How to Plan Your World War II Tour of Gdansk and Stutthof

If you’re a history buff or have Polish heritage, a tour of Gdansk’s World War II sites is a must-do activity. With this private tour package offered by local providers, you can explore the fascinating history of Gdansk’s role in World War II and discover the sites that were crucial to the war effort. Here’s how to plan your own World War II tour of Gdansk and Stutthof.

Overview

This private guided tour covers three main sites that played a key role in World War II: Westerplatte, Stutthof Concentration Camp, and Gdansk’s Old Town. In just one day, you’ll be transported back in history to understand the significance of these locations and witness the remnants of damage that the war inflicted.

What’s Included

The tour includes door-to-door transportation by air-conditioned car, an English-speaking guide and driver, and a Polish lunch in a local restaurant. It’s important to note that this tour is only for individual groups of up to eight people.

The Itinerary

The first stop on the tour is Stutthof Concentration Camp, located approximately 43 km from Gdansk. The guide will take you on a private tour of the camp’s museum, which details the Nazi occupation of Poland and the atrocities committed at Stutthof. You’ll learn about the harsh living conditions in the camp and the fate of the thousands of prisoners who were held there.Next, the tour heads to Westerplatte, the site where the first battle of World War II was fought. The guide will take you through the area, recounting the events of September 1, 1939, when German forces invaded Poland. You’ll see the memorial to the defenders of Westerplatte and learn about the significance of this site in the war.The final stop is Gdansk’s Old Town, where the guide will lead you on a walking tour of the city. You’ll see firsthand the damage inflicted upon the city during the war and learn about its reconstruction efforts. The Old Town is also home to many stunning historical buildings, including the Artus Court, Neptune’s Fountain, and the Main Town Hall.Throughout the tour, the guide will provide in-depth commentary on the complex history of Gdansk and its environs. From wartime politics to the lives of civilians during the war, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the city’s World War II story.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour includes door-to-door transportation, so your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel or other desired location. The tour is offered daily, and you’ll need to confirm the start time with the local provider in advance of your experience.

Why Choose this Tour

If you’re looking for a comprehensive World War II tour of Gdansk, this package is an excellent choice. With private transportation and an English-speaking guide, you’ll be able to explore the sites at your own pace and gain a deeper understanding of the war’s impact on this city. Moreover, the tour allows for a more personalized experience since it’s only for small groups of up to eight people.

How to Book

Interested in booking this World War II tour of Gdansk and Stutthof? You can easily reserve your spot online at Viator.com. Click the following link to book the tour here: book the tour here. In conclusion, a World War II tour of Gdansk and Stutthof is an unforgettable experience for history buffs and anyone interested in Polish heritage. The tour package offered by local providers is an excellent option for a comprehensive guided tour that includes transportation, a private guide, and a Polish lunch. Book your tour today to discover the fascinating history of Gdansk during World War II.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gdansk

Gdansk is a beautiful city located in the north of Poland, on the coast of the Baltic Sea. It has a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving cultural scene. If you are planning to visit Gdansk, you might have some questions about the city. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Gdansk.

1. What is the best time to visit Gdansk?

The best time to visit Gdansk is between May and September when the weather is pleasant, and there are many outdoor activities and events organized. The summer months of June, July, and August are the busiest and most expensive, but they are also the time when Gdansk is most alive with festivals, concerts, and other cultural events.

2. How do I get to Gdansk?

Gdansk has its own airport, which serves flights to and from major European cities. Alternatively, you can fly to Warsaw, and then take a train, bus, or domestic flight to Gdansk. Trains and buses are also available from other Polish cities and neighboring countries.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Gdansk?

Gdansk has many tourist attractions that you should not miss. Some of the top attractions include:

a. Old Town and Main Town Hall

Gdansk’s Old Town is a beautifully preserved medieval area with colorful houses, picturesque streets, and lively squares. The Main Town Hall, built in the 14th century, dominates the center of the Old Town and is one of the most popular attractions.

b. Mariacka Street

Mariacka Street is a charming cobblestone street lined with amber shops, art galleries, and cafes. It is also home to the impressive St. Mary’s Basilica, the largest brick church in the world.

c. Westerplatte

Wisterplatte is a site of the first battle of World War II and now is home to a museum and monument. It is easily accessible by ferry or bus from Gdansk’s city center.

d. European Solidarity Centre

The European Solidarity Centre is a museum and educational center dedicated to the Solidarity movement that helped overthrow communism in Poland in the 1980s. It features interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that tell the story of the movement.

4. What is the currency in Gdansk?

The official currency in Poland is the Polish Zloty (PLN). There are many exchange offices and ATMs in Gdansk where you can exchange your currency or withdraw cash.

5. What is the language spoken in Gdansk?

The official language in Gdansk is Polish, but many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels. It is always helpful to learn some basic Polish phrases before your trip, such as “hello” (cześć), “thank you” (dziękuję), and “please” (proszę).

6. What is the food like in Gdansk?

Polish cuisine is hearty, delicious, and often quite filling. Some of the most popular Polish dishes include:

a. Pierogi

Pierogi are dumplings filled with various fillings such as meat, cheese, or vegetables. They are a staple of Polish cuisine and can be found almost everywhere in Gdansk.

b. Bigos

Bigos is a traditional Polish stew made with cabbage, meat, and sauerkraut. It is often served with bread or potatoes.

c. Kielbasa

Kielbasa is a type of Polish sausage that comes in many varieties, from smoked to spicy.

d. Oscypek

Oscypek is a smoked cheese made from sheep’s milk, which is a specialty in the Tatra Mountains.

7. Is Gdansk safe to visit?

Gdansk is a relatively safe city to visit, although you should always take the usual precautions that you would in any city. Avoid dark or deserted streets at night, keep your valuables safe, and be aware of pickpockets in busy tourist areas.

Conclusion

Gdansk is a fascinating city with much to offer. We have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Gdansk, but there is much more to discover. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or gastronomy, Gdansk has something for everyone.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Gdansk – A Comprehensive Guide

Gdansk is a lively city located in northern Poland that perfectly blends the old and new worlds. It has something to offer for everyone who comes to explore its beautiful streets. From historic sites to modern bars, Gdansk has a lot to offer to tourists. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with valuable insights and clear step-by-step instructions on how to spend your time as a tourist in Gdansk. So grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!

1. Explore the Old Town

The Old Town of Gdansk is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and well-preserved historic sites in Europe. It boasts an impressive collection of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The main street of the Old Town, Dluga Street, is lined with beautiful colourful tenement houses that are certainly worth seeing.To explore the Old Town, start from the medieval port crane, which is a symbol of Gdansk. From there, you can walk towards the famous Neptune Fountain, a bronze statue that has been standing in the middle of Dlugi Targ since 1633. Along the way, you’ll come across many beautiful churches, such as St. Mary’s Church, St. John’s Church, and the Church of the Holy Trinity.

2. Visit the Westerplatte Peninsula

Westerplatte is a peninsula located at the entrance to Gdansk harbour. It was the site of the first battle of World War II when Polish soldiers held off German troops for seven days in 1939. Today, the Westerplatte is a must-visit tourist destination. You can take a ferry or a bus to get there. Once you arrive, you can visit the Westerplatte Monument, which is designed to commemorate Polish soldiers who fought during the war.

3. Check out the European Solidarity Centre

The European Solidarity Centre is a museum dedicated to the Solidarity movement that started in Gdansk in the 1980s. The museum covers the history of Solidarity, including the strikes that led to the fall of communism in Poland. The museum also showcases the role of the Polish workers in the fall of communism in Europe.

4. Try some local food

Polish cuisine is delicious and unique. When in Gdansk, try traditional dishes such as Pierogi, Zurek, and Bigos. Pierogi is the most famous Polish dish and consists of dumplings filled with either meat, mushrooms, or cheese. Zurek is a sour rye soup that is sour and delicious. Bigos is a traditional Polish stew that contains meat, sauerkraut, and other vegetables. You can find these dishes in traditional Polish restaurants or street food vendors.

5. Visit the beaches

Gdansk is a city by the sea, and therefore it has many beautiful beaches. The most popular beach is Sopot beach, which is the longest beach in Poland and has a pier that extends over 500 meters. You can easily take a train to get there from Gdansk. If you prefer a quieter beach, you can visit Stogi Beach or Brzezno Beach.

6. Go shopping

If you love shopping, you’ll definitely love Gdansk. The city has many shopping centres, including the Galeria Baltycka, which is the largest shopping centre in the Tri-City area. The city centre also has many boutique shops where you can find unique souvenirs to bring back home.

7. Attend Festivals and Events

Gdansk hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. Highlights include the St. Dominic’s Fair, which is one of the biggest open-air events in Poland, and the Gdansk Shakespeare Festival, which is an international theatre festival. There are also many concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events that take place year-round. Check and plan your trip according to these events.

Conclusion

Gdansk is undoubtedly a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in history, cuisine, or nightlife, Gdansk has something to offer for everyone. With this guide, you should be able to make the most of your trip to Gdansk. Bon Voyage!