Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Sea breeze + amber please ❤️ Gdańsk has a special place in my heart. A city shaped by the sea and centuries of trade, power, and resilience. The city feels instantly welcoming, through the cozy cute cafes, cobblestone streets and the international crowd that it draws. I’ve been here both in the summer and during the winter Christmas market season.
How to get to Gdańsk, Poland?
Ławica Henryk Wieniawski Airport is located 5 miles from the city center. There are so many direct flights from many European cities. From the airport, the Old Town is just a 25 minute drive away via either bus, taxi, or rideshare.
I arrived by train to the station Gdańsk Glowny from the town of Toruń. If you are traveling around Poland, I highly recommend downloading the KOLEO app to book tickets and view all train connections. Within and around Gdańsk, I used the app JAKDOJADEM for bus transportation details. You can also purchase a ticket on the bus, but all the buses I went on had broken electronic ticket machines (just an fyi).
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Go check out Neptune’s Fountain
Located in the historical part of Gdańsk, this fountain is a beauty. I was so impressed to learn that this fountain is original. It was protected well during the world war. While you are here take a look around at the beautiful building facades and people watch from a restaurant in the square. Modern day anthropology as I call it. It’s a crucial must do in a new city.
❤️ Take a guided walking tour of the Old Main Town.
Within just 2 hours you’ll have an overview of the city and the history.
Explore St. Mary’s Church
St. Mary’s Church is one of the largest brick churches in the world! Entrance inside the church is free. However, if you want to climb to the top of the tower for 360 views of the city then there’s a small admission fee.
Take a look at the historical crane
Located alongside the river is the infamous landmark of Gdańsk. The medieval port crane was operational for centuries and a very vital part of Poland’s maritime industry. If you want to learn more, you can visit the National Maritime Museum located inside the crane. (Tip: Check their website for free days.) Otherwise, you can view a portion of the crane parts underneath the structure.
Bursztyn or Amber Museum
Simply beautiful collection of amber from not just Poland, but from around the world. Here you will learn from a to z about anything amber. I went in the late afternoon and had the museum mostly to myself. Thank goodness because Gdańsk always has a lot of school groups running around. The ambience of the space and lighting just add to your experience.
If you want to buy a souvenir uniquely to Gdańsk, think of this museum as the research phase. On the main streets of Gdańsk there’s a million and one options of amber jewelry. What you learn here will be valuable for your future trinket collection.
See the Bursztyn Altar at St. Bridget’s Basilica
I didn’t research this location prior to coming. It was recommended to me by a local as a must do. My expectations were low. I was taken a back. The entire church is set up like a museum with historical descriptions in Polish and English. I would say, expect to spend anywhere from 40 minutes to an hour if you are going to read everything and wander around the church at a museum like pace.
The signages are located all throughout the church. Gdansk has a long and complex history. Within this church you get to see it all tied together.
Visit Westerplatte
Westerplatte is located just outside of the main town of Gdańsk. It is best known as the site where World War II began in Europe in 1939. The defense of Westerplatte became a powerful symbol of Polish courage and resistance. Today, it is a memorial site honoring the soldiers who fought there.
Eat authentic Polish Cuisine
One way to get to know a country is through their food and drinks. Restauracja Witome is one of the best restaurants that I experienced in a long time, the staff is very helpful (they speak fluent English) and the menu has a wide array of Polish cuisine as well as regional delicacies. I had pierogi with goose for the first time in my life!
Day trip to Malbork Castle
Enjoy a visit to the largest castle in the world and discover the UNESCO-listed castle and fortress of Malbork. If you have room in your itinerary, I highly recommend adding this castle to your to do list. Damaged during the war, it has been rebuilt to its former glory.
Helpful Tips for Planning your Trip to Poland
Are you planning on visiting these locations in Poland?
Book your Flight
Start by comparing airfare early to get the best deals.
Use tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track price trends and flexible travel dates.
Book your Accommodation
Whether you’re looking for hostels or hotels, Poland has a wide range of options.
Booking.com is great for hotels and guesthouses across the country.
Hostelworld is ideal for backpackers and budget travelers.
Travel Insurance for the unexpected
Always, always have travel insurance! Travel insurance is essential. It protects you from unexpected events like flight delays, illness, theft, or accidents.
I recommend SafetyWing, which offers flexible and affordable plans perfect for long-term travelers and digital nomads.
Best Resources to book Tours and Activities
GetYourGuide is great for booking everything from city tours and museum tickets to outdoor adventures. It’s easy to use, has tons of reviews, clear pricing, and offers free cancellation on most bookings.
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