We took a flight through and out of Warsaw, the capital of Poland, in which we spent some time. We also enjoyed our time in Krakow, often described as Poland’s heart.
We had hoped to be impressed by these two cities. We were, and we were. But, we were pleasantly shocked by how enjoyable our stay in Gdansk was.
TRAVEL IN GDANSK
Over to the Baltic Sea from Scandinavia and surrounded by Germany, Lithuania, and Kaliningrad (Russia), Gdansk is a city influenced by all three. Gdansk is the heart of the world’s trade in amber (see Shopping for Amber in Gdansk.)
Gdansk is also a key spot on the stage of history worldwide: Gdansk was the place where the first shots of World War II were fired and the location for the Solidarity Movement, which initiated the ending of Soviet occupation of Eastern Europe.
As we walked to Old Town to the shipyard and its Solidarity sights, we encountered two walls, one on top of the other, one of which was the Lenin Shipyard wall, the other from the Lenin Shipyard wall, and different from The Berlin Wall. What started with one wall ended with the other.
THE SOLIDARITY SIGHTS OF GDANSK
The Solidarity sights in Gdansk featured an almost Soviet appearance; however, it was the very regime they fought to oppose.
The Monument to the Shipyard Workers and its industrial appearance were designed and constructed by workers at the shipyard. The Solidarity Trade Union remains the largest union in the world.
As significant a role as it was essential to consider the role that Solidarity protests played in the past, The sights Alex and myself found the most interesting were located in the old part of Gdansk and the vicinity of Glugi Targ and Ulica Dluga in the Old Town.
The path to go from Highland Gate and Golden Gate, on the other hand, towards Green Gate (a royal palace) close to the water is a walk of just 10 minutes.
However, the road and the surrounding it have beautiful houses, cafes, monuments, and museums.
More details on artworks in Gdansk. Photo by Eric D. Goodman
Off the main road along Podkramarska Street, the Church of St. Mary stands large and broad in a vibrant red brick.
The Gdansk’s Church of St. Mary is Europe’s most significant medieval brick church, built in 1343. One of the most striking highlights (aside from its large size) is an impressive clock dating from the early 1400s.
It also shows not just the hours and days but the dates of celebrations and moon phases.
When the sun is up, guests enjoy a parade of the figures from the clock: Adam, Eve, the Apostles, and the Three Kings. Even Death appears. However, after the procession, time continues to march.
PARAGON HOUSE
On the way back to Ulica Dluga, one of the buildings that caught our attention was Uphagen House. Contrary to other gorgeous structures, we were able to go inside.
Behind Uphagen House’s elaborate entrance, We were given a tour through an 18 the century wealthy merchant’s house that featured Rocco paneling — which was able to survive World War II unscathed.
One of the most impressive architectural examples in Gdansk. Photo by Eric D. Goodman
Artus Court, an elaborate gathering place for dignitaries and Gdansk’s wealthiest residents, was as beautiful inside and outside.
Inspired by the King’s The Author’s Knights of the Round Table, The house of the meeting was constructed during the fourteenth century. Century. It was built in the 14th century. It has a Gothic style.
The interior decor is an eclectic mix of styles, including a Renaissance tiled stove dating from the 16 century. Century.
Ships are floating in the air hanging from ceilings. Statues of people and animals, some hybrids (such as the deer-man), can be seen along the walls. In every corner of the structure, you will find exquisite decorations.
THE TORTURE TOWER
The former prison and torture tower located between Highland Gate and Golden Gate is now an amber store and museum.
“So if you took Mom there to shop for jewelry, it would still kind of be a torture tower, for you,” Alex laughed.
On the opposite side, at the opposite end of Dluga Targ, the Green Gate opens towards Motlawa River. Motlawa River. This Mannerist design Green Gate was the official residence of the Kings at the time they visited Gdansk.
The Ferris wheel of Gdansk. Photo by Eric D. Goodman
On the waters, vibrant house facades adorned with maritime museums and a medieval crane dating from the fourteenth century. The century and working vessels are juxtaposed against touristy pirate vessels and amber-colored vendors everywhere.
We walked along the shoreline as we walked to the Hotel Fahrenheit, in which we lounged throughout our stay in tiny but chic accommodations close to the water and attractions.
There are many things to see in Gdansk. One of the most relaxing was relaxing in the outdoor eating part at Neptune Milk Bar. Neptune Milk Bar.
Near that statue in the form of Neptune within the garden of Artus Court, and enjoying the delights of pierogi and boiled potatoes and compote while musicians as well as locals and marching bands as vibrant as the buildings that surround us walked by.
We enjoyed the countless sites and gorgeous spots in Gdansk; however, just soaking in the city’s ambiance was the perfect option to close our visit.
GETTING TO GDANSK
Gdansk has its international airport. However, it’s likely that when you’re in Gdansk, you’re also in one of Warsaw or Krakow, or both.
Prices to those airports (Warsaw being the closest and more central) are usually less costly than direct flights to Gdansk.
In Gdansk, We stayed at Hotel Fahrenheit, a lovely clean, well-maintained hotel only one river walk away from Gdansk’s most famous sights.
The rooms were tiny, and breakfast was low-end, but we were attracted by the elegant exterior and were pleased by our experience.
From Hotel Fahrenheit or any of the many other hotels, you’re just a 10-minute river walk from all the historical sights of town and a thrilling walk to The Solidarity and other attractions.
Stop by an ice cream bar like Neptune Milk Bar just opposite the Neptune Statue. Don’t expect to receive a smile at the Neptune Milk Bar or in any milk bars.
Service and food are excellent, but in true Soviet tradition, many older workers won’t be bothered by strangers’ niceties while exchanging food items for cash. This isn’t rudeness; it’s only a part of the experience.
