Gdynia

Gdynia – it’s Great!

Gdynia has it all: white sandy beaches, a scenic waterfront, striking modernist architecture and a city scene that includes great places to eat, drink and dance. If it’s your first time in Poland, Gdynia will give you a taste of what this incredible country has to offer. It’s also the perfect place to start or finish a road trip.

Gdynia is the most northern city of the Tri-city that also includes Sopot and Gdansk. It’s also one of the youngest cities in Poland – less than 100 years ago Gdynia was a tiny fishing village. The town you see today was largely built after WWI, conceived as an avant-garde ‘city from the sea’ by leading architects and urban planners. It’s one of the few city centres in the world designed and executed in the Modernist style. If you’re an architecture aficionado, you’ll be in your element!

The best way to get a feel for the city is by taking a walk around and soaking up the city’s sea-faring heritage. The Gdynia Maritime Legend Route is popular with tourists and includes exhibits that are up to 300 years old. The WWII destroyer ORP Blyskawica is moored here and is the oldest of its kind in the world. And you can also visit Dar Pomorza, a beautiful Polish tall ship built in 1909. Gdynia’s marina also hosts an annual film festival giving the town the nickname of ‘the Polish Cannes’. Time your trip right and you could see some stars!

The real highlight of Gdynia’s calendar however is the annual Sea Festival each June. With boat trips in the Gulf of Gdansk, a night yacht parade, ship tours, displays and concerts, it’s quite a spectacle!

This is also a city for nature lovers and families. Take time to explore the beachfront woodland reserve at Kepa Redlowska and Orlowski Cliff – there’s lots of space for a stroll or a more strenuous hike. If you’re walking with children, Marszewo Forest Botanical Garden will keep their interest with engaging educational activities and spark an interest in sustainable development.

There’s also a city playground on the beach and families can enjoy the views across the Baltic Sea from one of the waterfront cafés or restaurants. The pretty pier and pedestrian promenade offer more opportunities to stretch your legs. While the science museum, Experyment, and the aquarium offer opportunities to expand your mind – kids will love them all!

To get the best view of the city, it’s worth climbing the steep hill at Kamienna Góra and enjoying the panorama.    

Gdynia port has seen many people leave Poland’s shores, and the Emigration Museum explores the routes taken by emigrants and celebrates their contribution to the world.  

Gdynia offers all the warm hospitality that Poland is famous for, but if you’re particularly interested in authentic eateries, seek out the Culinary Centre Route. It’s been put together by people with a passion for cooking and will help you find the best local cuisine.