Gdańsk lies on the Baltic Sea, so the weather here is significantly influenced by the wind.

Summers are pleasant and rarely sweltering, whilst winters tend to be damp, windy and feel colder than the thermometer suggests.

In my opinion, the best months to visit are May, June and September. The temperatures are pleasant for walks, the days are long, and there tend to be fewer tourists in the city than during the summer holidays.

If you want to go for a swim in the Baltic Sea, go in July or August, ideally from the second half of July to mid-August. Even then, however, don’t expect the water temperature to be like that in the Mediterranean.

Compare hotel prices in Gdańsk

When is the best time to visit Gdańsk in terms of weather?

The ideal time to visit depends mainly on what you want to do in Gdańsk.

• For sightseeing:April, May, June and September
• For beaches and swimming: the second half of July and August
• For long days and boat trips: June and July
• For lower hotel prices: January to March and November
• For the Christmas atmosphere: late November and December
• To avoid the crowds: February, March and November

July and August offer the warmest weather, but they are also the peak season. We therefore recommend booking hotels in the centre, by the beach in Brzeźno and in neighbouring Sopot well in advance.

Conversely, from January to March and throughout November, you can often find accommodation at significantly lower prices. The exceptions are Advent and New Year’s Eve, when hotel prices in the city centre rise again.

• 👉 Book your hotel in Gdańsk in advance
• 👉 Keep an eye on our special-offer flights to Gdańsk

Can you swim in the sea in Gdańsk?

Yes, but the best conditions are usually only from the second half of July until the end of August.

In July, the water temperature averages around 19 °C, and in August it is approximately 19 to 20 °C. In warm years, it can rise above 21 °C, whilst after a few cold or windy days, it can be as low as 17 to 18 °C even in the middle of summer.

By way of comparison, on the Greek islands, for example, the sea temperature in summer is usually around 24 °C.

June is better suited to walks along the beach. The sea is usually around 16 °C and only the hardiest travellers are tempted to go for a swim. You can still swim at the start of September, but both the water and the air cool down quickly.

• 👉 Search for hotels in Gdańsk for the summer

Does it rain often in Gdańsk?

The weather is changeable, but Gdańsk isn’t a city where it usually rains for several days on end.

Statistically, the most rainfall occurs in summer, particularly in July. However, these are often short showers or thunderstorms, after which the skies clear again. Spring, particularly April, tends to have the fewest rainy days.

So a forecast showing a rain icon doesn’t necessarily mean your day is ruined. It might just be a half-hour shower passing over the sea or one part of the city.

An umbrella isn’t usually very practical because of the wind. You’ll be better off with a light, waterproof and windproof jacket.

What to do in Gdańsk when it rains?

The historic centre is small, and you can walk between most of the sights in a matter of minutes. You can make the most of a rainy day by visiting:

• The Museum of the Second World War
• The European Solidarity Centre
• The Amber Museum
• Artus Court
• restaurants, cafés and traditional milk bars

Given the changeable weather forecast, we recommend planning your outdoor activities for the morning and keeping a museum visit in reserve for the afternoon.

You’ll find more inspiration in the ‘Things to do in Gdańsk’ section.

Is it very windy in Gdańsk?

The wind is often a more significant factor in Gdańsk’s weather than the temperature itself.

The windiest period lasts from October to March.

A temperature of 5 °C can therefore feel like around zero on the waterfront or by the sea. In summer, on the other hand, the wind provides a pleasant cool breeze, but you may need a light jacket in the evening because of it.

The calmest weather is usually in May and the first half of summer.

The best months for cruises on the Motława, boat trips to Westerplatte or the Hel Peninsula are from May to September. Boat services may be restricted in strong winds or bad weather.

• 👉 Choose a boat trip and other activities in Gdańsk

Does it snow in Gdańsk?

Snow can fall from late November to March, most commonly in January and February. However, due to the proximity of the sea, temperatures often hover around zero, so snowfall alternates with rain and sleet.

A continuous blanket of snow is not guaranteed, even in the middle of winter. The snow is often wet and melts within a few hours.

If you’re planning to visit the Christmas markets, don’t automatically expect the city to be covered in snow.

Temperatures slightly above freezing, wind and occasional rain or wet snow are more likely.

Daylight hours in summer and winter

The difference between summer and winter in Gdańsk is striking.

In June and early July, there are around 17 hours of daylight. The sun rises as early as around 4 am and doesn’t set until after 9 pm. The long evenings are ideal for walks along the waterfront, trips to Sopot or evening boat trips on the Motława.

In December, there are just over 7 hours of daylight. The sun sets as early as around 3.20 pm, so it’s best to plan sightseeing and day trips for the morning.

However, the short winter days do have one advantage: the historic centre, the waterfront and the Christmas decorations light up early in the afternoon.

What to pack for Gdańsk?

Whatever the time of year, it’s a good idea to pack clothes that you can layer.

In summer, take your usual summer clothes, but also pack long trousers and a light windbreaker for the evening, a boat trip or a visit to the beach.

In spring and autumn, you’ll need a waterproof jacket, a jumper and closed-toe shoes. A winter visit requires a warm jacket, a hat, gloves and waterproof boots. Due to the wind, the wind chill makes it feel colder than it actually is.

Weather by month

Weather in January

January is the coldest month of the year. Daytime temperatures are usually around 0 to 3 °C, whilst at night they often drop below zero.

There is a mix of rain, wet snow and overcast skies. The main advantages are low hotel prices and very few tourists, particularly after the New Year celebrations have ended.

Weather in February

February is similarly cold to January, but tends to be slightly drier. Daytime temperatures usually range between 1 and 4 °C.

Snow is still possible, and February is one of the windiest months. However, it is one of the best months for an affordable weekend spent exploring museums, restaurants and cafés.

Weather in March

Spring arrives slowly. Expect daytime temperatures of around 5 to 8 °C, but the wind chill will make it feel colder.

There are sunny days, as well as rain or the last snow showers. There are still few tourists and hotels tend to be cheaper than from April onwards.

Weather in April

Statistically, April is one of the drier months, but the weather can change quickly. Daytime temperatures usually rise to between 10 and 14 °C.

It can be pleasant in the sun, whilst a warm jacket will be needed when the sea breeze picks up. April is a good choice for a more affordable city break without the summer crowds.

Weather in May

May is one of the best months to visit Gdańsk. Daytime temperatures are usually between 15 and 19 °C, the countryside is green and the days are already very long.

The weather is ideal for walks, trips to Sopot and the first boat trips on the river and around the harbour. However, the sea is still too cold for swimming.

Weather in June

June offers long days and pleasant temperatures of around 18 to 22 °C. On sunny days it can be significantly warmer, though evenings by the water remain cool.

It is the ideal month for exploring the town, going on day trips and taking boat trips. The sea is on average only around 16 °C, so you’ll find the beach more suitable for relaxing than for long swims.

Weather in July

July is usually the warmest month. Typical daily highs range from 21 to 24 °C, but during hot spells they can exceed 25 °C.

It is also the month with the highest rainfall, though this usually takes the form of showers and thunderstorms. The sea temperature is around 19 °C, and conditions for swimming improve, particularly in the second half of the month.

Weather in August

August is similarly warm to July and offers the best conditions for swimming. Daytime temperatures are usually around 21 to 24 °C, and the sea averages 19 to 20 °C.

Expect the peak season, with crowded beaches and higher accommodation prices. Book hotels in the centre, Brzeźno and Sopot as early as possible.

• 👉 Compare accommodation prices for the summer season

Weather in September

Early September often feels like the end of summer. Daytime temperatures are usually around 17 to 20 °C, and during warm summers, you can still enjoy a quick dip in the sea.

In the second half of the month, it cools down rapidly and the evenings are chilly. Nevertheless, September is one of the best times for city sightseeing and day trips without the holiday crowds.

Weather in October

In October, daytime temperatures drop to around 10 to 14 °C. There is more wind, overcast days and occasional showers.

The colourful autumn scenery is lovely in the parks and along the coast, but a waterproof jacket is advisable for longer walks.

Weather in November

November tends to be cold, windy and overcast. Daytime temperatures usually range between 5 and 8 °C, and it gets dark early.

It is one of the cheapest months to visit, especially before the start of Advent. Plan your itinerary mainly around museums, restaurants and shorter walks through the city centre.

Weather in December

Temperatures in December usually range between 0 and 4 °C. It may snow, but rain, sleet and stronger winds are just as likely.

The days are very short, but the historic centre comes alive with Christmas decorations and Advent markets. Book your accommodation well in advance, particularly for Advent weekends and New Year’s Eve.

• 👉 Search for hotels for Advent in Gdańsk