Torun is located in northern Poland on the beautiful Vistula River.
It was built during the spread of Christianity in the region.
This magnificent city has a well-preserved architecture that dates back to the Middle Ages when Torun was an important administrative and trading centre.
Here you can find many old castles and hear plenty of stories of brave knights.
It is the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus, so a journey through the charming streets and squares of Torun is a must for lovers of science too.
Wonder why you need to visit Torun?
Here are nine reasons:
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The Cathedral St. John
The most significant church in Torun during the Medieval Period was the Gothic Cathedral of St John the Baptist.
The construction of this precious jewel was started in the first half of the 14th century.
Wander around and admire the many pieces of art, like stained glass windows, paintings, vaulted ceilings and the chapel where Nicolaus Copernicus was baptized in 1473.
The Medieval Old Town
The Medieval Town of Torun has three parts:
- Old Town;
- New Town;
- the ruins of the Teutonic Castle.
In the Old Town are concentrated most of the Torun’s attractions, like St. Mary’s Church, the Copernicus Monument, the Holy Spirit Gate, the Caesar’s Arch and many others.
Take a break, grab a coffee and enjoy wonderful moments doing nothing in the heart of the place that was once one of the most vibrant trading posts in the region.
The House of Nicolaus Copernicus
If you are interested in learning details of the life of Copernicus, the man who discovered the heliocentric model, visit the house, now a museum, where he was born.
The exhibits show the story of his life, work, and how a curious kid with big dreams from Poland became one of the most famous astronomers in history.
The Leaning Tower of Torun
According to the legend, many centuries ago a Teutonic Knight had a secret relationship with a pretty daughter of a rich merchant.
However, this was against the monastic rule of the Teutonic Order and the knight was ordered, as a punishment, to erect a leaning tower as a symbol of his sins.
The legend also says that if you are a sinner you would not be able to keep your balance under the tower.
Here is a chance to find out in a fun way if you are a righteous person.
The Teutonic Knights Castle
During the Middle Ages, the Teutonic Knights constructed a massive castle to defend against local rebellions, but in 1454 it was heavily demolished.
Explore the ruins of and learn about the history of Torun.
The Living Museum of Gingerbread
Torun has a deeply rooted baking tradition.
Here you can try all kinds of delicious foods, but there is a special spot for gingerbread.
The Living Museum of Gingerbread is a place where you can learn some history and taste many delicious treats.
It is situated in a granary from the 19th century that has been reconstructed to look like a Renaissance bakery.
Without a doubt, this is one of the best places to visit in Torun.
The Medieval Walls
Torun’s brick walls still stand in remarkably good condition.
Wander around the walls and make a short pause at Brama Mostowa (Bridge Gate), which was built in 1432.
The Planetarium
You are in the city where Copernicus was born and spending some time thinking about the cosmos or your place in the cosmos just makes a perfect sense.
The planetarium opened in 1994 and it is housed in an old Gothic Revival style building from 1860.
Visit one of the displays on the solar system and the largest known objects in the universe.
Szeroka 9
Probably the best way to end the exploring of such magnificent city is in a restaurant.
Szeroka 9 is unquestionably the best destination for dining in Torun and serves mainly Eastern European food.
Our choice from the menu is:
- pickled trout with horseradish
- pig cheeks with creamed potato
- marinated beetroot
Poland Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Poland Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
