An easy weekend in Gdansk itinerary

Gdańsk is located on the stunning Baltic coast of Poland, it is a charming city with a rich history and unique architecture. Those looking for a weekend getaway in Northern Poland will find it an ideal destination. A weekend in Gdansk offers visitors a perfect blend of cultural experiences and seaside relaxation.

A weekend in Gdańsk provides the perfect opportunity to explore its beautiful Old Town, with its colourful facades and cobbled streets, and to visit the many museums and galleries that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Gdańsk’s location on the Baltic Sea also means that visitors can enjoy the beaches and the sea breeze during their stay.

crowds in the old town enjoying a weekend in Gdansk
Exploring Gdansk Old Town

Why should you spend a weekend in Gdansk?

Whether you are interested in history and culture or just want to relax by the sea, a Gdańsk weekend has something to offer everyone. During the Second World War Gdansk was occupied by Germany and renamed Danzig.

Roughly 90% of the city was destroyed during World War II. Thankfully, today the city has put the Second World War behind it and rebuilt.

So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the best of what Gdansk Poland has to offer on your next weekend getaway!

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The perfect Gdańsk itinerary

Here’s an itinerary for a Saturday and Sunday in Gdańsk, Poland. Use this Gdansk weekend trip itinerary to plan a visit to find discover hidden gems, beautiful architecture and more of Gdansk Poland.

While we have said that this weekend in Gdansk itinerary is based around people visiting Gdansk on the weekend you can use this Gdansk itinerary for any days of the week.

Saturday Gdansk itinerary:

  • 10:00 AM: Start your Gdansk weekend break by visiting Main Town, where you can explore the narrow streets, admire the stunning Gothic-style buildings and historic churches, and visit the famous Neptune’s Fountain (a bronze statue of a Roman sea god). Maybe a quick look at the Gdansk history museum.
  • 12:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at one of the restaurants in the Long Market. Here, you can try some traditional Polish dishes, such as pierogi (dumplings) or bigos (sauerkraut stew).
  • 2:00 PM: Head to the European Solidarity Center, where you can learn about the history of the Solidarity movement in Poland. The European Solidarity Centre is an interactive museum that offers a fascinating insight into this important period in Polish history.
  • 4:00 PM: Take a stroll through the beautiful Oliwa Park, where you can try your hand at mini-golf, go-karting, or climbing, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Gdansk’s traditional Polish restaurants, such as Restauracja Staropolska or Restauracja Stary Maneż.

Sunday Gdansk itinerary:

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day with a visit to the stunning St. Mary’s Church, one of Gdansk’s most famous landmarks and the largest brick church in the world. Take a tour of St Mary’s Basilica and admire its beautiful Gothic architecture. You climb the 400+ steps to the top of the bell tower for one of the best views of this colourful city.
  • 11:00 AM: Take a walk along the famous Motława River, which is lined with historic buildings, restaurants, cafes, and shops. Here, you can relax with a coffee or a bite to eat and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this small city. It is just a short walk from the beautiful buildings of the Old Town.
  • 1:00 PM: Head to the Old Town, where you can explore Gdansk and its narrow streets and admire the colourful buildings and historic churches. Be sure to visit the famous Green Gate and the Golden Gate, two of Gdansk’s most iconic landmarks.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the beautiful Artus Court, which is a former meeting place of merchants and one of Gdansk’s most famous landmarks. Here, you can admire the beautiful Renaissance-style building and learn about its fascinating history. Next to Artus Court is Neptune’s Fountain is the Main Town Hall
  • 5:00 PM: Enjoy a final dinner in Gdansk at one of the city’s many restaurants, before departing for your next destination. The Pierogarnia Mandu Centrum is an excellent choice for its large variety of Pierogi when you visit Gdansk

This Gdansk city guide itinerary offers a mix of historic sites, cultural experiences, and fun activities, making it the perfect way to spend a weekend break in the Polish city of Gdańsk.

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Tours in Gdansk

If you’re looking for something a little different to our suggested itinerary above, you might want to consider doing a tour. There are many half-day tours you can do during your weekend getaway in Gdansk, here are a few suggestions that you may find interesting:

The Best of Gdańsk Walking Tour is a guided tour that takes visitors to the most notable sights and attractions of the city of Gdańsk, Poland. The tour starts at the Green Gate and covers various historical landmarks, such as the Long Market, the Neptune Fountain, and the Artus Court. The tour guide provides insightful information about the history, culture, and architecture of the city.

The tour also includes a visit to St. Mary’s Church, one of the largest brick churches in the world, and a stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town. Overall, the tour provides a comprehensive and enjoyable way to explore the best of Gdańsk’s attractions on foot. Book your tickets today

The 5 Craft Cocktails Tasting tour in Gdańsk, Poland is a guided experience that takes visitors to five different bars to taste and learn about unique and locally crafted cocktails. The tour includes a variety of cocktails, from classic recipes to modern creations, and visitors will have the opportunity to meet skilled bartenders and learn about the ingredients and techniques used to create each drink.

The tour also includes snacks and water to cleanse the palate between tastings. Overall, the tour provides a fun and educational way to experience the craft cocktail scene in Gdańsk. Book your cocktail experience today

The Private Communism Tour with Solidarity Centre Museum is led by a knowledgeable local guide who takes visitors through the city’s history during the communist era, highlighting important landmarks and explaining the political and social changes that occurred during that period.

The tour includes visits to the Gdansk Shipyard, the Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers of 1970, the Museum of the Second World War, and the European Solidarity Centre Museum.

Gdansk ww2 musuem
Learn some history on a Gdansk weekend getaway

At the Solidarity Centre Museum, visitors can learn about the Solidarity movement, its significance in the history of Poland, and the struggles and triumphs of the people who fought for democracy and freedom. Overall, the tour is an informative and engaging way to learn about the communist past of Gdańsk and the role of the Solidarity movement in shaping modern Poland. Book your spot on the tour today.

The Gdansk Four-Hour Food Tour is a guided food tour that lasts for four hours and includes visits to various local food establishments where tourists can taste traditional Polish dishes and drinks.

The tour guide provides interesting information about the food and the city’s history and culture. The tour includes stops at a donut shop, a milk bar, a pierogi restaurant, and a beer bar. The tour is suitable for anyone interested in trying out new foods and experiencing Polish culture. Book your place on the tour

Shopping in Gdansk

Gdansk is a great city for shopping, and here are some of the best places to check out during your weekend getaway:

  1. Długa Street: This historic street in Gdansk’s Old Town is lined with shops selling everything from souvenirs like Polish Vodka to luxury goods
  2. Mariacka Street: Known for its jewellery shops, Mariacka Street is a picturesque and charming spot to browse for unique pieces
  3. Madison Shopping Gallery: This modern shopping centre in the heart of Gdansk offers a range of high-end brands and designer shops
  4. Galeria Bałtycka: Located just outside the city centre, this large shopping mall has various stores, restaurants, and entertainment options
  5. Hala Targowa: This covered market is a great place to find fresh produce, meats, and other local products
  6. Bazar Staroci: A popular flea market where you can find antiques, vintage clothing, and other unique items such as the famous Amber stone jewellery.

These shopping streets, malls, and markets offer a range of shopping experiences and are sure to have something for everyone.

Eating in Gdansk

Gdansk is known for its unique cuisine that combines Polish, German, and Scandinavian influences. Here are some traditional Polish foods that are specific to the region and that you may want to try during your weekend break:

  • Zurek: A sour rye soup that’s a popular food in many parts of Poland, but is prepared differently in Gdansk with the addition of hard-boiled eggs and white sausage
  • Ryba po kaszubsku: A fish stew made with a variety of fish such as carp, pike, and perch, as well as vegetables and spices. It’s often served with potatoes or bread
  • Kartacze: Dumplings made from grated raw potatoes, flour, and eggs, filled with a variety of savoury fillings such as meat, cheese, or sauerkraut
  • Sledzie: Pickled herring that’s a popular appetizer or snack in Gdansk. It can be served in a variety of ways, such as with sour cream, onions, or apples
  • Kogel mogel: A sweet dessert made from egg yolks, sugar, and sometimes vanilla or rum. It’s typically served cold and can be topped with whipped cream
  • Pasztet z dzika: A type of pate made from wild boar meat, often served with bread or crackers
  • Kaszanka: A type of blood sausage made with buckwheat groats and pork, often served with sauerkraut or potatoes.

These are just a few examples of the delicious and traditional foods that Gdansk has to offer. Enjoy your trip and happy eating!

When is the best time to visit Gdansk?

The best time to visit Gdansk is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city’s attractions and enjoying outdoor activities and seaside fun. The Sopot Pier is the largest wooden pier in Europe.

The city also hosts several festivals and events during this time, such as the St. Dominic’s Fair, which is one of the largest open-air markets in Europe.

However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October). These seasons offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists, making it easier to enjoy the city’s sights and sounds without the crowds.

Winters (December to February) can be very cold with snow and ice, but the festive holiday markets and decorations can make for a charming winter vacation.

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Places to stay in Gdansk

When it comes to accommodation, there is no shortage of options in this Polish city. From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, there’s something for every budget and taste. Some of the best places to stay in Gdansk include the Hilton Gdansk, Radisson Blu Hotel Gdansk and Hotel Mercure Gdansk Stare Maestro.

The Hilton Gdansk is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city, close to the Old Town and the famous Motława River. This prime location makes it the perfect place to stay for exploring all that Gdansk has to offer. The hotel offers luxurious rooms with all the latest amenities, a fitness centre, a bar, and a restaurant serving high-quality cuisine.

The staff is friendly and dedicated to making your stay as enjoyable as possible. With its exceptional service, luxury, and central location, the Hilton Gdansk is the ideal choice for a luxurious and memorable weekend getaway in Gdansk

Experience pure luxury in the heart of Gdansk Poland at the stunning Radisson Blu Hotel. With its exceptional facilities, including spacious rooms, multiple dining options, modern business facilities, and recreational amenities, this hotel is the perfect choice for those seeking a lavish and convenient stay. Book now and indulge in a weekend of comfort and sophistication in Gdansk!

gdansk beach
A weekend in Gdansk includes a trip to the beach.

Stay at the Hotel Mercure Gdansk Stare Miasto for an unforgettable weekend getaway in the heart of Gdańsk. With its central location, historic charm, comfortable rooms, and impressive range of amenities, including a fitness centre, restaurant and bar, and meeting rooms, this hotel is the perfect choice for both business and leisure travellers.

Book now and experience the blend of history and modern comfort in one of the most beautiful cities in Poland.

For more accommodation options when visiting Gdansk, you can search Expedia and Booking.com for hotels in Gdansk Poland. For budget travellers in the port city, you can try Hostelworld.

Getting to your Gdansk weekend break

Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport is well-connected to many cities in Europe, making it easy to reach for a weekend getaway. Here are some of the cities in Europe that have direct flights to Gdansk and other cities you will need to stop at on the way. A layover in Frankfurt, Amsterdam or any other city will see you get to Gdańsk. Some of the airlines that operate these flights are:

  1. Berlin, Germany: Direct flights to Gdansk are available from Berlin’s Schönefeld and Tegel airports with airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet.
  2. Warsaw, Poland: Direct flights are available from Warsaw’s Chopin Airport with Polish airlines such as LOT and Ryanair.
  3. Copenhagen, Denmark: Direct flights to Gdansk are available from Copenhagen with airlines such as SAS and Ryanair.
  4. Paris, France: Direct flights to Gdansk are available from Paris’ Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports with airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet.
  5. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Direct flights to Gdansk are available from Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport with airlines such as KLM and Ryanair.
  6. London, United Kingdom: Direct flights to Gdansk are available from London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports with airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air.

These are just a few of the many cities in Europe that have direct flights to Gdansk Poland on the Baltic Sea, making it easy to plan a weekend getaway in this beautiful city. Gdansk can also be reached by train, bus and car from many spots in Europe.

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How to get from the Gdansk Lech Wałęsa Airport to city centre hotels in Gdansk

There are several convenient and efficient options to get from Gdansk Lech Wałęsa Airport to city centre hotels in Gdansk, the airport is just a short distance away:

By taxi:

When visiting Gdansk you can get a taxi from the airport to the Gdansk old town and city centre takes about 20 minutes and costs around 60 PLN (15 USD). The airport shuttle bus (line 210) is a cheap and frequent option to get to the city centre.

It runs every 20 minutes and costs around 4 PLN (1 USD). Booking a private transfer is a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transportation with your luggage. The cost of a private transfer is similar to a taxi and can be arranged in advance.

By public transport:

You can also take public transportation from the airport to the Gdansk old town and city centre by taking bus no. 110 or 222 to the main railway station (Gdansk Glowny) and then take a tram to your final destination.

Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, you will find that Gdańsk is a well-connected city, making it easy to reach your hotel from the airport.

Gdańsk offers a myriad of experiences that are sure to make your break unforgettable. With a plethora of options for accommodation, dining, and entertainment, the city has something to offer to everyone.

Whether you’re travelling solo or with friends and family, Gdansk is the perfect destination for a memorable weekend away. The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the days are long, allowing you to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the best that Gdansk has to offer with the help of a Gdansk itinerary. Trust us, you won’t regret it! Gdańsk is a great place to visit in Poland.

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Author Bio: Mark Wyld

Mark Wyld is a Father, husband, traveller, and writer at Poland Travel Expert and other blogs. I have accumulated a wealth of experience over multiple visits to Poland. Thanks to our friends in Poland, we stay connected to the nation’s pulse, ensuring that our content is up to date with our first-hand experience. The information on this website is backed by genuine expertise.