The lighthouse in Świnoujście is the tallest on the entire Baltic coast, with 308 steps leading up to its gallery. Here is how to reach it from the seaside district and what to expect when you get there.
The tallest lighthouse on the Baltic
The lighthouse in Świnoujście is almost 65 metres tall – 64.8 m is the figure most often quoted, while some sources, depending on how it is measured, give about 68 m. Whichever number you take, it is the tallest lighthouse on the Baltic coast. Guinness World Records also lists it as the tallest brick-built lighthouse in the world.
Its light can be seen from 25 nautical miles away, which is more than 46 kilometres. The lighthouse is still in service: it marks the entrance to a port used by ferries and cargo ships.
A little history
The tower was built in 1854–1857 and the light was first lit on 1 December 1857. Originally the whole lighthouse was octagonal. During a major renovation in 1902–1903 the tower took on the round shape it has today.
The lighthouse was damaged in 1945, and the damage had been repaired by 1959. Another major renovation took place in 1998–2000, and since August 2000 it has been open to visitors.
How to get to the lighthouse
This is the most important practical point: the lighthouse is not in the seaside district. It stands on the other side of the River Świna, on the island of Wolin, in the Warszów district. You can see it clearly from the beach and from the breakwater by Stawa Młyny, but to reach it you have to cross to the other bank.
- On foot and by bike – you cross the Świna on the town ferry that runs between the centre and Warszów. From the landing it is still a few kilometres to the lighthouse, so a bike is the most convenient option. On foot it becomes a longer outing.
- By car – since 30 June 2023 a tunnel under the Świna has linked the islands of Usedom and Wolin. The tunnel is for vehicles; pedestrians and cyclists use the ferry.
Check the ferry timetable before you set off. For the whole trip, including the journey, the climb and a short walk around the area, it is best to allow half a day.
The visit: 308 steps
There are 308 steps up to the viewing gallery and no lift. The staircase is a spiral, so the climb calls for a basic level of fitness. There is no need to rush – you can stop and rest on the way. The climb, a few moments on the gallery and the descent usually take about half an hour in all.
A few tips before you head up:
- Wear sturdy, closed shoes. Flip-flops on a spiral staircase are a bad idea.
- It is much windier on the gallery than at ground level. A jacket is useful even on a warm day, and keep a firm hold of your hat and phone.
- People with a fear of heights, claustrophobia or heart or knee problems may find the climb difficult.
- Small children have to manage the stairs themselves or be carried – the pushchair stays at the bottom.
Opening hours depend on the time of year, and in bad weather the gallery may be closed. Check the current details before you travel.
What you can see from the top
The gallery gives a view in every direction: the mouth of the Świna with the port and breakwaters, the wide beach on both sides of the river, the town on Usedom and, in good visibility, the German coast of the island as well. From up here you can see clearly just how much Świnoujście is a town on the water.
What else to see nearby
Right next to the lighthouse stands Fort Gerhard – the oldest fort of the former Świnoujście fortress, which now houses a museum. The eastern breakwater, built in 1818–1823, also begins nearby. It is about 1,400 metres long, and you can walk along it far out to sea. From its end you can see Stawa Młyny on the other side of the harbour entrance. Combining these three places makes a good plan for a day away from the beach.
After a trip like this it is good to come back to a quiet place close to the sea. You are welcome at our apartments by the promenade, a few minutes’ walk from the beach – write or call to ask about available dates. You will find more ideas for your stay on our page about Świnoujście.