Gothic Toruń: Old Town and New Town
The grand walk through UNESCO-listed Toruń: the market square and Town Hall, Copernicus's house, the Leaning Tower, the gates and the Vistula riverside, the Teutonic castle ruins and the craftsmen's New Town, with the Baj theatre and St James's Church.
Route map
Route stops
- 1Old Market Square of Toruń
The heart of Toruń's medieval old town, this UNESCO World Heritage square sits at the centre of the historic quarter. Dominated by the striking Gothic town hall, the plaza also features a statue of Copernicus and is surrounded by impressive merchant houses. It's what to see when visiting this well-preserved medieval settlement in Poland, offering a genuine sense of the city's prosperous trading past.
- 2Old Town Hall of Toruń
One of Poland's largest and finest Gothic town halls, dating from the 13th century, the Ayuntamiento Antiguo de Toruń houses the Regional Museum showcasing Gothic art and traditional craftsmanship. Climb the 40-metre tower for panoramic views across the old town – what to see here offers a compelling glimpse into Toruń's medieval heritage and architectural splendour.
- 3House Under the Star of Toruń
A striking 17th-century baroque townhouse in Toruń, instantly recognisable by the golden star adorning its façade. Inside, you'll find elaborate Italian stuccowork throughout the building. The house now functions as the Museum of Far Eastern Art, housing a notable collection of artefacts and artwork from across Asia. Well worth a visit if you're exploring Toruń's architectural heritage.
- 4Church of the Assumption of the Most Holy Virgin Mary in Toruń
A striking Franciscan Gothic church in Toruń, founded in 1239 and substantially developed through the 14th century. The three-naved interior features distinctive stellar vaulting soaring to 26.8 metres, medieval frescoes, and an ornate oak Gothic choir stall. A 17th-century organ still stands, whilst the church also houses the tomb of Princess Anna Wazowna. Notably, this place of worship lacks a bell tower, a distinctive feature that sets it apart architecturally. What to see here includes these carefully preserved medieval and Renaissance elements.
- 5Storyteller's Fountain and the Frogs of Toruń
This 1914 fountain features a bronze figure of a boy playing the violin, encircled by eight frogs. It draws inspiration from a local legend about a ferryman who freed Toruń from a plague of frogs. The fountain combines historical storytelling with whimsical sculpture, offering visitors what to see in this charming corner of Toruń's old town. The tale behind it reflects the city's rich cultural heritage and enduring folk traditions.
- 6Arturo Palace in Toruń
The Palacio de Arturo is a striking Neo-Renaissance building situated in Toruń's Market Square. Originally the headquarters of the city's wealthiest merchant guilds, it stands as a testament to the commercial prosperity of medieval Toruń. Directly opposite the palace, you'll find a walk of fame featuring distinctive plaques shaped like Katarzynki—traditional gingerbread figures that have been a signature of Toruń since the 14th century. This combination makes it a notable stop for those visiting Toruń's historic centre.
- 7Copernicus House
The Gothic townhouse at Kopernika 15 where astronomer Nicolás Copérnico was born in 1473. Now an interactive museum, it showcases his life, groundbreaking astronomical work, and medieval Toruń. The 15th-century building itself is a fine example of the period architecture that characterises this historic Polish city.
- 8Leaning Tower of Toruń
Toruń's 15-metre medieval defensive tower leans more dramatically than Pisa's famous edifice, with a tilt of 1.46–1.5 metres. Once serving as a prison and forge, it's now a striking historical landmark. The tower is steeped in local legend, linked to a tale of a penitent Teutonic knight—a story that adds intrigue to what to see during your visit to this remarkable Polish monument.
- 9Gate of the Cloister of Toruń
One of three surviving medieval gates from Toruń's city walls, dating from the 14th and 15th centuries. This well-preserved entry point offers a tangible connection to the fortified town's past, when such gateways controlled access and movement through the bustling medieval settlement. Worth a visit if exploring Toruń's historic centre on foot.
- 10Mariners' Gate
The Puerta de los Navegantes is Toruń's principal medieval gateway, part of the city's original 14th–15th century fortifications. One of three surviving medieval gates, it opens onto the route towards the cathedral and marketplace. This well-preserved entrance offers a genuine glimpse into the city's medieval defences and remains a significant architectural landmark from Toruń's prosperous trading days.
- 11Dąbski Palace in Toruń
A baroque palace situated on Żeglarska Street, distinguished by its striking baroque façade. Adjacent to the palace stands the former home of Copernicus's uncle, which has been preserved to this day. Both buildings represent important architectural heritage in Toruń's historic centre.
- 12Basilica Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Evangelist in Toruń
A striking brick Gothic cathedral begun in 1260 and Toruń's largest church. Inside you'll find the baptismal font where Copernicus was christened, medieval frescoes, the astronomer's epitaph, and the 7.5-tonne Tuba Dei bell housed in the 52-metre tower. What to see includes these remarkable religious artworks and historical artefacts spanning over seven centuries.
- 13Philadelphia Walk in Toruń
This pedestrian boulevard runs along the Vistula River, offering splendid views across to Toruń's historic old town skyline. It's an ideal spot for an evening stroll, particularly rewarding at sunset when the light catches the medieval buildings opposite. If you fancy a different perspective, boat trips are available from here, providing a memorable way to visit and experience the riverside architecture from the water.
- 14Mostowa Gate
Puerta Mostowa is a medieval gate in Toruń's old town walls, named after the first permanent bridge built across the Vistula in 1500. One of three surviving medieval gates from the city's original fortifications, it stands as a substantial reminder of Toruń's defensive architecture. The gate remains an important landmark from the city's prosperous medieval period.
- 15Ruins of the Teutonic Knights Castle in Toruń
The Teutonic Knights' horseshoe-shaped fortress, dating from the 13th century, ranks as the oldest of the Order's castles in Poland. Local citizens destroyed it in 1454, though the distinctive Gdanisko tower and underground vaults survive today. A UNESCO World Heritage site, these substantial ruins offer insight into medieval military architecture and the region's turbulent history during the Teutonic period.
- 16Baj Theatre of Pomerania in Toruń
Teatro Baj de Pomerania is a puppet theatre housed in a fairytale-like building in Toruń. A cultural landmark for both children and adults, this venue offers a unique theatrical experience featuring traditional puppet performances. Located in the heart of the historic city, it serves as an important cultural institution for families and theatre enthusiasts visiting the region. The distinctive architecture of the building itself is worth seeing, making it a memorable visit for all ages.
- 17Church of St James the Apostle in Toruń
A striking Gothic church begun in 1309, widely regarded as Toruń's finest. This basilica features flying buttresses, medieval frescoes, and a remarkable Gothic crucifix flanked by twelve prophets. Inside, ornate Baroque altars punctuate the soaring interior. The church holds particular significance as a waypoint on the Northern European Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route, linking this Polish city to one of Christendom's most important spiritual journeys. What to see: the intricate stonework, the crucifix, and the layered architectural styles spanning centuries.
- 18New Market Square of Toruń
This irregular 13th-century square in Toruń's New Town district features a former evangelical church at its centre and what is claimed to be the city's oldest inn, operating continuously since 1489. The plaza retains its medieval character and serves as a focal point for visitors exploring this historic quarter.
