This Polish city is known for its massive 14th-century Gothic castle, a UNESCO site. Visitors can explore medieval walls, a cathedral, and local shops alongside the fortress.
Malbork, a small town in northern Poland, is home to the world's largest castle by land area. This 13th-century fortress dominates the skyline, drawing visitors from around the globe. Beyond the castle, you can climb medieval town walls, admire Gothic churches, and stroll along the Nogat River. Whether you're on a day trip from Gdańsk or staying overnight, Malbork immerses you in centuries of history.
Exploring Malbork Castle
The massive Malbork Castle is the main attraction in this small Polish town. Built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights, it covers 52 acres. The complex includes three main sections - the High Castle, Middle Castle, and Outer Bailey - protected by multiple defensive walls and moats.
As you approach, you'll see the red brick fortress rising above the Nogat River. Walk across the drawbridge and enter through the iron gates into the grand courtyard of the Middle Castle. Inside, you'll find the Grand Masters' Palace with its high vaulted ceilings and intricate decorations.
The High Castle, the oldest part of the complex, once housed 50-60 knights. St. Mary's Church, accessed through a Gothic doorway, shows evidence of extensive restoration work following severe damage in World War II. You can see this in the different colored bricks used in its reconstruction.
Plan for 2-3 hours to explore the castle grounds and interiors. You can join a guided tour or use the GPS-enabled audio guide. The castle museum displays weapons, historical artifacts, and a collection of Baltic amber.
Getting to Malbork
Malbork is about 60 km from Gdańsk. The high-speed Pendolino train from Gdańsk Główny station reaches Malbork in around 30 minutes. Regular trains take about an hour.
If you're driving, the journey from Gdańsk takes approximately 50 minutes. You can park near the castle entrance.
Visiting Tips
The castle is open year-round, with varying hours by season. In July and August, the castle receives about 4,000 visitors daily, so consider a spring or fall visit for a less crowded experience. Your admission ticket includes entry to all castle areas and the museum.
Wear sturdy shoes for walking on cobblestone paths and climbing stairs. You must leave large bags in lockers at the ticket office. Several cafes and restaurants on the grounds serve food and drinks.
Beyond the Castle
While in Malbork, take time to explore the town. Walk along the remaining sections of the medieval town walls and visit the Gothic town hall in the market square. The 14th-century Church of St. John the Baptist contains Gothic and Baroque artworks.
For a different view of the castle, cross the pedestrian bridge over the Nogat River. From this vantage point, you can see the full scale of the fortress and its reflection in the water.
Where to Eat
After touring the castle, you might want a meal. The Gothic Restaurant in the castle's cellars serves dishes inspired by medieval recipes. In town, you'll find several casual restaurants serving Polish cuisine. U Flisaka, located near the river, prepares traditional dishes like pierogi and bigos, along with a variety of local beers.
Brief History
The Teutonic Knights founded Malbork in the 13th century. In 1309, it became the headquarters of their monastic state. Following the Knights' defeat at the Battle of Grunwald in 1410, the Polish crown took control of the town and renamed it Malbork.
World War II brought extensive destruction to Malbork. After the war, residents and authorities worked to rebuild the town. Today, Malbork has regained its prosperity, with tourism centered around its renowned castle.
