Malbork, a small town in northern Poland, is a historical gem that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Known mainly for its imposing castle, the largest brick castle in the world, Malbork offers a plunge into the medieval past. This UNESCO heritage site dominates the city skyline and tells the story of the Teutonic Order that built it in the 13th century.
In addition to the castle, Malbork captivates with its well-preserved historical centre, the picturesque banks of the Nogat River and the quiet atmosphere typical of small Polish towns.
Malbork, despite its small size, offers visitors an experience rich in history and culture. The centrepiece of the city is undoubtedly its majestic castle, but there are several other attractions worth exploring. Here is an overview of the main things to see and do in this fascinating Polish location.
Malbork Castle is the jewel in the town’s crown and the main reason why many visitors come here. Built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Order, it is the largest brick castle in the world and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The complex covers an area of over 20 hectares and comprises three separate castles: the High Castle, the Middle Castle and the Low Castle.
A guided tour of the castle allows you to explore the richly decorated rooms, the knights’ chambers, the grand dining hall and the castle church. Don’t miss the Grand Master’s Palace, the administrative heart of the Teutonic Order, and the Gdanisko Tower, connected to the castle by an elevated passageway.
Inside the castle is the Malbork Castle Museum, which houses a large collection of medieval artefacts, armour, weapons and works of art.
Of particular interest is the amber collection, one of the largest in the world, which shows the importance of this fossil resin in the medieval trade of the Baltic region.
During the summer, the castle hosts falconry shows and historical re-enactments that bring the medieval atmosphere to life. In the evening, a sound and light show illuminates the castle walls, creating a magical atmosphere.
After exploring the castle, it is worth strolling through the historical centre of Malbork. Although much of the city was damaged during World War II, some historical buildings have been restored.
The Market Square (Rynek) is the heart of the old town, surrounded by colourful houses and souvenir shops. Here you will find the Town Hall, a neo-Gothic building that now houses the municipal library.
The Church of St John the Baptist is another important monument in Malbork. Built in the 14th century, this Gothic church has undergone numerous alterations over the centuries. Inside, you can admire medieval frescoes and a Baroque altar.
The banks of the River Nogat offer pleasant walks with panoramic views of the castle. In summer, you can take a mini-cruise on the river to admire the castle from a different perspective. There are also several cafes and restaurants along the banks where you can relax and enjoy the local cuisine.
Malbork offers several accommodation options for visitors. The best area to stay is definitely near the Old Town, which allows easy access to the castle and the main attractions on foot.
Here you will find a variety of boutique hotels and guesthouses offering a cosy atmosphere and often views of the castle. Some hotels are housed in renovated historical buildings, offering a unique experience. For those looking for more economical solutions, there are several guest houses and B&Bs in residential areas just outside the centre, which are however easily accessible.
Malbork is well connected to the main cities of northern Poland. The city is about 60 km from Gdansk, which hosts the nearest international airport. From Gdańsk, you can reach Malbork by train (about 40 minutes) or by car (about 1 hour).
There are also direct train connections from other major Polish cities such as Warsaw (3 hours), Krakow (6 hours) and Poznań (4 hours). If travelling by car, Malbork is easily accessible via the A1 motorway.
What's the weather at Malbork? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Malbork for the next few days.
Malbork is located in northern Poland, in the Pomeranian region, on the banks of the Nogat River. The city is located about 60 km south-east of Gdansk.