Where to go in Masuria? Proposals for the Land of a Thousand Lakes | PolishTrains

At a glance

• Olsztyn, Gizycko, Ilawa, Ostroda, and Elk are all reachable by long-distance and regional trains
• The Great Masurian Lakes Trail connects 12 lakes including Sniardwy, Mamry, and Mikolajskie
• Gizycko is the capital of Polish sailing and has a unique movable swing bridge over the Luczanski Canal
• Ilawa sits on Jeziorak, the longest lake in Poland, ideal for sailing and water sports
• Krutynia river rafting in the Piska Forest is one of Poland's most scenic canoe routes
• Olsztyn's Teutonic Castle stands in the city centre, minutes from the train station

Key information

• Where to go in Masuria? The easiest way is to Olsztyn, Giżycko, Iława, Ostróda and Ełk, as long-distance and regional trains arrive there.

• The Great Masurian Lakes Trail connects the Mamry, Dargin, Kisajno, Niegocin, Jagodne, Szymon, Tałtowisko, Tałty, Mikołajskie, Śniardwy, Bełdany and Nidzkie lakes - the centre of the region's sailing life.

• In the heart of the Piska Forest and the Mazurian Landscape Park, Krutynia river rafting and nature walks await.

• Giżycko is the capital of Polish sailing, and Iława lies on the longest lake in Poland - Jeziorak.

• The narrow-gauge railway in Elk and the swing bridge in Gizycko are unique attractions linked to the region's history.

• Olsztyn combines the attractions of the city with the city beach on Lake Ukiel and the Teutonic Castle in the centre.

• The Masurian Lake District offers excellent conditions for water sports, walks and active leisure.

Olsztyn, Iława, Ostróda, Giżycko and Ełk - these are cities from which it is easy to start your Masurian adventure, as you can reach them comfortably by train. There is a good reason why Masuria attracts crowds of tourists every year. There are vast lakes, forests, landscape parks, former Teutonic castles, atmospheric marinas and small towns, where the pace of life clearly slows down. We suggest which place to choose and what to do on the spot to get the most out of your trip, whether you are planning relaxation, active rest or sightseeing.

Masuria is not only lakes. It is also huge protected areas - landscape parks, reserves and vast forest complexes. One of the most important areas is the Masurian Landscape Park, located in the heart of the Pisz Forest.

Ruciane-Nida - in the heart of the Pisz Forest

If you dream of staying surrounded by nature, Ruciane-Nida is an ideal place. You can reach the village by regional train and a completely different world begins on the spot - forests, silence and lakes. It is here that one of the most beautiful canoeing routes in Poland begins - the Krutynia River canoeing trip. The route leads through lakes and meandering sections of the river, in the heart of the Pisz Forest. For those who value active rest, it is a must-see.

In the area around Lake Nidzkie, you can walk along forest paths, enjoy small beaches and marinas. This is Masuria in its most natural form - without crowds, but with excellent conditions for relaxing in the fresh air.

Mrągowo - lakes and culture

Mrągowo is known for its music festivals and summer cultural events, but these are not the only attractions of the town. Situated on Lake Czos, it offers a beautiful promenade, an extensive town beach and an amphitheatre by the water. It's a great place to take a stroll after a busy day - both in summer and in the off-season, when the town takes on a quieter character.

The town centre has a historic town hall and intimate streets with cafes and restaurants. During the summer season, there are outdoor events, and throughout the year there are tourist facilities and walks around the lake.

Currently, there is no train service to Mrągowo, but the Polish State Railways (PKP) has plans to reinstate and develop the railway line to the city in the coming years. This means that in future train travel to the Masuria region will also become even more convenient for those choosing this direction.

Olsztyn is the largest city in the region and a natural starting point for those planning a train journey to Mazury. Olsztyn Główny station serves connections from Warsaw, Białystok, Gdańsk or Cracow - there are both regional trains and an IC train operated by PKP Intercity.

Olsztyn - lakes within the city limits

Olsztyn is one of the few large cities in Poland with as many as a dozen lakes within its administrative boundaries. The municipal beach on Lake Ukiel provides an area for rest, water sports and relaxation by the water. Also available are lakes Długie, Kortowskie, Skanda and Redykajny. Lake Długie is particularly popular with locals - there is an illuminated walking and cycling path around it, ideal for evening strolls. Kortowskie Lake, located within the university campus, is famous for its spectacular fountain show and peaceful, green scenery.

Olsztynek - history and open-air museum

It is easy to get from Olsztyn to Olsztynek by train. This is a smaller town which is home to one of the most interesting open-air museums in this part of Poland - the Folk Architecture Museum. A walk among the wooden cottages, windmills and old farm buildings allows you to see what life in Warmia and Mazury was like for many years.

In the very centre of Olsztynek, it is worth visiting the Teutonic Castle, which now houses a museum. The town has an intimate character - the historic urban layout, Evangelical church and small market square make it a good place for a quiet walk without crowds.

Travelling alone - a guide for train travellers

Masuria is all about water. The Great Masurian Lakes Trail is one of the most famous sailing routes in Poland. It connects lakes such as Śniardwy, Niegocin and Mamry, creating an extensive network of water links.

Giżycko - the capital of Polish sailing

Giżycko is sometimes referred to as the capital of Polish sailing - and for good reason. Situated on Lake Niegocin, it is one of the most popular towns in the region. The Boyen Fortress is one of the biggest attractions - a monumental star-shaped fortification surrounded by greenery. During the summer season, open-air events and historical reconstructions are held here.

For those looking for activity, water sports equipment rentals are available - sailing boats, canoes or pedal boats. These provide excellent conditions for water sports for both beginners and advanced.

Iława - Jeziorak and water activities in a calmer version

Iława, which can be easily reached by train, is a great option for those who are keen on active holidays by the water, but without the atmosphere of the biggest Mazurian resorts. The city lies on the Jeziorak Lake - the longest lake in Poland, which offers excellent conditions for sailing, canoeing, windsurfing and recreational boat cruises.

The extensive marina and coastal infrastructure are conducive to both beginners and more experienced water sports enthusiasts. During the summer season, you can rent equipment, take part in sailing training or go for a cruise along the picturesque coastline with its numerous bays and islands. Iława combines activity with an intimate atmosphere - this is Masuria for those who want to be active, but not necessarily in a crowd.

Masuria by train is not just a way of getting to the region. It is also part of the adventure itself. In many towns and cities, the railway infrastructure has become a tourist attraction.

Ełk - the lake, promenade and climate of north-eastern Poland

Ełk is one of the largest cities in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship and an important railway junction. You can get here by train from Warsaw, Białystok or Olsztyn, among others. For travellers, it is a convenient starting point in the north-eastern part of Poland.

The town is situated on Ełckie Lake. The biggest attraction is a long walking promenade leading along the shore, with a view of the castle island and the ruins of an old fortress. During the summer season, there is a municipal beach and water equipment rentals.

One of the most characteristic attractions is the Elk narrow-gauge railway. A historic train ride through forests and meadows is an option for families with children and railway history enthusiasts alike. The route leads through picturesque areas near the lakes, and the ride itself takes place in carriages stylised after the old depots. It is a vivid example of how travelling can become part of sightseeing.

Giżycko railway bridge and swing bridge

It is not only Lake Niegocin that attracts attention in Giżycko, but also the railway bridge and the famous swing bridge over the Łuczański Canal. The latter is a unique structure opened by hand, which makes it one of the most recognisable attractions of Masuria.

A stroll around the lake, watching the vessels entering the Great Masurian Lakes Trail and a boat cruise are classics of the region. During the summer season, this place is lively, while in winter it acquires a quieter character.

Masuria is a region where nature plays first fiddle. The heart of the Pisz Forest attracts tourists seeking silence, forest paths and contact with nature.

Pisz - the gateway to the Masurian Landscape Park

Pisz, which can be reached by regional railway, lies on the edge of the Masurian Landscape Park. It is an ideal place for those who appreciate active recreation surrounded by nature. There is a regional museum in the town, and the area around Lake Roś offers peaceful places for walks and birdwatching. It is close to nature reserves and trails leading deep into the forest.

Wolf's Lair and Mamerki - history in the forest

Although you won't get there directly by train, you can get there by rail to Kętrzyn, and from there by local transport to the Wolf's Lair in Gierłoż. This is Hitler's former World War II headquarters, hidden in the forest. There are also bunkers in Mamerki in the area. This is an option for those interested in World War II history and militaria.

If you are planning to visit Mazury by train, Olsztyn should be high on your list of places to visit.

Castle, museum and the centre of Olsztyn

In the centre of Olsztyn is the former Teutonic Castle, which now houses the Museum of Warmia and Mazury. It is one of the most important historical buildings in the region. Also worth a visit is the museum of Konstanty Ildefons Galczyński in nearby Pranie - a poet with strong ties to Masuria.

A walk through the old town leads past St. James' Cathedral, the historic town hall and atmospheric streets. There are many restaurants and cafés in the city centre.

Ostróda - Ostróda-Elbląg Canal and Lake Drwęckie

Olsztyn is a great starting point for exploring the region further. If you fancy seeing more, plan a short train ride to nearby Ostróda. The town is located on Lake Drwęckie and is famous for its unique Ostróda-Elbląg Canal. It is one of the most unusual hydrotechnical systems in Europe - ships overcome differences in level not only through locks, but also... on grass, on special ramps. A cruise along this route is one of the highlights of the region.

When planning a train journey to Masuria, it is worth approaching the subject strategically. The region is beautiful, but specific in terms of railway infrastructure. Not all tourist destinations have functioning lines, so it is crucial to choose the right destination station and only then to plan the further stage of the journey.

The most important railway hubs in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship are:

• Olsztyn Główny,

• Iława Główny,

• Ostróda,

• Ełk,

• Giżycko,

• Kętrzyn,

• Działdowo,

• Szczytno.

Both regional trains and IC trains operated by PKP Intercity run to these destinations. Connections are available from Gdańsk, Białystok, Poznań, Katowice or Kraków, among others. During the summer season, additional courses appear, so it is worth checking the current timetables before departure. It is also worth mentioning that there are plans to reintroduce train connections to Mrągowo and Mikołajki, which in the coming years may further increase the tourist accessibility of this part of Mazury and make it easier to travel by train without having to use substitute transport.

Important organisational issues:

• Travel time

The Masurian Lake District lies in the north-eastern part of Poland, so a journey from the south of the country can take several hours, e.g. the Krakow-Olsztyn route takes 7 hours. It is advisable to choose a morning or afternoon connection in order to take advantage of as many attractions in the region as possible.

• Bicycle transportation

The region is ideal for exploring on a bicycle. Some IC and regional trains offer space for bicycles. This is important news, especially if you plan to travel around Lake Jeziorak, Niegocin or the routes around Olsztyn.

• Seasonality

Many tourists travel by train in the summer season and during long weekends. So remember to book your seat well in advance, especially if you are travelling with relatives and want to sit next to each other.

Bicycles on the train - rules and costs of carriage

Masuria is not only about big cities and popular resorts. There are many places in the region that combine history, nature and a unique atmosphere.

Kętrzyn - the castle, history and gateway to Święta Lipka

Kętrzyn can easily be reached by regional train from Olsztyn or Ełk. The city's most important attraction is the mighty Teutonic castle from the 14th century. Within its walls there is a museum, and the massive mass and preserved fragments of the fortifications allow you to feel the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. During the season, open-air events, concerts and exhibitions are organised.

It is also worth taking a walk around the city centre, where you can find fragments of the former fortifications and the neo-Gothic St. George's Church. Above all, however, Kętrzyn is a great base for a trip to Swieta Lipka - a baroque sanctuary housing an organ with moving figures. An organ concert here is one of the most unique cultural experiences in this part of Poland.

Działdowo - a Teutonic fortress and the history of the region

Działdowo lies on an important railway route connecting the Masuria region with Warsaw and the Tricity, making it an easily accessible stop on your journey. The main attraction is the Teutonic Castle, which now houses a museum presenting the history of the region and the Second World War period. The town has a quiet, intimate character and a stroll through the centre allows you to see classic Masurian buildings and a small market square. It is a good place for a short stopover during a trip around the region.

Szczytno - lakes and castle ruins in the centre

Szczytno, which can be reached by train from Olsztyn, offers a unique location - between two lakes: Domowy Duże and Domowy Mały. A waterside promenade, piers and a town beach create an area ideal for relaxation.

In the centre are the ruins of the Teutonic Castle and the town hall. The town combines proximity to nature with urban infrastructure - restaurants, cafés and recreational areas. It is a good option for people who want to relax by the lake without giving up city amenities.

Mikołajki - the sailing heart of the Great Mazurian Lakes Trail

For years, Mikołajki has remained a symbol of Mazurian sailing. The biggest attraction is the marina on Mikołajskie Lake and the proximity of Lake Śniardwy - the largest lake in Poland. During the summer season, the harbour is bustling with life and the promenade fills with restaurants and taverns. It is the centre of the Great Masurian Lakes Trail and one of the most recognisable places in the entire region.

Borecka Forest - wildlife and bison

TheBorecka Forest is an option for nature lovers and lovers of peaceful relaxation. The easiest way to get here is from Ełk or Giżycko. In the reserve, you can observe bison, walk along forest paths and enjoy the silence, which is hard to find in popular resorts.

This place attracts people seeking closeness to nature and less frequented walking routes. It perfectly shows that Masuria is not only lakes, but also vast forest complexes and landscape parks.

Sztynort - palace, harbour and history of the Lendorff family

Sztynort is one of the most atmospheric places on Mamry Lake. It is home to the former palace of the Lendorff family and one of the largest marinas in the region. A walk through the marina allows you to see dozens of vessels moored at the shore. This place combines history, sailing tradition and the Masurian landscape. Taverns overlooking the water, vast lakes and a historic palace create a unique atmosphere, especially in summer.

Masuria is a region that can be explored in stages - from Teutonic castles and historical museums, through sanctuaries and canals, to sailing harbours and forest backwoods. Thanks to rail connections to Olsztyn, Iława, Ełk, Szczytno or Kętrzyn, it is possible to plan a journey combining several destinations in one trip.

Is there a railway in Masuria?

Yes. There are active railway lines in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, although they do not cover all tourist destinations. The most important stations are Olsztyn Główny, Iława Główna, Ostróda, Ełk and Giżycko. Both regional trains and PKP Intercity trains reach these towns.

Are there railways in Mazury?

Yes, the rail network in the region exists and is used by passenger traffic. Lines connect Olsztyn with Iława, Ostróda, Ełk and Giżycko, among others. During the summer season, the available connections are sometimes extended, as Masuria attracts many tourists.

Is it possible to travel to Mazury by train?

Yes - and comfortably. Getting to Mazury by train is a great option, especially if your destination is a major city in the region. There are IC and regional trains to Olsztyn, Iława, Ostróda, Ełk and Giżycko. During the holiday season there are additional connections and some trainsets offer space for bicycles. All you have to do is choose the right destination station and plan your onward journey by local transport.

What towns in the Mazury region can be reached by train?

Trains reach some of the most important cities in the region, such as Olsztyn Główny, Iława Główny, Ełk or Giżycko. These are the main stations in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, serving long-distance and regional connections. It is also possible to reach Pisz, Kętrzyn, Dziadowo or Szczytno by rail, although there are sometimes fewer journeys. From these towns it is easy to get to the lakes and surrounding attractions.

What is the best place to go to in Masuria?

This depends on your travel plans. Olsztyn is a good choice if you want to combine sightseeing with relaxation by the lake. Giżycko is a good choice for fans of sailing and water sports. Iława and Ełk offer a quieter atmosphere and beautiful promenades. If you want silence and proximity to nature, Pisz and the Pisz Forest area are worth choosing.