tower with eight bells (the smallest of which is only 25cm tall!).

The Gdansk Shipyard

The Gdansk Shipyard was founded in 1850 and is renowned for the life-changing events that occurred there in the 1980s. After decades of little changes to workers’ rights, Lech Wałęsa led a strike at the shipyard which ultimately led to Solidarity, Poland’s first independent trade union. The shipyard also had a cultural and intellectual aspect to it as well, with famous leaders such as Vaclav Havel visiting it in 1989.

Sopot Beaches

Sopot is one of the most popular beach towns near Gdansk and its beaches are where locals come to sunbathe in the summer months. One of the top beaches here is Sopot Pier which is located on an artificial island in the middle of one of Gdanusk’s biggest ports – Martwa Wisła. The pier itself is over 500m long and not only is it beautiful but also a great spot for fishing, as well as other recreational activities. It is one of the longest wooden structures in Europe which makes it even more amazing to visit!

Museum of the Second World War

Although not the most uplifting museum to visit, if you want to learn more about WWII history then a visit to the Museum of the Second World War is highly recommended. Located slightly outside Gdanusk in what used to be a bunker used by Hitler’s armaments minister Albert Speer, this historically significant museum lies on top of what used to be an air-raid shelter for Germans during World War II. But don’t worry – despite its dark history it still offers an enjoyable experience with any trip to Gdansk not complete without checking out this museum!

Beer Tasting Tour

Every visit to Gdansk should be accompanied by trying some delicious Polish beers! One great way to do this is by taking part on a beer tasting tour which can be easily booked before your arrival Gdansk: 2.5-Hour Beer Tasting Tour. During this tour you will stop by various pubs, taverns and bars all throughout the old town discovering some delightful locally brewed beers that you wouldn’t otherwise have known about! Not only will you get to try these delicious regional speciality beers but you’ll be educated about each beer’s different flavors, aromas and stories all while having plenty fun with your group learning about Polish culture!

What to remember from a Sightseeing Tour in Gdansk

Gdansk is undoubtedly one of Poland’s most treasured tourist attractions as it’s a historically significant city as well as full of entertainment and culture. There is so much to learn during your visit here, you won’t regret any moment you spend there! All these historic sites we mention have their own unique stories which make perfect for visiting so you can pick whichever ones appeal to you most and create your perfect trip! Also make sure not to miss out on a beer tasting tour: a fascinating activity that you can go on even self-guided or with friends! Whether you come here as part of a European tour or just by yourself Gdansk is sure to offer you plenty of great memories!