Gdansk does not have a main square, as most other Polish towns. Instead the town has a wide pedestrian-only street, Dlugi Targ. Dlugi Targ dates back to the Middle Ages, and has been the center of trade and important decisions in Gdansk. Much of Old Town Gdansk was destroyed during WWII, but buildings are exact reconstructions of the original houses in late Gothic style and baroque. Any building that is brick (or partial brick, since they saved what they could) is likely original; buildings that have painted fronts are reconstructions.If you plan a trip to Old Town Gdnask in Poland, here’s what not to miss.
If you plan a trip to Gdansk, don’t miss:
- Walk along Dlugi Targ. We spent several long afternoons here visiting shops, little museums, restaurants, cafes, and taking in the street entertainment.
- Visit the Amber Museum (Muzeum Bursztynu), housed in a former dungeon. The children enjoyed it, too, but two rooms near the end have torture devices and illustrations you’ll want to dodge.
- Near the Amber Museum you can hop on a bus tour of the city.
- Ride the Amber Sky Wheel for a twenty minute ride high above Gdansk
- Take the Galeon Lew & Czarna Perla Boat Tour
- Visit the The Crane and Maritime Museum– the museum has a fun hands-on section for children
- Tour the Museum of the Second World War – best to leave little ones behind if you can because it’s fascinating, educational, and intense. I could have spent a full day here
- Visit the Main Town Hall and Gdansk Museum – stunning
- Take a day trip to Malbork Castle (world’s largest brick castle)
- Mariacka Street is the best place to buy amber, plus it’s simply beautiful
- Walk along the Motlawa River Embankment, and also the marina on the opposite side
- Take time to make your way through all the side streets. There are terrific shops, cafes and restaurants everywhere!
Linda K. Sienkiewicz is a writer, poet, and artist.
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