Gdansk
Quick Facts
Language: PolishCurrency:
Area Codes: 058
Other Cities in this Region
The third largest city in Poland, Gdansk is also the capital of Poland's northern region. It heads up the province of Pomorze Gdanskie, which is also known as East Pomerania. It is in close relationship with the small towns that keep it company, Gdynia and Sopot. Together, these three cities make up the Trojmiasto.
This vivacious port city has a history that dates back to the 9th century, when it was a small fishing village. After its incorporation into the Hanseatic League in 1300, many Germans came to call this area, then known as Danzig, their home. It was not renamed Gdansk until 1945. The battles of World War II led to much destruction in Gdansk, but did not ruin its spirit. In fact, in 1997 Gdansk enjoyed constant festivals of music, exhibitions and tons of events on both land and water in celebration of its 1000th anniversary as a Baltic city. The streets are all restored to their original form, and many shops and galleries have been built, keeping Gdansk prosperous, fun and enchanting.
Glowne Miasto, the Main Town of Gdansk, is filled with streets holding treasures of history. Explore this medieval city and all of the culture it embodies. If you are interested in churches that tell the story of Gdansk's past, then travel north to its Old Town, Stare Miasto. Shopping is especially good here, too. The oldest church, St. Catherine's, which dates back to the 12th century, is located here. Certain sections were added to the church as time went on. The tower is from the 1480s, and the amazing thirty-seven bells were installed in 1634. The largest mill in medieval Europe is on the same plot of land here, as well as the grave of the 17th-century astronomer, Jan Hevelius. The Wielki Mtyn, (Great Mill) operated from 1350 until 1945.
Enjoy Gdansk and all of the opportunities that await you on your visit. It is as lovely as it is historically significant, and you will have a vacation full of memories and pictures to show your friends. From shops to nightclubs, it is all here, radiant and vibrant. Walk along the docks, and watch a sunset that will truly take your breath away.
Docking & Local Transportation
The cruise ship docks at the Port of Gdansk Authority Co. (18 Zamknieta St.), located near the city center of Gdansk
Gdansk is a terrific walking city; however, other transportation options exist. To get anywhere in the Trojmiasto, a good and reliable way to go is by bus, tram, and trolley. The buses tend to be crowded, but they do run regularly, and hourly at night. The trams are mainly for certain sights, such as the cathedral, shipyards and museums. Trains run every fifteen minutes to all of the towns in the three regions. This is a great service if you intend to party at night. They run from 4 AM until 1 AM!
Local Interests
Travel is the best learning experience, and Gdansk is home to many historic sights that will not only teach you about this unique land, but also fascinate your mind and spirit. A wonderful place to visit is the Dwor Artusa (Dlugi Targ 43, 058/346-3358). Also known as the Artus Mansion, this extraordinary piece of architecture took over two hundred years to complete, beginning in the 15th century. It is located behind Neptune's Fountain and received its name for the great King Arthur. There are other mansions located in this area, massive in both size and opulence. Inside these mansions are many treasures you will undoubtedly enjoy.
Gdansk has plenty of museums that will feed your imagination about life here, past and present. One of the best museums, however, is the Muzeum Historii Miasta Gdanska (ul. Dluga 47, 058/301-4871). Inside this historic museum are more than five centuries of Gdansk's past, displayed in exhibits of paintings, sculptures, and weapons. It also has a tower that provides a beautiful skyline view of the city.
Activities
Dining
While visiting Gdansk, you definitely will not go hungry. There are plenty of fine restaurants to mesmerize the taste buds! One beautiful and delicious example is Pod Lososiem (ul. Szeroka 54, 058/301-7652). The restaurant is actually a 1598 Old Town Inn. Fish is the specialty and highly suggested, though one could not go wrong with any of the choices on the menu, such as the duck or pheasant. The atmosphere is exceptionally warm and welcoming. Enormous chandeliers, dark and antique furniture abound, and paintings that portray the Gdansk of long ago dress up the walls. If you are interested in a meal with an amazing view of the river, then make a reservation at Tawerna (ul. Powroznicza 19, 058/301-4114). They serve Polish and German cuisine and also have great fresh fish.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Gdansk had never been known to be too wild at night, but now there are plenty of discos and nightclubs springing up everywhere. Some are even open until 6 AM, if you can keep your eyes open that long! If you like the calm and cool atmosphere, however, check out Bar Vinifera (ul. Wodopój 7). It is quite an intimate and exclusive wine bar that serves not only wine, but a whole list of other drinks, too! Want lights and action? Then follow the lights coming from the windows that belong to the nightclub, U Szkota (Chlebnicka 9-12, 058/301-4911). This two-story party is uniquely decorated with colorful tartans and a very Highland appearance. A chic place to visit that offers a very quiet atmosphere is the Café Sopot (ul. Haffnera 3, 058/550-0543). This is a prime spot for a nice warm cup of joe! A quiet bar with the most amazing views of the beaches is the Grand Hotel Bar. Have a drink and capture the most dramatic sunset here!
Shopping
Gdansk has a great number of little shops as well as malls with stores you can't find anywhere else in the world. A great place to check out is Antyk (ul. Podbielanska 18/1, 058/346-3182). Here you can find paintings, porcelain, and some original souvenirs you will want to take home with you. Another good store for unusual gifts is the Sopocki dom Aukcyjny (ul. Dluga 67/68, 058/301-0554). They have everything from stamps and coins to chandeliers and paintings. Does jewelry tickle your fancy? Check out Jubiler (ul. Dluga 16, 058/301-6976). They have the greatest selection of silver jewelry in Gdansk