This gorgeous European city is undervalued and affordable. You may have never heard of it, but the city of Gdansk, Poland, is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the country, and is a flight from the UK just 2 hours away. The Baltic City is known for its incredible colorful buildings and cobblestone streets of the old town, holding your breath with Dutch-looking architecture.
Gdansk also has an eventful history as an influential member of the Hansaitic League, a powerful alliance of maritime cities that played an important role in shaping the economy of Northern Europe. In 1939, the city became the site of the outbreak of World War II, suffering catastrophic destruction, ruining 90% of the centre, including major towns.
After the war, Gdansk was slowly rebuilt, and its historic monuments were restored.
During the communist era, cities played a major role in the fight against the regime, with the 1970 protests leading to the deaths of several residents and the creation of a solidarity movement led by Reck Wausa in 1980.
The movement contributed to the collapse of Poland's communism in 1989.
At £20 in flight, the city remains reasonably priced after landing.
At Bar Turystyczny, the traditional Cafe Talia serves homemade soups, pierogi, salads, marinated meats and delicious cakes, and the meal costs around £2.50.
Akademicki Bar Mleczny is another place that serves cheap traditional meals for just 3 pounds for 50 years.
From Gdansk you can take the 45-minute train. This allows you to take you to the largest castle in the land area – Malborg Castle, a wonderful Gothic brick castle.
The most famous and UNESCO World Heritage Site in the country, the castle was built in the 13th century.
Spanning an impressive 52 acres, it exists as a majestic will of Poland's rich history, captivating over 700,000 visitors each year.
