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The Underground City on Wolin Island is one of Świnoujście's most unique attractions. Hidden in the forest, this complex of bunkers remained a secret military facility for decades. Today, you can enter the underground rooms, walk through former tunnels, and see the planned location for commanding Polish troops during the Cold War.
Tours are guided only and take the form of military training. This makes the Underground City unlike any other museum, as guides recount the complex's history in an engaging and engaging way.
The facility's history began in 1936, when the German command began construction of the Vineta coastal artillery battery. Its mission was to protect the naval port in Świnoujście. Seven massive reinforced concrete bunkers, emplacements for 150 mm guns, and technical and barracks facilities were constructed.
After the end of World War II, the complex was taken over by the Polish Army. In the 1960s, the bunkers were connected by a network of underground tunnels approximately one kilometer long. Inside, they housed command posts, a telephone exchange, a radio reception center, a casino, and chemical protection rooms, among other facilities.
The facility was intended to serve as a backup command post for the Maritime Front. In the event of armed conflict, it was planned to direct Polish military operations from here. Only select officers knew about the base's existence, and the area was strictly guarded. The complex retained its military function until the 1990s. In 2013, it was transferred to the Coastal Defense Museum and opened to tourists.
The route leads through underground corridors and former military facilities. During the tour, you can see, among other things:
Much of the equipment has been preserved or recreated to show how the secret base might have operated during the Cold War.
The Underground City is a good choice for those interested in history, militaria, military technology, and the Cold War period. Thanks to its engaging tour style, this attraction may also appeal to those who don't usually enjoy traditional museums.
The site is suitable for visiting with children. The tour program is adapted to the age of participants, but please note that the tour lasts approximately two hours. For younger children, this may be quite long.
There are approximately 40 steps along the route, spread out over several locations. This may make the tour difficult for those with mobility issues. The narrow, enclosed corridors may also cause discomfort for those with severe claustrophobia.
This is one of the few attractions that allows you to enter an authentic military complex that was secret for many years. The visit is an interesting history lesson, but it's not limited to viewing exhibits in display cases.
The Underground City is worth visiting because:
A tour of the Underground City lasts approximately 90 to 130 minutes. The exact time depends on the size and age of the group. It's best to allocate about two hours for the entire visit, arriving a few or a dozen minutes before the tour begins.
It is not possible to join a group already on the route, so it is worth arriving well in advance.
The temperature inside the complex remains around 10°C, even in mid-summer. It's recommended to bring a sweatshirt, sweater, or light jacket and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
The temperature difference between underground and the surrounding area can be very significant in summer. Warm clothing is especially useful for children.
The Underground City is located on Wolin Island, nestled in a forest between the Przytór district and the Baltic coast. It's approximately 12–15 km from the seaside in Świnoujście, depending on the route chosen.
From the city center or the seaside district, head through the Świna River Tunnel to Wolin Island, then towards Przytor and Międzyzdroje. The final section of the route leads along a forest road. There is a parking area nearby.
It's worth allowing about 20-30 minutes for the journey from the promenade area. Travel time may be longer during the summer season.
You can reach the Underground City by bike. From the center of Świnoujście, the most convenient way is to take the Bielik ferry to Warszów, then continue towards Przytor. Depending on your starting point, the route is approximately 12–16 km each way.
Part of the route runs through forested areas, so it's worth having a roadworthy bike and checking the route beforehand. This trip can be combined with a further ride towards Międzyzdroje.
The Świnoujście Przytór train station is located near the complex. From the station, it's a short walk to the entrance to the Underground City.
You can also take a bus to Przytor, but connections and departure times vary depending on the day and season. It's best to check the current public transport or train schedule before traveling.
A walking tour from the promenade or Świnoujście city center would be long and take several hours each way, so it's not the best way to reach the attractions. A better option is to take a train or bus to Przytor and walk the final section.
According to information available as of July 2026, a standard ticket costs PLN 50 and a concession ticket costs PLN 40. Concession tickets are available to schoolchildren, students, retirees, and pensioners. A guide is included in the ticket price.
Currently, Polish language sessions take place daily at:
German-language tours are available on select days. The site also welcomes visitors outside of peak season, but opening hours and availability may be limited.
Opening hours and prices may change, so please check the latest information before your trip. official website of the Underground City or contact the service by phone at 789 072 244.
Tickets can be booked online. Please arrive before your scheduled time, as latecomers cannot be escorted to the group already in the basement.
The Underground City is a pet-friendly attraction, and dogs are welcome. However, please be aware of the low temperatures, stairs, long tour times, and the presence of other people in the narrow corridors. Dogs should be calm, leashed, and comfortable in confined spaces.
A trip to the Underground City can be combined with a visit to other attractions located on Wolin Island:
The Underground City, Fort Gerhard, and the lighthouse can be planned as a full-day tour of Świnoujście's right bank. Before setting off, however, it's worth checking the current route to the fort and lighthouse, as access to these attractions may change due to ongoing work in the port area.
Location: Wolin Island, near Przytor in Świnoujście
Visiting time: about 90–130 minutes
How to visit: only with a guide
Inside temperature: maximum about 10°C
Access: by car, bike, train or bus
Sightseeing with children: Yes
Walking with a dog: Yes
Availability: there are about 40 steps on the route
Reservation: recommended, especially in the summer season
Website: underground-city.pl
Yes. This is one of Świnoujście's most interesting historical attractions and a unique opportunity to see an authentic military complex from World War II and the Cold War.
Yes. Guides adapt the tour to the age of participants. However, please note that the tour lasts approximately two hours and the temperature inside is low.
You should allocate approximately two hours for the tour. It's worth adding at least a few minutes for walking from the parking lot, purchasing or checking tickets, and assembling the group.
No. Due to the size of the complex and the nature of the route, tours are only available with a guide.
Yes, cycling is possible and can be part of a longer tour of Wolin Island. Depending on your starting point, the route from Świnoujście is approximately 12–16 km one way.
Yes, the Underground City also offers tours outside of the summer season. However, attendance may be limited, so please check the current schedule before your visit.
During peak season, it's best to book your ticket online. Space is limited, and you can't enter the route once the tour has started.
Even in summer, you should bring a sweatshirt or jacket. The temperature underground doesn't exceed about 10°C. It's also best to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
People with severe claustrophobia may experience discomfort. Much of the tour takes place in enclosed, underground corridors.
There are approximately 40 steps along the route, making navigating with a stroller very challenging. Before visiting, it's best to contact the staff directly and inquire about current tour options.
