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15 Best Things to Do in Toruń (Poland)

Shielded by walls and gates on the right bank of the Vistula, Toruń is the brick-built city that gave the world Nicolaus Copernicus. The man who put the sun at the centre of the solar system was born here in 1473, and the cathedral still has the very font in which he was baptised.

There’s no lack of sights around Toruń relating to this illustrious son, but the city has more to keep you engrossed. Toruń was founded by the Teutonic Knights, and when their castle was excavated in the 1960s it revealed hidden underground chambers. In the Middle Ages the city was also part of the Europe-spanning Hanseatic League, and many of its merchant houses and historic granaries are holdovers from when trade was booming in the 14th and 15th centuries.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Toruń :

1. Old Town Hall

One of the greatest pieces of secular Medieval architecture in Europe, Toruń’s Old Town Hall grabs all the headlines.

It goes back to the middle of the 13th century, but the lasting work was done in the 1390s under the watch of the Teutonic Great Master, Konrad von Wallenrode.

At this time Toruń was at its apogee as a Hanseatic city and the Town Halls size and grandeur reflects that confidence.

In those times the ground floor and courtyard were allocated for traders, while government decisions were made on the level above.

As we see it today, the Old Town Hall has Mannerist architecture following a makeover at the start of the 17th century.

There’s a museum on the history of the city inside, and you can battle up the steps to the top of the tower, the oldest part of the building, for a knockout view of the Old Town.

2. Rynek Staromiejski (Old Town Square)

Where it all began, Toruń’s fabulous central square was marked out between 1252 and 1259. In Medieval times, tournaments took place along the western frontage, and people were executed and punished at the pillory.

The remarkable town hall takes all the plaudits, but you shouldn’t neglect the historic townhouses for merchants and nobility, and a few of the other smaller sights on the square.

One is the Artus Court, once the heart of social and political life for merchants in the Teutonic City, now with a Neo-Renaissance facade from the end of the 19th century.

Then at no. 26 is the handsome Main Post Office, built in the 1880s in the days of the German Empire, with a Neo-Renaissance gable to complement the Town Hall.

3. Toruń Cathedral

Coming face to face with this Late Gothic wonder on Ulica żeglarska, it’s hard not to be awed by the mighty western tower.

If you’re keen on Medieval history you’ll want to go slowly as the cathedral has masses of art and historical monuments.

As a priority you have to see the frescoes in the chancel dating to the 14th century and showing the Crucifixion and Last Judgment.

On the Copernicus theme, in a chapel dedicated to the astronomer is a 13th-century font used for his baptism in 1473, as well as an 18th-century bust and a tomb monument.

Up in the tower you can see Tuba Dei (God’s Trumpet), Poland’s largest medieval bell, weighing nearly 7.5 tons and cast in 1500.

4. Teutonic Castle Ruins

When you remember it was sacked in 1454 during an uprising against the Teutonic Order, it’s not surprising that little remains of the old Teutonic Castle east of the Old Town.

The site had been mostly forgotten until the 1960s when excavations brought to light underground chambers that have been opened up to visitors.

You can enter the kitchen and learn about the knights’ diet and see what would have been kept in the pantry on a typical day.

Other things to discover are the dormitory, where information boards inform you about the order’s daily routine, as well as the restored vaults and the active minting room in the castle’s bailey.

In the ruins of the old chapel there’s also a set of replica siege engines.

5. Live Gingerbread Museum

In an early-19th-century granary in the Old Town is a working reconstruction of a Renaissance bakery.

At this setting you’ll get to see, and take part in, the traditional method of making gingerbread.

That will entail sifting flour and measuring spices, and then baking the dough in old-school wooden forms.

All the way you’ll hear fascinating insights and no shortage of jokes from the gingerbread master, apprentices and a witch, finishing up with your own piece of gingerbread to take home.

In 2014 a new exhibition opened, showing how gingerbread-making became industrialised at the turn of the 20th-century with a set of original German machines and moulds.

6. House under the Star

Of all the monuments facing the Old Town Square, this Italianate Baroque house may be the most beguiling.

The building is far older than its 17th-century facade, having been put up in the 1200s.

Later, it was home to the Italian humanist and writer Filippo Buonaccorsi, tutor to the sons of King Casimir IV Jagiellon towards the end of the 15th century.

But that detailed stuccowork, with a fruit and flower motif is from 1697, and the building’s name comes from the golden star atop the gable on the facade that was placed here during this redesign.

The interiors, with richly carved wooden stairs and painted ceiling beams, are just as they were in the 18th century.

Also in store is a sensational collection of painting, sculpture and applied arts from China, India, Japan, Vietnam and Korea.

7. Nicolaus Copernicus Monument

If you need a place to meet up in Toruń look no further than the statue of Nicolaus Copernicus in front of the Town Hall, high above the cafe tables.

On a five-metre pedestal, he stands at twice life size and is dressed in academic attire.

In his left hand you’ll notice he’s holding an astrolabe, while, for obvious reasons, his right index finger points to the heavens.

The monument was raised in 1853 after more than 14 years of fundraising and preparations.

On the pedestal is an inscription by the German polymath Alexander von Humboldt, reading, “Nicolaus Copernicus Thorunensis, terrae motor, solis caelique stator” (“Nicolaus Copernicus of Thorun, mover of the earth, stopper of the sun and heavens”.

8. Rynek Nowomiejski (New Town Square)

In a city as old as Toruń “new” is a relative term, as this square was laid out in 1264 near the eastern end of the Old Town.

Once the centre of a separate town, the New Town Square had its own town hall, which lost its status when the two town’s merged in the 15th century and was pulled down in the 1800s.

Considering its age there’s a real sense of scale on the New Town Square, which measures 95 x 95 metres and is enclosed on all sides by the beautiful facades of townhouses.

These are in a mixture of styles, from Gothic to Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical.

At no. 17 on the north side and no. 8 on the west side are two handsome Baroque townhouses, both former inns with interiors going back to the 15th century.

9. Medieval Walls

Toruń’s walls are as old as the city, dating back to the middle of the 13th century.

As the city grew in the Late Middle Ages, these were also extended and reinforced.

Some big chunks have been preserved, and there are nine gates and towers still standing.

The most complete section extends for 100 metres or so along the Vistual Waterfront, beginning in the west at the Leaning Tower, which we’ll talk about next.

After a short walk you’ll arrive at the Brama Mostowa (Bridge Gate), first raised in 1432 and with an ogival portal beneath it.

The name comes from a wooden bridge that once crossed the river at this point.

From roughly the same period is the imposing Brama Klasztorna (Convent Gate), which has Flemish Gothic architecture and stands at five storeys tall.

10. Leaning Tower of Toruń

In the southwest corner of Toruń’s Medieval defences is a tower that is more than a little askew.

Made of red brick in the late 13th century, the building has a 1.46-metre tilt away from the river, causing it to hang over the street below.

Now hosting a tavern, the Leaning Tower would have started to tilt as soon as it was constructed as it was built on unstable loamy soil.

And as you’d imagine there are a legends around the building.

One playful story goes that the tower used to be friends with the Vistula, so the river got closer to it.

But as the river came closer, it started eroding the walls.

And when the tower pleaded with the river not to get too close because it might fall, the river shouted, “So fall down, then!”, or “Toruń” in Polish.

This shout echoed across the landscape and was heard by people travelling past the city, and that’s how it ended up on maps.

11. Toruń’s Granaries

The many granaries on Toruń’s streets are a clear indication of the city’s Medieval power.

These Gothic structures go back to when the city was a member of the Hanseatic League from the 13th to the 15th centuries.

There are 30 granaries remaining, down from almost 100 when the city was at the peak of its powers, and these have been mostly adapted as homes.

You can distinguish them from Toruń’s tenement houses by the densely rowed semi-circular openings in their walls.

For the best examples head to Ulica Rabiańska, Ulica Mostowa and Ulica Ciasna.

12. Cosmopolis Fountain

Another fitting homage to Copernicus is on the western fringe of the Old Town, beside the university’s Harmonica building.

Designed by the local artist Zbigniew Mikielewicz, this fountain was switched on in 2008 and took inspiration from Copernicus’ seminal work “On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres”. Shooting through a granite base are 113 jets, plotting the orbits of the planets, Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn.

These are fixed around the tallest central jet, five metres high and representing the sun.

In summer the fountain puts on four light and sound shows from 21:00 to 00:00. These are soundtracked by a score written especially for the monument by the composer Krzesimir Dębski, as well as themes from the movies Gladiator and Love Story.

13. Planetarium

As you’re in the town where Copernicus was born it’s only right to spend a little while pondering the cosmos.

The Planetarium opened in 1994 and is set in a converted Gothic Revival gasholder dating back to 1860. You can watch five English-language shows here, on topics like the Solar System and the biggest known objects in the universe.

The Planetarium’s state-of the-art projector was manufactured by the German optics brand Zeiss and projects its images onto a 15-diameter dome, one of the largest in Poland.

On the ground floor of the building is the Orbitarium, all about the Cassini mission, which beamed back images of Saturn ten years ago and landed the Huygens probe on one of its moons, Titan.

14. Bydgoskie Przedmieście

Staying on the right bank of the Vistula it’s worth taking some time to poke around the quarter that borders the Old Town to the west.

Once a suburb, and now in the middle of the city, Bydgoskie Przedmieście cropped up on the fringes of the City Park when Toruń was flourishing at the end of the 19th century.

Aside from the Old Town this is now the quarter of the city with the most listed monuments, all in the form of graceful Art Nouveau tenement houses, restored after decades of neglect during the Polish People’s Republic.

A good place to start is Ulica Bydgoska, continuing down Mickiewicza and Chopin.

Before completing the loop and returning to the Old Town you could wander through the City Park, which has a zoo and botanical garden.

15. Wiślana Panorama Torunia

To see Toruń’s silhouette in all its majesty you’ll actually have to cross the Vistula River.

At Ulica Majdany on the left bank is an observation platform at the start of the lost bridge spanning the Vistula to the Bridge Gate.

The platform is slightly raised, and shows Toruń and its epic cathedral in silhouette, rising behind its walls.

You can also make out the remnants of the Teutonic castle, the old granaries, the tower of the Old Town Hall and a few gables from burgher and patrician houses.

After sunset the scene is very Romantic when the wall and monuments within are illuminated and reflected in the Vistula.

15 Best Things to Do in Toruń (Poland):

• Old Town Hall
• Rynek Staromiejski (Old Town Square)
• Toruń Cathedral
• Teutonic Castle Ruins
• Live Gingerbread Museum
• House under the Star
• Nicolaus Copernicus Monument
• Rynek Nowomiejski (New Town Square)
• Medieval Walls
• Leaning Tower of Toruń
• Toruń's Granaries
• Cosmopolis Fountain
• Planetarium
• Bydgoskie Przedmieście
• Wiślana Panorama Torunia

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15 Best Things to Do in Torun, Poland

Last Updated on 26/04/2024 by kami

Torun has always been one of my favorite places to visit in Poland and I’m always more than happy to return there.

Recently, during one of my trips around my home country, I spent a few days there again, to do proper sightseeing in Torun and its surroundings. Not only I revisited some of the well-known places, but I also discovered new ones that charmed me.

I’m always surprised that Torun isn’t so popular among international travelers as the city has really a lot to offer. And so in today’s article, I’m sharing all the best things to do in Torun to hopefully convince you that you should visit Torun too!

Torun essentials

• Where to stay in Torun: Gotyk (8.7/10) / Hotel Spichrz (9.4/10)
• Best Torun tour: Walking Tour of the medieval Toruń
• Get insured for your trip to Poland with SafetyWing

Why visit Torun

Torun is one of the most popular destinations in Poland and it gets numerous visitors for a reason.

The place got its city rights already in the 13th century and since it’s never really been badly destroyed today you can admire some impressive buildings and structures dating back to Middle Ages. In fact, medieval architecture and urban planning were the reasons why Torun was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997.

Torun was also the birthplace of the world-famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus and you can find many places connected to this great persona all over the city. And then there is delicious Torun gingerbread that is already a good reason to visit Torun.

How to get to Torun

Torun is located 200 km west of Warsaw (the capital of Poland), 170 km south of Gdansk , and 50 km east of Bydgoszcz .

Getting to the city is really easy with numerous train and bus connections from many places in Poland. The nearest airport is in Bydgoszcz.

How many days for visiting Torun

Since Torun’s center is not very big and most of the best places to visit in Torun are located near each other, you can see the city in one day. However, I recommend spending there a bit more time, to get to know the city properly, visit some of the museums and go on day trips to discover the nearby region too.

Where to stay in Torun

Since Torun is a popular place to visit there are numerous accommodation options to choose from. During my last trip, I stayed in Hotel Gotyk (8.8/10 on Booking) and it was fine with a central location in the Old Town. You can check reviews and current prices here.

Other recommended places to stay in Torun:

• Hotel Pod Orłem (8.9/10 on Booking)
• Hotel Spichrz (9.4/10 on Booking)
• Hotel Czarna Róża (8.8/10 on Booking)

How to get around Torun

Most of Torun attractions are located in the Old Town and can be easily reached by walking.

You might need to use public transport to get from the train station to the center since it’s located on the other side of the Vistula river, some 2km away from the Old Town. Fortunately, there are frequent buses connecting these two places.

Things to do in Torun

And here is the overview of the best things to do in Torun – hopefully it will help you plan your own trip to Torun!

Wander around the Old Town

The best way to get a feel of Torun’s Old Town and fall for the place is to explore it leisurely. It’s not a very big area but hides some real gems.

The main pedestrian street is Szeroka and that’s where you can find some of the most beautiful houses (be sure to look up when walking this street!).

But it’s worth getting into the maze of backstreets too, preferably without the map. There are some picturesque lanes and charming corners around. I especially enjoyed the brick arches between the houses (on Ciasna street), a mural with the old map of Torun, or small puppets sitting on the walls.

The Old Town in Torun is packed with details that make the place so interesting and special and it’s up to you to find them all.

See Torun from above

Everywhere I travel to I try to find a viewpoint where I can admire the city from above, to get a better perspective of the place. And so one of the first places I visited in Torun where the Town Hall tower. Not only it’s a great place to see Torun’s vista, but the tower itself is also one of the oldest monuments in the city.

It’s the oldest part of the Town Hall, dating back to the end of the 13th century (it got its current look over a hundred years later, in 1385). It’s also the oldest tower of this kind in Central and Eastern Europe and a great example of medieval Gothic architecture.

The entrance to the tower is located near the Nicolaus Copernicus monument. You need to walk 175 stairs to get to the top but the view is definitely worth it. From the viewing platform, you can admire the beautiful panorama of Torun’s Old Town, Vistula river, and beyond.

Another place to look at Torun from above is the nearby cathedral tower where you can also see the largest medieval bell in Poland – “Tuba Dei”.

Admire the impressive Gothic architecture in Torun

Since 1997 Torun’s Old Town has been included in UNESCO World Heritage List and that’s mostly thanks to its exceptional and authentic medieval Gothic architecture.

The city, founded in 1233, has never been badly destroyed and today has the second-largest (after Krakow ) number of Gothic buildings in Poland. Many of them are real masterpieces from medieval times, the perfect examples of brick architecture from that time.

It’s not difficult to find impressive Gothic buildings in Torun’s Old Town, when wandering around you will easily stumble across them every few steps. Some of the most important ones include churches (including the cathedral), city gates, towers, and numerous townhouses.

In the past Torun also had the Teutonic Order castle (not as spectacular as the one in Malbork but still), however, it’s in ruins today.

Learn more about cosmos in Torun’s planetarium

One of the biggest attractions in Torun is the local planetarium where you can learn more about the cosmos, universe, and stars. It’s located in the 19th-century industrial building in the Old Town and was opened on 17th February 1994, on Copernicus’s birthday.

The shows are held in Polish, English, German, Spanish and Russian languages so you can easily add the planetarium to your Torun itinerary.

See old city walls

Torun got its city walls already in the first half of the 13th century (expanded in further years) but sadly they were mostly taken down in the 19th century. Fortunately, there are numerous remnants of old fortifications that you can still find all over the place. There are still 3 gates (out of 11) and 9 towers (out of 12) standing as well as parts of the walls.

The most impressive part of the city walls is on the side of the Vistula river (this part, especially near the Leaning Tower, is the oldest city wall in Poland).

To make the walls even more special and interesting you can spot some tiny puppets and other details that decorate the brick construction – sometimes you need to take a closer look to spot them but it only adds up to the charm of the place.

Marvel at art nouveau gems

Even if I’m a huge fan of art nouveau architecture, it took me a few visits to Torun to finally realize how many splendid townhouses there are around. But when I did – I was overwhelmed with all the beauty of townhouses.

In the Old Town, I found the most impressive ones along the main pedestrian street – Szeroka. When wandering around be sure to look up to see some of the fine details and features.

There are even more beautiful art nouveau houses in the center and beyond (like Bydgoskie Przedmieście neighborhood) so if you like this style of architecture as much as I do, you will surely appreciate this feature of Torun.

See the remnants of the castle

Torun castle dates back to the mid 13th century and was one of the oldest construction of this kind, erected by the Teutonic Order, in the area (but still not as impressive as Malbork Castle ).

Since it was built in the place where the former borough was located, the castle had a unique horseshoe shape. It was used by the Teutonic Order as their base in their conquests of Prussia.

The place was expanding and thriving until the mid-15th century when the castle was besieged and eventually surrendered. It was then decided that the castle will be demolished, to prevent the Teutonic Order from recapturing it.

For centuries this part of Torun’s Old Town was neglected and only in the second half of the 20th century the castle’s area was restored and is now open to visitors. Even if the castle is mostly in ruins it is a very interesting place to visit that can give you a good impression of the greatness of the medieval Teutonic Order and a glimpse into the history of Torun.

Find the Leaning Tower

The most distinctive part of the Old City Walls in Torun is the Leaning Tower, located at Pod Krzywą Wieżą street, near the Vistula River. It dates back to the second half of the 13th century and, as the name indicates, it is known for its leaning structure.

It got its shape already in the 14th century, due to not so stabile grounds, and after a few renovations, it is still standing firmly in Torun’s Old Town. Until the mid-19th century, there was a similar leaning tower nearby but sadly it doesn’t exist anymore.

Torun’s Leaning Tower is one of the biggest attractions of the city and together with nearby cobbled streets and other bricked structures, it’s one of the most charming parts of the Old Town that easily lets you imagine how the medieval Torun must have looked like. This is definitely one of the must-visit places in Torun!

Look at the Old Town from the distance

The best view of Torun’s Old Town can be found across the Vistula River, near the train station, on Majdany street. It’s a bit away from the Old Town itself but definitely worth visiting. The best way to get here is to take one of the buses that go to the main train station (or walk around 2 km from the Old Town).

In the past that’s where one of the bridges was located, connecting this side of the Vistula River with the Bridge Gate in the Old Town. Today this place offers a splendid panorama of Torun’s Old town in its full glory, with the towers and brick city walls surrounding the place.

The view is beautiful both during the daytime and in the evening when the whole place is illuminated.

Learn more about Nicolaus Copernicus

Nicolaus Copernicus, the world-famous astronomer who proved that the Sun is the center of the Universe, was born in Torun in 1473, in the house located at 15 Kopernika street (today you can find the museum dedicated to this great person there where you can learn more about him, his life and work).

The city is full of remnants and places connected to the great astronomer and you can visit many of them. Besides the museum mentioned above, other spots connected to Nicolaus Copernicus include the cathedral where he was baptized and where you can find the oldest monument in the world dedicated to him (dating to 1766) or the most popular of Torun’s statues – Nicolaus Copernicus standing in front of the Town Hall.

The local university and the gingerbread factory were also named after this great citizen of Torun.

Visit Bydgoskie Przedmieście district

While the majority of Torun attractions are located within the Old Town, there is one district located not too far away that is worth visiting too.

Bydgoskie Przedmiescie is completely different than what you can see in the Old Town. This area was known as the upscale district in the 19th century and when wandering around you can find numerous beautiful houses and real gems of architecture in the eclectic or art nouveau style. The buildings are rich in details, some of them are built in the wattle and daub method, others have distinctive features like little towers.

It’s definitely worth coming here and seeing a different, really pleasant and charming side of Torun. To get to Bydgoskie Przedmiescie district you can either walk (around 1 km from the Old Town) or take the tram.

Learn about famous Torun gingerbread

Torun is known for its gingerbread, this sweet treat has been made here since the Middle Ages.

In the Old Town, you can find two different museums dedicated to gingerbread where you can learn more about its history in Torun, and in one of them (Żywe Muzeum Piernika) you can even learn how to make these delicious cookies. I definitely recommend visiting one of these museums as gingerbread is part of Torun’s experience.

There are also plenty of shops around where you can buy locally made gingerbread to taste and bring home with you as souvenirs. There are a few different kinds of Torun gingerbreads (and all of them are really good) but the most popular ones are “Katarzynki”.

Find the dragon

While the dragon is one of the biggest attractions in Krakow , not many people associated this mythical creature with Torun too. Yet you can find a small dragon in the Old Town too, at the corner of Szeroka and Przedzamcze streets.

Apparently, the dragon appeared in Torun twice in the same year – 1746 when locals saw the beast, mentions of these events are present in the historical books. What makes this dragon different than all the other dragons is that the story is based on true facts, not legend.

Even if what citizens described seemed like a rather mortifying creature, the ceramic dragon you can find today is rather cute and charming.

Visit museums

Torun has some really good museums so if you would like to see fine exhibitions you can definitely find something interesting there.

Besides already mentioned gingerbread museums or the one dedicated to Nicolaus Copernicus, other places worth visiting include The Town Hall, The Explorers’ Museum, or The Ethnographic Museum.

I really enjoyed the museum located in the baroque House Under the Star where the exhibition called “World of the Orient” is shown. Not only it’s interesting and some of the artifacts are really beautiful but the townhouse itself and its interior are impressive.

Go for day trips

Torun can be also used as a good base for visiting other interesting places in the region.

Some of the options to consider include Grudziadz (with the medieval old town, impressive city walls, and granaries), Chełmno (known as the town of lovers, a charming place with the beautiful town hall), Bydgoszcz (the capital of the region, recently named one of the best European destinations to visit, with numerous attractions and things to do), Ciechocinek (a well-known spa town in Poland) or Golub-Dobrzyn (with impressive Teutonic Order castle). And these are only the most popular places to visit near Torun!

Final thoughts on visiting Torun

As you can see above Torun really has a lot to offer and it’s worth spending there a few days and getting to know the city and its heritage. The Gothic architecture there is really splendid and the local gingerbread is to die for, and these are only a few of the great things to do in Torun!

I’m already looking forward to my next trip to Torun and I wholeheartedly recommend you include Torun in your next Poland itinerary – you will not be disappointed for sure!

Further reading

I published many articles about Poland that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 37 Amazing Things to Do in Krakow, Poland
• 20 Great Places to Visit As Day Trips from Warsaw, Poland
• Visiting Auschwitz – How to Plan the Auschwitz Tour
• 17 Amazing Things to Do in Lublin, Poland
• The Complete Guide to Visiting Slownski National Park, Poland
• Visit Grudziadz – One of the Hidden Gems of Poland
• 19 Amazing Things to Do in Gdansk, Poland
• Visit Sandomierz, Poland – One of the Prettiest Towns in the Country
• Visiting Malbork Castle, Poland – the Largest Castle in the World
• 25 Amazing Things to do in Wroclaw, Poland
• and many more!

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in Central Europe and ask your questions there.

Travel Resources

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Torun

Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Poland here.

I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Get Your Guide – click here .

Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Poland too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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Hi. Am in Torun now (at your suggestion) and yes I have to agree. The buildings and alley ways are beautiful, and also finding the puppets. Thanks.

I’m so glad you enjoyed it there! Happy travels!

Susan Schulz

Thank you Kami. We so enjoy all your writings. We are touring for 10 weeks in Central/ Eastern Europe from Australia and have very much appreciated your blogging. We are now in Poland and are currently enjoying Torun. We will look out for the puppet’s.

Thank you so much for your kind comment. I’m glad to hear you have a good time in Central Europe and that you found my blog useful. All the best and happy travels!

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Toruń (Poland): 27 Places to See & Things to Do – Local’s Guide

• Author: Bartek Dziwak

• Updated: January 24, 2024

Copernicus, gingerbread houses, a Gothic Old Town on the UNESCO World Heritage List and a huge fort surrounding the city – are just a few of the attractions of Toruń, which lies by the Vistula River. A city tour gives the feeling that the attractions and places to see in Torun are practically endless.

To make your tour of Torun more comfortable, I have prepared a list of 27 best things to do in Toruń & attractions you should visit in the city.

Each street and alley is a further episode and thread of history that goes back hundreds of years . For me, Toruń is one of the most beautiful places to see in Poland . In this guide you will find:

• an interactive map of Toruń’s attractions,
• a huge list of the best things to do in Toruń ,
• unusual & less obvious sights of Toruń outside the medieval centre,
• best restaurants and cafes to visit,
• good accommodations in a good location,
• tips on getting around Toruń.

BEST PLACES TO SEE IN TORUŃ ON YOUR PHONE

Find worth visiting sights, attractions, museums & best cafes, restaurants and accommodations on a map of 100+ attractions of Torun .

Exploring gems of Toruń will be easier. Works on phone & computer  (Google Maps).

What is Torun known for? Why is it worth coming to Torun?

If you still have doubts about whether it’s worth visiting Torun, I’ll help you dispel them quickly. Torun is a city that you can visit under many themes because the history of the place is rich and varied . Torun is a tourist attraction, and brand recognized worldwide for several reasons, including:

• birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus

The statue of Nicolaus Copernicus, besieged by tourists, standing right next to the Old Town Hall, did not appear there by accident. The great astronomer and master of many other sciences was born on February 19, 1473, in Torun.

Now you can visit the Nicolaus Copernicus House. His heliocentric theory of the Universe revolutionized science and set new directions.

• cradle of famous gingerbread

Merchants and goods from around the world came to Torun, an important port in medieval Europe. Spices were used as early as the 14th century to create gingerbread dough, shrouded in mystery.

Gingerbread was a delicacy and a work of art , with bakers working alongside wood carvers sculpting gingerbread moulds and goldsmiths decorating the baked goods.

• the old town on the UNESCO world heritage list

Torun is the first city founded within the Teutonic state’s borders and one of Poland’s oldest cities . Torun owes its development of Gothic architecture to the wealth that resulted from being a member of the Hanseatic League and having a thriving inland seaport (thanks to access to the Vistula River).

The city retains a spatial layout from the Middle Ages , uniting the formerly separated Old Town and New Town, but also many monuments from the Baroque, Renaissance or Art Nouveau periods .

• a huge ring fort around Torun

Torun is the perfect place to visit for history fans – especially its military and fortifications section. The Fortress of Torun is a huge complex of buildings surrounding the city along a perimeter of more than 20 kilometres.

In addition to 15 forts, the Torun Fortress also has dozens of auxiliary structures – its history can be explored for hours. You can pass several days on a tour of Torun’s fortifications.

• nature surrounding and shaping the city

The wide channel of the Vistula, Poland’s longest river, dominates Torun’s landscape. The Drweca River and the Struga Torunska River, hidden under the Old Town, also flow through the city.

The rivers and the large proportion of green space (about 30% of the city) create good conditions for slow travelling – a slow tour of the city by bicycle, cruise ships on the Vistula, or simply relaxing in Torun’s numerous parks. I strongly associated Torun with the green Olsztyn.

1. The Old Town Square (Rynek Staromiejski) with the Copernicus Monument

The Gothic centre of Torun has changed its face over the years, adding quite a few examples of Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture. In a few cities has it been possible to reconcile different styles as well as in the historic old town of Torun.

The heart of Torun’s UNESCO World Heritage Site medieval urban complex is the Old Town Square , laid out in the mid-13th century. The Old Town, formerly a separate entity and separated from the New Town by a now-buried moat, is a historical gem that few European cities can boast.

Incorporated in 1233 and belonging to the Hanseatic League of Cities, the Old Town was one of the richest Polish cities until the partitions. The market square, with its powerful town hall, was the heart of this city – here the most important decisions were made for the development of trade and directed the work of the port, which had direct access to the Baltic Sea. The market was also the main market square of the city.

Surely you know this frame – the tall tower in the background and the Nicolaus Copernicus monument in the foreground. This is one of the most photographed places in Torun.

The monument was unveiled in 1853 and decorated with the inscription “Nicolaus Copernicus Thorunensis. Terrae motor, Solis Caelique stator,” which means “Nicolaus Copernicus Torunian. He moved the Earth, held back the Sun and the Sky.” Be sure to take a photo with Nicolaus. 😉

If you would like to explore the centre of Toruń with a local guide , check out the available tours to the most interesting corners of the city . It is nice to explore on your own, but it is also good to meet a guide and listen to unique stories about Toruń. Below you will find some suggestions for the most interesting tours.

2. Historical buildings on the Market Square

Many of Torun’s important buildings stand near Market Square. In the western part you’ll find the originally evangelical Holy Spirit Church from the 18th century, built amid conflict between evangelicals and Catholics. Its tower was not added until 140 years later.

Right next door stands the neo-Gothic edifice of the Central Post Office from the late 19th century. Have a look at the richly decorated doors with portals and the red and green glazed bricks around the windows.

Traditionally, gingerbread is bought at Artus Court, the third incarnation of the building where the Second Peace of Torun was sworn in the 15th century. The current neo-Renaissance form of Artus Court was built in the late 19th century and has hosted many distinguished guests, including Jozef Pilsudski, Ignacy Moscicki and Jozef Haller. On the first floor of the building, there is a Kopernik Toruń company store with a large selection of gingerbread.

Tours of Artus Court (Dwór Artusa) are possible only on selected days , by prior reservation. For details on tours and available dates,  visit the website  (in Polish).

Torun’s Marian Church (actually: the Roman Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Blessed Father Stefan Wincenty Frelichowski, but I don’t undertake to repeat the name again ;), is one of the largest and most outstanding Gothic temples in Poland . Many priceless monuments have been preserved in the interiors.

These include Gothic polychromes, wooden stalls (i.e., benches set against the side walls of the chancel) dating back to the 15th century, one of the oldest Teutonic bells from 1383 and the oldest Polish organ from 1609 . And although tourists are not allowed to enter it, the mausoleum of Anna Vasa – sister of King Sigismund III Vasa – is also worth knowing about.

A part of the city’s identity was born around Torun’s legends, which are recalled by the city’s monuments. Standing in the Market Square, the Flisak Monument recalls Iwo, a raftsman known from legend, who was in the business of floating timber to Gdansk and made Torun his popular resting place.

When the plague of frogs hit the city, Iwo and the sound of his fiddle helped lead the frogs out of the city to the Mokre district, where they settled in the wetlands.

In Market Square, you will also find a donkey sculpture (right next to the Copernicus monument) reminding of the sophisticated punishments administered in Torun in the past, and the Filus Monument – a commemoration of the outstanding Polish cartoonist Zbigniew Lengren. He published a comic strip in Przekrój magazine devoted to Professor Filutek and his dog Filus.

3. Old Town Hall (Ratusz Staromiejski) – District Museum and Town Hall Tower

While the heart of medieval Torun is the Old Town Square, the heart of the Market Square is the majestic City Hall with its 40-meter-high City Hall tower. The City Hall building was erected at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries on the site of the former cloth halls, and was later rebuilt several times. Its construction was agreed to by Konrad Wallenrod – Grand Master of the Teutonic Order and… hero of the novel by Adam Mickiewicz.

Our idea of what Copernicus looked like (probably wrong) is due to a portrait of the master from 1585, which hangs in the Great Hall of the District Museum in Torun. The institution is headquartered right in the Old Town Hall building. On the first floor, you can see the Gallery of Gothic Art with the largest collection of stained glass windows in Torun, dating back to the 14th century.

Check the museum’s opening hours of the Old Town Hall (Ratusz Staromiejski) and admission prices on the website . Tickets can be purchased online and entry to the exhibitions is free on Wednesdays . Separate tickets apply for the observation tower (entrance is also charged on Wednesdays).

As part of the museum tour, you’ll also see an exhibition of Torun coins dating back as far as the 13th century, a gallery of Polish paintings, and most importantly, the beautiful interiors of Torun’s City Hall. Note the wooden ceiling beams and my favourites – the richly decorated wooden doors to several of the museum’s rooms.

You can look at Torun from above from the open observation deck on the Town Hall Tower . I recommend going there in the evening – there may be a little fewer tourists, and the rays of the setting sun will perfectly illuminate Torun’s Old Town.

From the City Hall Tower, you can see the Vistula River, the Old and New Town, and the farther districts of Torun.

4. New Town Square and St. James Church

For many years, the New Town in Torun was a separate and independent entity from the Old Town . It was established as early as 31 years after the incorporation of the Old Town as a response to Torun’s rapid growth, which exceeded expectations. The cities were separated by a city moat flowing at the site of today’s Podmurna Street and by defensive walls.

The New City was much poorer than its older neighbour. It did not toil in international trade and had no direct access to the Vistula. Note the layout of the streets – while the Old Town ones are perpendicular to the Vistula and lead toward it, the New Town ones do not reach the banks. The residents of the New Town were mainly artisans and craftsmen, which complemented the commercial character of the Old Town.

In 1454 the two cities were merged, and a strong, united Torun was created – one of the richest and most important cities in this part of Europe . However, the differences can still be seen today, especially when comparing the richness and majesty of the architecture. Fires did not spare the New Town so few original townhouses remain, and most are now buildings rebuilt in the 19th century.

At the New Town Square, you can see the “Pod Lwem” (Under The Lion) Pharmacy , founded in the 17th century. When the city’s two older pharmacies closed in the 21st century, this one, “Under the Lion,” officially became Torun’s oldest pharmacy. Above the entrance to the building, you will notice a gilded lion, still remembering the time when the pharmacy was founded.

Nearby is the “Pod Modrym Fartuchem” Inn, founded back in the 15th century, where Polish King Jan Olbracht, among others, frequented. It is possible that in 1807 Napoleon Bonaparte himself looked here for a sip of honey and good beer. In a wave of small hunger, you can look here for a butter bun and good bread.

In the centre of the square stands the former Trinity Evangelical Church from the 19th century, which was formerly the seat of the New Town authorities. After the two parts of Torun merged, the place lost its importance – first, it became an auxiliary seat of the authorities, then a commercial warehouse, and finally an Evangelical church (in the meantime, demolished and built anew).

From the eastern part of Novomiejska Square emerges St. James’s Church , whose history dates back to the 14th century. It is one of the most important medieval temples that have survived in modern Poland. In this church, you may see a painting with an image of the devil. It is said to be hit only by those who are not focused enough in the church. I noticed him right away… 😉

Admission to St. James Church (kościół św. Jakuba) is free, and it is open to the public from the beginning of May until the end of August. If you want to get a better idea of the interiors,  it’s worth looking here with a guide .

There is no shortage of valuable monuments in St. James Church. Worth seeing is the painting of the Passion of Christ from the 15th century, a Gothic cross from the 14th century, the painting “Last Judgment” by Anton Möller from 1603, or the painting “Crucifixion” by the Torun artist Strobel from 1634.

5. The Museum of Torun Gingerbread and the Live Gingerbread Museum

pol.: Muzeum Toruńskiego Piernika, Żywe Muzeum Piernika

One can venture to say that gingerbread determined the power of medieval Torun. All of Europe knew about the mysterious delicacy made of even more mysterious dough, but the secret of making gingerbread belonged exclusively to the bakers of Torun.

Consisting of flour, honey and precious spices, gingerbread dough matured in the cellars of Torun and was often passed as an inheritance from generation to generation.

Gingerbreads were magnificent and expensive sweets and served as gifts for the most important figures of the time. In the hands of Tsarina Catherine II, Torun deposited a gingerbread man measuring… 2 meters by 30 centimetres. If someone received a gingerbread, it was a clear sign that Torun wanted to make a big impression on that person. To this day, it is a local tradition to give newlyweds not flowers but just gingerbread.

At the Museum of Torun Gingerbread (Muzeum Toruńskiego Piernika), located in a 19th-century gingerbread factory, you will learn about the three stages of creating gingerbread masterpieces – making dough according to a secret recipe, preparing wooden molds, and finally decorating the finished gingerbread. Gingerbread baking molds that still remember the Middle Ages and a collection of old packaging are my favorite parts of the exhibition. During the tour, you can taste gingerbread of the most recognizable shape, the Catharine.

The second gingerbread place worth visiting is the Living Gingerbread Museum (Żywe Muzeum Piernika). The key to visiting this place is gingerbread workshops aimed primarily at children. Families will have a pleasant time here, and after their visit, they will go out on the town with gingerbread they have prepared themselves. Thanks to its unconventional exposition, the museum has won several awards.

You can buy admission tickets to the Living Gingerbread Museum (Żywe Muzeum Piernika) on its website . A visit to the museum lasts about 80 minutes , and your guide will be a master gingerbread maker.

Torun’s gingerbread tradition is recalled by the Monument to the Gingerbread Maker , which was erected at the beginning of Male Garbary Street, near the Museum of Torun Gingerbread. You can shop gingerbread at many points in the city, including the Kopernik Toruń company stores in Artus Court, the Museum of Torun Gingerbread and many larger and smaller stores in the Old and New Towns.

6. The House of Nicolaus Copernicus (Dom Mikołaja Kopernika)

What would a visit to medieval Torun be if it did not include a peek into the home of the greatest of Toruns? On Nicolaus Copernicus Street stands a tenement house dating back to 1370, where a Polish great astronomer is believed to have been born. He probably spent the first 7 years of his life in it, and later the Copernicus family sold it.

The tenement houses the museum “The House of Nicolaus Copernicus” (Dom Mikołaja Kopernika) which focuses on three themes : the life and work of Copernicus himself, ancient and modern science, and the daily life of bourgeois families in the Middle Ages. A visit to the house is a pleasant experience, because the place is unique – the so-called granary, which was both a place to live and a storehouse for the family.

Nicolaus Copernicus House (Dom Mikolaja Kopernika) is another of the branches of the District Museum in Torun – admission here is free on Wednesdays . Check opening hours and ticket prices on the website . You can easily buy tickets online .

A visit to the Nicolaus Copernicus House is time well invested. An exhibit on science and the bourgeoisie could be boring and predictable, but this Torun exhibit draws you in and encourages you to explore more rooms thoroughly. It’s multimedia, the information is consistent and undiluted, and much of it stays in your head for a long time. You can visit the Copernicus House with an audio guide, which you buy at the ticket office.

7. Tenement House “Under The Star” (Kamienica pod Gwiazdą)

Wandering around the Old Town Square, you’ll probably turn your attention to the Tenement House under the Star, whose top of the facade is decorated with…. a golden star. Its facade and interiors are some of Torun’s most interesting representatives of old bourgeois architecture . The building was built at the end of the 13th century – so it is more than 700 years old! Over the years, it has been rebuilt and renovated several times.

As soon as you step inside to buy admission tickets to the Far Eastern Art Museum, you will be struck by the beautiful winding staircase made of wood , built-in 1697. This work of art still looks amazing, even though it is more than 300 years old.

The Far Eastern Art Museum (Muzeum Sztuki Dalekiego Wschodu) is one of the branches of the District Museum in Torun –  so admission here is free on Wednesdays.  Check opening hours and ticket prices  on the website.

In the Tenement House “Under the Star” you will see “World of the Orient” exhibition with exhibits from faraway Asia. The variety is considerable – from paintings and ceramics to swords and pieces of samurai weaponry. In summer you can also visit the Oriental garden with a tea room.

8. Townhouses and museums of the Old and New Towns

Torun’s Old Town is quite a challenge for a blogger – it’s difficult to collect all its attractions and interesting nooks and crannies in a compact way. However, after a few days of wandering probably every street of the Old Town, I’ve collected a few points worth snagging when visiting Torun.

I didn’t know I’d ever write this, but I recommend you take a look at Biedronka grocery store. One of the thousands of stores of the Biedronka chain operates on Szeroka Street, but this particular spot has something special about it. As you enter the store’s first floor and head towards the nuts, you’ll see beautiful frescoes on the walls .

In the northern part of the centre of Torun, near the Wilam Horzyca Theater, you will find two connected Gothic tenements from the late 14th century. These are the so-called Rösner tenements belonging in the 18th century to the then mayor of Torun. The eye is drawn to the beautiful facades decorated with flowers.

While in the area of the Rösner townhouses, check out the  Kona Coast Cafe . Here you’ll drink good coffee and have a tasty breakfast at a reasonable price.

At Old Town Square 7, you can also look out for Jakub Meissner’s Palace , a structure built in 1739 for the mayor of Torun. Wandering further afield, take a look at Pauline Bridge Street. This is an interesting place, which used to be a bridge connecting the Old and New Town. Today it’s just an ordinary street, and building No. 2/10 stands on the remains of the bridge.

If you like good coffee, take a look at the well-regarded  Napar cafe while wandering down Most Pauliński Street. We opted for tonic espresso , which we found a bit too sweet. However, the coffee they have is delicious.

In search of interesting architecture – not only Gothic, but also Neo-Baroque and Art Nouveau – take a look at Male Garbary and Wielkie Garbary streets. At 7 Wielkie Garbary Street you’ll find the former St. Peter and Paul Hospital housed in three tenements – Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque, respectively. At number 17 stands the Leopold Labbes tenement, the first Art Nouveau building in Torun.

See all available  hotels and accommodation in Torun

In addition to the well-known museums within the Old Town in Torun, you will also come across several smaller sites that may interest you. In the list below, you’ll find their brief descriptions – enough for you to decide if you want to look into them.

• Museum of Toys and Fairy Tales – a collection of more than 1,000 toys dating back to the 19th century. A good place not only for children but also for adults wishing to experience a sentimental journey back to the days of childhood in communist Poland. Check ticket prices and opening hours on the museum’s website.

• House of Torun Legends – if you like legends and urban myths, visiting the House of Torun Legends is a must. In 45 minutes, you’ll learn some interesting stories that have become part of Torun’s identity. Read more about the tour on the House’s website.
• The Museum of Knights and Soldiers – located in a building dating back to the 15th century, presents two expositions. One is devoted to the appearance and equipment of Polish troops from the 10th to the 18th century, and the other is devoted to the figurines of soldiers from 1960 to 1994, of which more than two thousand have been collected. Details of the tour can be found on the website.
• Interactive Stained Glass Museum “NISZA” – Torun is a city known for its stained glass-making traditions. You will learn how these amazing works of art are made at the museum. You can take part in stained glass workshops that last for several hours. More on the website.

9. Gates, walls and granaries of the Gothic Old Town

Torun’s impressive medieval urban complex is only a small part of the city’s former power. Of the city’s 12 gates, 3 have survived to this day, of as many as 54 defensive towers, only 9 have survived, and the city walls, stretching for 3 kilometres, are today less than a kilometre long. The reason is obvious – warfare in various eras, including the Swedish Deluge, devastated the city.

As part of your walks through medieval Torun, it’s worthwhile to look at the area around the 14th-century Monastery Gate (Brama Klasztorna), under which an air raid shelter has been located since 1943. Today it is called Wisla Bunker (Bunkier Wisła) and can be visited. Details of the tour can be found on the website .

Another of the surviving gates, the Bridge Gate (Brama Mostowa), used to lead to a wooden bridge over the Vistula, which in the 15th century was one of the few structures that allowed people to cross the river. The gate itself was built in 1432 and was rebuilt in the 19th century with the addition of a bomb-proof ceiling.

Also surviving is the Sailors’ Gate (Brama Żeglarska), dating back to the 14th century, which was the main representative city gate at the time. Here, city authorities welcomed monarchs and important guests (to whom Torun gingerbread was usually given as a gift).

The Watch Tower is a well-preserved tower, part of which is the so-called Bourgeois Court (former residence of the Brotherhood of St. George). The tower was originally part of a Teutonic castle and is the oldest of the city’s surviving towers. It was built in the 13th century.

On Podmurna Street, you’ll still find the 13th-century Cat’s Head Tower (Baszta Koci Łeb), named after the legendary cat that warned Torunians of an attack by Swedes and Monstrance Tower (Baszta Monstrancja) – the only one built on an octagonal plan, not a quadrilateral like the others.

Wandering down Philadelphia Boulevard (Bulwar Filadelfijski) along the Vistula River, you’ll come upon the Dovecote Tower (Baszta Gołębnik), built in the early 14th century. Measuring almost 20 meters, it is the highest point of the city walls stretching over the river.

Several granaries formerly serving the needs of the port have been preserved in Torun. During the heyday of the Hanseatic League and Torun, there were more than 100 of them in the city. They were located mainly in the Old Town, as it was the center of Torun’s trade. One of the most impressive is the one at 4 Piekary Street (from the 14th century). Another stands right next door, at 2 Piekary Street (from the early 17th century).

Also, take a peek at Mostowa 1, where the white Swedish Granary stands today and houses the highly rated Granary Hotel. After the porch was flipped from it to the Zuraw tower, it became one of the largest in Poland. The Granary was also the Esken House on Lazienna Street (more about it below), which was converted today into the Museum of the History of Torun.

10. The Leaning Tower (Krzywa Wieża)

Torun boasts one of Poland’s two crooked towers – the other can make the residents of Zabkowice Slaskie in Lower Silesia. Torun’s Leaning Tower is one of 54 defensive towers that once decided to take advantage of the unstable ground under its foundations and…. get a bit crooked.

The Leaning Tower is 15 meters high and deviates from the vertical by 1.5 meters . Of course, several legends have been created around its curvature. The truth, however, is mundane. Building on waterlogged land can lead to what we see today as one of the city’s most peculiar attractions.

Don’t forget to take a photo of it, highlighting this inclination. The Leaning Tower, along with the Copernicus monument, is one of the most photographed landmarks in Torun. It also attracts many tourists, so if you want to avoid the crowds, come here in the morning or late afternoon.

11. Museum of the History of Torun “Esken House”

pol. Muzeum Historii Torunia

Originally built for the mayor of Torun, Henryk Hitfeld, the Gothic bourgeois palace was bought by the Esken family in the 16th century (which is why the building at 16 Lazienna Street is today referred to as the “Esken House”). In the 19th century, it was converted into a granary, and by the 20th century, it had become the Museum of the History of Torun.

The Museum of the History of Torun (Muzeum Historii Torunia) is another branch of the District Museum in Torun – traditionally,  admission here is free on Wednesdays . Check opening hours and ticket prices  on the website . You can easily buy tickets online.

In the museum, you can learn about the turbulent and centuries-old history of the city on the following floors. It’s interesting and not overwhelming – in 1.5 hours you can assimilate much information about Torun and explore it more knowledgeably later. The higher the floor of the museum, the closer you get to the story to the present day, ending with a room dedicated to the communistic People’s Republic of Poland (PRL).

Standing in the shadow of its great neighbour – St. John’s Cathedral – the Esken House is an important place for inquisitive tourists who want to see and understand Torun. If you get the chance, start your adventure with the city right at the Museum of the History of Torun. I had a great time here.

12. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist, known by Torunians as “St. Johns Cathedral” for short, is Torun’s oldest and most important church . The Gothic, hall-like church began to be built in the 13th century and gained its present shape in the 15th century. The construction thus took more than 200 years.

Admission to St. Johns Cathedral is  free . You have to pay to  enter the observation tower , which I strongly recommend. In 2022, a regular ticket costs 15 PLN (3,5 EUR). You can buy them in a booth at the entrance to the church (inside). Payment by cash only, in PLN . 

The cathedral is monumentally impressive. The cross vault inside the church is 27 meters high. If that weren’t enough, there’s a 52-meter tower above the church, at the top of which you’ll find a vantage point. It won’t be easy, though – you’ll have more than 200 stairs to climb before you get there.

As you climb, you will notice a huge bell. It is the Tuba Dei, or Trumpet of God – weighing 7.5 tons, the largest medieval bell in Central Europe . It was hung in St. John’s Cathedral in the early 17th century. The cathedral itself is full of monuments remembering distant medieval times.

In the church, you’ll find sculptures, stained glass and paintings from the 14th century, the main altar from 1506, or the rafters’ clock (Digitus Dei, or Finger of God) from the 15th century with a dial 5 meters in diameter. The clock faces the Vistula River to inform those working on the river at what point of the day they are at.

13. Cruises on the Vistula River

And since the clock on St. John’s Cathedral served those on the Vistula, I recommend you go to Philadelphia Boulevard (Bulwar Filadelfijski) and walk along the city walls of Torun. In the time of the Hanseatic League, seagoing merchant ships used to arrive here. From the Monastery Gate, cruise ships departed on the Vistula River. Such a cruise can be an interesting enrichment of a walking tour of Torun, and I recommend it, especially in good weather.

Cruise ships depart on Vistula River cruises  every full hour between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm (from early May to late September). A regular ticket for a 40-minute cruise costs 20 PLN. Buy tickets directly from the ship’s staff.

During the 40-minute cruise, you can see from the Vistula River level all the coastal buildings of Torun’s medieval urban complex and the city’s wild southern side with Kępa Bazarowa and the ruins of Dybow Castle.

14. Dambski Palace (Pałac Dąmbskich)

If strolling down Żeglarska Street you catch a glimpse of a facade richly decorated with floral motifs, you have arrived at the Dambski Palace. Until the 18th century, it was an occasionally used private residence of the wealthy family of the Kuyavian bishop Stanislaw Dambski.

The building was originally built as Gothic, then converted to Baroque, and in 1874-1887 another reconstruction destroyed its Baroque character, placing an officer’s casino in it. At the end of the 20th century, it was fortunately restored to its original facade. In addition to the rich façade, the portal, full of ornaments, and the ground-floor terrace (the so-called “foreground”) are worth noting.

15. The ruins of the Teutonic castle

The UNESCO World Heritage List includes the Old and New Town of Torun and the ruins of Teutonic Castle located right on the banks of the Vistula River. The first traces of settlement in the area of the castle were found in the area of modern Torun, dating back as far as 1100 BC.

Admission to the Teutonic Castle ruins (Ruiny Zamku Krzyżackiego)  is paid costs 20 PLN (4 EUR). Buy your tickets at the entrance to the castle ruins on Przedzamcze Street.

Thus, Torun is a city of two castles – in addition to the Teutonic Castle, you will find the ruins of Dybow Castle on the other side of the Vistula River. The Teutonic castle in Torun was the place for the Teutonic Knights to launch their attacks on Prussia.

As you stroll along Przedzamcze Street, look for the ceramic figure of the  Torun’s Dragon . It refers to the alleged events of the 18th century when a two-meter-high, fire-breathing monster was said to have visited the city twice.

As proof of the disobedience of Torunians to the Teutonics, in 1454, the castle was captured by the townsfolk (which was the beginning of the Polish-Teutonic war). The castle suffered during the war, and later the city council of Torun decided to demolish it, not wanting to create good conditions for any troops stationed there.

The dansker of the castle is well preserved, along with the tower, which you can pass while wandering along Przedzamcze Street. The dansker used to serve as an architecturally attractive…. castle toilet , and the tower additionally served a defensive function.

16. Ruins of Dybow Castle

Following suit and taking in Torun’s castles, it’s worth moving to the other side of the Vistula and seeing the ruins of Dybow Castle. The castle was erected by order of the Polish king Wladyslaw Jagiello in 1424 as a show of strength in the face of the constant threat from the Teutonic state.

You can get to the other side of the Vistula River on foot or by public transportation, but I strongly recommend using Torun’s  Torvelo city bikes . To rent a bike, you need to pay a deposit of min. 10 PLN (approx. 2 EUR). You can find the bike stations on the map.

The town of Nieszawa, which competed with Torun in trade, was located under Dybow Castle. As early as 1431, Torun destroyed the town with the support of the Teutonic Knights, and under their pressure, King Casimir Jagiellon decided to move Nieszawa up the Vistula River.

Admission to the remains of Dybow Castle is free . Its outer walls and the entrance gate leading to the courtyard are well preserved. Be careful – the area is tidy, but there are some unevennesses. The road bridge over the Vistula is well visible from the northern part of the castle.

17. Viewpoint on Kępa Bazarowa

Once you’ve hopped on a Torvelo city bike and reached Dybow Castle, extend your tour to the vantage point on Kępa Bazarowa. You can get a great view of Philadelphia Boulevard (Bulwar Filadelfijski) and the buildings of medieval Torun from here. You can also reach Kępa Bazarowa by boat “Katarzynka”, which connects the two banks of the Vistula River.

Driving here from the vicinity of Torun Glowny train station, you will cross a bridge over the Little Vistula River. All around is the Kępa Bazarowa Nature Reserve , which protects a riparian forest with huge willows and poplars. This side of Torun is much wilder and closer to nature. It’s a good alternative to the beautiful but crowded Old Town centre during the season.

18. The Fortress of Torun and Torun Fortress Museum

pol. Muzeum Twierdzy Toruń

The attractions associated with the buildings of one of Europe’s largest fortresses are a major treasure of Torun. The impressive 19th-century fortress comprises a total of more than 200 buildings – including 15 forts, which were built on a perimeter of more than 22 kilometres. The Torun Fortress Museum, located in the former barracks of the Chelminska Gate, tells the story of these fortifications.

The museum tells the history of the construction of the Torun fortress, starting as early as the Middle Ages and focusing on the 19th-century Prussian investment. The exhibition also tells about the further fate of the buildings during World War I and World War II and the impact of the fortress’ existence on the city. Thanks to the model of the fortress, you can realize the magnitude with which it was built and the large area it covered.

The Fortress Museum of Torun (Muzeum Twierdzy Torun) can be visited  from Tuesday to Sunday . Admission on Wednesdays is  free . For museum opening hours and ticket prices,  visit the website .

Fortress Torun was so effective in deterring potential enemy threats that it was never used in combat conditions. The only firing was made in 1914 from Fort I towards Russian army positions, and the only shell victim was a foal from a farm in a nearby village.

Of the 15 forts built in Torun, some are in private hands and used for purposes other than tourism. Forts have been designated for more or less regular tours:

• fort I “John III Sobieski”

The only armoured-type fort in central Europe was built in 1892 as the youngest part of the Torun Fortress. It was heavily armed – the cost of building one 150 mm calibre cannon was the same as the… the cost of building Torun’s St. Stephen’s Church. The fort’s rooms were connected by underground corridors.

After World War II, the fort became the home of the Central Import Wine Cellars, and you’ll be able to see a collection of some of the bottles (unfortunately empty) in one of the rooms of Fort I. It’s much cooler inside than outside – be sure to bring an extra layer of clothing even in summer.

• fort IV “Stanislaw Zolkiewski”

Construction of Fort IV was completed in 1884 in the northeastern part of Torun. The building was prepared to withstand up to a six-month siege, having the task of, among other things, protecting nearby railroad stations. It is the best-prepared part of the Torun Fortress for tourists.

Details of the tour of Fort IV can be found on the website. The tour has its own atmosphere – a Prussian soldier will guide you through the underground corridors, showing you, among other things, the barracks, the moat bottom protection posts and several other fort-like rooms. For example, you can stay overnight at Fort IV in an officer’s suite.

19. Invisible House (Niewidzialny Dom)

A visit to the Invisible House is an experience that is difficult to repeat – it is one of the unusual attractions of Torun. To make sighted people more aware of the everyday life of blind people and the challenges they have to face, the Invisible House is visited in absolute darkness, hearing only the voice of the guide next to it.

Check opening hours and ticket prices  on the website . In addition to the main part of the tour, you can also buy a ticket to the  Art Gallery and the Painting in the Dark Studio . You can buy tickets to the Invisible House  online .

As requested by the Invisible House, I won’t tell you in detail what visiting the place entails. You enter the attraction without any light sources, leaving your phone and glowing watches in the cabinets at the ticket counter. The whole adventure lasts about an hour and strongly changes awareness about not only blind people but also the principles of our senses.

20. The Tony Halik Museum of Travelers (Muzeum Podróżników)

Travel enthusiasts should not miss this point on the map of sightseeing in Torun. The famous Polish traveler Mieczyslaw Sedzimir Antoni Halik, more widely known as Tony Halik, was a native of Torun. In a former granary from the 18th century, a Travelers’ Museum named after him has been organized in commemoration of Halik’s adventures.

The Tony Halik Museum of Travelers is another of the branches of the District Museum in Torun. Admission is free every Wednesday, and the museum is  open Tuesday through Sunday . Check  the website  for opening hours and ticket prices.

Hosted by Halik and Elzbieta Dzikowska, the program “Pepper and Vanilla” attracted thousands of Poles in front of their TV sets, who were thirsty for any kind of travel during the communist era. Halik’s ones, including a several-year car trip from Buenos Aires to Alaska, were completely abstract and very interesting.

The museum has collected over 800 mementoes of Dzikowska and Halik’s travels. The exhibition is rich, but it was organized rather monotonously. Maybe you will bring better impressions from visiting the museum, but to me, the place reminded me too much of old museums, where exhibits are hidden from visitors behind thick glass, and the information to read is not very captivating.

21. Planetarium

In the city of the great astronomer can not miss the planetarium. On the dome with a diameter of 15 meters, you will watch spherical presentations about the cosmos, including the Universe’s structure, the mysteries of planets and galaxies, and popular constellations. The Torun planetarium has been operating in the city since 1994 and initiated its activities on the anniversary of Copernicus’ birth.

You can  buy tickets to Torun’s Planetarium online 6 days in advance. At the time of purchase, you can choose the screenings you are interested in  (including those prepared with children in mind).

The planetarium building was built in the 19th century and was part of the city’s gasworks. In its new incarnation, as a place dedicated to the Universe, it will allow you to view space-related material in unique conditions and, among other things, to become a member of a mission to Mars for a while.

22. Ethnographic Museum

I used to associate visiting an ethnographic museum with going out of town and walking among country cottages recreated in an idyllic setting. In Torun, you can visit an unusual attraction – the Maria Znamierowska-Prüfferowa Ethnographic Museum, which operates in the very centre of the city , right next to the UNESCO-listed medieval urban complex.

Check ticket prices and opening hours of the Ethnographic Museum  on the website .

There’s no denying it – I’m not a fan of such attractions and expected that the tour would not be passionate for me. I was happy to find out that the assumption was wrong. Supplied with an exhibition plan, I strolled with curiosity among the sites recreated or moved here from Kashubia, Kuyavia, Kociewie and Tuchola Forest.

You could enter most of the huts and see the arranged furnishings of the chambers. In the Ethnographic Park you will find 19 objects of rural architecture built mainly in the 18th and 19th centuries. There are 3 full homesteads restored, a working windmill from 1896, a water mill and even a fire station with a fire engine.

23. Bydgoszcz Suburb (Bydgoskie Przedmieście)

Although the Gothic centre of Torun is charming and can be explored for long days, I recommend heading west for a while and visiting a more unusual and obvious attraction – the Bydgoskie Przemiescie district. It used to be an exclusive neighbourhood, inhabited by the city’s wealthy, full of greenery and Art Nouveau architecture .

Bydgoskie Przedmieście declined during the communist era when the structure of residents quickly changed. The artistic bohemia was exchanged for a more haphazard mix of residents, and the charming architecture began to be simplified and redeveloped. However, many mementoes of the turn-of-the-century heyday remain today.

On Bydgoskie Przedmiescie stretches the City Park – Torun’s largest and oldest park , established in 1817. It occupies more than 20 hectares of undulating terrain not far from the Vistula River, making walks and bicycle ride through the place quite a pleasant experience.

You’ll find quite a few interesting townhouses from the 19th and 20th centuries by walking along Sienkiewicza Street. You will come across many interesting examples of modernist architecture on Mickiewicz Street. Noteworthy among them is the building at Mickiewicza 9 – the Regional Directorate of State Forests .

At 38/40 Slowacki Street, you will see the modernist Kraus House, built in the so-called ship style. Between numbers 44 and 78, a complex of opulent villas – not only modernist but also built in the style of manor houses.

Lovers of modernism will like this part of Torun because the architecture here is diverse – both in form and in the purpose of the buildings. A clinic with a stained-glass decorated staircase made a great impression on me. It’s not meant to be toured, but you can walk in there like any other patient and get a glimpse of the modernist flavour.

24. Torun murals & street-art

While exploring the Bydgoskie Przedmieście area and exploring it by bicycle, extend your trip to the Mikołaj Rej and Fałat estates to the north. This is one of Torun’s basins of murals – another of Torun’s unusual attractions. Many walls of blocks of flats have been covered with them, adding a rather stodgy tourist character to the rather stodgy big-panel housing estate.

You will find the most interesting “specimens” of street art in the area of Yuri Gagarin and Nikolai Rej streets. The themes of the murals are varied, although several features, of course, Nicolaus Copernicus, Torun’s biggest “celebrity”. I recommend you to have another look around Nicolaus Copernicus University (Uniwersytet Mikołaja Kopernika – UMK). On the wall of the UMK auditorium, you will find a colourful mosaic – an art installation.

If the murals aren’t enough for you, you might also be interested in the Na Skarpie housing estate in the eastern part of the city, where I managed to locate a dozen or so such works. Your best bet is to get there by city bicycle, dedicating a day to exploring Torun’s murals and street art. It will be a good break from the Gothic, which is “touch and go” in Torun.

25. Signs of the Times – Center for Contemporary History (Znaki Czasu – Centrum Historii Wspolczesnej)

Signs of the Times is a place dedicated to contemporary art, which has been operating in Torun since 2008. The Contemporary Art Center can be visited regularly, as the exposition in temporary exhibitions changes every 2-3 months, and every 3 weeks a new object appears in the art gallery.

You can buy tickets to the Center for Contemporary Art “Signs of the Time” (Centrum Sztuki Wspolczesnej “Znaki Czasu”)  online (for exhibitions, multimedia installations and cinema). 

There is also a cinema in Torun’s “Signs of the Times” Contemporary Art Center – you can check its repertoire and choose a screening on the date of your visit to Torun. If you’re lucky, you may attend one of the festivals held at Znaki Czasu, such as the PLASTER International Poster and Typography Festival. I would love to participate in it, so…. there is the motivation for another visit to Torun. 😉

26. Theaters in Torun – Baj Pomorski, Wilam Horzyca Theater

A visit to Torun is a good opportunity to attend performances in the city’s theatres. In the northern part of the Old Town, not far from the Planetarium, you will find the Wilam Horzyca Theater, and near the ruins of the Teutonic Castle – the Baj Pomorski Theater.

The Wilam Horzyca Theater formerly occupies a richly decorated building from 1904, which the Germans rebuilt and simplified in 1941-42. The main hall of the theater, where the most important plays in the repertoire are staged, still makes quite an impression. Being in Torun, we watched the play “Career of Nicodemus Dyzma”, in which the main role was played by Arkadiusz Walesiak. Great fun!

Check the current repertoire of the Wilam Horzyca Theater on the website . You can buy tickets for performances online.

Baj Pomorski is a place I would recommend especially to families with children. The theatre focuses on plays using puppets, animation, multimedia techniques and acting by actors. Your attention will certainly be drawn to the theatre’s facade, which has been arranged as a wooden cabinet full of fairy tale characters. After days full of gothic, such a variety made a big impression on me.

27. The Harmonium (Harmonijka) and Cosmopolis fountain

Harmonijka is officially known as Collegium Minus, a building belonging to Nicolaus Copernicus University, which was built in the interwar period in the modernist trend. It owes its name to its facade, composed of vertical parallel stripes. Before it fell into the hands of the University of Krakow after the war, it housed within its walls, among other things, the Municipal Savings Bank. For fans of modernism, it is a must-see in Torun, while for others, it is an unusual and unobvious attraction.

A Cosmopolis fountain has been operating in front of the Harmony since 2008, consisting of jets arranged in the plan of the orbits of Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and the central Sun. This is a reference to the work of Copernicus, in which he proposed the now recognized model of the heliocentric system.

In the evening, you can watch a multimedia fountain show using light, sound and water gushing from the jets. Everything is done, among other things, to the accompaniment of the song “Cosmopolis”, written especially for the show by Krzesimir Debski. If you don’t have an idea for an evening in Torun, you’ve just found it ;).

28. Former Reichsbank (Collegium Maximum) and Rapacki Square

Located next to Harmonijka, Rapacki Square is a place worth visiting as a break from the medieval centre of Torun. At the square, you will find a Torvelo city bike station, so you can set off from here, for example, to conquer Bydgoszcz Suburb or cross the Vistula River to the ruins of Dybow Castle.

On Rapacki Square stands the former Reichsbank, which was built in 1906 as the headquarters of the German Reichsbank. Today in the building, you’ll find the UMK Collegium Maximum with the UMK University Museum, available for free. You can read more about visiting the place on its website.

On your way to Rapacki Square from the Old Town, you’ll hit the Caesar’s Arch tenement. It’s a 14th-century Gothic building whose first floor was pierced after 1910 and later expanded to include the adjacent first floors of townhouses for the streetcar that passed through there. Eventually, the streetcar was withdrawn from there, as it was harmful to the historic fabric of the Gothic Old Town.

On the other side of John Paul II Avenue, lovers of post-war modernism will find an interesting treat – a one-story MZK ticket outlet with a corrugated roof. It was built in 1964 and managed to be preserved without any structural changes. Also preserved at Rapacki Square is a fragment of Poland’s oldest city wall, which was built around 1262.

How much time to spend exploring Torun?

It is worth spending at least 2 full days exploring Torun . This will allow you to see most of the Old and New Town attractions, although the pace of sightseeing will be quite fast. If I could make a suggestion to you, in Torun, I would recommend staying at least 2 nights and sightseeing at a more leisurely pace, giving yourself more time to relax.

You need at least 3-4 nights in Torun to see all the places mentioned in the article. I’m assuming that you won’t fly into museums and similar facilities “like a storm”, but will give yourself some time to explore the exhibitions consciously.

It seems to me that by coming to Torun only for a few hours , you lose a lot of the city’s atmosphere. If you have no other option, hook up with the city for at least a while. It’s always a better option than completely giving up sightseeing in the city, but it will definitely leave a lot of unsatisfaction.

You can visit the most interesting corners of Toruń with a local guide . Below are some suggestions for the most interesting tours, but you can also check the full list of available tours .

Where to stay in Toruń? Recommended hotels & apartments & accommodations

The accommodation base in Torun is powerful, as thousands of tourists from Poland and around the world come to the city every year. Your best bet is to stay in a hotel or apartment in the Old and New Town area – then you’ll have the most important sights of Torun at your fingertips.

I have prepared a list of 3 suggested accommodations for you. I think that with such help you will easily find the perfect place for you.

Where to eat and drink in Torun? Recommended restaurants and cafes

On the interactive map of Torun, I have marked a dozen or so restaurants and cafes that I recommend. I have selected a few of them here for you to make it easier for you to find your way among the considerable number of establishments in Torun’s Old and New Town.

Recommended cafes in the centre of Torun:

• NAPAR – one of the most recommended coffee shops in the centre of Torun. Varied coffee – several types of beans available, dedicated barista. Cool cafe atmosphere with an interesting seasonal menu but very little seating (inside and outside).

• Grande Coffee Torun – a place that reminds me a bit of Green Cafe Nero in terms of decor. Aromatic americano, plenty of space to sit and work with your computer. It’s been open since the morning, so you can still stop by before another day of sightseeing in Torun. Several locations on the map of Torun – I visited the one on Old Town Square.

• Kona Coast Cafe – tasty coffee from local roasters, lots of seating (lower floor also available). The cafe also serves breakfast, so it’s worth visiting in the morning. For breakfast, coffee is available at discounted prices. Good, distinctive flat whites.

• FONTE – a cafe right next to the Torun Miasto train station. Just in time if you have to wait longer for the train (there are no cafes or restaurants at the station). The cafe has its own beans. Tasty and very cheap coffee, nice atmosphere, but quite a little seating.

My recommended restaurants in Torun:

• Patio Restaurant – a spacious, pleasing to the eye restaurant with a picturesque garden among the former city walls. Delicious food, good service and a lunch menu make it possible to have a two-course dinner here at a good price.
• Bread and Wine Restaurant – a restaurant on Old Town Square with a view of the Old Town Hall from the garden. Several dishes are on the menu, and vegetarian dishes are also available. You can also have breakfast here or have a look at something stronger (quite a selection of spirits).
• Jan Olbracht Old Town Brewery – a restaurant with homemade beer. A tasting board is available for beer lovers. Quite a few dishes on the menu (great roast duck), efficient service, pretty decent prices.

How to get around Torun? Transportation in the city – bicycles and public transportation

The medieval layout of Torun, consisting of the Old Town, the New Town and the ruins of the Teutonic Castle, is so compact that exploring it on foot is not a big problem. There is no public transportation in the city centre – its stops can be found on the streets surrounding the centre, including John Paul II Avenue, Sikorski Embankment and Leon Szuman Street.

A good way to explore Torun is to rent the city’s Torvelo bicycles and take day-long bike tours around the city. To rent a city bike you need:

• register on the Torvelo website,
• make an online deposit of min. PLN 10 deposit into your Torvelo account,
• log in at the selected city bike station with your PIN and password and rent a bike.

When you finish your bike tour, you put your equipment back in special racks at the bike stations. Just to be sure, you can log into your Torvelo account and check that the bike has definitely been returned.

Using public transportation in Torun is easy thanks to jakdojade.pl . There you will plan your trip from point A to point B, embracing the required transfers as well. The public transportation network in Torun consists of buses and streetcars.

You have just learned about my list of the most interesting places and things to do in Torun. Every point on this list is worth seeing, but if you’re pressed for time – focus on Torun’s Old Town and find a moment to step outside the walls of the ancient medieval city. Sightseeing in Torun will give you a glimpse into different chapters of the city’s history – this diversity is something that tourists really enjoy. I wish you a successful exploration of Torun’s most interesting attractions!

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14 Best Things to Do in Torun, Poland

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on May 3, 2024

Spared from the enormous destruction of World War II, Torun’s utter charm and history remain intact. Away from Krakow and Wroclaw, a traveler can truly feel like one as they blaze their path through the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town.

The streets, which all lead to the impressive Old Town Square, can be read like a book. They tell the stories of the Teutonic Order, the Middle Ages and a trading network stretching all over the globe. Not to mention some fella named Nicolas Copernicus.

Set on the shores of the Baltic Sea, one of the best things to do in Torun is walking through the Old Town. As you stroll from the cathedral to the leaning tower, you’ll be able to take in the cultural ambience best at a slow pace. It also opens the door to smell the aromas of gingerbread. A culinary tradition as storied as the Old Town itself.

14. Ethnographic Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions and heritage of diverse ethnic groups at Torun’s Ethnographic Museum. One notable exhibition, “The Secrets of Everyday Life”, depicts the lifestyles of villagers and town residents 100-150 years ago.

Visitors can engage in interactive experiences like visiting an old barber shop and learning about traditional disease treatments. Exhibits also showcase historical clothing, food, work, and celebrations.

The true hidden gem of the visit lies in exploring the outdoor area. Here you’ll find preserved or reconstructed houses from the Pomerania and Kuyavia regions. Knowledgeable guides are available to provide insights into the purpose of each building and can even show you through the interior of the mill.

13. House of Torun Legends

A unique blend of interactive museum and theater, The House of Legends in Torun is a must-visit attraction, especially for families. Within its Gothic basement, visitors encounter six installations tailored to various age groups.

This offers an entertaining introduction to Torun’s legends in an interactive and lively setting. Each legend unfolds through play-acting. They invite participants to don medieval armor, dress up, engage in “battles” on the river, and even experience being locked up in a jail cage.

Take note that while primarily tailored for Polish speakers, the staff at the venue are exceptionally accommodating to English speakers. They make efforts to communicate in English when feasible and provide English print-outs for descriptions of each legend.

12. St. Mary’s Church

Standing as a remarkable Gothic structure, St. Mary’s Church was constructed by the Franciscans in the late 13th century. While its exterior appears austere and understated, the interior is the opposite. Inside, you’ll find tall, slender stained-glass windows, intricate painted Gothic vaulting, and a prominent golden altarpiece.

In adherence to the Franciscan rule of poverty, the church lacks a tower but features three relatively small ave-bell towers instead. Inside, visitors encounter wooden stalls dating back to the early 15th century, a meticulously crafted pulpit, organs, medieval paintings, and epitaphs commemorating prominent Toruń families.

Notably, in 1636, Anne Wasa, sister of Polish King Sigismund III Vasa, was laid to rest within its walls.

11. Cosmopolis Fountain

A captivating spectacle, Cosmopolis Fountain illuminates the sky with entrancing displays. Designed in homage to Nicolaus Copernicus’ groundbreaking work, “On the Revolutions of Celestial Spheres”, the fountain symbolizes the heliocentric system.

Its granite board features a Latin inscription and a diagram depicting the orbits of planets. The fountain’s 100 spouts, representing orbits, shoot water into the air, with the central nozzle symbolizing the Sun reaching a height of 5 meters.

During summer evenings, visitors can witness mesmerizing performances, blending water, light, and sound. Colorfully illuminated water streams dance to music, accompanied by film scores and the specially composed piece, “Cosmopolis,” by Krzesimir Dębski, tailored for the Toruń fountain.

Taking a break by the fountain offers a wonderful opportunity for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat away from the city.

10. Torun Cathedral

It’s arguably the most impressive Gothic cathedral in Poland. Torun Cathedral is a beacon of medieval splendour and a preservation of its rise under Teutonic rule and the patronage of the Polish King.

The Torun Cathedral dates back to the mid-13th century. But like all works of art, it continued to be improved for over 200 years. One of the highlights of the cathedral is the captivating main altar, which took almost five years to complete. The adjacent walls are awash with eye-catching baroque and rococo influence.

Continue to find the medieval font where Copernicus was baptized. Then lay your eyes on the odd one-hand Rafters’ clock before spotting Tuba Dei Bell, a bronze, silver and gold trumpet from the year 1500.

9. Teutonic Castle Ruins

Connected to Torun’s city walls, the Teutonic Castle Ruins are the oldest in Poland. They were once the base of the Knights, who, in return for Christianizing the region, were able to create an envious trading center.

By stepping beyond the defensive walls, you’ll be granted a look into what life would have been like for the Order. Subterranean caverns are open to explore. Period actors provide the space with a relevant atmosphere, weapons are wielded, authentic cuisine is on the pot and medieval crafts are for sale.

Travelers can explore further to find the Leaning Tower, ancient gateways and old halls. Some of which hosts movies.

8. Leaning Tower

No, this isn’t an amusing rip-off of that awkward tower down in Pisa. Torun’s Leaning Tower, Krzywa Wieża, originally constructed in the 13th century, was a vital piece of the city’s defensive network.

Thanks to its cumbersome look, like something out of Diagon Alley, the tower becomes enveloped in myth. The reality that the soil base was weak clay, doesn’t create headlines. Instead, the reason the tower leans is that of one sinful Teutonic knight.

You see, this rapscallion fell in love with the daughter of a local merchant. They kept it secret too. It broke the monastic rules. The woman was sent for 25 lashes and the man had to build a tower that represented his mistakes. See? Much more interesting!

7. City Walls

Trade has always been a centerpiece of life here in Torun. Merchant trade routes stretched from this port town across the Baltic Sea as far as the Middle East. The need for defensive structures, such as the City Walls , was paramount.

The walls were first developed in the 13th century and further expanded through the Middle Ages. The necessity passed, however, and much of the walls were taken down in the 1800s.

Today, you can wander the south side of the Old Town to discover what’s left, including nine towers and three gates. The remnants of the past are fascinating, with many harboring inscriptions and small puppet decorations.

While at the top of the walls, you can enjoy some fabulous views across the Vistula River.

6. Planetarium

Thanks to Nicolas Copernicus, Torun will always be linked to the stars above. Travelers can explore this connection while enjoying incredible astronomical shows.

In the Old Town, the building’s exterior fits right in with the surrounding architecture. However, the rotunda shape and dome make the Planetarium instantly recognizable. Once you wander inside, the Old Town is left behind and you find yourself in the world of planets.

The Planetarium’s enormous projector screens allow you to be immersed by a world beyond Earth. The dome becomes an artificial sky with over 6,000 visible stars. But it’s not just that, you’ll also enjoy solar eclipses, Moon cycles, spot your favorite constellations and uncover a world of nebulas.

5. House of Nicolas Copernicus

Nicolas Copernicus, the Man Who Loved the Earth, forever changed the way we perceive the universe. His heliocentric model helped show that the Earth was not the center of the celestial system. Today, his birth home, the House of Nicolas Copernicus, immortalizes his life.

Travelers will be able to step into his home and discover much of his life in medieval Poland. Within, you’ll find period furniture and the era’s merchant culture. While interactive exhibits help you understand the man who helped spearhead a scientific revolution.

Replicas of Copernicus’ 15th and 16th century instruments are on display. These include his quadrant, triquetrum and astrolabe. In addition, you’ll find the best collection of memorabilia from his life alongside original copies of his written work.

4. Old Town Hall

A highlight of Torun’s Old Town Square, the Old Town Hall, is an immortal image of the city’s medieval hub. Embellished in Gothic design, the hall was originally constructed in the 13th century. But in the latter years of the 14th, the hall’s iconic tower was added, under the command of the Teutonic Order.

Just like its surrounding squares, the hall quickly became a cultural pillar. While also playing host to societal elites and Polish royalty. The history and tales in every section, create an enticing experience for travelers.

Torun’s well-preserved heritage is on full display. Visitors will uncover artisanal artifacts from throughout the Middle Ages and into the Renaissance. In addition, the Grand Hall gallery showcases portraits of iconic figures and the Royal Hall celebrates the best of local artists.

Afterwards, you can replace one great view with another, from the top of the clock tower.

3. Monument of Nicolaus Copernicus

Set in front of the Staszic Palace is the Monument of Nicolaus Copernicus. The famous astronomer is immortalized in a bronze statue, created in the early 19th century.

Appropriately, the man who showed the earth revolves around the sun is holding our celestial system with the sun in the middle. He’s adorned in an academic robe and also points towards the sky above.

The beautiful yet simple celebration for Copernicus’ life work provides a poignant moment for all who see it. As you stand alongside the statue and adjacent fountain, it’s quite entrancing to think this is a man, and a town, who helped change the course of human history.

2. Old Town Square

Right in the heart of Torun, all roads lead to the Old Town Square. The medieval market square has been the center of local life since the 1200s. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, if you’re wondering where to start your Torun travels, then head here.

The delightful square allows you to jump into Torun life. Sometimes bustling, sometimes quiet, you can both enjoy the atmosphere and pick up your bearings. The square is surrounded by some of Torun’s most renowned landmarks, from the Old Town Hall to St. Mary’s Church.

Beyond the popular spots are some local creations, full of life and myth. These include the monument to the beloved comic character Filus, the Frog Fountain and the Rafstman statue. The latter, shrouded in local legend.

1. Living Museum of Gingerbread

In Torun, the tradition of gingerbread making stretches back to the 14th century. You can learn a little bit about this tradition at the Home of Nicolas Copernicus (which seems off-brand, but I digress). However, the Living Museum of Gingerbread has all bases covered.

As trade routes across the Baltic and, as far as the Middle East were established, gingerbread became a delicacy in high demand. The historic factory, now home to the museum, grew with this evolution and rise in popularity.

Visitors will embark on a fascinating adventure through the factory’s many eras. You’ll check out one of the first industrial ovens, discover medieval markets, and see how gingerbread moulds have changed over time. Finish up with a workshop that allows you to bake your own treats.

Best Time to Visit Torun

As it is not yet too known to European tourists , even in the busy summer months Torun shouldn’t get too crowded. Lots of daytrippers do pour in though from other cities nearby.

While July and August see the largest amount of visitors due to the holidays, May, June and September are all super lovely months to visit. This period is the warmest and sunniest but also rainiest, with temperatures averaging 18 to 23°C (64 to 73°F).

There is a very nice feel about its old streets and squares with lots of people dining outdoors at their cafes and restaurants. Countless concerts and exhibitions are also put on as part of the Artus Jazz Festival and Days of Torun City Festival.

The rest of the year is relatively quiet in Torun, though a small Christmas market takes over the Old Town Square in December. Apart from this, April and October are still good months to visit as temperatures stay around 13°C (55°F). All the spring flowers and autumn leaves brighten up its otherwise rather dull days.

Where to Stay in Torun

Staying in Old Town Torun, Poland offers a journey back in time to the medieval era. This charming town, sitting along the banks of the Vistula River, highlights well-preserved Gothic architecture , cobbled streets, and a rich history.

Accommodation choices range from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, with some lodgings even housed in historic buildings.

Hotel 1231 , a boutique 4-star hotel, occupies two buildings – a 13th-century Old Mill and a 14th-century infirmary, near the ruins of the Teutonic Castle. The hotels are linked by an underground passageway. Each air-conditioned room at Hotel 1231 is elegantly furnished, featuring a Smart TV, free Wi-Fi, and views of Old Town Toruń.

Alternatively, Hotel Gotyk places you in the heart of the city, just steps from the Copernicus House. This hotel offers free Wi-Fi, rooms equipped with a refrigerator and TV. Guests will have access to an on-site restaurant. This has three rooms and two summer terraces, ideal for unwinding with a meal or drink after a day of exploration.

How to get there

For travelers contemplating their transportation options to explore Torun’s, rest assured that the city is easily reachable by plane, train, bus, or car.

If you choose to journey by air, the closest airport is Bydgoszcz Ignacy Jan Paderewski Airport (BZG), just 53 kilometers away. From there, taxis, buses, or trains will connect you to Torun.

Prefer rail travel? Torun hosts two stations, Torun Glowny and Torun Miasto, linking to major Polish cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk. Several bus companies also offer routes from various Polish cities and neighboring countries.

Schedules and tickets can be conveniently accessed online through platforms like FlixBus.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Torun

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12 Best Things to Do in Toruń: Our 2023 Travel Guide 

Toruń, a city of just less than 200 thousand people found on the banks of the Vistula River, is often ignored by people traveling to Poland. Its location on the route between Warsaw and Gdańsk might just make it a city you pass by as you drive or take a train between the two. But this would be a mistake. I recently had the chance to visit Toruń for the first time, and it has lots to do, and is simply put, beautiful. 

The main reason to visit Toruń is that, unlike many of its fellow Polish cities, it is extremely well preserved! While many Polish cities were razed to the ground during WWII, Toruń was spared, and what stays are many gothic buildings built with bricks hundreds of years ago, as well as stately townhouse like the replicas you can see in Gdańsk. As a former Hanseatic city, there is also much history in Toruń, as a former capital of Poland, and trade hub from which trade from Asia flowed. 

Additionally, Toruń is the birthplace of two Polish icons: famed scientist and lifelong learner Nicolaus Copernicus, and Polish gingerbread! Both are reason enough to visit, as you can learn about the long history of both in Toruń. And while Toruń is still working on its tourism infrastructure, there is enough in place to make it a worthwhile stay. 

At less than 3 hours away from Warsaw by train, taking a day or two trip to Toruń as an extra dip into Poland along with Warsaw is certainly possible! And Toruń stays relatively unknown amongst international tourists, so Toruń is still relatively less crowded. When I visited, it was mostly locals and a few Polish families here and there, making for an enjoyable day trip. So, read on to learn about what you should do in Toruń based on my (brief) experiences there. You will also find recommendations on restaurants, hotels, and general information on traveling to Toruń.

Toruń’s Top Attractions 

1. old town.

The central point of the city is the UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town, often called the Medieval Town. Toruń, once called Thorn by Teutonic Knights who built a castle here in the 13 th century, has kept some of the buildings from ages past. While the original castle is ruined now, you will still see the brick Gothic style common in this part of the world, such as at the famous Malbork castle. Overall, you will have to go to the Old Town when in Toruń, as most of the attractions are found within its confines. 

Just walking the streets is an enjoyable past time, but there are a few highlights for sure. One point of interest is the huge town plaza in the center of the city, which unlike some Polish cities, is not constantly under construction! There is much space to walk around, sit on a bench and relax, or grab some ice cream from a stand. Just off the square is St. Mary’s Church , a massive church built in the 14 th century and once the highest hall church in Central Europe. 

In the square itself is the Town Hall . Inside the Town Hall you will find a museum that tells the history of Toruń through artwork and artifacts from the city. However, as someone whose Polish is beginner level, there was not a huge variety of information available in English beyond what was on small signs next to some of the artwork.  

However, I went on a free day, and that is what made it worth it. So, unless you are really interested in history, I would recommend skipping the museum and instead paying to go up the Town Hall Tower . I paid for this, and it was well-spent money. From the top you are treated to a panoramic 360-degree view of all Toruń. To the north you see St Mary’s Church and some apartment buildings harkening the residential part of the city. To the east and west you see the rest of the Old Town, and to the south, you see the Vistula River. It is a relatively difficult 170 steps to the top, so keep that in mind. 

Overall, the Town Hall and tower is open from 10 AM to 6 PM every day except Monday, and the tower will close in inclement weather. The tower and shows each cost 22 PLN, so if you want to do both it will cost you 44 PLN . The museum is free on Wednesdays, however. 

A final interesting thing to do in the Old Town is take a statue tour. Admittedly, the statues are not hard to find, but there are a variety of cute statues to take pictures with. The most famous is the Copernicus Monument , home to many people taking pictures. You will also find a very popular statue of a donkey, a fiddler in a fountain, a little dog with a top hat, and a dragon. This is a good activity for photos, and to explore every corner of the Old Town. 

Overall, if you are coming to Toruń, the Old Town is probably the reason, and if it is not, it should become the reason. You will spend most of your time here, and it is certainly time well spent.

2. Toruń Cathedral 

This majestic Gothic cathedral, officially the Cathedral of St John, sits prominently in a quiet square not far from the town center. It is included as a special point of interest in the UNESCO billings. The church has gone through many different forms since originally being built in the 13 th century, but the current rendition was built at the end of the 15 th century.  

The cathedral is full of history. You will find a historic baptismal font in which it is alleged that Nicolaus Copernicus was baptized. You will also find a 500-year-old 7-ton bell, once the largest in the region, found in the tower. Occasionally it rings, but its size means ringing it threatens the stability of the tower! There are also some famous Polish figures buried here. 

Visiting the Cathedral is a must, as it is beautiful, and too close to the action to skip. I mostly just admired it from outside and took pictures. But you can go inside as well. However, unlike many churches, the interior is not entirely free. For free you can hang out in the back and take pictures through a metal grate, but if you want to get up close to what there is to see, admission costs 3 PLN . If you want to go up the tower as well, admission costs 6 PLN . 

However, I think the better view tower is at the city hall, as you cannot see the cathedral from the cathedral itself, but the low cost means you can certainly afford to do both. But if you are on a budget, just admiring the cathedral from the back was enjoyable for me, as well as taking as many pictures of the exterior as I could. The inside is open from April to October from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM except Sundays and holidays.

3. Toruń City Walls

Toruń’s status as a city important to trade means that it has always been surrounded by some form of defensive structure, specifically walls. While the walls surrounding the city to the north are no longer present, you can still find the old city walls on the south side of the Old Town with an amazing view of the Vistula River. The walls stretch from end to end of the Old Town, with gaps and gates to get a peek at the river. 

The walls also still have some remaining towers and gates, including the Leaning Tower , a popular spot for photos. While not as tall as the one in Pisa, it is still a unique picture and fun find. But the best part of the walls is that on a hot summer’s day, they supply good shade. Finding a restaurant along the wall and enjoying a cold drink is my number one recommendation. So, for a good walk, visit the city walls.

4. New Town Square

With the main feature of this town square being built in the 14 th century, this “new town” is much older than most Polish cities “old town.” The New Town itself was founded in 1264, and compared to its counterpart of the Old Town, is much less busy. So, the New Town is a perfect place to take a break on a very tourist-filled day, or also a good place to find a restaurant or café that will be slightly less busy. This is an easy task as there are quite a few with views of the square. 

Surrounding the New Town Hall in the middle are tenement buildings that used to be owned by some of the wealthiest townspeople. But the most interesting building is certainly the gothic beauty of St. James Church. This church was part of the pilgrimage route to the tomb of St James in Spain, and many people from the Baltics passed through on their way. Inside there is much gothic artwork, murals, and a Renaissance organ.  

So, while the New Town Square does not have a lot to do, it is less busy, and still houses some beautiful buildings that illustrate history centuries ago. Come here to relax, buy a drink, or just to enjoy the beauty of Toruń.

5. Toruń Castle Ruins 

Toruń, as a town partially founded by Teutonic knights, had a castle built for it, like the massive one found in Malbork. This castle was built originally in the 13 th century, and was not a massive castle by any means, only housing a dozen knights at any given time. During an uprising, the citizens of Toruń tore down the castle in 1454. All that remains is what you can see today, which is a singular tower and the ruins. You can see the ruins while walking through the Old Town. 

However, if you want to see the ruins up close and personally, an entry ticket is needed. The ruins are open from 10 AM to 4 PM Tuesday to Friday , and 10 AM to 6 PM Saturday and Sunday , and closed Mondays. Tickets cost 20 PLN per person. However, do not feel the need to buy a ticket, you can see the ruins from some of the viewpoints in the city, as well as get a decent picture of them from near the entrance. But the ruins are a must-see for another part of Toruń’s interesting history.  

6. The Living Museum of Gingerbread

Gingerbread is one of the most important products of Toruń. Toruń, being a merchant’s town, had access to exotic spices from Asia including ginger, and with local wheat and honey being abundant, gingerbread became an important product of Toruń. Eventually Toruń gingerbread became well-known across Europe. The Living Museum of Gingerbread tells you about this history in their exhibition halls. But you can also pay to take an hour-long course where you will make your own gingerbread and bake it, which is worth it if you have the time. 

During the summer, the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM . Gingerbread classes happen every hour on the hour. A ticket to just the museum costs 22.50 PLN. A ticket for the museum and a baking workshop costs 36.50 PLN . On Tuesdays, when the exhibition is free, you can buy a ticket for the workshop for 22.50 PLN. So, I recommend this as an intro to an important part of Toruń’s history! 

7. Niewidzialny Dom

I am not saying this lightly, but this is one of the coolest museums I have been to. Translated to “Invisible House” in English, this museum offers you the opportunity to experience blindness. And I mean this literally. You will be led on a tour where you will have to learn how to use your senses of hearing and touch, as well as smell, to navigate, with the help of a blind tour guide. I cannot say much else, as the museum asks to not to describe your experience to keep the element of surprise when you visit! 

If you would like to visit, which I really recommend, tours in English require prior email reservation. They were super responsive, and somewhat flexible on when. I would recommend inquiring at least a week before you plan to arrive. The Museum is open from 10 AM to 8 PM , and costs 33 PLN , but might cost a little bit more for the English tour. For more information on how to reserve, visit their website .

8. Toruń Planetarium

Nicolaus Copernicus was a famous astronomer amongst other things, so it makes since that his birthplace has a planetarium. Located just on the other side of St. Mary’s Church, the planetarium offers showings on all things related to the cosmos, with shows on Mars, stars, and everything in between. However, there are limited showings in foreign languages, but some are offered in English, Spanish, Russian, and German. If you do speak Polish, the showing at noon every day is free! 

But if you are not able to speak Polish, just like the Invisible House, you will need to contact ahead of time for information on booking tickets in English, but they do offer 9 showings in English. Overall, this is a family-friendly activity, with certain shows being labeled as for kids. Tickets cost 23 PLN. For Polish showings, you can reserve your seat ahead of time on their website , but otherwise you pay for your ticket at the box office.

9. House of Nicolaus Copernicus Museum

Nicolaus Copernicus is easily Toruń’s most famous resident, and one of Poland’s most famous historical figures. Thus, like other Polish figures, he is revered highly, and his birthplace holds many monuments and museums dedicated to him. This museum, although potentially not where Copernicus was born, is one of the two houses that were owned by Copernicus’ family, so there is a chance he was born there. Regardless, the house tells the history of his life, studies, and family, in an engaging manner. 

You will start in some kind of random exhibits that do not have signs in English (most exhibits have Polish, English, and German signage), that display some of the products throughout history that have had Copernicus as a mascot. You move upwards through the house seeing the rooms how they would have been, while learning about the Copernicus family, Toruń at the time, and Copernicus’ education. You end up in the attic, where you are treated to a light show especially interesting for children, but still fun for all ages. 

I recommend visiting here, it is very interesting, even if you do not care about Copernicus that much, you can see what a person in Toruń’s life was like. You can visit the museum every day except some holidays from 10 AM to 6 PM. Tickets are also reasonably priced as well, at 22.50 PLN. If you want even more information, you can also rent an audio guide for 11 PLN. Overall, if you can only pick 2-3 museums in Toruń to visit, this should be one of them.  

10. Vistula River Promenade

The Vistula River is Poland’s main river, and it is extremely beautiful and “wild” here compared to other cities through which the river runs, especially Warsaw and Kraków. The promenade is found just outside the city walls and stretches from the train bridge to Józef Piłsudski Bridge , which you can also walk across as an extension of the promenade. Across the river you will see no sign of the thousands of people who live across the river; instead, you will see tall trees and sandy beaches and sandbars in the river itself. 

If you want to appreciate this stretch of the river even more, there are 40-minute leisure cruises leaving from the promenade. You will be treated to a beautiful panorama of the city and the ability to admire the bridges. Cruises are offered from May to September every day from 9 AM to 7 PM, with the possibility of sunset cruises extending the hours from Monday to Thursday. Tickets cost a reasonable 35 PLN , and I recommend taking a cruise if you have the time. 

Just be warned that this area will get populated by large groups of school trips or summer day camps during the day, and people drinking at night, so it is not the most peaceful of places to admire the river. So, if you want some peace, take the river cruise, or venture to the next place on this list.  

11. Kępa Bazarowa 

Located on the south side of the Vistula River, this island area is a haven of nature in a city. But the main draw of this natural area is the views of the Old Town it provides. It takes only about 10 minutes after crossing the bridge to get to a viewpoint area that tells you what all the buildings are in your viewpoint. Walking down from there takes you to a dock from which you can take a very good picture of the city. You will also find beaches to relax on, although I do not recommend swimming because the river is fast and not necessarily super clean. 

If you walk further through the park, you can have a quiet moment amongst the trees and birds. Walking to the west side of the bridge will take you to an area with picnic shelters and brick ruins where teenagers were hanging out when I visited. Just be careful in the summer as there are many high grasses which house ticks. But, if you are looking for a break from the city and want a nice, shaded walk, I recommend taking the 20-minute walk from the Old Town to Kępa Bazarowa. 

12. Bydgoskie Przedmieście Neighborhood

While the Old Town is certainly nice, it does not illustrate what living in Poland is currently like, as most people in Toruń live in other neighborhoods. So, if you want to get an authentic experience of Poland, visit Bydgoskie Przedmieście. Located just west of the Old Town, you will find a mix of more recent architectural styles here, some from the Soviet era and some from the 19 th century. Either way, the neighborhood is very authentic. You will be walking amongst locals doing their shopping and going about their day. 

The neighborhood is also home to amazing green spaces, such as the massive Park Miejski which is a perfect place for a shade break. Or eat at a local restaurant in the neighborhood. When I was walking through, I felt more like I was in Poland than in the Old Town, and thus I recommend it highly. As there are trams running directly from near the Old Town to here, it is also well connected, so if you have some spare time, take a walk here to feel a more authentic Polish vibe. 

Bonus: Dom Legend Toruńskich

Are you from another country but still speak Polish at a high level? This activity will only be a good one if you can speak Polish. This museum tells the legends of Poland and Toruń through live action performers. But these performances are only offered in Polish and are geared towards children. But if you have Polish-speaking children, I recommend this. Tickets cost 23 PLN .  

Toruń Restaurant Recommendations

Toruń, like all major cities in Poland, has a wide variety of restaurants, both offering Polish fare and international cuisine. Many of the best restaurants are in the heart of the city. Although, some of these restaurants, especially those on the Old Town Square, should probably be avoided due to high popularity and weight time. Below you will find a mix of restaurants based on reviews and vibes to try when you visit Toruń: 

• Chleb I Wino Toruń : Offers Polish and international classics. I ate at one of these in Gdańsk and the food is high quality and relatively affordable. There is also a huge drink menu, fancy atmosphere, and good food all around. Probably the only restaurant in the Old Town Square, I would say, is acceptable to eat at and is not overly touristy. Rated 4.7 stars by users.  
• Restauracja Luizjana : This was the restaurant I had a chance to eat at on my trip. I chose to try it due to its unique culinary offerings for Poland, this being Creole cooking. So, you will find many types of burgers on delicious Brioche buns, barbecue, pulled pork, ribs, and other Louisiana delights, all as jazz music filters through this gem. It is a little from the center, so it is also a little less busy. Rated 4.5 stars by users and 4.8 stars by me.  

• Pierogarnia Stary Młyn/Toruń : These pair of restaurants are the ones you will want to go to for a mostly authentic Polish experience, with an extensive list of Polish classics , including Pierogi. There are lots of delicious Polish desserts (my favorite), vegetarian options, local spirits and wine, and more. The “Toruń” location is housed in an attractive glass building with a view of some ruins, and the “Młyn” location is in an old mill in the heart of the city. Go to which is less busy. Rated 4.5 stars by users.  

• Restauracja Toruń – Monka : This restaurant has classic dishes for picky eaters or families, with burgers and sandwiches, salads and soups, and delicious desserts. There are also some Polish classics for those wanting to get in touch with the local flavors. The location is also in a building with some history, and the vibes were positive when I walked by. Rated 4.6 stars by users. 
• Loft79 : For a classy experience, eat here. You will find an extensive menu full of European fare, including fish dishes and steaks, as well as a wide variety of soups and salads. There is also an enormous cocktail list, so coming here for just a drink is a choice. Rated 4.5 stars by users.  
• Restauracja Musztarda : The restaurant I wish I had gone to if I had time. This restaurant offers extremely fancy hot dogs with lots of cool toppings. The menu is simple enough, but the cool hot dog combinations are a unique experience that will be hard to find elsewhere in Poland, and with affordable prices to boot in the city center, you should not skip here. Rated 4.6 stars by users. 

Toruń Hotel Recommendations

Hotels in Toruń are certainly affordable, and mostly close to the city center. For this list, if it was not within a 15-minute walk of the center of the Old Town, I disqualified it from the list. All 7 of these hotels are good options, depending on your budget. 

• Ibis Budget Toruń: For a classic budget hotel that can be found throughout Poland, including Warsaw , you cannot beat this hotel. You are close to the center and should get a clean and cozy room. Be warned that you may be with a large group of traveling Polish families, so it may not be quiet. You can get a room starting at 179 PLN per night.  
• Hotel Mercure Toruń Centrum: For a slightly more upscale, but still budget choice, stay here. You will get a few more amenities, including a gym and restaurant, and have some modern touches sprinkled throughout your room. It is also close to the center, and starting from 220 PLN per night, you could do much worse. 
• Copernicus Toruń Hotel: For a fancier experience at a prominent building in Toruń, stay here. This hotel is right on the banks of the Vistula River and offers a nice view of the river from your room. You will also have access to an outdoor pool when the season allows it. This will be your best choice for that later amenity, starting from 520 PLN per night.  

• Hotel Solaris: For a lower cost hotel with some amenities available less likely to be full of families with screaming kids, stay here. Hotel Solaris is very close to the center, with a view of one of the many Old Town churches. You will have a snug, classy room with retro touches. And starting from 320 PLN per night, it is affordable too.  

• B&B Hotel Toruń: Another budget option, this hotel offers some amenities included in its low price that makes it an attractive place to stay. These include an affordable breakfast, and flexible booking included. You are also close to both the bus station and the city center, and starting from 260 PLN , this budget hotel is a good deal.  
• Hotel ETER: For a fancier experience, stay here. You will stay in a contemporary room called “chic” by users. You will also have access to a high-class bar, a sauna, and views of the New Town Square. Rooms here start from 450 PLN .  
• Czarna Róża: For old style charm and an affordable price, stay here. The price includes river views (if you get the right room), a complimentary breakfast buffet, and a location central to everything Toruń has to offer. Considering it includes breakfast, 275 PLN per night and upwards is nothing to sniff at.  

How do you get to Toruń?

Toruń’s central location makes it an easy place to get to in Poland. The closest major city is Bydgoszcz, which is also the closest airport. There are only a limited number of flights to this small airport, mostly from England and Ireland, but also from Warsaw, with Ryan Air. Then, it is a short 1-hour regional train ride to Toruń from there, but if you already in Bydgoszcz, do not skip it, it is one of the best cities in Poland!  

My method of travel to and from Toruń was using FlixBus. There is a line between Warsaw and Gdańsk that runs quite often throughout the day at a very affordable price of between 30-40 PLN each direction, which is cheaper than the regular train ticket price. The bus leaves as early as 7 AM and takes about 4 hours each way. This bus line also stops at Warsaw Modlin Airport , so if you are flying cheaply, you can get to Toruń this way too. 

There are also FlixBus lines from many other cities near Toruń. There is a FlixBus line from Łódź that takes about 2 hours, and you can connect to Toruń through Łódź from anywhere in Silesia, such as Katowice, or Wrocław. If you come from the west, Poznań is about a 3-hour bus ride away. From Poznań, you can connect to the Baltic Sea in cities such as Szczecin, or connect further out of Poland to Berlin, where you can get pretty much anywhere from there. 

There are of course lots of trains running to Toruń from the various cities mentioned earlier. Trains can be as fast as 2.5 hours and cost as little as 80 PLN . Make sure that if you can, book your last stop as Toruń Miasto , to end up on the side of the river where everything is. If not, you will have to navigate from a quiet spot away from the city to the main part. But be aware that Toruń Miasto is under much needed renovations and has no facilities or ticket booths at present.  

Finally, Toruń’s central location means it is easy to get to by car. There are major motorways that run between Warsaw and Gdańsk that go near to Toruń and mean that you can get to Toruń from Warsaw in 2 hours 45 minutes , and Gdańsk in 2 hours. Olsztyn, home to the beautiful lakes of Poland is 2.5 hours away, and Poznań is only 2 hours away by car. With a decent amount of parking, driving to Toruń is a great possibility, if you have your international driving permit! 

How can you get around in Toruń? 

Despite Toruń’s smaller size, Toruń has decent public transportation available. There are several tram routes that crisscross their way through Toruń that will take you pretty much anyway you want to go. Since most run east to west, depending on where you stay, it will not take long to get to the Old Town. Just be warned that during the summer, the trams do not run super often and do not run late, so you could get stuck far away from the center like I did if you are not careful. 

In case you get stuck, there are many buses available, and bus stops almost everywhere. If you are arriving at the main train station, you will need to take a bus to get to the main part of the city. Overall, the trickiest part about tram and bus travel in Toruń is buying a ticket. The buses will also take you to the outskirts of the city or to some of the parks available. Additionally, at night, the buses are your only choice other than a taxi, as Toruń runs three different night bus routes.  

Like many places in Poland, there is a Polish way of doing things that is not super tourist friendly. Thus, it is kind of a toss-up whether the bus or tram you will be on has a ticket machine or not. The one guaranteed place to buy tickets is at Plac Rapacki near the Old Town. From what I understand, Toruń is working on improving its tourism infrastructure at present, so soon you may be able to buy a ticket on every bus or tram. 

How long should I stay in Toruń?

As I have mentioned quite a few times in this blog already, I did a day trip to Toruń. However, I am 23 years old, in relatively good shape, and was travelling on a budget. From Warsaw, I was travelling or exploring for 18 hours of the day. I understand not everyone can do that, and I would not recommend doing what I did from Warsaw by bus for the average traveler. However, if you choose to go by train or come from a city closer than Warsaw, a day trip might be possible. 

So, I would instead recommend that the average person spend 1 night in Toruń and use the day before and after that stay to explore some of the city. If you really wanted to, you could spend 2-3 nights there, but that would make you an outlier of an international tourist and would take away time you should spend in the big three of Warsaw, Kraków, and Gdańsk. Regardless, 1-2 days is enough, and Toruń is a worthy city to visit! 

What else should I know about Toruń?

I know for some people that knowing where you can use the bathroom is important information. Having navigated this issue on my day trip, I am happy to provide this information! Throughout Toruń you will find some public restrooms available at different price points. The important thing is that many of these restrooms are cash only. For example, the bathrooms in the train station and bus station were each 4 PLN and were coin payment only. Some other public bathrooms cost 3 PLN , and some dirty looking ones in parks cost 2 PLN . 

However, I found the cheapest and cleanest bathroom to be the one in McDonalds in the Old Town. The bathroom costs 2 PLN and is kept very clean and is open to the public without having to buy anything. Additionally, if you buy something, you can show your receipt from your transaction at the bathroom turnstile to get that 2 PLN refunded or removed from your bill. Just make sure to pay with a card to get that receipt. Overall, the easiest way to get a bathroom is at a museum or restaurant, where you will get free access with payment.  

Safety-wise, be aware that some scams you might see in Warsaw and other places in Poland are also present in Toruń, but luckily at a much lower level. You will see the people with donation boxes for the war, and I still do not recommend donating to them. Donate online instead. Also, there was a guy offering to take pictures for people in front of the Copernicus statue but be aware the guy will ask for payment most likely! But it was very light overall, so do not worry about these things if you go! 

Overall, Toruń is a lovely city that you should consider visiting if you are spending more than a few days in Poland. With the UNESCO world heritage sites, some decent nature, and many cool museums and things to do, you will not get bored if you spend a day or two here.  

Migration Researcher

Hi everyone! My name is Jeremy, and I am a staff writer for Poland Insiders. I first came to Poland in May of 2022, fell in love with it, applied to go to university here, got accepted, and have now been living in Warsaw since September 2022! I love traveling and sharing about what I find along the way, whether food, culture, or events. Being born and raised on the West Coast of the US, I also love nature, Asian food, and a good (non-alcoholic) beer. I am happy to share my adventures in Poland as I continue to live and work here for the near future.

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Medieval Town of Toruń

Thanks to the great astronomer  Nicolaus Copernicus  and to the flavor of the famous Torunian gingerbread as well as to the charm and character of one of Europe’s most beautiful old towns, Toruń is a city widely known in Poland and also far beyond its borders. Toruń’s historic core, represented by its well preserved complex of medieval architecture and the original urban layout, was included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1997.

A wealthy Hanseatic port, Toruń was one of the most important trade and cultural centers in this part of Europe. It still possesses magnificent Gothic buildings that testify to the city’s past splendor: one of the most imposing old town halls in northern Europe, today occupied by the regional museum featuring valuable collections, the mighty Cathedral of SS John the Baptist and John the Evangelist with original interiors, St James’ Church with Gothic murals and spectacular stellar vaults, St Mary’s Church with richly adorned interiors of great historical value. There are several eye-catching burgher houses with the superbly decorated House under the Star and the fine brick Gothic house where the astronomer was born, now housing the Museum of Copernicus . The medieval old town complex of Toruń includes ruins of the Teutonic Knights’ castle, gates and towers of the long defensive city walls once protecting Toruń from the Vistula side as well as many other buildings dating back to medieval times.

Modern Toruń is a quickly developing large academic center with its Nicolaus Copernicus University and the city that hosts a great number of attractive artistic events. One of the many Toruń’s tourist attractions is the Planetarium equipped with a high-tech auditorium and presenting diverse shows several times daily.

See more articles about the monument from the list World Heritage Sites:

19 Fun Things To Do in Torun, Poland

Torun may not be the biggest or most popular city in Poland, but it quickly became one of our favourite in the country . This medieval town is in the northern region of Poland, somewhere between Lodz and Gdansk and we're so glad we were able to visit. Torun is largely known for two things: Copernicus and gingerbread but there is plenty more to see and love so we're sharing our favourite 19 fun things to do in Torun.

Things to do in Torun, Poland

Often, Wes and I find ourselves chatting about what we would consider to be our perfect city. To this day, we don't have an ultimate favourite but we have found that the destinations we enjoy the most are cities that are not too big and not too small, can be easily explored on foot and have plenty of hidden gems to be discovered. Torun ticked all of those boxes for us and we still find ourselves wondering if we're meant to go back and spend more time there. I have a feeling that anyone who has visited would agree, Torun is a special place. In any case, we wanted to share our experiences for anyone who hasn't been and is looking to explore beyond the main cities in Poland. This post starts with all things gingerbread before sharing more fun things to do in Torun and ends with practical tips about getting there, where to stay and a link to our Torun travel vlog. Enjoy!

Visit the Gingerbread Museum

Museums aren't really our thing but they are when you get to bake your own gingerbread! The city is well-known for the tradition of gingerbread making and this museum has a really fun and interactive show that shares the secrets of Torun's gingerbread with visitors. Because this is one of the most popular things to do in Torun, I would suggest buying your tickets online ahead of time. The museum is open daily from 10 to 6pm with shows that last about 1.5 hours. Tickets are only 14 PLN (2016) and the museum was definitely one of the most memorable things to do in Torun for us.

Try Gingerbread Ice-Cream

For a real treat, head over to Kawiarnia Lenkiewicz for delicious ice cream, coffees and desserts. The cafe is busiest during the summer months but serves generous portions of ice cream for a very reasonable price!

Bring Back Gingerbread Souvenirs

As luck would have it, our Airbnb apartment was directly across from Kopernik , a store selling the local Torunskie Pierniki (Torun Gingerbread). There are a plenty of shops in the Old Town where you can buy these traditional treats for yourself or as a souvenir for a lucky someone back home. My only regret is not having bought more!

Cheers Over Gingerbread Beer

If you've been following the adventure on our YouTube channel, you know we love a good beer and we couldn't pass up the chance to try gingerbread beer in Torun. We met up with one of our viewers, Michał, and he brought us to a corner pub called Krajina Piva, well-known for it's wide selection of beer.

Visit the Local Brewery

For even more beer, visit Jan Olbracht Browar Staromiejski , a brewery, restaurant and pub all in one. There is a growing interest in craft beer throughout Poland and here you can try their selection of beers which includes, of course, gingerbread beer.

Lean Against the Leaning Tower

While walking around town on our first day in Torun, we noticed something strange about a tower near the riverbank. It was literally leaning to one side (not quite as drastically as the tower in Pisa but still pretty neat)! No one around seemed to notice this phenomena and it wasn't until I sat down to write this post that I even realized this is an important landmark in the city. You'll hear different legends about the tower but our favourite was shared by our local friend, Michał. The tower loved to hear stories from his good friend, the Vistula river until the river flowed too closely and started to erode his supporting walls. The tower begged the river to stop out of fear that he might fall over and instead the river said, "So then, fall down!" which is a phrase that can apparently be translated in Polish to "toruń" hence the name. ;)

Admire the Wardrobe Theatre

Not far from the castle ruins is a rather unusual building. The Baj Pomorski Theatre is unlike any I have seen with a facade that looks like an antique wardrobe, drawers and all! It is also the only puppet theatre in this region of Poland with performances for both children and adults.

Get the Best Views of Torun

To get the best views of Torun, you'll have to put in the effort and climb your way to the top of the Old Town Hall Tower. Entrance is 11 PLN (2016) but worth it for an impressive bird's eye view of the city, river and picturesque rooftops. Fun fact: the Gothic style building has 365 windows said to represent each day of the year.

Unwind by the River

Torun isn't one of those overwhelming cities that will tire you out but that doesn't mean you can't relax and unwind by the river. There are a couple of bars, restaurants and ice cream stands right on the river making it a perfect place for a drink before your sunset stroll to the other side of the Vistula. River boat tours are also available (depending on the season) and start at 10 PLN for 30 minutes.

Admire the Town from Across the River

As recommended by one of our viewers, we knew we could get a great view of the whole city by crossing the river. There's a tree-lined path that takes you from the Jozefa Piłsudskiego bridge to a great lookout point ( Panorama Torunia ) on the other side of the Vistula. From here, you can see the beautiful skyline of Torun and we found it most impressive by night.

Learn all About Copernicus

We all know now that the sun is the center of our solar system but that's all thanks to Nicolas Copernicus. He was born in Torun and his studies essentially revolutionized our way of thinking about the universe so it's no wonder the city is proud of his work. Learn more about the Polish astronomer by visiting his monument in the town square and the House of Nicolas Copernicus Museum. Real enthusiasts can head further north to Frombork Cathedral where he is buried.

Coffee for 'Friends' Fans

If you're a fan of the sitcom, you'll appreciate Torun's Central Coffee Perks cafe. Their talented baristas serve great coffee in a cozy setting much like the familiar cafe on the show. And yes, they have episodes of Friends playing all day long.

Capture the Monuments

There are plenty of statues and monuments throughout the Old Town of Torun and most come with a legend or story. Like the dragon of Torun that was apparently spotted by a couple in 1746. Or the torture donkey directly across from the Copernicus statue showing a painful contraption used to torture and humiliate the unfortunate who were forced to ride the donkey. My favourite is the statue of Filus, an adorable puppy with a hat in his mouth known from a popular Polish comic strip.

Explore the Castle Ruins

Before Malbork Castle , the knights of the Teutonic Order built Torun Castle. You can explore what is left of the castle ruins for 9 PLN which includes the underground, courtyard and even the knight's toilet. Depending on the season, you can also try archery (!!) for an additional fee or view one of the knight dual performances.

Cosmopolis Fountain Show

Each evening, at the Cosmopolis Fountain just outside of the Old Town, there is an impressive light and sound show (when the weather permits). While it isn't as large or spectacular as the multimedia fountains of Wroclaw and Warsaw, it is definitely worth seeing while in Torun. The times vary depending on the season but will start once it gets dark and continue until midnight. There are four shows an hour set to different music and only a few minutes break between each new show. Another reason to love it: it's among the many free things to do in Torun. :)

Indulge in Belgian Fries

Anyone missing a sweet tooth can enjoy the savoury delight of Belgian fries from Frytki Belgijskie . Their fries are fresh, affordable and come with your choice of sauce for dipping. Still hungry? They have crispy dumplings too!

Visit the Planetarium

Science lovers will appreciate a visit to the planetarium. Though a bit dated, it's one of the interesting things to do in Torun and both children and adults will learn from their interactive displays and movies that are also available in English. The planetarium is divided into three sections, each with their own admission fees: planetarium, geodium and orbitarium.

Fill up on Pierogi

Please don't leave Poland without trying their delicious dumplings. Torun has a great restaurant called Pierogarnia Stary Toruń and there's a reason why it's so popular. There is often a wait to get in and the service can be slow but I can't think of a better place in town to get the real pierogi experience.

Explore Bydgoszcz

If you have the time, visit the nearby city of Bydgoszcz which is less than an hour away. Trains depart from Torun Glowny and, though the city is larger than Torun, it is not as touristic. There is still plenty to do in Bydogoszcz to fill a day trip.

Torun, Poland: Getting There

We arrived to Torun from Wroclaw by train and left to go to Gdansk by bus. The Torun train station ( Toruń Główny ) is across from the Old Town on the south side of the Vistula River. At the station you'll find washrooms, small kiosks and an Information Centre where English is spoken. To get to the Old Town, you can take a taxi, bus or even walk.

To get into town on the cheap, purchase a bus ticket at the train station's Information Centre before making your way to the bus shelters outside the station. Buses 25 and 27 will cross the Józef Piłsudski bridge and take you to the Old Town in about 5 minutes. Alternatively, the walk into town is about 2km. Bus tickets in Torun must be validated and can be purchased at kiosks throughout town, though some newer buses have the option to purchase on board.

Our itinerary had us travelling from Torun to Gdansk and we found the bus was cheaper than a train. We booked with PolskiBus and buses depart from the Dworzec Autobusowy station just north of the Old Town (within walking distance). The PolskiBus platforms are on the far right side, #10-12. There is a charge to use the station washrooms and a coffee machine is available in the waiting area as well as small snack stands.

Where we stayed in Torun

Because Wes and I wanted to stay somewhere in the Old Town, we opted for a really cute Airbnb right on Kopernika street. The apartment was bright, spacious, and very central so we would definitely recommend the listing if you're looking for a quiet and budget-friendly option. The downside was there was no wifi but we made do without it and really enjoyed our stay. If you're new to Airbnb and wanting to give it a try, our sign up link lets you save up to $40 CAD on your first qualifying staying. This helps us toward our next stay too :)

Best time to go to Torun, Poland

Wes would say, just go right now. And though Torun is beautiful at any time of the year, the city hosts many festivals year-round that are worth checking out. From theatre festivals to the Bella Skyway, the list is long but here are some of the city's highlights:

Afryka Raggae Festival - January

Kontakt International Theatre Festival - May

Torun City Festival - June

Bella Skyway Festival - August

International Puppet Theatre Festival - October

Watch our Torun travel vlog for more inspiration:

Planning for upcoming travels we hope our list of things to do in torun, poland has inspired you to see more of the world and add this beautiful city to your bucket list.

• The Best Things To See...

The Best Things to See and Do in Toruń, Poland

It’s as simple as this – Poland’s Toruń is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It comes as no surprise to learn that its Old Town is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. Toruń was one of the few cities in the country which sustained no damage during World War Two, but the magic doesn’t end there. From famous astronomers to delicious biscuits to leaning towers, get exploring this wonderful city.

Stroll through the medieval old town.

Toruń was awarded UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site status in 2007. Wander through the medieval Old Town, which is also named as one of the seven wonders of Poland. The best way to experience it is to walk the whole way through the Old Town and end up at the famous town hall. It reminds tourists of the town hall in Gdańsk , except the clock tower doesn’t have a slanted roof. A guided tour lasts around three hours and takes you to places such as Caesar’s Arch, St. Mary’s Church, the Copernicus Monument and the Holy Spirit Gate.

Rynek Staromiejski 1, 87-100 Toruń, Poland +48 56 660 56 12

Explore the House of Copernicus

Poland’s famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus was born here in Toruń, and you can visit his old family home. This medieval house once belonged to the Copernicus family back in the 15th century. It is believed (but not proven) that Copernicus was born here. It was Nicolaus Copernicus that first proved the Earth rotated around the sun and that it was not the centre of the universe. The house is now a museum; check the website for opening times.

Mikołaja Kopernika 15/17, 87-100 Toruń, Poland +48 56 660 56 13

Marvel at the Leaning Tower of Toruń

Welcome to Poland’s answer to Pisa – the Leaning Tower of Toruń is a medieval tower which tilts to the side. The top of the tower is 1.5 metres from where it should be due to the way it leans. You can find it on Pod Krzywą Wieżą street; it is one of the most important architectural sights in Toruń’s Old Town.

Pod Krzywą Wieżą 1, 87-100 Toruń, Poland

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Attend a mass at the Cathedral of St. John

Head to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and John the Evangelist for a mass. This is the main parish church in Toruń and dates back to the 13th century, when the original church was here. It is one of three Gothic churches in the city and contains many interesting works of art, including a painting depicting the crucifixion of Christ and the Last Judgement. The bell has been there since the 1500s and is the third largest bell in Poland. Check the timetable at the church or the website for mass times.

Żeglarska 16, 87-100 Toruń, Poland +48 56 657 14 80

Explore the Teutonic Knights Castle

The Teutonic Knights Castle in Toruń is one of the oldest structures of its kind. These days, you can tour the ruins of this castle, which dates back to the 13th century. Its handy location also occupies the area separating Toruń’s Old Town from the New Town. In comparison to nearby Malbork , the castle is small but well worth a visit.

Ulica Przedzamcze 3, 87-100 Toruń, Poland +48 56 621 08 89

Eat at Bar Mleczny Pod Arkadami

Poland’s classic Milk Bar scene is alive and well in Toruń, which has a few of these local and traditional Bar Mlecznys . On Różana Street down near the river, you will find the cosy and traditional Bar Mleczny Pod Arkadami. Head inside for some cheap and cheerful traditional Polish food. You can try the local soups ranging from rosoł (chicken) to zurek (fermented rye soup) and the special Pierogi Ruskie (potato- and onion-filled dumplings). Wash it down with some homemade juice, known as kompot . Please note the venue is open only until 5 p.m. at weekends and until 7 p.m. during the week.

Różana 1, 87-100 Toruń, Poland +48 56 622 24 28

Tour the Far Eastern Art Museum

The House Under the Star is a well-photographed building which contains the Far Eastern Art Museum. Here you can see all sorts of items from the far east including Japanese swords, Chinese crockery, Indian sculptures and Korean art. It’s not a big museum but worth a peek; the building is instantly recognisable as there is a gold star on the roof.

Rynek Staromiejski 35, 87-100 Torun, Torun, Poland +48 56 660 56 16

Learn how to make the unique local gingerbread

Toruń is famous for its special gingerbread, and you can get the full experience by visiting the Muzeum Piernika . You can take part in an interactive show during which you are taught how to make this traditional gingerbread. The museum opened in 2006 and has a shop where you can buy these treats direct from the source.

Rabiańska 9, 87-100 Toruń, Poland + 48 56 663 66 17

Understand the city’s history at the district museum

Toruń’s District Museum is located inside the old town hall from the UNESCO heritage walk. It is one of the oldest and largest museums in Poland. It dates back to 1595 as a building, where it has had many functions down the years. It has operated as a museum since 1965. Inside, take a walk through the history of Toruń and Poland, with exhibitions of art and craft from 1233 – 1793. There is a Royal Room which acts as a pictorial guide to the days when Poland had Kings and Queens. More recent Polish art is also present, in exhibitions of paintings and sculptures from the 18th – 20th century.

Watch local speedway racing

Toruń has a huge stadium which is used for the town’s most popular sport – speedway. In a country where football is the dominant sport, you can watch the local speedway team KS Apator Toruń in action. They race motorbikes around the track, taking on rival teams from other Polish cities such as Unia Leszno and Sparta Wrocław. The venue hosts the national and international speedway in front of a capacity audience of 15,500.

Pera Jonssona 7, 87-100 Toruń, Poland +48 56 651 80 66

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48 Hours in Toruń – A Two Day Itinerary

Toruń is one of those hidden gems that can be easily missed. It is a charming medieval town in northern Poland on the Vistula River that is bursting with history, architecture and centuries-old tradition. It is also a UNESCO world heritage site.

There are lots of things to do in Toruń that make it a great destination to have on your bucket list. Toruń is also well known for the astronomer Nicolas Copernicus and for its production of gingerbread, so if you want to spend your time somewhere amazing, then Toruń is a must.

The best time to visit Torun for ideal weather is between May and September, the weather is pleasant during the summer months.

If you book your hotel and flight tickets in advance during these months, it will be cheaper than doing so last minute. If you are looking for a quieter experience in Toruń then consider going out of season in October as tourist crowds start to decrease.

To firstly understand the layout of the city, there are three main areas. The ruins of the Teutonic Castle, the Old Town and the New Town, all of these combine to form a relatively rare medieval settlement.

The castle’s location within its defensive walls makes it an unusually well-preserved example. Even centuries ago, there was an area called the New Town.

This first area of land that the Teutonic Knights first settled kept flooding, so they had to build a castle between the two areas (old and new).

The castle was built in the mid-13th century to be a base for the conquest and evangelization of Prussia. However, most of it, including all its defensive structures, was destroyed during an uprising in 1454 when local townspeople revolted against the Teutonic Order.

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Where to Stay for your 48 hrs in Toruń

There are numerous hotels located in and around the city that are perfect for 48 hrs in Toruń. You can choose to stay in the Old Town for a more traditional experience, or if you prefer something more modern then there are many hotels located close to the train station too. Here are a few examples:

• Hotel Kopernik – Located in the heart of Toruń’s Old Town and near to the Vistula River, this hotel was named after its most famous citizen: Nicolaus Copernicus. The hotel has 69 rooms spread over five floors, which include complimentary toiletries and free bottled water in every room.
• Hotel Nicolaus – The Hotel Nicolaus is one of the most stylish and central options you will find as it is on Nicolaus Copernicus Street. The elegant restaurant in the inner courtyard is illuminated by sunlight and has a high ceiling with exposed beams, as well as red brick walls. Both local and international cuisine is served here. There is a café and a bar, plus meeting rooms are available for business events.
• Hotel Filmar – This hotel is located on the other side of the highway. It offers peace and relaxation with a spa tub, sauna, pool table and bar. The hotel offers its guests a number of options for conferences and meetings, as well as several computer terminals.

Day One in Torun – Take in the sights of Medieval Toruń

You want to start your first day in Toruń by exploring the medical city and all it has to offer. There are plenty of options to choose from if you are looking for a guided walking tour as this is one of the best ways to explore the beautiful UNESCO-listed city of Toruń.

The pedestrianised old town makes it a place where you cannot explore by car or bus. If you choose to take a guided tour, you will ultimately learn extra knowledge from a local who will lead the way and take you to multiple city highlights, providing you with interesting insights along the route.

If you choose to wander around without a guide, make sure to check out some of the places listed below.

Town Square & The Old Town Centre

Toruń’s Old Town Hall, which was built on a square plan with an inner courtyard, is considered to be the city’s most dominant symbol of its medieval gothic centre. This area became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

The original building was constructed in the 13th century and later given a facelift at the end of the 14th century. The Town Hall was the seat of town authorities, and its representative halls hosted Polish kings. The building contained stalls for businesses selling foods (such as bread), and its cellars were licensed to sell beer or wine.

The Town Hall Museum, with its extensive collection of gothic art along with more ancient craft and Polish paintings, is especially worth seeing. You can climb to the top of the observation deck of the 40-meter tower—which offers a view over the entire old town complex—where you can admire all the buildings from above.

The Leaning Tower

According to legend, the creation of this medieval tower was connected to an offence from one of the Teutonic Knights from Toruń, who fell in love with the beautiful daughter of a wealthy merchant, against monastic rule.

As penance, the knight was instructed to build a leaning tower to symbolise his crooked ways. It is said that those whose sins are worse than the Teutonic knights will never be able to keep their balance while clinging with their backs and legs to the wall of a tower.

Whereas, those who are righteous and faithful will not fall forward. This unique test of rectitude is the highlight of all tourists’ visits to the tower.

Medieval Defensive City Walls

To explore the city and get a feel for its medieval character, wear comfortable shoes since most streets are paved with cobblestones. Enjoy a stroll through the Old Town’s narrow streets and admire the protection of walls that deterred enemies from conquering its city for centuries.

Since its foundation in the first half of the 13th century, Toruń had been enclosed within a double line of defensive walls, consisting of the lower wall outside and the higher wall inside the city, with a wet moat between the two.

The only part that consisted of a single line of walls, faced the Vistula River. Over the following centuries, the walls were continually made higher, stronger and longer.

There is an observation deck on the other side of the river and from there the view of the gothic churches and the skyline make for some spectacular photographs.

The Old Town, the New Town and the Teutonic Castle had their own defensive system. The wall included fifty four fortified towers, eleven gates and two barbicans, of which nine of the towers and three of the gates have survived to this day (including the Holy Spirit Gate).

Teutonic Knight’s Castle Ruins

It will not take you long to walk around the ruins, which are the oldest ruins of their kind, marking the separation between The Old City and The New City.

Inside there is a small exhibition, highlighting the type of medieval equipment used for medicine and torture.

The Living Museum of Gingerbread

After your morning exploring the streets and ruins that Toruń has to offer, grab a quick bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the Old Town.

Then head over to The Living Museum of Gingerbread for a fun afternoon. Gingerbread is a traditional Polish sweet that must be tried whilst in the country. The Living Museum of Gingerbread opened in 2006.

Here you can discover how gingerbread was baked in Medieval times and you will be involved in trying your hand at baking your own gingerbread too. This interactive museum, where the museum staff all dress in traditional costumes, is great for all the family.

The aim of the museum is to preserve the history and recipe of this much-loved sweet treat . There are three floors, where you will go through the history of medieval stalls selling gingerbread, gingerbread workshops in the kitchens and exhibitions displaying the presence of Toruńskie Pierniki (Toruń Gingerbread) in daily life.

Have fun with gingerbread decorating and learning how traditional gingerbread was made and sold. This place is definitely worth visiting if you love the warming spices of gingerbread!

An evening in Toruń

To finish your first day in Toruń, go to the Old Town Market Square, which is full of highly rated restaurants and bars. The atmosphere here is very friendly and welcoming; you will see many people walking around.

The Old Town Market Square is a great place to find some souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones. You will see many shops selling amber jewellery, ceramics, and more traditional Polish items that you might want to bring back home with you.

If you’re looking for food, there are many restaurants serving traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi (stuffed dumplings).

A Pierogi is a filled dumpling and is made by wrapping a savoury or sweet filling in unleavened dough, which is then boiled or pan-fried.

At Pierogarnia Stary Mlyn , the pierogi are made in-house and fresh, following an old traditional recipe. The restaurant offers a variety of fillings for meat lovers as well as vegetarians—and even sweet dessert pierogi! If you have never tried one before, then now is your chance to taste this national delight.

Day Two in Torun – Monuments and Churches in Toruń

House of nicolas copernicus museum.

To start your second day on your 48 hours in Torun itinerary head over to the House of Nicolas Copernicus Museum.

Nicolaus Copernicus was a Polish astronomer who, in his book “On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres” (1543), proposed that the Earth and other planets move around the Sun, the heliocentric theory of the solar system, rather than vice versa.

Copernicus correctly posited the order of the known planets from the sun and estimated their orbital periods relatively accurately. He then argued that the Earth turned daily on its axis, which caused gradual shifts in this axis and accounted for the changing seasons.

He was born on February 19th, 1473 into a family of well-to-do merchants in Toruń. The museum is located in the gothic tenement house of his birthplace, where he lived for the first seven years of his life.

The museum presents exhibits illustrating the life of Copernicus in medieval Poland and his scientific work. Astronomy-related displays showcase instruments used by Copernicus, as well as a recreation of the room where he did much of his work. This museum is a must for astronomy lovers!

Nicolas Copernicus Monument

After you have visited the museum, take a look at the Nicolas Copernicus Monument. The Monument was erected in 1853 to honour the renowned local Renaissance astronomer Nicolas Copernicus.

The monument presents Copernicus in academic robes, with an astrolabe in his left hand, whilst his right index finger points upwards to the heavens above.

Cathedral of St John The Evangelist and John The Baptist

Before you head off for lunch, go and view the Cathedral of St John The Evangelist and John The Baptist. The interior holds Gothic sculptures and many paintings depicting biblical scenes, as well the largest medieval church bell in all of Poland – one of Europe’s heaviest at over seven tons!

Known as Tuba Dei meaning The Trumpet Of God in English. Tuba Dei is now used only a few times each year, as the low vibrations it produces threaten to destabilize the bell tower.

In addition, there is a Gothic baptismal font from the 13th century over which Nicholas Copernicus was baptized. It is located in the chapel of Guardian Angels and holds a portrait of the astronomer along with his bust sculptured in marble.

St James’ Church

The Church of St. James was built between 1309 and the 15th century as an important example of Baltic Sea basin brick architecture.

Managed by Cistercians and then Benedictines, it became a Protestant church in the years 1557–1667. It was only returned to Catholic use as a parish church in the 19th century.

Planetarium

For your afternoon go the Planetarium . Named after Wł. Dziewulski the Planetarium is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Toruń. The semi-circular dome and rotunda, which stands out among other structures because of their unique shape, make it easy to recognise.

It offers a large variety of astronomical presentations covering all sorts of topics related to the field. The ZEISSA RFP projector reconstructs the image of the sky with great fidelity and from any moment and place on Earth.

In other words, it is capable of displaying on the artificial sky (the dome 15 meters in diameter) the arrangement of all 6000 stars visible in the sky.

It also displays the configuration of planets aligned with the Zodiac in the background, the arrangements of constellations, the Moon’s cycles, and eclipses- all the phenomena visible from the earth in the real sky.

Animal Monuments in Toruń.

Whilst walking around town, there are plenty of monuments in Toruń that are dedicated to animals that you can find along your route:

• Dog – The figurine of Filus is a small bronze dog, located in the northeast corner of the Old Town square. Here, you can find him holding a bowler hat in his mouth, guarding the umbrella leaning against the lantern, whilst waiting for his master.
• Donkey – The Donkey of Toruń can be found in the southeast corner of the Old Market Square. The bronze statue was placed there in 2006 but its history dates back hundreds of years. The donkey was originally made of wood, and criminals were forced to sit on its back while the metal rod attached there caused them pain. At times weights would be added to prisoners’ legs for more intense punishment.
• Frog – Toruń’s “Frog Fountain” is a monument commemorating the legend of an exiled witch who exacted her revenge on Toruń by cursing its residents with frogs.

Jan Olbracht Brower Staromiejski Brewery

For a fun final evening in Toruń take a tour of the Jan Olbracht Browar Staromiejski Brewery . This brewery operates out of a 15th-century, Gothic tenement house. It is one of the few places in Poland offering handcrafted beers—as well as craft brews from other breweries.

Tours are available to the brewery, where you can see how beer is made and taste it fresh from the tank, while hearing about the brewing process. All beers are unfiltered and unpasteurized.

Among the many varieties, you might try from the multi-tap bar, one is a dark Gingerbread beer made according to a traditional recipe with aromas of cardamom, cinnamon and cloves. If you are hungry, the restaurant boasts a menu offering Polish and Bavarian dishes.

Toruń offers plenty of historical churches, original medieval buildings and lots of museums. There are numerous cafes and restaurants to eat and drink at to keep you going throughout your trip.

If you are into history, astronomy and architecture, then Toruń is definitely worth a visit. There are many things to do and see, not only for tourists but also for locals.

The Old Town is a place where you can feel the vibrancy of the city and its people. The city is a perfect place for those who want to experience Poland’s history and culture.

It is also a great place to visit if you are looking for some relaxation, as there are plenty of beautiful parks, gardens and lakes in the area.

Recommended tours in Toruń

• Walking Tour of the medieval Toruń
• Torun Living Museum of Gingerbread and Old Town Private Walking Tour
• Torun Private Polish Beer Tasting Tour
• Torun Private Vodka Tasting Tour
• Torun Private Traditional Polish Food Tour

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Top Torun Attractions

Torun (polish toruń ) is one of the most popular tourist cities in central part of poland due to its medieval old town enlisted at unesco world heritage list; astronomy with nicolaus copernicus figure; and famous torun’s gingerbreads. every year it is visited by numerous tourists from poland and abroad. find out all torun highlights in this its poland dmc article., unesco medieval town of torun.

Torun has an interesting history as it was established by the Teutonic Order knights (military monks of crusaders era) and then rapidly developed as a member of Hanseatic League . It was possible thanks to its location at the Vistula river. The Medieval Town of Torun as an UNESCO World Heritage List  comprises of three elements: the ruins of the Teutonic Castle, the Old Town, and the New Town . The Old Town was granted an urban charter in 1233, which swiftly led to its expansion as a major commercial trading centre. The adjacent New Town developed from 1264, mainly as a centre for crafts and handiwork. The castle built in the middle of 13th century was destroyed during uprising in 1454 but the remains were excavated and can be viewed by tourist nowadays. The castle and both towns were encircled by town’s wall that can still be admired today. The original street patterns and original early buildings create complete illustration of the Medieval way of living. Both the Old Town and the New Town have Gothic parish churches and numerous fine medieval brick townhouses, many of which have retained their original Gothic façades, partition walls, stucco-decorated ceilings, vaulted cellars, and painted decoration. The Medieval Town of Torun is remarkably authentic in terms of its location and setting, forms and designs, and materials and substances. Tourists usually visit Torun Square with the historic Town’s Hall, original medieval Copernicus house, crooked tower and town’s walls, Vistula boulevards, Teutonic knights castle ruins and St. John’s Cathedral .   

Torun the capital of Polish astronomy

Nicolaus Copernicus is a world famous astronomer . The author of heliocentric universe building theory and a father of Copernican revolution that laid the foundation for the Renaissance ideas. His original birth house can still be visited and is the great Torun attraction. It is a complex of two historic Gothic tenement houses which belonged to the Copernicus family in the second half of the 15th century. Nowadays, it is a place of modern science museum commemorating this late Medieval scholar. The exhibitions present the great astronomer and his achievements. The museum combines the most recent multimedia technologies and historical tissue of a medieval house. Extended reality, 4D cinema with films about astronomy, history of the universe, great scientific discoveries, the Medieval city of Toruń, holograms or visual displays are the key elements that tourists can find here. One of the most interesting things in the museum is an exceptional Medieval roof truss open to visitors. From there visitors can admire a show with starry skies, as it is there that young Nicolaus saw starts for the first time. The architecture of the 15th-century Gothic house and historical objects also made it possible to restore the reality of everyday life of middle-class families in interiors of a late Medieval household. Numerous objects, including, in particular, those showing material culture and customs of middle-class families from Toruń originate from archaeological excavations in the Old and New City of Toruń. Copernicus House Museum is a must while visiting Toruń. Another astronomical attraction is Planetarium . It offers various astronomical performances both in Polish and in English. Finally, Torun has astronomical observatory of international importance. The Astronomy Center of the Nicolaus Copernicus University is located in the village of Piwnice , 13 km north of Torun. It is the largest center of observational astronomy in Poland. The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics, located in a picturesque park, makes it possible to visit, among others, the largest telescope in Poland, fully modernized - 90 cm reflecting Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and the historical Draper astrograph. In the Radioastronomy department you can visit, among others two radio telescopes: 15 m and the largest in Poland and our part of Europe - the 32 m radio telescope. Sightseeing takes about 2 h. Visitors are professionally guided by a researcher who demonstrates the modern work of an astronomer and also introduces fascinating issues of the structure and evolution of the Universe and the latest research achievements in astronomy.   

Torun gingerbreads

One of the oldest Polish legends and fairy tale that all Polish children know is connected with Torun gingerbreads. Therefore, you will find these cookies in all souvenir shops in Torun. There is also a huge tourist attraction connected with them – the Live Gingerbread Museum . It is situated only a bout 300 m from the historic Town Hall and famous Nicolaus Copernicus Statue in the heart of Torun. The museum is one of a kind in Europe and was opened in 2006. Visitors can travel back in time to Medieval period to get to know all rituals connected to traditional gingerbread production. All procedure is very interactive as guests prepare dough on their own and also bake from it their own famous Torun’s gingerbread. Later on they visit gingerbread manufacture exhibition from the 19th and 20th century period and design their own gingerbread icing. The museum has about 100 exhibits connected with gingerbread production and distribution. The Living Museum of Gingerbread is a place with great atmosphere and full of good humour. Every year it is visited by more than 100 thousand guests.

Torun is also a city full of culture. It is worth to mention here the new Torun Center for Contemporary Art "Znaki Czasu". It is the first in the country, since 1939, a completely new museum facility to present the latest art. There are also 3 major theatres in the city and Baj Pomorski Theater operates in an extremely fairy-tale building, with an exceptionally original facade, which is like a large wooden wardrobe through which one enters the interior. Every year in Toruń there are also international festivals such as Camerimage, Song of Songs or Bella Sky Festival .

Other Torun attractions

Apart from the above mentioned attractions Torun has still much to offer. It is a seat of the most powerful religious radio and television in the country and due to this fact a place of pilgrimages to Church of Mary the Star of the New Evangelization and St. John Paul II . There is the Museum of Legends , that is a combination of theatre and museum. Children will also enjoy Młyn Wiedzy (English: Mill of Knowledge) the modern science center. Jordanki Cultural and Congress Centre shows a very interesting example of modern architecture. There are also an interesting ethnographic museum, zoo, Toruń Stronghold , and finally, huge and modern speedway stadium .  

All in all, Torun is a real gem for tourists and it is really worth discovering. It is good to plan at least a two day trip to this marvellous tourist destination. ITS Poland travel agent has some interesting tours to this city and our professional group specialists will happily help you to prepare your own trip to this Medieval UNESCO gem. 

Author: Agnieszka Szwedzińska

Date: 23.11.2020

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