Gdańsk surprised me completely on this trip to Poland

I went to Poland with modest expectations and left completely won over, largely thanks to time spent in Gdańsk. The city has a pace and character that travel guides undersell. Found a great spot for oscypek on day two and went back every day after that.

Wawel Castle was the big planned experience and delivered as expected. But it was moving WWII history that became the unexpected highlight — something I stumbled across rather than planned. 17 days was just right for getting below the surface without rushing.