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Tourist Card Your way through the city!

Tourist Card is a package of free entries to more than 20 museums and 30 discounts to cultural institutions and restaurants , suited to your needs. After You purchase a package, you can top the Card up with different types of transportation ticktes and travel freely within Gdansk only or Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia using public transportation. Additionally, you can top it up with Fast Track and Executive Lounge services provided by Gdansk Airport.   

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Take advantage of the Pomorskie Tours offer and discover the beauty of the region with a 10% discount.

We warmly welcome you and appreciate your visiting the Gdańsk Zoological Garden!

The visitor will learn how amber is formed, how it is extracted, what its properties are, and how it has been worked over the ages.

The attractiveness of the "Blue Lamb" lies both in the exhibitions and in the interior itself.

This Gothic and Renaissance building features one of the most beautiful Renaissance halls in Northern Europe.

The main exhibition visiting route in the National Maritime Museum in Gdańsk leads through the interior of three historic granaries.

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Discount 15%

discount on the purchase of a regular ticket

10% discount for selected menu items

15% discount

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Gdynia Package

Explore the tourist side of Gdynia. The package includes all the most important cultural sites and tourist attractions of the City of Gdynia. Explore and save. ...

Explorer Package

Especially for you we selected attractions which will be interesting for the whole family. Interactive exhibitions, science and entertainment centres - with Tou...

Premium Explorer Package

For sightseeing enthusiasts we created special package of attractions, which will satisfy even the largest thirst for knowledge. Archaeology, history, maritime ...

Discover Tri- City Package

Tri-City in a nutshell - meeting with culture and tourist attractions in Gdynia, Sopot and Gdańsk. Everyone will find something for himself here. You are visi...

Adventure with Pomerania Package

For lovers of the Pomeranian region and all tourists, we have an interesting offer - the opportunity to visit the Tri-City and the most important places in Koci...

Tastes of Gdańsk Duo Package

Together it tastes... better ;) Go on a culinary journey with a special person. You choose a companion, we provide attractions. More precisely - an unforget...

Tastes of Gdańsk Quartet Package

In a four-person team you will find out even better that this city is something more than Neptune, the Baltic Sea and shipyard cranes. Check out what Gdańsk ...

Tastes of Gdańsk Solo Package

Become a culinary discoverer of Gdańsk delicacies and go on a one-person journey full of unforgettable adventures and taste sensations! This package is your ti...

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Very good option! We purchased for 3 days (72 h version), visited a lot of museums and enjoyed kayak cruise. And of course used public transport a numerous times. Very convenient.

Alexandros – Greece

Excellent! I used 72-Hour Gdansk Tourist Card. It was a great decision. An ideal way for a sightseeing of this beautiful city. I highly recommend it.  

Elar – Norway

This worked well and we used it for the things we wanted to do and see. This helped a lot in determining what we wanted to do in the time we had on the pass.  

Emma - Germany

Brilliant resource that allows you to experience beautiful Gdansk Well worth every cent, we used the card all of the time either on the trams, buses or gaining entry into museums and attractions. We will definitely be purchasing a travel card on our future visits to this beautiful city.

Karen – United Kingdom

Dobra opcja na zwiedzanie Gdańska z dziećmi.  Atrakcje w pakiecie rodzinnym są dobrze dobrane. Dzieciakom podobało się w ZOO i Centrum Hewelianum. Na pierwszy rzut oka wydatek dla rodziny 2+2 wydaje się spory, ale są to dobrze wydane pieniądze. Polecam.

Patrycja - Kraków

Tourist Card is great for getting around Gdansk. Wonderful way to get around Gdansk, access to museums, tourist attraction and shopping. Very handy and very useful.

Robert – Italy

Latest news, lista aktualności.

Tastes of Gdańsk available as Tourist Card Package!

Duck leg, plum cake, green herb soup, anchovy butter or punch - these are just a few dishes from the "Gdańsk cookbook" from 1858, that can be tasted i...

What are the new features in Tourist Card?

There is a beautiful spring outside, and  on May 1, the Tourist Card will be enriched with new attractions. And while spring, unfortunately, will end ...

International Hanseatic League Day returns to Gdansk!

Soon, on June 13-16, a large, international event will take place in Gdansk - International Hanseatic League Day. The name may be a bit misleading, because in f...

We invite You to the 764th St. Dominic's Fair! July 27- August 18, 2024

St Dominic's Fair is one of the most important summer outdoor events in Europe. Here you can buy, haggle, look for treasures and find beautiful frames for s...

20 Best Things to Do in Gdańsk: Our Ultimate Guide

Gdańsk is a city of less than half a million people, and yet it packs a powerful architectural and historical punch. Thus, the best things to do in Gdańsk are also amongst the best to do in Poland, and visiting Gdańsk should be high on your list of cities in Poland to visit . From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to important historical sites important to all of Europe, to unique chances to experience culture, Gdańsk has it all. Additionally, there is stellar nature to enjoy in Gdańsk, including the beaches of the Baltic Sea , with some of the best beaches in Poland near to Gdańsk. 

With so much to offer, it is easy to see why Gdańsk is so popular amongst Poles and foreign tourists alike, with over 2 million tourists in Gdańsk in 2022, with around 25% of those being from abroad. However, these numbers are much lower than other popular places in Europe, and if you visit in the off season, you will feel like you have the city to yourself! All in all, Gdańsk is one of my favorite cities in Poland, and I think it will become yours if you choose to visit.  

Best Things to do in Gdańsk: City Icons

These attractions are the best of the best Gdańsk has to offer. All are centered in the historic Gdańsk Old Town, the first entry on the list, and the place where you will likely spend most of your time in Gdańsk. These 4 entries are, in my opinion, must-dos if you decide to visit Gdańsk. Read on to learn more about these city icons that are amongst the best things to do in Gdańsk.  

1. Explore the streets of the Old Town

Description: The Old Town of Gdańsk is one of the most beautiful places in all of Poland, and thus certainly one of the best things to do in Gdańsk. What makes this part of Gdańsk unique is its architectural style! It is completely distinct from other cities in Poland. In fact, every time I go, I am reminded of Amsterdam, or Copenhagen, while walking around the Old Town. This is due to the city’s past as part of the Hanseatic League, and close ties with the Netherlands! As you walk down the streets, you will find row after row of narrow houses, which are bright and colorful, and fun to look at. 

Gdańsk has been city much longer than its Dutch-influenced architecture. Since 1050, the city has existed in some form, centered around the Old Town. Whether called Gdańsk or Danzig, much of the commerce of the Baltic Sea arrived here, making Gdańsk a wealthy town, thus resulting in the rich townhouses you see now. However, these townhouses are not original. Like many cities in Poland, Gdańsk was absolutely leveled during WWII, with over 90% of the city’s buildings destroyed by bombing and fire. Thus, what you see today is a complete and faithful reconstruction, a symbol of the resilience of the Polish people. 

Today, the Old Town of Gdańsk is the center of everything. Each of the 2 million tourists that come to Gdańsk each year will walk the streets of the Old Town, admiring the buildings and visiting some iconic spots, some which will be listed later in this list. Much of this is centered on Ul. Długa . Running from the gold gate to the green gate, here you will find the most beautiful buildings of Gdańsk, as well as its most iconic monument, the Fountain of Neptune . Take a picture here and admire the architectural beauty. For the full experience, take some steps on ul. Piwna , and ul. Mariacki .  

All in all, the Gdańsk Old Town is one of the best places to see in all of Poland, and it would be remiss to skip it on a trip to Gdańsk. It is truly the best of the best things to do in Gdańsk, a place that should leave you inspired and satisfied.  

Cost: Walking around the Old Town of Gdańsk is free! However, I am sure you will stop in a restaurant, souvenir shop, or bar along the way, so any costs are of your own choice! 

Hours: The Old Town is open 24/7, as people do live on these streets. The most popular times are from just before lunchtime, until after dinnertime. Earlier in the morning is the best time to walk around the city if you want to do it with more peace. Also, do note that many of the better bars in Gdańsk are in the Old Town, so at night, it might get a bit rowdy in some places, but it should never be unsafe.  

Transit Information: The Old Town is well connected to other places in Gdańsk by public transport. Firstly, there are two train stations within walking distance of the Old Town. Additionally, there are multiple tram lines running to the south and the west of the Old Town, as well as many buses. These trams and buses go pretty much anywhere in the city. If you are trying to park, do note that parking is scarce. But one place you might try to park is at Forum Gdańsk , a large mall right next to the city center. Otherwise, there are parking lots spread across the city.  

2. Explore the famous canals of Gdańsk

Description: As mentioned in the earlier entry, Gdańsk feels like Amsterdam. This is due to the canals present in the city! In earlier history, the mighty Vistula River flowed into the Baltic Sea near Gdańsk, but since the river has been rerouted, canals have taken over the landscape of Gdańsk. These canals are very important to the history of Gdańsk, a major maritime power and the former busiest port on the Baltic Sea! Many thousands of ships have stopped in these canals to drop off their goods, and you too should walk around the canals. 

While the canals have their history in shipping, today, the canals are a beautiful place to walk, with massive townhouses lining both sides of the main canal. On the east side, after crossing Zielony Most , the green bridge, you will find a massive number of delicious restaurants to try, with stunning views of the city across the canal. One of the things to see is Stary Żuraw Portowy . This used to be a crane that lifted the goods out of the ship onto the dock below. While temporarily closed as of writing, it is still a view to admire! 

Otherwise, just walk around the various synthetic islands and enjoy the views or walk across some of the bridges! These bridges are unique, in that they lift to let ships come through and dock. One is   Kładka Św. Ducha , a bridge that rotates sideways to create a barrier with two shipping lanes. The other is Kładka Zwodzona na Ołowiankę , which lifts high in the sky every 30 minutes to let big ships through to the marina. All in all, the canals are a charming and romantic place to take a walk, and certainly amongst the best things to do in Gdańsk.  

Cost: Walking around the canals, like the Old Town, is also free. All costs are of your own choice! 

Hours: You can walk around the canals any time you like. Like the Old Town, it will be especially busy around lunch and dinner, and the most peaceful time will be in the morning.  

Transit Information: Given the canals are close to the Old Town, read the earlier entry for information about transit!  

3. Visit the historic Town Hall

Location | Website  

Description: If the Old Town is the most iconic part of Gdańsk, the Town Hall, right in the center of the Old Town, is the most iconic place in Gdańsk. This building has been in existence since the Middle Ages, hundreds of years ago, and has historically been the seat of the government in Gdańsk, managing the ports, taxes, and keeping the city functioning. However, this building is not your bland, boring town hall. The Town Hall was built in the Gothic-Renaissance style, with gaudy towers of gold, painted clock faces, a brick exterior, and other fancy touches. And its tower towers high into the sky, making it visible from all over the city.  

While many tourists choose to admire the building from the outside, you can also go inside via the Museum of Gdańsk . This museum tells you the town’s history through various exhibits, placed on various interior floors. This not only teaches you some interesting facts, but also gives you access to the beautiful interior of the building. Finally, if you have the legs for it, you can scale the 80-meter (260 feet) Town Hall Tower, for a panoramic 360-degree view of the Old Town, and Gdańsk beyond. I believe this view is the best you can get anywhere in Gdańsk and is worth the admission price. 

The final highlight of this beautiful building, one of the best things in Gdańsk, is the historic carillon in the tower. First built in 1561, this hefty instrument plays a tune on the hour every hour (except in the middle of the night). The current edition was built in 2000 and consists of 37 bells. On Saturdays at noon, you can get an extra special treat when a professional musician plays a longer concert with the carillons. No matter where you are in the city, you are sure to hear these beautiful bells ringing and echoing through the streets.  

Cost: A ticket to enter costs 23 PLN/16 PLN reduced. Or you can buy a family ticket, for 2 adults and up to 6 children, for 60 PLN. This includes admission to the view tower during the summer. Of course, you can also admire the outside for free. Finally, you can visit the interior and tower for free on Mondays. Tickets are sold until 45 minutes before closing.  

Hours: The Museum is open for different hours depending on the season. During the summer (usually from June to October), the museum is open from 10 AM to 6 PM from Wednesday to Sunday, and from 12 PM to 6 PM on Mondays. During the rest of the year, those hours change to from 10 AM to 4 PM on all days the museum is open. The museum is always closed on Tuesdays and most major holidays.  

Transit Information: Given that the Town Hall is in the Old Town, view that entry for all relevant transit information. Do be aware you will have to walk at least a little to get to the Town Hall, but the walk is flat and paved.  

4. Climb St. Mary’s Basilica

Description: The other icon of the Gdańsk Old Town is St. Mary’s Basilica. Built in the Brick Gothic style like many other churches and buildings in this part of Poland, it is one of the largest brick churches by volume in the entire world! And this makes sense, everywhere you walk in the city you are bound to notice this looming, but beautiful Basilica. As you walk inside, you will get to experience this massive feel even more, with high vaunted ceilings above the main worship area that allegedly fits 25 thousand people (I am not so sure that would be comfortable). 

Walking around the church provides you views of the gaudy side altars, artwork, and other typical Catholic church things. But overall, the building, originally finished in 1496, this church has a long history, from Catholicism, to Lutheranism, back to Catholicism, and control by Germans and Poles. You can learn a little bit about this history on the boards inside the church. You can also attend screenings of a movie about the history of the church, shown at 1 PM on Fridays in English, or otherwise in Polish every day at 12:15 PM.   

This Basilica’s final attraction is the viewing tower at the top of it. You will have to work hard for the view provided, walking up multiple claustrophobic spiral staircases, and then a full set of wooden stairs, 402 in total, to get to the top. And once there, the viewing platform is small, and in my opinion, not quite as good as the view provided by the Town Hall. But, if you are visiting in the winter, this is your only choice, and still a good choice to get an amazing view of the city of Gdańsk.  

Cost: Entering the Basilica is free. You do have to pay if you want to go up the viewing tower. But the price is inexpensive. A ticket to the top costs 16 PLN/8 PLN reduced .  

Hours: The Basilica is open year-round. From Monday to Saturday, you can visit from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (note that these hours are different on Google, but these are the hours provided by the website). On Sundays, you can visit from 11 AM to 12 PM, and then again from 1 PM to 5:30 PM. During July and August, these hours extend by one hour to 6:30 PM . Entry to the Basilica by tourists is not allowed during times of Holy Mass, unless you plan to dress nicely and attend the Mass yourself.  

For the viewing tower, hours are from 11 AM to 4 PM from Monday to Thursday, and from 10 AM to 6 PM from Friday to Sunday (except during mass). The last entry to the tower is done at the listed closing time. Additionally, during bad weather, the tower will be closed to visitors.  

Transit Information: As St. Mary’s Basilica is in the Old Town, view that entry for complete transportation information.  

Best Things to do in Gdańsk: Museums

Gdańsk has a lot of top-notch museums to visit. While Gdańsk is not a large city, it has had some very important events, both for Poland and the entire world, start within its city limits. You can also learn about some important industries of the area, or just admire some art. Read on to learn about these museums that are some of the best things to do in Gdańsk.  

5. Visit the European Solidarity Center

Description: The European Solidarity Center is an important place to visit in Gdańsk, due to the important historical moment in Poland it focuses on. Gdańsk was the center of the Polish Solidarity Movement, a movement to undermine the Polish Communist Government during the 20 th century, when Poland was a Soviet satellite state. Led especially by Lech Wałęsa , an electrician at the Gdańsk shipyard, it was an attempt to gain freedom and protest for a trade union to give better rights to workers. This was the first of many moments in the 1980s in Poland that eventually led to Poland becoming a democratic nation once again. 

At the museum, you will learn all about the lead-up to this event, the details of the event, and the repercussions of the event. There are many engaging rooms, with artifacts, letters, informative signage, and video archives telling the full tale of this event. When I visited, it was easy to spend at least 2 hours at the museum, if not more. I would highly recommend a visit! 

Cost: A ticket for the museum costs 30 PLN/25 PLN reduced . There are also a variety of family packages available. You can buy tickets in advance at the website listed above, but I would say you do not need to unless you plan to visit on a busy summer weekend.  

Hours: The hours change depending on the season. From May to September, the exhibits are open from 10 AM to 7 PM from Monday to Friday, and from 10 AM to 8 PM on weekends. From October to April, the exhibits are open from 10 AM to 5 PM on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and from 10 AM to 6 PM on weekends, with the exhibits closed on Tuesdays. Otherwise, the museum is closed on major holidays.  

Transit Information: The European Solidarity Center is found just north of the Old Town. In fact, using either Tram 8 or Tram 10 from the main train station, it is only 1 tram stop north to get to the dedicated stop for the museum, Plac Solidarnosci . Otherwise, it is about a 20-minute walk from the center of the Old Town, which is a good walk, as it takes you through many other important sites of the city. 

6. Visit the Museum of World War II

Description: World War II might be one of the most studied events in world history. For those of you interested in such history, or just in a very engaging museum experience, the Museum of World War II in Gdańsk is certainly one of the best things to do in Gdańsk. The invasion of Poland by German forces was the event that started WWII, and while some air raids happened in other parts of Poland, German forces first set foot on Polish territory in Gdańsk. Thus, the museum focuses on the effects of the war on Gdańsk, but also Poland as a whole, telling a complete and comprehensive story. 

The museum is made up of almost 20 different exhibits. It starts with the uprising of fascism in European powers, and moves quickly into the invasion of Poland, and all the horrors associated with the Nazi occupation of Poland. It covers the first invasion in detail, but also what life was like in Poland during the war. It also has a large section dedicated to the Holocaust and other war crimes, and then finally a section dedicated to the ending of the war, and Poland’s quest to become whole again after the war. All in all, this museum is very good, and this museum should be at the top of your list of museums to visit in Gdańsk.  

Cost: A ticket to the main exhibition costs 25 PLN/18 PLN reduced . There are also family tickets available for 60 PLN, which includes admission for 2 adults and 2 children, a savings of 26 PLN. If you want to race through the exhibition in 30 minutes, then tickets only cost 15 PLN/10 PLN reduced . Do note the size of the museum means you might want to allot at least 2 hours, if not 3, to see the entirety of the museum. 

Hours: The hours depend on the season. From September to June, the museum is open on Tuesday from 10 AM to 4 PM , and from Wednesdays to Sundays from 10 AM to 6 PM. During July and August, the museum hours extend from 10 AM to 8 PM, Wednesday to Sunday. The museum is always closed on Mondays and major holidays.  

Transit Information: The Museum of World War II is about a 15-minute walk north from the Old Town. Additionally, the museum has its own bus stop. There are three buses with service from the central train station, Bus 106, Bus 130, and Bus 208, each also serving other parts of Gdańsk. If you are interested in seeing the destination associated with the museum, Westerplatte (more on this location later), Bus 106 goes directly between the two. Parking, if you have a car, is scarce in the area, so I would recommend walking or using public transport.  

7. Visit the Amber Museum

Description: Amber is one of the most important industries in Gdańsk. Gdańsk is oftentimes termed as the Amber capital of the world. Amber has been abundant in the area for many centuries due to the Baltic Sea practically being a gold mine for amber. In fact, the Kaliningrad area, an exclave of Russia, is full of amber. Sea winds blow amber across the Baltic Sea to the beaches of Gdańsk and the northern cities of Sopot and Gdynia. Even today, you can try to find amber on the beaches. Nevertheless, amber became an important part of Gdańsk’s wealth and trading power.  

With this history in mind, the Amber Museum aims to explain all this history with engaging exhibits. Located in an old mill building found between two canals, you will find an exhibition detailing the history of amber back many years of time, and a detailed description of how amber was created. As you move upwards, you will find exhibits about how amber has been included in culture, especially in Gdańsk, and great displays of artifacts and artwork made from the abundant amber found in Gdańsk. Finally, visit the museum shop to buy a souvenir to take home! All in all, this is a great place to spend some time, and certainly one of the best things to do in Gdańsk. 

Cost: A ticket costs 32 PLN/22 PLN reduced . You can also buy a family ticket for up to 2 adults and 6 children for 80 PLN. The museum is free on Mondays. 

Hours: The museum is open from 10 AM to 6 PM every day except Tuesdays, when the museum is always closed. Additionally, the museum is closed on major holidays.  

Transit Information: The Amber Museum is on the northern edge of the Old Town. So, view that entry on the list for complete information about getting to the museum.

8. Visit the National Museum in Gdańsk

Description: The National Museum in Gdańsk is part of a tradition of great branches of the National Museum in other Polish cities, such as Warsaw and Wrocław. while the branch in Gdańsk is not as big, or holding as impressive artwork, it is still worth a quick visit. The building itself is beautiful, part of a former monastery. Inside, you will find large collections or religious art, Polish artifacts from Gdańsk, and some special collections, such as the impressive assortment of tiles and ceramics, or one of the largest collections of tin in the world. 

All in all, while this museum may be small, you should still pay a visit! It is a good way to kill time for an hour and is much less crowded than other museums in the area. Again, while it is not huge, there is still enough to be interested in! But I might recommend visiting on the free day, which is Friday, to really get your money’s worth. But this museum is still one of the best things to do in Gdańsk, especially when the temporary exhibit is a good one! 

Cost: Tickets cost 20 PLN/12 PLN reduced. If you are a Polish student reading this, you get in for 1 PLN! As mentioned previously, the museum is free on Fridays.  

Hours: The museum is open from 11 AM to 6 PM, from Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays. The museum is sometimes open on major holidays, so check their website, linked above for more specific details if you are visiting Gdańsk on a holiday.  

Transit Information: The museum is found just south of the Old Town, about a 10-15-minute walk away. There are also a couple of bus stops near it if you are arriving from other parts of town. Torunska is served by buses from almost anywhere in the city, except the north. Muzeum Narodowe bus stop is served by Bus 106 and Bus 111 from the city center. If arriving from the north, just take the regional train into Gdańsk Śródmieście train station. For parking, there is a small lot across the street to the east. 

9. Visit the National Maritime Museum in Gdańsk

Description: Gdańsk has always been an important maritime center. Thus, the National Maritime Museum in Gdańsk is a must-see, one of the best things to do in Gdańsk. Here, you will learn all about the heritage of the Poles along the Baltic, with the museum’s goal to protect this heritage as a major cultural institution of Poland. Upwards of 350 thousand people visit this museum every year, and there are many different exhibits to visit. The main location is the Granaries on the east side of the canals, home to the major exhibits detailed the history of maritime activities in Gdańsk, and Poland. 

Other places to visit of note included the SS Sołdek ship, the oldest remaining post-WWII seagoing ship in Poland. It has a storied history as a workhorse of Polish commerce. You can learn all about this history while onboard. Additionally, you can cross the canals to the Maritime Cultural Center, a more modern exhibit where you can visit two permanent exhibitions, one about people, ships, and ports, and the other about boats of the world. This center is attached to the old crane mentioned previously, which is currently under renovation. All in all, this museum supplies a lot of information, and has many fun engaging exhibits, making it worth your time.  

Cost: Tickets can be bought for various places at the museum. Tickets to the permanent and temporary exhibitions cost 15 PLN/10 PLN reduced. On Wednesday, these exhibits are free. For just the temporary exhibitions plus the Maritime Gallery, tickets cost 10 PLN/8 PLN reduced. To board the ship, you will have to buy a joint ticket with the permanent and temporary exhibits, for 47 PLN/35 PLN reduced . Tickets to the Maritime Cultural center cost 17 PLN/13 PLN or 20 PLN/15 PLN depending on which exhibit you choose. To add the Cultural center to everything else, you will pay 64 PLN/48 PLN . Visit the website for more information about this complicated ticket scheme.  

Hours: The hours of this museum are unpredictable and change quite often. For this reason, please visit the website linked above for the hours. There is no clear pattern about when and why they are changed, with sometimes even the opening days being changed from one week to another. But, except the museum to only be open for short hours in the winter during the week, and for slightly longer on weekends, and for longer hours throughout the summer.  

Transit Information: The museum is along the canals of Gdańsk in the Old Town. So, please view the prior entry on the Old Town for information about getting to the museum.

Best Things to do in Gdańsk: Outdoors

Gdańsk is also in a beautiful part of Poland. From beaches to tree-filled hills ripe for hiking, those of you who are nature lovers will find some lovely things to do. And best of all, this nature is easily accessible using Gdańsk public transportation. Read on to learn more about these outdoor treasures, amongst the best things to do in Gdańsk.  

10. Walk around Westerplatte

Description: Westerplatte is one of the most important historical sites in all of Europe, one of the top landmarks of Poland , and one of the best things to do in Gdańsk. Westerplatte pairs nicely with a visit to the Museum of WWII, as the German land invasion started at the army bastion found on the Westerplatte peninsula. Here, a small cohort 180 of Polish soldiers fought bravely against the 570 Nazi invaders, succeeding in holding them off for an entire week. The Poles fought so bravely that the commander of the Polish forces, Major Henryk Sucharski, was allowed to keep his sword as he was taken prisoner.  

Today at Westerplatte lies an imposing stone monument dedicated to all the victims of WWII, with symbolism also present to stop all future wars. Additionally, as you walk around, you will find signs with more details about what happened at Westerplatte during the war, remains of the old fort of Westerplatte that was bombarded mercilessly, and the mass grave site of the many Poles who died fighting protecting Westerplatte. There is also a nice promenade where you can walk along the beach for quite a long way. All in all, Westerplatte is a must-do when coming to Gdańsk, both for history, and the quiet and solemn nature present at Westerplatte.  

Cost: Walking around Westerplatte is entirely free!  

Hours: Westerplatte is open 24/7, as it is part of a public park. Note that going at night is a bad idea, as you will have to take an expensive taxi to get home if you do not have a car.  

Transit Information: Westerplatte, while not far in terms of actual distance from the city center, takes quite a while to get to. For public transport, you can take Bus 106 from the main train station, or Bus 138 from the same place. Both take long winding routes on the way there that means a trip to Westerplatte requires about 45 minutes by bus. Also note that during the offseason, these buses run quite infrequently, so you will have to spend at least an hour there, if not more, before being able to get a bus back. Also note there is no ticket machine at Westerplatte, so buy your transit tickets in advance. 

The best way to get to Westerplatte is by car. There is ample parking space, which may cost between 5-10 PLN depending on the season and how long you plan to spend. Another choice is the Westerplatte tourist ferry that leaves from near the Old Town along the canals and takes you on a short boat ride to Westerplatte. However, this choice is quite expensive, at 75 PLN/60 PLN reduced for a round-trip ticket, which is almost 10 times more expensive than a bus ticket, and still takes 40 minutes. Thus, only do the ferry if you want the experience.  

11. Tan on Jelitkowo Beach

Description: Jelitkowo Beach is a beautiful stretch of sandy beach north of the center of Gdańsk, the best beach Gdańsk has to offer, and one of the best beaches in all of Poland . It is slightly less busy than some of the more famous beaches nearby, but still equally beautiful, with stunning views of the Baltic Sea. And it is easy to get to via public transportation, and with the changing rooms and showers provided, you do not have to worry about having a car to enjoy swimming and tanning at this beach. 

Additionally, there are a few things to do in and around the beach. On the outskirts of the beach is the wooded President Ronald Reagan Park , a nice place to take a breather amongst the trees, with playgrounds, sports fields, and many trails and places to relax to appreciate. Furthermore, if you continue to walk south along the beach, you will make it to Brzeźnie Pier , a free pier that is a perfect place for a photo or to watch the sunrise. Otherwise, just enjoy the sandy stretch the beach has to offer. Jelitkowo Beach is truly one of the best things to do in Gdańsk.  

Cost: Jelitkowo Beach is free to take advantage of.  

Hours: Jelitkowo Beach is open all hours and days of the year. However, it only makes sense to enjoy the beach during daylight hours. And, during the winter, the weather will not be the most pleasant you have ever experienced. I would recommend getting up early or staying up late to watch the sun rise or set for an amazing experience.  

Transit Information: The best way to get to Jelitkowo Beach is to take a tram. Trams 2, 6, and 8 all run to the Jelitkowo tram stop, from the main train station in Gdańsk, as well as other major points in the city. This journey takes about 40 minutes. Your other choice is to take a regional train to Gdańsk Oliwa train station, and then take Bus 143 to the Jelitkowo stop. Otherwise, you can also drive, but parking is sparse.  

12. Admire Oliwski Park

Description: Oliwski Park is a beautiful green space found in a quiet part of the city often missed by tourists! During my first visit to Gdańsk, I had a local show me around, and was impressed! Oliwski Park is certainly one of the best things to do in Gdańsk, and you should not skip it. The history of the park is based on the history of the Oliwski Stream that runs through it, where monasteries were headquartered as far back as the 10 th century. In the 16 th century, these monks created a garden that became popular for famous visitors, such as Polish kings.

Eventually, it became open to visitors in the 18 th century, and has been open ever since. Within the park, you will find a bunch of beautifully manicured gardens, rows of trees covering wide paths, ponds and streams, and even little waterfalls. Special gardens include the English and Chinese Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Botanical Garden. There is also a Palm House on site where you can admire the plants of warmer climates.

The other attraction within the park is the Oliwska Cathedral , a beautiful baroque and rococo church, full of gaudy art and other religious iconography. A step inside is a step back in time. Overall, Oliwski Park is the best park experience you can get in Gdańsk, and it is entirely free! Do not miss it if you have the time.  

Cost: Entry to the park, the Palm House and Cathedral is free!  

Hours: The park is open from May to September from 5 AM to 11 PM, and from 5 AM to 8 PM from October to April. The Palm House is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM and is closed on Mondays. I could not find hours for the Cathedral, but assume similar hours to the Palm House, with its being closed to tourists during Mass on Sunday. 

Transit Information: There are a lot of options to get to the park. Firstly, there is the Gdańsk Oliwa train station, which is a short walk from the park. Additionally, Trams 5, 6, and 12 serve the Oliwa tram stop from all over Gdańsk, with Trams 6 and 12 directly from the central train station in Gdańsk. Finally, there is some paid parking available, with small lots next to the Cathedral.  

13. Climb Pachołek Hill

Description: Found near Oliwski Park, Pachołek Hill is one of many hills west of Gdańsk. In fact, the entire west side of Gdańsk is forested hills, full of beautiful hiking trails. It is yet another area skipped quite often by tourists, which is a mistake in my opinion. But, if you have the time, and are already at Oliwski Park, climbing to the top of Pachołek Hill is worth it. You start by walking up ul. Tatrzanska, and then start climbing up the hill through a peaceful forest.  

As you get to the top of this 107-meter (350 ft) hill, you will have a 15-meter (50 ft) observation tower to climb. At the top, you will be treated to stunning views of Gdańsk and the Baltic Sea! With the foliage cleared a bit to make the view even better recently, now is a better time than any to appreciate these amazing, 360-degree and entirely free views! Once you are done with the tower, climb down to Staw Młyński for a cute pond that may or may not have beavers, swans, and ducks. All in all, the climb up Pachołek Hill is a treat, one you should not skip.  

Cost: Pachołek Hill is entirely free to use! 

Hours: Pachołek Hill is accessible at all hours of the day and all hours of the year! Just be careful in rainy and icy weather while climbing the tower.  

Transit Information: As Pachołek Hill is right next to Oliwski Park, follow the instructions for that entry to get to this location! 

14. Explore the Bastions of Gdańsk

Description: For a final underrated outdoor excursion that I recently tried, consider visiting the Bastions of Gdańsk. The Bastions used to be part of the extensive fortification system that protected the southern part of what is now the historic Old Town of Gdańsk. Originally built in the 17 th century, these Bastions, from the air, look like the bottom of a star, with a distinct zigzag pattern of canals, and fortifications. Today, 5 Bastions remain, mostly named after animals. 

The appeal of the Bastions today is how quiet they are. Despite being only about 15 minutes away from the Old Town, when I visited recently, there was almost no one there, except a few locals walking their dogs. This is a great place to ride a bike up and down the canals. Additionally, with some new renovations soon to be done, there will be some artificial mounds in place with great views of the city. Come visit before this place gets popular!  

Cost: The Bastions are free to explore.  

Hours: The Bastions are open 24/7. Do note that some are under renovation right now, and are not open, but should be open soon based on when I last visited (as of November 2023).  

Transit Information: You can take the bus to Bram Nizinna , taking Bus 123 from the main train station. Or you can take Bus 106 or 111 from near the main train station to Wróbla , and then walk a short distance from there. There is also a small amount of street parking available by Bastion Żubr .

Best Things to do in Gdańsk: Attractions

If you are looking for some more touristy things to do in Gdańsk, these next entries fit that bill, without being a huge tourist trap (like a haunted tower, or a wax museum). These exhibits can be kid friendly, or even a chance to experience the amazing Polish culture. Read on to learn about these attractions that are amongst the best things to do in Gdańsk.  

15. Visit Gdańsk Zoo

Description: Visiting the Gdańsk Zoo is a great opportunity if you have children! With affordable tickets, and almost 150 different species of animals. This zoo has been around since the 1950s, supported by the people of Gdańsk and the surrounding area ever since then. In fact, the zoo had almost ended before it even started, when funding ran out. But the citizens of the area donated money to keep it going, including the children of nearby Sopot donating 1 PLN each! Today, the zoo is dedicated to preserving animals, especially those endangered, with the zoo taking part in a project to breed the vulnerable Andean Condors for example.  

Today, the Gdańsk Zoo should be your number one destination if you have children. Not only are the many cool animals to see, such as lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, penguins, and even the illusive European Bison, there are lots of other activities. From a zoo train to a ropes course, to fun photo booths, there is lots to keep your family entertained throughout the whole day. Thus, I recommend the Gdańsk Zoo as one of the best things to do in Gdańsk, especially for families! 

Cost: The ticket prices depend on the month. You can buy regular tickets, discounted tickets for children and students, and a family ticket for 2 parents and 3 children. From November to March, these tickets cost 20 PLN/15 PLN/55 PLN . From April to June, as well as September and October, these tickets cost 30 PLN/25 PLN/90 PLN . Finally, in July and August, they cost 40 PLN/35 PLN/120 PLN.  

Hours: The hours for the zoo are very complex, so I recommend checking the website for complete details. Typically, expect the zoo to be open from 9 AM to 3 PM in the winter months, 9 AM to 5 PM in the spring and fall (with extended hours on weekends), and from 9 AM to 7 PM throughout the busy season in the summer. Last entry with a ticket is 1 hour before closing.  

Transit Information: The zoo is located near Oliwski Park. Thus, take a tram or the regional train to the Gdańsk Oliwa area. Starting at Oliwa 07 , you then take Bus 169 for about 7 minutes to the zoo stop. Alternatively, there are also lots of massive parking lots, mostly just grassy lots, near the zoo if you would like to drive. This will cost you money, however, but you can pay at machines with cash or card. 

16. Got to a Lechia Gdańsk Football Game

Description: Lechia Gdańsk is the largest, most popular, and most successful football club (or soccer for my fellow Americans) in Gdańsk. With rabid fans, going to a match is a unique experience if you have never been to a European football match before. Make sure to wear green and white upon attending for the best experience, or you can buy some gear at the team shop before entering the stadium. While this team has had great success in Poland, at time of writing (November 2023), Gdańsk was recently relegated from the top Polish league Ekstraklasa and are struggling. But attending is still a fun experience! 

The stadium Lechia Gdańsk plays in is also a big draw. Polsat Plus Arena Gdańsk was opened in 2011 and was built to be used for the 2012 Euro Championships hosted by Poland and Ukraine. If you want to avoid the rowdy atmosphere of an actual match, you can also just take a guided tour of the stadium. The guided tour will allow you to see much of the stadium, including locker rooms, media rooms, walking on the pitch, and more. Additionally, there is a viewpoint on the stadium that you can also buy a ticket for! Overall, there are plenty of activities to choose from that make visiting Lechia Gdańsk one of the best things to do in Gdańsk.  

Cost: The ticket price for a match depends on the opponent. As of writing, tickets are a likely a bit cheaper due to Lechia Gdańsk’s recent relegation to the Polish 1 st League. A stadium tour ticket costs 25 PLN/18 PLN reduced per person, or 18 PLN if for some reason you are arriving with a group larger than 15 people. Finally, a ticket for just the viewpoint of the stadium costs 13 PLN and is free for children 4 and younger. 

Hours: The hours are completely variable, depending on the match time. Do be aware that it can take a while to get to the match due to increased traffic to the stadium, so give yourself enough time to make it. Additionally, if you want to take a tour, the time is decided based on which day you choose to visit. Tours are typically for one hour in the afternoon. Additionally, you can only reserve a spot on a tour in the same month as you plan to visit.  

Transit Information: From the Gdańsk central train station, you can get to the arena in about 15 minutes via Tram 3, 7, or 10, arriving at the Stadion tram stop. There is also a lot of parking surrounding the stadium if you choose to drive.  

17. Ride the AmberSky Ferris Wheel

Description: The AmberSky Ferris Wheel is an icon in the Gdańsk skyline, sitting on the east side of the canals, right behind the Gdańsk city sign. Named after the amber that is abundant in Gdańsk, riding this 50-meter (165 ft) Ferris Wheel is no more special than any other. However, it is still a great experience, as you can get some great views of the city skyline while going around. I recommend riding at sunset for the best experience, especially on a clear day.  

In my experience, you will get at least 5-6 full rotations of the wheel, with multiple stoppages, so that you get 15-20 minutes on the wheel. This is ample time to enjoy the views. Maybe you will even see a pair of foxes playing on a nearby rooftop as I did one time! Additionally, the carriages are heated or air-conditioned, so it is a nice respite depending on the weather outside. So, do not skip the AmberSky, it is one of the best things to do in Gdańsk.  

Cost: A ticket costs 37 PLN. If you have a child less than 1.40 meters tall (around 4 ft 7), they only cost 27 PLN . Children 3 or under are free. There is also a student discount available on Mondays down to 27 PLN during the school year.  

Finally, there is a VIP experience that you can also choose from! You will be treated to a 30-minute ride with armchairs, a TV, a full glass floor, and even a mini-fridge with Prosecco if you would like. This costs 350 PLN for the entire cabin, or 400 PLN if you want the Prosecco included.  

Hours: The Ferris Wheel is open every day. From Monday to Friday, it is open from 10:30 AM to 10 PM. On Fridays and Saturdays, it is open from 10:30 AM until Midnight. Finally, on Sundays, it is open from 10 AM to 10 PM .  

Transit Information: The AmberSky Ferris Wheel is found along the canals of the Old Town, so view the entry for the Old Town to learn how to use public transport to get to the Old Town, and thus the Ferris Wheel. There is, however, a large parking lot right in front of the wheel if you need to park.  

Best Things to Do in Gdańsk: Day Trips

While Gdańsk certainly has a lot to do, its location is near some other amazing landmarks of Poland means you should take advantage of this and take a day trip somewhere. Below, you will find three-day trips that are possible, including one that is technically still in the Gdańsk city limits. While there are certainly more, these three are the most interesting, in my opinion.

18. Visit Sopot

Description: Sopot is a charming city found north of Gdańsk. It is the middle city of the three cities part of the Trójmiasto , wedged between Gdynia (a city that is not too exciting to visit) and Gdańsk. Sopot has been visited as a tourist destination since the 19 th century, when it was established as a health spa. Today, millions of tourists still visit Sopot each year to admire the sparkling Baltic Sea, as well as the Sopot Beach . Many tourists also choose to walk up and down the Sopot Pier , the longest wooden pier in all of Europe.  

Beyond the beach and the pier, there is much else to do in Sopot. Walking up the main promenade on ul. Bohaterów Monte Cassino will take you past many shops and restaurants worth a visit. Some other sights on the promenade include Wojtek the Bear , a statue commemorating the Polish soldier bear who “fought” in WWII, and Krzywy Domek , a crooked building that now serves as a small shopping mall. Other attractions to consider are a bike ride along the beach, visiting a museum such as the Sopot Museum , or relaxing at a spa at Aqua Park Sopot .  

For a complete guide to Sopot, view the recently published blog article about Sopot ! 

Cost: How much you spend in Sopot depends on your budget! A typical meal will cost between 40-70 PLN. Entry to some of the museums and the pier will probably cost you around 20-25 PLN per person. Otherwise, all costs will be what souvenirs and snacks you buy along the way.  

Hours: Check each individual attraction in Sopot for hours. However, the pier in Sopot is often open 24 hours, as is the beach.  

Transit Information: Getting to Sopot from Gdańsk is easy. You can take one of the SKM trains from any train station in Gdańsk to Sopot. From the Old Town it takes about 20 minutes by train and costs around 5 PLN. I would not recommend taking a bus, as it takes a long time compared to the trains and is not much cheaper. If you want to drive, there is parking throughout the city, but it is limited, so getting to the city early increases your chances of snagging a spot! 

19. Explore Malbork Castle

Description: Malbork Castle is an impressive landmark within a short train ride of Gdańsk. Thus, when visiting Gdańsk, I highly recommend taking a trip down! Malbork Castle is one of the largest castles in the world. What makes it most impressive is that it is built entirely out of brick. The castle’s beautiful coppery color is what makes it stand out, as well as its impressive walls, gates, and grounds. The castle is the work of Teutonic Knights, who used Malbork to protect their lands for many years, before selling the castle to the Polish royal family, who then made it a royal residence. 

When visiting now, you start by walking across a drawbridge, through a gate, and into the central courtyard of the castle. From here, you walk from room to room of the castle, learning about the history of the Teutonic knights, the Polish royal family which lived here, and the many wars fought around the castle. You will also see what artifacts remain from the original castle, as well as large collections of artworks, weapons, and more. Then, you can walk some of the outdoor routes of the castle to get amazing views of the next-door river. All in all, Malbork is a must visit when in Poland, and Gdańsk is the perfect place to start you journey to Malbork from.  

Cost: The cost of admission is on the pricier side, at 70 PLN/50 PLN reduced . But, considering the number of things you can see with this ticket, I feel it is more than worth it. Additionally, if you have a family of four with two adults and 2 children, consider buying the 2+2 family ticket for 220 PLN for a small savings. I recommend buying tickets online in advance, especially if visiting during a holiday, or on a summer weekend. Otherwise, you may be stuck in a very long line waiting for the tickets.  

Hours: The hours for Malbork are inconsistent based on the season and each individual attraction at the castle. I would recommend visiting their website linked above for the schedule on the day you plan to visit.  

Transit Information: From Gdańsk, it is about a 30-minute train ride to Malbork. You can use the regional train service, which takes slightly longer, or maybe find a cheap inter-city service. Otherwise, you will have to drive, with there being a very large parking lot on site at the castle.  

20. View the mouth of the Vistula River

Description: As mentioned in prior entries, the Vistula River is one of the most important rivers in Poland, but especially to Gdańsk. Originally, the river flew through Gdańsk into the Baltic, but today, it has been engineered to enter the Baltic 21 km (13 miles) away from the Gdańsk Old Town. This has helped reduce flooding in the Gdańsk area significantly. Today, visiting the mouth of the river is still possible as a day trip, despite the distance from the city. You can visit the mouth at the Mewia Łacha Reserve , which protects the area on the left bank of the Vistula as it enters the sea. 

The reserve is home to lots to do. You can walk along the sandy beaches, or along the trails through the forest. There is also the opportunity to see lots of nature, including a population of Baltic seals, who use the beach by the river to relax, and eventually breed. There is also one of the largest populations of gulls here, and lots of other birds to find. During the summer, the reserve offers on-site experts to learn about the birds. Otherwise, just walk along the beach, or watch the sunset from the viewing tower. This place is beautiful, peaceful, and an important place in Poland, so visiting it while in Gdańsk is worthwhile if you have the time! 

Cost: Visiting the nature reserve at the mouth of the Vistula River is entirely free! Take out all your trash to keep the beach a nice place for future visitors.  

Hours: You can visit the nature reserve at the mouth of the Vistula River any time you want throughout the year. Just keep track of the bus schedule so you do not get stranded! And even so, there are two different night buses at midnight and 3 AM that will get you back to the city if you really want a late night on the beach.  

Transit Information: Even though the mouth of the Vistula is quite a distance from the center of Gdańsk, it is still technically in Gdańsk, and thus there are city buses that reach it! You can take Bus 112 from the central train station to the stop Przystan 02 in about 45 minutes, and then it is about a 3 kilometer (2 mile) walk to the beach from there. If you want to go to the east side of the mouth, there is a ferry that runs every day to cross the river. Once crossing, it would be a similar walk to get to the beach. Even when driving, you must park in the Swibno neighborhood and walk from there.  

Best Things to do in Gdańsk: Conclusions

Gdańsk truly is a lovely city. There is a reason I have made 4 separate trips to visit it, and I still have not seen all the city has to offer. Not only is the city beautiful, and a completely different feel from other Polish cities, the people there are extremely kind! There is so much to explore, and I would recommend visiting Gdańsk as soon as you can! Finally, below you will find a short description of some final important things to know about traveling to Gdańsk! Look out for some future articles about restaurants and hotels! 

Getting to Gdańsk: Gdańsk is served by its own international airport with flights from all over Europe. The airport is served by Gdańsk’s public transportation, so you do not need to use a taxi to get to and from the airport. Additionally, the recently renovated Gdańsk Główny train station, an icon itself, will get you all over Poland via train. You can also choose to rent a car and drive to Gdańsk, it is a manageable guide. For some specific information on how to get to Gdańsk from Warsaw, read this article .  

Getting Around Gdańsk: Gdańsk has decent public transportation, that is rapidly improving. There is a network of trams and buses that will get you almost anywhere. But, as many of the main attractions are in the center, walking will be your main mode of transport. But, if you need to use public transportation, a warning! Tickets are hard to buy! As of writing this, it looks like Gdańsk is going to soon introduce a way to buy tickets on the bus, but as of writing this, you can only buy tickets at ticket machines, or on apps! 

You can find bus ticket machines at most major tram and bus stops, including at the central train station. On these you can buy single-use tickets, or longer-term tickets if you plan to stay in Gdańsk a while and use the transport a lot. However, some important places you might want to visit, like Westerplatte, do not have ticket machines. Instead, you can buy tickets through some mobile apps. My favorite is Jakdojade , but you can also use GoPay, moBilet, MPay, Skycash, or Zbiletem.

Be warned that often the apps will ask for authorization from your credit card, so make sure the app will be able to text your number a security code so you can buy! And contact your bank in advance to inquire about whether this might happen or not. 

Another great public transportation choice is MeVo . This is a bike sharing service available as an app with English-language options. On MeVo, you register, pay a small 10 PLN fee, and then are allowed to reserve bikes for up to 2 hours per day entirely free! There are stations throughout Gdańsk, so you might find this is the best choice for getting to a place you want to visit, or just to take a leisurely ride around beautiful Gdańsk! Do note that if you do not leave the bikes at the proper station, you will get charged a 10 PLN fee.  

Safety in Gdańsk: Poland is a very safe country ! In Gdańsk, you should also not have to worry about your safety. You will find people trying to coax you into your restaurant with flyers or trying to get you to take a picture with an owl or hawk, but these are not scammers, they are rather entrepreneurs. I would just be careful at night in the Old Town sometimes, as this is where any rowdy drunk people might hang out (no judgement if you want to join!). 

Hotels and Restaurants: Look out for future, more detailed, articles on these topics! Gdańsk has lots of great hotels and Airbnb’s to choose from. If you are conscious about which Airbnb you want to rent, I will say that some of the newer apartment buildings tend to be bought up by Airbnb investors and may contribute to raising local rent prices. However, there are lots of gems too. The one I recently stayed at was right in the city center with views of the Town Hall! Of course, if you are concerned, there are lots of hotels in the center, or some cheaper ones on the outskirts. 

As far as restaurants go, most of the higher-rated ones are in the Old Town or along the canals. I would always check reviews before choosing a place to eat. There are lots of good restaurants in these locations, but also many touristy chains. In fact, if you notice there is more than one location in the Old Town, I would be wary about choosing that restaurant. Do note that restaurants in Gdańsk get crowded quickly, so eat early, late, or get a reservation if you can! 

How Long to Stay: Gdańsk, despite not being the largest city in the world, does have a lot to do. Even beyond the 20 things on this list, you can find many other museums to peruse, streets to explore, and natural wonders to appreciate. Gdańsk is also found in a part of the country where you can access many other beautiful sites, such as those mentioned, or even further to the north Baltic coast, or east to the lake region of Masuria.

If you want to see Gdańsk (and Sopot), you need at least 2 nights to do it properly. But, if you want to do a full exploration, with some day trips beyond, I recommend 4 days to an entire week , if you have the time.  

When Should I Visit: Gdańsk is an extremely popular city for Polish travelers. So, if you want fewer people, the best months to visit are March and April, or October and November. The weather will be a bit colder, but Gdańsk is beautiful year-round. If you visit in October and November, you also get the benefit of seeing the beautiful Polish autumn colors. I would, however, recommend looking up some of the key important holidays. The beginning of May is especially a busy time for Polish travelers due to the long holiday weekend to start the month, so book in advance if you want to go then! 

The summer is a great time to visit too, even if popular. The weather is warm enough to fully enjoy the beautiful beaches of the area or have a nice drink along the canals. However, I feel that going to Gdańsk in the winter is extremely underrated. Not only are things cheaper, but Poland in the winter is also very beautiful, especially with snow! Additionally, you can appreciate the amazing Christmas Market, a Polish Christmas tradition worth experiencing, that happens in December. All in all, every season is a good season for Gdańsk! 

Migration Researcher

Hi everyone! My name is Jeremy, and I am a staff writer for Poland Insiders. I first came to Poland in May of 2022, fell in love with it, applied to go to university here, got accepted, and have now been living in Warsaw since September 2022! I love traveling and sharing about what I find along the way, whether food, culture, or events. Being born and raised on the West Coast of the US, I also love nature, Asian food, and a good (non-alcoholic) beer. I am happy to share my adventures in Poland as I continue to live and work here for the near future.

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• 1.1 Tourist information
• 1.2 Tourist Card
• 2.1.1 Transport from airport to city
• 2.2 By train
• 2.5 By boat
• 3.1 By tram and bus
• 3.2 By train
• 4.1 Main city
• 4.2 Religious buildings
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• 4.5 Further afield
• 8.1.1 City centre
• 8.1.2 North-west Gdańsk
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Budget
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• 10.3 Splurge
• 11.1 Consulates
• 12.1 Internet
• 13 Stay safe

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Gdańsk (also known by its German name Danzig ) is a city in Poland on the Baltic Sea. Gdańsk is considered one of the most beautiful cities on the Baltic Sea and has magnificent architecture.

Gdańsk is the capital of Pomerania . In 2021, it was home to 471,000 people. Gdańsk with nearby Sopot and Gdynia are often referred to as Trójmiasto ("tricity").

Its position on the Baltic has made Gdańsk one of the most important port cities in Northern Europe, and the scene of a disturbing past. Gdańsk used to be the biggest and richest city in the Polish Kingdom. The first claim to fame for Danzig (as it was then known) was its membership in the Hanseatic League as an important Baltic port on the crossroads of North East and Central Europe.

World War II was ignited by a dispute over the control of the city. By the end of the war the city lay almost completely in ruins. The German population was expelled and replaced by Poles as the city came under Polish rule and changed its name to Gdańsk. However, the impact of its former German ties are still evident. Most of the old buildings were damaged or destroyed in World War II, but they have been painstakingly restored or rebuilt, although in a style that is not exactly the same as before the war.

In modern history, Gdańsk is known as the birthplace of Solidarity (pl: Solidarność ), the labour and democracy movement that helped to bring down the Communist government in Poland at the end of the Cold War . The movement was led by the charismatic leader, Lech Wałęsa, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1983 and in 1990 became Poland's first post-Communist president.

Tourist information

• 54.34817 18.65544 1 Tourist Information Centre , Długi Targ 28/29 ( Next to Green Gate ( Zielona Brama ) ), ☏ +48 58 301 43 55 , [email protected] . May - August: daily 09:00-19:00; September - April: daily 09:00-17:00 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Tourist Information Point , Rajska 10 ( In the Madison shopping mall. ), [email protected] . M-Sa 09:00-17:00, Su 10:00-17:00 (only Sundays when shopping is allowed) . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Tourist Information Point , Słowackiego 200 st. ( at Lech Wałęsa Airport ), ☏ +48 58 348 13 68 , [email protected] . 24/7 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 54.34854 18.65269 2 PTTK Tourist Information , 45 Długa st ( opposite the Town Hall ( Ratusz Głównego Miasta ) ), ☏ +48 58 301 91 51 , +48 58 301 37 52 , [email protected] . ( updated Jun 2020 )

Tourist Card

At every Tourist Information point you can buy the Tourist Card .

Within the "Gdańsk-Sopot-Gdynia-Plus" Tourist Card nearly 220 offers are available, including: accommodations, performances, concerts, exhibitions, souvenirs, books, amber jewellery purchase, dinners and other meals, water equipment hiring, car rental, paintball, Aquapark, visits in beauty salon, and entertainment.

Transport from airport to city

Bus 210 — operates between the airport (bus stop: Port Lotniczy) and Gdańsk, and makes a stop at the train station, 35–50 minutes away. Perhaps the preferred way to buy ticket is install Jakdojade: public transport app You get more information about route and stops in English with this app. The fare is 4,80 zł for single travel in one bus in one route. It is also possible to buy ticket from a news stand, ticket machine or Bilety shop and from driver. Make sure you have correct ticket and it is validated in validating machine inside bus. There is controller regularly after few stops on the route looking for foreign travelers who have wrong ticket, wrong punching, ticket machine malfunctions etc. There is fine of the order of 200-300 zł. (See videos in youtube also). Talk with fellow passengers, driver about validity of ticket if not 100% sure.

Train — There's a train connection to the city center roughly every 15 min during the day (Airport stop: Gdańsk Port Lotniczy). Less frequent services in the morning, evening and at night. The train station is accessible from the west end of Terminal T2 via a covered bridge. Ticket machines are on the platforms. There are a few direct connections to the main train station in Gdańsk. For other connections to the main train station you need to switch trains in Gdańsk Wrzeszcz. Single tickets to the main train station cost 3.50 zł.

Airportbus shuttle — operates a transport service to Gdańsk centre for 9.90 zł (you can buy ticket directly in the bus). This is a direct line between airport and city's centre. Bus stop in Gdańsk is located in front of Mercure Hevelius hotel (it's 5 minutes walk from Main Railway Station). Journey depends on traffic and takes around 25–30 minutes.

Taxi — Avoid the unofficial, rip-off taxis who will pounce on you as soon as you have cleared security, unless you know how to deal with them. A taxi from the airport to the city centre should cost up to 100 zł however will cost more in the evenings or at weekends. "Neptun" is an officially recognized company. Taxi drivers will be waiting in the arrivals hall offering fixed price transfers, 100 zł is not unreasonable for an evening (after 22:00) transfer to the centre of Gdańsk. Uber and Bolt operate in the area too and cost is provided upfront for peace of mind.

Private transfers — MPA Poland provides transport services around Tri-City and Pomerania region. An airport transfer from/to airport costs 100 zł up to 8 people.

Gdańsk is a major hub on the Polish railway network. High-speed trains runs frequently from Krakow (6 h) via Warsaw (3 h) and there are slower intercity trains from most major Polish cities with at least a couple of departures every day. All inter-city trains to Gdańsk continue north up the coast to Sopot and Gdynia , a 25 min ride. Local SKM trains also shuttle on this route every 10 min or so.

There are a few international trains too. One daily train from Berlin , taking six hours via Frankfurt (Oder) , Poznań , Gniezno and Bydgoszcz as well as one daily train from Vienna via Ostrava (for Prague ), Katowice and Warsaw, 10 hr 30 min.

National operator PKP runs all high-speed and intercity trains while SKM operates the regional trains between Gdańsk, Sopot and Gdynia .

See Poland#Get in for general tips on rail travel. It helps to write down your destination and preferred time to show to ticket clerks as trains have different prices.

Buses can be used to travel to regional destinations that lack railway connections, such as the concentration camp in Sztutowo . Polskibus operates coach services from here, with direct connections going to Poznań , Wrocław and Warsaw.

Polferries operates ferry service between Gdańsk and Nynäshamn, just south of Stockholm , Sweden . The trip takes 18 hours and costs ~€70.

Stena Line operates ferry service between Gdynia and Karlskrona , Sweden . The trip takes 12.5 hours and costs ~€50.

By tram and bus

Zarząd Transportu Miejskiego , the City Transportation Office. Easyway journey planner helps to find schedules and routes.

Trams and buses are cheap (3.80 zł/hr) and frequent. Tickets can be bought from drivers, but it is easier to buy them from ticket machines (which are on most popular stops) and kiosks. The most popular website and mobile app for journey planning is jakdojade.pl. Google Maps has reliable public transport data, and is an excellent tool for planning your journeys.

Single journey tickets are valid until leaving the bus or tram. They cost 4.80 zł for a full-price and 2.40 zł for a half-price ticket.

Time tickets are based on travel time, so you must estimate the duration of the journey or have a few tickets extra to validate when your previous ticket expires. Time tickets are either valid for up to 24 hr and allow any amount of journeys and changes within that time. The 75-min time ticket costs 6.00 zł for a full-price ticket and 3.00 zł for a half-price ticket. The 24-hr ticket costs 22 zł for a full-price ticket and 11 zł for a half-price ticket and is valid on all trams, buses during the day and on night buses.

All tickets need to be validated at the start of the journey.

SKM trains make 16 stops along the coast (from the first station,Gdańsk Śródmieście to Gdynia Główna. The main stops are Gdańsk Główny, Gdańsk Wrzeszcz, Gdańsk Oliwa, Sopot, and Gdynia Główna.

A ticket from Gdańsk Śródmieście to Gdynia Główna will cost 9 zł and from Gdańsk Śródmieście to Sopot is 6.40 zł.

• Halorent Car Rental , ☏ +48 695-78-78-95 , [email protected] .  
• MPA Poland , ☏ +48 515 181161 , fax : +48 58 5549393 , [email protected] . Personalised private car hire with driver, or rental cars to self-drive.  
• As-Car Car Rental 24h/7 , Stężycka 107 , ☏ +48 790 017 270 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2017 )

The main city ( Główne Miasto ) is the historic part of Gdańsk and contains most of the sights. The Long Street ( ulica Długa ) and Long Market ( Długi Targ ) are two of the most beautiful streets in the city. They are enclosed first by the Upland Gate, then by the Golden Gate to the west and the Green Gate to the east close to the riverside. This entire stretch is also referred to as the Royal Way . Along those two streets there are many interesting sights.

• 54.34857 18.65322 3 Neptune Fountain , Długi Targ . Statue of Neptune, patron of the city, installed in 1549. During World War II, the statue was hidden. In 1954 it was put back to its original location on the Long Market.  
• 54.3499 18.6572 10 Motława River bank , Długie Pobrzeże . Impressive houses stand along the river bank. They can be nicely observed from the other bank of Motława.  
• 54.35056 18.65744 11 Crane over the Motława River ( Żuraw ), ul. Szeroka 67/68 , ☏ +48 58 301 69 38 , +48 58 329 87 60 . Opening hours for Dec and Jan: Tu-Su 10:00-15:00, M closed . The former port crane is one of the most well-known buildings in Gdańsk. It is first mentioned in 1367, but was rebuilt several times since then. During World War II it was partially destroyed again. In 1962 after final reconstructions it was turned over to the National Maritime Museum. It now houses an exhibition about the former port of the city. The mechanism for lifting the crane can be observed as well. 8 zł adults, 5 zł concession, 1 zł children. Last tickets sold 30 min before closing. Tickets available in the museum next door . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• Maiden in the window .  

Religious buildings

• 54.34988 18.6525 13 St. Mary's Church ( Bazylika Mariacka ), ul. Podkramarska 5 . Open daily. Tower closed in winter months (around Dec-Mar) and at bad weather conditions . One of the largest Gothic churches in Europe and one of the three (almost equal sizes) second largest brick churches in the world. There is space for more than 20,000 people in the church. It is possible to take the stairs to the tower (78 m), but the view is not as inspiring as the one from Main Town Hall. The church also contains a large astronomical clock from 1464. There are tickets to visit the church and tickets to the tower, sold in different places. Apr-Nov: 6/3 zł including tower, 4/2 zł without tower; Dec-March: free (tower closed) . ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 54.35396 18.64803 20 Hall of the Old City ( Ratusz Starego Miasta ), ul. Korzenna 33/35 . Built in the 16th century. Its most famous resident was the councillor and mayor of Danzig, Johannes Hevelius, who was also an astronomer in his later life and a brewer in his earlier life. The building is now home to the Baltic Sea Culture Centre. ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 54.35243 18.6453 21 New City Hall ( Nowy Ratusz ). The current seat of the Gdańsk City Council.  
• 54.36054 18.64904 22 Memorial to fallen Shipyard Workers , Solidarity Square . Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers shot during communist regime in 1970.  
• 54.354 18.6499 23 Grand Mill , ul. Wielkie Młyny 16 . Old mill (built 1350), with 18 water wheels up to 1939 produced 200 tonnes of flour daily, but is now a shopping centre.  
• 54.38459 18.60981 24 Günter Grass Monument , Plac Wybickiego ( close to the train station Gdańsk Wrzeszcz ). A statue of the author Günter Grass, who was born in Gdańsk, facing his famous character Oskar Matzerath from The Tin Drum . Installed in October 2015, six months after his death, and on his 88th anniversary. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 54.350833 18.648889 25 Great Armoury ( Wielka Zbrojownia ), ul. Targ Węglowy . Old city arsenal from 1605. Great example of Dutch design with astonishing stonework. These days the Great Armoury belongs to the Gdansk Academy of Fine Arts and visiting inside is only possible during art exhibitions which are organised from time to time by the Academy.  
• 54.34934 18.65652 26 Archaeological Museum , ul. Mariacka 25/26 .  
• 54.354 18.6509 27 Tower Clock Museum , ul. Wielkie Młyny 10 ( located in the tower of Saint Catherine’s Church ), ☏ +48 58 305 64 92 . M-W F-Su 11:00-19:00, Th 10:00-17:00 . Part of the Gdańsk History Museum. Inside the museum you can also see a carillon and views from the top of the tower. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• "},"price":{"wt":"8 zł adults, 5 zł concessions, Mon free"},"lastedit":{"wt":"2019-04-02"},"content":{"wt":"There is a small museum which documents the events that happened on 1 September 1939 at the beginning of World War II. It also contains a small active post office. Even if the museum is closed, the square in front has a great (and free) series of billboards summarizing the start of the war."}},"i":0}}]}'> 54.35517 18.65686 29 Gdańsk Post Office and Museum , ul. Obrońców Poczty Polskiej 1-2 . M 09:00–13:00, Tu–Th 09:00–16:00, F Sa 10:00–18:00, Su 10:00–16:00 . There is a small museum which documents the events that happened on 1 September 1939 at the beginning of World War II. It also contains a small active post office. Even if the museum is closed, the square in front has a great (and free) series of billboards summarizing the start of the war. 8 zł adults, 5 zł concessions, Mon free . ( updated Apr 2019 )
• 54.3515 18.6587 31 Sołdek Ship (Museum) , ul. Ołowianka 9-13 , ☏ +48 58 301 86 11 . Closed in winter . The ship was launched in 1948 as the first Polish ocean-going vessel and used as a coal and ore carrier. It was named after the "shock worker" Stanisław Sołdek. It is part of the National Maritime Museum. ( updated Dec 2015 )

Further afield

• 54.406 18.676 33 Westerplatte ( take bus 106 from bus stop Akademia Muzyczna or 606 from train station to Westerplatte, the bus ride takes about 20 minutes and leaves hourly, check schedule via jakdojade.pl ). Park with many information panels about the first battle of World War II that took place here in September 1939. You can also see disused bunkers and a crumbled command-post, as well as a large monument to those who fought in the battle. From the monument you have a view of the Nowy Port area and the lighthouse. The bus ride also takes you past the enormous (now defunct) shipyards. Free . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Swim in the sea . The water is usually cold. Almost all of Gdańsk's coast consists of sandy beaches accessible for recreation. There are multiple areas with lifeguards, food stands and bars; the most popular ones are in Brzeźno and Jelitkowo. A less crowded one is in Stogi. The beach that's the furthest from the city centre (and thus not well accessible using public transport) is on Sobieszewo Island.  
• 54.3426 18.6491 4 Canoe-tour through the canals , ul. Żabi Kruk 15 .  
• 54.34968 18.65497 5 Walk the Mariacka street , Mariacka . Take an evening walk down one of Europe's most picturesque streets.  
• Water tram ride . ZTM offers a seasonal water tram service: route F5 Żabi Kruk - Westerplatte and F6 Targ Rybny - National Sailing Centre . A single ticket costs 10 zł.  
• Football: Lechia Gdańsk were promoted in 2024 and now play soccer in Ekstraklasa, the top tier. Their home ground is Stadion Energa Gdańsk (capacity 41,600), 3 km north of town centre.
• Mystic Festival Largest metal festival in Poland

Teaching English is a possibility.

Gdańsk is sometimes called the Amber Capital of the World . The surrounding area is the richest known source of this semi-precious stone, and the product can be found in many of the city's shops. The ones with insects in are much more expensive.

• Galeria Sztuki Kaszubskiej ( Kashubian Art Gallery ), ul. Św. Ducha 48 ( near St. Mary's church: one block left when facing church entrance ), ☏ +48 503 0059783 . Hand-embroidered items in traditional and contemporary designs and colours including clothing, tablecloths, napkins, curtains, and other regional folk art souvenirs.  
• 54.35277 18.65203 1 Market Hall ( Hala Targowa ), Plac Dominkański 1 . Fresh produce in the basement level. ( updated Jan 2016 )

City centre

• 54.348869 18.648009 1 Pyra Bar , Garbary 6/7 . The food does not only has a nice name, but also tastes great. A large selection, solid portions. A quiet place, a garden on the corner of the street, away from the hustle and bustle of the city but still close. ( updated May 2022 )
• 54.348467 18.654155 2 Pijalnia Wódki I Piwa , Długi Targ 35/38 . Interesting decor back of communists periods. Nice atmosphere and simple dishes. A revelation. ( updated May 2022 )
• 54.349036 18.653675 3 No To Cyk , Chlebnicka 2 . Very recommended for people who want to feel the atmosphere of 1990s and underground. Food is simple but amazing. Very cool retro vibe. ( updated May 2022 )
• 54.352941 18.652714 4 Pasta House , Lawendowa 9 . Cozy place, delicious Italian pasta, original packaging for dishes, friendly service and very short waiting time for food ( updated May 2022 )
• 54.352772 18.651466 5 Dominikański , Plac Dominikański 1 . Best place with "home" cuisine. Delicious food, large portions. The tomato soup is poetry. ( updated May 2022 )
• 54.351822 18.650301 6 Bar Turystyczny , Szeroka 8/10 . Very good home cooked food. Tasty and wonderful meals with a sense of humor. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 54.350944 18.64975 7 Alanya Kebap , Kołodziejska 2 . Turkish specials on the polish soil. Great kebab in a bun. Good meat (beef), good salads, lots of sauce, delicious cucumbers. ( updated May 2022 )

North-west Gdańsk

• 54.398046 18.574839 8 Manekin , ul. Aleja Grunwaldzka 270 , ☏ +48 58 554 32 59 . The place mainly serves pancakes with different type of sources, fillings. You can order not only sweet pancakes here. Recommended are the ones with potato flour. Or Try the crepe with chicken, camembert and cranberries. ( updated Oct 2022 )

You can buy fish on one of bars on Motława River bank (25 zł/meal)

• 54.353811 18.646676 9 Pierogarnia Mandu Gdańsk Śródmieście , Elżbietańska 4/8 ( up from Neptune Fountain ), ☏ +48 58 3016071 . serves pierogi (dumplings). Big portions, do not order more than one per person. Because it's cheap and good, it's crowded in the season and during lunch time. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 54.356877 18.652501 10 Swojski Smak , ul. Heweliusza 25/27 . Good value, nice food, in a nicely decorated venue. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 54.349128 18.656251 11 Gdański Bowke , Długie Pobrzeże 11 . Lots of delicious traditional polish food. Even though it's in a tourist spot, the quality of the food is truly fine. The tatar tastes amazing with different shades of flavor. Just next to the riverside. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 54.348862 18.65756 12 Słony Spichlerz , Chmielna 10 . Nice place to seat outside and see river. Beautiful food hall with a chilled atmosphere and a great variety of vendors around. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 54.40947 18.561825 13 Kafe Delfin , ul. Opata Jacka Rybińskiego 17, Oliwa ( take a tram 2,6,11 or 12 and get off at the Oliwa Pętla Tramwajowa stop ), ☏ +48 58 552 03 44 , +48 698 46 88 33 . A charming, cozy cafe serving delicious apple pie and coffee. Try also cheap and tasty bread toasts. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• Restauracja Filharmonia , ul. Olowianka ( in Philharmonia Baltica building ), ☏ +48 58 3238358 . 12:00-22:00 or until the last guest . "Molecular" cuisine in lovely building with great view on the river. Excellent service, but no vegetarian dishes. ~100 zł for 3-course meal .  
• Fellini , Moltawa area, near Hilton . High-quality Italian cuisine and top-notch service. ~100 zł for three-course meal .  
• Gdańska , ul. Św. Ducha 16 , ☏ +48 58 3057671 . An entertaining place to visit. The rooms are filled with antiques according to the principle less is not more , and the waiters are dressed like in the good old days. From 18-100 zł .  
• Tawerna Mestwin , ul. Straganiarska 20/23 ( Old Town ). A regional restaurant serving traditional Kashubian dishes. Pretty expensive, but worth it.  

Danziger Goldwasser , root and herbal liqueur which has been produced since 16th century is considered the city's drink (it is now made in Germany though). It's vodka-based, creamy and has small flakes of 22- or 23-karat gold in it. Cheaper alternatives include Gdańska Złotówka or Złota Woda .

Gdańsk's national drink before World War II was Stobbes Machandel juniper vodka. After the war it was rejected and slightly forgotten due to association with German soldiers occupying the city, but today is gaining popularity again. There is a special ritual to be followed while drinking a shot of Machandel with a dried plum for a snack.

• Brovarnia Gdańska , Szafarnia 9 ( on the other side of the river next to the old city ). A mini brewery making their own really good beers in the basement of a hotel in restored 18 century granary. Food also served. Beer: 10 zł .  
• Bar Shpinx , Długi Targ ( Main street ). Another bar on the main street. Beer: 9 zł .  
• Loft , ul. Młyńska 15 ( near Jacks Tower ). Nice late bar/club, no entry charges, free food late on weekends, good music and good young crowd. Beer: 6 zł, tatanka 8 zł .  
• Sassy , Chmielna 10 ( 80-748 ). ( updated Oct 2022 )

As the TriCity is in effect conjoined and there are good, fast transit links, you can just as well consider accommodation in Gdynia or Sopot .

• Dom Harcerza , ul. Za Murami ( 200 m east of Długi Targ ). Simple but very clean and tidy rooms. Singles at 50 zł, double at 120 zł. Generous breakfast offered by the café in the back at 9 zł .  
• Baltic Hostel , ul Wałowa 52 ( ~10-min walk east of Gdańsk Główny train station, 10-min walk from Molatawa river and old town ), ☏ +48 58 721 96 57 , [email protected] . Simple rooms in a one-story building near the old shipyard area. Dorm rooms at 40 zł, private rooms at 60 zł. Breakfast included. Free Internet (1 shared PC), coffee, tea. .  
• Gdańsk University of Technology , ul. Traugutta 115 ( Take a bus 115 or 199 from Gdańsk Wrzeszcz railway station ), ☏ +48583471597 . During summer University offers places in student dormitories. 50 zł/single room, 70 zł/double .  
• Old Town Hostel , ul. Długa Grobla 7 , ☏ +48 58 3513131 . Beds ranging from 40 zł/8 bed dorm, to 150 zł/double room. Free internet and breakfast . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Wolna Chata Hostel , ul. Krzywoustego 8, Oliwa ( SKM from Gdańsk Główny to Gdańsk Oliwa station, once off the train head in direction Droszyńskiego street, then on the roundabout cross the street and go straight ahead for about 4 minutes and the hostel is on the left ), ☏ +48 500 121 809 , +48 58 7463351 , [email protected] . Free internet and breakfast. From 36 zł/night - please refer to website for up to date prices .  
• Grand Hostel , ul. Kołodziejska 2, Centrum , ☏ +48 666 061 350 , [email protected] . Wi-Fi, warm drinks, breakfast, bike rental Please visit website for more information .  
• 5Point Hostel , ul.Podmurze 2, 80-835 Gdańsk, Śródmieście , ☏ +48 882 70 30 70 , [email protected] . Local breakfast, comfortable beds and rooms with a good view Very affordable place to stay, visit website for information .  
• Hotel Willa Litarion , ul. Spichrzowa 18 , ☏ +48 58 3202553 . This small modern hotel is in the centre, 150 m from the Długi Targ market. Comfortable, carefully arranged rooms with bathrooms have TV, telephone, free wireless internet. From 255 zł per night .  
• Hotel Parnas , ul. Spichrzowa 27 , ☏ +48 58 3201275 . A quiet, small and elegant hotel located in the heart of the city. Rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated. From 300 zł per night .  
• Villa Palladium , ul. Czyżewskiego 20 , ☏ +48 58 5543224 , [email protected] . Hotel made from stones from all over the world with comfortable rooms and the bathrooms. From 180 zł per night . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• Qubus Hotel Gdańsk , ul. Chmielna 47/52 , ☏ +48 58 7522100 , [email protected] . Opened in 2009 Qubus Hotel Gdańsk offers richly equipped rooms with a breakfast, free internet access and view of the Motława River and the Old Town.  
• Hotel Wolne Miasto , Św. Ducha 2 , ☏ +48 58 3222442 , fax : +48 58 322-24-47 , [email protected] . Helpful staff and central location. 320+ zł .  
• Mariacka Residence , Mariacka 50/52 , ☏ +48 697 736 784 , [email protected] . Stylish luxury apartment in the heart of the old town of Gdansk.  

Gdańsk provides an extensive network of public, free of charge wi-fi hotspots in public places, such as bus stops, parks, etc. clearly marked with 'GD@NSKwifi" logo. The map with all the hotspots is available on the project website . Free wi-fi is also available on all three major train stations, and in the majority of restaurants and bars.

On the whole, Gdańsk is a safe place to visit and explore. Normal precautions for the safe keeping of your personal possessions, as you would in any other city, are suggested to keep you feel safe when wandering around. Gdańsk seems very well organized from a tourist's point of view. There are frequent police patrols and visitors usually get the feeling of Gdańsk being a secure and tourist-friendly city.

When it comes to gay, lesbian, and non-white travelers, Gdansk is an oddball compared to the rest of Poland. The city is much more socially progressive and tolerant compared to the rest of the country, and you can be yourself with little to no violent reactions from locals.

In an emergency, telephone "112". This number connects to Police, Ambulance and Fire/Rescue services. You will be asked which of these three services you require before being connected to the relevant operator.

Gdańsk Bay:

• sea resort Sopot with the longest European pier
• sea resort and port Gdynia with the biggest Baltic port
• sea resort Puck

Many of the boats (to Sopot in particular) end up fully-booked and you can't buy your ticket on the boat itself. This is a harsh lesson to learn when you have already waited in a huge queue. Tickets for the Sopot ferry must be purchased from an office directly across from the terminal. Also be aware that in Sopot you will need to buy an access ticket for the pier (around 5 zł, even if you already have a return ticket to Gdańsk) in order to board your boat back.

Vistula Bay:

• medieval town of Elbląg
• sea resort and medieval town of Frombork with the grave of Nicolaus Copernicus.
• sea resort Kadyny with one of the best European studs.

Kashubian Coast:

• Slowinski National Park with the biggest dunes in Europe
• sea resort Rowy
• sea resort Łeba
• sea resort Jastrzębia Góra
• sea resort Rozewie
• sea resort Władysławowo

On the Vistula Peninsula:

• the concentration camp in Sztutowo
• sea resort Krynica Morska

On the Hel Peninsula:

• sea resort Chałupy
• sea resort Jastarnia
• sea resort Jurata

Take the train to Hel . It's at the end of the peninsula opposite Gdańsk. SKM trains are the cheaper option. Train from Gdańsk Główny to Gdynia every 15 minutes and then SKM diesel to Hel. If you get the 09:45 from Gdańsk you have 7 minutes to change about 4 platforms across the underpass. The journey is wonderful - straight through pine forests and sometimes with the sea on either side. Single ticket costs 21.50 zł (get a 5.40 zł single from Gdańsk to Gdynia - and then the 16.10 zł single from Gdynia to Hel, just in case you miss the connection.) When you get to Hel have a walk into town, it's a Polish beach resort full of holiday makers. You should have time for lunch and then get the hydrofoil from the end of the pier at 15:30. But make sure you buy the ticket from the office halfway down the pier or you could be walking back! The trip is 50 zł back to Gdańsk but it will be the best value trip you can get. It takes 1hr 50 min but the first hour is getting across to Gdańsk, then the next 50 minutes is navigating the canals back to the town centre. You could pay a tourist company for this trip, but the cost is in your ticket, you see Westphalia lighthouse where the first shots of World War II were fired, the huge ships and the massive remains of the former Lenin Shipyards.

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Like a ministate all to itself, Gdańsk has a unique feel that sets it apart from other cities in Poland. Centuries of maritime ebb and flow as a major Baltic port; streets of distinctively un-Polish architecture influenced by a united nations of wealthy merchants who shaped the city’s past; the toing and froing of Danzig/Gdańsk between Teutonic Prussia and Slavic Poland; and the destruction wrought by WWII have all bequeathed a special atmosphere that makes Gdańsk an increasingly popular destination.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museum of WWII

Opened in 2016, this striking piece of modern architecture is a bold addition to the northern end of Gdańsk's waterfront. It has rapidly become one of…

European Solidarity Centre

Opened in 2014, and housed in a truly awful example of 21st-century architecture (its rusty steel plates were designed to evoke ships under construction),…

St Mary's Church

Dominating the heart of the Old Town, St Mary’s is often cited as the largest brick church in the world, its massive 78m-high tower dominating the Gdańsk…

Długi Targ was once the main city market and is now the major focus for visitors. Things have gotten a bit touristy here over the last decade (dubious…

National Maritime Museum

This is a sprawling exhibition covering Gdańsk's role as a Baltic seaport through the centuries. The headquarters, the multimillion-euro Maritime Cultural…

Ulica Mariacka

The most atmospheric of all Gdańsk's streets and one of Poland’s most photogenic lanes is this length of cobbles between the waterfront St Mary’s Gate and…

Artus Court Museum

Rising in all its embellished grandeur behind the Neptune Fountain, the Artus Court is perhaps the single best-known house in Gdańsk. The court has been…

St Bridget's Church

Founded over 700 years ago, St Bridget’s was reduced to medieval brick dust in 1945, and until 1970 only the outer walls were left standing. Very little…

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Festivals & Events

Dec 11, 2019 • 2 min read

With so many cities around Europe hosting amazing Christmas markets, visitors are spoiled for choice every December. While they all have different things…

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Museums in Gdansk

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Like most tourist destinations in Europe, Gdansk has developed a tourist card with the intention to ease the sightseeing in the city. You may consider buying Gdansk Tourist Card regardless of the purpose of your visit, as it comes in four versions to suit various needs. All of them offer a range of discounts, which are valid 24-72 hours.

In 2020, Gdansk card has been refurbished since last year, but there are no significant changes to the offer. The biggest one is that packages other than Transportation cannot be upgraded with Metropolitan Ticket any more, and you need to buy regular tickets for Gdansk transportation.

Where to buy Gdansk Tourist Card

Gdansk Tourist Card may be obtained at the Airport at the Information Desk or in three Tourist Information Offices in the city centre (the most convenient are at those in Wyzynna Gate and in Dlugi Targ). You may also order the Card on the Internet and collect it on arrival at the tourist office in Gdansk. Since 1st of September, it will be possible to buy the card as a mobile App, but until then you will receive a plastic card (that costs another 5 PLN).

Which Package of Gdansk Tourist Card should I choose?

Gdansk Tourist Card comes in three packages:

Sightseeing Package

This package concentrates on sightseeing and offers free entry to 22 places. Those are not only museums but also ZOO and Hevelianum Centre – good places to go to when you’re visiting Gdansk with children. If you are considering buying a Gdansk Tourist Card, we think this is the best option to choose.

Family Fun Package

This version was designed to suit families coming to Gdansk with children. The free entries offered with this card were chosen to make sure that the children won’t get bored in Gdansk.

Transportation Package

This is actually a metropolitan ticket upgraded with free entry to two museums and discounts to six more sights. There will be introduced another variant of this package – with the ticket valid only in Gdansk – the price of this card should be a bit lower.

Comparison of Gdansk Tourist Card Packages in 2020

Below we prepared a comparison of all available packages to make it easier for you to choose the best one. Every year the choice of sights changes, so it’s worth checking before you buy it.

Package Comparison

• Regular price
• Reduced price
• Free Entrance to Museum of Gdansk Branches
• Free Entrance to National Maritime Museum
• Free Entrance to Archaeological Museum:
• Free Entrance to National Museum
• Free Entrance to Gdansk ZOO
• Free Entrance to Hewelianum Centre‎
• Free Entrance to St. Mary's Church
• Free Entrance to St. John's Centre‎
• Other Sites/Activities Discounts
• Spa&Wellness Discounts
• Metropolitan ticket
• Recommended

Sightseeing

• 24h/48h/72h Duration
• 50/70/90 PLN Regular price
• 30/45/60 PLN Reduced price
• 40/50/60 PLN Regular price
• 25/35/45 PLN Reduced price

Transportation

• 50/65/80 PLN Regular price
• 35/45/55 PLN Reduced price

Each of the packages also offers discounts to several bars and restaurants in the city centre. You will find all the discounts in the brochure that goes with the Gdansk Tourist Card. You may also check all the discounts on the official Gdansk Card website .

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Hi Guys Thanks for the information as I will visit next May with my wife from Perth Western Australia. I am a teacher and my wife is a midwife who are on leave and will spend about 20 days going through Poland. We will have 6 days in Gdansk and have accomodation . The sightseeing card looks good We also plan to visit the wolfs lair, stuthoff camp and mallbork castle . We have access to push bikes and may use them to visit sopot and gdynia Do any of the banks exchange australian dollars for zloty? Thanks Hoppy

Hi David They usually update the packages every year, so check out what changes they make next year before you buy it. Bank probably exchange AUD for zloty, and currency exchange do it for sure – but spread will be higher than for USD or EUR. I would consider withdrawing money from ATM (depending on your bank’s rate), using Revolut Card or just bringing USD.

[…] Du kan lika gärna veta att alla museer stänger på måndagar. Tack vare Gdansk turistkortgiltig från 24 till 48 timmar, drar du nytta av attraktiva rabatter på inträde till […]

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Home » Travel Guides » Poland » 15 Best Things to Do in Gdańsk (Poland)

15 Best Things to Do in Gdańsk (Poland)

Poland’s largest port flourished during Medieval times as a merchant city trading Baltic amber. In the 20th century events took place in Gdańsk that would affect the course of world history.

On 1 September 1939 the Wehrmacht launched their Invasion of Poland at the Westerplatte peninsula north of the city. And just over four decades later in 1980 Lech Wałęsa would found Solidarity.

As the Soviet Bloc’s first independent trade union, Solidarity would eventually lead to an end to communist rule in 1989. Both the war and Solidarity are remembered with world-class museums. Gdańsk’s Old Town, rebuilt after the Second World War, is a trelliswork of streets skirted by tall patrician and merchant tenements, while hulking gates defend the landward and water-side entrances.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Gdańsk :

1. Trakt Królewski (Royal Way)

To cut to Gdańsk’s core and see a host of top monuments in one walk, take this horizontal route east towards Motlawa River between two city gates.

Along Ulica Długa (Long Street) and then Długi Targ (Long Market), the Royal Way first got its royal designation in 1457 when King of Poland Casimir IV Jagiellon entered Gdańsk.

Starting in the west at the Upper Gate and finishing at the Green Gate, the way is flanked by tall, narrow patrician tenements painted in jaunty colours and capped with gables.

There are way more attractions and noteworthy sights on Trakt Królewski than we could cram into one paragraph.

But at Długi Targ 44 do stop for a photo of the Artus Court, a Renaissance meeting place and stock exchange, now a branch of Gdańsk’s Historical Museum.

Suggested tour : Gdansk Royal Route Private Walking Tour

2. St Mary’s Church

This humungous Gothic church was started in the 14th century and, with a volume of up to 190,000 cubic metres, is counted among the three largest brick-built churches in the world.

Standing in the 66-metre-long nave you’ll need to take a moment just to wrap your head around the dimensions of this epic building that can hold 25,000 worshippers.

A major reconstruction was needed after the Second World War, but all of its valuable fittings were saved.

You can peruse treasures like an astronomical clock from the 1460s, the high altar raised in the 1510s and a marvellous Gothic stone pietà carved at the start of the 15th century.

If you’re up for climbing nearly 400 steps you can battle your way to the top of the monolithic 77.6-metre main tower.

3. Neptune’s Fountain

On Long Market, a few steps from the Artus Court is an enduring symbol for Gdańsk.

Neptune’s Fountain is a Mannerist monument cast in bronze in the city in 1615, but wouldn’t be installed for another 18 years.

The sculptor was Abraham van den Blocke, originally from what is now Kaliningrad, but with Flemish parents.

Located by the palatial townhouses where Poland’s royalty would stay in Gdańsk, the fountain’s sculpture shows Neptune bowing his head slightly as a sign of deference.

On the basin beneath him are ornamental fish and cherubs.

And if you’re wondering, the fig leaf on his private parts wasn’t in the original design, but was added in a restoration in 1988.

Recommended tour : Gdańsk Private Walking Tour: Legends and Facts

4. Golden House

Staying on the Long Market, two doors to the right of the Artus Court is a building often lauded as the most beautiful in the city.

It’s not easy to disagree when you glimpse the white and gold facade.

With Mannerist architecture, the Golden House was made for Jan Speyman, mayor of Gdańsk at the start of the 17th century.

Designed by Abraham van den Blocke once more, the house has Gdańsk’s signature narrowness and height.

But where it stands out is for its sculpted friezes, 16 busts on its pilasters representing the Polish kings and the statues atop its balustrade for Achilles, Antigone, Cleopatra and Oedipus.

5. Main Town Hall

The Main Town Hall was drawn up by a team of Dutch architects in the middle of the 16th century.

You’ll have to crane your head back to see him, but there’s a life-sized gilded statue of Sigismund II Augustus, the king of the period, on the pinnacle 83 metres above street level.

The interior is also managed by the Historical Museum and has sumptuous state rooms in the Dutch Mannerist style.

The Small Council Hall, Great Council Chamber, White Hall and Winter Hall have gilded stucco, coffered ceilings, marble floors, frescoes, sculptures and tapestries . You can head to the observation gallery for a vertical view of the city and hear the 37-bell carillon chime on the hour.

6. Ulica Mariacka (St Mary’s Street)

Beginning at St Mary’s Church and continuing east towards the Motlawa River and St Mary’s Gate, Ulica Mariacka is a delightful cobblestone street edged by narrow merchants’ houses with regal portals.

You can understand why this street is often used as a shooting location for period movies, and like a lot of Gdańsk it had to be pieced back together after taking extensive damage in the Second World War.

All of the entrances to these houses are on little terraces a few steps up from the street itself, and the restaurants that line the way have tables in these cute spaces, often with ornamental reliefs on their low walls.

7. Gdańsk Crane

An emblem for the city, the Gdańsk Crane on Motlawa’s Long Embankment dates back to the 14th century.

This piece of machinery harks back to the time when Gdańsk was in the Hanseatic League, and could load or unload four tons of cargo, lifting it to a height of 11 metres.

The power came from humans, as groups of men would walk inside two large wooden wheels as if they were hamsters.

The crane doubled as a waterside city gate and was in use up to the 1800s.

Now maintained by the National Maritime Museum, you can go in to see the wheels and an exhibition about work and daily life in the port from the 1500s to the 1700s.

8. Dlugie Pobrzeze (Long Embankment)

Before the port was relocated to the mouth of the Dead Vistula River in the 19th century, this quay was where all of Gdańsk’s loading and unloading took place.

In those times defence was vital, and so there’s a “water gate” defending the entry to each of the streets running perpendicular to the river here.

These seven gates, the old warehouses on the opposite bank, and the characteristic narrow gabled houses overlooking the water, conjure old-time maritime magic.

But while the scene is now rather quaint, the docks here had a nasty reputation in the old days when thugs would prowl the quayside.

This popular tourist route has lots of outdoor seating if you’d like a meal by the water.

9. Museum of the Second World War

This landmark museum was inaugurated in March 2017 and stands on a quarter that had been flattened in the war.

It makes sense that Gdańsk should have a museum of this calibre about the conflict because the Invasion of Poland began in earnest in the Free City of Danzig on 1 September.

Many of the museum’s 2,000 exhibits were donated by families that were caught up in the conflict, putting a human face on the devastation.

The exhibitions are designed in an unorthodox way and so are difficult to describe in a paragraph, but there are many immersive walk-through installations.

One that will stay with you is a Warsaw apartment, with rooms from before, during and after the war.

There are also two tanks, a Sherman M4 Firefly and a Soviet T34, placed in war-damaged street scenes that had to be built around them.

10. Westerplatte

Afterwards you can make the brief trip to the peninsula that curves around the final bend of the Dead Vistula.

Here you’ll set foot on ground zero for the Second World War.

A Polish military transit depot was installed here in the 1920s by permission from the League of Nations, and was seen by the Germans as a vital first domino for their invasion.

With dwindling supplies and no effective way of responding to the attack, the depot withstood bombardment from the sea and for seven days before surrendering on 7 September.

After the war one of the guardhouses was restored and turned into a museum, while the others have been left in ruins.

At the highest point of Westerplatte there’s also a memorial to the “Coast Defenders”, erected in 1966 and made of 236 granite blocks rising to 25 metres.

Suggested tour : Private Westerplatte Tour by Car or Cruise Transport

11. Golden Gate

At the western end of Long Street, this beautiful Mannerist gate is in a string of fortifications in front of the fearsome Prison Tower and High Gate.

The Golden Gate is from the 1610s and was raised to replace a Gothic gate that had come before.

Abraham van den Blocke, the man behind Neptune’s Fountain and the Golden House came up with the design for this structure.

The gate has a balustrade on its roof and on both sides are four allegorical statues representing the qualities of an ideal citizen based on the classical cardinal virtues: Peace, Freedom, Wealth and Fame on the west side, and Harmony, Justice, Piety and Prudence facing Long Street.

These figures are at the top of four Ionic columns with golden capitals.

12. Oliwa Catheral

As you see it now, this church in the Oliwa District, some 10 kilometres northwest of the Old Town , dates to the 14th and 15th centuries.

A fire gutted the interior in 1577 during the city’s rebellion, so nearly all the ornamentation is Renaissance, Mannerist and Baroque.

There’s a solemn Baroque portal from 1688 at the entrance, below two narrow towers, each 46 metres tall.

The nave, chancel and 23 altars are festooned with paintings by Gdańsk’s foremost artists in the 17th century.

There are two main altars, one “Old” in the Late Dutch Renaissance style from 1605, and the other “New”, from 1688 and viewed as the finest piece of Baroque art in Pomerania.

13. European Solidarity Centre

Solidarity was a trade union and civil resistance movement founded at the Lenin Shipyard in 1980 and led by future president Lech Wałęsa.

To understand Solidarity’s context and progress you can come to the six exhibition rooms at the Solidarity Centre on its namesake square.

The centre opened in 2007 and its rusted facade points to Solidarity’s industrial beginnings.

There’s a lot of substance at the exhibition, which uses imaginative design to make sure you’re never overwhelmed by facts.

You’ll get to know the key characters, find out about Solidarity’s core philosophy and the role of the church in the movement, and also how it quickly spread to other Soviet satellite states.

14. Amber Museum

That Prison Tower dwarfing the Golden Gate has a museum all about Gdańsk’s relationship with this gemstone.

The amber deposits in the Baltic are the richest in the world, and amber helped fuel the city’s economy after a guild for this gemstone was formed in 1472. Poland’s first museum dedicated to amber documents this history, showing how it was extracted in Medieval times and how it was ascribed magical and even medicinal properties.

There’s a stunning collection of amber art from the 16th, 17th and 18th-centuries, as well as modern, artistic contemporary jewellery crafted in Gdańsk.

Check out the Jurassic Park-style “inclusions”, where insects have been trapped in this fossilised tree resin for tens of millions of years.

15. Jelitkowo Beach

After a day or two on the streets of Gdańsk you may be ready to rest up on a beach on the Baltic for an afternoon.

The closest is on the waterfront of the Jelitkowo District to the northwest of the Old Town.

This beach has a clean ribbon of fine sand backed by a chain of parks and curving for several kilometres up the coast to the west.

Behind the foreshore there’s a paved cycling path if you’d like to break even further from the city.

But wherever you are you’ll never be more than a short walk from a beach bar in summer, and there are bouncy castles and trampolines to keep littler members of the clan entertained.

You can get to Jelitkowo via trams 2, 6 or 8.

15 Best Things to Do in Gdańsk (Poland):

• Trakt Królewski (Royal Way)
• St Mary's Church
• Neptune's Fountain
• Golden House
• Main Town Hall
• Ulica Mariacka (St Mary's Street)
• Gdańsk Crane
• Dlugie Pobrzeze (Long Embankment)
• Museum of the Second World War
• Westerplatte
• Golden Gate
• Oliwa Catheral
• European Solidarity Centre
• Amber Museum
• Jelitkowo Beach

Things to do in Gdansk, Poland: Soaking in the Magic of this Baltic City

Gdansk was our fourth destination in Poland after visits to Krakow, Wroclaw and Poznan, and this northern harbour city by the Baltic Sea definitely had a bit of a different feel.

To me, Gdansk felt less like a city where you tick off main attractions and more like a place where you need to wander and slowly soak it all in. Oftentimes, the sights that caught my attention in Gdansk were things like a random row of buildings, an unusual museum, or a brick gate hiding beautiful views just behind it.

We spent a week in Gdansk and for the most part, I was perfectly happy to walk around aimlessly and let the city reveal itself to me.

Things to do in Gdansk

Walk the length of długa street.

Unlike most Polish cities, Gdansk doesn’t have a central square, but what it does have is a long pedestrian street which kind of acts as a gathering place; that’s Długa Street, also known as Long Lane.

Starting on the west end of Długa, you have  Brama Złota , the Golden Gate which marks the start of the pedestrian street. Once you walk through the gates you are met with two rows of townhouses standing shoulder to shoulder and running all the way down to the very end of the street. The bottom floors of these buildings have been converted into restaurants, souvenir shops, boutiques, cafes and bars, so it’s quite lively with out-of-towners.

Długa is peppered with landmarks like the Town Hall , which houses the historical museum; Artus’ Court (sometimes spelled Arthur’s Court), which was once a meeting place for merchants and now houses the History Museum; Neptune’s Fountain , a nod to the sea god from this seafaring city; and lastly the arches of Brama Zielona , which bring you straight to the waterfront.

We made time to visit the Historical Museum and enjoyed it. For starters, the museum is set in a 14th-century Gothic Renaissance building and it has some pretty stunning ceilings, fireplaces, and spiralling wooden staircases, but it also has an interesting exhibit that looks at life in Gdansk before the war.

These may not be huge attractions on their own it’s even easy to miss some of these places if you’re not actively looking for them, but they are all smaller pieces of the puzzle that make Gdansk special.

Check out the waterfront

Once you reach the end of Długa, you’ll find yourself on the shores of the  Motława River , which might even give you flashbacks to Copenhagen’s Nyhavn. The river is lined with a mix of red-brick buildings done in the Hanseatic style and pastel facades adorned with flower boxes.

Along the waterfront, you’ll come across  Gdansk Crane , which pays homage to the city’s history as a medieval port city. At one point, this was the biggest crane in the world, and it was used to transfer cargo and to put up masts on ships.

Continuing north, you then have the  Maritime Culture Centr e on the left bank and the  National Maritime Museum on the right bank. There’s no convenient bridge for crossing without retracing your steps, but there is a quick ferry service that can whisk you across for just a few zloty.

Just in front of the National Maritime Museum, you’ll find the SS Soldek , a Polish coal and ore freighter that has been transformed into a floating museum.

And while you’re here you can hop on a myriad of river cruises, be it on a mock pirate ship, a motor boat that looks like a car, or if you want to put some muscle into it, even by kayak.

We also came across a floating restaurant called Oskar , where you can get fish and chips with a pint.

Climb St. Mary’s Basilica

For city views, we decided to climb to the top of St. Mary’s Basilica.

This is one of the largest brick churches in the world and as you can probably imagine, it dominates the heart of the Old Town. This also means that you better be ready to do some serious climbing. Reaching the 78-metre tower involves climbing 405 steps, and there are stretches where you may even wonder why you ever decided to do so.

I will say that if you don’t enjoy heights, this is probably not the place for you. Once you reach the second staircase within the tower, you can basically see all the way down which can give you (me!) some vertigo. I was basically hugging the wall with my clammy hands the whole way.

Must…grab…handrail!

Eat at a milk bar

I know I probably sound like a broken record at this point; I feel like I mention milk bars every time I talk about Poland , but I’m kind of obsessed with them! They are cheap and you get massive portions of hearty-homecooked meals, so what’s not to love?

In Gdansk, we found  Bar Mleczny Neptune , which is located right on Długa Street. We went back there twice and tried everything from savoury pancakes to cutlets with dill potatoes. The nice thing about this milk bar is that you just point at the food you want and then pay for it after making your selection, as opposed to other milk bars where you have to decipher a Polish menu and pay before you get your food – definitely the less intimidating of the two options.

Learn all about Baltic Gold

The Amber Museum was a complete surprise for me. I didn’t even know this place existed before visiting Gdansk, but soon after arriving in the city we started seeing amber jewellery and amber souvenir shops everywhere, so we decided to visit the museum and see if we could learn what all the fuss was about.

It turns out that amber, or Baltic Gold as it’s referred to in this area, comes from the resin of coniferous forests that grew in the region. The largest source is found east of Gdansk around the Kaliningrad enclave, and the combination of northeasterly winds and sea currents means that a lot of it washes onto the beaches of Gdansk.

The museum had some interesting displays of amber inclusions (that’s amber with small plants or insects that became trapped in the sap), amber-adorned furniture and amber jewellery.

Another bonus of visiting the Amber Museum is that the top floor has a viewing deck where you get some pretty nice views of the Old Town and Długa Street. It’s not nearly as high as St. Mary’s but I almost feel that’s a good thing!

And if Gdansk is giving you some Amber fever, just walk over to Mariacka Street, which is often nicknamed Amber Street. It’s lined with even more amber shops and you’re sure to find a souvenir or two.

Visit the European Solidarity Centre

I have to admit, I knew nothing about Solidarity before coming to Gdansk, but when I told my dad where I was travelling, he insisted I needed to dig a little deeper into the history and that’s how I ended up at the European Solidarity Centre .

In a nutshell, Solidarity is the name of a Polish trade union that was founded in 1980 on the grounds of the Lenin Shipyard with Lech Wałęsa, an electrician by trade, as the leader of this movement. (He would go on to become a Nobel Prize Winner and President of Poland.)

To understand the importance of this movement, we need to go back to the 1970s, a time when wages had been frozen while food prices continued to rise, a time when foreign debt was mounting, and a time when underground groups were forming to fight against the system.

When Solidarity was founded, it became the first trade union not under the control of the communist party, and just a year after it was founded it had reached 9.5 million members, which at the time made up a third of the working-age population in Poland.

The European Solidarity Centre does a wonderful job of laying out the history in a chronological timeline and it’s a great place to learn about a movement that shaped the city.

Day trips from Gdansk

We went on 3 different day trips from Gdansk, all of them very easy to do.

Sopot – This is a popular seaside town on the shores of the Baltic Sea and it’s only 15 minutes by train from Gdansk. We spent our day here walking on the longest wooden pier in Europe, enjoying a cruise of the harbour, stuffing ourselves with baked pierogi, and then strolling along the beach because the water was too chilly for us!

Malbork – This town is home to Malbork Castle, which is the biggest castle in the world by land area. Our entire visit was devoted to visiting the castle. The train from Gdansk to Malbork can take 30 or 50 minutes depending on which one you hop on.

Gdynia – We visited Gdynia thanks to our friends Agness and Cez from eTramping . We first met a few years back in Hong Kong (and I’ve also met up with Agness in Amsterdam and Seoul), so when we found out we were all in town, we had to go out together. Cez grew up in Gdynia, so he showed us around his ‘hood. Gdynia is just north of Gdansk and Sopot (the three are called the Tricity) and in comparison to the other two, Gdynia had more of a modern and youthful feel with wider streets, newer buildings, and lots of young kids hanging out at the beach. Oh, and you can get some delicious waffles (gofry) along the boardwalk and load them with Nutella, whipped cream, strawberries, and all sorts of sugary toppings.

Where to stay in Gdansk

We rented an apartment in the Old Town just 1 block from St. Mary’s and it was a beautiful place.

The city also has a nice mix of boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guesthouses on offer. You can get a better idea of rates here.

I will say that Gdansk is a little pricier than other cities we visited in Poland, but it’s well worth the visit!

Read more about Poland

• Learning to Make Pierogi in Warsaw
• Where to Eat in Warsaw
• Warsaw: What to See and Do
• Visiting Wroclaw on a Weekend Trip
• Krakow: What to See and Do
• Things to Do in Wroclaw for Travellers
• A Travel Guide to Poznan
• Visiting Gdansk on a Weekend Trip

Have you visited this Baltic city? What were some of your favourite things to do in Gdansk?

15 Comments

I saw ‘milk bar’ and felt instantly sick thinking of vats of milk! But it actually looks like a great place to sample local food. Beautiful editing.

Haha, that’s also what came to mind when I first heard of ‘milk bars’, but they turned out to be quite different from what I imagined. 😉

It was so lovely to see you guys on our Mother Land :). We still can’t believe Gdańsk is so beautiful and we’re glad we decided to settle down here (for a while). Długa Street is very touristic so we try to avoid it but “Grycan” has really good ice-cream. Can you believe we haven’t been to Malbork yet? I feel so motivated now to go there. Awesome to see you enjoyed Gdańsk so much and the food! Polish food rocks and Poland rocks as well, let’s face it. Hope to see you soon! Send plenty of kisses to Sam X x X

It was so good to see you guys too! Thank you for showing us around and introducing us to gofry. I wonder where we’ll meet up next – maybe South America! 🙂

I’d never even heard of a milk bar before, but they sound pretty awesome! You’d probably find me spending most of my time hanging out at the waterfront though. Your pictures of it are so pretty! <3 <3

Milk bars are awesome! I hope you get to eat at one when you travel to Poland. Gotta love hearty meals at great prices.

What a charming street!! I would love to just walk around there. 405 steps?? I’ll pass! Thanks for taking the photo of that view from the top – says all of us who aren’t willing to walk all the way up. Lol

Haha, yes, it is a long way up! The views from the Amber Museum are always another option. 😉

I finally visited Gdańsk this past summer for a few hours on my way to Iceland. I can’t believe I waited that long (I’m from Poland!) – it’s such a beautiful city. I didn’t have enough time to see all those wonderful places but just walking around the waterfront and the old town was wonderful! I am so happy to see Poland through your eyes!

Happy travels, Ioanna A Woman Afoot

I’m glad you finally made it there – even if it was just for a few hours. You can always come back for more. 🙂

Gdansk looks really beautiful in this post & the pictures are superb !!!

About time that Gdansk gets some love !

In Gdansk, I was for the first time as a child. Since that time I have been going back there and I discover something new every time. Among the attractions worth seeing in the area of Gdansk recommend a scenic cliff in Orlowo interesting and Emigration Museum in Gdynia.

Really a beautiful city. I visited in 2018. thanks for giving a clear picture of the city. nice admirable travel blog. Thanks

I love this! I completely agree, in the fact you just need to wander here. It’s such a brilliant place to just walk and take it all in!

Thanks for sharing your insight!

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Things To Do in Gdansk, Poland: A Perfect 3-Day Gdansk Itinerary

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

When we started planning our Gdansk Itinerary we were surprised by the number of things to see. In order to fit all of the top Things To Do in Gdansk into our visit, we designed an ideal trip plan – and are happy to share it with you!

Best Things To Do in Gdansk Itinerary

After visiting Warsaw and Krakow , we were in on the secret: Poland is incredible . The top sights in Gdansk revolve around the city’s storied past, amazing architecture and fabulous museums.

There are also unique Gdansk things to do. Namely, visit the coastline on the Baltic Sea featuring miles of sandy beaches. After our time exploring Gdansk, we created an itinerary to help others experience it like we did!

About Our 3 Day Gdansk Itinerary

Our Gdansk 3 Day Itinerary includes all the prime things to see. At the end of the article, there are tips for your Gdansk vacation, like how to get there and where to stay. We also offer options for Gdansk day trips and advice on what to pack .

Day-by-Day Itinerary of Things To Do in Gdansk

Our list of what to do in Gdansk is organized in a detailed 3-day itinerary. Save, Pin or Bookmark our Gdansk Travel Guide to plan your trip to Poland!

DAY 1 – Must-See Gdansk: Old Town and WWII Museum

On the first day of your 3 days in Gdansk, start by seeing Gdansk highlights in the Old Town. Then, delve into the history of World War II at a state-of-the-art museum. End the first day of your Gdansk trip with a scenic view and a classic Polish meal.

Gdansk Walking Tour: The Royal Route

Kick off your trip with one of the Gdansk top things to do: Walk the Royal Route. Not only will it help get you acquainted with the city, but many of the tourist attractions in Gdansk are located here.

The Royal Route through the heart of Gdansk Old Town was once the path taken by kings. Today, the Royal Way is still used for ceremonies and parades. We’ve outlined a Gdansk city tour that extends from Upland Gate to Green Gate – noting Gdansk tourist attractions along the way.

High Gate (Brama Wyzynna)

Start your walk at Upland High Gate, which was built in the 16th century as part of Gdansk’s fortifications. The Upland Gate now houses the Gdansk Tourist Information Office.

Prison Tower and Torture Chamber (Wieza Wiezienna)

Built in the 14th century, the Prison Tower and Torture Chamber were part of the original Gdansk city walls. When new walls were constructed in the 16th century, the building became the prison, court and torture chamber. Today, it houses the much more pleasant Amber Museum.

Golden Gate (Zlota Brama)

The 17th century Golden Gate leads directly onto Gdansk’s most popular street: Ulica Dluga. The gate features 8 figures representing Peace, Freedom, Wealth, Fame, Agreement, Justice, Piety and Prudency.

Long Street (Dluga)

The picturesque Long Street is the main thoroughfare through Gdansk Old Town. The pedestrian-only street, which had to be completely rebuilt after World War II, features colorful and ornately decorated facades.

Tall, slender buildings are found throughout the city, but the ones on Long Street are the most beautiful. Numerous cafes, bars, restaurants and ice cream shops line Long Street. Strolling up and down Long Street with an ice cream cone in hand is one of the top Gdansk activities in the summertime!

Gdansk Town Hall (Rathaus)

On Long Street, at the opposite end from Golden Gate is the unmissable Gdansk Main Town Hall and its rising spire. The building dates to the 14th century and today houses the Gdansk History Museum. Visitors can climb to the top of the Town Hall Bell Tower for stunning views of the Old Town.

Long Market (Dlugi Targ)

Where Long Street ends, Long Market begins. The wider street dates to the 13th century and once was home to Gdansk’s most affluent citizens. Today, Long Market Gdansk is largely occupied by gossiping locals, gawking tourist and aspiring musicians.

Neptune Fountain (Fontanna Neptuna)

The historic Neptune Fountain dates to the early 17th century and stands proudly in front of the Artus Court. It’s an absolute must-see in Gdansk!

Artus Court (Dwor Artusa)

At Dlugi Targ 44 is the Artus Court (named after the legendary King Arthur). The building, which dates to the 14th century, was a place of meeting, socializing and entertainment for the noble and wealthy. Now, as part of the Gdansk History Museum, visitors can take a peek inside.

The Golden House

Just a few doors down from Artus Court is The Golden House at Dlugi Targ #41. Its decorated with five statues representing prudence, justice, strength, temperance and fortune. The house itself dates to the early 1600s and has been the residence of several mayors of Gdansk.

Green Gate (Brama Zielona)

The end of the Royal Route, the Green Gate marks the passage from Long Market to the Motlawa River. The gate was built in the 16th century as a royal residence, but no royalty ever lived there. Today, the National Museum resides in the Green Gate. Activist and Polish President Lech Walesa used to have an office in the building, as well.

More Old Town Gdansk Sights

The Royal Route is the perfect place to begin sightseeing Gdansk, but there are other places to see in Gdansk Old Town. 

St. Mary’s Basilica

Officially the Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the church is one of the top things to see in Gdansk, Poland.

Construction of the Catholic church began in the year 1343 and, today, still ranks as one of the largest brick churches in the world. It can accommodate 25,000 people! The 15th century Gdansk Astronomical Clock stands inside the church. Rising as the tallest bell tower in Gdansk, the view from the top is truly remarkable.

Basilica of St. Nicholas

With a history that dates to the 12th century, the Basilica of St. Nicholas is one of the oldest churches in Gdansk. It is also one of the only churches not to sustain damage during WWII. Inside, beautiful baroque altars decorate the cavernous space.

The Crane (Zuraw)

As a symbol of the city, The Crane is one of the top Gdansk things to see. A port crane has existed on the same site as The Crane since as early as 1367. At a time, it ranked as the largest crane in the world. Suffering major damage during WWII, The Crane was reconstructed and became part of the Maritime Museum.

Motlawa River Promenade (Dlugie Pobrzeze)

The promenade that follows the river at the edge of the Old Town, called Dlugie Pobrzeze, is one of the top Gdansk places to visit. Lined with restaurants and shops, the walkway provides views over the river and harbor. Several Gdansk boat tour operators dock along the promenade.

Mariacka Street

The pleasant Mariacka Street runs from St. Mary’s Basilica to St. Mary’s Gate, which leads to the river. The charming lane is lined with houses that have raised entrances and carved stonework. Many amber shops are located on Mariacka Street. If you are searching for where to go in Gdansk to buy amber products, this is your street!

Piwna Street

Running parallel to Long Street is Piwna Street. Once home to a local brewery, there are several bars and cafes located on the street that is home to some of the best Gdansk nightlife (more on Gdansk bars later in the article).

Gdansk Monuments

Throughout the Old Town there are several monuments and statues that decorate and commemorate events in Gdansk. While we wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to locate all the specific monuments, keep your eye out for these interesting ones while exploring Gdansk.

• Four Quarters Fountain: The city of Gdansk was once divided into four quarters – Wide (Szeroki), High (Wysoki), Fish (Rybacki) and Ship (Kogi). The Four Quarters Fountain is located at the point where those districts came together. Each quarter is represented by an impressive lion statue.
• Fahrenheit Monument: Daniel Fahrenheit, creator of the temperature scale, was born in Gdansk in 1686. To honor him, a glass-encased thermometer sits on Dlugi Targ (opposite the Neptune Fountain).

Ice Cream in Gdansk

Ice cream shops (called Lody) are found on every street in Gdansk – but not all ice creams are equal. We found two places that serve the best ice cream in Gdansk.

Paulo Gelateria uses recipes from the 2015 Polish Champion of Ice Cream to make unique flavored ice cream. Try the creamy and delicious avocado ice cream. Another must try – and a place we actually prefer – is Slony Karmel. Here they make their ice cream from natural ingredients. 

Lunch: Milk Bar Gdansk (Bar Mleczny)

After spending the morning discovering the best things to see in Gdansk Old Town, get your first taste of true Polish cuisine by eating at a classic Milk Bar. 

Known to be inexpensive, the generous portions of Polish dishes are served up at cafeteria-style Milk Bars. Popular during the communist era, most Milk Bars have a daily menu (usually written on a chalkboard, no translations) and little decor. The two best Milk Bars in Gdansk are Bar Turystyczny and Bar Mleczny Neptun.

Bar Turystyczny is located in the northwest section of the Old Town and has an authentic feel to it. We waited in a line that stretched out the door for platters of schawoby (fried pork chop) and placek po cygansku (an omelet filled with tender beef and covered in sauce).

Located in the heart of the Old Town in the middle of Long Street, Bar Mleczny Neptun attracts a few more tourists and charges a bit more for their meals. Still, the place still retains the classic Milk Bar appeal. In fact, we think it is one of the best restaurants in Gdansk Old Town because there is outdoor seating, which is fantastic for people watching.

Granary Island

After lunch, continue your exploration of Gdansk must-see places and head to Granary Island. Located on the opposite side of the Motlawa River east of Green Gate, Granary Island was once the commercial center of Gdansk. An entire complex of granaries were built here to store goods brought in from afar by ships.

By the 17th century, Gdansk had more than 300 granaries – and boasted the largest harbor on the Baltic Sea. However, only three buildings survived WWII and the island was left in shambles for decades, only recently getting a facelift.

Olowianka Island and Soldek

Next up on our list of Gdansk attractions is Olowianka Island. Located just north of Granary Island, Olowianka is home to the Central Maritime Museum, the Royal Granary and the Philharmonic building.

Docked in front of the National Maritime Museum is the gargantuan Soldek, the first steamship built in the Lenin Shipyards after the war. Converted into a museum, visitors a welcome to explore the ship’s interior.

Museum of the Second World War

Visiting the Museum of the Second World War is one of the top Gdansk, Poland things to do. The state-of-the-art museum details the events beginning on September 1, 1939 when Germany invaded Poland at Westerplatte.

Both interactive displays and personal items tell the story of the horrific war. The exhibits are both educational and gripping. We highly recommend renting an audio guide. 

Polish Post Office and Memorial

Continue learning about the impact of the war on Gdansk with a trip to the Post Office. Although some people may think this is one of the unusual things to do in Gdansk, WWII buffs will appreciate its place in history. 

At the same time Westerplatte was being attacked, German troops were also targeting the Polish Post Office near the Gdansk Old Town. The workers held off the Nazis for 17 hours before surrendering. In front of the post office there is a large memorial – and behind is a moving display of the workers who were captured and shot on site. 

Gradowa Hill

After a full day of history, take some time to reflect. West of the Old Town, across the railroad tracks, Gradowa Hill is part of an old fort complex. Buildings half-covered in earth display exhibits that are part of the Hewelianum Center Museum. At the north end of the park is the 50-foot-tall Millennium Cross.

Following one of the trails to the top of Gradowa provides panoramic views of Gdansk and the shipyards. It is also a fabulous place to watch the sun set on the Old Town.

Dinner: Pierogarnia Mandu Centrum

For dinner on your first of 3 days in Gdansk, eat at one of the best pierogi restaurants in Gdansk, Pierogarnia Mandu . We liked the pierogis so much, we ate here twice! The large variety of pasta dumplings (which are created by hand) can be served boiled or baked. 

Polish Craft Beer in Gdansk

With your belly full of delicious pierogis, it is time to sample some locally produced craft beer. Among the many reasons we have fallen head-over-heels for Poland is their superb production of craft beer. Gdansk has a hefty number of multitaps – aka craft beer bars.

Café Lamus, Lawendowa 8 and Pulapka: These three bars, located at the east end of the Market Hall, are what we called “Craft Beer Corner.” With sidewalk seating in front of each bar, it was clear this is a top-spot for beer lovers. 

Labeerynt Multitap Bar Gdansk Old Town: The subterranean Labeerynt Mulitap sits inconspicuously beneath Polskie Kino Pub on Szeroka Street in the Gdansk Old Town. We enjoyed our beers outdoors at one of the patio tables.

Local Gdansk Breweries : There are a few local breweries in Gdansk, like Brovarnia and Browar PG4 . From what we could tell, they stick to the traditional styles of the region – light, dark and wheat – rather than the hop-forward beers we found at the multitaps. 

Old Town Gdansk Map for Day 1

Use this Gdansk Old Town Map to find locations of our recommend sights!  

DAY 2 – Day Trip to Sopot from Gdansk

On Day 2 of your 3-day Gdansk itinerary, travel north to the resort town of Sopot on a day trip from Gdansk for some seaside fun!

Visit Sopot, Poland

The quaint seaside town of Sopot is one of Poland’s top tourist destinations. Sopot, along with Gdansk and Gdynia, are part of the Tri-City Region. With only a few ‘sights’ the real reason to visit Sopot is for the sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere.

Getting to Sopot

How to get to Sopot from Gdansk is easy! Visitors can take a Gdansk to Sopot Train from the Gdansk Main Train Station or use the Gdansk-Sopot Ferry.

Gdansk-Sopot Train

Hop on an SKM train bound for Sopot and arrive in the city in 20 minutes flat. Trains run frequently, but check the Gdansk-Sopot train timetable at the station. Tickets for the train from Gdansk to Sopot (one-way) cost about 6zl ($1.50 USD).

Boat Trip Gdansk-Sopot

Alternatively, take the Gdasnk-Sopot boat. Check the Gdansk to Sopot ferry schedule , as they only run a few of boats a day and tickets cost 85zl.

What To Do in Sopot, Poland

Once you arrive in Sopot, set off on to explore the area, then relax on the beach. Our list of Sopot attractions are listed in order of a 1-Day Sopot Itinerary to help you best plan your time.

Monciak Street

There is no Sopot Old Town, but the main pedestrian street in Sopot is Ulica Bohaterow Monte Cassino. Locals refer to it by its former name, Monciak. Strolling the length of Monciak is a must on your Sopot to-do list. Lined with restaurants, cafes and pubs, the street leads directly to Sopot’s famous pier.

Crooked House (Krzywy Domek)

Built in 2004, the Crooked House on Monciak can’t be missed. The design was inspired by a fairytale and the building is part of a shopping center – and is an interesting Sopot sightseeing attraction.

Sopot Pier 

Hands down, one of the best things to do in Sopot, Poland is walk on the pier. Dating to 1827, it ranks as the longest wooden pier in Europe – and extends a quarter of a mile into the Bay of Gdansk on the Baltic Sea. At the end there is a restaurant and marina, as well as the departure points for entertaining bay cruises. During the peak summer season, a ticket is required to access the pier.

Lunch: Fishing Harbor

Located three-quarters of a mile south of the pier on the Karlikowo Shore is the Sopot Fishing Harbor. Fishermen sail out each day in traditional Kashubian boats and return mid-day, ‘beaching’ their boats right in the sand…hopefully with a fresh catch!

Hungry visitors can order platters of fresh or smoked fish for lunch at Bar Przystań. Alternatively, walk north from the Sopot Pier to Bulaj , a popular Slow Food restaurant right on the beach.

Sopot Beaches

To the north and south of Sopot pier are miles of wide, sandy beaches. Kick off your shoes and walk with the sand between your toes, take a dip or catch some rays. The sandy beach in Sopot is a place to relax and enjoy!

When it is time for dinner, try a pizza or Polish street food. For pizza, go with Prosto (Pizza i Piwo) , where they crank out delicious pies in an easy-going atmosphere. However, for an inexpensive option, get a zapiekanki (a half baguette with ham, mushrooms, cheese and ketchup).

Polish Craft Beer in Sopot

There are a few places along Monciak that offer craft beer, but hop-heads will want to make the effort to find Konsulat Dobrego Piwa . The small, cozy bar features eight taps of craft beer and a fun beer garden.

Sopot Map for Day 2 

Use this Sopot, Poland Map to locate our recommended activities for Day 2.

Day 3 – Westerplatte and/or Oliwa and Solidarity Museum

On Day 3 of your 3 Days in Gdansk, shop, take a short day trip and then spend the afternoon at the Solidarity Museum.

Gdansk Market Hall

Start your shopping at the Market Hall – one of the top Gdansk things to see and do. Built in the late 1800s, there are three levels inside the Market Hall in Gdansk – along with an unearthed discovery of a Romanesque church.

The Green Market (fresh produce) stalls overflow onto the plaza to the south of the Market Hall (where you will also find an underground archeological museum). It’s a great place to sample local food – and to purchase items for an afternoon picnic lunch. The kabanos (Polish smoked sausages) and fresh fruit are popular picks! 

Pro Tip : Paczki, Polish donuts, are a must-eat when in Gdansk! Eat a sugary breakfast of Gdansk donuts from Stara Paczkarnia. 

Half-Day Trips from Gdansk: Westerplatte or Oliwa

The rest of your morning will be spent on what to see around Gdansk on a quick trip. Choose between one of these trips from Gdansk: Westerplatte or Oliwa.

Why Visit Westerplatte from Gdansk?

If you are visiting Gdansk to learn more about the history of WWII, then Westerplatte is where to go. The Westerplatte peninsula is known the world over as the site where World War II officially began on September 1, 1939.

When the Polish military fort on Westerplatte came under attack by Nazis, a battle ensued that lasted seven days. That 7-day resistance of the Polish soldiers, who were severely outnumbered and under-armed, gave hope and inspiration to the people of Poland.

Today, the Polish Coast Guard occupies part of the peninsula, but visitors can learn more about the events that transpired on Westerplatte in a small museum (Guardhouse Number 1). There are also informational plaques located along the well-marked route.

Sights at Westerplatte

If you make the trip from Gdansk to Westerplatte, there are a handful of other sights you won’t want to miss.

Monument to the Defenders of Westerplatte: The 82-foot-tall granite Monument to the Defenders of Westerplatte stands on a 72-foot hill.

Nowy Port Lighthouse: Dating to the late 1800s, the lighthouse (which was modeled after one on Lake Erie in Cleveland, Ohio ) was fitted with a Time Ball to aid in sailors’ navigation. However, what puts this lighthouse in the history books is that at 4:45am on September 1, 1939, Nazis fired the first shots at Westerplatte, thus beginning WW II.

Why Visit Oliwa?

Oliwa, a suburb that lies between Gdansk and Sopot, has its own fascinating history. The other reason we visited Oliwa was simply to enjoy a hike in nature.

Getting to Oliwa

How to get to Oliwa from Gdansk is just as easy as getting to Sopot. Simply hop on a train from the Gdansk Main Station. The short train ride will get you there in about 10 minutes. 

Sights at Oliwa

There are not an abundance of Oliwa attractions – but just enough to fill a few hours of sightseeing and relaxing in nature. 

Oliwa Park features tree-canopied walkways, pristinely manicured hedges, hidden gardens and colorful flowerbeds. A few museums and the Oliwa Cathedral are also part of the Oliwa Park complex.

Oliwa Cathedral

Consecrated in 1594, the Oliwa Cathedral is striking both inside and out. Upon entering, visitors can see the entire length of the church and the decorative high altar, which is made to look like heaven with angels hovering above it.

However, it is for the organ which sits over the entrance that many people visit Oliwa Cathedral. Built in the 1700s (over a period of 30 years), the organ has more than 7,800 pipes. Short 20-minute concerts are played several times daily.

Pacholek Hill

Rising to the west of Oliwa Park is Pacholek Hill. The forested area has several walking/biking trails, a few of which lead to a hill-top viewing platform that provides 360-degree views over Oliwa and out the sea.

Whether you decided to go to Westerplatte or Oliwa, find a spot with a view to enjoy the picnic you assembled from the Market Hall. Alternatively: there is a fast-food kiosk at Westerplatte and a restaurant in Oliwa Park. After your leisurely lunch, make your way back to Gdansk to spend the afternoon at the Solidarity Museum. 

Solidarity Museum 

The Solidarity Museum is one of the Gdansk top attractions – and, in our opinion, a Gdansk must see sight. The permanent exhibition at the European Solidarity Center details what led to the formation of Solidarity and its impact on Poland. 

Solidarity – or Solidarnosc – is a Polish trade union that formed in August 1980 in opposition to the working conditions at the Lenin Shipyards. The name, Solidarity became a social movement and many attribute it to the beginning of the fall of communism in 1989. 

Sitting in front of the museum is the Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers of 1970. The three soaring steel crosses stand in memory of the workers who lost their lives in the riots. 

Dinner: Pyra Bar

Load up on more Polish carbs with a final meal at Pyra Bar, a restaurant featuring incredible potato dishes. Every dish dedicated to the tuberous, starchy vegetable (in the form of casserole, potato pancake or baked potato). It may sound bland – but we can assure you, it’s not. Glorious, caloric amounts of cheese and meat are combined with potato in perfect platters of comfort food!

Piwna Street Bars

After three days of sightseeing in Gdansk, end your time at the popular Old Town bars on Piwna Street. You could even create your own pub tour in Gdansk! 

Gdansk Tourist Map

Use this Gdansk City Map to find the sights recommended for Day 3.

More Things To Do for your Trip to Gdansk

Above we outlined what to visit in Gdansk in 3 days. However, if you are still looking for ideas, we have a few more tips! 

Food Tour in Gdansk

Eating traditional Polish fare should definitely be on your Gdansk to do list. Visitors who want a guide to lead the way to the top spots should join a Gdansk Food Tour. Participants get to taste local dishes at multiple restaurants. Reserve your space!

Gdansk Cruise

One of the top things to do in Gdansk is to set sail on a Gdansk river cruise for an afternoon of fun. There are a few boats to choose from, but one of the top fun things to do in Gdansk is to spend an afternoon on the Pirate Ship Cruise.

Other Day Trips from Gdansk

We’ve already listed our favorite day trips, but there are more things to do near Gdansk. 

Visit Gdynia, Poland

Gdynia is the northern outpost of the Tri-City Region. Originating as a modest fishing village, Gdynia is now a modern seaport town. Another one of the fun things to do is to join a tour of the Region and see the highlights of Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia in one day! 

Malbork Castle

Just a train ride from Gdansk is the famous Malbork Castle. Built in the 13th century by Teutonic Knights, the Medieval structure is the largest brick castle in the world. Private tours to Malbork Castle can also be arranged. 

Getting to Gdansk, Poland

Gdansk can be reached by plane, train, bus, ferry or car. How to get to Gdansk will depend on where you are coming from and your budget. 

For our Gdansk visit, we flew from Basel via Frankfurt and departed to Helsinki , and then on to Singapore (we are JetSetting Fools, after all!).

The official name of the Gdansk Airport (GDN) is the Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport and it is located 7.5 miles from the city center.

Start your search for Gdansk flights and the best deals on airline tickets on Skyscanner .

Where To Stay in Gdansk, Poland

The best area to stay is in or near the Old Town – especially if you are planning a short trip to Gdansk. 

PURO Gdansk Stare Miasto

Located in the heart of the city, PURO is the best hotel in Gdansk for a stylish stay. The hip hotel gets rave reviews for the chic design and comfortable rooms. Check rooms for your stay!

Marina Club Hotel

A modern Gdansk hotel in the middle of the Old Town, Marina Club features clean, comfortable rooms (many with stellar city views) and rooms with kitchenettes, too. Check rates!

Stay Inn Hotel Gdansk

Stay Inn has an excellent location in the center of Gdansk Old Town. The hotel gets great reviews for the excellent staff and hot breakfast. Reserve your room!

Hotel Gdansk Boutique

An elegant, modern hotel in a historic building in the Old Town, Hotel Gdansk Boutique gets rave reviews for the exceptional breakfast and luxurious features. Check availability!

Begin your search for the perfect hotel for your trip on Booking.com !

Where to Stay in Sopot

We highly recommend staying in Sopot if it fits into your Gdansk itinerary. We spent 2 nights at the charming Villa Sedan Hotel , which was ideally located near the main pedestrian street and pier. The affordable room was clean and comfortable and the staff was super! That said, the poshest place in town is the beachfront Sofitel Grand Hotel . 

What To Pack for Gdansk, Poland

Our final hacks and advice revolve around packing for your Gdansk vacation!

Walking Shoes

Gdansk is a walkable city…but only if you have the right shoes. These are my current favorites ! Kris prefers wearing these trail shoes by Merrell for all types of walks. Read more reviews in our guide to the Best Traveling Shoes . 

Travel Camera

Gdansk is incredibly beautiful – so you’ll likely be snapping tons of photos. Rather than relying on your phone, upgrade to an actual camera for high quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel and use a 18-135mm lens .

Day Pack 

Whether you travel with a backpack or suitcase , with long days of sightseeing in Gdansk, you will want a travel day pack . It’s an ideal way to carry your camera and other essential travel items ! 

European Travel Insurance

No matter how well you plan, things go wrong. Luggage gets lost , flights are delayed or people get sick . If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your trip to Poland, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Organizing your Gdansk Itinerary 

As you begin to make your plans for a European Vacation , use a Travel Planner to stay organized!

Start planning your trip to Poland ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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21 Best Things To Do in Gdansk, The Coastal town of Poland

Gdansk was one of the first cities that I came across while researching on the best things to do in Poland.

Gdansk is the country’s gateway to the Baltic Sea.

So Gdansk is a favourite among the Polish as well as international travellers, who fly to Gdansk for a beach holiday during summer for its beaches.

In this travel guide, I’ll share with you the best things to do in Gdansk.

This exhaustive Gdansk travel guide includes some great tips, transport, tours, and many more apart from Gdansk’s attractions.

Don’t forget to book this post to plan your Gdansk trip!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GDANSK

Wander around the old town of gdansk.

When you are in a European city, checking out the old town is obviously one of the top things to do.

What’s different in the case of the old town of Gdansk is that the old town is not really old.

Gdansk was almost entirely wiped out in World War II.

So the old town was actually reconstructed to resemble the earlier buildings, which were all built in the Dutch Renaissance style because the earlier architects were from the Netherlands.

Did you know? Most of the street names in the old town of Gdansk haven’t been changed in the last 500 years or so.

Also, unlike the old towns in other cities, you’ll not find a square.

Instead, the old town area is spread between the streets, beginning at Dluga street or Long street, and extends up to Dlugi Targ or the Long Market.

On the way, you’ll pass through the majestic Town Hall and Arthur’s Hall.

I had joined a free walking tour of the old town, and the guide told us about the Royal route, which includes the Dluga street.

Encompassing many prominent buildings, it starts at Wyznna street and passes through Dlugi Targ, which ends at Brama Zielon.

I just navigated using Google maps to find the others not covered in the tour.

All the places are well-marked on the maps and you should be able to find them easily.

Here are some of the guided walking tours that you can try. There are different types of tours to explore Gdansk old town, with some including audioguides.

• Gdansk Old Town 2 Hour Walking tour
• Gdansk Old Town Private Walking Tour

Head to Stocznia Gdansk or Gdansk Shipyards

As I mentioned earlier, Gdansk was a prominent port city for more than 7 to 8 centuries.

So its legacy with shipbuilding dates back to these times when the city was just granted the privilege to trade.

Once home to more than 20,000 workers who built round the clock to build ships, Gdansk shipyards became a meeting point for those who led the Solidarity movement against communism in the late ’70s. This is really a great place to capture through your lens.

While here, don’t miss the Crane

As you pass by the shipyards, you can’t help feeling as if you have arrived in a Dutch city like Amsterdam.

With canals and Dutch-styled buildings, I instantly remembered my travels in Amsterdam a few weeks ago.

What you can’t miss amidst these elegant uniform buildings is the Crane, which sits on the Motlawa River. It stands out today due to its antique appearance.

The crane hoisted the masts of ships, along with loading them with goods.

Our guide explained the mechanism of how it worked, and I couldn’t stop being amazed by the engineering feat of medieval times.

Travel Through Time on Mariacka street

Mariacka Street is unique and special because of its layout.

As soon as you enter, you notice that all the buildings on the street are above the ground level.

The narrow, cobbled street consists of stairs consisting of 3 to 4 steps leading you into the buildings.

This elevation is an example of how the streets in Gdansk earlier existed.

Due to its damp nature and close proximity to the waterfront, much of the streets would be submerged, and hence all the buildings would be built at an elevation.

The traditional buildings stand elegantly in different bright colours, and it’s just a treat to watch such cuteness.

And if you are traveling with your partner, this is surely one of the romantic places to be in Gdansk.

Mariacka Street is known just for this. It is the centre for modern-day Amber shopping.

You’ll see shops selling amber jewellery in all shapes and sizes.

The basements of these buildings today house beautiful cafes, boutique shops and places to shop for souvenirs in Gdansk.

At the other end of the street is the impressive Mariacki Church.

Visit the Amber Museum

Called the Baltic’s Gold, Amber is a favourite among the precious stones for many. Did you know? Poland is the largest exporter of Amber in the world.

Much of the Amber comes from the Gdansk area, so obviously Gdansk Amber is too popular.

So while you are here, head to the Amber Museum to know all about it.

From furniture adorned with Amber to the antique collection, this Museum is a compact place to know about Amber. Plus, you get some pretty views of the old town from its top floor.

Amber Museum timings: 9 AM to 8 PM. Closed on Mondays Entry fee: 12 PLN

Head to St. Catherine’s Church Tower for Gdansk’s views

St. Catherine’s church is not hard to miss while you are in the old town area.

To get some fabulous views of Gdansk, climb the tower to the top. All the climb is worth it, totally.

Check out the old post office

Located next to the harbour area in central Gdansk, The old post office has a special place in History.

Officially, this is where World War II kicked off when the German troops attacked the post office in the wee hours. More than 50 Polish employees fought to protect the attack.

The building also includes a museum, which showcases the events leading up during the war and also the history of the postal service.

There is a square consisting of a statue commemorating the defenders of the post office.

Visit the World War II Museum

Opened in 2014, World War II Museum is one of the best Museums that I have visited.

I love history and hence Museums are enchanting to me, but I must say that I loved this place impartially.

You’ll be taken through the entire war period, starting from the events before the war until the many decades, where you’ll see how the World War II shaped and rewrote history for millions of people across many countries in the world forever.

There are lockers and if you have a backpack with you, you’ll need to put it in a locker.

Only small handbags are allowed. 2 PLN deposit is required for a locker.

You can keep your coats in the coat racks for free. The museum is closed on Mondays, and if you want to save some bucks, the Museum is free to visit on Tuesdays.

So it’s crowded on Tuesdays. Try to be early to collect your free pass on Tuesdays.

World War II Museum timings: Closed on Mondays. Tue-Fri: 10 AM to 7 PM; Sat-Sun: 10 AM to 8 PM. World War II Museum entry fees: Free entry on Tuesdays. Normal ticket – 23 PLN; Reduced ticket – 16 PLN; Family ticket – 55 PLN; Temporary exhibition – 1 PLN

Check out the Solidarity Museum

The people of Poland fought against communism much like their neighbours for more than 2 decades.

The Solidarity centre was built to commemorate the heroes that were responsible.

The building houses a museum, statues outside, and you can easily spend half a day here.

Solidarity Museum timings: Mon–Fri – 10 AM to 7 PM; Sat-Sun – 10 AM to 8 PM Solidarity Museum entry fees: Regular 20 PLN

Unusual Things to do in Gdansk

If you are still wondering what to see in Gdansk, here are few more Gdansk attractions that you can explore.

Visit the Library in the Solidarity Museum

If you are a bookworm like me, you could check out the library that’s present in the same building where the Solidarity Museum is located.

There aren’t many books in English, but if you speak any of the European languages, you could end up finding a good read.

Check out the Antique Gdansk Railway Station

If you don’t have detail for an eye, you could possibly pass off Gdansk railway station. But if you take a moment, you’ll notice a lot happening around this area.

First of all, the railway station is an example of ancient European architecture. Opposite it stands the bus station.

If you walk below crossing the bus station to the other extreme end, you’ll enter a local market, where you could find some old traditional eateries and cheap places to shop in Gdansk.

I enjoyed strolling around in this area, where I managed to grab something cheap to eat as well as do some shopping in Gdansk on a budget.

A quick tip: If you are traveling during Autumn or Winter, make sure to check out this neighbourhood early as many shops close around 6 PM.

Discover the vibrant murals in Zaspa

Zaspa is home to the largest outdoor art gallery in Europe, consisting of vibrant wall murals.

All of them free to see! If you want to know the legends and local stories of these murals, you can take guided tours of Zaspa neighbourhood.

Sign up for Gdansk food tour

I am sure that after spending a good time in Poland, you would most likely develop a taste for Polish food.

The best way to get into the heart of Polish food is to enroll yourself for a food tour in Gdansk.

On this guided license tour, you’ll get to savour Polish drinks, appetizers, main courses as well as desserts.

Book Gdansk Food Tour With Authentic Polish Cuisine

Eat at a Milk Bar

One of the fun things to do in Gdansk is to go Milk Bar hunting. Milk Bars are local restaurants serving delicious Polish food at very cheap prices.

The portions are massive, the taste is delicious and you pay by the weight of the food. Plus, they are home-cooked.

So basically for backpackers and budget traveler, it’s like a jackpot! And yes, there are decent options for vegetarians.

So In Gdansk, there are many Milk Bars that are worth visiting.

Some of the popular ones to try are Bar Turystyczny, Pijalnia Wódki I Piwa, Kmar Bar Mleczny, Academic Milk Bar, Syrena and Bar Mleczny Neptune.

Google them to read the reviews and locate them and start your Milk Bar hunt!

Explore the Market Hall

The Market Hall is the local market of Gdansk consisting of three levels.

Built in the 19th century, it looks anything but as an actual market.

From meat to fresh veggies, you can have a look at what the people of Gdansk eat! Visit this market for its unique build and the charm of local markets.

Enjoy the laid back Gdansk Nightlife

Gdansk is a popular destination for stags, and this came to me as a surprise.

I mean, I was expecting more happening things would lure stags, but there are quite a few things in Gdansk for stags.

One of them definitely is making the most of Gdansk’s nightlife.

Sure, it might not be loud and out as in bigger cities, but there are plenty of beer bars, pubs and restaurants for enjoying good Polish Vodka along with excellent food.

Obviously, if you are traveling alone, these places are great to find people to tag along!

Climb the Gradowa Hill

Located just outside the city walls of Gdansk, Gora Gradowa is a small hill offering different views of Gdansk.

If the weather is great, climbing this hill is a perfect thing to do in Gdansk in the evening.  

The Hewelianum Centre, a science centre is also close by.

Gdansk Itinerary

Now you got an idea about the top things to see in Gdansk, let’s look at how you can plan your itineraries to help you visit Gdansk.

How many days in Gdansk should you plan?

Ideally, I would recommend spending 3 days in Gdansk itself, excluding any day trips that is.

I mean with 2 days, you can cover the sights, but you’ll have to rush a bit. Here’s how you can plan Gdansk sightseeing on your own.

1 day in Gdansk

If you have just one day in Gdansk, you should spend the first half exploring the old town.

Try to cover these streets, all part of the Royal Route. Upland Gate (Brama Wyzynna), Golden Gate (Zlota Brama), Prison Tower and Torture Chamber (Wieza Wiezienna), Gdansk Town Hall (Rathaus), Arthur’s Court (Dwor Artusa), Long Street (Dluga), Long Market (Dlugi Targ), Neptune Fountain (Fontanna Neptuna), Green Gate.

Then you can make your way up to the shipyard, checking the crane.

End your old town tour on Mariacka street.

You could then head to the Solidarity Museum or the World War II Museum if Museums are your thing.

If you prefer going to only one, I would suggest WW II Museum.

Alternatively, you could go to Westerplatte, although you’ll have to rush if you are pressed on time.

2 days in Gdansk

Day 1: You could check out the old town and visit either of the museums.

Day 2: Take a day trip to Malbork Castle or head to Sopot for a beach day.

No matter which one you take, you’d be left with some time. You can head to the market hall or the post office in town ending your Gdansk trip.

3 days in Gdansk

Follow the above for the first 2 days.

You could use the third day to do another day trip to Gdynia, Westerplatte, Malbork or head to Oliwa, or take a Gdansk cruise.

How to get to Gdansk?

Trains : The best way to travel in Poland is through trains.

The country has good connectivity through different types of trains, which are also the cheapest way to travel within the country.

You can book the train tickets on this website .

There are four types of trains – EIP, EIC, IC and TLK, with TLK being the cheapest and also the slowest among all.

Sometimes, they do offer promotional tickets or highly discounted tickets, which are easier to get if you buy directly from the ticket office.

So if you find them online, do head to the ticket office right away to get the cheapest tickets(if you are unable to book online).

You can check for buses as well. There are a few private operators running buses between cities.

You can also fly any major city to Gdansk Airport. 

The Lech Walesa Airport in Gdansk is located about 10 km. You can take the public bus to the city from there or the local train to Gdansk Glowny.

Getting around Gdansk

Public transport is very good in Gdansk and is a very convenient way to travel.

Wishing the Tricity of Sopot, Gdynia and Gdansk, you can travel using the SKM trains.

Trams connect the main areas in Gdansk including the old town and the railway station.

There is a 60-minute ticket at 3.20 PLN regular price, which can be used in trams and buses. A 24-hour ticket costs 13 PLN.

Tickets can be bought in kiosks and ticket offices, and you need to validate them in a small yellow machine in trams, buses and before you board the train on platforms.

Note that you can’t buy a ticket from the driver in trams.

There is Uber and local cabs ply as well, within as well as around the city.

Gdansk Travel Card

If you plan to visit Gdansk for a longer duration intending to move around covering many attractions, it’s ideal to buy Gdansk travel card by Gdansk tourism.

You can get them in the central stations or sometimes in big kiosks. Gdansk tourist card offers free/discounted entry to many museums, attractions and shops.

You can top it up with transportation ticket and travel freely all over Tricity using public transportation. The cards come with a validity of 24, 72 and 120 hours.

Where to stay in Gdansk?

Where to stay in Gdansk depends on how far or close you would like to stay from the centre and of course, the budget.

The central area is near the old town, and there are many hotels in Gdansk Old town.

There are some hostels and guesthouses around Gdansk Glowny Central, which is known as Centrum. Being a compact town, it shouldn’t matter much where you stay as the connectivity is good as well.

I stayed at Old Town Hostel, which was actually not in the old town but close to it. It was cheap and clean, with a kitchen that I used to cook something basic for myself.

So If you are looking for a budget hostel, I would recommend the  Old Town Hostel .

Other good hostels in Gdansk old town are Midtown Hoste l ,  Elewator Gdańsk Hostel ,  La Guitarra Hostel,   Hostel Universus i Apartament , Grand Hoste l , World Hostel ,  4-friend Hostel , 5 Point Hostel   and High Five Hostel

Some good mid-range hotels in Gdansk are Vintage Apartment in the heart of Gdansk old town,  Motlawa Premium Apartment , Stare Miasto Gdansk ,  Awiator Modern 83, Apartment Adalbert     Euro Apartment Piwna , and Seaside

And here are some hotels with excellent location and reviews that you can check if budget is of no constraint – Loft in Old Town Gdansk ,   Alpaca Apartment Old Town with Hall,   Apartament Chleb I Wino ,  Apartment Spirit of Gdansk   and Apartment Zuraw.

So if you are still reading this, it means that you’ll be planning your trip soon. Hope this guide helps you to enjoy Gdansk!

OTHER POSTS THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO CHECK OUT

Warsaw Travel Guide – Best Things to Do in Warsaw

Wroclaw Travel Guide – Best Things to do in Wroclaw

Malbork Castle – How to plan a day trip to Malbork Castle from Gdansk

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Gdansk travel guide — the ultimate gdansk guide: best things & what to do in gdansk.

Poland has never been a popular tourist destination. But in recent years the number of visitors has increased rapidly. Who could not help but fall in love with the magnificent medieval works and buildings, the quaint and beautiful cities, the splendid old towns – the symbols of a history full of ups and downs? Traveling to Poland, just visit the capital Warsaw is not enough. Remember the hidden gem of Gdansk too! Today, I will share with you all my experiences I got during my trip to one of the most Polish famous destinations — Gdansk. So, what to do in Gdansk and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Gdansk for the first-time? Let’s check out our Gdansk travel blog with the fullest Gdansk travel guide (Gdansk guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top and best things to do in gdansk as well as suggested Gdansk itinerary 3 days 2 nights to find out the answer!

• What to do in Gdansk? — Top 10 best things to do in Gdansk
• Where to visit in Poland? 30+ best places to visit in Poland bring new Perspectives on Europe
• What to buy in Poland? — Top 13+ souvenirs & best things to buy in Poland
• What to do in Wroclaw? — 13+ cool, must see & best things to do in Wroclaw
• Wroclaw travel blog — The fullest Wroclaw travel guide for first-timers

Gdansk is a rather small port city located in the Northern Poland. This is the birthplace of the world’s first self-determination movement against the Soviet Communist regime. If you love history and culture, you should definitely not miss this city. I must say that I love this city the most in Poland. It’s even one of my favorite cities in Europe!

Gdansk travel guide: Overview of Gdansk

Gdansk is known as a beautiful port city located on the Baltic Sea coast. This place was once the first place of Poland where broke out the World War II and the Solidarity movement (The Independent Self-Governing Trade Union “Solidarity”) contributed to successfully overthrowing communism. Therefore, the modern port city of Gdansk today is often known to tourists as a symbol of a city of freedom and is also considered one of the most famous Polish tourist cities today.

Gdańsk is the main port of Poland and it has had a complicated historical period when it was invaded by many foreign powers. After the decline of the Polish royal family, this place was once occupied by the Austrians, Prussians (present-day Germans) and Russia and disappeared from the world political map for more than a century.

In the early 20th century, this place was freed by Germany, but World War II once again turned Gdansk into a fierce battlefield. It was one of the most devastated cities in Europe at that time. All houses and streets were destroyed to 90% and it took several decades for the Poles to restore them. When I went to see it, I admired the Polish people’s national pride and their will and efforts.

Gdansk, Poland is located right on the coast of the Baltic Sea, so traveling from here to Nordic countries or other Baltic countries is quite convenient. You can take a ferry from Gdánsk to Stockholm, Copenhagen… all are Okay.

Gdansk guide: How to get to Gdansk?

Gdansk has an airport. The airport’s name is Lech Walesa (GDN), named after the leader of Gdansk’s Solidarity (Polish Trade Union). Gdansk Airport is an international airport, quite modern and large, it is easy to find flights here, you can use Google Flights or Skyscanner to search suitable flights. I recommend the low-cost airline Ryanair. You can fly to Gdansk from Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Greece, Ireland, Italy, the UK, Spain, Israel, and even from the island of Malta! I flew here from Stockholm. Ticket is only about 10 euros/way. But I have to fly from Stockholm Skavsta Airport, so I had paid about 30 euros.

Getting from Gdansk airport to the city center is also very cheap and simple with direct buses. You just need to go out, take bus 210 of ZTM and go straight to Gdańsk Main Station (Gdańsk Główny). The direction of the bus is GOSCINNA direction. This bus runs every 30 minutes. On weekends, one trip every hour. The fare is 3zl (less than 1 euro). Bus tickets can be purchased at ticket vending machines at the bus stop.

Train is also an easy and cheap option if you depart from other Polish cities. This is the homepage of the Polish railway system. You can easily check the railway routes and schedules.

There are very efficient bus companies that run to Gdansk, my favorite one is Flixbus (very familiar with people who often travel in Europe) and Polski bus. Polski bus is a Polish company, running on time and efficiently.

Gdansk travel guide: Getting around Gdansk

• Bus, tram single ticket: €0.75/way.
• Ticket valid for 1 hour: €0.9 (this type of ticket can take many buses and trams. As long as you travel within 1 hour, the ticket above can only take a single trip).
• Day ticket: €3.

You can buy tickets at the ticket vending machines/kiosks or buy directly on the bus. Note that you should only buy directly when you have the right amount for the driver. They rarely have enough cash to give you back. Remember to stamp your ticket when you get on the bus.

• Students under 26 years old will receive a half discount. Remember to bring your identification (ISIC or EURO26 STUDENT card) to prove it. At many major bus stations, there will often be a red ticket vending machine. You can buy tickets here with a bank card or coins.
• Be careful with Gdasnk train stations. Not because it’s dangerous, but it’s … confusing. I was always get lost in it. The pastry shops in the stations are very cheap and delicious, please take advantage.
• Most Polish train stations do not have ticket vending machines. When you go to the place to buy, you have to queue. So, pay attention to arrange time.
• Poland does not offer ticket discounts for international students. They only offer discounts for Polish students who have a Polish student card.

Gdansk travel guide: Where to stay in Gdansk?

During my travel, I stayed at W Kamienicy’s apartment ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) for €30/night/ 2 people. I booked this room through Booking.com. I thought it was a hotel, but then I found out that it was the house of a Polish man. This guy is very kind and enthusiastic. The house is decorated very cute, comfortable and located right in the old town. This guy let us feel comfortable, so he wasn’t here for a few days when we were there. In general, renting a room is like renting an entire apartment. Not only that, the house is located right in the old town, so it is very convenient to travel, right below the house there are many restaurants. This is by far one of my favorite places to stay!

Or you can consider to stay at La Guitarra Hostel Gdansk ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

• Budget: Only about 8 – 10 euros/night/bed for dorminity of 8 people. It’s even cheaper if you choose a bed without breakfast, without tea or coffee, without wifi (I chose this bed because I have a Polish SIM card, so I don’t need the internet, and actually the receptionist still gave WiFi code to me. This bed was only… 5 euros, so cheap). Moreover, I recommend that you go out for breakfast. Polish coffee shops are everywhere, both cheap and delicious. Hotel breakfast is usually not good.
• Convenient location: It takes about 10 minutes to walk to the port or Mariacka street (bar, pub area). 15 minutes to the Long Market Square. 5 minutes walk to the World War II museum.
• Facilities: Clean bed, full heating. The room was full of guests, but the beds are not too close together, so it was not pack. There are cabinets, electronic lockers, feeling quite secure. The kitchen/common room is very large and fully equipped.
• Bathrooms are all tiny. Not very clean either. I don’t like it very much. There seems to be only one minus point. I came in the cold season, the hotel was not crowded, so it was very comfortable to stay.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Radisson Blu Hotel Gdansk ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hilton Gdansk ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• PURO Gdansk Stare Miasto ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Podewils Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Gdansk Boutique ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hampton by Hilton Gdansk Airport ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top and best hotels in Gdansk on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Gdansk travel guide: Where to go, best things to do in Gdansk, what to do in Gdansk

Old Town is one of the most famous and must visit tourist attractions. This place was carefully reconstructed after being flattened in World War II and has many similarities with other old towns in cities such as Amsterdam, Brugges, Riga… The old town is really beautiful and impressive with brilliant red tile roofs of colorful houses and buildings. This is probably one of the 3 old towns in Europe that I feel most excited about.

During World War II, Hitler began to rampage and decided to raze the old town of Gdansk. Many unique architectural works with Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles were completely destroyed during the war.

Only 37 buildings remained, but not so that the Poles were discouraged when they decided to rebuild the old town after the war. They learn and offer a lot of restoration methods to rebuild this old town. Even the study of 14th century building materials and reuse of bricks and stones from medieval constructions elsewhere to bring back here and rebuild buildings and houses in Gdansk.

Dluga Street (ul. Dluga)

The main street of the old town is Dluga Street. This is also the area with the busiest cultural and commercial activities in the city. Because of the history of trade with many countries such as Germany and Flamand (originating of the Netherlands and Belgium today), it is not difficult to realize that the architecture here is also partly influenced by these countries. Most of the buildings here have also been restored in the 20th century and are modeled after the 18th century.

Mariacka Street (Ulica Mariacka)

Gdansk’s history is associated with amber because the city thrived on the export of this luxury item throughout Europe. And the Mariacka road is a clear example of that period of great prosperity in Gdansk.

Along both sides of the street are many souvenir shops specializing in amber related items. The architecture of the buildings along the two sides of the road is also characteristic of the city with awnings that jut out into the street and are decorated very gracefully. So gentle!!

St. Mary’s Church (Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Gdańsk)

Address: Podkramarska 5, 80-834 Gdańsk, Poland Hours: 9AM–6PM/Sunday: 1–6PM

The construction of the Gothic St Mary’s Church began in the 14th century but was not completed until 140 years later. This tourist attraction is one of the largest brick churches in the world with a capacity of up to 25,000 people. Although it is massive, the interior is decorated quite simply. The church has 31 chapels, more than 30 large windows and an astronomical clock.

Artus Court Building

In the port area, the Artus Court building with the Neptune fountain is considered the second symbol of Gdansk. This famous tourist place is the most concrete proof of the port city’s heroic past.

The Artus Court building was built as a symbol of the unity of businessmen in the busy trading period of the city. In addition, the Artus Court also acts as a seat of economic law and a place to protect the interests of trade associations. The building was also completely destroyed by the Nazis after a bombing during World War II. And it was not until 1970 that this famous tourist attraction was restored based on the original old version. Today, the Art Court building is not open to visitors but only serves as a place to receive heads of states.

Other Gdansk tourist attractions

• European Solidarity Centre (Europejskie Centrum Solidarności)
• Museum of the Second World War (Muzeum II Wojny Swiatowej)
• Westerplatte port area (The military area of Westerplatte): The first place the Nazis attacked in Poland during World War II. There are quite a few buildings left after the war. There are also many records of the war shown in this area. I find it quite interesting too. Come to read to know that the Poles are extremely resilient and indomitable!

Malbork Castle

Don’t just visit Gdansk only! My motto has always been to go less with quality instead of always moving between cities. If you have taken a trip to Gdansk, you should spend half a day to visit the world’s largest brick medieval castle, Malbork.

Malbork Castle was built in the 13th century, is a trench of the Teuton Knights (Teutonic Order) – the Catholic Church of Germany. Later it became the Polish royal palace. During the Prussian dynasty, Malbork became a refuge for the people. The latter was heavily destroyed during World War II. It is now a popular UNESCO heritage site in Poland.

Private Tour of Malbork Castle from Gdansk

Malbork is about 45 minutes by train from Gdansk. Malbork Castle was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage in 1997 as the largest Gothic brick building in the world. This castle was built in the 12th century – typical of a medieval fortress.

Gdansk guide: Suggested Gdansk travel itinerary 3 days 2 nights

For me personally, self-sufficient travel to Gdansk needs about 2 full days is enough. If you still have time, visit Malbork Castle – 45 minutes by train from Gdansk.

• Day 1: Old Town — Artus Court — Dluga Street — St. Mary’s Church — Mariacka Street — Port area.
• Day 2: Westerplatte area. You just need to find the way to Westerplatter. This place is about 13km from the center of Gdansk: World War II Museum and Military museum).
• Day 3: Visit Malbork Castle if you have time.

Gdansk travel guide: What and where to eat in Gdansk

Gdansk has a fairly large Forum shopping mall located right opposite the old town. It offers a lot of food from Polish traditional cuisine to Asian cuisine or fast food. The price is also around €5 and you already have a pretty good meal.

In addition, most of the streets in the old town have a lot of restaurants. Please look at the menus outside first and then choose which restaurant is crowded to enter. The day I went, I ate at Seafood Station Restaurant , Bar & Grill and Thai Thai restaurant specializing in Thai dishes in the old town.

Also, remember to eat ice cream at Dluga Street. Ice cream costs €1.5-2 but it’s delicious!!

Gdanks guide: Traveling cost

• Hotel: €15/night
• Meals: €15-20/day
• Traveling: €3

Summary of travel costs to Gdansk is really very cheap compared to other countries. Average daily only about €40 is too good. I see a lot of visitors from Germany and Nordic countries like Finland, Sweden, Denmark come here. The price is so cheap, only half or even 1/3 compared to those countries, but traveling is too convenient.

Gdansk travel guide: Some Gdansk travel tips before you go

• The beautiful city of Gdansk is one of the most popular destinations that has emerged in recent years. So it maybe extremely crowded in the summer.
• Eating out in Gdansk is cheap and delicious. Please check out the must-try restaurants in Gdansk.
• Gdansk people in particular and Poles in general rarely speak English. Rather, many people do not know English. You should always have at least Google translate app on your phone.
• Poles will be happier if you know at least Good Morning in Polish (Dzien Dobry), and Thank you (Dzieki).
• Before coming to Gdansk, it was difficult for me to imagine what the city would be like. I think there will be similarities with Baltic countries like Lithuania or like the capital of Warsaw. But then I went to see the city is extremely beautiful, I like it very much. It is recommended that you go if you intend to travel to Poland. I went through 4 cities of Poland, my favorite is Gdansk and Zakopane. Then there is Krakow and finally the capital, Warsaw. Indeed, Poland tourism is not inferior to other European countries!
• If possible, you should go to the old town in the morning. Around 8-9am, there are still quite a few people, so taking photos on the street will be easier and more convenient. Going along Dluga Street will be a small harbor where boats dock to carrying tourists to visit. The harbor is also very beautiful. In general, for me personally, Gdanks tourism is the right standard: “wonderful, quality, cheap” !
• From the Westerpletter area to the center usually takes an hour to have a bus. You should watch the time for your departure and return to not to be miss the bus. This is also the port where you will take ferry to other countries.
• Important: Gdansk was known as Danzig under German influence. There was also a very long period of self-rule that was pro-German. But DO NOT call Gdansk as Danzig. Try to learn how to pronounce the name of this city. Or at the very least you can read it as Danzica. Because the people of Gdansk hate the name Danzig.

Gdansk guide: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Gdansk you can refer to

• Private World War II Tour of Gdansk
• Private Bike Tour of Gdansk
• Traditional Polish Food Private Tour in Gdansk
• Beer Tasting Tour in Gdansk
• Private Vodka Tasting Tour in Gdansk

Happy traveling, check out more Poland travel guide here .

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What to do in Gdansk: The only city guide you’ll need

One of Poland’s oldest cities, packed with colorful, architectural masterpieces, a center for historical treasures, lined by long white sanded beaches, and a symbol of the outbreak of the Second World War. Solidarity was born in Gdansk, the first anti-Soviet labor union. There is no arguing Gdansk is an important city, but it’s also one of the most beautiful cities in Poland. I totally fell in love with this place, and I’m sure you will too, so I put together a list of what to do in Gdansk and all the things you need to know to have a perfect stay.

There is so much to do in this wonderful corner of Poland that you could probably stay a week. But if you don’t have that long, here are the best things to do in Gdansk so you can pick your preferences and get the most of the time there.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

How to get to Gdansk

Gdansk is one of the biggest cities in Poland so it’s well commuted with the rest of the country, but there are also flights from other parts of Europe.

The airport is Gdansk Airport. Getting from the airport to Gdansk city center is easiest by SKM Train from Terminal 2 (departures) to Gdansk Wrzeszcz and change train there to the city center. You can buy tickets at the ticket machines at the train station.

The trains leave frequently and it’s much quicker than taking the bus which often stand in traffic. On the other hand, the bus takes you directly to the old town without change of vehicle.

Alternatively, you can go by taxi or download the FreeNow App which is similar to Uber. This is definitely much cheaper than regular taxis.

The main bus station in Gdansk is Gdańsk Główny (main station), where most national and international buses arrive and leave from. It takes under 10 minutes to walk to the old town, but there are taxis or you can use the FreeNow App to order a car if you have a lot of things to carry to your hotel.

Check buses and prices to Gdansk here .

Gdańsk Główny Railway Station is just behind the bus station. There are trains from all over Europe, as well as national trains going to Gdansk main station.

Check trains and prices to Gdansk here .

If you drive to Gdansk it can be worth noting that there is no such thing as free parking in the city center. It’s worth looking for a hotel with free parking if you plan on staying in the city for a few days.

Red Parking Zone: You have to pay all days between 09:00-20:00. This is the most expensive parking zone.

Blue Parking Zone: This is slightly cheaper than Red Zone and requires payment all days except public holidays from 09:00-17:00.

Green Parking Zone: Outside the city center with paying hours between 09:00-15:00.

Rent a car here .

How to get around in Gdansk

Gdansk is a walkable city and you can easily get around by foot. However, if you want to go to places near Gdansk you can either book a driver for pretty cheap or take the bus or the tram.

You can buy bus/tram tickets on vending machines or directly from the driver. Once on the bus or tram, you need to validate your ticket.

There is also an Android app you can download to buy tickets, which is called Jakdojade. You don’t need to validate your app ticket as it’s accessible through the app. You find the app here .

If you want to travel to Gdynia or Sopot, you can take the SKM Train which leaves frequently throughout the day and every 2 hours at night time.

You can buy train tickets on the machines on the train station. Make sure you validate the tickets on the platform before you board the train. There is also an app for buying train tickets, Skycash .

Best time to go to Gdansk

Gdansk is a wonderful summer escape with its astounding beaches. In June it’s normally not much rain and the Polish tourists usually don’t go before July and August. July is also said to be the rainiest month of the year.

If you don’t care too much about chilling at the beach and go swimming, the shoulder seasons in spring and autumn are beautiful to go sightseeing and not too cold.

But Gdansk also make a great winter city break in Europe as it offers so much sightseeing and is packed with museums. In winter the city usually gets temperatures around -3 to +3 degrees Celsius and occasionally it snows a little. You can read more about visiting in winter here .

Related: Places to go for Poland winter holidays

Best things to do in Gdansk

There are a lot of great things to do in Gdansk, here is a good selection of them so you can pick and choose how to spend your stay. The city you see today is mostly rebuilt after the World War Two, who practically destroyed everything Gdansk once was. That they did an amazing job rebuilding it is an understatement. The Poles turned Gdansk into easily the prettiest city in the country. So whatever you think are the best things to do in Gdansk, I’m sure you’ll enjoy its beauty.

Walk the Royal Way

During Medieval times, the Royal Way was used by kings to enter the city. It was a public event where everyone gathered to welcome the king and his men.

Today, it’s still one of the most important streets in Gdansk old town where you’ll find a lot of the most visited tourist attractions.

Walk along the charming, tall houses in Dutch style, and admire Artus Court and Neptune’s Fountain among other attractions. At the western end of this historical street, you find the Golden Gate.

Golden House

The Golden House is an important building where several of the city’s mayors have lived throughout the years. It’s decorated with statues and it’s said that the ghost of Judyta Speymann walks around the hallways whispering “Act justly”.

The Golden House was destroyed during World War Two and later rebuilt.

Tall ship river cruise

It might seem touristy and clishé, but what I remember as one of the most fun things to do in Gdansk was to ride a tall ship through the Motlawa River. It’s themed as Pirate Ship which makes it an adventure for the whole family.

You can actually take the ship to Westerplatte in the summer months, which can be a nice alternative mode of transport.

You can buy tickets on the dock next to the ships.

Climb the clock tower of the Main Town Hall

Along The Royal Way you find the Main Town Hall, recognized by its green, Gothic clock tower. This is where you’ll find the best views in Gdansk, so make sure you head there to climb up to see for yourself.

History buffs will also love Gdansk History Museum which is in the same building.

St. Mary’s Church

The most prominent landmark in Gdansk is without a doubt St. Mary’s Church, not so surprising, it’s one of the world’s largest brick churches. Located in the heart of Gdansk old town, a visit to the basilica is one of the top things to do in Gdansk.

Climb the more than 400 steps to the top of the bell tower for another spectacular view of the city. Gdansk is unique and beautiful, and it’s hard to get enough of the views of the colorful, charming houses that line up across the old town.

St. Mary’s Street (Mariacki street)

This street goes between St. Mary’s Basilica and the Motlawa River. Unique to Gdansk, when Mariacki street was rebuilt after the World War Two destruction, they used mainly debris found in the area which they puzzled together.

This charming street is packed with restaurants and cafes, and recognized for its stone terraces with broad stone staircases invading the cobblestoned street, and distinctive gargoyle rain gutters.

Prison Tower and Torture House

The Prison Tower was originally built in the 14th century as part of the city fortification. Later, it was rebuilt and used partly as courthouse, torture house, and prison. Until the middle of the 19th century it was even used for executions.

After being harmed in the Second World War, the structure was rebuilt and now houses a museum where you can learn everything about its intriguing history.

Also known as The Crane, Zuraw is a waterfront crane originally from the 15th century, and one of the most prominent landmarks in Gdansk.

The Crane has been used to transfer cargoes, raise masts on ships, and as one of the city gates, even a defense function. This was before it was destroyed under World War Two.

After the war, it was rebuilt and now it belongs to the Polish Maritime Museum.

Artus Court

Artus Court used to be a meeting place for merchants in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today it is part of Gdansk History Museum, full of stunning sculptures and paintings.

The main attraction is the tiled stove in the main hall. With its 10,64 meters, it’s the tallest one in Europe.

As so many other historical buildings in Gdansk, Artus Court was completely destroyed during World War Two and was rebuilt to the beautiful structure you see today.

Neptune’s Fountain

Neptune’s Fountain is right in front of Artus Court along the Royal Way. Originally, it was built in 1549. During World War Two, the fountain was taken apart in pieces and hidden together with other local treasures. This saved it from the massive destruction the city saw. It was returned on its place after the war and later restored in 2011-2012.

The fountain is an astounding masterpiece in a mannerist-rococo style recognized by the statue of Neptune on top.

European Solidarity Center

The European Solidarity Center is a young museum from 2014, nonetheless important to Polish history. It shows the history of the Solidarity Movement that grew in Poland in the 1980s as well as the anti-communist opposition in Europe.

The museum also encourages open discussions and debates about the issues of social justice and other relevant topics.

Sopot beach

Sopot beach is the finest in the Tri-City (Gdansk, Sopot, and Gdynia) and a visit there is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Gdansk.

Not only is it an astounding beach, but it also has Europe’s longest wooden pier with it’s 511,5 meters. This makes Sopot beach worth visiting even if you’re in Gdansk in winter .

Museum of the Second World War

One of the most popular museums in Gdansk, featuring everything on the Second World War. The museum is divided in different rooms showcasing the different stages in the war and the suffering it caused. The rooms are spread over three main sections: Road to war, The horror of war, and The long shadow of war. There is even a children’s section.

This is an extremely impactful museum where you’ll learn a lot about what happened through old photos and videos.

Book tour and tickets here .

Westerplatte

Westerplatte was the Ground Zero of the Second World War and where the first shots of the war took place in 1939. Poles recognize Westerplatte as an extremely important site representing the bravery of defending the city against Hitler.

Today, Westerplatte is memorial site and historical park where you can see ruins and shelled bunkers as well as small museums, usually only open in the high season.

This is without a doubt one of the most important places to visit in Gdansk. You can get to Westerplatte by bus no. 106 or take the tall ship along the Motlawa river.

Golden Gate

At the end of The Royal Way, Dlugi Targ, you get to the Golden Gate, an astounding Renaissance city gate.

During the Second World War, the original gate was destroyed, originally built between 1642-1644. It was restored to what you see today in 1997.

Oliwa Cathedral

Being the longest Medieval cathedral in Poland with its 107 meters, the Oliwa Cathedral is a must visit in Gdansk. The basilica dates back to the 12th century and is often considered the most beautiful in the country.

The interior is beautifully decorated with paintings from the 17th century, baroque and rococo altars, chapels, and tombs.

Yet the church is mostly known for its astounding rococo organ consisting of 7876 reed pipes! There are also 25 small, detailed angel figures decorating this wonderful instrument.

Gradowa Gora Hill

The short hike up to Gradowa Hill is definitely one of the best things to do in Gdansk if you plan to stay a few days. It’s a 46 meter high hill showcasing a 19th century fortress and lovely city views.

Gradowa Gora Hill is only a short walk from the main bus and train station.

Stutthof Concentration Camp

Only 50 kilomters outside the city, in Sztutowo, you find one of the longest active concentration camps in Poland. Not as famous as Auschwitz, the Stutthof Concentration Camp is just as strong an experience and important in both Polish and world history.

You can witness the different camps, the villa of the main commandant, as well as gas chambers and crematoriums. Some 65 000 people lost their lives in Stutthof concentration camp. These were prisoners from 28 countries, mainly people that the German army considered slowing down their takeover of the Pomerania region.

There is a memorial statue of Wiktor Tołkin, a member of the Armia Krajowa resistance that was arrested and imprisoned in Auschwitz between 1942 and 1944.

What to do in Gdansk as a responsible traveler

I hope you’ve got a good idea of what to do in Gdansk. But as always, make sure you travel responsibly and respect the locals wherever you go. Make sure you especially pay respect if you visit the concentration camp as it’s an extremely sensitive and horrific part of Polish (and European) history.

You can also bring a few zero waste items to avoid single use plastic, like a reusable water bottle, reusable coffee cup, and straw.

READ NEXT: How to spend one day in Dresden Germany

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17 Best Things To Do in Gdansk, Poland

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: June 5, 2022  - Last updated: June 9, 2022

Categories Destinations , Europe , Poland

Gdansk is an important maritime city on the Baltic coast of northern Poland. The city is steeped in rich traditions stretching back over a thousand years.

Gdansk used to be one of the wealthiest ports in the world and was a prominent member of the Hanseatic League – an ancient trading consortium that operated throughout Europe during the Middle Ages. Today Gdansk is probably the most popular long weekend destination for Scandinavians.

Many remnants of these times can be seen in the city’s architecture in its wealthy merchant buildings, in the old-fashioned cranes stationed by the river, and in granary stores on islands. 

However, this isn’t where the interesting history of Gdansk concludes. On 1 st September 1939, the city was the starting point for the Second World War, and during the 1970s and 80s, Gdansk became the central point of the Solidarity movement, which brought about the fall of Communism in Eastern Europe.

There are many museums displaying artifacts and collections from these times, so during your trip, you can weave together the stories of the city and its people over the course of centuries to the present day.

Today, Gdansk sits as the capital of the Pomerania region, aside from two further cities, known collectively as the Tri-Cities – Sopot and Gdynia, each with their own individual charms. Gdansk is home to impressive architecture, interesting museums, and walking promenades, and it has some amazing bars and restaurants for food and beer! 

Things to do in Gdansk

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Gdansk, we have included a selection of cultural and natural attractions which give an insight into this fascinating Polish city. 

Stroll Along Mariacka Street

Mariacka Street in Old Town Gdansk is one of the most beautiful areas of the city.

Tall, colorful gabled stone houses with tiny windows line the street between the river and St. Mary’s Church, plus it’s famous for its quaint shops selling amber jewelry (for which the region is famous), bars, and restaurants.

Some of the best ways to see Mariacka Street are on walking, cycling, or beer tours in Gdansk, or in the early morning or evenings when you can enjoy a romantic walk or drink, soaking up the old-world atmosphere.

Admire St. Mary’s Church Architecture

As you stroll along Mariacka Street, at the end of the street, you’ll see the impressive St. Mary’s Church – one of the largest brick churches in the world.

It’s a striking red-brick Gothic-style structure with five green spires and a tower constructed between the 14 th and 15 th centuries.

Step inside to discover ‘The Last Judgment painting by Hans Memling, see the 15 th century Gdansk astronomical clock, and climb approximately 400 steps of the church tower to gain incredible panoramic views all across the city.

Gdansk riverfront & Zuraw Gdanski

Gdansk waterfront is the perfect spot for a morning or evening stroll by the Motlawa River. The walkways are punctuated with charming, slender houses, hotels, bars, and eateries, but one structure that can’t be overlooked is the huge Gdansk Crane (Brama Zuraw), a landmark of Gdansk.

Dating to the Middle Ages, this crane was once utilized to load a cargo of up to two tonnes onto passing ships, and it pays homage to the city’s days as a member of the Hanseatic League.

See the Sights of Dlugi Targ

Dlugi Targ is also known as the ‘Long Market or long street’ in Gdansk. It’s the city’s main street, lined with colorful pastel houses, shops, alfresco dining restaurants, and museums.

Highlights include the Golden Gate, which sits at the end of the street, Neptune Fountain, and the city’s Main Town Hall, home to Gdansk History Museum (also a clock tower which has great views over Motlawa River and the city).

If you want to learn more about the economic culture of the city, head for the museum Artus Court, which was once a haven for merchants. When you’ve finished exploring, pop into a local restaurant on the street for some traditional Polish fare or a craft beer.

St. Catherine’s Church

St. Catherine’s Church is the oldest church in Gdansk, dating back to 1545 when it was a Protestant church until 1945, after which it became a Roman Catholic church.

However, the best reason to visit St. Catherine’s Church is to climb the 79m tall bell tower to get a Panoramic view over Gdansk.

Explore the Second World War Museum

Many people are unaware that the Second World War began in Gdansk when German forces attacked a Polish military base on 1 st September 1939. This fascinating museum chronicles the events and showcases exhibits dating to the time.

The building itself is a feat of engineering, designed with red brick and glass in a rhombus shape, said to reflect past, present, and future.

The 26,000 square meter building houses a permanent exhibition with over 2,000 exhibits spread over three concepts. There are collections of artifacts, fashion, propaganda, and memorabilia used by the Germans during the time.

You can learn about Poland pre-war and post-war and much more. If you have more than a passing interest in all things military, allow at least half a day to visit the museum.

Neptune’s Fountain

Neptune’s Fountain in Gdansk has become an iconic symbol of the city. The historic 17th-century Mannerist-rococo fountain takes pride in its place on Long Market in front of Artus Court Museum.

The monument of Neptune bowing his head harks back to the city’s maritime connections. Although damaged during WWII, it was renovated, and sections that were removed by German troops to delete traces of Polish heritage were once again restored to their rightful place.

Step inside Oliwa Cathedral

Although a little outside the city near Gdansk zoo, this arch cathedral is worth a visit if you are moving in this direction.

Spectacular from the outset, the exterior is flanked with two slender towers topped with spires. There’s a bell tower and Baroque portal dating to the late 1600s, and the architecture is distinctly Cisterian.

Although the cathedral doesn’t look huge from the exterior, inside, it opens up to an impressive nave and a choir organ; plus, it holds precious artworks from the Renaissance and Baroque eras, tombs of Pomeranian Dukes, and hosts regular concerts.

Visit the Golden House

Sitting resplendently on Long Market near the Neptune’s Fountains is a building that has been revered as the most ornate and beautiful in the city.

With a glistening white and gold façade, in Mannerist architecture, this narrow house was designed for the mayor of Gdansk Jan Speyman, in a Mannerist style. If you look closely, you can see several statues atop the balcony – Oedipus, Cleopatra, Achilles and there are also a number of busts of Polish dignitaries and friezes to admire.

Golden Gate

One of the most colorful parts of Gdansk is the Golden Gate which is located at the northern end of Dlugi Targ. With the Prison Tower / amber museum is located on the other side.

the old city gate dates back to 1614, but sadly the Orginal gate was restored during WW2, but it was later restored in the 1950s.

Browse the Amber Museum

The Amber Museum offers a fascinating insight into how the precious amber stone is formed and extracted in the Baltic region; it delves into the history of the amber trade routes, shows how to spot the properties of the stones, and tells how it can be used in artwork and medicines through a series of collections and multimedia presentations.

Anyone with an interest in precious gemstones or trading history will enjoy a visit to this museum.

If you are planning a trip around the Baltics, so are Curonian Spit , another great place to buy amber.

The Gdansk Amber museum is located inside the Prison Tower and Torture Chamber, which is located right behind the Golden House.

The Great Armoury

The Great Armoury of Gdansk is one of the most spectacular examples of the Dutch Renaissance in Poland. The armory was built more than 400 years ago and was badly damaged during WW2, but has since been restored to its former glory.

The armoury was the home arsenal of Gdansk until the 1800s, but these days it’s the home Gdańsk Academy Of Fine Arts, which often has art exhibitions.

Take a Polish Food Tour

Whether you love Polish food or don’t know the first thing about it, the best way to get to know the cuisine of Gdansk is on a food tour.

On a city food tour, you’ll visit places serving traditional delicacies such as Polish dumplings, cheese pastries, Baltic salmon, and cheesecake and have the opportunity to frequent some authentic, quirky places with new friends while sampling local vodka too!

Learn About Polish History at European Solidarity Centre

This museum is dedicated to the story of the Solidarity movement that took place in Gdansk during the 1970s and 80s. There are around 2,000 exhibits and 100,000 books and documents relating to the time when striking shipyard workers and citizens of the city overthrew Communism peacefully by uniting Eastern Europe. It’s an insightful and intriguing place to visit where you can begin to understand how and why the movement grew and how it ultimately concluded. Head for the rooftop viewing terrace to see what remains of the Lenin Shipyards where the whole movement started, and don’t forget to visit the Monument of the Fallen Shipyard Workers.

Enjoy the view from the Amber Sky

One of the newest attractions in Gdansk is the 50-meter tall ferries wheel that offers some amazing views over Gdansk.

Boat Trip on Motlawa River

One of the best ways to gain insight into the maritime history of Gdansk is to see the city as ancient merchants and traders did, from a replica of an old galley boat on the river!

There are sunset cruises that transport you past the city’s iconic landmarks, waterside houses, the old Gdansk shipyard, and Granary Island monuments.

You’ll get to see scenes and places that are inaccessible on foot, and if you’re short on time, it’s a perfect way to see highlights of Gdansk.

Visit Westerplatte

Westerplatte is a small peninsula at the end of the river that flows through Gdansk. And where you can ride the pirate ship to and from the old town.

Westerplatte is located at the edge of the Baltic coast on the month of Dead Vistula in the Gdansk Habour channel.

This is where the first battle of World War II started when German forces attacked Poland on 1 September 1939. The first battle of WW2 lasted for 7 days and left Westerplatte in ruins.

Today the place is a popular beach spot for locals and tourist which just want to spend a couple of hours on the beach, even tho the huge shipping cranes in the area are not too appealing.

Best Day Trips from Gdansk

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, here are a few places that are easy to reach from Gdansk by rail, bus, ferry, and car.

Jelitkowo Beach 

Jelitkowo Beach is located just 12 kilometers outside Gdansk and can be accessed easily via public transport.

This peaceful beach with fine sands is not as crowded as neighboring Sopot yet is an easy jaunt from the city for a relaxing day by the Baltic Sea. There are cycle paths and promenades, a lush park, and a few restaurants dotted around for lunch.

Sopot 

When you’ve explored Jelitkowo or relaxed on the beach for a while, continue onto Sopot. The elegant spa town is a delight with a buzzing shopping and café strip known as Monte Cassino. Visit the Crooked House and spend time in eclectic bars, which are known to attract creatives from all over the world. In Sopot, you can stroll along the pier, sample local beer or even visit the Wax Museum. The seaside town has a fabulous nightlife and dining scene too – book an overnight stay to experience all it has to offer.

Malbork Castle , The world´s largest castle

Malbork Castle is the largest castle in the world and is easy to reach by train or car due to its location just 60 kilometers southeast of Gdansk.

Its 13th century Gothic, red-brick fairytale façade set aside a river and lush pastures were constructed by the Teutonic Knights and later became the residence of Polish kings.

It is home to a fascinating museum and a whole host of interesting stories which can be discovered on an audio or guided tour. Two other castles in Europe worth visiting are Trakai Castle in Lithuania and Karlštejn Castle in the Czech Republic.

Hel Peninsula 

Around 1.5 hours from Gdansk, passing through the city of Gydnia (also worth a stop) is the scenic Hel Peninsula. This sliver of land stretching for 34 kilometers into the Baltic Sea is picturesque, with some of Europe’s best sandy beaches, forests, and dunes. Begin your journey at the Fisherman’s House in Wladyslawowo and head to the observation tower to get your bearings; then, if you’re traveling with kids, check out Ocean Park to learn about the mammals and fish of the Baltic Sea. The peninsula is a great place for walking, cycling, and sunbathing. Therefore, it’s easy to get side-tracked, but if you manage to make it to the far side of the island, the town of Hel awaits with colorful fishing boats, a Fisheries Museum, and local restaurants. It’s easy to reach Hel Peninsula via ferry from Gdansk during summer or train, which takes around 2.5 hours.

Where to Eat in Gdansk

Gdansk is filled with fabulous restaurants, cafes, and food halls catering to every budget and culinary taste. 

A recent concept of the city, Gdansk food halls are great places to find delicious, reasonably priced food with friends. Slony Spichlerz is a hip riverside spot with almost ten bars serving everything from ramen to burgers and fish. If you’re staying near Jaskowa Valley Park, Stacja food hall is offers Kashubian local cuisine – ideal if you want to try smaller dishes and lots of them!

If you enjoy pairing your food with a nautical theme, head for Gdanski Bowke, which serves local Polish meats and freshly caught Baltic salmon or visit Kubicki, the oldest restaurant in the city, serving fresh fish by the kilo and filling your bowls with traditional Polish soups. Alternatively, if it’s dumplings you seek, Pierogarnia Mandu Centrum has several different kinds to try – Polish, Asian and veggie, and vegan options! 

One of the best ways to sample Polish food and drink is on a tour. On your journey through the city, don’t forget to try the Polish pierogi, either savory with ricotta, salmon, and spinach or sweet with mouth-watering apple and cinnamon.

If you’ve tasted the cuisine of Gdansk and prefer to move on to the beer, venture to Cathead Multitap Bar. It’s a popular spot down by the river in the Old Town and serves almost 30 local and international craft beers.

Alternatively, if you find yourself near Hotel Gdansk, they have a microbrewery and restaurant inside where you can sample the best brews and even Polish goulash overlooking the water.

Where to Stay in Gdansk

Accommodation in Gdansk can be as cheap or expensive as you want it to be. There are 3, 4, and 5-star hotels in the city center and by the riverside, or you can book an Airbnb or Gdansk apartment, guest house, or hostel room! The city is pretty safe. Therefore it’s wise to find a room close to the attractions you want to visit.

The Main City is an excellent place for first-time visitors; it’s the historic center and gives you plenty of opportunities to browse cultural landmarks, and museums, including a walking tour, shop for amber and sample local food. Many 3, 4, and 5-star chain hotels are located around here.

If you’re searching for buzzing nightlife with bars and clubs in Gdansk, opt to stay in the waterfront area of Srodmiescie . There are craft breweries, rooftop wine bars, live music venues, and great restaurants. It’s just across the bridge from Neptune’s Fountain and Long Market and offers amazing views of the waterfront attractions.

Families, couples, and maritime enthusiasts may enjoy a stay at Wyspa Spicrzow , east of the Main Town. It has a suburban vibe, while historic and cultural attractions of Gdansk are still easily accessible. It’s the island where the grain houses were stationed when Gdansk was part of the Hanseatic League, and there are fabulous dining opportunities here too. Local trams operate through the area, so you can easily reach other landmarks in the city.

I’ve personally stayed at Hotel Number One bra Grano and Radisson Hotel & Suites .

Best Time to Visit Gdansk

During summer, in August, temperatures can reach up to 23-25°C in Gdansk. It’s a great time to venture outside the city, spend time in the parks on beaches, and by the river. If you do plan to visit in late July/early August, St. Dominic’s Fair takes place, and as it’s one of the largest fairs In Europe, the city becomes crowded, and finding accommodation last minute is rare.

Although it’s mainly dry in January, February, and April, it’s still cold, especially at night when temperatures can plummet way below zero, but this is a great time to visit the museums and cultural attractions on a mini-break.

Although summer months are always the best times for travel to Gdansk, if you are traveling on a budget, head to Gdansk in late spring, May, or early Autumn in September or early October to save on flights and accommodations and achieve decent weather.

Getting to Gdansk

Traveling to Gdansk, Poland, is relatively easy, especially if you’re arriving from other European countries. Many budget airlines such as Wizz, LOT Polish Airlines, and Lufthansa are among a few airlines to offer flights, which, if booked well in advance, can be super cheap. 

The main airport of Gdansk is Lech Walesa Airport, located just 16 kilometers outside the city center and easy to access via train, rental car, bus, or taxi.

Gdansk can also be reached by rail from Warsaw, Gdynia, or Sopot in Poland and other European cities. The main station is 10-minute walk from the historic center of Gdansk, but you can catch a tram, taxi, or bus to your hotel from the station.

If you are traveling from Scandinavian countries, it’s also possible to sail by ferry to Gdansk from Nynashamn, Sweden , via Polferries at certain times of the year.

If you are thinking about driving to Gdansk, Polish roads are not for the faint-hearted, therefore, only do so if you’re a skilled, experienced driver. 

Another alternative is to travel by bus from Europe or from cities in Poland to Gdansk. Bus seats are cheap, and although journeys can be longer, you do get the opportunity to see the changing landscapes and experience the country on the route.

Getting Around Gdansk

Gdansk has a well-developed transport system with a rapid train service (SKM) which links the Tri-Cities of Gdansk, Sopot, and Gdynia. These trains operate 3-4 times per hour in peak times and less frequently during the night. 

Trolleys, trams, and buses can transport you all around Gdansk (and Sopot on the same ticket,) and you can purchase the tickets from kiosks or machines with prices determined by the amount of time you need it for: ie one hour or 24-hours. 

It’s also possible to travel to Gdansk by taxi. But be sure to use Uber! Try to use one with a meter, so you know that you are being charged the correct rate or check prices prior to departure. It’s also worth noting that if you are taking a taxi outside Gdansk, drivers do charge a higher tariff when you extend the city limits.

It is possible to drive a car in Gdansk but only do so if you are used to navigating busy cities as road traffic can be quite erratic.