Dlugie Pobrzeze (Long Embankment Street), Gdansk (must see)

Running along the western bank of the Motława River, Long Embankment Street forms one of the most scenic promenades in the historic center. Today, it offers wide views across the river toward former granaries and waterfront buildings, creating one of the most recognizable riverfront scenes in Gdansk.

During the medieval and early modern periods, the embankment served as the working port of the city. Wooden piers, loading platforms, and quays lined the waterfront, allowing ships to unload grain, timber, salt, and imported goods directly into nearby warehouses. The sheltered waters of the Motława provided easy access to the Baltic Sea, helping Gdansk grow into one of the richest trading centers in northern Europe. Water gates built into the city walls connected the harbor to the streets behind, allowing goods to move efficiently between ships and merchant houses.

The promenade itself originated in the 14th century, though the earliest structures were largely wooden. In the 17th century, the waterfront was reorganized into a more unified walkway, replacing many of the earlier goods platforms. The famous Crane Gate, standing toward the northern end of the embankment, and several water gates were rebuilt in medieval style, while new quay walls and lower riverfront sections were added to support passenger vessels and public access.

Today, Long Embankment Street is one of the liveliest walking areas in Gdansk. Reconstructed Hanseatic-style townhouses line the promenade, housing cafés, restaurants, and shops beneath their narrow façades. Visitors walking north from the Green Gate toward the Crane pass riverside terraces, moored boats, and occasional cruise departures.