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When we started planning our trip to Gdansk, Poland, we were surprised by the number of attractions and sights in the city. Stunning architecture, fascinating history, day trip destinations and savory cuisine all made their way onto our Gdansk To-Do list. In order to fit all of the top things to do in Gdansk into our trip timeline, we designed a perfect Gdansk Itinerary – and are happy to share it with fellow travelers!
Why Travel To Gdansk, Poland?
Many people ask us, “Why visit Gdansk, Poland?” Well, after visiting Warsaw and Krakow, we were in on the secret: Poland is incredible. Our time in Gdansk, Poland solidified the fact – the country is completely underrated as a travel destination!
Just like Warsaw and Krakow, what to see in Gdansk, Poland revolves around the city’s storied past, amazing architecture and fabulous museums. Unlike the two other Polish cities we have visited, there are unique Gdansk things to do; namely, visit the coastline on the Baltic Sea featuring miles of sandy beaches.
In our time exploring the city, we filled our days with the best things to do in Gdansk and created a 3-day Gdansk Itinerary to help other travelers experience the highlights as well.
About Our 3-Day Gdansk Itinerary
Our Gdansk 3 Day Itinerary includes the top things to see in Gdansk and the greater region. For each sight, we include a brief description and a link to more information.
At the end of the article, there are Gdansk tips for your trip, like how to get there, where to stay and options for the best Gdansk day trips. We also offer advice on how many days in Gdansk and what to pack for Gdansk trips.
Day-by-Day Itinerary Of Things To Do in Gdansk
Our list of the best things to do in Gdansk is organized in a day-by-day 3-day itinerary. This Gdansk travel blog post includes everything you need to plan your Gdansk vacation!
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Gdansk Itinerary so that you can plan your trip to Poland!
DAY 1 – Must-See Gdansk: Old Town and WWII Museum
On the first day of your 3 days in Gdansk, start by seeing Gdansk highlights in the Old Town then delve into the history of World War II at a state-of-the-art museum. End the first day of your Gdansk trip with a scenic view and a classic Polish meal.
Gdansk Walking Tour: The Royal Route
Kick off your trip with one of the Gdansk top things to do: Walk the Royal Route. Not only will it help get you acquainted with the city, but many of the tourist attractions in Gdansk are located along the route.
The Royal Route through the heart of Gdansk Old Town was once the path taken by kings. Today, the Royal Way is still the route for ceremonies and parades. We’ve outlined a Gdansk city tour that extends from Upland Gate to Green Gate – and we note the Gdansk tourist attractions that are found on along the way.
High Gate (Brama Wyzynna)
Start your walk at Upland High Gate, which was built in the 16th century as part of Gdansk’s fortifications. The Upland Gate now houses the Gdansk Tourist Information Office.
Prison Tower and Torture Chamber (Wieza Wiezienna)
Built in the 14th century, the Prison Tower and Torture Chamber were part of the original Gdansk city walls. When new walls were constructed in the 16th century, the building became the prison, court and torture chamber. Today, it houses the much more pleasant Amber Museum.
Golden Gate (Zlota Brama)
The 17th century Golden Gate leads directly onto Gdansk’s most popular street: Ulica Dluga. The gate features 8 figures representing Peace, Freedom, Wealth, Fame, Agreement, Justice, Piety and Prudency.
Long Street (Dluga)
The picturesque Long Street is the main thoroughfare through Gdansk Old Town. The pedestrian-only street, which had to be almost completely rebuilt after World War II, features colorful and ornately decorated facades.
Tall, slender buildings are found throughout the city, but the ones on Long Street are the most beautiful. Numerous cafes, bars, restaurants and ice cream shops line Long Street; strolling up and down Long Street with an ice cream cone in hand is one of the top Gdansk activities in the summertime.
Gdansk Town Hall (Rathaus)
On Long Street, at the opposite end from Golden Gate is the unmissable Gdansk Main Town Hall and its rising spire. The building dates to the 14th century and today houses the Gdansk History Museum. Visitors can climb to the top of the Town Hall Bell Tower for stunning views of the Old Town.
Long Market (Dlugi Targ)
Where Long Street ends, Long Market begins. The wider street dates to the 13th century and once was home to Gdansk’s most affluent citizens. Today, Long Market Gdansk is largely occupied by gossiping locals, gawking tourist and aspiring musicians.
Neptune Fountain (Fontanna Neptuna)
The historic Neptune Fountain dates to the early 17th century and stands proudly in front of the Artus Court. It’s an absolute must-see in Gdansk!
Artus Court (Dwor Artusa)
At Dlugi Targ 44 is the Artus Court (named after the legendary King Arthur). The building, which dates to the 14th century, was a place of meeting, socializing and entertainment for the noble and wealthy. Now, as part of the Gdansk History Museum, visitors can take a peek inside.
The Golden House
Just a few doors down from Artus Court is The Golden House at Dlugi Targ #41. Decorated with five statues – representing prudence, justice, strength, temperance and fortune (the one on the top of the building), the Golden House dates to the early 1600s and has been the residence of several mayors of Gdansk.
Green Gate (Brama Zielona)
The end of the Royal Route, the Green Gate marks the passage from Long Market to the Motlawa River. The gate was built in the 16th century as a royal residence, but no royalty ever lived there. Today, the National Museum resides in the Green Gate – activist and Polish President Lech Walesa used to have an office in the building, as well.
More Old Town Gdansk Sights
The Royal Route is the perfect place to begin sightseeing Gdansk, but there are other places to see in Gdansk Old Town. Continue your discovery using this list of places to visit in Gdansk, Poland.
St. Mary’s Basilica
Officially the Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the church is one of the top things to see in Gdansk, Poland.
Construction of the Catholic church began in the year 1343 and, today, it ranks as one of the largest brick churches in the world (it can accommodate 25,000 people!). The 15th century Gdansk Astronomical Clock stands inside the church. Rising as the tallest bell tower in Gdansk, the view from the top is truly remarkable!
Basilica of St. Nicholas
With a history that dates to the 12th century, the Basilica of St. Nicholas is one of the oldest churches in Gdansk. It is also one of the only churches not to sustain damage during WWII. Inside, beautiful baroque altars decorate the cavernous church.
The Crane (Zuraw)
As a symbol of the city, The Crane is one of the top Gdansk things to see. A port crane has existed on the same site as The Crane since as early as 1367. At a time, it ranked as the largest crane in the world. Suffering major damage during WWII, The Crane was reconstructed and became part of the Maritime Museum. Getting a look at The Crane is a must do in Gdansk.
Motlawa River Promenade (Dlugie Pobrzeze)
The promenade that follows the river at the edge of the Old Town, called Dlugie Pobrzeze, is one of the top Gdansk places to visit. Lined with restaurants and shops, the walkway provides views over the river and harbor. Several Gdansk boat tour operators dock along the promenade.
Mariacka Street
The pleasant Mariacka Street runs from St. Mary’s Basilica to St. Mary’s Gate, which leads to the river. The charming lane is lined with houses that have raised entrances and carved stonework. Many amber shops are located on Mariacka Street. If you are searching for where to go in Gdansk to buy amber products, this is your street!
Piwna Street
Running parallel to Long Street is Piwna Street. Once home to a local brewery, there are several bars and cafes located on the street that is home to some of the best Gdansk nightlife (more on Gdansk bars later in the article).
Gdansk Monuments
Throughout the Old Town there are several monuments and statues that decorate and commemorate events in Gdansk. While we wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to locate all the specific monuments, keep your eye out for these interesting monuments while exploring Gdansk.
- Four Quarters Fountain: The city of Gdansk was once divided into four quarters – Wide (Szeroki), High (Wysoki), Fish (Rybacki) and Ship (Kogi) – and the Four Quarters Fountain is located at the point where those districts came together (at the corner of Gwietego Ducha and Grobla I streets). Each quarter is represented by an impressive lion statue.
- Fahrenheit Monument: Daniel Fahrenheit, creator of the Fahrenheit temperature scale, was born in Gdansk in 1686. To honor him, a glass-encased thermometer sits on Dlugi Targ (opposite the Neptune Fountain).
Best Ice Cream Gdansk
Ice cream shops (called Lody) are found on every street in Gdansk – but not all ice creams are equal. We think there are two places that serve the best ice cream in Gdansk.
Paulo Gelateria uses recipes from the 2015 Polish Champion of Ice Cream to make unique flavored ice cream (try the creamy and delicious avocado ice cream). Another must try – and a place we actually prefer for both the ice cream and the cones – is Slony Karmel, where they make ice cream from natural ingredients.
Lunch: Milk Bar Gdansk (Bar Mleczny)
After spending the morning discovering the best things to see in Gdansk Old Town, get your first taste of true Polish cuisine by eating lunch at a classic Milk Bar.
Known to be inexpensive, the generous portions of ‘home cooked’ Polish dishes are served to the masses at cafeteria-style Milk Bars. Popular during the communist era, most Milk Bars have a daily menu (usually written on a chalkboard, no translations) and little decor. The two best Milk Bars in Gdansk are Bar Turystyczny and Bar Mleczny Neptun.
Bar Turystyczny is located in the northwest section of the Old Town and has an authentic feel to it. We waited in a line that stretched out the door for platters of schawoby (fried pork chop) and placek po cygansku (an omelet filled with tender beef and covered in sauce).
Located in the heart of the Old Town in the middle of Long Street, Bar Mleczny Neptun attracts a few more tourists and charges a bit more for their meals, but the establishment still retains the classic Milk Bar appeal. In fact, we think it is one of the best restaurants in Gdansk Old Town because there is outdoor seating right on Long Street, which is fantastic for people watching.
Granary Island
After lunch, continue your exploration of Gdansk must-see places and head to Granary Island. Located on the opposite side of the Motlawa River east of Green Gate, Granary Island was once the commercial center of Gdansk. An entire complex of granaries were built on the island to store goods brought in from afar by ships.
By the 17th century, Gdansk had more than 300 granaries – and boasted the largest harbor on the Baltic Sea. However, only three buildings survived WWII and the island was left in shambles for decades, only recently getting a facelift and now attracting tourists and locals alike.
Olowianka Island and Soldek
Next up on our list of Gdansk attractions is Olowianka Island. Located just north of Granary Island, Olowianka Island is home to the Central Maritime Museum, the Royal Granary and the Philharmonic building.
Docked in front of the National Maritime Museum is the gargantuan Soldek, the first steamship built in the Lenin Shipyards after the war. Converted into a museum, visitors a welcome to explore the ship’s interior.
Pro Tip: Let a Gdansk Tourist Guide Lead the Way
Above we outlined what to do in Gdansk for sightseeing in the city center. However, visitors can get a personal introduction on a tour with a local Gdansk tour guide.
Private Walking Tour
Tour the Royal Route on a private tour with a knowledgeable guide – Book it here!
Bike Tour
Sightsee Gdansk on two wheels on a popular city biking tour – Find out more!
Audio Tour
Tour Gdansk at your own pace – but with an Audio Guide Tour that delivers more Gdansk facts and information – Get it here!
Free Walking Tour Gdansk
Visitors can join a Free Gdansk Walking Tour – just keep in mind that these are tip-based tours in Gdansk.
Museum of the Second World War
Visiting the Museum of the Second World War is one of the top Gdansk, Poland things to do. The state-of-the-art museum details the events of World War II, which began on September 1, 1939 when Germany invaded Poland at Westerplatte (less than 6 miles from Gdansk Old Town).
Both interactive displays and personal items are featured in the museum that tells the story of the horrific war. The exhibits are educational and gripping.
We highly recommend renting an audio guide during your visit to the museum – as the information presented can be slightly overwhelming. We spent four hours at the museum (and could have stayed longer) and think it is one of the best things to do in Gdansk.
Information on opening hours and tickets can be found on the Museum of the Second World War official website.
Polish Post Office and Memorial
Continue learning about the impact of the war on Gdansk with a trip to the Post Office. Although some people may think this is one of the unusual things to do in Gdansk, WWII buffs will appreciate its place in history.
At the same time Westerplatte was being attacked, German troops were also targeting the Polish Post Office near the Gdansk Old Town. The workers held off the Nazis for 17 hours before surrendering. In front of the post office there is a large memorial – and behind the post office is a moving display of the postal workers who were captured and shot to death on site.
Gradowa Hill
After a full day of history, climb up to Gradowa Hill to have some time to reflect…and to take in the great views over Gdansk.
West of the Old Town, across the railroad tracks, Gradowa Hill is part of an old fort complex. Buildings half-covered in earth display exhibits that are part of the Hewelianum Center Museum and at the north end of the park is the 50-foot-tall Millennium Cross.
Following one of the trails to the top of Gradowa provides panoramic views of Gdansk and the shipyards – and is a fabulous place to watch the sun set on the Old Town.
Dinner: Pierogarnia Mandu Centrum
For dinner on your first of 3 days in Gdansk, eat at one of the best pierogi restaurants in Gdasnk, Pierogarnia Mandu. We liked the pierogis so much, we ate here twice! The large variety of pasta dumplings (which are created by hand) can be served boiled or baked. We tried – and loved – both.
Pro Tip: Try the craft beer (bottled) made special for Mandu by Brewery Bytow.
Polish Craft Beer in Gdansk
With your belly full of delicious pierogis, it is time to sample some locally produced craft beer – it’s one of the best things to do in Gdansk at night.
Among the many reasons we have fallen head-over-heels for Poland is their superb production of craft beer. Gdansk has a hefty number of multitaps – aka craft beer bars – that boast excellent Polish craft beer on draft.
Bar Guide Gdansk
Use our Gdansk pub guide to help navigate your way to the best craft beer – and the best bars in Gdansk!
Café Lamus, Lawendowa 8 and Pulapka: These three bars, located at the east end of the Market Hall, are what we called “Craft Beer Corner.” With sidewalk seating in front of each bar, it was clear this is a top-spot for craft beer lovers to enjoy a pint in the late afternoon or well into the evening. The atmosphere is similar in each of the small bars, but we found the staff to be especially friendly and helpful with recommendations at Café Lamus.
Labeerynt Multitap Bar Gdansk Old Town: The subterranean Labeerynt Mulitap sits inconspicuously beneath Polskie Kino Pub on Szeroka Street in the Gdansk Old Town. While the dimly lit space would be inviting in too hot or too cold weather, we enjoyed our beers outdoors at one of the patio tables.
Local Gdansk Breweries: There are a few local breweries in Gdansk, like Brovarnia and Browar PG4, which brew beer on-site, but (from what we could tell) stick to the traditional beers of the region – light, dark and wheat – rather than the IPAs and other hop-forward beers we found at the multitaps.
Old Town Gdansk Map: Day 1 of Things To Do in Gdansk
Use this link to our Gdansk Old Town Map to find locations of our recommend sights!
DAY 2 – Day Trip to Sopot from Gdansk
On Day 2 of your 3-day Gdansk itinerary, travel north to the resort town of Sopot on a day trip from Gdansk for some seaside fun!
Visit Sopot, Poland
The quaint seaside town of Sopot is one of Poland’s top tourist destinations. Sopot, along with Gdansk and Gdynia, are part of the Tri-City Region. With only a few ‘sights’ the real reason to visit Sopot is for the sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere. That said, in addition to the beach, we are highlighting what to see in Sopot, Poland in one day.
Getting to Sopot
How to get to Sopot from Gdansk is easy! Visitors can take a Gdansk to Sopot Train from the Gdansk Main Train Station or use the Gdansk-Sopot Ferry.
Gdansk-Sopot Train
Hop on an SKM train bound for Sopot and arrive in the city in 20 minutes flat. Trains run frequently, but check the Gdansk-Sopot train timetable at the station. Tickets for the train from Gdansk to Sopot (one-way) cost about 5.50zl ($1.25 USD).
Boat Trip Gdansk-Sopot
Alternatively, take the Gdasnk-Sopot boat. Find the Gdansk to Sopot ferry schedule here. They only run a few of boats a day and tickets cost 70zl.
What To Do in Sopot, Poland
Once you arrive in Sopot, set off on to explore the city, then relax on the beach. Our list of Sopot attractions are listed in order of a 1-Day Sopot Itinerary to help you best plan your time.
Monciak Street
There is no Sopot Old Town, but the main pedestrian street in Sopot is Ulica Bohaterow Monte Cassino – although the locals refer to it by its former name, Monciak. Strolling the length of Monciak is a must on your Sopot to-do list. Lined with restaurants, cafes and pubs, the street leads directly to Sopot’s famous pier.
Crooked House (Krzywy Domek)
Built in 2004, the Crooked House on Monciak can’t be missed. The design was inspired by a fairytale and the building is part of a shopping center – and is an interesting Sopot sightseeing attraction.
Sopot Pier (Molo)
Hands down, one of the best things to do in Sopot, Poland is walk on the pier. The Sopot Pier, which dates to 1827, ranks as the longest wooden pier in Europe – and extends a quarter of a mile into the Bay of Gdansk on the Baltic Sea. At the end of the pier there is a restaurant and marina, as well as the departure points for entertaining bay cruises. During the peak summer season, a ticket is required to enter the pier.
Lunch: Fishing Harbor
Located three-quarters of a mile south of the pier on the Karlikowo Shore is the Sopot Fishing Harbor. Fishermen sail out each day in traditional Kashubian boats and return mid-day, ‘beaching’ their boats right in the sand…hopefully with a fresh catch!
Hungry visitors can order platters of fresh or smoked fish for lunch at Bar Przystań. Alternatively, walk north from the Sopot Pier to Bulaj, a popular Slow Food restaurant right on the beach.
Sopot Beaches
Topping the list of Things To Do Sopot is visiting the beaches. To the north and south of Sopot pier are miles of wide, sandy beaches. Kick off your shoes and walk with the sand between your toes, take a dip or catch some rays. The sandy beach in Sopot is a place to relax and enjoy!
Dinner: Burgers or Pizza
When it is time for dinner, take a break from traditional Polish cuisine and join the local youth for a burger or pizza.
SurfBurger is a small Polish chain serving real beef burgers made of natural and fresh ingredients – and they are seriously good!
For pizza, try Prosto (Pizza i Piwo), where they crank out delicious pizza pies in an easy-going atmosphere.
However, for an inexpensive ‘pizza’ (or after bar snack), get a zapiekanki (a half baguette with ham, mushrooms, cheese and ketchup). Our favorite zapiekanki stand is at the corner of Monciak and Jana Jerzego Haffnera.
Top Tip: Not in the mood for burgers or pizza? There are plenty of restaurants in Sopot on Monciak. Read reviews on the top-rated restaurants on TripAdvisor.
Polish Craft Beer in Sopot
Having a cold drink at the end of the day is naturally one of the top Sopot things to do. For us, that meant seeking out Polish craft beer.
There are a few places along Monciak that offer craft beer, but beer aficionados will want to make the effort to find Konsulat Dobrego Piwa, a craft beer bar just outside the Sopot town center. The small, cozy bar features eight taps of craft beer and a fun beer garden.
Sopot Map: Day 2 – Gdansk Day Trip to Sopot Activities
Use this link to our Sopot, Poland Map to locate our recommended activities for Day 2.
Day 3 – Westerplatte and/or Oliwa and Solidarity Museum
On Day 3 of your 3 Days in Gdansk, shop, take a short day trip and then spend the afternoon at the Solidarity Museum.
Gdansk Market Hall
Start your shopping at the Market Hall – one of the top Gdansk things to see and do. Built in the late 1800s, there are three levels inside the Market Hall in Gdansk – along with unearthed discovery of a Romanesque church.
The Green Market (fresh produce) stalls overflow onto the plaza to the south of the Market Hall (where you will also find an underground archeological museum).
The market is a great place to sample local food – and to purchase items for an afternoon picnic lunch. The kabanos (Polish smoked sausages) and fresh fruit are popular picks!
Pro Tip: Paczki, Polish donuts, are a must-eat when in Gdansk! Eat a sugary breakfast of Gdansk donuts from Stara Paczkarnia. Located on the north side of the market, the fresh donuts at the corner kiosk and cost less than $1 USD. We recommend the chocolate cream-filled paczki (czekolada).
Half-Day Trips from Gdansk: Westerplatte or Oliwa
The rest of your morning will be spent on what to see around Gdansk on a quick trip. Choose between one of these trips from Gdansk: Westerplatte or Oliwa.
Why Visit Westerplatte from Gdansk?
If you are visiting Gdansk to learn more about the history of WWII, then Westerplatte is where you should spend your morning. The Westerplatte peninsula is known the world over as the site where World War II officially began on September 1, 1939.
When the Polish military fort on Westerplatte came under attack by Nazis, a battle ensued that lasted seven days. Although they surrendered, the 7-day resistance of the Polish soldiers, who were severely outnumbered and under-armed, gave hope and inspiration to the people of Poland.
Today, the Polish Coast Guard occupies part of the peninsula, but visitors can learn more about the events that transpired on Westerplatte in a small museum (Guardhouse Number 1), as well as on informational plaques located along the well-marked route.
Getting to Westerplatte
Without a car, there are three options to get from Gdansk to Westerplatte: boat, bus, bike.
- Gdansk Boat Trip to Westerplatte: Cruise from Gdansk on a ferry or tourist boat to Westerplatte. Check timetables at the docks, as they vary by season. Note: The Gdansk to Westerplatte boat was our first choice of transport, but a lost-in-translation of the ferry boat schedule had us using the bus instead. If you intend on taking the Gdansk-Westerplatte boat, we recommend confirming the schedule in advance.
- Bus from Gdansk to Westerplatte: Bus 106 transports passengers from Gdansk to Westerplatte in about 30 minutes.
- Bike from Gdansk to Westerplatte: There are a few bike rental shops in Gdansk. Rent a bike and pedal your way to Westerplatte following this route.
- Private Tour to Westerplatte: Visitors who want door-to-door transport and the expertise of a local guide should book a tour from Gdansk to Westerplatte. Find out what’s included.
Sights at Westerplatte
If you make the day trip from Gdansk to Westerplatte, there are a handful of must-see sights you won’t want to miss.
Monument to the Defenders of Westerplatte: The 82-foot-tall granite Monument to the Defenders of Westerplatte stands on a 72-foot hill, making it visible from afar and nearly impossible to miss.
Nowy Port Lighthouse: Dating to the late 1800s, the lighthouse (which was modeled after a lighthouse on Lake Erie in Cleveland, Ohio) was fitted with a Time Ball to aid in sailors’ navigation. However, what puts the lighthouse in the history books is the fact that at 4:45am on September 1, 1939, Nazi Germans (who had overtaken the lighthouse the previous night) fired the first shots at Westerplatte from the Nowy Port Lighthouse, thus beginning World War II.
Why Visit Oliwa?
Oliwa, a suburb that lies between Gdansk and Sopot, has its own fascinating history of a monastery, battles and peace treaties. Although rich in historic facts, the reason we visited Oliwa was simply to enjoy a hike in nature.
Getting to Oliwa
How to get to Oliwa from Gdansk is just as easy as getting to Sopot. Simply hop on a train from the Gdansk Main Station. The short train ride will get you to Oliwa in about 10 minutes.
Sights at Oliwa
There are not an abundance of Oliwa attractions – but just enough to fill a few hours of sightseeing and relaxing in nature.
Oliwa Park
Oliwa Park features tree-canopied walkways, pristinely manicured hedges, streaming water, hidden gardens and colorful flowerbeds. A few museums and the Oliwa Cathedral are also part of the Oliwa Park complex.
Oliwa Cathedral
Consecrated in 1594, the Oliwa Cathedral is striking both inside and out. Upon entering, visitors can see the entire length of the church and the decorative high altar, which is made to look like heaven with angels hovering above it.
However, it is for the organ which sits over the entrance, that many people visit Oliwa Cathedral. Built in the 1700s (over a period of 30 years), the organ has more than 7,800 pipes. Short 20-minute concerts are played several times daily.
Pacholek Hill
Rising to the west of Oliwa Park is Pacholek Hill. The forested area has several walking/biking trails, a few of which lead to a hill-top viewing platform that provides 360-degree views over Oliwa and to the sea.
Lunch: Picnic
Whether you decided to go to Westerplatte or Oliwa, find a spot with a view to enjoy the picnic you assembled at the Market Hall in the morning. Alternatively: there is a fast-food kiosk at Westerplatte and a restaurant in Oliwa Park.
After your leisurely lunch, make your way back to Gdansk to spend the afternoon at the Solidarity Museum.
Westerplatte or Oliwa…or Both?
We recommend the leisurely traveler choose between visiting Westerplatte or Oliwa. However, ambitious visitors could squeeze both into one day.
To do so, take the first 106 bus to Westerplatte (or the first ferry, both should depart about 09:30am, but check). Spend an hour at Westerplatte and be on the 11:20am bus to the Gdansk Main Station (Gdańsk Główny). From there, catch the next train to Oliwa and spend 2-3 hours in Oliwa.
This trip plan should allow for enough time when you return to Gdansk to visit the Solidarity Museum in the afternoon (hours vary by season, but in the summer, the museum stays open until 7pm on weekdays and 8pm on weekends).
Solidarity Museum at the European Solidarity Centre
The Solidarity Museum is one of the Gdansk top attractions – and, in our opinion, a Gdansk must see sight. The permanent exhibition at the European Solidarity Center details what led to the formation of Solidarity and its impact on Poland.
Solidarity – or Solidarnosc – is a Polish trade union that formed in August 1980 in opposition to the working conditions at the Lenin Shipyards. The name, Solidarity became a social movement and many people attribute the movement to be the beginning of the fall of communism in 1989.
Sitting in front of the museum is the Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers of 1970. The three soaring steel crosses stand in memory of the workers who lost their lives in the riots.
Dinner: Pyra Bar
Load up on more Polish carbs with a final meal at Pyra Bar, a restaurant featuring incredible potato dishes. With every dish dedicated to the tuberous, starchy vegetable (in the form of casserole, potato pancake or baked potato), it might sound bland – but we can assure you, it’s not! Glorious, caloric amounts of cheese and meat are combined with potato in perfect platters of comfort food!
Piwna Street Bars
After three days of sightseeing in Gdansk, end your time at the popular Old Town bars on Piwna Street, which is a hot spot for Gdansk nightlife. You could even create your own pub tour in Gdansk, using our recommendations below.
- Jozef K – a unique, retro-themed bar with a nice variety of beer.
- Pub Red Light – quirky and cozy bar with unique cocktails and craft beer.
- Flisak 76 – a cellar bar serving up hand-crafted cocktails.
- Wiśniewsk – if you’ve been to Piana Vyshnia in Lviv, Budapest or Brasov…this cherry liquor is likely familiar to you already!
Gdansk Tourist Map: Day 3 Gdansk Sightseeing
Use this link to our Gdansk City Map to find the sights recommended for Day 3.
Gdansk: What To Do – More Tips for your Trip
Above we outlined what to visit in Gdansk in 3 days. However, if you are still looking for ideas of things to do in Gdansk, we have a few more tips!
Gdansk Cruise
One of the top things to do in Gdansk is to set sail on a Gdansk river cruise for an afternoon of fun. There are a few boats to choose from, but one of the top fun things to do in Gdansk is to spend an afternoon on the Pirate Ship Cruise.
More Day Trips from Gdansk
Want to know what to do around Gdansk? We’ve already listed our favorite day trips from Gdansk, but there are more things to do near Gdansk.
Visit Gdynia, Poland
Gdynia is the northern outpost of the Tri-City Region. Originating as a modest fishing village, Gdynia is now a modern seaport town. Search for things to do in Gdynia on TripAdvisor. Another one of the fun things to do in Tricity Poland is to join a tour of the Region and see the highlights of Gdasnk, Sopot and Gdynia in one day!
Malbork Castle
Just a train ride from Gdansk is the town of Malbork and the famous Malbork Castle. Built in the 13th century by Teutonic Knights, the Medieval castle is the largest brick castle in the world. Private tours to Malbork Castle can also be arranged.
Gdansk: How Many Days
Determining how many days to spend in Gdansk will depend on your interests, budget and overall trip plans. Personally, we found the city to be fascinating and beautiful – and easily filled our Gdansk vacation with sightseeing, feasting and exploring. We think 3 days in Gdansk is just enough time to get a feel for the city.
Above, we detailed what to do in Gdansk, Poland in three days. But what if you have more or less time? No worries! We have outlines for where to go in Gdansk Poland in 1 day, what to do on a weekend in Gdansk and how to visit Gdansk, Poland in 5 days.
What to See in Gdansk in One Day
Trying to see Gdasnk in one day is tough! In fact, some travelers may wonder, “Is Gdansk worth visiting for just one day?” – and we absolutely think it is!
While 3 days in Gdansk is best, if one day in Gdansk is all you have, then we recommend making the most of it! To create an ideal 1-Day Gdansk Itinerary, we think it is best to simply follow Day 1 of our Gdansk, Poland things to do.
2 Days in Gdansk: Things To See and Do
While two days in Gdansk is still not enough time to see all of the highlights, it allows plenty of time to explore Gdansk. To plan a Gdansk weekend trip, we recommend following Day 1 of our Things to do Gdansk outline, then combining the best of Gdansk attractions from Days 2 and 3 into a single day.
For example, we would take a half day trip to Sopot, Westerplatte or Oliwa (depending on interests) and then spend the afternoon of Day 2 at the Solidarity Museum.
4 Days in Gdansk: What To Do
We’ve already outlined an ideal trip for three days in Gdansk. So, on the last day, we recommend taking a day trip to Malbork. However, visitors could also opt to split their time between Gdansk and Sopot. Rearrange your 4 day Gdansk Itinerary so that you visit Gdansk in 2 days and then spend 2 full days in Sopot.
5-Day Gdansk Itinerary
With 5 days in Gdansk, you can partake in many of the top activities in Gdansk. Create a Gdansk 5-Day Itinerary by including all of the best places to visit in Gdansk!
We recommend using our 3-Day Itinerary for Gdansk as written, then on Day 4 take a day trip to Malbork and on Day 5 go to either Westerplatte or Oliwa (which ever you skipped on Day 3) and end your visit with an afternoon Pirate Ship cruise.
Alternatively, you could spend two days in Sopot with an overnight stay…and three days in Gdansk.
One-Week Poland Itinerary: Visit Gdansk, Krakow and Warsaw
Create an epic itinerary for one week in Poland by visiting Gdansk, Krakow and Warsaw! In addition to our detailed Gdansk travel guide that outlines the places to visit in Gdansk, we have complete Poland itineraries for 3 Days in Krakow and 3 Days in Warsaw.
Gdansk on a Budget
In general terms, Gdansk is an affordable city to visit. Many museums offer free days to visit (check online prior to your trip). Additionally, the Gdansk Tourist Card covers entry into many sights.
Gdansk Tourist Card
The Gdansk Tourist Office offers three money-saving cards for attractions in Gdansk: Family, Sightseeing and Active. The cards offer entry into some of the best things to do in Gdansk, Poland! Go to the Gdansk Tourist Card website for more information.
Self Guided Gdansk Walking Tour
When you visit Gdansk city center, use our outline of what to see in Gdansk as a self-guided walking tour – we think it is one of the best free things to do in Gdansk. We highlight all of the top attractions for you in Day 1 of our Gdansk, Poland: What To Do Itinerary!
Budget Gdansk Restaurants
The cost of eating out in Gdansk can be incredibly inexpensive – and we’ve included affordable dining recommendations in our day-by-day Gdansk guide.
Best Restaurants in Gdansk, Poland
Eating traditional Polish fare should definitely be on your Gdansk to do list – and we have highlighted some of the best places to get a taste of the local cuisine.
Visitors who want a local guide to lead the way to the best tastes should join a Gdansk Food Tour. Participants get to taste local dishes at multiple restaurants. Reserve your space!
That said, in addition to milk bars and pierogi feasts, there are Gdansk fine dining establishments; see Gdansk restaurant reviews on TripAdvsior for top-rated places to eat.
Getting To Gdansk, Poland
Gdansk can be reached by plane, train, bus, ferry or car. How to get to Gdansk will depend on where you are coming from and your budget.
For our Gdansk visit, we flew into the Gdansk Airport from Basel via Frankfurt and departed to Helsinki, and then on to Singapore (we are JetSetting Fools, after all!).
The official name of the Gdansk Airport (GDN) is the Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport and it is located 7.5 miles from Gdansk.
Start your search for Gdansk flights and the best deals on airline tickets on Skyscanner.
Gdansk Airport to City
There are a few ways to get from Gdansk Airport to Gdansk: Taxi, uber, private transfer, train or bus. We used the Gdansk airport train, which was quite convenient. The bus from Gdansk airport to Old Town is the cheapest way to travel to Gdansk from the airport.
For information on using public transportation (including best routes and timetables), visit the Gdansk Tourist Office in the Gdansk Airport.
Gdansk Travel to nearby Destinations
Gdansk Poland is well-connected to other nearby destinations. That said, how to get between the cities will depend on your budget and the overall time and route for your trip.
Gdansk to Warsaw
There are inexpensive direct flights between Warsaw and Gdansk, which we think is the best way to get between the two cities. However, there are also trains from Gdansk to Warsaw and as well as buses.
Gdansk to Krakow
The best way to travel from Krakow to Gdansk (and vice versa) is via plane. There is a Krakow-Gdansk train, but – on average – the train from Gdansk to Krakow takes about 6 hours (which can really cut into your Gdansk vacation). Due to the long travel time, we would not recommend the Gdansk to Krakow bus.
Gdansk-Stockholm Ferry
Visitors wishing to travel from Gdansk to Stockholm will want to check overnight ferry schedules for Gdansk-Nynashamn (and then organize travel to Stockholm from Nynashamn).
Where To Stay in Gdansk, Poland
The best area to stay in Gdansk is in or near the Old Town – especially if you are planning a short trip to Gdansk.
Gdansk Holiday Apartments
During our visit to Gdansk, we stayed slightly outside of Old Town Gdansk, Poland in a great Airbnb Apartment. For us, it was the best place to stay in Gdansk because it had more space than a hotel room and a full kitchen where we could prepare simple meals.
Gdansk Hotels
In addition to holiday apartments, there are also many hotels in Gdansk or close to the city center. We have rounded up a list of some of the best places to stay in Gdansk Old Town (based on customer reviews).
PURO Gdansk Stare Miasto
Located in the heart of the city, PURO is the best hotel in Gdansk for a stylish stay. The hip hotel gets rave reviews for the chic design and comfortable rooms. Check rates and rooms for your stay!
Marina Club Hotel
A modern Gdansk hotel in the middle of the Old Town, Marina Club features clean, comfortable rooms (many with stellar city views) and rooms with kitchenettes, too. Check rates for your stay!
Stay Inn Hotel Gdansk
Stay Inn has an excellent location in the center of Gdansk Old Town. The hotel gets great reviews for the excellent staff and hot breakfast. Reserve your room!
Hotel Gdansk Boutique
An elegant, modern hotel in a historic building in the Old Town, Hotel Gdansk Boutique gets rave reviews for the exceptional breakfast and luxurious features. Check availability!
Start your search for the perfect hotel for your city sightseeing Gdansk trip on Booking.com!
Where to Stay in Sopot
We highly recommend staying in Sopot if it fits into your Gdansk itinerary. We spent 2 nights in Sopot at the charming Villa Sedan Hotel, which was ideally located near the main pedestrian street and pier. The affordable room was clean and comfortable and the staff was super!
That said, the poshest place in town is the beachfront Sofitel Grand Hotel. Check Booking.com for availability at the Sofitel and other hotels in Sopot.
Visit Gdansk, Poland: What To Pack
Our final packing hacks and travel tips for your Gdansk city guide!
Walking Shoes
Gdansk is a walkable city…but only if you have the right shoes! Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes for your trip – and keep in mind that we cover some ground in our Gdansk itinerary.
I always pack comfortable shoes – these are my current favorites! Kris prefers wearing these trail shoes by Merrell for all types of walks. Read more of our tips for the Best Traveling Shoes.
Travel Camera
We think Gdansk is an incredibly photogenic destination – and if you are anything like us, you will be snapping tons of photos during your trip. Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual travel camera for higher quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel and use an everyday 18-135mm lens.
Weather Appropriate Wear
Gdansk weather is quite variable – with four distinct seasons. Be sure to bring sunscreen and sunglasses in the summertime – a wide-brimmed hat is a good idea, too. Because summers are also the rainiest season, pack a travel umbrella and lightweight raincoat, too.
Day Pack for Travel
Whether you travel with a backpack or suitcase, with long days of sightseeing in Gdansk, you will want a travel day pack as well. It’s an ideal way to carry your camera and other essential travel items in!
Poland Travel Insurance
If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip to Poland, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Organizing your Gdansk Itinerary 3 Days
We have shared our top tips for the top things to do in Gdansk, Poland, the best places to eat and even advice on how long to spend in Gdansk. Now it’s time to start planning the particulars of your trip!
As you begin to make your plans for a European Vacation, use a Travel Planner to stay organized. Our Printable Travel Planner is perfect for organizing your trip and keeping track of the best places in Gdansk to see!
Start planning your trip to Poland! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page!
We want to know: What do you think of our list of things to do in Gdansk, Poland? What would you add to our Gdansk itinerary? Give us your best tips and advice in the comments below!
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