Gdańsk Travel Guide

Introduction

Gdańsk, a Baltic Sea port city in northern Poland, is a captivating destination steeped in history and culture. With origins dating back to the 10th century, this former Hanseatic trading hub boasts a beautifully restored Old Town, showcasing a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Dutch Mannerist architecture. The city is home to Europe's largest brick church, St. Mary's Basilica, and the iconic Neptune Fountain in the Long Market. Gdańsk played a pivotal role in 20th-century history as the birthplace of the Solidarity movement, which contributed to the fall of communism in Eastern Europe. Today, visitors can explore world-class museums, enjoy amber shopping, and experience a vibrant culinary scene. As part of the Tricity urban area along with Sopot and Gdynia, Gdańsk offers a perfect blend of historical charm and modern coastal living.

Interesting Facts about Gdańsk

• Gdańsk is Poland's principal seaport and sixth-largest city, with a population of approximately 486,000.
• The city hosts St. Dominic's Fair, one of Europe's largest trade and cultural events, dating back to 1260.
• Gdańsk was a member of the powerful Hanseatic League, which greatly influenced its economic and urban landscape.
• St. Mary's Church in Gdańsk is one of the largest brick churches in the world.
• The city was the birthplace of the Solidarity movement in the 1980s, which played a crucial role in ending communism in Eastern Europe.
• Gdańsk's historic city centre has been designated as one of Poland's national monuments.
• The city is home to the Museum of the Second World War, commemorating the first clash of World War II at Westerplatte.
• Gdańsk boasts the Olivia Star, the tallest building in northern Poland, standing at 156 metres tall.
• The city's Main Town Hall, dating from the late 13th-early 14th century, is a testament to Gdańsk's former splendour.
• Gdańsk received 3.4 million tourists in 2019, making it one of the most visited cities in Poland.

History

First mentioned as a Polish city in 997 or 999, it quickly developed into an important trade centre due to its strategic location. The city's golden age came in the 16th and early 17th centuries when it was one of the wealthiest cities in Poland and a key member of the powerful Hanseatic League. During this period, Gdańsk flourished as the largest port on the Baltic, handling massive grain exports and boasting a population of 77,000 by 1754, making it the most populous city in Eastern Europe.

However, Gdańsk's prosperity was not to last. The Swedish wars of the 17th and 18th centuries halted the city's economic growth, marking the beginning of its decline. In 1772, Gdańsk was seized by Prussia, leading to a rapid dissolution of trade through its port. Despite brief periods of autonomy, including its status as a free city under Napoleon I in 1807, Gdańsk's economy continued to struggle. The city's fortunes took a further hit when it was partitioned from Poland following the Congress of Vienna, relegating it to the Prussian province of West Prussia.

In the 20th century, Gdańsk played a pivotal role in world events. It was here that World War II began on 1 September 1939, resulting in the destruction of 90% of the city centre. After the war, under communist rule, Gdańsk became a hotbed of resistance. In August 1980, the Solidarity movement was born in the Gdańsk Shipyard, led by Lech Wałęsa. This movement played a crucial role in the fall of communism in Poland and, ultimately, Eastern Europe. Today, Gdańsk stands as a testament to resilience and rebirth, its meticulously reconstructed old town a tribute to its storied past.

Main Attractions

Long Market (Długi Targ)

The Long Market, known locally as Długi Targ, is the beating heart of Gdańsk's Old Town. This bustling thoroughfare stretches an impressive 500 metres from the Golden Gate to the Green Gate, serving as the city's main pedestrian zone. The street is flanked by rows of colourful, ornate townhouses, many of which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. These buildings, with their elaborate façades and intricate details, offer a stunning backdrop for visitors strolling through the area.

One of the most iconic landmarks in the Long Market is Neptune's Fountain. This magnificent bronze statue, erected in the early 17th century, stands as a symbol of Gdańsk's deep-rooted connection to the sea. The fountain depicts the Roman god of the sea holding his characteristic trident, and it has become a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike.

Another notable structure along the Long Market is the Artus Court. This historic building, with its impressive façade and grand interiors, once served as a meeting place for merchants and a centre of the city's social life. Today, it houses a branch of the Gdańsk History Museum, where visitors can explore exhibits detailing the city's rich maritime and trading history.

The Main Town Hall, located at the eastern end of the Long Market, is a striking example of Gothic-Renaissance architecture. Its tower, reaching a height of 80 metres, offers panoramic views of the city for those willing to climb its stairs. The building now functions as a museum, showcasing historical interiors and artefacts related to Gdańsk's past.

The Long Market truly comes alive during the spring and summer months when outdoor cafes and restaurants set up their terraces, and street performers entertain the crowds. It's an ideal place to soak in the atmosphere of Gdańsk, enjoy local cuisine, and admire the architectural beauty that surrounds you.

St. Mary's Church (Bazylika Mariacka)

St. Mary's Church, or Bazylika Mariacka in Polish, is an awe-inspiring structure that dominates Gdańsk's skyline. This colossal brick church is not only the largest brick church in the world but also one of the largest churches of any construction material in Europe. Its imposing presence is a testament to Gdańsk's historical wealth and importance.

The church's construction began in 1343 and continued for an impressive 159 years. The result is a magnificent example of Brick Gothic architecture, with its characteristic red brick exterior and soaring spires. The main nave of St. Mary's reaches a height of 29 metres, while its impressive tower stretches 78 metres into the sky.

Inside, the church's vast interior can accommodate up to 25,000 people, making it one of the largest religious spaces in Poland. The interior is adorned with numerous works of medieval art, including a 15th-century astronomical clock that still keeps time today. This intricate timepiece not only shows the time but also tracks the movements of the sun and moon, and features a calendar of saints' days.

One of the most striking features of St. Mary's is its collection of over 300 tombstones, many of which date back to the 14th and 15th centuries. These elaborately carved stones offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives and deaths of Gdańsk's historical elite. The church also boasts 31 chapels, each with its own unique history and artistic treasures.

For those with the energy and inclination, climbing the church tower is a must-do activity. The ascent involves 405 steps, but the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of Gdańsk and its surroundings. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Baltic Sea.

The Crane (Żuraw)

The Crane, known as Żuraw in Polish, is one of Gdańsk's most recognisable landmarks and a symbol of the city's rich maritime heritage. This medieval port crane, originally built in the 14th century and rebuilt in 1444 after a fire, stands as a testament to Gdańsk's historical importance as a major Baltic port.

The Crane is a unique structure that combines the functions of a city gate, a defensive fortification, and a port crane. Its distinctive wooden construction sits atop a brick base, creating a striking silhouette along the Motława River. The Crane's primary purpose was to load and unload cargo from ships, as well as to place masts on vessels.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Crane is its operating mechanism. It features two pairs of large wooden wheels, each originally powered by teams of men who would walk inside them, much like hamsters in a wheel. This human-powered system could lift loads of up to two tonnes to a height of 11 metres, an impressive feat for medieval engineering.

The ground floor of the Crane was designed with cannon emplacements, while the upper storeys featured embrasures for smaller firearms, highlighting the structure's dual role as both a working crane and a defensive fortification. Today, the Crane houses a branch of the National Maritime Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of Gdańsk's port and maritime trade.

The Crane's survival through centuries of wars and rebuilding efforts makes it a unique monument to medieval engineering and a symbol of Gdańsk's enduring spirit. Its silhouette against the backdrop of the Motława River offers one of the most iconic views in the city.

Motława Waterfront

The Motława Waterfront, often referred to as the Long Embankment (Długie Pobrzeże), is a picturesque promenade that runs along the Motława River in the heart of Gdańsk's old town. This charming riverside walk offers some of the most iconic views of the city and is a favourite spot for both locals and tourists.

The waterfront is lined with a series of historical water gates, each with its own unique architecture and history. These gates, including the famous Green Gate and the Bread Gate, were once part of the city's defensive system and served as entry points for goods coming into the city by water. Today, they stand as beautiful reminders of Gdańsk's past as a wealthy Hanseatic port city.

One of the most photographed views along the waterfront is that of the iconic Crane building, which stands as a symbol of Gdańsk's maritime heritage. The contrast between the Crane's medieval wooden structure and the colourful façades of the surrounding buildings creates a stunning visual tableau.

The Mariacka Gate, located at the end of Mariacka Street, is another notable landmark along the waterfront. This ornate Renaissance gate, with its intricate stonework and statues, marks the entrance to one of Gdańsk's most charming streets, famous for its amber shops and gargoyle rain spouts.

The waterfront is also home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and ice cream shops, making it an ideal place to relax and watch the world go by. Visitors can enjoy traditional Polish cuisine or international fare while taking in views of the river and the colourful buildings that line its banks.

For those interested in maritime history, several historical ships are often moored along the waterfront, including replicas of medieval cogs and galleons. These vessels offer a tangible link to Gdańsk's seafaring past and sometimes host tours or events.

AmberSky Ferris Wheel

The AmberSky Ferris Wheel is a modern addition to Gdańsk's cityscape that offers visitors a unique perspective on this historic city. Standing at an impressive 50 metres tall, this observation wheel provides panoramic views of Gdańsk's old town, the shipyards, and on clear days, even the Baltic Sea.

Located near the Motława River in the old town centre, the AmberSky Ferris Wheel features 36 climate-controlled gondolas, each capable of seating up to 8 people comfortably. This makes it an ideal attraction for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a romantic experience. For those looking for an extra special experience, there is also a VIP gondola equipped with a glass floor, offering an even more thrilling view.

The wheel's location is particularly strategic, offering riders a bird's-eye view of Gdańsk's most iconic landmarks. From the top, you can spot the spires of St. Mary's Church, the distinctive shape of the Crane, and the colourful façades of the Long Market. The experience is particularly magical at sunset or after dark when the city lights up.

Each ride on the AmberSky Ferris Wheel lasts approximately 15 minutes, providing ample time to take in the views and capture photographs. The attraction is open year-round, weather permitting, and offers a different perspective on the city with each season.

Oliwa Park

Oliwa Park, located in the northern part of Gdańsk, is a serene oasis that offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling city centre. This historic park, with origins dating back to the 12th-13th centuries, was originally part of a Cistercian monastery complex. Today, it stands as one of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of French-style baroque gardens in Poland.

The park covers an area of 11 hectares and is home to a diverse array of plant life, including many rare species. One of its most striking features is the Abbots' Palace, a grand 18th-century building that now houses the Modern Art Department of the National Museum in Gdańsk. The palace's elegant façade and surrounding formal gardens provide a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the abbots who once resided here.

A highlight of Oliwa Park is the French-style baroque garden, characterised by its symmetrical layout, carefully manicured hedges, and ornamental flower beds. The central axis of this garden is the picturesque Linden Avenue, which leads to a charming pond adorned with water features.

One of the park's most unique attractions is the pair of Whisper Caverns. These shell-shaped structures, located at opposite ends of a small clearing, have peculiar acoustic properties. A whisper spoken into one shell can be clearly heard at the other, even though they are several metres apart. This quirky feature delights visitors of all ages.

For plant enthusiasts, the park's Alpine garden is a must-see. This area showcases a variety of exotic plants and rock formations, creating a miniature mountain landscape in the heart of Gdańsk. The park is also home to numerous old-growth trees, some of which are several hundred years old.

Throughout the year, Oliwa Park hosts various cultural events, including concerts, art exhibitions, and festivals. The park's peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a respite from urban life.

Long Bridge (Most Miłości)

The Long Bridge, also known as the Bridge of Love or Most Miłości in Polish, is a historic structure that spans the Motława River in Gdańsk. Despite its name, the Long Bridge is actually quite short, measuring only about 52 metres in length. Its history, however, is long and rich, dating back to the 14th century.

Originally constructed as a wooden bridge in the Middle Ages, the Long Bridge has been rebuilt and renovated numerous times throughout its history. The current structure, with its distinctive green paint and ornate metalwork, dates from the late 19th century. It connects the Main Town with the Granary Island, once a crucial storage area for the city's bustling port.

In recent years, the Long Bridge has gained popularity as a romantic spot for couples. Following a tradition that has spread across Europe, lovers attach padlocks to the bridge's railings as a symbol of their commitment. These 'love locks', adorned with initials and dates, create a colourful and touching display of affection against the backdrop of the historic city.

The bridge offers stunning views of the Motława River and the surrounding historic buildings. From here, visitors can see the iconic Crane, the colourful façades of the Long Embankment, and the spires of St. Mary's Church in the distance. It's a popular spot for photographers, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.

The Long Bridge is not just a romantic symbol; it also plays a practical role in the city's transportation network. It serves as a pedestrian crossing, connecting the main tourist areas of the old town with the redeveloped Granary Island, now home to hotels, restaurants, and cultural venues.

St. Catherine's Church Tower

St. Catherine's Church, the oldest parish church in Gdańsk's Main Town, offers visitors a unique tower-climbing experience that combines historical exploration with modern artistic elements. The church itself dates back to 1227, but it's the tower that has become a major attraction for adventurous tourists.

The climb to the top of St. Catherine's tower is unlike any other church tower ascent in Gdańsk. Instead of narrow, winding staircases, visitors ascend via wide metal steps that lead through a series of rooms. Each of these spaces is illuminated with colourful neon lights, creating an unexpected and visually striking contrast with the medieval architecture.

As climbers make their way up the tower, they encounter various exhibits that showcase the church's history and Gdańsk's cultural heritage. These displays include historical artefacts, old weapons, and even the inner workings of the tower's clock mechanism. The juxtaposition of these historical elements with the modern lighting creates a unique and memorable experience.

One of the most interesting features of the tower is the old bell-ringing room. Here, visitors can see the massive bells up close and learn about the traditional art of bell-ringing. The room also offers insights into the technical aspects of the tower's construction and maintenance over the centuries.

Upon reaching the top of the tower, climbers are rewarded with panoramic views of Gdańsk. From this vantage point, you can see the spires of other churches, the rooftops of the old town, and on clear days, even glimpses of the Baltic Sea. The view provides a unique perspective on the city's layout and architectural diversity.

The tower of St. Catherine's Church is not just a tourist attraction; it also plays an important role in the city's cultural life. It houses a carillon, a musical instrument consisting of 49 bells, which regularly performs concerts that can be heard throughout the old town. These melodious performances add an enchanting auditory dimension to the visual splendour of Gdańsk's skyline.

Top Museums

World War II History

Museum of the Second World War

This monumental institution stands as one of the most significant museums in Poland, dedicated to preserving and presenting the memory of World War II. The striking modern building, designed to symbolise the relationship between the past, present, and future, houses an expansive exhibition space of over 5,000 square metres.

The museum's narrative is divided into three main blocks: The Road to War, The Horrors of War, and The War's Long Shadow. With over 2,000 exhibits spread across 18 thematic sections, it provides a comprehensive and poignant look at the global impact of the war.

Visitors can explore a wide range of artefacts, including personal items, military equipment, and interactive displays. The museum also features thought-provoking installations, such as a room filled with suitcases representing the displacement of millions during the war. Its approach to presenting history is both educational and emotionally engaging, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in 20th-century history.

Political History

European Solidarity Centre

Located near the historic Gdańsk Shipyard, the birthplace of the Solidarity movement, this museum is housed in a striking building designed to resemble a ship's hull. It's dedicated to the history of Solidarity, the Polish trade union and civil resistance movement that played a crucial role in ending communist rule in Poland and Eastern Europe.

The permanent exhibition spans seven halls, each focusing on different aspects of the Solidarity movement and its impact. Visitors can explore recreated interiors from the 1970s and 1980s, view original documents and artefacts, and interact with multimedia presentations that bring the era to life.

Beyond its role as a museum, the European Solidarity Centre also functions as a library, research centre, and educational facility. It hosts temporary exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events, continuing to promote the ideals of democracy, freedom, and solidarity.

Natural History and Science

Amber Museum

Housed in the historic Grand Mill, a 14th-century brick structure, the Amber Museum is the first institution in Poland devoted solely to amber. Known as the 'Baltic gold', amber has played a significant role in the region's history and economy for centuries.

The museum's exhibits take visitors on a journey through time, showcasing amber in its natural state, explaining its formation process, and demonstrating various extraction methods. Visitors can marvel at an extensive collection of amber inclusions – insects and plant matter trapped in amber millions of years ago.

The museum also explores the cultural significance of amber, its use in medicine and cosmetics, and its importance in trade along the ancient Amber Road. A highlight is the collection of amber artworks, ranging from ancient amulets to contemporary jewellery designs.

Hevelianum

Located in the historic Góra Gradowa Fort, Hevelianum is an innovative science centre named after Johannes Hevelius, the famous 17th-century astronomer who lived and worked in Gdańsk. The centre combines elements of a traditional museum with interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences.

Visitors can explore exhibitions on physics, astronomy, history, and geography. The Time Machine exhibition takes guests on a journey through Gdańsk's past, while the Heweliusz exhibition celebrates the life and work of its namesake astronomer. The centre also features a planetarium and an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.

Hevelianum's location in the restored fort adds an extra layer of historical interest, with parts of the complex dedicated to exploring the military history of the site.

Maritime History

National Maritime Museum

This expansive museum is spread across several locations in Gdańsk, offering a comprehensive look at Poland's maritime heritage. The main building on Ołowianka Island houses exhibits on shipbuilding, navigation, and fishing, featuring model ships, navigational instruments, and maritime paintings.

One of the most iconic parts of the museum is the medieval port crane known as Żuraw. This 15th-century wooden structure, once used for loading and unloading cargo and raising ship masts, now serves as a unique museum space showcasing the history of the port of Gdańsk.

The museum's collection also includes several ship-museums moored in the Motława River, including the Sołdek, the first ship built in Poland after World War II. Visitors can explore these vessels, gaining insight into life at sea and the evolution of shipbuilding technology.

Cultural History

Uphagen House

This meticulously restored 18th-century merchant's house offers a rare glimpse into the life of Gdańsk's wealthy middle class during the city's golden age. Johann Uphagen, a historian and city councillor, left specific instructions in his will for his house to be preserved as a museum, making it one of the earliest house museums in Europe.

Visitors can explore multiple floors of period rooms, including the entrance hall, dining room, study, and bedrooms. The interiors are lavishly decorated with original furnishings, paintings, and decorative arts from the 18th century. Of particular note is the beautifully preserved Rococo main hall and the extensive library, reflecting Uphagen's scholarly interests.

The museum not only showcases the material culture of the era but also provides insight into the social customs, daily routines, and intellectual life of Gdańsk's elite during the Enlightenment period.

Artus Court

Once the meeting place for merchants and the centre of Gdańsk's social life, Artus Court now serves as a museum showcasing the city's rich history. The building's impressive Renaissance façade is a testament to Gdańsk's former prosperity and its connections to the Hanseatic League.

Inside, visitors are greeted by a vast hall adorned with an ornate starry ceiling, intricate wall paintings, and a monumental tiled stove standing over 10 metres tall. The museum houses a collection of model ships, weapons, and paintings that illustrate Gdańsk's maritime heritage and its role as a major trading hub.

Of particular interest are the allegorical paintings and sculptures that decorate the interior, each telling stories of historical events, mythological tales, and moral lessons that were important to the merchants and citizens of old Gdańsk.

Gdańsk History Museum

Housed in the impressive Main City Hall, a Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece in the heart of Gdańsk's old town, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the city's rich and complex history. The building itself, with its soaring tower and ornate façade, is a testament to Gdańsk's historical importance and wealth.

The museum's exhibits span from the city's medieval origins to the present day, showcasing artefacts, documents, and artworks that illustrate Gdańsk's evolution. Visitors can explore recreated interiors of burgher houses, learn about the city's role in the Hanseatic League, and discover how major historical events shaped Gdańsk's identity.

A highlight of the museum is the Red Room, a stunning chamber decorated with Dutch Golden Age paintings and intricate woodwork, once used for official city functions.

Old Toy Gallery

This charming private museum offers a nostalgic journey through childhood memories, housing a collection of historical Polish toys from 1920 to 1989. Located in a historic tenement house in the old town, the museum's intimate setting adds to its appeal.

Visitors can marvel at a wide array of toys, including dolls, tin toys, wooden blocks, board games, and miniature vehicles. The collection not only showcases the evolution of toy design and manufacturing but also reflects the changing social and political landscape of Poland throughout the 20th century.

Of particular interest are the handmade toys from the war and post-war periods, demonstrating the creativity and resilience of Polish children and their families during challenging times.

Archaeology and Ancient History

Archaeological Museum

Situated in a former Franciscan monastery, this museum offers insights into the prehistoric and early medieval history of Pomerania and the Baltic region. The exhibits span from the Stone Age to the early Middle Ages, featuring artefacts discovered during archaeological excavations in and around Gdańsk.

Highlights include a collection of amber artefacts, Viking-era jewellery, and reconstructions of early Slavic settlements. The museum also houses an Egyptian collection, including a mummy and sarcophagus, adding an unexpected element to its offerings.

Military History

Wisłoujście Fortress

This unique museum is housed in a 16th-century fortress located at the mouth of the Vistula River. Originally built to defend the entrance to Gdańsk's port, the fortress now offers visitors a glimpse into military architecture and coastal defence systems from the 16th to the 20th centuries.

Visitors can explore the fortress's circular brick tower, bastions, and surrounding fortifications. The museum features exhibits on the fortress's history, including its role in various conflicts and its use as a lighthouse and pilot station.

Natural History

Gdańsk Zoo Oliwa

While primarily a zoological garden, the Gdańsk Zoo in Oliwa also functions as a living museum of natural history. Established in 1954, it houses over 1,000 animals representing nearly 200 species from around the world.

The zoo's educational centre offers exhibits on biodiversity, conservation, and animal behaviour. Of particular interest is the mini-aquarium showcasing local Baltic Sea life and the nocturnal house where visitors can observe the activities of nocturnal animals.

From world-changing historical events to local cultural treasures and natural wonders, Gdańsk's diverse array of museums offers a rich tapestry of experiences that bring the city's past and present to life. Whether you're interested in art, history, science, or nature, you'll find a museum in Gdańsk that caters to your interests and provides deep insights into this fascinating Baltic city.

Local Cuisine

Among the must-try dishes are pierogi, dumplings filled with savoury or sweet ingredients like meat, sauerkraut, or seasonal fruits, and bigos, a hearty stew of sauerkraut, meat, and vegetables. The city's proximity to the sea shines through in its seafood specialities, such as śledź po kaszubsku (Kashubian-style herring) prepared with raisins and spices, and smoked or pickled herring served with onions. For a taste of local soups, żurek, a sour rye soup with sausage and potatoes, is a comforting choice. Gdańsk also embraces its Kashubian roots with unique dishes like brzôdowa soup, made from dried fruits and pasta. To complete the experience, indulge in desserts like szarlotka (Polish apple pie) or chocolate-filled pierogi.

Shopping

The city's largest shopping centre is Forum Gdańsk, located near the Old Town, with over 220 shops and restaurants. Other notable malls include Galeria Bałtycka in Wrzeszcz and Galeria Madison near the main train station. For designer brands at discounted prices, visitors can explore Designer Outlet Gdańsk on the city's outskirts. Traditional markets like Hala Targowa offer local produce and Polish delicacies. The historic Mariacka Street is known for its amber jewellery shops, while the Long Market (Długi Targ) features souvenir stalls and boutiques. Shoppers should note that most large stores are closed on Sundays, with only seven shopping Sundays permitted annually.

Nature in and around Gdańsk

Gdańsk and its surrounding areas offer a variety of natural attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. The Tri-city Landscape Park, covering 199.3 km², features six colour-coded hiking trails and abundant wildlife. For beach lovers, Sobieszewo Island provides a quieter alternative to the popular Brzeźno Beach, with its wide sandy shores and a bird sanctuary home to over 200 species. The picturesque Oliwa Park, dating back to the 15th century, offers a serene escape with its botanical garden, palm house, and diverse landscaping styles. Nature lovers can also enjoy seal-watching cruises at the mouth of the Vistula River, where seals can be observed in their natural habitat. The Gdańsk Zoo, situated on the edge of the Tri-City Landscape Park, houses over 1,000 animals from about 190 species across 136 hectares of beautifully landscaped grounds.

Getting There & Around

Gdańsk boasts an efficient and diverse public transport system that makes navigating the city a breeze. The backbone of local travel is the SKM (Fast City Railway), which swiftly connects Gdańsk with neighbouring Sopot and Gdynia. Within the city, an extensive network of trams and buses covers most areas, with tickets available from machines, kiosks, and mobile apps. For airport transfers, the PKM (Pomeranian Metropolitan Railway) offers a convenient link. Visitors can also explore the historic centre on foot or via the compact Bus 100, which loops around key attractions. Those venturing to nearby sights like Malbork Castle can utilise regional trains, while ferries provide a scenic route to destinations like Westerplatte. For the best value, consider purchasing day or multi-day passes, especially if planning to use public transport frequently during your stay.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gdańsk largely depends on your preferences, but many travellers find the months of May and September particularly appealing. During these shoulder season months, you can enjoy comfortable weather for sightseeing without the crowds and high accommodation rates of the peak summer season. Summer, from June to August, offers warmer temperatures and longer days, perfect for exploring nearby beaches, but it's also the busiest and most expensive time. Autumn, especially September and October, brings mild weather, fewer tourists, and the chance to experience the beautiful 'Golden Polish Autumn' with its colourful foliage. Winter, from November to March, can be chilly, but offers unique charm with Christmas markets and affordable accommodation. Spring starts in April with pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers. Ultimately, each season in Gdańsk has its own allure, so the ideal time to visit depends on your desired activities and tolerance for crowds and varying weather conditions.