Sightseeing

Life in Sopot revolves around the pedestrianized ul. Bohaterów Monte Cassino, lined with turn-of-the-century houses, which today are occupied by pubs, cafes, restaurants, galleries and expensive clothes shops. To feel the town’s true charm, just veer into any side street, which will show you an entirely different world of Art Nouveau architecture, old parks and colourful gardens.

No visit to Sopot can be considered complete without a stroll on its pier. Built in the 1820s, it gained its current look in 1927. The 516-metre wooden construction (one of the longest in Europe) doubles as a quay for sailing and pleasure boats, the latter including a postcard-pretty floating restaurant modelled on a Viking longship, which cruises around the gulf. The wide promenade jutting into the sea is lined with comfortable benches while at its end is a small gallery of wax figures and a viewing point. Occasionally, the pier is used for music concerts, mainly during the annual international festival, when rock and alternative groups play here.

The other symbol of the town, Opera Leśna (Opera in the Woods; access from ul. Moniuszki) was built in 1909 in a valley between two hills. It can accommodate an audience of about 5,000. The best known event it plays host to is the International Song Festival held every year in late August since 1964.