Long Street, Gdańsk

Street in Gdańsk

Long Lane (ulica Dluga) In Gdansk
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Nieszka

Long Street (Ulica Długa) is one of the top attractions in Gdańsk, forming the ceremonial heart of the city along the famed Royal Route once used by Polish monarchs. Stretching from the Golden Gate to the Green Gate, this elegant boulevard showcases the city's Golden Age through a dazzling display of Dutch Mannerist façades, Renaissance gables, and richly decorated merchant houses. Walking here offers a remarkable sense of place, where every building tells a story from Gdańsk's prosperous Hanseatic past.

The street flows seamlessly into the Long Market, creating a lively and atmospheric space filled with cafés, amber shops, galleries, and street performers. Whether visited for its architecture, museum houses, or lively cultural energy, Long Street is often visited on walking tours of Gdańsk as the perfect introduction to the city's history and character.

History and Significance of Long Street

Long Street dates back to the Middle Ages, forming the spine of Gdańsk's Main Town. Its most celebrated era came during the 16th and 17th centuries, when wealthy merchant families commissioned architects and craftsmen—many from the Netherlands and Flanders—to design elaborate façades reflecting the city's wealth and international influence.

During royal visits, Polish kings processed along this street in grand ceremonial style, entering through the Golden Gate and exiting toward the Motława River. As such, Ulica Długa became not just a commercial street but a stage for civic pride, diplomacy, and spectacle.

Though destroyed during World War II, the street was painstakingly reconstructed, faithfully reviving its Mannerist gables, sculptural details, and vibrant colours. Today, it stands as a symbol of Gdańsk’s resilience and its dedication to preserving cultural heritage.

Things to See and Do in Long Street

Walking Long Street is one of the things to do in Gdańsk that blends history, architecture, and modern city life. Notable buildings include:

• The Ferber House, with its richly decorated façade.
• The Schumann House, known for its elegant gable and ornamentation.
• The Uphagen House, now a museum offering insight into 18th-century merchant life.

Each townhouse reflects the wealth and identity of the family that once lived there, with carved figures, coats of arms, and symbolic motifs. This spot is one of the best places to see in Long Street’s surroundings the full artistic splendour of the Dutch Mannerist style.

Beyond architecture, visitors can enjoy outdoor cafés, boutique amber shops, art galleries, and seasonal events such as St. Dominic's Fair and the Christmas market. The street's lively atmosphere makes it ideal for strolling, dining, and discovering the cultural heart of Gdańsk.

How to Get to Long Street

Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport offers direct links to many European destinations, with buses and taxis providing convenient access to the old town. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Gdańsk on Booking.com.

Gdańsk Główny railway station is within walking distance, and trams or buses also connect directly to the Main Town. You can easily check schedules and book tickets through the PKP Intercity website. However, for a smoother experience, we recommend using Omio, which simplifies the booking process and lets you compare prices and schedules all in one place.

Travelling by car is possible via the S7 and city roads, though visitors should park in designated areas outside the pedestrian zone before continuing on foot. If you are looking to rent a car in Poland I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Long Street

  • Suggested tips: Explore early in the morning for calm streets and beautiful light on the façades.
  • Best time to visit: Spring to autumn, especially during festivals.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free to walk; Uphagen House museum tickets cost extra.
  • Opening hours: Accessible at all times.
  • Official website: Check Gdańsk tourism pages for event schedules.
  • How long to spend: 1–2 hours; more if entering museums.
  • Accessibility: Flat, pedestrian-friendly walkway.
  • Facilities: Shops, cafés, restrooms, and ATMs available along the route.
  • Photography tip: Stand near the Golden Gate for a dramatic perspective down the entire street.
  • Guided tours: Featured in most walking tours of the old town.
  • Nearby food options: Numerous restaurants and cafés lining Ulica Długa and Długi Targ.

Where to Stay close to Long Street

Staying near Long Street places you in the centre of Gdańsk's historic atmosphere. Radisson Blu Hotel Gdańsk offers stylish rooms directly on the Royal Route. For modern comfort, PURO Gdańsk Stare Miasto is a short walk away near the river. For boutique elegance, Hotel Podewils provides a refined stay with beautiful waterfront views.

Is Long Street Worth Visiting?

Absolutely—Long Street is worth visiting for its architectural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you come for museums, cafés, festivals, or simply to admire the ornate façades, it perfectly encapsulates Gdańsk's Hanseatic charm and cultural richness.

FAQs for Visiting Long Street

Is Long Street pedestrian-only?
Yes, it is a fully pedestrianised promenade.

Are the buildings original?
Many façades were reconstructed after WWII but follow original designs.

Can you visit the interiors of the houses?
Yes—Uphagen House is open as a museum.

Is it crowded?
Often, especially in summer; mornings are quieter.

Are there guided tours?
Yes, most city tours include Long Street.

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The Long Street appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Gdańsk!

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Visiting Long Street

Address: Ulica Długa w Gdańsku, Długa, Gdańsk, Poland
Gdańsk: 0 km

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