Gdansk Travel Tips

Travel Etiquette for Gdansk, Poland

  1. Greeting: Poles are formal in their interactions, especially with strangers. A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time. Address people using their title and last name until invited to use their first name.

  2. Language: While many people in Gdansk speak English, it’s appreciated if you attempt some basic Polish phrases. Here are a few useful ones:

    • Hello (formal): Dzień dobry
    • Please: Proszę
    • Thank You: Dziękuję
    • Excuse me: Przepraszam (for getting attention) and Przepraszam, możesz mi pomóc? (if you need help)

  3. Tipping: In restaurants, a service charge is often included in the bill, but it’s still customary to leave 10% if you’re satisfied with the service. For taxi services, round up to the nearest whole number.

  4. Punctuality: Poles value punctuality. Arriving late for a meeting or appointment is considered rude.

  5. Public Transportation: Buy tickets before boarding trams, buses, or trains and validate them immediately. Random inspections are common, and fines for not having a valid ticket can be steep.

Cultural Etiquette

  1. Respect for Tradition: Gdansk has a rich history, and its residents take great pride in their city’s heritage. Learn about the city’s past before visiting, and show respect when visiting historical sites.

  2. Polish Cuisine: Try traditional Polish dishes like pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter’s stew), and gołąbki (cabbage rolls). If invited to someone’s home for a meal, it’s customary to bring a small gift such as flowers, wine, or chocolate.

  3. Personal Space: Poles value their personal space more than many other European cultures. Be mindful of this when interacting with locals in public places.

  4. Drinking Alcohol: Drinking alcohol is a popular pastime in Poland, but it’s important to remember that overindulging in public can lead to negative interactions with locals and authorities.

  5. Ask for Permission: If you want to take a photograph of someone or their property, always ask for permission first. Poles are generally friendly, but they appreciate privacy and respect for their personal belongings.