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December in Gdańsk

Christmas magic with the sounds of the sea

Aromatic cinnamon sticks meet a fresh sea breeze: once you’ve breathed in the scent of Gdańsk in winter, you’ll be coming back again and again! We’re sure this combination will mean you can’t wait to sea what’s to come, as the Polish former Hanseatic city shows off its rather charming side in the lead-up to Christmas. We reveal which traditions are common in Gdańsk, where the best Christmas market is and what else you can experience in Gdańsk in the run up to Christmas.

    Customs

    The Polish Christmas, Wigilia, is celebrated in a similar way to ours, but there are some traditions that are specific to Poland. Many people believe that how you spend Christmas day has an influence on the new year, which is why it is approached with calmness and deliberation. Hay under the tablecloth isn’t a sign of untidiness, it is intended to serve as a reminder of what happened in the stables in Bethlehem. A wafer shared at the table during dinner is a symbol of charity and unity. And when the clock strikes 12, many people go to Pasterka midnight mass.

    Tasty treats

    The customs continue with those of a culinary variety. Traditionally, there is always an extra setting at the dinner table so anyone who is spending Christmas Eve on their own can join the meal. The first star should appear in the night sky before the meal starts. If it’s cloudy, you’ll be forced to be a bit more imaginative...
    There are usually twelve dishes served on Christmas Eve to represent the twelve apostles. Fish is normally eaten in addition to the Oplatek (wafer). Barszcz (beetroot soup) and Pierogi (filled dumplings) are also very popular dishes at this time. For those with a sweet tooth, there is Polish Makowiec (poppy seed roll) and Piernik, a Polish gingerbread. It’s not just wine that is served warm, there is also a mulled beer called Grzane Piwo to add to the pre-Christmas ambience.

    Christmas market

    You can enjoy the fragrance of hot mulled wine (or beer, of course), cinnamon and roasted almonds at the Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy (Christmas market) between 22 November and 23 December 2024. In 2023, the Gdańsk Christmas market in Targ Węglowy (Coal Market Square) took a proud second place in the competition for the best Christmas market run by Europe’s Best Destinations. It is probably also one of the most romantic markets, as a branch of mistletoe is hung up every year for loved-up couples.
    And in addition to culinary delights, there are also arts and crafts, live events and over 160 illuminated figures.

    Snow and ice

    To the beach! Yes, even in winter! Maybe not to build sandcastles, but definitely snowmen. Either way, it’s worth making a detour to the nearby sea to stroll and soak up the nautical winter atmosphere: the Gdańsk beach Plaża Stogi is only around a 20-minute drive from The Cloud One Hotel. But even in the city itself, you can go for a lap along the snow- or ice-covered Motława to get your winter heart jumping for joy. And while you’re at it, you’ll pass some of the city’s major landmarks, such as the Krantor. There’s also ice to skate on at the Christmas market and in the Hala Olivia. You can also go skiing in the area around Gdańsk, for example in the nearby Wiezyca ski resort, which is about 1.5 hours away by car. For real beginners there is a small hill with a ski lift in the town of Sopot.

    A matter of perspective

    If the snow hasn’t made an appearance yet or it’s grey and rainy in Gdańsk, there are still plenty of things to keep you occupied. Gdańsk has a number of beautiful museums, with themes ranging from modern art to fascinating city history. Those wanting a better view will find a great one looking out across the city, and it’s certainly worth climbing the approximately 400 steps of St. Mary’s Church to see it. Prefer something a little cosier? The Amber Sky Ferris wheel is heated and offers incredible views. Another great place to see the city from is the water: during a cruise on the Motława (the athletes among us can kayak in winter), you’ll be rewarded with a totally different perspective.
    And when you find yourself in the global amber capital, any shopping trip is sure to include a jewellery shop or souvenir shop that sells amber. After all, it will soon be the gift-giving season. Merry Christmas – Wesołych Świąt!