Introduction: Why Gdansk is a Baltic gem
If you are looking for things to do in Gdansk, we can tell you that this city in Poland truly surprised us. Gdansk is beautiful, vibrant, historic, and super easy to explore. Furthermore, it is part of the famous Tricity along with Sopot and Gdynia, making it an ideal base to explore the north of the country.
Its old town is simply charming, with streets that seem straight out of a medieval fairy tale, colorful facades that grab your attention at every step, and a harbor atmosphere that blends the past with modernity. And yes, here you will find the oldest medieval Crane in Europe, the famous Neptune’s Fountain, impressive museums, and walks along the Motława riverbank that will leave you speechless.
In this comprehensive guide, we share everything you need to do in Gdansk, tips from our experience traveling through Poland, and suggestions to make the most of every minute.
FREE🚶♀️➡️Free tour in Gdansk guide ➜ Click Here🚶 — free of charge, just the tip you want to leave.
🌍 Travel Insurance: 5% Off with IATI Seguros! 🌟
Take advantage of this offer and travel safe.
How to get to Gdansk from other cities in the Tricity
We arrived from Gdynia, and truth be told, it was super easy. The train connects the three cities in a matter of minutes; it’s cheap, punctual, and comfortable (like almost everything in Poland).
Gdansk Central Station is very close to the old town, so you don’t need additional transport to start exploring. You can walk there without any issues.
Brief history of Gdansk: from Hanseatic city to northern cultural capital
Gdansk is one of those places where history can be felt around every corner. It was part of the Hanseatic League, suffered massive destruction during World War II, and was also the epicenter of the labor movement that drove the end of communism in Eastern Europe through the Solidarność trade union.
That mix of tragedy and rebirth gave it identity, character, and a unique heritage that can be seen today in its museums, architecture, and monuments.
Things to do in Gdansk: 25 must-sees to fall in love with the city
Royal Route: the backbone of the old town
The Royal Route connects several of the city’s most important attractions and is a mandatory route for any traveler.
Highland Gate and Golden Gate
These gates mark the beginning of the center’s history. First, you find the Highland Gate (Brama Wyżynna). Then the Golden Gate (Brama Złota), with its allegorical sculptures, is one of the most beautiful.
Dluga Street and the Main Town Hall
Dluga Street is the most representative of Gdansk (the main street). Full of colorful facades, cafes, artisans, and the famous Town Hall, it’s ideal for photos and soaking up the local essence.
Neptune’s Fountain: the city’s symbol
Neptune is literally the king of Gdansk. The fountain is located in the heart of the Royal Route. It is a meeting point and an icon that represents the city’s maritime connection with the Baltic.
Mariacka Street: the most picturesque and photogenic
A narrow and charming street where amber shops, old staircases, and balconies with a lot of personality abound. Here, we felt like we went back several centuries. Nearby is St. Mary’s Church in Gdansk.
St. Mary’s Church: the largest brick temple in the world
Monumental on the outside, impressive on the inside. Climbing its tower is an experience worth every step: the views of the old town are spectacular.
Gdansk Crane: the oldest in Europe
A unique harbor symbol. This gigantic medieval structure served as a crane and a gateway to the river. Today it functions as a museum and shows what commercial life was like in the port.
The Wharf and the walk along the Motława River
One of our favorite corners. You can walk, take photos, eat something, or just sit and watch the boats go by. The sunsets here are magical.
Granary Island (Wyspa Spichrzów)
A modern area with hotels, cafes, and walkways by the river. It represents the rebirth of Gdansk after the war.
The Green Gate and river views
The unmissable Green Gate (Zielona Brama – National Museum branch in Gdańsk) is the most photogenic exit to the Motława. Many tourist boats depart from here.
Long Market and Artus Court
A place full of commercial history and culture. The “Long Market” in Gdansk, Poland, is the Long Market Square, the heart of the Old Town. The Artus Court (Artus Court Museum or Dwór Artusa – Gdansk Museum branch) is one of the most impressive buildings in the city.
Port Walk and historic vessels
You can visit museum ships, see shipyards, and learn about the city’s nautical tradition.
Things to do in Gdansk and surroundings:
If you have more time and are interested in museums and history, we detail the main ones below.
Museum of the Second World War
The Museum of the Second World War (Muzeum II Wojny Światowej w Gdańsku) is one of the most modern and moving museums in Europe. The exhibition is huge and presented with an impressive level of detail. It is located a bit further away, but if you are interested in history, it is a must-see.
European Solidarity Centre
The European Solidarity Centre museum (Europejskie Centrum Solidarności) is a fascinating place about the Solidarność movement. The architecture of the building is worth the visit alone, but the most valuable part is the story of how a trade union changed the history of Europe. It is also a bit further away.
Amber Museum
Gdansk is known worldwide for its Baltic amber. In this Amber Museum (Muzeum Bursztynu – Gdansk Museum branch), you can see unique pieces and learn how the material is worked.
Things to do in Gdansk in 1 day: fast and efficient route
If you are short on time:
- Complete Royal Route (Gates)
- Neptune’s Fountain
- Mariacka Street
- St. Mary’s Church
- Motława Wharf and the Crane
- Granary Island
With that, you get the essentials. It’s what we did.
👩⚕️👨⚕️ A must-have for stress-free travel! 🌎✈️ ➜ Get a Quote, Compare & Buy
Tours and Excursions to do in Gdansk
Things to see near Gdansk: must-do excursions
Sopot: the most famous beach in the Baltic
A beautiful seaside resort, with a very long pier and a relaxed atmosphere. ➜Info: Things to do in Sopot
Gdynia: modern city
Ideal if you like viewpoints and modern ports. ➜ Info: Things to do in Gdynia
Malbork Castle
The largest Gothic castle in the world. A visit that you won’t forget.
Other places to visit in Poland
Must-do experiences and activities in Gdansk
Enjoy Gdansk with cruises around Westerplatte and the Motława River, Chopin concerts, panoramic skybars, golf cart tours, sport shooting, and historical visits.
Gdansk: Guided round-trip transfer to Westerplatte
Guided cruise from the center of Gdansk to Westerplatte, a key location for the start of World War II, with explanations during the sailing.
➪ BOOK HERE
Price: From €22 (full price €28).
Duration: 80 minutes.
Rating: 4.3 / 5 (746 reviews)
Gdansk: Chopin piano concert by candlelight
Intimate piano recital featuring Chopin’s works in a historic Gdansk space, set with candlelight.
➪ BOOK HERE
Price: From €25 per person.
Duration: 50 minutes.
Rating: 4.5 / 5 (229 reviews)
Gdańsk: 3×2 on tapas + cava or cocktail on the 33rd floor
Gastronomic experience at a skybar with panoramic views, including a 3×2 promotion on tapas and a glass of cava or cocktail.
➪ BOOK HERE
Price: From €42 per person.
Duration: 1.5 hours, small group.
Rating: 4.3 / 5 (provider rating)
Gdansk: Night-time eco-cruise on the Motława River with mulled wine
Night-time eco-boat ride on the Motława River with illuminated views of the old town and mulled wine on board.
➪ BOOK HERE
Price: From €22 per person.
Duration: 1 hour, skip-the-line, small group.
Rating: 4.9 / 5 (35 reviews)
Gdańsk: Olivia Star sky views, dinner and cocktails
Access to the Olivia Star viewpoint with 360º views of Gdansk, with an option for dinner and cocktails on the top floors.
➪ BOOK HERE
Price: From €37 per person.
Duration: 1 day, skip-the-line.
Rating: 4.4 / 5 (728 reviews)
Gdańsk: Tourist EcoCruise through the old town
Eco-cruise through the old town of Gdansk, passing by the main waterfront monuments.
➪ BOOK HERE
Price: From €16 per person.
Duration: 50 minutes, skip-the-line and small group.
Rating: 4.6 / 5 (709 reviews)
From Gdansk: Half-day tour of Malbork Castle with audio guide
Excursion to the imposing Malbork Castle, a World Heritage site, with skip-the-line entry, audio guide, and transfers from Gdansk.
➪ BOOK HERE
Price: From €89 (full price €99).
Duration: 5 hours, skip-the-line and with pickup available.
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (163 reviews)
Gdansk: Unlimited beer included – City tour by golf cart
Golf cart tour of the city with unlimited beer included, ideal for groups looking for a fun experience.
➪ BOOK HERE
Price: From €4.62 (full price €9).
Duration: 30 minutes to 2 hours, skip-the-line and small group.
Rating: 4.9 / 5 (162 reviews)
Gdansk: Shared or private city tour by golf cart
Golf cart tour of the historic center, available in shared or private mode, with stops at key points.
➪ BOOK HERE
Price: From €8 per person.
Duration: 1–2 hours, skip-the-line and small group.
Rating: 4.8 / 5 (683 reviews)
Where to stay in Gdansk and best neighborhoods for travelers
- Historic center: ideal if it’s your first time
- Wyspa Spichrzów: modern but close to everything
- Gdynia: more local, more economical for longer stays, and very well connected by train. (We stayed here for a week)
Best prices for Accommodations in Gdansk
Where to Stay in Gdansk? Map & Prices
What to eat in Gdansk: typical dishes and recommended restaurants
Some local delicacies:
- Pierogi (Polish dumplings)🤤
- Zurek soup
- Baltic herring
- Golabki (cabbage rolls)
We also recommend trying Polish craft beers, which are excellent.
Plate of Pierogi in Gdansk: Delicious
Practical tips for traveling to Gdansk
- Transport is cheap and punctual
- Winter is cold, but bearable with good clothing
- English is widely spoken
- Poland is a very safe destination
- Credit cards work perfectly
- Poland does not use the Euro. The official currency is the zloty (PLN).
Things to DO in GDANSK 🇵🇱 (Video)
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Gdansk
Is Gdansk an expensive city?
No. Compared to other European cities, it is quite economical.
How many days are needed?
Between 2 and 3 days is ideal to explore it calmly. It can also be seen in one day.
Is it safe to walk around at night?
Yes, very safe. The center is quiet and well-lit.
Is it worth visiting museums?
They are modern, complete, and very well presented. If you are interested in history, they are highly recommended.
Can you go to the beach from Gdansk?
Of course. Sopot is minutes away and is perfect for a sunny day.
Organize your trip to Gdansk: We have created this small Gdansk guide to help you discover the must-see places and make the most of your vacation. If you are wondering what to see and what to do in Gdansk, in addition to walking along the riverfront and seeing the famous medieval crane, we recommend exploring its old town, getting lost in its charming streets, and enjoying the local cuisine.
Final conclusions
Gdansk is a city that you’ll fall in love with. It combines history, architecture, culture, and a very special maritime spirit. It is easy to explore, accessible, and perfect for travelers like us who are looking for authentic destinations. If you are putting together your trip to Poland, don’t hesitate to include it: it is one of those places that surprises you and leaves you wanting to come back.
ℹ️ **Total Transparency**
This article contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services we use on our trips and trust. This helps us keep this blog free and continue creating useful content for you. Thanks for your support!
🔗 Resources & Useful Links for your trip to Gdansk
Do you have questions or want to add your own recommendations on things to do in Gdansk?
💬 Leave your comment or write to us, we love reading about the experiences of other travelers.
Thank you very much for being part of this adventure!— Nanu & Facu 🌎 | Recalculando Viajes 💜
