Museum of the Second World War
A striking modern museum dedicated to the Polish experience of WWII, offering a profound and emotional journey through history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflective
Museum of the Second World War
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflective
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A striking modern museum dedicated to the Polish experience of WWII, offering a profound and emotional journey through history.
"One of the most important and powerful places to visit in Gdansk — highly recommended."
Allocate 3-4 Hours Minimum
Don't rush! You'll need ample time to explore all 18 rooms and absorb the history.
Book Tickets in Advance
Avoid long queues, especially if not visiting on a free Tuesday.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Exhibition
Throughout the museum
A comprehensive journey through WWII, focusing on the Polish perspective with countless original artifacts.
The 'Path of Hope'
Specific gallery
An emotional and impactful section detailing the human cost and resilience during the war.
The 'Great War' Section
Early galleries
Understand the complex causes and early stages of World War II that led to global conflict.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Consider Ticket Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best activities and add-ons to World War 2 museum
Allocate 3-4 Hours Minimum
Don't rush! You'll need ample time to explore all 18 rooms and absorb the history. +1
Book Tickets in Advance
Avoid long queues, especially if not visiting on a free Tuesday.
Convince me to go to WWII museum.
Visiting WWII Museum in Gdansk
Free Tuesdays, Be Prepared
Free entry on Tuesdays means crowds and potential waits.
Audio Guide Recommended
Enhances the experience with detailed information and context.
WW2 Museum- how many hours needed?
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate 3-4 Hours Minimum
Don't rush! You'll need ample time to explore all 18 rooms and absorb the history. +1
Book Tickets in Advance
Avoid long queues, especially if not visiting on a free Tuesday.
Free Tuesdays, Be Prepared
Free entry on Tuesdays means crowds and potential waits.
Audio Guide Recommended
Enhances the experience with detailed information and context.
Free Bag Check Available
Leave your bags at reception for a more comfortable visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Museum of the Second World War for its incredibly impressive and well-presented exhibition, offering a deep dive into the Polish experience of WWII. The modern architecture and thoughtful layout are also frequently highlighted as positives, making it a powerful and essential visit for understanding the conflict's impact.
"Very cool museum. Well displayed information and things to look at. I recommend buying tickets in advance. The audio guide is very good also. The museum is very large and there are 18 rooms. This takes a minimum of 2 hours.
Would recommend."
Daniel Milner
"Such a fantastic museum.
Well laid out.
So much information.
I had to leave before seeing it all due to getting emotional.
Tuesdays are free, but you still have to queue for your free ticket. Highly recommend."
Elaine Wickwar
"Definitely worth visiting. Located few min walk from the centre it’s a place you have to see while visiting Gdansk. Very impressive and if you wish to see it properly you definitely need at least 3h. It was not crowded and you had time at each area to read all information without someone queuing behind you. You can buy ticket at the museum."
Karolina Bradshaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located a few minutes' walk from the city center of Gdansk. You can easily reach it by public transport, including trams and buses that stop nearby. If driving, there are parking facilities available, though they can fill up quickly.
Yes, the museum is very accessible by public transport. Several tram and bus lines stop within a short walking distance, making it easy to get to from various parts of Gdansk.
The museum is a pleasant walk from Gdansk Old Town, taking approximately 10-15 minutes. This is often the most recommended way to arrive, allowing you to see more of the city.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the Museum of the Second World War. However, it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak times, as parking can be limited.
The museum is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport, depending on traffic. Taxis or ride-sharing services are readily available, or you can opt for public transport with a few transfers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Standard admission prices apply, but it's worth checking the official website for current rates. Tuesdays offer free entry, though this can result in longer queues. +1
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during busy periods.
The Museum of the Second World War offers free admission on Tuesdays. Be prepared for larger crowds and potentially longer waiting times on this day.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking a time slot online can help manage visitor flow and ensure a smoother entry experience, particularly on free admission days.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 3-4 hours to fully experience the museum. Some suggest a full day is needed to see everything without rushing. +1
Yes, the museum is suitable for children, though the content can be intense. For younger visitors (10-12 years old), 3-4 hours is a good estimate, focusing on key areas rather than every detail.
Yes, audio guides are available and highly recommended. They provide valuable context and detailed information to enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
Photography policies can vary, but generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in most areas. Always check for signage or ask staff if unsure.
Yes, there is a free cloakroom and bag check service available at the reception, which is very convenient for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum typically has a cafe or restaurant on-site, offering refreshments and light meals. This is a convenient option for a break during your visit.
The on-site cafe usually offers a selection of snacks, coffee, pastries, and light lunch options. It's a good place to refuel before continuing your exploration.
Yes, the museum is located in an area with many restaurants and cafes in Gdansk, offering a wide range of cuisines. You can find options for a quick bite or a more formal meal.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into museum exhibition halls is not permitted. It's best to consume them outside or utilize the on-site cafe.
While specific options may vary, most museum cafes offer a range of choices. It's advisable to inquire directly with the cafe staff about any dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Non-flash photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas of the museum. However, always look for specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure about any restrictions.
The architecture of the museum itself is striking, offering great photo opportunities. Many of the exhibit displays, with their artifacts and immersive setups, also make for compelling shots.
Professional photography equipment, including tripods, is usually not allowed without prior permission. This is to ensure the safety of the exhibits and the comfort of other visitors.
Many visitors find the larger, more immersive displays, such as recreated wartime scenes or displays of military hardware, to be highly photogenic. The overall modern design of the museum also lends itself well to photography.
The museum is generally well-lit, with a mix of ambient and focused lighting designed to highlight the exhibits. This usually provides good conditions for photography, even without flash.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for exhibits that might be more visually engaging or focus on stories of resilience and hope. The museum's modern design and spacious layout can also help keep younger visitors comfortable. Remember to utilize the free bag check to make the visit more manageable.
🤔 Budget Travelers
If Tuesdays are too crowded, consider purchasing tickets online in advance to secure your entry and potentially save time.
📚 History Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the original artifacts and personal testimonies, which bring history to life in a powerful way. The museum's layout is designed to guide you through the complex narrative, but don't hesitate to spend extra time in sections that particularly capture your interest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Polish Experience: A Unique Perspective
Visitors often remark on the emotional weight of the exhibits, which are presented with a powerful combination of historical artifacts, personal testimonies, and immersive displays. This approach ensures that the human stories behind the statistics are never lost, making the museum a deeply moving and educational experience. It's a crucial reminder of the often-overlooked sacrifices made by Poland during this global catastrophe.
Key Themes Explored
* Occupation and Resistance: The daily lives under Nazi and Soviet occupation, and the various forms of resistance.
* The Holocaust in Poland: The tragic fate of Polish Jews and the broader impact of genocide.
* Post-War Realities: The challenges of rebuilding and the geopolitical shifts that followed the war.
Navigating the Museum's Vast Collection
Many visitors suggest starting with the introductory sections that set the historical context, then moving through the core exhibition. The museum is designed to be explored in a specific order, but don't hesitate to revisit areas or spend more time in sections that particularly resonate with you. The audio guide is invaluable here, offering deeper insights and helping to connect the dots between different displays.
Tips for Exploration
* Utilize the Audio Guide: It's highly recommended for a richer understanding.
* Pace Yourself: Don't try to read every single placard; focus on the key narratives and impactful displays.
* Take Breaks: The museum cafe offers a good spot to rest and process the information before continuing.
The Architecture and Design
Inside, the museum is spacious, well-lit, and well-ventilated, even when hosting a large number of visitors. The layout is intuitive, with clear sections that flow seamlessly from one to the next. This careful design ensures that the focus remains on the exhibits and the stories they tell, creating an environment conducive to reflection and learning.
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