Long August weekend in Gdańsk 2025: Your ready-made plan for unforgettable moments
- Damian Brzeski
- Aug 13
- 11 min read
A salty breeze, the sounds of live music, and the final days of the legendary St. Dominic's Fair – Gdańsk during the August long weekend (August 15–17, 2025) is where summer reaches its peak.
Below you will find two ready-made plans – for adults and for families – that will help you make the most of this time.
A long weekend plan for adults – the history, art, and flavors of Tricity
I've prepared this offer with you in mind – whether traveling solo, in a couple, or with friends. We'll focus on a deep dive into the city's history, cultural delights, and discovery of Gdańsk's fantastic culinary scene and nightlife.
Day 1: Friday, August 15 – immersion in history and an evening on the Motława River
The first day is a conscious combination of places with a powerful emotional charge, relaxation, and a romantic evening. A visit to the Museum of the Second World War or the European Solidarity Centre is an intense experience.
To give yourself a moment for reflection, the rest of the day is pure relaxation – a contemplative walk, a gourmet dinner and a view of the city sparkling with lights.
Morning at the shipyard (9:00 - 13:00)
European Solidarity Centre (ECS) : Let's start with a place without which a visit to Gdańsk simply isn't complete. The building itself, with its rusting sheet metal walls reminiscent of ship hulls, is striking. Inside, a permanent exhibition awaits you, spanning nearly 3,000 square meters and telling the moving story of Solidarity and the fall of communism in Europe.
Practical info : Address: Solidarności Square 1. In August, the ECS is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. A standard ticket costs PLN 30. A tip from the heart : buy your ticket online in advance to avoid the long lines.
A Stroll Through the Shipyard : To truly experience the spirit of the place, after visiting the ECS, be sure to take a stroll through the former Gdańsk Shipyard. The real treasures are the tours led by former shipyard workers – their personal recollections offer an authentic perspective you won't find in any guidebook.
Practical info : Tours usually depart from the historic Gate No. 2 and last approximately 1.5 hours. The cost is a donation (approximately 25 PLN). Reservations are absolutely essential!
An Afternoon with the Past (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Museum of the Second World War : Another must-see on any Gdańsk map. The monumental structure of the museum houses one of the largest historical exhibitions in the world. Located 14 meters underground, it tells the tragedy of war in an incredibly moving way.
Practical information : Address: Władysław Bartoszewskiego Square 1. Open 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. during the summer season. A standard ticket costs 32 PLN. Absolutely crucial : buy tickets online to avoid spending hours in line. Also, rent an audio guide (12 PLN) – it's really worth it.
Connoisseur's Evening (from 7:00 p.m.)
Fine Dining Dinner : After a day of reflection, it's time for a feast for the senses. Gdańsk has much to be proud of!
Fino (ul. Grząska 1): A hidden gem for those seeking culinary experiences.
Canis (ul. Ogarna 27): Modern Polish cuisine and live music in a historic tenement house.
Mercato (at the Hilton Gdańsk): Excellent cuisine and one of the best views of the Motława River.
AmberSky Observation Wheel Walk : Top off your evening with a ride on the 50-meter-high observation wheel. The panoramic view of the illuminated Main Town from this vantage point is simply breathtaking.
Practical info : You'll find the wheel on Ołowianka Island. A standard ticket costs approximately 35-39 PLN.
Day 2: Saturday, August 16 – Fair, art and craft beers
This day is the essence of the St. Dominic Fair , but from the perspective of a seeker of antiques, unique crafts and authentic flavors.
Then we'll smoothly transition to the artistic heart of Gdańsk – Mariacka Street – and in the evening we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant craft beer scene.
Morning at the St. Dominic's Fair (10:00 - 14:00)
Focus on crafts and antiques : Saturday is the penultimate day of the fair, which means it's all about last-minute bargains. Instead of getting caught up in the general hustle and bustle, I have a different strategy for you: focus on the themed areas – the streets with antiques, handicrafts, and designer jewelry. This is your chance to find some real gems.
Cultural events at the fair : Check out the schedule of classical music concerts and shows as part of the Pomeranian Craft Festival. There's a lot going on!
Afternoon on Mariacka Street (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
Amber Festival : Mariacka Street, considered one of the most beautiful in Europe, is the heart of Gdańsk's amber industry. Walking along its cobblestones, admiring its ornately decorated porches, is pure poetry.
Amber Workshops : Want something more? Take part in a workshop! At workshops like Amber Miraculum (ul. Mariacka 40/41-42/43), you can polish amber yourself. It's not just a souvenir, but also a deeper understanding of the "gold of the Baltic."
An evening in the rhythm of craft (from 6:00 p.m.)
Beer Pilgrimage : Gdańsk is a true mecca for beer lovers. Evenings are the perfect time to embark on a short pilgrimage to the best pubs. 🍺
Pułapka (ul. Straganiarska 2): A cult place with an impressive list of beers on tap.
Brovarnia (Hotel Gdańsk, ul. Szafarnia 9): The oldest brewery restaurant where you can try beers brewed on site in historic interiors.
Rajców Cellar (ul. Długi Targ 44): A unique location in the Gothic basement right next to the Neptune Fountain.
Alternative: The World of Cocktails in Wrzeszcz : Prefer mixology? Hop on the SKM train and travel to Wrzeszcz.
Eliksir (ul. Mariana Hemara 1): A true temple of taste, known for food pairing – matching original cocktails to dishes.
Mimosa : Cozy interior and a creative cocktail menu. The perfect place for an evening out.
Day 3: Sunday, August 17 – a view from the water and a farewell to the city
The final day offers a change of perspective. Seeing the city from the water allows you to appreciate its beauty from a completely new angle, providing a relaxing, perfect conclusion to an intense weekend.
Gdańsk from a kayak perspective (10:00 - 13:00)
Rafting on the Motława River : Rent a kayak and paddle through the heart of the Main Town. It's a completely different perspective and, believe me, an unforgettable experience. 🛶 The route leads along the Long Embankment, past the Crane, Granaries, and the "Sołdek" museum ship.
Practical info : Rentals, like the popular "Żabi Kruk" Water Club (ul. Żabi Kruk 15), are located a stone's throw from the city center. It's worth calling ahead to check availability.
Last day of the fair (1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.)
Last-Minute Souvenirs : Sunday, August 17th, is the last call at the Fair. A short, farewell visit can be a great opportunity to snag souvenirs at attractive prices as exhibitors slowly begin to pack up.
Farewell dinner and concert (from 3:00 p.m.)
Restaurants with a view : For your farewell dinner, choose one of the restaurants on Długie Pobrzeże (Long Embankment) to enjoy the river view one last time. Goldwasser or the popular Chleb i Wino will be a perfect choice.
Organ Music Festival : For a final cultural highlight, check out the program of the 48th International Organ Music Festival . A concert in one of the city's historic churches is a sublime and beautiful way to end your stay in Gdańsk.
A plan for the long August weekend for families with children – adventure, discovery and fun together
This plan is a ready-made recipe for maximum fun and engaging activities for the whole family. The priority is interactivity, experiential learning, and creating shared memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 1: Friday, August 15 – Science, the sea, and a pirate adventure
The first day is the perfect mix of education and pure fun. The program is balanced to keep kids energized and interested—from interactive exhibits to a thrilling open-water cruise.
Explorers' Morning at Hevelianum (10:00 - 14:00)
Hilltop Science Center : If your children have a passion for discovery, Hevelianum is a perfect choice. This modern science center is housed in restored forts, offering beautiful views of the city. Interactive exhibitions, such as "Around the World," allow for independent experimentation and playful learning.
Practical info : Address: Gradowa Street 6. A family ticket for several exhibitions costs 75 PLN. The place is crowded on rainy days, so buy your tickets online!
Young Sailors' Afternoon (2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
Maritime Culture Centre (OKM) : Another must-see for families. This modern branch of the National Maritime Museum boasts one of Poland's best interactive exhibitions for children – "People–Ships–Ports." Here, children can steer a model ship in a pool or operate a port crane.
Practical information : Address: Tokarska Street 21-25. IMPORTANT : Entry to the interactive exhibition is on the hour, and space is limited. Online booking is essential if you don't want to see your child's disappointed face.
Evening Pirate Cruise (times to choose from)
Ahoy, adventure! : After a day full of learning, it's time for pure fun! A cruise down the Motława River aboard the 17th-century galleon-style "Lew" or the pirate ship "Black Pearl" is an attraction sure to elicit squeals of delight from children of all ages. The pirate tales and the roar of cannons will be remembered for a long time.
Practical info : The ships dock at Długie Pobrzeże. The cruise takes approximately 1.5 hours. A family ticket (2+2) costs approximately 220 PLN.
Day 2: Saturday, August 16 – Fairground Fever and the Animal Kingdom
Saturday's program combines two radically different worlds: the intense bustle of the fair with a relaxing stroll through the expansive zoo. This combination helps avoid fatigue and offers children both fun in the city center and contact with nature.
Fair for children (10:00 - 14:00)
Attractions for Kids : St. Dominic's Market is a true paradise for children. Every day at noon, interactive games take place, and you'll meet jugglers and performers in the streets. Don't miss a ride on the AmberSky observation wheel and, of course, the stalls selling toys, gingerbread, and cotton candy!
Trip to the Oliwa Zoo (14:30 - 19:00)
Encounter with wildlife : After the bustle of the fair, a visit to the Gdańsk Zoo is the perfect way to unwind. It's one of the largest zoos in Poland, picturesquely situated in the heart of the Tricity Landscape Park. A stroll through the vast, wooded grounds is a great way to spend an active afternoon.
Practical info : Address: ul. Karwieńska 3, Gdańsk-Oliwa. A family ticket (up to 5 people) costs PLN 140.
Access : The most convenient way is to take the SKM train to the Gdańsk Oliwa station, and from there take bus number 169 or 622 right to the ZOO gate.
Family Dinner (from 7:30 PM)
Recommended places : After a day full of excitement, it's time to enjoy a meal in a family-friendly place.
Pierogarnia Mandu : An absolute hit with dozens of varieties of pierogi. Prepare to queue!
Surfburger : A local chain with high-quality burgers. A reliable choice for older kids.
Pizza Plus (Sobieszewska Island): Great pizza in a peaceful garden if you fancy a little excursion.
Day 3: Sunday, August 17 – Beach, bikes and a sweet farewell
The final day is a time for classic seaside pleasures. This is a less structured, yet equally active, option that allows you to fully utilize Gdańsk's seaside location.
Bike adventure by the sea (10:00 - 14:00)
Bike Route : Gdańsk has a fantastic bike path along the beach, connecting Jelitkowo, Sopot, and Gdynia. Renting bikes for the whole family and riding this route, with stops for ice cream, is a perfect Sunday activity.
Rentals : There are several rental shops near the beach. Veloking (ul. Jelitkowska 10a) offers bikes for everyone, and even pedal go-karts.
Beach and lunch (2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
Relax on the sand : Spend an afternoon on the beach in Jelitkowo or Brzeźno . Sandcastles, seashells, and swimming in the sea are the essence of summer.
Dinner by the sea : You'll find plenty of bars and fish and chips along the promenade. Classic fish and chips by the sea are simply the best!
Sweet Ending (from 5:00 PM)
Ice Cream and Desserts : Before you leave, treat yourself to a sweet farewell. Choose one of the artisanal ice cream shops, or treat yourself to something unique and visit the famous Eklerownia or Umam confectionery .
Weekend Traveler's Essentials: Practical Tips for a Long Weekend in Gdańsk
Getting around the city efficiently and planning your expenses wisely are key to a successful vacation. Here are some tips to help you avoid queues and unnecessary stress.
How to get around Tricity efficiently?
Public transport this long weekend : Remember the changes! On Friday, August 15th (a public holiday), buses and trams will run on holiday schedules. The most reliable source of information is mobile apps like Jakdojade .
ZTM (trams and buses) vs. SKM (train) : ZTM is the public transport system within Gdańsk. SKM is the fastest way to travel between Gdańsk, Sopot, and Gdynia – essential if you're planning a trip to the Oliwa Zoo.
Taxis – a convenient, stress-free alternative: On a long weekend, it's worth considering taking a taxi – especially in the evening or with larger groups. One of the most recognizable taxi companies in Gdańsk is Neptun Taxi . The standard fare is 3.90 PLN/km , but on weekends, a second fare of 5.85 PLN/km applies – it's worth keeping this in mind when planning your route.
Getting to and from Gdańsk Airport? Choose reliable transfers: If you're planning to arrive or depart from Gdańsk, Rabbit Trans – taxi & transfer is your best choice . It's a reliable door-to-door option, perfect for both tourists and locals returning from vacation. Convenience, punctuality, and a stress-free experience – exactly what you need at the beginning or end of your trip.
Cost and time optimization – tickets and cards
Now for the specifics: how to avoid overpaying for tickets. Choosing the right option can result in significant savings.
The best tickets for the long weekend (24h and 72h)
Gdańsk Tourist Card – is it worth it?
The Tourist Card is a package of free admission and discounts. Its cost-effectiveness depends on your plan.
Tips from an expert
Book online : This is the most important piece of advice I can give you. I'll say it again: book online! 💻 On long weekends, lines at the ticket offices of major museums (ECS, Museum of the Second World War) can be hours long. You'll save a lot of time and stress. The same goes for tables at popular restaurants.
Fair smarts : A little life hack: to avoid the biggest crowds, visit the St. Dominic's Fair first thing in the morning, right after the stalls open (around 10:00).
FALA System : Download the FALA app. It allows you to automatically settle your travel expenses without having to purchase paper tickets.
Mobile apps : Besides FALA, the key app is Jakdojade , which plans routes in real time and allows you to buy most tickets.
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