Gdansk, Poland

Rail Guide to Gdansk

Going to Gdansk?

Use our Trip Planner and start your trip here.

Information

Currency	Złoty (PLN)
Local language	Polish
Country	Poland

Home

Maps & Stations

How far to...

Introduction

Although Gdansk with approximately 460,000 inhabitants is only the sixth largest city in Poland in terms of population, it is hugely influential as an economic centre. Gdansk is the country’s largest seaport as well as being the capital of the Pomeranian voivodeship (administrative region).

Originally, Gdansk was inhabited mainly by Germans, to such an extent that it became a province of the Kingdom of Prussia in 1792, followed by the German Empire and finally became part of Poland in 1919. Despite this transfer, Gdansk was widely known by its German name, Danzig, until the end of the Second World War.

Modern Gdansk is a vitally important industrial city and an active seaport, which ensures that its popularity and population continue to grow every year.

Things to do

There is no shortage of amazing buildings for tourists to enjoy when visiting Gdansk. Most of these buildings are from the Hanseatic League period and are situated along the Ulica Dluga or Dlugi Targ (Long Street or Long Market). This area of the city is more commonly known as the Royal Way, as it was through these streets that any kings visiting the city used to progress. Both ends of the street have magnificent city gates that are a tourist attraction in themselves.

Other attractions of note on this street include the Torture House, the Prison Tower, the Main Town Hall and the Neptune Fountain.

Given its strong ship-building heritage, it is unsurprising that there is a museum ship anchored on one of the many rivers. The SS Soldek is open for visitors and is permanently situated on the Motlawa River.

Local transport

Transport around the city is still relatively basic. A moderately efficient bus service is available although this does not cover all of the suburban areas of the city. The buses tend not to run to timetable which can add an interesting dimension to getting around! Taxis are reasonably widely available and are generally considered safe and good value.

Getting to the city is, by contrast, reasonably easy with an airport, port and railway line from which to choose. Of course, the port is largely industrial, so tourists tend to rely on the airport and railway, both of which offer efficiency and cost-effectiveness.