Over a milennium old, the fabled city of Gdansk has a storied history dating back to 997 AD. Through the centuries it has been famous for being a rich port, a bustling cultural center, the site of the beginning of WWII and even the birthplace of the Solidarity movement - the trade-labor movement that played a pivotal role in bringing down the Iron Curtain.

You can experience the best of Gdansk during this full-day, guided exploration of the city. It all begins at your pier where you'll board an air-conditioned motorcoach for a picturesque 70-minute drive through the Polish countryside dotted with quaint villages. As you arrive in Gdansk, its history immediately reveals itself with a drive-by view of its shipyards and Solidarity Square featuring an impressive monument to the striking workers slain by the regime in 1970. Then go back in time as you step off your bus for a fascinating and informative 50-minute, guided walking tour of Gdansk's Main Town.

While much of Gdansk was in ruins following World War II, you would never know it. Meticulous restoration has brought it back to its former glory. As your knowledgeable guide narrates the highlights you encounter, you'll visit such city icons as the Golden Gate, an ornamental 16th-century arch built to allow access through the city's medieval walls. Adorned with gold trim, it features figures symbolizing each of eight virtues: Peace, Freedom, Wealth, Fame, Concord, Justice, Piety, and Reason. Stroll along Long Street, established in the 13th-century as a merchant road leading to the oval market place. Discover how, at various times in history, been the site of executions of witches, heretics and criminals. Your walk toward Town Hall will have you revelling in stunning Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, so be sure to have your cameras at the ready.

Visit Artus Court, a 15th-century merchant's palace named for the brotherhood of Artur taken from the idea of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round. Pause to marvel at the massive Neptune's Fountain. One of Gdansk's most recognizable symbols, this bronze trident-wielding behemoth was created in 1615. Walk to a waterfront canal before turning up St. Mary's Street with its terraced buildings and quaint shops. Discover the pride of Gdansk: St. Mary's Basilica, the world's largest brick church featuring room for 25,000 worshippers! Enjoy a guided tour of its multiple chapels, elaborate altarpiece, a stone floor with ancient tombstones, a 15th-century astronomical clock, and a calendar of saints. Intrpid explorers may climb the 400 stairs to the top of the tower to take in a spectacular panorama of the city!

Of course, you'll enjoy some free time to shop for arts, crafts and other souvenirs of your visit. Almost an hour in fact! Gdansk is one of the amber centers of the world, so you my want to pick up a piece of jewelry that features this lovely petrified tree resin. A lovely memnto of a spectacular day spent in this historic city.