CITYSTAY Waterlane Island Apartment

CITYSTAY Waterlane Island Apartment Overview

CITYSTAY Waterlane Island Apartment sits on a quiet corner of Chmielna 63, just a stone’s throw from the bustling Gdańsk Old Town. When I first stepped into the lobby, the scent of polished wood and fresh coffee hit me. The staff were friendly, but what really made the check‑in feel personal was the owner popping up from the back, waving, and giving me a quick tour of the building’s quirks—like the slightly rickety elevator that rattles a bit when it stops on the top floor. I mean, it’s a charming little detail that adds character, right? The building itself is a converted 19th‑century warehouse, so the high ceilings and exposed beams give the place a lofty, almost industrial vibe that feels far from the usual hotel trite décor. The street below is a mix of old brick facades and modern cafés, and you can hear the distant hum of the harbor, which is only a three‑minute walk away. The parking situation is decent—there’s a small garage two blocks north that accepts cards, and you can also find street parking, though it’s a bit of a scramble during the summer rush.

Inside the apartment, the layout is surprisingly spacious for a city unit. The living area flows into a kitchenette that actually works—there’s a small fridge, a single‑burner stove, and a compact sink, which is handy if you want to whip up a quick breakfast before heading to the market on St. Catherine’s Street. The walls are painted in soft neutrals, and the large windows overlook the river, letting in a gentle breeze that smells faintly of salt and seaweed. I spent an afternoon lounging on the balcony, sipping a cold beer, and watching the sunset paint the water in golden hues. The bed is a generous size, and the linens feel buttery smooth, which is a huge plus after a long day of exploring. The only real drawback was the noise at night—some of the older neighboring units have thin walls, so if you’re a light sleeper, a white‑noise machine might be worth considering.

Overall, Citystay delivers the kind of authentic, lived‑in experience you’re looking for when you want to feel like a local rather than a tourist. The location is unbeatable for anyone who wants to walk to the Old Town, the harbor, and the nearby street markets, while still being close enough to the quieter backstreets where you can find a cozy coffee shop or a hidden bar. The price point is reasonable for a four‑star property in Gdańsk, especially when you factor in the free parking and the fact that the owner often offers a quick tour of hidden gems like the cobblestone lanes of the Jewish quarter or the best pierogi spot on Żabia. Honestly, if you’re planning a trip to this part of Poland, Citystay is the spot that makes the city feel less like a destination and more like a home away from home.

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