Gdansk Christmas Market 2024: Beautiful Baltic Poland

Poland has many beautiful cities that light up during winter, including the northern city of Gdansk. Thanks to its Baltic Sea location, the Gdansk Christmas Market is a stunning and unique market.

The following guide details all the essential information for planning a visit to the market in 2024, including confirmed dates, locations and opening times.

Gdansk Christmas Market 2024

Dates – Confirmed

Gdansk Christmas Market dates: 22nd November to 23rd December 2024 (confirmed).

Update: Dates were announced in April. Sign up for our newsletter for future updates.

Source: Dates are obtained directly from the event organiser’s website, available here.

Location and Times

Christmas Fair location: The Coal Market (Targ Węglowy).
Additional locations:
Tkacka Street in front of The Great Armoury (Wielka Zbrojownia).
Bogusławskiego Street.
Forum Gdańsk Shopping Centre Courtyard.
Opening times:
Sunday to Thursday: 12pm to 8pm.
Friday and Saturday: 12pm to 9pm.
Christmas Tree: Next to Neptune’s Fountain at Long Market (Długi Targ).
Ferris wheel: Granary Island (Wyspa Spichrzów).
Christmas Day: Closed.

Travel and Accommodation

Recommended tour: This Old Town tour of Gdansk will show you the highlights of Gdansk, giving you some insights into Polish customs and traditions.
Public transport: Widely available and accessible.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Gdansk weather in winter: Temperatures average 3°C / -1°C (high / low) in December.
Where to stay in Gdansk: You can’t go wrong with Puro Hotel Gdansk for location and facilities.

Amenities and Attractions

Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Santa: Yes, on some days.
Ice skating: Yes, at Targ Węglowy.
Reason to visit: For its stunning Baltic Sea location and historic Hanseatic architecture. The city is relatively affordable and it’s interesting alternative to the traditional German and Austrian markets.

Dietary Options

Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of vegetarian pierogies, soup, cheese and desserts.
Vegan: Yes, but limited.
Gluten-free: Ask individual vendors, but beware of cross-contamination.
Food specialities: Hot chocolate, pierogies and Polish cakes.

Accessibility

Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended during busy periods.

Convenient Hotels

I recommend Puro Hotel Gdansk over all others in Gdansk. This is an eco-friendly boutique hotel that is ideally located on Granary Island.

Granary Island is where I stayed on my visit to Gdansk, and it’s great because it’s close to everything but very quiet in the evenings. The historic Long Market is a great area, too, but it’s a little noisier at night.

I’ve listed several other places to stay in this list of hotels in Gdansk.

Recommended Tours

I recommend this 2-hour city tour of Gdansk. You will see many city highlights, including the entrance to Gdansk’s famous Amber Altar.

On a city tour, you’ll visit the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions, including the historic Royal Way, Neptune Fountain, and St Mary’s Basilica.

We’re here to help you experience the best of winter in Poland in 2024. Plan your trip with our Polish Christmas Markets List. Discover where to go, things to do and the best ways to experience Polish food, history and culture.

Location Map

Wrapped up your Christmas visit? We’d love to hear about your experience. Share your story and tag photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets on social media.

Gdansk at Christmas

Gdansk is an attractive winter holiday destination for a number of reasons. It’s relatively cheap to get to and affordable once you arrive.

Unlike traditional holiday destinations in Germany and Austria, Gdansk is not quite so overcrowded with tourists or booked out months in advance.

The city, which forms part of Poland’s Tricity region alongside Sopot and Gdynia, has a Hanseatic history that adds to its cultural appeal.

The historic old town and market streets are lined with beautifully restored architecture and are filled with cosy cafes, boutique shops and interesting sights.

About the Market

Lights and decorations are abundant around Long Market, including a tree and giant baubles.

The centre of the Christmas Fair features the Angels’ Mill, a windmill topped with figures of saints and angels.

At Gdansk’s old town market, you can expect to see a Venetian carousel, an ice skating rink, decorated trees from around the world, handmade ornaments, toys, scarves, candles and festive gourmet food.

Local Specialties

Gourmet specialties include Polish festive cakes, pretzels, chocolate-covered fruit, chocolate ‘tools’ roasted nuts, smoked cheese, grilled sausages, hot chocolate and hot mulled wine.

Gifts and Stocking Fillers

• Amber Jewellery: Gdansk is famously associated with amber, known as the “Gold of the North”. Vendors sell beautifully crafted amber jewellery such as necklaces, earrings, and rings. These pieces are not only aesthetically pleasing but are also believed by some to possess healing properties.
• Polish Pottery: The pottery includes mugs, bowls, and plates, all featuring distinctive blue and white designs that reflect the region’s artistic heritage.
• Wooden Handicrafts: These range from decorative ornaments to functional kitchen utensils.
• Baltic Textiles: The Baltic region has a strong tradition of textile production, and you can find a wide variety of Baltic items, from scarves and shawls to linens.
• Polish Sweets: Stallholders sell sweets, gingerbread cookies and marzipan.
• Maritime Souvenirs: Reflecting Gdansk’s maritime history, you can find model ships, nautical instruments, and sea-inspired decorations.
• Decorations: Hand-painted glass baubles, straw and metal ornaments are available.
• Baltic Herbal Products: In line with the Baltic tradition of using herbs for wellness, you can find herbal teas, essential oils, and balms made from locally sourced herbs.

Things to Do in Winter

Sights in Gdansk revolve around the waterfront and port area and all the narrow streets and squares of the old town.

The historic precinct is compact and bustling with jewellery shops selling local amber, designer homeware stores, delicious bakeries, seafood restaurants, and museums.

The restoration of Gdansk’s old town resulted in a massive increase in holidays and city breaks in the Tricity region, even during winter.

Most people will spend a few days in Gdansk and then take a day trip to Sopot and Gdynia or to the most famous castle in this region of Poland, Malbork Castle.

I was fortunate to spend a month in Gdansk a few years back. Here’s a quick roundup of things to see in Gdansk and surrounding areas.

• Discover the Different Towns: Gdansk is divided into several distinctive areas, each with its own unique charm. Explore the historical Main Town with its Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Wander through the Old Town, where you’ll find cobbled streets and medieval buildings. Visit Osiek, an area steeped in history with preserved remnants of Gdansk’s past. Don’t miss Young Town, which presents a modern and vibrant contrast to the other parts of the city.
• Walk Through the Various City Gates: Gdansk’s gates are symbols of the city’s history. The Upland Gate serves as a grand entrance to the Royal Route. The Golden Gate, adorned with allegorical statues, represents virtues such as peace and freedom. The Green Gate, inspired by Flemish architecture, often hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
• Join the Crowds on Dlugi Targ (Long Market): This bustling street is the heart of Gdansk’s social life. Marvel at the Fountain of Neptune, a city symbol and popular meeting point. Explore the Arts Court, which houses the Gdansk History Museum. Visit one or more of the Town Halls, each reflecting different eras and styles of architecture.
• Shop for Baltic Sea Amber on Mariacka Street: This picturesque street is renowned for its amber shops, where artisans craft beautiful jewellery. Beyond amber, you’ll find cosy cafes serving excellent coffee and delicious cakes that locals (and me) rave about.
• Walk Along the Embankment of the Motlawa River: This scenic route leads you to the Medieval Crane, a unique 15th-century structure symbolising Gdansk’s maritime history. It’s a great spot for photography and understanding the city’s connection to the sea.
• Take the 400 Steps up St Mary’s Church: The climb might be challenging, but the panoramic views of Gdansk from St Mary’s Church’s tower are absolutely worth it. The church itself is an architectural marvel and one of the largest brick churches in the world.
• See the Baltic Dunes from Rowokol: Depending on the weather, you might glimpse snow on the beach, adding a magical touch to the already stunning landscape of sand dunes and sea.
• Visit the European Solidarity Centre: This modern museum pays homage to the Solidarity Movement, a pivotal force in Polish history. Its interactive exhibits provide an enlightening insight into the struggle against communist rule.
• Go for Lunch in Elegant Sopot: Just a short drive from Gdansk, Sopot is known for its sophisticated ambience and beautiful beach. Enjoy lunch at one of the seafront restaurants and stroll along the pier.
• Visit Malbork Castle: An hour south of Gdansk, this impressive red-bricked castle represents medieval Teutonic architecture. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a guided tour will reveal its fascinating history.
• Take a Day Trip to Sobieszewo Island: If you have extra time, this tranquil island offers natural beauty and relaxation. Explore its bird sanctuary, walk through dense forests, or enjoy the beach, even in winter when the landscape can take on a serene beauty.

Sustainable Travel Tips

• Eco-Friendly Hotels: Many hotels in Gdansk are working towards sustainability by using renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. When booking your accommodation, look for those who have committed to green practices. The Puro Hotel is a sustainable option in Gdansk.
• Food Waste at Markets: Try to order portions that you can finish, and if you’re with a group, consider sharing dishes to sample a variety without wasting food. Many vendors are also happy to provide smaller servings upon request.
• Ethical Consumption: Be mindful of your purchases, selecting items that you genuinely need or will use. Buying locally made products supports local artisans and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transported goods.
• Sustainable Diet: Many eateries in Gdansk offer vegetarian and vegan options, using locally sourced ingredients. By choosing plant-based meals, even for just a few meals during your trip, you contribute to a more sustainable food system.
• Sustainable Transport: Gdansk has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and local trains. Walking and cycling are also great ways to explore the city, especially the historical Old Town, which is best experienced on foot. Some companies in Gdansk offer electric or hybrid vehicles if you need to use a taxi.

Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.