This charming city is home to one of the most impressive medieval castles in Europe. The Malbork Castle, also known as the Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest brick castle in the world.
Aside from the castle, there are plenty of other attractions in Malbork that are worth visiting. You can explore the town’s rich history and culture by visiting the Malbork Museum, which houses various exhibitions on the history of the castle, the town, and the Teutonic Knights. You can also take a stroll through the picturesque Old Town and admire the Gothic architecture of the St. Mary’s Church.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together this Malbork travel guide that highlights the must-see attractions and provides essential tips for an unforgettable visit.
MALBORK WEATHERTable of Contents
History of Malbork Castle
Malbork Castle is a massive brick fortress that was built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights in Malbork, Poland. The castle was constructed to serve as the headquarters of the Teutonic Order in Prussia. The construction of the castle began in 1274 and continued for several decades. The castle was expanded and rebuilt several times over the centuries.
The castle played a significant role in the history of Poland and Europe. It was the largest brick castle and the largest fortified Gothic building in the world. The castle was also an important center of culture and art, and it housed a rich collection of art and artifacts.
During World War II, the castle was severely damaged, but it was restored to its former glory in the post-war period.
Today, Malbork Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Poland.
Must-See Attractions
When you visit Malbork, there are a few attractions that you simply cannot miss. These attractions are the main reasons why people visit the city, and they offer a glimpse into the fascinating history of the Teutonic Knights.
The Grand Master’s Palace
The Grand Master’s Palace is the largest building in the castle complex and is located in the southern part of the castle. It was built in the 14th century as the residence of the Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights. Today, the palace houses a museum that displays a collection of Gothic art and artifacts.
The High Castle
The High Castle is the oldest part of the castle complex and was built in the 13th century. It is located on a hill overlooking the Nogat River and was designed to be the main defensive structure of the castle. The castle’s chapel, which was built in the 14th century, is located in the High Castle and is one of the most impressive parts of the castle.
The Middle Castle
The Middle Castle is located between the High Castle and the Grand Master’s Palace and was built in the 14th century. It was used as a storage and administrative center for the castle. Today, the Middle Castle houses a museum that displays a collection of medieval weapons and armor.
The Amber Museum
The Amber Museum is located in the northern part of the castle complex and is housed in a Gothic building that was built in the 14th century. The museum displays a collection of amber jewelry and artifacts that date back to the Stone Age. The museum also has a shop where you can buy amber jewelry and souvenirs.
Travel Tips for Malbork
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Malbork is from May to September for warm, sunny weather. This period allows you to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city’s attractions comfortably.
Keep in mind that it’s also the busiest time for tourists, so expect crowds and higher prices.
Getting Around
Malbork is best explored on foot due to its compact size. Most attractions are within walking distance. If coming from Gdansk, you can take a 50-minute train ride or a 1-hour 15-minute bus journey to reach Malbork.
Local Cuisine
Malbork offers traditional Polish cuisine with dishes like Pierogi (dumplings), Bigos (meat and cabbage stew), Golabki (cabbage rolls), and Kielbasa (sausage). Don’t miss out on Sernik (cheesecake) for dessert.
The city also boasts a rich beer culture, with local breweries and pubs offering varieties like Tyskie, Zywiec, and Okocim.
Accommodation Options
When planning your trip to Malbork, one of the most important things to consider is where to stay. There are plenty of options available to suit all budgets and preferences.
Luxury Hotels
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, Malbork has several high-end hotels to choose from. One of the most popular is the Hotel Grot, which is located just a short distance from Malbork Castle. This elegant hotel offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving delicious Polish cuisine.
Another great option is the Hotel Centrum Malbork, which offers stylish rooms with modern amenities such as air conditioning and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also features a spa and wellness center, as well as a restaurant serving international cuisine.
Budget-Friendly Options
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options in Malbork. One of the best is the Maltina, which offers clean and comfortable dormitory-style rooms at a very reasonable price.
The hostel also has a shared kitchen and lounge area, making it a great choice for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.
Another good option is the Hotel Dedal, which offers simple but comfortable rooms at a very affordable price. The hotel also has a restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine, as well as a bar and a terrace.
Bed and Breakfasts
For a more intimate and personalized experience, consider staying at one of Malbork’s bed and breakfasts. One of the best is the Premium, located in the city centre and close to a lively boardwalk, this spot offers convenient access to cultural gems such as Malbork Castle.
Another good option is the Majewski Hotel & Spa, indulge in a complimentary breakfast buffet, unwind on the terrace or in the garden. Pamper yourself with a Swedish massage, body scrub, or a manicure/pedicure at Yasumi, the spa on-site.
Don’t miss the chance to savor delectable Polish cuisine at the hotel’s own restaurant.
Local Festivals and Events
Malbork has a rich cultural heritage, and the city celebrates this with various festivals and events throughout the year. Attending these events is a great way to experience the local culture and traditions. Here are some of the most popular festivals and events in Malbork:
- Malbork Castle Festival: This festival takes place every year in July and August and celebrates the history and culture of Malbork Castle. The festival features medieval reenactments, music, dance, and theater performances, and food and drink stalls.
- St. Mary’s Day: Celebrated on August 15th, St. Mary’s Day is a religious holiday that is celebrated with a procession through the city, culminating in a mass at St. Mary’s Church. The day is also marked with traditional Polish food and drink.
- Malbork Days: This festival takes place in September and celebrates the city’s history and culture. The festival features music, dance, theater performances, and food and drink stalls. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
Nearby Attractions
Malbork is a beautiful city in Poland, with many attractions that are worth visiting. However, if you have some extra time, you might want to explore the nearby attractions as well.
Here are some of the top nearby attractions that you should consider visiting during your trip to Malbork:
Gdansk
Gdansk is a beautiful city located about 60 km away from Malbork. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Some of the top attractions in Gdansk include the Old Town, St. Mary’s Church, the Neptune Fountain, and the European Solidarity Centre.
Sztum Castle
Sztum Castle is a medieval castle located about 20 km away from Malbork. It was built in the 14th century and is one of the best-preserved castles in Poland. The castle features a museum that showcases the history of the castle and the region.
Elblag Canal
The Elblag Canal is a unique waterway located about 40 km away from Malbork. It was built in the 19th century and features a system of inclined planes that allow boats to be transported between different levels of the canal. The canal is a popular tourist attraction and offers boat tours and other activities.
Tczew
Tczew is a small town located about 30 km away from Malbork. It is known for its beautiful architecture, charming atmosphere, and rich history. Some of the top attractions in Tczew include the Old Town, the Castle Museum, and the Gothic St. Catherine’s Church.
Kwidzyn Castle
Kwidzyn Castle is a castle located about 35 km away from Malbork. It was built in the 14th century and is one of the most impressive castles in Poland. The castle features a museum that showcases the history of the castle and the region.
