Located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, Gdansk is a city with a long history and a rich architectural heritage. Once one of the most important Hanseatic cities, it invites you to discover its most beautiful buildings, visit its museums and galleries and enjoy its intense nightlife, with its many cafés, pubs and discotheques. From the charm of its various districts to the gentle ambience of its coastline, the city nicknamed the "Pearl of the Baltic" is one of the most popular destinations for travellers wishing to discover Poland. Let's discover the city's riches in 13 must-sees.
1. Westerplatte, for history
A must-see for history buffs. The Westerplatte peninsula is where German troops invaded the city in September 1939 and where the battle of the same name took place. Today, there is a large memorial, an outdoor museum, ruins of military buildings and an imposing war memorial. The peninsula is a place of remembrance, but also a place to gain a better understanding of one of the tragic events of the Second World War. For the record, a Polish film directed by Paweł Chochlew, "The Battle of Wasterplatte", recounts the event.
To book: take advantage of our partner's rates by booking here your guided round-trip cruise to Westerplatte.
Read more: What to see and do in Poland The 13 must-sees
2. The Royal Way, architectural beauty
This artery is first and foremost historic, as it was here that the Polish kings performed their solemn parades. It's also one of the most authentic places to discover the city, with its sublime, colorful buildings and many architectural details. The Royal Way is also a starting point for admiring Gdansk treasures such as the Golden Gate, Neptune Fountain and the historic Town Hall. We recommend stopping here for a coffee, before wandering through the equally charming adjacent streets and alleys.
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What to book: Explore Gdansk's history and culture by booking this private guided tour, which will take you to must-sees like St. Mary's Church or hidden gems like Mariacka Street.
3. The historic City Hall
Gdansk's centrally-locatedCity Hall is a landmark building that blends Gothic and Renaissance influences. Rebuilt several times since the 14th century, it is as attractive for its exterior architecture as for its sumptuous interiors. It also houses a section of the National Museum of Gdańsk. The Great Council Chamber is sublime. Its decoration is reminiscent of the Doge's Palace in Venice, and its summit offers a breathtaking view of the city.
4. St. Mary's Church in Gdansk
Gdansk's St. Mary's Church is a star attraction in the city center. It is one of the largest brick-built churches in the world. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, you can admire its Gothic architecture from the outside, before stepping inside to see the treasures it houses. These include an astronomical clock over 14 m high, as well as numerous works of art. The more courageous are invited to climb the tower's 400 steps for a breathtaking view of Gdansk.
5. The Artus Court, one of Gdansk's most beautiful buildings
This sublime monument just behind the Neptune Fountain is a real eye-catcher, with its immaculate facade, large windows and Nordic Mannerist decorative elements. Built in 1481, the Cour d'Artus was a meeting place for the city's merchants and nobles during the heyday of maritime trade. Today, the building houses a branch of the Gdansk History Museum. During a visit, you can see ships hanging from the ceiling of the Great Hall, testimony to the city's maritime heritage, as well as an impressive 12 m Renaissance stove, decorated with portraits of European sovereigns and allegorical figures.
To book : Click here to book your private tour of the Artus Court and Gdansk's Old Town.
6. What to see in Gdansk Mariacka Street
Mariacka Street is one of the most beautiful streets in the historic center of Gdansk, a special budget destination in Europe. It, too, is home to some magnificent, colorful buildings, and is a feast for the eyes and photo enthusiasts alike. There are also plenty of small souvenir stores and jewelry stores selling beautiful amber pieces. The town is famous for this stone from the Baltic Sea. It's also very pleasant to stop off at one of its cafés for a break during the day or a romantic aperitif in the evening.
7. The Gdansk National Museum, for art
The National Museum in Gdansk is one of Poland's oldest museums. This beautiful building houses a treasure trove: Hans Memling's Last Judgment. But there's much more, with religious silverware, sculptures, paintings, drawings and engravings by European masters from the late 15th to the early 19th century. A not-to-be-missed stroll for lovers of ancient art, with a particular focus on Polish painting from the 16th to the 20th century, as well as Flemish and Dutch paintings.
If you're a lover of art and culture, you should also consider visiting Krakow and its must-sees!
8. Oliwa Park and the Abbots' Palace
Oliwa Park, once the garden of a Cistercian monastery in the 15th century, is the most beautiful park in Gdansk, one of Eastern Europe's top destinations. It's a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, with old trees, beautiful paths, benches and a baroque garden facing the Abbots' Palace. Don't hesitate to enter this pretty rococo-style palace, which houses the National Museum's Department of Modern Art. A gallery is dedicated to exhibitions by young local artists.
9. The fascinating World War II Museum
The World War II Museum is a must-see in Gdansk! Opened in 2017, the museum invites visitors to discover many things about what led up to the war, what life was like in Poland and the surrounding countries during the war, but also what resulted from the Allied victory. An absolutely fascinating main exhibition. The World War II Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions. The program can be found on the website.
10. The European Solidarity Center
The Center of European Solidarity is another cultural space not to be missed during a stay in Gdansk. It is dedicated to the history of Solidarność, a movement in opposition to Communist powers, and describes the steps that led Poland towards a democratic system. This architecturally innovative museum features multimedia devices that retrace the story in detail. Visitors can also see period objects, such as a Polish police vehicle from the Communist era. Visitors can also take an audioguide if they wish.
11. What to do in Gdansk A river cruise
This is one of the must-do activities in fine weather. Travelers are invited aboard a galley boat for a gentle cruise on the Motława River. For just over an hour, they discover the main tourist attractions from the water, including the old town. A guide is also on hand to tell many stories and anecdotes about the city and its history. A perfect mix of panoramic views and culture, and an ideal activity to do as a couple or as a family in Gdansk.
To book : go here to book your cruise on the Motława River aboard a historic Polish boat.
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12. The Amber Museum, a must-see in Gdansk
Amber is found in abundance on Poland's coasts, and Gdansk is reputed to be the world capital of this stone. Interested travelers can visit the Amber Museum to discover its history, how it is processed and its many uses. The exhibition reveals objects that have been carved from amber, and you can even admire prehistoric flora and fauna trapped inside stones. How unusual! A visit not to be missed if you love beautiful things.
13. Spend some time on the beach
Never forget that Gdansk lies on the Baltic Sea. It's too good an opportunity not to spend some time at the beach. Take Stogi beach, for example , located near Westerplatte. Supervised, it even hosts a stadium in summer for beach volleyball and rugby matches. Another popular beach is Jelitkowo, a stone's throw from the charming seaside resort of Sopot. It's a wide stretch of fine golden sand. A stopover in Sopot includes a stroll along Europe's longest wooden pier.
Where to stay in Gdansk?
Hotels are to be found just about everywhere in Gdansk, making it the ideal destination for an inexpensive vacation. The most popular areas to stay are the Old Town and the Oliwa district.
- Gotyk House, a picturesque atmosphere
A superb address in one of the Old Town's most beautiful streets, Mariacka Street. The Gotyk House is housed in the city's oldest house, and features rooms that blend old-world and contemporary touches. The establishment is cosy to a fault, and what's more, the breakfast is delicious, so what are you waiting for to book right here?
- Hotel Mercure Gdansk Stare Miasto, comfort at its best
A hotel set in an imposing building, ideally located for enjoying the historic city and Gdansk's main sites of interest. The highest floors offer magnificent views of the entire old town and harbor.Hotel Mercure Gdansk Stare Miasto features a bar, restaurant and fitness room. Everything you need for a great stay , just book here.
- Jess Krolewski Gdansk Old Town, a charming place to stay
A magnificent hotel, bookable herethe Jess Krolewski is located on the waterfront in a former 17th-century brick granary. The Krolewski 's rooms are reminiscent of a ship's cabin. All the comforts are there, and you'll appreciate the on-site restaurant serving Asian-inspired cuisine. Breakfast is also very complete.
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