Blue Merlin – River View

Blue Merlin – River View Overview

Blue Merlin – River View sits on the banks of the Motława, just a stone’s throw from the Old Town’s cobblestone charm. I remember walking up from the river’s edge, the wooden pier creaking under my feet, and the smell of fresh pierogi wafting from a nearby stall at St. George’s Market. The hotel’s façade is a polished, mid-century modern strip of glass that catches the golden light in the early evening, making it look like a sleek ship bobbing on the water. Check‑in was surprisingly smooth – the front desk staff were already familiar with the local transport routes, so they gave me a quick map that highlighted the tram stop at Gdańsk Main Station, the bike‑share spots along the waterfront, and the best shortcut to the Christmas market that pops up every December.

The rooms themselves are a tasteful mix of nautical and contemporary polish. I stayed in a 3‑bedroom suite with a balcony that overlooked the river, and honestly, the sound of the water was a constant, gentle lullaby. The walls were painted in muted blues and greys, with a few local art pieces that caught my eye – one of them was a hand‑painted map of Gdańsk’s oldest pier. The beds were plush, the linens had that soft texture you only get when they’re freshly laundered, and the bathrooms were surprisingly spacious, with a rain shower that smelled faintly of eucalyptus. You can hear the faint hum of the city outside, but it’s not intrusive – the glass walls double as soundproofing, so you can read your book without the traffic noise from the nearby Ulica Gdańska.

Parking is a lifesaver. There’s a small, private garage right next to the hotel, and the staff will let you park for free if you’re staying more than three nights. If you’re more of a street‑parking person, you’ll find a few spots just a block away on Stara Stocznia – just be sure to leave your keys on the desk. And if you’re hungry, the breakfast spread is the real highlight. Think fresh pastries, a variety of cheeses, smoked salmon, and a selection of local breads that come straight from a bakery on Leśny. The coffee is strong, the lattes have that creamy texture you’d expect from a boutique café. The windows are big enough that you can watch the boats pass by, and the staff will sometimes stir in a bit of cardamom for an extra Polish twist.

Now, on to the practical stuff that matters to travelers: noise levels, seasonal tips, and little local secrets. During the peak summer months, the river can get a bit lively – kayakers, small boats, and the occasional cruise ship making a stop. If you’re a light sleeper, I’d suggest staying in a room on the upper floors where the river’s chatter is a bit softer. The best quiet hours are early morning, right after the hotel opens its doors for breakfast – the whole area feels hushed except for the distant bells of St. Mary’s Church. In winter, the river freezes over, and the whole city transforms into a frosty postcard; you can literally see the ice mirroring the stars at night, a view that’s hard to beat.

And if you’re planning a trip to Gdańsk, consider staying at Blue Merlin – River View during the shoulder seasons – late spring or early autumn. The crowds thin out, the hotel’s rates drop a bit, and you can wander the nearby streets without feeling rushed. The hotel’s friendly staff will point you toward the best, off‑beat restaurants; I’m talking about a tiny trattoria on 3rd Street that serves pierogi with a twist, and a cozy bar on the roof of the hotel that offers a panoramic view of the entire city. I honestly think Blue Merlin – River View is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a secret gem – it’s not about luxury, it’s about those small, authentic touches that make a stay memorable. So if you’re heading to Gdańsk, pack your camera and your curiosity, and get ready for a stay that feels like a conversation with a long‑time friend.

Blue Merlin – River View Accommodations