Things To Do
in Gdańsk
Gdańsk is a historic port city located on the coast of the Baltic Sea in northern Poland. With its charming old town, colorful buildings, and picturesque waterfront, Gdańsk is a popular tourist destination. The city has a rich history, being a key player in events such as World War II and the Solidarity movement. Visitors can explore historic sites like the medieval Crane Gate, St.
Mary's Church, and the impressive Neptune Fountain.
- "Cześć" - Hello
- "Dziękuję" - Thank you
- "Proszę" - Please
- "Tak" - Yes
- "Nie" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Gdańsk Historical Museum for an insight into the city's rich past. After that, stroll along the beautiful Long Market.
Grab lunch at a local pierogi restaurant and then head to the magnificent St. Mary's Church, one of the tallest brick churches in the world. Take in its stunning architecture and artwork.
As evening descends, relax with a riverside dinner at a restaurant along the Motława River. Cap it off with a walk along the waterfront, enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Begin your day at the iconic Malbork Castle, just a short train ride from Gdańsk. Explore the largest brick castle in the world and learn about its historical significance.
Return to Gdańsk and have lunch at a cozy café. Afterwards, visit the Westerplatte, the site of the first battle of World War II.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Polish restaurant followed by a leisurely walk through the charming streets of the Old Town. Take in the illuminated sights for a magical experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage and beautiful architecture, including Gothic churches and medieval buildings.
- Vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals, galleries, and theaters.
- Access to the Baltic Sea, providing opportunities for seaside activities and tourism.
- Friendly and welcoming atmosphere with a mix of modern and traditional Polish culture.
- Strong economy with a growing job market, particularly in technology, shipping, and tourism.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters and frequent rain.
- High tourist traffic in peak seasons can lead to crowded attractions and higher prices.
- Language barrier, as while many people speak English, older generations may not.
- Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas.
- Some areas may experience economic disparity, impacting infrastructure and services.
Best Activities in Gdańsk
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a day at the beautiful Sopot Beach, known for its long stretch of golden sands and picturesque pier.
Explore the city from a different perspective by kayaking along the scenic Motława River, taking in the city's landmarks and historic buildings.
Relax on the peaceful Jelitkowo Beach, popular among locals and visitors for its clean sands and calm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Embark on a nature hike in the nearby Tricity Landscape Park, offering picturesque trails and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Tours
Uncover the best of Gdańsk with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Gdańsk
Visit one of these nice places.
St. Mary's Church offers a spectacular view of Gdańsk's Old Town and its surroundings, including the Motława River and the iconic Crane (Żuraw) in the harbor.
Westerplatte provides a historic and scenic lookout, offering panoramic views of the Baltic Sea and the site of the famous Battle of Westerplatte, which marked the beginning of World War II.
The Gdańsk Shipyard areas, including the European Solidarity Centre, provide opportunities to capture the industrial landscape, as well as significant historical sites related to the Solidarity movement and the fall of communism in Poland.
Food in Gdańsk
Gdańsk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These delightful dumplings are a Polish staple, with various fillings such as meat, cheese, potato, or fruit. Try them at Pierogarnia Mandu or Pierogarnia u Dzika for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
A sour rye soup often served in a bread bowl, Żurek is a unique and hearty dish. Visit Pierogarnia Stary Młyn for an excellent rendition.
For a taste of Gdańsk-specific cuisine, indulge in Kaczka po Gdańsku (Gdańsk-style duck) at Kubicki or Pierogarnia Mandu.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Gdańsk better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
If visiting in July or August, don't miss St Dominic's Fair for a vibrant street food experience offering an array of local and international treats.
Explore the bustling Hala Targowa Główna for a variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls showcasing Gdańsk’s culinary diversity.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gdańsk, it is important to respect personal space and avoid physical contact unless it is initiated by the other person. Personal space is highly valued, so it's important to maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others.
Politeness and formal conduct are appreciated in Gdańsk. Using 'please' ('proszę') and 'thank you' ('dziękuję') in interactions, as well as addressing people with their titles and surnames, demonstrates respect and is considered good manners.
Being culturally sensitive is essential in Gdańsk. It's important to be mindful of religious customs, traditions, and sensitivities. Respecting local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes when entering someone's home, shows consideration for the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Gdańsk with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Gdańsk
Ensure a smooth experience
In Gdańsk, Poland, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, cafes, and bars. A typical tip is around 10% of the total bill, but it may vary depending on the level of service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Gdańsk, especially in major establishments. However, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Gdańsk.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The city comes to life with blooming flowers, pleasant temperatures, and outdoor events. It's a great time to explore the historic old town and enjoy the charming atmosphere.
Gdańsk experiences a lively atmosphere with numerous festivals, outdoor concerts, and bustling beaches. The city is vibrant and perfect for outdoor activities.
The city is less crowded, and the weather is mild. It's an ideal time to enjoy the changing colors of the foliage and explore indoor attractions.
Gdańsk transforms into a winter wonderland with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and a magical atmosphere. It's a great time to experience the city's cozy cafes and rich history.
Gdańsk at Night
Hiking in Gdańsk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large landscape park situated between Gdańsk, Gdynia, and Sopot, offering numerous hiking trails through forests, hills, and scenic views of the Baltic Sea.
Located a bit further from Gdańsk, this park features beautiful lakes, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, perfect for a day of hiking.
A historic park in Gdańsk with lush gardens, walking paths, and a serene atmosphere, ideal for a casual hike or a leisurely walk.
A coastal trail that runs from Sopot beach up to Złota Góra, providing stunning views of the sea and surrounding area, suitable for hiking enthusiasts.
Though a bit further away, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers hiking opportunities through ancient forests and diverse wildlife, making it worth the trip.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Gdańsk through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Gdańsk by plane.
The main international airport serving Gdańsk, located approximately 12 km west of the city center.
Poland's largest and busiest airport located in Warsaw, roughly 300 km southeast of Gdańsk.
An international airport in Kraków, about 600 km south of Gdańsk.
Serves Poznań, located approximately 300 km southwest of Gdańsk.
Located about 500 km south of Gdańsk, serves the city of Wrocław.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Gdańsk, comprising around 90% of the population.
A significant minority group, particularly due to recent migrations and historical ties, making up approximately 2-3% of the population.
Another Slavic minority, with a presence in the city, estimated at around 1-2%.
Historically significant community, though much smaller now, comprising less than 1%.
A notable immigrant community in Gdańsk, contributing to the city’s multicultural landscape, also less than 1%.
Includes various other ethnicities and nationalities such as Russian, Armenian, and others totaling about 1%.
The Soul of Gdańsk
Discover the essence of Gdańsk through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Gdańsk, with local clubs like Lechia Gdańsk having a large following. The sport enjoys strong community engagement and history in the city.
Ice hockey is also quite popular in Gdańsk, with the local team GKS Stoczniowiec Gdańsk attracting fans during the winter season. The sport has a dedicated following in the city.
Handball has a significant presence in Gdańsk, with teams competing at various levels, and the sport is widely played in schools and local clubs.
Volleyball is popular in Gdańsk, particularly with women's teams and youth programs being active in the area. Local tournaments are commonly held.
Athletics is widely practiced in Gdańsk, with various events and competitions organized in the region. The city has good facilities for training and competitions.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Gdańsk, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth and offering opportunities for competition.
Given Gdańsk's coastal location, sailing is a popular recreational activity, with numerous clubs offering courses and organizing competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gdańsk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Gdańsk, such as Mandu and Brovarnia Gdańsk, offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, ensuring that those with dietary preferences are well catered for.
While traditional Polish cuisine leans heavily on bread and wheat, several establishments, including Gdańska Restaurant Piwna 47, are sensitive to gluten-free needs, offering suitable alternatives on their menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Gdańsk with these cultural adventures.
