Things To Do
in Świnoujście

Świnoujście sits on the Baltic coast at Poland’s western edge, spanning Uznam and Wolin islands and linked by bridges. It features expansive sandy beaches, a lively promenade, and a busy port with fishing and sailing activity. The town is known for its historic lighthouse, spa parks, and maritime atmosphere.

With easy access to nature reserves and a relaxed coastal vibe, it suits beach lovers, walkers, and culture seekers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the historic center of Świnoujście. Visit the impressive St. Nicholas' Church, where you can admire its beautiful architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Grab a traditional Polish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee to energize your day.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the fascinating Museum of Sea Fishery, where you can learn about the maritime history of the region. Wander through the surrounding parks, enjoying the lush greenery and perhaps stopping for a picnic. As the sun begins to set, take a moment to relax by the waterfront, watching boats glide by.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood dishes while overlooking the marina. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the promenade, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and the sounds of the sea. Finish the night with a cozy drink at a nearby bar, where you can mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with a refreshing swim in the Baltic Sea at one of Świnoujście's stunning beaches, such as the popular Plaza Świnoujście. After your swim, relax on the soft sand, soaking up the sun and enjoying the coastal views. You can also rent a beach umbrella and sun lounger for added comfort as you unwind.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, try your hand at exhilarating water sports like windsurfing or kayaking offered at local rental shops along the beach. Join a guided group or take a lesson if you’re a beginner, ensuring a fun and safe experience on the water. After an active session, enjoy a light lunch at a beachside café, sampling local snacks and refreshing drinks.

evening
:

As the sun sets, gather with friends or family for a beach bonfire, where you can roast marshmallows and share stories. The sound of waves crashing against the shore creates a perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening. Cap off the night by watching the stars twinkle above, creating lasting memories by the seaside.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-4
🚶Public transit (single ride)$1-2
🏨1-night mid-range hotel$60-120
🎟️Museum or attraction ticket$6-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Long beaches and a relaxed seaside vibe
  • Excellent access to Wolin National Park and nature
  • Compact, walkable town with good seafood options
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Seasonal crowds in peak summer
  • Some services operate seasonally or have variable hours
  • "Dzień dobry" - Good morning / Hello
  • "Proszę" - Please / Here you go
  • "Dziękuję" - Thank you
  • "Czy mówi Pan/Pani po angielsku?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ile to kosztuje?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Świnoujście

Visit one of these nice places.

Świnoujście Lighthouse and hill viewpoint

The tallest lighthouse on Poland’s Baltic coast; climb to a lookout with sweeping sea and lagoon views.

Promenade along the Szczecin Lagoon

Long sea-front walkway with piers, boats, and sunset lighting ideal for wide-angle and portrait shots.

Fort Gerharda Ruins

Historic coastal fort on Wolin Island offering rugged stone textures and dramatic sea backdrops.

West Beach Dunes

Expansive dunes and endless horizons perfect for minimalist coastal photography.

Harbor at Dusk

Colorful boats and cranes reflected on calm water during golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Świnoujście

Świnoujście’s cuisine centers on Baltic seafood, fresh fish, and hearty Polish fare, with seasonal produce from local markets and coastal cafés.

Świnoujście Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Smoked Baltic herring

Traditional smoked fish served with rye bread and onions, widely available at fish stalls along the promenade.

Must-Try!

Grilled eel with lemon and herbs

A savory seaside specialty, often enjoyed as a starter or main with potatoes and greens.

Zupa rybna (fish soup)

A fragrant, fish-forward soup featuring local white fish and seasonal vegetables.

Pierogi with fish filling

Polish dumplings stuffed with smoked fish or other seasonal fillings, offered in many seaside eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Portside seafood stalls

Seasonal stalls along the harbor promenade offering smoked fish, cutlets, and other fresh catches.

Municipal Market (Rynek)

Traditional market selling produce, breads, dairy, and regional specialties.

Street food along the Promenade

Seasonal vendors offering quick bites like fish burgers, fried potatoes, and pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Świnoujście has a temperate maritime climate with relatively mild winters and cool to warm summers. The weather is often breezy, with frequent wind from the Baltic Sea and variable rainfall year-round. Summers are pleasant for beach days, while springs and autumns are mild with changing foliage. Pack layers, especially for evening coastal winds.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Greet with 'Dzień dobry' in shops and restaurants; maintain a courteous tone and wait in lines. Handshakes are common in introductions, and addressing people with the appropriate formality is appreciated.

Public behavior

Queue patiently, speak calmly in public, and dress modestly in religious sites. When visiting churches, dress modestly and observe local customs.

Politeness at tables

Keep elbows off the table while eating, use utensils for most foods, and say please and thank you when ordering.

Safety Guide

Safety

Świnoujście is generally safe for travelers, with typical tourist-level precautions. Be mindful of strong coastal winds and changing tides near the water, and use designated paths on dunes and beaches. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas, so keep valuables secure and use hotel safes. In case of emergency, dial 112; first aid is available in local clinics and hospitals in the region.

Tipping in Świnoujście

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Poland often includes service charges in restaurants, but if not, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated for good service. In cafes and casual spots, rounding up the bill or leaving small tips is common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Milder days return, birds migrate, and gardens begin to bloom; great for walking and early-season photography.

Summer

Warmest and busiest season with long days, ideal for swimming, beach activities, and outdoor events.

Autumn

Cooling temperatures and colorful coastal sunsets; quieter streets and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Winter

Cold and windy with possible storms; spa facilities remain appealing and the town takes on a tranquil, festive character.

Nightlife Guide

Świnoujście at Night

The nightlife in Świnoujście centers on the promenade with casual bars, seaside pubs, and seasonal live music. Expect family-friendly daytime vibes transitioning to relaxed evenings in peak summer, while winter nightlife tends to be quieter with occasional cultural events and indoor venues.

Hiking in Świnoujście

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wolin National Park trails

Coastal and woodland trails on Wolin Island with viewpoints, beaches, and birdwatching spots.

Pomeranian coast coastal walks

Accessible routes along the Usedom coast with dune landscapes and sea vistas.

Kawcza Góra (Raven’s Hill) viewpoint

A notable overlook on Wolin Island offering sweeping panoramas of the coast and lagoon.

Airports

How to reach Świnoujście by plane.

Heringsdorf Airport (HDF)

German airport on Usedom Island, about an hour’s drive across bridges to Świnoujście; connections to major European cities; reachable by car or rail links nearby.

Szczecin-Goleniów Airport (SZZ)

Poland’s Szczecin airport with regional and international connections; typically a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to Świnoujście depending on routes and border crossing times.

Getting Around

Walkability

Świnoujście is very walkable, especially along the promenade and within the town center. The island setting means some coastal paths require longer walks or bike rides, but pedestrian-friendly streets and bike lanes make exploration easy. Car traffic can be heavier in peak season, but parking is generally manageable near beaches with a bit of patience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Long-standing families and retirees who know the coast well; steady presence year-round.

Seasonal tourists

Summer visitors drawn to beaches, spa services, and promenades; more frequent in July and August.

Families

Families with children come for beaches, parks, and easy day trips to nearby islands.

Retirees and seniors

A significant portion of visitors and residents who enjoy spa facilities and relaxed coastal life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

A staple on the Baltic coast with easy access to marinas and sheltered waters in the lagoon.

Wind/ kitesurfing

Windy conditions near the shore make for popular windsurfing and kitesurfing spots.

Beach volleyball

Seasonal courts on the main beaches during summer months.

Cycling

Well-signed bike routes along the coast and island paths

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is moderate, with seasonal spikes in summer due to beachgoers and festival crowds. The town relies on bridges and ferry connections to Usedom and regional roads. Public transport includes buses and ferries within the Usedom-Wolin area; car parking can be limited near main beaches during peak season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Świnoujście.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most places offer vegetarian options such as soups, salads, and vegetable plates. Dairy and egg dishes are common, but fish is prevalent in many menus, so look for clearly labeled vegetarian items or ask for simple vegetable-and-potato dishes; many restaurants can adapt offerings upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local healthcare includes clinics and outpatient facilities in Świnoujście, with hospitals in Szczecin and nearby towns for more complex care. EU citizens with valid health coverage can access urgent care; pharmacies are widely available. If language is a concern, hotel staff and tourist information centers can assist in arranging English-speaking services.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide