Where to stay in Gdańsk for First-Timers

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Gdańsk is one of the most affordable city-break destinations in Europe. That means you can often stay somewhere central—right in the heart of the historic district—without stretching your budget. The Old Town is compact and very walkable, so choosing a well-located base makes it easy to explore at your own pace.

I’ve visited Gdańsk twice and stayed in the Old Town both times—once on the lively Long Market and once on beautiful Mariacka Street. There’s something magical about stepping straight out into cobbled lanes and pastel-coloured façades, with the city’s history all around you.

That said, the area along the Motława River would also be a lovely place to stay. Many hotels offer views back toward the Old Town’s spires and gables, and the riverside promenade has a more open, relaxed feel—especially in the evenings.

In this guide, I’ll help you choose the best area to stay in Gdańsk for your first visit, with recommendations tailored to different travel styles and budgets.

💡 If I were booking today…
I’ve stayed in the Old Town twice and loved being so central. If I were planning a return trip, I’d be seriously tempted by Apartament Deo Plaza — it’s right on the riverside, views to die for, and just a short walk to everything.

Not sure where to start? I’ve pulled together a comparison table of 12 great places to stay, including luxury hotels, riverside apartments, and budget-friendly charmers.

Prison Tower in Gdańsk’s Old Town, with its ornate spire and colorful facades, framed by historic buildings under a bright blue sky.

Best Areas to Stay in Gdańsk for First-Time Visitors

Main Town (Główne Miasto) – The Historic Heart of Gdańsk

If it’s your first time in Gdańsk, there’s nowhere more atmospheric to stay than Główne Miasto—the beautifully restored Main Town. This is where you’ll find the Long Market, Neptune’s Fountain, Artus Court and Mariacka Street, all within a short stroll of one another. The architecture is stunning, the cafés and amber shops are inviting, and the city’s history is easy to appreciate as you wander through its streets.

Gdansk’s incredible museums, such as The Museum of the Second World War and the European Solidarity Centre can be reached within a x minute walk or easy public transport connections.

Staying here puts you right in the centre of everything. It’s perfect for travellers who enjoy exploring early in the morning or soaking up the city lights after dinner. You won’t need public transport—just comfortable shoes and your camera.

Both of my stays in Gdańsk were in this area—one apartment facing the lively Long Market, and another tucked into the quieter end of Mariacka Street. While I loved the convenience and character, it’s worth noting that many historic buildings don’t have air conditioning or soundproofing. In summer, you may face a choice between sleeping with open windows (and dealing with street noise) or closing them and waking up uncomfortably warm. If that’s a concern, check the amenities carefully before booking.

Despite these small compromises, staying in Główne Miasto offers the most immersive experience. If your budget allows, I recommend making the most of it.

Main Town (Główne Miasto) Summary

Pros:

Unbeatable location for sightseeing
Beautiful historic architecture and atmosphere
Easy access to restaurants, museums and walking tours
Ideal for early morning strolls and enjoying the city at night

Cons:

Can be noisy at night, especially in summer
Some apartments lack air conditioning or soundproofing
Limited space for larger hotels or modern amenities

Neptune’s Fountain stands in Gdańsk’s Long Market, with the ornate white facade of Artus Court behind it, framed by historic townhouses and trees — *Neptune’s Fountain standing in front of Artus Court.*

Riverside (Motława Waterfront & Granary Island)

Just a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town, the area along the Motława River offers another excellent option for first-time visitors. This includes the Długie Pobrzeże promenade on the historic side, and Granary Island (Wyspa Spichrzów) just across the footbridges. It’s a scenic and lively part of the city, with wide pedestrian walkways, river views, and a mix of restored historic buildings and new developments.

One of the standout landmarks here is the medieval Gdańsk Crane (Żuraw)—once the largest working crane in the world and a symbol of the city’s Hanseatic past. Staying nearby means you can enjoy views of this striking wooden structure from your hotel or evening riverside stroll.

Many of the hotels in this area are more modern than those in the Main Town, so you’re more likely to find conveniences like air conditioning, lifts, and better soundproofing. Several properties also offer river-facing rooms with postcard-perfect views back toward the Old Town’s gables and spires.

The area has a slightly more spacious, relaxed feel than the tight lanes of Główne Miasto, especially in the evenings when the promenade fills with people strolling, dining, or taking river cruises. It’s ideal if you want to stay close to the action without being right in the middle of it.

Riverside Area Summary

Pros:

Scenic views of the Old Town and waterfront
Close to main attractions but often quieter at night
More modern hotels with better amenities
Great dining options along the river

Cons:

Slightly less historic character on Granary Island
Can feel touristy in high season
Some areas are still under development

Gdańsk Neighborhood & Attractions Map

Use this interactive map to see all the hotels, attractions, and restaurants mentioned in this post—perfect for planning your stay and finding your way around Gdańsk.

Best Hotels in Gdańsk for First-Time Visitors

Luxury Hotels (PLN 700+ / USD 170+)

Hotel Gdańsk Boutique

📍 Riverside (Granary Island, near marina)
A stylish hotel combining a restored 18th-century granary with a sleek modern wing. Known for its on-site brewery and marina views.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 8–9 minutes
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 7–9 minutes ( 24 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: On-site (paid, limited ) |🛗 Lift: Yes | ❄️ A/C: Yes

👉 Check availability for Hotel Gdańsk Boutique

Radisson Blu Hotel, Gdańsk

📍 Dlugi Targ (Main Town)
Modern comfort right on the Long Market. Excellent location for sightseeing and dining, with quiet rooms at the rear and historic facades out front.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 1 minute (it’s practically next door)
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 6–8 minutes ( 21 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: On-site (paid) |🛗 Lift: Yes | ❄️ A/C: Yes

👉 Book now for Radisson Blu Hotel

Podewils Old Town Gdańsk

📍 Old Town (but across the river – quiet historic setting near the Crane)
A charming Baroque manor house with period decor, riverside views, and personalised service. Historic feel without being far from the action.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 7–8 minutes
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 8–10 minutes (23 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: On-site (paid) 🛗 Lift: No – upper floors accessible by stairs | ❄️ A/C: Yes

👉 Check current rates for Podewils Old Town Gdańsk

The Main Town Hall in Gdansk, Poland, featuring its striking Gothic-Renaissance architecture with a tall, ornate clock tower set against a clear blue sky. — *Main Town Hall*

Mid-Range Hotels (PLN 320–650 / USD 90–170)

IBB Hotel Gdańsk

📍 Dlugi Targ (Main Town)
Modern rooms behind a handsome historic façade right on the Long Market. Great location for sightseeing, with stylish interiors and helpful staff.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 1–2 minutes
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 6–8 minutes (20 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: On-site (paid) | 🛗 Lift: Yes | ❄️ A/C: Yes

👉 See photos and availability for IBB Hotel Gdańsk

Gotyk House

📍 Mariacka Street (Main Town)
Stay in one of the oldest houses in Gdańsk, full of Gothic charm and antique furnishings. A true heritage experience with lots of character.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 2–3 minutes
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 5–7 minutes (17 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: On-site (paid) | 🛗 Lift: No | ❄️ A/C: Yes
(Best for travellers who value history and charm over modern comforts.)

👉 Book now for Gotyk House

Hotel Number One by Grano

📍 Granary Island (Riverside)
A smart, contemporary hotel with great facilities including a wellness centre and indoor pool. Slightly set back from the river but still very central.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 6–7 minutes
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 7–9 minutes (26 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: On-site (paid) | 🛗 Lift: Yes | ❄️ A/C: Yes

👉 Check availability for Hotel Number One by Grano

Apartments / Aparthotels (Good for Longer Stays)

Deo Plaza Luxury Apartments by Blue Mandarin

📍 Granary Island (Riverside)
Modern, serviced apartments in a stylish riverside complex with restaurants, cafes and footbridge access to the Old Town. Many units have partial river views.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 5–6 minutes
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 6–8 minutes (23 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: On-site (paid) | 🛗 Lift: Yes | ❄️ A/C: Yes

👉 Check availability for Deo Plaza Luxury Apartments

Apart Neptun

📍 Main Town (just behind Neptune’s Fountain)
A long-standing favourite for travellers who want an unbeatable central location. Rooms are apartment-style but operate more like a hotel, with 24/7 reception.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 1 minute
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 5–7 minutes (19 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: On-site (paid) | 🛗 Lift: Yes | ❄️ A/C: Yes
(Some rooms face a quiet courtyard; check room type when booking.)

👉 See photos and availability for Apart Neptun

BE IN GDANSK Apartments – Studio Mariacka

📍 Mariacka Street (Main Town)
Stylish, modern apartments in one of the most atmospheric streets in Gdańsk. Great for travellers who want charm and independence without compromising location.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 2–3 minutes
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 6–8 minutes (17 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: No on-site parking | 🛗 Lift: No | ❄️ A/C: No

👉 Book now for Be IN GDANSK Apartments – Studio Mariacka

Budget Stays (PLN under 320 / USD under 90)

Kobza Haus Old Town

📍 Old Town (near St. Mary’s Church)
A well-kept, affordable hotel with classic décor and a great location just a few streets back from the riverfront. Simple, quiet, and ideal for short stays.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 4–5 minutes
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 5–7 minutes (23 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: On-site (paid) | 🛗 Lift: Yes | ❄️ A/C: Yes

👉 Check availability for Kobza Haus Old Town

Dom Schumannów

📍 Dlugi Targ (Main Town)
You couldn’t get more central—this small guesthouse is right on the Long Market with rooms that overlook the Neptune Fountain. Ideal for location-focused travellers.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 0 minutes (it’s literally outside)
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 5–7 minutes (18 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: No on-site parking | 🛗 Lift: No | ❄️ A/C: No
(Best for light packers who want charm, not frills.)

👉 Book now for Dom Schumannów

Loft Apartments

📍 Granary Island (Riverside)
Modern self-catering apartments in a new development across the river from the Old Town. Great value for couples or longer stays, with clean, contemporary design.

🚶‍♂️ Walk to Neptune’s Fountain: 6–7 minutes
🚖 Taxi to Gdańsk Główny: 4-6 minutes (11 minutes on foot)
🚗 Parking: On-site (paid) | 🛗 Lift: No | ❄️ A/C: No

👉 Check availability for Loft Apartments

Where to Stay in Gdańsk – Compare Hotels and Apartments

Accommodation	Location	Walk to Neptune’s Fountain	Parking	Lift	A/C	Check Rates
⭐ Luxury
Hotel Gdańsk Boutique	Riverside (Granary Island)	5–6 min	On-site (paid)	Yes	Yes	🔗 Check Rates
Radisson Blu Hotel	Main Town (Dlugi Targ)	1 min	On-site (paid)	Yes	Yes	🔗 Check Rates
Podewils Old Town Gdańsk	Old Town (by the Crane)	7–8 min	On-site (free)	No	Yes	🔗 Check Rates
🏨 Mid-Range
IBB Hotel Gdańsk	Main Town (Dlugi Targ)	1–2 min	On-site (paid)	Yes	Yes	🔗 Check Rates
Gotyk House	Main Town (Mariacka St)	2–3 min	On-site (paid)	No	Yes	🔗 Check Rates
Hotel Number One by Grano	Riverside (Granary Island)	6–7 min	On-site (paid)	Yes	Yes	🔗 Check Rates
🏘️ Apartments
Deo Plaza Luxury Apartments	Riverside (Granary Island)	5–6 min	On-site (paid)	Yes	Yes	🔗 Check Rates
Apart Neptun	Main Town	1 min	On-site (paid)	Yes	Yes	🔗 Check Rates
BE IN GDANSK Apartments	Main Town (Mariacka St)	2–3 min	No	Yes	Yes	🔗 Check Rates
💸 Budget
Kobza Haus Old Town	Main Town	4–5 min	On-site (paid)	Yes	Yes	🔗 Check Rates
Dom Schumannów	Main Town (Dlugi Targ)	0 min	No	No	No	🔗 Check Rates
Loft Apartments	Riverside (Granary Island)	6–7 min	On-site (paid)	No	No	🔗 Check Rates

Where to Eat Near Your Gdańsk Hotel

Gdańsk has a growing food scene with plenty of options, but here are four places where I personally enjoyed a good meal. Each one offered something memorable—whether for the setting, the service, or the food itself.

Mojito Cafe & Restaurant – A lively Cuban-inspired restaurant located on Długi Targ, serving Latin fusion dishes and tropical cocktails in the heart of Gdańsk’s Old Town. Their ribs are so good that Mr FYT has ordered them twice!
Geneza Jedzenia i Wina – A modern bistro blending Polish and international flavors, known for its elegant plating and seasonal ingredients. I can recommend their Cosmoplitan.
Pierogarnia Stary Mlyn Gdansk – A cozy spot in Gdańsk’s Old Town serving traditional Polish pierogi with generous fillings and rustic charm.
Pyra Bar – A laid-back eatery dedicated to all things potato, from crispy pancakes to hearty casseroles, with vegan options too.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Gdańsk

Gdańsk is a pleasure to explore on foot, and choosing the right location can make your stay more convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable. Whether you base yourself in the heart of the Main Town or opt for a quieter spot by the river, you’ll have easy access to the city’s key sights, waterfront and historic streets.

I’ve stayed in the Old Town on both of my visits, and appreciated being able to step straight into the city’s most atmospheric areas. That said, the riverside also offers a great balance of views, modern hotels, and easy access to everything on foot.

Since Gdańsk is such an affordable destination, it’s well worth booking somewhere that enhances your stay—whether that means character, comfort, or convenience.

If you’re still planning your itinerary, take a look at my guide to the best things to do in Gdańsk, or follow my 2-day Gdańsk itinerary to see how everything fits together. And if you’re staying a little longer, don’t miss my recommendations for the 3 best day trips from Gdańsk—including a moving visit to Westerplatte and the extraordinary Malbork Castle.

The Green Gate in Gdansk, a historic building with a red-tiled roof and ornate architectural details, featuring multiple windows and three archways at the base. — *Green Gate*

FAQs for Where to Stay in Gdańsk

What’s the best area to stay in Gdańsk for first-time visitors?

Most first-timers stay in the Main Town (Old Town) or just across the river on Granary Island. Both areas are walkable and close to major sights and restaurants.

Is it worth staying in the Old Town?

Yes—Gdańsk is affordable, so it’s worth booking somewhere central. You’ll be able to walk to everything and enjoy the city at different times of day without needing transport.

Is Granary Island a good place to stay?

It’s a great alternative—just a short footbridge from the Old Town, with modern hotels, river views, and a slightly quieter atmosphere.

Do I need air conditioning in summer?

Possibly. Gdańsk summers are mild, but older buildings may lack A/C. In July and August, it’s worth checking whether your hotel has it.

Are lifts common in Gdańsk hotels?

Not always. Many older or historic buildings don’t have lifts, especially in the Old Town. If stairs are a concern, check the listing before you book.

How do I get from the airport to the city centre?

Gdańsk airport is about 30 minutes away. You can take a taxi, SKM train, or public bus. Taxis are inexpensive, and many hotels offer transfers.

Can I take day trips from Gdańsk?

Yes—trains and buses make it easy to visit places like Malbork Castle, Westerplatte, or Sopot. You don’t need a car for these trips.

Where to stay in Gdańsk for First-Timers

Best Areas to Stay in Gdańsk for First-Time Visitors