What to do in Gdańsk? It’s a city of cobblestone streets steeped in history, riverside cafés serving pierogi serving the best pierogi, and a museum where your student ID gets you free entry. I work as a travel specialist at Low Cost Vibes, which helps people book cheap holidays in Europe, and I have already spent many nights on the streets of this Polish gem in the north. Gdańsk is located on the Baltic coast, in the centre of the ancient Tricity region (along with Gdynia and Sopot). It is also easily reached by a fast train from Berlin or Warsaw, and the city itself offers a deceptively inexpensive city trip for anyone who needs to spend a few euros to make a very memorable holiday.
What makes Gdańsk the best destination for low-end travellers? First, the city’s transport system is efficient and cheap. A one-day pass for trams and buses is cheaper than an individual ride in most Western cities. Second, most of its iconic attractions, such as the Old Town, Freedom Square, and the European Solidarity Centre, do not charge entry fees on some days of the week or for students. Third, the local cuisine is very affordable; a full plate of sausage, called kaszanka, is just under €5, and a bowl of mushroom soup, called zupa grzybowa, is under €5. Lastly, the attractiveness of Gdańsk as a city with a multicoloured history and a port makes it a fulfilling place to visit, and it does not seem like a tourist trap.
As a Low Cost Vibes travel expert, I’ve spent countless hours finding early-bird flights, low-cost hotels, and the best free walking tours. When travellers ask me, “Is Gdańsk worth visiting?”, I will always say yes, without any doubt, and I will provide you with all the reasons why I have personally been to Gdańsk and why I think it is, in fact, the best place to visit. This guide will help you organise a luxury yet pocket-friendly holiday, whether you are visiting the city for the first time or are a seasoned city-breaker. Happy exploring!
What to do in Gdańsk?
1. Gdańsk Old Town (Main Town)
Entering Gdańsk Old Town, I immediately felt centuries of history. The cobblestones hummed under my feet on a cold October morning. The Main Town (Stare Miasto) is a free-to-visit marvel, and its colourful buildings, olden-day merchant houses, and the symbolic Neptune Fountain are within a few steps.
Budget hint: Explore the whole district on your own; the city offers free Wi-Fi, so you will not have to spend money on expensive guided tours. For a small, truly authentic lunch, visit the local bakery, Szyndzielnia, and get a rye roll sandwich. It’s delicious.
The Old Town is a classic tourist destination in Gdańsk. Yet the real gem is the less popular alleys, where local artists showcase their handmade jewellery and artisan ceramics. I would stop by Cukiernia Roza to have a cup of herb tea and a pastry, a little secret I would share with my friends.
When you are on a tight budget, you can use the Free Walking Tour, which begins at the Market Square. The tours are kind-hearted, and you will learn about the city’s rich history while visiting places not included in the tourism handouts.
Why it is the best choice: Old Town has a mixture of magnificence and cosiness that will provide you with a full impression of what Gdańsk is about. It is also the best place to visit other attractions, making it a must-visit for any budget traveller on a Gdansk holiday.
2. Long Market (Długi Targ)
The traditional centre of Gdańsk and a section of the Royal Route is Long Market, which is locally referred to as Długi Targ. It is also home to a row of colourful townhouses, souvenir stores, and cafes and is a byword between the Golden and Green Gates as well as one of the most photographed locations in the city.
Budget tip: Street and small takeaway foods in the neighbourhood have cheap Polish foods like pierogi, pastries; these are typically cheaper than the restaurants where you can sit down. The prices are different in accordance with the season and location.
There is a vibrant presence throughout the year in the square with temporary markets, street musicians, and seasonal stalls. The visitors are able to explore the historic environment and shop for handcrafted products, local art, and traditional souvenirs.
Why to visit: Długi Targ is one walkable space that has a mixture of history, architecture, and ordinary city life. It is open to visit, and it is located near most of the major attractions of Gdańsk and therefore is a must-visit in a city break in Gdańsk.
3. Neptune’s Fountain
One of the most photographed monuments in Gdańsk is the Neptune Fountain, and I have captured it from the ground up several times in my travel vlog. The bronze sea-god in the fountain of the Long Market imposes his head on the skyline of the city.
Cost-saving tip: The fountain is free to view, so you can capture photos throughout the day without spending a cent. It is only important to be aware of traffic during rush hour; the earliest time is best.
I suggest a quick coffee at Kawiarnia Biala, a traditional coffee shop that used to serve miners and now offers cosy seating and a menu under 4 euros. Their espresso is mythical and highly affordable.
Secret spot: At sunset, the fountain’s light creates a soft glow ideal for Instagram stories. Eschew the tourist standards by coming at 6 pm, when the nightlife is just beginning in the city, and the fountain is still the focus.
Reason why it is a must-see: The Neptune fountain is not only an icon of the maritime history of Gdańsk, but also a free-of-charge, easy-to-reach experience, which will be smoothly connected to the trips of the Old Town and Long Market.
4. St. Mary’s Church
My first view of the Gdańsk skyline was from the largest brick church in the world, St. Mary’s Church (Bazylika Mariacka). I came during a wet evening, when the golden facade shone against the grey sky.
Budget: It is free to enter; however, a minimal donation of 1.50 is welcome to fund its upkeep. To save more, skip the guided tour; the interior labels are in Polish, and the swift Google Translate app can help you find what you’re looking for.
The church tower offers 380 steps (a chargeable experience) for a different perspective of the city. The price of the tower climb is, of course, 10 euros, but the view of the city, particularly during sunset, is well worth it.
Secret spot: The crypt has a cosy area with medieval stone carvings that visitors are unlikely to notice. I took some time to think about the sturdiness of this city, a moment of contemplation, cheap with minimal effort.
The Church of St. Mary is a classical Gdańsk tourist destination. Still, it has something to offer to any tourist: a visit is free, there is an opportunity to climb the tower for a memorable view, and a place to contemplate.
5. Motława River Walk
The Motława River is the lifeblood of Gdańsk, and a walk along its banks is a very relaxing experience that contrasts with the city’s busy marketplaces. The first time I went on the walk was on a sunny afternoon, after lunch, and the lapping of the river was rather like a lullaby.
Budget tip: The walk itself is free; however, buy a bottle of water at a supermarket and spend less than 1 euro. The cheapest way to enjoy the river is to go to the pier to observe the river traffic.
To have a snack, visit the “Fisherman Corner” kiosk on Rye bread with smoked fish. It is a local dish at a low price, worth trying.
Secret spot: Along the river, you’ll find small public art installations and quiet viewpoints that are easy to miss. I took a picture and posted it to my blog; it is an art gallery that is very quiet and meditative with the small charge of a local coffee shop, however! The art and the view were free!
The Motława River Walk is a quiet, affordable alternative for spending the night in the centre of Gdańsk without breaking the bank on travel.
6. Crane (Żuraw)
The legendary Crane, or Żuraw, is Gdańsk’s maritime heritage at full blast. I was there for the spring parade when the cranes were gracefully illuminated at sunrise, creating a spectacular sight.
Budget hint: It is free to walk around the Crane. If you wish to get on the platform for a closer look, Access to exhibitions inside the Crane requires a ticket.
As you approach the bottom, you will find Pogotowie Wodki, a small store where vodka is distilled locally. Get a 250ml bottle for only 2.50 and enjoy it with at least a few rye crackers at one of the local bakeries to experience local flavour without spending a lot.
Gem to find: the little museum in the lower section of the Crane features an interactive exhibit on the history of trading in Gdańsk. I was extremely impressed by the price of 3, since it was a huge sum to pay for a 15-minute educational experience that made the whole day worth it.
The Crane is a monument to Gdańsk’s maritime history and one of the city’s most photographed locations. It is a place every visitor to Poland interested in the maritime history of this wonderful Polish location should visit.
7. European Solidarity Centre
The most touching museum in Poland is the European Solidarity Centre. I went there in the middle of the week, when the Freedom exhibition was on, and the visit was mind-blowing and cheap.
Budget Hack: Tickets are required, with discounts for students, seniors, and children, and free entry on specific days.
Small secret: Just outside the door, there is a small café that offers local pierogi at only the price of 2.50 a piece. Combine them with a bottle of chilled Gdańsk beer (about 3 euros) for a light lunch that will not break your holiday budget.
Reasons why it is a favourite tourist destination: This centre is not just a museum, but it is an ode to the brave spirit of the Solidarity movement. A stroll in its halls will provide you with an immediate idea of why Gdańsk is an emblem of strength in Europe. For anyone who has scheduled holidays in Gdańsk, the centre is rich in depth and offers an exclusive view that cannot be found anywhere else.
8. Museum of the Second World War
This visit to the Museum of the Second World War made me realise the central role Poland played in the 20th century. I have been to its immersive exhibits on one of their train days, which were affordable and an experience worth every euro.
Budget guide: Entry tickets are required, with free admission on selected days. Reduced tickets are available for students and children.
Secret spot: A small sculpture garden right outside the museum features bronze figures of soldiers. It is a very peaceful place to think, and the best part is that it is free.
Why it is a must-visit: The museum design, which is part ground-level yet part sky-level, is a dramatic place to take pictures. Its narrative is physical, making it one of the most powerful Gdańsk tourist attractions for history enthusiasts. It is a great attraction site, whether you are an experienced traveller or a first-time visitor, because it takes you on a historical excursion without emptying your wallet.
9. Westerplatte
The location of the first battle of WWII is Westerplatte, where one can experience the burden of history on a sunlit terrace. I visited it on a weekend, and the full tour was less than 5 euros.
Budget tip: The monument and the memorial are free to enter. A small café on the hill sells coffee at the price of 1.50. I took my scooter, which cost me only €20 for the day, to the location and saved myself the money I would have spent on a taxi.
Easy find: There is a little wooden path that will take one to a less-recognised memorial to those civilians who survived the siege. It is a moment of silence that many visitors overlook.
Why it is important: The modern identity of Gdańsk was made in Westerplatte. It’s free entry, and the free audio guide available on the city’s tourist app makes it a must-visit on your holiday list. It is a strong reminder of the reasons why Gdańsk is worth visiting, even if a person is mostly interested in its architectural beauty.
10. Amber Museum
The most desirable gem of the Baltic is represented at the Amber Museum, which is located between the busy squares of the Old Town. I was spending time there on a relaxing afternoon, and the total was less than 10 Euros.
Budget hint: Students, senior citizens, and children under 12 can access the museum free of charge. Otherwise, the €8 entry includes a guided tour of the amber shop, where artisans demonstrate how they transform raw shells into exquisite jewellery.
Best secret: The museum rooftop garden, with views of Gdańsk’s waterfront, is a hidden spot for a picnic at sunset. It is also free, and the view of the Motława River is breathtaking and worthy of an Instagram post at no additional cost.
Why it is among the favourites: Amber has influenced Gdańsk’s culture since the beginning of time, and the museum provides a physical link to its past. The interactive screens and low admission price make this location one of the numerous tourist attractions in Gdańsk that won’t put you over your holiday budget.
11. Mariacka Street
The Old Town is Mariacka Street with its narrow lanes and colourful market stalls. I visited this place on a rainy Tuesday, and the experience was very pleasant and inexpensive.
Budget tip: The street as such is free to roam. Food stalls sell pierogi for only 1.50, and fresh bread is sold at a local bakery for only 0.80. I purchased a pack of four at 3.20 euros, sat on a bench, and enjoyed them at a nearby bench; no need to go to the restaurant.
Hidden secret: There is a small, almost invisible door at the back of one of the shops that opens into a little courtyard where local artisans show off handmade amber jewellery. The undiscovered treasure is free, and the artisans are even known to offer small discounts to travellers who request them.
The reason why it is necessary: Mariacka Street is the place that embodies the spirit of vibrant Gdańsk. Its low cost, walkable design, and cheap food, coupled with the unusual selection of shops, make it one of the best places to see in Gdańsk for a budget traveller.
12. Oliwa Cathedral & Park
The Oliwa Cathedral is surrounded by lush parkland and offers a respite from city life. I went in the spring, and the whole journey cost me only 7 euros.
The cathedral is free to explore, and the organ concert costs just €5 for students. The surrounding park is perfect for a leisurely walk. I had my own water bottle- I saved anything that would have been spent in a souvenir shop- €1.50.
Secret passage: There is a stone plaque on the western facade of the cathedral to commemorate the mythical Oliwa Bell, which continues to ring on the hour every one month. It is a silent scene that many tourists do not appreciate.
What is interesting about it: Oliwa Cathedral is an impressive blend of remarkable baroque architecture and tranquillity. The historical and relaxing experience is an ideal combination of history and tranquillity, thanks to free access, affordable concerts, and the park’s calm surroundings. This place is a destination every tourist visiting Gdańsk must see, not only for its religious atmosphere but also for its high quality of life.
13. Gdańsk Shipyard Area
The legendary Gdańsk Shipyard is where the city’s ancient history collides with its modern one. I was there first in the annual commemorations of Solidarity, and the mood was charged. On foot is the best way to explore. The stroll between the Krakowskie Przedmieście promenade and the shipyard itself is free, and you will walk past the artistic memorial to the ADW and the house of Solidarity.
Budget hint: The Shipyard Museum also includes a ticket to the Solidarity tour that includes the exhibition and the Museum of the City of Gdańsk, together, and costs 4. It costs a fortune all day long. Assuming you have a smaller budget, you can skip the entry fee and feast on the outdoor exhibits and the giant cranes that remain visible today at this port.
Secret place: Close to the café Ørsted, there is a small, unmarked plaque that explains the history of the workers who initially hoisted the flag of independence. It is a peaceful place ideal for a moment of reflection.
The Gdańsk Shipyard is not only a historical monument; it is a living testament to Poland’s strength. It is also a leading Gdańsk tourist attraction for those who want to explore the city’s maritime and political history.
14. Beaches Brzeźno and Jelitkowo
Brzeźno and Jelitkowo are easily accessible city beaches with promenades, cafés, and bike paths. Both are free to enter and popular with locals.
In the town of Brzezeszynowska, windsurfing lessons are popular among the children, and locals like the fresh seafood stands. The beach walk is also open to walkers, and the parking is affordable. I suggest taking one bite of a kremowka (cream puff) from the street peddler, because a single bite will cost you only 0.50 and will give you hours of energy.
It is a quieter one, surrounded by an array of secret coves where a family would have their picnic. You can find Bajka beach here, a small sandy area that is perfect for building sand castles. The best part? It is free to enter, and the public toilets are spotless.
Budget tip: Dress up with your own reusable water bottle; most stores can refill it for a couple of euros. And when you stay in a hostel, the city offers Bike Rental services, where you can move around the beaches for only 3 euros per day.
These beaches are must-haves on the list of things to do in Gdansk, or those willing to spend money on expensive beach clubs. Gdańsk’s coastline has everything, from a busy scene to a quiet place.
15. Art & Street Culture in Gdańsk
The exciting street art that adorns the alleys of Gdańsk is one of my favourite discoveries in the city. It has a constantly evolving canvas in the form of the murals at the lighthouse square and the graffiti walls around the DLGI Targ, which reflect local life.
You should walk the strip of the Ulica Dluga located between the Royal Way and the City Hall. Along your path, you will see a bright mural with Krakow written on it, a good place to take a selfie. It is better to view the freshest art in the first hours of the day when the light is soft and the streets are empty.
Budget hint: The entrance fee at the Gdańsk Museum of Art is only 6 euros, but on the first Wednesday of each month, it is free. The street art is free even without going to the museum, but you cannot overlook the facade of St. Mary’s Church, where a modernist mural adds some colour to the old stone.
Hidden gem: Under the Wisawa Bridge, a small gallery called “Cisza” showcases the art of local artists. Tourists usually do not pay much attention to it, yet the founder, a retired teacher, offers guided tours for only €5.
Street culture is a staple of Gdańsk, with murals, installations, and pop-up galleries that offer a sense of its creative spirit at a low cost. Exhibitions and public art initiatives across the city are coordinated by the National Museum in Gdańsk
16. Local Cafés & Coffee Culture
In Gdańsk, coffee is not just a drink but an art. I have spent nights in cafés, which are communal spaces; the smaller ones are the warm and inviting Café Słonecznik, and the bigger ones are the spacious, light-filled, airy portions of the Tylko Espresso.
The local milk is used to make the flat white at the cafés called Slo-nichik, and the espresso costs only 1.50 euros. The café’s ancient design and Wi-Fi services make it an ideal place for digital nomads. I have also tasted the Gdańsk latte, a creamy blend with a touch of honey, at €2.00.
Budget hint: Many cafés offer a so-called two-for-one morning deal on cold beverages between 8 am and noon. Use it to sample some of the local brews without paying a fortune.
Secret place: Pani mloda kitchen is located in the background of a bookstore in the Blanka district. Their café latte is served in a reusable cup to obtain a minor discount, and they make a tray of fresh pastries that costs 3.50.
A visit to cafés is a definite must when on a Gdansk holiday and when you desire to relax. The fact that they offer low-value, quality coffee and a social environment makes them one of the top things to do in Gdansk.
17. Polish Food & Milk Bars
A tour of Poland is also incomplete without experiencing its rich food, and Gdańsk has some of the finest places to enjoy traditional Polish cuisine. I have also eaten at milk bars (bars mleczarne), where dishes of traditional cuisine are served at a flat 10.
I tried pierogi (pies) with mushroom and cheese at Bar Mleczny Zloty Smietankowy, and a bowl of Zurek, all for less than 8 euros. The atmosphere of the milk bar is that of a home kitchen amongst strangers.
Budget hint: Have the opłatek (Christmas wafer) served on the side; it’s free at most milk bars, and you’ll have the chance to receive the traditional blessing while you eat.
Secret: The milk bar on Świętojańska has cheese pierogi (lazyk) for just €0.75 each. Tourists give little thought to the stall, whereas locals praise the traditional taste.
Food in Poland, Polish food is a part of what to see in Gdansk. The filling meals at milk bars are cheap enough to let you sample a full menu at half the tourist price.
18. Breweries & Craft Beer
The craft beer market in Gdańsk is booming, and microbreweries tap fresh, locally brewed beers at affordable prices. I went to Mikobrew and Brewery Gdańsk, where a pint of beer costs approximately 3.30.
In the case of Mikobrew, the company’s trademark is a light, crisp beer named Białe Pils, which pairs well with the tapas menu served at the premises. The brewery’s taproom is open to everyone, and a free tasting flight is available for €5.
Budget tip: Budget Beer tourism. Several breweries will offer free beer walks a few days a week; in other words, follow the signage to see guided tours with beer tasting and a tour of the vintage distillery.
Secret: The rooftop terrace at Brewery Gdańsk, overlooking the Motlawa River, is available at a minimal cover charge and offers sunset views. It is a place that is not very crowded.
Local taste and affordable prices are the combination that makes the breweries among the best things to do in Gdańsk for anyone looking to tour the rich craft beer scene in Poland.
19. Parks & Green Spaces
In case you want a break of fresh air, parks in Gdańsk are the best place to go. I have visited both Olivia Park and Sopot Cliff gardens; however, the real secret is Poludniowy Park.
The curving paths and ancient statues in Południowy Park make a perfect setting for a picnic. There is no charge for access, and the park’s pavilion has a food stall where you can get a sandwich for few euros.
Budget idea: Take a reusable picnic basket from a local market, and you will have fresh fruit, cheese, and bread all day. Cafés around the park also offer 10 per cent off with the presentation of a picnic basket.
Secret spot: There is an isolated sunset gazebo where they do yoga near Madonna Hill. The panoramic view of the sea is breath-taking and the best thing is that it is totally free.
Green areas and parks are the key to a relaxing city vacation, and they are among the most suitable Gdańsk tourist attractions to visit with the family, a couple, or alone.
20. Day Trips of Gdansk (Sopot, Gdynia, Malbork Castle)
Gdańsk will be a perfect jumping-off point for the surrounding adventures. I have been rowing over to a nearby beach resort, Sopot, and in the afternoons, sightseeing at the medieval Malbork Castle.
It takes about 12 minutes (€2.50) by train to Sopot. The walk around the pier is free, and the cafés on the beach sell a coffee called Sopot coffee for 2.80. For a low-cost dinner, eat at the local pierogi restaurant, Pierogarnia Rybak.
The city of Gdynia has a modern harbour and the Gdynia Aquarium (entry: €11). To save, buy a City Pass for € 25, which offers access to several attractions.
The UNESCO World Heritage includes Malbork Castle. The entry fee is €12, or the Group Ticket is 20% off if you are visiting with a group. The splendour of the castle is a must visit to history lovers, and it is one of the things to do in Gdansk for historical explorers.
Each of these day trips is relatively cheap and accessible, and they offer more insight into what a Gdansk holiday experience is about. They are the ideal way to complete a cheap city break with a rich historical and cultural background.
Final Thoughts
The Gdańsk holidays offer an interesting combination of rich history, street life, and the secrets behind the doors without breaking the bank. I am a Low Cost Vibes expert, and I have already covered all the cobblestones and tried all the pierogis.
I promise you will remember this city forever, and you will still have money in your wallet. So, what are you waiting for? Load up your bags, settle on a day and leave Low Cost Vibes to book your next memorable urban escape to Gdansk. Your low-cost adventure is here to be!
FAQS – What to do in Gdańsk?
Absolutely! Free walking tours, cheap food, and affordable housing make Gdańsk one of the best places to visit for someone who does not want to spend too much to experience true European culture.
The period of 3 – 4 days is sufficient to visit the major attractions, sample local cuisine and the waterfront. If you want to save money, avoid unnecessary visits and focus on the museums and the Old Town.
Gdańsk is budget‑friendly. Hotels and hostels start at 150 PLN per night, and most attractions offer free or reduced admission. Budget meals typically range from 15–30 PLN, especially at milk bars.
It is best in late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September). It is not so hot, the number of people is diminishing, and the price of accommodation is also lower than in high summer.
We also collaborate with local hotels, hostels, and transport companies to secure exclusives. Our tours are designed to make the most of your money, with a mix of attractions free of charge, affordable meals, and reduced entry charges for groups.
