Car Hire Gdansk Airport

Gdansk Airport Mini Guide

Apart From Solidarity and the Shipyards, What is Gdansk Known for?
Gdansk is a beautiful city, acclaimed as one of the finest in the Baltic region with many grand buildings and attractive squares. Much of it was destroyed by allied and German bombing in the Second World War but was lovingly restored in the 40s and 50s. For a great view of the old city, walk the banks of the Motlawa River to see the rows of Baroque style houses on the opposite bank. Take some time too to visit the breath-taking interior of St Mary’s Church the size of which is incredible, especially given that it is made from brick.

How do I get to Gdansk?
You could arrive by ship to the port but most take the plane, landing at Lech Walesa International Airport. Ryanair and Wizzair operate low cost routes from many UK cities meaning that the beautiful city is within reach of even the tightest budgets. The routes were even more popular with the Euro 2012 finals being played in Poland and the Ukraine. There are several bus routes into the city with route 210 being the most useful. The Mercure Hotel operates a shuttle bus, open to all travellers, which goes to the city centre too. Otherwise it’s a taxi ride or a hire car to get you to your accommodation.

What is the Airport Like?
As a result of continuing expansion, the terminal built in 1997 has reached capacity and so an additional terminal was constructed before the Euro 2012 finals. The airport is spacious and modern but with a feel of overcrowding at times which the new terminal should now overcome. Arranged over four floors, arrivals and departures are separated, with an underground floor for administration and a top floor with viewing deck and restaurant.

What can I Expect When I Arrive in Gdansk?
As with all modern airports, you’ll make your way along a jet bridge from the aircraft to the terminal. Passport checks are made soon after entering the second floor and you’ll then be advised by the overhead screens, which baggage reclaim to head for. You’ll need to go down a level for these and then after collecting your luggage it’s a short trip through customs and out into the massive public hall. It’ll take a few moments to orientate yourself but if you’re still lost, head for the overhead signs indicating the information points. They can then direct you to any facilities you may need including first aid, tourist information, banking and currency exchange or the car hire companies whose desks are indicated by their multi-coloured illuminated signs against the far wall. The bus stop into the city, including the hotel shuttle, can be found immediately outside the terminal doors.

What can I do on the day of my Departure?
Rather surprisingly, the facilities after checking in are a little on the light side with only a jewellers selling Polish amber products, a newsagent and the duty free outlet which does have a good range of items though. There’s also only one food outlet but it is run by one of Gdansk’s top chefs so the food is excellent and still good value for money.

Gdansk is famous for many reasons with its political history being the most commonly recalled. There in the 1980s, the Solidarity trade union began its fight that would precipitate the fall of communism. The city is also famous for its shipyards where the movement began.

Putting that aside, Gdansk is one of the most beautiful cities on the Baltic with many centuries-old buildings that were destroyed in World War II but painstakingly rebuilt afterwards. Key places to visit include the former city hall and St Mary’s Church, the biggest brick-built church in the world, capable of holding 20,000 people easily reached using car hire from Gdansk Airport.