Gdansk is a proper port city, a place where history has drawn all manner of people and things and set them to mingle in amongst narrow cobbled streets. The architecture is unlike that of other Polish cities, built by the ship merchants who had seen the best of what the world had to offer. The parts which survived WWII now have an extra layer of significance and lend the dockside and the Main Town a sort of sad elegance behind the lively atmosphere of the splendidly rebuilt modern city. You’ll find many of the best places to stay in Gdansk in the Main Town which is where the lively bars and cafes, numerous fascinating museums and the amber shops (Gdansk is the amber capital of the world) are located. But it’s also worth looking round the dockside region if your idea of a top location includes water views, dockside beer gardens and a maritime theme.

The history of Gdansk has been tumultuous to say the least. It’s been fought over, mostly by the Germans and the Poles, for hundreds of years and has changed hands several times, including during the 20th century when it was one of the earliest sites of conflict during WWII. Which might be why this city has such a wealth of fascinating museums.

What Not To Miss

• The European Solidarity Centre is one of the highlights, covering Poland’s dramatic post war period. There’s also an Historical Museum of Gdansk, an Ethnographic Museum, an Archaeological Museum, a National Maritime Museum, an Amber Museum and a Museum of the Second World War.
• The museum ship, the SS Soldek is also worth a look. As is the Artus Court Museum, converted from a carefully reconstructed 14th century grand house.
• The famous Lenin Shipyard, memorable for its place in the dissolution of much of communism in Eastern Europe, should not be missed either.
• Then there’s the long stretches of sandy beach which are one of the reasons Gdansk is so popular with Poles during the summer months.
•  And the Long Market which is at the Green Gate end of the famous Long Lane (probably this city’s most famous street). The Long Market is also where you’ll find the Neptune Fountain.
• The churches and cathedrals - Gdansk has a number of extremely impressive places of worship. 

It's a popular city what with the advent of low cost airlines making it very accessible. So if you want to guarantee a room in our pick of the best places to stay in Gdansk, don't leave it till the last minute.

Best places to stay in Gdansk

For a chic city break

• Puro is a trendy boutique hotel in the centre of town with 93 individually designed rooms and lots of natural light. There’s also a chic restaurant and bar which draw a lively young crowd. Perfect for a cool city break.

For an apartment

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option this holiday - then check out the great range of properties offered by our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Gdansk?

• Fly to Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport situated 16km (10 miles) from the city centre. The airport is served by a range of domestic and International carriers.
• Passengers from the airport are able to then take a train or bus into town.
• Alternatively, catch a train to Gdansk. It has connections to major Polish cities and other European cities
• If you want to rent a car to explore the city - for prices visit our online partner Rentalcars
• Best time to visit - the summer months from June to early September provide the warmest weather for those looking to explore the town or enjoy the beaches. However Gdansk is a good year round destination.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Gdansk,
• Alternatively, widen the net and include our recommendations in Kraków or Warsaw
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Gdansk