Free Things to See in Torun – Poland’s Medieval City and UNESCO World Heritage Site

When people think of Poland, after Chopin, one of the most famous figures that often comes to mind is the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. His birthplace is Toruń, a city about three hours from Warsaw by train.

The beautifully preserved Old Town, with its stunning architecture, is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a “medieval town.” Here are some of the best spots in Toruń that you can enjoy for free (or almost free).

And if you’d like to get a feel for the city streets, don’t miss the video I’ve included from my walk through Torun.

1.Copernicus’ House

Dom Kopernika

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Built in the 15th century, this Gothic brick townhouse is believed to be the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus. Today it functions as a museum, where you can learn about his life and achievements, see displays of early astronomical instruments, and get a glimpse of daily life in his era.

The house is located right in Toruń’s Old Town, making it an ideal stop for anyone interested in history. Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior alone is strikingly beautiful

2.The Leaning Tower of Torun 

Krzywa Wieża

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It may not be as famous as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but Toruń has its own tilted tower. Built in the 13th century out of brick, the structure leans about 1.4 meters due to unstable ground beneath it. Originally constructed as a defensive tower, it has since become one of the city’s quirkiest landmarks.

Local legend says the tilt was a divine punishment for a knight who broke his vows. To experience the slant for yourself, stand with your heels pressed against the base and try to balance upright—it’s harder than it looks! Best of all, snapping a fun photo in front of the tower is completely free.

3.St. Mary’s Church

Kościół Mariacki

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Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, this Gothic-style church is known for its stunning stained-glass windows and medieval religious paintings. Located in the historic center of Toruń, it stands as one of the city’s most important landmarks.

From the church’s bell tower, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Old Town, making it a must-see spot for anyone exploring the city.

4.Dybów Castle & Nieszawa Castle

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Just across the Vistula River from Toruń’s Old Town, within walking distance from the city center, lie the atmospheric ruins of Dybów Castle. This is one of those spots many travelers overlook, but it’s definitely worth a visit—and it’s free to enter.

Dybów Castle, built in the 14th century in the Gothic style, originally served as part of Toruń’s defense system. Today, the remains are a popular spot for history enthusiasts. Nieszawa Castle, located further along the river and built around the same period, also holds great historical significance and has been the subject of archaeological research.

What makes the area even more intriguing is the mix of history and modernity—you’ll find not only medieval ruins, but also contemporary graffiti art, which adds a unique character. I also found it to be a great place for photography.

Another highlight: once you cross the Vistula to this side, you can enjoy sweeping views of Toruń’s skyline. Walking over the truss bridge is highly recommended, and don’t miss the panorama viewing deck for some of the best cityscapes.

5.Teutonic Castle Ruins

Ruiny Zamku Krzyżackiego

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The Teutonic Castle Ruins in Toruń are a fascinating historical site in northern Poland. The castle was built around 1230 by the Teutonic Knights and served as a center of their regional control.

Constructed in the Gothic style, it once functioned as a fortress for the knights. However, tensions between the citizens of Toruń and the Teutonic Knights escalated, and in 1454 the castle was destroyed by the townspeople. It was never rebuilt, and today only portions of the original structure remain.

At the site, you can explore remnants of medieval defensive structures, underground passages, and wells. Some sections also feature contemporary art exhibitions, creating a unique blend of history and modernity. From the ruins, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of Toruń’s Old Town and the Vistula River, making it both a historical and scenic stop.

6.Taste Toruń’s Famous Gingerbread (Piernik)

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Piernik is a traditional Polish gingerbread, and the version made in Toruń—known as Toruński Piernik—is especially famous. This sweet treat has been made since the Middle Ages, using ingredients like honey, spices, and sometimes dried fruits or nuts.

Piernik comes in a variety of shapes and decorative styles, and it is particularly popular around Christmas and other special occasions. In Toruń, you can find specialized shops and even a museum dedicated to this historic gingerbread, making it a must-try for tourists.

Of course, no visit to Toruń is complete without tasting authentic Piernik. We bought ours from Galeria Piernika, and it was perfectly balanced—not too sweet, with just the right amount of spice. Truly delicious!

7.Central Perks Coffee – A Must-Visit for “Friends” Fans

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Central Perks Coffee is a café inspired by the popular TV series Friends. Visitors can enjoy delicious coffee and light snacks while sitting on the iconic orange sofa, just like in the show. The interior is decorated with memorabilia and props from Friends, making it especially appealing for fans.

The café is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. Chances are, you’ll always catch an episode of Friends playing on the TV. While the coffee is decent, the main draw is the immersive experience and the fun, nostalgic vibe.

8.Places I covered