Highland Gate

Attractions of Gdańsk – The Gate of the High City

Gdańsk is a city full of unique charm, whose history dates back over a thousand years. In the heart of this coastal metropolis, you will find numerous monuments and attractions that remind you of the city's former power as one of the most important trade centers in Europe. One such place is the Gate of the High City, which serves as a symbolic entrance to the historical center of Gdańsk. Furthermore, the distance from the Marina Club Hotel is just a few minutes' walk, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city. In the article below, you will learn about the history of this unique gate, discover what to see nearby, and uncover other attractions in the area.

Gate of the High City – a gateway to Gdańsk's past

The Gate of the High City, located on today's Wały Jagiellońskie street, is one of Gdańsk's most important monuments. It was erected in the 1580s on the commission of the city authorities who wanted to create a more representative entrance to the Main City. Its design was entrusted to Willem van den Blocke, an architect from the Netherlands, who introduced elements of Mannerist style characteristic of that time into the architecture of the gate.

The gate served not only a defensive function but also a representative one – it was meant to testify to the wealth and power of Gdańsk. This is evidenced by numerous architectural details, such as the coats of arms of the Republic, Royal Prussia, and Gdańsk itself, placed on the facade. The decorative inscriptions and gilding also draw attention and give the building a unique character.

Walk from the Marina Club Hotel to the Gate of the High City

A stay at the Marina Club Hotel, located at Szafarnia 10, provides an excellent base for exploring Gdańsk's most important attractions, including the Gate of the High City. The distance between the hotel and the gate is about 1.5 kilometers, which means it will take you about 15–20 minutes to reach it on foot. The route leads along the picturesque Motława River and then through Długie Ogrody and the Old Town, offering numerous views of historic tenements and charming alleys.

During your walk, it's worth stopping at a few other interesting places, such as the Crane over Motława, Green Gate or Long Street, which captivate with their historical character and architectural richness.

What to see near the Gate of the High City?

The Gate of the High City marks the beginning of the so-called Royal Route, which leads through Gdańsk's most representative streets – Long Street and Long Market. Walking along this route, you have the opportunity to see the most important monuments of the city, such as:

• Golden Gate – another defensive point that captivates with its elegance and decorations. It is one of the most recognizable places in Gdańsk, perfect for souvenir photos.
• Main City Hall – an impressive building with a viewing tower from which you can enjoy a panorama of the Old Town.
• Artus Court – the former seat of merchant societies, now a museum presenting the rich history of Gdańsk.
• Neptune's Fountain – a symbol of the city that has attracted tourists for centuries and serves as a popular meeting place.

Other attractions in the vicinity of the Old Town

After visiting the Gate of the High City and walking along the Royal Route, it's worth choosing to see other nearby attractions that will allow you to better understand the diverse faces of Gdańsk. Here are a few of them:

1. European Solidarity Centre

Located about a 10-minute walk from the Gate of the High City, ECS is a modern museum dedicated to the history of the "Solidarity" movement and democratic transformations in Central and Eastern Europe. It is a place worth visiting to understand the significance of Gdańsk in Poland's and Europe's recent history.

2. Museum of the Second World War

One of the largest and most modern museums in Europe, offering an interactive exhibition dedicated to the events of the Second World War. It is located just a few minutes' walk from the Marina Club Hotel.

3. St. Mary's Basilica

The largest brick church in Europe, whose interior houses numerous works of sacred art. It is worth climbing to the basilica's tower to admire the panoramic view of Gdańsk and the Gulf of Gdańsk.

Gdańsk – an ideal place for short and long stays

A stay in Gdańsk is an excellent choice for both a weekend city break and a longer holiday. Thanks to the proximity of numerous attractions, such as the Gate of the High City, the Marina Club Hotel allows you to fully enjoy the charms of this coastal city. While walking around the Old Town, you will discover not only beautiful monuments but also atmospheric cafes, restaurants serving local specialties, and numerous souvenir shops.

Why choose the Marina Club Hotel?

By choosing the Marina Club Hotel, you gain not only a comfortable stay in elegant surroundings but also a convenient location that will save you time on traveling to Gdańsk's most important attractions. After a day full of experiences, you can relax in a spacious room while enjoying the view of the Motława River and the Old Town.

We invite you to visit Gdańsk and spend unforgettable moments at the Marina Club Hotel. May the Gate of the High City and other attractions nearby become the beginning of your adventure with this unique city!