Things To Do
in Gdańsk

Gdańsk is a vibrant port city located on the Baltic Sea in northern Poland, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city played a significant role in the Hanseatic League and features beautifully restored medieval buildings, particularly in its Old Town. Gdańsk is also the birthplace of the Solidarity movement, which contributed to the end of communism in Poland.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of cultural heritage, modern attractions, and scenic waterfront views.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Neptune Fountain and the Long Market, where you can admire the colorful facades of the historic buildings.

afternoon
:

Head to the Gdańsk History Museum to learn about the city's past, then take a leisurely stroll along the Motława River and visit the iconic Crane.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Polish restaurant, followed by a walk along the river or a drink in one of the local bars.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the European Solidarity Centre to understand Poland's struggle for freedom and the significance of Gdańsk in this movement.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful Oliwa Park and see the Oliwa Cathedral, then relax in the park's serene environment.

evening
:

Savor a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant, followed by live music in a nearby club or bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🚍Public transport ticket$1.50
🍺Local beer$4
🏨Night in a hotel$60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful architecture and scenic waterfront.
  • Vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Limited vegan options in some restaurants.
  • Winter weather can be harsh and windy.
  • "Dzień dobry" - Good morning/afternoon
  • "Dziękuję" - Thank you
  • "Przepraszam" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Ile to kosztuje?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Gdańsk

Visit one of these nice places.

Neptune Fountain

A symbol of Gdańsk, beautifully illuminated at night.

The Crane

An iconic medieval port crane, perfect for capturing the historic essence of the city.

Mariacka Street

Known for its charming architecture and cafes, ideal for capturing the local atmosphere.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gdańsk

Gdańsk offers a delightful culinary experience showcasing traditional Polish flavors and fresh seafood from the Baltic Sea. Don't miss the chance to indulge in local specialties that reflect the city's maritime heritage.

Gdańsk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pierogi

Dumplings stuffed with various fillings, such as potatoes, cheese, or meat.

Must-Try!

Zupa rybna

A traditional fish soup made with local fish and spices.

Sernik

Polish cheesecake often flavored with vanilla or lemon.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gdańsk Food Market

A vibrant market where you can sample local delicacies and fresh produce.

Street food at Długi Targ

Various food stalls offering quick bites like zapiekanka (Polish baguette pizza) and grilled sausages.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gdańsk experiences a temperate maritime climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer months (June to August) see average temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F), ideal for outdoor activities. Winters (December to February) can be chilly, with temperatures often dropping to -5°C (23°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild, making them perfect for sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

When meeting someone, a firm handshake and eye contact are customary.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin and keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Polish culture, especially for business meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gdańsk is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being vigilant of pickpockets in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Gdańsk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if the service is satisfactory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather attracts many tourists, with vibrant street festivals and events happening throughout the city.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque backdrop for exploring.

Winter

Cold weather brings Christmas markets and festive decorations, but be prepared for snow and chilly winds.

Nightlife Guide

Gdańsk at Night

Gdańsk's nightlife is lively and varied, featuring numerous bars, pubs, and clubs. The Old Town boasts several trendy spots where you can enjoy craft cocktails, local beers, and live music. Popular areas include the Motława River waterfront, where many venues offer beautiful views and a vibrant atmosphere. The nightlife scene caters to various tastes, from casual beer gardens to upscale nightclubs with DJs.

Hiking in Gdańsk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tricity Landscape Park

Located just outside Gdańsk, this park offers numerous trails through lush forests and along the coastline.

Kashubian Hills

A bit further out, these hills provide scenic views and well-marked hiking paths through picturesque landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Gdańsk by plane.

Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport

Located about 12 km from the city center, this international airport offers numerous connections across Europe and is well-served by public transport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gdańsk is highly walkable, especially in the Old Town area where most attractions are located within walking distance of each other. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of signage and benches for resting. Walking along the riverside is particularly enjoyable, offering picturesque views and access to various cafes and restaurants.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

This group is drawn to the city for its job opportunities and vibrant lifestyle.

Students

Gdańsk has several universities, attracting a diverse student population from various regions and countries.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Gdańsk is home to Lechia Gdańsk, a popular football club in the Polish Ekstraklasa.

Volleyball

The city has a strong volleyball culture, with local teams competing in various leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gdańsk can be moderate, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include trams, buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate the city without a car. Biking is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes available throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gdańsk.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though vegan options may be limited.

Gluten-Free

Check with restaurants as gluten-free options vary; some places offer gluten-free pierogi.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Gdańsk is generally of high quality, with both public and private facilities available. Emergency services are accessible through the European emergency number 112. Travelers may want to ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as some services may be costly for non-residents.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide