Malbork is under an hour from Gdańsk, and by area the largest brick castle anywhere in the world: the seat of the Teutonic Knights from the 13th century until their order's decline, rebuilt almost entirely after it was reduced to ruins in 1945.
Three rings of walls enclose the outer bailey, the middle castle and the Grand Master's own palace, still linked by a working drawbridge. The old treasury holds a small but genuine amber collection; lunch is taken within sight of the walls, on the river.
What you'll see
- Grand Master's Palace interior
- Castle church and chapter house
- Amber collection in the old treasury
- River-view lunch at the castle walls
What the price covers
Private driver, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, lunch
Getting there
Malbork is straightforward by train. Fast PKP Intercity services from Gdańsk Główny take about 25 minutes, slower regional trains around 40 to 50, with frequent departures through the day. The castle is a walk of about 15 minutes from the station. Public transport makes a good day of it. The private car saves the station and the timing, and lets lunch on the river run as long as you like.
The best time to go
The summer season, from late April to the end of September, brings the longest opening hours, and July and August are the busiest months. Spring and early autumn are calmer. In winter the interiors close by mid afternoon, and on Mondays only the castle grounds route is open, so a winter visit starts early and avoids Monday.
- How much of the castle is original versus rebuilt?
- Most of what you see is a careful postwar reconstruction using original plans and surviving fragments; the scale and layout are historically accurate.
- Is the castle wheelchair accessible?
- Parts of the outer bailey are, but the upper floors and towers involve stairs. Ask when booking if accessibility is a concern and we'll advise on the route.
- Can this be paired with a Gdańsk old town walk?
- Yes, the six-hour trip leaves the morning or late afternoon free in Gdańsk; let your guide know your preference.