10 Day Trips from Gdańsk

Being half-Polish with a family from the Tri-City area, I feel like I have good authority to talk about the stunning town of Gdańsk. I can remember visiting it and neighbouring Sopot frequently as a child and using it as a base to explore. The city is one of my favourites in Poland and it is becoming more popular each year. Not only that, but the surrounding area is just beautiful and rich in history and culture. Using the city as a base, you can really get on out and explore. So, here is a short guide of some day trips from Gdańsk that you could take.

1. Sopot

The hometown of my mum, Sopot has a special place in my heart. The gorgeous seafront, the tasteful Opera in the Woods; you can spend a good few days here.

Start by seeing the wooden pier, the longest in Europe. You will get breath-taking views of the Baltic Coast and sample some local food. The street of Monte Cassino is the heart of the city though. With tonnes of bars, nightclubs, restaurants and shops, you can really spend a while here.

For my full city guide to Sopot, check out this post.

2. Hel Peninsula

The Hel Peninisula, whilst sounding ominous, is a beautiful part of Poland and is a must-see for all travellers. It is really popular with those who love water-sports, chilling and swimming.

There is a really easy and accessible ferry from Gdańsk here, so this is one of the easier day trips. Make sure that you bring your swimming trunks and suncream and prepare to relax in this secret little haven.

3. Westerplatte

This historic site is just a short distance from Gdańsk and is known as the first battle of World War II.

Here, you can see the ruins of different barracks, bunkers and guardhouses. You can also get up close to the monument of the Polish defenders.

Westerplatte is great for those who want to be educated in the history of the Second World War, or just want a picturesque walk along the coast.

4. Gdynia

Along with Sopot and Gdańsk, Gydinia makes up the Tri-City area. The seaside town is just a short train journey from Gdańsk and is well worth a visit.

It is best known for the modernist architecture and maritime heritage. Whilst there is not as much here as Sopot or Gdańsk, I would still recommend a half-day here. A highlight is the Polish Naval museum, a must-see for all history buffs!

5. Malbork

With just an hour train journey, you would be silly not to visit Malbork Castle. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest brick castle in the world, this is easily one of the best day trips from Gdańsk.

Spend all day exploring the rich history of this castle. For just a bit extra, pay for a private tour and discover how the Teutonic Knights used it as a base to control the surroundings.

I would completely recommend getting here early as it does get busy. For more information, read my blog post on our recent visit here.

6. Stutthoff Concentration Camp

Sadly, Poland was the scene of multiple concentration camps in the Second World War. Just outside of Gdańsk is Stutthoff, which was the first one built outside of Germany.

A trip here is of course rather depressing, but also very interesting with all the history. There is an excellent museum on the grounds, along with a memorial to all those who lost their lives.

7. Toruń

If you are a fan of quaint medieval towns, then this one is for you. Toruń is another UNESCO World Heritage Site for you to explore on a day trip from Gdańsk.

Rather excitingly, this hidden place is famed for the gingerbread. After first-hand experience, I can confirm that it is delicious and is worth the train journey to get here.

If you are into history and science, you can also learn about Copernicus and his association with this town.

8. Frombork

Staying on a theme, why not head to The City of Copernicus? Frombork was home to the world-famous astronomer and is a stone-throw away from Gdańsk. Here you can tour and marvel at his home and observatory.

Architecture in this part of Poland is nothing if not charming. Frombork offers some lovely examples of this, but the star of the show has to be the cathedral. Well worth a visit even if you are not a fan of astronomy!

For the complete Copernicus set, you could also merge your Gdańsk trip with one down to Krakow. Read my city guide here to help you plan it!

9. Białowieża Forest

Don’t worry nature fans, there is something for you too! Aside from spotting rare birds in the Hel Peninsula, you can also get your wildlife fix a few hours outside of Gdańsk.

The Białowieża Forest is yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the last primeval forests in Europe. Spend your time hiking along the winding paths and maybe you can catch a glimpse of the rare European bison.

The drive here is about four hours or so, but I promise it is well worth it!

10. Gdańsk Bay

No guide to day trips from Gdańsk could leave out the city itself! Why not spend a relaxed day on a boat exploring the bay? There are a good few tour operators to choose from and the cruises take you all along the coast. Marvel at the historic lighthouses, coastal scenery and even seal colonies!

Make sure that you pick your tour carefully; some will even stop at nearby towns such as Puck. You may be able to get a tasty Polish lunch out of it too.

There really is something for everyone on day trips from Gdańsk for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture or nature, the city has you covered.

I hope that this helps and, as ever, if you need further advice just ask!

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10 Day Trips from Gdańsk