How to chase the best views
Tricity blends sea horizons with city panoramas. The list below features seven proven spots — from natural cliffs to towers and terraces. Each comes with practical tips: access, entry and best time of day.
- Best time: golden hour — shortly after sunrise or before sunset.
- Gear: light shoes, a wind‑jacket, optional tripod.
- Safety: keep distance from the cliff edge; avoid visits after rain.
7 Viewpoints You Should Know
1. Gradowa Hill (Gdańsk)
The most “postcard” view of Main and Old Town. From the old redoubt fortifications you’ll see churches, shipyard cranes and the new Young City district.
- Entry: free; gentle walk from the Hevelianum side.
- Best: sunset when rooftops catch golden light.
2. St. Mary's Basilica Tower (Gdańsk)
After a few hundred steps, a 360° panorama awaits — from the Motława to the sea. The best place to grasp the scale of Gdańsk’s churches and townhouses.
- Entry: ticketed, seasonal (check opening hours).
- Best: early morning — fewer people and clean air.
3. Museum of the Second World War Terrace (Gdańsk)
Modern architecture with a wide perspective on shipyard cranes, Motława waterfronts and the dynamic Young City.
- Entry: the rooftop is sometimes free — depends on events.
- Best: afternoon and sunset — soft light on red bricks.
4. Pachołek (Gdańsk Oliwa)
A short forest walk leads to a metal tower with views of Oliwa hills, the cathedral and — in good visibility — the Baltic Sea.
- Entry: free; a few short but steep stair sections.
- Best: after rain — clear air and saturated greens.
5. Kamienna Góra (Gdynia)
A Gdynia classic: view of the marina, South Pier and modernist skyline. For comfort — take the funicular to the top.
- Entry: free; funicular available.
- Best: blue hour — city lights up while the sky still holds color.
6. Orłowo Cliff (Gdynia)
Dramatic scenery of the cliff edge and a broad Baltic horizon. One of the most photogenic spots on the coast.
- Entry: along the beach from Orłowo or a forest red trail. Beware of landslides.
- Best: calm morning — mirror‑like sea and soft light.
7. Sopot Pier (Sopot)
The longest wooden pier in Europe with views of the bay and cliff line in the distance. Evenings bring music from nearby venues — holiday vibes all season.
- Entry: ticketed in summer.
- Best: sunset — golden reflections on water and silhouettes of sailboats.
Practical tips
| Access | SKM to Gdynia/Orłowo/Sopot; trams and buses in Gdańsk |
|---|---|
| Gear | Good‑sole shoes, windbreaker, spare phone/camera battery |
| Safety | Keep away from cliff edges; can be slippery after rain |
| Season | Spring–Autumn; winter may bring icy stairs and platforms |
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