Gdansk, Poland Gdansk, Poland

Where to Stay in Gdansk, Poland 🇵🇱: 7 Areas, Best Places & Top Hotels

Finding the perfect place to stay in Gdansk can transform your Polish adventure from ordinary to unforgettable. I discovered during my explorations that this historic city offers seven distinct areas, each providing unique experiences from medieval Old Town charm to modern waterfront luxury. Whether you’re seeking a hotel in Gdansk’s cobblestone streets or prefer contemporary amenities near the riverside, understanding these neighborhoods will help you choose the ideal base for your trip.

The city’s layout makes it surprisingly easy to explore multiple districts during your visit, but selecting the right area as your home base matters more than you might expect. From budget-conscious travelers hunting for great value near the train station to luxury seekers wanting premium locations in Gdansk Old Town, each district caters to different needs and budgets. My detailed guide covers everything from authentic pierogi spots and amber shopping to museum access and nightlife hotspots, ensuring you’ll find the best place to stay that matches your travel style and interests perfectly.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Gdansk:

Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Gdansk 📋

1. Old Town Gdansk (Główne Miasto) – Where to Stay in Gdansk for First-Time Visitors

Prime location access. The cobblestone streets of Główne Miasto put you within walking distance of Neptune Fountain and Long Market. In this area, stepping out means being directly on the Royal Route, with St. Mary’s Basilica towering just blocks away. The Neptune Fountain operates 24 hours daily, making it perfect for early morning photos without crowds.

Dining scene revelations. My exploration of local eateries revealed Bar Mleczny at Długie Ogrody 25, where traditional schnitzel costs just 12-15 PLN ($3-5 USD). For pierogi enthusiasts, Pierogarnia Mandu Centrum on ul. Elżbietańska 4/8 serves until 10:00 PM daily, with their Korean-style Mandu pierogi priced around 38 PLN for sweet varieties.

Restaurant Specialty Price Range (PLN) Opening Hours
Bar Mleczny Traditional schnitzel 12-15 7:00-19:00
Pierogarnia Mandu Korean pierogi 35-45 11:00-22:00
Rybka Na Wartkiej Fish and chips 25-40 12:00-21:00

Amber shopping paradise. Mariacka Street transforms into a glittering corridor of amber boutiques, with basement shops offering everything from small trinkets to giant amber rocks. I found that negotiating prices is expected here, especially when purchasing multiple items. The street leads directly to St. Mary’s Church and connects seamlessly with the main Długa Street shopping area.

Waterfront adventures. The Motlawa River cruise experience starts from Green Bridge at Stara Motława, with luxury catamaran tours limited to 12 passengers and featuring audio guides. These 50-minute eco-cruises cost 69 PLN per person and showcase the 15th-century crane, historic warehouse district, and the historic shipyard where Solidarity movement began.

Essential Old Town locations:

  • Neptune Fountain – Central meeting point, 24/7 access
  • St. Mary’s Basilica – Open 8:30-18:00, tower climb 5 PLN
  • Golden Gate – Historic entrance to Royal Route
  • Green Gate – Waterfront access to river cruises

Best Hotels in Gdansk Old Town

Luxury Hotels

  • Zefiro Hotel – This premium establishment in central Gdansk provides elegant rooms with modern amenities and panoramic city views from select suites.
  • Kamieniczka Palladium – Located in the historic district, this upscale property features sophisticated design elements and spacious rooms with premium furnishings.
  • Old Town Walowa – This refined establishment provides luxurious rooms with high-end amenities and exceptional service in a prime location.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • The Cloud One Gdansk – This modern budget property provides comfortable rooms with contemporary design and excellent value for money in central Gdansk.
  • Downtown Apartments DEO Plaza – These apartment-style units provide spacious living areas with kitchenettes and modern furnishings at reasonable prices.
  • Soul Rooms Old Town – This mid-range establishment provides well-appointed rooms and good amenities at affordable rates in the historic center.

Best Hostels

  • Hostel Universus – This budget-friendly hostel in the historic area provides clean dormitory-style rooms and shared facilities with a social atmosphere.
  • World Hostel – Located in the medieval district, this backpacker hostel provides affordable beds and communal areas for meeting fellow travelers.
  • Trip & Hostel – This cozy hostel provides comfortable shared rooms with modern amenities and a friendly atmosphere in the historic center.

2. Mariacka District – Where to Stay in Gdansk for Shopping and Dining

Amber capital location. Mariacka Street creates the heart of Gdansk’s amber trade, with over 30 specialized shops displaying everything from tiny earrings to massive decorative pieces. I discovered that this narrow medieval street connects St. Mary’s Basilica to the waterfront, making it a natural pathway for exploring both religious architecture and commercial treasures. The cobblestone surface and gothic gargoyles create an authentic medieval shopping experience.

Dining diversity experience. The district offers remarkable culinary variety, from traditional Polish cuisine to international fusion restaurants. Goldwasser Restaurant at Długie Pobrzeże 22 serves the famous herbal liqueur Gdansk goldwasser, while their pierogi selection costs 28-35 PLN per serving. Pod Łososiem restaurant operates in a historic building since 1598, offering traditional dishes with modern presentation.

Shop Category Average Price Range (PLN) Notable Locations Best Shopping Hours
Amber jewelry 50-500 Mariacka 1-47 10:00-19:00
Amber decorations 100-2000 Basement galleries 11:00-18:00
Traditional crafts 25-150 Szeroka street 9:00-20:00
Local souvenirs 15-80 St. Mary’s vicinity 10:00-19:00

Evening atmosphere magic. After 18:00, the district transforms as amber shops illuminate their windows, creating a golden glow across the medieval facades. Street musicians often perform near St. Mary’s entrance, while the nearby restaurants fill with locals enjoying traditional Polish dinners. The authentic gargoyle water spouts become particularly photogenic during this golden hour lighting.

Pedestrian zone benefits. The entire Mariacka area remains car-free, allowing peaceful exploration of amber workshops and traditional restaurants. I found that many shops offer amber-working demonstrations, where craftsmen show techniques passed down through generations. The narrow street design creates natural shade during summer, making shopping comfortable even during peak tourist season.

Essential Mariacka district experiences:

  • Amber workshop demonstrations – Usually free with purchase
  • St. Mary’s Church tower climb – 5 PLN, best city views
  • Traditional gargoyle spotting – Historic architectural details
  • Evening amber window shopping – Most atmospheric after sunset

Best Hotels in Mariacka District

Luxury Hotels

  • Basilica Apartment Mariacka – This luxurious apartment on historic Mariacka street provides elegant rooms with premium facilities and stunning views of St. Mary’s Basilica.
  • Holiday Inn Gdansk City Centre – Located in the city center, this upscale property features sophisticated design elements and spacious rooms with premium furnishings.
  • BY THE RIVER apartments – This refined establishment provides luxurious suites with high-end facilities and exceptional service in a prime location.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • IBB Długi Targ – This modern budget property provides comfortable rooms with contemporary design and excellent value for money in the city center.
  • Aparthotel Neptun – These apartment-style units provide spacious living areas with kitchenettes and modern furnishings at reasonable prices.

3. Śródmieście Gdansk – Where to Stay in Gdansk for Nightlife

Entertainment district central. Śródmieście creates the beating heart of Gdansk’s nightlife scene, positioned strategically between Old Town and the modern waterfront district. I found this area packed with bars, clubs, and late-night venues that attract both locals and tourists seeking authentic Polish nightlife. The district runs along the Motlawa River, offering scenic waterfront walks between venues.

Club diversity experience. The nightlife here ranges from intimate cocktail bars to massive multi-floor clubs like Bunkier, which operates in an old bunker with four floors and multiple dancefloors. Parlament Club on Świętego Ducha 2 serves as the second largest venue, featuring one main dancefloor and three surrounding floors with seating areas. Winston Bar and Pixel rank among the top-rated establishments for craft cocktails and atmosphere.

Venue Type Popular Locations Opening Hours Price Range (PLN)
Cocktail bars Winston Bar, Pixel 18:00-02:00 25-45 per drink
Dance clubs Bunkier, Parlament 22:00-06:00 30-50 entry fee
Pubs Red Light Pub 16:00-24:00 15-30 per beer
Live music Protokultura 19:00-01:00 20-40 tickets

Vodka culture immersion. Several establishments specialize in traditional Polish vodka experiences, offering tastings of regional varieties and craft distillations. The area also features uniquely-named venues like Cathead Multitap, which combines humor with serious craft beer selections. Most venues operate until the early morning hours, with peak activity occurring between 23:00 and 02:00.

River proximity benefits. The Motlawa River runs through this district, creating scenic routes between venues and connecting to both Main Town and the modern waterfront district. This waterfront location provides fresh air breaks during long nights out and offers beautiful views of illuminated historic buildings across the water.

Essential nightlife spots to visit:

  • Bunkier – Largest club with four floors, located in historic bunker
  • Parlament – Second largest venue, popular with international crowd
  • Winston Bar – Top-rated cocktail destination
  • Red Light Pub – Traditional Polish pub atmosphere

Best Hotels in Śródmieście

Luxury Hotels

  • Centrum Chlebnicka – This luxurious property on historic Chlebnicka street provides elegant rooms with premium facilities and stunning views of the medieval district.
  • DEO Plaza Premium by Downtown Apartments – Located in the centre, this upscale establishment features sophisticated design elements and spacious suites with premium furnishings.
  • Gdanska Marina Śródmieście – This refined waterfront property provides luxurious rooms with high-end services and exceptional hospitality in a prime location.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Apartamenty Michel Gdansk – This modern budget property provides comfortable apartments with stylish design and excellent value for money in the city center.
  • Mieszkanie Gdansk Śródmieście – This budget-friendly property in Śródmieście provides clean apartment-style rooms with shared facilities and a social atmosphere.
  • Studio Gdansk Śródmieście – Located in the downtown district, this backpacker-friendly studio provides affordable beds and modern facilities for budget travelers.

4. Ołowianka Island – Where to Stay in Gdansk for Riverside Views

Tranquil waterfront setting. Ołowianka Island sits peacefully in the Motlawa River between Old Town and modern developments, offering a quiet escape from tourist crowds while maintaining easy access to major attractions. This spot provides some of the most picturesque views in Gdansk, with historic warehouses and medieval architecture reflecting in the calm river waters.

Maritime museum proximity. The island houses the main building of the Maritime Museum, which operates daily from 10:00-18:00 with entry costing 25 PLN. This strategic location puts you steps away from exhibits featuring the medieval crane and maritime artifacts that tell Gdansk’s shipping history. The museum complex spans several historic granary buildings, creating an immersive cultural experience.

Activity Location Operating Hours Entry Fee (PLN)
Maritime Museum Ołowianka 9-13 Daily 10:00-18:00 25
River walks Island perimeter 24/7 Free
Photography spots Granary facades Best light 16:00-19:00 Free
Bridge crossings Multiple bridges 24/7 Free

Historic granary architecture. The restored red-brick granaries create a stunning architectural backdrop, with some buildings dating back to medieval times. These structures once stored grain that made Gdansk wealthy, and today they house museums, galleries, and cultural spaces. The Blue Lamb Granary operates as a specialized museum focusing on local food history and archaeological findings.

Strategic connectivity. Multiple bridges connect the island to both Old Town and the developing areas across the river, making it an ideal base for exploring different districts. The pedestrian swing bridge provides direct access to the waterfront promenade, while traditional bridges offer routes to Main Town and Granary Island without lengthy detours.

Key island highlights:

  • Medieval granary buildings with maritime exhibits
  • Peaceful riverside walking paths
  • Multiple bridge connections to other districts
  • Blue Lamb Granary museum with local history displays

Best Hotels in Ołowianka Island

  • Krolewski Gdansk – This luxurious establishment in the historic center provides elegant rooms with premium services and sophisticated design elements throughout the property.
  • Ołowianka Gdansk – Located on peaceful Olowianka Island, this upscale property features spacious rooms with modern furnishings and stunning riverside views.
  • Gdansk Ołowianka Old Town – This refined waterfront establishment provides luxury rooms with high-end facilities and exceptional service in a prime island location.

5. Granary Island – Top Place to Stay in Gdansk for Modern Amenities

Contemporary development hub. Granary Island represents Gdansk’s modern face, with ongoing construction projects transforming historic granary sites into contemporary attractions and facilities. I witnessed this area evolving from industrial heritage into a vibrant district that balances historic preservation with modern urban planning. The atmosphere feels younger and fresher compared to the traditional Old Town.

Cultural venue concentration. The island hosts various art galleries, cafes, and small shops that showcase local culture and craftsmanship. During warmer months, the area becomes particularly lively with outdoor events and activities drawing both locals and tourists. The Amber Sky ferris wheel provides panoramic views over Gdansk and the Baltic Sea, operating as a modern landmark alongside historic structures.

Attraction Type Operating Season Notable Features
Amber Sky Ferris Wheel Observation ride Year-round City panoramic views
Art galleries Cultural spaces Varies by venue Local artist exhibitions
Waterfront cafes Dining Seasonal outdoor seating River views
Walking paths Recreation 24/7 access Historic granary views

Historic granary transformation. The island’s development carefully preserves the character of centuries-old granaries while adding modern functionality. These buildings once served as the center of Gdansk trade and contributed significantly to the city’s historic wealth. First established in the 14th century with a slaughterhouse, the island gradually developed into a commercial hub for products like hops, flax, hemp, and tar.

Future-focused atmosphere. Ongoing construction projects continue expanding the island’s offerings, with new developments regularly opening to the public. The pedestrian swing bridge connecting to the Old Town waterfront represents the modern engineering that complements historic architecture, creating a unique blend of old and new Gdansk.

Modern island features:

  • Amber Sky ferris wheel with panoramic city views
  • Contemporary art galleries featuring local artists
  • Restored granary buildings housing cultural venues
  • Modern pedestrian bridge connecting to historic districts

Best Hotels in Granary Island

  • City Center Granary Island by Apartmore – This luxurious waterfront property provides elegant apartments with premium services and sophisticated design elements overlooking the historic district.
  • Granary Island Apartment II – This modern apartment-style property provides comfortable living spaces with kitchenettes and riverside views at reasonable prices.
  • Apartamenty Chleb i Wino – Located in the historic district, these well-appointed apartments provide spacious rooms with modern facilities at affordable rates.

6. Gdansk Train Station Area – Where to Stay in Gdansk for Transportation

Transportation hub advantages. The central train station area provides unmatched convenience for arrivals, departures, and day trips to nearby cities like Sopot and Gdynia. I found this location particularly valuable for travelers with heavy luggage or tight schedules, as it eliminates the need for additional transfers into the city center. The area connects directly to regional and international rail networks.

Budget-friendly accommodation cluster. This district offers more affordable rates compared to Old Town premium pricing, making it attractive for cost-conscious travelers. The area features various accommodation types, from basic business establishments to modern chain properties, all within walking distance of transportation links.

Transport Option Destination Journey Time Frequency Cost (PLN)
Regional train Sopot 15 minutes Every 30 min 6-12
Regional train Gdynia 25 minutes Every 30 min 8-15
City tram Old Town 10 minutes Every 10 min 3.80
Airport bus Gdansk Airport 45 minutes Every 30 min 12

Commercial district benefits. The train station surrounds include shopping centers, restaurants, and essential services that cater to both travelers and locals. This creates a practical environment where you can handle various needs without venturing far from your base. The area operates with extended hours to serve train passengers arriving at different times.

Quick city center access. Modern tram lines connect the station area to Old Town within 10 minutes, while regional trains provide easy day trip access to the entire Tri-City area. The transportation network operates frequently throughout the day, ensuring flexibility for sightseeing schedules and return journeys.

Transportation advantages:

  • Direct rail connections to Sopot and Gdynia
  • Frequent tram service to Old Town attractions
  • Airport bus connections from central station
  • Extended operating hours for late arrivals

Best Hotels near Gdansk Train Station

Luxury Hotels

  • Mercure Gdańsk Stare Miasto – Located in downtown Gdansk, this upscale property features spacious rooms with modern furnishings and stunning city views.
  • Fahrenheit – This refined establishment provides luxury rooms with high-end facilities and exceptional service in a prime location.
  • Celestin Residence – This luxurious establishment provides elegant suites with premium services and sophisticated design elements in the historic district.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Ibis Gdansk Stare Miasto – This modern budget property provides comfortable rooms with contemporary design and excellent value for money in Stare Miasto.
  • Flatbook City Center Apartments Riverview – These apartment-style units provide spacious living areas with kitchenettes and river views at reasonable prices.
  • Main Station – This mid-range property provides well-appointed rooms and good facilities at affordable rates near transportation links.

Best Hostels

  • La Guitarra Hostel Gdansk – This budget-friendly hostel in the historic district provides clean dormitory rooms with shared facilities and a social atmosphere.
  • Hostel Filip – Located in the medieval area, this backpacker hostel provides affordable beds and communal areas for meeting fellow travelers.
  • City Hostel – This cozy hostel provides comfortable shared rooms with modern facilities and a friendly atmosphere near major attractions.

7. Brzeźno Gdansk – Where to Stay in Gdansk for Beach Access

Seaside district charm. Brzeźno combines urban convenience with Baltic Sea beach access, featuring a 130-meter pier and sandy coastline that attracts both tourists and locals. I discovered this area offers a different perspective on Gdansk, where maritime heritage meets recreational beach culture. The district sits just 7 kilometers from both Gdansk center and Sopot, creating an ideal base for coastal exploration.

Beach quality experience. The wide sandy beach stretches along the Bay of Gdansk, with soft fine sand and shallow water entry that makes swimming comfortable and safe. Four lifeguard towers ensure safety during summer months, while the beach maintains Blue Flag certification for water quality and safety standards. Beach volleyball and handball courts provide active recreation options beyond swimming and sunbathing.

Beach Feature Details Operating Season Additional Info
Brzeźno Pier 130m length Year-round access Scenic Baltic views
Lifeguard service 4 towers June-September Swimming safety
Sports courts Volleyball/handball Year-round Free public use
Bicycle path To Sopot Year-round 7km coastal route

Park and recreation facilities. Jan Jerzy Haffner Brzeźnieński Park covers 10 hectares adjacent to the beach, featuring renovated walking paths, outdoor gym equipment, children’s playground, and skateboard ramp. The park includes comfortable benches, chess tables, and pergola structures that provide shade and rest areas. Bicycle paths connect through the park to the coastal route leading to Sopot.

Local dining and amenities. The waterfront promenade features numerous restaurants and eating establishments serving fresh seafood and traditional Polish cuisine. Dom Zdrojowy Gdańsk Brzeźno covers nearly 100 meters of coastline with facilities, while the pier area extends an additional 500 meters of supervised beach access. Direct tram connections reach the city center in 20-25 minutes.

Beach district highlights:

  • Blue Flag certified beach with fine sand
  • 130-meter pier with Baltic Sea views
  • 10-hectare park with recreation facilities
  • Direct bicycle path connection to Sopot

Best Hotels in Brzeźno

Luxury Options

  • Luksusowy Apartament nad Morzem Gdansk – This luxurious seaside apartment provides elegant rooms with premium services and sophisticated design elements overlooking the waterfront.
  • ARS Apartments Gdansk – Located in the coastal district, this upscale property features spacious apartments with modern furnishings and stunning sea views.
  • Dom & House Apartamenty Nadmorski – This refined beachside establishment provides luxury suites with high-end facilities and exceptional service near the shore.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Nad Morzem – This modern budget property provides comfortable rooms with contemporary design and excellent value for money in the seaside area.
  • Villa Pascal Gdansk – These apartment-style units provide spacious living areas with kitchenettes and coastal views at reasonable prices.
  • Osrodek Pomeranka Gdansk – This mid-range resort provides well-appointed rooms and good facilities at affordable rates near the beach area.

FAQs about Visiting Gdansk, Poland

The heart of Gdansk Old Town features exceptional establishments like Puro Gdansk Stare Miasto and Radisson Blu Hotel. You’ll find these contemporary hotels perfectly positioned near the Town Hall and within walking distance of the National Maritime Museum.

2. Which 4-star hotel in Gdansk offers spa facilities?

City Center Apartments SPA & Wellness provides a full-service spa with indoor pool and sauna facilities located in the heart of the city. The modern hotel features luxury amenities and offers a perfect place to visit for travelers seeking wellness options with terrace dining.

3. Where can I find boutique hotel place to stay in Stare Miasto?

The centre of the city hosts several boutique hotels including Craft Beer Central Hotel and other trendy establishments. These historic hotels blend contemporary design with traditional architecture, creating a great place to visit in central Gdansk.

4. What Gdansk hotel features terrace dining near Targ area?

Radisson Hotel offers outdoor seating areas and sophisticated dining options in the heart of Gdansk. The hotel is located steps away from the historic Targ area and provides easy access to many of the finest places for exploring the city of Gdansk.

5. Which Puro Hotel offers modern amenities for city break?

Puro Gdansk Stare Miasto is a contemporary hotel featuring 114 rooms with city views and modern facilities. The 4-star hotel provides excellent access to things to do in Gdansk and is positioned perfectly for exploring the European Solidarity Centre.

6. What 5-star place to stay is located in heart of Gdansk?

Hilton Gdansk stands as the premier 5-star option, offering panoramic city views and luxury amenities. The modern hotel features an indoor pool, spa facilities, and prime positioning for visiting Gdansk’s historic attractions.

7. Which Gdansk city hotels offer breakfast buffet options?

Most 4-star hotels in Gdansk including Scandic Gdansk and Mercure provide comprehensive breakfast services. These hotel options feature varied breakfast buffets that cater to international guests during their trip to Gdansk.

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