Gdansk is an attractive and vibrant city on Poland's Baltic coast. Located on the Motlawa River, it has been an important seaport for centuries and has survived a number of turbulent periods. It is now an important tourist destination, with visitors to Gdansk finding a blend of different cultures and a number of attractive historical buildings, as well as the sandy beaches of nearby Sopot.
Gdansk is located in the north of Poland, on the southern edge of Gdansk Bay. It forms part of the metropolitan area called the Tricity - a conurbation comprising Gdansk, the city of Gdynia and the town of Sopot. Approximately 500,000 people live in Gdansk , which has been part of modern-day Poland since the end of the Second World War. The city is a popular summer holiday destination for Poles and is becoming increasingly popular among overseas visitors as well.
Many people flock to Gdansk during the summer months to make the most of the nearby sandy beaches. But there is much more to Gdansk than its beautiful beaches and clean waters. Key attractions include:
Dlugi Targ - This was originally the main city market, although it has now become very touristy. Known to visitors as the Long Market, it dates back to the 13th century and features a number of historic buildings, such as Uphagen House, the Town Hall and Schumann House.
St Mary's Church - This Roman Catholic church was begun in the 14th century and is the largest brick church in the world, measuring 105.5m long, with a 66m nave. Built in the Gothic style, the church is said to hold up to 25,000 people and features a number of important paintings, chapels and tombs.
Roads to Freedom Exhibition - Visitors to this exhibition learn about the country's struggle against communism. Starting with the story of uprisings against post-war communism, the exhibition tells of the riots in 1970, the rise of 'Solidarity' and the August Accords in 1980, which finally paved the way for democratic change.
National Museum - Established in 1972, this is a member of the Polish National Museum system. It is located in an old Franciscan monastery and features ancient and modern art, photography and ceramics. One of the main attractions is the Final Judgment - a triptych painted in the 15th century by the German artist Hans Memling.
Gdansk Airport (Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport) is located some 12km from the city. The easiest way to travel from the airport to the city is by bus, although a rail connection is expected to open by the end of 2014.
Weather-wise, Gdansk is more pleasant during the summer months, when the average temperature is about 20 degrees Celsius. September is still reasonably warm but with fewer tourists than in July and August.
If you're planning a trip to Poland, why not take a look at our holiday apartments in Gdansk? We offer high quality accommodation in key central locations that is often much more affordable than staying in a hotel.
All Gdansk apartments are available for online booking for the convenience of the travelers and direct reservation.
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