Świnoujście and Międzyzdroje from Szczecin for a day: beaches, the Baltic and Wolin National Park

What to see in Świnoujście

Świnoujście is famous for the widest beach on the Polish coast and for its seaside spa district full of white villas. Climb the lighthouse, one of the tallest on the Baltic, for views over the mouth of the Świna and the ships coming into port. Fort Gerhard and the Western Fort, old Prussian fortifications, are worth a look, and then you can simply stroll the boulevard along the beach. The town spreads across several islands, so getting here has a little of the feel of a small expedition.

What to see in Międzyzdroje and Wolin National Park

Międzyzdroje is a resort with a long pier, a walk of fame and summer crowds, but also the gateway to Wolin National Park. Green cliffs drop straight into the sea here, and a ridge trail leads to the scenic Turquoise Lake. The park has a European bison show enclosure, which is especially good with children. A calm walk along the beach, the pier and a stretch of trail takes two to four hours; with Wolin National Park you can fill the whole day.

How to get there from Szczecin

By train from Szczecin Główny you reach Międzyzdroje and Świnoujście in roughly one and a half to two hours, with departures spread through the day. By car the drive takes about an hour and a half, though on summer weekends the islands and the crossings can stretch it out. The most convenient way is to go straight to the beach by private transfer: from 589 PLN (ca. 147 EUR) per car return, with pickup from your hotel and a driver who waits on the spot, so you are not watching the return timetable.

Świnoujście or Międzyzdroje: which to choose

If you dream of the widest beach, a spa-town stroll and the atmosphere of a town on islands, choose Świnoujście. If you prefer the pier, the promenade, the bison and stepping into the wild cliffs of the national park, aim for Międzyzdroje. Only a dozen or so kilometres separate the two, so with a driver you can comfortably combine them in one day and see the best of both.

When to go

Summer is the most beautiful here, but also the most crowded, so it is worth setting off early to claim a spot on the beach and avoid traffic on the islands. In spring and early autumn the beaches are almost empty and the walks along the cliffs of Wolin National Park are especially pleasant. You will find the prices for trips to the sea in the Szczecin price list.

Frequently asked questions