Pomerania, Poland Travel Guide

Discover Pomerania: A captivating region in northern Poland offering sandy beaches, historic towns, lush forests, and a blend of relaxation and adventure.

Pomerania, a region in northern Poland, is a captivating blend of sandy beaches, historic towns, and lush forests. Stretching along the Baltic Sea, it offers a scenic retreat for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. The area is known for its beautiful coastline, dotted with charming seaside resorts such as Sopot and Gdynia. These towns are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. History enthusiasts will find Pomerania equally appealing. The medieval city of Gdańsk, with its stunning architecture and rich history, is a highlight. The city's Old Town, meticulously reconstructed after World War II, is a maze of cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and historic landmarks like the Gothic St. Mary's Church and the Gdańsk Crane. For nature lovers, Pomerania offers the pristine landscapes of the Słowiński National Park, famous for its shifting sand dunes and diverse birdlife. The region also boasts numerous lakes and forests, ideal for hiking, cycling, and kayaking. Pomerania's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination in Poland.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pomerania.

Visit during the summer months for the best beach weather and vibrant local festivals.
Explore Gdańsk on foot to fully appreciate its historic architecture and charming streets.
Try the local seafood; Pomerania is renowned for its fresh fish dishes.
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking in Słowiński National Park and exploring the sand dunes.
Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic coastal trails and countryside.

Top City Travel Guides in Pomerania

The cities of Pomerania, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Gdansk

Torun

Sopot

Bydgoszcz

Elblag

Destinations in Pomerania

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Słowiński National Park

Kashubian Switzerland

Bory Tucholskie

Hel Peninsula

Słupsk

Explore Pomerania: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Pomerania

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Sopot Pier

Experience the charm of Sopot Pier, Poland's iconic seaside destination offering stunning views, local delights, and vibrant cultural experiences.

4.5

Museum of the Second World War

Explore the Museum of the Second World War in Gdańsk for an immersive experience into Poland's rich and complex wartime history.

4.7

Neptune's Fountain

Discover the timeless beauty of Neptune's Fountain, a historic landmark in Gdańsk symbolizing maritime heritage amidst vibrant city life.

4.8

Oliwski Park

Discover the tranquil beauty of Oliwski Park in Gdańsk, where nature and history intertwine for a perfect escape.

4.8

Best landmarks in Pomerania

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Rynek Główny

Experience the vibrant heart of Kraków at Rynek Główny, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with history, culture, and local charm.

4.8

Royal Łazienki Park

Explore the beauty and history of Royal Łazienki Park, a serene retreat in Warsaw filled with lush gardens, historic palaces, and cultural treasures.

4.8

Malbork Castle

Discover the grandeur of Malbork Castle, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest brick castle in the world, steeped in history.

4.8

Palace of Culture and Science

Discover the grandeur of the Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw, a cultural hub filled with history, exhibitions, and stunning city views.

4.6

Best restaurants in Pomerania

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Pierogarnia Stary Młyn

Discover the authentic taste of Poland at Pierogarnia Stary Młyn in Gdańsk – home of exquisite pierogi crafted with love.

4.4

Whiskey in the Jar

Experience the ultimate steak indulgence at Whiskey in the Jar – where flavor meets ambiance in Gdańsk.

4.7

Czarna Kaczka/ Black Duck

Discover authentic Polish cuisine at Czarna Kaczka in Kraków – where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.

4.7

Kashubian Ethnographic Park in Wdzydze

Explore the vibrant traditions of the Kashubian people at this captivating open-air ethnographic museum set amidst stunning natural landscapes.

4.7

Best bars in Pomerania

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Gdański Bowke

Experience the authentic flavors of Poland at Gdański Bowke, a must-visit restaurant in the heart of Gdańsk's scenic waterfront.

4.4

Pub Red Light

Discover the vibrant brewpub experience at Pub Red Light in Gdańsk, where local craft beers meet a lively atmosphere.

4.5

Łąka Bar

Discover the vibrant fusion of flavors and art at Łąka Bar in Gdańsk, where every dish tells a unique story.

4.6

Browar & Restauracja PG4 Gdańsk

Experience the best of Polish and German cuisine at Browar & Restauracja PG4 in Gdańsk, where fresh craft beer meets delectable dishes.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Pomerania

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Level 27

Discover Warsaw's nightlife at Level 27, where stunning views, live music, and exquisite cocktails create an unforgettable experience.

4.0

Shine Club Kraków

Shine Club Kraków - Discover the ultimate nightlife experience with live music, vibrant cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Kraków.

4.0

NIEBO

Discover NIEBO: Warsaw's Premier Destination for Live Music, Art, and Culinary Delights in a Vibrant Cultural Atmosphere.

4.1

RITUAL Cocktail Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at RITUAL Cocktail Club, Warsaw's premier destination for cocktails, live music, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.3

Best shops in Pomerania

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Złote Tarasy

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Złote Tarasy, Warsaw's iconic shopping mall with something for everyone.

4.4

Galeria Krakowska

Explore Galeria Krakowska: A bustling shopping haven in Kraków with diverse shops, dining, and entertainment options for every traveler.

4.4

Westfield Arkadia

Explore Westfield Arkadia, Warsaw’s premier shopping mall with diverse retail, delicious dining, and vibrant entertainment options.

4.5

Westfield Mokotów

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Westfield Mokotów, Warsaw's premier shopping mall featuring top brands, dining, and entertainment.

4.4

Explore Pomerania on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Pomerania, mapped for you.

Pomerania Essentials

Pomerania is located in the northern part of Poland, along the Baltic Sea coastline. The region is accessible via several international airports, with Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN) being the most prominent. From the airport, you can reach various cities and towns in Pomerania by train, bus, or car. Additionally, Szczecin-Goleniów Solidarity Airport (SZZ) serves the western part of the region. You can also travel to Pomerania by train from major Polish cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Poznań. International train connections are available from Germany and other neighboring countries.
Public transportation in Pomerania includes trains, buses, and trams, particularly in larger cities like Gdańsk, Gdynia, and Sopot. The regional train network, operated by PKP Intercity and regional carriers, connects major towns and cities. Buses are a convenient option for reaching smaller towns and rural areas. Car rentals are widely available, offering flexibility for exploring the region at your own pace. In urban areas, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. For a scenic experience, consider taking a ferry to explore the coastline and nearby islands.
The official currency in Poland is the Polish Zloty (PLN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout Pomerania. ATMs are plentiful in cities and towns, allowing you to withdraw cash as needed. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas where card payments may not be accepted. Currency exchange offices (kantors) are available in larger cities and at airports.
Pomerania is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Pomerania does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, particularly in busy tourist spots and public transport hubs.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to emergency services, including police, fire, and medical assistance. Major cities and towns in Pomerania have hospitals and medical facilities that offer emergency care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies (apteka) are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress appropriately for the weather, especially in coastal areas where it can be windy and chilly. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, particularly in churches and religious sites. Cover your head and shoulders if required. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. A polite 'Dzień dobry' (Good day) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.
To experience Pomerania like a local, visit local markets where you can buy fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Polish goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss exploring the historic city of Gdańsk, the seaside resort of Sopot, and the bustling port city of Gdynia. For a unique experience, take a boat trip along the Vistula River or visit the picturesque Hel Peninsula. Additionally, exploring the Kashubian region offers a glimpse into local traditions and crafts.

When is the best time to visit Pomerania?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Pomerania

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Pomerania. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCześć
  [cheh-shch]
- GoodbyeDo widzenia
  [doh veed-zhen-yah]
- YesTak
  [tahk]
- NoNie
  [nyeh]
- Please/You're welcomeProszę
  [proh-sheh]
- Thank youDziękuję
  [jen-koo-yeh]
- Excuse me/SorryPrzepraszam
  [psheh-prah-sham]
- How are you?Jak się masz?
  [yak shay mahsh]
- Fine. And you?Dobrze. A ty?
  [doh-bzheh. ah tih?]
- Do you speak English?Czy mówisz po angielsku?
  [chih moo-vish poh ahn-gyehl-skoo]
- I don't understandNie rozumiem
  [nyeh roh-zoo-myem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseChciałbym zobaczyć menu, proszę
  [hchah-wihm zo-bah-chihch meh-noo, proh-sheh]
- I don't eat meatNie jem mięsa
  [nyeh yem myen-sah]
- Cheers!Na zdrowie!
  [nah zdroh-vyeh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseChciałbym zapłacić, proszę
  [hchah-wihm zah-pwah-chihch, proh-sheh]
- Help!Pomocy!
  [poh-moh-tsih]
- Go away!Idź stąd!
  [eetch stont]
- Call the Police!Zadzwoń po policję!
  [zahd-zvohn poh poh-leet-see-eh]
- Call a doctor!Zadzwoń po lekarza!
  [zahd-zvohn poh leh-kah-rzah]
- I'm lostZgubiłem się
  [zgoo-bee-wem shay]
- I'm illJestem chory
  [yes-tem khoh-rih]
- I'd like to buy...Chciałbym kupić...
  [hchah-wihm koo-peach]
- I'm just lookingTylko się rozglądam
  [til-koh shay roh-zglah-dahm]
- How much is it?Ile to kosztuje?
  [ee-leh toh kosh-too-yeh]
- That's too expensiveTo za drogie
  [toh zah droh-gyeh]
- Can you lower the price?Czy możesz obniżyć cenę?
  [chih moh-zhehsh ob-nee-zhihch tseh-neh]
- What time is it?Która godzina?
  [ktoo-rah goh-jee-nah]
- It's one o'clockJest pierwsza
  [yest pyerv-shah]
- Half past (10)Wpół do (11)
  [fpoo-doh (jedenaście)]
- MorningPoranek
  [poh-rah-nek]
- AfternoonPopołudnie
  [poh-poh-ood-nyeh]
- EveningWieczór
  [vyeh-choor]
- YesterdayWczoraj
  [fcho-rah-y]
- TodayDziś
  [dzhihsh]
- TomorrowJutro
  [yoo-troh]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Gdzie jest...?
  [gdzyeh yest...?]
- What's the address?Jaki jest adres?
  [yah-kee yest ah-dres?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Czy możesz mi pokazać (na mapie)?
  [chih moh-zhehsh mee poh-kah-zach (nah mah-pyeh)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Kiedy jest następny (autobus)?
  [kyeh-dih yest nah-stemp-ny (ow-toh-boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Bilet (do ...)
  [bee-let (doh ...)]

History of Pomerania

Pomerania, located along the Baltic Sea coast, was first settled by Slavic tribes in the early Middle Ages. These early settlers established fortified settlements known as 'gords' and engaged in fishing, agriculture, and trade.
In the 12th century, Pomerania became a duchy under the rule of the Griffin dynasty. The duchy played a significant role in regional politics and trade, particularly through its involvement with the Hanseatic League, a powerful commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and market towns in Northwestern and Central Europe.
In the 14th century, parts of Pomerania came under the control of the Teutonic Knights, a German medieval military order. This period saw the construction of many castles and churches, as well as the introduction of German law and settlement patterns.
During the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), Pomerania was significantly impacted and eventually divided between Sweden and Brandenburg-Prussia. The Treaty of Westphalia in 1648 formalized this division, with Western Pomerania going to Sweden and Eastern Pomerania to Brandenburg-Prussia.
In the early 19th century, Pomerania was affected by the Napoleonic Wars, during which it was occupied by French troops. Following the defeat of Napoleon, the Congress of Vienna in 1815 confirmed Prussian control over the entire region.
Pomerania was heavily impacted during World War II, with significant destruction and displacement of populations. After the war, the Potsdam Conference in 1945 resulted in the region being divided, with Western Pomerania remaining in Germany and Eastern Pomerania becoming part of Poland. This led to a major demographic shift as German residents were expelled and replaced by Polish settlers.
Today, Pomerania is a vibrant region known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. Key cities like Gdańsk, Szczecin, and Koszalin offer a mix of historical architecture, cultural festivals, and modern attractions. The region's history is preserved in numerous museums, historical sites, and monuments that attract visitors from around the world.