Long Market & Neptune Fountain
Gdańsk's iconic 17th-century Neptune Fountain, a symbol of maritime power, stands proudly in the vibrant Long Market Square, surrounded by colorful hi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Long Market & Neptune Fountain
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gdańsk's iconic 17th-century Neptune Fountain, a symbol of maritime power, stands proudly in the vibrant Long Market Square, surrounded by colorful historic houses.
"The most iconic landmark in the entire city. It's a must-see when visiting Gdańsk."
📸 Capture the Magic
Get your photos early or late to avoid crowds. The architecture behind the fountain is stunning!
🪙 Make a Wish
Toss a coin into the fountain for good luck and to make a wish.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neptune Fountain
Long Market Square
A magnificent 17th-century bronze statue of the sea god, a symbol of Gdańsk.
Long Market Square
Gdańsk Old Town
Historic heart of the city, lined with colorful merchant houses and lively cafes.
Surrounding Architecture
Long Market Square
Fairytale-like historic buildings framing the fountain and market.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Crowds
Gdańsk's Heartbeat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Going for a day out in Bologna, where is a must see/eat place?
📸 Capture the Magic
Get your photos early or late to avoid crowds. The architecture behind the fountain is stunning!
🪙 Make a Wish
Toss a coin into the fountain for good luck and to make a wish.
Fountains,
🐦 Pigeons' Paradise
Watch the pigeons gather and bathe; they're part of the lively scene!
☕ Relax at a Cafe
Enjoy the atmosphere from a nearby cafe with a view of the fountain.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Magic
Get your photos early or late to avoid crowds. The architecture behind the fountain is stunning!
🪙 Make a Wish
Toss a coin into the fountain for good luck and to make a wish.
🐦 Pigeons' Paradise
Watch the pigeons gather and bathe; they're part of the lively scene!
☕ Relax at a Cafe
Enjoy the atmosphere from a nearby cafe with a view of the fountain.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Neptune Fountain and Long Market as iconic landmarks, highlighting their beauty and central location within Gdańsk's charming Old Town. The vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and the fountain's unique charm are frequently mentioned positives. However, the significant crowds can detract from the experience for some.
"This beautiful fountain is the center piece of any stroll through Old Town, Gdansk. The surrounding area is always animated and particularly beautiful during the winter Christmas markets. I personally love watching the Pigeons come and go using this icon as their own personal bath and meeting point."
Court Richards Photography
"A very beautiful old fountain, where birds are coming to enjoy the water and people gather to take photos. It is located in the old centre, among many nice unique cultural and historic buildings. It is a nice spot to throw a small coin in the water, make a wish, admire the sunset and feel grateful."
Sophia S
"Perhaps the most iconic landmark in the entire city.
It's a must-see when visiting Gdańsk.
This 17th-century statue of the sea god, which also serves as a fountain, undoubtedly adding to its appeal, is probably the most photographed object in Gdańsk.
As a result, apart from the statue's undeniable visual appeal, you can expect to encounter large crowds of tourists surrounding it.
Fun fact:
There used to be a high rate of theft of the seahorse's fin, which covers the statue's private parts.
Therefore, the material used to make the fin was changed to a cheaper and more fragile one, making thefts less profitable, and even if they did occur, the rest of the statue would remain undamaged."
Kris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Neptune Fountain is located in the heart of Gdańsk's Old Town on the Long Market Square. It's easily accessible on foot from most central locations. If arriving by public transport, tram or bus stops are nearby.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Long Market is limited due to its pedestrianized nature. It's best to use public parking lots a short walk away or consider public transport.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from Gdańsk Główny (Main Train Station) to the Neptune Fountain through the charming Old Town streets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Neptune Fountain and the Long Market Square are public spaces and are free to visit.
The fountain is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor landmark. However, the surrounding area and shops have their own operating hours.
There is no entrance fee to access the Long Market Square or view the Neptune Fountain.
📸 📸 Photography
For fewer crowds and softer light, aim for early morning or late evening. Golden hour before sunset can also be magical.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Commercial photography might require permits. Be mindful of other visitors.
Patience is key! Try different angles, or visit during off-peak hours. Sometimes a slightly wider shot incorporating the surrounding buildings works well.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
The Long Market and surrounding streets are packed with cafes, restaurants, and bars offering Polish and international cuisine. You'll find everything from casual snacks to fine dining.
Absolutely! Look for restaurants serving pierogi, żurek, and other Polish specialties. Many establishments around the Long Market offer authentic dishes.
Yes, numerous cafes and bakeries are available for a quick coffee, pastry, or light meal, perfect for a break while exploring.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making a wish by tossing a coin into the fountain – it's a fun activity for children. The surrounding historic buildings also spark imagination, making it a visually engaging experience for younger visitors. Just be prepared for crowds, especially during peak times.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To capture the best shots, aim for early mornings or late evenings to avoid the densest crowds and enjoy softer lighting. Experiment with different angles, perhaps incorporating the historic buildings in the background, or focus on the details of the fountain itself. The area is particularly photogenic during the Christmas market season.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Take your time to appreciate the history and architecture. You can easily spend an hour or two here, perhaps enjoying a coffee or a traditional Polish meal at one of the many restaurants. It's a great spot to get your bearings and plan the rest of your day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Symbolism of Neptune Fountain
Interestingly, the fountain has a quirky history involving its seahorse fin. Due to repeated thefts of the fin covering Neptune's private parts, the material was changed to a cheaper, more fragile one. This deterrent made thefts less profitable and ensured the rest of the statue remained undamaged. This anecdote adds a layer of local lore and humor to the landmark.
Today, the Neptune Fountain stands proudly in the Long Market Square, a testament to Gdańsk's rich past. It's a focal point for locals and tourists alike, a place to gather, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere of this historic city. Its enduring presence makes it one of the most photographed objects in Gdańsk.
Exploring the Long Market Square
It's a perfect place to wander, admire the stunning architecture, and soak in the atmosphere. Numerous cafes, restaurants, and ice cream parlors spill out onto the square, offering ample opportunities to relax, people-watch, and enjoy local delicacies. During festive seasons, the square transforms into a magical Christmas market, adding another layer of charm.
Beyond the Neptune Fountain, the Long Market is home to other notable buildings like the Artus Court and the Golden Gate, further enhancing its historical significance and visual appeal. It serves as a central hub for exploring the rest of the Old Town, making it an essential stop for any visitor.
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