Gdansk, Poland
Welcome to Gdansk, a Polish port city with a soul forged by a millennium of maritime history. This resilient city, beautifully rebuilt after WWII, is a frequent and beloved stop for cruise lines like Viking Cruises and Holland America Line on their Baltic itineraries.
Cruise visitors are captivated by its stunning architecture, the poignant history of the Solidarity movement, and the charm of its cobblestone streets. Gdansk offers a unique blend of historical depth and vibrant modern culture, making it an unforgettable highlight of any Northern European cruise.
For more information on Gdansk, visit our sister site Amazing Atlas to read the Gdansk City Guide
The number one destination for any visitor is the meticulously restored Gdansk Old Town (Gdańsk Stare Miasto). Stroll down the Royal Way, admire the colourful merchant houses, and see the iconic Neptune Fountain. It's a short shuttle or taxi ride from the port.
Within the Old Town, don't miss the chance to visit St. Mary's Basilica (Kościól Mariacki), one of the largest brick churches in the world. For panoramic views of the city, you can brave the 400-step climb up its tower.
For a deep dive into modern history, the Museum of the Second World War offers a powerful and comprehensive look at the conflict, with a special focus on Poland's experience. History buffs might also opt for an excursion to Westerplatte peninsula, where the first shots of WWII were fired, located near the port entrance.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
A very popular day trip is to the magnificent Malbork Castle, the largest Gothic fortress in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located about an hour's drive from Gdansk, this Teutonic Knights' stronghold is a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Many cruisers also visit the nearby seaside resort town of Sopot, famous for its elegant spas and the longest wooden pier in Europe. It's part of the 'Tri-City' metropolitan area along with Gdansk and Gdynia, and is reachable in about 30-45 minutes by car or train.
The modern port city of Gdynia, where some larger cruise ships dock, is also worth a visit for its Maritime Museum and the historic destroyer ORP Błyskawica.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
The cruise terminals in Gdansk are located in an industrial port area and are not within walking distance of the city's main attractions. Ships typically dock at the Westerplatte Ferry Terminal or other quays, which are approximately 20-30 minutes by vehicle from the Gdansk Old Town (Gdańsk Stare Miasto).
Transportation is essential to reach the city center. Cruise lines almost always provide shuttle buses (often for a fee), and taxis or ride-sharing services are readily available at the terminal. The port area itself has minimal tourist amenities, so heading into the city is recommended.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
The official currency in Poland is the Polish Złoty (PLN). While Poland is in the European Union, it has not adopted the Euro. It is highly recommended to use the local currency for purchases.
Euros or US dollars are generally not accepted in shops and restaurants. Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most tourist areas, hotels, and larger stores. ATMs, known as 'bankomat', are plentiful throughout the city and are the easiest way to get cash. For better exchange rates, use a 'Kantor' (exchange office) in the city rather than at the port.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Gdansk is considered a very safe city for tourists, and independent exploration is common and encouraged. The main tourist areas, including the Gdansk Old Town (Gdańsk Stare Miasto), are well-policed and pedestrian-friendly.
As in any popular destination, visitors should exercise standard precautions. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded places to avoid pickpocketing, particularly along the main streets and on public transport. There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid. Using common sense is sufficient for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
The cruise season in Gdansk typically runs from May through September, coinciding with the best weather. Summers are generally mild and pleasant, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C (65°F to 72°F).
The weather can be unpredictable, with the possibility of cooler, windy days and rain showers even in summer. It is advisable to pack layers, including a sweater or light jacket and a waterproof outer layer. The Baltic region does not experience a hurricane season, making for a stable and pleasant summer cruising destination.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Getting from the cruise port to the city center requires transportation. The most convenient option is often the cruise line shuttle bus service. Taxis are also available at the port, and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt operate in Gdansk and are often a more affordable choice.
Once in the city, the Gdansk Old Town (Gdańsk Stare Miasto) is very walkable. For travel further afield to places like Sopot or Gdynia, the SKM commuter train is a fast and efficient option. The city also has a comprehensive network of trams and buses, which are inexpensive but may be less convenient for first-time visitors on a tight schedule.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Gdansk is world-renowned for its amber, often called 'Baltic Gold.' The best place to shop for certified amber jewelry and decorative items is along Ulica Mariacka in the Old Town, a street lined with charming artisan workshops.
Besides amber, popular souvenirs include Polish pottery (Bolesławiec ceramics), wood carvings, and Goldwasser, a traditional local liqueur with flakes of real gold. The main thoroughfares of the Old Town, such as Długa and Długi Targ, are filled with souvenir shops and boutiques. For a more modern shopping experience, the Forum Gdańsk is a large mall located near the Old Town. Prices are typically fixed, especially in established shops.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Get a veritable introduction to the heart of Old Gdansk on this affordable and entertaining walking tour. Your guide strives to balance historical knowledge with light-hearted stories about the city's prosperity, destruction, and reconstruction. Discover who lived in and controlled Gdańsk throughout the centuries, including the Crusaders, in an engaging way.
Explore Poland's rich culinary heritage, from everyday meals to gourmet dishes, on this authentic tasting tour. You will sample a variety of Polish delights paired with exceptional local vodka and beer. Discover traditional holiday dishes, culinary superstitions, and customs, while also gaining insights into the history of Gdansk.
Explore Gdańsk from the water on a guided 5+ km kayak tour through the city’s canals and historic shipyard. Paddle in stable double kayaks and see iconic sights like the Crane, Granary Island, and the Old Town waterfront. No previous experience is required as expert guides in small groups ensure a safe and memorable active adventure.
Embark on an adventure to explore the city while searching for the mysterious Hevelius’ treasure. You will become part of a team of Astronomers, Historians, or Mathematicians working to solve a riddle. Your mission is to assist local archaeologists who have discovered the first clue left by Hevelius himself.
See the highlights of Gdańsk like a local on a guided bike tour, the perfect way to explore one of Poland’s most bike-friendly cities. Learn the city's interesting history from your guide while getting great exercise. This tour is presented as the best cultural and active sightseeing in Gdańsk and is a great chance to make new friends.
Discover Gdańsk’s most beautiful streets and monuments from a comfortable electric vehicle designed for the city's narrow lanes. Your local guide, a passionate history expert, will take you through the Main City, the Old Town, and the Old Hanseatic Port. This tour is presented as the best way to see the city and can be personalized upon request.
Enjoy a seamless and stress-free private transfer from the airport to Gdansk city center. Your professional, English-speaking chauffeur will greet you in the arrivals hall, with your flight monitored in real-time to ensure a perfectly timed pickup. Travel in a luxury Mercedes E-Class featuring a spacious interior, complimentary bottled water, and onboard Wi-Fi.
Discover Gdańsk from a unique perspective on this guided 5+ km sunset kayak tour. Paddle through bustling canals past the Crane and Granary Island before watching the sun dip behind the shipyard’s harbour cranes for an unforgettable view. Suitable for all skill levels, this tour is led by experienced guides in small groups to ensure a safe and scenic adventure.
Discover Gdańsk’s most beautiful streets and monuments from a comfortable electric vehicle designed for the city's narrow lanes. Your local guide, a passionate history expert, will take you through the Main City, the Old Town, and the Old Hanseatic Port. This tour is presented as the best way to see the city and can be personalized upon request.
Learn about Gdansk's recent history, beginning at the modern European Solidarity Centre museum. You will visit the historic Lenin gates, famously climbed by Lech Walesa, and stop at the Monument of the Fallen Shipyard Workers. The tour concludes by exploring less-visited areas of the shipyards, where old warehouses are being transformed into modern galleries and clubs.
Plan your journey to Gdansk Airport with a comfortable and stress-free private transfer from your hotel or private address. Your professional, English-speaking chauffeur will ensure a punctual pickup and a safe, smooth journey. Travel in a luxury Mercedes V-Class minivan, offering a high level of comfort with onboard Wi-Fi and complimentary bottled water.
Discover the most interesting places in the Tri-City on a private car tour of Gdańsk, Sopot, and Gdynia. This tour combines must-see sights with a pinch of local, off-the-beaten-track attractions. The long route includes many stops so you can feel the magic of the area and understand why its inhabitants are considered the happiest in Poland. This is presented as the best shore excursion in Gdańsk.
Please note that this booking is for a reservation on a general free walking tour of the city. On this type of tour, it is up to each guest to decide how to reward the guide for their service. The amount you pay online covers the reservation fee and the guide's payment. If you would prefer a smaller, private tour, please let us know and we can organize it for you.
Discover Gdańsk and its history in what is described as the best and fastest way, aboard a comfortable electric golf cart. This tour is suitable for people of all ages, as well as for guests with disabilities or difficulty walking. Your guide has many years of experience and will tell you about the city’s history and provide helpful recommendations.
Get to know Gdańsk in what is called the best and fastest way on a two-hour tour in a comfortable electric golf cart. You will see the city’s most important attractions, including the world's largest brick church and Europe’s largest medieval port crane. A key feature of this tour is that your guide is certified, ensuring you receive accurate historical knowledge. Your guide will also be happy to provide any recommendations you may need.
Meet a Vodka Expert in a central, hidden gem restaurant to explore the amazing world of Polish vodka. You will learn its history and try at least six selected types, experiencing what makes a truly good vodka. This tasting is enhanced with three different Polish food pairings while your local guide shares insider stories about life in the city.
Visit the Stutthof Concentration Camp Museum and Memorial on a private trip led by an expert guide. Your tour includes entrance tickets, a documentary movie viewing, and convenient pickup from your location in Gdańsk. During the two-hour guided portion, you will gain a wider overview of this first extermination place for Poles and Jews during WWII.
Witness the immense scale of WWII’s devastation on a private tour with skip-the-line tickets to the Museum of the Second World War. Uncover compelling facts and stories of heroic Polish resistance as you walk in the footsteps of wartime heroes. You can choose a 2-hour museum tour or extend it to 4 hours to also explore war memorials and post-war communist sites. This tour is available in multiple languages.
Explore the highlights of Gdansk's charming Old Town from an electric golf cart on a tour perfect for groups and parties. Enjoy unlimited ice-cold beer, great music, and good vibes as you see all the must-see spots. You can choose to listen to music or your guide's commentary on the city's history during the ride.
Discover Poland’s emerging wine scene with a guided tasting of six hand-selected Polish wines in the heart of Gdańsk. Sip crisp whites, elegant reds, and even a sparkling surprise as you learn about the country's unique winemaking traditions. Your expert host will share engaging stories of Gdańsk’s history as a major trading hub and its influence on local cuisine. The tasting is enhanced with a selection of paired local snacks.
Showing 4 ships in the area
No ships scheduled in port today.
Cruises visiting Gdansk during the the peak season of summer are significantly more expensive than the the low season of spring. Overall cruises that visit Gdansk are rather expensive compared to other itineraries. See the chart below for the monthly average cost per day.
Want to hear about the best deals and cruise tips every week? Sign up for our free weekly VIP Newsletter, customized exactly to your preferences!
