Toruń, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a historical city in Poland renowned for its exceptionally preserved medieval Gothic architecture and as the birthplace of astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Visitors are drawn to its rich history, unique gingerbread tradition, and the scenic Vistula River.
The heart of Toruń's social scene is centered within its UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. This area is bustling with various pubs, cozy cafes, and atmospheric bars, particularly around the Old Town Market Square. During summer, the Vistula riverfront offers unique social opportunities with river barges transformed into floating bars and occasional live music venues. Streets such as ul. Szeroka and ul. Chełmińska are noted for clubs and an energetic atmosphere, appealing to students and young adults.
Top 6 Things to do in Toruń
Toruń's activities predominantly involve exploring medieval architecture, delving into scientific and historical museums, and engaging in the city's famous gingerbread-making tradition.
1. Wander the Old Town and its iconic landmarks
I found myself captivated by Toruń's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where Gothic architecture creates a truly immersive historical atmosphere. Strolling through the Old Town Market Square, I admired the Copernicus Monument and the intricate details of the surrounding merchant houses. Exploring the preserved city walls along the Vistula River, including the famous Leaning Tower, offers picturesque views and a glimpse into the city's defensive past. The Leaning Tower (Krzywa Wieża), which dates back to the 14th century, is a peculiar sight due to its significant tilt, making for a memorable photo opportunity. Taking the time to absorb the atmosphere of the squares and cobbled streets is essential for understanding Toruń's medieval character.
Cost: Free to explore the streets and view external monuments. Some specific internal attractions within the Old Town have separate entry fees.
Transport: All aspects of the Old Town are easily walkable.
2. Engage in a Gingerbread Baking Workshop at the Living Museum of Gingerbread
Stepping into the Living Museum of Gingerbread (Żywe Muzeum Piernika) felt like a journey back in time. Here, I actively participated in a workshop, learning about the ancient art of gingerbread making from a Gingerbread Master. Donning traditional attire, I mixed ingredients, kneaded dough, and pressed it into wooden molds, following recipes from five centuries ago. The experience is highly interactive, concluding with a tasting of the freshly baked delicacy and a deeper appreciation for Toruń's culinary heritage. It’s an engaging activity suitable for all ages.
Cost: Adult ticket is approximately 39-42 PLN. Reduced tickets (children, students, seniors) are around 35-37 PLN.
Transport: Located within Toruń's Old Town, it is easily reachable on foot. Specifically, it is about 199 steps from the Nicolaus Copernicus Monument.
3. Explore the House of Nicolaus Copernicus Museum
Visiting the House of Nicolaus Copernicus Museum offers a compelling insight into the life and work of the famous astronomer, who was born in Toruń in 1473. The museum is housed in two beautifully preserved Gothic tenement houses that belonged to Copernicus's family. I explored the interactive exhibitions, which utilize modern multimedia technologies such as holograms and 4D cinema, to present Copernicus's intellectual development and the merchant culture of Toruń in his era. A highlight is the audiovisual presentation of a model of medieval Toruń. Allow about 1.5-2 hours for a thorough visit.
Cost: Normal ticket is approximately 31 PLN. Reduced ticket is 26 PLN. Access to the permanent exhibitions is free on Thursdays.
Transport: Situated in the Old Town on Kopernika Street, it is within easy walking distance of other central attractions.
4. Ascend the Old Town Hall Tower for panoramic views
The Old Town Hall, a monumental Gothic structure in the heart of the Old Town Square, is not only a museum but also offers a chance to climb its 40-meter-high clock tower. I found the ascent to be well worth the effort, as the observation deck at the top provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Old Town, the Vistula River, and beyond. Inside the Town Hall, the District Museum showcases a rich collection of Gothic art, ancient crafts, and Polish paintings, including the famed 'Toruń portrait' of Nicolaus Copernicus. The permanent exhibitions are free to visit on Wednesdays.
Cost: Entry to the Exhibition Hall is approximately 30 PLN for a normal ticket, and climbing the Town Hall Tower is an additional 28 PLN. Reduced tickets are also available.
Transport: Located directly in the Old Town Market Square, it is central and walkable.
5. Experience the Toruń Planetarium
In the city of Nicolaus Copernicus, a visit to the Toruń Planetarium is a fitting tribute to its astronomical legacy. I attended a popular astronomical show under its 15-meter-wide dome, which uses a star projector and full-dome video projection to create immersive, 360-degree visuals of the cosmos. There are various programs, some available in English, covering topics from the Solar System to distant galaxies. Additionally, the interactive Orbitarium exhibition allows visitors to engage with space exploration, for instance, by piloting a Cassini spacecraft model. It is an educational and engaging experience for those interested in science and space.
Cost: Planetarium shows cost approximately 30 PLN for a normal ticket. The Orbitarium exhibition is about 12 PLN for a normal ticket. Reduced tickets are available.
Transport: The Planetarium is located within the Old Quarter, making it easily accessible on foot.
6. Visit the Teutonic Castle Ruins
I explored the ruins of the Teutonic Order Castle, a site of significant historical importance that dates back to the 13th century. Though largely destroyed by a town uprising in 1454, the remnants, particularly the Gdanisko (a former lavatory tower), offer a tangible connection to the powerful monastic military order that once occupied these lands. Walking through the preserved subterranean caverns and imagining the medieval life within these walls provides a unique perspective on Toruń's tumultuous past. The ruins sometimes host concerts, festivals, and tournaments, bringing history to life.
Cost: Admission is approximately 20 PLN for a normal ticket, with reduced tickets available for 12 PLN.
Transport: The ruins are located on the banks of the Vistula River, adjacent to the Old Town, making them easily accessible by foot.
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