Top 10 things to do in Gdansk
Top 10 Things to Do:
1. Explore the Old Town
The Old Town of Gdansk is one of the largest historic centres in Europe. It is renowned for its gothic architecture, one of the most famous examples being the St. Mary’s Basilica.
Most of the popular tourists attraction are in the Old Town so you will be spending most of your time here. Here you will find a lot of restaurants and bars that will make for the perfect place for a night out.
2. Museum of Gdansk - Main Town Hall
This beautiful Gothic-Renaissance building will surely catch your eye while you wander around the Old Town. The origins of the Town Hall date back to the Middle Ages. It houses the History Museum of the City of Gdańsk and if you climb up into the tower you get one of the most beautiful views over the city.
Tickets to the museum cost 16 zl (€3.48) for the museum and 10 PLN for the observation deck (€ 2.18).
3. Neptune’s Fountain
You can find the fountain in the Long Market, right next to the Main Town Hall. The fountain was constructed in 1633-1636 and is one of the most recognisable symbols of Gdansk. Locals all know where the fountain is and it is a common meeting place.
4. Basilica of St Mary of the Assumption
St. Mary Church is the most famous object of the cultural heritage of Gdańsk and is the largest brick church in the world. It was built between 1346 and 1506 and has been used by both Catholics and Lutherans.
While visiting the church be sure to go up into the tower for another spectacular view over the city. The church tower is higher than the Main Town Hall so if you want to just do one, I’d definitely opt for this one.
Visiting the church is free, but it costs 16 PLN (€3.48) to go up in the tower.
5. The Gdańsk Astronomical Clock
If you entered St. Mary’s Church I am sure you already noticed the unique astrological clock. It is a wooden clock that covers the rotation of the sun, moon, and stars.
There is also a strange legend about the creator of the clock, Hans Duringer. Apparently, after he completed this masterpiece, he was blinded on purpose by the authorities so he wouldn’t be able to built another of equal beauty.
6. The Green Gate
The Green Gate is located between the Long Market and the River Motława. It was built as a palace for Polish monarchs and is clearly inspired by the Antwerp City Hall. Today the builidng houses the National Museum and the Gdańsk Gallery of Photography
7. The Museum of the Second World War
The museum was opened in 2016 and focuses on Poland’s fate during the Second War. The museum is divided into 18 sections with over 2000 exhibits and it takes around 3 hours to visit. The main exhibition consists of three narrative blocks: “The Road to War”, “The Terror of War” and “The Long Shadow of War” and is one of the biggest presented by historical museums in the world.
Tickets cost 25 PLN (€5.44) and are sold on time slots so be sure to book your ticket online.
8. The Crane
The medieval port crane, known as Żuraw, is one of the symbols of Gdańsk. It was built in the 14th century and was used for loading and unloading cargo from ships. Today, it is a museum that offers a glimpse into the city’s maritime history.
9. Zlota Brama
Zlota Brama or The Golden Gate is a historic gate located within the Royal Route. It was built in 1612 and the four statues that decorate its top represent Peace, Liberty, Wealth and Fame.
10. Take a day trip to Malbork Castle
Malbork Castle, also known as Marienburg Castle, is one of the most impressive medieval castles in Europe. Located just 30 minutes from Gdansk, it is the largest brick castle in the world.
In 1997, Malbork Castle was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its historical and architectural significance. It is considered a masterpiece of brick Gothic architecture.
Tickets cost 70 PLN (€15.24) and it includes an audioguide. To skip the long queues at the ticket office you can buy your ticket online here. The Castle Tour is the one you want to choose as it includes the whole castle.
You can get to Malbork Castle by train from Gdansk. Ticket prices start as low as €5, but be sure to book in advance as the cheaper ones tend to sell out quite fast. The trip takes between 30 – 50 minutes depending on what kind of train you take. You can search and buy train tickets here.
Where to stay in Gdansk?
Budget – Hostel Universus – is housed in a beautifully renovated, historic Royal Stables building, 100 metres from the popular Długa Street in Gdańsk’s Old Town.
Medium – So Stay Hotel – is located in Gdańsk, only 900 metres from Gdańsk Train Station. It has a 24-hour reception and free WiFi access throughout the hotel.
High – Montownia Lofts & Experience – This sustainable aparthotel is located 600 metres from the Museum of the Second World War and less than 1 km from St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church.
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