20 Best Things to Do in Gdansk: Beautiful Places to Visit in Poland’s Coastal City

If you’re looking for a beautiful coastal city to visit in Poland, look no further than Gdansk! This stunning city is home to some of the most picturesque places in the country. From its lovely beaches and parks, to its charming old town district, Gdansk has something for everyone.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the best things to do in Gdansk. So, if you’re planning on visiting Poland in the near future, be sure to add Gdansk to your list!

1. Long Market Street

Dlugi Market Gdańsk

Walking along the long market street in Gdansk is one of the best things to do. You’ll find an incredible variety of stalls and shops, selling everything from food to clothes to souvenirs. There’s something for everyone here, and you’re sure to find something to take home with you.

The atmosphere is electric, and you can really feel the history of the city come alive as you stroll through the market. Make sure to stop and try some of the delicious food on offer, and pick up a few souvenirs for your friends and family back home.

With its vibrant atmosphere and wealth of goods on offer, a walk along the market street is an essential part of any visit to Gdansk.

2. Dlugi Targ

Dlugi Targ Gdańsk

Gdansk is home to several interesting things to do, but Dlugi Targ is among the most popular. This streetscape of historic buildings and tenement houses is a must-see for any visitor to the city.

The Neptune Fountain, main town hall and Artus Court are just some of the highlights but don’t miss the Golden Tenement House too. Wander down the street and take in the architecture, then go into one of the cafés or boutiques for a snack or souvenirs.

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful city, Dlugi Targ is not to be missed.

3. Gdansk Main Town Hall

Gdańsk Town Hall

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Gdansk, a visit to the Main Town Hall should be at the top of your list. This imposing building dates back to the 14th century, and it’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.

Visitors can explore the grand halls and rooms, which are filled with historic paintings and artifacts. The highlight of any visit is the climb to the top of the tower, which offers stunning views over Gdansk and the surrounding area.

A visit to the Main Town Hall is a must-do during your stay in Gdansk, whether you’re interested in history or simply want to enjoy some breathtaking vistas.

4. Neptune Fountain

Neptune Fountain

The best things to do in Gdansk always include a visit to the Neptune Fountain. The beautiful sculpture of the Roman god of the sea is a must-see for any tourist, and it’s a great place to take a photo.

The fountain is located in the center of the city, and it’s easy to find. Just look for the big statue of Neptune! The best time to visit the fountain is in the summer, when the weather is warm and the water is flowing.

But even in the winter, the fountain is a beautiful sight. If you’re ever in Gdansk, be sure to check out the Neptune Fountain.

5. Artus Court

Artus Court Gdansk

If you’re seeking for something to do in Gdansk, Artus Court is the place to go. This beautiful building is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Built in the 14th century, it was once the home of the wealthy merchant families who played a key role in the city’s prosperity.

Today, it houses a museum that tells the story of the city’s history through its art and architecture. be sure to check out the city’s largest tiled stove!

Measuring 10.64 meters and consisting of 520 richly decorated tiles, this stove is truly a sight to see. Artus Court is a great location for those interested in history or culture.

6. Amber Museum

Amber Museum Gdansk

Gdansk is world-famous for its amber museum, which houses the largest collection of amber in the world. The museum is located in the Gdansk old town, and it was founded in 1664. Amber is a fossilized resin that is found in many different colours, and it has been used to make jewellery for centuries.

The museum’s collection includes over 1000 pieces of amber, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gdansk.

Visitors can learn about the history of amber, how it is mined and crafted, and even buy some amber jewellery to take home.

7. St Mary’s Church

St Mary's Church Gdansk

Gdansk is a city with a long and rich history, and that history is on display in its many beautiful churches. One of the most stunning is St. Mary’s Church, which was built in the 14th century. The church has a towering Gothic tower that soars over 80 meters into the air, making it one of the tallest in Europe.

The interior of the church is just as impressive as the exterior, with ornate altars, stained glass windows, and carved wooden pews.

Visitors to Gdansk often make a point to tour St. Mary’s Church, and it is easy to see why. This beautiful building is a testament to the city’s history and its architectural heritage.

8. Motlawa River Embankment

Motlawa River Embankment Gdansk

The Motlawa River embankment in Gdansk is the perfect spot for a romantic walk or cruise. The river is lined with beautiful old buildings, and the air is filled with the sound of seagulls and the smell of sea salt.

There are also plenty of places to sit and enjoy the view, making it the perfect place to relax and watch the world go by.

It’s also a great place to watch the sunset or enjoy the city lights at night. Whether you’re on a first date or celebrating your anniversary, the Motlawa River embankment is a great place to make cherished memories.

9. City Cruise on Historic Boat

Historic Boat Gdansk

A cruise on a historic boat is the perfect way to see the city from a different perspective. You’ll see the amazing old shipyards and warehouses, which set the scene perfectly for your trip. It’s well worth going there to check out a somewhat different, off-the-beaten path portion of Gdansk.

The whole cruise is excellent and your guide is knowledgeable so you’ll find it a really enriching experience overall.

10. Murale Gdansk Zaspa

Murale Gdańsk Zaspa

Zaspa is a district in Gdansk where the walls are covered with street art. In just a few years, this housing estate became one of Poland’s largest integrated galleries – it already consists of 58 different styles and currents within contemporary mural paintings!

Venture out into this artistic world and be sure not only look at what they contain but also how beautifully drawn each one truly is–the talent behind these pieces should not go unnoticed.

All these differing genres breathe life into what could have otherwise been grey concrete buildings. A must-see for art street lovers.

11. Medieval Crane

Medieval Crane Gdansk

Medieval crane is one of the best things to do in Gdansk that can not be missed. The crane was used to move heavy goods in and out of ships, and it played a vital role in the city’s thriving trade economy.

Today, the crane is a symbol of Gdansk’s rich history, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Visitors can climb to the top of the crane for a panoramic view of Gdansk, or they can explore the interactive museum that tells the story of the city’s past.

No matter how you choose to experience it, the medieval crane is sure to leave a lasting impression.

12. Mariacka Street

Maraca Street Gdańsk

Mariacka Street is one of the most famous streets in the city. The street was once called platea Dominae Marie, and later Frauengasse (Maiden Street). Visitors may feel as if they’ve travelled back in time while strolling along the ancient cobblestone street and looking at the city’s iconic tenements houses.

This ancient street in the heart of Gdańsk has been home to artists for centuries. The serenity and beauty that it offers are unique, making this an ideal place for a romantic stroll.

13. European Solidarity Centre

European Solidarity Centre

The European Solidarity Centre is a must-see for anyone visiting Gdansk. This important historical site tells the story of the Solidarity movement, which helped to bring down communism in Poland. The museum chronicles the events of the 1980 Gdansk shipyard strike when workers protested against their poor working conditions.

The strike quickly spread throughout Poland, and ultimately led to the overthrow of communist rule. Today, the European Solidarity Centre stands as a testament to the power of solidarity and its ability to bring about social change.

Visitors can learn about the history of the Solidarity movement, and see how it continues to influence contemporary politics. With its moving exhibits and powerful message, the European Solidarity Centre is an essential stop on any Gdansk tour.

14. World War II Museum

WWII Museum Gdańsk

A trip to Gdansk is not complete without a visit to the World War II Museum. Located in the heart of the city, the museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Second World War.

Museum exhibition is split into three parts – Road to War, The Horror of War and The Long Shadow of War. Within these three areas, there are a total of 18 thematic sections covering different aspects of how World War II was fought and experienced.

The museum tells the story of the conflict through the eyes of those who lived through it. Visitors can see personal belongings, letters, and photographs that belonged to Gdansk residents.

The Gdansk World War II museum exhibition provides a detailed and comprehensive look at one of the most significant events of the 20th century. It is an essential experience for anyone interested in learning more about this dark period in human history.

15. Oliwa Cathedral

Oliwa Cathedral Gdansk

photo credit: gethome.pl

One of the best things to do in Gdansk is visit to the Cathedral of Oliwa. The cathedral is a Roman Catholic church that was built in the 13th century. It is one of the largest and most important churches in Poland.

The cathedral is located in the Oliwa district of Gdansk, and it is easy to get to by train or bus. This particular church is visited by many tourists because of its 18th-century organ, which has nearly 8,000 pipes.

The organ is truly a sight to behold, and the 20-minute concert is definitely worth listening to. During the concert, you can see all the moving parts of the organ in action, and it’s truly an amazing experience. The cathedral is open to the public, and there is no charge for admission.

If you’re visiting Gdansk, this church is definitely one of the best things to do.

16. Brzezno Beach

One of the best ways to experience Gdansk is to spend a day at Brzezno beach. This lovely beach is situated just outside the city center, making it easy to get to. The water is clean and clear, and the sand is white and soft.

There are plenty of beach umbrellas and sun loungers, so you can relax in comfort. There are also a few restaurants and cafes located nearby, so you can grab a bite to eat when you need a break from the sun.

Whether you’re looking to take a swim or simply soak up the atmosphere, Brzezno beach is the perfect place to spend quality time in Gdansk.

17. Love Bridge & Miller House

Love Bridge Gdansk

Gdansk is a beautiful city, and the Love Bridge and Miller House are two of its most romantic spots. The Love Bridge is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand with your loved one. And what could be more romantic than padlocking your love on the bridge and taking photos to remember the moment?

From the bridge, you may see the Miller House, a lovely home that was formerly a wealthy merchant family’s mansion and is now home to an amber museum.. The Miller House is another Gdansk gem, especially if you’re looking for a breathtaking view.

If you are visiting Gdansk, be sure to take a walk across the Love Bridge and enjoy the view of the Miller House.

18. Westerplatte

When Gdansk is mentioned, the first thing that comes to mind is the Solidarity Movement and shipyards. However, Gdansk is also home to Westerplatte – a site of great historical importance. Westerplatte was the site of the first shots fired in World War II.

On September 1, 1939, the German ship Schleswig-Holstein opened fire on a small Polish garrison stationed at Westerplatte. The battle lasted for seven days, and although the Polish soldiers were outnumbered and outgunned, they managed to hold out against the Germans.

Today, Westerplatte is a memorial to those who fought and died in the opening days of World War II. Visitors can see the remains of the fortifications, as well as

Monument to the Defenders of the Coast . The museum on site chronicles the events of September 1-7, 1939 and is well worth a visit when in Gdansk.

19. Malbork Castle

Malbork Castle Gdansk

If you’re visiting Gdansk and looking for something to do, why not head to Malbork and see the largest castle in the world? Malbork Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe.

You can rent a car or take a train from Gdansk to get there or book a guided tour. Once you’re at the castle, you can explore the three massive courtyards, walk along the ramparts, and learn about the castle’s history at the museum. If you’re interested in architecture or medieval history, Malbork Castle is a must-see.

20. Try delicious Polish Food

If you are looking for a great place to eat, Gdansk has plenty of amazing restaurants to choose from.One of the best is definitely Literacka, an elegant, cosy restaurant in Gdansk with long rich history, delicious food and a great atmosphere.

What’s not to love about a place that has been around since the 50s?

This cosy bar and wine shop sit on one of Poland’s most beautiful streets- Mariacka Street. Elegant yet lavish dishes are served here as well as delicious glasses of wines collected around the world; all combined into an unforgettable experience you can’t find anywhere else.

If you’re looking for an amazing pierogi experience, look no further than Mandu Oliwa restaurant in Gdansk. This incredible eatery offers a huge selection of home-made pierogi, with a wide variety of fillings to choose from. The atmosphere at Mandu is electric, and you can really feel the passion that goes into each and every dish. Whether you’re a pierogi lover or simply looking to try something new, Mandu is the perfect spot for you.

Gdansk is also home to some of the best milk bars in the country, and visitors can enjoy a taste of history while sampling classic dishes like pierogi and bigos. These Milk Bars serve up hearty meals at prices that won’t break the bank, and they offer a unique glimpse into Poland’s Communist past. Perfect if you are on the budget.

Where To Stay?

There’s no shortage of great places to stay when visiting Gdansk. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, a cozy apartment, or a budget-friendly hostel, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. Old town and Oliwa are among the best places to stay in Gdansk.

Both areas offer a wide range of accommodations to suit any traveler’s needs. old town is especially well-known for its impressive array of luxury hotels, while Oliwa is a great choice for budget-minded travelers.

Here are some picks for you!

Raddison Gdańsk

Raddison Hotel & Suites Gdansk

• Enjoy a wide range of amenities, including a fitness center and a bar
• Stay connected with free WiFi
• Get 24-hour customer service
• Have access to an indoor pool

Book Now

Luxury

Dwor Uphagena Gdańsk

Dwor Uphagena Gdansk

• Comfortable and beautifully designed apartments
• Located close to popular tourist destinations
• Buffet breakfast available
• Excellent value for money

Book Now

Mid-range

Apartment Gdansk Halowa

Apartment Gdansk Walowa

• WiFi and private parking are both free of charge
• The apartment features a terrace with city views
• Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a flat-screen TV with satellite channel

Book Now

Budget

Bartosz is a travel writer, photographer & founder/editor of theuniquepoland who tells stories of adventure, history and current affairs. He writes mainly about travel, with special focus on Poland. He loves travelling, discover new unknown and inspire others.

2 Comments

  • Emily

    Gdańsk looks beautiful on your pics. I am planning to visit it this year. Just wonder which time of the year is best to go?

    • Patrycja

      We suugest to go summer time however you can enjoy Gdansk any time of the year. Gdansk is amazing and offer many attractions. We hope you will enjoy your stay there.

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