The church
St Mary's Basilica (the church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary) is one of the largest brick churches in the world — built over more than 150 years (the 14th and 15th centuries). The interior, with its white walls and star vaults, impresses by the sheer size of the space; among its treasures are an astronomical clock and both originals and copies of old sacred art.
The viewing tower
Several hundred steps lead up the tower; from the platform opens one of the finest panoramas of Gdańsk — the roofs of the Main Town, the Motława and the harbour cranes. Entry is ticketed and limited seasonally; comfortable shoes are worth having (the stairs are narrow and steep).
Tips
- Dress and quiet — this is a working church and suitable dress is expected
- Visitor hours — outside services; check before your visit
- Combining — ul. Mariacka and the Long Market are right beside it
How to get there and practical info
- Address
- ul. Podkramarska, the Main Town, Gdańsk
- Admission
- The church is free; the tower is ticketed
- The tower
- Several hundred steps, seasonal, with a limit on numbers
- From the Long Market
- A few minutes on foot
- Time needed
- 30–60 min (longer with the tower)
- Nearby
- Ul. Mariacka with its amber, and the Crane
When to go
Quiet, with good conditions for the climb up the tower.
Queues for the tower — best in the morning.
Fewer visitors and a clear panorama from the tower.
The tower is sometimes closed in bad weather; the interior is atmospheric.
Other sights in Gdańsk
Straight-line distances from „St Mary's Basilica" — calculated from real coordinates. By road it is often further.
Where to stay nearby
Places from our list that have St Mary's Basilica within walking distance or a short drive.
