Gdansk hotels

Hotels in Gdansk

Gdansk is Poland's main sea port, sitting on the Baltic coast in the bay of the same name. An energetic, bustling town, it was the birthplace of the Solidarity movement which helped bring an end to Communist rule in Eastern Europe.

Book one of our Gdansk hotels and explore the narrow, cobbled streets, ancient monuments and rich history of a town with an abundance of culture and personality.

Sights

Lined with grand buildings, the 500-metre Royal Way was the route along which the Polish kings traditionally paraded when they visited the town. Flanked by ornamental gates at either end, the route encompasses the picturesque Ulica Duga and Dlugi Targ, or Long Market, where the city's main market used to be held. Dlugi Targ used to be home to the richest people in the city and is filled with colourful, ornate houses. The Golden House, which dates from 1618, has busts of famous historical figures, including two Polish kings. Here you'll also see the bronze Neptune Fountain, the oldest secular monument in Poland.

St Mary's Church, which was built between the 14th and 16th centuries, is reputed to be the world's largest brick church, at 105 metres long and 66 metres wide. Notable features include a 15th-century astronomical clock, important works of art and the sheer size of the windows, some of which are bigger than average-sized apartments. Leading between the church and the waterfront is the pretty Ulica Mariacka street.

Museums

Uphagens' House, on Ulica Duga, was the home of an 18th-century merchant family. Its restored interior houses a collection of textiles, garments and original furniture.

The European Solidarity Centre tells the story of the Polish struggle against communism. There's an audioguide to accompany you as you explore exhibitions on life under the regime, and Gdansk's role in forming the Solidarity trade union and bringing it to an end.

The Artus Court Museum is one of Gdansk's most famous houses, and has been visited by many illustrious figures, including King Henry IV of England. Built in the 14th century, it has a huge hall with model ships hanging from its ceiling, and a collection of historical artefacts and furniture.

Beaches

Gdansk has miles of clean, sandy beaches running along the bay, lined with cafes and restaurants and with boats and kayaks for hire. The white-sanded Stogi beach, which was awarded a Blue Flag in 2014, has a backdrop of dunes and shallow waters suitable for swimming in. Brzezno is another beach with calm waters, while Koliba beach, in nearby Sopot, is another Blue Flag beach. Sopot itself is a spa town which has been beloved of the rich and famous for centuries, and has Europe's longest wooden pier – it's 515.5m long.

Eating and drinking

One of the oldest restaurants in the city, Kubicki dates back to 1918 and still retains some period features, including its fireplaces. Tuck into regional specialities including herring tartare, Gdansk dumplings and homemade blood sausage. Metamorfoza's tasting menu of up to nine courses changes according to the season and the produce available - expect anything from quail and oxtail to cotton candy cheesecake. After dinner, head to Flisak 76, a popular underground bar which serves up beers, cocktails and a good atmosphere.