Getting around

Getting Around Gdańsk: Public Transport, Walking, and Car Options for North American Travelers

Updated Jul 30, 2025

Gdańsk features walkable historic areas, efficient public transport, and rental car options for North American visitors exploring this Polish coastal city.

Getting Around Gdańsk: Public Transport, Walking, and Car Options for North American Travelers

Overview

Ease of getting around

Gdańsk offers excellent mobility options for visitors from the US and Canada. The historic city center is highly walkable with cobblestone streets connecting major attractions within easy distances. Public transport includes buses, trams, and trains that efficiently connect districts and nearby coastal areas. The ZTM system covers the entire Tri-City area including Sopot and Gdynia. Rental cars provide flexibility for exploring beyond the city but parking can be challenging in Old Town. Biking works well on designated paths and quieter streets. Most attractions cluster in walkable zones, making exploration straightforward for North American travelers accustomed to car-dependent cities.

Public transit

ZTM operates Gdańsk's integrated transport system with buses, trams, and regional trains. Single tickets cost around 4 PLN, day passes 15 PLN. Purchase tickets from machines, kiosks, or mobile apps. Routes connect Old Town, Main Station, airport, and coastal areas. The SKM commuter rail links Gdańsk with Sopot and Gdynia beaches. Visit ztm.gda.pl for route maps and schedules in English.

Driving

Major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar operate at Gdańsk Airport and downtown locations. Prices start around 25 EUR daily. International driving permits recommended alongside home licenses. Old Town has limited parking with paid zones. Free parking exists in residential areas outside the center. GPS navigation works reliably. Book through comparison sites like Kayak or directly with companies.

Walking

Gdańsk's compact Old Town makes walking the preferred exploration method. Major attractions like St. Mary's Church, Neptune Fountain, and Długi Targ lie within 500 meters of each other. Cobblestone streets require comfortable shoes. Pedestrian zones restrict vehicle access during peak hours. Well-marked signs guide visitors between districts. Most hotels sit within walking distance of main sights.

Biking

Gdańsk offers decent cycling infrastructure with bike lanes along main streets and waterfront areas. City bikes available through MEVO bike-sharing system via mobile app. Rental shops near Old Town charge 20-40 PLN daily. Flat terrain makes cycling easy, though cobblestones can be bumpy. Dedicated paths connect to coastal areas and parks. Bikes allowed on some public transport with additional tickets.