Location & Transportation
I love arriving in Gdansk because the port area offers a mix of history and modern convenience. Some smaller ships dock at Oliwskie Pier in the New Port, which is about four miles from the town center. If you’re arriving on a larger cruise ship, you’ll likely land in Gdynia—a 45-minute ride from Gdansk’s enchanting Old Town. Shuttles are generally provided, but taxis are also readily available at the pier.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Catch a shuttle bus to Gdynia, then take a 20-minute walk to Gdynia Main Railway Station and hop on a local train to Gdansk Main Railway Station (about 40 minutes). From there, a leisurely 15-minute walk will lead you to Dluga Street in the heart of Old Town.
- If you prefer a direct route, a taxi ride should cost roughly 20 euros. Just be sure to look for cabs that display a corporate logo and phone number so you’re sure you’re getting a licensed service.
Nearby Lodging
Gdansk offers a range of accommodations from cozy guesthouses in the Old Town to modern hotels along the waterfront. If you want to be close to the city’s history and charm, I’d recommend staying right in or near the reconstructed historic center.
Nearest Airport
The Gdansk Lech Wałęsa Airport is just a short drive from the city center. It offers easy access via taxi or shuttle bus, making your arrival and departure hassle-free.
Sightseeing
Wandering the streets of Gdansk is like stepping into a living museum! The Old Town, rebuilt with great care after World War II, is full of impressive architecture and interesting sites. I highly recommend exploring:
- St. Mary's Church: Often touted as the largest brick church in the world, it’s a must-see for its grand scale and history.
- The Old Crane & City Hall: These iconic landmarks harken back to the city’s Hanseatic past.
- Artus Court: Once the residence of Gdansk’s rulers, the building is rich in history and architectural detail.
- Great Mill: Dominating the waterside, this seven-story mill gives you a glimpse into the city's medieval prosperity.
- Stroll along Dluga Street and enjoy the charming street cafés and vibrant atmosphere that makes people-watching a delight.
Museums
I love that Gdansk offers a variety of museums where history comes alive:
- Gdansk Historical Museum: Located inside the majestic Town Hall, it’s a perfect spot to learn about the city’s storied past.
- Maritime Museum: Housed in the 15th-century Gdansk Crane, it features models of ships built in local shipyards since 1945.
- National Art Museum: Home to a diverse collection of Gothic art, including Hans Memling’s earliest known work, this museum reflects the town’s former wealth and artistic heritage.
Tours & Excursions
For those who love exploring beyond the city limits, I recommend taking advantage of the excellent local transportation:
- The Fast Train (SKM) is a convenient way to tour the Tri-City area, linking Gdansk with Gdynia, Sopot, Wejherowo, and Lebork. It’s ideal for quick trips between attractions.
- Consider booking a guided walking tour of the Old Town to learn more about its history and architecture firsthand.
- If you prefer a more private experience, licensed taxi services are available—but be sure to choose those with clear corporate branding and pricing displays.
Shopping
One of the highlights of Gdansk is the amber shopping on Mariacka Street. It’s a fantastic place to pick up unique amber jewelry and other handcrafted souvenirs that celebrate the region’s rich artisanal traditions.
Dining
Gdansk’s culinary scene is equally inviting. I always enjoy sampling local traditional fare like:
- Pierogi: These stuffed dumplings are a Polish specialty and come with a variety of fillings.
- Cozy street cafés and restaurants offering hearty Polish dishes that pair perfectly with a stroll in the Old Town.
- Don’t miss trying a local bakery’s treats or a traditional soup at one of the family-run eateries scattered throughout the city.
Culture & Local Events
Gdansk is not just about history—it’s a vibrant city with a unique culture and living traditions. Here are a few cultural insights and practical tips for your visit:
- Currency & Payments: The legal tender is the Polish złoty (PLN). While Poland is not part of the Eurozone, many larger shops and hypermarkets might accept Euros. It’s always wise to check conversion rates before making any purchases.
- Language: Although Polish is the primary language, you’ll find that most young people speak or understand English, which makes navigating the city much easier.
- Operating Hours:
- Shops typically operate Monday to Friday from around 10:00 to 18:00 or 20:00, with some stores open all day on weekends.
- ‘Night shops’ often run 24 hours.
- Supermarkets and department stores are generally open daily from 10:00 to 19:00.
- Public Holidays: Expect closures or shorter hours on major holidays, such as:
- January 1: New Year’s Day
- Easter (Sunday and Monday)
- May 1: Labour Day
- May 3: Constitution Day
- Corpus Christi (celebrated on a Thursday in late spring)
- August 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary and Polish Army Day
- November 1: All Saints’ Day
- November 11: National Independence Day
- December 25-26: Christmas
- Safety & Awareness: Always use licensed taxi services (look for a clear corporate logo and phone number). In case of emergencies, dial 112. As always, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.