Polish Castle Malbork

🏰 Malbork Castle: A Fortress Through the Ages

Standing along the Nogat River in northern Poland, Malbork Castle is one of Europe’s most impressive medieval fortresses — and the largest brick castle in the world. Built by the Teutonic Knights in the late 13th century, it served as both a monastery and a military stronghold during the Crusades in the Baltic region.

Walking through its massive red-brick walls and towers feels like stepping back into centuries of warfare and shifting borders. Over the years, the castle has seen Polish kings, Prussian armies, and German forces — each leaving their mark on its long military history.

During World War II, Malbork became a German military headquarters and was heavily damaged in the fighting of 1945. The ruins stood as a reminder of the war’s toll until careful post-war restoration brought the fortress back to life.

Today, it stands proudly again — a mix of medieval might and modern preservation. As a veteran visiting Europe, I couldn’t help but admire how this castle represents both the strength and resilience of Poland’s history.

Krakow/Auschwitz

A Powerful Two-Day Journey Through Krakow & Auschwitz

This one’s a heavy topic, but in my opinion, it’s one of the most important experiences you can have when traveling through Europe. Start your time in Krakow by exploring its deep history and vibrant culture. Wander the city’s historic streets and learn about the 1655 Siege of Krakow, when defenders unsuccessfully fought against King Charles XII of Sweden. Make a quick stop at a local Polish bakery for a warm pączki donut (trust me, it’s worth it), and then finish the day with a cold Tyskie and a hearty Polish dinner — the perfect way to end an afternoon packed with history.

On Day 2, prepare yourself for a deeply emotional and unforgettable experience: visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau. I booked my tour through Viator for about $35, which included round-trip transport from my hotel and a licensed local guide. The drive from Krakow takes roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes, so bring some snacks and water — though there’s also a small refreshment stand on site.

The tour is heavy and emotional, but it’s something everyone should witness at least once. You’ll walk the same streets and pass through the same gates as the victims did, moving from barracks to extermination buildings — even the gas chambers. For me, the hardest part was seeing the massive collections of shoes, suitcases, and human hair. The tiny shoes hit me hardest. I closed my eyes, said a quiet prayer, and just stood there.

After Auschwitz, the tour continues at Birkenau, where you’ll see more of the camp and learn even more about the unimaginable horrors that occurred there. It’s not unusual for visitors to cry — I teared up a tad — and afterward, I sat quietly over a Polish beer and meal, trying to process everything I had just seen. It’s a dark chapter of history, but one we must all confront to ensure it never happens again. It reminded me somewhat of my combat tour in Iraq walking into the torture chambers of Abu Ghraib during the invasion of 2003.

🕰️ Trip Details

• Day 1 (Krakow City Tour): ~4–6 hours — mostly self-guided, cost varies ($10–$20 for food/drinks)

• Day 2 (Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour): ~7–8 hours total (including transport) — approx. $35

• Round Trip Travel Time: ~1 hr 45 min each way

Entrance to Auschwitz "Work sets you free"

The barracks they were crammed into

The Crematorium 1 and Gas Chamber

Castle Wall Defenses of Krakow

Ending day 1 with a cold Polish Tyskie and hearty Polish food

Prague: Where History Meets Some of the Best Beer on Earth 🍺

One of my absolute favorite places in Europe — packed with rich history and some of the best beer you’ll ever taste — is Prague. I’ve been making the trip here up to twice a year since 2011, and it never gets old.

If you’re a military history buff like me, start your visit with a guided tour focused on Operation Anthropoid, the legendary WWII mission to assassinate Reinhard Heydrich. I usually book through TripAdvisor, and every guide I’ve had has been nothing short of excellent.

The tour kicks off in Old Town, where you’ll wander through cobbled streets and even step into a 12th-century underground cellar that once served as a wartime shelter. You will get to see the old Jewish Quarter and traces of the large Jewish community they once had before the Nazis eradicated them. You’ll check out a fascinating private collection of WWII artifacts, then make your way to the crypt and museum beneath Saints Cyril & Methodius Church, where the heroic Czech resistance fighters made their final stand. There is even the original bullet holes still outside the window.

Wrap up the experience by raising a glass to their courage next door at “The Pub at the Parachutists” (Krcma U Parasutistu) — a spot that’s become one of my favorite places to toast the past and enjoy a cold Czech beer.

Cost: Around 800 CZK (~$32.50 USD)Duration: About 2.5 hours

The final stand of the heroes of Anthropoid