Gdansk, City of Solidarity
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Port
Gdansk, Poland
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$119
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
6.75 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Embarking on a walking tour of Gdansk, you'll get acquainted with the city and learn about its historical highlights as you trace the cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old buildings.
A thousand years of history have left a rich collection of buildings and monuments designed in a splendid mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Although the Old Town of Gdansk is not as old as it might seem (since more than 80% of the buildings were rebuilt after World War II), it has been completely and lovingly restored to its previous glory. Follow the Royal Route from the Green Gate on the banks of the Motlawa River, which takes in Long Street and Long Market with its townhouses spanning 400 years, the Town Hall, Arthur's Court and the iconic Neptune Fountain. The most charming street in Gdansk is St Mary Street, which delights visitors with a lively atmosphere, quaint shops, and lovely terraced buildings.
In the Old Town, you'll stop by St Mary's Church – often called the Crown of Gdansk. This is the world's largest brick church, with mighty walls and towers rising high above the city skyline. With its 30 decorated chapels, polyptych, ancient tombs and 15th-century astronomical clock, this medieval church can accommodate 25,000 worshippers. Perhaps it's not surprising it took 159 years to build. Its austere exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows.
Next, you'll visit the European Solidarity Center, expounding on the events that led to the foundation of the Third Polish Republic. The exhibition's message is primarily devoted to the history of the Solidarity movement.
Finally, you'll see the Solidarity Square Monument. Here, three crosses symbolize three shipyard workers who died outside the shipyard gates in the Polish fight for freedom.
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes.