14 BEST THINGS TO DO IN GDANSK: POLAND
Gdansk in Poland is without a doubt one of the most attractive cities in the world. With its stunning center adorned with a perfect balance of old and new architecture and crossed by the peaceful waters of the Motlawa river Gdansk is a hidden gem in Poland.
There are plenty of things to do in Gdansk such as unique historical experiences, quaint views or culinary delicacies. This Baltic jewell will for sure not disappoint you. It is the perfect destination for a captivating long weekend getaway in Europe.
After spending a whole week in Gdansk I felt in love with its beautiful streets and charm and I am writing this guide to share my experience with you and help you preparing your trip. I am also sharing some photos of my stay in this fascinating Polish city.
ABOUT GDANSK
Gdansk is a city on the Baltic coast in Poland. The city has a population of almost half million people and it is Poland’s most important seaport and the forth Polish metropolitan area. The
The city is one of the most visited in Poland and has a reminiscence and peculiar vibe similar to Amsterdam but on a much less busy setting. ( This is my personal opinion, I have lived in Amsterdam for many years and Gdansk reminded me os Amsterdams in some of the looks and feels)
Gdansk is also the home town of the famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus.
A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY ABOUT GDANSK
As with most places in the world with an strong historical background you will make the best of your visit to Gdansk if you read about its past before you go there.
The city has changed several times from German to Polish ruling in history and while under German occupation the city’s name was Danzig.
On September 1st 1939 the “Battle of Westerplatte” which initiated World War II took place in the harbor of the Free City of Danzig, now Gdansk. This early invasion lead to swift German victories all over the country. Poland endure Nazi occupation until the World War II end in 1945, after which it fell under Soviet control.
In 1980 the Solidarity Trade Union Movement began on Gdansk shipyards. This movement was the origin of a peaceful and powerful rebellion against the communist regime. This contributed to the downfall of the communist ruling in 1989.
Gdansk faced extensive destruction as a consequence of the allied troops and Soviet air raids during the end of World War II. The city was reconstructed during the 50s and 60s and architects redesigned the city into a cityscape resembling Dutch and French architecture, rather than the pre-1939 Germanic appearance. This intentional redesign fave the city a new visual identity significantly different that its pre-war appearance.
MY EXPERIENCE VISITING GDANSK
Gdansk was never in my radar before. I had never even considered visiting Poland but as a travel blogger I decided to attend a travel conference that was taking place in Gdansk and spend a few more extra days there on my own the explored the city at my own rhythm.
What can I say? I had such a positive surprise from the beginning. People were so friendly and welcoming and the city was beautiful. The city has become since then one of my favorite cities in the world and I would like to visit it again. I found it the perfect getaway to take a long weekend away for people living in Europe and not only the city has a perfect and charming architecture but the restaurants and Polish food were simply amazing.
I felt in love with Gdansk and I am sure you will as well.
WHERE IS GDANSK LOCATED
Gdansk is located in Northern Poland, in the mouth of the Motlawa river. It lies on the Southern edge of the Baltic sea on the Gdansk bay. Find here a pin with Gdanks location.
HOW TO GET TO GDANSK
The Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport is located just 12 Km from the city center and received international flights from many European cities and it is the third airport in Poland in terms of passenger arrivals.
You can fly also to Warsaw and take a train to Gdansk from there, as I did. Some destinations offer cheaper and more convenient flights to the Polish capital.
There are around 21 trains per days from Warsaw to Gdansk and the staff at the train station are really helpful.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN GDANSK
STROLL ALONG DLUGI TARG
This famous street in Gdansk, also known as the long market of Royal way is just 500 meters long street where you can admire some of the most significant Gdansk landmarks. There are several restaurants and cafes where you can rest while walking along this historically significant street.
MAIN LANDMARKS IN DLUGI TARG
GREEN GATE
The Green Gate of Gdansk once served as the official dwelling for the Polish monarchs and was built between 1568 and 1571 and it was designed by Regnier of Amsterdam, a Dutch architect and was inspired by the Flemish Antwerpen City Hall.
It is located at the entrance of the Dlugi Targ on the closer end to the Motlawa river and offers a picturesque view of the waterway.
The Green Gate houses a branch of the National Museum in Gdańsk and the entrance fee is PLN 15 which is around $ 3.50. If you prefer, you can just admire the gate from outside if you are walking around the city center and cross it.
GOLDEN GATE
The Golden Gate is located 500 meters walking distance from the Green Gate, on the other end of Long Market street.
The Golden Gate, or “Złota Brama” in Polish, is a historical monument in Gdańsk, Poland. It was built between 1612 and 1614 as part of the city’s fortifications and it is an example of Dutch Mannerism architecture
The gate is adorned with sculptures and served as a ceremonial entrance to the Royal members.
NEPTUNE FOUNTAIN
The Neptune fountain is a symbol of the city’s maritime history. The statue was made in the early 17th century and it is a figure of Neptune, the Roman God of the Sea.
The statue is made of bronze and it stands as a representation of Gdansk connection to the marine trade.
ARTUS COURT
This building was once the meeting place for merchants and dignitaries and it is located just behind the Neptune fountain and its name was taken from the medieval popular legend of King Arthur.
The Artus court is part the city’s historical museum and can be visited inside.
TOWN HALL
The Town Hall dates back to the 14th century and features a Gothic-Renaissance structure that served as the center for the local government. Its facade adorned with intricate details and a tower is a sample of Gdanks architectural splendor and beauty,
The Town Hall is a nowadays a museum where you can have some insights into Gdansk government and have a glimpse into Gdansk vibrant past.
CLIMB SAINT MARY’S CHURCH TOWER
St. Mary’s Church in Gdańsk construction works started in 1343 and it took nearly 159 years to complete them, in 1502.
Its almost 78 meters high tower is a representation of the city’s medieval heritage.
Its Gothic architecture is a symbol of Gdansk architectural beauty.
If you would like to have epic views of Gdansk the Saint Mary’s Church Tower is the perfect place to do it. You will have to do some effort to get to the top but you will get to see some pretty awesome landscape.
ADMIRE GDANSK ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK
The Gdansk astronomical clock is located in Saint Mary’s Church and it was build by Hans Düringer between 1464 and 1470. The clock’s dials show the time and date, moon phases and the position of the Moon and Sun in relation to the zodiacal signs and the calendar of saints. Adam and Eve and at noon a procession appears that features Adam and Eve among others.
The clock is 14 meters tall and it is the largest in the world when it built.
VISIT THE FIRST PULSAR CLOCK IN THE WORLD
In 2011, to celebrate the 400th birthday anniversary of Jan Hevelius’s birth, a famous Polish astronomer, the first and only world pulsar clock was installed in the Tower Clock museum in Saint Mary’s church.
.This unique clock uses the impulses of pulsars, or neutron stars, as a basis for keeping time. Something that Jan would surely be happy to see in his home town
WALK BEAUTIFUL MARIACKA STREET
Ulica Mariacka is the most beautiful street in Gdańsk. With its quaint cobblestone street boasting antique sculptures and lined with amber galleries and some of the most alternative cafés in town.
You can enter the street through the Mariacka Gate on the Motlawa riverside and have a wonderful view of the street and the majestic Saint’s Mary Church at the end.
This was one of the best views of this amazing city.
If you like Amber jewellery or you would like some custom made amber trinkets you will for sure find something in Mariacka street.
VISIT GDANSK SHIPYARD
Gdańsk’s Shipyard shaped history and welcomes visitors into the heart of a transformative past. This historic site witnessed the birth of Solidarity, the movement pivotal in challenging Communist rule
You will walk through cranes, relics and industrial areas and the Monument to the Fallen Shipyard workers 73 that was a very significant event in Polish history.
You can better visit the shipyard on a guided tour to be able to hear all the stories of the past and get the best of your visit.
VISIT SOLDEK
Soldek was the first ship built in Gdansk after World War II and it is part of the maritime museum these days. It can be visited inside and it is located in the center on the Motlawa river.
BOAT RIDE ON THE MOTLAWA RIVER
My first activity when I arrived in Gdansk was the boat ride along the Motlawa river and it was one of my favorite activities to do in this Baltic gem. The river boat ride will bring you along the historical center giving you some unique Gdansk sites you cannot see when walking.
The journey will take you along historic waterfronts, offering stunning views of some landmarks such as the crane and the granaries.
VISIT AN AMBER ALTAR IN SAINT BRIDGET’S CHURCH
Saint Bridget church was known as the sanctuary for the leaders of Solidarność under martial law.
The church was almost completely destroyed during the World War II and was rebuilt in 1973, respecting the original craftsmanship dating back to 1394. The church’s name is due to a chapel where Saint Bridget remains laid and stood on the spot where the church is today.
The “Amber Altar” idea was intended to pay tribute to the Divine Providence in thanks for the papacy of Pope John Paul II and the regaining of Polish independence.
At the centre altar is the figure of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Protector of the Workers. Above that can be seen a white eagle, the emblem of Poland, soaring into the Gothic vaulted roof.
CRYPT OF SKULLS
The Crypt of Skulls in Gdańsk is located beneath the Church of St. Mary. It is an exhibition of around 2000 human skulls dating back centuries.
The crypt was discovered in 2010 during renovation work on the church. It was discovered by accident and the origins of the crypt itself weren’t precisely dated at the time of its discovery. However, it’s believed to have been established in the late 16th or early 17th century.
There is ongoing research on the remains at the moment.
SECOND WORLD WAR MUSEUM
The Second World War Museum in Gdańsk stands is a poignant memory of global events that took place during the Second World War and its aftermath.
The museum contains all sorts of documents, artifacts and photos belonging to this period. It is so big that one day is not enough to see it completely.
If you only want to spend half a day in the museum and make the best of your visit, I strongly recommend you to get a tour guide. This is what I did to visit it and it was well worth as the size of the place is overwhelming.
EUROPEAN SOLIDARITY CENTER
The European Solidarity Center in Gdańsk is as a beacon of unity and resilience. The center is commemorating the end of the communist rule and it is a tribute to the triumph of the human spirit over oppression.
The center features interactive exhibits documenting the struggles for workers rights and the fall of the Iron Curtain.
EAT THE FAMOUS POLISH PIEROGIS
These delicious Polish dumplings are a must-try in Gdańsk. You will find various versions of this iconic dish.
Wherever you go, experiencing Gdańsk’s pierogi is like savoring a piece of Polish culinary history!
WALK ALONG THE MOTLAWA RIVER AT NIGHT
The views of the city at night are stunning and you will get beautiful water reflections of the city buildings and lights on the river. Do not forget to bring a camera as the views are breathtaking as you can see below.
GDANSK CRANE
The Gdańsk Crane is an emblem of maritime history located on the side of the Motława River. It dates back to the Middle Ages. This colossal wooden structure served as a medieval port’s backbone, lifting goods with ingenious efficiency.
WL4 MUSEUM
This place contains some modern art wonders and it is located in the shipyard’s area, so you can combine your visit to the museum with a visit to the area.
The WL4 museum offers sometimes evening celebrations that you can attend to enjoy art, drinks and snacks in good company.
TOURS OF GDANSK
WHERE TO STAY IN GDANSK
GDANSK FAQs
IS GDANSK POLLAND WORTH VISITING?
Yes, Gdansk is well worth a visit. Its blend of art, culture, history and culinary delicacies will for sure not leave you indifferent. Today it is one of my favorite cities in the world.
HOW MANY DAYS IS ENOUGH FOR GDANSK?
While you can visit the Old Town center in just one day I would recommend to spend at least 3 or 4 days to do get to know the main landmarks and museums and one week if you would like to visit the nearby coastal towns.
WHY IS GDANSK SO FAMOUS?
Gdanks is world known for several reasons, such as its historical significance and the being the birthplace of the Solidarity Movement, that was pivotal in ending the communist rule.
Its Old Town, Amber route legacy and role in European history contribute to its fame.
IS IT EXPENSIVE IN GDANSK?
Gdańsk can offer a range of experiences to suit different budgets. Compared to some other Western European cities, it’s often considered more affordable, especially for accommodations, dining, and transportation. The cost of living and visiting attractions can be reasonable, making it an accessible destination for travelers seeking value. However, prices can vary based on the season, specific areas within the city, and the type of experiences or services you seek. Overall, Gdańsk can be a budget-friendly destination without compromising on its cultural and historical offerings.
MORE PHOTOS OF MY VISIT TO GDANSK
WRAP-UP
As I have mentioned a couple of times during this article Gdansk became one of my favorite destinations in the world. If I had not booked that travel conference ticket I would have never planned a trip to Gdansk myself and I am so glad that I did as I had a great experience in this vibrant city.
I hope you enjoyed this article and will enjoy Gdansk so much as I did. I am sure you will not regret. Please leave your opinion in the comments.
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