From Paris to Gdansk: A Spectacular 7-Day European Adventure
Begin your journey in the City of Light, where timeless charm meets vibrant culture, then make your way to the dynamic and colorful city of Gdansk on the Baltic coast. Both Paris and Gdansk boast rich histories, lively street scenes, and unique culinary delights. Paris captivates with world-renowned art, fashion, and food, while Gdansk surprises with its medieval architecture, Baltic seaside charm, and emerging modernist vibe. This 7-day itinerary balances iconic highlights with hidden gems, immerses you in local life, and offers plenty of authentic experiences–with practical advice so you don’t miss a beat (or run out of steam).
Day 1-3: Enchanting Paris
Day 1: Arrival and Iconic Sights
Dive straight into Parisian magic! Begin at the Eiffel Tower—yes, it’s touristy, but the views at sunset are spellbinding. Walk along the Seine towards the Notre-Dame Cathedral and explore the charming Île Saint-Louis. Grab a crepe from a street vendor for an affordable snack. Beware of restaurants right near tourist spots; their food can be pricey and uninspiring.
Day 2: Hidden Gems & Bohemian Vibes
Wander through the Marais district, soaking in galleries, vintage shops, and the exquisite Place des Vosges. For lunch, try L'As du Fallafel—a beloved budget-friendly spot serving arguably the city’s best falafel. Later, visit the lesser-known Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, a quirky museum blending art and wildlife that’s both fun and fascinating.
Day 3: Artistic & Culinary Exploration
Spend a day in Montmartre where art history breathes from every corner. Visit the Sacré-Cœur basilica, then stroll past the cafés where Picasso and Van Gogh once lingered. I recommend the classic countryside poultry dish, coq au vin, at Le Moulin de la Galette—a charming eatery with a lovely terrace. In the evening, catch a cabaret show at Moulin Rouge or enjoy jazz at a historic cave-like cellar bar. Public transport in Paris is excellent; get a day pass for easy metro and bus rides.
Day 4-7: Vibrant Gdansk
Day 4: Arrival & Old Town Wonders
Travel from Paris to Gdansk by an easy direct flight (about 2.5 hours), or opt for an adventurous overnight train journey through the heart of Europe for a slower pace and some train-bound stories. In Gdansk, start with the Royal Way, lined with colorful facades and the impressive Long Market. Grab a traditional pierogi lunch at Bar Mleczny Neptun for a wallet-friendly local experience.
Day 5: Deep Dive into History
Dedicate the day to exploring the European Solidarity Centre and the WWII Museum—both are deeply moving and brilliantly designed. Stories from the workers in the shipyards as you walk through the museum galleries will make history come alive. Afterwards, unwind with amber-inspired cocktails at a stylish bar in the Old Town. If you plan to rent a scooter, Gdansk’s compact center is perfect for zipping around, otherwise walking and trams are reliable.
Day 6: Baltic Coast Adventure
Head to the nearby beach town of Sopot for a breezy day by the Baltic Sea. Walk the longest wooden pier in Europe and enjoy fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf—consider ordering smoked eel for an authentic local treat. Back in Gdansk for dinner, try the upscale restaurant Goldwasser, known for its creative takes on Polish cuisine and the legendary herbal liqueur named after the city’s famed amber-infused drink. For a budget alternative, try Pyra Bar for hearty potato-based dishes.
Day 7: A Day in Gdansk - A Personal Story
I fondly remember my morning wandering through the quiet Dahlem Park, watching locals begin their day with tai chi and jogging along the misty paths. It was a peaceful contrast to the bustling Old Town. Lunch was at a small bakery, savoring fresh babka cake and steaming black coffee, a simple pleasure that fueled my afternoon exploring the hidden courtyards off Mariacka Street. The amber shops here are a marvel—one charming dealer even let me try crafting a small pendant, which became a treasured souvenir. Later, I joined a small group for a boat ride on the Motława River, enjoying castle views and stories from our enthusiastic guide. The evening ended perfectly with a sunset pint of Żywiec on the terrace of a café overlooking the water. Gdansk has a way of making you feel like you’ve stumbled upon Europe’s best-kept secret, a blend of old soul and youthful energy.
