What To Do And See In Gdansk

Local Gdansk: An Amazing Experience 1000 Years In the Making

Gdansk is one of the most amazing cities in all of Poland for a number of reasons. This port city has over 1,000 years of history within its borders and there are numerous churches, galleries, and museums to explore. That’s a good way to see Gdansk the same way that everyone else sees this city, but you can do better than that, right? If you’re ready to truly immerse yourself in Gdansk, then you’re ready to experience this city the way the locals do. Here’s how you’re going to be able to so on your next journey to this incredible city!

#1. Balsam Cafe

With a menu that is best described as eclectic and hours that include late night for your convenience, the Balsam Cafe is a wonderful little bar that is helpful and friendly. You’ll feel right at home when you grab a seat and soon discover that this is the one place where locals regularly meet up with each other. You can get your favorite drinks or shots, but plenty of tasty snacks available as well.

There are almost 40 different bars that are on the same street as the Balsam Cafe, so you may encounter some crawlers coming through. If that’s your way to relax, then by all means do it! The Balsam Cafe is also a great place to just sit back and relax after a long day of exploring the historical sites that Gdansk has to offer. Ask for the apple beer!

#2. Zaspa

This quarter of Gdansk is truly one of the best hidden gems in the city and perhaps all of Europe. Why? Even though it is made up of the stereotypical socialist residential living blocks, the murals that are on the buildings are absolutely spectacular. This really is the hidden beauty of Gdansk, even though it is in plain sight. Even though it is odd because there aren’t any shops or any commercial life moving about in any way, the area is its own unique art gallery and is worth a day just to explore.

As you head toward Zaspa, be sure to stop at the old airport in Gdansk. It’s been turned into what is basically a giant parking lot, but there’s a lot of history there. Many in Gdansk fled the Russian front at the end of the second world war by fleeing from that very airport. It’s a place filled with history, even if it isn’t filled with much else.

#3. Mariacka Street

This beautiful little street is filled to the brim with a lot of exploration opportunities. It feels a bit touristy at first, especially when you see the number of amber jewelry shops, but there are several cafes that are worth trying in this small part of Gdansk. It’s quaint and draws tourists and locals alike because it’s a pedestrian friendly place to take a quiet walk on a beautiful evening. The cobble street will lead you through art galleries and having violins play while you eat lunch is a pretty common experience in this old town location.

Just beware that you’ll experience tourist prices here. Why? This street is often rated as one of the most beautiful in all of Europe.

#4. Blue Time Jazz Club

If you’re looking for the chance to kick back and enjoy some good drinks that aren’t mixed with water while some good live music is playing, then this jazz club is the place you’re going to want to be. The dance floor has some space and it is likely calling you right now to get out there and enjoy the vibe! The atmosphere is nice and warm, just like it should be at a jazz club, and you’ll be able to let the stresses of life be able to fade away with a martini, a comfortable chair, and a relaxing mood.

There’s just one word of warning: you might end up finding yourself so comfortable that you drink an extra cocktail or two! This is a relatively new club, but it provides an old school level of charm that would make you think it has been there for a generation. It may just provide the best evening you spend in Gdansk!

#5. Karczma Trzy Dęby

Combining a little rustic charm with a wonderful menu that is reasonably priced, this Gdansk restaurant might be the center of corporate meetings and weddings, but it is also one of the best places that you’re going to be able to find authentic pirogis and crepes. The pricing is a little high from a local perspective, but you won’t be disappointed with the menu that is offered. The maki rolls with green peppers are outstanding, as is the marinated sirloin with mushrooms and capers.

It’s also one of the few places that offers an authentic black pudding that doesn’t taste like it has been cooked to death. Finish off your meal with the stuffed chicken breast with tomatoes and spinach that is drowning in cheese sauce for a great meal. Consider one of the fisherman feasts that feature salmon and perch for a taste of the Baltic too!

#6. Ulica Dluga

If you want to get a taste of local craftsmanship or find a unique gift or souvenier from your trip to Gdansk, then you’ll want to browse through the street stalls that are all along Ulica Dluga. It’s the local arts center of the city and you’ll even find classic examples of Kashubian needlework on display amongst the fine woodwork that you’ll find around every corner.

Sometimes the weather can turn on you while in Gdansk, which means you need a fast option to get indoors. You can avoid the large shopping centers that attract mostly tourists by heading toward Madison Park, which still has more than 100 stores that can provide you what you need. With a focus on fashion, there’s also a gym available if you want to fit in a quick workout.

#7. Hewelianum Centre

You’ll find the Hewelianum Centre on the grounds of the Fort of Gora Gradowa. It’s a recreational venue, but also offers educational opportunities that are perfect for the entire family. It’s a place where discoveries can be made thanks to the interactive exhibits and is a creative, innovative way to spend a day in Gdansk. There’s an exhibit that is like a time machine that looks at theoretical knowledge and experimentation, while other exhibits look to break down barriers and help visitors explore around the world.

With electronic exhibits, outdoor exploration opportunities at the fort, and a number of temporary exhibitions that cycle through, you’ll find that there is an even number of locals and tourists enjoying this complex. You’ll definitely want to experience it on your own as well!

#8. Degustatornia

If you’re looking for a quality pub experience after you’ve had a great meal or you just have a rainy afternoon that you’d like to fade away, then Degustatornia is the place you’re going to want to be. Featuring regional breweries that are on tap, you’ll be able to get the best amber you’ve ever had because this little place offers a sophisticated flavor for any palate. There are also events held each month that bring a focus on specific local flavors for microbrewery experts to enjoy.

There are 160 total different brands of bottled beer available and there are more than 40 that are available on tap. If you want a good pint, then this is where you need to be!

#9. Da Grasso

Sometimes what you want to eat is a simple pizza. Instead of spending a fortune on something that is pretending to be gourmet, you can get a great pizza at Da Grasso for just 5zt. You can even place your order online and have it delivered to your room for a small fee and it takes as little as 30 seconds to make it happen. There are promotions happening all of the time to help you save even more and although it is fast food pizza, it is still good pizza and will fill you up without destroying your budget so you can maximize your time at one of Gdansk’s fine dining establishments later on.

#10. The Waterfront

A trip to Gdansk isn’t complete without time out on the waterfront. Take a stroll along the ancient buildings and enjoy a coffee or a quick bite to eat at one of the cafes. A boat trip is a wonderful way to experience the waterfront as well because you won’t have to fight the higher levels of traffic that come with a beautiful day in the city. Make sure to bring your camera along for whatever you do because every view is stunningly breathtaking!

Gdansk is an amazing city that is filled with amazing people. If you’re ready to have a brand new journey in this stunning location, then be sure to include these ideas with your upcoming stay. This way you’ll be able to enjoy a truly authentic experience!

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