Arriving in Świnoujście without a car is not only possible, but often a much more pleasant choice than traveling by car. You avoid traffic jams on the way, searching for parking spaces, and fees in the paid parking zone—and thanks to the city’s compact layout, excellent public transport, cycling routes, and ferry crossings, Świnoujście is especially pedestrian-friendly.
Here’s a practical guide to getting to Świnoujście comfortably and to the town’s most interesting places.
How to get to Świnoujście conveniently without a car?
1. Train – direct to the right bank (Świnoujście)
Long-distance trains from PKP Intercity (IC, TLK, EIC) and regional services (Polregio) stop directly at the Świnoujście station, located on the eastern side of the Świna (on the island of Wolin).
From the station straight to the ferry: The railway station is just a few steps from the Świnoujście-Centrum ferry terminal (the “Bielik” ferries). After you get off the train, simply walk onto the ferry to cross to the left-bank part of the city (the island of Usedom/Uznam) in about 10 minutes—where most hotels, guesthouses, the promenade, and the beach are located.
The tunnel under the Świna: Since the opening of the tunnel under the Świna near the station, city buses (e.g., lines A, B) also run through the tunnel to the other side of the city, without having to wait for the ferry.
2. Long-distance buses (FlixBus and private carriers)
Scheduled buses travel directly to Świnoujście from many Polish and German cities. Bus stops are located near the railway station or in the city center.
3. Connection via Germany (UBB – Usedomer Bäderbahn)
A great alternative—especially if you’re traveling from western Poland or Germany—is the UBB rail service. It connects Świnoujście directly with German seaside resorts (Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, Bansin), as well as Berlin and Greifswald. The Świnoujście Centrum station is on the left-bank side (island of Uznam).
How to get around Świnoujście without a car?
On foot: The seaside district, the city center, parks, and the promenade are well connected and within easy reach of a short walk.
By bike: Świnoujście and the whole island of Uznam are famous for excellent, flat cycling routes. In the city, you’ll find many bike rental places—traditional and electric.
Ferry crossings: The “Bielik” ferries (in the center) and the “Karsibór” ferry are free for pedestrians and cyclists.
City buses (KA Świnoujście): Provide convenient connections between the island of Uznam and attractions on the island of Wolin (e.g., the Lighthouse, Fort Gerharda).
What’s worth seeing? The biggest attractions in Świnoujście
1. Młyny Pier and the Windmill on the Breakwater
A true city icon and a must for every stroll. The distinctive white windmill-shaped structure stands at the end of the West Breakwater, right where the Świna flows out into the Baltic Sea.
2. The widest beach in Poland and the Promenade
The Świnoujście beach has repeatedly received the Blue Flag award for cleanliness and safety. It’s exceptionally wide (in places over 100 meters) and has a gentle descent into the water. Along the coastline runs a modern, lively promenade with cafés, restaurants, and walking paths.
3. Fortifications of the Fortified Complex of Świnoujście
The city has a rich military history. Among the most important sights are:
Fort Anioła: Modeled after the Castel Sant’Angelo in Rome (island of Uznam).
Fort Zachodni: Located right next to the Spa Park and the beach (island of Uznam).
Fort Gerharda (Fort Wschodni): Located on the island of Wolin, with easy access by city bus from the center.
4. The Lighthouse in Świnoujście
One of the tallest brick lighthouses in the world (68 meters high). From its top you can enjoy views of the Baltic Sea, the port, and the surrounding islands. It’s located on the right bank (island of Wolin), not far from Fort Gerharda.
5. Spa Park (Park Zdrojowy)
Designed in the 19th century by the famous gardener Peter Joseph Lenné. A spacious, green area—perfect for taking a break from the sun, jogging, or walking on your way from the city center to the beach.
6. A trip to the German “Emperors” (Cäsarbad)
While in Świnoujście without a car, it’s worth going on foot, by bike, or by the UBB rail service to the border-area German towns: Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, and Bansin. They impress with classic architecture of historic villas (Bäderarchitektur) and the historic pier in Ahlbeck.
Practical tips for your trip
Plan your transfer from the station: If your hotel is on the left bank, after you get off the train, check the timetable for the city bus traveling through the tunnel—or simply walk onto the “Bielik” passenger ferry. The ferry option adds an extra scenic highlight right from the start.
Install a transport app: Apps such as Jakdojade or KOLEO will be useful for checking timetables for city buses and regional trains.
Rent a bike for the whole day: The best way to explore both the Polish and the German parts of the island of Uznam—without getting stuck in traffic.
Other events
