Marienwerder: Brick Gothic, the Liwa and equestrian culture

Brick Gothic architecture and traces of the city's history

The cathedral-castle complex in Kwidzyn was built in the mid-14th century. The cathedral was constructed between 1310 and 1360 as a Gothic brick pseudo-basilica. It contains a mosaic dating from 1380, depicting Saint John the Evangelist and a kneeling bishop. The cathedral also includes the crypt of the Grand Masters and the Chapel of Blessed Dorota of Mątowy. These details give the city's history a tangible framework, from its architectural style to individual artistic and religious features.

The castle includes the Gdanisko latrine tower, dating from 1384, which is described as unique on a European scale. Parts of the defensive walls have also survived: along Gdańska Street, irregular fragments of brick and fieldstone lie between Górna and Batalionów Chłopskich streets. The ethnographic collections at the castle museum offer another way to explore regional history. They focus on the material culture of Dolne Powiśle. Since the beginning of September 2026, Kwidzyn Castle has been temporarily closed to visitors; take this notice into account when planning your visit.

Another historic building is Fermor Palace. It was built between 1758 and 1763 for the Russian governor, General Wilhelm Fermor. Together with the cathedral-castle complex and the fragments of the walls, it shows that Kwidzyn's history is not confined to a single era.

City walks, cycling routes and the Liwa

A walking tour of Kwidzyn starts at the railway station in the city centre on Kościuszki Street. Visitors wishing to explore the city on foot can use this as their starting point. There are also riverside areas for walks along the Liwa, as well as sports and tennis courts. This gives you a choice of focus: a walk centred on the city's history, or time by the river and for sporting activities.

For cyclists, an outing leads from Kwidzyn railway station to Mareza. The Dolina Dolnej Wisły cycling route also passes through Kwidzyn. If you prefer hiking, you can include the green-marked Napoleonic Trail in your plans; it also runs through the city. These options differ in character: the cycling outing is described as a route to Mareza, while the hiking trail is a separate, green-marked route through Kwidzyn.

There are also ways to experience the Liwa on the water. The marked kayak route follows the river as it flows through Kwidzyn and the surrounding area. The “Przystań Kwidzyn” kayak rental offers routes of varying difficulty. One described kayak route runs from Brokowo to the landing stage on Mickiewicz Street, beside the riverside recreational facilities. If you prefer to stay on the bank, you will also find riverside walking areas along the Liwa.

Miłosna: equestrian experiences and outings

Miłosna is a historic equestrian complex in Kwidzyn whose history dates back to 1788. Riding lessons are available for children, young people and adults, ranging from a first introduction to horses to riding in the countryside. This makes it an interesting option for families with varying levels of experience with horses. The grounds also have two modern, safe playgrounds.

Miłosna also offers outings by carriage, wagon and sleigh. The outdoor hippodrome provides year-round opportunities for riding, training and sports preparation. These activities offer different focuses: you can make riding lessons, an outing or training at the hippodrome the centre of your visit. Those planning a trip around culture will find other themes in the architectural history and collections; for an active stay, the river, cycling and hiking routes, and Miłosna round out the picture of the city.

Other destinations in the area

You can also consider Rodowo, Sadlinki, Licze, Borowy Młyn, Grabówko, Kwidzyn, Grodziec, Prabuty, Rodowo Male, Otoczyn, Ryjewo and Gardeja as other destinations in the area.

For the broader travel overview: Pomerania.