Westerplatte: Where World War II Began



Discover the place where World War II began! Set off with a guide on a journey through the history. You will visit the ruins of the barracks, the Monument to the Defenders of the Coast and more!

Highlights

  • Walk through Westerplatte, the symbolic place where World War II began
  • See key sites including the New Barracks ruins, guardhouses and cemetery
  • Hear moving stories of Westerplatte’s heroic Polish defense from your guide

Description

Westerplatte is the symbolic gateway to the history of World War II, it was here that the first shots of the war were fired. During this unique guided tour, you will travel back in time and discover the places that witnessed the heroic defense by Polish soldiers.

We will begin our walk at the former Railway Gate, pass the ruins of the New Barracks, and stop beneath the monumental Monument to the Defenders of the Coast. Along the way, you’ll see shelters, guardhouses, and the cemetery of Polish Army soldiers, places filled with silence, remembrance, and a deeply moving emotional charge.

Your guide will not only present historical facts but will bring the past to life, making it personal, vivid, and truly touching.

This 2.5-hour experience will stay with you for a long time, perfect for anyone who wants to truly understand what Westerplatte was and what it stands for.

Includes

Professional local guide

Excludes

The offer does not include meals, drinks, or transportation to and from the meeting point

Important Information

  • Access to toilets at Westerplatte is very limited due to ongoing issues with the sanitary infrastructure. We therefore recommend using the restroom before the start of the tour to avoid any inconvenience during the visit Due to the historic and partially neglected nature of the site, accessibility for persons with disabilities is limited, although generally possible – with the exception of access to the mound with the monument. Visiting with a stroller is also possible, although it may be necessary to carry the stroller over a few short flights of stairs near the monument Due to the fact that the tour takes place outdoors, we recommend dressing appropriately for the weather conditions, wearing comfortable shoes, and bringing drinking water

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Available Dates

November 2026 18 dates
Fri 13th Nov Sat 14th Nov Sun 15th Nov Mon 16th Nov Tue 17th Nov Wed 18th Nov
December 2026 31 dates
Tue 1st Dec Wed 2nd Dec Thu 3rd Dec Fri 4th Dec Sat 5th Dec Sun 6th Dec
January 2027 31 dates
Fri 1st Jan Sat 2nd Jan Sun 3rd Jan Mon 4th Jan Tue 5th Jan Wed 6th Jan
February 2027 28 dates
Mon 1st Feb Tue 2nd Feb Wed 3rd Feb Thu 4th Feb Fri 5th Feb Sat 6th Feb
March 2027 31 dates
Mon 1st Mar Tue 2nd Mar Wed 3rd Mar Thu 4th Mar Fri 5th Mar Sat 6th Mar
April 2027 30 dates
Thu 1st Apr Fri 2nd Apr Sat 3rd Apr Sun 4th Apr Mon 5th Apr Tue 6th Apr
May 2027 12 dates
Sat 1st May Sun 2nd May Mon 3rd May Tue 4th May Wed 5th May Thu 6th May

Frequently Asked Questions

Westerplatte is the historic site where the first battle of World War II took place, known for the heroic Polish defense against German forces.
The tour begins at the former Railway Gate on the Westerplatte peninsula in Gdynia.
You will see the New Barracks ruins, guardhouses, and the cemetery commemorating the defenders.
A small group of Polish soldiers bravely defended Westerplatte against a much larger German force.
The battle started on September 1, 1939, marking the beginning of World War II.
Tour length varies; check the specific provider’s details when booking for current duration.
Parts of Westerplatte have uneven terrain; it’s best to check accessibility options with the tour operator.
Yes, Westerplatte can be visited independently, but guided tours provide historical context and detailed stories.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons in Gdynia.
Check the official Westerplatte or Gdynia tourism websites for up-to-date opening hours and visitor information.

Top Things To Do in Gdynia

See All →

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 27.8M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again