Sopot

Sopot, a coastal town on Poland's Baltic Sea, draws visitors with its distinctive blend of seaside charm and urban energy. You can walk along Europe's longest wooden pier, relax on sandy beaches, or explore the lively Monte Cassino Street. The town's unique architecture, including the eye-catching Crooked House, adds to its appeal. Whether you're interested in spa treatments, outdoor concerts at the Forest Opera, or sampling local cuisine, Sopot caters to a variety of interests.

Walk on Europe's Longest Wooden Pier

At 511.5 meters, the Sopot Pier stretches further into the Baltic Sea than any other wooden pier in Europe. As you stroll out over the water, you'll get panoramic views of the coastline and Gdansk Bay. The pier has been a centerpiece of Sopot since the 1820s. Near the entrance, climb the historical lighthouse for some of the best views in town.

Enjoy Sopot's Sandy Beaches

Sopot's wide, sandy beaches extend for 4.5 kilometers along the Baltic coast. In summer, you'll find these beaches full of people sunbathing and swimming. You can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas, join a beach volleyball game, or take a leisurely walk along the shore. If you're looking for more active pursuits, try windsurfing or kitesurfing when the weather conditions are right.

Walk Down Monte Cassino Street

Locals call it "Monciak," but Monte Cassino Street is the main artery of Sopot. This pedestrian zone connects the train station to the pier, with numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants lining the way. In the summer evenings, you'll often encounter street performers and artists adding to the lively atmosphere. Don't miss the Crooked House, an unusually shaped building that has become a symbol of Sopot's distinctive architecture.

Try Spa Treatments

Sopot has been a health resort since 1823. Today, you can experience a variety of spa and wellness treatments throughout the town. Many hotels have their own spa facilities, such as the Sheraton Sopot Hotel, which offers saunas, jacuzzis, and various therapies. For a unique local experience, try the free inhalation mushrooms scattered around town, where you can breathe in brine water believed to have health benefits.

Listen to Music at the Forest Opera

The Forest Opera is an open-air amphitheater nestled in the woods. Throughout the year, it hosts various musical events, including the Sopot International Song Festival, one of Europe's largest music events. Even if you don't attend a concert, you might want to visit the Forest Opera to appreciate its unique woodland setting and excellent acoustics.

Explore Early 20th Century Architecture

As you walk through Sopot, you'll notice many elegant villas and manor houses from the early 1900s. The Grand Hotel, built in the 1920s, is a prime example of this architectural style. To learn more about local history, visit the Sopot Museum, housed in a beautiful villa from 1904. Inside, you can see recreated early 20th-century interiors and exhibits detailing Sopot's past.

Try Sopot's Restaurants

Sopot has a wide range of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants. You can enjoy fresh seafood at many establishments along the coast. For a high-end dining experience, consider Bulaj, which serves innovative Polish cuisine with sea views. As the sun sets over the Baltic, you can taste locally brewed beers or sip cocktails at one of the beach bars.

Visit Gdansk or Gdynia

Sopot is part of the Tricity area along with Gdansk and Gdynia. You can easily visit these neighboring cities by train. In Gdansk, you'll find a colorful old town and the European Solidarity Center. Gdynia, a more modern city, has an aquarium and a museum ship. The efficient train system makes it easy to travel between the three cities, allowing you to explore more of the region during your stay in Sopot.