ibis Gdańsk Stare Miasto

The ibis Gdańsk Stare Miasto is the sensible budget choice in central Gdańsk. It stands at Heweliusza 24 in the Old Town district, right next to the Mercure, and it shares the same excellent location: the historic centre is about five hundred metres away, roughly a five-minute walk, and Gdańsk Główny station is equally close, which makes it ideal for travellers arriving by train or planning day trips to Sopot and Malbork. Rooms are simple and modern, with the brand's comfortable beds and air conditioning, in double, twin and king-with-city-view categories. A buffet breakfast is served daily from 6:30, and until 11:00 at weekends, so late risers are covered too. The ibis restaurant and the lobby bar are open for a casual meal or a drink, there is handy on-site parking, and pets are welcome. It is a two-star by official rating, but well run and consistently good value.

Location and getting around: from the hotel you can walk to the Main Town and the Royal Route in five to ten minutes, and to the European Solidarity Centre in about the same time in the other direction. The Museum of the Second World War is a pleasant walk along the river. The main station, with SKM commuter trains to Sopot and fast trains to Malbork, is around five minutes on foot, so you can leave your bags and go.

The rooms: rooms are compact, clean and functional, with air conditioning, good beds and a work space. The king rooms with a city view are worth the small upgrade if you want a brighter outlook. Bathrooms are modern with showers.

Who it suits and good to know: budget travellers, solo travellers, families on a tight budget and drivers, thanks to the on-site car park. Breakfast is not always included in the room rate, so compare the options when you book. The location is practical rather than picturesque; for a riverside view, the boutique hotels across the Motława cost more. As an Accor hotel it is a safe, predictable choice, and the Mercure next door offers a step up in comfort if you want it.