Hotel Podewils Old Town Gdańsk

The Podewils Old Town Gdańsk Hotel, located at 2 Szafarnia Street, is a landmark on the Motława Riverfront in Gdańsk. Its Baroque structure, dating back to 1728, is eye-catching and promises a stay in a place with soul. On the one hand, it's a luxurious, five-star boutique hotel , and on the other, a historic palace that has witnessed the city's turbulent history. By analyzing available information and guest reviews, you can create a multi-dimensional picture of the place, helping potential customers make a booking.

Advantages: Location, atmosphere and service at the highest level

The greatest and most frequently highlighted advantage of the Podewils Hotel is its unparalleled location. Its location directly on the river, overlooking the historic Crane and the Main Town, is absolutely exceptional. It's an ideal base for exploring Gdańsk's most important monuments, such as Długi Targ and Neptune's Fountain, which are all within walking distance. Guests appreciate the opportunity to enjoy the vibrant city life while finding the tranquility of this intimate setting, which could be described as an elegant hostelry.

The hotel's interiors are another strong point. Reviews often mention its "wonderful atmosphere," "charm," and "unique ambiance." Preserved historical features, such as old windows and doors, combined with the luxurious finishing of the lobby, create a sense of time travel. This isn't your typical chain hotel; it's a place with a personal touch, reminiscent of an upscale establishment . Guests appreciate that the habitaciones , while decorated in a historicist style, are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, 50-inch Smart TVs, and marble bathrooms. Comfortable beds and good soundproofing in the rooms ensure a restful night's sleep, which is crucial for a successful hospedaje .

The service is consistently praised in numerous reviews. Staff are described as friendly, helpful, professional, and polite. This level of attentiveness is fundamental to the five-star experience and seems to be standard at the Podewils Hotel. Also worth mentioning is the restaurant with a summer terrace by the river, which serves a buffet breakfast, praised for its variety and quality, including hot dishes prepared upon request.

Disadvantages: Issues of cleanliness, standard and availability

Unfortunately, the image of the Podewils Hotel is not without its flaws. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reviews, there are also some very critical voices that cast a shadow over the property's image. One of the most detailed negative reviews cited serious lack of cleanliness – dusty rooms , poorly cleaned bathrooms, and dirty and damaged furniture and decorative elements. The guest also mentioned an unpleasant musty odor in the building. Such comments are alarming, especially in the context of a five-star hotel, and suggest that quality control may have faltered at some point.

Interestingly, the same review mentions renovations that took place after the author's visit. This may indicate that hotel management was aware of the problems and took steps to correct them. However, other, more recent reviews also point to certain shortcomings. One guest in November 2025 stated that "the hotel does not meet 5-star standards" and that it might have been luxurious 15 years ago, citing "aging and dirty equipment" and savings, such as on heating. This signals to potential customers that the claimed luxury may not always fully reflect reality.

Another significant drawback is the lack of facilities for people with disabilities. The lack of wheelchair access and an elevator in the historic building are significant limitations. Those with mobility issues or families with small children in strollers may encounter significant difficulties. Additionally, although ample parking is available, it comes at an additional cost, something to keep in mind when planning your stay.

Summary: Who is Hotel Podewils for?

Hotel Podewils Old Town Gdańsk is certainly not your typical resort or apartment complex. It's a boutique hotel with a historic hostel- style character, catering to clients who value location and a unique atmosphere above all else. Its greatest assets include its location in the heart of the city with a stunning view, its historic architecture, and its overall high level of service. It's the perfect choice for a romantic weekend or for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of old Gdańsk.

However, potential guests should be aware of potential drawbacks. There are documented cases of cleanliness and maintenance issues that may or may not have been fully addressed. The biggest barrier, however, is the lack of accessibility for people with limited mobility. If modern perfection, guaranteed impeccable detail, and complete accessibility are priorities, it's worth considering other options. However, if you're willing to accept some of the imperfections of a historic building in exchange for its soul and unparalleled location, a stay at the Hotel Podewils can be an unforgettable experience.