Gdynia, Poland

Welcome to Gdynia, a vibrant city located in the northern part of Poland and a seaport on the Baltic Sea coast. With a population of over 240,000, Gdynia is the 12th-largest city in Poland and the second-largest in the Pomeranian Voivodeship after Gdańsk. This charming city offers a perfect blend of rich history, natural beauty, and modern urban life. Gdynia is part of a conurbation with the spa town of Sopot, the city of Gdańsk, and suburban communities, which together form a metropolitan area called the Tricity (Trójmiasto) with around 1,500,000 inhabitants.

Historically and culturally part of Kashubia and Eastern Pomerania, Gdynia was once a small fishing village. By the 20th-century, it attracted visitors as a seaside resort town. In 1926, Gdynia was granted city rights after which it enjoyed demographic and urban development, with a modernist cityscape. It became a major seaport city of Poland.

Gdynia is famous for its beautiful downtown, designated a historical monument of Poland in 2015. It is an example of building an integrated European community and includes Functionalist architectural forms. Its axis is based around 10 Lutego Street and connects the main train station with the Southern Pier. From the pier, visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the Baltic Sea and witness the arrival and departure of luxury passenger ships and ferries travelling to Scandinavia.

Moreover, Gdynia is known for hosting the annual Gdynia Film Festival, which is one of the most important film events in Poland. The festival attracts filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from all over the world. The event showcases the best Polish and international films and is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant cultural scene of Gdynia.

In 2013, Gdynia was ranked as Poland’s best city to live in by readers of The News and topped the national rankings in the category of general quality of life. This recognition is a testament to the city’s high standard of living, friendly community, and excellent public services.

If you are a foodie, Gdynia has a lot to offer. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, and you can indulge in a variety of delicious dishes in one of the many seafood restaurants located around the marina. Make sure to try the traditional Kashubian fish soup, which is a must-try for any seafood lover.

Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the beautiful views, Gdynia has something for everyone. Come and explore this hidden gem of Poland and discover why it should be on every traveler’s bucket list.