Things to do in Gdańsk: city guide
Narrow merchant houses along the river, a medieval crane, amber in every shop window and a beach a short train ride away. Gdańsk is the city break with a bit of everything.
Gdańsk
Photo: Eduardo Casajús Gorostiaga / Unsplash
Gdańsk: where the war began and the wall started to fall
Gdańsk was a wealthy Hanseatic city, and the tall, narrow merchant houses along the River Motława speak of trade with the whole of northern Europe. The city was badly hit in the Second World War, which began just outside at Westerplatte, and the centre was later rebuilt. In the 1980s the shipyard gave birth to the Solidarity movement, which helped change Eastern Europe.
Together with the seaside resort of Sopot and the port of Gdynia, Gdańsk forms the Tricity, linked by local trains. There are direct flights from several UK airports, so Gdańsk is one of the easiest city breaks you can take.
Gdańsk neighbourhoods
Główne Miasto: the Main Town
Long Street and the Long Market are the grand parade, with the Neptune Fountain, Artus Court and colourful façades. Walk out through the Green Gate to the riverside and the great medieval crane, Żuraw.
Mariacka and St Mary's Church
Narrow Mariacka Street, with terraces in front of the houses, is full of amber jewellery and small cafés. St Mary's Church at the end is regarded as one of the largest brick churches in the world, and you can climb the tower.
The shipyard and Solidarity
The European Solidarity Centre by the shipyard gate tells the story of the strikes and the trade union movement in a powerful, modern way.
Along the Motława
Photo: Krzysztof Kowalik / Unsplash
Things to do in Gdańsk
Walk the riverside to Żuraw, the medieval crane that is now part of the maritime museum.
Visit the Museum of the Second World War and the memorial at Westerplatte.
Take the train to Sopot and walk out along the long wooden pier and the beach.
Take a day trip to Malbork, a vast brick castle on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Listen to the organ in Oliwa Cathedral.
Buy amber, ideally from shops that offer a certificate.
Three days in Gdańsk
Day 1: Long Street, St Mary's Church and its tower, Mariacka and an evening by the river.
Day 2: The Solidarity Centre in the morning, the Museum of the Second World War and Westerplatte in the afternoon.
Day 3: Sopot and the beach, or a day trip to Malbork.
The hotels we would book in Gdańsk
The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Hotel Gdańsk Boutique, by the marina
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Hotel Gdańsk Boutique: by the marina
A hotel in an old granary by the marina, with views over the boats and an easy walk to the old town. Guests especially praise the staff, and there are two bars and a spa.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Gdańsk Boutique
PURO Gdańsk Stare Miasto: design by the river
A modern design hotel close to the river and the old town. Guests rave about the breakfast, and there are two bars and a spa.
Book your stay: See rooms at PURO Gdańsk Stare Miasto
The harbour
Photo: Anna Gru / Unsplash
When is the best time to visit Gdańsk?
May to September is best, with long evenings and beach days in Sopot in July and August. December brings a Christmas market to the old town. Winter is cold and windy by the sea. Check the current entry requirements before you travel.
See also shopping in Gdańsk, Riga and Tallinn and the rest of the country in our Poland guide.
Gdańsk: frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Gdańsk?
Three days gives time for the old town, the museums and a trip to Sopot or Malbork.
Where is the best place to stay in Gdańsk?
In the Main Town or along the river, within walking distance of almost everything.
Does Gdańsk have a beach?
Yes, Gdańsk has beaches, and the resort of Sopot is a short train ride away.
What is the Tricity?
Gdańsk, Sopot and Gdynia, three cities in a row along the coast linked by local trains.
When is the best time to visit Gdańsk?
May to September, and December for the Christmas market.