This paper presents the perception of the Vistula River by secondary school students from selected towns situated on the Vistula River. The study of the perception of this river, conducted in 2006-2007, looked, among other things, at the symbolism of the Vistula, its role in the nature and landscape of Poland and of their own town, as well as the course of the river flowing through Poland. It was ascertained that most students perceive the Vistula as a symbol of Poland and the longest river in Poland, but they do not notice its ecological role, and do not know where the Vistula flows (as is proved by mistakes on the maps that they drew). The results of the study determine the direction and topics of teaching geography.