PLN Currency Guide for Tourists in Gdansk: Money Tips 2026

What currency is used in Gdansk?

Poland uses the Polish Zloty (PLN), not the Euro. As of 2026, 1 EUR is approximately 4.30 PLN and 1 GBP is approximately 5.10 PLN. Gdansk is a very card-friendly city — you can pay by card almost everywhere, from restaurants to street vendors. However, understanding PLN basics will save you money and avoid common tourist traps.

Should you exchange money before arriving?

No. The best strategy is to bring your debit or credit card and withdraw PLN from ATMs in Gdansk if you need cash. Airport exchange bureaus (kantor) at GDN airport offer terrible rates — typically 10-15% worse than the market rate. If you must exchange cash, do it in the city center where competition keeps rates fair.

Card payments in Gdansk

Visa and Mastercard are accepted virtually everywhere in Gdansk, Sopot, and Gdynia. Contactless payments (tap-to-pay) are universal — Poland was one of the earliest adopters of NFC payments in Europe. Apple Pay and Google Pay work at most terminals. Our taxi transfers accept card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Revolut with no surcharge.

ATM tips: avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion

When using an ATM in Poland, always choose to be charged in PLN (local currency), not in your home currency. If the ATM offers to convert to EUR, GBP, or USD for you, decline — this is called Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) and adds a 3-7% markup. The same rule applies when paying by card in shops and restaurants: always pay in PLN.

Tipping in Gdansk

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in Poland. In restaurants, 10% is standard for good service. For taxi drivers, rounding up or adding 10-20 PLN is a kind gesture but not expected. Our taxi transfer prices are all-inclusive — there are no hidden fees, so any tip is purely at your discretion.

How much cash do you need?

For a typical 3-day trip to Gdansk, 200-300 PLN in cash is more than enough as backup. You will use your card for 90% of purchases. Cash is useful for small market purchases, some beach vendors in Sopot, and occasional tips. There are ATMs throughout the Old Town, at Galeria Baltycka mall, and at the airport.