• Westerplatte Guided Tour: Where World War II Began
  • Westerplatte Guided Tour: Where World War II Began
  • Westerplatte Guided Tour: Where World War II Began
  • Westerplatte Guided Tour: Where World War II Began

Westerplatte Guided Tour: Where World War II Began

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ID: GYG1390997-2123789
Category:
Country: Poland

Duration: 01:30 hours


Description

Join a guided walk through Westerplatte, where World War II began. Discover the story of the brave defenders, see historic ruins, the soldiers’ cemetery and the Monument to the Coast Defenders.
Discover Westerplatte on a guided walking tour and visit one of the most important historic sites in Poland, Europe and the world. This is the place where World War II began on September 1, 1939, when the German battleship Schleswig-Holstein opened fire on the Polish Military Transit Depot.

During this fight, you will follow the story of the heroic Polish defenders who resisted overwhelming German forces for seven days. Your guide will explain why Westerplatte was so important, how the first hours of the war unfolded, and what daily life was like for the soldiers stationed there before the outbreak of the conflict.

This tour is designed for everyone — history lovers, first-time visitors to Gdańsk, families, groups of friends, and anyone who wants to understand the powerful meaning of Westerplatte. The story is told in an engaging, accessible and passionate way, making history easy to follow and truly memorable.

Along the route, you will learn where the Schleswig-Holstein was positioned when it began the attack. You will hear about the German assault plan, the Polish defense system, and the most dramatic moments of the battle. Your guide will also describe the bombing of September 2, 1939, one of the most intense and emotional episodes of the defense of Westerplatte.

You will visit the most important places connected with the battle, including the Polish Soldiers' Cemetery, the ruins of the barracks, and the Monument to the Coast Defenders. Each stop brings you closer to the people, decisions and events that made Westerplatte a symbol of courage, duty and resistance.

Westerplatte is more than a historic location. It is a place of memory, reflection and powerful storytelling. Join this guided walk and experience the site where one of the most significant chapters of the 20th century began.

Highlights

  • Stand where the first shots of World War II were fired.
  • Follow a passionate guide through Westerplatte’s heroic past.
  • See iconic landmarks and uncover stories you won’t forget.

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please arrive at the meeting point a few minutes before the tour starts.

This is an outdoor walking tour, so please dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Some parts of the route may include uneven ground.

Transportation to and from Westerplatte is not included and must be arranged on your own. Parking is available nearby. You can also arrive by public bus or, depending on the season, by boat.

Entrance tickets to paid attractions are not included. Guardhouse No. 1 and the historic Power Plant may be seen from the outside, but entry inside is not part of the tour.

Food, drinks, personal expenses and souvenirs are not included.

The tour takes place in most weather conditions, unless unsafe.

Cancellation policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. A full refund also applies in cases of force majeure, if we cancel the tour, or if you do not accept proposed changes. In bad weather, we may offer a new date, but a refund remains available.
Your guide will be waiting under the black metal shelter at the Westerplatte marina/pier. The shelter is located directly by the waterfront, next to the boat landing area and close to the nearby parking lot. Please look for the guide holding a blue umbrella and standing near the tour information board/sign. On your way from the parking area, you may also meet our promoter, who can help direct you to the exact meeting point. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Transportation to and from Westerplatte is not included. You can arrive by car, public bus or, depending on the season and boat schedule, by boat. Parking is available nearby for guests arriving by car.
INCLUDED
  • Enjoy an inspiring guided walking tour of Westerplatte with a passionate local guide who brings the story of this historic place to life. The price includes a guided visit to the key outdoor sites connected with the beginning of World War II, including the Polish Soldiers’ Cemetery, the ruins of the barracks and the Monument to the Coast Defenders.
  • During the walk, you may also see Guardhouse No. 1 and the historic Power Plant from the outside. Your guide will share fascinating stories about these important sites and explain their role in the defense of Westerplatte.
NOT INCLUDED
  • Entrance tickets to paid attractions are not included in the price. This means that entry inside Guardhouse No. 1, the Power Plant or any other paid sites is not part of the tour.
  • Food and drinks are not included. Transportation to and from Westerplatte is also not included, so please arrive at the meeting point on your own. Personal expenses, souvenirs and any additional paid attractions are not included.

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.