Poland — Gdańsk, Sopot, Bydgoszcz & Warsaw

Poland surprised me in the best way. The food is comforting and deeply traditional, the cities are beautiful without trying too hard, and flowers are everywhere—wildflowers lining paths, gardens overflowing, willow trees moving softly in the wind. It feels poetic without being curated.

Gdańsk

Gdańsk is colorful, historic, and quietly stunning.

A must-do is walking Amber Street—this is where I found the prettiest amber ring. The designs are incredibly unique, and you really feel the craftsmanship here. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth wandering just to see the variety.

To eat:

  • Pierogi (obviously)

  • Cabbage dumplings

  • Kanapka (simple open-faced sandwiches done really well)

  • Hot wine if you’re there in cooler weather

Gdańsk is the kind of city where you take slow walks, stop often, and let yourself linger.

Warsaw

Warsaw blends resilience, history, and beauty.

You have to explore the Old Town—walk through the Old Town Market Place, where the buildings are stunning and colorful, and there are tons of shops and restaurants. Find a spot here for traditional Polish food and take your time with it. You should also walk along the waterfront.

Another must:

  • Pałac na Wyspie (Palace on the Isle) and the surrounding gardens
    The park is expansive, peaceful, and perfect for long walks. It’s one of those places where you don’t rush—just wander and let it unfold

Sopot

Sopot felt soft and peaceful—one of those places where time slows down naturally.

We walked the beach and boardwalk, which is calm and beautiful, and stopped for hot chocolate downtown.
I also had hot chocolate from Wedel, which is rich, classic, and absolutely worth it.

One of my favorite meals of the entire trip was at a beachfront restaurant (I can’t remember the name, but honestly—any beach restaurant here will be good). It was very grandma-style cooking:

  • A whole fried fish, incredibly tender and flavorful

  • Beets

  • Fried potato pancakes (“

Simple, comforting, and perfect after a long walk by the water.

Sopot is full of willow trees, flowers everywhere, and an overall peaceful energy—it’s a place to breathe.

Bydgoszcz

Bydgoszcz is quieter and more local-feeling, with canals and charming streets that don’t feel touristy at all.

This is a great place to slow down, walk, eat well, and just observe daily life. It doesn’t demand a checklist—it rewards presence.