Teutonic Order Castles Itinerary
Experience the history and culture of the Teutonic Order on this amazing road trip! Starting in Malbork, Poland, you will journey through the towns of Sztum, Grudziądz, Świecie, and Pelplin, covering a distance of 238 km (148 miles). This two-day road trip is best taken between April and October, when the weather is warm and the roads are in good condition. Along the route, you will find many UNESCO Heritage Monuments and historical sites, including the Malbork Castle, the largest castle in the world. You will also be treated to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Poland, as well as some of the best-preserved medieval buildings in Europe. Although the roads are mostly in good condition, some are narrow, so care must be taken when driving. However, the rewards of this road trip are worth the effort – it is an unforgettable experience that can be enjoyed by drivers of all levels. With a reasonable budget and a bit of planning, you can enjoy a truly unique and memorable Teutonic Order Castles Road Trip.
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number of days
238 km
route length
moderate
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Malbork
Distance 238 km
Driving time 5.2 h
Pace: modest
61.8 kWh
Airports
GDN
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Malbork, located in northern Poland, is an ideal starting point for the Teutonic Order Castles Road Trip and one of the most interesting sights to visit. The town is best known for its Teutonic Castle, the largest castle in the world by land area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle, founded by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century, is an impressive example of medieval architecture and is home to the Museum of the Teutonic Order, which offers a unique insight into the history of the Teutonic Knights.
The town also offers a variety of other attractions, including the Gothic Church of St. John the Baptist, the Regional Museum and the City Park. Malbork is easily accessible by car, with the nearest international airport being Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (IATA: GDN), located around 30 kilometers away. There are car rental services available at the airport, making it a convenient starting point for the Teutonic Order Castles Road Trip.
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Malbork
- Sztum
Distance 14 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
3.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 14km journey from Malbork, Poland to Sztum, and explore the best of both cities! Start your journey from Malbork and visit the Malbork Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest castle in the world by surface area. Then, take a drive along the scenic road and marvel at the beautiful countryside views. As you drive towards Sztum, you will pass a few small villages and a few more UNESCO Heritage sites. Once you arrive in Sztum, explore the charming Old Town and its picturesque market square. Don't forget to visit the 14th century St. Mary's Church and the 19th century Town Hall. All these attractions will make your road trip memorable. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your time in Malbork and Sztum!
Sztum - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Sztum
- Kwidzyn
Distance 24 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
6.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Sztum-Kwidzyn road trip! This 24 km journey is an exciting opportunity to explore two of Poland’s most beautiful cities. The drive should take you less than an hour, so you can enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.
Start your trip in Sztum, where you can visit the Gothic Church of St. John the Baptist, the historical Town Hall, and the impressive 16th century castle. Be sure to take a stroll around the old market square while you’re there.
Next, head to Kwidzyn, where you can explore the 13th century castle and the old town. You’ll also find the impressive St. Mary’s Church and the Renaissance Town Hall. As you drive, take in the picturesque views of the Vistula River and the surrounding countryside.
This is just one of the stages of your road trip, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the sights along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” section.
Happy travels!
Kwidzyn - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
Kwidzyn - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Kwidzyn
- Grudziądz
Distance 38 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
9.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers! We invite you to explore the 38km-long route between Kwidzyn and Grudziądz. This drive will take you less than an hour, and you will be able to admire the scenic views of the area and explore some of its historical sites.
The first stop is Kwidzyn, a city with a rich history and a beautiful Old Town. Here you can visit the impressive Teutonic Knights Castle or the Gothic Church of St. John the Baptist.
Leaving Kwidzyn, you will drive through the picturesque countryside of the region. You will pass through the villages of Prabuty and Kiezmark, and then you will arrive in Grudziądz. This city is known for its many historical monuments, such as the Gothic Church of St. Nicholas and the Grudziądz Castle.
This route is part of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an exciting road-trip and enjoy the journey!
Grudziądz - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.pxfuel.com
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4
Grudziądz
- Chelmno
Distance 36 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
9.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready to experience the beauty of Poland? A road trip from Grudziądz to Chelmno is the perfect way to do it! This 36 km journey will take you less than an hour, and you’ll be able to visit some of the most interesting sites in both cities.
In Grudziądz, you can visit the Town Hall, the 19th century Grudziądz Cathedral, and the Old Town Market Square. In Chelmno, you can explore the Chelmno Castle and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. As you drive through the countryside, keep your eyes peeled for historical sites and scenic roads.
This is just one of the many stages of your road trip, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Bon voyage!
Chelmno - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Chelmno
- Świecie
Distance 10 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: modest
2.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip adventure? Start your journey in the beautiful city of Chelmno, Poland and drive to the nearby town of Świecie, just 10 km away. This short drive will take you less than an hour, but the narrow roads will offer plenty of surprises along the way.
Don't forget to stop in Świecie and visit the Gothic castle, the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, and the local market. Another interesting place to visit is the Świecie Town Hall, which is located in the middle of the city and offers a great view of the area.
For a unique experience, take a stroll through the Świecie Old Town and explore the cobblestone streets and old buildings. You can also visit the local museums and galleries to learn more about the history of the town.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey and have a great time!
Świecie - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - pl.m.wikipedia.org
Świecie - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Świecie
- Gniew
Distance 65 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: modest
16.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your road trip in Świecie, Poland and explore the 65 km route to Gniew. On this two-hour drive, you will be able to take in the historical sites and scenic roads of the region. The route includes narrow sections, so make sure to stay alert and drive carefully.
In Świecie, visit the Gothic castle, which was once the seat of the Teutonic Knights. The old town of Gniew, located on the Vistula River, is home to the impressive Gothic castle, which was built in the 13th century. The castle is surrounded by a large park and a moat.
Make sure to visit the Teutonic Knights’ castle in Gniew. It is one of the best-preserved castles in Poland and is home to a museum and a restaurant. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful park and a moat.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Gniew - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
Gniew - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.piqsels.com
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7
Gniew
- Pelplin
Distance 16 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: slow
3.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable 16-km road trip from Gniew to Pelplin, a journey that will take you less than an hour. As you start your journey, you can’t miss the historical sites of Gniew, including the Teutonic Castle and the Gniew Fortress. As you drive, you will be mesmerized by the beautiful landscapes along the way. Make sure to take a few minutes to take in the views of the Vistula River, the Wda River and the Zbrzyca River. You will also pass through the picturesque village of Nowy Dwor Gdański, home to the Gothic Church of St. Nicholas. Once you arrive in Pelplin, don’t miss the chance to explore the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Teutonic Castle and the former Pelplin Abbey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Pelplin - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
Pelplin
- Malbork
Distance 35 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
9.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip starting in Pelplin and ending in Malbork? This 35 km journey will take you less than an hour, and you will pass by some of the most beautiful and historically relevant sites in Poland.
Start your journey in Pelplin, a small town with a big religious history. Visit the impressive Pelplin Cathedral and the nearby monastery, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Then, take a drive through the beautiful countryside and admire the views of the Vistula River.
Your next stop is Malbork, a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage. Visit the Malbork Castle, a 13th century fortress that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the nearby streets and take in the sights of the city.
This is just one stage of your road trip, so make sure to check out the itinerary for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a great journey!
Malbork - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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Malbork
[detailsContainer]
Malbork is the perfect ending point for the "Teutonic Order Castles Road Trip" as it is home to the largest castle in the world built by the Teutonic Order. Located in northern Poland, Malbork is a great place to explore the history of the Teutonic Order. The Malbork Castle is a must-see for any visitor, with its impressive brick walls, towers, and courtyards. Inside the castle, visitors can explore the Grand Master's Palace, the Knight's Hall, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Additionally, the castle boasts beautiful gardens, a small museum, and a viewing tower.
Malbork is also home to the Museum of the Teutonic Order, which is located in the old castle stables. Here visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Teutonic Order and view artifacts and artworks from the Middle Ages.
For those traveling by car, Malbork is easily accessible from major cities in Germany, such as Berlin and Hamburg, as well as nearby cities in Poland, such as Gdańsk and Elbląg. Those coming from farther away can fly into Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN), the closest international airport.
With its rich history, Malbork is the perfect destination for anyone wanting to explore the legacy of the Teutonic Order. Make sure to visit the Malbork Castle and the Museum of the Teutonic Order to get the full experience.
Malbork - Poland - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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Teutonic Order Castles at a glance
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Start:
Malbork
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End:
Malbork
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Distance:
238 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Immerse yourself in the remarkable history of Poland by following the traces of the Teutonic Knights on a Road Trip that covers 238 km (148 miles). Your journey begins in the town of Malbork and weaves through historical towns such as Sztum, Grudziądz, Świecie, and Pelplin. Over two inspiring days, you will encounter majestic castles, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes, all while diving into the deep historical roots that shaped the region.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Malbork Castle: This breathtaking fortress is not only the world's largest castle by land area but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its grandeur and intricate brickwork, the castle was built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights.
- Sztum: Venture into Sztum Castle, a charming medieval fortress. Its architecture reflects various styles due to the multiple phases of construction and renovation it underwent over the centuries.
- Grudziądz: Step back in time with a visit to the Grudziądz Granaries, a line of 14th-century riverside storage buildings, and stroll through the historic old town, which still retains its medieval street layout.
- Świecie: Witness the Świecie Castle ruins, a symbol of the region's Teutonic heritage, which once served as a formidable fortress along the Vistula River.
- Pelplin: Be awed by the Pelplin Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It houses one of the few remaining copies of the Gutenberg Bible.
Best Time to Go:
The prime season for this historical Road Trip is from April to October when the weather is most pleasant and conducive to travel, allowing for clearer Roads and better visibility of the sights.
Potential Risks:
Although the majority of the Roads are in good condition, travelers should remain alert on narrower sections and stay informed about local traffic conditions, which may include unexpected Road work or detours.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Malbork Castle's museum holds a significant collection of medieval artifacts, and the castle itself is a record-holder for the largest surface area of any castle in the world.
- Grudziądz is not only known for its granaries but also features a historic 15th-century water tower.
- Pelplin Cathedral is not only an architectural marvel but also a cultural treasure, as it is home to one of the rare original copies of the Gutenberg Bible, marking an important milestone in the history of printing.
A good choice for:
The Teutonic Order Castles Road Trip is a captivating blend of historical exploration and scenic driving. It's a journey that will not only satisfy your wanderlust for the open Road but will also enrich your understanding of Poland's medieval history and cultural heritage. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this Road Trip offers a window into the past set against the backdrop of Poland's beautiful landscapes.
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