Although Toruń is one of the most beautiful Polish cities, it is often just a "quick stop" on the way to the Polish coast. However, there are many wonderful monuments and attractions here that you cannot see in one day. Did you know that this is the only Polish city that was not destroyed during World War II? That's why you will see history and modernity here, and you will also eat delicious Toruń gingerbread!
What is worth seeing in Toruń?
If you don't yet have Toruń on your list of places to see – make sure to add it and plan a trip to this wonderful city. The local Old Town is stunningly beautiful and is also considered one of the most architecturally valuable places in Europe (that's why hotels in Toruń are regarded as some of the most beautiful). Here, you will see the ruins of the Teutonic Castle, the beautiful Old Town Market with its town hall, and many traces of Toruń's most famous resident – Nicolaus Copernicus. What else is worth seeing in Toruń? Families with children should attend workshops organized at the Toruń Gingerbread Museum and the Living Gingerbread Museum, where they will prepare this Toruń delicacy together. Explorers and history enthusiasts should definitely visit the Nicolaus Copernicus House and the Toruń History Museum. Why is it worth visiting these places? You can read about it below!
1. Old Town in Toruń
The Old Town is the most precious gem and the characteristic point of Toruń. It is easily accessible on foot from the train station, by public transport, or by car. However, you should remember that traffic within the Old Town is restricted, so it is best to use one of the four underground car parks nearby.
First, visit the Old Town Market with its historic, colorful townhouses, the Nicolaus Copernicus monument, and the city Town Hall. The latter is a special place as the building was constructed in the 15th century, and its tower is the oldest and tallest (40 m) in Central and Eastern Europe. You can (and should!) climb the tower to enjoy a picturesque panoramic view of the Old Town and the entire city after climbing 175 steps. Near the market, there is also the Raftsman's Monument, the Artus Court Cultural Center, and the Church of the Holy Spirit, built in 1756.
2. Leaning Tower near the Old Town
Right near the Old Town is another quite unusual attraction – the Leaning Tower. This fortification tower from the 14th century leans by about 1.5 m. Its tilt results from unstable ground but has also inspired many legends. One thing is certain: it is the most popular of all 52 defensive towers in Toruń.
3. Toruń Gingerbread Museum
Located in a former gingerbread factory, the interactive Toruń Gingerbread Museum offers a chance to see how traditional cookies are made, learn about their history, and taste them. The curious will also learn the recipe for the best Polish gingerbread and even participate in gingerbread workshops.
4. Living Gingerbread Museum
Another place related to Toruń gingerbread is the Living Gingerbread Museum, where adults and children learn the traditional recipe for this sweet delicacy, its history, bake their own gingerbread, and decorate it as they wish.
5. Ruins of the Teutonic Castle
A few minutes' walk from the Old Town are the ruins of the Teutonic Castle built in the 13th century. It is one of the oldest Teutonic castles on this side of the Vistula River, and from its walls, there is a beautiful view of the river and boulevards. Knight tournaments and various cultural events are held in the ruins.
6. Nicolaus Copernicus House
The world-famous astronomer who "stopped the Sun and moved the Earth" was born in Toruń. Today, in the merchant house that is now the Nicolaus Copernicus House, we learn about the history of his family, the discoveries of this outstanding astronomer, space films, and the history of Toruń through modern technology – virtual reality glasses, interactive exhibitions, and a 4D cinema. What to visit in Toruń with children? Definitely the Nicolaus Copernicus House!
7. Toruń History Museum
Not far from the previous attraction is the Toruń History Museum. Located in a beautiful townhouse – the Esken House – on Łazienna Street, it presents the history of Toruń in a modern and interactive way (e.g., 3D cinema) – from medieval times, through the Teutonic era, the Hanseatic League, the Prussian period, to the 20th century. It is an excellent attraction for history lovers and families with school-age children.
8. Hanseatic Cellar
In the Gothic cellar of the Old Town Hall building, visitors are awaited by merchants and townsfolk who, through their costumes, language, and behavior, transport guests into the world of the city's mercantile stories. Guests participate in an interactive performance during which they learn what caused the rise of Toruń before Nicolaus Copernicus made it famous. By taking on the roles of legends and stories' characters, tourists receive a good dose of laughter, fun, and knowledge. The Hanseatic Cellar is the best place for advising, judging, plotting, and above all, having a good time! After the visit, no merchant’s secret will remain hidden from guests, and one can leave the Town Hall's basement with a personally made souvenir.
