Discover the best things to do in Gdansk in just one day! This beautiful Polish city is packed with history, culture, and stunning spots to explore.
Whether you’re into history, architecture, art, or just want to chill by the beach, Gdansk has something for everyone.
I spent 15 years living here, so I’ve had plenty of time to uncover hidden gems and local favorites that most tourists miss.
This guide has it all—from must-see spots like the Old Town to unique places like the murals in Zaspa that add a cool vibe to your trip.
I’ve also added practical tips to make planning easy and fun. Ready to explore Gdansk in a day? Let’s get started!
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Table of Contents
1. Best Things to Do in Gdansk in a Day: Visit Sobieszewo Island at Sunrise
Start your one-day trip to Gdansk with a visit to Sobieszewo Island – a true gem just outside the city.
It’s a perfect spot for a morning walk, especially if you catch the sunrise over the Baltic Sea – an unforgettable sight that’s worth the early wake-up call!
But Sobieszewo Island has more to offer! You’ll also find a beautiful sandy beach here – an ideal place to relax. It’s one of the most charming spots along the coast.
Sobieszewo Island has something for nature lovers too – two nature reserves, Ptasi Raj and Mewia Lacha. Ptasi Raj is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 200 species – perfect if you’re into birds.
On the other hand, Mewia Lacha is a reserve with a huge colony of gulls (nearly 200,000!), and a cool bonus – you can spot seals lounging on the beach!
The history of Sobieszewo Island dates back to the 19th century, when the Vistula Delta was altered to prevent flooding. Over the years, the island served various purposes – including as a military training ground and a fishing village.
Today, Sobieszewo Island attracts tourists and locals seeking peace and wild nature.
Personally, I have the best memories of cycling around the island – it’s one of my best things to do in Gdansk!
Helpful Tips
- Start your day early to catch the sunrise – aim for 5:30-6:00 AM at Sobieszewo Island during summer.
- Wear comfy shoes and bring a light jacket, mornings can be a bit chilly.
- Pack a breakfast to enjoy on the beach after watching the sunrise.
- If you’re into birdwatching, make sure to bring a binocular.
- Consider renting a bike to explore the island – you can find rental shops in the city center.
- Check the bus schedule for route 186 if you’re taking public transport, it runs less often outside peak hours.
2. Morning: Get Lost in Gdansk Old Town
After visiting Sobieszewo Island, take a morning stroll through the Old Town. I lived there for a while, so I’ve got a special place in my heart for this area.
Start your tour by visiting the picturesque waterfront, where the iconic Zuraw stands – this impressive 15th-century port crane is one of the top attractions in Gdansk.
Don’t miss the St. Mary’s Basilica – this stunning Gothic church from the 15th century is a must-see. If you’re up for a challenge, climb the tower for an amazing view of the city!
Another spot worth checking out is the Soldek ship, moored on the Motlawa River. It’s a museum that gives a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Polish Navy.
After exploring, take a relaxed walk through the charming streets of Gdansk’s Old Town – there’s so much history and character here. Don’t miss Mariacka Street and Dluga Street, two of the city’s most iconic spots!
Mariacka Street is a super cozy and picturesque lane with unique townhouses and amber shops – a favorite for visitors from all over.
Dluga Street, on the other hand, is one of the longest historic promenades in Europe, packed with restaurants, cafés, and shops. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite, try local treats, or pick up some souvenirs.
If you’re feeling hungry, stop by Retro Cafe on Dluga Street for a traditional breakfast in a cozy atmosphere. It’s one of my favorite spots in Gdansk – you’ll love it!
As you explore Gdansk, don’t miss landmarks like the Golden Gate or the Uphagen House. And of course, make sure to check out the Neptune Fountain and Town Hall – these are absolute must-sees!
Helpful Tips
- Start your Old Town tour early, around 9:00 AM, to beat the crowds, especially if you want to climb the Basilica of St. Mary tower.
- Grab a Gdansk Tourist Card if you’re hitting up multiple attractions—it can save you both money and time in lines.
- Wear comfy shoes because the Old Town streets are often cobbled.
- If you’re into amber, don’t miss the Amber Museum on Targ Węglowy to learn about Gdansk’s amber heritage.
- On Mondays, some museums like Uphagen House, the Amber Museum, Main Town Hall, and Artus Court have free admission.
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3. Noon: Explore the Imperial Shipyard
Next on the list is the Imperial Shipyard – one of my favorite spots in Gdansk!
This historic shipyard, founded in 1844, was once among the largest in Europe.
It played a crucial role in Gdansk’s economic and industrial growth, employing thousands at its peak and producing many famous ships.
The Gdansk Shipyard isn’t just packed with history – it’s also the birthplace of Solidarity, one of the most important movements in modern history.
Back in 1980, workers went on strike here, leading to an agreement with the government and creating Solidarity, the first independent trade union in the Eastern Bloc.
Take a stroll around the Imperial Shipyard to soak up the vibes and check out the historic buildings still standing strong today.
When you visit Imperial Shipyard, you’ll check out the old crane that used to lift heavy machines and parts, plus the huge furnace where they heated metal for shipbuilding.
There’s also some cool, modern equipment still in use by workers today.
If you’re lucky, you might get to see them in action – it’s a great way to get a glimpse of how the shipbuilding industry works!
Helpful Tips
- Before you head over, check the opening hours since they can change with the season.
- If you can, join a guided tour – it’s a cool way to learn more about the history of Gdansk Shipyard.
- Also, swing by the European Solidarity Centre to get the full scoop on how the Solidarity movement impacted Gdansk and Poland.
- And remember, some areas might be closed if they’re doing any work at the shipyard.
4. Best Things to Do in Gdansk in a Day: Discover Gdansk Wrzeszcz in the Afternoon
In the early afternoon, head to Gdansk Wrzeszcz. I used to live here as a student, and I’ve got some great memories from that time.
It’s super easy to get there by tram or suburban train. This lively area has a lot of history and some awesome cafes and restaurants to check out.
Wrzeszcz is a cool spot in Gdansk. Back in the 19th century, it grew fast with industrialization, and after WWII, it got rebuilt and is now full of life!
If you’re in the mood for lunch, Avocado Bistro is a great pick, especially if you’re a vegetarian – definitely one of my favorite spots!
For dessert, make sure to stop by Slony Karmel – their ice cream in unique flavors is a must-try. Both spots are on Wajdeloty Street, which is full of cool places and history to explore!
If you’re into antiques, definitely swing by Sklep u Slawka. It’s full of cool finds – from ceramics to books, paintings, and other unique stuff.
It’s in the pink building on Wajdeloty Street. Totally worth a visit to snag something special!
Helpful Tips
- To get to Wrzeszcz from downtown Gdańsk, just hop on tram 11 or 12.
- If you’re there around lunchtime, you’ll really vibe with Wajdeloty Street‘s atmosphere.
- Bring some cash – places like Sklep u Slawka are full of cool finds.
- If you’re with kids, the Oliwa Zoo is totally worth a visit – a fun spot for the whole family!
5. Late Afternoon: Check Out the Murals in Zaspa
Next up is Zaspa – it’s not as well-known, but totally worth checking out. It might look pretty quiet at first, but it has some cool stories behind it.
Did you know that until 1974, there was actually an airport here? Later, it was turned into residential areas, but you can still catch some of that old airport vibe.
Another reason to visit Zaspa is the Mural Museum – an awesome open-air gallery with over 60 massive murals on building walls.
These murals cover all kinds of themes and styles, so it’s definitely worth taking a moment to check them out.
Some of my personal favorites are “Jan Pawel II and Lech Walesa”, “The Last Judgment in Pixels”, “Baltic”, and “I ♥ YOU”.
Helpful Tips
- From downtown Gdansk, just hop on tram number 2 or 8 to get to Zaspa easily.
- Wear comfy shoes and grab some water – you’ll be walking a lot.
- If you’re into photography, late afternoon is the best time to catch the murals with the perfect lighting.
- And don’t forget to bring a wide-angle lens to get those massive murals in one shot!
6. Evening: Stroll Through Oliwa Park
To end the day, make sure to visit Oliwa Park – it’s the perfect place to relax.
This large, historic park is full of charm, with paths, bridges, and ponds, making it ideal for a peaceful stroll. It’s a great spot to catch your breath after a day of sightseeing.
Also, Oliwa Park has a lot to offer, like the Oliwa Cathedral – the baroque architecture and stunning organs are pretty impressive.
You should also check out the Palm House, which is in this cool modern glass dome – great spot to admire exotic plants.
And after your walk, definitely swing by Ryz for some amazing modern Thai food. Their summer rolls and yellow curry are seriously delicious!
To wrap up your Gdansk adventure, make sure to check out Pacholek Hill. It’s one of the best spots in the city for a beautiful view of the area and Gdansk Bay, especially at sunset.
There’s a viewing platform at the top, 15 meters (50 feet) high, which is perfect for grabbing some pics and seeing Gdansk from a whole new perspective.
Trust me, catching the sunset from Pacholek Hill is the perfect way to end your day!
Helpful Tips
- Check out when the organ concerts are at the Oliwa Cathedral – they’re pretty awesome!
- If you’re planning to visit the Palm House, go earlier because it closes before the park (at 6:00 PM).
- Definitely book a spot at Ryż, especially on weekends.
- For Pacholek Hill, comfy shoes are a must – the view from the top is totally worth it!
- And it can get a bit chilly in the evening, so bring a light sweater or jacket.
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Best Things to Do in Gdansk in a Day: Summary
Now you know how to see Gdansk like a local in just one day! It’s a city full of history and charm that’s definitely worth checking out.
A one-day trip is a great way to hit the main spots, enjoy some nature, and find a few hidden gems.
Places like Sobieszewska Island, the Old Town, and Oliwa Park are just a few of the cool things to do in Gdansk.
There’s so much more to see, so definitely plan another trip! If you liked this post, feel free to share it with your friends!
