Posted on Posted onBy Miško

Best Ways to Travel from Gdańsk Airport (GDN) to Gdańsk City Center 

The journey from Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN) to the city center is straightforward and budget-friendly, making it easy to start your adventure in this historic Polish city. The airport is just 12 kilometers from downtown Gdańsk, so you won’t need to spend much time getting into the heart of the action. Whether you’re a solo backpacker looking for the cheapest option, a family seeking comfort, or a business traveler needing a fast and reliable connection, Gdańsk offers several convenient transportation methods to suit every travel style. In this blog post, you’ll find a breakdown of all the best ways to get from the airport to the city center.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which route works best for you so you can skip the stress and start enjoying the charm of Gdańsk from the moment you land.

Take the SKM Train: Fast, Scenic, and Budget-Friendly

If you’re looking for a reliable, low-cost way to reach the city center, the SKM train, operated by Pomorska Kolej Metropolitalna (PKM), is one of the best choices. The airport train station (Gdańsk Port Lotniczy) is a short waddle from the terminal, clearly signposted and easily accessible even with luggage.

Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a comfortable and scenic ride through the suburbs of Gdańsk as the train heads toward Gdańsk Główny, the city’s central railway station located right in the heart of the town. This option is ideal for solo travelers, backpackers, or anyone on a budget who prefers avoiding traffic and high taxi fares.

  • Duration. Typically 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the train and time of day.
  • Cost. Around 4–6 PLN (approximately €1–1.50)
  • Final Stop. Gdańsk Główny, with connections to trams, buses, and other regional trains.
  • Frequency. Trains depart every 30 to 60 minutes, from early morning to late evening.

Tickets can be purchased from vending machines near the platform, most of which support English and accept card and cash payments. Alternatively, you can buy tickets using popular Polish travel apps like  Jakdojade (which we used and it’s available in GooglePlay as well as AppStore) or SkyCash. Just be sure to validate your ticket before boarding (if required).

Why choose the SKM train?

    • You avoid traffic congestion, especially during rush hour
    • It’s one of the cheapest options available
    • It gives you a preview of the local neighborhoods
    • It’s environmentally friendly and dependable

Pro Penguin Tip: Double-check the schedule before your flight using the PKM website or Jakdojade app, as weekend and holiday schedules may vary slightly. If you’re arriving late at night, this option may not be available, so it’s always good to have a backup like a ride-share app.

The SKM train gets you into the city quickly, comfortably, and affordably. It was also our first choice.

Use the Airport Bus Cheap, Direct, and Easy to Navigate

The airport bus is a solid option if you’re traveling light and looking for a simple, no-fuss way to reach the city center. Gdańsk’s public transport system is well-organized and reliable, and buses from the airport are no exception. With frequent departures and a straightforward route into the city, this method is especially great for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind a slightly longer ride.

Two main bus lines are serving Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport:

  • Bus 210. It runs from the airport to Gdańsk Główny (Main Station).
  • Night Bus N3. It operates during late-night and early-morning hours and is perfect for red-eye arrivals.
  • Duration. Around 40–50 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Cost. Approximately 4–6 PLN (€1–1.50), same as the train
  • Frequency. Every 30 minutes during the day (Bus 210); hourly or slightly less frequent overnight (N3)

You can buy tickets at ticket machines in the arrivals hall or the bus stop outside the terminal. Most machines accept cards and cash and offer an English-language option. Tickets are also available via mobile apps like Jakdojade (available in  GooglePlay as well as AppStore), moBILET, or SkyCash, which is a great choice if you prefer contactless travel.

Important: Be sure to validate your ticket once you board by inserting it into the yellow ticket validator. If you use a mobile ticket, activate it before the bus departs to avoid fines during random checks.

Why take the airport bus?

    • It is ideal for those arriving during the day or early evening
    • Inexpensive and well-integrated with Gdańsk’s public transit system
    • Great for travelers staying outside the immediate city center, with multiple stops along the route
    • There is no need to navigate stairs or platforms with heavy luggage.

Pro Penguin Tip: Monitor traffic conditions during peak hours, as buses may take longer during the morning and evening commute. If you’re in a hurry, the SKM train might be faster.

Grab a Taxi 

If convenience and comfort are your top priorities, especially after a long flight, taking a taxi from Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN) is one of the most straightforward and stress-free ways to get to the city center. Taxis are available 24/7 right outside the arrivals terminal, with no need to book in advance or navigate public transport with luggage in tow.

Gdańsk’s official airport taxis are distinctly marked, metered, and regulated, ensuring a reliable and transparent service. Look for taxis with a company logo, a price list on the window, and a visible taximeter on the dashboard.

  • Duration. Usually 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Cost. Typically 60–80 PLN (around €14–18), with prices slightly higher at night or on weekends.
  • Drop-off. Anywhere in the city, including hotels, apartments, or even directly to your Airbnb doorstep

You don’t need to worry about language barriers; many drivers speak basic English, and most are familiar with popular hotels and landmarks.

Safer, Smarter Taxi Tips:

To avoid unlicensed drivers or inflated fares, use one of these options:

  • Airport-approved taxi companies often have stands near the arrivals exit.
  • Ride-hailing apps like FreeNow, iTaxi, Uber, and Bolt allow you to book, track, and pay directly from your phone.

These apps show you the estimated fare upfront and let you choose your driver or vehicle type, giving you extra peace of mind.

Why choose a taxi?

    • Perfect for late-night arrivals or travelers with large suitcases.
    • Door-to-door convenience, no transfers or walking required.
    • Faster than public transport, especially during off-peak hours.
    • Safer and more reliable than unlicensed ride offers at the terminal.

Pro Penguin Tip: Some taxis now accept card payments, but not all of them, so it’s a good idea to carry some cash (PLN) just in case. You can withdraw local currency at ATMs inside the terminal.

Tips for a Smooth Arrival

    • Have some Polish currency (złoty) or a contactless card ready.
    • Download Jakdojade (available in  GooglePlay as well as AppStore) for real-time public transport info.
    • Always check the latest schedules, especially at night or during holidays.

Getting from Gdańsk Airport to the city center is simple, no matter your travel style. For budget travelers, the SKM train or city bus is ideal. If you want comfort or arrive late at night, a taxi or ride-share is worth the extra cost. Either way, you’ll be enjoying the charming streets of Gdańsk in no time.

So pack your bag, and let’s explore Gdansk.

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