Travel guide – gdask

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Overview

Gdañsk is an important port, situated at the mouth of the Vistula River on the Baltic Sea, and throughout its history has been a major trading centre. It is the best known of the Tri-City complex that it forms with the modern seaport of Gdynia and the fashionable beach resort town of Sopot.

Its turbulent history includes the rule of the Teutonic Knights in the 14th century, who then lost it to Prussia, and after the first shots of World War II were fired at the nearby Polish garrison, Westerplatte, it came under occupation of Nazi Germany in 1939. Like many Polish towns Gdañsk lay in ruins after the war, but it was meticulously rebuilt over a 20-year period, returning it to its former glory, and the interesting architecture and beautiful painted buildings are part of the town’s historic charm.

The richest architecture is visible in the historic quarter of the Main Town. Its main thoroughfare, known as the Royal Way, is spectacular. Lined with magnificent buildings featuring beautifully painted facades and entered through grand stone gateways at either end, this was the route along which the Polish Kings paraded during their visits. The most splendid façade in town belongs to the Golden House, one of Gdañsk’s most impressive buildings, along with the Town Hall and Artus Court. In front of the Court, the gathering place of the old merchants, stands the Renaissance-style Neptune’s Fountain. Along the waterfront with its fashionable restaurants and cafes, the huge Gdañsk Crane dominates the promenade, the largest crane in medieval Europe and today housing the Maritime Museum.

Parallel to the Royal Way is Gdañsk’s most picturesque street, Mariacka Lane, lined with quaint 17th century burgher houses with decorative steps and iron railings. The gigantic St Mary’s Church towers over the city and offers splendid panoramic views.

Climate

Poland has a temperate climate characterised by cold winters and warm summers. Winters become increasingly severe inland from the Baltic coast, with January temperatures in Warsaw averaging 23°F (-5°C). In summer it is hotter inland; with July temperatures in Warsaw averaging 66°F (19°C). Rain can be expected throughout the year, particularly in the southern mountains.

Health

There are few health risks associated with travel to Poland. Those visiting forested areas are advised to seek medical advice about inoculations for tick borne encephalitis. Bird flu was discovered in swans in northern Poland in March 2006; there is little risk to travellers, but close contact with live birds should be avoided and all egg and poultry dishes well cooked as a precaution. It is safest to drink bottled water to avoid stomach upsets. There is a reciprocal health agreement with the UK and most EU countries, whose citizens are entitled to free emergency medical treatment on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Full health insurance cover is advised.

The basics

Getting Around

The city centre is small and compact and easy to navigate on foot, but buses and trams operate a frequent service throughout the day. Tickets should be bought at kiosks before boarding. Taxis are reasonably inexpensive and booking by phone is cheaper than hailing one on the street. The fast train system (SKM) is the most efficient way to get between the three towns comprising the Tri-City area.

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