What to do in Gdańsk in August?

August is the month when Gdańsk is most vibrant throughout the year. The largest fair in this part of Europe takes place on the streets of the Main Town, an open-air cinema plays in the former shipyard, Mozart resonates in Oliwa, and sailing ships from all over the Baltic Sea sail into the Motława. Additionally, the sea is at its warmest, days are still long, and evenings by the water are pleasant. We have gathered everything worth planning for an August visit to Gdańsk, from major events to proven ideas for ordinary, enjoyable holiday days.

St. Dominic’s Fair 2026 — the heart of Gdańsk’s summer (until August 16)

If there is one event for which it is worth being in Gdańsk in August, it is the St. Dominic’s Fair, also known as the Dominican Fair — the 766th edition runs from July 25 to August 16. For three weeks, the streets of the Main Town transform into a huge marketplace: hundreds of stalls with handicrafts, amber, regional delicacies, and antiques. Flea market enthusiasts will enjoy the Collectors’ Zone, which this year has moved to Targ Węglowy — antiques, numismatics, and second-hand treasures all in one place. On Ołowianka Island, the fair is accompanied by additional events, including the Football Film Festival (August 2–8) and Jazz on the Island (August 12). Admission — as for 766 years — is free.

Practical advice: it’s best to visit the fair before noon, before it gets crowded, and return to Długie Pobrzeże in the evening — the illuminated stalls and the Motława after dark make the biggest impression.

Cinema under the cranes — Octopus Film Festival (August 11–16)

On the grounds of the former Gdańsk Shipyard, among the halls and cranes on Elektryków Street, the Octopus Film Festival takes place — a genre film festival that has made its post-industrial setting its trademark. Open-air screenings, B-movies shown with love, concerts, and an atmosphere that no multiplex cinema can match. An ideal evening for those who have already explored the Main Town.

Mozart in Oliwa — Mozartiana (August 16–22)

In the third week of August, it’s worth taking a tram to Oliwa. The International Mozart Festival Mozartiana resonates in Oliwa Park, Oliwa Archcathedral, and Artus Court — outdoor concerts in the historic palace park are one of the most beautiful musical experiences offered by the Tri-City. Some events are free; you can find the detailed program on the festival’s website.

Sailing ships on the Motława — Baltic Sail (August 21–24)

At the end of the month, Baltic Sail arrives in Gdańsk — the thirtieth edition of one of the largest sailing festivals in Poland. The Motława embankments fill with sailing ships that can be admired up close, and some vessels can be boarded or a cruise purchased. The parade of sails on the waters of the Bay is a sight that stays in memory — it’s best to watch it from the vicinity of Westerplatte or from the shore in Brzeźno.

Electronics in the fortress — Wisłoujście Festival (August 21–23)

On the same weekend, the 17th-century Wisłoujście Fortress — normally a museum and the oldest coastal fortress on the Polish coast — transforms into a stage for electronic music. The Wisłoujście Festival is an intimate event by festival standards, but with a setting that any club in Europe would envy.

Last chance for Shakespeare (until August 2)

The beginning of the month marks the end of the 30th International Shakespeare Festival at the Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre — the only Elizabethan theatre in the world with an opening roof. If you are in Gdańsk during the first August weekend, check the program: some shows take place outdoors.

A day at the beach — Stogi, Brzeźno, or Sobieszewo Island

August is the month when the Baltic Sea is warmest throughout the year. From the center of Gdańsk, you can reach Stogi beach by tram in fifteen minutes, and Brzeźno — with its pier and wide strip of sand — not much longer. If you are looking for peace, choose Sobieszewo Island: nature reserves, fewer people, and beaches where you can find a spot just for yourself even on an August weekend.

Evening on the Motława

After a day full of impressions, what remains is the best of Gdańsk: an evening stroll along Długie Pobrzeże, when the Crane and tenements reflect in the water, a sunset cruise on the Motława, or dinner with a view of Spichrzów Island. In August, the city buzzes with life until late — and it’s worth booking tables at the best places in advance.

August in Gdańsk with children

A rainy day or a need for a change? Majaland amusement park near Gdańsk is open throughout the holidays — we have gathered everything you need to know before visiting in a separate guide. In the city itself, children appreciate the Hewelianum Centre on Gradowa Hill (learning through play plus the best view of the city) and the fountain on Ołowianka.

Where to eat well?

Fair delicacies are one thing, but Gdańsk also has a culinary scene for the whole year. If you’re craving a good burger after a walk, check out our subjective guide to the best craft burgers in the city. And for souvenir photos from your holiday — we have a ready list of places where photos turn out best.

Accommodation in Gdańsk in August

August is peak season — the closer to the Fair and festival weekends, the harder it is to find a good apartment in the center. By booking directly on apartmore.pl, you pay less than on booking portals, and remote check-in works at any time — even if your train arrives after midnight. All our apartments are in the strict city center: you can walk to St. Dominic’s Fair from the Old Town, Spichrzów Island, or Młode Miasto.

See apartments in the center of Gdańsk

Frequently Asked Questions — August 2026 in Gdańsk