Polakkasernen: A Window into Lolland's Past
Discover the untold stories of Polish seasonal workers in Denmark's sugar beet fields at Polakkasernen, a unique museum preserving their legacy and cultural heritage on Lolland-Falster.
Polakkasernen, located in Rødby, Denmark, offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of Polish seasonal laborers who toiled in the sugar beet fields of Lolland-Falster during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This preserved barrack, once housing up to 30 workers, now serves as a museum showcasing their arduous working conditions, cultural traditions, and the impact they had on the local community. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring agricultural tools, personal artifacts, and historical photographs, gaining a deeper understanding of the 'sugar beet girls' and their contributions to Denmark's agricultural history. The museum provides a unique cultural experience, highlighting a lesser-known aspect of Danish-Polish relations and the human stories behind the sugar industry's growth. With its informative displays and dedication to preserving this heritage, Polakkasernen is a worthwhile stop for those interested in history, cultural exchange, and the stories of ordinary people who shaped the region.
A brief summary to Polakkasernen
- Højbygårdvej 34, Rødby, 4970, DK
- +4525779201
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the museum's opening hours in advance, as they vary seasonally. The museum is typically open from July to September and during Easter.
- Consider visiting during one of the museum's special events or guided tours for a more immersive experience.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Rødbyhavn and Lalandia for a day of history and family fun.
- Take time to explore the surrounding countryside and appreciate the agricultural landscape that shaped the lives of the Polish workers.
- Look for Polish surnames in the local area as a reminder of the lasting impact of the Polish community on Lolland-Falster.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Rødbyhavn, take bus 723 towards Maribo. Get off at the Lolland-Falster Airport (Højbygaardhuse) stop, which is approximately a 4-minute walk from Polakkasernen. Check local bus schedules for accurate times, as services may vary. A single bus fare costs approximately 24 DKK.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Rødbyhavn, a taxi or ride-share to Polakkasernen will take around 10-15 minutes. Expect to pay approximately 150-200 DKK, depending on traffic and the specific service used.
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Driving
From Rødbyhavn, follow signs towards route 291/Højbygårdvej. Continue on Højbygårdvej until you reach number 34. Free parking is available at Polakkasernen. Note that parking directly at Polakkasernen is limited; overflow parking is available at Tågerup Church and on Tågerupvej.
Discover more about Polakkasernen
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Ravnsby Bakker
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Bjørnebrønden
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Vandtårnet I Nykøbing F
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Falster Provsti
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Mindbjergs
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Diocese of Lolland–Falster
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Experience the serene beauty and rich history of the Diocese of Lolland–Falster in Nykøbing Falster, a captivating church and cultural landmark.
Nakskov Fjord
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Discover the serene beauty of Nakskov Fjord, a natural paradise on Lolland's west coast, offering stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a rich maritime history for an unforgettable Danish experience.
Hotel Falster
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Guldborgsund Zoo & Botanisk Have
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Trebuchet
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lungholm
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Historic Lolland manor estate where neoclassical architecture, working farmland and emerging coastal nature reserves meet in a quietly atmospheric countryside setting.
Lolland-Falster Airport
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A friendly general aviation airfield in the fields of Lolland, where local clubs, small aircraft and big skies create a quietly captivating gateway to southern Denmark.
Scandinavian owl center
4.8 km
A quiet, owl-focused wildlife center on Lolland, where close encounters and clear storytelling reveal the hidden lives of Scandinavia’s nocturnal hunters.
Rødby Karting Ring
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Denmark's FIA-approved international go-kart circuit where competitive racing meets recreational thrills on a technically demanding 1,246-meter track.
Lolland
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Denmark's rural island sanctuary where safari wildlife, medieval history, and contemporary art converge amid coastal beauty.
Lalandia Aquadome Rødby
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Tropical waterpark with year-round 28°C pools, wave slides, and wellness in Danish Lolland.
Søholt Barokhave
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Hyllekrog Fyr
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Relic of the Castle Revshale
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Frilandsmuseet - De gamle Huse
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Naturpark Maribosøerne
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Maribo Cathedral
11.0 km
Lakeside Gothic cathedral in Maribo, born as a Bridgettine monastery church and now a serene window onto Danish medieval faith, royal drama and monastic heritage.
Stiftsmuseum Maribo
11.5 km
A compact island museum where a Stone Age girl, medieval church art and rune stones tell 10,000 years of Lolland-Falster stories under one historic roof.
Lupinmark
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Essential places to dine
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Restaurant Bangs Have
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Restaurant B
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Restaurant China House
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Café Vin og Brød
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Neighbourhood bakery, relaxed café and intimate wine cellar in one, Café Vin og Brød is Maribo’s cosy all‑day living room on the town square.
Godstedlund Bed & Breakfast
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Adults-only countryside manor on Lolland combining boutique interiors, serene gardens and quiet Danish village charm in an intimate bed & breakfast setting.
Cafe Victoria
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Pin Sushi
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Landsbyen Våbensted
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Restaurant Strandgården
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Casual seaside dining on Lolland’s south coast, where classic Danish dishes, local fish and an ice-cream café meet Baltic views, dike walks and mini-golf fun.
Den gamle Digegaard
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Thatched charm and Baltic views on Lolland's quiet southern coast
Det Gamle Pakhus
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Restaurant Ö
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Oreby Kro
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Brasseriet Søllestedgaard
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Tallulah
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Guldsmed Kelø
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TIPPY
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Red Cross Op Shop
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Boline Chokolade
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Affordable secondhand children's essentials supporting Maribo's family community.
Lollands Centret
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Legekæden
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Hobbydillen
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JYSK
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Broderimagasinet
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Valhall
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Bodega Slap A
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Bodega Overfarten
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Munk Stuen
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City Rock
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Pillen Maribo
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Maribo Mc
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Goose-pub
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Defectors MC Lolland Falster
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Sports Baren
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Vinoteque Marittima
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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55.6 km
Discover authentic Danish hospitality and local color at Kasket Karl, Rudkøbing’s beloved bodega on Langeland—a lively gathering spot offering drinks, history, and community.
Bar z
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Næstved's welcoming nightclub for Thursday-to-Saturday evening gatherings and social entertainment.
Step Inn I / S
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The Old Irish Pub
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A vibrant Irish-themed pub in the heart of Næstved, offering live music, sports, draught beer, and a lively atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
Crazy Daisy Næstved
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The Beach
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Avenue Næstved
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Lively nightspot and flexible event hall in central Næstved, mixing dancefloor energy, festive dinners, stand-up comedy and themed parties under one roof.
Sct. Jørgens Jazzklub
64.7 km
Experience live jazz in the heart of Næstved at Sct. Jørgens Jazzklub, where music and history harmonize.