What are the Best Things to Do in Gdansk, Poland?

Gdansk, Poland is a bustling and vibrant city on the Baltic coast that offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. From exploring its picturesque old town to taking trips around the harbor, there are plenty of unique activities and sights to enjoy in Gdansk. This guide takes a look at some of the best things to do in Gdansk and offers tips on planning your trip in this exciting part of the world.

Visit the Historic Old Town

One of the first sights that any visitor to Gdansk should explore is the picturesque and historic Old Town. With its stunning cobbled streets, traditional architecture, and incredible array of shops, this area has plenty to discover. Of particular interest is Long Market, an open square framed by merchant houses that was once famous as the trading centre of Gdansk. Visitors can also explore Mariacka Street, one of the most atmospheric streets in Gdansk with its range of art galleries and souvenir stores. Many people also visit Old Town Hall for its rich history and impressive architecture.

Cruise Around Westerplatte Harbor

One of the best ways to take in Gdansk’s sights is to book a boat trip around Westerplatte Harbor. Westerplatte is flanked by two large piers and offers stunning views of Gdansk from the water. Cruises typically last around 1 hour and offer an opportunity to spot landmarks such as Santa Brigida Church, the old fortifications, and some of Gdansk’s famous shipyards. It’s also possible to take a longer boat tour to Sopot or Gdynia if you’d like to explore further into Poland’s Baltic coast.

Explore Long Beach

Long Beach is one of Gdansk’s most popular beaches and offers a great spot for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months. The beach is backed by a pier which extends out into the shallow waters making it a great spot for families with younger children. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby for refreshments during your day at the beach. There are also several open-air events held at Long Beach throughout the year including concerts, gatherings, and sporting events.

Examine Katarzynki Castle

Katarzynki Castle was built in the 18th Century as a defensive measure against any invasion and is now one of the most popular historic attractions in Gdansk. Visitors can explore the castle’s two fortified towers, take a walk around its grounds and admire the spectacular views from its turrets. The castle also has an information centre where you can learn more about its past as well as a souvenir store selling traditional crafts and trinkets.

Take a Food Tour

Gdansk’s local cuisine relies heavily on smoked fish and seafood but there are plenty of other dishes to try from traditional Polish dishes like pierogi or golabki to gourmet pizza or kebabs. Taking a food tour is a great way to discover Gdansk’s culinary delights, as well as learning about the city’s history. Tours typically last around 2-3 hours and offer an opportunity to taste local delicacies such as herring served with apple pies and other traditional favorites. For a real treat, try Gdansk Foodies food tour, which combines the city’s sights with delectable bites.

Visit the Solidarity Museum

Gdansk was at the centre of major historical events in the 20th Century which is why it’s essential to visit the Solidarity Museum during any visit to the city. The museum is located in an iconic shipyard and details the story of Solidarity’s rise to power in the 1980s and how their influence spread throughout Europe. It’s filled with captivating displays featuring sculptures, poetry, documents, and artifacts from that period of Polish history.

From exploring historic architecture, eating some delicious local food, or taking a boat trip around Westerplatte Harbor, there are plenty of unique activities for visitors to experience in Gdansk. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city on the Baltic coast.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Gdansk, Poland

Located on the northern coast of Poland, Gdansk is a city steeped in history and charm. With its picturesque Old Town, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, Gdansk is a favorite among travelers. In this insider’s guide, we will take you off the beaten path to explore some unique and lesser-known attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your visit unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While Old Town and the popular Long Market are a must-visit, there are many hidden gems that only locals know about. One of them is the Abbot’s Palace in Oliwa, which is a stunning architectural masterpiece and home to the Museum of the History of Gdansk. The Sobieszewo Island and the Żuławy Loop are other hidden gems that offer picturesque trails, river views, and stunning landscapes.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine & Culture

Polish cuisine is rich and diverse, influenced by its neighboring countries and its own history. Pierogi, the Polish dumplings stuffed with cheese, potatoes, and other fillings, are a must-try when in Gdansk. You can find them at Pierogarnia u Dzika, a quaint little restaurant in Old Town. Polish smoked cheese, oscypek, can be found at Milkbar Tomasza where you can enjoy a range of traditional Polish comfort food. You can also indulge in a traditional Polish feast at Goldwasser, which serves delicious meat dishes, alongside one of Gdansk’s oldest and most famous liquors, Goldwasser.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions & Festivals

Gdansk’s culture is a mix of Polish, German, and Scandinavian influences, and its festivals reflect this. The St. Dominik’s Fair, held in August, is one of the biggest cultural events in the city and has been a tradition since the 13th century! The carnival atmosphere is alive with food, music, and performance, and there are many street stalls selling handcrafted items. Gdansk hosts many other festivals throughout the year, including the Gdansk Shakespeare Festival, Days of the Sea Festival, and the Amber Expo, which celebrates Poland’s amber industry.

Local History: Fascinating Stories

With a history dating back to the Middle Ages, Gdansk has many fascinating stories to tell. The European Solidarity Center tells the story of Gdansk’s Solidarity movement, which played a crucial role in bringing down communism in Poland. The History of Gdansk Museum offers a glimpse into the city’s past, with exhibits that range from shipbuilding to medieval life. Lastly, the Gdańsk Shipyard Museum, located on the former site of the Lenin Shipyard, shows how shipworkers gained more political power and formed a union.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences

For a unique experience in Gdansk, we recommend visiting the Ronald Reagan Park, which has a statue of the former US president, who made a famous speech there in 1987. You can also visit the Upside-Down House, which offers an illusionary experience and Instagram-worthy photos. Lastly, a visit to the Central Cemetery in Wrzeszcz allows one to appreciate Gdansk’s solemn history, where many of the city’s famous figures are buried.

In conclusion, Gdansk is an underrated city that has many hidden gems and unique experiences that make it an excellent tourist destination. Whether you are looking for fantastic food, rich culture, intriguing stories, or just want to explore something different, Gdansk has much to offer. Enjoy your visit!