Gdansk: The Hidden Gem of Poland You Need to Visit
When people think of visiting Poland, cities like Krakow and Warsaw often come to mind. While these cities are notorious for good reason, we recently discovered a hidden gem that stole our hearts: Gdansk. Tucked away on the Baltic coast, Gdansk offers a unique blend of charm, architecture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect holiday destination. So, is Gdansk worth visiting? Absolutely! Let me tell you why.
Table of contents
Getting to Gdansk
Located in the northern part of Poland, Gdansk is easily accessible by both air and train. If you're flying in, Ryanair offers direct flights to Gdansk from various European cities, making it convenient to include in your travel itinerary. Alternatively, you can reach Gdansk by train from major Polish cities like Warsaw and Kraków.
Is Gdansk Part of the EU?
Yes, Gdansk and Poland are part of the European Union, making travel smooth and hassle-free for EU citizens.
Language and Currency
The official language spoken in Gdansk is Polish, but you'll find that many locals, especially those in the tourism industry, speak English. Still, you must quickly learn to say "Dzien dobry"(pronounced jen dough-bray) to greet everyone in Polish. The currency used is the Polish zloty (PLN), and you'll find that Gdansk offers great value for your money compared to other European destinations.
The Architecture of Gdansk
The first thing that will strike you about Gdansk is its stunning architecture. Narrow, tall houses reminiscent of those in Amsterdam line the streets, painted in beautiful colours. One of the most unique features of these houses is their waterspouts, encased in stone carvings of dragons, gargoyles, and other mythical creatures. This attention to detail is one of the many things that make Gdansk so unique.
Exploring Gdansk
Start your exploration by taking a leisurely stroll around the city. The prettiest street is Mariacka, a great spot for photos. Nearby, you'll find the Neptune Fountain and the Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin, one of the three largest brick churches in the world.
Gdansk is also a port city, and a beautiful waterway divides it in half. Pedestrian bridges crisscross back and forth, and seeing one open up to allow a tall tourist pirate ship through is always a little thrilling.
Don't miss the Gdansk sign and the AmberSky glass-walled observation wheel for gorgeous aerial views of the city.
Where to Eat in Gdansk
All that walking will probably make you hungry, and Gdansk won't disappoint when it comes to food. First on your list should be Pierogarnia Mandu Gdańsk Śródmieście, which offers the most extensive menu of pierogi you'll find anywhere. From traditional dumplings to sweet pierogies and even fluffy furnace-baked varieties, there's something for everyone here.
Next, you must try the famous milk bars. A milk bar (bar mleczny) is a type of Polish cafeteria that originated in the early 20th century. These places offer simple, homemade Polish food at incredibly affordable prices. Start with the most aesthetic milk bar we've ever visited, Bar Mleczny Stągiewna. If you can, try to take your tray of food up to the second floor here and grab a seat by the window. When you are ready for more options, try Bar Turystyczny and Bar Neptun.
Don't forget dessert! Head to Dobra Pączkarnia to try the traditional Polish donut. Called Pączki, these are yeast donuts filled with a wild rose jam and topped with candied orange peel. If that sounds like a heavenly combination, that’s because it is.
For drinks, our favourite cocktail bar was Mala Sztuka Cocktail Bar, where each delicious drink comes in a unique container. We were served a cocktail in a milk container and a swan, perfect for the Instagram-worthy photo collection you will be amassing in Gdansk.
Day Trip to Sopot
Next up it's time for a little day trip, so hop on the train and take a 20-minute ride to nearby Sopot. Here, you'll find a sprawling powdery soft, white sand beach, and a long pier that stretches for 1678 feet, making it the longest wooden pier in Europe. Vendors selling ice cream and mulled wine depending on the season line the way, and swans dot the beach, making for incredible photos.
The nearby streets are a collection of quaint coffee shops and restaurants to explore. Be sure to walk past the architectural marvel of Krzywy Domek, the curved Costa Coffee building. We also stopped at Karczma Irena for a cozy Polish pub-style lunch before returning to Gdansk.
Is it Expensive in Gdansk?
Compared to other European cities, Gdansk is relatively inexpensive, especially when dining at the delicious milk bars. It is a budget-friendly destination without compromising on experiences or quality.
How Many Days in Gdansk is Enough?
We recommend spending 3-4 days in Gdansk to explore the city fully and take a day trip to Sopot.
Conclusion
Gdansk should be included on any Polish itinerary and deserves its place alongside Krakow and Warsaw on your travel wish list. From its stunning architecture and delicious food to its rich history and vibrant culture, Gdansk offers something for every type of traveller. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to this hidden gem of Poland today!
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