Gdansk

Last updated on March 8th, 2024

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Gdansk, Poland

Motlawa River, Gdansk, jaxel @ Pixabay

Gdansk, a port city on the Baltic coast of Poland, is rich in history, culture, and architectural beauty. Here are the top 10 things to see and do in Gdansk:

1. Stroll along the Long Market: This pedestrian street in the heart of Gdansk’s Old Town is lined with colorful historic buildings, cafes, restaurants, and shops. Don’t miss the iconic Neptune Fountain and the ornate Artus Court.

2. Visit St. Mary’s Church: This colossal brick church is one of the largest in Europe and an iconic landmark of Gdansk’s skyline. Inside, admire its stunning Gothic architecture and climb 405 steps up the tower for panoramic views of the city.

3. Explore the Gdansk Shipyard: Delve into the city’s industrial heritage with a visit to the Gdansk Shipyard, where the Solidarity movement was born. Take a guided tour to learn about its role in Polish history. See the famous Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers.

4. Tour the European Solidarity Centre: Learn about Poland’s fight for freedom and democracy at this modern museum dedicated to the Solidarity movement. Explore interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and archival materials that document the struggle against communism.

5. Walk along the Motlawa River: Enjoy picturesque views of Gdansk’s waterfront as you stroll along the Motlawa River. Admire historic ships and waterfront cafes. See the iconic Crane (Zuraw), a medieval port crane and symbol of the city.

Gdansk, Motlawa River, jaxel @ Pixabay

6. Visit Westerplatte: Pay homage to the start of World War II with a trip to Westerplatte, where the first shots of the conflict were fired. Explore the ruins of military barracks. See the Monument to the Defenders of the Coast.

7. Experience the Amber Museum: Gdansk is famous for its amber. The Amber Museum is the perfect place to learn about its history, extraction, and craftsmanship. See stunning amber artifacts and jewelry on display.

8. Discover Oliwa Park and Cathedral: Leave the Old Town and visit Oliwa Park. Enjoy the sprawling green space with manicured gardens, ponds, and walking paths. Don’t miss the Oliwa Cathedral with its impressive Baroque interior and famous pipe organ concerts.

9. Try Polish cuisine: Indulge in traditional Polish cuisine at one of Gdansk’s many restaurants and cafes. Sample pierogi (dumplings), golabki (stuffed cabbage rolls), and oscypek (smoked cheese). Have a glass of Polish vodka or a pint of local beer.

10. Take a day trip to Malbork Castle: Take a short train ride from Gdansk to Malbork Castle. See the largest brick castle in the world at this UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its medieval fortifications, grand halls and museum exhibits detailing the history of the Teutonic Order.

The Museum of Gdańsk participates in the Gdansk Tourist Card and operates the Main City Hall, Artus Court, Uphagen House, the Museum of Amber and the Museum of the Polish Post Office.

The rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque surroundings of Gdansk make it a must-visit destination in Poland.

More Things to See and Do in Gdansk

In the Old Town: Long Market, Artus Court, Neptune’s Fountain, City Hall, Golden House, Basilica of St Mary, Mariacka Street, Green Gate & Bridge, High Gate, Golden Gate, Great Armoury, Amber Museum, Dariusz Kobzdej Square, Motlawa River Embankment, National Maritime Museum, Polish Baltic Frédéric Chopin Philharmonic, AmberSky Observation Wheel

Near the Old Town: European Solidarity Centre, Gdansk Shipyard, Westerplatte, Wisłoujście Fortress, Oliwa Park & Cathedral

Near to Gdansk: Malbork Castle

Try: Pierogi (dumplings), golabki (stuffed cabbage rolls), and oscypek (smoked cheese)

Buy: Polish Vodka

Neptune’s Fountain, Gdansk, neufal54 @ Pixabay

Green Gate, Gdansk, PiotrZakrzewski @ Pixabay

Visit Gdansk, Poland

Malbork Castle, JanNijman @ Pixabay

Gdansk is a captivating port city nestled along the Baltic coast of Poland. Along with Sopot and Gydnia this is known as the Tri-Cities. The pastel-hued facades and cobblestone streets of Old Town Gdansk provide an irresistible charm that has been created after 90% of the city was destroyed during in World War II. Visitors are beckoned to wander along the picturesque Motlawa River, where medieval port cranes stand as silent witnesses to centuries of maritime trade. From the imposing silhouette of St. Mary’s Church dominating the skyline to the poignant reminders of the Solidarity movement at the Gdansk Shipyard, the city is a living testament to resilience and defiance.

Amidst its historic landmarks and cultural treasures, Gdansk delights the senses with the aroma of traditional Polish cuisine wafting from bustling cafes and the sparkle of amber jewels adorning museum displays. Whether immersing oneself in the city’s storied past or savoring its vibrant present, Gdansk captivates travelers with its timeless allure and enduring spirit.

Best Time to Visit Gdansk

The summer months of June, July and August are the best time to visit Poland. Winter is a good time to avoid the busy summer tourist season and experience the Christmas Market.

Getting to Gdansk Old Town

Train: The main train station for Gdansk, called Gdańsk Główny, is located right beside the Old Town. You can reach Gdansk from Warsaw in 2.5 hours on a high speed rail connection.

Cruise Ship or Ferry: Cruise Ships and Ferries dock at the port of Gydnia. Find the nearest station on the Jakdojade app and buy a mobile phone ticket to Gdańsk Główny. You will transfer to the Gdynia Central Station (Gdynia Główna) and then ride the Fast Urban Transit (SKM). You are looking at about an hour to reach the main station in Gdansk beside the Old Town.

Air: At the airport follow the red floor lines to the Port Lotniczy station and buy a ticket. The ticket machine accepts credit cards. You have to transfer after 8 stops, as the airport line terminates just before the Old Town. Then it’s one more stop to reach the main train station at Gdańsk Główny. One ticket covers both trains on this 35 minute journey.

Alternately follow the blue floor markings to the #210 bus, buy a ticket and ride to the Old Town in about the same amount of time as the train. The #210 bus makes 22 stops though, so it might feel less comfortable than the train.

Gdansk Public Transit

Tickets can be bought at a kiosk, from tram & bus driver (exact cash is needed) or from a ticket machine at a stop or station. Fast Urban Transit operates between Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia. Check here for advice on using transit in Gdansk. You can also buy transit tickets online through a number of apps including Jakdojade.

Gdansk Tourist Card

Attractions are all very reasonably priced in Gdansk, but the Gdansk Tourist Card makes things convenient and even more economical. Order online or pick up a card at the airport or tourist information office. You can add on a transit pass too if you get a physical Gdansk Tourist Card when you arrive in Gdansk. Otherwise use the Jakdojade app for transit in combination with the Gdansk Tourist Card on your phone.