Gdansk, Poland
Today’s FAQ is: Why visit Poland?
Answer: Poland is one of the places that Chicagoans love to talk about. It’s home to many people of Polish descent.
The harbor in Gdansk, Poland,
Abundant natural resources, including trees, farms, and well-maintained roads. Free healthcare and college education. Income Taxes are around 32%, so higher than in some places. They may be behind in some areas of technology and ahead in others. Culture encompasses notable figures such as Chopin, authors, war heroes, and athletes.
Helena Rubenstein,
Saint Faustina
Lech Walesa
Jan Smits (he warned about Hitler, but no one listened)
September 1939 marked the beginning of the war here. Even after, the Russians still had control. Then, in 1989, they were freed.
Pope John Paul 2 was the most famous Polish person worldwide. I did get to see him face-to-face in Chicago, home to many wonderful Polish people.
60-second confidence challenge
Even when you travel solo, you shouldn’t travel in isolation.
I ensure that one trusted person has access to my itinerary, copies of my passport, insurance details, emergency contacts, and instructions on how to reach me if plans change. I also share how to access crucial digital information if needed. This isn’t about giving up independence — it’s about creating a safety net that lets you travel freely without worrying about worst-case scenarios.
If you enjoyed today’s Confidence Challenge on your essential documents, my book series delves deeper into document tracking. I will also address safety: medical info, digital access, emergency contacts, and how much autonomy to keep versus share. You can find the series at the link in the description.
Today’s special destination is Gdansk, Poland
https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/poland/gdansk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMkHw3WDNiY
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Gdańsk is a stunning port city on the Baltic Sea, known for its rich history, vibrant architecture, and spirit of resilience. For solo women travelers over 50, Gdańsk offers a comfortable and welcoming experience — and it’s more accessible than you might expect.
When you arrive, begin in the Old Town, which was beautifully rebuilt after World War II. The Long Market, or Długi Targ, is a broad, cobblestoned promenade lined with pastel façades and café terraces. It’s mostly flat and easy to navigate — even with a wheelchair. The centerpiece, Neptune’s Fountain, symbolizes the city’s deep maritime roots.
Nearby, visit St. Mary’s Church, one of the world’s largest brick churches. It’s a marvel inside, with intricate artwork and peaceful chapels. There’s a ramped side entrance for those with limited mobility, and the main floor is level, though the tower climb is best for those on foot.
Stroll to the Motława River waterfront, where you’ll see the historic Crane Gate, or Żuraw, once used for lifting cargo. The area has been restored with smooth walkways, restaurants, and benches—ideal for watching the sunset over the river. I lay down by the river and rested several times to take in the views.
For lunch, try a bowl of Polish pierogi or a seafood dish made with herring or cod, both Gdańsk specialties.
Visit the European Solidarity Center, a must-see museum dedicated to Poland’s peaceful struggle for freedom in the 1980s. It’s fully accessible, featuring elevators, wide pathways, and English audio guides. The exhibits are moving—expect to be inspired by the courage of ordinary workers who changed the world.
Just a few minutes away, the Museum of the Second World War offers an exceptional and accessible look at the global conflict that began right here in Gdańsk. Its dramatic underground design allows wheelchair users to move easily through the exhibits. Allow yourself a few hours — it’s a large, immersive, and deeply emotional experience, and it's priced at around $7 for seniors.
Museum of the Second World War entrance
Afterward, take a quiet break at one of Gdańsk’s riverside cafés. You can end your day at the Amber Museum, where you’ll see how the region’s golden gemstone is shaped into stunning art and jewelry. There’s elevator access, and it’s right near the main gate of the Old Town.
Gdańsk feels safe and relaxed. Locals are courteous, and many speak English. The city center is compact so you can walk or Uber easily between major sights. Most trams and buses have low floors for accessibility, and Uber is affordable if you prefer not to navigate cobblestones.
Bring comfortable shoes, dress for changing weather conditions, and plan your visits for early in the day to enjoy quieter streets.
Gdańsk is a city of reflection — rebuilt from ruins, it embodies strength and renewal. For a solo traveler, it’s both humbling and uplifting. I was visiting on July 4th, when the US was celebrating Independence Day.
What did I do outside the tourist attractions in Gdansk? I got a haircut at Trendy, along the riverside, and a massage at my hotel. I took the train there from Warsaw and then left from the airport.
From the train station, I found a bus heading into the downtown area, but it was unclear where to catch it.
Downtown area of Gdansk, near a museum
My missteps: I had trouble finding the right bus in Gdansk.
To get on a bus, you need to know where to stand on the sidewalk. On the way to Old Town Gdansk, there were many options, and the first bus on the other side of the street was mine. I could not buy a ticket until I boarded. I did ride the bus, and no one seemed to care on my first day.
When I left the city, I bought a bus ticket for the 210. Here is what I wrote in my notes?
“Now, I am on the 210 bus at the airport, and someone helped me buy the ticket, but no ticket came out, and the payment went through. I did have to run for the bus, but only 50 yards. “
Don’t be like me. Know your bus routes or take Uber. It’s affordable.
Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you on the next journey.
AI was used to select some of the suggestions for this episode.
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