Weekenders: Things to Do in Gdansk, Poland

I’ve just returned from a 2-night break to Gdansk and wow – what an unexpected gem! Gdansk quickly became one of my favourite cities for a weekend break and it has to be one of Europe’s most underrated city breaks.

If you’re craving a weekend break with a mix of seaside charm, fascinating history and a dash of Baltic cool, look no further than Gdansk. 

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This port city in northern Poland is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. It’s colourful, walkable, full of character and just the right size for a 2–3 day getaway. Whether you’re into architecture, food, history or simply sipping Aperol by the water, Gdansk hits that sweet spot between relaxation and discovery.

I found Gdansk to be surprisingly cool with so many nice bars, cafes and restaurants. There are definitely Scandi vibes, just without the Scandi price tag! Yes, Gdansk is a very affordable city so that’s another reason to get it on your list!

Why Gdansk is Great for a Weekend

• It’s cheap
• It’s SO pretty
• Great food
• Super cool bars
• Walkable city and so easy to get around
• Lots of stylish, budget-friendly accommodation
• Great nightlife but that early evening atmosphere is great too
• You can get the train to the beach
• Lots of amazing museums

Gdansk is the kind of city that surprises you. While it’s often overshadowed by Kraków or Warsaw, those who visit quickly fall in love with its mix of Hanseatic architecture (gothic, brick buildings), vibrant cafés and laid-back coastal vibe. 

It was once one of the richest cities on the Baltic Sea so the history is layered and fascinating, from medieval trading days to the Solidarity movement that helped bring down communism.

It’s also incredibly affordable compared to Western Europe, and compact enough that you can walk almost everywhere. You’ll spend your days wandering cobbled lanes, browsing amber shops, and eating pierogi by the river  and your evenings sipping local craft beer in cosy bars or watching the sun set over the Baltic.

How to Get to Gdansk

I flew to Gdansk from Manchester with Ryanair for about £50 return. Check out my guide to travelling with just free luggage to save lots of time and money!

From the UK, getting to Gdansk is cheap and easy.

• By air: Direct flights operate from London (Stansted, Luton, Gatwick), Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh and other UK cities, usually with Ryanair, Wizz Air, or easyJet. The flight time is around 2 hours and flights are generally very cheap. I recommend using Skyscanner to find the best flights.
  
• From the airport to the city centre: Gdansk Lech Wasa Airport is only 30 minutes from the city centre by train or taxi. I recommend getting an Uber for around £15. You can also get the bus which is only £1.20 and very simple to find but I found it to be slow and crowded, great if you’re on a budget but an Uber is so cheap it’s hard to resist. The SKM suburban train runs regularly but you do need to switch trains so I skipped that option for ease!

• Getting around: The city is very walkable so when you’re in the city centre I recommend walking. The city’s public transport network is simple and efficient if you’re going a bit further. Trams and trains connect you easily to Sopot and Gdynia (forming the Tri-City area). But honestly, you’ll spend most of your weekend on foot.
  

10 Things to Do in Gdansk

Here are 10 unmissable things to do in Gdansk. I was in Gdansk for 2 nights but it was really only one afternoon and one full day due to my flights and I managed to do all these things (many of them twice!)

1. Stroll Down Dlugi Targ (Long Market)

The heart of Gdansk’s Old Town is straight out of a storybook. Lined with colourful merchant houses rebuilt after WWII, Dlugi Targ is home to the Neptune Fountain, the Town Hall, and endless cafés and amber boutiques. Grab a coffee at Drukarnia Café and people-watch. This is the perfect intro to a beautiful city!

2. Climb St. Mary’s Church Tower

For gorgeous panoramic views across Gdansk, climb the 405 steps up St. Mary’s Church, one of the largest brick churches in the world. From the top, you’ll get sweeping views of Gdansk’s pastel rooftops and the Motawa River. It’s a tough climb but it’s worth it and you can and have a peaceful sit down in the church once you’re done!

3. Wander Along the Motlawa River

Follow the riverfront from the Green Gate to the medieval Crane, once used to hoist masts onto ships. Today it’s part of the National Maritime Museum. The whole promenade buzzes with life, especially at sunset, when street musicians play and the terraces fill with locals.

4. Learn Some History at the WWII Museum

The Museum of the Second World War is one of Europe’s most powerful and well-designed museums. It’s massive, emotional, and incredibly well curated so allow at least 2–3 hours. The exhibitions are immersive, with English translations throughout. I’d recommend checking opening hours of the museum before visiting as it’s closed some days and closes early on some too.

5. Visit the European Solidarity Centre

Modern Polish history comes alive here. This striking, rust-coloured building celebrates the Solidarity movement that started in Gdansk’s shipyards in the 1980s, leading to the fall of communism in Poland. The museum is fascinating and the rooftop terrace has great views of the old shipyard cranes.

6. Explore the Gdansk Shipyard Murals

Just behind the Solidarity Centre, the old Shipyard District has been reborn as a creative hub with murals, pop-up galleries, and bars. 

Check out 100cznia, an open-air space made from shipping containers, filled with food trucks, DJs, and beachy vibes; it’s like Gdansk’s answer to Shoreditch.

7. Take a Boat Trip

Hop on a Motlawa river cruise or a ferry to Westerplatte, the peninsula where WWII began. The ride offers a different perspective of the city and its industrial heritage.

If you’re travelling with kids then you can do this cruise on an incredible pirate ship! (My kids would love this!)

8. Visit Sopot or Stogi Beach

If the weather’s kind, head to Stogi Beach or take a short train ride to Sopot (more on that below). The Baltic Sea might be brisk, but the wide sandy beaches are pristine and ideal for a stroll, a brave dip, or a traditional seaside afternoon.

9. Browse Amber Shops

You can’t visit Gdansk without picking up some amber. Gdansk is known as the amber capital of the world. You’ll find jewellery shops everywhere, but Galeria Mariacka and Amber Museum (in the Foregate of Dluga Street) are great places to start.

10. Enjoy a Sunset Drink at Motlawa River

End your day at Zafishowani or Brovarnia Gdansk, where you can sip a local beer or cocktail by the water. As the evening light reflects off the colourful façades, you’ll understand why Gdansk leaves such a lasting impression. If you’re anything like me, you’ll sit here planning your return visit!

Other Attractions in Gdansk

Beyond the main sights, Gdansk is full of smaller gems and experiences worth your time:

• Mariacka Street: Possibly the prettiest street in Poland, lined with amber shops and quirky gargoyles.
  
• Oliwa Park & Cathedral: A peaceful escape with manicured gardens and an impressive organ concert inside the cathedral.
  
• Great Armoury (Wielka Zbrojownia): Stunning Renaissance building that now houses art exhibitions.
  
• Hewelianum Centre: Interactive science centre in old fortifications which would be great if you’re visiting with kids.
  
• Dlugi Pobrzeze: The river embankment lined with restaurants and picture-perfect reflections at night.
  

If you’re visiting in December, don’t miss the Gdansk Christmas Market. It’s said to be one of the best in Europe, with wooden chalets, mulled wine, and Polish treats like oscypek cheese and gingerbread.

Gdansk and Its Amber History

Amber, or “Baltic gold”, has been part of Gdansk’s identity for over a thousand years. The city lay along the ancient Amber Road, where traders carried the golden resin south to the Mediterranean. In medieval times, Gdansk’s amber craftsmen were famous for their intricate art pieces, many of which ended up in royal courts.

Today, amber remains deeply tied to local culture. You’ll see it in jewellery, art, and even cocktails (yes, really! Apparently the amber-infused vodka at Goldwasser Restaurant is a must-try). 

You can visit the Amber Museum, housed in a historic gatehouse, to learn how it’s formed and see stunning pieces dating back centuries. But, if you’re anything like me, browsing all the amber stalls and shops was amazing enough. 

When buying amber, beware of plastic imitations. Reputable shops will have certificates and can often tell you where the stone was found. A genuine amber pendant or other jewellery is the perfect Gdansk souvenir!

How to Get to the Beach in Gdansk

I know a lot of people were surprised to find that Gdansk has several beaches easily reached by public transport or bike.

• Stogi Beach – The city’s main beach, just 20 minutes from the centre by tram (line 8). It’s long, clean, and backed by pine forests.
  
• Brzezno Beach – A bit closer, near the New Port district. Popular with locals, it’s perfect for a sunset walk along the pier.
  
• Jelitkowo Beach – Between Gdansk and Sopot, great for cycling along the coastal path that links the two cities.
• Sopot Beach – More info on Sopot below…
• If you’re there in summer, look out for open-air bars like Zatoka Sztuki or M15, they host live music and beach parties with a relaxed, bohemian feel.
  

Take a trip to Sopot

I’ll admit that I almost skipped a visit to Sopot as it seemed like an effort with the train. But I’m so glad I went and it was really easy to get to.

Just a 20-minute train ride from Gdansk, Sopot is like stepping into a seaside postcard. It’s elegant, a bit glamorous, and full of charm but has that real, old-fashioned seaside charm. Locals call it the Polish Riviera, and you’ll see why the moment you arrive.

Start your visit at the Sopot Pier (Molo) which is the longest wooden pier in Europe where you can take in the sweeping sea views. Then stroll along Monte Cassino Street (Monciak), lined with cafés, boutiques, and street performers. For something quirky, pop into the Crooked House (Krzywy Domek), an architectural oddity that looks like it’s melting (it’s actually a Costa now).

When it’s sunny, walk along Sopot Beach and, if you’re brave you can dip your toes in the icy water. The sand is so soft and white and gorgeous! 

For lunch, Bulaj and Tandoor House are local favourites, while White Marlin offers elegant dining right on the beach. In the evening, check out Spatif, a legendary cocktail bar that feels like an old artist’s den.

If you have a full weekend, spending one day in Sopot and one in Gdansk is the perfect combo for culture and history one day, beach and cocktails the next. If you have less time, I found 2-3 hours in Sopot was enough.

Best Restaurants in Gdansk

Polish food has come a long way from stereotypes of dumplings and stews, though you’ll find those too, and they’re delicious. Honestly, I ate nothing but pierogi and I wasn’t mad about it!

If you’re a foodie then you’ll love this Foodie Walking Tour. You get 13 different tastings and get a tour of the city with a guide too!

Gdansk’s dining scene mixes traditional flavours with Baltic seafood and modern European flair. Here are some can’t-miss spots:

• Pierogarnia Mandu Centrum – Hands down the best pierogi (Polish dumplings) in town. Expect long queues, but it’s worth it. Try the duck or spinach-and-feta versions. I arrived just as it opened and there was no queue but it quickly got busy.
  
• Zafishowani – Elegant seafood restaurant on the river. Go for the Baltic cod or mussels with white wine sauce.
  
• Brovarnia Gdansk – A microbrewery and restaurant in a stylish old granary. Great for hearty Polish classics and local craft beer.
  
• Gvara Restaurant – Modern Polish cuisine with a creative twist; think beetroot tartare or pork neck with plum sauce.
  
• Pueblo – A lively Mexican spot when you’re craving margaritas and tacos after too much Polish food.
  
• Goldwasser Restaurant – Historic setting and fine dining with a view of the Motlawa River. Don’t miss the house Goldwasser liqueur with flecks of real gold.
• Pierogarnia – Also amazing pierogi in a cosy, traditional setting. I tried a mixture of baked pierogi and traditional boiled pierogi. It felt quite touristy and the service wasn’t great but, honestly, I loved it!
  

For coffee lovers, Drukarnia Café, Retro Café, and Anima Café are perfect morning stops before a day of sightseeing.

Best Bars in Gdansk

When the sun goes down, Gdansk knows how to have fun! Lots of the bars have a very cool, Scandi vibe and there are loads of outdoor bars with cosy heaters and blankets in the winter. Whether you’re after craft cocktails, local beer, or dancing till late, the nightlife here is easy-going and sociable.

If you’re into Polish vodka then start your night with a Polish vodka tasting session!

• Flisak ’76 – The city’s best cocktail bar, tucked away in a brick cellar. Try the “Smoke on the Water” for something theatrical.
  
• Lawendowa 8 – Casual bar with great beer selection and live music.
  
• Pub Pixel – Fun, retro-gaming theme with arcade machines and local brews.
  
• 100cznia – Outdoor shipping container bar complex in the shipyard — DJ sets, hammocks, food trucks, and summer vibes.
  
• Bunkier Club – Underground club built into an old wartime bunker — expect techno, industrial decor, and a unique atmosphere.
  
• Craft Cocktails by Negroni – Stylish spot for after-dinner drinks, with a serious approach to mixology.
  

If you prefer something quieter, grab a drink at Zafishowani or Brovarnia’s terrace and watch the lights shimmer on the Motlawa River,the perfect farewell to a Baltic weekend.

Apartments in Gdansk

Accommodation in Gdansk is excellent value for money, with stylish apartments and boutique hotels for every budget. Staying in or near the Old Town keeps you close to most attractions, though the Granary Island area is also fantastic for a more modern vibe.

Recommended areas:

• Old Town (Stare Miasto): Great for first-timers; walk everywhere.
  
• Wyspa Spichrzów (Granary Island): Trendy, riverside apartments with stunning views.
  
• Wrzeszcz: More local, well connected by tram, and slightly cheaper.

Where I stayed:

@thetravelhack Link is in my bio. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Gdansk, this is it! This gorgeous apartment is right on the waterfront next to the Green Gate so it’s a 10/10 for location. It comes with a fully equipped kitchen, which includes a proper sized fridge and a dishwasher and, of course, a coffee machine. There are enormous windows looking out with a beautiful view. you also get access to the spa, swimming pool and fitness centre in the Radisson Blu next door. It cost £80 a night for a deluxe studio which is the basic room so there are even nicer rooms available and they’re not much more expensive! #gdansk #gdanskapartment #gdanskhotel ? original sound – Monica

Apartamenty Deo Plaza – These are beautiful apartments right on the river and I 100% recommend staying here. 

I had a deluxe studio and it was lovely. So spacious and comfortable with a great view and massive doors that opened right out. I also had a full kitchen with everything you’d need, including a full-sized fridge, a dishwasher and a coffee machine. OK, I only used the coffee machine but all the extra space and a dining table was nice to have! I’d definitely come back here on a workation! 

This apartment is also connected to Radisson Blu Hotel, Gdansk and guests in Deo Plaza have access to the spa, swimming pool and fitness facilities in the hotel. My email confirmation said I was meant to pre-book and pay a small fee to use the facilities but I didn’t know this until afterwards and I just walked straight in and no one stopped me!

Other apartment options:

• PURO Gdansk Stare Miasto – Design-led hotel with rooftop bar and bikes for guests.
  
• Stay Inn Hotel – Smart mid-range option across from St. Mary’s Church.
  
• Radisson Hotel & Suites – Modern and comfortable, with a pool and spa for unwinding after sightseeing.
  

Booking early for summer weekends and around Christmas is wise, as Gdansk is becoming popular with city breakers.

Time to plan your weekend in Gdansk…?

I absolutely fell head over heels in love with Gdansk. The city offers that rare combination of beauty, history, cool bars, great food and beachside relaxation in one compact, affordable package. 

You can explore world-class museums, eat incredible food, and lounge on golden sands, all without breaking the bank or fighting massive crowds.

Whether you’re coming for a romantic escape, a cultural city break, a family trip or time with your friends, Gdansk delivers. It’s a place that blends old-world charm with youthful energy and you can’t beat a budget weekender that has a beach and a city!