What Is There to Do in Gdansk, Poland?

Gdansk is one of the most vibrant port cities in Poland, famed for its beautiful architecture, historical sites, and natural attractions. The city has a long and varied history that dates back to the 12th century and is now a popular tourist destination for people from around the world. In recent years, Gdansk has seen an influx of visitors looking to explore this unique and exciting city for all its wonderful sights and experiences. But what exactly is there to do in Gdansk? Let’s explore the answer to this question in more detail.

Explore the Old Town

The Old Town of Gdansk is one of the most popular attractions in the city, and it’s easy to see why. This district is packed with fascinating buildings of architectural and cultural significance, as well as plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. The most famous of these buildings is the Main Town Hall, which dates back to the 15th century and is located near Gdansk’s central marketplace. This area is also home to the Artus Court and the Golden Gate, both of which are well worth a visit.

Stroll Along the Motława River

The Motława River runs through the heart of Gdansk and is one of the city’s most scenic spots. Along its banks, you’ll find dozens of boats, making for easy sightseeing around the city. Visitors can take a river cruise to take in some of Gdansk’s most famous landmarks from the water. Alternatively, the city provides plenty of opportunities to explore on foot with well-maintained pathways running alongside the Motława perfect for enjoying a leisurely stroll.

Visit World War II Monuments

Gdansk suffered extensive damage during World War II, and today several monuments throughout the city commemorate this dark period in its history. One of these monuments is Westerplatte, a memorial located at the entrance of the Motława River that marks the site of the first battle between Nazi Germany and the Polish military during WW2. The Solidarity Monument dedicated to Polish freedom fighters is also an important historical site and should not be missed.

Step Back in Time at Malbork Castle

Located around 30 miles away from Gdansk is Malbork Castle, one of the largest castles in the world and a prime example of Gothic architecture. Originally built in 1274, this impressive fortress has been standing for almost 750 years and serves as an incredible insight into medieval times. Visitors can explore all three storeys of the castle, including a museum dedicated to its long history.

Discover the Local Cuisine

Gdansk’s cuisine is fresh and delicious, with many dishes featuring fresh seafood from the nearby Baltic Sea. Some of Gdansk’s most popular dishes include Pierogi (stuffed dumplings), Beef Stew with dumplings, and Kiełbasa (Polish sausage). The city also has plenty of modern restaurants offering traditional dishes with a modern twist, so don’t be afraid to keep an open mind when trying out local food.

Enjoy a Night Out on a Pub Crawl

Gdansk’s vibrant nightlife scene draws people from around Europe for an unforgettable night out. With plenty of bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from, visitors can wander through historic alleyways or along the Motława river as they explore the city’s buzzing nightlife. For an extra special night out that takes visitors to some of Gdansk’s best bars while learning all about its culture and local history, sign up for a pub crawl with Get Your Guide, where you’ll get exclusive entry to some of Gdansk’s popular watering holes with complimentary drinks included along the way!

In summary, there are plenty of activities for travelers to experience when visiting Gdansk. From exploring historic buildings in Old Town to taking part in a Gdansk pub crawl, this Polish port city packs a punch when it comes to unique experiences. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family or friends, Gdansk has something for everyone and makes for an unforgettable trip that you won’t forget!

An Insider’s Guide to Gdansk, Poland

Gdansk is a city full of hidden gems that only the locals know about. Don’t just stick to the common tourist attractions – get ready to explore everything that this Polish city has to offer. Here’s an insider’s guide to Gdansk, covering the best dining spots, cultural experiences, off-the-beaten-path suggestions, and more.

Local Attractions

When in Gdansk, you should start by visiting the city’s old town. But, instead of just checking out the usual sights, explore some of the hidden gems that Gdansk has to offer. One such hidden spot is St. John’s Gate, which is part of the medieval city walls. This gate is well-preserved and is home to a small museum where visitors can discover local artifacts, from ancient torture devices to prehistoric amber treasures. Another fascinating attraction is the famous crane by the Motlawa River, one of the largest cranes built in Medieval Europe. It was used for loading and unloading ships, and now serves as a fascinating museum that showcases the history of this strategic harbor town.

Dining Spots

One of the best ways to experience Gdansk’s unique culture is through its food. The city is known for its fish, and local Baltic Sea fish dishes are a must-have. Start with a visit to Restauracja Kubicki, a historic restaurant that is over 300 years old and has a traditional atmosphere. Here, you can try delicious potato pancakes and the most popular local dish, “zupa rybna,” a classic fish soup. Other popular traditional dishes to try include “pierogi”, dumplings with various fillings ranging from meat to sweet, and “kawałki smażonego wieprzowiny”, a pork and cabbage stir fry with mashed potatoes. Experience Gdansk’s gastronomic heritage and visit the local bakeries and confectioneries to sample the local cakes and pastries like “Snedziaki”, a traditional Polish pretzel with poppy seeds.

Cultural Experiences

Gdansk has several festivals that showcase its culture and traditions, including the Dominik Festival, the Juwenalia Festival, and the St. Dominic’s Fair, a famous trade fair that dates back to the 13th century. Beyond festivals, the city has several cultural institutions like the European Solidarity Centre, which commemorates the fall of communism in Central Europe and is a must-visit for history buffs. The Royal Way is an enchanting route to take through the city, starting from the Long Market and passing through several historic landmarks that provide an insight into Gdansk’s cultural history.

Local History

Gdansk’s history is rich and intriguing. The city has been a valuable port since the medieval times, making it an important center for trade, culture, and economics. However, WWII had a significant impact on the city, particularly on architecture, with many beautiful buildings destroyed. This history and loss are well-preserved at the Museum of the Second World War, which narrates Gdansk’s role in the war. Another intriguing monument is the Amber Museum, which showcases amber mineral and its value through history, both as a trade good and as an ornamental gem.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

If you’re looking for something unconventional, why not take a trip to the Aerodynamic Institute in Gdansk-Pruszcz? The institute has an interesting history, having produced engineering marvels such as the Polish-built PZL-104 Wilga aircraft. Another unique experience is to take a cruise on the Motlawa River or spend the day exploring the nearby Hel Peninsula. Finally, embark on a day trip to the spectacular Malbork Castle, which was built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights and is an excellent sight, well-worth the effort.

Gdansk is a wonderful Polish city full of surprises, local history, delicious food, and fascinating off-the-beaten-path suggestions. You’ll never run out of things to see and do. So, what are you waiting for? Visit Gdansk and explore the city like a local.