How Much is a Trip to Gdańsk in Poland and What to Expect
This blog post shares everything about our trip to Gdańsk, Poland, from what we explored to the exact amount we spent. It’s based on the most common questions we received on Instagram, and we’ve compiled them all to help you plan your visit. Keep reading for insights on where to stay, what to see, and how to budget for your time in this beautiful port city.
Gdańsk is one of those cities that instantly draws you in. It’s visually striking, rich in history, and full of stories waiting to be uncovered. Sitting along the Baltic coast in northern Poland, it offers a mix of Gothic architecture, amber-lined streets, and colorful facades that make every corner feel like a postcard. However, it’s not just a pretty city. Gdańsk has played a pivotal role in European history, from its association with the Hanseatic League to the onset of World War II and the emergence of the Solidarity movement. Gdańsk is as photogenic as it is fascinating. It’s the kind of city that surprises you with how much there is to see, do, and learn and leaves you wanting to come back before you’ve even left.
FAQ about traveling to Gdańsk
Is Gdansk, Poland, worth visiting?
Gdańsk, Poland, is definitely worth visiting. It offers a rare combination of rich history, culture, and stunning architecture, all wrapped in a compact, walkable city that’s easy to explore. Gdańsk is one of Poland’s most unique destinations.
How did you travel to Gdańsk?
We traveled to Gdańsk from Stockholm, opting for a direct Ryanair flight departing from Stockholm Arlanda Airport. The flight duration was approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it a quick and convenient journey. We secured a great deal, paying just €69.02 for two people one way, which we found to be excellent value for money.
How do you get from Gdansk Airport to the city center?
Getting from Gdańsk Airport to the city center is easy and affordable, with several convenient options available. You can take the SKM train, which connects directly to Gdańsk Główny station, or hop on a public bus, such as line 210 or N3 (night service). Taxis and rideshare apps, such as Bolt, are also widely used and reasonably priced. For a detailed breakdown of all transportation methods, including travel time, costs, and tips, check out our full post: How to Get from Gdańsk Airport to City Center: A Traveler’s Guide.
Is Gdańsk expensive?
Gdańsk is surprisingly affordable compared to many other European destinations, especially for what it offers. Accommodation, dining, and transportation are generally budget-friendly, with high-quality options available even at mid-range prices. You can enjoy a full meal at a good restaurant for the cost of a coffee in cities like Copenhagen or Paris. Public transport is reliable and cheap, and many of the top sights, including waddles through the Old Town and riverside views, are entirely free. Whether you’re traveling on a tight budget or looking for a comfortable stay without overspending, Gdańsk offers excellent value for money. Additionally, there is plenty to explore for free; check out our blog post, Free Things to Do in Gdańsk: Explore Without Spending Złoty.
Why is Gdansk famous?
Gdańsk is famous for its rich maritime history, striking architecture, and pivotal role in major historical events. As a major port on the Baltic Sea, it was once a prominent member of the Hanseatic League (a medieval commercial and defensive network of merchant guilds and market towns in Central and Northern Europe), significantly influencing trade across northern Europe. The city is also known as the place where World War II began, with the first shots fired at the nearby Westerplatte peninsula in 1939. Decades later, Gdańsk gained global attention again as the birthplace of the Solidarity movement led by Lech Wałęsa. For more interesting facts, check Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Gdańsk.
How many days is enough for Gdansk?
Spending 2 to 3 days in Gdańsk is usually enough to experience the city’s highlights comfortably. This timeframe allows you to explore the beautifully restored Old Town, visit key historical sites like the Museum of the Second World War and the European Solidarity Centre, and enjoy the waterfront along the Motława River. You’ll also have time to try local cuisine, wander through markets, and perhaps take a short trip to nearby attractions like Sopot or Gdynia. If you have more time, 4 or 5 days will let you dive deeper into the culture, relax at the spa, or explore the surrounding Tri-City area at a leisurely pace. We spent three days in Gdańsk, which gave us just the right amount of time to enjoy the city at a leisurely pace.
What is the best time to visit Gdańsk?
The best time to visit Gdańsk is between late spring and early autumn, from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions, strolling along the waterfront, and enjoying the open-air cafes. Summer, especially July and August, is the peak tourist season, marked by lively festivals and events, as well as busier crowds. We arrived in July, at the beginning of the month, and it was lively, but the weather was unpredictable, with a few summer showers. If you prefer fewer tourists and cooler temperatures, late spring (May and June) or early autumn (September) offer a good balance of good weather and a more relaxed atmosphere. Winter visits can be charming, too, especially around the Christmas markets, but be prepared for colder weather and shorter daylight hours.
What expenses to expect in Gdansk?
When visiting Gdańsk, you can expect a range of expenses that remain affordable compared to many Western European cities. Accommodation ranges from budget hostels, starting at around 50-100 PLN per night, to mid-range hotels and boutique stays, such as Hotel Gdańsk Boutique, which may cost between 300-600 PLN per night, depending on the season. Dining is budget-friendly, with hearty meals at local restaurants typically costing 25-50 PLN per person, while more upscale dining options can be more expensive. Public transportation, including buses and trains, is economical, with single tickets costing just a few PLN. Entrance fees to popular museums and attractions typically range from 10 to 30 PLN. Additional expenses might include taxis or rideshares, souvenirs (especially amber jewelry), and occasional guided tours. Overall, budgeting around 200-400 PLN per day for a comfortable trip should cover most essentials without surprises.
Where to stay when in Gdansk?
When deciding where to stay in Gdańsk, there are numerous options to suit various tastes and budgets. For our trip, we chose Hotel Gdańsk Boutique, located right on the Motława River in the heart of the city’s historic district. We paid approximately 1,185.88 zł for two nights in a spacious room with stunning views, a price we found well worth it, given the comfort, history, and excellent amenities. To learn more about our experience, from check-in to breakfast and facilities, be sure to read our detailed review of Hotel Gdańsk Boutique. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the city’s charm without compromising on comfort.
Is Gdańsk a walkable city?
Yes, Gdańsk is a very walkable city, especially its historic Old Town and waterfront areas. Many of the main attractions, restaurants, shops, and cultural sites are located within easy waddling distance of each other, making it perfect for exploring on foot. For getting slightly farther afield, public transport and taxis are readily available. Still, once you’re in the heart of Gdańsk, walking is often the best way to experience its true character.
How much does a three-day trip to Gdańsk cost?
A three-day trip to Gdańsk can vary depending on your travel style, but here’s a rough estimate based on a comfortable mid-range stay, such as ours at Hotel Gdańsk Boutique. Accommodation for two nights typically costs around 1,100 to 1,300 zł. Daily meals, including breakfasts, lunches, and dinners at a mix of casual and nicer restaurants, might total about 150-250 zł per day. Transportation within the city is affordable, with fares ranging from 15-30 zł for public transit over three days. Adding entrance fees to museums and attractions, as well as extras like coffee, snacks, or souvenirs, you can expect to spend roughly 1,500 to 2,000 zł (approximately 330-450 EUR) for two people over three days. This provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience without rushing or cutting corners.
For us, we paid €69.02 for the flight (one-way), then for the hotel, we paid € 232.61, then approximately €10 for tickets to the Museum of Second World War, approximately €20 for the Gdansk Zoo, approximately €12 for the National Maritime Museum in Gdańsk, and about €16 for the AmberSky ride. This is a list of all the paid attractions we visited. For two people, we paid approximately €360 (€180 per person). This does not include public transport or restaurants we visited.
We hope it will help you plan your trip accordingly.
Pack your bag, put on your exploration shoes, and waddle more!
