Today we’re introducing you to the modern and yet historic seaport city of Gdynia on the Baltic coast of Poland. Gdynia was founded only in the 1920s as a small fishing village and today has become a dazzling metropolitan holiday destination. Tourists are tempted by the beautiful sandy beaches, quiet nature walks, and numerous sightseeing spots. In the summer months, there are many excellent world-class events that take place. It’s here that the Heineken Open’er Festival found its home where over 100,000 people gather in Gdynia to celebrate. Add this to the ever-growing list of museums, theatres, and cultural events and you can see why Gdynia has become an important hub for Poland. So, without further ado let us introduce you to one of our favorite areas of this fascinating country and together discover the best things to do in Gdynia, Poland.
1. Learn about local history at the insightful Gdynia Naval Museum
With a strong focus on the history of the Polish Navy, this museum is a great option if you are interested in learning more about it. You can easily spend an afternoon browsing through the 20,000 artifacts of war used by the Polish navy. There are numerous events in the calendar throughout the year. The museum has both constant exhibitions and they are regularly introducing new ones. This means that even if you have been once, the next time you go will be different! For the full experience, reserve a guided tour.
Gdynia Naval Museum
Address: Zawiszy Czarnego 1B, 81-374 Gdynia, Poland
Website: Gdynia Naval Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 5pm; Tue: 10am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
Price: Tue: Free; Wed - Sun: 3 USD
2. Pay a visit to Dar Pomorza
One absolute must-see is the Dar Pomorza boat which is based at the Statek-muzeum. Also known as the White Frigate, this huge boat was built in 1909 and originally spent its early years as a training ship for the German merchant navy. The boat also spent time with the French in World War I. In 1929 it was given the name of Dar Pomorza and came to rest in Gdynia. It since did 51 years’ worth of service with the Polish Merchant Navy before being formally drawn from service in 1982. There are many exciting things to see on board, not just in relation to the navy but also in terms of how people lived through the ages.
Statek-muzeum "Dar Pomorza"
Address: al. Jana Pawła II, 81-345 Gdynia, Poland
Website: Statek-muzeum “Dar Pomorza”
3. See the popular Gdynia Beach from your own boat
If you’re looking for an activity that is a little bit more exhilarating, we recommend boating on Gdynia Beach. We love that this family-friendly beach is just a stone’s throw away from downtown so it is easily accessible. The waters are clean and you can see many beautiful sights. Gdynia is known as the boating capital of Poland so be sure to do your research on the type of boat excursion that you want. There are many boat rental companies and official tours to choose from.
Gdynia Beach
Address: Gdynia Beach, Gdynia, Poland
Website: Gdynia Beach
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
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4. Delve into the stories of Polish families at Emigration Museum
This fascinating museum only opened up in 2015 and since has been welcoming throngs of visitors through its doors. Poland has a large diaspora count across the world and this museum goes some way to document some of the movements, reasons, and individual stories of emigrants. You can also learn the historical political and economic circumstances which have affected the people of Poland. We’d recommend that you take two or three hours to enjoy the museum to its full extent. There are also free guided tours you can join.
Emigration Museum
Address: Gdynia 81-339, Polska 1 St.
Website: Emigration Museum
Opening hours: Tue: 12pm - 8pm; Wed - Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 3 USD (Free admission on Wed)
5. Learn about the past at Museum of Gdynia (from USD 230.11)
The Museum of Gydnia is an excellent stop along this fun seven-hour tour which includes many other fascinating sites. The museum offers an insight into the past and present lives of people in Poland. There are regular exhibitions and rotating sessions. You can expect to see photographic exhibitions, art exhibitions, talks, and much more. With a key focus on education for the future, the museum is regularly hosting unique events. Be sure to check online for your visit.
Highlights of Gdańsk, Gdynia and Sopot 1-day Private Tour
Duration: 7.0 hour
6. Stroll hand-in-hand along Orlowo Pier
This pretty little area is a great spot to head to on a sunny day. Stroll down the 180-meter (590 feet) long pier and enjoy the sights around you. We’d recommend taking a picnic and get ready for some fun Instagram pictures. The site is popular so it can get busy with fellow tourists. Once you’ve walked along the pier, why not check out one of the many walking trails in the area.
Orłowo Pier
Address: Orłowska, 81-980 Gdynia, Poland
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Discover the heart of Gdynia at Kosciuszko Square
In Polish, the square is ‘Skwer Kościuszki’ and it’s very easy to find. With many local eateries and shops and its close location to the beaches, this is an interesting area for tourists to discover. From here you can also easily walk to many of the other sites that we’ve listed. Most people would recommend Kosciuszko Square for a walk, but be warned, in the summer months it can get extremely crowded. At this time, we suggest grabbing ice-cream from one of the many delicious eateries and sitting by the coast to watch the world pass by.
8. Experience the highlights of Gdynia on this seven-hour tour (from USD 227.0)
ORP Błyskawica is an old Polish destroyer that was in service during the Second World War. This fascinating ship is an absolute must-see when in the area. A great way to see the ORP Błyskawica is to take a tour that includes many other local tourist hotspots nearby. One option is this seven-hour tour which is led by a fully licensed tour guide who will be able to tell you both the history and local tidbits of insider information about ORP Błyskawica and additional stops including Gydnia Museum, and many more historical buildings. See other must-visit spots in the Trinity area with stops at Gdansk and Sopot’s top attractions. You’ll also be gifted your very own souvenir photo from the day.
Best of Gdańsk, Gdynia and Sopot in 1-Day Private Car Tour
Duration: 7 hours
9. Spend a day with nature at the Kępa Redłowska nature reserve
This spacious natural area was first created in 1938 to protect the habitat of many animals including badgers, boars, foxes, bats, and many more. There are a number of walking trails with various degrees of ease and accessibility so we’d recommend doing your research before you start out. Spend a few hours strolling around the area and you’ll soon feel like you’re a million miles away from civilization. Rather uniquely instead of an animal, you might discover a WWII bunker as there are a few remaining inside the nature reserve near the coast.
Kępa Redłowska
Address: Kępa Redłowska, Gdynia, Poland
Website: Kępa Redłowska
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
10. Take an interesting ride on a funicular to the summit of Kamienna Góra (Stone Hill)
A ride on the funicular only takes you two minutes to traverse the 96 meters (314 feet) and gifts you with incredible views over Gydnia and beyond. These modern funicular carriages are primarily made of glass so you get some fantastic views. They follow a metal route attached to the ground–it’s a unique ride and one that shouldn’t be missed. The entrance is next to the Music Theatre on Pl. Grunwaldzki.
Kamienna Góra
Address: Plac Grunwaldzki, Gdynia, Poland
Website: Kamienna Góra
Price: Free
11. See the infamous model Al Capone used at Motor Museum
If you’re interested in cars and other transport machines, you won’t want to miss Motor Museum. For us, the highlight of the museum is the Ford T and the Buick Deluxe which is the model used by Al Capone. The museum itself has been molded to look like a street from the 1920s; with facades of tenement houses. There is also a mezzanine area that holds many interesting documents such as maps and engine diagrams that guests can peruse.
Motor Museum
Address: ul. Żwirowa 2c, Gdynia - Chylonia
Website: Motor Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 3 USD
12. Have fun while learning at the interactive Centrum Nauki Experyment
Centrum Nauki Experyment is also known as the Science Centre. This special building is great fun for all the family and has many exhibitions. There are six main exhibitions that deliver information about important topics in engaging and interactive ways. Learning has never been so much fun! In the health section, one of our favorite areas is the Responsible Driver zone where you can play a simulator game that shows you your reaction time under the influence of alcohol. Our second favorite exhibition area is the Tree Of Life. In this zone, you can learn everything about nature. You can even have a running race against lots of different animals.
Centrum Nauki Experyment
Address: aleja Zwycięstwa 96/98, 81-451 Gdynia, Poland
Website: Centrum Nauki Experyment
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 9am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 5 USD
13. Shop at Hala Targowa
We always believe in doing as the locals do. So, what do the locals of Gdynia do? Well, they shop at Hala Targowa, of course. This spacious market hall has lots of different fruit and vegetables and is perfect for restocking your kitchen. Many people say they love shopping here because it adds an element of a ‘human face.’ Not only can you get some delicious ingredients– you can also meet and talk with the people that grew it. It is much better than picking up food from a supermarket–far from the grower and shrouded in too much plastic. But, hey, that’s just us. Go to Hala Targowa and form your own opinion.
Hala Targowa
Address: Wójta Radtkego 36, 81-355 Gdynia, Poland
Website: Hala Targowa
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 6pm; Sat: 8am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
14. Get spooked while exploring Torpedownia Babie Doły
Although a ruin, the Torpedownia Babie Doły is an eerie reminder of the history of World War II. This German torpedo launch station was actively used to test torpedos between 1942 and 1945. There once was a wooden bridge that connected the complex to the mainland but this was blown up to make the area less accessible to people. You can choose to stay on the mainland and look from afar or indeed swim or take a boat across. Remember though, that this building is in ruins and could be deemed unsafe so proceed with caution.
15. Soak up the sunset views from Kamienna Gora
For the best place to see breathtaking sunset views, head to our top recommendation–Kamienna Gora. From this beautiful area, you can enjoy the sunset as you gaze out to sea. We’ve already mentioned on this list about the excellent views from the peak of the mountain but you’ll kick yourself if you miss the sunset from the beach.
Kamiena Gora
Address: Plac Grunwaldzki, Gdynia, Poland
Website: Kamiena Gora
16. Discover tropical species and much more at Gdynia Aquarium
This is quite a small aquarium and can frequently get quite loud and crowded. There are a large number of species on display which are interesting to look at and read about. If you’ve got an hour before closing time you’ll have plenty of freedom to see all of the animals and have a bit more freedom in terms of space. There are not many on-floor staff so if you want to avoid children banging on the glass we’d probably suggest avoiding a weekend visit.
Gdynia Aquarium
Address: al. Jana Pawla II, Gdynia 81-345, Poland
Website: Gdynia Aquarium
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
17. Cheer on your team at Arka Gdynia’s Football Stadium
Stadion GOSiR Gdynia, Poland @arkagdyniassa @mr_trocin Capacity: 15...
Posted by Stadiums.football on Thursday, 5 April 2018
Also known as GOSIR Stadium, this football stadium officially opened in 2011 and has seen many important football matches played out. In total there are over 15,000 seats so it can have a cheerful and loud vibe if the stadium is full of local supporters. In fact, visiting Arka Gdynia’s Football Stadium is a sure-fire way to meet and mingle with some of the locals. It is located on the edge of the city near a big forest area or shopping mall so unless you rent a car you’ll need to take the train. Interested in football? Make sure that you see what games are happening in advance so you don’t miss out.
Arka Gdynia’s Football Stadium
Address: ul. Olimpijska 5, Gdynia 81-538, Poland
18. Catch a new Polish movie at the educational Gdynia Film Center
The impressive Gdynia Film Center is not just the ideal place to watch movies–it is also a hub of educational activities and much more. It has special highlights of Polish films which you may not be able to see elsewhere in the world. During the summertime, you can be sure to see a wide array of outdoor film screenings, concerts and artist meetings. There is even an outdoor concert stage so you can watch live performances. Grab a delicious snack from the on-site restaurant and enjoy your day at the center.
Gdynia Film Center
Address: plac Grunwaldzki 2, 81-365 Gdynia, Poland
Website: Gdynia Film Center
Price: 5 USD (film screenings)
19. See history with your own eyes at the Monument to Displaced Gdynians
Gdynia Displaced Gdynian Monument
Posted by Daborius Black on Saturday, 15 August 2015
During the Nazi takeover in 1939, over 170,000 people were forced to leave Gdynian. There are many heartbreaking stories from the time and so this beautiful monument, which was designed by Paweł Sasin and Adam Dziejowski, tries to highlight them. The statue depicts a mother with a son and daughter walking towards the railway station. The young girl is seen reaching out her hand to the left-behind family pet. The monument was unveiled in 2014 and is a popular landmark.
Monument to Displaced Gdynians
Address: Pl. Gdynian Wysiedlonych, Gdynia, Poland
20. Test out some new tricks at Northern Poland's best skatepark
If you have teenagers or anyone that loves skating or BMX in your company, then Gdynia Skatepark would probably be their first port of call. This popular hangout has a big bowl and lots of ledges. There is a lot of space for everyone to test out new tricks or even just come to grips with learning the basics. Whether you are a beginner or advanced skater or BMXer this site seems very friendly and welcoming so don’t worry, simply grab your kit and head on down.
Gdynia Skatepark
Address: leja Marszałka Piłsudskiego 30, 81-406 Gdynia, Poland
Website: Gdynia Skatepark
21. Get to know another community at Kashubian Square
We love this central location, also known as Plac Kaszubski, which has a very different vibe and culture to the rest of Gdynia. Here you will discover many unique foods and you’ll probably meet a few of the locals. It is marked by the Kashubian Flags which are yellow and black–when you see them, you will know you’re in the right area. The Kashubians are an ethnic group living in Poland, with a very strong community hold in this area. They have their own distinct language and culture which is different from the Polish language and culture in many ways. So, during your trip be sure to explore Kashubian Square–it will feel like a different country.
Kashubian Square
Address: Plac Kaszubski, Gdynia, Poland
Website: Kashubian Square
22. Explore the award-winning Byłskawica Destroyer
This interesting Grom-class destroyer was one of the most heavily armed and fastest destroyers in operation during World War II. The ship was bought to Poland and now serves as a museum to showcase life onboard the ship and the technology used during the war. It is a fascinating museum to walk around and there is plenty to see and discover so everyone in your group can enjoy the day. Interesting, this destroyer received Poland’s highest order in 2012, the Pro Memoria Medal. It is the only Polish Navy ship to receive such a medal.
Byłskawica Destroyer
Address: Aleja Jana Pawla II 1, Gdynia, Poland
Opening Hours: Tue - Sun 10am - 12:30pm, 2pm - 4.30pm (closed Mon)
Price: 4 USD
23. Attend mass at Church of St. Michael the Archangel
Visit this church regardless of whether you would classify yourself as religious, or not. It also makes for a great sightseeing spot. There are two sessions every day during the week and a surprising six sessions on Sundays. We think you’ll love looking at the ornate carvings in the church which was originally built by the Norbertine Order in 1224. The nearby graveyard is the final resting place of Antoni Abraham, a Kashubian activist.
Church of St. Michael the Archangel
Address: 18-17 Sujikaicho, Kishiwada, Osaka 596-0057
Website: Church of St. Michael the Archangel
Opening hours: Open only during Mass and by prior arrangement
24. Feel the rush of adventure at Kolibki Adventure Park Gdynia
If you are looking for some thrill for you and your fellow party members, then we think you’ll love Kolibki Adventure Park in Gdynia. There are so many activities, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Why not try offroad driving or quad trailing. Want to test your wits against the heights? Head to the rope park or the nervewracking Tyrolean traverse. Would you rather tackle your friends? We think the paintballing or shooting range might be better for you.
Kolibki Adventure Park Gdynia
Address: 81-553 Gdynia, ul. Bernadowska 1
Website: Kolibki Adventure Park Gdynia
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
25. Relax and unwind at the beautiful Klif Orłowski
If you or anyone in your party would consider yourselves a nature lover then you do not want to miss Klif Orłowski. This scenic area has the highest cliffs in Northern Poland and plenty of woodland paths perfect for a sunny afternoon stroll. There is even a beach so we’re sure that everyone will be able to have a pleasant and relaxing time. After a busy day exploring Klif Orłowski be sure to stop at one of the nearby restaurants.
Klif Orłowski
Address: Ul. Orlowska, Gdynia, Poland
Website: Klif Orłowski
26. Stroll down Molo Południowe
This 626.45-meter (0.3 miles) pier which is also known as South Pier offers a recreational space for locals and tourists alike. There are many important monuments located nearby alongside excellent eateries and shops. Stand at the far end of the pier and you’ll see the Avenue of Passenger Ships, with many large ships traversing the route. On the right-hand side, you’ll find a sculpture of a dolphin. It is also within walking distance to many other locations on our list.
Molo Południowe
Address: Aleja Jana Pawła II, 81-001 Gdynia, Poland
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
27. Enjoy walking around the beautiful grounds of Forest Botanical Garden Marszewo
There are 16 plant collections at Marszewo and each is as stunning as the last. This site is relatively young, as it was only established in 2010. The area itself has a wide range of species which are primarily split into smaller themed gardens covering 50 hectares (123 acres). On the land is also wide areas of natural forest which consist of mainly hornbeam and beech trees. There is a playground area for children and plenty of parking on site. This is a peaceful yet popular destination for a sunny afternoon.
Forest Botanical Garden Marszewo
Address: Marszewska 5, 81-081 Gdynia, Poland
Website: Forest Botanical Garden Marszewo
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 2pm; Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat)
Price: Free
28. Test your wits with the climbing walls at Triblok
Officially know as Centrum Wspinaczkowe Triblok, this is another entry for the less faint-hearted. At Triblok, you’ll find a number of climbing walls, catering for the absolute beginner to advanced climbers. There are set lessons which you can take part in or you can pay for a single entrance fee and try your best. It’s a great option to have on the list if you are a family traveling with teenagers. An hour of time is the recommended session and then have a rest. Remember your teens can always go back for more!
Centrum Wspinaczkowe Triblok
Address: Partyzantów 34, 81-422 Gdynia, Poland
Website: Centrum Wspinaczkowe Triblok
Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 3pm - 10pm; Sat: 12pm - 8pm
Price: 4 USD
29. See some new and unique theatre at Teatr Gdynia Główna
If you’d much rather keep your feet firmly on the ground, how about enjoying some local theatre instead? Thanks to the fantastic performances available at Teatr Gdynia Główna, your diary will soon be full. There are numerous different styles of performances so we’re sure that there will always be something that you’ll enjoy. This theatre is very popular so we’d recommend booking your tickets in advance.
Teatr Gdynia Główna
Address: plac Konstytucji 1, 81-319 Gdynia, Poland
Website: Teatr Gdynia Główna
Opening hours: Vary depending on show
Price: Vary depending on show
30. Go shopping at Batory Shopping Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Everyone loves to do a little bit of shopping while on holiday. This time we’ll take you to Batory Shopping Center. It is located in the heart of Gydnia, along two of the main streets–you won’t be able to miss it. Inside, you’ll find over 70 different shops and services so you’ll find everything that you need, and probably a little extra. Everything from pharmaceuticals to shoe shops can be found at Batory Shopping Center. We love that there is free WiFi and it is also pet-friendly.
Batory Shopping Center
Address: 10 Lutego 11, 81-366 Gdynia, Poland
Website: Batory Shopping Center
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 8pm
Get your diary ready and start planning your trip to Gdynia, Poland
We’re sure you’ll agree that that list was pretty expansive. But, to be honest, there were definitely more spots that we could have included. We prefer to keep some secrets for you to discover for yourselves. So, if Gdynia has enough to entice you–it certainly does for us–then simply book your accommodation and start planning. Just remember to bookmark this list of top things to do in Gydnia, Poland and you’ll never have a dull moment.
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