Gdynia
Gdynia
Gdynia is a relatively young Polish city that has quickly developed into one of the country's most important port cities since its establishment in the 1920s. Located on the Baltic Sea coast, it forms part of the Tri-City metropolitan area along with Gdańsk and Sopot. Unlike its historic neighbors, Gdynia boasts a more modern feel with its clean lines of modernist architecture - many buildings are actually listed as historical monuments despite being less than 100 years old.
The city's heart is deeply connected to the sea. The waterfront area features the impressive Dar Pomorza and Błyskawica ships that serve as museums, offering insights into Poland's maritime history. The aquarium near the harbor is worth checking out too. What makes Gdynia stand out is how it combines urban life with nature - beautiful beaches like Babie Doły and the nearby forests provide easy escapes from city life.
Gdynia comes alive during summer with several major events like Open'er Festival, one of Poland's biggest music festivals, and the Polish Film Festival. The city has a fascinating backstory as it was purposefully built by the newly independent Poland after WWI to secure access to the sea. This gives the whole place a sense of national pride and purpose that you can still feel today. The locals are known for their relaxed attitude and openness, making it a friendly place to explore.
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Things to do in Gdynia
Top things to do in Gdynia by www.thecrazytourist.com
Where to stay in Gdynia
Best hotels in Gdynia:
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Thruster (budget hotel)
Thruster in Gdynia is an ideal spot for travelers exploring the Polish coast. Located conveniently by the train station, it offers easy access to the Tri-City area. The rooms feature modern designs with all the essentials for a comfortable stay.
A highlight of Thruster is the shared spaces, including a relaxed lounge area where you can unwind and watch Netflix after a day of sightseeing. The communal kitchen provides a space to prepare quick meals or chat with fellow travelers. The lobby also features a unique glass floor, adding a special touch. The location is excellent, with the beach and main shopping street just a short walk away.
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Willa Julia (homestay)
Willa Julia is a charming guesthouse located centrally in Gdynia, just a short walk from the beach and key attractions. The rooms are clean and comfortable, featuring amenities like flat-screen TVs and small kitchenettes for preparing simple meals. Having a private bathroom was a nice bonus, adding to the convenience of the stay.
The location is ideal, with easy access to the train station, shops, restaurants, and the seaside promenade. It’s perfect for those wanting to explore the city or enjoy some time by the water. The staff are welcoming and happy to assist with any requests. Willa Julia provides a practical and affordable option for visitors looking for a well-equipped, centrally located place to stay in Gdynia.
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Mercure Gdynia Centrum (medium range hotel)
Mercure Gdynia Centrum is a great spot if you're looking to explore Gdynia. The hotel sits right in the heart of the city, just a quick walk from the beach and main attractions like the Navy Museum. Most rooms have awesome views of the Baltic Sea or Kościuszko Square.
The rooms are comfy and modern, with free WiFi and flat-screen TVs. There's an indoor pool and sauna if you want to relax after a day of sightseeing. For food, the Winestone restaurant serves up tasty European and Polish dishes.
One of the best things about this place is the location - you're super close to shops, restaurants, and the beach. The staff are friendly and helpful too. Overall, it's a solid choice if you want a nice place to stay while checking out Gdynia.
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Best hostels in Gdynia:
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Sea Hostel (boutique hostel)
Sea Hostel is a great place to stay in Gdynia if you’re looking for a convenient location. It’s just a short walk from the main train station, making it easy to explore the city. The rooms are spacious and tidy, with comfortable beds, and some offer balconies with pleasant views of the city.
The hostel features large common areas, providing plenty of room to relax and meet fellow travelers. A simple breakfast is available for a small fee, which is a nice extra. The staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant experience. While it’s not luxurious, it offers everything needed for a comfortable and practical stay in a central location, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize convenience and value.
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Lux Hostel (hostel)
Lux Hostel in Gdynia is an excellent option for travelers looking for a practical and central place to stay. Located right in downtown, it’s just a short walk from shops, restaurants, and public transportation. The rooms are simple yet clean and comfortable, each equipped with a private bathroom, which is a great feature for a hostel.
The location is one of the highlights, with the beach just 15 minutes away on foot and many of the city’s key attractions nearby. The staff are welcoming and can offer helpful recommendations for things to do around Gdynia. While the hostel isn't fancy, it provides good value for anyone seeking a central spot to stay, especially for those who prefer the added privacy of their own bathroom. Just be aware that there is no elevator, so you may need to carry your luggage up a few flights of stairs.
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Blues Rooms (party hostel)
Blues Rooms is a great place to stay in Gdynia, located just a short walk from Kościuszki Square and the beach. The rooms have a relaxed atmosphere, decorated with music posters, and include essential amenities like a fridge, kettle, and free WiFi to stay connected.
The location is one of its best features, with easy access to popular spots like the Błyskawica Museum Ship and the main train station. There's also a blues bar downstairs where you can enjoy a drink and live music. It’s a simple yet comfortable option for travelers, offering clean rooms and a laid-back vibe. Depending on the room type, you may need to share a bathroom, but it's a good place to stay if you're looking for a no-frills base to explore the city.