Molo w Sopocie

Sopot Pier (Molo w Sopocie) is a wooden promenade pier stretching into the Gulf of Gdańsk and one of the biggest attractions of the city. Its official name honours John Paul II. The walkable part is 511.5 m long, of which 458 m runs over the water, which makes it the longest wooden pier in Europe.

Where is Sopot Pier?

The pier starts in the centre of the resort, right by the beach and the Monte Cassino street, and ends in the open bay. The coordinates are roughly 54.4475 N, 18.575 E. From Sopot railway station it is a walk of about a quarter of an hour along a busy promenade lined with cafes and shops.

How did the pier come about?

The story goes back to 1827. Jean Georg Haffner, a physician from the Napoleonic wars and founder of the Sopot spa, initiated the building of a small footbridge. At first it was only a dozen or so metres long and let spa guests reach the sea for bathing. Over the following years the structure was extended and rebuilt many times until it reached its present size.

What is it made of?

The main structure is timber. Massive supports made of logs are driven into the seabed, with the walking deck above them. The wood is repaired regularly, because water, ice and wind wear it down faster than structures on land.

What can you do on the pier?

• Stroll above the sea. You can see the beach, the Sopot skyline and, in good weather, Gdynia and the Hel Peninsula.
• Watch the sunset over the Gulf of Gdańsk.
• Visit the marina. At the pier head there is the "Molo" sea marina, where boats and ships depart.
• Take photos. The long perspective of the pier is one of the most photographed views in the Tricity.

Is there an entrance fee?

It depends on the time of year. In some months entry is free, but in season, from spring to autumn, walking out into the bay costs money. Check current prices and opening hours on the pier operator's website or at the entrance before you go.

Frequently asked questions

How long is Sopot Pier? The walkable part is 511.5 m, of which 458 m extends into the Gulf of Gdańsk.

Is it the longest wooden pier in Europe? Yes, Sopot is famous for this title.

Who started building it? Jean Georg Haffner, founder of the Sopot spa, in 1827.

Is there anything to do besides walking? At the pier head there is the "Molo" sea marina, where you can set off on a cruise.

When is the best time to visit? Early in the morning or before sunset, when there are fewer people and the light suits photos. In summer the pier can be crowded.

Tips for visitors

Bring a windbreaker, as the wind at the end of the pier is stronger than on the beach. The planks can be slippery after rain, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip. The pier combines easily with a walk along Monte Cassino and the beach, and a stop at nearby cafes. If you plan a cruise from the marina, check the timetable in advance, because departures depend on weather and season.

The pier is a symbol of Sopot and a natural starting point for exploring the city. Its length, wooden construction and position over the open bay make it worth seeing even during a short stay in the Tricity.