Top things to do Gdynia: Must-see attractions & activities

Gdynia, nestled on the Baltic Sea coast in northern Poland, is a dynamic port city in the Pomeranian Voivodeship and forms a key part of the Tri-City metropolitan area, alongside Gdańsk and Sopot. While many visitors search for what to do in Gdańsk—known for its old-world charm, or explore what to do in Sopot with its spa-town elegance and famous pier, Gdynia offers a refreshing contrast. This modern city blends maritime heritage, striking modernist architecture, and natural beauty into one exciting destination.

Gdynia offers a huge amount of things to see and do—making it a great spot for a day trip or an extended coastal getaway.

Gdynia sightseeing – full of surprises and curiosities that attract every visitor!

Although Gdynia is a vibrant modern seaside city today, it does not have a long history as an urban centre. It only received city rights on February 10, 1926, making it one of the youngest large cities in Poland. Despite this, it has already made its mark on the world map – literally! Gdynia was the first Polish city to appear on the Monopoly: World board. The Gdynia City Museum is a great place to explore the city's history, from its early days to its establishment as a modern port city.

The name Gdynia also has an interesting history. It most likely comes from the name of the Gdynia stream, which existed in these areas, and this in turn comes from the Proto-Slavic adjective gъda, meaning “wet” or “marshy”. This is a reference to the natural conditions of the area before the port infrastructure and modern development appeared here.

Whether you're heading to the sandy beaches, strolling along the seaside promenade, or visiting iconic spots like the museum ship ORP Błyskawica, having your own car gives you the freedom to experience it all. If you're wondering how to get to Gdynia, Kaizen Rent offers convenient car rental options in Gdańsk. Located at Budowlanych 79, 80-298 Gdańsk and at Gdańsk Rębiechowo Airport, picking up a car is quick and easy. With the airport only about 20 km from Gdynia, you can easily pick up your vehicle from car rental Gdańsk airport and be on your way to the Tri-City Metropolitan Area’s coastal charm in no time. Whether you’re in need of car rental Gdańsk or just a simple car rental, Kaizen Rent ensures a smooth start to your adventure.

To install a smooth and convenient experience, choose to rent a car in an additional location. It includes over 30 Kaizen Rent locations throughout Poland, in such major cities as Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw and Gdansk, as well as at Warsaw Okęcie, Kraków Balice and Wrocław Starachowice airports, which have never been easier.

Booking is simple!

• Reserve your vehicle easily through the website at www.kaizenrent.pl/en
• or by calling +48 76 727 99 99 (available 24/7).

Nature lovers will also appreciate the Kępa Redłowska Nature Reserve, home to the ancient 400-year-old pedunculate oak “Bolesław”. This nature reserve is rich in flora and fauna, providing a peaceful retreat for those seeking to reconnect with nature.

Gdynia is well-known for its sandy beaches – the city beach near the centre is the most popular, but quieter spots like Redłowo or Babie Doły offer a more tranquil experience. These are perfect places to relax during summer.

Orłowski Cliffs, piers and seaside boulevards - Gdynia's seaside charm

A walk along the Pier in Orłowo is a must – a wooden structure stretching into the Baltic Sea with views of the picturesque Orłowski Cliff. It’s a great place for romantic walks, photography, and seabird watching.

The Seaside Boulevard and the Oksywie Boulevard are perfect for walking or cycling. These seaside promenades stretch along the coast and are lined with many restaurants, cafés, and spots to relax with views of the sea. However, be aware that popular beaches can become very crowded during summer.

Explore Gdynia's captivating history and heritage by visiting its museum ships

Gdynia is a city with a great history and a strong connection to the sea. It is worth starting your visit at the Emigration Museum (Marine Station), which presents in an interesting way the personal stories of Poles leaving the country searching for a better life.

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-18:00
• Admission: Adult 15 PLN, child 8 PLN

If you're wondering what to see in Gdynia, don't miss the museum ship ORP Błyskawica! It's a must for anyone curious about the Polish Navy and maritime history. This iconic ship, located in Gdynia, offers a fascinating peek into Poland's naval past. The Naval Museum and the famous ORP Błyskawica are definitely highlights on the city map.

ORP Błyskawica:

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-16:00
• Tickets: adults - 20 PLN, children - 10 PLN

See the old cannons, engine room and commander’s room of this historic vessel. This is a great way to learn about maritime history and the Polish Navy’s contribution to the events of World War II.

Also nearby is the Dar Pomorza, a legendary sailing ship and another museum ship that can be visited.

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00am-5:00pm
• Tickets: adults - 15 PLN, children - 8 PLN

Visitors can get familiar with the ship's fascinating history, making it an essential stop for those interested in maritime heritage.

Not to be missed is the Museum of the City of Gdynia, which has a closer look at the city’s history and unique architectural heritage, which may soon be included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-18:00
• Tickets: adults - 10 PLN, children - 5 PLN

The Kościuszko Square and the Gdynia Aquarium offer an enriching experience for everyone.

In Gdynia, you will also find a huge number of cultural attractions. The Danuta Baduszkowa Musical Theatre, located in the city centre at Kosciuszko Square, is one of the most important places on the cultural map of Poland.

Science fans will be delighted with the Experiment Science Centre - an interactive education centre ideal for families with children. This is where science is fun.

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-18:00
• Ticket prices: adults - 20 PLN, children - 15 PLN

Gdynia Aquarium (Gdynia Aquarium), located right next to the southern pier, is another interesting attraction for both children and adults.

• Opening hours: daily, 09:00-17:00
• Ticket prices: May-August - adults: 45 PLN, reduced: 32 PLN; September-April - adults: 40 PLN, reduced: 28 PLN

Gdynia's main beach also has a children's playground, making it the perfect destination for family outings.

Gdynia’s Automotive, Bankowiec, and City Museums for explorers of all ages

One of the lesser known attractions in the city is the Gdynia Automotive Museum - a treat for vintage car enthusiasts. You can explore an impressive collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, historical documents and memorabilia. And the Mini Museum Bankowiec, which highlights modernist architecture and life in Gdynia in the 1930s.

The Gdynia City Museum offers a deeper insight into the history of the city and its unique architecture. The city may one day be included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Gdynia’s nearby tourist attractions and exploring the southern pier

For those looking for things to see in Gdynia, there are plenty of nearby attractions worth visiting.The Gdynia Port is a bustling hub where you can take a boat trip or learn about the city’s maritime history at the Gdynia Aquarium. The Seaside Boulevard in Gdynia, located by the Bay of Gdańsk, is a great spot for walks, offering stunning views of the Baltic Sea and easy access to local cafes and restaurants. The Dar Pomorza museum ship, located at the port, provides a glimpse into Poland’s maritime past, offering an up-close look at life on a historic sailing ship.

Final thoughts – what else to know

Gdynia is a city that blends modernity, history, and nature. Thanks to its location in the Tri-City Metropolitan Area and proximity to many nearby attractions in Gdynia, it’s the perfect place to start your exploration of the Pomeranian coast.

Whether you're planning a long holiday, a weekend escape, or just a day trip – there are plenty of interesting things to discover. Gdynia is a nice place to visit any time of year – a perfect place to experience the maritime charm of Poland.

Before planning a visit to the beach, it is advisable to check the current information on water quality and possible announcements. Current weather conditions and information on the condition of bathing beaches are available on the website of the Gdynia Sports Centre.

Investments to widen the beaches are also planned in the coming months. The Maritime Office in Gdynia announces that it will carry out a realignment, i.e. feeding the beaches with sand from the seabed, which will enable the beaches to be widened by around 30 metres.

Welcome to Gdynia, where each of the beaches offers a unique experience and guarantees a successful holiday on the Baltic Sea!

Gdynia is not only about monuments and nature – it is also a city teeming with festival life. One of the most exciting things to do in Gdynia Poland is attending the legendary Open'er Festival - the biggest music festival in Poland. It takes place every year at the Kosakowo airport. In 2025, it will last from 2 to 5 July. Among the stars will be: Linkin Park, Massive Attack, Nine Inch Nails, Gracie Abrams, Camila Cabello, Doechii, FKA twigs, Justice.

Another event worth mentioning is Sunset Square, a festival by the sea taking place in mid-August at Kościuszko Square. In 2025, it will last two days and offer unforgettable concerts right on the shore of the Baltic Sea.

Other festivals in 2025:

• Garden Festival Obrzycko
• Kazimiernikejszyn
• Od Nowa Festival
• Jedwabno Mazury Festival
• 2nd All-Poland Dance Festival NABALET x ksgold
• Disco Music Festival Hype Disco Festival
• Summer Fall Festival
• Globaltica Festival

Gdynia in sport: The biggest events you need to see!

Gdynia is a city bustling with sport, offering residents and tourists numerous events throughout the year. For those looking for things to see in Gdynia, attending one of the major sporting events taking place in the city is a must. Below are some of the highlights:

• Gdynia Independence Run

Every year, on 11 November, Gdynia organises the Independence Run with Decathlon to commemorate Poland's regaining of independence. The route of the run is 10 km long and leads through the streets of the city, including Kazimierz Górski Street, in the vicinity of the Polsat Plus Arena Gdynia. In 2025, it will also take place on the 11th of November :)

• Walenty Wejman Pole Vaulting Festival

This is an annual athletics competition dedicated to the memory of Valentine Wejman, an outstanding activist and coach. The 29th edition of the festival will take place on 12 April 2025 at the LA Hall of the Gdynia Sports Centre. The competition will begin at 10 a.m. Admission to the event is free.

• PKO Gdynia Half Marathon

The PKO Gdynia Half Marathon is one of the most important running events in Poland, attracting participants from all over the world. In 2025, it will be held on 17 May. The route of the half-marathon runs through the picturesque streets of Gdynia, offering participants beautiful views of the city and the sea.

• Arka Gdynia matches

Arka Gdynia is a professional football club playing in the Ekstraklasa. The match season runs from August to May and the team plays its home matches at the City Stadium in Gdynia. Match dates are set at the start of the season and are available on the club's official website.

Participation in these events is a great opportunity to spend time actively, support local teams and experience the sporting atmosphere of Gdynia.

2. Gdańsk – a city with a rich history

No visit to the Tri-City would be complete without a trip to Gdańsk, a city known for its rich history and maritime heritage. Gdańsk was a pivotal location during World War II, and visitors can explore this fascinating history at the Museum of the Second World War. Stroll around the city's historic center, with its iconic architecture, such as the Long Market, and the Neptune Fountain. Gdańsk is also home to significant UNESCO World Heritage List sites, showcasing the city's cultural significance.

While you're in the region, don't forget that Gdańsk also boasts the National Maritime Museum, where you can delve deeper into the country's maritime heritage. Another important site nearby is the Gdańsk Shipyard, a key location in the Solidarity movement, which played a central role in shaping Poland's modern history.

3. Hel Peninsula – a hidden gem of the Baltic Sea

A little further out from the Tri-City is the stunning Hel Peninsula, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its sandy beaches and scenic landscapes, the peninsula is a great spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. The peninsula is also home to several nature reserves, where you can experience the beauty of the region's diverse ecosystems.

The town of Hel is a lovely place to explore, with its military grounds, including old bunkers and a coastal defence system dating back to World War II. The Hel Lighthouse offers a fantastic view of the surrounding coastline, making it a perfect place for photography.

4. Malbork Castle – a historical treasure

If you're keen on exploring more of Poland's fascinating history, a visit to Malbork Castle is a must. Located about an hour's drive from Gdynia, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the largest brick castles in the world. For those into Gdynia sightseeing and seeking nearby historical landmarks, the castle was the seat of the Teutonic Knights and played a crucial role in medieval Poland's military history. The engine room and commander's room are particularly interesting, offering insights into the medieval period. Visitors can also enjoy picturesque walks around the castle’s massive grounds and take in views of the surrounding countryside.

5. Kashubian Region – a slice of tradition and nature

For those wondering Gdynia what to see beyond the city, a visit to the nearby Kashubian Region is highly recommended. Known for its unique language, traditions, and natural beauty, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. With its hiking trails, nature reserves, and quaint villages, the Kashubian region offers a peaceful retreat. You can visit the Kashubian Museum in Kartuzy to learn about the history of the region or explore Lake Wdzydze, one of the most scenic spots in northern Poland.

6. Tuchola Forest – explore the heart of nature

For nature lovers, a trip to the Tuchola Forest is a fantastic way to experience Poland's natural beauty. Located about 2 hours from Gdynia, the forest is home to an array of wildlife, including deer and wild boar. For those looking for Gdynia things to do beyond the city, it's also a great location for outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and kayaking. The peaceful surroundings and vast stretches of forest make this area a perfect place for a relaxing day trip.

7. Żuławy Wiślane – exploring Poland’s rural charm

Venture to Żuławy Wiślane, a unique region in Poland known for its picturesque countryside, traditional windmills, and charming villages. This area offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of opportunities for cycling and walking along the Vistula River. The Żuławy Landscape Park is a must-see for those interested in Poland’s agricultural history and rural landscapes.

So if you’re looking for the perfect destination for a day trip or a longer stay, Gdynia and its surroundings are sure to provide an unforgettable experience, and a rental car from Kaizen Rent will enable you to visit efficiently.

Embark on an adventure to Gdynia, where the mix of ancient allure and contemporary enticements complemented by a dynamic cultural ambiance promises an exceptional experience for all who visit. Delight in the opportunity to dive into nautical museums, unwind along stretches of sandy beaches, savour the bustling food landscape, or partake in a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're planning a quick visit or an extended stay, opting for a short term car rental can offer the flexibility and convenience to explore Gdynia and its scenic surroundings with ease. Gdynia is ideal for both short day trips or longer sojourns, guaranteeing adventures that encapsulate Poland’s picturesque seaside splendour. Prepare your luggage and get ready to uncover the enchantment that awaits you in Gdynia!

What is the best time to visit Gdynia?

The best time to visit Gdynia is definitely in the summer when the weather is warm and you can enjoy all the outdoor activities and cultural events happening around the city. Whether you’re relaxing on the sandy beaches or exploring the fascinating history and maritime tourist attractions, summer in Gdynia offers something for everyone. If you’re planning a weekend in Poland, Gdynia makes for an ideal getaway—offering a refreshing mix of seaside charm and urban energy. Among the beautiful places in Poland, this coastal city stands out with its iconic sights like the seaside promenade, the museum ship ORP Błyskawica, scenic viewpoints, and vibrant summer festivals, making it the perfect season to explore all that Gdynia has to offer.

You’ll have a fantastic experience soaking up the vibrant atmosphere!

Are there any free parking options in Gdynia?

Absolutely, Gdynia has free parking options available, especially if you park a bit further from the city center. More details below.

Parking in Gdynia – what You should know

Gdynia offers a range of parking options, both paid and free, depending on the area and time of day:

• Paid parking zones are mainly found in the city center, including around Kościuszko Square, the southern pier, and near Gdynia Aquarium. These zones operate Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 20:00, and on Saturdays from 10:00 to 18:00. Prices range from 3.90 PLN to 5.50 PLN per hour, depending on the zone.
• Free parking is available outside the central zone, especially in residential areas, near Nature Reserves, or further from the seaside promenade. Be sure to look for signage, as some spots may have time limits or be reserved for residents.
• There's free parking near the city centre, conveniently located between Polsat Plus Arena Gdynia and Riviera Shopping Centre.
• Park & Ride facilities near the outskirts of Gdynia (e.g. in Chylonia or Karwiny) allow you to leave your car and continue by public transport — a convenient option during summer when traffic and parking in the city get busier.
• Most Gdynia tourist attractions such as museum ships, beaches, and the Gdynia Port have nearby parking, though spaces may be limited during peak hours.

Always check for posted signs and use parking apps or meters where required.