Gdańsk has become one of my favorite quick getaways — living in southern Norway, I’m only about an hour’s flight away, so hopping over for a weekend feels almost too easy.
I’m currently writing this from a cafe overlooking one of the canals and I’m amazed by how much the city has evolved in recent years. Beautifully restored historic buildings, new attractions popping up, and a growing energy that makes Gdańsk more exciting every year.
And the best part? You get all this historic charm just minutes from the beach.
Since I used to live in Poland and have explored the country from top to bottom, I’ve gotten a pretty good sense of what makes each city unique — and where to stay to make the most of your trip. So let me help you find the perfect base for your adventure in Gdańsk!
Don’t have time to read the article? Here are my favorites!
🌟 My favorite hotel: Puro Gdansk Stare Miasto
🌟 My favorite apartments: High Stay Granaria by Downtown Apartments
🌟 Stunning view: Old City & River View Premium Apartment
🌟 Budget accommodation: Apartament Starówka Łagiewniki
Where to stay in Gdańsk
Gdańsk is a surprisingly compact city, at least the interesting parts, which makes choosing where to stay much easier than in many larger European destinations. Most of the main sights, restaurants, and waterfront areas are clustered close together, so you’ll never be far from the action.
Gdańsk is also part of the Tri-City (with Sopot and Gdynia), a connected metropolitan area stretched along the Baltic coast — meaning you can easily stay by the beach in Sopot, explore modern Gdynia, and Gdańsk’s historic center in just a few days.
Śródmieście (Old/Main Town)
If it’s your first time in Gdańsk, staying somewhere in Śródmieście — the city center — is an easy and safe choice. Within you have Główne Miasto, which is considered the Main Town.
This is the historic heart of Gdańsk, filled with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful gabled houses, and some of the city’s best cafés, restaurants, and shops (including plenty selling Baltic amber). Most of the main sights are right on your doorstep, and in the evenings the area becomes especially atmospheric.
Right across the river, you’ll find two islands, Wyspa Spichrzów (Granary Island) and Olowianka. Both of these are great areas to stay, with often beautiful views of the water and the tall, waterfront buildings.
There’s also an area called Dolne Miasto, south of Main Town, in addition to a few I don’t know the proper name of.
The good news? It’s all very compact, so it doesn’t really matter which specific area your accommodation is listed under — everything is within walking distance. I just generally stay away from the major roads because of the noise.
Yes, this is the most touristy part of the city — but that also means convenience, safety, and plenty of choice. If you just have a few days and want to be in the middle of everything, this is the best place to stay.
My top pick >> My favorite hotel in this area has been PURO Hotel Gdańsk Stare Miasto since it opened over 10 years ago. I also had a great stay at Cloud One Hotel close by.
✅ Right in the center of all major attractions
✅ Picturesque streets and waterfront views
✅ Plenty of restaurants, cafés, and shopping nearby
✅ Walkable
❌ Crowded most of the year
❌ Accommodation is the most expensive
❌ Some areas can feel very touristy
Wrzeszcz
The hipster neighborhood of Wrzeszcz, also known as the heart of the student community, is located about 4km from the city center.
It’s a great option if you have more time and want to stay outside the main tourist areas while still having everything you need nearby. Accommodation here is often more affordable.
The area is known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of great restaurants, cafés, craft beer pubs, and excellent shopping — including two of the city’s biggest malls, Galeria Bałtycka and Manhattan Shopping Centre.
While Wrzeszcz isn’t walkable to the Old Town for everyone, it’s extremely well connected by trams and SKM trains.
✅ Great transport connections to Old Town, Sopot, and the airport
✅ Lively, local atmosphere
✅ Home to big shopping centers
✅ Often better value accommodation
❌ Less historic charm compared to Gdańsk Old Town
❌ Can feel busy and crowded, especially around the train station
❌ Not the best for short stays
Nowy Port & Brzeźno
Nowy Port is a lesser-known, more local neighborhood near the coast. It sits right across the river from Westerplatte, where World War II started.
Historically a working port area, Nowy Port still has a slightly rough-around-the-edges feel, but that’s part of its character. In recent years, the area has been slowly gaining attention thanks to new construction, improving transport links, and seaside location.
A highlight is Nowy Port Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses on the Baltic coast, as well as scenic waterfront walks. After talking to several friends who live in Gdansk and love this area, I decided to include it for anyone who’s looking for a longer stay.
Right next to Nowy Port, you’ll find Brzeźno, a laid-back beach neighborhood that makes a more local alternative to Sopot. It has a long seaside promenade and a beach that runs all the way past Sopot.
My top pick >> I had a great stay at Villa Baltica Gdańsk in Brzeźno. In Nowy Port, you will mostly find apartment rentals.
✅ Close to the sea and coastal walking paths
✅ Fewer tourists
✅ Accommodation prices are generally lower
✅ Great for longer stays
✅ Good tram connections to Old Town and Wrzeszcz
❌ Not within walking distance of the Old Town
❌ Limited nightlife options
❌ Less polished and charming
❌ Not ideal for first-time visitors
Oliwa
If you prefer accommodation in more peaceful surroundings, yet close enough to the hub of the city, check out the affluent Oliwa neighborhood. It is located halfway between Gdansk and Sopot and is perfect for those who want to explore the city off the beaten path.
This sleepy suburb has several points of interest, such as a 12th-century Cistercian monastery, the city Zoo, Oliwa Park and one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, Oliwa Cathedral.
Olivia Star is the most striking landmark and the best places in Gdańsk to enjoy panoramic views of the Tri-City area. This modern observation tower features a viewing deck nearly 180 meters above ground, several award-winning restaurants, and even a tropical garden.
I love Oliwa; it is so beautifully green, and parts of it feel more upscale. I recommend visiting, even if you don’t stay here. You can easily take a Bolt into the city center or jump on a tram.
My top pick >> I think Hampton by Hilton Gdansk Oliwa is the best hotel in the area. If you prefer some more space, check out this gorgeous apartment.
✅ Quiet, leafy neighborhood with an upscale, residential feel
✅ Great connections to the Old Town and Sopot
✅ Many lesser-known attractions + nature
✅ Often good value accommodation
❌ Limited nightlife and fewer restaurants
❌ Fewer hotel options
Sopot
Okay, it’s not Gdańsk — but I also love staying in nearby Sopot. It’s a beautiful seaside town with a long beach, great restaurants, spas, and a relaxed holiday vibe.
Part of the Tri-City area, Sopot is known for its iconic wooden pier and feels more like a seaside resort than a historic city. I’ve stayed here several times during the summer, especially when Gdańsk felt unbearably hot, and the cooler sea breeze made a huge difference.
It’s a great base if you want to combine city sightseeing with beach days, with easy train connections (20–30 minutes by SKM train) back to Gdańsk whenever you need them.
My top pick >> This gorgeous apartment is located in the town, but still just steps away from the famous pier and beach. I also had a great time staying in Rezydent by MGallery Collection, one of the most beautifully designed hotels in Sopot.
✅ Lively holiday atmosphere in summer with cafés, bars, and restaurants
✅ Wide, spacious beach
✅ Beautiful accommodations
✅ Easy train connections to Gdańsk and Gdynia
❌ Crowded during the summer holidays
❌ More expensive accommodation in high season
❌ Fewer historic sights compared to Gdańsk
My favorite Gdansk accommodation
Let’s take a closer look at my favorite places to stay in Gdańsk — the ones I personally recommend and would happily book again.
Puro Hotel
My favorite hotel in Gdansk, Puro Gdansk Stare Miasto, is conveniently located just outside the Green Gate, which will take you straight onto the Royal Way. The interior is fresh and modern and their bar offers an incredible view of Motława River and the impressive buildings along the waterfront.
It strikes that perfect balance between stylish design and comfort, with modern, thoughtfully designed rooms and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
I also love PURO’s attention to detail, from the cozy communal spaces to the great breakfast and on-site restaurant, which make it feel more like a boutique hotel than a chain.
The Cloud One Hotel
Cloud One Hotel really surprised me in the best way. The interior design is quite dark and moody, which isn’t usually my style at all. But somehow, it just works here, and I genuinely loved the overall vibe. It feels calm, stylish, and a little bit indulgent after a day of exploring the city.
Location-wise, it’s excellent. The hotel is just a few steps from the PURO Hotel, positioned closer to the Green Gate while still being on Granary Island. That means you’re right by the Old Town and the river, with all the main sights within easy walking distance, but without feeling stuck in the busiest streets.
High Stay Granaria
NOTE >> I just stayed here again in December 2025 and the construction noise was horrible. When I asked them about it, they said they had warned about it. But all I could see was one sentence far down on the booking site. I’m talking horrible drilling right above the apartment for hours on end. So I would probably hold off booking until later in 2026.
High Stay Granaria by Downtown Apartments are some of my favorite apartments in Gdańsk, mainly because the design is the most unique I’ve ever seen.
I’m a maximalist at heart, and I love interiors that are bold, dramatic, and a little unexpected — and these apartments absolutely deliver. The space is rich and moody, with strong colors, black cabinetry with gold accents, statement lighting, patterned floors, and wallpaper. It kind of feels like Art Deco on speed.
Location-wise, it’s just as perfect. The apartments are still on Granary Island, but on the opposite side from the Old Town. It’s noticeably calmer and quieter, especially in the evenings, while still being an easy walk to everything. I love the river view.
Old Town & River View Premium Apartment
This light and bright apartment has one of the best views I’ve ever seen. Again, located at the end of Granary Island (I’m sensing a pattern here), it boasts floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking one of the most beautiful parts of Gdansk.
Surprisingly, there was very little noise from the popular restaurants below. And the apartment was very clean, which is always the most important factor in my book.
Plan your visit
Before booking your accommodation, it helps to understand how Gdańsk works as a destination — especially since it’s compact, easy to get around, and part of the wider Tri-City area.
Getting there
Gdańsk is served by Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN), with direct flights from many European cities. From the airport, you can reach the city center in about 25–30 minutes by train, bus, taxi, or ride-hailing apps.
Bolt is often cheaper than Uber. Last time I paid 72 zloty ($17) with Bolt, which is well worth not having to bother with public transport.
The train is easy to get from the airport, just follow the signs. But you still have to make your way from the train station to the Main Town, which is about a 15-minute walk.
And if you’re arriving late or just want the smoothest experience possible, a pre-booked airport transfer is a great option.
🚗 I always book transfers through my favorite company, Welcome Pickups. I paid €30 for a transfer in the middle of the night, and he waited an hour because my flight was delayed.
Getting around
Gdańsk is very walkable, especially if you’re staying in or near the Old Town. Most main attractions, restaurants, and waterfront areas are close together.
For longer distances, public transport is reliable and affordable, with trams, buses, and SKM trains connecting Gdańsk with Sopot and Gdynia.
For tickets, you can use the Jakdojade app, which makes it easy to plan routes and buy tickets directly on your phone.
If you want more freedom to explore the Tri-City area or to take some day trips from Gdańsk, you should rent a car. While I don’t recommend driving in Gdańsk, unless you’re very comfortable behind the wheel in new places, driving in the countryside and Sopot/Gdynia was not a problem.
Best time to visit
Gdańsk is a year-round destination, but I would skip January to March if possible. I was once there in March and it was so cold that we had to go back to the hotel to warm up every few hours. But, of course, this changes from year to year.
- Late spring to early autumn is ideal for sightseeing, café hopping, and beach trips. Though even if you visit in the warmer months, don’t be surprised by rainy or cloudy weather. My favorite times to visit are June and September.
- Summer brings warm weather and many happenings around the city. Sometimes it gets too warm for the city center, so you should also schedule some time for the beach. Stogi Beach is close to the city.
- December is magical thanks to the Christmas Market and festive decorations, but accommodation books up quickly. And it does get quite cold. Even if the temperature stays above 0, the winds can be pretty brutal.
How long to stay
For a first visit, 2–3 nights is perfect to explore Gdańsk itself. If you want to include Sopot’s beaches or Gdynia’s modern waterfront, consider staying 4–5 nights in the Tri-City area.
However, if you want to see more than the city center and only have two days, I recommend you book a guided tour so you don’t waste any time getting around. Gdansk and the surrounding area have so much to offer, there’s a reason I keep going back.
Money
Poland is very card-friendly, and you can pay by card almost everywhere — hotels, restaurants, cafés, and shops. Contactless payments, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are widely accepted. Still, it’s useful to carry a small amount of Polish złoty (PLN) for some street vendors and smaller shops.
🌟 Read next >> 2 days in Gdansk: The perfect itinerary for first-timers
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