Dźwigozaury Port Cranes Gdańsk
Iconic 1930s container cranes, nicknamed 'Cranosaurs,' illuminate the Szczecin waterfront nightly, blending industrial history with modern spectacle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See the cranes glow
Dźwigozaury Port Cranes Gdańsk
Best Time
See the cranes glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 1930s container cranes, nicknamed 'Cranosaurs,' illuminate the Szczecin waterfront nightly, blending industrial history with modern spectacle.
"These three historic container cranes, affectionately nicknamed "Cranosaurs" due to their dinosaur-like appearance, stand proudly along the waterfront promenade."
🧥 Dress Warmly
The riverside can be chilly, especially off-season. Pack layers for comfort.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Convenient parking makes arriving by car stress-free.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Illuminated Cranosaurs
Łasztownia Island Waterfront
Three historic container cranes glow with colorful lights nightly, a stunning blend of industrial past and modern spectacle.
Riverside Promenade
Odra River Bank
A scenic walk along the Odra River, offering views of the cranes, ferries, and the Rampart of the Brave.
Industrial Heritage
Base of the Cranes
Stand beneath these giants and feel the weight of Szczecin's maritime history and industrial evolution.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Parking and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress Warmly
The riverside can be chilly, especially off-season. Pack layers for comfort.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Convenient parking makes arriving by car stress-free.
📸 Evening Light Show
Don't miss the nightly illumination of the cranes from 4 PM to midnight.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Zone
Great for kids with nearby amusements and a lively atmosphere on weekends.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress Warmly
The riverside can be chilly, especially off-season. Pack layers for comfort.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Convenient parking makes arriving by car stress-free.
📸 Evening Light Show
Don't miss the nightly illumination of the cranes from 4 PM to midnight.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Zone
Great for kids with nearby amusements and a lively atmosphere on weekends.
🚶♀️ Scenic River Walk
Enjoy a pleasant stroll along the Odra riverbank with great views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Dźwigozaury Port Cranes for their unique blend of industrial heritage and modern spectacle, especially the nightly light show. The scenic waterfront promenade and ample parking are also highlights. Some find the area can be crowded on weekends and note a lack of specific facilities like locker rooms.
"During my visit to Craneosaurs – Dźwigozaury, I was struck by the unique blend of industrial heritage and modern aesthetics. These three historic container cranes, affectionately nicknamed "Cranosaurs" due to their dinosaur-like appearance, stand proudly along the waterfront promenade of Łasztownia Island in Szczecin. Originally constructed in the 1930s, these cranes were operational until the early 2000s, playing a significant role in the port's history. After being donated to the Szczecin National Museum in 2009, they underwent renovations between 2016 and 2017, restoring them to their original paint scheme. Today, they are illuminated with colorful lights every night from 4 PM to midnight, adding a vibrant touch to the riverside scenery.
The area offers a spacious parking lot, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. When I visited, the site wasn't crowded, allowing for a peaceful exploration of these industrial giants. However, the chilly weather was a bit of a drawback, so I recommend dressing warmly during colder months.
Standing beneath these towering structures, with the river flowing beside them, provides a profound sense of Szczecin's industrial past and its evolution into a city that honors and showcases its history. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a fan of industrial architecture, or simply looking for a unique spot to visit, Craneosaurs – Dźwigozaury offers a captivating experience that beautifully marries the past with the present."
Eric Exodus
"Lovely place - A nice walkaway along the beautiful river and ferries wheel on the bank of river."
Sunder
"Famous place for spending time all the day.
Especially on weekends.
There are a lot of caffees, restaurants, Luna park. You can go there with friends, family and kids."
Галина Иванькова
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Dźwigozaury Port Cranes are located on Łasztownia Island in Szczecin, not Gdańsk. They are easily accessible by car, with a spacious parking lot available. Public transport options might require a walk from the nearest stops.
Yes, there is a convenient and spacious parking lot available for visitors arriving by car.
The cranes are situated along the waterfront promenade, making them accessible for a pleasant walk from nearby areas.
Driving is a straightforward option. Alternatively, you can take public transport towards Łasztownia Island and enjoy a short walk to the cranes.
While not directly at the cranes, Szczecin has a central train station and bus terminals from which you can arrange onward travel to the waterfront area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the cranes from the promenade is free. Access to the area is open to the public.
The waterfront promenade is generally accessible at all times, but the cranes are illuminated nightly from 4 PM to midnight.
There is no admission fee to see the Dźwigozaury Port Cranes. It's a public space.
Currently, public access inside the cranes is not available. They are primarily viewed from the exterior.
While not always advertised, keep an eye out for local event listings, especially during summer, as the area can host festivals or markets.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy a walk along the river, admire the illuminated cranes at night, and explore nearby cafes and restaurants. On weekends, there might be amusements for kids.
Absolutely! The cranes offer a unique industrial backdrop, especially when illuminated at night. The river and promenade also provide scenic photo opportunities.
For the full experience, visit in the evening to see the cranes lit up. Weekday mornings offer a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere.
While there are cafes and restaurants nearby, some visitors have noted a lack of dedicated locker or changing rooms.
It can get busy on weekends and during events, especially in summer. Weekdays and off-season visits are generally less crowded.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants located along the riverbank and in the vicinity of the cranes.
You can find a variety of options, from casual snacks like grilled sausages to more substantial meals at nearby restaurants.
While some places offer more upscale dining, casual spots with snacks and simpler meals are available.
Picnicking is generally allowed in public spaces, but check for any specific local regulations.
Yes, several cafes and restaurants in the area serve beverages, including coffee, tea, and alcoholic drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the cranes offers a dramatic perspective. The promenade provides wider shots with the river. Evening shots with the lights are highly recommended.
Definitely! The nightly illumination from 4 PM to midnight creates a spectacular scene for night photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the cranes. A tripod is useful for low-light evening shots.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. For commercial purposes, it's always best to check with local authorities.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in urban and port areas. Always check local drone laws before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds directly at the cranes, the general vibe is family-friendly. Nearby cafes offer kid-friendly snacks, and the visual spectacle of the illuminated cranes at night is sure to be a hit. It's a great spot for a casual outing that combines a bit of history with simple outdoor enjoyment.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The real magic happens after dark. The nightly illumination transforms the cranes into a vibrant light installation, making it a prime location for night photography. Consider bringing a tripod to capture the best long-exposure shots of the colorful lights reflecting on the water.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
While there are dining options nearby, you can easily pack your own snacks and drinks to keep costs down. The main attraction itself requires no financial investment, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for those watching their spending.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cranosaurs: Industrial Icons
Between 2016 and 2017, the cranes underwent significant renovations, including a meticulous restoration of their original paint schemes. This revitalization project transformed them from relics of the past into vibrant attractions. Today, they stand as a testament to Szczecin's industrial heritage, beautifully integrated into the modern waterfront landscape. The nightly illumination, which bathes them in a spectrum of colors from 4 PM to midnight, adds a magical, contemporary dimension to these historical giants.
Visiting the Cranosaurs offers a unique perspective on the city's evolution. It's a chance to connect with Szczecin's maritime soul and appreciate how industrial history can be celebrated and repurposed. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a visually striking experience, these 'Cranosaurs' provide a memorable encounter with the city's past and present.
Exploring the Waterfront Promenade
Along the promenade, you'll find benches perfect for resting and people-watching. The views extend across the river, offering glimpses of ferries, boats, and the opposite bank, including the Rampart of the Brave. During warmer months and weekends, the atmosphere can be quite lively, with families enjoying the open space and nearby attractions.
While the Cranosaurs are the main draw, the promenade itself is an attraction. It provides a beautiful setting for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset. The proximity to cafes and restaurants means you can easily grab a bite or a drink while enjoying the riverside ambiance.

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