Amber Museum, Gdańsk

Museum in Gdańsk

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Michał Józefaciuk

The Amber Museum in Gdańsk is one of the must-see places in Gdańsk, a brilliant showcase of the city's centuries-old connection to Baltic amber. Housed since 2021 in a beautifully restored medieval watermill complex originally built around 1350 by the Teutonic Knights, the museum blends atmospheric architecture with world-class exhibitions. Its galleries guide visitors through millions of years of geological history, ancient trade routes, and the cultural significance of amber across Europe.

Inside, the museum presents an impressive blend of science, art, and craftsmanship. You'll encounter everything from prehistoric inclusions-such as the renowned Gierłowska Lizard-to exquisite 17th-century amber artworks and cutting-edge contemporary jewelry. It's often visited on walking tours of Gdańsk, especially for travellers interested in the city's timeless bond with this “Baltic Gold.”

History and Significance of Amber Museum
Things to See and Do in Amber Museum
How to Get to Amber Museum
Practical Tips on Visiting Amber Museum
Where to Stay close to Amber Museum
Is Amber Museum Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Amber Museum
Nearby Attractions to Amber Museum

History and Significance of Amber Museum

The museum’s home, a vast medieval watermill built by the Teutonic Knights around 1350, stands as a reminder of Gdańsk’s strategic importance during the Middle Ages. Over its long history, the structure served various industrial purposes before falling into disrepair. A meticulous restoration transformed it into one of the city’s most dramatic museum spaces, opening its doors to the public in July 2021.

Baltic amber has shaped Gdańsk's identity for centuries. Ancient Roman texts praised the resin's beauty and healing properties, and medieval merchants built their fortunes along amber trade routes stretching from the Baltic coast to the Mediterranean. Gdańsk evolved into a global centre of amber craftsmanship, producing jewellery, ornaments, religious objects, and luxury items sought after across Europe.

Today, the Amber Museum preserves and celebrates this legacy, showcasing Gdańsk as the world's unofficial “Amber Capital.”

Things to See and Do in Amber Museum

Exploring the museum is one of the things to do in Gdańsk that offers both scientific fascination and artistic wonder. Begin by learning about amber's geological origins, formed from ancient tree resin more than 40 million years ago. Interactive displays and animations bring the process to life.

The “Gierłowska Lizard” is a standout exhibit-a remarkable prehistoric inclusion suspended perfectly in amber. Another highlight is an enormous amber block weighing over 60 kilograms, one of the largest natural specimens on display anywhere in Europe.

Art lovers will appreciate rare historic pieces such as a 17th-century amber chess set and intricately carved devotional objects. Modern galleries showcase contemporary amber jewellery and avant-garde designs by Polish and international artists, illustrating how this ancient material continues to inspire creative expression.

This spot is one of the best places to see in the Amber Museum’s collection the full spectrum of amber’s story-from raw nature to refined craftsmanship.

How to Get to Amber Museum

Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport offers excellent connections across Europe, with convenient bus and taxi links to the old town and the museum's riverside location. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Gdańsk on Booking.com.

Gdańsk Główny railway station is just a short tram ride or a pleasant walk away, providing easy access to the museum and the historic centre. You can easily check schedules and book tickets through the PKP Intercity website. However, for a smoother experience, we recommend using Omio, which simplifies the booking process and lets you compare prices and schedules all in one place.

Arriving by car is straightforward via the S7 or city routes, though visitors must use designated parking areas outside the pedestrian zones before walking to the museum. If you are looking to rent a car in Poland I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Amber Museum

Suggested tips: Visit earlier in the day when galleries are quieter for closer study of inclusions.
Best time to visit: Year-round; rainy days are perfect for museum visits.
Entrance fee in Euros: Approximately €6-€10 depending on ticket type.
Opening hours: Open daily with seasonal variations.
Official website: Check the Gdańsk Museum website for up-to-date exhibitions.
How long to spend: 60-90 minutes.
Accessibility: Fully accessible, with lifts and smooth pathways.
Facilities: Gift shop, restrooms, and nearby cafés.
Photography tip: Macro shots help capture fine amber inclusions.
Guided tours: Available through the museum’s programme.
Nearby food options: Restaurants along Długie Pobrzeże and Old Town streets.

Where to Stay close to Amber Museum

Several excellent accommodations lie within an easy walk of the Amber Museum. PURO Gdańsk Stare Miasto offers contemporary style close to Granary Island. Hotel Almond Business & SPA provides modern comfort with wellness facilities. For boutique charm near the river, Hotel Podewils offers elegant rooms with historic ambience.

Is Amber Museum Worth Visiting?

Absolutely-the Amber Museum is worth visiting for its rich blend of history, natural science, and breathtaking artistry. Whether you're drawn to prehistoric inclusions, historic craftsmanship, or cutting-edge jewellery design, the museum offers a captivating experience that deepens your understanding of Gdańsk's unique cultural heritage.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (10,884)

Muzeum Bursztynu. Oddział Muzeum Gdańska at Wielkie Młyny 16 is a compact, visitor-friendly museum in a converted mill that traces amber’s natural formation and showcases large raw nuggets, specimens with insect inclusions, crafted pieces and bespoke jewellery across multiple floors; exhibits are modern, often interactive and accessible by lift, making it suitable for families and those with limited mobility, and visits typically finish in a well stocked shop offering authentic amber souvenirs.

Daryush Horshovsky

a month ago

"A unique museum! It's all dedicated to amber, its history, its many uses, and all the art made from it. What's really cool is that the museum itselfis located in a historic building, an old flour mill, which has its own fascinating story.nIt's not just about looking at exhibits, either, it's a very interactive experience. This makes it fantastic for kids, as it lets them explore and learn in a really fun way. Honestly, even the adults in our group learned a thing or two!nOne last tip: don't skip the museum shop. They have a huge selection of beautiful jewelry at surprisingly reasonable prices...."

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Seb Glowacki

5 months ago

"Our recent visit to the Amber Museum in Gdańsk was a fantastic experience for the whole family. The museum is modern and stylish, with a wonderfulambience that makes it a pleasure to explore. Spread across three floors, each section is beautifully laid out and thoughtfully curated to highlight the history, science, and artistry of amber. The displays are truly captivating – from large, natural amber nuggets to fascinating specimens with ancient insects trapped inside. There is also a fascinating exhibition that shows how amber was formed over millions of years – a great educational touch that adds depth to the experience. Throughout the museum, you’ll find many items crafted from amber, as well as bespoke jewellery on display – all beautifully sculpted and captivating, showcasing an impressive level of craftsmanship. It’s a testament to both the natural beauty of amber and the incredible skill of the artisans who work with it. It’s also the perfect place to cool down and escape the summer heat, with comfortable, air-conditioned spaces and a calm atmosphere. Accessibility is clearly a priority, as the venue is equipped with a lift for those less mobile. The staff were friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, and the museum is easy to access in terms of location. Entry prices are very reasonable for the quality of the experience. We finished our visit in the museum shop, which offers a wide range of interesting and beautifully designed amber jewellery – a perfect way to round off the trip. Highly recommended for families, history lovers, or anyone looking to learn more about this incredible natural treasure...."

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Paul Hindmarsh

3 weeks ago

"Based in an old water mill, it takes you on a journey, explaining how amber is formed (more than 2 million years), showing numerous examples of it init's natural state and after, being made into fascinating pieces of jewellery and other items, guitar, chess boards etc. A well stocked shop of jewellery to visit after the museum. Apparently the museum has a capacity of just over 100 at a time, so probably best getting tickets online at busy periods to make sure...."

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FAQs for Visiting Amber Museum

Yes-interactive exhibits make it engaging for younger visitors.

There is a gift shop offering certified amber jewellery and souvenirs.

Yes, without flash in most areas.

About an hour to ninety minutes.

Yes, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions.

Nearby Attractions to Amber Museum

Long Market: Colourful boulevard of historic townhouses and cafés.
Neptune's Fountain: Iconic bronze symbol of Gdańsk's maritime heritage.
Artus Court: Magnificent Gothic-Mannerist hall beside Long Market.
St. Mary's Church: One of the largest brick churches in the world.
Green Gate: Elegant Renaissance gateway leading to the Motława River.

The Amber Museum appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Gdańsk!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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