What to see in Gdansk? The best tourist attractions in Gdansk

Are you planning a visit to the Tri-City? See what attractions await you in Gdansk. Check out what is worth visiting during your stay in the city on the Motława River. Below you will find some of our suggestions. We also invite you to stay at Qubus Hotel Gdansk and enjoy comfortable accommodation in the heart of the city.

What to see in Gdansk?

Wondering what to visit first in Gdańsk? For most travelers, the first and most obvious choice is the historic Old Town (Gdansk Old Town), the heart of the city.

The most representative part of the Old Town is the Royal Route, which includes Długa Street and Długi Targ Street. At the intersection of these two iconic streets stands the impressive Gdańsk Main Town Hall – one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Visitors can explore the historic interiors of the Town Hall and, even more impressively, enjoy panoramic views of Gdansk from its observation tower.

Another must-see attraction in the Old Town is the famous Neptune’s Fountain, an iconic symbol that reflects its seaside city. While in the very center, it is also worth visiting St. Mary’s Basilica and Artus Court.

Best historical attractions in Gdansk

When planning what to see in Gdansk, it’s worth focusing on attractions connected to historical events. Top historical sites include the Museum of the Second World War, the iconic Westerplatte, and the European Solidarity Centre along with the Gdansk Shipyard, symbolizing the birthplace of the Solidarity movement.

• Westerplatte – an essential historical site and a symbol of the beginning of the Second World War. Located on a peninsula in the northeast part of Gdansk, Westerplatte today features a well-marked tourist trail that lets visitors follow the footsteps of history. While exploring the site, you can see landmarks such as the historic bunker and observation tower, the Defenders’ Cemetery, a passenger ship marina, and the Coast Defenders Monument. The peninsula also offers a scenic promenade and a beach, making it perfect for both history enthusiasts and leisure visitors. Westerplatte is currently uninhabited and easily accessible by car, public transport, or even by water tram. 

• Museum of the Second World War – Located in the heart of Gdansk, the Museum of the Second World War is another top attraction that every visitor should see. Interestingly, the permanent exhibition is located 14 meters underground, covering nearly 5,000 m². The museum houses over 3 000 artifacts documenting not only the events of World War II but also the period immediately before and after the war. Visitors can explore interactive multimedia displays, a special exhibition designed for children, and temporary exhibitions that highlight different aspects of history.

• European Solidarity Centre – The European Solidarity Centre is a must-visit site to include in your Gdansk sightseeing plan. Featuring a two-story exhibition dedicated to the transformative events of Poland’s recent history, the centre serves as a hub for meetings, discussions, and educational activities.

• Gdansk Shipyard – The Gdańsk Shipyard stands out among Gdansk attractions as a powerful symbol of the Solidarity movement. This historic site marks the beginnings of opposition activity in Poland during the struggle for democracy, which also inspired political change across other European countries. Today, the shipyard has been transformed into a vibrant cultural and social space, hosting artistic events, creative projects, and community gatherings. 

Gdansk – things to do with kids 

Looking for fun things to do in Gdańsk with children? The city offers plenty of options for family-friendly adventures. In the Oliwa district,  you’ll find the Gdansk Zoo and the beautiful Oliwa Park. The park features Japanese, French, and English gardens, as well as a tropical palm house. 

Another must-visit is Hevelianum, a modern science and education center located on Góra Gradowa. Hevelianum combines interactive exhibitions, historical fortifications, and educational walking trails surrounded by nature.There are also viewing points offering panoramic views of the city. The center also hosts workshops, festivals, and family-friendly picnics. 

When it comes to attractions for children in Gdansk, it is also worth visiting the Fish Market to ride a unique carousel. In addition to traditional decorations in the form of horses, cups, and benches, the top of the structure features sculptures of Gdansk’s most important attractions.

Top attractions and activities in Gdansk

Sightseeing in Gdansk is not just about historic landmarks. If the weather is good, one of the best things to do in Gdańsk is head to the Baltic coast. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Gdańsk include: Jelitkowo Beach, Stogi Beach, Brzeźno Beach.

All three beaches are easily accessible by public transport. Visitors will find well-developed infrastructure, including beach equipment rentals, water sports facilities, recreational areas, restaurants, and attractions designed especially for children. Spending a day at the beach is one of the top attractions in Gdansk during the summer.

For free things to do in Gdansk, you can take a walk up Góra Gradowa or relax in Park Oliwski. Near the park, you’ll find Katedra Oliwska – the longest church in Poland.

If you’re nearby, you can also climb Wzgórze Pachołek to enjoy a great view of the city from 100 meters above sea level.

What to see in Gdansk in one day

If your trip to the heart of the Tricity is just a weekend getaway or a short business visit, and you’re exploring the city in your spare time, start with the Old Town in Gdansk. This historic area is full of top attractions, beautiful architecture, and must-see landmarks. If you have some extra time, head to one of the nearby beaches or take a relaxing walk through Park Oliwski.

If you don’t manage to see all the attractions in Gdansk you planned, it’s a good reason to come back for another visit.

For both short and long stays we  invite you to stay at Qubus Hotel Gdansk. Hotel is located in the very center of Gdansk, within walking distance of many of the city’s top tourist attractions. We offer comfortable rooms and spacious apartments, delicious breakfasts, a fitness center with a Finnish sauna, and something special for families – a children’s playroom with an Xbox.