Tricity - What is it and which cities are part of it?
- Damian Brzeski
- 19 hours ago
- 13 min read
Tricity is not one city, but three different worlds within a 40-kilometer radius – and you can explore it all in one weekend without getting in the car.
On the one hand, the thousand-year-old Gdańsk with its Hanseatic pride, on the other, the modernist Gdynia smelling of the sea, and between them Sopot – a spa salon with the longest wooden pier in Europe.
How is it possible that they function as one organism, yet each plays its own tune? This is where the story of a metropolis that combines tradition, business, and vacation relaxation in a single rhythm begins.
What is Tricity and how did it come into being?
Tricity is an urban, social and administrative phenomenon that defies simple definitions.
In the geographical sense, it is a polycentric agglomeration stretching along the western shore of the Bay of Gdańsk, sheltered from the land by the moraine hills of the Kashubian Lake District .
In the administrative sense, it is a group of three independent cities with county rights: Gdańsk, Sopot and Gdynia , which, despite close functional connections, retain a separate identity, budgets and local government authorities.
For a tourist, the Tricity appears as one coherent urban organism, where the boundaries are almost imperceptible – a trip from Gdańsk to Gdynia resembles a journey through the districts of one metropolis, rather than a trip between different cities.
However, a deeper analysis reveals a fascinating mosaic: the thousand-year Hanseatic history of Gdańsk, the modernist dream of the sea realized in Gdynia, and the resort and health resort elegance of Sopot.
Although the boundaries between cities blur for visitors when driving along Zwycięstwa Avenue, the Tricity remains a fascinating example of a conurbation in which no single center dominates absolutely.
It is an organism with many heads, with Gdańsk serving as the historical leader, but without the energy of Gdynia and the prestige of Sopot, the whole would not have its unique character.
How did cooperation between cities come about?
Each city grew from a different root – Gdańsk spent centuries building its power on trade within the Hanseatic League, Sopot evolved from a fishing village into the salon of the elite, and Gdynia grew from the sea and the dreams of the Second Polish Republic as Poland's window to the world.
The physical merging of these separate worlds took place only after 1945, and the key bond was the Fast Urban Railway (SKM) .
It was this "overground metro line" launched in the 1950s that became the spine around which the urban fabric grew, creating today's linear settlement system.
Differences in identity ("Gdańsk native" vs. "Gdynianin") were and remain strong, so cooperation was initially limited to technical matters like water and sewage. Only the 21st century brought the understanding that we all play for one goal.
When was Tricity founded?
It's difficult to pinpoint a single date on the calendar that we could celebrate as the metropolitan area's birthday. Functionally, this organism began to crystallize immediately after the war, alongside the reconstruction of Gdańsk and the development of Gdynia.
However, Tricity only matured mentally and marketing-wise in the first decade of the 21st century. Local government officials understood then that in the global race for capital and tourist attention, a collective brand is stronger than the sum of its parts.
Tricity Card – the foundation of formal cooperation
The breakthrough came on March 28, 2007 at Lech Wałęsa Airport , where Presidents Adamowicz, Szczurek and Karnowski signed a historic declaration – the Tricity Charter.
This document, which is the result of the “Przystanek Trójmiasto” debate, officially ended the era of “harmful competition”.
Local government officials have committed to joint action in key areas:
Transport integration: Moving towards a common ticket (currently implemented by the FALA system).
Infrastructure: Intelligent traffic control systems (Tristar) and coordination of renovations.
Tourism: Building a coherent network of bicycle paths and joint promotion abroad.
Education: Adapting schools to the real needs of the labor market.
Tricity and the Tricity agglomeration
Just look at the map – what we commonly call Tricity is just the core of a larger system called the Gdańsk-Gdynia-Sopot Metropolitan Area (OMGGS) .
This structure absorbs surrounding municipalities and satellite towns, such as Rumia, Reda and Pruszcz Gdański, creating a functional "doughnut" that serves as a bedroom and logistical base for the center.
Will we see the Metropolitan Act?
Since 2016, a legislative battle has been underway to legally sanction the metropolis, which would allow the region to retain approximately 5% of the personal income tax.
This is a game for several hundred million zlotys per year for investments, which today go to the central budget.
After years of downtime in the parliamentary "freezer", in March 2025 the work gained momentum , giving hope for the project's finalization in the first quarter of 2026.
For you as a tourist, this means even more efficient transport in the future under the leadership of one organizer.
Gdańsk – the historical and cultural heart of the Tricity
Gdańsk is a city with a thousand-year history , where the great history of Europe – from the Hanseatic League to Solidarity – is written in every brick.
This is where you will find the densest network of monuments and museums that, instead of being boring, tell fascinating stories.
Which monuments and historical sites do you have to see?
Tourist traffic is concentrated in the Main Town (not to be confused with the Old Town), whose main attraction is the Royal Route with Długa Street and Długi Targ.
Right next to it stands the city's icon – the Neptune Fountain , a must-see backdrop for millions of photos, and the Main Town Hall.
You cannot miss a walk along the Motława River, dominated by the Crane – a medieval port crane that is proof of the engineering genius of the ancient inhabitants of Gdańsk.
Equally impressive is St. Mary's Basilica , the largest brick church in the world, whose tower offers a panoramic view of the entire city.
If you're looking for a more atmospheric setting, head to Mariacka Street – in the shadow of the porches and gargoyles, the amber trade thrives there.
The most recent history is symbolized by Westerplatte, a place of remembrance of the heroic defense of 1939.
Museums and cultural institutions
In recent years, Gdańsk has focused on modern narrative, as evidenced by the Museum of the Second World War (MIIWŚ), with its main exhibition hidden 14 meters underground.
The European Solidarity Centre (ECS) makes an equally strong impression, its shape resembling the rusty hull of a ship.
From the rooftop terrace of the ECS, you can see the shipyard cranes, and inside, you'll learn about the fall of communism. The National Maritime Museum, with the museum ship Sołdek moored on the Ołowianka Island, rounds out the offerings.
Where to look for greenery and recreation?
If you are looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Oliwa Park , famous for its French gardens and the proximity of the Cathedral with its Rococo organ.
Right next door, in the picturesque Leśny Młyn valley, lies the Gdańsk Zoo – the largest zoo in Poland, home to rare condors and pygmy hippos.
Gdynia – a modern port city
Gdynia is the polar opposite of its historic neighbor – a young, dynamic city, built on the myth of glass houses and openness to the world. Its modernist soul and port character create a unique atmosphere that can be felt at every turn.
Seaside and recreational attractions
The heart of the city beats at the confluence of land and sea, in the area of the Southern Pier and Kościuszko Square. It is here that two legends are moored: the ORP Błyskawica , the world's oldest surviving destroyer, and the "White Frigate" – Dar Pomorza , one of the most beautiful sailing training ships.
At the very end of the pier is the Gdynia Aquarium , where you can see rare carpet sharks and one of the largest living coral reefs in Poland.
Culture and education
At 1 Polska Street, in the historic Maritime Station, there is a moving Emigration Museum , telling the story of Poles who left the country on board ocean liners such as the MS Batory.
You can learn about the history of weapons at the Naval Museum , where the outdoor exhibition allows you to take a close look at torpedoes, guns and planes.
Modernist Architecture – White City
Gdynia's city center is a jewel of European modernism, listed as a Historic Monument. As you stroll along the Modernism Trail , notice the bright facades, rounded corners, and nautical details (portholes, masts) of buildings like the luxurious "Bankowiec" (Banker) with its own shelter, or the monumental District Court building.
Sopot – the health resort of the Tricity
Squeezed between its two larger brothers, Sopot serves as Poland's exclusive salon and summer capital. This smallest of the metropolitan cities combines spa tranquility with a vibrant nightlife.
The most important tourist attractions
The undisputed symbol of the city is the John Paul II Pier – the longest wooden jetty in Europe (over 511 meters), allowing for walks into the Bay, where the iodine concentration is the highest.
The famous "Monciak" (ul. Bohaterów Monte Cassino) leads to the pier, next to which stands the surrealist Crooked House .
The cultural heart of the resort remains the Forest Opera , hidden in a forest basin and known for its outstanding acoustics and festivals.
Lifestyle and spa offer
The status of a health resort obliges, so in the Southern Park (close to the beach) you will find publicly available inhalation mushrooms spraying healing brine from St. Adalbert's Spring.
The whole is complemented by unique villa architecture with wooden verandas and lace carvings, best visible in the side streets, away from the hustle and bustle of Monciak.
Shared infrastructure and communication in the Tricity
Moving around the Tricity requires a change of habits – the agglomeration has a linear layout, stretching for over 40 kilometers along the coast.
The key to efficient transportation is understanding that it's not worth driving everywhere.
SKM Tricity – the backbone of the agglomeration
The absolute basis is the Fast Urban Railway (SKM) , which operates as a surface metro connecting Gdańsk Śródmieście with Gdynia and Wejherowo.
During peak hours, trains run every 7.5 minutes, bypassing traffic jams on the main artery and allowing you to get from Gdańsk to Sopot in just 20 minutes.
Please note that standard public transport (bus) tickets do not work on SKM unless you purchase a metropolitan ticket.
Tricity bypass and road transport
For motorists, the Tricity Bypass (S6) is a salvation, allowing for quick transit between distant districts (e.g. from Gdańsk Południe to Gdynia).
Inside the agglomeration, traffic is channeled along Grunwaldzka and Zwycięstwa avenues, but during the season it can be very crowded, so it is worth considering leaving your car there.
Airport and PKM access
The airport in Rębiechowo , located on the border of Gdańsk and Sopot, is well connected thanks to the Pomeranian Metropolitan Railway (PKM) .
Trains take passengers directly to Wrzeszcz or Gdynia, providing a convenient and punctual alternative to taxis or bus lines.
FALA system and ticket integration
A revolution in payments is the FALA System being implemented, which automatically calculates the cheapest fare based on card swipe upon entry and exit (check-in/check-out model).
Below you will find approximate prices of metropolitan tickets (valid from March 2026), which make life easier for tourists and residents:
Ticket type | Price (N/U) | Scope of validity |
24-hour municipal ticket | -- | Buses, trams and trolleybuses throughout OMGGS (excluding railways). |
Combined Ticket (Monthly) | 260 PLN / 130 PLN | Railway (SKM/Polregio) + Public transport (Gdańsk, Gdynia, Wejherowo). |
Metropolitan Ticket | 156 PLN / 78 PLN | Only public transport of all organizers (no railways). |
*Indicative prices based on historical data.
Education and science in Tricity
Tricity is a powerful academic hub, which directly impacts its demographics, energy, and rental market.
Thousands of students give rhythm to cities, and universities shape the landscape of entire districts, such as Oliwa or Wrzeszcz.
University of Gdańsk and its campuses
The largest university is the University of Gdańsk (UG) with a modern campus in Oliwa, integrating most of the humanities and science faculties.
The university also has a strong presence in Sopot (Economics) and Gdynia, where a unique Faculty of Oceanography and Geography with its own research vessel operates on Marszałka Piłsudskiego Avenue.
Other scientific and educational institutions
The scientific map is complemented by: Gdańsk University of Technology (PG) with its historic campus in Wrzeszcz, the prestigious Medical University of Gdańsk (GUMed) and the Gdynia Maritime University, continuing the tradition of educating officer cadres for the merchant fleet.
Tricity Landscape Park and the nature of the region
A unique feature of the metropolitan area is its immediate proximity to a dense forest complex to the west. The Tricity Landscape Park (TPK) is no ordinary forest, but an undulating moraine terrain resembling mountains, offering numerous valleys and gorges.
The importance of the park for residents and tourists
TPK serves as a "green lung" and provides a natural sports base for residents. Beech and mixed forests protect the unique glacial landscape, offering peace and contact with nature just steps from the bustling city center.
Where to walk or bike?
The park is crisscrossed by a dense network of PTTK trails. The Yellow Tricity Trail connects Gdańsk with Gdynia (47 km), leading past viewpoints.
Cyclists have challenging mountain bike trails at their disposal (e.g., the blue trail to Wejherowo ), while walkers can choose gentler educational trails, such as those in the Samborowo Valley. In winter, the moraine hills become a paradise for cross-country skiers.
Gdańsk-Gdynia-Sopot metropolitan area and surroundings
The region's attractions don't end at the gates of Gdynia or Gdańsk. The metropolis spreads far and wide, offering tourist gems in the so-called Little Kashubian Tricity and surrounding municipalities, which are well-connected to the city center.
Gdańsk-Gdynia-Sopot Metropolitan Area (OMGGS)
The OMGGS association coordinates the cooperation of as many as 61 local governments. Thanks to it, coherent EU investments (ZITs) are being developed, such as integration hubs and bicycle routes, which translate into more convenient travel throughout the region, not just in its core.
What is the Small Kashubian Tricity: Rumia, Reda, Wejherowo
North of Gdynia lies the Little Kashubian Tricity, reachable by SKM train in just a few minutes. Wejherowo delights with its Baroque Calvary (the fourth oldest in Poland), Reda attracts visitors with the only water park in this part of Europe with live sharks swimming around the slides, and Rumia is famous for its gigantic collection of cacti and succulents.
Pruszcz Gdański and other satellite towns and villages
In the south, it is worth visiting Pruszcz Gdański, where the Trade Factory takes you back to the times of the Roman Amber Road.
This reconstruction of a settlement offers living history lessons and archaeology workshops, ideal for families with children.
Practical information for visitors to Tricity
To ensure your trip is successful and stress-free, it's worth planning your logistics according to the specifics of this linear city. Here are some proven tips that will save you time and money.
How to get around Tricity?
The golden rule: between cities, choose SKM (fast, cheap, no traffic jams), inside cities, use ZTM/ZKM (trams, buses, trolleybuses), and leave your car in front of the hotel, especially in the season.
It is also worth jumping on a MEVO metropolitan bike (electric) and taking advantage of the excellent network of seaside bike paths.
Where is the best place to live?
The choice depends on what you are looking for:
Gdańsk (Śródmieście): Perfect for history buffs and museum lovers, but can be crowded and more expensive.
Sopot: For those seeking luxury, parties, and a resort atmosphere. The most expensive option.
Gdynia: A great base – modern, spacious, close to nature and slightly cheaper than Sopot.
Wrzeszcz / Oliwa: Perfect compromise – great communication (transfer hubs), lower prices and proximity to parks.
Your plan for the perfect weekend
Day 1: Historic Gdańsk. Start with a stroll along Długi Targ and climb the tower of St. Mary's Basilica. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of the Second World War or the European Solidarity Centre, and spend the evening on atmospheric Mariacka Street.
Day 2: Sopot and Gdynia Maritime. Morning coffee at the Sopot Pier and a stroll along Monciak. Then, the SKM train to Gdynia, a tour of the ORP Błyskawica and lunch in the port. Finally, a cable car ride up Kamienna Góra for a panoramic view of the city.
Day 3: Relaxation and Nature. A walk in Oliwa Park and an organ concert at the Cathedral. For active people, a walk along Orłowski Cliff in Gdynia; for families, a visit to the sharks at Reda Aquapark.
FAQ: Tricity – a practical guide and frequently asked questions
The section below contains specific answers to questions about logistics, sightseeing and the functioning of the Gdańsk metropolitan area, making it easier to plan your stay.
What exactly is the Tricity? It's a complex of three neighboring cities: Gdańsk, Sopot, and Gdynia, which form a cohesive metropolitan area on the Bay of Gdańsk.
Is there a single ticket for public transport in the Tricity area? Standard city tickets are separate, but the FALA system and Metropolitan Tickets allow travel throughout the metropolitan area on a single ticket.
What's the best way to get between Gdańsk, Sopot, and Gdynia? The fastest and most convenient mode of transport is the Fast Urban Rail (SKM), which bypasses traffic jams.
Is a Gdańsk tram ticket valid on the SKM (Fast Urban Rail)? No, unless you have a special metropolitan or combined ticket; otherwise, you'll need to buy a separate ticket for the SKM.
What is the FALA system? It's a payment system where you tap your payment card on a reader when entering or exiting a vehicle, and the system automatically charges the lowest possible fee.
Where's the best place to stay? Choose Gdańsk for historic sites, Sopot for nightlife and luxury, and Gdynia or Wrzeszcz for easy access and peace and quiet.
Is it worth traveling around the Tricity area by car? Driving in city centers is discouraged during the summer season due to heavy traffic jams and high parking fees.
How to get from the airport to the city center? The most convenient way is to take the Pomeranian Metropolitan Railway (PKM), which runs to Gdańsk Wrzeszcz and Gdynia Główna.
Is there an entrance fee to the Sopot Pier? Yes, during the tourist season, admission to the wooden part of the pier is ticketed; outside of the tourist season, entry is usually free.
Where in the Tricity area can you see sharks? At the Gdynia Aquarium, in traditional tanks, and at the Reda Aquapark, where a slide leads through a shark tunnel.
What is the Little Kashubian Tricity? It's a group of three cities north of Gdynia: Rumia, Reda, and Wejherowo, which are well connected to the main metropolitan area.
Are there any forested areas in the Tricity area? Yes, the metropolitan area borders the Tricity Landscape Park, which offers numerous hiking and biking trails.
Which museum in Gdańsk is the most important? Among the most popular are the Museum of the Second World War and the European Solidarity Centre (ECS).
How does Gdynia differ from Gdańsk? Gdańsk is a historic city with Hanseatic monuments, while Gdynia is a modern city, built in the modernist style in the 20th century.
How long does it take to travel from Gdańsk Główny to Gdynia by SKM? The journey takes approximately 35 minutes.
Is Tricity formally one city? No, it's three independent cities with county rights, each with its own budget and local government.
What is "Monciak"? It's the colloquial name for Bohaterów Monte Cassino Street in Sopot, the main promenade leading to the pier.
Where is the famous port crane located? The historic Crane is located in Gdańsk on the Motława River, near the Long Embankment.
Is the Tricity Card a ticket? No, the Tricity Card is a declaration of cooperation between local governments from 2007, not a physical document for passengers.
Where are the museum ships Dar Pomorza and Błyskawica moored? Both vessels are located at the Pomeranian Quay in Gdynia (an extension of Kościuszko Square).
Comments