Colorful gabled houses festooned with opulent reliefs, gargantuan red-bricked churches with dazzling views go and reconverted U-boat factories serving up hip beats and mouthwatering food. These are but a handful of the many things to see and do in Gdansk.
The city of Gdansk is unlike any other you will visit in Poland. The eclectic mixture of architecture, laid-back locals and surprisingly good craft beer were but a few things that truly surprised me in Gdansk. That and the fact the city was completely bombed to smithereens after WWII, much like Warsaw.
The extensive rebuild has done a spectacular job of restoring the historical center of Gdansk to its former glory. We spent a wonderful two days visiting Gdansk, squeezing in as many activities and pierogis as humanely possible. I truly hope this guide helps you fall as much in love with the city as I did!
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Things to do in Gdansk: Quick Planning Guide
TOP PICKS FOR ACCOMMODATIONS
- Where we stayed: Central Hotel Gdansk
- Sustainable Pick: Apartamenty MICHEL
- Best Views: Deo Plaza Apartament
- More options: Browse all Gdansk Hotels
TOP THINGS TO DO
- Walking Tour: Private Tour (3-6 hours)
- Bike Tour: Highlights of Gdansk
- Day Trip: Malbork Castle from Gdansk
- A nice alternative: Sunset Kayak Cruise
GDANSK CARD: Planning on visiting many museums? Look into purchasing the Gdansk Card, which includes entrance to 20 museums and free public transport between Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia. We bought ours in the tourism office.
TOURISM OFFICE: Długi Targ 28/29, 80-830 Gdańsk
OFFICIAL TOURISM WEBSITE: Visit Gdansk
MORE RESOURCES: Read all my guides for Poland
Is Gdansk Poland Worth Visiting
Wholeheartedly: YES! Gdansk contains many multitudes.
The beguiling historical center (Main Town Gdansk) is a patchwork of magnificent townhouses, festooned with ornate reliefs, colorful murals and dainty statues. Most of the images you will have seen of Gdansk will be of the picture-perfect Main Town Gdansk (not to be confused with Old Town). It reminded me a lot of Bruges back home.
Old Town Gdansk is a sea of red brick buildings, with at its heart the austere St. Catherine’s Church. This part of the city is quieter, more residential yet equally worth taking a stroll around.
Further afield stand the silent iron giants of the Gdansk Shipyards, the birthplace of the Solidarity Movement and until very recently rather dilapidated. It is however undergoing a true revival with old warehouses being patched up and turned into hip foodmarkets and bars, not unlike the revival that is ongoing in the industrial Polish city of Lodz.
GOOD TO KNOW | Most of the museums in Gdansk are free of charge on Monday.
15 Activities in Gdansk
We spent two full days traipsing through the cobblestoned streets of colorful Gdansk. In practice, this meant we had to make a few hard choices on the places-to-visit front. A couple of interesting places in Gdansk we did not get to explore are mentioned in the following section of this article.
On our second day, we had a local guide take us through Main Town of Gdansk and the Shipyards. Personally, I found this immensely helpful to better understand the city. The history of the Gdansk is complex and at times a bit of a minefield.
WHY TAKE A TOUR | Each of the museums in Gdansk tells a part of the story, our local guide helped put the pieces of the puzzle together. We did a private guided walking tour for 4 hours, alternatively take a guided bike tour which is more affordable and covers more ground.
1. Get lost in Gdansk Main Town
If cookie-cutter houses is what you are after, make a beeline for Main Town with at its heart the Royal Way, running from Brama Wyżynna (Upland Gate) to Zielona Brama (Green Gate). If you have seen any images of Gdansk floating around the internet, they will have been taken in Main Town. Not to be confused with Bruges in Belgium, although the resemblance is striking!
BEST THINGS TO SEE IN GDANSK MAIN TOWN
As you amble along Długi Targ you might very well question if you have somehow been transported to Amsterdam instead of Gdansk. As early as the 13th century Gdansk had very close trading relations with Brugge, Antwerp and later on northern Netherlands.
The 15th and 16th centuries saw a large influx of Dutch settlers fleeing the Spanish Inquisition and settling down in liberal Gdansk. With them came architecture, craftsmanship and a host of additional new skills including the accidental recipe for Goldwasser or Gold Voda.
- Długi Targ (Long Market): Undeniably one of the prettiest Gdansk attractions! Highlights include Gdansk Main City Hall, Neptunes Fountain, Artus Court and the Zielona Brama (Green Gate). This is also where you will find the main tourist office for the city.
- Ulica Długa (Long Street): Long street starts at Brama Wyżynna (Upland Gate) and spills out into the Long Market. Along the way you will see the Golden Gate, Uphagen House, Bar Mleczny Neptun (a touristy Milk Bar) and the Gdansk Main City Hall.
- Green Gate: The Renaissance Green Gate stands at the very end of the long market. It dates back to the 16th century and served as the formal residence for Polish monarchs, though none ever stayed.
- Great Armory: A working arsenal until the 19th century, this magnificent 17th-century building is Renaissance architecture at its best. These days it houses an art gallery with fickle opening hours.
GET THE FULL PICTURE | We did a private guided walking tour for 4 hours and loved it. Alternatively, jump on a guided bike tour which is more affordable and covers more ground.
2. Visit the Gdansk Main Town Hall – Museum of Gdansk
At the entrance of Długi Targ (Long Market) stands an impressive Gothic-Renaissance, red-bricked clocktower. The oldest parts of this beautiful building date back to the 14th century, though the intricate Renaissance style seen today is thanks to the renovation and expansion works undertaken in the 16th century after a fire.
These days the Main Town Hall houses the History Museum of Gdansk. The most impressive room is the grand Council Chamber adorned with intricate woodwork narrating the city’s history.
On the third floor, the museum houses an interesting exhibit on the 20th century, including heartwrenching images of the city in the wake of WWII as well as life under communism. This is also where you will find the stairs that lead to the rooftop.
FARES | 23 PLN (5.7 USD), Free on Monday – Included in the Gdansk Card
OPENING HOURS | Tuesday to Sunday 10.00 am to 06.00 pm; Monday 12.00 pm to 06.00 pm
PAYMENT | (Credit) card or cash
VIEWPOINT GDANSK MAIN TOWN HALL: During the summer months, the rooftop of the Gdansk Main Town Hall is open for tourists to visit. However, the viewpoint requires an additional fee (12 PLN/ 3 USD). The viewpoint can be visited independently from the museum, tickets can be bought at the entrance of the museum.
3. Delve Into Polish Cuisine
One of the pleasures of traveling to Poland is savoring the delicious cuisine. There is no denying the fact meat plays an important role in traditional Polish cuisine. That being said, there are plenty of alternatives for vegetarians.
The undisputed hero of Polish food is Pierogis. Small balls of dough stuffed with savory or sweet fillings and positively bursting with flavor. Common fillings include mashed potatoes, cheese, meat, mushrooms and fruits – not all at once obviously! The best Pierogis in Gdansk are to be found in Pierogarnia Mandu
Other dishes to try are potato pancakes, rosół and zurek (soups, not vegetarian friendly), Mizeria (cucumber salad), Gołąbki (cabbage leaves stuffed with meat). Wash your meal down with some locally brewed Gdansk beer.
FOODIE TIP | A locally good value/money 4-hour food tour is available and provides you with 18 different foods to taste in 5 venues around the city.
4. Visit the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin
When visiting Gdansk, it is simply impossible to get lost. The towering spire of St. Mary’s can be seen from virtually any angle. This gargantuan 14th-century basilica is in fact the largest Gothic brick church in the world.
Like most of Gdansk, the basilica was severely damaged in WWII. With a burnt-out roof, collapsed ceiling, and ripped-up floor, precious little was left of the once impressive basilica. As you walk inside there is no denying it feels rather austere with the large whitewashed walls.
The view from the top of the Basilica, however, is the polar opposite. With 360° views over Historic Gdansk, it is well worth the 400-stair hike up. The first few hundred stairs take you through a narrow spiral staircase, which gives way to a larger – less claustrophobic – staircase all the way to the top.
FARES | Cathedral (free), rooftop 15 PLN (3.7 USD)
OPENING HOURS | Monday to Saturday 09.00 am – 06.00 pm; Sunday 01.00 pm – 06.00 pm
PAYMENT | Cash or (credit) card
5. Stroll Around the Motlawa River Embankment
Many of the highlights of Gdansk can be found along the Motlawa River Embankment. What struck me was the contrast between both sides of the embankment. Both have been completely rebuilt after WWII, the side leading into Main Town is lined with characteristic colorful bricked gabled houses, while the opposite embankment is architecturally a lot more 21st century.
Recommended Route: Walk out of the green gate and cross the Zielony Most (Green Bridge), walk in the direction of Zwodzony most Stągiewny, cross the bridge and walk to Most Kamieniarski (Kamieniarski Bridge) and finally head to Kładka zwodzona na Ołowiankę (Footbridge to Olowianka).
This two km (1.2 mi) route will take you past some of the prettiest buildings in Gdansk. Things to do on route include popping into the National Maritime Museum in Gdańsk, taking a picture from St. Mary’s Gate, marveling at the 15th-century, gargantuan wooden crane and the granaries.
During the summer months, the ferris wheel Amber Sky takes up visitors during a 15-minute ride (25 PLN, discounts possible upon presenting the Gdansk Card).
TAKE TO THE WATER | There is no better way to marvel at the architecture lining the Motlawa River than from the water. Multiple options are available: Tour in a historical Polish boat, kayak, catamaran tour
6. Browse Antique Stores on Mariacka Lane
The combination of cobblestone, tightly packed gabled houses, iron wrought guardrails and little antique stores looked straight out of Amsterdam. The influence of the Dutch architecture is unmistakable throughout Old Town and Main Town Gdansk but is particularly present in this one little street.
Mariacka Lane was one of my favorite places to see in Gdansk. We visited in the early hours right after sunset and basked in the peaceful environment, when we came back in the early afternoon it was absolutely choc-a-bloc with amber vendors and flocks of eager tourists. The former, utterly charming, the latter anything but.
BEFORE YOU BUY AMBER | There is a lot of colored plastic being pawned off as amber. Official amber retailers have a certificate issued by the Polish government. Upon purchasing a piece of amber, you should receive a small, official, certificate of authenticity. Before purchasing anything, make sure to check both these certificates to make sure you are getting “the real deal”.
7. Head inside Artus Court
No Gdansk guide is complete without mentioning the famous Artus Court. This beautiful 14th-century Gothic-Renaissance, light blue gem was named after King Arthur and served as a meeting place for merchants, dignitaries, and artisans, fostering trade relations and cultural exchange.
During the heyday of the Hanseatic League, the main hall was filled with long wooden benches. Each guild appropriated one of these benches and fellow guildmembers would converge here, over a pint of Gdansk beer, to discuss business.
Today, Artus Court serves as a museum, showcasing Gdansk’s history, culture, and craftsmanship. I particularly liked exploring the interior, the images of bombed-out Gdansk right after WWII at the end of the exhibit are equally also worth seeing.
FARES | 23 PLN (5.7 USD), Free on Monday – Included in the Gdansk Card
OPENING HOURS | Tuesday to Sunday 10.00 am to 06.00 pm; Monday 12.00 pm to 06.00 pm
PAYMENT | (Credit) card or cash
8. Go Shopping at a Local Food Market
Exploring a local food market is one of the many fun things to do in Gdansk. Head to Hala Targowa in Main Town which has held a municipal market since 1881! Surprisingly this Gothic brick building was left almost entirely intact after WWII.
Back in the day, one could find just about everything inside, these days it feels rather like a mall that has seen better days. The basement holds a small archaeological museum, with a few pictures and ruins found during excavation works.
Ironically, fruit and vegetable vendors line Dominican Square, surrounding the Market Hall as opposed to being inside the hall. Here you will find the very best fresh fruit in the city (cash payment only). Personally, I found this section much more interesting to walk through than the actual Market Hall.
9. Peek inside the Uphagen House
There are no shortage of interesting places in Gdansk, the Uphagen House was most definitely one of them We stumbled upon the Uphage House Museum completely by accident as it has one of the most intricate doors on Ulica Długa (Long Street).
Built in the mid-18th century, this townhouse belonged to Johann Uphagen, a prominent merchant and art collector. Architecturally, the Uphagen House showcases a mix of Baroque and Rococo styles. Inside, the house boasts lavishly decorated rooms and period furniture reflecting the affluent lifestyle of the time
FARES | 23 PLN (5.7 USD), Free on Monday – Included in the Gdansk Card
OPENING HOURS | Tuesday to Sunday 10.00 am to 06.00 pm; Monday 12.00 pm to 06.00 pm
PAYMENT | Cash or (credit) card
10. Check Out the up and Coming Shipyards Neighborhood
It seems like all the very cool and artsy stuff to do in Gdansk is slowly but surely making its way over to the Shipyards. This poster child for the Polish Revolution is getting a second lease on life as developers and city activists come in and breathe new life into the abandoned warehouses and factories.
Grab a bite to eat in the Motownia Food Hall, where U-boats used to be stored. Take part in the many cultural events in and around Ulica Elektryków (Electricians’ Street). Here you will find the famous B90 hall, once brimming with workers assembling tankers now a large concert hall.
Next door 100cznia has transformed empty shipping containers into the quintessential artists’ village, with pop-up restaurants, a municipal garden and little shops selling vintage items. The vibe is laid-back, inclusive and I love their focus on sustainability!
GETTING THERE | 10-min tram ride from Main Town Gdansk (Tram 8). Get off at stop Stocznia SKM 01
11. Head into the Museum of the Second World War
The idea behind the Museum of the Second World War is to chronicle the war’s origins, atrocities and aftermath through a human lens e.g. delving into the lives of civilians, soldiers, and resistance fighters, highlighting human experiences amid the turmoil.
It is comprehensive, contains interactive exhibits that transport you right to trenches and leave you slightly reeling afterward. It is worth popping in, but only if you have a bit of extra time on your hands. In full transparency, we opted not to visit as the narrative of the exhibition is a bit too warped.
FARES | 29 PLN (7.2 USD), Free on Tuesday – Included in the Gdansk Card
OPENING HOURS | Tuesday to Sunday 10.00 am to 08.00 pm; Monday closed
PAYMENT | (Credit) card or cash
LEARN MORE ABOUT WW II | If you are a real fan of WWII book yourself a 2-hour private tour which includes skip-the-line tickets to the WWII museum.
12. Visit the Polish Post Office Museum
What to do in Gdansk when you have seen most of the sights? Head north to the old Post Office. This red brick building was attacked by Nazi Police at the very same time Westerplatte was under siege, in effect making it one of the starting points of WWII.
Outside a large chrome tree-like statue commemorates the heroic defenders of the post office, who managed to hold out against a sizeable attack force for a whopping 17 hours. Walk further around the building to find a picture of the captured employees, right before they were executed.
Inside exhibits showcase the communication methods employed during the siege, meticulously recreated interiors, multimedia presentations, and a collection of artifacts and documents that bring the past to life.
FARES | 15 PLN (3.5 USD), Free on Monday
OPENING HOURS | Monday – Sunday 10.00 am – 04.00 pm – closed on Tuesday
LEARN MORE ABOUT WW II | If you are a real fan of WWII book yourself a 2-hour private tour which includes skip-the-line tickets to the WWII museum. The extended version of this tour also includes the Polish Post Office Museum.
13. Catch Sunset at Gradowa Hill
Do as the locals do and head to Gradowa Hill to catch sunset over Gdansk. Things to do before you go are to purchase a nice cold beer, and a few snacks before you make the hike up. From the Gdansk Glowny train station, it is a short 10-minute walk.
Simply type in Góra Gradowa or Krzyż Milenijny (the large cross at the very top of the hill, from where you have the best views). We ended up following the throngs of locals who made their way of the little hill with their snacks in hand.
From Krzyż Milenijny a little path runs past a few stone hobbit-hole-like houses and ultimately to a viewpoint called Punkt widokowy na Górze Gradowej. This second viewpoint offers an unimpeded view of St. Mary’s Basilica, although you will need a zoom lens to capture it.
14. Visit the European Solidarity Museum
A visit to the European Solidarity Museum is an absolute must when visiting Gdansk. This is quite literally where history was made, or in less poetic terms, where the Solidarity movement was born.
It started with the shipyard uprising, ignited by labor strikes in 1970. The tragic events fueled demands for better working conditions and freedom of expression. However, it was the Solidarity movement, born in the Shipyards in 1980, that became a symbol of resistance against totalitarianism.
Led by Lech Walesa, it united workers, intellectuals, and citizens, advocating for workers’ rights, democracy, and social change. It sparked a revolution that eventually led to the dismantlement of the Iron Curtain. All this, and more is covered in the interactive exhibits spread out across the three floors of the museum.
FARES | 30 PLN (7.5 USD), Free on Monday – Included in the Gdansk Card
OPENING HOURS | Monday to Sunday 10.00 am – 07.00 pm (during weekdays from October to April the museum closes at 5.00 pm). Closed on Tuesday
LOCATION | 10 minutes walk from Gdansk Glowny train station.
TAKE A TOUR | If you are interested in Poland under communism there is the possibility to take a private tour (duration 2-4 hours) which also includes skip-the-line tickets to the European Solidarity Museum. Though slightly pricy, it comes with stellar reviews! Check pricing.
15. Learn about WWII in Westerplatte
Westerplatte is a very popular Gdansk tourist attraction for those interested in WWII history. This peninsula witnessed the first shots of the war on September 1, 1939, when German forces attacked the Polish garrison stationed there. The monument of the Defenders of the Coast stands as a tribute to the valor of the Polish defenders.
The peninsula is now a historical park and memorial site which houses the monument of the Defenders of the Coast, shelled bunkers and a seasonal museum Guardhouse Number 1 – entrance to which is included in the Gdansk Card.
GETTING THERE | Many tourists take the 45-minute cruise aboard the pirate ship which departs from Dlugie Pobrzeze (tickets can be bought onboard, 50 PLN (12 USD) /one way). Alternatively, hop on bus nr 138 or 106 from the city center (bus stop “Dworzec Glowny” or “Brama Wyzynna”)
Additional places to visit in Gdansk
While the above list contains the most well-known Gdansk attractions, below you will find a handful of additional places to visit, time permitting of course.
OLIWSKI PARK: A 10-hectare park located on the outskirts of Gdansk. Includes a Japanese botanical garden, whispering caves a little waterfall and a stately manor known as the Abbots’ Palace (not open to the public).
THE GREAT ARMOURY: A working arsenal until the 19th century, this magnificent 17th-century building is Renaissance architecture at its best. These days it houses an art gallery with fickle opening hours.
Address: Targ Węglowy 6, 80-836 Gdańsk, Poland
AMBER MUSEUM: Gdansk is the amber capital of the world and this museum is dedicated to explaining just exactly how that came to pass, as well as the very origins of amber and how it was used both in the past and the present.
Address: ul. Wielkie Mlyny 16// Ticket price: 20 PLN/5 USD), free entrance on Monday
Brief History of Gdansk
Upon researching the history of Gdansk, the first word that springs to mind is without a doubt turbulent. This was further confirmed after I posted a series of videos on Social Media, showcasing the prettiest spots in town. Little did I know they would attract an inordinate amount of comments, which had nothing to do with the city’s beauty but more about its history.
Now for the hairy part: Gdansk was under the rule of Poland, the Teutonic Order and Prussia ( the city was called Danzig during this period); between WWI and WWII it was known as the Free City of Danzig; annexed by Germany in 1939 and one of the earliest starting points of WWII; the birthplace of the Solidarity movement, which bought the cold war to an end.
Despite Gdansk Old Town being virtually entirely demolished in WWII, portions of it have been beautifully rebuilt with a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
READ MORE | I have purposely kept the history portion short, delve into the nitty gritty on the official tourism website of Gdansk.
Where to stay in Gdansk
RECOMMENDATION: Central Hotel Gdansk ($$)
If you are traveling by train, there simply is no better location than Central Hotel Gdansk. Add to that incredibly plush beds, a great breakfast spread, and spacious rooms. The fact it also houses a craft brewery was a plus for us!
SUSTAINABLE PICK: Boutique Hotel Michel ($$)
A locally run boutique hotel that comes with spacious rooms, and unbeatable views while being located right along the Motlwa embankment. Visitors particularly love the cleanliness as well as the friendly service.
BEST VIEWS: Deo Plaza Apartament ($$$)
The apartments with the very best view over the Motlwa embankment. Conveniently located 400 meters from Main Town Gdansk. Great breakfast spread available as well as an on site pool!
Best Viewpoints in Gdansk
BASILICA OF SAINT MARY OF THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN: While the Basilica itself was underwhelming, clambering up to the roof is an absolute must-do in Gdansk. Offers sweeping views over the Długi Targ (Long Market) and Ulica Długa (Long Street). Requires walking up 400 stairs and is the highest viewpoint in Gdansk. Entrance Fee 15 PLN (3.7 USD).
GDANSK MAIN CITY HALL: The absolute best viewpoint in Gdansk for me. The rooftop requires an additional ticket and can be visited separately from the museum. Offers some spectacular views over the Basilica of Saint Mary and Ulica Długa. Requires walking up 11 floors and is not suitable for wheelchair users. Entrance Fee 12 PLN (3 USD).
SOLIDARITY MUSEUM: After visiting the Solidarity Museum make sure to head to the very top of the building. Here you are greeted with a little garden and good views over the Shipyards. The elevator reaches up to the top floor, accessible for visitors with limited mobility. Entrance Fee 30 PLN (7.5 USD).
GRADOWA HILL: Great spot to come and watch the sunset as you can see both the Shipyards as well as a portion of Old Town Gdansk.
Where to eat and drink in Gdansk
Polish cuisine is fingerlicking good. Yes, even for vegetarians this meat-heavy cuisine has plenty to offer. These were a few of my favorite restaurants, which had a good selection of vegetarian-friendly dishes on their menu.
CANIS: A more upscale restaurant ($$) serving a wide variety of dishes, mainly with local ingredients. Set in a very cozy setting, with live music in the evening. Menu changes seasonally. Offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
BROWAR PG4: Set in a historic brewery, this craft beer brewery is located right next to the Gdansk Glowny Train Station. Try the oldest beer in Gdansk (JOPEN beer dating back to the 15th century) or one of the six other PG4 craft beers. Check out the menu before going. Serves Polish cuisine both vegetarian and non-vegetarian.
GDAŃSKI BOWKE: My personal favorite restaurant. Despite the fact the vegetarian options are limited (check the menu), they offer diners a great feel for traditional Polish Cuisine. I had some of the best Pierogis of the entire trip here. The location and service were also unbeatable
MANNA68: A very cozy vegan restaurant in the heart of Old Town. Serves both international and Polish cuisine and is the absolute perfect place for a spot of lunch. Browse the menu.
MOTOWNIA FOOD HALL: We unfortunately did not have time to visit this food hall but it sounds too good not to share. Located in the historical Shipyards in a warehouse that once was used to build U-boats during WWII. Serves a wide variety of international cuisines. Check out the options before you go.
Things to Do in Gdansk at Night
As the sun starts to set, and the amber glow of the city lights spreads across the cobblestoned streets, the city takes on a life of its own. From bar hopping across the many, many quaint watering holes to embarking on a sunset kayak tour, Gdansk is anything but boring.
BAR HOPPING: There are a lot of very cool bars in Gdansk worth popping into. These were a few of my favorites: Red Light Pub (cozy vibes), Café Absinthe (bohemian, night on the town), U Szoka (brewpub), Pijalnia Wodki (vodka bar), Browar PG4 (local craft brewery). Alternatively, head a little further out towards the Shipyards and check out Mielżyński Gdańsk (winebar)
SUNSET CRUISE: As the day starts to draw to a close, hop on a small 12-seater boat and glide on the Motla river along the historic Shipyards, through Old Town and past the Teutonic Castle, the famous 15th-century crane, St Mary’s Gate and the Green Gate. Duration 1h30 – Check pricing and availability.
KEEP IN MIND | I do feel it important to note that nightlife in Gdansk tends to go on until the wee hours of the morning. We strolled through the city at 04.30 am on our way to shoot pictures at sunrise and ran into our fair share of highly intoxicated male tourists. While not dangerous in the slightest, it was slightly unnerving and I was grateful not to be out taking pictures on my own.
Travel Tips Visiting Gdansk
What is Gdansk Famous For
Gdansk is famous for its ambers, beautifully restored main town, the birthplace of the solidarity movement and the place where WWII unofficially started.
Best Time to Visit Gdansk
We explored Gdansk end of June and truth be told, it was already rather busy. I would not want to be fighting throngs of tourists in July and August. The small cobblestone streets are simply not made to hold a large influx of snap-happy visitors.
As with most destinations, the sweet spot is probably the end of May/beginning of June or late September. The average temperature at both times of year hovers between 13°C (55°F) and 18°C (64°F) so make sure to bring warm clothes.
Is Gdansk Expensive
That depends on your point of reference. As a Belgian, I found Gdansk relatively inexpensive. Expect to pay anywhere between 40 PLN (9.8 USD) and 100 PLN (25 USD).
How Many Days Do I Need in Gdansk
In order to properly take in the city, I would recommend spending at least two nights and two to three days in Gdansk itself, followed by one or two days for day trips from Gdansk. At first glance, Gdansk might seem small, but there is a surprising amount of things to see, viewpoints to explore and history to soak up.
How to get to Gdansk
It might not be the most scenic train journey in Europe, but we ended up taking the train from Brussels, via Berlin, to Gdansk. It took 36 hours, but it was very straightforward.
Day Trips From Gdansk
Malbork Castle
Malbork Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Poland. It is the largest brick medieval fortress in the world! Built by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century, it served as their headquarters and a stronghold against invaders. Today, it stands as an architectural marvel and a testament to Europe’s medieval heritage. It is one of the most popular day trips from Gdansk and tends to get very busy in Summer.
GETTING THERE | Take a tour from Gdansk or alternatively take a 30-minute train ride. Check your schedule and book tickets online via Omio.
TICKET PRICE | Purchase online
Sopot
The seaside town of Sopot has a history as a spa destination dating back to the 19th century. Today, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. Stroll along the iconic wooden pier, enjoy the vibrant beach scene, explore charming streets, and indulge in the town’s renowned spas, making it a delightful coastal getaway.
GETTING THERE | Take a 15-minute train ride from Gdansk. Check schedule and book tickets via Omio.
READ MORE | We spent two-days in Sopot, my travel partner Brigitta wrote a guide to Sopot.
Gdynia
Gdynia was once a small fishing village. Fast forward to the 20th century and it became one of the largest ports in Poland. Located a mere 25 km (16 mi) from Gdansk it was built to compete with Gdansk and was known as the so-called “Polish outside window”.
Explore the historic Gdynia Harbor, visit the Naval Museum, enjoy modern entertainment at the city’s beaches and bustling waterfront, capturing the spirit of maritime heritage and contemporary leisure.
GETTING THERE | Take a 25-minute train ride from Gdansk. Check schedule and book tickets via Omio
Final Thoughts on Visiting Gdansk
With an endless list of things to do in Gdansk, this picture-perfect city will have you scrambling to book a second visit – while you are still enjoying your first. Be it the colorful houses, fragrant food, or the calming walks along the Motlawa river embankment, be prepared to be dazzled.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING POLAND
WARSAW: How to spend a sustainable weekend in Warsaw
LODZ: Things to do in Lodz, Poland
KRAKOW: 10 Quaint Cafes in Krakow
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