Marina Club Hotel

Harbour crane in Gdansk

The Harbour Crane is one of many buildings that symbolise Gdansk, but also bear witness to the city's heyday as a trading centre. First mentioned in 1376, it burnt down in 1442 and was rebuilt in 1444, retaining its appearance ever since. It was used, among other things, to attach masts to ships and was at one time the largest crane in the world with a lifting capacity of 4 tonnes up to 11 metres. It was in use until the mid-19th century and was destroyed in 1945 during the battles for Gdańsk. After the war it was rebuilt and donated to the Maritime Museum. There is a permanent exhibition on the workings of the gate between the 16th and 18th centuries, a clear winner for all age groups, whether on a summer holiday or weekend break in Gdansk.

Dwór Artusa

Dwór Artusa or Artushof, the German name for the beautiful building that lies in all its splendour just behind the Neptune Fountain. Artushof is probably the best known building in Gdansk. Built in the mid-14th century and further embellished with a facade by Abraham van den Block in the early 17th century.

The upper floors have a selection of historical exhibits and a 'simulacrum' or simulation of what the Great Hall looked like in its heyday. The great Renaissance stove, the beautiful painting of the Battle of Grunwald, the many hunting motifs form an incredible backdrop for a few unique hours in the company of magnificent halls and beautiful works of art.

Under 2. Artushof was destroyed but rebuilt in faithful replica from gaamle photographs and historical records.

Wielka Zbrojownia

The Great Arsenal was built between 1600-1609 in the same structure as the medieval city walls and represents some of the finest Renaissance architecture in Gdansk, designed by Opberghen. The Arsenal was badly damaged during World War II. It had to be rebuilt from scratch. It is only recently of it has regained its former glory. Today, it is occasionally open for art exhibitions and there is a small café on the ground floor, so that those thirsty for coffee can get a glimpse of the Arsenal's interior.

Gdansk City Hall

The historic Town Hall of Gdansk is an impressive building, built in a Gothic-Renaissance style, and with a location on the beautiful King's Road and an impressive height, this church certainly stands out. It is also located on the King's Road close to the square. There are actually two clocks, the one on the tower and then there is also a sundial, which dates back to the 16th century, and with the inscription "The shadow is our days".

St. Mary's Church (Gdansk)

In the centre of Gdańsk is the world's largest brick church, St Mary's. Here it is possible to visit the viewing platform on top of the bell tower, which offers a great view of Gdańsk city. The church was almost completely destroyed by Russian forces in 1945, but later rebuilt and today the beautiful old church is certainly worth a visit on a holiday to Poland. The church is full of neat paintings, sculptures and monuments, and every hour you can hear the bells of Adam and Eve ringing. Located in the heart of the Old Town, St. Mary’s Church is easily accessible and surrounded by charming cafes and shops, making it a perfect addition to your Gdańsk itinerary.

Museum of the Second World War

The Second World War was very hard on Poland, and a reminder of this is the 5,000 square metre underground museum, which is also the largest of its kind in the world. It was in Gdansk 2. The tragic story of Poland's world war, the causes, the consequences, the Polish people, the victims, the heroes and of course the enemy is told 14 metres underground.

The historical narrative is divided into three narrative sections, each covering The Road to War, The Terror of War and The Long Shadows of War. It may take a little time to get through the vast museum, but it's worth it. The museum is an educational and powerful experience for all, and it is recommended to enjoy a good Polish lager after finishing your visit while it all sinks in. For history buffs, this museum is a mecca of stories, visuals and tragic fates. Therefore, the museum also stands as a warning to future generations.

Hewelianum Centre

Right in the heart of Gdańsk, the Hewelianum Centre is a science centre located in an old bunker dating back to the Napoleonic era. The place is a unique chance for children to investigate and discover the secrets of physics, astronomy, history and biology, as an excursion on a family holiday in Poland. There are several interactive exhibits to help understand the many things going on in our universe in an educational and entertaining way.

European Solidarity Museum

BHP Hal Gdansk Shipyard is the place where the solidarity movement started. It was here that the first strikes against Poland's communist regime began. In 1980 Solidarity had its headquarters here and it was also here that the August Agreement between the Communist regime in Poland and Solidarity was signed. The agreement opened up the possibility of the right to strike and independent trade unions, and later, with the wave of political freedom, democracy with the famous Lech Walesa.

Visit the very interesting museum and hear the impressive story of the strikes at the Gdansk shipyard and the Solidarity movement in Poland.

Wisłoujście Fortress

Gdansk has been a central trading city for many centuries, and the Wisłoujście fortress is an excellent example of how well the city was protected already in the 15th century. It was from here that the fleet sailed in 1627 and defeated the Swedes at the Battle of Oliwa. What the keen observer will notice is that the fortress is built in different styles, depending on the repairs that had to be made after the devastating wars.

Be sure to pay the interesting fortress a visit.

Sopot

Looking for a contrast to city life, Sopot, adjacent to Gdansk, is a nostalgic but modern seaside resort. The spa town is used for recreation and leisure. About half a kilometre away is Sopot's main attraction, the wooden bridge where boats to Gdyna and Gdansk dock. In addition to bars and cafés, there is the Waldoper with an open-air stage for opera performances in the picturesque countryside and, in summer, an open-air cinema.