Küstrin: Traces of the Old Town and the Bastion Fortress
Accommodation in Küstrin
In Küstrin, destruction and surviving fortress structures stand side by side as distinct chapters in the town’s history: the old town of Kostrzyn nad Odrą was destroyed in 1945 and never rebuilt. The structures of the bastion fortress, by contrast, date from the 16th century. Both are part of the Muzeum Twierdzy Kostrzyn museum complex. Visitors can therefore learn about the town’s history not only in exhibitions, but also while walking among the remains of the old town.
Explore the Old Town and the Fortress’s History
The casemates of Bastion Filip house a permanent exhibition on pivotal moments in the history of the fortress town. It covers both the destruction of 1945 and the fortress’s creation and development. These themes add context to a walk through the old town, where cobbled lanes and paths wind between the remains of old apartment buildings. The damaged walls rise no more than 1.5 metres above the ground. Their low height makes it possible to see the architectural remains in relation to today’s terrain, without mistaking the ruins for a rebuilt old town.
For a longer walk, head to the promenade atop the fortifications along the Oder. From there, the view stretches across the Oder Valley. The old town lanes and the promenade offer different perspectives: here, the visible traces of the destroyed town take centre stage; there, the fortress and views of the surrounding landscape. Depending on your interests, you can combine a cultural and historical walk with a route along the fortifications.
On Foot, by Bike or on the Water
There are also different ways to get around when it comes to activities. A kayaking route in Kostrzyn nad Odrą starts at the municipal MOSiR landing stage. It first runs 1.5 kilometres upstream on the Warta, then continues through canals and old river channels along the Warta’s right bank. The kayaking route then continues from the Warta through canals and old river channels along the Warta’s right bank. Check local conditions before setting off.
If you prefer to travel by bike, the international R1 cycle route offers a different perspective. It runs from Lubniewice via Sulęcin and Czarnów to Kostrzyn nad Odrą, then continues into Germany. The two routes described therefore differ mainly in their mode of travel and course: the kayaking route follows the Warta and adjoining waterways, while the R1 is a cycle route that passes through several towns and continues into Germany. Check the local route markings on site.
When planning a trip with children, you can first decide what kind of day you want: exploring history among the lanes and fortress structures, taking a walk with views across the Oder Valley, or trying one of the active routes described. These are different options, not interchangeable stops on a set walking route. If you’re looking for a holiday apartment in Küstrin, this decision can help you shape your stay around the experiences that interest you most.
Visitor Information for Your Stay
The old town grounds are open daily, year-round, from sunrise to sunset. Check the current visitor rules before your visit. The tourist information point at the Berliner Tor offers maps, guidebooks, publications and souvenirs. You can also get information there about sightseeing routes, current events and what the Muzeum Twierdzy Kostrzyn has to offer.
A landing stage for passenger boats was also built in Kostrzyn nad Odrą to make possible stops by excursion boats possible. The landing stage indicates that a stop is intended to be possible; it does not imply a specific timetable. If you’re planning a trip on the Warta or Oder, you can ask the tourist information point for the information it has available about events and sightseeing routes. Your personal interests will determine your choice of accommodation: would you mainly like to explore the old town and its fortress history, walk along the promenade, or include a cycling or kayaking route in your stay? Küstrin’s varied historical and recreational attractions offer concrete ways to plan your visit.
Discover more destinations: Kłodawa, Landsberg An Der Warthe, Deszczno, Zdroisko, Witnica, Rybakowo, Wojcieszyce, Santoczno.
Go to the main travel overview: Landsberg An Der Warthe.
