These Stunning Pictures Prove Why Gdansk Was Voted A Top Destination For 2017

The maritime city of Gdansk in the north of Poland has been voted one of the top European destinations to visit in 2017. From its charming cobbled streets housing impressive Gothic basilicas, to picturesque historical architecture and wide sandy beaches, these pictures show why you need to add Gdansk to your travel list.

St Mary’s Church (Bazylika Mariacka in Polish), which is one of Europe’s largest basilicas, is located in the historical Old Town. It measures 5,000 sq metres and offers breathtaking views over the city.

Podkramarska 5, 80-834 Gdańsk, Poland

The Long Market (Długi Targ), surrounded by colourful merchant houses (restored after the Second World War), is one of the main tourist attractions in the city.

Długa, 22-100 Gdańsk, Poland

Another must-see is the bronze Neptune’s Fountain (completed in 1633), located in the Long Market by the beautiful 14th century Artus Court.

Długi Targ, 80-833 Gdańsk, Poland

Fountain of the Neptune in old town of Gdansk

Part of the National Maritime Museum, the medieval waterfront crane (Żuraw) which overlooks the Motława River is also a famous symbol of the city.

Szeroka 67/68, 22-100 Gdańsk, Poland

The Zuraw Crane and colorful gothic facades of the old town in Gdansk

Do some amber shopping on the enchanting Mariacka Street. Also known as “Baltic gold”, amber is one of Gdansk’s most treasured products.

Mariacka 14, 80-833 Gdańsk, Poland

See the city from above from the 55 metre (180 ft) tall panoramic wheel called Amber Sky.

Targ Węglowy 4, 22-100 Gdańsk, Poland

Admire the city’s picturesque architecture.

Discover Gdansk’s amazing street art – both permanent and temporary.

And get lost in the Old Town’s romantic cobbled stone streets.

The city gets filled with colour every July thanks to St. Dominic’s Fair, which with its vibrant outdoor markets and costume parades is a definite highlight of the summer.

The Gdańsk Shipyard is another important place to stop.

Na Ostrowiu 15/20, 80-873 Gdańsk, Poland

To learn more about the Solidarity movement, which was founded here in 1980, head to the nearby European Solidarity Centre museum.

PI Solidarności 1, 80-863 Gdańsk, Poland

Make sure you visit the Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers of 1970 located by the entrance to the shipyard.

Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers of 1970, Gdansk

See the Westerplatte Monument commemorating the beginning of the Second World War and Polish soldiers, who fought against German forces during the battle in September 1939.

80-001 Gdańsk, Poland

For all sports fans, it’s worth visiting Gdansk’s football stadium, which hosted Euro 2012.

Pokoleń Lechii Gdańsk 1, 80-560 Gdańsk, Poland

For some respite from the city’s hustle and bustle, take a trip to the quieter Oliwa district to see its impressive red brick Gothic cathedral.

Oliwa, Gdańsk, Poland

And the surrounding Oliwa park.

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Relax at one of Gdansk’s long sandy beaches.

And its wooden pier providing great views over the Baltic Sea.

Finally, finish your day with a leisurely sunset stroll.

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