Historic city with 81p beers is one of Europe most affordable mini-breaks
Fancy a weekend getaway that's rich in culture but easy on the wallet? Brits are known for their love of a quick city break; a swift two-day retreat from the daily grind, the incessant drizzle, and the lure of a Greggs. It's a concept that might just send our friends across the pond into a tailspin.
Luckily, the UK's prime location means we're only a short hop away from an array of unique destinations, from the romantic avenues of Paris to the hedonistic shores of Ibiza.
However, for those watching their pennies while yearning to jet off, there's one city that's been crowned as Europe's 'most affordable' city break.
The TikTok-famous Orda Twins have taken to the platform to share the best bits of theirt jaunt to Gdańsk. The pair showcased a variety of photogenic spots, from trendy cafes and eateries to golden beaches and quaint streets adorned with charming pastel-coloured houses.
The comments section quickly filled up with travel buffs singing the praises of this hidden gem, with many recommending the city to their nearest and dearest. "One of the top city breaks in Eastern Europe," one user said.
Another agreed, saying: "100 per cent the best place to visit in Poland. Modern city, good food, and many historical sights."
A third person wrote: "Poland is so so underrated, I absolutely love it. Always made to feel welcome as a Brit." And a fourth simply said: "Gdansk is beautiful."
Nestled in Poland's north, Gdańsk has long been a magnet for tourists. Indeed, over 1.2 million holidaymakers descend upon the port city annually, and it's not hard to see why.
A pint of local beer averages at about 81p, while a decent bottle of wine won't cost you more than £5. A three-course dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant is roughly £32, making Gdańsk a real bargain.
But there's more to this city than affordable food and drink as it's also a gateway to Poland's haunting past.
The Museum of the Second World War is an essential stop, housing over 2,000 exhibits across three thematic sections: The Road to War, The Horrors of War, and The War's Long Shadow. It's advised to allocate at least three hours for this museum, situated just 3km from the Westerplatte peninsula, the site of a German attack in September 1939.
A 45-minute drive will take you to the Stutthof Concentration Camp, where you can learn about the atrocities of the Holocaust and pay tribute to those who perished during the war.
Back in Gdańsk, you can explore St Mary's Church, Neptune's Fountain, Golden Gate, and Oliwiski Park - all contributing to the city's breathtaking and distinctive architecture.
Reaching Gdansk is a doddle, with many major UK airports - including Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Edinburgh, Belfast and Luton - providing direct flights. If your dates are flexible, you can nab a real bargain - with flights from London in September previously priced at £15..
Lodging in Gdansk is also quite reasonable, particularly when compared to other European cities like Paris and Milan. For instance, even a night at the five-star Hilton hotel will only set you back £133 - based on two people sharing in September. But if you're watching the pennies, a cosy apartment can be yours for just £25 per night.
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