Holiday in Gdańsk

What makes Gdańsk special as a destination?

Gdańsk (Danzig) on the Polish Baltic coast is one of the most beautiful port cities in Europe and a place where history meets joy of life. The magnificent Hanseatic city was almost completely destroyed during World War II and has been faithfully rebuilt over decades — a masterpiece of reconstruction that now delights millions of visitors. Ulica Długa (Long Street) and Długi Targ (Long Market) form the heart of the Old Town: A splendid promenade lined with colorful patrician houses in Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The Neptune Fountain, Artus Court, and the Golden Gate are architectural gems that testify to Gdańsk's heyday as the richest Hanseatic city. The European Solidarity Museum at the former Lenin Shipyard tells the story of the trade union movement that initiated the fall of communism in Europe in 1989. The modern, rusty building is an architectural statement, and the museum itself is gripping and emotional — a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand European history. The harbor on the Motława River with the medieval crane (Żuraw) — once the largest harbor crane in Europe — is the most photogenic spot in the city. The Warehouse Island is currently being transformed into a trendy cultural district, and the waterways invite boat tours. In the evenings, the illuminated facades reflect in the water, turning the harbor into a fairy-tale backdrop. Gdańsk is part of the "Tri-City" (Trójmiasto) with Sopot and Gdynia. The glamorous seaside resort Sopot with its 511-meter-long wooden pier — the longest in Europe — and vibrant nightlife is only 15 minutes away by train. The combination of culture in Gdańsk, beach in Sopot, and modern Gdynia makes the Tri-City one of the most versatile travel destinations in the Baltic Sea.