Article Gdansk – Sopot
The elegant pearl of the Baltic Sea
On the Baltic coast between the cities of Gdańsk and Gdynia, lies Sopot – a city that rightfully boasts the title of one of the most prestigious and beautiful seaside resorts in Poland. Sopot is not just about beaches; it is a mix of noble architecture, rich history and a lively atmosphere that attracts tourists all year round.
History
Sopot transformed from a small fishing village into a fashionable spa centre at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. A key role in this development was played by Dr. Jean George Haffner, a former surgeon in Napoleon's army, who founded the first spa facility here in 1823. The town quickly gained popularity among European nobility and artists and has retained its historic elegance and spa character to this day.
Sopot Pier (Molo w Sopocie)
The main symbol of the city is a wooden pier that extends 511.5 meters into the Baltic Sea.
It is the longest wooden pier in Europe!
Walk along the pier
A walk along the pier offers wonderful views of the bay, the Sopot coast and the elegant Grand Hotel. Entrance to the pier is charged.
Spa Square (Skwer Kuracyjny)
Between the entrance to the pier and the pedestrian zone is a large spa square with a number of restaurants and stalls selling souvenirs and refreshments.
Beaches
On both sides of the center of Sopot stretch many kilometers of fine sand beaches. The beaches are frequently visited and have good infrastructure. Along the beaches there is a path for pedestrians and cyclists, which can be easily reached as far as Gdańsk. Another option is to use the good train connection.
Pedestrian zone (Ulica Bohaterów Monte Cassina)
The heart of Sopot's social life is the pedestrian zone. This bustling pedestrian zone, known locally as „Monciak“, leads directly to the pier. It is lined with historic apartment buildings, stylish cafes, restaurants, bars and boutiques. It has a vibrant atmosphere day and night.
The Crooked House (Krzywy Domek)
About halfway down the pedestrian zone is a popular and playful architectural curiosity – the Crooked House. This surreal building, built in 2004, looks as if it has melted or been painted by a child. It is inspired by fairy tales and drawings by Jan Marcin Szancer. Today it houses a shopping mall, restaurants and cafes. It is one of the most photographed places in Poland.
Church of St. George (Kościół św. Jerzego)
At the western end of the pedestrian zone is the elegant neo-Gothic Church of St. George, distinguished by its brick facade and tall tower, reminiscent of an English cathedral.
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