Gdańsk Honored as the European Capital of Gastronomic Culture

Gdańsk has been awarded the prestigious title of European Capital of Gastronomic Culture for 2025/26. This distinction, granted since 2019, is the second time a Polish city has received the honor, following Kraków’s recognition as the inaugural titleholder.

The official handover ceremony took place during the FITUR tourism fair in Madrid. Representing Gdańsk, Deputy Mayor Emilia Lodzińska received the symbolic insignia from Madrid’s representatives, as the Spanish capital concludes its year in the spotlight. A similar event inaugurating Gdańsk’s tenure is scheduled for March, to be held in the heart of the Pomeranian city.

The title celebrates cities that significantly contribute to promoting local culinary traditions and gastronomic culture. Its history dates back to 2019, though the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted its annual awarding in 2020–2021. Since then, the honor has gone to Oeiras (2022), Stockholm (2023), and Madrid (2024).

Receiving this title opens new opportunities for Gdańsk—not only to showcase regional cuisine but also to revitalize tourism and foster international connections in the gastronomy sector. This recognition places the city firmly on Europe’s culinary map.