Gdansk, the jewel of the Polish Baltic coast, is a city that enchants with its architectural charm. Overlooking the Baltic Sea, it is renowned for its extraordinary beauty that combines Polish, German and Flemish influences, creating a unique and fascinating atmosphere of cobbled streets and Gothic buildings.
Gdansk has played a crucial role in modern history, being the birthplace of the Solidarity movement that contributed to the fall of communism in Europe. Today, the city presents itself as a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis with a maritime soul that can be felt in its historical harbour and lively beaches. Visitors are enchanted by its historical centre, carefully reconstructed after World War II.
The city is also a major cultural and artistic centre, with numerous museums, galleries and theatres enriching the tourist offer. There is also no shortage of opportunities for lovers of gastronomy and shopping, with traditional markets, amber boutiques and restaurants serving local delicacies.
Gdańsk is a city full of attractions ranging from historical architecture to avant-garde museums, from medieval churches to unique gastronomic experiences. The meticulously reconstructed Old Town offers a journey back in time through centuries of history and culture.
The Long Street is the beating heart of Gdańsk and one of the most fascinating streets in Europe. This historic thoroughfare, lined with colourful buildings with elaborate gables, represents the essence of Hanseatic architecture. Walking along this street, you will find yourself immersed in a fairytale atmosphere, with the façades of the houses telling stories of merchants and sailors.
Each building is a masterpiece of detail: gilded decorations, statues and bas-reliefs adorn the façades, while wrought-iron signs hang above shops and cafés. The Long Street culminates in Arthur’s Court, once a meeting place for merchants and now a museum housing a collection of arts and crafts.
Be sure to visit the Town Hall, an imposing Gothic-Renaissance building crowned by a tower offering spectacular views of the city. The street is also a great place to get a taste of Gdańsk’s atmosphere, with its many outdoor cafés and souvenir shops selling local amber.
The Long Market is the beating heart of Gdańsk, a rectangular square that is one of the most photographed places in the city. This square, which is actually an extension of Long Street, is surrounded by some of the most beautiful architecture in Gdańsk.
In the centre of the square is the Neptune Fountain, a symbol of the city and its connection to the sea. The statue of the sea god, made of bronze in the 17th century, is a popular meeting point for tourists and locals.
On either side of the square stand richly decorated Renaissance and Baroque palaces, many of which once belonged to the city’s wealthiest families. These include the Golden House, with its richly ornamented façade, and Arthur’s Court, once a meeting place for merchants and now a museum.
The Long Market is also the ideal place to get a taste of the Gdańsk atmosphere, with its numerous outdoor cafés, restaurants and souvenir shops. During the summer, the square comes alive with cultural events, concerts and the famous St Dominic’s Market.
Mariacka Street is one of the most charming and photographed streets in Gdańsk, a true hidden gem in the heart of the Old Town. This picturesque pedestrian street, stretching some 200 metres from Mariacka Gate to St Mary’s Basilica, captures the essence of medieval Gdańsk with its characteristic Gothic charm.
What makes Mariacka Street so special are its characteristic terraces (or perrons in Polish) that extend in front of almost every building. These small raised platforms, decorated with elaborate stone balustrades and often adorned with gargoyles in the shape of lion heads or mythological creatures, were originally used by merchants to display their goods.
Today, the street is lined with elegant terraced houses with elaborate gables, many dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. These houses, once owned by wealthy merchants, now house amber workshops, cosy cafés and souvenir boutiques. The street is in fact the heart of the amber trade in Gdańsk, and as you stroll along you can admire the glittering shop windows of jewellery and decorative objects made from this ‘stone of the Baltic’.
The atmosphere of Mariacka Street is particularly magical at dusk, when gas lanterns are lit, creating a romantic and timeless atmosphere.
The street culminates with the imposing sight of St Mary’s Basilica, whose mass dominates the city skyline. This contrast between the intimate street and the majestic church creates a spectacular finale to what many consider the most beautiful street in Gdańsk.
St Mary’s Basilica is an imposing monument dominating the Gdańsk skyline. This Gothic church, considered the largest brick church in the world, is a true architectural masterpiece that leaves visitors breathless.
Built between the 14th and 16th centuries, the basilica can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers. The interior is equally impressive, with soaring vaults supported by slender columns and a series of 30 side chapels. Among the church’s treasures, don’t miss the 15th century astronomical clock, a masterpiece of mechanical engineering of the time.
The climb to the basilica tower, with its 405 steps, is an experience not to be missed. From the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Gdańsk and the Baltic Sea. The exceptional acoustics of the church also make it a perfect venue for the organ concerts that are held regularly, offering an unforgettable sound experience.
The World War II Museum is an essential stop to understand the recent history not only of Gdańsk, but of the whole of Europe. This state-of-the-art museum, opened in 2017, offers an immersive and touching experience of the tragedy of war.
The building itself is an architectural masterpiece: a modern structure leaning towards the sky, symbolising the transition from the dark past to a bright future. The permanent exhibition spans three levels and covers events before, during and after the war, with a special focus on the Polish experience.
The museum uses interactive and multimedia technologies to tell personal and collective stories. Among the most impressive exhibits are a reconstruction of a bombed Warsaw street and a collection of personal items belonging to victims of the conflict. The museum not only presents historical facts, but also invites reflection on the consequences of war and the importance of peace.
The Gdansk Shipyard is the place where history took a decisive turn. It was here, in 1980, that the Solidarity movement was born, which would lead to the fall of communism in Poland and all of Eastern Europe. Today, the sites are a historical site that holds the memory of those crucial events.
The Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers is a focal point, with its three 42-metre-high steel crosses commemorating the workers killed during the 1970 strikes. Nearby, the European Solidarity Centre is a modern, interactive museum that tells the story of the movement and its global impact.
The centre offers multimedia exhibits, original documents and objects from the period, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of that historical period. Particularly moving is the reconstruction of the office of Lech Wałęsa, Solidarity leader and future president of Poland. The centre is not just a museum, but a lively place for debate and reflection on issues of freedom and democracy.
A cruise on the Motława River offers a unique perspective on the city of Gdańsk. These boat trips, usually lasting an hour, allow you to admire the city’s main monuments from a privileged vantage point and gain a better understanding of its maritime past.
The trip usually starts from the Old Port, passing by the famous medieval Crane, a symbol of Gdańsk’s trading past. Cruising along the river, you can admire the colourful facades of the houses overlooking the water, many of which once belonged to wealthy merchants.
The cruise also takes you close to the Granary Island, once the centre of Gdańsk’s grain trade, and to the Westerplatte, the place where World War II began. Many cruises offer audio commentaries in several languages, providing detailed information on the history and architecture of the city.
Cruises are particularly impressive at sunset, when the lights of the city are reflected on the water, creating a magical atmosphere. Some companies also offer thematic cruises, such as moonlight tours or dinner cruises on board.
The National Museum in Gdańsk is one of the most important art museums in Poland, housed in a former Franciscan monastery from the 15th century. Its vast collection ranges from medieval to contemporary art, with a special focus on Flemish and Dutch art.
The most famous piece in the collection is undoubtedly Hans Memling’s ‘Last Judgement’, a 15th century Flemish triptych with a fascinating history: it was captured by pirates from Danzig on its way to Florence and never returned.
In addition to Flemish art, the museum boasts a rich collection of Polish art from the 16th to the 20th century. Particularly interesting is the section devoted to Gdańsk art, which offers a glimpse of the city’s rich artistic tradition through the centuries.
The museum regularly organises world-class temporary exhibitions, making every visit a unique experience. Art lovers will also appreciate the Baroque garden adjacent to the museum, a peaceful place to reflect on the works they have just admired.
In the following map you can see the location of the main places of interest mentioned in this article.
St Dominic ‘s Fair is one of the most eagerly awaited and colourful events in Gdańsk, transforming the city into a huge open-air market for three weeks every summer. This tradition dates back to 1260, when Pope Alexander IV granted the Dominicans the right to organise an annual fair, making it one of the oldest trade fairs in Europe.
Today, the fair attracts millions of visitors from all over the world, offering a unique blend of shopping, entertainment and culture. Stalls stretch along the main streets of the old town, from the Via Lunga to the Mercato Lunga, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.
During the fair, visitors can find everything from traditional Polish handicrafts such as ceramics and textiles to the amber jewellery for which Gdańsk is famous, as well as local and international gastronomic products. It is also an excellent opportunity to taste Polish culinary specialities such as pierogi (stuffed ravioli) or bigos (cabbage and meat stew).
In addition to shopping, St Dominic’s Fair offers a rich programme of cultural events. Concerts of classical and modern music, street theatre performances, costume parades and craft demonstrations enliven the squares and streets of the old town. A particularly popular attraction is the big Ferris wheel, which offers a spectacular view of the city and the Baltic Sea.
The fair is also an opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of Gdańsk. Many vendors wear period costumes and some stalls recreate the atmosphere of old medieval workshops.
Gdansk offers a wide range of accommodation options to meet the needs of all types of travellers.
The Old Town is the beating heart of Gdańsk and the ideal choice for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the city’s atmosphere. Staying here means having the main attractions such as the Long Street, the Long Market and St Mary’s Basilica at your fingertips. The area is full of boutique hotels in restored old buildings, offering an authentic and charming experience. The pros of this area include its proximity to major tourist sites, restaurants and nightlife, as well as its unique historical atmosphere. However, being the most touristy area, prices may be higher and it may be noisy during the evening hours.
The Main Town (Główne Miasto), which includes parts of the historical centre and immediately adjacent areas, is a good option for those looking for a good compromise between a central location and more affordable prices. This area offers a wide range of accommodation, from bed and breakfasts to chain hotels. Advantages of staying here include easy accessibility to the old town on foot, a good selection of restaurants and local shops, and a quieter atmosphere than the tourist heart of the city. It is an excellent choice for families or travellers who prefer a more relaxed pace.
The Wrzeszcz District, located north of the city centre, is a residential area that is becoming increasingly popular with tourists. This district offers a more authentic and local atmosphere, with numerous cafés, restaurants and shops frequented by the inhabitants of Gdańsk. The pros of staying here include generally lower prices, a direct connection to the city centre by tram and train, and the opportunity to experience everyday life in Gdańsk. It is particularly suitable for travellers seeking a more immersive and less touristy experience.
Gdańsk, besides being a fascinating destination in itself, is also an excellent starting point for exploring the beauty of the surrounding region. Pomerania, with its beaches, historical cities and natural landscapes, offers numerous opportunities for day trips or longer weekends. Renting a car can be a great option for exploring these attractions, many of which are easily accessible from Gdansk.
The Oliwa district, located in the northern part of Gdansk, is known for its tranquillity and some of the city’s most fascinating sights. Oliwa Market Square is the heart of this old suburb, with its colourful houses and relaxed atmosphere contrasting with the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
Oliwa’s main attraction is the Cathedral, an imposing Cistercian-Gothic building whose history dates back to the 13th century. The interior of the cathedral is a riot of Baroque art, but the real jewel is its Rococo organ.
Next to the cathedral is Oliwa Park, a vast French and English-style garden that offers a green refuge in the heart of the city. The park contains a botanical garden, a palm grove and numerous sculptures, making it an ideal place for a relaxing stroll after visiting the cathedral.
Located only a few kilometres from the city centre, Brzezno Beach stretches for kilometres along the Baltic Sea coast. During the summer, the beach comes alive with bathers, families and sportsmen taking advantage of the many activities available.
A pedestrian and cycling promenade runs along the beach, ideal for walks or bike rides overlooking the sea. The Brzezno pier, stretching 130 metres into the Baltic Sea, is a perfect vantage point for watching the sunset or observing ships entering the port of Gdańsk.
The area surrounding the beach offers numerous bars, cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy local specialities or simply relax with a drink after a day in the sun.
Malbork Castle, located about 60 km southeast of Gdańsk, is a must-see for lovers of history and medieval architecture. This impressive fortified complex, the largest brick castle in the world, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a UNESCO heritage site.
Built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Order, the castle covers an area of 21 hectares. The guided tour will take you through the richly decorated halls, defensive towers and courtyards, offering a glimpse into medieval life. Don’t miss the Grand Master’s Palace and the gigantic dining hall with its Gothic vaults. The castle also hosts interesting exhibitions on amber and medieval architecture.
Sopot, located just 15 km from Gdańsk, is a popular seaside resort with a long tradition of tourism. The town is famous for its wooden pier, the longest in Europe, stretching 511 metres into the Baltic Sea.
The heart of Sopot is the lively Monte Cassino Street, full of cafés, restaurants and shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the ‘Casa Storta’, a uniquely designed building that looks like something out of a fairy tale. Sopot is also renowned for its thermal baths and its international music festival held every summer.
The Hel Peninsula is a 35 km long narrow strip of land stretching into the Baltic Sea, offering some of the most beautiful beaches in Poland. Reachable by car in about 1.5 hours from Gdansk, the peninsula is a paradise for lovers of the sea and water sports.
The main centre of the peninsula is the town of Hel, with its picturesque fishing port and Fishing Museum. The peninsula is famous for its wide beaches of fine sand, ideal for relaxation and windsurfing. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Hel Lighthouse, which offers a spectacular view of the sea and the peninsula.
Słowiński National Park, located about 110 km west of Gdańsk, is a unique place offering a moonscape of shifting dunes. This UNESCO park is known as the ‘Polish desert’ for its vast expanses of sand that constantly move under the action of the wind.
The highest dunes reach up to 40 metres and offer spectacular views of the Baltic Sea and surrounding lakes. The park is a paradise for nature lovers, with numerous hiking trails and bird-watching opportunities. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the Czołpino lighthouse for a breathtaking panoramic view.
Gdańsk, located on the Baltic coast of northern Poland, is well connected both nationally and internationally. The city is located about 340 km north-west of Warsaw, the Polish capital, and about 150 km east of the German border. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible by air, land and sea, offering visitors various travel options.
Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN) is the main air access point to the city. Located about 14 km west of the city centre, the airport serves numerous airlines, including low-cost carriers, connecting it to many European cities.
To reach the city centre from the airport, you can choose between bus and train. Bus 210 connects the airport to the city centre in about 35-40 minutes with departures every 30 minutes. The Pomeranian Metropolitan Railway (PKM) trains, on the other hand, take about 25 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi or a private transfer that will take you to the centre in about 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic.
If you need to get to outlying areas or other places in the vicinity, consider hiring a car.
Gdansk is well connected to the Polish and international railway network. Gdańsk Central Station (Gdańsk Główny) is located a short distance from the Old Town and is easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
There are frequent connections with major Polish cities such as Warsaw (about 3 hours), Krakow (about 6 hours), and Poznań (about 4 hours). In addition, there are international trains connecting Gdansk with cities such as Berlin and Vienna.
If travelling by car, Gdansk can be reached via several motorways:
Remember that in Poland some motorways are toll-free.
What's the weather at Gdansk? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Gdansk for the next few days.
Gdańsk is located in northern Poland, overlooking the Baltic Sea in the Pomeranian region. Gdańsk is located about 340 km north-west of Warsaw, the Polish capital, and about 150 km east of the German border. The city is part of the so-called Triple City (Trójmiasto), together with neighbouring Sopot and Gdynia, forming a single metropolitan area on the Baltic coast.
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