TAKE a look at the European Christmas market spot that's "one of the best" just three hours from Ireland with ice skating rinks and festive concerts every winter. Gdańsk is a stunning port city located on the Baltic coast of Poland. Gdańsk enjoys warm summers and cold winters, with temperatures usually falling to minus degrees at Christmas time.
This stunning city located on the Baltic Sea is renowned for its historic architecture, vibrant maritime history, and picturesque waterfronts. With its beautiful combination of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings, Gdańsk offers tourists the perfect blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. The city is home to some of the most major landmarks in Poland, including the fabulous Gdańsk Crane and the stunning St.
Mary’s Church, one of the largest brick churches in the world. Beyond its world-famous architecture, it features scenic riversides, lush parks, and picturesque canals, making it perfect for those looking a relaxed getaway or an adventure. And Ryanair flights go as low as €100 this winter.
The city's historic Old Town, with its cobbled streets and colourful facades, is also a must-visit for its lively market squares and boutiques. For history enthusiasts, the European Solidarity Centre offers plenty of tours on the city’s major role in the fall of communism, with exhibits and monuments featured everywhere you go. Exploring Gdańsk’s cultural offerings is also a must-do for tourists, with some of Europe's best theatres, museums, and galleries showcasing both traditional and contemporary art.
A visit to the city is incomplete without experiencing its renowned cuisine, where fresh seafood and pierogi can be enjoyed in one of its charming restaurants or bustling food markets. The surrounding areas also offer a range of outdoor activities, from sailing and kayaking on the Baltic Sea to hiking in the nearby Kashubian Lake District. Inland, the Pomeranian region offers scenic cycling routes and picturesque rural landscapes, ideal for those looking to explore beyond the city.
Alongside its natural beauty, Gdańsk is also known for its annual cultural events, such as the St. Dominic’s Fair and the Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival , which draw visitors from across the world. As winter approaches, Gdańsk transforms into a festive wonderland with its world-famous Christmas markets.
The city's Main Town Hall and surrounding squares come alive with twinkling lights, festive stalls, and tonnes of music performances . These markets are a perfect spot to pick up unique gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and soak in the holiday spirit amidst the backdrop of an absolutely stunning city. Winter also brings a host of other seasonal events to Gdańsk, including ice skating rinks set up in picturesque locations around the city.
What’s more, Gdańsk hosts a variety of Christmas concerts and cultural performances, making it the perfect destination to visit throughout the winter months. To reach Gdańsk, you can fly into Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport, with flights available from major European cities including Dublin..
