To explore Gdańsk fully you need time. Even after a two-week stay in the Tri-City area, many feel they've barely scratched the surface. Therefore, crafting a three-day tour itinerary poses a real challenge, though many visitors only have that much time. Our guide will tell you what must-sees to include in Gdańsk and nearby areas, and how to make the most of a three-day visit.
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Main Town Gdańsk – What to See?
The Main Town of Gdańsk is a great starting point for any trip. The historical center boasts the city's most significant monuments that you shouldn’t miss.
Start your tour at Długi Targ street, the city's central point and one of its most picturesque locations. This medieval street, surrounded by charming townhouses, was historically the commercial and social heart of Gdańsk and remains a popular gathering spot, lined with delightful cafes and restaurants.
Here, you'll also find a popular backdrop for photos - the famous Neptune's Fountain, a seventeenth-century landmark depicting the Roman sea god. Another significant historical site is the Golden Gate from the same era, once a major city entrance, featuring a richly decorated façade exemplary of Mannerist architecture. The Crane over the Motława River is another city icon. This unique, medieval port crane is among the best-preserved of its kind in Europe.
St. Mary's Church, the city’s most majestic building, whose construction began in the mid-14th century and was completed in 1502. Today, it stands as one of the world's largest brick churches, offering breathtaking views from its 82-meter-tall tower.
Tracing Solidarity – What to See in Gdańsk?
"Solidarity," the trade union, was a major force against communist power in Poland, igniting protests across socialist countries, leading to the fall of the "Iron Curtain." To learn more about these events, visit the European Solidarity Centre, a modern museum and educational facility dedicated to anti-communist opposition in Europe during the Cold War. The Centre hosts exhibitions, conferences, and events focusing on Polish history and contemporary challenges.
The birthplace of Solidarity was the Gdańsk Shipyard. The strikes that began here in August 1980 led to the formation of the first independent trade union in the Eastern Bloc. At the shipyard’s entrance, you can see the famous Gate No. 2, the main gate leading to the plant, and the Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers, commemorating the victims of strikes from 1970.
Gdańsk During World War II
Gdańsk played a pivotal role in 20th-century history. It was here that the first shots of World War II were fired on September 1, 1939, when a German battleship attacked the Polish military outpost at Westerplatte. Despite being heavily outnumbered and outgunned, the heroic defense lasted seven days. This event is memorialized with a monument symbolizing Polish resistance and valor.
Westerplatte isn’t the only site of staunch defense during the war’s early days; similar courage was shown by defenders of the Gdańsk Post Office, who withstood superior enemy forces for hours. After the war, the building was rebuilt and also became a symbol of determination and courage.
Those interested in these events should also visit the Museum of the Second World War to learn more about what happened in Gdańsk as well as the broader context of this conflict. The museum combines modern displays with authentic wartime artifacts, appealing to both history buffs and novices alike.
Exploring Gdańsk with a Guide
While you can explore Gdańsk on your own, touring with a local guide will allow you to see more interesting places and learn fascinating facts about them. For first-timers, we particularly recommend our Main Town tour — a perfect way to fall in love with Gdańsk at first sight!
Sopot
Gdańsk forms part of the Tri-City area, which includes Sopot, a popular Baltic seaside resort, north of the city. Sopot is famous for its long wooden pier, the largest in Europe, offering beautiful seaside views. It is a very popular area, featuring wide, well-maintained beaches and a vibrant nightlife, particularly on so-called “Monciak” - Heroes of Monte Cassino Street, where numerous clubs, bars, and discos are located.
Spending at least half a day in Sopot is highly recommended, especially if visiting Gdańsk during the summer! Plan a day there to take our Sopot Tour to get to know the city and to relax on the beach.
Gdynia
To the north of Sopot lies Gdynia, a relatively young city that began as a small fishing village and was rapidly developed into a modern Baltic seaport after World War I. Gdynia is known for its modernist architecture, characterized by functionality, simplicity of form, and the use of modern materials. Many buildings from this period are still around, including tenements built around Kościuszko Square.
One of Gdynia’s landmarks is the “Dar Pomorza," a three-masted yacht moored in the port, after many voyages now it is a museum. Make sure you also see the beautiful Orłowo Klif, a natural formation overlooking the sea.
We recommend a half-day trip to Gdynia, especially if you are fascinated by modernist architecture!
More Time in Gdańsk?
If, after all, you have more than three days or are planning a return trip after falling in love with Gdańsk, we have a few suggestions for your next visits.
Things to see in Gdansk Oliwa
A must-visit district is Oliwa, known for the victorious naval battle Poland won against the Swedes in 1627. The local cathedral, built in the 12th century, is the longest church in Poland and the longest Cistercian temple in the world. It houses impressive 17th-century organs worth seeing. Nearby, you can stroll through the lush Oliwa Park, climb up the Pachołek Hill for a scenic view over Gdańsk and Sopot, and visit the local zoo.
Gdańsk Wrzeszcz
Another interesting area is the Wrzeszcz district, where traditional architecture meets modern influences. Over the years, this neighborhood has attracted many artists and intellectuals. Notably, Günter Grass, the Nobel Prize-winning author, was associated with this place.
Gdańsk Zaspa
The Zaspa district, originally built on an airstrip as a residential area during the communist era, features socialist architecture typical of that period. Over time, Zaspa has transformed significantly. The apartment blocks have been renovated and decorated with dozens of large murals, making the entire place a unique open-air street art gallery.
Sobieszewo Island
For those who appreciate less urbanized areas, Sobieszewo Island in the eastern part of the city offers a more laid-back seaside ambiance, reminiscent of a small Baltic resort rather than part of a bustling metropolis. The island is a great place for relaxation and nature walks, and it's home to the "Bird Paradise" nature reserve.
Sztutowo
Heading east from Sobieszewo Island, after a few kilometers, you reach Sztutowo, the site of the former Nazi concentration camp, Stutthof. Now a museum, it offers a poignant reminder of the area’s war time history.
Hel
In the spring and summer months, water trams run regularly between the Tri-City and Hel, located at the tip of the Hel Peninsula. This charming resort offers another great escape from the urban environment of Gdańsk and is accessible by water tram, train, or car in under two hours.
Gdańsk — A Blend of History and Nature
Gdańsk is a place where history, architecture, and beautiful landscapes intertwine, creating a unique space that captivates visitors from around the world. It perfectly combines attractions for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As you wander through the charming Main Town, you can admire historic buildings and feel the spirit of bygone eras. Local museums offer insights into significant events of contemporary Polish history, showcasing both the tragedies of war and the strength of the struggle for freedom. For those seeking tranquility, the serene avenues of Oliwa Park or the trails of the Tri-City Landscape Park provide perfect settings. Seaside locations like the Hel Peninsula and the Bay of Gdańsk are havens for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.
