Get ready for fairytale scenery, cosy Polish traditions and rich history, as you explore the dazzling city of Gdansk this winter. Plus, there’s a less touristy vibe than in other European cities, so you can wander without the crowds.  

Here are just some of the reasons we love Gdansk during the Christmas season... 

Festive atmosphere 

It’s impossible to not feel Christmassy when you’re in Gdansk in the winter. Picture the scene: twinkling lights, wooden stalls and the buzz of locals and tourists mingling. You can get wrapped up warm and cosy in the Baltic chill, and if you’re lucky, there might even be a sprinkling of snow on the ground! 

Christmas markets 

They’re the real star of the show here! You’ll find the city’s main Christmas market in Targ Węglowy, AKA Coal Market Square, and it’s one of the prettiest in Poland. Surrounded by colourful Hanseatic buildings, the markets glow with lights and there’s a hum of festive tunes. One of the main highlights is the life-sized advent calendar, but there’s also a giant Christmas tree and traditional carousel.  

Souvenirs to buy 

Want to take a piece of Gdansk home with you? Or looking for quirky Christmas gifts? You’re sure to find something amazing here. Gdansk and the surrounding region are famous for Baltic amber jewellery, and there’s a whole host of handcrafted ceramics and intricate wooden ornaments to pick up too.  

When it comes to edible and drinkable gifts, traditional Polish gingerbread, and Goldwasser liqueur should be top of your list!  

Sights and landmarks 

Gdansk’s top sights blend Gothic and Renaissance-style architecture with its rich maritime heritage and Hanseatic charm, making it one of Europe’s most captivating and historically rich cities – just perfect for exploring! 

Start at the Old Town and you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to see. At its centre, you’ll find the Long Market (Długi Targ), which is a lively street lined with colourful merchant houses, leading to the iconic Neptune’s Fountain, a symbol of the city’s connection to the sea. Nearby, see the magnificent Artus Court. It was once a meeting place for merchants and is now a museum filled with Gothic treasures! 

The Golden Gate and Green Gate mark the entrances to the Royal Route, which adds grandeur to the city’s skyline. Just beyond, you can stroll the Motława River embankment and take in picturesque views of the medieval Gdansk Crane (Żuraw), once the largest port crane in Europe and a testament to the city’s seafaring past. 

Want to see the skyline from above? Head to a rooftop bar to see it in all its glory. Dominating it is St. Mary’s Church, one of the largest brick churches in the world. You can also head up to the tower for more panoramic views!  

For a more modern take on things, the European Solidarity Centre tells the story of the Solidarity movement that changed Poland’s course in the 1980s. 

Why not see how many sights you can tick off!  

Food and drink to try 

Polish cuisine is all about hearty and flavourful dishes that are deeply rooted in tradition. One thing that is a must-try, and something you’ll see on most menus, is pierogi. These delicious dumplings can be filled with meat, cheese or seasonal vegetables like mushrooms and cabbage, and are often served with sour cream. 

Bigos, AKA ‘hunter’s stew’, features a warming blend of sauerkraut, cabbage and meats, and is the perfect dish to warm up on a chilly day. Zurek, a sour rye soup with sausage and egg, is another Polish classic that will do the same.  

You’ll find oscypek cheese on many of the market stalls too, and it’s a great option for an on-the-go-snack. It’s rich and smoky and packed full of flavour. Street-food lovers should also grab a zapiekanka – a baguette-style pizza topped with mushrooms and cheese.  

When it comes to sweet things, sernik (Polish cheesecake) and pączki (filled doughnuts) are favourites among the locals. If you’re at the markets, be sure to grab a zingy gingerbread (pierniki) to eat as you wander.  

To drink, enjoy kompot (fruit punch), mulled wine (grzaniec), local craft beers or traditional vodka, especially flavoured varieties like cherry or honey – they pack a real punch! 

Unmissable events 

The Christmas market comes to town from mid-November to early January, with daily openings of its advent calendar revealing surprises throughout December.  

If you’ve got kids in tow, they can visit Santa in the special festive room at the markets and snap souvenir photos with the big man himself. Sit on his throne then get cosy photos by the fireplace.  

On the main stage, there’s Theatre Tuesdays, Singing Wednesdays, Family Thursdays, Dancing Fridays and Magic Weekends to look forward to – that's a whole weekly calendar of fun-filled events for all the family! 

If you’re feeling brave on New Year’s Day, why not kickstart the new year and join the locals for a refreshing plunge in the Baltic Sea? It’s a festive tradition that’s been taking place for decades!  

In the mood for a festive city break to remember? Look no further than Gdansk...