Gdansk is a beautiful city on the Northern coast of Poland by the Baltic Sea. Despite its small size the city’s history is very colourful. It’s been a significant city from being a centre of trade during the Hansa era to the first shots fired in the 2nd World War.
As a coastal city it also boasts a considerable maritime heritage, which is very visible from the famous shipyard to the Pirates of the Caribbean type tour ship, galleon Lew.
I would also very much recommend this city for architecture nerds! The way they mix centuries old architecture with modern buildings that sort of replicate the old without looking old is absolutely genius.
In this article I will introduce some of the most interesting sights in the city, but when there, make sure not to miss these places just outside of the city:
- Designer Outlet Gdansk in Morski Park Handlowy
- Malborg castle, a 13th century fairy tale construction
- Sopot Beach, a 4km long beach just a quick train ride away
Now, let’s see some of the most important sights to see and visit in Gdansk. I’ve also included a little bit about their significance and any associated legends or stories. I will also share a list of restaurants worth considering!
Long Market (Długi Targ) and Main Town Hall
The Long Market is like the beating heart of the city of Gdansk. It’s a big square surrounded by the most picturesque and colourful merchant houses. The square is flanked by the Main Town Hall, with its striking Gothic-Renaissance architecture.
An interesting fact: the Town Hall’s golden spire is a symbol of the city’s prosperity. Inspired by it, it is believed that merchants used to bury coins under the spires of their homes to ensure future wealth during the city’s “Golden Age” in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Neptune Fountain
Next to the Town Hall you can see a beautiful and decorative blue building. This is the Artus Court and in front of it stands a fountain depicting Neptune, the Roman god of the sea. It’s a very fitting statue for Gdansk, which has been a significant player in the maritime trade throughout its existense.
And of course there’s a legend that goes with this piece of art. It tells us that Neptune was upset with people who were tossing coins into the fountain. Thus, he struck the water with his trident, which caused the coins to break into tiny pieces of gold.
This is seen as the inspiration for Goldwasser, which is herbal liqueur that contains gold flakes. Definitely try this when visiting this city!
Artus Court
I already mentioned this piece of art of a building. Artus Court is a stunning Gothic building, which was once the meeting place of wealthy merchants. It was also a social hub for the city’s elite. Nowadays it is a museum showcasing Gdańsk’s history and opulence during the Renaissance.
Yes, the court is named after the legendary King Arthur. This is simply because medieval European cities often admired the Arthurian ideals of chivalry and honor. As such, Gdansk merchants saw themselves as modern knights of commerce.
St. Mary’s Church (Bazylika Mariacka)
Whether you’re religious or not, you can’t deny the fact that European churches are incredible pieces of art. The basilica in Gdansk is also one of the largest brick churches in the world. It can accommodate over 25 000 people at once.
St. Mary’s Church is also a fine example of Gothic architecture. Like is customary for European churches and cathedrals, it contains important artworks, including an astronomical clock dating back to the 15th century.
A story related to the Bazylika Mariacka tells us that there is a treasure hidden in a chamber underground, and it is guarded by a ghost. The ghost will reveal the treasure only to those who are truly worthy.
The Crane (Żuraw)
You probably googled Gdansk already and were met with pictures of a massive wooden structure by the river. This is the famous Crane and it is the largest medieval port crane in Europe. It was used for loading cargo and setting masts on ships and it’s a symbol for Gdańsk’s maritime power during the 14th and 15th centuries.
As such an important structure, of course the Crane has its own legend attached to it as well. There is a story of a ghost haunting the structure and its surrounding area at night. But it’s a friendly ghost because he helps sailors avoid danger. The ghost is said the be the spirit of a dockworker who lost his life in a tragic accident.
Westerplatte
Westerplatte is a site of immense historical significance. It is the spot where World War II began:
- On September 1, 1939, Nazi Germany launched its attack on Poland here
- This attack lead to the outbreak of the war which resulted in over 5 million people lost in Poland alone
- Today, it is a solemn memorial to those who defended the outpost for seven days despite being vastly outnumbered and under-equipped.
If this side of Gdansk history is of interest to you, make sure to visit the Museum of the Second World War. It’s one of the largest and most modern museums in Poland and it provides a comprehensive account of the war from the Polish perspective.
Gdańsk’s historic core was almost entirely destroyed during the war but it was quickly rebuilt in the years following. The fast reconstruction itself is a testament to the resilience of the city’s people.
Gdansk Shipyard
It’s not just any shipyard! This working shipyard is not only an industrial hub but also the birthplace of the Solidarity movement. A movement that the world truly needs these days!
I would recommend booking a tour when visiting the shipyard. They allow visitors to learn about Poland’s shipbuilding history and the role the shipyard played in changing the course of Polish history.
In addition to its political history, the shipyard has stories of workers whose dedication to the trade created a deep connection with the sea. This was a relationship that some say continues even after death.
Restaurants in Gdansk
One of the best things about travel is FOOD, is it not? I find it extremely interesting to try local cuisines no matter where I am and Poland has some pretty interesting delicacies you can’t miss.
- Firstly there’s the pierogi. Filled potato dumplings often served with sour cream.
- Then there is go??bki, which is stuffed cappage leaves
- And of course different kinds of soups, like a traditional mushroom soup and a more extraordinary cucumber soup, zupa ogórkowa
- One should not miss out on pork while in Gdańsk; try kotlet schabowy, which resembles a pork schnitzel
And where should you try these dishes? Allow me to share a list of restaurants that my local friend – who also runs a blog, IntoTheBloom – sent me:
- Mandu for pierogis
- Flisak 76 is the oldest pub in Gdansk that offers creative cocktails
- Pyra Bar for potato lovers, because this place specializes in potato dishes
- Bar Turystyczny is a budget option for traditional Polish home cooking
- Nie/Mi?sny for those looking for good vegetarian options
Those are the local recommendations, but if you’re into more global cuisine, these were recommended:
- Pizza: Ostro in the Old Town or M?ka i Kawa outside the Old Town
- Steak: Steakownia
- Breakfast/Lunch & coffee: ??ka Bar (Asian fusion), Ratuszowa Caffe, Drukarnia or Drukarnia
- Mexican: Hola Tapas or Mexicaga
As I’m sure you’ve noticed, Gdansk offers a unique blend of history, legends, and beautiful architecture. All of it makes it a must-visit city for anyone looking for a more extraordinary travel destinations in Europe than the basic Paris and Barcelona.
