Torun has the largest number of preserved Gothic houses in Poland, many with Gothic wall paintings or wood-beam ceilings from the 16th to the 18th centuries.
The Cathedral of SS. John the Evangelist and John the Baptist is well worth a visit. It is an aisled hall church built in the 14th century and extended in the 15th century. It is also home to outstanding Gothic sculptures and paintings inside (Moses, St. Mary Magdalene, gravestone of Johann von Soest). You can also find Renaissance and Baroque epitaphs and altars (among them the epitaph of Copernicus from 1580), as well as the Tuba Dei, the largest medieval church bell in Poland and one of the largest in Europe.
Other interesting churches to visit include St. Mary's church, a formerly Franciscan aisled hall built in the 14th century, and St. James's church (often mistakenly called St Jacob's), a basilica from the 14th century, with monumental wall paintings and Gothic stalls.
The Old Town Hall is another interesting place to see. It was inaugurated in 1274, then extended and rebuilt between 1391 and 1399, and extended again at the end of the 16th century; considered one of the most monumental town halls in Central Europe. You can also explore the ruins of 13th-century Teutonic Knights' castle.
The Vistula cruise - often referred to as the Queen of the Polish rivers - has also something to offer everyone. The city panorama and its surrounding area seen from the shipboard or a floating cafe are bound to provide unforgettable experience. The cruise might be a lovely diversion from regular sightseeing or a relaxing break.
The Rope Course Park is a combination of challenges constructed from ropes installed above the ground and strung between trees. It has been designed for a wide range of users, including people with no experience. Using the course is an unforgettable experience, ideal for those who seek adrenaline rush and like outdoor challenge.
Visit the Teutonic Castle ruins. Being the first Teutonic settlement on the Polish land, Torun could boast the castle of the Commander, one of the most important in the Teutonic State. It was destroyed by Torun burghers in 1454 and now the only surviving elements include the somber vaults, the Gdanisko tower and the walls of the ground floor and tower. The vaults contain an armory, a kitchen, a scriptorium and the chamber of fear, which might serve as an interesting diversion.
Visit the Gingerbread Museum. One of the indispensable activities on the must-do list for all visitors to Torun is learning the centuries-long history and traditions of Torun gingerbread. The city offers myriad opportunities, yet a visit to the Gingerbread Museum is particularly recommended. There, apart from interesting and colorful exhibitions, one can learn about the profession of an old gingerbread maker. Inside, the visitors can wear historical costumes, listen to the gingerbread legends, get to know gingerbread spices, bake and try gingerbread cakes, and play various gingerbread games.
A nice way to explore destinations in Torun is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Walking Tour of the medieval Toruń for $150 details
- Torun Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour for $107 details
- Private walking city tour in Torun for $295 details
Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in Torun. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.