Gdańsk Old Town Walking Tour: St. Mary’s Church & WWII Sites

Summary

Walk Gdańsk’s cobbled streets past Neptune’s Fountain & medieval cranes

You’ll wander Gdańsk’s Old Town with a local guide who brings stories to life—from St. Mary’s Church echoing with bells to Neptune’s Fountain bustling with laughter. Feel centuries-old bricks underfoot, hear tales of medieval cranes and WWII heroes, and end your walk seeing Gdańsk through new eyes.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the bricks felt under my shoes—uneven, old, and kind of echoey when you step just right. Our guide, Marta (she waved a yellow umbrella so we wouldn’t lose her in the crowd), started us off near the Golden Gate. She had this way of weaving in little jokes about Gdańsk that made even the history bits stick, like how she called Long Street “the city’s catwalk.” I didn’t expect to laugh as much as I did on a walking tour, but here we were.

We passed St. Mary’s Church—the biggest brick church in the world, apparently—which looked almost too big for the street. The bells started ringing while Marta told us about its builders, and it gave me goosebumps for some reason. There was this faint smell of fresh bread drifting from somewhere (maybe one of those little bakeries tucked behind souvenir shops?), and it made me wish I’d skipped breakfast just to try it. At Długi Targ, Neptune’s Fountain was surrounded by kids splashing water at each other, and Marta pointed out an old Fahrenheit scale on a wall that I honestly would’ve missed if she hadn’t stopped us.

I think my favorite part was hearing about the Crane—Żuraw—down by the river. It looks ancient up close, all dark wood and creaky beams, and you can almost picture ships unloading grain centuries ago. We ended at the Monument to the Defenders of The Polish Post Office. It’s not exactly cheerful, but Marta explained what happened there in 1939 with so much respect that it stuck with me more than any textbook ever could. Funny how a day trip in Gdańsk can make you feel both lighter and heavier at once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Gdańsk main town highlights

• Meet and greet with expert guide
• Walk down Long Street and learn history
• Visit the biggest brick church
• See Arthus' House, Neptune fountain, and Fahrenheit scale
• View the medieval Crane
• Learn at Monument to Defenders of Polish Post Office

Top questions

Is this Gdańsk walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on this tour are wheelchair accessible.

Does the tour include entry to St. Mary’s Church?

The tour stops at St. Mary’s Church but does not specify entry inside.

How do I find my guide for the walking tour?

Your guide will be holding a yellow umbrella at the meeting point.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join in a pram or stroller.

Is public transportation nearby for this Gdańsk day trip?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to the starting point.

Can I book a private Gdańsk Old Town walking tour?

Yes, private tours are available upon request—just let them know when booking.

What’s included

Your day includes joining a group led by an expert local guide (look for their yellow umbrella), with your reservation fee covering both your spot and your guide’s payment. All main sites are accessible for wheelchairs or strollers, and you’re free to tip your guide as you wish at the end.