Amazing Poland Trip in Lower Silesia: 19 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Gdańsk

Must-try foods in Gdańsk

• Baltic Herring (Śledź)
  Baltic Herring (Śledź)Gdańsk's most essential local specialty, reflecting its Hanseatic maritime history. It is served in numerous styles: 'po kaszubsku' (Kashubian style) with a sweet-and-sour tomato and onion sauce, marinated in oil with onions, or served as a fresh tartare. For an authentic 2026 experience.
• Pierogi stuffed with Baltic Fish
  Pierogi stuffed with Baltic FishWhile traditional meat and potato pierogi are everywhere, Gdańsk’s trendy 2026 twist involves fillings of Baltic cod, salmon, or smoked eel. Renowned spots like Mandu or Stary Młyn offer these seaside variations, often served with a delicate dill sauce or in a light fish broth, bridging the gap between classic Polish comfort and coastal freshness.
• Kashubian Duck (Kaczka po kaszubsku)
  Kashubian Duck (Kaczka po kaszubsku)A regional masterpiece from the surrounding Pomeranian countryside. The duck is typically slow-roasted until the skin is perfectly crisp and the meat tender, often served with apples, marjoram, and a side of red cabbage or potato dumplings (kopytka). Modern chefs in Gdańsk are currently trending toward aging the duck in sea-salt caves for deeper flavor.
• Zupa Rybna (Gdańsk Fish Soup)
  Zupa Rybna (Gdańsk Fish Soup)Unlike the creamy versions found elsewhere, a true Gdańsk fish soup is often a clear, aromatic broth made from several types of Baltic fish. It is seasoned with root vegetables and fresh herbs. It’s the ultimate 'fisherman’s lunch' and a staple on the menus of waterfront restaurants overlooking the historic Crane.
• Pączki
  PączkiThese are not just doughnuts; they are a local obsession. The 2026 trend favors traditional plum or rose hip fillings, but newer favorites like pistachio and 'Kinder Bueno' have gained massive popularity. Locals queue daily at the small windows on Plac Dominikański for these pillowy, hand-formed treats served warm.
• Żurek in Bread Bowls
  Żurek in Bread BowlsA fermented rye flour soup that is a pillar of Polish cuisine. In Gdańsk, it is traditionally served with white sausage, boiled eggs, and plenty of garlic and horseradish. For the full 'tourist-turned-local' experience, it must be ordered in a hollowed-out loaf of crusty rye bread, which absorbs the tangy broth.

Trip guide

• About Gdańsk
  About GdańskGdańsk is a port city on the Baltic coast of Poland with a recorded history dating to 997 CE. Historically, the city served as a primary member of the Hanseatic League, functioning as a center for maritime trade in grain and timber. The architectural landscape of the Main Town (Główne Miasto) consists largely of post-1945 reconstructions, as approximately 90% of the city center was destroyed during World War II.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Gdańsk is from late May to September, when the weather is mildest and the city is most vibrant. July and August are peak months for beach weather and the massive St. Dominic’s Fair, though you should expect higher prices and larger crowds; for a quieter experience with pleasant temperatures, the shoulder months of May, June.
• Getting around
  Getting around Gdańsk

  • Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN) and Rail Fly into the international airport located 12km from the city center, then take the Pomorska Kolej Metropolitalna (PKM) train or the ZTM bus line 210 directly to the Gdańsk Główny main railway station.
  • SKM Tricity Rapid Transit Trains Utilize the Szybka Kolej Miejska (SKM) commuter rail system for fast, frequent travel between Gdańsk, Sopot, and Gdynia; tickets must be validated on the platform before boarding the train.
  • ZTM Tram and Bus Network Navigate the city using an extensive network of modern trams and buses; use the 'Jakdojade' mobile app to purchase integrated electronic tickets and view real-time departures for all local routes.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always validate your paper ticket immediately after boarding a bus or tram to avoid heavy fines from plainclothes inspectors.
  • When paying by card in restaurants, state the total amount you wish to pay including the tip before the server processes the transaction.
  • Wait for everyone at the table to be served and for the host to say 'Smacznego' before you begin eating your meal.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Gdańsk

  • European Capital of Gastronomic Culture 2025-2026: A city-wide celebration featuring the 5th European Congress on Gastronomy and the 'Memory and Future' culinary festival.
  • Montownia Food Hall: A viral industrial-chic spot in the historic shipyard district, trending for its diverse global street food stalls and creative pop-ups.
• Go2Warsaw↗
  Go2WarsawThe official tourist portal of the Capital City of Warsaw, providing comprehensive guides to the historic Śródmieście district and its many attractions.