Solidarity Tour of Gdansk – The Lech Walesa Route
Last update – January 2026
Very popular as a shore excursion to Gdansk since you may combine this trip with the Gdansk City Tour.
Even though many Polish cities were fighting against the communist regime, Gdansk is called the cradle of Solidarity. Here in the Lenin Shipyard, Lech Walesa (in Polish Wałęsa) worked as an electrician, and it was he who became the leader of the strikes in 1980 which ultimately brought about the fall of the iron curtain not only in Poland but in other European countries as well.
We will start our tour with a visit to the European Solidarity Centre (called also Solidarity Museum). Here we will go through Polish history, the reasons for and the causes of the strikes in 1970 and 1980, the Gdansk Agreement, the carnival of Solidarity and Martial Law. In the end we will learn about the first free elections.
Later we will see the neighboring Monument to the fallen Shipyard Workers of 1970, which commemorates the first three workers murdered here by the police during the strikes in 1970. Our next stop is St. Bridget’s church in Gdansk which served as a meeting place for the political opposition. Many famous heads of states have been here, among others: Margaret Thatcher, Ronald Reagan, and George Bush. St. Bridget’s church is also famous for its amber altar which is under construction in the church. Even it is not ready yet, we can already admire its beauty. After completion it will be bigger than the famous Amber Room also built by craftsmen from Gdansk.
The Solidarity Route of Gdansk – The Lech Walesa Tour details:
Duration of the trip: 4 hours, it is a walking tour.
Cost: Euro 185 per group.
Meeting point: The European Solidarity Centre (Solidarity Museum in Gdansk) or I will pick you up at your hotel.
Entrance fees on the route of The Solidarity Route of Gdansk – The Lech Walesa Tour
• European Solidarity Centre (Solidarity Museum in Gdansk): regular ticket 35 PLN, discount ticket 30 PLN, regular group ticket (11 people or more) 32 PLN, discount group ticket (11 people or more) 25 PLN
• St. Bridget’s church in Gdansk: regular ticket 5 PLN
4 PLN is only about €1
How to book the Solidarity Route of Gdansk – The Lech Walesa Tour ?
The best way is to fill in the contact form. We always reply within 24 hours.
If you do not see our message, please check your SPAM folder.
The email subject will be: “Tour Guide Service Gdańsk”. You can also contact us via WhatsApp 💬 0048 506 99 17 72.
FAQ – The Solidarity Route of Gdańsk & Lech Wałęsa Tour
1. How long does the tour take?
The standard tour lasts 4 hours.
2. Is the European Solidarity Centre (ECS) included in the tour?
Yes. The tour includes a visit to the European Solidarity Centre and its permanent exhibition.
The ticket price is not included unless stated otherwise in your booking.
3. Do we meet Lech Wałęsa during the tour?
No. The tour focuses on the history of Solidarity, the shipyard workers, and the role of Lech Wałęsa, but it does not include a meeting with him.
4. Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes. The tour is suitable for children aged 10+ who are interested in history.
For younger children, we can adapt the route and storytelling style.
5. Do we need to buy tickets in advance?
No. Tickets to the European Solidarity Centre can be purchased on the spot.
However, during the summer season we recommend buying them earlier to avoid queues.
6. Do you organize private tours only?
Yes. All tours are fully private, which means you can ask questions, choose the pace, and tailor the tour to your interests.
7. Where is the meeting point?
The usual meeting point is the main entrance to the European Solidarity Centre.
Alternatively, I can meet you at your hotel in Gdańsk or at the cruise port (Gdynia or Gdańsk).
The listed price is for a walking tour. If pick-up by car/van/bus is required, the price will differ.
8. Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The ECS and the Shipyard area are largely accessible. If you need additional assistance, please let me know in advance.
9. What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is available in English, German, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian, and Polish.
10. What should I wear?
The tour includes both indoor and outdoor sections. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
In autumn and winter, please dress warmly — the shipyard area can be windy.
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