7 days in Gdansk, Poland: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Gdansk, a Polish gem with a rich history, is where the old meets the new, and the cityscape becomes an artist’s canvas. This vibrant port city on the Baltic coast boasts stunning architecture, fascinating museums, and a buzzing atmosphere. Highlights of Gdansk include its striking St. Mary’s Church and the awe-inspiring Gdańsk Shipyard, where the Solidarity movement was born. Get ready to indulge in mouth-watering Polish cuisine and make new friends at lively pubs and cafes.
Things to consider before arriving in Gdansk
Affordable & accessible: Gdansk is wallet-friendly, offering great value for your money.
Multicultural vibe: The city’s history of trade has contributed to a rich, diverse culture.
Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather, as it can change quickly.
This city is perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and food lovers.
What to bring with you
1. Weather-appropriate clothing: Pack layers for fluctuating temperatures and a rain jacket for sudden showers.
2. Comfortable shoes: Explore the city by foot and stroll along the charming cobblestone streets – walking shoes are a must!
3. Camera: You’ll want to capture Gdansk’s remarkable beauty and picturesque moments.
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Gdansk is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and the city is buzzing with outdoor events and festivals. However, if you’re fond of snow and festive Christmas markets, December could be your perfect time.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport is well-connected to major European cities. From the airport, take the train or bus to the city center, both of which are convenient and affordable.
2. By train: Gdansk Glowny (main train station) is a major hub for Polish trains, providing connections from cities such as Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw.
3. By bus: FlixBus, Ecolines, and other international bus companies operate routes to Gdansk from neighboring countries, offering an affordable option for budget travelers.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Gdansk, Poland
Day 1: Explore the Old Town
Start your day by walking around the beautiful Old Town of Gdansk. Visit the colorful facades of Long Market, the historic St. Mary’s Church, and the picturesque Mariacka Street. You can also take a boat ride on the nearby Motława river. For lunch, try traditional Polish dishes at Pierogarnia u Dzika. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of the Second World War. End your day at a local pub and enjoy a beer with pierogi.
Day 2: Stroll through Oliwa Park and visit the Cathedral
Take a tram to Oliwa Park, a beautiful park with a palace, ponds, and a zoo. You can have a picnic and relax in the greenery. Then, visit the Oliwa Cathedral, famous for its beautiful organs. Have lunch at Restaurant Farina, known for its Italian cuisine. Spend the afternoon at Sopot beach, known for its golden sand and charming promenade.
Day 3: Day trip to Malbork Castle
Take a train to Malbork Castle, the largest castle in the world by land area. Explore the medieval castle, learn about the Teutonic Knights, and enjoy the beautiful garden. Have lunch at Pod Kogutem, a traditional Polish restaurant. Return to Gdansk in the late afternoon and have a dinner at Goldwasser, known for its Goldwasser liqueur.
Day 4: Visit the Solidarity Center and Westerplatte
Start your day by visiting the Solidarity Center, a museum dedicated to the Polish trade union and civil resistance movement. Have lunch at Brovarnia Gdansk and try their homemade beer. In the afternoon, take a ferry to Westerplatte, the place where World War II started. Explore the memorial and learn about the history of the war.
Day 5: Visit Stutthof Concentration Camp
Take a bus to Sztutowo and visit the Stutthof Concentration Camp. Learn about the Nazi atrocities and honor the victims. Have lunch at Karczma Polska, a traditional Polish restaurant. Return to Gdansk and have a dinner at Kubicki Restauracja, known for its Polish cuisine with a modern twist.
Day 6: Day trip to Gdynia and Hel Peninsula
Take a 20-minute train to Gdynia and visit the local aquarium and Navy Museum. Have lunch at Wilcza Jama, a seafood restaurant. In the afternoon, take a ferry to Hel Peninsula, a narrow strip of land between the Baltic Sea and the Bay of Puck. Relax on the beach and enjoy the sea breeze. Have dinner at Foki Beach Bar, known for its seafood and cocktails.
Day 7: Visit the European Solidarity Centre and farewell
Start your day by visiting the European Solidarity Centre, a museum dedicated to the history of democracy in Europe. Have lunch at Kaskada, a vegetarian restaurant. Spend the rest of the day walking around the city and enjoying its beauty. Say goodbye to Gdansk and plan your next adventure.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Gdansk, Poland
After exploring Gdańsk, why not visit two other interesting cities nearby? From Gdańsk, take a train to Toruń, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Gothic architecture, gingerbread, and Copernicus Museum. Alternatively, take a bus to Poznań, a vibrant city with a charming old town, museums, and a beautiful lake. Both Toruń and Poznań are only a few hours away and are definitely worth a visit.
