If you’re a castle connoisseur, you can’t miss the 13th-century, Gothic brick Malbork Castle, an easy day trip from Gdansk, Poland. This medieval UNESCO World Heritage Site, founded by the Knights of the Teutonic Order, is the largest in the world by surface area. During your visit, you’ll be able to see the Grand Masters Palace, the Great Refectory, the enormous Amber Museum and more. This destination ranks among the most beautiful places in Poland and is an easy day trip from Gdansk on the Baltic Coast.

All About Malbork Castle

Also known as the Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork, this massive complex encompasses 51 acres outside Gdansk, Poland. The knights came to the Baltic region as missionaries, yet ultimately grew in both wealth and influence, started to challenge local leadership, acquired vast tracts of land and built enormous, fortified monasteries. Malbork Castle acted as the seat of power for the Teutonic Knights for more than 150 years.

The complex is comprised of three castles connected by gates and bridge, all of which is surrounded by defensive walls. During a walking tour, you’ll enter the complex at the Lower Castle, where once stood the stables, armory, workshops and brewery.

The Grand Masters lived in the Middle Castle and it’s here you’ll see the 450-square-foot Great Refectory, complete with under-floor heating, a vaulted ceiling and Gothic windows. The High Castle served as a monastic residence and St. Mary’s Church was the knights’ place of worship. Although they have faded over the centuries, the decorate murals here are still quite fascinating.

Although Malbork Castle was nearly destroyed during World War II, it was lovingly restored and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

How Do I Get to Malbork Castle from Gdansk, Poland?
Hop on the train! It’s typically between 30 and 60 minutes to get to Malbork Castle from Gdansk Glowny, the city’s main train station. The slower option will stop several times before arriving, but it is the less-expensive option. For faster service, choose a TLK train or EIC train.

Once you arrive at the Malbork train station, walk 20 minutes to the castle or hire a taxi.

When Is Malbork Castle Open?
During the summer, the castle is open 9 AM to 8 PM; in the winter, it’s open 9 AM to 4 PM. Keep in mind that admission is free on Mondays, but you will want to pay for the audio guide (if you do not purchase this, you’ll only be allowed to walk on the castle grounds and visit select rooms).

On select nights throughout the season, illuminated nighttime tours are available, guided by an enthusiastic, costumed Teutonic Knight.

What Will I See at Malbork Castle in Poland?

Lower Castle Entrance Gate: As you enter Malbork Castle, notice the walls and drawbridge, important fortifications of this medieval structure.

Middle Castle: Walk over bridges and through gates from the Lower Castle to the Middle Castle. There’s a large courtyard here, medieval buildings, a souvenir shop and a restaurant.

Grand Masters Palace: In the Middle Castle area, the Grand Masters’ Palace is, well, grand. You’ll be able to walk through several ancient rooms that were once used as royal residences, dining halls and meeting rooms.

Amber Room: Learn all about the history of amber in Poland and see incredible artifacts at the enormous amber museum.

High Castle: Walk across the drawbridge to enter the High Castle, the oldest section of Malbork Castle. Notice the well near the center of the courtyard, used by the Teutonic Knights as a water source in the event of a battle.

Tower (Wiezna Glowna): Climb the tower for the best view of the castle and grounds. You’ll purchase a separate ticket for this on the second floor of the High Castle.

Tip: For the best photo angle of the entire complex, cross the pedestrian bridge across the Nogat River and look back.

Consider a guided tour or private tour, possible with an English speaking driver, of Malbork Castle for an even more in-depth experience.

Should I Also Explore Gdansk?

Yes! Before or after your day trip to Malbork Castle, be sure to spend a few days exploring Gdansk, a captivating Baltic coast city. A few highlights to include:

• Walking along the Dlugi Targ (also known as the Long Market or Royal Way)
• Visit a “milk bar,” a Polish cafeteria, a place to get an inexpensive, nourishing meal (Bar Neptun is one of the best in Gdansk)
• Photogenic Neptune Fountain and Artus Court, a museum right behind the fountain
• Climbing the green Gothic clock tower in the Main Town Hall for views of the Dlugi Targ, across the Motlawa River and out to the Baltic Sea
• St. Mary’s Church in Old Town, one of the largest brick churches in the world
• climb the 408 steps to the top of the bell tower
• Mariacka Street with its historic architecture, oversized porches and gargoyle heads – a great spot to find a cozy wine bar and to shop for Polish amber
• The Museum of the Second World War, covering the events that led to the war and its impact on Poland

What Are Some Other Good Day Trips from Gdansk?
Especially for those interested in World War II history, the day tour of the Stutthof Concentration Camp Museum is a sobering experience. The camp was built in 1939 and was the last concentration camp to be freed in 1945 by the Soviet Army. Take a private tour of the grounds and delve deep into the camp’s history and the stories of the people who lived here during the Nazi occupation of Poland.

Or, head to the Tri-City region, including Gdansk, Sopot and Dgynia along the Baltic Coast. Sopot is the most glamorous of the resort towns and has some great beaches, while Gdynia is quieter and has a few nice museums to visit.