Day 1: Old Town and Westerplatte
Begin your trip by exploring the historic Old Town of Gdansk. Start at the famous Golden Gate, one of the main entrances to the Old Town. Walk down the Royal Way, a beautiful street lined with colorful buildings and historic landmarks such as the Neptune Fountain, the Artus Court, and the Town Hall. Make sure to visit St. Mary’s Church, the largest brick church in the world.
Afterward, take a stroll along the Motlawa River and visit the Crane, a medieval port crane and one of Gdansk’s most iconic landmarks. Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants along the riverbank, such as Restauracja Kresowa or Karczma Polska. Don’t forget to try the famous pierogi, a Polish dumpling filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
In the afternoon, take a trip to Westerplatte, a peninsula located at the entrance to the port of Gdansk. This was the site of the first battle of World War II, and you can visit the Westerplatte Monument to pay your respects. The area is also a beautiful nature reserve with scenic views of the Baltic Sea.
End your day with dinner at Restauracja Kubicki, a traditional Polish restaurant located in a historic building in the Old Town.
Route:
- Golden Gate
- Royal Way
- Neptune Fountain
- Artus Court
- Town Hall
- St. Mary’s Church
- Motlawa River
- The Crane
- Westerplatte
Where to Stay:
For a luxurious stay, book a room at the Radisson Blu Hotel Gdansk. For a budget-friendly option, check out the Hostel Cycle On or the Stay Inn Hotel.
Where to Eat:
- Restauracja Kresowa
- Karczma Polska
- Restauracja Kubicki
Day 2: Sopot and Gdynia
On your second day, take a trip to the neighboring cities of Sopot and Gdynia. Start your day in Sopot, a resort town located on the coast of the Baltic Sea. Take a walk along the pier, the longest wooden pier in Europe, and enjoy the stunning views of the sea. Visit the Crooked House, a unique building that looks like it’s melting.
Next, head to Gdynia, a port city known for its modern architecture and beautiful beaches. Visit the Museum of the City of Gdynia to learn about the city’s history and culture. Take a walk along the seaside promenade and enjoy the fresh sea air.
End your day with dinner at Pstrag Gdanski, a seafood restaurant located in the heart of Gdansk.
Route:
- Sopot Pier
- Crooked House
- Museum of the City of Gdynia
- Seaside Promenade
Where to Stay:
If you want to stay in Sopot, check out the Sheraton Sopot Hotel or the Hotel Rezydent. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at the Hostel Fisherman’s House. In Gdynia, the Courtyard by Marriott Gdynia Waterfront is a great option for a comfortable stay.
Where to Eat:
- Pstrag Gdanski
Day 3: Oliwa Cathedral and European Solidarity Center
On your final day in Gdansk, start with a visit to the Oliwa Cathedral, a stunning 12th-century church located in the Oliwa district of Gdansk. Admire the beautiful baroque architecture and the impressive organ with over 7,000 pipes.
Next, head to the European Solidarity Center, a museum and cultural center dedicated to the history of the Solidarity movement, a Polish trade union that played a key role in the fall of communism in Europe. The center features interactive exhibits and displays, as well as a library and archives.
End your trip with lunch at Zielony Kontrabas, a cozy restaurant located in the heart of Gdansk. Try the traditional Polish dish of bigos, a stew made with sauerkraut, meat, and spices.
Route:
- Oliwa Cathedral
- European Solidarity Center
Where to Stay:
If you want to stay near the Oliwa Cathedral, check out the Hotel Olivia or the Dwór Oliwski City Hotel & SPA. For a more central location, the Hotel Hanza is a great option.
Where to Eat:
- Zielony Kontrabas
Travel Tips for Gdansk, Poland
- Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes as the Old Town and other historic areas of Gdansk are best explored on foot.
- Try the local cuisine, especially pierogi and bigos, and visit the markets to try traditional Polish snacks such as kabanosy, a type of sausage.
- Visit during the summer months to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities, but be aware that this is also the peak tourist season.
- Consider taking a free walking tour of the city to learn more about its history and culture. Check out the Free Walking Tour Gdansk or the Gdansk Free Walking Tour.
- Make sure to exchange your currency for Polish zloty before arriving in Gdansk as many places do not accept foreign currency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gdansk a safe city to travel to?
Yes, Gdansk is generally a safe city to travel to. However, as with any city, it’s important to take precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
What language is spoken in Gdansk?
The official language of Poland is Polish, but many people in Gdansk speak English, especially in tourist areas. It’s always helpful to learn a few basic Polish phrases, such as hello (cześć), thank you (dziękuję), and goodbye (do widzenia).
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What is the best way to get around Gdansk?
The best way to get around Gdansk is by walking, as many of the city’s attractions are located in the historic Old Town and are within walking distance of each other. You can also take public transportation such as buses or trams, or use taxis or ride-sharing services.
What is the weather like in Gdansk?
Gdansk has a moderate climate, with mild summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is during the summer months when temperatures range from 18-25°C (64-77°F) and there is plenty of sunshine.
Are there any festivals or events in Gdansk?
Yes, there are several festivals and events throughout the year in Gdansk. Some of the most popular include the St. Dominic’s Fair, a summer fair that takes place in the Old Town, and the Gdansk Christmas Market, which features traditional holiday decorations, food, and gifts.
