warsaw poland travel guide

Warsaw Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Warsaw is a bustling, revitalized city that has cast off the long shadow of communism. While a lot of grim, gray architecture remains, I found Warsaw to be a lively place with plenty to keep you busy. There’s a growing culinary scene, a wild nightlife, and lots of budget-friendly activities in (and around) the city.

Stroll down the boulevards, explore the wealth of Chopin’s music, admire traditional art pieces, and soak up this modern city — all for a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe!

While Krakow gets all the attention, I really enjoyed my time in Warsaw.

This travel guide to Warsaw will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Warsaw

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Warsaw

1. Wander the Old Town

The streets of the Old Town offer a nice contrast to the modern, bustling city that surrounds them. The area suffered heavy damage during World War II so many of the medieval buildings have been reconstructed, but it’s nevertheless a great place to start your trip. The Old Town is also a UNESCO World Heritage. Start in the colorful Old Town Market Square and go from there. You have tons of choices when it comes to museums and historical sites; the Royal Castle is located here, as is the Museum of Warsaw.

2. Explore the Chopin Museum

Frederic Chopin (1810-1849) is one of the most famous composers in history and his works can still be heard in concert halls across the globe. Chopin grew up in Warsaw before the November Uprising of 1830 and this museum provides an overview of his life and work. Admission is 23 PLN and is free on Wednesdays. This museum is temporarily closed for renovations until April 2023.

3. See the Royal Castle

Located at the entrance to the Old Town, the Royal Castle was the former residence of the Polish monarchs. Construction began in 1598 and lasted over 20 years. The castle was partially destroyed (and looted) by the Nazis in 1939 and then was almost completely destroyed in 1944 during World War II under direct orders from Hitler. It has since undergone extensive restoration and is now a museum and home to royal apartments, paintings, and an ornate interior design. Admission is 40 PLN and is free on Wednesdays.

4. Learn about the Warsaw Uprising

Opened in 2004, this museum is home to hundreds of artifacts from the Warsaw Uprising of 1944, when Polish citizens rebelled against German occupation. The uprising lasted 63 days and was the largest resistance during World War II. Some 15,000 members of the Polish resistance were killed, as well as 2,000-17,000 German troops. The museum has tons of clothing, letters, and interactive films. Admission is 25 PLN.

5. Wander around the Lazienki Park

Designed in the 17th century, this park is home to a small palace that sits on an artificial island. There are several pavilions, an amphitheater, and lots of places to sit, relax, and enjoy the day. It takes a long time to stroll around and is beautiful when the sun is shining. Bring a book, pack a picnic, and lounge the day away!

Other Things to See and Do in Warsaw

1. take a free walking tour.

One of the best things you can do when you arrive in a new city is to take a walking tour. It’s a great way to get the lay of the land and learn about the culture, people, and history of the destination. Orange Umbrella offers daily free tours that provide much more insight than any guidebook. Plus, you can connect with an expert local guide who can answer all your questions. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

2. Visit the Powazki Cemetery

Established in 1790, this cemetery is the final resting place of many important figures in Polish history, including the family of Frederic Chopin (he is buried in Paris, though his heart was brought back to Poland when he died in 1849), some of Chopin’s early teachers, Krzysztof Komeda (a famous jazz composer), and Nobel Prize winner Wladyslaw Reymontamong others. It’s the city’s oldest cemetery and the sculptures and architecture surrounding the tombs are both serene and eerie. It makes for a quiet place for a stroll.

3. Admire St. Anne’s Church

St. Anne’s Church (Kosciol Swietej Anny) is one of Warsaw’s oldest buildings. Construction started in 1454 and the building has survived several wars (the roof was destroyed a few times but the rest has remained intact). The Neo-Classical facade dates to the 1780s and the interior is lavishly designed in the High-Baroque style. There are also some stunning hand-painted frescoes inside as well. Admission is free but dress respectfully as it is a place of worship.

4. Tour the Gestapo Headquarters Museum

Officially known as the Mausoleum of Struggle and Martyrdom, this museum focuses on the conflict between the Polish resistance and the Gestapo. It has a profound exhibit that takes you through the old detention cells which were used to hold and torture prisoners. Prisoners were subjected to beatings, attacked with dogs, and even electrocuted. And if they didn’t cooperate, their family would be brought in and tortured before their very eyes. It’s a sobering place but one that shouldn’t be missed. Admission is free.

5. Visit the Museum of Modern Art

Established in 2005 and located only a short walk from the Central Railway Station, this small museum features contemporary art by Polish and international artists. I’m not much of a modern art fan, but there are some cool exhibitions here as well as some thought-provoking art. Admission is just 15 PLN and there are regular guided tours in English. Check the website for more details, including what temporary exhibits are available.

6. Check out the National Museum

This museum is one of the largest in the country. It boasts a substantial collection of ancient art (including 11,000 pieces of Greek, Egyptian, and Roman works), Medieval art, Polish paintings, sculptures, works from international artists, and a collection of Chinese art with over 5,000 pieces. They also have some paintings from Adolf Hitler’s private collection. Admission to both the permanent and temporary galleries is 20 PLN and guided tours are 300 PLN.

7. Relax in Multimedia Fountain Park

The Multimedia Fountain Park is comprised of two fountains that spray water in choreographed patterns to music. One fountain is a massive 2,200 square meters, and the other is 120 meters in length. Kids can play in a nearby water playground and watch the water shoot into the air to the music, which varies from Chopin to Lady Gaga. Each Friday and Saturday night in the summer, there is a light show to accompany the waterworks (in the winter it’s just a light show since the water is frozen). It’s a popular spot in the summer so expect crowds.

8. Tour the Copernicus Science Center

The Copernicus Science Center, named after the famous Polish astronomer and polymath, is one of the most modern science centers in Europe (it was Copernicus who first suggested the sun, not the Earth, was at the center of the universe). Located on the bank of the Vistula River, it has over 450 interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to take part in all sorts of experiments involving light, sounds, electricity, and more. It’s a great place to visit with kids. There’s a planetarium here as well. Admission is 37 PLN on weekdays and 39 PLN on weekends and holidays.

9. Visit the POLIN

The Museum of the History of Polish Jews is a new museum with both permanent and temporary exhibitions as well as performances and workshops about Jewish history and culture. The museum documents the history of the Jews in Poland from the Middle Ages to the present. Over 90% of the Jewish population in Poland was killed by the Nazis in World War II and the museum was built on the spot where the Warsaw Ghetto was located (be sure to take a walking tour of the area to learn more about the Warsaw Ghetto and the fate of Jews in Poland during the World War II). Admission is 30 PLN and entry is free on Thursday.

10. Visit the Palace of Culture and Science

This is the most iconic building in the city, dominating the city skyline and looming over the city. It’s the tallest building in Poland, home to 42 floors, theaters, a multi-screen cinema, museums, and much more. The building was a “gift” to Poland from the Soviet Union in 1955 and many people want to demolish it for that reason (Poland suffered heavily under Stalin). It offers a great view of the city from the 30th floor (there is an observation deck there which is free to access with the Warsaw Pass; it’s 25 PLN without it). Access to the building is free.

  For more information on other cities in Poland, check out these guides:

• Krakow Travel Guide

Warsaw Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 8-10 beds starts around 90 PLN per night. Private rooms cost around 200 PLN. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have kitchens if you want to cook your own food.

Campgrounds can be found outside the city (and there are plenty of campgrounds throughout the country as well). Expect to pay around 40 PLN per night for a basic tent plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – A double bed in a budget hotel with free Wi-Fi and a TV costs around 275 PLN per night. Many include a simple free breakfast as well.

Airbnb is available in Warsaw with private rooms starting at 90 PLN per night (though they usually average double that). Entire homes and apartments start at 180 PLN per night but, again, they often cost double (or more). Be sure to book early to secure the best deal.

Food – Polish meals are quite hearty, usually containing potatoes, meat (pork and chicken), and seasonal produce like beets or cabbage. Stews and soups (like borscht, a beet soup) are popular and can be found at most local restaurants. Pierogis are also a common staple and can be found everywhere for cheap. For some traditional Polish food, try beef tongue or pork knuckles. The country also has lots of traditional desserts too, like paczki (a Polish donut) and makowiec (poppy-seed cake).

Most cheap meals of traditional cuisine (served at local restaurants called bar mleczny or “milk bars”) cost around 35 PLN. For a three-course meal with a drink and table service, expect to pay 90 PLN. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 26 PLN for a combo meal.

A large pizza costs around 25-30 PLN while Chinese food costs around 15-20 PLN. Zapiekanki , a popular Polish street snack that’s like a pizza baguette, costs 5-6 PLN.

Beer costs around 14 PLN while a latte or cappuccino is around 13 PLN. Bottled water is 6 PLN.

If you buy groceries and cook your own meals, expect to pay around 165 PLN per week for basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal vegetables, and some meat. The cheapest grocery store is Biedronka, which you can find almost everywhere. Outdoor markets are also a great and cheap place to get fresh produce and other local products.

Backpacking Warsaw Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 185 PLN per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do some cheap activities like free walking tours and visiting the free museums. If you plan on drinking, add 15-30 PLN to your budget per day.

On a mid-range budget of 375 PLN per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out more at cheap milk bars, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the Uprising Museum.

On a “luxury” budget of 725 PLN or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever guided tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in PLN.

Warsaw Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Warsaw is an affordable city so there aren’t too many tips out there to help you save money. That said, here are a few ways you can save money while you visit Warsaw:

• Eat at Milk Bars – If you’re eating out, stick to the mleczny (milk bar). These are no-frills and cafeteria-style where you order from a counter, but it’s a great way to save money and take in the scene. Expect plates of hearty pierogis, homemade soups, plenty of meat, and a local beer for around 35 PLN.
• Get the Warsaw Pass – For 119 PLN, the single-day Warsaw Pass provides free public transportation and access to all of the city’s main attractions. It’s a great deal if you plan on seeing a lot. There is also a two-day pass for 159 PLN and a three-day pass for 189 PLN.
• Watch your drinking – Warsaw is known for its partying and pub crawls and long nights out. While booze is cheap here, nights out can add up quickly. Start off by grabbing your favorite drinks from a grocery store first whenever possible. You’ll save a ton compared to the bar.
• Take a free walking tour – Free tours from companies like Orange Umbrella are a great way to explore the city while learning about its history, culture, and architecture. Just be sure to tip!
• Use ridesharing apps – Ridesharing apps like BlaBlaCar are a great way to get around the country for cheap. You simply download the app, find someone looking for passengers, and go! Everyone is rated and verified and it’s usually more convenient (and cheaper) than other forms of transportation. For travel within the city, use Uber. It is cheaper than the local taxis if you’re leaving the city to explore.
• Stay with a local – While accommodation is not expensive in Warsaw, Couchsurfing is a great way to lower your accommodation costs. Not only will you save some money by getting a free place to stay but you’ll also be able to make a local friend and get insider knowledge about the city!
• Bike share – For 10 PLN, you can register with the bike-share company Vetrulio. After you sign up, bike use is free for 20 minutes, making it essentially free to bounce around the city during your visit. After 20 minutes, it’s just 1 PLN for the first hour and 3 PLN for the next hour.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water in Warsaw is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Warsaw

Warsaw has a handful of hostels in town and they’re all comfortable, safe, and sociable. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Oki Doki Old Town
• Warsaw Centrum Hostel
• Safestay Warsaw
• Chillout Hostel

How to Get Around Warsaw

Public transportation – Buses and trams are the most common way to get around and run from 5am-11pm. They cost 3-5 PLN depending on how far you go. These tickets last 75 minutes. 90-minute tickets are available for around 7 PLN. For a day pass, prices start at 15 PLN per person while a 3-day pass starts at 36 PLN.

From the Warsaw Chopin Airport to the city center the quickest way is by train and the journey takes 20-minutes. Fares start at 3.40 PLN for a 20-minute ticket while a single ticket costs 4.40 PLN. The public bus is also available for 4.40 PLN or you can take an airport shuttle for 67 PLN per person.

The subway in Warsaw is fast and reliable. Prices for the subway are the same as the bus/tram prices above. Validated tickets let you transfer between each mode of transportation (as long as your ticket time hasn’t expired).

Taxi – Taxis are common and safe, with prices starting at 8 PLN and going up 3 PLN per kilometer. Just make sure you use official taxis as there are often illegal taxis that try to take fares (and who overcharge). Official taxis have the company logo and phone number on the car. They also use a meter.

To ensure you get a reputable company, have your hotel/hostel call a taxi before you go just to be safe.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Warsaw and is cheaper than using taxis. Stick to Uber if you need a private ride.

Bicycle – For 10 PLN, you can register for Vetrulio, a bike-rental company in Warsaw. After you sign up, bike use is free for 20 minutes, making it essentially free to bounce around the city during your visit. After 20 minutes (and up to an hour) it’s just 1 PLN and then 3 PLN for the next hour.

There are also scooter share programs that cost 2 PLN to start and then 0.55 PLN per minute after that.

Car rental – You don’t need a car to get around Warsaw, however, if you plan on exploring the region you can find rentals for around 100 PLN per day for a multi-day rental. Drivers must have had their license for at least one year and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for citizens of certain countries.

When to Go to Warsaw

The best (and most popular) time to visit Warsaw is during the summer, from June to August. Temperatures are hot and rain is infrequent. Expect daily highs around 25°C (77°F). There are crowds, but they aren’t nearly as oppressive as what you find in Western Europe. Just be sure to book ahead so you don’t miss out on the cheapest accommodation.

The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are great times to visit as well. You’ll beat the crowds and have much milder temperatures, with temperatures ranging from 14-19°C (57-67°F) in the spring and 3-12°C (39-54°F) in the fall. You’ll get more rain but you’ll get the stunning autumn colors in the fall and lots of blooming flowers in the spring which make for a stunning backdrop to your trip.

Winter in Warsaw is cold, with temperatures dropping below 0°C (32°F) during the day and down to -5°C (23°F) overnight. Snow is common, which can affect conditions if you’re traveling by car. In short, I wouldn’t recommend a winter visit unless you plan on leaving the city to go skiing or take part in other winter activities.

How to Stay Safe in Warsaw

Poland is consistently ranked one of the safest countries in the world (it ranks higher than Italy, Spain, and Australia in terms of safety).

Of course, you should still take some precautions while you’re here. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight when riding public transportation and while you’re in popular tourist areas.

Taxi scams in Warsaw are rare, but always make sure your driver is using the meter. If they aren’t, ask them to stop and find a taxi that will.

ATM skimming can occur here so always make sure you use verified ATMs. If you can, go into the bank to withdraw your money (as opposed to using outdoor ATMs that are easier to tamper with).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Warsaw Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Warsaw Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

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Warsaw, Poland's capital city, is home to Michelin stars, luxurious hotels, and a buzzy art and fashion scene.

Best Hotels

Best things to do, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

Poland’s capital city, Warsaw, is experiencing a resurgence.

This Eastern European metropolis is no longer merely a stopover en route to Kraków with its captivating charm or to destinations north for a Tri-City immersion led by the port city of Gdańsk. These days, Warsaw is taking the spotlight. In contrast to my frequent childhood trips when we’d pay a quick visit to my great aunt before continuing the long journey south to Sanok, Warsaw now calls my attention, and for good reason. This now modern city founded in the 13th century, whose historic center was left almost entirely to ruin during World War II, is singing a more progressive tune, far from the polonaise.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

This energy-fueled city is on the hot list. Prepare to be dazzled from above when the soon-to-open Varso Tower — Warsaw’s highest viewing terrace will proudly dot the skyline while innovative food halls define the coolest neighborhoods. The latest addresses to bed down in 2024 will soon include PURO in the Śródmieście district and Flaner Hotel in the heart of the city set on Krakowskie Przedmieście. Buzzy new restaurants helmed by top Polish chefs offer much more than traditional pierogi , with Michelin-starred NUTA and Rozbrat 20 headlining the culinary scene. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the renowned POLIN Museum , a testament to the enduring legacy of Polish/Jewish history and heritage. In art news, the Museum of Modern Art is opening its doors in October.

Need further convincing? Warsaw was voted one of the 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024 .

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Explore the cobblestone-clad Old Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980, and marvel at masterpieces by Rembrandt and Canaletto decorating The Royal Castle dating back to the 14th century. 
• Indulge in old-world elegance over tea and pastries at Lourse Warsawa patisserie, founded in 1821 and housed within a neo-renaissance palace turned hotel Raffles Europejski Warsaw . 
• Dive into the local fashion scene, feast on food and drinks from around the world, and get your beauty glow on, all within the buzzing post-industrial former power plant Elektownia Powiśle . 
• Splurge on a tasting menu at NUTA , the first Michelin-starred restaurant in Warsaw, helmed by Puglia-born Chef Andrea Camastra, whose passion for Polish and Asian cuisine is reflected in every perfectly plated dish.
• Stroll the manicured gardens of Royal Łazienki Park composed of the 18th-century Royal Garden, the 19th-century Romantic Garden, and the 20th-century Modernist Garden, and become transfixed by the classical music of renowned Polish composer Fryderyk Chopin during the Chopin Concerts from May to September.

Courtesy of Hotel Verte

Raffles Europejski Warsaw

Boasting the most extensive private art collection in the country, the legendary 19th-century Raffles Europejski Warsaw was reborn in 2018 with five stars and 106 rooms and suites. Tuck into the subterranean spa adorned with a 1960s mosaic by artist Krystyna Kozłowska before a nightcap of Singapore-inspired cocktails at the swanky Long Bar.

Nobu Hotel Warsaw

Bed down and dine Japanese-style at Nobu Hotel Warsaw , the first of this iconic group’s hotels to open in Eastern Europe. You might mistake Warsaw for New York when peeking through the floor-to-ceiling windows onto thrilling skyline views from the 117 rooms reflecting Nobu’s ethos of ‘luxury through simplicity.’

Hotel Verte Warsaw Marriott Autograph Collection

It’s now possible to sleep in a Baroque palace just steps from Warsaw’s Old Town thanks to Hotel Verte Warsaw Marriott Autograph Collection composing the Branicki and Szaniawski palaces. Each of the 94 playful bedrooms highlights 18th-century features, while Chef Maciej Majewski keeps patrons entertained and well-nourished at KUK's ‘neo-bistro.’

Hotel Warszawa

Warsaw’s first skyscraper, dating back to 1931, was reborn as one of the city’s most distinguished hotels in 2018. Every one of the 142 voluminous rooms at Hotel Warszawa is tastefully outfitted in wood and marble. After a dip in the spa’s heated pool, head to rooftop restaurant Szóstka for stellar views of Warsaw with a side of signature dishes by chef Dariusz Baranski.

Hotel Bristol, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Warsaw

Neighboring the Presidential Palace, this landmark hotel , built in 1901 and one of the few buildings to survive World War II, perfectly captures the neo-Renaissance elegance of a former Warsaw. Its 206 bedrooms and Art Deco-inspired interiors — home to legendary Café Bristol — have welcomed illustrious figures like Marlene Dietrich, Pablo Picasso, President John F. Kennedy, Margaret Thatcher, and Sophia Loren.

Take a history lesson.

Become better acquainted with Polish personalities of the past within one of its compelling museums. Begin your history lesson at the POLIN Museum set on the site of the former Warsaw Ghetto. Translated in Hebrew to “Poland” or “rest here,” this is where you’ll learn the sobering story of the Polish Jews. The Warsaw Rising Museum illustrates the plight of the Polish underground and the 63-day-long resistance against the German occupation. Another set of extraordinary tales is told at the Museum of Warsaw through an impressive collection of objects and photographs. Polish masters share the four branches of The National Museum in Warsaw with a global cast at one of the oldest and greatest museums in Poland.

Tour the Old Town.

A wander through the narrow streets lined with brightly-hued tenement houses leading to the Old Town Market Square — once resided in by Warsaw’s who’s who and the hub of public life — brings to mind a city of storybooks. The Warsaw Mermaid sits proudly in the center of this UNESCO World Heritage site, serving as the city’s emblem and guardian. Just outside The Royal Castle , Sigismund’s Column honors Polish King Sigismund III Vasa, who moved the capital from Kraków to Warsaw in 1596. Bookworms will enjoy a foray at the Old Town’s Literature Museum for a date with Adam Mickiewicz, Poland’s most noble writer and poet. While most of the restaurants filling the Old Town are not worth a social media share, stop by the historic haunt U Fukiera led by famed chef Magda Gessler for an authentic taste of Polish home cooking.

Dine at historic food halls.

Taste your way around this emerging culinary capital through its fashionable food halls. While a 100-year-old powerplant turned shopping center Elektrownia Powiśle might win for its cosmopolitan dining options and electric energy, Hala Koszykji can whet almost any appetite. Among the ethnic eats, Matheusz Gessler’s Warszawski Sen stands out for modern Polish gastronomy. What began as a 19th-century malthouse , Browary Warszawskie has evolved into a culture-filled urban space with dining and (beer) drinking options galore. Polish soccer star Robert Lewandowski recently joined the team by opening restaurant and sports bar NINE’S . The most family-friendly food hall serving up entertainment for all ages alongside its culinary options, 200-year-old Fabryka Norblina was born as a metal plating factory.

Shop like the locals.

Skip the stylish boulevards of Milan and Paris for a fix of Polish fashion, or moda , as local Monika Kandefer calls it. Brand manager of Ambelier artisanal home décor and jewelry label, Kandefer reveals, “The best Polish designers and local brands can be found along Mokotowska Street and Koszykowa Street.” Women’s ready-to-wear brands to keep an eye on include Le Petit Trou , The Odder Side , 303 Avenue , and LeBrand . Hand-crafted bags by Mandel make it difficult to choose only one torba . Head over to industrial-chic shopping center Mysia 3 . and add a pair of timeless locally-designed shoes by Balagan to your new Warsaw-inspired wardrobe.

Courtesy of Muzealna

Book a seat in direct view of Chef Bartosz Szymczak’s kitchen, and you’ll understand why Rozbrat 20 is Warsaw’s second restaurant to be awarded a Michelin star just this year. The menu at this sleek address specializes in modern Polish cuisine with a Franco-British twist. Save your appetite for smoked eel, foie gras, and wagyu dumplings.

It begins with wine at Alewino — where the cellar is stocked with more than 250 international bottles — and ends with an elevated dining experience. Cleverly combining a wine bar with a well-priced restaurant where seasonal plates can be shared has won this clandestine favorite a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction.

Bez Gwiazdek

Regional dining leads the way at Bez Gwiazdek , translated to “without stars.” Every month, the menu at this cozy bistro takes inspiration from one of Poland’s 16 regions. Modernized traditional recipes are masterfully reinterpreted by Chef Robert Trzópek and paired with biodynamic wines from small producers.

You can almost skip visiting the National Museum in Warsaw when dining at Muzealna restaurant, housed in the museum’s underground level. Both interiors and the cuisine are led by nostalgia, with young Polish artists and chef Przemysław Suska creatively paying respect to a Poland of the past.

It’s worth a detour to Warsaw’s bohemian district of Praga for a globally-inspired menu at hub.praga , helmed by award-winning chef Witek Iwański. His balance between plant-based cuisine and animal-based products is singular. The chef’s table inside the kitchen proves the best seat in this 100-year-old tenement house.

Allan Baxter/Getty Images

Spring and summer in Warsaw are spectacular. The city is most vibrant from April to September, with parks showing off their seasonal shades of green while locals gather at outdoor cafes and cultural events. Moderate temperatures are the norm, with rare heatwaves and occasional rain, making child-friendly park outings a popular pastime.

If you can brave the cold, Christmas time, with its traditional Polish festivities, is a unique experience. The Old Town comes to life in dazzling lights from the Royal Route to Castle Square, culminating in a thrilling holiday market surrounding a 29-foot-tall Christmas tree. Just keep in mind that the winter sun sets early.

Named for the revered Polish pianist, Warsaw Chopin Airport is only 6 miles from the city center. A taxi ride at around should take only 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Buses and trains offering convenient drop-off points are another reliable option. Jakdojade journey planner outlines the best route.

Nominated as Warsaw’s most hipster neighborhood in 2019 , Praga has managed to stay cool without losing its edge. From street art murals to the illuminating Neon Museum , the pre-war vibe here is omnipresent with hundreds of Cold War era neon signs and electro-graphic artifacts. Housed in one of the city’s oldest residential buildings, it’s the Praga Museum of Warsaw that best praises and preserves the neighborhood’s history. A fan of Praga who visits Warsaw often, Kraków local and founder of Antique Apartments , Matylda Gawor hints, “Watch this neighborhood for the future.”

“Very peaceful and known for its architecture, green spaces, and cultural life, it feels like a city within the city,” Warsaw resident Lucas Pollier boasts of his Żoliborz neighborhood. Local Park Kępa Potocka sets the mood for cycling and jogging along the Vistula River. Another fan of the district, Paweł Wybanski, recommends tasting the traditional jagodzianki or wild blueberry buns at Cała w Mące , where baker and bread enthusiast Monika Walecka sets a high standard for all her baked delicacies.

Bordering the Vistula River, as the name suggests, Powiśle is an up-and-coming neighborhood dotted with art galleries and vintage stores. “It has recently become one of the most affluent areas, with a lot of modern housing and a very active food scene,” shares Pollier, who opened his second Smashny Burger (a mashup of smaczny, meaning 'delicious,' and smash) within the popular food hall Elektownia Powiśle . The district is also home to Copernicus Science Center . Its planetarium, burgeoning roof garden, and over 400 interactive exhibits make it much more than a science museum.

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Warsaw is a walking city, and it's best to traverse the eclectic neighborhoods on foot. It’s equally easy to explore using public transport via one of the 200 bus routes or a tram whose 20 routes crisscross the city. The underground Metro has two lines, and each station is cleverly outfitted with a toilet and an elevator. Most central locations can be reached within 15 minutes. Ticket machines at all metro and train stations can be accessed using a card or cash, costing between 3.40 zloty (around 89 cents) and 7 zloty (around $1.80) for a ticket. Ask for travel passes and weekend tickets.

Taxis can be effortlessly hailed in most bustling neighborhoods. Before beginning your journey, just ensure they have reset the meter. ELE TAXI offers an easy-to-use app, and Uber and Bolt are popular options.

There’s also a growth of cycle paths for biking enthusiasts, with a free public bike system in place. A new pedestrian and bicycle bridge spanning the Vistula River at the height of Okrzei and Karowa Streets connects two sides of the city and sets a world record as the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge of its kind.

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We chose a trip to Poland due to the fact that my family comes from Poland. It was the best choice. Our guide showed us the house where my family once live...

Packed with a bizarre mix of gleaming office buildings and grey, Communist-era apartment blocks, WARSAW (Warszawa) often bewilders backpackers. Yet if any city rewards exploration, it is the Polish capital. North of the lively centre are stunning Baroque palaces and the meticulously reconstructed Old Town; to the south are two of Central Europe’s finest urban parks; and in the east lie reminders of the rich Jewish heritage extinguished by the Nazis.

Chopin Museum

Drinking and nightlife, entertainment, jewish ghetto and cemetery, łazienki park, museum of the history of the polish jews, national museum, old and new town squares, the old town, palace of culture and science, royal castle, the royal way, warsaw uprising museum, wilanów palace.

Warsaw became the capital in 1596 and initially flourished as one of Europe’s most prosperous cities. In 1815, however, the Russians conquered the city and, despite a series of rebellions, it was not until the outbreak of World War I that this control collapsed. Warsaw again became the capital of an independent Poland in 1918, but the German invasion of 1939 meant this was to be short-lived. Infuriated by the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, Hitler ordered the total destruction of the city, leaving 850,000 Varsovians dead and 85 percent of Warsaw in ruins. Rebuilding is an ongoing process.

The main sights are on the western bank of the Wisła (Vistula) River where you’ll find the central business and shopping district, Śródmieście , grouped around Centralna station and the nearby Palace of Culture. The more picturesque Old Town (Stare Miasto) is just to the north.

There are plenty of good private hostels, mainly in Środmieście, most offering free internet, breakfast and free/cheap laundry services. Hotels tend to be pricier than elsewhere in Poland.

Top image © Triff/Shutterstock

Travel ideas for Poland, created by local experts

Explore the Liberation Route in Poland

Poland was the first country that Hitler invaded and with it starting World War II. Discover the Polish sites of World War II with this itinerary, from the Northern city of Gdansk where the first battle took place to the concentration camps of Auschwitz close to Krakow.

Warsaw’s most lavish tribute to its favourite son is the achingly modern Chopin Museum , east of Krakowskie Przedmieście at ul. Okolnik 1 ( w www.chopin.museum ). With interactive handsets to guide visitors through exhibits on the musician’s life, it’s a must for Chopin enthusiasts, but only 100 people are allowed into the museum at a time so tickets must be reserved in advance.

The bar scene in Warsaw has really taken off over the last decade, and the city now genuinely provides a great night out that rivals Prague and needn’t blow your budget. Praga, across the river, is a formerly dangerous neighbourhood that now boasts a lively, bohemian bar scene – an interesting alternative to the more glitzy hangouts you’ll find downtown. Check out the English-language Warsaw Insider (available in most hotels; w www.warsawinsider.pl ) for more information on nightlife and a monthly list of events.

The tipple most associated with Poland, vodka is actually in danger of being eclipsed in popularity by beer among young Poles, so it’s well worth seeking out the varieties you can’t find abroad before they disappear from Polish shops and bars completely. Traditionally served chilled and neat – although increasingly mixed with fruit juice –vodka can be clear or flavoured with anything from bison grass to mountain herbs to juniper berries or honey. There’s even been a revival of kosher vodkas, although whether their rabbinic stamps of approval are kosher themselves or just a marketing gimmick isn’t always obvious.

The city’s festivals enhance the celebratory vibe, especially the Warsaw “Summer Jazz Days” Festival, a series of outdoor concerts held throughout July and August.

Cinema Films are usually shown in their original language with Polish subtitles. Tickets 17–30zł.

Music Live bands are apt to appear in bars without any warning; W Oparach Absurdu and the Irish Pub are your best bets.

West of the New and Old towns is the former ghetto area, in which an estimated 380,000 Jews – one-third of Warsaw’s total population – were crammed from 1939 onwards. By the war’s end, the ghetto had been razed to the ground, with only around three hundred Jews and just one synagogue, the Nożyk Synagogue at ul. Twarda 6, left. You can still get an idea of what Jewish Warsaw looked like on the miraculously untouched ul. Próźna.

Take tram #22 from Centralna Station to ul. Okopowa 49/51 to reach the vast, overgrown Jewish Cemetery (Cmentarz Zydowski; Mon–Thurs 10am–5pm, Fri 9am–1pm, Sun 11am–4pm, closed Sat; 8zł), one of the few still in use in Poland.

About 2km south of the commercial district, on the eastern side of al. Ujazdowskie, is the much-loved Łazienki Park (bus #116, # 180 or #195 from Nowy Świat). Once a hunting ground, the area was bought in the 1760s by King Stanisław August, who turned it into a park and built the Neoclassical Łazienki Palace (Tues–Sun 9am–6pm; 17zł) across the lake. But the park itself is the real attraction, with its oak-lined paths alive with peacocks and red squirrels.

Located in the midst of the former ghetto area at Anielewicza 6, the Museum of the History of the Polish Jews (Wed–Mon 10am–6pm; 12zł; www.jewishmuseum.org.uk ) is worth visiting for the building alone – a futuristic glassy slab filled with organic, curvy surfaces. The display pays tribute to the rich Jewish civilization that flourished on the soil of Poland, until all but snuffed out by the Holocaust. The painted wooden ceiling of the 17th-century Gwozdziec synagogue is one obvious highlight. Opposite the museum is the Ghetto Heroes Monument , commemorating the doomed Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of April 1943, when lightly armed ghetto inhabitants took on the might of the German SS.

At the southern end of Nowy Świat and east along al. Jerozolimskie is the National Museum (Tues–Fri 10am–4pm, Sat & Sun 10am–6pm; 15zł, free Sat; w www.mnw.art.pl ), housing an extensive collection of medieval, Impressionist and modern art, as well as Christian frescoes from eighth- to thirteenth-century Sudan. Particularly striking is the fourteenth-century sculpture of the Pietà, which is more reminiscent of the Modernist distortions in the room nearby than Michaelangelo’s famed depiction of the same scene.

On ul. Świętojańska, north of the castle, stands St John’s Cathedral, the oldest church in Warsaw. A few yards away, the Old Town Square (Rynek Starego Miasta) is one of the most remarkable bits of postwar reconstruction anywhere in Europe. Flattened during the Uprising, its three-storey merchants’ houses have been rebuilt in near-flawless imitation of the Baroque originals. It’s also home to the Warsaw Historical Museum (closed at the time of writing, due to reopen by early 2014; w www.mhw.pl ), where an English-language film shows poignant footage of the vibrant, multicultural 1930s city and the ruins left in 1945. Crossing the ramparts heading north brings you to the New Town Square (Rynek Nowego Miasta) at the heart of the so-called New Town (Nowe Miasto), the town’s commercial hub in the fifteenth century but now a quiet spot to escape the bustling Old Town.

The title Old Town (Stare Miasto) is, in some respects, a misnomer for the historic nucleus of Warsaw. After World War II the beautifully arranged Baroque streets were destroyed, only to be painstakingly reconstructed so accurately that the area has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town comes alive in the summer, as tourists, street performers and festivals take over the cobblestone streets. Plac Zamkowy (Castle Square), on the south side of the Old Town, is the obvious place to start a tour.

West of the National Museum lies the commercial heart of the city, the Centrum crossroads from which ul. Marszałkowska, the main north–south road, cuts across al. Jerozolimskie running east–west. Towering over everything is the Palace of Culture and Science , a post-World War II gift from Stalin whose vast interior now contains theatres, a swimming pool and a nightclub. The platform on the thirtieth floor (daily 9am–8pm, Fri & Sat till 11pm; 20zł; pkin.pl ) offers impressive views of the city.

On the east side of Castle Square is the thirteenth-century Royal Castle , now home to the Castle Museum ( w www.zamek-krolewski.pl ). Though the structure is a replica, many of its furnishings are originals. After passing the lavish Royal Apartments of King Stanisław August, you visit the Lanckoranski Gallery, which contains a fascinating range of aristocratic portraits including two paintings – Girl in a Picture Frame and Scholar at His Desk – by Rembrandt.

Lined with historic buildings, the road that runs south from pl. Zamkowy along the streets of Krakowskie Przedmieście and Nowy Świat to the palace of Wilanów, on the city’s outskirts, is the old Royal Way . One highlight is the Church of the Nuns of the Visitation , one of the few buildings in central Warsaw to have come through the war unscathed. Much of the rest of Krakowskie Przedmieście is occupied by university buildings, including several fine Baroque palaces and the Holy Cross Church . Sealed inside a column to the left of the nave is an urn containing Chopin’s heart.

For flashy boutiques and department stores, first explore the gleaming Złote Terasy shopping centre (replete with such Western titles as H&M and Zara), opposite the Palace of Culture and Science on ul. Emilii Plater, before passing through to the mainly pedestrianized streets of ul. Chimielna and ul. Nowy Świat.

The Hala Mirowska market on al. Jana Pawła II is the place to go for fresh fruits and vegetables (daily); antique hunters should head for the Kolo Antique Market on ul. Obozowa (trams #13 & #23 from the Old Town; Sun 7am–2pm), where you’ll find everything from war medals to old Christian icons.

About 1.5km west of Centrum is the Warsaw Uprising Museum at ul. Grzybowska 79 (Mon, Wed & Fri 8am–6pm, Thurs 8am–8pm, Sat & Sun 10am–6pm; 14zł, free Mon; w www.1944.pl ; tram #22 from Centralna Station). Set in a century-old brick power station, the museum retells the grim story of how the Varsovians fought and were eventually crushed by the Nazis in 1944 – a struggle that led to the deaths of nearly two hundred thousand Poles and the destruction of most of the city. Special attention is given to the equivocal role played by Soviet troops, who watched passively from the other side of the Wisła as the Nazis defeated the Polish insurgents. Only after the city was a charred ruin did they move across to “liberate” its few remaining inhabitants.

The grandest of Warsaw’s palaces, Wilanów (May–Sept Mon, Wed & Sat 9.30am–6.30pm, Tues, Thurs & Fri 9.30am–4.30pm, Sun 10.30am–6.30pm; Oct–April Mon & Wed–Sat 9.30am–4.30pm, Sun 10.30am–4.30pm; 20zł, free Sun Oct–April; w www.wilanow-palac.pl ), makes an easy excursion from the centre: take bus #180 south from Krakowskie Przedmieście or Nowy Świat to its terminus. Converted in the seventeenth century from a small manor house into the “Polish Versailles”, the palace displays a vast range of decorative styles, a mixture mirrored in the delightful palace gardens (daily 9am–sunset; 5zł, free Thurs).

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Everything you should see and do on a trip to Warsaw

Oct 31, 2019 • 7 min read

Explore Warsaw's amazing architecture © Krystian Pawlowski / 500px

With the Foster + Partner designed 310m Varso Tower set to be completed in 2020, Warsaw is on track to displace London as home to the tallest building in the European Union. Closer to the ground, a youthful energy is also transforming this 700-year-old survivor into an ideal location for a central European city break.

A respect for history

Eighty years ago Nazi Germany aimed to wipe Warsaw from the face of the earth – a goal that was very nearly achieved by the end of WWII. However, Varsovians are nothing if not tenacious, and out of the rubble and ashes it is miraculous what has survived – some of which is now preserved in the city’s top museums.

Start in the Old Town, itself a remarkable reconstruction of how this part of Warsaw looked in the 17th and 18th centuries. Here, the innovative Museum of Warsaw displays thousands of eclectic objects, each illuminating different aspects of the city’s history. The museum has several other branches scattered around the Old Town that are worth searching out as well as the equally impressive Praga Museum of Warsaw over on Warsaw’s east side across the Vistula River.

Next, deep dive into the city’s darkest days at the exceptional Warsaw Rising Museum . Housed in a former tram power station, this museum forensically covers the heroic but doomed uprising against the German occupation in 1944 via an immersive range of interactive displays, including archival films and personal accounts.

Also leaving practically no stone unturned on a millennium of Jewish life in Poland is the award-winning POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews . The multimedia permanent exhibition shows how much Jewish culture enriched Poland, before Europe's largest Jewish community was practically annihilated during WWII. The museum’s stunning contemporary building, designed by Finnish architectural firm Lahdelma & Mahlamäk, is a sight in its own right and stands amid a park at the heart of the former Jewish ghetto.

Amazing architecture

From medieval churches and revamped art nouveau market halls such as Hala Koszyki , to a flying saucer shaped former railway ticket office that’s now a cafe , Warsaw puts on quite the architectural show. Many of the city's most historic buildings, including the Royal Castle , are restorations or total recreations, but they are no less impressive for that.

During the Communist era socialist realist style went off the scale for the Marszałkowska Residential District (MDM) with its chiselled heroic worker reliefs and giant pair of candelabra on Plac Konstytucji, as well as the monolithic Palace of Culture & Science, a 1950s 'gift' from the USSR to Poland. To see some of the vast complex’s grand interior architecture, join the guided tour offered by Creatours whose booth is next to the ticket office for the observation terrace.

In recent years trendy café/bar/theatre and gallery Studio Teatr­ga­le­ria has spearheaded a cultural project to make better use of part of the somewhat forlorn Plac Defilad that surrounds the complex. Between May and August, in front of the Palace's main eastern entrance, events such as film screenings and concerts are mounted. In winter rent ice skates and work your way around the ice rink that is set up in front of the northern entrance.

Other noteworthy contemporary buildings include the Copernicus Science Centre , a fun and hugely popular interactive learning experience; and Warsaw University Library , with monumental copper panels on its facade symbolising the pages of books. In summer the library also offers a rooftop garden from which to relax and take in the views.

The great outdoors

Since 2014 Warsaw has run an architecture award ; the 2018 winner was the Vistulan Boulevards , an imaginatively landscaped promenade that has refocussed attention on the river that splits the city. On the Vistula’s east bank footpaths lead through riverside woods to Rusałka Beach , a favourite spot for Varsovians to relax and work on their tans in the warmer months – and one of several beaches along the river.

The former royal hunting ground of Łazienki Park has been transformed over the centuries to include themed gardens, palaces, an ornamental lake and an amphitheatre. It’s home to the Chopin Monument , a fabulous art nouveau bronze statue beside which free piano recitals by award-winning musicians are held every Sunday between mid-May and September.

Another pleasure for nature lovers is the 45-hectare Wilanów Park surrounding Wilanów Palace , 12km southeast of the city centre. Baroque Italian gardens, a Renaissance-inspired rose garden and an English-style landscape park are all part of Wilanów’s design. Even in winter the park is still worth visiting as it is transformed nightly by coloured illuminations.

Art and design

While out at Wilanów don’t miss the Poster Museum in the palace’s renovated stable block. Polish poster designers have gained international acclaim for their original works: some wonderful examples are displayed in the regularly changing exhibitions here, and you can buy classic images in its shop. Back in the city centre, Galeria Plakatu Polskiego has the best selection of original and reproduction posters for sale.

Several centuries of outstanding Polish art and design are on display at the National Museum . The eye-popping collection here covers everything from Medieval religious icons to dazzling decorative arts. The museum’s Polish Design Gallery displays iconic pieces such as Ćmielów porcelain, 1960s fabric prints and Teresa Kruszewska's 1973 'Tulip' armchair;

Art is not restricted to galleries in Warsaw – it can be found in the form of giant Communist era mosaics that decorated the side of the buildings, as well as the contemporary counterpart of painted murals. The old industrial buildings and tenements of Praga, in particular, have become a favoured canvas for street artists, thanks to events such as Street Art Doping . Preserving another Varsovian art form is the Neon Museum , a vibrant retirement home for iconic communist-era neon signs.

The Museum of Modern Art is also doing its bit to make sure art has a profile outside of formal gallery walls. While the institution awaits its permanent home to be built on the north side of Plac Defilad, it has a temporary exhibition space at the Museum on the Vistula : the exterior of this pavilion is covered by 1600 sq m work by Sławomir Pawszak, Poland's largest painting. Another of the museum’s projects is Bródno Sculpture Park , which brings to Warsaw’s north eastern suburbs contemporary works by the likes of Paweł Althamer, Youssouf Dara and Olafur Eliasson.

Eat, drink and be merry

Having fed your mind and soul with the best of Warsaw it’s now time to feed your stomach. Whatever your budget you won’t be disappointed. Milk bars (bar mleczny) are super cheap, self-service canteens that are a hangover from communist times. These serve hearty Polish food, mainly vegetarian or dairy-based, hence the name. The best of these operations, such as Prasowy , have given their proletarian decor a contemporary makeover.

If you’re in town on a weekend get over to Hala Gwardii . This 1902 art nouveau market hall once hosted boxing matches; it’s back to selling food and drink, though now in the shape of hipster street-food outlets, craft beer bars and third wave coffee kiosks.

If you’d prefer a traditional style Polish restaurant, romantic Dom Polski in chic Saska Kępa is a great example. For something more contemporary, and to experience local chefs working at the top of their game, book ahead for Bez Gwiazdek or Zoni both of which offer menus that provide give historical and regional Polish recipes a modern twist.

Zoni is part of Koneser , a multiple use complex that’s the latest chapter in the hip revamp of Praga. Top brands of Polish vodka were once produced in the handsome red brick buildings here, as you’ll discover at the interactive Polish Vodka Museum . Take the tour here and you learn all you need to know about the spirit – finishing up, of course, with a tasting of three types of vodka: na zdrowie (cheers)!

Produced by Lonely Planet for Warsaw Tourism. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.

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Warsaw Travel Guide with Top Things to Do in Poland’s Capital City!

If you’re heading to Poland, you’ll most likely land in its capital city of Warsaw.

A lot of travellers recommend skipping it or getting the hell out as soon as you can! But, I would totally disagree. It’s an amazing yet underrated city that deserves a little bit of credit.

Not only does it boast a beautiful old market square to wander around, but it also has a lot of history, swanky bars, and cafés!

This was my favourite city, even compared to Krakow, due to its laid-back, less touristy vibe. Warsaw has a pretty complex wartime history, which is worth researching before you visit.

The independence, the attacks during the war, the Warsaw Rising, and the rise and fall of communism here all contribute to this amazing triumphant city and what it is today.

Here’s the ultimate Warsaw travel guide to help you explore the incredible Warszawa!

Table of Contents

How to travel to Warsaw in Poland

If you’re like me and love a bargain bucket flight, there are plenty of cheap flights which head to Warsaw daily from London , Bristol , and the East Midlands.

This makes it a great city break from the UK as it’s only 2 hours away.

But, with cheap flights comes A LOT of people! The poor little Modlin airport can’t really handle all the tourists who come through here each day.

This means long delays, in and out.

You’ll be herded through queue after queue for passport control and security which can be an unpleasant chaotic experience, to say the least.

If you’re heading here by train, there are plenty of intercity train connections from Wroclaw, Gdansk, and Krakow and vice versa.

Train travel is relatively cheap in Poland at certain times of the day, make sure you check your train ticket prices at the information counter.

They can print you off all the options which suit your price and budget.

How to travel around Warsaw

Warsaw has an extremely large and efficient transport system including metro, trams, and buses to get you around the tourist attractions.

A lot of the stops aren’t in English, so you will need to check your map for the name of the stop you need.

I used Google maps pretty much the whole time to guide me.

You may wonder why people aren’t paying for the buses, this is due to the locals having travel passes and you having to pay for a ticket beforehand. Don’t risk not paying, you could be faced with a big fine!

Top tips for Warsaw travel

In Poland, English is not widely spoken here at all, so things like buying train tickets, ordering food, or getting around can be a little bit of a challenge.

This isn’t the case everywhere, but it was something that regularly came up as a barrier.

At one point, my friend and I had a kind lady come in and act as our interpreter whilst buying train tickets! So, it’s best to do your research.

The Zloty is king here and it’s best to pay in the local currency to get a better rate, rather than the Euro.

You’ll get around 5 zloty to each pound.

Being in Eastern Europe, Poland is pretty cheap compared to its western counterparts, so it’s perfect for a backpacker’s budget.

The top things to do in Warsaw

Old market square.

I was told that Warsaw was a pretty drab and grey city before I got here, but if you head into the Old Town Market Place there’s no chance of that!

All the architecture and buildings were so vibrant and colourful. Each little narrow cobbled street had another shop, house, or hidden gem to explore.

Horse-drawn carriages are driven in the square and street performers entertain you. It was like a fairy tale city. You cannot miss it!

There are plenty of restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops with competitive prices, and street food vendors here to grab some cheap eats.

This market square is the main draw of tourists who are heading to the capital and in the summer months can be extremely busy.

The best bet is to beat the crowds by getting here early in the morning.

If you’d rather look down than be on the ground, I would recommend paying a visit to the viewing terrace by St. Anne’s church, for 6 Zloty (around £1) you can get some amazing views.

Click here to read my complete guide on this amazing viewpoint!

The Warsaw Rising Museum

If you’re in Warsaw, you really cannot say you’ve visited until you’ve understood its complex history.

The Warsaw Rising in 1944 saw the deaths of nearly a quarter of Warsaw’s population at the time.

This museum is a memorial and tribute to the brave Polish souls who fought to free Warsaw from German occupation.

The highlight for me was the 3D film “City in Ruins”, this short 6-minute clip really brought the whole story of the Rising home for me.

The city which we had been wandering around that day wasn’t there. Nearly every building in Centrum had fallen to the ground.

What I liked about this museum also was the fact it was completely interactive.

It wasn’t just your typical things behind glass with a placard type of place.

You can watch movies, hear stories, collect map pieces etc. For 20 Zloty (£4), it’s a great place to visit and explore history.

Wilanów Palace

This luscious lemon palace is a little further out than the central tourist attractions in Warsaw, but is well worth a visit if you have the time.

Originally constructed as a pleasure palace in 1677 for King Jan Sobieski III,  today it’s a museum that is open for tourists to explore.

You can wander around the baroque rooms and be transported back in time to a land of royalty!

Throughout the ages, it holds the title of Warsaw’s first museum and exposition for the arts since 1805, so it houses a fine gallery of portraits and antiques.

My favourite part was wandering around the rose gardens outside the palace, it reminded me of a mini Gardens of Versaille.

The great thing is you can just pay to go inside the gardens and skip the palace if you’re on a budget.

The palace ticket is 20 Zloty (£4) but the park and gardens are only 5 Zl (£1), bargain.

Getting here is easy, simply catch the 519 bus from Warszawa Centrum!

To get a really good peek inside the palace, read about my visit here. 

Palace of culture and science

This art deco building was Stalin’s “gift” to Warsaw and is a focal high-rise building that can be seen from all over the city.

The Palace of culture and science houses a plethora of businesses, tourist information, sports clubs, theatres, a cinema, and more.

Beyond having a peek inside, it’s a really pleasant place to come and have a walk around in the gardens outside.

Click here to read the most Instagrammable places in Warsaw!

Where to eat in Warsaw

Something which is unique to Warsaw and should be on every travellers bucket list when in the capital of Poland, is the Milk Bar.

It’s not a bar serving alcohol and it doesn’t just sell milk either. It’s essentially a cheap Polish eatery.

This is the perfect choice for those wanting to sample some quintessential Polish cuisine. I decided to visit the famous Bambino bar when I was here .

Now, I’m not claiming to be an expert but I’ll pass on my limited knowledge to you about how to handle ordering food in a milk bar.

The menu will be in Polish, the staff will only speak Polish and so it’s best to research what you’re after before you arrive.

This is especially important in the lunch rush as it’s a busy and hectic time of day.

What to expect in a Polish Milk Bar

Being new to Poland, I wanted to try some traditional dumplings called Pierogi. We also wanted some beetroot soup and so we came prepared.

As my Polish pronunciation was going to be pretty shocking, I just showed the lady a picture of what I wanted and paid!

Although it would have been part of the fun to try and attempt Polish, it’s so much easier just to show her.

She did have a chuckle at my expense but you know, you gotta do what you gotta do! Next, you receive a set of tickets which you’ll need to give to the person serving at the counter.

If it’s ready, you’ll get served your dish straight away. If not, you’ll be told to sit down and wait. You’ll then be called over.

This can get quite confusing if you can’t speak Polish and it’s a bit of a potluck who’ll be served first and in what order. But hey, ho it’s an adventure!

It’s honestly really tasty and filling. What’s more, it’s cheap, so you can fill your boots. A beet soup, meat dumplings and Coke (not very traditional, sorry) cost €4.50. Bargain!

Indulge in afternoon tea

I love indulging in an Afternoon Tea wherever I go and Warsaw has one of the best value high teas around.

Make sure you visit Hotel Bristol as they will serve tea in their luxury lounge for only £13!

I’ve written a full article on the experience here. 

A Ramen and doughnut shop isn’t the most likely of combinations but somehow at MOD, it works.

Located in Leoandrow 8, the friendly staff serves up a mean choice of tasty homemade Ramen dishes, even vegan!

But the reason why my friend and I decided to pay it a visit and even walked 30 minutes in the rain to get there was their selection of artisan doughnuts we had been spying on their Instagram!

They’re just so damn pretty. Freshly baked in-store each day they have a wide selection of Oreo, chocolate, cream, hibiscus, and matcha to choose from. So, dig in. 

As they say, a doughnut a day keeps the doctor away! :P See their official website here.

Things to do in Warsaw at night

Another thing you have to try when you’re in this city is the 1€ shot bars!

Pijalnia Wodki i Piwa (Vodka and beer) is a popular chain in Warsaw that serves up cheap booze for a night out.

You can order some of their magical potion shots, beer, wine, and even coffee or tea for 4.30 Zl or 1€, it’s a bargain if you’re on a budget!

Craft beers bars are also very popular here. My personal fave was Jabeer Wocky!

Apart from having an awesome name, it served up a huge variety of craft beers to order from all over Poland and the world.

Where to stay in Warsaw

There a lot’s of choices of where to stay in every budget for Warsaw but I would personally recommend the Hotel Rialto .

It’s an Art Deco style hotel which had a beautiful setting and is in a quiet part of town.

So that’s my Warsaw Travel!

So, that’s the end of my Warsaw travel guide for the capital of Poland. As you can see, there is plenty to do to keep you occupied!

Enough to justify staying for at least a couple of days if you find yourself in this friendly, vibrant, capital city.

Don’t skip travelling to Warsaw, stay awhile and enjoy it!

Why not read my Warsaw photography guide next?

Read more of my Poland travel guides

How to find the Wawel Dragon in Krakow 

How to visit The Witcher Castle in Poland

Dine like a Witcher at the Wolf Pit Tavern

How to visit the Aula Leopoldina

St Anne’s Church Tower in Warsaw

A day trip to Wilanow Palace 

Afternoon Tea at Hotel Bristol 

Save this Warsaw travel guide for later!

Sophie Pearce is the founder of Third Eye Traveller. Always having a restless soul seeking adventure, she has now travelled to over 30+ countries, many of them solo. Leaving her heart in India, which gifted her a "Third Eye", she felt inspired to share her travel stories in the hope of encouraging others to find their inner magic and explore this beautiful world of ours. Even if it's on their own!

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Warsaw Photography Guide – 17+ Most Instagrammable Places in Warsaw!

Hotel Bristol Warsaw Afternoon Tea Review!

Wilanów Palace Warsaw – The Ultimate Guide for the Yellow Palace in Poland!

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Love to see Warsaw being put on the map more and more. Great resource, thanks for sharing. Spending a day in Warsaw is a delight from start to finish. It’s really a great city to explore and to live in. So much to do, see and experience.

Hi Luisa, yes I totally agree! It is such an underrated city that I think should be written about more! I’m glad you loved your visit. Sophie x

I enjoyed your Warsaw guide and looking forward to putting it to use next month. FYI, your blog mentioned Poland being in Eastern Europe, but think it’s actually considered to be in Central Europe.

Hi Paul, thanks for this! I’ll have a look. I wrote it so long ago :) Sophie x

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The Partying Traveler

Survival of the littest.

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Warsaw | Poland

Warsaw was my last stop on my adventures through Poland. Maybe it was for the best, because had it been my first, I might have spent all two weeks in this unique and lively city. As soon as I set foot here, I began to regret allotting only three nights here. This city was diverse and had a personality unlike any other I’d been to in Poland. Warsaw was a great mix of new and old, historic and modern, and the variety of vibrant neighborhoods will guarantee that you’re never bored in this city.

This post contains affiliate links. That means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links.

And if this post helps you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

Table of Contents

Things to know before going to warsaw.

• How To Get to Warsaw

How To Get Around Warsaw

Where to stay in warsaw, the best things to do in warsaw, nightlife in warsaw.

Poland is an interesting European destination. At times, it feels akin to Western Europe. Other times, the cultural differences present themselves in bold ways. Poland and Warsaw are very unique destinations, and a great place to visit if you want to dip your toes into Eastern Europe. Here’s a few things to know before going.

Currency and Money

The currency of Poland is the zloty. Despite being part of the European Union, they have yet to adopt the Euro as the official currency. There are money exchanges throughout the city if you’d like to switch your dollars or Euros into Polish zloty. Otherwise, ATMs are abundant and you should have no issue withdrawing money.

The official language of Poland is Polish, although English is widely spoken, especially in Warsaw. The capital is modern with a young population. Most young people in Poland will speak English. Tourist establishments and attractions will almost always cater to English-speaking tourists. In lesser-traveled parts of Poland, you might have issues with a language barrier. In Warsaw, you will have no problem at all.

Safety in Warsaw

Is Warsaw safe? Absolutely. I found Warsaw to be a very safe city, even at night. It’s a lively, vibrant city that takes on a life of its own once the sun goes down. I visited many neighborhoods of Warsaw and felt safe in all of them. Of course, exercise your normal caution and common sense should get you by just fine.

Refugee Situation in Poland

I visited Warsaw and other parts of Poland the summer after Putin’s war started. Since Poland is bordering Ukraine, many refugees fled to Poland. I was reluctant at first to visit, but the general sentiment I received from Polish people was that tourists and travelers are very much welcome. The money brought in by tourism can go a long way to helping Poland and Ukrainian refugees, so if you are planning to visit Poland, please do.

How To Get To Warsaw

The fastest way to get to Warsaw is by flight. As a backpacker on a budget, use Skiplagged to find the cheapest flights possible. It’s free to use and I’ve saved thousands of dollars on flights since I started using it religiously. If you’re already backpacking through Europe and Poland, then a bus or train will do just fine. The rail system in Poland is efficient, reliable, and affordable. Warsaw, being the capital and largest city in Poland, is very easily accessible by public transportation. The best website for looking up train schedules in Poland is PKP . Another option to get to Warsaw is by bus. It’s a little slower, but can be a cheaper if you book far enough in advance. Most backpackers use Flixbus for budget-friendly bus travel throughout Europe. It’s an essential app to have if you’re traveling through Europe.

Oh, and before you head out, make sure to have good travel insurance handy while you’re off adventuring across the world. I use  SafetyWing  to keep me covered throughout my travels for as low as $40 a month.

Whether you prefer to wander aimlessly by foot or get to your destination as fast as possible, Warsaw has a plethora of transportation options.

Walking in Warsaw is totally safe. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others, like Downtown Warsaw and the historic Old Town. In other situations, you might need some wheels. One of my favorite parts of Warsaw is how easy and affordable it is to get around. If you download the bike-sharing app, you can rent a bike for almost nothing. The first 20 minutes are free, followed by 1 zloty ($.20) for the first hour. It gets more expensive with each successive hour, but for how much ground you can cover, it is easily the cheapest and best way to explore Warsaw.

Unless you happen to be in a heatwave, then you might want to retreat to the comforts of an underground train. A 3-day pass for all public transportation in Warsaw cost me 36 zloty, or about $8 USD.

As long as you’re close to public transportation or a bike-share station, then it doesn’t really matter what neighborhood of Warsaw you stay in. The attractions are quite spread out, so there’s no one perfect neighborhood for sightseeing. The Old Town would be the best, but even then, you’ll likely run out of things to see there after a day.

Warsaw has several districts. As a tourist, you’ll likely be drawn to the charming Old Town of Warsaw. I stayed close to the towering Palace of Culture, putting me within walking distance to many of Warsaw’s neighborhoods. I was minutes away from public transportation, allowing me to explore the city quickly and efficiently.

Warsaw Old Town

Safestay Warsaw is perfectly located within minutes of the Old Town. It’s right on the main street of Krakowskie Przedmieście, one of the liveliest streets in Warsaw. There is a bus stop right at the doorstep of Safestay Warsaw, connecting you with the rest of the city. Safestay is a big hostel chain throughout Europe, but they’re always a safe and reliable bet.

OkiDoki is another great hostel with a great location in Warsaw’s Old Town.

Warsaw’s got enough museums, historical locations, cultural attractions, and nightlife spots to keep you busy for weeks.

Wander Through the Old Town

Warsaw’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but not for the typical reason that Old Towns get this designation. It’s actually the youngest Old Town in the world, being rebuilt completely after World War II. It’s been rebuilt in its original style, so while the buildings themselves are new, they look quite old. It’s easily the most charming and picturesque part of Warsaw, but definitely don’t limit yourself to just this neighborhood.

Lazienki Park

This park is home to palaces, museums, and more. It’s one of the best places in Warsaw to chill out and get away from the city. This park is home to a lot of history because it was mostly spared during the German ransacking of Warsaw. Many of Warsaw’s oldest and most beautiful structures can be found in this park. Lazienki Park will give you a glimpse of why Warsaw was often referred to as the Paris of the East before the war.

Explore Praga Neighborhood

On the other side of the Vistula River, you’ll find the neighborhood of Praga. Some of the attractions here include a beautiful cathedral, the old zoo, the Polish Vodka Museum, street art, and several historical buildings. This was a filming location for the movie  The Pianist , mainly because the old walls of the buildings haven’t been plastered over yet. It’s cool to spend a couple of hours here. There are a number of alternative bars and unique nightlife areas in Praga to check out as well.

Warsaw Ghetto

The Warsaw Ghetto was the largest of the Nazi ghettos during World War II. It took up a huge chunk of the city, and although most of it has been renovated and rebuilt, there are still parts of the ghetto that stand today. Walking through the Warsaw Ghetto (preferably with a knowledgeable tour guide ) is an essential experience while in Warsaw.

Go Up to the Terrace of the Palace of Culture and Science

People often say this is the best view of Warsaw because it’s the only way you won’t see the Palace of Culture. This building is a controversial building. It was completed in 1955 as a “gift from the Soviets” and if you know the history of Warsaw, you’ll know that they aren’t particularly fond of the Soviets. But I’ll speak objectively for now. It is the tallest building in Poland and the best place to get some excellent panoramic views of the city. The view isn’t to die for, since there isn’t really a particularly scenic part of the city outside of the Old Town, and you can barely see the Old Town from here.

Museums in Warsaw

Warsaw is home to some of the coolest museums in all of Poland. You’ve got your typical history and war museums, but there’s so much more. Here are a few of the must-visits in Warsaw.

• The Warsaw Uprising Museum

This museum commemorates the Warsaw Uprising that took place on August 1st, 1944. It was the largest resistance effort against Nazi occupation during WorlD War II. During the two-month long uprising, about 200,000 Varsovians were killed, 90% of them civilians. After the treaty ending the uprising, Warsaw was razed to the ground and the remaining citizens were deported from the city. It’s a heartbreaking museum, although inspiring in its own way. You’ll find many stories from participants of the uprising and how it was the general attitude of the Polish people to put their freedom and independence over their own lives.

• The Polish Vodka Museum

Although Russia is most accepted as the creators of vodka, Poland actually has a strong case as the origin of vodka. You can learn all about it at the Polish Vodka Museum and follow it up with a vodka tasting at the end. This museum in the Praga neighborhood is well worth stopping by. It’s located in a repurposed factory situated in a trendy area of Praga.

• POLIN Museum History of the Jews

The POLIN Museum will take you through a millennia of history of Jews in Poland. It’s one of the best museums to visit in Warsaw, and even won the title of European Musem of the Year back in 2016.

• The Neon Museum

The privately-owned Neon Museum of Warsaw gives you a look at the neon revolution that took over Poland for a while. It’s got a big collection of Cold War era neon signs. It also serves as one of the coolest photo spots in all of Warsaw. It’s on the Praga side of the Vistula River but it’s easily accessible by public transport and worth a quick visit.

• Interactive Pinball Museum

Warsaw’s Interactive Pinball Museum can be found close to Warsaw West train station. It’s home to dozens of original pinball machines. Best of all, you can still play pinball on them. It also doubles as a bar, so you can stop by, play some pinball, and have a few drinks.

• Marie (Skłodowska) Curie’s House

Although Frydryk Chopin might be the city’s most-celebrated Pole, Nobel Prize winner Marie Curie was actually born in Warsaw. You can visit her childhood house located in Warsaw’s Old Town.

These are just a few of the museums that I’d recommended. For art-lovers, you’ll find an abundance of art and music museums, including the Fryderyk Chopin Museum. Along the Vistula River, you’ll find the Copernicus Science Center and the Museum of Modern Art.

Cycle along (or have a beer by) the Vistula River

On the East Bank of the Vistula River, you’ll find museums, restaurants, bars and more. It’s one of the best spots in Warsaw to have a drink once evening rolls in. It’s perfect because you’re actually legally allowed to drink in public here. Hit up a Zabka and grab a beer and watch the sun set over the Vistula.

Warsaw’s got a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene. I didn’t go make it out clubbing, but definitely appreciated the immense amount of unique and trendy options for bars. Here are a few that I’d recommend.

Pictured above is the bar right outside the Warsaw Uprising Museum. It’s called Pokoj Na Lato and was the perfect spot for a chill beer and some sunshine. Nowy Swiat Pavilions close to the city center is where you’ll find a number of small bars. It’s got a younger crowd and is popular among university students.

Inside the repurposed electric power plant ( Elektrownia Powisle ), you’ll find a food hall that also has a few bars. It’s a very cool cyberpunk setting for a few drinks. It’s also right along the Vistula River so you can pop over and have a few drinks along the riverside. There are a lot of bars along the Vistula River that are perfect for having a chill drink. You’ll even find some bars on boats right on the river, like Barka . There’s also a small beach on the other side of the Vistula, although you can’t actually swim.

Zagrywki is a fun bar that will keep you busy with some games like mini golf, air hockey, and others. As mentioned earlier, the Interactive Pinball Museum is another spot if you fancy playing some games while you drink. During the summer, the Palace of Culture and Science is a popular area for people to just hang out on the big square. There are two bars there, Studio and Cafe Kulturalna , where you can go for drinks.

Warsaw is an ever-changing city. Something cool pops up dang near every week, so go exploring on your own and experience what this amazing city has to offer.

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

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19 Top Things to do in Warsaw: Museums, History and Travel Guide

December 30, 2023 | Posted in: Poland

Warsaw is the capital and largest city of Poland. It is located in east-central Poland, 300 kilometers (186 miles) from the Baltic Sea coast and 260 kilometers (161 miles) from the Carpathian Mountains. Warsaw lies on the Vistula River, roughly halfway between Berlin, Germany and Moscow, Russia. Warsaw is the country's important political, economic and cultural center, with a total population of 1,747,155 as of 2023.

Warsaw originated as a small 13th-century fishing village but grew to prominence when it became the capital of the Duchy of Masovia in 1413. It then developed into the de facto capital of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in the 1600s, becoming a center of culture and the arts under the patronage of its kings. Warsaw endured many hardships over the centuries, including foreign invasions, plagues, fires and crackdowns on independence movements when it was partitioned and occupied by Prussia and Russia in the 18th and 19th centuries. Over 85% of Warsaw was completely razed by the Nazis after the Warsaw Uprising in 1944. Varsovians rebuilt the city from rubble after World War II. Warsaw has undergone an economic rebirth, becoming a thriving center of business, finance and technology in Central Europe today while preserving its long, culturally rich history.

Warsaw features top attractions such as the Old Town, which allows visitors to explore reconstructed medieval architecture and landmarks like the Market Square and the Museum of Warsaw. The Royal Route links streets, palaces, churches, parks and more that Polish kings once traveled. Łazienki Park features 75 hectares of palace grounds and gardens, with sights like the Chopin statue. The Warsaw Rising Museum's immersive exhibits commemorate the 1944 uprising against Nazi occupation. The Copernicus Science Centre delights visitors with 400+ interactive scientific experiments. The National Museum houses Poland's most extensive art collection spanning centuries, leading Polish artists across mediums and other top attractions only this city offers. Warsaw lies in the Central European Time zone (UTC+1). It observes Central European Summer Time with daylight saving time from late March through October, shifting clocks 1 hour forward to UTC+2.

Listed below are the things to do in Warsaw.

• Warsaw Old Town. The Warsaw Old Town is in the city center district of Warsaw, Poland. It has a history dating back to the 13th century when the area grew around the castle of the Dukes of Mazovia. Key landmarks include the Market Square with the iconic Mermaid statue, St. John's Cathedral, the city walls and defense fortifications and the Museum of Warsaw, presenting the city's 1000-year history. The area was severely damaged in World War II but meticulously rebuilt to restore its historic architecture and role as the city's heart. Visitors can explore sites like the Royal Castle, wander picturesque alleys, visit museums and dine at outdoor cafes and restaurants while soaking in the medieval atmosphere.
• Royal Route in Warsaw. The Royal Route is a historical pathway spanning major streets to connect landmarks across central Warsaw. It begins at the Royal Castle in the Old Town and ends at Wilanów Palace to the south, lined with elegant residences, churches, palaces, squares and sites associated with Polish royalty. Key areas include Krakowskie Przedmieście and Nowy Świat streets, home to sights like the Presidential Palace, Warsaw University and numerous churches. Visitors can admire the preserved Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical architecture along the route, do upscale shopping and dining and access green spaces like Saxon Garden and Łazienki Park.
• Łazienki Park. Łazienki Park is a 76-hectare park located in downtown Warsaw, originally built as a baths park for nobleman Stanisław Lubomirski in the 17th century. Its main landmark is the Palace on the Isle residence of King Stanisław August Poniatowski, set amidst gardens, lakes and peacock sanctuaries. Other architectural gems include the Myślewicki Palace, White House, Old Orangery Theater and statues like the Chopin Monument. Visitors can tour the lavish royal residences, stroll through different styled gardens from the 18th century, attend Chopin recitals and theater performances, rent boats and observe wildlife like roaming peacocks.
• Old Town Market Place. The Old Town Market Place is a reconstructed central square located in Warsaw's Old Town, lined with colorful Baroque and Renaissance-style townhouses. Landmarks include the bronze Warsaw Mermaid statue, St. Kazimierz Church and a memorial to Warsaw Uprising heroes. Visitors can shop, dine at cafes and restaurants around the perimeter, explore sights like St. Kazimierz Church, take photos of the Mermaid statue and experience events like summer concerts and crafts markets. It offers a glimpse into Warsaw’s history before the extensive destruction of WWII.
• POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews. The POLIN Museum presents the 1000-year history of Polish Jews before the Holocaust through a 4000 sq meter interactive exhibition. Set on the former Warsaw Ghetto site, key displays include films, objects like religious items and folk costumes, oral histories and an enormous replica 17th-century painted synagogue roof illustrating the diversity of Polish Jewish culture largely destroyed in WWII. Visitors can journey through galleries exploring the community’s early days, Golden Age, interwar years, tragedy in the Holocaust and Jewish revival today.
• Warsaw Uprising Museum. This modern multimedia museum commemorates the 1944 Warsaw Uprising against Nazi occupation during WWII. Its key features include a replica bomber aircraft, sewer passageways, insurgent artifacts and weapons, survivor testimonies, timelines and photographs documenting the 63-day struggle when Polish resistance forces unsuccessfully tried to liberate Warsaw, leading to the city's destruction. The museum offers an immersive experience conveying the desperate realities for resistance fighters and civilians during this seminal period in Warsaw’s history.
• Wilanów Palace. Wilanów Palace dates back to 1677 as a grand royal summer residence built for King John III Sobieski and styled after the Palace of Versailles. The Baroque architecture and lavish interiors contain priceless furnishings, paintings and other art spanning civilizations from ancient Rome to 17th-century China and Japan. The grounds are home to scenic gardens, fountains and greenery. Highlights include the preserved baroque royal apartments, temporary exhibits, opportunities for garden strolls and summer cultural events and concerts.
• Copernicus Science Centre. This modern, interactive science museum features over 400 hands-on exhibits spread across galleries with physics, light, environmental science and civilization themes based on experimentation and discovery rather than passive observation. Facilities include a planetarium, theaters, gardens and varied labs and workshops. Visitors pilot spaceships, race robots, build structures, paint with light, see physics phenomena in their bodies and engage with all aspects of science first-hand in an open “Experimental Zone” through games and challenges suited for all ages and interests.

1. Warsaw Old Town (Stare Miasto)

Warsaw Old Town (Polish. Stare Miasto Warszawskie), also known as Old Town Warsaw, is at Plac Zamkowy 4, 00-277 Warsaw, Poland. It is within Warsaw's Śródmieście (City Center) district, surrounded by the Vistula River. Warsaw Old Town has a long and tumultuous history. The settlement dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries when it was fortified with brick city walls. It grew up around the castle of the Dukes of Mazovia, which later became the Royal Castle. The Market Square (Rynek Starego Miasta) was laid out by the end of the 13th century. During World War II, the Old Town was severely damaged by Nazi German bombings and demolitions, which targeted Warsaw's historic areas. The reconstruction project was recognized as an outstanding example of rebuilding a historic city core, leading to Warsaw Old Town's inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.

Warsaw Old Town contains many historic buildings and landmarks showcasing Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic architecture. Key sites include the Royal Castle, St. John's Cathedral, the city walls and defense fortifications like the Barbican, the narrowest house in Warsaw on Kanonia Street and the iconic Mermaid statue in the Old Town Market Square. Visitors can explore the Old Town Market Square and Castle Square and meander through atmospheric alleys and medieval basements. The Old Town is also home to the Museum of Warsaw, which presents the city's 1000-year history. Warsaw Old Town offers activities for all visitors. Families can take kids to the colorful townhouses, visit the whimsical Mermaid statue and walk along the medieval city walls. History buffs can tour sites like the Royal Castle, learn about Polish royalty and politicians buried in St. John's Cathedral and see Warsaw's oldest monuments. Foodies will enjoy the many cafes and restaurants with outdoor dining in summer. Photographers have endless opportunities to capture Warsaw's iconic sites. The district also hosts cultural festivals, winter Christmas markets and summer nightlife.

Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train directly to Warsaw Śródmieście station. The Warsaw Centralna is linked by tram and bus to the Old Town. The Old Town can be accessed on foot within Warsaw from hotels or attractions in the City Center district. Entry to Warsaw Old Town is free, requiring no admission tickets.

2. Royal Route in Warsaw

The Royal Route (Trakt Królewski) is in Warsaw, Poland's capital and largest city. It spans several major streets and connects the Old Town with the southern districts, passing various historic landmarks along an 11 kilometers (6 miles) route. The Royal Route has a long history dating back to the 16th century, when Warsaw became the capital under the Polish King Sigismund III Vasa. It began as a communication route linking the Royal Castle in Old Town to the king's Wilanów Palace residence further south. Aristocrats and wealthy citizens built magnificent homes, palaces, churches and squares along this prestigious route. Warsaw's golden age in the 17th and 18th centuries was when Polish kings and nobles would travel along the Royal Route during coronation processions or on other ceremonial occasions.

The central section of Warsaw's Royal Route runs along Krakowskie Przedmieście and Nowy Świat streets in the borough of Śródmieście. Key sites include St. Anne's Church, Presidential Palace, Warsaw University and churches like St. Joseph's and the Holy Cross Church, where the heart of composer Frederic Chopin is sealed inside a pillar. The route connects Old Town's Castle Square to Three Crosses Square, Łazienki Park and Wilanów Palace grounds.

The Royal Route offers much for tourists to see and do. Visitors can admire the elegant Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical architecture along the route. History and architecture buffs will especially appreciate sites like the Royal Castle, St. John's Cathedral, historic townhouses and the University of Warsaw library. Many museums, galleries, cultural institutions, shops, cafes and restaurants are also dotted along the route. People strolling along the pedestrian sections can do upscale shopping or souvenir hunting on streets like Nowy Świat. The route also connects green spaces like Saxon Garden and Łazienki Park, allowing visitors to take scenic strolls past palaces and gardens. Free Chopin concerts are performed at Łazienki Park on Sundays from May to September. Those traveling with kids can visit the Copernicus Science Centre and enjoy the interactive exhibits.

The Royal Route is very accessible via public transportation. The central train station Warsaw Centralna offers trams and buses to Śródmieście district. Many buses run along the Royal Route, while the nearest metro stations are Centrum and Świętokrzyska. Visitors can also take taxis or walk from hotels situated along the route. Entry to the Royal Route streets is completely free. Visitors only need to pay admission fees for certain attractions like the Royal Castle Museum, Copernicus Science Centre or Wilanów Palace. Combo tickets are available for discounted entry to multiple sites. Guided walking tours along the Royal Route are also available.

3. Łazienki Park

Łazienki Park, known as Royal Baths Park, is in Warsaw, Poland's capital and largest city, at Ul. Agrykoli 1, 00-460 Warsaw. It lies in Warsaw's central Śródmieście (City Center) district, on Ujazdów Avenue, which links the Old Town with Wilanów to the south. Łazienki has a long history dating back to the 17th century when it was built as a bath park for nobleman Stanisław Herakliusz Lubomirski. In the 18th century, it was transformed by Poland's last monarch, King Stanisław August Poniatowski, into a setting for palaces, villas, pavilions, temples and monuments. Its 76 hectares contain a palace, amphitheatre, gardens, water features and peacock sanctuary. Key sites include the Palace on the Isle, Myślewicki Palace, the White House, the Old Orangery Theater and statues like the Chopin Monument.

Visitors can explore the regal Palace on the Isle, King Stanisław August Poniatowski’s home, see peacocks roaming freely and experience venues for arts and culture. The park is also home to the Botanic Garden and the Museum of Scouting. Visitors can tour historic palaces and museums like the Palace on the Isle, admire monumental sculptures by prominent artists and wander through different garden styles from the 18th century. The park offers lively spaces like the Old Orangery Gallery and quiet retreats within secluded garden nooks or the king’s former hermitage residence. The activities at Łazienki Park cater to all visitors, families, couples, culture aficionados, photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. The peacocks, row boats and Chopin recitals especially appeal to kids. The palace museums, art galleries and summer theater performances draw cultured crowds. The preserved historic interiors give architectural fans a glimpse into 18th-century royal life. The park’s scenic natural beauty makes it popular for wedding photo shoots.

Łazienki Park is easily accessible by public transport or taxis from Warsaw city center. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train directly to Warsaw Śródmieście station. The central train station Warsaw Centralna also offers buses and trams to Łazienki Park. The nearest bus stop within the park is Łazienki Królewskie. Visitors can also reach by foot or bike from nearby attractions like Wilanów Palace (30 mins) or the Old Town (50 mins). Entry to Łazienki Park is free, with no admission tickets required.

4. Old Town Market Place

The Old Town Market Place (Polish. Rynek Starego Miasta) is located in the heart of Warsaw's Old Town, in the Śródmieście (City Center) district of Warsaw, Poland. The full address is Plac Rynek Starego Miasta 2, 00-272 Warsaw. The Old Town Market Place has a long history dating back to the 13th century, when Warsaw was first founded. It originated as a central square where guilds would meet, merchants would trade and public events would be held. Immediately after World War II, it was systematically destroyed by the Nazis as retaliation after the Warsaw Uprising. After the war, the Old Town Market Place was meticulously rebuilt to recreate its former glory. It is one of Warsaw's top tourist attractions.

Old Town Market Place has historic significance as the heart of Old Warsaw. The square is lined with colorful reconstructed townhouses exemplifying Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic architecture. Key landmarks include the bronze Warsaw Mermaid statue in the center, St. Kazimierz Church and the monument to the Warsaw Uprising heroes. Visitors can explore historic sights, dine al fresco, people-watch or soak in street performances and events at the square. Visitors can tour St. Kazimierz Church, admire the architecture of the reconstructed townhouses, take photos of the iconic Warsaw Mermaid statue, wander around the square, shop for souvenirs, dine at one of the restaurants around the square or simply sit and people-watch. The square hosts lively cultural events on summer weekends, like concerts and historical reenactments. The activities at the Old Town Market Place cater to all visitors. families, couples, historians, architecture enthusiasts, photographers, etc. Kids especially enjoy seeing the colorful buildings, wandering around the square and spotting the mermaid statue. Historians appreciate sites like the Warsaw Uprising Museum located just off the square. Foodies flock to the restaurants and cafes lining the square. The lively atmosphere draws tourists and locals alike.

The Old Town is located in Warsaw's City Center and is easily accessible via public transport, taxi or walking. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train directly to Warsaw Śródmieście station to the Old Town Market Place. The central train station, Warsaw Centralna, also offers buses, trams and metro trains to the Old Town area. Many buses and trams run along the nearby Krakowskie Przedmieście street. The Old Town area is also very walkable from hotels and attractions in central Warsaw districts like Śródmieście. Entry to the Old Town Market Place is free, with no admission tickets required. Visitors only need to pay for dining at the restaurants/cafés around the square or optional attractions like the Warsaw Uprising Museum.

5. POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews

The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews (Polish. Muzeum Historii Żydów Polskich) is located in the Muranów district of Warsaw, Poland, at 6 Anielewicza Street, 00-157 Warsaw.

The museum has a deeply symbolic location, situated on the site of the former Warsaw Ghetto, where hundreds of thousands of Polish Jews tragically perished during the Holocaust. The museum was established to honor the memory of Polish Jewish life and culture in Poland, spanning over 1000 years before it was largely destroyed in the Holocaust. Its unique Core Exhibition documents the social, religious and cultural worlds of Polish Jewry. Construction began in 2009 on a site specially designated by the Warsaw City Council. The museum building was designed through an international architectural competition, ultimately won by the Finnish studio Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects.

POLIN Museum features an immersive Core Exhibition spanning over 4000 sq meters, recounting the epic 1000-year history of Poland's Jewish community using multimedia installations, paintings, films, reconstructions and hundreds of original artifacts. The galleries vividly showcase the diversity of Polish Jewish life, from early settlement to the community's ‘Golden Age', the interwar years, the tragedy of the Holocaust and finally, the Jewish revival today. One of the exhibition's showstoppers is an enormous replica of the intricately painted ceiling and roof beams of a 17th-century wooden synagogue. Visitors to the POLIN Museum can journey through the Core Exhibition's eight galleries displaying a thousand years of Polish Jewish arts, culture and heritage. Visitors can view films, listen to oral histories, explore interactive maps and installations and admire a multitude of precious objects like folk costumes, religious items, books, paintings and Jewish folk art illuminating the lost world of Polish Jews. The POLIN Museum offers activities catering to all visitors, families, school groups, researchers, culture lovers and anyone interested in learning about the long and culturally rich history of Polish Jewry. The museum also hosts workshops, debates, concerts, festivals and holiday events like Hanukkah celebrations.

The POLIN Museum is easily accessible using Warsaw's excellent public transportation system. Visitors can take a 25-minute train directly to Warsaw Śródmieście station, then transfer to tram #15, #18 or #35 for the short ride to the POLIN Museum stop. The museum is situated close to the city center and major hotels. Parking is available for visitors driving to the museum. Entry tickets to the POLIN Museum's Core Exhibition cost 25 PLN ($6, 6€, 4£) with extra fees for temporary exhibits, workshops and family activities. The museum is closed on Mondays and certain public holidays.

6. Warsaw Uprising Museum

The Warsaw Uprising Museum (Polish. Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego) is located in the Wola district of Warsaw, Poland, at 79 Grzybowska Street, 00-844 Warsaw. The museum is dedicated to commemorating the Warsaw Uprising of 1944, when Polish resistance forces led by the Home Army rose against the Nazi German occupation for 63 days. The idea to build a museum originated in 1983, but construction only began in 2003. The museum opened on July 31st, 2004, to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the start of the uprising. Its creation was seen as a tribute to the fallen heroes and the enormous sacrifice of Warsaw's residents.

Warsaw Uprising Museum features modern architecture and an immersive, multimedia approach to presenting history. The building features a cracked glass facade, symbolizing the rupture between pre-war and contemporary Warsaw. Inside, the museum spans over 3000 sq meters with hundreds of exhibits and installations reflecting different aspects of life during the uprising. Key highlights include the replica of a Liberator B-24J bomber used in supply drops, sewer tunnels recreating the insurgent passageways, an interactive map plotting troop movements and chilling video testimonies of survivors. Visitors to the Warsaw Uprising Museum can view films and video displays, listen to audio recordings of insurgents and survivors, explore underground passageway replicas, see artifacts like homemade weapons and medical equipment, admire photos and documents from the uprising and occupation of Warsaw, learn about key figures and witness events through maps and timelines. The multimedia exhibits and artifacts at the Warsaw Rising Museum cater to visitors of all ages and interests.

The Warsaw Uprising Museum is easily accessible by public transport, located close to the city center. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train to Warsaw Śródmieście station, then either walk 15 minutes or take any eastbound trams along Marszałkowska Street to the museum stop. The museum is also within walking distance from hotels in the Śródmieście district. Entry tickets to the permanent exhibition cost 25 PLN (6€, $6, £4) with discounts for students and seniors.

7. Wilanów Palace

Wilanów Palace is located in the Wilanów district of Warsaw, Poland's capital and largest city. The full address is Stanisława Kostki Potockiego 10/16, 02-958 Warsaw. It is 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) south of Warsaw's city center. Wilanów Palace has a long and storied history. Construction began in 1677 under the commission of King John III Sobieski, who wanted a grand suburban residence resembling the Palace of Versailles. The initial design was by Augustyn Wincenty Locci in a style combining elements of Polish nobility architecture with an Italian suburban villa. After Sobieski died in 1696, the palace changed hands multiple times, with various owners adding their flourishes. Wilanów Palace is one of Poland's best-preserved royal residences, having survived the country's tumultuous history.

Visitors to Wilanów Palace can explore the lavish royal apartments on the main floor, including the Baroque-era King's quarters and the later 18th-century suites of various noble residents. People can admire the works of great painters like Rembrandt, along with antique furnishings and art from civilizations spanning ancient Rome to 17th-century China and Japan. The upper floors host temporary exhibits. The gardens, orangerie and park offer opportunities for scenic strolls. The palace hosts cultural events, summer concerts and an annual Royal Garden of Light show during winter. The activities at Wilanów Palace cater to varied visitors, from history and architecture buffs to families and photography enthusiasts. Kids can enjoy spotting whimsical garden sculptures, rowing on the lake and watching the peacocks wandering the lawns. The museum appeals to art aficionados, while the preserved 17th-century interiors give a glimpse of royal life for history fans. The beautiful grounds suit leisurely walks for nature lovers. Wedding parties frequently take photos on the grounds.

Wilanów Palace is easily reached from central Warsaw via public transit, taxi or bike. Visitors can take a 25-minute S2 or S3 train to Warsaw Śródmieście station, then transfer to bus #116, #180 or #516 directly to the Wilanów stop. The nearby Wilanowska metro station is set to open in 2023. The palace is also accessible on foot or bike from the Łazienki Park area (30 mins).

Entry tickets to the Palace Museum cost 25 PLN (6€, $6 £4). Combo tickets for the museum plus park are available. Special events like the Royal Garden of Light have additional fees. Through its well-preserved architecture, royal connections, and art collections, Wilanów Palace offers an elegant glimpse into Poland's past.

8. Copernicus Science Centre

The Copernicus Science Centre (Polish. Centrum Nauki Kopernik) is located in Warsaw, Poland, along the Vistula River at Wybrzeże Kościuszkowskie 20, 00-390 Warsaw. It lies in the Powiśle district, near the Warsaw University Library. The origins of the Copernicus Science Centre date back to the 1990s when Polish Radio began organizing outdoor science-themed picnic events for families. The concept eventually grew into plans for a permanent interactive science museum. Construction on the ultra-modern glass and steel building began in 2008, led by young Polish architects from the RAr-2 Architecture Laboratory. The first section opened in November 2010 and additional galleries, a planetarium, labs and other facilities opened over the next year. It spans over 15,000 square meters.

Copernicus Science Centre is one of Europe's most advanced interactive science museums. It contains over 400 hands-on exhibits demonstrating scientific principles that visitors can experiment with. There are no glass cases or traditional museum displays. This focuses on sparking curiosity to explore natural phenomena through games, challenges and first-hand discovery. Exhibits are spread over galleries with themes like Humans and Environment, Light and Vision, Physics and Roots of Civilization, unified by an open “Experimental Zone”. Other facilities include laboratories, a planetarium, theaters, workshops, conference spaces and a rooftop garden. Visitors can pilot a spaceship, build bridges, see a flying carpet in action, race a hippo, try out artistic illusions, conduct robotic excavations, explore the physics of their bodies and countless other exhibits. There are also chemistry, physics, biology and robotics labs for supervised experiments. In the on-site planetarium, visitors can immerse themselves in films about space or the cosmos on its 360-degree screen. The interactive exhibits at the Copernicus Science Centre cater to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Kids can enjoy age-specific galleries like “Bzzz!” for visitors under five, while teens have the “Re. Generation” area. Families, students, tourists, etc., can all tailor their visit based on interests ranging from art to space to engineering. Visitors typically spend 2-4 hours but can easily stay longer across the extensive exhibition space and facilities.

The Copernicus Science Centre has excellent transport links in central Warsaw near the Vistula River. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train to Warsaw Śródmieście station (8 mins walk) or the metro line M2 to Centrum Nauki Kopernik station right by the museum. Many buses and trams also stop directly outside or nearby. Garage parking and bicycle racks are also available on-site.

Entry tickets to the permanent exhibitions cost 40 PLN (9€, $10, £7). The planetarium has separate ticket pricing of 28 PLN (6€, $7, £5). Discounted annual family memberships are available.

9. Warsaw Zoo

The Warsaw Zoological Garden, known simply as the Warsaw Zoo, at Ratuszowa 1/3, 03-461 Warsaw. It lies on the right bank of the Vistula River in central Warsaw. The Warsaw Zoo has a long history dating to its opening on March 11, 1928. The current zoo was established by a resolution of the Warsaw City Council in 1927. The first director was Wenanty Burdziński, former founder of the Kiev Zoo. In its early years, the Warsaw Zoo acquired animals from older closed zoos through purchases and donations. It quickly became a beloved institution among Warsaw residents. During World War II, the zoo suffered heavy damage from bombing and demolitions. Remarkably, zoo directors Jan and Antonina Żabiński saved hundreds of Jews by hiding them within the zoo grounds. The zoo was rebuilt and reopened in 1949. It houses over 11,000 animals representing over 500 species, spread across 40 hectares of green space.

Warsaw Zoo is right in the heart of the city center, allowing urban residents easy access to nature. Visitors can see a diverse collection of animals worldwide, displayed in thoughtfully designed enclosures resembling natural habitats as much as possible. Highlights include the elephant house, hippo pavilion with shark tank, reptile house, ape enclosure, aviaries and more. The zoo also runs conservation and breeding programs for endangered species. And its free-roaming peacocks wandering the grounds add a whimsical touch. Visitors can observe and learn about animals ranging from tiny insects to large mammals like elephants and rhinos. In indoor enclosures, people can tour the elephant, hippo, ape and reptile houses for close-up views of exotic species. Outdoor spaces like the bear habitat, seal pond and large bird aviaries allow seeing other animals in more natural settings. Interactive displays provide info about species and conservation. The Warsaw Zoo offers fun and engaging activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Families with kids can enjoy seeing all the varied animals while learning about wildlife. Interactive elements appeal to children. There is much to discover for adults interested in zoology, conservation and biodiversity.

The Warsaw Zoo has excellent public transportation links, given its prime location in Warsaw's city center. It is within walking distance from attractions like the Old Town. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train to Warsaw Śródmieście station, walk for 15 minutes or take tram #24 or #33 to the zoo's Ratuszowa stop. Warsaw Centralna train station also offers trams and buses to the zoo. The zoo has two gates on Ratuszowa and Jagiellońska Streets. Entry tickets to the Warsaw Zoo cost 10 PLN ($2, 2€, 1£). Discounted family and group rates are available.

10. Palace of Culture and Science

The Palace of Culture and Science (Polish. Pałac Kultury i Nauki) is located in central Warsaw, Poland, at Plac Defilad 1, 00-901 Warsaw. It lies in the Śródmieście (City Center) district of Warsaw. The Palace has a contentious history dating back to its construction from 1952-1955, when it was built as a “gift from the Soviet people” during Poland's communist era. The Palace was personally commissioned by Soviet leader Joseph Stalin and designed by Soviet architect Lev Rudnev in a monumental “socialist realist” style, resembling several similar Stalinist skyscrapers built across the Eastern Bloc. Over 3,500 Soviet workers assisted in erecting the 237 meters (778 ft) tall structure using high-quality materials and lavish decorations that were scarce in still war-ravaged Poland.

The Palace of Culture and Science is immense and has an instantly recognizable silhouette on Warsaw's skyline. Though controversial for its ideological symbolism, the Palace has, over time, become an iconic fixture of the city. Visitors can ascend to its 30th-floor viewing terrace 114 meters (374 ft) high for panoramic views of Warsaw. The Palace also houses many public facilities, including museums, theaters, cinemas, galleries, bookshops, restaurants, a large congress hall and a swimming pool. Surrounding the building are socialist realist sculptures of figures from fields like science and arts. The Palace has a memorable illuminated facade from far across the city at night. Visitors can view the expansive Congress Hall, see panoramic views from the 30th-floor terrace, visit the Museum of Technology or Poster Museum, watch a show at one of its theaters, see films at its multiplex cinema, go shopping at its bookstores, dine at its restaurants or simply admire the monumental architecture and decor. The activities at the Palace cater to varied visitors, tourists, families, culture aficionados, photographers, etc. The terrace view appeals to all ages for its wow factor. Events like concerts or theater shows suit nightlife-lovers. Museums and architecture interest culture fans, while the iconic facade provides endless photo-ops.

The Palace of Culture and Science has excellent public transportation access in Warsaw's thriving downtown. The nearby Centrum metro station, multiple buses and Warsaw Centralna train station provide links. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train to Warsaw Śródmieście station (12 mins walk) or metro line M2 to Centrum station by the Palace. The central location also makes walking an option from nearby hotels or Old Town (25 mins). Entry to the Palace building is free, with charges only for certain attractions like the observation terrace, movies and events.

11. National Museum in Warsaw

The National Museum in Warsaw (Polish. Muzeum Narodowe w Warszawie) is located at Aleje Jerozolimskie 3 in the downtown area of Warsaw, Jerozolimskie 3, 00-495 Warsaw. The National Museum has a history dating back to 1862 when a Society for the Encouragement of Fine Arts was established in Warsaw. Its goal was to promote Polish arts and culture and help establish a national museum. The Museum opened to the public in 1864, though its early collection was small. Its current imposing building, constructed in 1927-1938, was inspired by Neoclassical architecture. Designed by architects Tadeusz Tolwiński and Antoni Jawornicki, it exemplifies Polish monumental style with imposing columns and a decorative facade.

The National Museum has a vast collection of Polish and international paintings dating from the 16th through 20th centuries, counting over 830,000 exhibits in total. Poland's most famous paintings are housed there, including Jan Matejko's enormous “Battle of Grunwald”. Other highlights include Gothic altarpieces, Orthodox icons, genre & portrait paintings from the 16th-18th centuries, a cabinet of prints and drawings and extensive collections of sculptures and decorative arts. Temporary exhibitions are also mounted in galleries on the 2nd floor.

Visitors can tour multiple galleries chronologically showcasing the expansive collection, from medieval altarpieces to 20th-century Polish paintings. People can admire iconic large-scale Polish history paintings, view precious icons, see rare Renaissance portraits and discover works by leading international Old Master painters. The collection and activities at the National Museum cater to varied visitors, including art aficionados, history buffs, tourists and anyone interested in Polish cultural heritage. School groups, families and international tourists frequent the galleries due to the museum's central location and collection highlights familiar to worldwide art history.

The National Museum is conveniently located in Warsaw's city center on Aleje Jerozolimskie, a major street. It is within walking distance from attractions like the Old Town and easily reached by public transit. Visitors can take a 25-minute train to Warsaw Centralna station, walk for 15 minutes, or take any eastbound bus at five stops.  Regular admission tickets to the permanent National Museum galleries cost 20 PLN (5€, $5, £3). Open Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays, and major holidays.

12. Warsaw Citadel

The Warsaw Citadel (Polish. Cytadela Warszawska) is in Warsaw, Poland. The full address is ul. Czerniakowska, 00-715 Warsaw. It lies in the Żoliborz district, on the west bank of the Vistula River. The Warsaw Citadel has a long and turbulent history. It was built between 1832 and 1834 by order of Russian Tsar Nicholas I, following the suppression of the November Uprising in 1830. The fortress was intended to bolster imperial control and intimidate Polish nationalists. Designed by Russian general Ivan Dehn, it covers 36 hectares and originally housed over 16,000 Russian troops. The imposing brick structure features high outer walls and bastions surrounding barracks, arsenals and prisons. The Warsaw Citadel is one of the best-preserved 19th-century fortress complexes in Poland. It is a monument to the complex story of Russian domination and Poland's struggle for independence.

Visitors can explore parts of the formidable historic defenses and learn more at on-site museums. The Citadel grounds are also home to two other museums, the Katyn Museum and the Museum of Polish Military Technology. The sprawling site offers scenic riverside walks with panoramic views of Warsaw. Viisitors can take self-guided tours along sections of the brick defensive walls, view historic guardhouses and fortifications and visit on-site museums. The activities at Warsaw Citadel cater to varied visitors, including history and military buffs, culture aficionados, sightseers and nature lovers. The fortress ground's scenic location makes it a nice spot for walking or running along the Vistula River. Families can enjoy the outdoor areas and take kids to the historic walls and cannons. Museums appeal most to adults and older youth interested in Polish history and Warsaw's WWII suffering under occupation. The summer music festivals also draw lively crowds.

The Warsaw Citadel sits close to Warsaw's city center on the west bank of the Vistula River. It can be reached via buses #102, #105, #111, #117, #127, #175, #507 and #517, which stop right by the Citadel. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train to Warsaw Śródmieście station, then transfer to bus #111, #127 or #517 directly to the Citadel stop. Entry to the Citadel grounds is free. The Warsaw Citadel is open year-round, but some museums are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays.

13. Neon Museum in Warsaw

The Neon Museum (Polish. Muzeum Neonów) is located in the Praga district of Warsaw, Poland, at 25 Mińska Street, 03-808 Warsaw. The museum is inside the Soho Factory, a revitalized former factory complex that now contains galleries, shops and restaurants. The Neon Museum has a unique history dating back to 2005 when British graphic designer David Hill and Polish photographer Ilona Karwińska began a project to document Warsaw's fading Cold War-era neon signs. Their “Polish Neon” exhibition showcased these forgotten signs and sparked renewed public interest. The couple's collection outgrew their storage spaces as more neon signs were donated. In 2012, they established the Neon Museum to provide a permanent home for these artifacts of Warsaw's history.

The Neon Museum features a collection of over 200 neon signs, tubes and letterforms from Poland between the 1960s and early 1990s. The signs were produced during the “neonization” of Polish cities, a state campaign to install colorful, avant-garde neon decorations designed by famous artists. The museum has iconic signs like the swirling flower shop insignia, a neon centaur from a cinema, a mermaid symbolizing a library and many unique lettering styles. Each sign has been preserved and restored, with the stories behind their original locations. The Neon Museum is one of just a few museums of its kind worldwide dedicated to preserving this Cold War art form. Visitors can observe the striking colors, shapes and letterforms that made these neon creations iconic during Warsaw's “neon renaissance”. The museum also houses a vast archive of related photographs, documents and blueprints. The Neon Museum appeals to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The retro neon designs, illuminating stories and hands-on displays engage kids and adults alike. Photographers flock to capture the dazzling colors. Historians and city culture enthusiasts appreciate learning about Warsaw's neon history. Design and architecture buffs admire the mid-century styles and avant-garde lettering. The museum often hosts events like concerts or movie nights showcasing neon art, with something for everyone.

The Neon Museum has convenient public transport connections despite its industrial location. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train to Warszawa Wschodnia station (12 mins), walk for 15 minutes or take trams #4, #15, #18 or #35 to the Mińska stop right by the museum. The museum is also accessible by buses #154, #160, #190 and #517. Entry tickets to the Neon Museum cost 18 PLN ($4, 4€, 3£). The museum is open from 12 pm to 6 pm, Monday to Saturday and Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm. Guided tours have additional fees.

14. Chopin Museum

The Fryderyk Chopin Museum (Polish. Muzeum Fryderyka Chopina) is located at 1 Okólnik Street in Warsaw, Poland. It is in the historic Ostrogski Palace in Warsaw's Śródmieście (City Center) district, near the Vistula River escarpment. The museum has a history dating back to the 1930s when the Fryderyk Chopin Institute began collecting Chopin memorabilia. The museum officially opened in 1954. It houses the world's largest collection of artifacts related to the renowned Polish composer and pianist Frédéric Chopin (1810-1849). The museum contains over 5,000 exhibits spanning Chopin's life from birth to death. The Chopin Museum uses innovative multimedia technology to bring Chopin's world to life.

Visitors can explore rooms dedicated to different periods in Chopin's life, from his youth in Poland to later years in Parisian exile. Visitors can view original manuscripts, listen to his works and learn about his turbulent romance with French writer George Sand. The museum traces Chopin's journey from a child prodigy playing organs in Warsaw churches to a fragile virtuoso performing in European concert halls. Through the innovative multimedia exhibits, screens and audio stations, visitors can fully immerse themselves in Frédéric Chopin's world. The multimedia activities at the Chopin Museum cater to all visitors, music fans, history buffs, families, tourists, etc. The variety of exhibits, listening stations and interactive screens provide engaging content for children and adults alike. The museum hosts piano recitals, concerts, lectures and special events like outdoor summer Chopin concerts. Guided tours are available for groups.

The museum enjoys a convenient central location in downtown Warsaw. Visitors can take a 25-minute train to Warsaw Central Station and then transfer to bus #180, #195, or #518. The Chopin Museum is a must-see attraction using modern technology to immerse visitors in his genius. Regular admission tickets cost 25 PLN (6€, $6 £4). Entry is free on Wednesdays. Discounted tickets are available for students, seniors, etc. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 am to 8 pm. It provides an unforgettable interactive showcase of the life and music of Poland's most celebrated classical composer, Fryderyk Chopin.

15. Praga District

The Praga District is located in Warsaw, Poland, on the east bank of the Vistula River. Its boundaries roughly align with two administrative districts. Praga Północ (Praga North) and Praga Południe (Praga South). The area spans neighborhoods like Pelcowizna, Szmulizna and Grochów. Praga has a long history dating back to the 1400s as a separate settlement across the river from Old Warsaw. It derived its name from the Polish word “prażyć” meaning “to burn or roast”, referring to the burning of trees to clear space for the village. Praga was granted its city charter in 1648 but remained separate from Warsaw, only connected by ferries and ice crossings. Wars and fires repeatedly damaged it over the centuries before being officially incorporated into Warsaw in 1791. Praga retains more original pre-war architecture than most Warsaw districts.

Praga's “authentic” atmosphere contrasts with the touristy Old Town – the pedestrian streets feel lived-in versus a museum. Another draw is Praga's dynamic arts and entertainment scene, from neon-lit bars to repurposed factories hosting galleries and shows. Visitors can explore historic churches like the Baroque Our Lady of Loreto and neo-Gothic St. Florian Cathedral, wander atmospheric backstreets lined with pastel houses, shop at the vintage Różycki Bazaar and tour museums like the Warsaw Praga Museum for insights into local life. The Soho Factory complex hosts events in its industrial halls-turned-arts venues. Nightlife hotspots include the famous “11 Listopada 22” courtyard with cool clubs. Parks like Skaryszewski offer leafy escapes while the zoo entertains families. The activities in Praga cater to varied visitors, from history buffs to party people. Families appreciate the zoo, park spaces and laidback local vibe. Nightlife lovers flock to the offbeat bars and clubs. Nostalgic types enjoy retro shopping as they glimpse a vanishing way of life. Photography fans find endless inspiration in the gritty streetscapes and murals.

Reaching Praga is easy using Warsaw's excellent public transit. The S2 or S3 train reaches Warsaw Śródmieście station in the center. From there, metro line M2 runs directly to Dworzec Wileński station in the heart of Praga. Trams #4, #15, #18, #35 also cross the river. Buses #160 and #190 run frequently from Old Town. Praga offers visitors an eye-opening walk off Warsaw's beaten path. Entry to Praga's streets, parks and churches is free. Paid admission applies at specific attractions.

16. Powązki Cemetery

Powązki Cemetery (Polish. Cmentarz Powązkowski) is in the Wola district, Powązkowska 14, 01-797 Warszawa, Poland. Powązki Cemetery has a long history dating to its establishment on November 4, 1790, on land donated by Polish nobleman Melchior Szymanowski. It was consecrated on May 20, 1792. During World War II, the cemetery suffered heavy damage. Remarkably, zoo directors Jan and Antonina Żabiński saved hundreds of Jews by hiding them within the zoo grounds located nearby. After the war, the cemetery was rebuilt and restored. Powązki Cemetery covers 43 hectares (110 acres) and is the burial place of over 1 million people. Powązki Cemetery is one of Warsaw's most famous and historically significant cemeteries. Many famous Poles are buried here, with some interred along the “Avenue of the Distinguished” – Aleja Zasłużonych, created in 1925 to honor Poland's eminent cultural, scientific and military figures.

Visitors can explore the grounds, view the many ornate tombstones and statuary, visit graves of famous Poles buried here, like composers Frederic Chopin and Witold Lutosławski, pay respects to loved ones and take in the cemetery’s atmosphere of serenity. The Avenue of the Distinguished section makes for an especially memorable walk. The cemetery appeals to varied visitors, including history fans, those with family buried here, photography enthusiasts or anyone wishing to take a quiet walk surrounded by nature. Its elaborate tombstones and celebrity burials make it a popular tourist attraction. The scenic grounds are also suitable for respectful jogging or dog walking.

Powązki Cemetery is located in western Warsaw and is easily accessible by public transport. Visitors can take bus #175, which stops at the cemetery entrance. The nearby metro stop is Pole Mokotowskie. Buses and trams connecting the city center to the Mlociny metro station also pass by the cemetery. Entry to Powązki Cemetery is free and open to visitors daily. The historic Powązki Cemetery is a must-see for visitors wanting to pay their respects while taking in elaborate Polish tombstone architecture and art.

17. University of Warsaw Library Roof Garden

The University of Warsaw Library Roof Garden is in Warsaw, Poland, at Dobra 56/66, 00-312 Warsaw. The garden sits atop the library building, part of the historic main campus of the University of Warsaw located along Krakowskie Przedmieście Street in central Warsaw.

The roof garden has an interesting history, opening recently on June 12, 2002. It was designed by acclaimed Polish landscape architect Irena Bajerska to utilize the library's expansive roof space. At over 1 hectare (10,000 square meters), it ranks among the largest roof gardens in Europe. The garden features two main sections – a lower garden and an upper garden connected by a cascading fountain and several smaller thematic gardens. Its creation also included installing proper waterproofing, drainage, irrigation and other infrastructure to support a garden.

The University of Warsaw Library Roof Garden has extensive greenery, scenic vistas and imaginative landscaping above the streets. Visitors can ascend from the lower garden to discover secluded garden spaces divided into color-themed sections like the Silver Garden or Crimson Garden. The garden includes nearly 100 tree varieties and over 4,000 shrubs like spirea, barberry and lavender that bloom in waves of color. Other garden features include granite sculptures, streams, pergolas, observation decks and even a duck pond. From the garden vantage points, one can take in panoramic city views of Warsaw's skyline and the Vistula River. The garden has many benches to sit, read or relax amidst the urban respite. The garden attracts various visitors, from the University of Warsaw students seeking study breaks to tourists and families exploring its playful landscape. The garden also hosts university events, summer gardening workshops for kids and outdoor theater performances.

The University of Warsaw Library Roof Garden enjoys a very central and convenient location from the Metro Centrum Nauki Kopernik station. It sits close to popular attractions like the Copernicus Science Centre, the Warsaw University campus and the Vistula Riverfront. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train to Warsaw Śródmieście station, then either walk 15 minutes through downtown or take any eastbound trams along Marszałkowska Street to the garden's Dobra Street entrance. The best part is that no admission tickets are required to enter the University of Warsaw Library Roof Garden. Visitors can explore the gardens year-round. The upper garden is only open from April through October.

18. Warsaw Mermaid Statue

The Warsaw Mermaid Statue (Polish. Pomnik Syrenki Warszawskiej) is located in the very heart of Warsaw's Old Town, in front of the Old Town Market Place at Plac Zamkowy 4, 00-277 Warsaw, Poland. The mermaid statue has a history intertwined with Warsaw's very origins. A mythical female creature first appeared on the city's coat of arms in the 14th century, initially with a bird's torso and dragon tail. Over the next centuries, her form gradually transformed into the mermaid we recognize today. Legends arose about how the mermaid settled in Warsaw, fell in love with the local fishermen and pledged to defend the city. Konstanty Hegel designed the most famous statue depicting Warsaw's mermaid.

The Warsaw Mermaid statue has been a significant city symbol for over six centuries. The mermaid statue ties together Warsaw's coat of arms, the legends of the city's founding and the iconic Old Town where she resides. Her prominent placement in the Market Square makes her the most visited and photographed mermaid sculpture in Poland's capital. She can be seen gracing everything from official city documents to souvenir trinkets. The statue portrays the mermaid as a beautiful, busty woman and warrior, ready to defend Warsaw with her raised sword and shield. Visitors can admire the sculpture up close, pose for photos of the distinctive landmark and appreciate why she was chosen as the protector of Warsaw. The Mermaid Statue appeals to all visitors, families, couples, historians and first-time Warsaw tourists. Kids especially enjoy spotting the mermaid and reading about her legends. Historians appreciate the site's significance, which stretches back seven centuries. Photographers flock to capture images of the distinctive sculpture with old townhouses as a backdrop.

The Mermaid Statue is within walking distance from hotels and attractions in the Śródmieście district. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train to Warsaw Śródmieście station (8-minute walk) or metro line M2 to Ratusz Arsenał station (4 minutes). The best part is no admission tickets are required to see the Mermaid statue. Visitors can freely view and photograph the sculpture year-round as they explore Warsaw's atmospheric Old Town center.

19. Pub Crawl Warsaw

The Pub Crawl Warsaw is located in the city center of Warsaw, Poland. The full address of the meeting point is Club Makulatura, in the backyard of Chmielna 5 Street, 00-021 Warsaw. The Pub Crawl Warsaw has over ten years of history, having started organizing party tours in Warsaw in 2011. It was created by local guides seeking to showcase the best of Warsaw's nightlife to visitors in a fun and affordable way. Over 15,000 international crawlers have since joined their pub crawls. The local guides are carefully selected for their energy, friendliness and nightlife expertise to deliver tourists an epic party experience discovering local bars and clubs.

Visitors can enjoy an hour-long open bar of unlimited beer, wine and mixed drinks, with the chance to mingle and play drinking games. They will then tour three more standout local bars, receiving a free shot at each venue. Guides encourage crazy challenges to get outside comfort zones before ending at an exclusive club with complimentary VIP access. Nightlife hotspots showcase Warsaw's best venues for drinking and dancing. The social atmosphere facilitates befriending fellow crawlers from different countries. The pub crawl activities cater to various nightlife lovers, including tourists, study-abroad students, backpackers, young professionals and locals looking to discover new hotspots. The party vibe appeals especially to 20-35 year olds. Solo travelers can easily meet new people. Budget-conscious drinkers appreciate the included drinks and specials. Extroverts are drawn to the sociable challenges. The crawling community bonds over their zest for nightlife regardless of background.

The Pub Crawl Warsaw meeting point at Club Makulatura enjoys a convenient central location in downtown Warsaw near popular attractions. It is within walking distance from hotels and sites in the Śródmieście district. Visitors can take the S2 or S3 train to Warsaw Śródmieście station (8 minutes walk) or metro line M2 to Centrum station (10 minutes). It has introduced over 15,000 visitors to the city's legendary nightlife scene. The Pub Crawl Warsaw offers the chance to party like a local VIP on a journey into Warsaw's nightlife.

What are the best museums to visit in Warsaw?

Listed below are the best museums to visit in Warsaw.

• Museum of Warsaw. The Museum of Warsaw immerses visitors in the city's extensive history through 6 floors of highly engaging and interactive audio-guided exhibitions depicting Warsaw from its founding days to the present, including panoramic vistas of Old Town Square from the top-floor viewpoint.
• The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews. This museum is spread over eight state-of-the-art galleries. The POLIN Museum's award-winning permanent exhibition utilizes multimedia technology to vividly trace 1000 years of Jewish life in Poland, from reconstructed synagogues and a detailed Warsaw Ghetto model recreating poignant moments in time, ultimately winning the prestigious European Museum of the Year award in 2016 for its innovative approach.
• Warsaw Rising Museum. This museum utilizes videos, photographs, replica resistance sites, personal accounts and artifacts. The Warsaw Rising Museum depicts the tumultuous 1944 uprising against Nazi occupation over several emotionally impactful floors dedicated to the various facets of this pivotal historical event.
• The National Museum. The National Museum houses Poland's most extensive art collections gathered over centuries, spanning ancient civilizations and medieval religious artifacts through multiple galleries dedicated to the country's most influential 19th and 20th-century artistic masters across painting, sculpture and more.
• Copernicus Science Centre. The Copernicus Science Centre contains over 400 interactive, hands-on science exhibits and activities, allowing visitors to actively explore principles of physics, chemistry and more, as well as panoramic Vistula River views from its rooftop gardens and journeys through the cosmos in its high-tech planetarium. This museum is also great for families.
• The Wilanów Palace Museum. The Wilanów Palace Museum is housed in a lavish former royal residence with opulent baroque architecture and ornate interiors, containing interesting collections of 18th and 19th-century paintings alongside Chinese artifacts that provide insights into the tastes of past Polish aristocracy and royalty. The sprawling palace grounds feature beautifully landscaped gardens in the French style with scenic ponds and pathways that allow visitors to experience the luxurious lifestyles of Polish nobles.
• Royal Castle in Warsaw. Royal Castle in Warsaw takes visitors through the storied history of this important seat of Polish royalty over the centuries via engaging tours of the ornate throne room, royal apartments and grand halls that have been carefully recreated based on paintings and historical accounts to replicate their original splendor before the castle's destruction in World War II. Guides bring the castle's dramatic history to life with vivid tales of royal ceremonies, political intrigue and wars played out within its walls through extensive multimedia and interactive exhibits.

What are the best things to do in Warsaw with kids?

Listed below are the best things to do in Warsaw with kids.

• The Copernicus Science Centre. The Copernicus Science Centre offers over 400 interactive exhibits spread across multiple floors that allow kids ages five and up to explore principles of physics, chemistry and more through supervised hands-on experiments, 3D movies in the on-site planetarium and rooftop gardens with nice views of the Vistula River and Warsaw skyline.
• Warsaw Zoo. Warsaw Zoo is the largest and oldest zoo in Poland. It was founded in 1928 and is home to over 4,700 animals across 500 species that kids of all ages can observe up close, including tigers, polar bears and giraffes. It also features playgrounds, an on-site amusement park and a direct opportunity to feed certain animals.
• Old Town Market Square. The historic Old Town Market Square provides a family-friendly atmosphere for toddlers and elementary school-aged children to chase pigeons, take photos by the iconic mermaid statue, wander through cafes, shops and restaurants and enjoy free entertainment from buskers and musicians performing in the square.
• Royal Baths Park. Royal Baths Park features vast gardens, lakes and playgrounds where toddlers and young children can feed ducks, enjoy outdoor concerts and shows on the dedicated Chopin stage and spot peacocks roaming the grounds of this large public green space free to enter central Warsaw.
• Wilanów Palace. Wilanów Palace is a lush Victorian-style Palm House containing over 200 exotic plant species and fish ponds with a tropical ambiance that allows kids ages five and up to observe rare birds and fish during a short and relaxing stroll, accessible by strollers and free with palace admission.

What are the best activities for a business traveler in Warsaw?

Listed below are the best activities for a business traveler in Warsaw.

• POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews. The POLIN Museum is at 6 Anielewicza Street in central Warsaw near the site of the former Warsaw Ghetto. This award-winning modern museum traces 1000 years of Jewish history in Poland through multimedia and interactive exhibits, including a reconstructed painted synagogue and a model of the Warsaw Ghetto. Business travelers can take a break from work to learn about Warsaw's Jewish culture and the city's rebirth after World War II at this museum, which caters to adults interested in history, culture and architecture.
• Lazienki Park. Lazienki Park is a large green space at Agrykola 1 in central Warsaw, featuring gardens, lakes, peacocks and neoclassical landmarks. Nice spots for business travelers include the Palace on the Water, which can provide a relaxing walk or jog, fresh air and glimpses of historic royal residences perfect for individual travelers or small groups. Lazienki Park is free, but fees are charged for specific attractions.
• Warsaw Spire Building. The Warsaw Spire Building is a modern glass office building located at Plac Europejski 1 in Warsaw's business district. It is distinguished as the tallest building in Poland with unique architecture. Business travelers can visit the free panoramic viewing deck on the 49th floor of the Warsaw Spire for nice views of the city and photos appealing to adult travelers interested in architecture and city views from unique vantage points.
• Craft Beer Pub Spiż. Spiż is a popular pub located at Bracka 20 in Warsaw's city center, serving Polish and international craft beers with a relaxed vibe conducive to chatting over drinks. This pub can be a nice spot for business travelers to casually network or discuss work matters over a pint. It is best suited for adult travelers after work hours or evenings.

Where is Warsaw?

Warsaw is the capital and largest city of Poland. It is located in east-central Poland, 300 kilometers (186 miles) from the Baltic Sea coast and 260 kilometers (161 miles) from the Carpathian Mountains. Warsaw lies on the Vistula River, roughly halfway between Berlin, Germany and Moscow, Russia. It has historically been at the crossroads between Western and Eastern Europe. Warsaw spans both banks of the Vistula, although the city center and oldest neighborhoods are mostly on the western side. It covers 517 square kilometers (199 square miles) and also serves as the capital of the Masovian Voivodeship or province. Although some hills and escarpments exist, Warsaw lies on a plain with little topographic relief. Its average elevation is about 100 meters above sea level.

What is the history of Warsaw?

Warsaw has a long and turbulent history spanning over 1400 years. It originated as a small fishing village in the 13th century but grew to prominence when it became the capital of the Duchy of Masovia in 1413. Warsaw then developed into the de facto capital of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and saw great prosperity and growth in the 1600s under the patronage of its kings. Warsaw became a center of culture and the arts. Warsaw had also endured many hardships, including numerous plagues, foreign invasions, devastating fires and violent crackdowns on independence movements in the 18th and 19th centuries when it was partitioned and occupied by Prussia and Russia. Over 85% of Warsaw was razed to the ground by the Nazis after the Warsaw Uprising in 1944 and Varsovians rebuilt the city brick by brick after World War II. Since the fall of communism, Warsaw has experienced an economic rebirth and become a thriving center of business, finance and high technology in Central Europe while preserving links to its long, culturally rich history.

What language is spoken in Warsaw?

The official and predominant language spoken in Warsaw is Polish. As a major port city and center of trade and immigration over centuries, the city has also had historical minorities of Germans, Dutch, Scots, French, Swedes and Kashubians influencing the local dialect of Polish. After WWII, most of the German minority were expelled. Polish is the common language used by the government, businesses, education and daily life. Due to tourism, history and commercial ties, many locals also speak English, German and Russian as second languages.

What time zone is Warsaw in?

Warsaw is in the Central European Time zone, UTC+1. It observes Central European Summer Time (UTC+2) when daylight savings time is in effect. Poland and the rest of the European Union shift clocks forward 1 hour to CEST on the last Sunday of March and revert to 1 hour on the last Sunday of October. Warsaw uses CET in the winter months and CEST in the summer months. The time in Warsaw is the same as most of Poland, Germany, France and other Central European countries.

How many people live in Warsaw?

The population of Warsaw is 1,747,155 as of 2023. There are 846,350 men and 900,804 women residing in the city. Looking at Warsaw by age groups, there are 257,990 people aged 0-14. This includes 132,329 boys and 125,660 girls in this youngest age bracket. For the 15-29 age range, there are 267,336 total people, with 135,995 men and 131,339 women. In the middle age groups, 396,139 people aged 30-44 and 348,999 aged 45-59. Warsaw has 134,789 senior citizens between 75 and 89 years old and 16,811 inhabitants over 90 years old.

What are the most interesting facts about Warsaw?

Listed below are the most interesting facts about Warsaw, Poland.

• Currency. The official currency of Poland and Warsaw is the Polish złoty (PLN). Banknotes come in 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 złoty denominations. Coins come in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 groszy.
• Time Zone. Warsaw is in the Central European Time Zone, UTC+1. It observes daylight saving time, shifting clocks forward 1 hour to UTC+2 in the summer. Warsaw is 1 hour ahead of GMT/UTC in Winter. It is 2 hours ahead of GMT/UTC in summer.
• Language. The official and predominant language spoken in Warsaw is Polish. Facts about Poland are that many locals also speak English, German, Russian, or Kashubian (regional dialect). English is widely understood in restaurants/cafes.
• Power Plugs. Poland uses the Type E power plug, which has two round prongs. The standard voltage is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. Visitors from countries like the USA will need an adapter and possibly a voltage converter to charge devices.

How many days are needed to see Warsaw?

It is recommended to stay for 2 to 3 days to see what Warsaw offers. Warsaw offers several fascinating sights between its historical sites and contemporary attractions. Its museums honor both national heritage and the difficult 20th-century history. The city's food, entertainment and nightlife are thriving today. Blending past and present, Warsaw's dual vibrancy makes it an engaging destination for tourists as it continues to grow in prestige.

Is Warsaw worth visiting?

Yes, Warsaw is worth visiting. Warsaw is considered one of Europe's most underrated capital cities. Warsaw was destroyed in World War II and was dreary under communism for decades; the city has re-emerged since 1989 with colorful, restored architecture and a cosmopolitan vibe. The meticulously rebuilt Old Town offers a glimpse into Warsaw's past glory, with its Gothic churches, burgher houses and grand palaces reconstructed using historical paintings and plans. The Royal Route's aristocratic palaces, churches and mansions also provide insight into the city's history as the seat of royalty. Contemporary Warsaw also beckons with its modern towers, corporate headquarters, luxury shopping and trendy bars that signify its current status as an economic hotspot in Central Europe.

Is Warsaw expensive to visit?

No, Warsaw is considered affordable for travelers on a budget compared to most European capitals. Costs for accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, and dining out are cheaper than in cities like London, Paris, or Amsterdam. Budget hotel rooms can be found for 50€ ($35, £43) per night, public transit for under 1€ ($1,  £0.86), and meal prices average 9€ ($10, £7) at modest restaurants. Museums, palaces, and some tours also have very reasonable entrance fees. Higher-end hotels, Michelin-star dining, and luxury shopping can still add cost, but Warsaw has plentiful budget-friendly options to experience the city without breaking the bank.

Is Warsaw safe to visit?

Yes, Warsaw is very safe to visit. Warsaw’s rate of violent crime is low, with incidents like homicide, rape or assault being rare compared to other European capitals. Petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag snatching can occur in crowded tourist areas, on public transit or at the central train station, but violent attacks are uncommon. Warsaw has a very walkable city center where most attractions like the Old Town, Royal Route, parks and museums are found. This area feels secure to explore on foot during the day or night. Public transportation like trams, buses and the metro system are efficient and affordable and have good coverage of the main tourist zones, allowing visitors to easily access sites across the central districts.

Is Warsaw easy to visit with kids?

Yes, Warsaw is easy to visit with kids. Warsaw can be a very family-friendly city to visit with children. Factors that make Warsaw accommodating for kids include its walkable Old Town with attractive sights, numerous parks and playgrounds, an interactive science museum, family-friendly restaurants and cafes and affordable attractions compared to other European capitals. Warsaw's Old Town has a small-scale ambiance with colorful architecture, cafes and ice cream shops that appeal to kids. Lazienki Park has playgrounds, paddle boats and free weekend Chopin concerts at its palace. The Copernicus Science Centre offers hundreds of interactive exhibits to spark young imaginations. The Warsaw Zoo and smaller zoos feature animals that fascinate children. Family-friendly Polish restaurants provide budget-friendly kids' menus while accommodating dietary needs.

What is Warsaw famous for?

Warsaw is most famous for being the epicenter of Jewish life and culture before World War II and for its residents' dramatic but doomed uprising against Nazi occupation during the war. Secondly, the Warsaw Ghetto and its resistance figure prominently in Holocaust history and lore. The Warsaw Uprising of 1944 also highlights Polish defiance despite the rebels' defeat against overwhelming odds. Thirdly, the city's phoenix-like reconstruction and rebirth following the war's devastation symbolizes Polish resilience. Contemporary Warsaw is renowned as Central Europe's business, technology and academic center. Lastly, it is well-known for its Old Town architecture, green spaces, cuisine, music and nightlife. Warsaw continues to be a cosmopolitan capital, attracting tourists and expatriates alike.

Who are the most important people born in Warsaw?

Listed below are the most important people born in Warsaw.

• Maria Skłodowska-Curie (1867-1934). She was a famous scientist who conducted pioneering research on radioactivity and discovered the elements polonium and radium; she was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only woman to win two Nobel Prizes, one in physics and one in chemistry. Born in Warsaw but lived in Paris as an adult.
• Frédéric Chopin (1810-1849). World-renowned composer and virtuoso pianist considered one of the great masters of Romantic music, best known for works like mazurkas, polonaises, waltzes and etudes; born in a village near Warsaw then moved to the city as an infant, he later lived and worked in Paris for most of his adult life though his heart is buried in Warsaw.
• Pope John Paul II (1920-2005). Born Karol Józef Wojtyła near Warsaw, he was elected Pope in 1978 as the first non-Italian Pope in over 400 years; he played a key role in ending communist rule in his native Poland and across Europe and visited Poland 9 times over his long papacy.
• Irena Sendler (1910-2008). Polish humanitarian who saved over 2,500 Jewish children from the Warsaw Ghetto during WWII, risking her life to rescue Jews during the Holocaust; she was born and lived in Warsaw for nearly a century until her death at age 98, later honored as Righteous Among the Nations.
• Robert Lewandowski (born 1988). Captain of the Poland national football team and star striker for FC Barcelona, considered one of the best footballers playing today; has won many trophies and goalscoring records in the Bundesliga and Champions League, born and still living in Warsaw when not abroad for matches. Robert Lewandowski is considered one the top sportsmen in Poland .

What to eat in Warsaw?

Listed below are what you can eat in Warsaw.

• Sledzie po kaszubsku. Sledzie po kaszubsku features pickled herring, a specialty of the Kashubian region surrounding Warsaw, topped with hard-boiled eggs, potatoes, onions and oil for a light appetizer. The dish is a celebration of local seafood and cultural traditions. It is one of the best food to eat in Poland .
• Goldwasser. Warsaw's famous Goldwasser liqueur has been produced in the city using secret herbal formulas since 1598 and is still made today with flakes of 22-karat gold for visual brilliance. The Goldwasser distillery in Warsaw continues centuries-old traditions by offering tours and tastings of the signature sweet and spicy spirit.
• Fresh seafood. Warsaw's seaside location on the Baltic makes it a prime destination for fresh seafood like salmon and herring caught right off the coast. Restaurants across Warsaw take full advantage by serving simply prepared fish to highlight the fresh flavors or incorporating the bounty into rich seafood stews.
• Pierogi. Filled dumplings like meat, potato and cheese pierogi are extremely popular across Poland, but Warsaw has developed its own unique regional varieties using local ingredients. Warsaw pierogi may feature fillings of Baltic seafood like herring, salmon or cod blended with onions and herbs for a taste of the Pomeranian coast. The pierogi are still boiled and then crisped up through pan-frying or baking as is tradition.
• Warsaw gingerbread. Gingerbread baking with honey and spices has been a generations-old craft tradition in Warsaw, resulting in elaborately decorated gingerbread sold across the city.
• Bigos. Bigos is a beloved Polish hunter's stew and Warsaw's proximity to Kashubian forests and farmland provides easy access to ingredients like pork, mushrooms and sauerkraut. Restaurants across Warsaw simmer their bigos for hours, allowing the flavors of meat, cabbage and spices to mingle into the hearty, comforting dish the city is known for.

What are the best places to eat in Warsaw?

Listed below are the best places to eat in Warsaw.

• Restauracja Belvedere. Restauracja Belvedere is a luxurious European restaurant located in the exotic Warsaw Royal Bath Gardens that features a regally decorated interior perfect for celebrating special occasions; with cuisine praised by Warsaw's discerning clientele and even recommended by the prestigious Michelin guide, this restaurant offers an exquisite menu ranging from starters to mains to decadent desserts in a one-of-a-kind lush setting. Restauracja Belvedere is one of the best restaurants to eat in Warsaw.
• Hala Koszyki. The trendy renovated market hall Hala Koszyki houses multiple restaurants serving everything from dedicated vegan fare to juicy meat dishes. The restaurant features boutiques, cultural events, and tempting street food options. This bustling enclosed spot has something to satisfy all tastes, from the adventurous foodie to the comfort food seeker. It is especially great for large groups looking to sample a variety of cuisines in Warsaw.
• U Fukiera. U Fukiera is a Polish restaurant in Warsaw with an aristocratic old-world atmosphere that serves up updated versions of some of Poland's most cherished traditional dishes like flavorful soups, tender dumplings and hearty meats by atmospheric candlelight, enhancing the romantic ambiance of this special-occasion venue.
• Stary Dom. The restaurant Stary Dom features a rustic wooden decor and exposed beams stretching across its lofty ceiling, offering a cozy yet upscale environment known for elevated takes on classic Polish cuisine that combines heritage with innovation, resulting in a distinct dining experience that artfully melds history with culinary expertise.
• Różana. Różana is a sophisticated vintage-style restaurant exuding authenticity through its Polish delicacies consisting mainly of expertly prepared meats, potatoes and veggies and its small antique piano that entertains guests by playing live music adds old-world charm to the already quaint atmosphere.

What are the best areas to stay in Warsaw?

Listed below are the best areas to stay in Warsaw.

• Old Town (Stare Miasto). This historic neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture reconstructed after WWII, is perhaps the most popular area for tourists. The Old Town Square, restaurants and shops put visitors close to many top attractions with its proximity to the Royal Castle. The ambiance and accessibility make Old Town a safe, convenient choice for solo travelers.
• City Center (Śródmieście). The bustling heart of Warsaw, along the Royal Route, houses luxury hotels, museums, theaters, dining and nightlife. Neighborhoods like Powiśle on the riverside also offer trendy bars and cafes. With so much to see and do, the City Center keeps tourists in the mix. Its public transit options also make it solo traveler-friendly.
• Mokotów. This upscale residential district has a modern yet relaxed vibe. Travelers can stroll through parks and bike paths, providing various accommodation options. Mokotów's restaurants, malls and nightlife give tourists something to enjoy while ensuring safety with foot traffic. The metro and buses also provide solo convenience.
• Praga. Paraga features historic churches, Soviet-era buildings and an underground arts scene. This neighborhood east of the river fascinates visitors as “real Warsaw”. Once edgy, Praga now balances grit with lively bars, galleries and markets. As an up-and-coming area, tourists mingle with welcoming locals during the day, but solo nightlife is less advised.
• Żoliborz. North Warsaw's greenery accompanies Old Town in this quiet neighborhood. Żoliborz delights visitors with its leafy squares, independent cafes, historic architecture and local vibe. It makes travelers feel part of Warsaw's life. It is accessible near Old Town, buses/trams and solo exploration is manageable.

What are the best accommodations to stay in Warsaw?

Listed below are the best accommodations to stay in Warsaw.

• Hotel Bristol. Hotel Bristol in Warsaw features elegant rooms steps adjacent to the Presidential Palace, which features Art Deco-style furnishings, fine art and marble bathrooms, while amenities extend to a rejuvenating spa, pristine indoor pool and several high-end restaurants and bars on the premise. Bristol is a refined retreat frequented by celebrities and sophisticated travelers seeking premium accommodations. It is one of the best hotels to stay in Warsaw.
• Westin Warsaw Hotel. Westin Warsaw Hotell is an ideal location in the heart of the business and shopping district, with elegant rooms featuring city views, marble bathrooms and a refined blend of classic and contemporary decor for a luxurious atmosphere. The hotel amenities include a rejuvenating spa, a pristine indoor pool, multiple restaurants with international cuisine and modern conference facilities.
• Polonia Palace. The historic Polonia Palace Hotel in Warsaw provides spacious, classically elegant rooms outfitted with marble bathrooms, as well as a generous breakfast buffet praised by guests, an onsite wellness center for relaxation and a stately restaurant serving Polish and European specialties in an upscale, old-world ambiance befitting its heritage.
• Safestay Hostel Warsaw. Safestay Hostel Warsaw is located right on Warsaw's historic Royal Route and is known for being impressively clean and tidy, as well as having a social yet relaxed vibe with its modern bar and lounge for meeting other travelers; it features a mix of both dorms and private rooms to meet different budgets and preferences.
• Novotel Centrum Warsaw. Novotel Centrum Warsaw’s convenient central location and modern rooms equipped with rainfall showers, the 4-star appeal to business and leisure guests seeking amenities like the 24/7 fitness center all-day international restaurant with seasonal menus. This lively hotel bar and family rooms comfortably accommodate children, all in a contemporary style.

How to get from Warsaw to Warsaw Chopin Airport WAW?

There are a few ways to get to Warsaw Chopin Airport from Warsaw. These are by train, bus, taxi, and rideshare services. Firstly, take the S2 or S3 train from Warsaw Central Station (Warszawa Centralna) to the Warsaw Chopin Airport train station. The journey takes 20 minutes, trains run every 30 minutes, and tickets cost 4.40 PLN (1€, $1,  £0.86). Secondly, take the 175 bus to the airport from Warsaw city center near the Palace of Culture and Science. The bus takes 35 minutes, and tickets cost 4.40 PLN (1€, $1,  £0.86). Thirdly, take a taxi from central Warsaw to the airport that costs 50 to 70 PLN (11€, $12, $9) to (16€, $17, £15); the journey takes 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Reputable taxi companies include Ele Taxi and Super Taxi. Ask for the fare estimate before starting the journey. Lastly, rideshare service apps like Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow also operate in Warsaw. The fare from the city center to the airport is usually 40-60 PLN (9€, $10, £7) to (13€, $14, £10).

Where to go shopping in Warsaw?

There are several great places to go shopping in Warsaw. These are Złote Tarasy, Arkadia, Westfield Mokotów, Galeria Młociny and Blue City. Firstly, Złote Tarasy is a large, modern mall next to Warsaw's Central Train Station that houses over 200 shops, restaurants and amenities. Popular international brands mix with local boutiques across four floors and the glass roof floods the open interior with natural light. Secondly, Arkadia caters to over 400 stores, restaurants and entertainment options, Arkadia is one of Poland's biggest malls. Anchor stores like IKEA and major fashion brands sit in this spacious complex alongside a cinema, food court and children’s play zones. Thirdly, Westfield Mokotów is known for its airy architecture. This upscale shopping center features high-end fashion alongside more mainstream shops. The glass roof and multiple open spaces give it an airy vibe. The 3rd floor houses many dining options, from fast food to high-end. Fourthly, Galeria Młociny is a large, modern mall at the end of the metro line containing popular international apparel brands like H&M and Reserved and electronics, books, sports gear and more. The beautiful architecture, spacious layout and amenities like restaurants and cinemas draw crowds. Lastly, Blue City was built on the site of a former brewery. Blue City uniquely mixes shopping with dining, entertainment, office space and apartments, all under one glass roof. Over 200 stores and services, including many dining options and a cinema, can be found inside.

What festivals or events are taking place in Warsaw?

Listed below are the festivals or events that are taking place in Warsaw.

• The Orange Warsaw Festival. The Orange Warsaw Festival is one of Poland's largest music festivals, featuring Polish and international artists from various genres like rock, pop, hip-hop and electronic. It takes place every June at Warsaw's National Stadium and Służewiec Racecourse over the course of 3 days. The festival attracts around 100,000 music fans each year.
• The Warsaw Film Festival. The Warsaw Film Festival is an annual international film festival held every October that showcases full-length features and short films by Polish and foreign directors. Hundreds of films are screened over the course of 9 days at several theaters and cultural institutions across Warsaw. It's considered one of Europe's leading film festivals, attended by over 90,000 people annually. It is also one of the top festivals in Poland and Warsaw .
• The Warsaw Christmas Market. The Warsaw Christmas Market transforms Castle Square in Warsaw's Old Town into a festive winter wonderland from late November through December. Visitors can browse the wooden stalls selling handmade holiday ornaments and decorations, sample Polish Christmas treats like gingerbread and mulled wine and enjoy free concerts and activities like ice skating. Over 1 million people visit Europe's largest Christmas market each year.
• Wianki. Wianki is a midsummer festival celebrating the summer solstice along Warsaw's Vistula River every June. Thousands of revelers gather to float flower wreaths on the river, symbolizing bidding farewell to spring and welcoming summer. The festival also features open-air concerts, fairs and parades. Upwards of 200,000 typically attend Wianki festivities annually.
• The Warsaw Uprising Remembrance Day. The Warsaw Uprising Remembrance Day on August 1 commemorates the Warsaw Uprising of 1944 against Nazi occupation during WWII. It is marked by wreath-laying ceremonies, Catholic masses, military parades and historical reenactments attended by Poland's top officials and remaining uprising veterans. Over 10,000 people observe the solemn occasion each year.

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Warsaw Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Warsaw ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• The capital and largest city of Poland, home to around 1.8 million people.
• The global city is a major tourist destination and a major political and economic conduit.
• Severely damaged in World War II , most of the city had to be rebuilt from the ground up.
• Warsaw’s best known former resident is none other than Frédéric Chopin, acclaimed composer and pianist.  
• Nicknames: The Phoenix City.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency: Polish Złoty (PLN). 5 PLN is approx. 1 Euro.
• Spoken languages: Polish and German .
• Best time to visit: from  April to June for the crisp spring weather, or from September to November for the beautiful autumn colors. Summer and winter are best avoided, as the former is the wettest season of the year and the latter the coldest (with temperatures dropping below freezing).
• Arriving via airport (WAW): you have a few options. Take the shuttle bus to the Palace of Culture (central Warsaw) for 5 Euros ( schedule ). Alternatively, you can take local bus or urban rail for just 3.40 PLN (see route details ). A taxi to Old Town is only 60 PLN (about 13 Euros), so that’s also an option.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers in Warsaw: Oki Doki Old Town . It’s right in the name – the place is right next to the Royal Castle and Main square of the city. Big and clean rooms, comfortable beds, and multiple communal spaces for socializing (including a cozy garden cafe at the back). This one sells out fast – so book ahead to reserve a spot.
• Śródmieście is the epicenter of Warsaw’s activity, placing its visitors smack dab in the thick of historic monuments, cultural attractions and the reconstructed Old Town and Royal Route .
• Zoliborz is a fine example of what the city would have looked like today had it not been damaged, as most of the buildings are still in their excellent pre-war condition; the neighborhood is known for its wide boulevards and easy access to the city centre.

GETTING AROUND

• ZTM is the public transport authority in the city, operating the tram, bus, metro and urban rapid rail lines. Tickets purchased for the network are valid across all modes of transportation.
• There are 3 types of tickets: time-limit , single fare and single vehicle-and-fare . A standard 20 minute ticket is 3.40 PLN, while a 75 minute ticket costs 4.40 PLN. Consider getting a 1 day or 3 day ticket to make things easier. See details on the official website .
• Taxis should bear the city symbol of the mermaid on both front doors. Suburban areas are charged twice the regular fare. Call 194 59 or 196 67 to book.
• Locals prefer the FreeNow app instead of taxis. It’s a popular European ride sharing service, and works better than Uber in Warsaw (numerous reports of unprofessional Uber drivers attempting to scam riders).

WARSAW NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 18 ,   and last call is  3 AM .
• Piłsudskiego Square is popular among the trendy and fashionable of the city thanks to exclusive clubs and wine bars.
• Nowy Świat features an eclectic collection of dive bars and pubs that attract a mixed crowd.
• Praga is the relaxed, casual scene favoured by artists and musicians.
• Great casual pubs for solo travelers: Klub Wieżyca (old school), Plan B (hipster brewpub), Klubojadalnia Młodsza Siostra (live music), Świetlica, Cuda Na Kiju.
• Cocktail bars : Rakieta Klub, Zamieszanie, and Bar Pacyfik.
• Night clubs : Nowy Berlin, SMOLNA, Jasna 1.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• St. John’s Archcathedral is one of the highlights in tours of Old Town . The Gothic monument was built, among other reasons, to serve as tomb to Polish dukes.
• The Royal Castle is the pride of the city and the former residence of the Polish monarchs. Guarding the entrance to Old Town, the castle was reconstructed from rubble in 1984.
• The Warsaw Uprising Museum serves to educate on the tragic history of the city in World War II through innovative exhibits that captivate all audiences.
• The Jewish Cemetery is one of the largest of its kind and is a memorial to the past, with more than 200 thousand graves.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Take in Lazienki Park and its impressive lawns and gardens, also home to Lazienki Palace.
• Tour the City Zoo and discover, aside from its collection of exotic animals, the charming parkland and modern playground.
• Walk the length of the Royal Route from the Royal Castle in Śródmieście to the Royal Palace in Wilanów.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Warsaw is proud of its Classical and Romantic musical influence – several festivals are staged throughout the year to recapture the importance it has played in reconstructing techniques for solo piano.
• Great restaurants to try in Warsaw: Stary Dom ($$$ – get the tatar and dumplings), Gruby Josek ($$), Patelnia Patera ($$),
• Bar mleczny (Polish milk bars) are slowly disappearing, but the cafeterias were once integral to the nation’s lifestyle, providing cheap but nourishing food. Some of the best ones still operational: Bar mleczny Marymont and Rusałka .
• Where to find good cheap eats : Śródmieście has plenty of side-street cafés and stand-alone stalls to suit any palate and pocket. Specific recommendations: Stołówka u Chłopaków, Syrena Irena (for pierogis), or one of the Gościniec locations.
• Dangerous areas : this strictly policed city has a reputation for being safe for tourists, although caution should always be exercised (especially when walking alone at night).

Recommended trip duration:  2-3 days

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Warsaw Travel Guide : Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

Warsaw is one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in Europe. If you’re planning on visiting, or are just curious about what to expect, then keep reading. In this Warsaw travel guide, we will discuss everything you need to know before your visit.

From where to stay and what to see, to where to eat and how to get around, we have you covered. So without further ado, let’s get started!

Best Things To Do & See in Warsaw

Warsaw’s Old Town is a must-see for any visitor to the city. While it was extensively damaged during World War II, it has been meticulously reconstructed and now stands as a symbol of Warsaw ‘s resilient spirit. UNESCO has proclaimed the Old Town of Warsaw a World Heritage Site.

King Sigismund’s Column, the Jesuit Church, and St. John the Baptists Cathedral are just a few of the best things to see in Warsaw ‘s Old Town. Be sure to visit the Royal Castle , which has been the official residence of the Polish monarchs for centuries.

Each of these buildings has its own story to tell, and together they give visitors a glimpse into Warsaw ‘s past. Warsaw ‘s Old Town is also a great place to enjoy some traditional Polish cuisine.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from, and many of them offer outdoor seating where you can enjoy Warsaw ‘s beautiful weather. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, Warsaw ‘s Old Town is sure to have something for you.

Chopin Museum

Warsaw is home to many museums, but one of the most unique is the Chopin Museum . Dedicated to the life and work of Polish composer Fryderyk Chopin, the museum is located in the Ostrogski Castle in Warsaw .

The museum’s collections include musical instruments, personal items belonging to Chopin, and a wide range of documents and manuscripts. The museum also hosts regular concerts, offering visitors a chance to experience Chopin’s music in an intimate setting.

Whether you’re a fan of classical music or simply looking for a unique Warsaw experience, the Chopin Museum is definitely worth a visit.

Lazienki Park

Warsaw is known for many things – its rich history, its culture, and its beautiful architecture. But one of the best things about Warsaw is its green spaces. And chief among them is Lazienki Park . Spread out over 76 hectares, Lazienki Park is a haven of tranquility in the heart of the city.

It’s home to a number of landmarks, including the famous Palace on the Isle, as well as a number of gardens and sculptures. But it’s also a great place to just come and relax. Take a stroll through the grounds, have a picnic on the lawn, or take a boat out on the lake.

There’s something for everyone at Lazienki Park – and it’s one of the things that makes Warsaw so special.

POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews

Warsaw is a city with a rich and complex history. For centuries, it was home to a vibrant Jewish community. However, the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943 and the subsequent Nazi occupation destroyed much of the city’s Jewish heritage.

In 2014, the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews opened its doors to the public. The museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of Warsaw ‘s Jewish community. It features exhibits on topics such as religious life, everyday culture, and the Holocaust.

The museum also has a Center for Jewish Education, which offers classes and workshops for all ages. The POLIN Museum is an important reminder of Warsaw ‘s Jewish past, and it provides visitors with a glimpse into a culture that was nearly lost.

Nicolaus Copernicus Sience Centre

From its early days as a small settlement on the banks of the Vistula River, Warsaw has grown to become one of the largest and most vibrant cities in Poland. In recent years, Warsaw has also become known as a destination for science and education, thanks in part to the Copernicus Science Centre .

The Science Centre is a world-class facility that offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages. Visitors can learn about the work of famous Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, see live demonstrations of scientific principles, and even take part in hands-on experiments.

With its cutting-edge exhibits and commitment to public outreach, the Copernicus Science Centre is helping to put Warsaw on the map as a centre for science and learning.

Royal Castle Warsaw

Warsaw’s Royal Castle is a beautiful example of Polish architecture. The castle was built in the 14th century and has since been the home of many Polish kings and queens. Today, the castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination.

Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and corridors, and see some of the original furniture and artwork. The castle also has a museum, which houses an extensive collection of Polish art and artifacts.

Warsaw’s Royal Castle is a fascinating place to explore, and a must-see for anyone interested in Polish history or architecture.

Wilanow Palace

Warsaw is a city with a rich history, and the Wilanow Palace is one of its most famous landmarks. The palace is a perfect example of the city’s Baroque and Neo-classical architectural styles, and it is well worth a visit for any history buff.

The property was originally built as an open manor house, but it was transformed into beautiful villas when King Jan III took ownership of the building. After the death of the king, the villas were allocated to private families who changed the looks of the building to their individual taste.

Today, the Wilanow Palace is one of the few landmarks to survive the catastrophic destruction meted out on Warsaw during the second world war. The Wilanow Palace is just one of the many reasons why Warsaw is such an intriguing and fascinating city.

Krakowskie Przedmiescie

Krakowskie Przedmieście street is Warsaw ‘s most famous and important street. Many Warsaw residents take a stroll down this street to get from one Warsaw neighborhood to another. The street is lined with Warsaw ‘s most important buildings, including the Presidential Palace, the University of Warsaw , and the Academy of fine arts.

Warsaw’s most important streets converge at Krakowskie Przedmieście street, making it the ideal place to people watch and soak up the city’s atmosphere. On any given day, you can see students rushing to class, businessmen and women power walking to their next meeting, and couples strolling hand in hand.

Krakowskie Przedmieście street is the heart of Warsaw , and it’s easy to see why when you take a stroll down this historic strett.

Warsaw Uprising Museum

The Warsaw Uprising Museum is one of the most harrowing and moving museums I have ever been to. It chronicles the Warsaw Uprising of 1944, when the Polish resistance movement rose up against the Nazi occupation.

The museum does an excellent job of conveying the raw emotion of that time period, through both audio-visual displays and personal testimony from survivors. One of the most powerful aspects of the museum is its focus on civilian suffering. The Warsaw Uprising was one of the bloodiest battles of World War II, and many innocent people were caught in the crossfire.

The museum brings home the human cost of war in a very stark and moving way. It is well worth a visit if you are ever in Warsaw .

Palace of Culture & Sience

Warsaw’s Palace of Culture and Science is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. Built in the 1950s, it stands as a symbol of Warsaw ‘s Communist past. However, the palace is also a popular tourist destination, boasting a wide range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Visitors can take in panoramic views of Warsaw from the top of the palace, or enjoy a performance at one of its many theaters. There is also an extensive library inside the palace, making it a perfect place to while away a few hours on a rainy day.

Whether you’re interested in Warsaw ‘s history or simply looking for a unique shopping experience, the Palace of Culture and Science is well worth a visit.

Nightlife in Warsaw

Warsaw’s nightlife is truly something to behold. The city comes alive after dark, with a seemingly endless array of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink or a wild night out, Warsaw has something to offer.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are even a few Underground clubs where you can dance the night away. No matter what your taste, Warsaw ‘s nightlife has something for everyone.

So come on out and see for yourself what all the fuss is about. You won’t be disappointed.

Read our blog post to learn about the city’s top bars and clubs.

Food & Drinks

Warsaw was once known as the “Paris of the East”, and you can still find many great restaurants serving traditional Polish fare like pierogi and bigos. However, Warsaw was also heavily damaged during World War II, and many of its best restaurants were destroyed.

As a result, Warsaw ‘s food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants popping up all the time. If you’re looking for the best food in Warsaw , you’ll find it in the Old Town. This is where you’ll find Warsaw ‘s most famous restaurant, Zapiecek, which has been serving traditional Polish cuisine since the early 1900s. However, if you’re on a budget, you can also find cheap food in Warsaw ‘s milk bars.

These are based on a communist-era institution, and they serve simple but hearty meals at very low prices. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a quick bite on the go, Warsaw has something to offer everyone.

5 Best restaurants in Warsaw’s Old Town

Where To Stay in Warsaw

If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Warsaw , here are a few suggestions.

• The Old Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Warsaw , and for good reason. It’s home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Royal Castle and the Warsaw Mermaid statue. Plus, it’s close to the center of the action, making it easy to get around. If you’re a fan of culture and history, this is definitely the place for you.
• Srodmiescie is Warsaw ‘s nightlife district, and it’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere. There are dozens of bars and clubs to choose from, so you’re sure to find something to suit your taste. And if you get tired of dancing the night away, you can always explore Warsaw ‘s other attractions, which are all within walking distance.
• If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center, Powisle is a great option. This district is located on the banks of the Vistula River, and it offers stunning views of Warsaw ‘s skyline. It’s also a great choice for budget-minded travelers, as there are plenty of affordable hotels in the area.
• And last but not least, Praga is perfect for art lovers. This district is known for its vibrant street art scene, and there are also several museums and galleries to explore. Plus, it’s one of the most affordable areas in Warsaw , so it’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Are you looking for a cheap place to stay in Warsaw?

Look no further, because Mokka Apartment has got you covered!

This spacious and comfortable apartments will make you feel right at home. Plus, its convenient location near the city center means you’ll be able to explore all that Warsaw has to offer.

Ready for an unforgettable stay in Warsaw?

This stunning hotel is located in the heart of the city, meaning you’ll have easy access to all of the top attractions.

Plus you can enjoy a delicious meal at on-site restaurant, or relax with a drink at bar.

Hotel Warszawa is the perfect place to stay if you want to be in the heart of Warsaw.

This luxurious hotel offers a fitness center, spa and wellness center, and free WIFI so you can always stay connected.

Getting Around Warsaw

Warsaw is a beautiful city with many hidden gems. The best way to explore Warsaw is on foot. This way you can meander through the streets at your own pace, stopping to admire the architecture or people-watch in the parks. If you get tired, there are plenty of public transportation options to choose from.

The Warsaw Metro is efficient and easy to use, and there are also plenty of buses and trams that can take you where you need to go. Warsaw also has excellent walking and biking trails, so you can explore the city in a more active way.

I wouldn’t suggest utilizing a taxi since it is the most expensive option. If you opt to use a taxi, I would recommend uber over local cabbies as they will drain your wallet.

Regardless of how you choose to get around, Warsaw is a city that is easy to navigate and full of surprises.

Where to buy tickets?

You can purchase tickets for the local bus, tram or metro system at kiosks and from ticket machines located close to some stops. You may also buy them on your bus or tram ride if you have any spare change waiting!

More information about tickets, timetable, connections you can find here .

You might find also usefull my post about getting around Poland .

Getting to dowtown from Airport

One of the best ways to get from Chopin airport to the city center is by bus or train. While you can opt for a cab or rent a car, they come with a higher price tag. A taxi will set you back approximately 10 GBP , while renting a car for the day will cost 45-50 £.

By taking the bus or train, you can save money and still enjoy all that Warsaw has to offer. If you want to know more about how buses and trains can get you to and from an airport, click here .

Best Time To Visit Warsaw

Warsaw is a beautiful city that has much to offer visitors. The best time to visit Warsaw is in the springtime, when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in bloom. The city comes alive at this time of year, with people enjoying the parks and cafes. Warsaw is also an exciting place to visit in the fall, when the leaves are changing color. This is a great time to explore the city’s museums and historical sites.

Warsaw in the summer is a bustling city full of life and energy. The streets are crowded with people, and the air is thick with the sound of car horns and conversations. The heat can be oppressive, but it’s worth it to be surrounded by such vibrancy. The city can be expensive this time but there are still plenty of deals to be found if you’re willing to look for them. And Warsaw is definitely worth visiting in the summertime.

Winter can be cold, but it’s also a magical time to be in Warsaw , with the festive lights and Christmas markets. So whatever time of year you choose to visit, Warsaw will surely have something to offer you.

Staying Safe in Warsaw

Warsaw is safe to visit. The city has a low crime rate and is generally considered to be very safe. However, as with any city, there are certain areas that are best avoided. Stary Mokotow and Wola are both known for their high crime rates, so it is best to steer clear of these areas.

At night, it is always safest to travel in groups and be aware of your surroundings. Additionally, pickpockets are common on busses that run from airports and railway stations, so it is important to keep your belongings close to you at all times.

Overall, Warsaw is a safe city as long as you take precautions and use common sense.

Warsaw Travel Costs

• Accomodation Prices – hotel prices in Warsaw are very reasonable, with plenty of options available for under $100 per night. If you’re willing to rough it a bit, you can even find hostels for as little as $20 per night.
• Food & Drinks – food is also relatively cheap in Warsaw , with many restaurants inlcuding milk bars offering hearty meals for less than $10.
• The average cost of a beer in Warsaw is 12 PLN, but some bars offer discounts on beers, with some as cheap as 5 PLN. The cost of a night out in Warsaw can vary depending on your budget, but if you want to experience the best that the city has to offer, you should be prepared to spend a little more. 
• Transportation Cost – A 75-minute ticket will only cost you about 5 PLN. That’s less than two euros! And with that ticket, you can ride any bus, tram, or train in Warsaw .

We hope our guide was helpful and gave you some ideas for things to do during your stay. As always, stay safe and have a wonderful trip!

Bartosz is a travel writer, photographer & founder/editor of theuniquepoland who tells stories of adventure, history and current affairs. He writes mainly about travel, with special focus on Poland. He loves travelling, discover new unknown and inspire others.

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Warsaw   Travel Guide

Courtesy of jacek_kadaj | Getty Images

9 Best Things To Do in Warsaw

Updated Jan. 11, 2024

If you're not a history and culture buff, consider vacationing elsewhere. Poland's capital city is filled with educational attractions, most of which are museums. Some (like the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews and the Warsaw

• All Things To Do

Old Town (Stare Miasto) Old Town (Stare Miasto) free

Warsaw's central Old Town neighborhood is one of the city's most popular areas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic district, which was rebuilt after bombings from World War II destroyed most of it, is filled with restaurants, art galleries, shops and cafes housed in structures designed to replicate the region's former 14th- to 18th-century buildings. Old Town is also where attractions like The Royal Castle in Warsaw - Museum and the King Zygmunt III Waza Column, among other landmarks, reside.

Travelers love Old Town's lively atmosphere and charming buildings, adding that the neighborhood is a prime spot for shopping, people-watching and getting your caffeine fix. However, the area is often packed with tourists, so expect higher prices at the restaurants lining the square. If you don't want to rub elbows with other visitors, consider arriving early (before 10 a.m.).

Lazienki Królewskie Museum (Muzeum Lazienki Królewskie) Lazienki Królewskie Museum (Muzeum Lazienki Królewskie)

The 188-acre Lazienki Królewskie Museum is one of Warsaw's most scenic locales. Here, you can go for a leisurely stroll through gardens, explore former palaces, admire various works of art or even catch a free piano concert (by the attraction's Frédéric Chopin monument). You'll also find amenities like a restaurant, gift shops and an amphitheater on-site.

Recent travelers raved about the Lazienki Królewskie Museum, citing its "lovely park" and "impressive" palaces – especially the Palace on the Isle – as highlights. However, several cautioned that the property can get crowded on weekends, so claim your spot early if you plan on attending one of the free piano concerts, which take place at noon and 4 p.m. every Sunday from May through September.

POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews (POLIN Muzeum Historii Zydów Polskich) POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews (POLIN Muzeum Historii Zydów Polskich)

Though several Warsaw sights (think: the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the Warsaw Uprising Monument ) pay homage to Polish Jews who lost their lives during World War II, one of the city's best attractions for learning about the country's Jewish population is the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews. Inside, travelers will see collections about Poland's earliest Jews, the Holocaust and more. Temporary exhibits that focus on everything from the meaning of blood in Jewish culture to the Jewish community's impact on popular music are occasionally offered as well.

According to previous visitors, no trip to Poland would be complete without checking out the POLIN Museum. Many said that this attraction's main exhibit is "superb" and "in-depth," although some felt overwhelmed at times by the amount of information provided. Others appreciated the property's design and layout but wished it didn't take hours to get through.

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The Royal Castle in Warsaw - Museum (Zamek Krolewski w Warszawie - Muzeum) The Royal Castle in Warsaw - Museum (Zamek Krolewski w Warszawie - Muzeum)

One of Old Town 's most recognizable buildings is The Royal Castle in Warsaw - Museum. This former royal residence and administrative center, which was bombed during World War II and reconstructed in the '70s and '80s, now houses an impressive collection of Oriental rugs, coins and paintings (including two by Rembrandt). Travelers can also tour the former apartments of Polish royals like King Stanislaus Augustus and Prince Joseph Poniatowski.

Past visitors described this castle as "excellent" and "surprisingly awesome," adding that its refurbishment is so well-done that the structure looks original. Additionally, many appreciated the property's less crowded atmosphere and low entry fees, and some suggest paying an extra 5 Polish zloty (or about $1.50) to rent an audio guide.

Warsaw Uprising Monument (Pomnik Powstania Warszawskiego) Warsaw Uprising Monument (Pomnik Powstania Warszawskiego) free

Monuments and memorials can be found throughout Warsaw, but one of the city’s most memorable is the Warsaw Uprising Monument. This 33-foot-tall bronze sculpture was created to commemorate the thousands of Poles who fought against Nazi Germany (which occupied the region during World War II). And the sculpture’s location is just as meaningful as the monument. The site once featured an entrance to a canal that was used by Polish fighters to escape from the Germans. As such, one part of the sculpture depicts fighters crawling out from underneath a bridge, while the other shows them heading into the canal.

Recent visitors enjoyed checking out this attraction, calling it impressive and very moving. However, a few said that the information provided at the monument is not enough to gain a full understanding of what occurred during the Warsaw Uprising, so they suggest visiting the Warsaw Uprising Museum or doing some research before you arrive. Others also recommend saving time to admire the architecture at the adjacent Supreme Court of Poland.

Krakow Suburb Street (Krakowskie Przedmiescie) Krakow Suburb Street (Krakowskie Przedmiescie) free

One of Warsaw's most popular thoroughfares is Krakowskie Przedmiescie, or Krakow Suburb Street. This street was once the start of a route that connected Warsaw with Kraków  (hence the name). Now, the road connects Zamkowy Place in Old Town to Nowy Swiat’s (New World Street's) shops and restaurants. It is also known for its abundance of sights, including Czapski Palace (where Polish composer Frédéric Chopin once lived), the 17th-century Presidential Palace and monuments for notable Polish figures like Adam Mickiewicz and Nicolaus Copernicus.

Although one visitor described the street's restaurants as "a bit expensive" and "not as good" as other Warsaw eateries, many highly recommended taking a leisurely stroll here. But remember to wear comfortable shoes, since this road is more than a half-mile long.

Warsaw Uprising Museum (Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego) Warsaw Uprising Museum (Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego)

To gain a better understanding of how Poland gained independence, visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum. This attraction, which sits in a former tram power station in the Wola district, is home to nearly 1,000 exhibits that touch on the country's occupation by Nazi Germany and the post-war years. The museum also features Freedom Park, where a memorial with the names of more than 10,000 insurgents who died during the Warsaw Uprising is located.

Past visitors said this museum as a "must-see" for history buffs. Many were impressed with its interactive, kid-friendly exhibits but cautioned that the property can get crowded and hot inside, no matter when you visit. For temporary respite from the attraction's hordes of tourists, consider grabbing a snack at the cafe. Some travelers also suggest renting an audio guide for 10 Polish zloty (about $3) to help you better navigate the museum's confusing layout.

Museum of King Jan III's Palace at Wilanów (Muzeum Palacu Króla Jana III w Wilanowie) Museum of King Jan III's Palace at Wilanów (Muzeum Palacu Króla Jana III w Wilanowie)

Warsaw is home to many historic structures (think: The Royal Castle in Warsaw - Museum and Old Town ), but only a few buildings are exactly as they were before World War II, and this museum is one of them. The former palace of King John Sobieski III, a baroque-style property built in 1677, now welcomes visitors to explore its royal apartments, chapel, library and galleries. And surrounding the museum are manicured gardens filled with rose bushes, lemon trees, tulip bulbs and other colorful plants.

Visitors describe the Museum of King Jan III's Palace at Wilanów as a "pretty palace" with "beautiful and great art." Many also rave about the property's gardens, though a few say some of the palace's rooms could do with fewer paintings. Nature enthusiasts should consider visiting in spring when the museum's flowers are in bloom.

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Copernicus Science Centre (Centrum Nauki Kopernik) Copernicus Science Centre (Centrum Nauki Kopernik)

Named for Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, the Copernicus Science Centre is where budding scientists can learn more about topics like electricity, light and engineering. In addition to hands-on activities, 20-minute workshops that focus on everything from building a fire without modern equipment to writing hieroglyphs are provided daily. The museum also features a rooftop garden, a theater, a planetarium and a park with additional interactive exhibits.

Families will enjoy visiting this science museum. Various gadgets and experiments throughout the center entertain and educate children of all ages, but the property fills up fast (and occasionally sells out of tickets before closing for the day), so visitors recommend arriving early or buying passes in advance on the museum's ticket page (which is in Polish). Also, travelers who want to visit the Buzzz! gallery will need to pick up a timed ticket when purchasing museum passes. If you're not traveling with kids, many reviewers suggest you skip this attraction.

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Warsaw Visit

Warsaw Visit – Your Warsaw Travel Guide

For many, Warsaw still has a Cold War reputation. But it is now a thriving, modern city. WarsawVisit will help you make the most of any trip to Poland’s fascinating capital.

Make the most of your trip to Warsaw with our list of recommended hotels , a rundown of the best places to eat in Warsaw and our overview of essential attractions in Warsaw .

Check Warsaw Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Our itineraries will help you get the most out of a visit to Warsaw, see our One-Day Warsaw Itinerary , Two-Day Warsaw Itinerary and Three-Day Warsaw Itinerary pages to learn more. Our Things To Do In Warsaw guide is also full of recommendations.

Plan your Warsaw visit with Warsaw map of Warsaw’s attractions, restaurants, sightseeing and hotels.

Each type of landmark has a different colour marker on the map:

• YELLOW: Warsaw Sightseeing
• BLUE: Warsaw Hotels
• RED: Warsaw Places To Eat – Michelin restaurants are DARK RED
• ORANGE: Warsaw Nightlife
• PURPLE: Shopping In Warsaw
• GREEN: Warsaw Transportation

Click on a marker and it will give you the name of the landmark, with a brief description and links for more information and directions. You can pan, scroll, and zoom around the map, or use the + or – buttons in the bottom left of the map to zoom in and out.

Click on the icon in the top left corner for an index of every location, sorted by category. Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want. Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.

Each category is on a different layer, which can be switched on and off. So you can just see the Hotel or Restaurant pins, for example.

If you are using the map on your phone, open the Visit Warsaw map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.

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:: Get to know Warsaw with a professional guided tour – Get Your Guide has a large range of activities, including harbour tours and day trips.

:: Find available Warsaw hotels on Booking.com – you can usually reserve with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out and, if necessary, cancel for free.

:: Find Warsaw flights with 12go - a single search shows times and prices from all available airlines for your trip, saving you time and money.

:: An airport transfer is the hassle-free way to arrive. A driver will meet you in Arrivals and take you direct to your hotel.

:: World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Warsaw Essentials

• Packing List For Warsaw
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• Why You Need Travel Insurance For Poland

Warsaw Trip Planning

• First Time In Warsaw
• Warsaw One-Day Itinerary
• Warsaw Two-Day Itinerary
• Warsaw Three-Day Itinerary
• Warsaw Airport Guide
• Getting From Warsaw Airport To Warsaw City Centre
• Getting From Warsaw City Centre To Warsaw Airport

Disclosure: WarsawVisit.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk.

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"The Hub of Architecture & History"

Warsaw tourism.

Warsaw is the capital of Poland and is a part of the Mazovia plane. The city is an amalgamation of the old and the new, the traditional and the modern, in terms of its architecture. Interestingly, it is said that Warsaw, together with Paris, Frankfurt, London and Barcelona , has the greatest number of skyscrapers in the European Union._

Warsaw is a city that is full of surprises. It contains nearly everything under the sun! Sparkling skylines, tall skyscrapers and bustling streets exist right alongside peaceful green lawns and gardens, old palaces and Gothic architecture. Tourists flock here in vast numbers to see the Jablonowski Palace, Old Town Market Square, etc. The Monument of The Warsaw Mermaid is the most popular symbol of the city. Warsaw is steeped in culture and history, as is evident in their places of attraction, including galleries, palaces and museums.

Things To Do In Warsaw

Chopin Museum

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Old Town Square

Royal Castle

lazienki Park

Neon Museum

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Exploring Eastern Europe: Warsaw, Krakow, Prague & Budapest

May 1 - 13, 2025

Group Size: 18-26 travelers Price:  $7,995 per person, double occupancy / $10,095 single occupancy

Trip Overview

This 11-day journey through Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and architectural splendor against a backdrop of poignant historical sites.

In Warsaw , the resilience of the Polish spirit is palpable amidst the rebuilt Old Town and thought-provoking museums. Krakow enchants with its medieval charm, the grandeur of Wawel Castle, and the solemnity of Auschwitz nearby. Prague , with its fairy-tale skyline, offers the Gothic beauty of Charles Bridge, the Astronomical Clock, and a vibrant arts scene. Finally, Budapest dazzles with its stunning Danube vistas, thermal baths, and the grandeur of Buda Castle and Parliament.

The rich tapestries of Eastern and Central European experiences—both past and present—weave together in a seamless, memorable adventure.

Schedule by Day

Depart the US on overnight flights to Warsaw.

Arrive in Warsaw and transfer to the hotel, situated in the center of old town Warsaw. This afternoon, visit the Canaletto room at the reconstructed Royal Castle, damaged in the second World War.

Warsaw’s reconstruction represents the iron resolution of the Polish people and the victory they achieved by taking back their culture. Warsaw’s Old Town and Royal Castle were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list as an “outstanding example of near-total reconstruction of a span of history covering the 13th to the 20th century”.

Gather for a welcome dinner this evening at a local restaurant.

Overnight : Hotel Verte

Meals:  D

This morning, enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town along narrow cobbled roads and through picturesque streets filled with colorful cafes and shops to visit the city’s Old Market Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stop at the Basilisk statue, admire the bronze Warsaw Mermaid, the symbol of the city, before continuing to the 14th century Gothic Arch-cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

End the morning at the Warsaw Uprising Monument, a memorial that honors those who fought against Nazi occupation and the threat of a Soviet takeover.

After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, visit the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews where one thousand years of history is told in a symbolic place in the center of Warsaw. Walk to the nearby former Umschlagplatz, the square where hundreds of thousands of Jews were loaded onto trains to concentration camps. A monument engraved with 448 names, it is a symbolic representation of all those imprisoned in the ghetto, erected here in 1988.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Meals:  B, L, D

Begin the day at the Church of the Holy Cross to pay tribute to Polish composer Frédéric Chopin and admire the Nicolaus Copernicus Monument before continuing onto the Life Under Communism Museum. After lunch, visit the Galeria Forty Forty located in an abandoned fort in Warsaw. The gallery attempts to eschew the limitations often imposed by closed exhibition spaces and celebrates spontaneity.

Return to the hotel mid-afternoon and enjoy a dinner at leisure.

Meals: B, L

After breakfast, depart Warsaw and drive 2.5 hours to Czestochowa, considered the spiritual capital of Poland with a rich religious, cultural, and industrial history. Our focus here will be the Jasna Góra monastery complex, one of the most beautiful monasteries in Eastern Europe and home to the famous ‘Black Madonna’ painting as well as a Baroque cathedral and grounds.

Walk a few minutes to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, Kredens Restaurant in Częstochowa before driving just over two hours to Krakow.

After checking in to the hotel, we will depart for a walking tour of the Old Town of Krakow, including the 700-year old Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Cathedral, an immense Gothic church and Krakow’s principal temple since the 13th century.

Overnight: H15 Palace Hotel

Meals: B, L, D

This morning, meet with Jonathan Ornstein, director of the Jewish Community Center of Krakow and enjoy conversation about contemporary Jewish life in Poland.

Travel aross the Vistula River to the district of Podgorze, where the Nazis established a ghetto square for the Jews that remined in Krakow after the mass deportations of 1941. Continue to the Ghetto Heroes Square that honors the suffering with a series of empty chairs of bronze and iron, symbolizing the empty seats that the deaths of residents of the ghetto left behind. Return across the river and explore old Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz and see the oldest synagogue still staning in Poland.

After lunch at Hamsa, drive to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, added to the UNESCO’s 1st World List of Cultural and Natural Heritage in 1978.

Evening at leisure.

Meals : B, L

This morning, head west to see the biggest concentration camp from the Second World War, Auschwitz. The guided experience at Auschwitz-Birkenau will take just over three hours.

After lunch head to the Nowa Huta District. Designed as a utopian socialist new town, Nowa Huta was the largest urban spatial development in postwar Poland.

Drive a short distance to Huta Im. T. Sendzimira, the administrative headquarters of the steel factory from which you can see the miles and miles of industrial sprawl built during the Stalinist-era. Here, we have arranged a private visit to the bunkers.

Free evening.

Depart Krakow this morning and drive 5.5 hours to Prague.

Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at Mylned in the old town, where a riot of archetectual history from Gothic to Baroque to Art Deco dominates.

Begin exploring Prague by foot and bus, focusing on former Czechoslovakia’s and Prague’s time under communist rule from 1948 to 1989. Start by walking to the Old Jewish Cemetery, which is among the oldest surviving Jewish burial grounds in the world.

After visiting the cemetery, we will spend time focusing on one of the city’s most famous residents – Franz Kafka. Close by is a sculpture inspiried by Klafka’s short story, “Description of a Struggle”.

Check-in to the hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight : Alchemist Grand Hotel

This morning, we visit the Museum of Communism before continuing on to the Prague Castle Complex. Walk through the complex to the Lobkowicz Palace Museum, the only privately owned building built in the second half of the 16th century. Set in 22 galleries, the museum displays works by artists such as Antonio Canaletto, Pieter Brueghel the Elder, Lucas Cranach the Elder, and Diego Velázquez, as well as decorative art, military and hunting paraphernalia, musical instruments, and original manuscripts and early prints of composers including Beethoven and Mozart.

After lunch at the Lobkowicz Palace visit the Franz Kafka Museum before returning to the hotel via the Memorial to the Victims of Communism.

Dinner at leisure.

Overnight: Alchemist Grand Hotel

Depart the hotel this morning for a 5.5 hour drive to Budapest. After about three hours, we make an en route stop in Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia. Enjoy its preserved old towns to Goth and buildings inspired by art nouveau, to its baroque palaces and centuries-old cathedrals and castles.

After lunch in the old town, enjoy a walking tour stopping in the Main Square, admiring the famous Bratislava Street statues, National Opera and the National Philharmonic Orchestra, Cathedral.

Continue onto Budapest, just over a two-hour drive. Cross the Danube River and transfer to the Hotel Moments sailing past neo-Gothic turrets of the Hungarian Parliament, the palm leaves Statue of Liberty on the Gellert Hill, the cupolas of the Art Nouveau Gellert Spa, the elegant curves of the Gresham Palace and the soaring domes of the majestic St Stephens Basilica.

Overnight: Hotel Moments

Depart the hotel this morning on foot to explore Pest. Stop at Liberty Square, a symbol of freedom from communism and explore the huge neo-Gothic Parliament (Orszaghaz), the most visible building of Budapest’s left bank.

Visit the Shoes on the Danube Promenade, a haunting tribute to a horrific time in history where approximately 20,000 Jews were brutally shot along the bank after being forced to remove their shoes.

Cross the river and enjoy lunch at Buda before visiting Buda Castle, the former Hungarian and Austro-Hungarian royal palace. End the day at Budapest’s Gellert Hill at “The Garden of Philosophy”.

After breakfast, stop first at Hero’s Square before the House of Terror. Continue on to the incredible Ezavo Ervin Library, a stunning step back in time when libraries were like mansions.

Enjoy lunch today at the Central  Café where some of the greatest minds in the history of Hungarian art and science converged in this café. After lunch, visit the Opera House for a guided tour, one of the most beautiful Neo-Renaissance buildings in Europe.

The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure – the suggested activity is a visit to one of the baths.

Enjoy a farewell dinner tonight at a very special restaurant called Konyy. Each week, the menu changes inspired by a particular book.

Transfer to the airport for international flights home.

• $7,995 per person, double occupancy
• $10,095 per person, single occupancy

Accommodations

• Three nights at Hotel Verte in Warsaw
• Three nights at H15 Palace Hotel in Krakow
• Two nights at Alchemist Grand Hotel in Prague
• Three nights at Hotel Moments in Budapest

What to Expect

Busy pacing may include multiple hotel changes plus internal flights or long drives. May involve exposure to the outdoors, full days of touring, and walking up to two hours.

Study Leader(s)

Related Trips

For More Information

Please email [email protected] or call our office at 800-422-1636 or 617-496-0806.

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• Help and services around the world
• UK help and services in Poland
• Birth, death and marriage abroad

Poland bereavement: death abroad

• Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Updated 9 August 2024

© Crown copyright 2024

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/poland-bereavement-pack-information/poland-bereavement-death-abroad

This information is not meant to be definitive, nor is it to be taken as a substitute for independent legal advice. Neither His Majesty’s Government nor its staff take any responsibility for the accuracy of the information, nor accept liability for any loss, costs, damage or expense that you might suffer as a result of relying on the information. Some of the information may not be relevant to your circumstances. The language used is intended to be general and factual and is not meant to cause offence.

1. Contacting the travel insurance company

If the person who died had insurance, contact their insurance company as soon as possible. Insurance providers may help to cover the cost of repatriation. Repatriation is the process of bringing the body home. Insurance providers may also help with any medical, legal, interpretation and translation fees.

If the person who died had insurance, the insurance company will appoint a funeral director both locally and in the UK.

2. What to do if the person who died didn’t have insurance

If you are not sure whether the person who died had insurance, check with their bank, credit card company or employer.

If the person who died did not have insurance, a relative or a formally appointed representative will usually have to appoint a funeral director and be responsible for all costs. The FCDO provides a list of  UK-based international funeral directors .

If you wish to arrange a funeral in Poland or repatriate the person who died to the UK, the FCDO provides a list of funeral directors in Poland.

Larger funeral directors in Poland will usually be equipped to offer international services such as repatriations.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office cannot help with any costs.

3. Charities and organisations that offer support

Some UK-based charities and organisations may be able to offer assistance, support and information to people affected by a death abroad. The FCDO provides a list of  UK-based charities and organisations  that can help.

4. Next of kin

The next of kin of the person who died will usually need to make decisions and practical arrangements.

There is no legal definition of next of kin in the UK. In Poland, the next of kin is a registered spouse or children and grandchildren. A dispute over the next of kin would be decided by a civil suit in court.

In Poland, the police will notify the next of kin of the death as long as the details are known or can be established.

5. Registering the death and obtaining a death certificate

Deaths must be registered in the country where the person died. In Poland a death is registered at the local Registry Office (Urząd Stanu Cywilnego, Referat zgonów). In order to get the document a family member, next of kin, a landlord or an authorised undertaker should apply at the local Registry Office of the area where a person died within three days of obtaining the death card for a death certificate.

When applying for a death certificate, the death card and the identification document of a deceased person should be presented. If this is a passport, the Registry Office forwards it to the Embassy where it is cancelled and may be returned to the family if requested. In case of a sudden, unexpected or suspicious death, the Prosecutor’s consent is needed when applying for a death certificate. Three initial copies of the death certificate are issued free of charge. There are two versions of death certificates:

• abbreviated version (skrócony)
• full version (zupełny).

Both the death certificate and the death card should be translated into English by a sworn translator.

You do not need to register the death in the UK. The local death certificate can usually be used in the UK for most purposes, including probate.

If you wish, you can  register the death with the Overseas Registration Unit . You can order a UK-style death certificate, known as a Consular Death Registration certificate. A record will be sent to the General Register Office within 12 months.

You need to tell the local authorities if the person who died suffered from an infectious condition, such as hepatitis or HIV, so they can take precautions against infection.

6. Dealing with a local post-mortem

Post-mortems are normally performed when the cause of death is unknown, unnatural, sudden or violent.

In most Polish provinces, the doctor carrying out the death inspection will decide whether a post-mortem is necessary. If a death takes place in a hospital, the medical history will also form part of the decision making. The public prosecutor may order a post-mortem if the death happens in a public area, if a third-party was involved, or if third-party involvement cannot be ruled out.

Forensic doctors appointed by the court carry out the post-mortem. Cultural or religious sensitivities may not be taken into account. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office cannot stop or interfere with the process.

During a post-mortem, small tissue samples and organs may be removed and retained for testing without the consent of the person’s family. You will not automatically be told if this happens.

If any organs are removed, they will be returned before the body is released for burial. In exceptional circumstances, for example, if further investigation is deemed necessary, body parts may be retained without permission. If this happens, the next of kin will be informed.

Post-mortem reports are not usually made available to the next of kin. However, an appointed lawyer can apply for a report from the public prosecutor.

6.1 Mortuary facilities

Mortuaries in Poland are located at:

• cemeteries, where bodies are kept in certified cold storage facilities until the funeral, burial, or repatriation of the remains;
• hospitals, mainly for post-mortem examinations to establish the exact cause of death;
• university medical faculties.

The police and public prosecutor regulate whether the next of kin is permitted or required to visit or identify the deceased.

Mortuaries are situated all over Poland, but not necessarily in every municipality. If the deceased needs to be kept in a mortuary, the costs would have to be covered by the next of kin.

7. Bringing the body home

If the person who died had insurance, find out if their insurance provider can help cover the cost of repatriation. Repatriation is the process of bringing the body home. If so, they will make the necessary arrangements.

If the person who died is not covered by insurance, you may have to appoint a funeral director yourself. You can appoint an international funeral director or a local funeral director with international capabilities.

The funeral director needs certain documents in order to arrange the repatriation. They would need:

• a death card (karta zgonu). This shows the results of the medical examination and the date, time, place and cause of death
• a local death certificate (akt zgonu).

7.1 Find an international funeral director

Some local funeral directors may be able to arrange the repatriation to the UK. You should ask your appointed funeral director if they have the capabilities and understand the requirements.

If not, a relative or formally appointed representative can appoint a UK-based international funeral director to support with the repatriation to the UK. The FCDO provides a list of  UK-based international funeral directors .

Local funeral directors will work with UK-based international funeral directors to make sure all the necessary requirements are met both locally and in the UK. This includes providing documents such as a local death certificate and a certificate giving permission to transfer the remains to the UK.

8. Advice and financial assistance for repatriation

For organisations and charities that may be able to offer assistance with repatriation, see information on LBT Global in  Coping with death abroad: specialist support and advice  or  repatriation charities in Northern Ireland and Wales .

If you wish to arrange a post-mortem in the UK once the body has been repatriated, you can make a request to a UK coroner. The coroner will then decide if a post-mortem is needed. If you want the person who died to be cremated you need to  apply for a certificate from the coroner - form ‘Cremation 6’ .

9. Bringing the ashes home

If you choose local cremation, you should seek advice from your funeral director on the regulations on the repatriation of ashes from Poland to the UK.

The FCDO provides a  list of UK-based international funeral directors .

Polish cremation authorities will only release ashes (in sealed urns) to UK funeral directors.

If a local cremation is preferred and the ashes are to be taken to the UK, a consent of the local sanitary authorities (Powiatowa Inspekcja Sanitarna) who seals the urn is required.

Before the consent is issued you need to present both the death card and the death certificate of the deceased.

Please be informed that the Consular Section of the British Embassy in Warsaw does not issue letters regulating the conditions for the entry of a body or urn with ashes into the UK. The current procedure is in accordance with the guidelines of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in London and applies to all British diplomatic missions in Europe.

You should not have the person cremated abroad if you want a UK coroner to conduct an inquest into their death.

10. Burying or cremating the body locally

To have a local burial or cremation, a relative or a formally appointed representative needs to appoint a local funeral director.

The FCDO provides a list of funeral directors in Poland.

A local burial is usually only possible if the deceased had their main place of residence in Poland.

Foreign nationals can have a local cremation in Poland. Most crematoria in Poland require a signed consent and data protection declaration form completed by the deceased person before their death, or by the next of kin after the death.

You are not allowed to scatter ashes locally in Poland. Only authorised parties such as funeral directors can accept, hold or transport ashes.

If the next of kin does not have the financial means to pay for a funeral or cremation, the state will instruct a so-called “pauper’s funeral” and it would be up to the next of kin to take this forward.

11. Retrieving belongings

The police or local authority will take receipt of personal belongings found on the person who died at the time of their death if the family is not present.

If access to the belongings of the deceased may be restricted, you should seek legal advice on how to proceed.

If you choose to repatriate, instruct the local funeral director to collect all personal belongings from the police or court and transport them together with the body. Arrangements should be put in place at the time of the transfer. It can be difficult to arrange the return of personal belongings after the repatriation has taken place.

The personal belongings of the deceased can be returned to the next of kin. The next of kin should discuss this with the local police.

The police may wish to hold on to the personal belongings if the circumstances of the death are unknown or suspicious, or if a police investigation is ongoing. The police may also retain clothing as evidence.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office cannot take responsibility for the personal belongings of the person who died or help with the cost of returning personal belongings to the family.

12. Finding a translator

You may need a translator to help you understand the information or get certain documents translated. The FCDO provides a list of translators in Poland.

13. Finding a lawyer

You can apply to appoint a lawyer in certain circumstances, such as a suspicious death. The FCDO provides a list of lawyers.

14. Cancelling a passport

To avoid identity fraud, the passport of the person who died should be cancelled with His Majesty’s Passport Office (HMPO). To do this, you need to  complete a D1 form .

If you plan to repatriate the person who died to the UK, you may require their passport to do this. In these circumstances, you should cancel the passport after they have been repatriated.

15. Checking you have done everything you need to do in the UK

Check this step-by-step guide for when someone dies  to make sure you have done everything you need to do in the UK. You can find information on:

• how to tell the government about the death
• UK pensions and benefits
• dealing with the estate of the person who died.

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Welcome to Warsaw

Welcome to Warsaw for the 2024 UEFA Super Cup! 🤩

UEFA Champions League winners Real Madrid take on UEFA Europa League holders Atalanta on Wednesday 14 August.

Heading to Poland? Download the official UEFA Champions League app and explore the Event Companion section.

You’ll have access to all the Super Cup matchday info including travel guidance, tips, Fan Festival activities, event maps and much more! 📱

All you need to know

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