River View Old Town

River View Old Town Overview

River View Old Town sits right on the cobbled stretch of Angielska Grobla, just a stone’s throw from the Motława River. I remember stepping out of the elevator and hearing the gentle hiss of the water as it meanders by the old city walls. The lobby is a mix of reclaimed wood and soft lighting—pretty, but honestly, a little too dim for a first glance. After a quick check‑in where the staff asked if you needed a late check‑out (you’ll definitely want that if you’re staying in the summer), I stepped out into the courtyard. The smell of fresh pierogi from the bakery on Gdańsk Market Street wafted through the air, mingling with the faint scent of sea salt from the river. Parking is a bit of a hassle: there’s a small paid lot a block away on Św. Marcin, but you can also find street parking on Angielska Grobla if you’re willing to shuffle your luggage a bit.

The room itself is a cozy retreat after a day of exploring. The bed is the kind that feels like a hug—plush sheets, a generous duvet, and a view of the river that makes you want to stay awake just to watch the boats glide by. The bathroom is surprisingly modern; the shower has a good water pressure, though the faucet is a tad squeaky. I was hoping for a stronger Wi‑Fi signal—mine dropped a few times, especially in the evenings when the whole street lights up with the glow of the Old Town. Noise-wise, it’s pretty peaceful at night; the only sound you hear is the occasional barge passing by. During the day, though, the traffic along Gdańsk Street can be a bit loud, and the trams on nearby streets can rattle the windows if you’re not on the right floor. The best part? The balcony is a tiny but perfect spot for a coffee in the morning, with the city slowly waking up around you.

If you’re looking for a place to dive into local life, River View Old Town is an excellent launchpad. Walk down to the Old Town Market Square and you’ll find the famous St. Mary’s Church, the Gdańsk Crane, and a handful of charming cafés that serve the best espresso in the city. By lunchtime, the street vendors at the Long Market are offering everything from smoked fish to apple cake, and the aroma is irresistible. On the right side of the square, you’ll spot a small, family‑run bakery that’s been around since the 70s—there’s a rumor that their rye bread contains a secret blend of herbs. If you’re in the mood for a bite after a day of sightseeing, the restaurant on Gdańsk Street is a solid choice; the pierogi are generous, and the atmosphere is casual enough that you can sit at the bar and chat with locals about the best spots to visit. For an evening out, head over to the “Szczecin” tavern on Kogol Street—it’s a hidden gem where the bartender will recommend a local pilsner paired with smoked salmon. The best time to visit is early July, when the city is bustling with tourists, but you’ll avoid the midday crowds if you arrive before 10 a.m. If you prefer a quieter vibe, the early evening after 9 p.m. is when the streets calm down, and the city lights start to sparkle against the river.

In short, River View Old Town feels like a warm, familiar hug after a long day. It’s got the right mix of historic charm and modern convenience—just a little Wi‑Fi hiccup and a small parking hassle, but the location and the vibe make up for it. I’ll definitely be back, especially when the city’s autumn colors paint the Old Town in a new light.

To book hotel in Gdansk during the famous St. Dominic’s Fair season, visitors should make reservations well in advance as the city attracts maritime enthusiasts and history lovers from around the world.

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