The Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship and its castles create an extraordinary trail leading through the most beautiful places full of medieval atmosphere. Which of them are worth visiting?

The Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship is a true paradise for lovers of medieval castles. In a relatively small area, you will find monumental ruins, Gothic fortresses, and restored residences where history still pulses with life. Walking the trail of the Teutonic Knights, princes, and royal guests, you can take a journey through time full of legends.

Castle in Golub-Dobrzyń – Renaissance above the Drwęca River

On a hill above the Drwęca river rises one of the best-preserved castles in the region. Golub-Dobrzyń, combining Gothic austerity with Renaissance elegance, was once the seat of the Teutonic Order commander and later the favorite place of Anna Wazówna, sister of King Sigismund III. Today, the castle houses a museum, hotel, and restaurant, and in summer the International Knight Tournament is held here. It's worth climbing the viewing terrace – the panorama of the Drwęca valley at sunset is impressive.

Radzyń Chełmiński and the castle – the brick power of the order

The ruins of the castle in Radzyń Chełmiński are one of the most recognizable places in the region. The monumental walls and four towers remind of the power of the monastic state. In the Middle Ages, it was one of the most important convent fortresses in the Teutonic lands. Today, the castle can be visited by climbing the viewing tower and watching an exhibition dedicated to the lives of knight-monks.

Castle in Brodnica – guardian above the Drwęca

Although only part of the tower and outlines of the walls have survived to this day, the Brodnica castle still captures the imagination. In Teutonic times, it was an important defensive point on the border of the monastic state. Today, its cellars house a museum with interesting archaeological exhibitions, and from the tower, there is a view of the town and the river valley. After sightseeing, it is worth visiting the Chełmińska Gate – the only preserved one of four city gates, reminding that Brodnica was once an important trading center.

Castle in Świecie – four towers above the Vistula

Świecie is one of the few Teutonic castles with a regular, four-wing plan. Although some of the walls have not survived, the main tower still dominates the landscape of the Lower Vistula Valley. From its top, there is a beautiful view of the river and the Gothic Church of St. Andrew. In the summer, concerts and photography plein airs are held at the castle – an excellent stop between Bydgoszcz and Grudziądz.

Castle in Grudziądz – in the shadow of granaries

Grudziądz is primarily associated with the characteristic row of granaries along the Vistula, but its history begins much earlier. In the 13th century, the Teutonic Knights erected one of their first fortresses here. Fragments of the walls and the Klimek tower remain to this day, from which you can admire a panorama of the city. In the basements, there is an exhibition dedicated to the history of the order and the medieval fortress.

Castle in Toruń – the first Teutonic castle in Poland

The castle in Toruń is a special place – the oldest Teutonic seat in Polish lands. Although it was partially destroyed in the 15th century during the burghers' uprising against the order, its ruins still remind of medieval power. Here you can see the original foundations, chapel, and gdanisko, i.e., the former garderobe tower. The evening illumination of the walls adds an extraordinary atmosphere to this place.

Papowo Biskupie and Bierzgłowski Castle – less known, equally interesting

For lovers of quieter places, two stops are recommended. In Papowo Biskupie, there are ruins of a 14th-century castle around which historical reenactments take place. Meanwhile, the Bierzgłowski Castle, located in forests near Toruń, has been adapted as a retreat center and a place for artistic meetings. Intimate, quiet, with a unique atmosphere.

Sightseeing and then relaxation by the lake

Touring the Kuyavian-Pomeranian castles is a great idea for a weekend route combining history with relaxation. A stop on this journey may be Głęboczek Vine Resort & SPA – a hotel located near Brodnica, surrounded by lakes and vineyards.
After a day full of experiences, it’s worth immersing in relaxation: warming up in the sauna house right by the lake surface or plunging into the cool Forbin lake and feeling a surge of energy after ice swimming.

In the extensive Vine SPA zone, there are pools, jacuzzis, and treatments inspired by vinotherapy. It is a space where you can truly slow down – with a view of the water and silence that allows you to escape everyday life.

Kuyavian-Pomeranian and its castles – an extraordinary trail

The castles in Golub-Dobrzyń, Radzyń Chełmiński, Brodnica, Toruń, Świecie, and Grudziądz tell different stories, but all are connected by brick, river, and time.

Castles in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship – in the footsteps of the Teutonic Knigh...