Easter is a time of joy, renewal, and family gatherings. It is also a great moment to go outside and look for signs of spring. The Tri-City in the second half of April can be delightful – warm rays of sunshine reflect in the waters of the Gdańsk Bay, parks are filled with the songs of birds, and historic streets are bustling with life.
This year, I suggest you celebrate Easter at a slow pace. A walk among blooming trees, an afternoon coffee with a view of the sea, the silence of Easter morning amid the sound of waves. Easter in the Tri-City is an excellent opportunity to combine tradition with active recreation outdoors. Therefore, I encourage you to create an opportunity for leisurely walks among the charming corners of Gdańsk, Sopot, and Gdynia, in addition to celebrating at the table. In this article, I will suggest a few places worth visiting.
Easter walk in Gdańsk – tradition and history in the open air
You can start Easter in Gdańsk with a visit to the historic city center. Walking through the streets of the Main Town, you will discover not only the richness of architecture but also feel the spirit of the holidays.
Where is it worth going?
- St. Mary's Basilica – not only for holiday masses but also to admire its monumental interior as well as the stained glass and paintings depicting scenes from the Passion.
- The Royal Way and Neptune's Fountain – in times past, Easter fairs were held on Long Market, where merchants sold fresh products, spices, meats, and Easter pastries. Today it is a vibrant place and an ideal idea for a holiday urban walk.
- Granary Island – fitting into the Easter symbolism of new beginnings, I encourage you to visit Granary Island, which has literally reborn in recent years after wartime destruction. Neglected for decades, it is now open to modernity while respecting tradition.
Photo: Spring walk on Granary Island in Gdańsk
Spring in full bloom, or a festive walk in the Oliwa Park
The Oliwa Park is a true gem among Gdańsk green spaces. Crossing its gates, you will enter a world where time flows more slowly. In April, the paths are sprinkled with the first flowers, and the crowns of trees shimmer with delicate green. If you want to relax and feel spring with all your senses, this is where you will find its most beautiful face.
What is worth seeing?
- Japanese Garden – a corner inspired by oriental harmony, where a traditional wooden gazebo and stone lanterns are surrounded by exotic plants. If the weather is favorable, you may witness the spectacular blooming of cherry blossoms, which will momentarily transport you to the Far East.
- Linden Avenue – monumental trees create a shaded tunnel that allows you to enjoy the warm rays of the sun breaking through the branches in spring.
- Oliwa Stream and ponds – a pleasant alternative to admire swimming ducks and swans. The sound of water soothes the senses and makes this place ideal for moments of reflection.
- The Abbot's Palace – a place where art meets history and nature (unfortunately, the Museum of Modern Art located there will be closed on holidays, but it is worth seeing the building itself).
Photo: Oliwa Park in Gdańsk
Easter coffee with a view of the sea – a new tradition?
I encourage you to try something different this year instead of having afternoon coffee at home or in a hotel; take your thermos to the beach. Of course, the Tri-City beaches are not lacking in restaurants and cafes where you can celebrate the holidays with an aromatic drink in hand, so everyone craving caffeine will find it in the best form. And all this while admiring the peaceful spring Gdańsk Bay.
What is worth seeing? Three piers:
- Sopot Pier – when you step onto the longest wooden pier in Europe, you will feel the space and elegance. Look around – in front of you is the historic Grand Hotel, and on the horizon, ships are waiting to enter the port.
- Brzeźno Pier in Gdańsk – if you are looking for a place for a peaceful walk or a moment of relaxation with a view of the sea, this is the place. You can sit on one of the benches and listen to the sound of the waves.
- Orłowo Pier in Gdynia – walking along the wooden platform, you will feel the unique atmosphere of this place. On one side, the gentle splash of waves, on the other, the majestic Orłowo Cliff, one of the most beautiful photo spots in the Tri-City, which impresses at any time of year.
Photo: Pier in the Tri-City
Soothing walk along the sea – from Brzeźno to Orłowo
If simply sitting with coffee on the beach or pier is not enough, I encourage you to take a walk. I believe that one of the best ways to feel spring is to stroll along the Baltic coast. The sound of the waves, the gentle scent of salt in the air, and the view of the endless water make it possible to truly relax.
The route between Gdańsk and Gdynia is ideal for a family walk or solitary moments of reflection. Especially since the beach is wide and sandy, and along the shoreline, there is a walking and cycling path. Along the way, you can find amber or simply enjoy the silence interrupted by the cries of seagulls. It is worth going all the way to the Orłowo Cliff – one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Poland. The steep slopes falling directly into the sea, along with the nearby wooden pier and fishing boats, give it a unique charm.
Holiday tradition in the Oliwa Archcathedral and Kalwaria Wejherowska
If you want to celebrate Easter in the spirit of Christian tradition, consider participating in a service at the Oliwa Archcathedral – one of the most important churches in northern Poland, full of monuments and a solemn atmosphere. Perhaps it will be an opportunity to listen to the famous Oliwa organs, whose sound fills the entire temple.
To delve even deeper into tradition and faith, you can choose to visit Kashubia. In many villages, ancient customs are still maintained. I encourage visiting Kalwaria Wejherowska – an ideal place for contemplation and spiritual experiences during Holy Week – which I have elaborated on in an earlier article.
Easter in the Tri-City – time for a new tradition
Does Easter have to mean sitting at the table? Not necessarily! It can be spent traditionally, according to the rules of faith, among family and friends, but also including activity and closeness to nature. The Tri-City offers numerous possibilities – from celebrating the holidays in impressive churches, to family spring walks by the sea, to discovering local traditions and history.
Regardless of how you decide to spend this holiday, I wish you that it will be filled with joy, peace, and beautiful moments!
Photo: Easter in Gdańsk with Grano Hotels
Author of the entry: Daria Bałdyga
