Lying on the coast of the Baltic Sea in the North of Poland, Gdansk is Poland’s picturesque port city with lots of medieval history – once upon a time it was a member of the Hanseatic League – and loads of modern charm. Still more impressive is the fact that much of historic Gdansk was obliterated during the Second World War – only to be later rebuilt, with outstanding results. A population of 435,000 have Gdansk as home and, as Poland’s largest and most important seaport, this is an industrial hub for not only the North – but indeed for the whole of Poland. Find cheap travel packages offered by airBalticTravel and enjoy a major tourist destination, especially during its vibrant summers on the Baltic Sea.
Languages
The primary language spoken in Gdansk is Polish. That being said, English is taking hold here and from hotel to restaurant to sights around the city of Gdansk, a tourist with a phrasebook (while always recommended) may find it has but little use. But why not have a few words in your pocket: Tak means ‘yes’, Nie means ‘no’ and – when in good spirits – Na Zdrowie for ‘cheers!’.
See and Do
Palaces, fountains, German-influenced architecture – this is a Baltic port city with grace, beauty and a strong sense of its roots in history. Indeed, tourists love Gdansk for its temperate summer escape, the picturesque port and the sublime sense that this is in some way a yet-to-be-discovered destination. Which is not to say that nightlife is lacking. Far from it: at night Gdansk lights up with the buzz of clubs, cafes and chic new restaurants keeping everyone on their toes. Touring the city from one gate to next is perhaps the best way to get into the history that has been so faithfully kept here in Gdansk. The best route through Gdansk is the one the kings would have used for centuries and what is known to every citizen of Gdansk as the Royal Way: Stroll up Long Street to see the beautiful city hall and then up Long Market where you’ll find Neptune’s Fountain, the masterwork of Dutch architect van den Blocke, and for views of the impressively reconstructed buildings that hearken back to the Hanseatic days.
Plenty of museums and beautiful churches offer tourists a contrast to the beautiful sights on the streets during their city-break in Gdansk. Consider a visit to the Museum Ship SS Soldek on the Motlawa River or stop in to see St. Mary’s – it has the honour of being the world’s largest brick church.
