Gdańsk is like no other Polish city. A sea of Flemish gables, cobbled streets, and seafaring heritage make this a gorgeous outpost along the Baltic, with a culture thrust between empires and shared with far-flung cities for centuries. Wander down Mariacka street, in awe of the beauty of the old town, uncovering convivial eateries, quirky bars, fascinating museums, and much, much more. And if that’s not enough, the shortest-of-hops out of town offers seaside charms a-plenty.
What to Do in Gdańsk: Old Town & Historic Gems
It’s hard to find an old town quite as beautiful as Gdańsk’s. Parallels with Bruges and Amsterdam aren’t without merit; Gdańsk famously traded with both cities for centuries, and the influence over architecture, culture, and, not to mention, wealth, is inescapable. Pastel colours, decorative embellishments, and those iconic Flemish gables frame the streets, bookended by vast city gates and lively market squares that embody the historic prowess of the city.
Mariacka Street: The Connection Between Gdańsk and Amber
Gdańsk is known as the “World Capital of Amber.” For centuries, the city has been the primary hub for the trade and craftsmanship of “Baltic Gold.” Raw amber washes up on the local Polish seaside after storms, and the historic Mariacka Street remains the best place to find artisanal jewellery and visit the state-of-the-art Amber Museum in the Great Mill.
Arguably the prettiest street in the old town, Mariacka Street simply oozes atmosphere. It’s the only surviving row of terraces in the city; the narrow cobble street and jutting stoops flanked by ornamental pillars only serve to make the tall homes all the more imposing. It’s a feast for the eyes, each decorated with small fixtures here and there, most now sporting curious little shops at ground level.
St. Mary’s Church
Towering above the old town, St. Mary’s Church is the largest brick Gothic church in the world, finished in 1502. Each street seemingly leads to the vast, imposing walls of the church, with soaring windows and towers pointing to the heavens. It’s an impressive sight; more impressive is the 405-step clamber to the tower’s viewing platform. Winding through the innards of the tower is an experience in itself, though the reward surely is the view from the top. The interior of the church is holistically white, surprisingly plain, though not without its own gravitas.
European Solidarity Centre
Solidarity has profound meaning in Poland. It’s the name owed to a trade union movement that became a symbolic freedom struggle of the late Soviet period, and paved the way for other Soviet states to start their own struggles toward independence. For history lovers, a visit to this museum, library, and educational centre is filled with exhibitions and activities about the Solidarity union movement, which had its roots in the docks of Gdańsk, and the fall of communism in Eastern Europe.
Museum of the Second World War
Make sure to set aside an afternoon to visit the Museum of the Second World War, an extraordinary landmark dedicated to the suffering and human cost of the Second World War. The exhibition is comprehensive, sensitive, and markedly moving, with full recreations of WWII-era streets, poignant sculpture and installation, and a comprehensive collection of artefacts. The realities of the war and the Holocaust are not censored – be mindful that the museum is not suitable for young children.
Sundowner Tipples
There’s a very cool night scene in Gdańsk. If you’re hunting for a nightcap, there’s no shortage of eclectic bars in this city. Cellar bars and jazz clubs are the norm, where vintage and shabby-chic reign supreme and the understated revelry spills out onto the street. Head for the streets of the old town to find your sundowner spot, and soak up the unique culture of Gdańsk’s night scene.
Gdańsk City Centre vs. Sopot Beach: Where Should You Stay?
Wherever you choose to stay hinges entirely on what you want from your trip. Gdańsk is the perfect base for history buffs, culture vultures, and those who want the city’s main attractions on their doorstep. You’ll be within easy walking distance of the Old Town’s main sights, the major museums, and a huge selection of restaurants and bars. It offers a more authentic, atmospheric Polish city break experience, especially if you enjoy being enveloped by historic architecture. It’s also the best spot for accessing the main train and tram links for exploring the wider Tri-City area.
Sopot, by contrast, is a Baltic Riviera beset with beach, fish restaurants, wooden decking, and the odd bit of revelry. At just a quarter of an hour train ride from Gdańsk, a quick beach afternoon with sunset dining is arguably a must-do. Along the waterfront, cafes, bars, and restaurants vie for business, bunching up around the long, wooden pier (Europe’s longest, no less) that juts into the blue waters. Visitors from all over make this a pseudo pilgrimage, heel-turning back towards the town for walks along the famous Monte Cassino. Here, it’s a tad ritzy, a street more packed with bars, shopping and eateries than your typical Polish town.
At sundown, it’s somewhat of a strip, attracting younger revellers who know how to have fun. Join them for Baltic beats and dancing, or escape the action at any number of refined seaside bars, overlooking the now-black waters of twilight.
For more outdoor wonders, head a little further north of Sopot and take a walk along the beach at Orłowo. This is where a deep forest meets the sea, where the forested elevation is battered by the waves, causing a cliff edge. It makes for a beautiful beachside stroll, with the Baltic to one side and the Kępa Redłowska forest to the other.
How Many Days Do You Need in Gdańsk and Sopot?
To make the most of your stay, while sticking to your budget, we recommend three days for a Gdańsk city break. This gives you two days to explore the Old Town and museums, eat pierogies (tasty Polish dumplings) to your heart’s content, and a day to enjoy the coastal bliss that is Sopot.
If you want to stay in Sopot, we recommend at least four to five days for a more relaxed luxury weekend in Poland. Make sure to include Gdynia Orłowo, Malbork Castle, and try Zupa Rybna, a staple seafood dish.
Best Time to Visit the Baltic Coast: Summer Sun vs. Christmas Magic
The best time to visit the Baltic Coast heavily depends on the type of getaway you seek. For warmer weather and the longest daylight (up to 19 hours), travel between June and August. It is peak beach times, so you may compete with other tourists to find space on the sand, but you’ll enjoy a more vibrant atmosphere, lively festivities, and optimal times for watersports.
For fewer crowds and a more fairytale-like atmosphere (complete with much colder weather), travel during winter, specifically between November and December, to witness Poland’s magical Christmas markets.
Gdańsk Christmas Market
The Gdańsk Christmas Market, or Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy, is consistently ranked among the most beautiful in Europe and is a must-see if you visit during the winter months. It typically takes place between 21st November and 23rd December, and is set primarily around Targ Węglowy, the historic centre which transforms into a dazzling festive wonderland.
Expect towering Christmas trees, charming wooden stalls selling artisanal crafts, regional delicacies like smoked cheese (oscypek), and plenty of mulled wine (grzaniec). The market offers a unique blend of Polish traditions with influences from its historic trading partners, creating a truly magical atmosphere perfect for finding unique gifts and soaking up the holiday spirit.
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For more travel advice and inspiration, deep dive further into the Escapist magazine or get in touch with us.
In partnership with the Polish Tourism Organisation