warsaw poland tourism

Explore Warsaw

Events calendar.

Women of the Right Bank

Muzeum Warszawskiej Pragi Oddział Muzeum Warszawy

Free Jokes. Humour of the 1990s

Muzeum Karykatury im. Eryka Lipińskiego

A Tiger came into the Garden: Art of Maria Prymachenko

Muzeum nad Wisłą

A Card from the Warsaw Uprising – Virtual Reality Film & Exhibition

Fabryka Norblina ul. Żelazna 51/53, Warszawa

33. Mozart Festival

Wianki nad Wisłą/Wreaths on the Vistula River

Multimedialny Park Fontann

Warsaw for foodies

What to eat?

Warsaw cuisine is like the city: diverse, multicultural, delectable and full of energy.

Where to eat?

Warsaw is the culinary capital of Poland. There are plenty of elegant restaurants listed in the Michelin guide, atmospheric pubs for meetings with friends, casual milk bars and outdoor breakfast markets.

Paradise for vegetarians and vegans

Warsaw is at the forefront of the world when it comes to the number of vegan and vegetarian eateries.

Warsaw Quest

Plan your stay.

The capital of both the Mazovia province and of Poland itself, this is a truly extraordinary city. Situated right in the heart of Europe, at the intersection of Europe’s east-west and north-south transport routes, Warsaw is major economic, academic, cultural and tourist hub with a dazzling array of historical sites and tourist attractions that captivates everyone who visits.

A City Worth Discovering

Warsaw is the epitome of a dynamic European metropolis, its trademarks – besides a rich history – being its open-minded residents, the River Vistula and exceptional cuisine. The Polish capital is a city that is constantly changing, to be discovered anew with every successive visit. And, trust us, you will come back…

Old Town: The Beating Heart of Warsaw

There’s no better place to start your tour of Warsaw than the spectacular Old Town, whose history goes back 700 years. And it will feel as though the buildings are ancient as well, even though the truth, however mind boggling it is to comprehend, is that this incredible part of Warsaw was reconstructed after it was completely destroyed during World War II on – wait for it – the basis of paintings by Canaletto. It was recreated with such attention to detail that it is rightly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the Old Town is a beguiling, charmingly cosy area with a unique atmosphere and original architectural details, which becomes especially enchanting after nightfall. The Old Town Square is its lifeblood, packed in summer with outdoor cafés and people strolling around, making it one of capital’s most popular spots. A statue of the Warsaw Mermaid, the city’s symbol, stands proudly in the centre. It may well be the only mermaid wielding a sword and shield you’ll ever see. Eleven tenement buildings around the Square are occupied by the Museum of Warsaw, where collections of historical artefacts tell the incredible story of the city and its residents. Another historical treasure trove is found in the nearby Gothic St. John’s Cathedral, with tombs of the last Dukes of Mazovia, plaques in memory of Polish patriots and statesmen, and the Chapel of Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, often referred to as “Primate of the Millennium”.

Along the Royal Route

Warsaw was the seat of Polish rulers for centuries, as evidenced by impressive historical buildings lining the well-known Royal Route: The Presidential Palace, the Ministry of Culture and Art, the Academy of Fine Arts and the University of Warsaw as well as elegant former royal residences. Among these is the stunning Baroque Royal Castle, the official residence of Polish kings from the 16th Century onwards, where you can see royal insignia and thrones as well as paintings by famous artists, including Rembrandt, Canaletto and Matejko. The nearby Sigismund Column is Poland’s most famous monument and a favourite meeting place of Warsovians and tourists alike. Another royal residence on the Royal Route is the chic, classical Palace on the Water in Royal Łazienki Park. If you visit its lavish interiors, do check out the paintings from the collection of Poland’s last king, Stanisław Poniatowski. Free piano concerts take place at the Fryderyk Chopin monument in the park every Sunday in summer, which draw in people from near and far. The Royal Route ends at the former residence of King Jan III Sobieski in Wilanów. In this vivid yellow Baroque palace surrounded by spacious gardens, richly decorated and furnished chambers show how the palace’s successive wealthy owners lived and how they upheld the memory of the king who famously won the Battle of Vienna. Interestingly, this was one of the only buildings not damaged during the war.

Tracing Recent History

The phenomenal Palace of Culture and Science, built in an Art Deco-meets-Stalinism style, stands in the very heart of Warsaw and has become a modern icon of the city. Towering over 230 metres into the sky, it is visible from practically every corner of the capital, and houses a theatre, cinema, museums, cafés and the main Tourist Information Point. An unbeatable panorama of Warsaw can be viewed from the observation deck on the 30th floor, including some spectacular new skyscrapers and both banks of the River Vistula. After World War II, this socialist-realism style of architecture was applied to most newly built monuments, public buildings and even entire districts. Examples of this include the MDM hotel near around Konstytucji Square and the Muranów estate, built on the ruins of the Warsaw Ghetto.

A tourist route running through the historical Jewish district will take you to the über-modern multimedia POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, the Umschlagplatz (where the Germans transported Warsaw’s Jews to the Treblinka concentration camp), a fragment of the wall separating the ghetto from the “Aryan side”, and plaques in the pavement marking where the ghetto boundary used to be. The eventful and dramatic history of the city can also be experienced at the interactive Warsaw Rising Museum. It documents the 63-day heroic struggle of Warsovians against the occupying forces during World War II. The tragic events of 1944 changed the Polish capital in every possible way forever and heavily influenced its present-day character.

Respite on the Vistula

For a welcome break from all the noise, hustle and bustle of the big city, head on down to the waterfront. The riverbanks are one of the biggest drawcards of Warsaw; clean, well-kept beaches attract both sports fans and those searching for somewhere to rest, while the boulevards with their bike paths, observation decks, a mini-beach and river marinas are appreciated by locals and tourists of every age. In summer, people flock to the Multimedia Fountain Park to watch the spectacular laser shows inspired by Warsaw legends about Wars and Sawa, the Story of Basilisk, and Syrenka, the Warsaw Mermaid.

The nearby Copernicus Science Centre is also worth seeing, as is the multi-level garden on the roof of the University of Warsaw Library, from where you can enjoy fantastic views of the Praga district.

The right or east-bank part of Warsaw was culturally, ethnically and religiously diverse for centuries. As it was, fortunately and almost miraculously, not destroyed during World War II, it is now considered to be the most authentic part of the city. Whilst taking a walk along its streets, look out for surprises in the most unexpected of places – discover shrines hidden away in the courtyards, seek out the original murals found in the area, and of course, pop along to visit the Polish Vodka Museum in the renovated Koneser centre in Praga district, fittingly a former distillery. As evening falls, the Saska Kępa neighbourhood is a great place to combine taking in some stunning examples of modernist architecture with a well-deserved stop at one of the many great eateries serving flavours from around over the world.

Flavours of Warsaw

Among its many titles, Warsaw is also the undisputed culinary capital of Poland. Its many bars and restaurants include “milk bars” established back in communist times, as well as Michelin star restaurants. Hala Koszyki and Hala Gwardii are among the trendiest spots nowadays, with dozens of restaurants and bars. Anyone with a sweet tooth is really going to enjoy this city: local bakeries and cafés serve Warsaw’s traditional wuzetka cakes (a yummy chocolate and cream layered combination), Wedel chocolate and natural ice cream. Breakfast markets and food truck rallies as well as the Fine Dining Weekend and Restaurant Week festivals are also quite popular. There is literally an endless list of reasons to visit Warsaw. What are you waiting for?

Warsaw   Travel Guide

Courtesy of jacek_kadaj | Getty Images

Why Go To Warsaw

Kraków may be known as Poland's cultural capital, but the country's official capital – Warsaw – is just as appealing to culture hounds. After all, this is the city where iconic figures like Marie Curie and Frédéric Chopin grew up. Following a day spent at a music festival or the Copernicus Science Centre , you can explore the historic Old Town neighborhood. Or, soak up Warsaw's rich (and often dark) past at museums like the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews . No matter how you fill your day, you can end it with locally made vodkas or hearty traditional fare (think: meat and potatoes) at one of the city's restaurants, bar mleczny (government-subsidized eateries) or street vendors.

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Best of Warsaw

Best hotels in warsaw.

• # 1 in Hotel Bristol, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Warsaw
• # 2 in H15 Boutique Hotel
• # 3 in Polonia Palace Hotel

Best Things to Do in Warsaw

• # 1 in Old Town (Stare Miasto)
• # 2 in Lazienki Królewskie Museum (Muzeum Lazienki Królewskie)
• # 3 in POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews (POLIN Muzeum Historii Zydów Polskich)

Popular Tours

From Warsaw Auschwitz and Krakow one day tour by train with pick up and drop off

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from $ 165.23

Chopin Concerts everyday at the Fryderyk Concert Hall

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from $ 23.53

One day tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau from Warsaw by car

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from $ 203.52

Warsaw Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Warsaw is between June and August. Although these months constitute Warsaw's peak season, summer's pleasant temperatures (which hover in the 50s, 60s and 70s) and ample seasonal activities make up for dealing with larger crowds at attractions. If you're sticking to a tight budget, you'll score discounted rates on rooms and flights between December and February (Warsaw's winter) thanks to the region's chilly 20- to 30-degree weather. March to May and September through November (the city's spring and fall seasons) are also cost-effective times to visit, with May and September providing relatively comfortable temps in the high 40s to high 60s.

Weather in Warsaw

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Stay in or near Old Town  This central neighborhood (and its adjacent districts) boast several top attractions and feature everything from affordable hostels to five-star properties.

Restroom customs differ here Public restrooms – such as ones found in metro stations and some cafes – generally cost 1 or 2 Polish zloty (or less than $1) to use. Also, keep in mind the symbols used to designate gender-specific bathrooms: Women's restrooms are marked with circles, while men's facilities have triangles.

The nightlife scene is growing Poland produces about 40 percent of the European Union's vodka, so it's hardly surprising that Poles like to drink. You'll find watering holes and nightclubs throughout Warsaw, especially in trendy neighborhoods like Praga and Powisle.

How to Save Money in Warsaw

Buy a Warsaw Pass If you plan on visiting multiple sights and using public transportation, consider buying an upgraded Warsaw Pass card . These passes, which cost 105 to 219 Polish zloty (or between $29 and $61) per person, cover one to three days of unlimited rides on Warsaw's metro, trams and buses, as well as entrance fees for attractions like the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews and the Copernicus Science Centre .

Skip traditional restaurant meals Warsaw's street food vendors and bar mleczny (or milk bars, government-subsidized cafeterias that were popular during Poland's communist era) are some of the city's best spots to enjoy cheap, authentic Polish dishes like pierogies (potato-filled dumplings) and zapiekanki (a pizza-like dish made with a baguette half instead of dough).

Take advantage of free days at museums  Most of Warsaw's must-see museums – including the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the Lazienki Królewskie Museum – offer waived admissions on Thursdays or Sundays.

Culture & Customs

Warsaw's occupation by Nazi Germany during World War II is one of the darkest periods in the city's history. Many Polish Jews living in the city at the time died while trying to survive in ghettos and death camps or fighting against their oppressors during the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943. Their suffering during World War II and their far-reaching cultural impact is commemorated at many of Warsaw's museums and monuments, including the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews and the Warsaw Uprising Museum .

Although Warsaw's historic attractions and ample museums are the main reasons visitors flock to the city, Poland's capital also boasts a lively nightlife scene, especially in up-and-coming neighborhoods like Powisle and Praga. What's more, famous musicians like Frédéric Chopin and Wladyslaw Szpilman once called Warsaw home, so it's hardly surprising that the city hosts an array of music-focused events, including free outdoor piano concerts at the Lazienki Królewskie Museum and various jazz festivals. Famed scientist Marie Curie and art deco artist Tamara de Lempicka also lived in the capital.

English is spoken by many Poles, so you shouldn't have any issues communicating with locals. However, Poland's official language is Polish, and learning a few basic words and phrases in Polish – like " czesc " (hello), " prosze " (please), " dziekuje " (thank you) and " do widzenia " (goodbye) – will likely come in handy.

Unlike other members of the European Union, Poland uses the Polish zloty as its official currency (1 Polish zloty is equal to $0.28). But, euros are occasionally accepted as a valid form of payment for select tours and at a limited number of stores. Since the Polish zloty (or euro) to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go. And keep in mind Poland's tipping etiquette: Leaving a tip is not customary, but if exceptional service is provided, feel free to tip 10 to 15 percent of your bill.

What to Eat

Warsaw may not be known as a foodie destination, but its dining scene is arguably the best in Poland. Many of the city's best restaurants – including Stolica , Restauracja Polska Rózana and Soul Kitchen Bistro – feature Polish classics like pierogies (a dumpling-like dish that features a potato stuffing) on their menus. Other must-try dishes include  zurek (a sour rye soup that's loaded with hard-boiled eggs and sausage) and bigos (a dish made of fried and stewed cabbage, sauerkraut, mushrooms and meats like bacon and kielbasi , grilled sausages). Modern versions of traditional Polish items, meanwhile, can be found at eateries like the Amber Room Restauracja and N31 restaurant&bar .

For affordable Polish cuisine, Warsaw's street vendors and bar mleczny (or milk bars, government-subsidized eateries that were commonplace during Poland's communist rule) can't be missed. These casual eateries serve popular items like zapiekanka (a baguette half topped with mushrooms, cheese and ketchup) and fasolka po Bretonsku (a stewed version of baked beans) and are located throughout the city. Popular milk bars include Bar Bambino and Prasowy .

Warsaw also boasts multiple ethnic restaurants that specialize in everything from French to Israeli cuisine. According to recent travelers, some of the city's best ethnic eateries include Maho Restaurant (which serves Turkish fare), InAzia (a Japanese restaurant) and Mr India (where Indian dishes are on the menu).

Additionally, Warsaw produces nearly half of the European Union's vodka. Visitors ages 18 and older can sample vodkas at many of the city's bars and restaurants, but for an in-depth look at the spirit, consider signing up for a tasting with local tour operators like XperiencePoland and Eat Polska . XperiencePoland's tasting costs 29 euros (roughly $34) per person and includes eight vodka samples and two Polish snacks. Meanwhile, Eat Polska's tasting is 290 Polish zloty (or about $80.50) per person and features six or seven vodka samples, plus five or six food pairings.

Poland's crime rate is low overall, but theft and pickpocketing (especially at popular attractions and on public transportation) occasionally occur. As such, travelers should keep an eye on their belongings and surroundings at all times. It is also best to avoid public demonstrations, which are fairly common in Poland and can become violent, and to travel with others at night and in crowded areas like Old Town . For more tips on how to stay safe while visiting Warsaw, check out the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Warsaw

The best ways to get around Warsaw are on foot and via public transportation. Many top attractions sit within walking distance of one another, while others are easy to reach by metro, tram or bus. Warsaw's public transportation network – operated by Zarzad Transportu Miejskiego – is extensive, offering approximately 200 bus routes and 30 tram, four train and two metro lines. The easiest way to get to central Warsaw from the airport is to use the S2 or S3 train, but once you're downtown, plan on using the metro or trams. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available, but are not a cost-effective option for traveling longer distances. You may also opt to rent a car, but Warsaw's streets are not the easiest to navigate and offer limited parking in the city center. To get to Warsaw, travelers fly into Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW), which is about 5 miles south of central Warsaw.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Americans can visit Poland for up to 90 days without a visa, but you must have a passport that's valid for at least three months after your departure date (though six months validity is recommended). Additionally, you will be required to show proof of sufficient funds and a return airline ticket when you arrive. Visit the U.S. State Department's website to learn more about entry and exit requirements.

Everything from pastel-hued, late 18th-century buildings to communist-era apartments to modern skyscrapers can be found in Warsaw's Old Town area.

Explore More of Warsaw

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Must-see attractions in Warsaw

Wilanów Palace

Warsaw’s top palace, 10km south of the city centre, was commissioned by King Jan III Sobieski in 1677. It has changed hands several times over the…

Palace of Culture & Science

For over 60 years this socialist realist palace has dominated central Warsaw. A ‘gift of friendship’ from the Soviet Union, it was completed in 1955 and…

Royal Castle

This remarkable copy of the original castle blown up by the Germans in WWII is filled with authentic period furniture and original works of art…

Warsaw Rising Museum

This exceptional museum, housed in a former tram power station and its surrounding grounds, traces the history of the city's heroic but doomed uprising…

POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews

Housed in one of Warsaw's best examples of contemporary architecture, this award-winning museum documents 1000 years of Jewish history in Poland. The…

Copernicus Science Centre

The fully interactive, push-the-buttons-and-see-what-happens Copernicus Science Centre pulls off that tricky feat of being both hugely fun and educational…

Łazienki Park

Pronounced wah-zhen-kee, this beautiful park includes manicured gardens, an ornamental lake, wooded glades and strutting peacocks. Once a hunting ground,…

Fryderyk Chopin Museum

This multimedia museum within the baroque Ostrogski Palace showcases the work of Poland’s most famous composer. You’re encouraged to take your time…

Neon Museum

Situated within the Soho Factory complex of old industrial buildings housing designers and artists, this museum is devoted to the preservation of the…

Museum of Warsaw

Occupying 11 tenement houses on the north side of the Old Town Sq, this superb museum tells Warsaw's dramatic history in innovative ways. Start with the…

Praga Museum of Warsaw

Occupying three tenement buildings spanning the 18th and 19th centuries, this museum does a fantastic job of covering Praga's rich and varied history. It…

National Museum

Drawing on a collection of some 830,000 works of art, both local and international, this is Poland's largest museum. It will come as a revelation for…

Old Town Square

For those with an eye for historic buildings this is Warsaw's loveliest square, not to mention its oldest having been established at the turn of the 13th…

Wilanów Park

This splendid 45-hectare park adjoins Wilanów Palace and contains a variety of landscaping. The central part comprises a manicured, two-level baroque…

Jewish Cemetery

Founded in 1806, Warsaw's main Jewish Cemetery covering 33.4 hectares contains more than 150,000 tombstones, the largest and most beautiful collection of…

Żabińskis' Villa

The incredible true life story of how zoo director Jan Żabiński and his wife Antonia helped save over 70 Jews during WWII has become famous through the…

Palace on the Isle

Łazienki Park's centrepiece is a delightful neoclassical palace, the former residence of King Stanisław August Poniatowski, which stands on an island in…

Warsaw Zoological Gardens

Established in 1928, this well-managed zoo is home to some 3000 animals representing 500 species from across the world, including bears, wolves,…

Jewish Historical Institute

Just behind a blue skyscraper (which stands on the location of the Great Synagogue destroyed by the Germans), JHI houses a library and exhibitions related…

Monument to the Warsaw Rising

One of Warsaw’s most important landmarks, this dynamic bronze tableau depicts Armia Krajowa (AK; Home Army) fighters emerging ghostlike from the shattered…

Poster Museum

Polish poster art is outstanding and this museum's collection numbers over 36,000, with an additional 26,000 artistic, advertising and propaganda prints…

Heavens of Copernicus Planetarium

You may well find yourself wanting to make multiple visits to this far from average planetarium. A packed repertoire of films is projected across a 16m…

National Stadium

This prominent landmark on the east bank of the Vistula was constructed for the Euro 2012 football championships on the site of a communist-era stadium…

Katyn Museum

This sombre museum is devoted not only to the massacre of Polish military officers in the forests of Katyn in 1940, but also all Polish victims of Soviet…

Bródno Jewish Cemetery

Having suffered great damage during WWII and almost total destruction during Poland's communist years, this historic graveyard, where Jews have been…

Królikarnia

A serene escape from the city is this park and Palladian palace (known as the 'Rabbit House') that showcases the National Museum's collection of works by…

Railway Museum

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Fotoplastikon

Photography enthusiasts will be thrilled by this late-19th-century contraption. Reputedly the last working example of its kind in Europe, it consists of a…

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

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Ghetto Heroes Monument

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David Bowie Mural

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Saxon Garden

Covering 15.5 hectares, this splendid garden, founded in the late 17th century, became Warsaw’s first public park in 1727. Initially modelled on…

Church of the Holy Cross

Of Warsaw's many impressive churches, this is the one most visitors want to see – not so much to admire the fine baroque altarpieces that miraculously…

Powązki Cemetery

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Pawiak Prison Museum

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Warsaw University Library

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Open Jazdów

A pleasant spot to hang out is this charming wooded enclave in the heart of Warsaw. The colony of some 20-odd Finnish wooden cottages have been here since…

St Anne's Church

Marking the start of the Royal Way, this is arguably Warsaw's most ornate church. It escaped major damage during WWII, which explains why it sports an…

One of Warsaw's most pleasant residential areas, Żoliborz derives its name from joli bord, French for 'beautiful embankment'. During Russian Imperial rule…

Old Orangery

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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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Home » Travel Guides » Poland » 25 Best Things to Do in Warsaw (Poland)

25 Best Things to Do in Warsaw (Poland)

It is not hyperbole to say that Warsaw is a city that has risen from the rubble. In 1945 85% of the city was irretrievably destroyed. But you could now walk the streets of the Old Town without comprehending the carnage that took place during the German invasion of 1939, the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943 and the general Warsaw Uprising a year later.

The human impact is harder to mend, and Warsaw has museums and monuments that give unflinching accounts of one of the darkest periods in European History. But there are also memories of the splendour of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth of the Early Modern Age, when Warsaw was the capital of Europe’s largest empire. To see it, take the Royal Route, which threads through royal properties like Łazienki Park, a little world of palaces and pavilions in the middle of the city.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Warsaw :

1. Old Town

When you tour a historic city centre you’re normally out for genuine, untouched architecture and monuments.

But after Warsaw’s experiences in the 20th century, the magic of this quarter is in the detailed and faithful reconstruction carried out up to 1962. After almost nine tenths of the city was wiped out, the Old Town’s rebirth was an incredible feat that has earned it Old Town UNESCO World Heritage Status.

As you pick your way along alleys and passageways, past guildhalls, churches and burgher houses you’d never imagine that this was all just a pile of debris 70 years ago.

A couple of sights that we haven’t included on the list below are Canon Square, a triangular plaza enclosed by tenements that once houses canons of the Warsaw Chapter, and St John’s Archcathedral, holding the tomb of Stanisław II Augustus, the last King of Poland.

Available tour : Warsaw Old Town 1.5-Hour Segway Tour

2. Royal Route

It happens that nearly all of Warsaw’s historic landmarks are on a single axis beginning at the Castle Square and continuing south for 15 kilometres or so before arriving at Wilanów Palace.

On this line are churches, parks, palaces, academic institutions and plush townhouses.

The three residences that give the route its “royal” title are the Royal Castle at the top, Łazienki Palace in its stunning eponymous park, and Wilanów Palace at the southern terminus.

All three are absolutely essential, resonating with the wealth and might of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth of the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

3. Łazienki Park

Warsaw’s largest park is an anchor on the Royal Route and is an excursion of choice for families and couples on the weekend.

The park started out as the royal baths (Łazienki translates to “baths”) and was enriched in the 18th century by a grand plan during the reign of King Stanisław II Augustus.

In these 76 leafy hectares are palaces, pavilions, two orangeries, an amphitheatre, a planetarium, follies, promenades, water features and monuments of national standing.

Hopping from one villa to the next, marvelling at the sumptuous Łazienki Palace, pottering around four museums or just relaxing in the greenery; a whole day could float by here in no time.

Maybe the most prestigious of the monuments is for the composer Frédéric Chopin, designed in 1907 in the Art Nouveau style, but delayed by the First World War and erected in 1926.

4. Old Town Market Place

Up to the creation of Stanisław II Augustus’ New Town at the end of the 18th century, this square was the epicentre of commercial life in Warsaw.

It is the most historic part of the Old Town and is enveloped by tall Renaissance and Baroque merchants’ houses in a spectrum of colours.

All of these buildings are post-war replicas of what came before, as the square was first bombed by the Luftwaffe and then blown up by the Germans at the end of the Warsaw Uprising in 1944. Immediately after the war the square was rebuilt as it had been, including the bizarre but charming vertical extensions that cap some of the houses.

The mermaid figure on the fountain in the centre holds special meaning for Warsaw, while in summer you can park up at a restaurant table and watch the city going about its day.

5. POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews

Seven years in the making, this museum fully opened in 2014 and documents the millennium-long history of the Jews in Poland.

POLIN is at the northern part of the former Warsaw ghetto in Muranów, and was designed by Finnish architect Rainer Mahlamäki.

In eight galleries, the core exhibition uses a mixture of genuine artefacts, reconstructions and interactive displays to explain how Poland became home for Europe’s largest Jewish community.

You can see a prayer book from 1272 with an early sentence written in Yiddish and find out about the golden age of religious tolerance in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Later comes the Holocaust, and in the gloom are stories about the heroic efforts of the Oyneg Shabbos group to archive the truth about the Warsaw ghetto.

Suggested tour : Warsaw Polin Museum Guided Tour

6. Royal Castle

At the southern entrance to the Old Town you’ll be met by the 90-metre facade of the Mannerist and Baroque castle, the seat of the Polish monarchs for hundreds of years.

The castle has come through an eventful 700 years involving two demolitions, one by the Swedes in the mid-17th century and another by the Germans in the Second World War.

Since the last reconstruction in the 1980s the castle has been a museum, where you can view the apartments of the 16th-century King Sigismund II Augustus, and visit the House of Parliament, the fountain-head of Polish democracy and where amendments made to the Polish-Lithuanian constitution ushered in unprecedented religious tolerance.

There’s also a collection of paintings from the 16th to the 18th century by masters like Rembrandt, van Dyck, Joos van Cleve and Gainsborough.

Book online : Tour of the Royal Castle in Warsaw

7. Castle Square

When Poland’s capital moved from Kraków to Warsaw in 1596 the square beside the castle became the cornerstone of the largest Empire in Renaissance Europe.

The man who brought about this switch was Sigismund III Vasa, who is commemorated by a bronze statue atop an 8.5-metre column.

This was first raised in 1644, but was toppled by the Germans in 1944 and its original red marble was replaced with granite.

There are still fragments of the marble column by the castle walls.

Some events that shook Poland have taken place here, like a bloody riot during the period of Martial Law in 1982, a massacre by the Russians during an uprising in 1861 and a speech by Bill Clinton welcoming Poland into NATO in 1997. Whether it’s a rally or concert there’s often something going on at Castle Square in summer.

8. Warsaw Uprising Museum

This museum of the Warsaw Uprising of August to October 1944 is in the converted former tramway power station in the Wola district.

On entering you can use pre-War telephone receivers to listen to the memories of participants in the uprising.

Among the many clever installations is the Kino palladium, a cinema showing the footage collected by the insurgents and screened at the Warsaw Palladium during the uprising.

There are also replicas of the sewers that the fighters used to get around, while ‘before and after’ photographs of the city bring home the ruthlessness of the German backlash.

9. Copernicus Science Centre

Poland’s top science museum opened in 2010 and has more than 400 interactive exhibits across six zones, each tackling a different field, from the Roots of Civilisation to the Lightzone, investigating the nature of light.

The World in Motion for instance has an earthquake simulator to try out as well as a moving model that showing a human skeleton on a bicycle.

At the Humans and the Environment zone you can find out about urban ecosystems, contruction technology.

There are also webcams beaming footage directly from a falcon’s nest at the Palace of Culture and Science, and the gorilla enclosure at the Warsaw Zoo.

The centre also has a state-of-the-art planetarium with a 3D sound system, screening shows about the cosmos, but also nature and human cultures.

10. Palace of Culture and Science

Whatever your opinion on this enormous building, it is practically ever-present in Warsaw.

At 237 metres the Palace of Culture and Science is the tallest building in Poland, and on its 42 floors are four theatres, a multi-screen cinema, two museums, the 3,000-seater Congress Hall, government offices, academic institutions and private companies.

Taking cues from Art Deco skyscrapers and Polish Historicism, this immense Stalinist complex was a ‘gift from the Soviet Union to the people of Poland’ in 1955, and that’s just one of the reasons it evokes mixed feelings.

If an international event is taking place in Warsaw there’s a good chance it will go down at the Congress Hall, while there’s an observation terrace on the 30th floor open 10:00-20:00 for the ultimate panorama of the city.

11. Łazienki Palace

On the artificial island in the lake at Łazienki Park is the sublime Classical palace conceived in the 18th century for King Stanisław II Augustus.

The property is a conversion of a Baroque bathing pavilion for Count Stanisław Herakliusz Lubomirski from the century before, and has kept some of the architecture from that first building.

The north facade has a portico at the shore of the lake, while the main entrance is in a recess with powerful Corinthian columns, while the roof is hemmed by a balustrade carrying statues of mythological figures.

The ground floor has lavishly decorated salons (The Solomon Room is a stand-out), and the Lower Gallery, has paintings by Jacob Jordaens, Rembrandt and Rubens.

Upstairs is the Upper Gallery, as well as the King’s splendid cabinet and bedchambers.

Included in this tour : Warsaw Half–Day Highlights Tour

12. Wilanów Palace

The palace at the southern end of the Royal Route came through the Second World War without a scratch.

So Wilanów Palace is a rare glimpse of the majesty of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth before Poland was annexed by Prussia and Russia in the late-18th century.

This palace was intended as a summer escape for King Jan III Sobieski towards the end of the 17th century, and has all the hallmarks of Baroque palace architecture, including a parterre with two terraces boasting topiaries, broderie and statues symbolising love.

The exterior is laden with medallions, busts, statues and other Baroque ornamentation, while interior decor abounds with stuccowork, striking trompe-l’œil frescoes and chinoiserie.

High points are the sumptuous White Hall, traced by mirrors, the King’s Library, the King’s Bedroom and the North Gallery, flanked by statues and with magnificent ceiling frescoes.

13. Krakowskie Przedmieście

The most prestigious street in Warsaw makes its way southwards at the beginning of the Royal Route from near the Castle Square.

You’ll see palaces, dignified monuments and eminent Polish institutions like the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw University and the Presidential Palace.

Across from the entrance to Bednarska Street is Warsaw’s second oldest standing monument, the Madonna of Passau.

This dates from 1683 and is a votive offering in thanks for King Jan III Sobieski’s role in the defeat of the Turks at the Battle of Vienna, in which he led the largest cavalry charge in the history of warfare.

14. National Museum

Warsaw’s biggest museum is also one of the largest in Poland and has a huge assortment of historical artefacts from many places and eras.

The collection of antiquities is noteworthy, made up of some 11,000 Egyptian, Greek and Roman pieces.

Also set aside an hour or two to see everything in the Faras Gallery.

This is furnished with Nubian early Christian frescoes, friezes and architectural elements brought here from the Egyptian-Sudanese border before the construction of the Aswan High Dam flooded the valley.

In the collection of Polish Medieval art from the 14th and 15th centuries are works produced for churches and cathedrals, including devotional paintings, altarpieces and sculptures.

And there’s also lots of art from the Early Modern Age and 19th century, by well-known names like Lucas Cranach the Elder, Brueghel the Elder, Rembrandt, Courbet and Renoir.

15. St Anne’s Church

One of the oldest landmarks in the city, St Anne’s Church on Krakowskie Przedmieście was founded in 1454. In the 17th century the church had to be rebuilt no fewer than four times, until receiving its final Neoclassical facade in 1788. In the niches between the columns and pilasters are statues of the Four Evangelists below a massive pediment.

The interior has kept hold of its theatrical Baroque design from a little earlier, and has spectacular frescoes on its barrel vault and has a nave edged by Corinthian pilasters with gilded capitals.

There are also regular organ recitals at St Anne’s, well worth catching.

16. Taras Widokowy na Stare Miasto (Viewing Platform in the Old Town)

St Anne’s Church has a stand alone bell tower, which will provide you with another vantage point over the city.

In fact, this tower may even be better than the Palace of Culture and Science, as it’s planted on the edge of the Old Town and has regal Baroque architecture.

If you can brave the 147 steps you’ll be rewarded by a bird’s eye view of the Castle, Castle Square, the Old Town to the north and Krakowskie Przedmieście to the south.

17. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

In Piłsudski Square, the largest in Warsaw, is a monument for unidentified soldiers who have died fighting for Poland.

The tomb dates to 1925, and contains the body of a soldier who fell in the Battle of Lemberg of 1918-1919 between Poland and the West Ukrainian People’s Republic.

The monument housing the tomb is a fragment (three arches) from the arcade that once belonged to the Saxon Palace, demolished after the Warsaw Uprising.

Under the central arch is the tomb and eternal flame, watched by the Representative Honour Guard Battalion of the Polish Armed Forces.

At the stroke of every hour 365 days a year the guard is changed.

The monument and square are the focus of ceremonies for the Polish Armed Forces Day every 15 August.

18. Jewish Ghetto Memorial

By the Museum of the History of the Polish Jews is a monument to the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943. On the square below the wall is a circular plaque inscribed with the message: ” Those who fell in the unprecedented heroic struggle for the Dignity and Freedom of the Jewish people, for Free Poland, for the liberation of man – Polish Jews”, in Polish, Yiddish and Hebrew.

This was unveiled in 1946 and is encased in red sandstone to symbolise the bloodshed.

The wall behind came later, in 1948, designed by Natan Rapaport and intended to resemble Jerusalem’s Western Wall and the wall of the Warsaw Ghetto.

On the eastern side of the monument a bronze bas-relief depicts Jewish children, women and elderly being driven by German soldiers.

On the west side the monument shows the uprising of April 1943 with a relief titled “Fight”.

Recommended tour : 3-Hour Tour of Jewish Warsaw

19. Okopowa Street Jewish Cemetery

At 33 hectares this Jewish burial ground, dating back to 1806, is one of the largest in the world.

There are over 250,000 marked graves at Okopawa Street Cemetery, as well as several mass graves for those who were killed during the Warsaw Ghetto.

Nature has taken over large swathes of the site, which, along with the Art Nouveau and Historicist monuments, makes the cemetery equal parts beautiful and poignant.

Something interesting about this place is that it was drawn up for Jewish people of all affiliations, so there are allocated areas known as “Quarters” for military burials, Orthodox burials (for men, women and holy scriptures), reform Judaism and children.

After the Second World War a small corner of the cemetery was reopened for Warsaw’s returning Jewish population.

20. Zachęta

At Plac Małachowskiego is a solemn gallery built in 1900 and dedicated to modern and contemporary Polish art.

Since its foundation in 1860 the Society for the Encouragement of Fine Arts has had the job of promoting fine art in Poland.

In its early years some of the nation’s most celebrated painters like Jan Matejko and Wojciech Gerson staged exhibitions Zachęta.

And in the same vein, it remains a shortcut to Poland’s art scene via temporary exhibitions for up-and-coming talent and established names like Katarzyna Kozyra and Krzysztof Wodiczko.

In the permanent collection are pieces by leading post-war artists like the painter and set-designer Tadeusz Kantor and the Surrealist Jewish sculptor Alina Szapocznikow.

21. Nowy Świat Street

Also on the Royal Route, this one-kilometre artery leads southwards from Krakowskie Przedmieście down to Three Crosses Square.

Nowy Świat Street’s origins lie in the 16th century when it was first used by the upper class to reach their properties in the countryside south of the old town.

As Warsaw grew, the city’s wealthier and aristocratic residents built homes along the street.

And by Napoleonic times these were remodelled from half-timbered buildings into fine Neoclassical mansions and villas.

The thoroughfare has cafes, upmarket shops and international retailers like Sephora by day, and lots of nightspots with international clientele when the sun goes down.

22. Copernicus Monument

The monument for the trailblazing Renaissance astronomer and mathematician stands proud in front of the Polish Academy of Sciences at Stazsic Palace.

The work shows Copernicus with a compass and armillary sphere and was fashioned by Bertel Thorvaldsen, maybe the leading sculptor in Europe of the day.

It was presented to the public in 1830 and had an uneventful first century until the Second World War.

Not long after entering the city in 1939 the German authorities replaced the Latin and Polish inscriptions with a one in the German language, leading to a tit-for-tat campaign between the Polish resistance and the occupiers.

After the uprising in 1944 it was removed to the city of Nysa to be melted down, but by then the German army was in retreat and the statue could be rescued and returned to its rightful place.

23. Holy Cross Church

Another of the head-turning sights on Krakowskie Przedmieście, the Holy Cross Church is a Baroque monument built in the first half of the 18th century to a design by the royal court architect Józef Szymon Bellotti.

The church was badly damaged in the Warsaw Uprising and was later blown up by the German army in 1945. And when it was rebuilt right after the war the design was simplified and didn’t include the frescoes and polychrome statues that came before.

But there’s still a very good reason to pay a visit: In accordance with his will, Frédéric Chopin’s heart was brought to this church by his sister in an urn, and embedded in a pillar in one of the chapels.

24. Warsaw University Library Garden

A few steps back from the Vistula River, Warsaw University’s library is strange to behold from ground level: There’s a long and austere stone facade and a blue scaffold-like porch that could be from the Pompidou Centre.

But up the exterior stairway is one of the largest roof gardens in Europe.

Open from March to November, this one-hectare space is a little dreamland of fountains, streams, pergolas, arbours and lawns, while the library’s windows and skylights add a touch of the surreal.

This is all the work of landscape architect Irena Bajersaka and opened in 2002. The city views are also fantastic, encompassing the Vistula, the recent PGE National Stadium and the Copernicus Centre.

25. Saxon Garden

When Saxon Garden off Piłsudski Square opened its gates to the public in 1727 it became one of the first public parks in the World.

It had been landscaped in the 17th century for the Saxon Palace, which was lost in the Second World War, along with the Rococo Brühl Palace that also backed onto the park.

In its first century Saxon Garden was a Baroque parterre in the style of Versailles, but has been an English landscape park since the 19th century.

Seek out the park’s sandstone allegorical sculptures, fashioned in the mid-18th century.

Twenty remain from an initial 70, and you can try to work out what each one symbolises (Intellect, Justice, Astronomy, Painting and Poetry are all pretty easy to decipher).

25 Best Things to Do in Warsaw (Poland):

• Royal Route
• Łazienki Park
• Old Town Market Place
• POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews
• Royal Castle
• Castle Square
• Warsaw Uprising Museum
• Copernicus Science Centre
• Palace of Culture and Science
• Łazienki Palace
• Wilanów Palace
• Krakowskie Przedmieście
• National Museum
• St Anne's Church
• Taras Widokowy na Stare Miasto (Viewing Platform in the Old Town)
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Jewish Ghetto Memorial
• Okopowa Street Jewish Cemetery
• Nowy Świat Street
• Copernicus Monument
• Holy Cross Church
• Warsaw University Library Garden
• Saxon Garden

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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

11 days  / from 1584 USD

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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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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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Warsaw, Poland

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on May 4, 2024

It has taken a while for Warsaw to get back on its feet after the devastating effects of World War II. However, the transformation is now complete.

Nestled along the banks of the Vistula River, Poland’s capital city is one of the most dynamic in Europe. Its charming old town – a UNESCO World Heritage site – features quaint cobblestone streets that accommodate beautiful medieval architecture and lively market squares.

However, there are so many more things to do in Warsaw than just its historic past. It also has a thriving art scene, diverse culinary offerings (with many foreign influences), and plenty of bustling neighborhoods that champion modernity.

In short, Warsaw is a fascinating melting pot of creativity, innovation and resilience that will blow your mind. The best way to experience Warsaw is to embrace it with open arms.

17. Warsaw Barbican

One of your first ports of call in Poland’s capital should be The Warsaw Barbican.

Built in the 16th century, this impressive defensive structure formed part of the fortifications surrounding Warsaw’s Old Town. It comprises thick walls and a series of watchtowers, that remain one of Europe’s last remaining preserved examples of such military architecture.

The structure also features turrets and a distinctive red-brick facade, which showcases Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements. It can be reached by traversing the iconic bridge that leads to it.

Inside the Barbican is a museum with exhibits that detail its history and significance. It provides a good insight into the city’s resilience and enduring spirit.

16. St Anne’s Church

Poland is one of the world’s most religious countries and it houses several centuries-old cathedrals and churches. One of the best of them is St. Anne’s Church.

Founded in the 15th century, the church incorporates both Baroque and Gothic designs. It also features a striking facade that instantly captivates with intricate sculptures, reliefs and other ornate details.

If you like the outside of the church, you should find its interior just as compelling. The remarkable altarpiece and its intricately carved wooden decorations are just two of the features that dominate its layout. Come as soon as it opens to appreciate them at the quietest time.

Moreover, it’s worth climbing to the top of the church’s tower. From there, you’ll get superb panoramic views of Warsaw’s skyline – which you can take plenty of beautiful photos of.

15. Zlote Tarasy

Złote Tarasy is one of Warsaw’s premier complexes for shopping and entertainment. So, if you fancy some retail therapy or want to watch a performance of note, this is the place to come.

Opened in 2007, this architectural marvel is renowned for its undulating glass roof, which is reminiscent of sea waves. It integrates seamlessly with the surrounding urban landscape and accommodates various shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. It also hosts a multi-screen cinema and a fitness center for those who fancy a workout.

As it is near the Warsaw Central Station, the Złote Tarasy is easily accessible. Its design, which features a mix of contemporary and innovative materials, reflects Warsaw’s dynamic spirit of renewal.

14. Chopin Monument

One of Poland’s most famous sons is the composer Frédéric Chopin. If you are a fan of his classical music or happen to be in the lush surroundings of Łazienki Park, it’s worth checking out the Chopin Monument.

This poignant tribute takes the form of a bronze statue that captures Chopin in a contemplative pose. It was sculpted by Wacław Szymanowski and first unveiled to the public in 1926. Surrounding the sculpture is a circular stone bench where you can sit and enjoy the serenity of his music. If you happen to do this around sunset, it is a magical experience.

Having survived the ravages of World War II, the monument has become an endearing symbol of Warsaw’s cultural identity and resilience. In the summer, regular open-air concerts are held here.

13. Castle Square

Situated right in front of the Royal Castle is Castle Square. Locally known as Plac Zamkowy it serves as a starting point for exploring the historic Old Town. At the same time, it is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists.

Surrounded by colorful townhouses, the square dates back to the 17th century. Although it was heavily damaged during World War II, both the square and the castle have been painstakingly reconstructed.

Overall, the square is a vibrant hub of charming cobblestone streets, buzzy cafes and interesting souvenir shops, which makes it a pleasant place to explore. At the center of it is Sigismund’s Column, a prominent landmark that pays homage to King Sigismund III Vasa.

12. Warsaw Uprising Monument

Another intriguing monument to see during your time in the city is the Warsaw Uprising Monument. It provides a solemn tribute to the resilience and sacrifice that the Polish people made during the Warsaw Uprising of 1944.

The bronze memorial was unveiled in 1989 on the 45th anniversary of the uprising. It was created by Wincenty Kućma and honors the brave men and women who fought against Nazi occupation. To see it, you’ll have to make your way to the southern end of Krasinski Square.

The memorial site also includes an underground museum that provides more information about the finer points of the uprising. Whilst there, visitors can witness the stark reality of wartime struggles and pay respects to those who endured unimaginable hardships.

11. Chopin Museum

As well as the Chopin Monument, it is worth checking out The Chopin Museum if you are a fan of classical music.

This brilliantly thought-out and well-maintained museum takes you on a captivating journey through the life and works of this genius composer. It is housed in the Ostrogski Palace and opened its doors in 2010 after an extensive renovation.

The museum features interactive exhibits that provide an immersive experience to visitors. They allow them to explore Chopin’s world through multimedia displays, original manuscripts and even his personal belongings.

Showcasing the composer’s life from childhood to his international acclaim, the museum offers a profound insight into his creative process and the cultural context of his time.

Thanks to innovative audio-visual installations and touch-sensitive screens, you should get a really good understanding of the man and his music.

10. Krakowskie Przedmieście

Connecting the historic Old Town with Wilanów Palace, Krakowskie Przedmieście forms part of the northern section of the famous ‘Royal Route’. It is renowned for its regal history and incredible architecture, including a parade of aristocratic residences, palaces, churches and elegant townhouses that exude a timeless charm.

For centuries, this grand boulevard has been a focal point of Warsaw’s cultural and social life and you get a real sense of this as you traverse the street. Notable landmarks like the Presidential Palace, the University of Warsaw and St. Anne’s Church can all be easily visited. Don’t be surprised if you spend a lot of quality sightseeing time here.

9. Copernicus Science Centre

If you are into science, you’ll want to visit The Copernicus Science Center. This cutting-edge institution is named after the renowned astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus and is dedicated to promoting scientific curiosity and education.

The center boasts modern architecture that features a distinctive spherical structure. It also houses more than 450 interactive exhibits that span various scientific disciplines.

Wandering through the center, visitors can engage in hands-on experiments, explore the wonders of physics, biology and technology and participate in live demonstrations. The center is particularly family-friendly and encourages visitors of all ages to discover the joy of learning through play.

The planetarium and robotic theater are two must-visit destinations at the center.

8. POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews

One of the most fascinating attractions in Warsaw is The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews.

Located on the site of the former Warsaw Ghetto, the institution is the first and only one of its kind in the country. It focuses on honoring the memory of the community created by Jews in Poland. It opened in 2013 and is notable for its unique design, which resembles an open book that symbolizes a dialogue between past and present.

Once inside the museum, you’ll find immersive exhibitions that trace the history of Polish Jews from medieval times to the present day. They highlight the contributions, struggles and cultural richness these people brought.

Overall, the multimedia displays, artifacts and interactive installations provide a comprehensive and emotionally evocative experience for the visitor. The museum also hosts cultural events, lectures, and workshops regularly throughout the year.

7. Palace of Culture and Science

Dominating the skyline in Warsaw is the Palace of Culture and Science, which just happens to be the second tallest building in the country.

Completed in 1955 the structure was designed by Soviet architect Lev Rudnev, who blended various architectural styles, including Socialist Realism. Its design was inspired by the high-rise Art Deco buildings of America and historical Polish architecture.

It was previously known as ‘Joseph Stalin’s Palace of Culture and Science’, however, this name was later dropped during the time of destalinization.

Today, it houses various cultural institutions, theaters, museums and conference halls which you can visit. Tourists can also ascend to its panoramic terrace to enjoy breathtaking views of Warsaw.

6. Warsaw Uprising Museum

If you know your World War II history, you will understand how important the Warsaw Uprising Museum will be to visit. If you don’t, then that is all the more reason to go there.

As its name implies, the museum pays a poignant tribute to the heroic spirit of the Polish resistance during the Warsaw Uprising of 1944. It is housed in a former tram power station and features exhibits that depict the daily life, struggles, and sacrifices of the insurgents.

Through multimedia displays, personal testimonies, and a replica of the underground city where the resistance operated, you’ll gain a good understanding of their experiences.

Visitors can explore an extensive collection of artifacts, including weapons, documents and photographs. At the same time, a reconstructed B-24 Liberator bomber aircraft is a notable highlight.

5. Wilanow Palace

Nestled in the Wilanów district of Warsaw resides one of the country’s most significant historical buildings – Wilanów Palace.

Commissioned by King John III Sobieski in the late 17th century, the palace served as a royal residence and embodied the splendor of Poland’s golden age. It is beautifully set among stunning gardens and parks replete with fountains, sculptures and manicured lawns that are an attraction in themselves.

What makes Wilanów Palace immediately stand out is its seamless blend of Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical architectural styles. You’ll want to snap plenty of photos from different angles to capture its true beauty.

Once inside, you’ll see an impressive collection of art, furnishings and period artifacts that offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Polish royalty.

4. Nowy Swiat

Dating back to the 17th century Nowy Świat is one of the main thoroughfares in Warsaw. Its name translates to ‘New World Street’ in English and it connects Castle Square with Charles de Gaulle Roundabout.

Noted for its historic buildings, boutique shops and inviting cafes, Nowy Świat boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere. It also provides a picturesque route to navigate your way through the heart of the city.

Surviving wars and countless reconstructions, the street possesses an architectural diversity that features styles from different periods. It also has many restaurants that provide excellent opportunities to try local delicacies like Kopytka (dumplings) and Gulasz (stew). In addition, you’ll find plenty of shops that will enable you to do a bit of retail therapy.

3. Royal Castle

Perched atop Castle Square in the heart of the Old Town is Warsaw’s famous Royal Castle. Originally built in the 14th century, it stands as a symbol of Poland’s regal heritage and resilience.

Over the years it has witnessed centuries of Polish history, serving as the residence of monarchs and as a political center. Unfortunately, it was severely damaged during World War II. However, it has been meticulously restored to its former glory, thanks to reconstruction efforts.

Tourists can explore opulent chambers, like the Great Apartment and the Throne Room, which are adorned with period furnishings and artwork. They can also enjoy the castle’s impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and royal memorabilia that relate the story of the city’s cultural legacy.

2. Lazienki Park

Warsaw doesn’t just have splendid architecture, it also accommodates beautiful greenspace too. One of the finest examples is Łazienki Park, which resides in the Downtown district, just off of Ujazdów Avenue.

Also known as ‘Royal Baths Park’, it is the largest park in the city and is celebrated for its scenic beauty and cultural significance. It was originally designed in the 17th century and later transformed into a summer residence for King Stanisław August Poniatowski.

The park encompasses the neoclassical Palace on the Isle, a picturesque amphitheater and charming pavilions scattered amidst lush landscapes. It also hosts outdoor concerts, cultural events and the annual Chopin Concerts – which take place at the foot of the monument which resides within it.

1. Old Town Market Square

For most visitors to Warsaw, the Old Town Market Square (Rynek Starego Miasta) is somewhere they will spend quite a bit of time.

This remarkable square bristles with charm, historical and cultural significance. Originally it was constructed in the 13th century, but much of the city was destroyed during World War II. However, the area has been so well restored it’s almost impossible to tell it was previously damaged.

The square is surrounded by colorful townhouses and boasts a lively ambiance with outdoor cafes, restaurants and various street performers. It also features the imposing Warsaw Mermaid statue and is home to landmarks like the Adam Mickiewicz Museum and the Historical Museum of Warsaw.

While the square is buzzy all day, it is worth heading down there in the evening, as that is when things really liven up.

Best Time to Visit Warsaw

Straddling the Vistula River, Poland’s capital Warsaw enjoys a continental climate with cold, cloudy winters and relatively warm, sunny summers. May to September is the most popular time to visit when temperatures average from 18 to 24°C (64 to 75°F).

While July and August are the busiest, most expensive months, there are lots of fun events like the Warsaw Summer Jazz Days and Chopin Summer Concerts to attend. The whole city has a lovely vibe with its numerous parks and green spaces looking their best.

Either side of summer, Warsaw is still very pleasant to visit though huge crowds still throng about the center. As October sees the prestigious Warsaw Film Festival take place, it is only in the much-colder November that the city finally falls quiet.

December, however, immediately sees a return to business as people flock here for its cozy, traditional Christmas market – one of the biggest and best in Poland. The city then slumbers until spring when the fresh flowers make its river and parks very pretty to walk about again.

Where to Stay in Warsaw

When it comes to finding somewhere to stay in Warsaw, there are plenty of options available to you.

But if it is your first time in the city, you should base yourself in Śródmieście, or more specifically the Old Town. This area is the heart of Warsaw and you’ll be close to lots of art galleries, theaters, museums, restaurants, shops and some of the city’s main attractions.

The historic Hotel Polonia Palace is a terrific accommodation choice in this area. It is located directly opposite the Palace of Culture and Science and features an excellent restaurant that serves European and Polish cuisine. It also has comfortable rooms and a nice lobby bar to relax and unwind.

Not far from the Hotel Polonia Palace is the Hotel Metropol . This budget option is just a 5-minute walk from the Palace of Culture and Science. It is known for its superb breakfasts and dinners which you can get from the on-site Metro Jazz Bar & Bistro Restaurant. It also has rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

How to get there

Like most capital cities in Europe, Warsaw is a relatively easy destination to get to via air and rail.

Warsaw Chopin Airport is the primary international gateway to fly into. It is situated about 10 km southwest of the city center and receives multiple flights a day from Europe, the USA and Asia.

American Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa and Qatar Airways are some of the many airlines that fly there. Additionally, for budget carriers like Easyjet and Ryanair, Modlin Airport is another point of entry – about 40 kilometers north of Warsaw.

If you would prefer not to fly, the city is well-connected by an extensive train network. Warszawa Centralna (Warsaw Central Station) serves as the major hub for domestic and international rail travel.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Warsaw

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December 15, 2019 at 4:43 am

What bout Warsaw and its nightlife? I’ve been to Warsaw twice and it was the most crazy time in my life! I can recommend you mazowiecka street and new orleans in the centre!

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The Top 14 Tourist Attractions in Warsaw: From Old Town Charm to Modern Marvels

Warsaw is a city that never ceases to amaze me. It has almost everything under the sun! Sparkling skylines, tall skyscrapers, and bustling streets coexist with peaceful green lawns and gardens, ancient palaces, and Gothic architecture is all that Warsaw is about.

Tourist Attractions in Warsaw : Tourists come in droves to see the Jablonowski Palace, the Old Town Market Square, and other attractions. Warsaw is rich in culture and history, as evidenced by its tourist attractions, including galleries, palaces, and museums.

Warsaw has something for everyone, whether you like history, classical music, contemporary art, or fitness.

During my four days visit, I have gathered some beautiful memories to share with you. In this detailed guide, I will help you to meet the some of the most favorable attractions in Warsaw.

So, pack our bags, and let’s see what attractions in Warsaw has for us.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Exploring the Unmissable and best attractions in warsaw.

1. unlock the secrets of warsaw’s renowned chopin museum.

The Chopin Museum is a museum in Warsaw, Poland dedicated to the life and works of the famous Polish composer and pianist, Frédéric Chopin. The museum is located in the Ostrogski Palace, which is a historic 17th-century mansion that has been renovated and adapted to house the museum’s exhibitions.

The museum’s exhibits include artifacts related to Chopin’s life, such as personal items, manuscripts, and musical instruments. The museum also features multimedia installations, interactive exhibits, and audio guides that provide visitors with an immersive experience of Chopin’s music and legacy.

One of the highlights of the museum is a special audio-visual presentation that allows visitors to listen to Chopin’s music while viewing projected images of the places and landscapes that inspired his compositions. The museum also hosts regular concerts, lectures, and other events related to Chopin’s life and music.

The Chopin Museum is a must-visit attractions in Warsaw for anyone interested in classical music, piano, or Polish culture. It provides a fascinating insight into the life and work of one of the greatest composers of all time and offers a unique opportunity to experience his music in a historic and atmospheric setting.

Address: Pałac Gnińskich, Okólnik 1, 00-368 Warszawa

Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 am to 7:00pm (Times maybe change during winter)

Entrance Fee: Tickets is just 11.00 PLN depending on the day and time.

2. Wilanow Palace – An Introduction to Poland’s Cultural Heritage

Wilanów Park is a historical park located in the Wilanów district of Warsaw, Poland. It is known for its beautiful gardens, scenic landscapes, and historic buildings. The park was created in the late 17th century by King John III Sobieski as a private garden and hunting ground.

Today, Wilanów Park covers an area of 45 hectares and features a variety of gardens, including a Baroque garden, an English landscape garden, and a rose garden. There are also several ponds, fountains, and sculptures scattered throughout the park.

One of the main attractions in the park is the Wilanów Palace, which was built in the late 17th century and served as the summer residence of King John III Sobieski. The palace features a rich collection of paintings, furniture, and decorative arts, and is open to the public as a museum.

Wilanów Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is also a popular venue for cultural events, including concerts, festivals, and exhibitions. It’s one of the best attractions in Warsaw.

Address: Stanisława Kostki Potockiego 10/16, 02-958 Warszawa

Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 am to 9:00pm (Times maybe change during winter)

Entrance Fee: Regular 20 PLN Full list of ticket & reservation

3. Exploring Warsaw’s Old Town Square

The Warsaw Old Town Square is a historic square located in the heart of the Old Town of Warsaw, Poland. The square is a popular tourist destination and is known for its charming atmosphere, stunning architecture, and rich cultural history.

The Old Town Square is surrounded by colorful buildings with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, which were meticulously restored after being destroyed during World War II. The square is also home to the iconic Sigismund’s Column, a bronze statue of King Sigismund III Vasa, who moved the capital of Poland from Krakow to Warsaw in the late 16th century.

The square is bustling with activity and is home to many cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. In the summer months, visitors can enjoy live music performances, street vendors, and outdoor seating areas.

The Old Town Square is also the site of many cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Warsaw Old Town Festival, which celebrates the history and culture of the Old Town. Overall, the Warsaw Old Town Square is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture. It’s one of the best attractions in Warsaw.

4. Exploring the Rich History of Warsaw’s Royal Castle

The Royal Castle of Warsaw is a magnificent landmark located in the heart of Warsaw, the capital city of Poland. The castle was originally built in the 14th century and served as the residence of Polish monarchs until the end of the 18th century. Throughout the centuries, the castle was modified, renovated and expanded many times, which resulted in the creation of a unique blend of architectural styles, ranging from medieval to baroque and neoclassical.

During World War II, the castle was severely damaged and almost completely destroyed. However, in the post-war period, it was meticulously reconstructed, using original building plans and historical descriptions. Today, the Royal Castle is one of the most important cultural institutions in Poland, hosting a variety of events, including exhibitions, concerts, and official ceremonies.

The Royal Castle is also home to several permanent exhibitions, showcasing the castle’s history, art collections, and interiors. Visitors can admire the castle’s Throne Room, the King’s Apartments, the Canaletto Room, and the Great Assembly Hall, among other impressive chambers. The castle’s collection of art includes masterpieces by famous Polish and European painters, such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto.

Overall, the Royal Castle of Warsaw is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Warsaw, not only because of its historical significance and architectural beauty but also because of the invaluable cultural treasures it contains.

Address: plac Zamkowy 4, 00-277 Warszawa

Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 am to 5:00pm ( Times maybe change during winter)

Entrance Fee: Regular 30 PLN Full list of ticket & reservation

5. Exploring the Beauty of Warsaw Lazienki Park

Łazienki Park, also known as the Royal Baths Park, is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Warsaw, Poland. The park covers an area of over 76 hectares and includes a number of gardens, monuments, palaces, and lakes.

The park was established in the 17th century as a private garden for King Stanisław Herakliusz Lubomirski, and it was later expanded and redesigned by King Stanisław August Poniatowski in the 18th century. The park was open to the public in the 19th century and quickly became a popular destination for Warsaw residents and visitors.

One of the most famous attractions in the park is the Palace on the Water, a neoclassical palace located on an artificial island in the middle of a lake. The palace was originally built in the 17th century and was extensively renovated and expanded in the 18th century. Today, it houses a museum with a collection of royal portraits and other works of art.

Other notable features of the park include the Amphitheater, the Old Orangery, the New Orangery, and the Myślewicki Palace. The park is also home to a number of beautiful gardens, including the Chinese Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Modernist Garden.

Łazienki Park is not only a beautiful and peaceful place to walk and relax but also an important cultural center, hosting numerous concerts, festivals, and exhibitions throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Chopin Concerts, which take place in the park during the summer months and showcase the music of Poland’s most famous composer, Frédéric Chopin.

6. Visit Krakowskie Przedmiescie one of Warsaw’s Essential Streets

Krakowskie Przedmieście is one of the most famous and historic streets in Warsaw, Poland. Located in the heart of the city, it stretches from the Royal Castle to the University of Warsaw and is lined with stunning historical buildings, monuments, and landmarks.

The street has a rich history dating back to the 15th century when it served as the main road connecting Warsaw to the royal capital of Krakow. Over the centuries, many important figures have lived and worked on Krakowskie Przedmieście, including scientists, artists, and politicians.

Today, the street is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering a wide range of attractions and activities. Some of the most notable landmarks on Krakowskie Przedmieście include:

• The Royal Castle: Located at the northern end of the street, the Royal Castle is one of the most important historical buildings in Warsaw.
• The Presidential Palace: Located in the middle of the street, the Presidential Palace is the official residence of the President of Poland.
• The University of Warsaw: Located at the southern end of the street, the University of Warsaw is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Poland.
• The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: Located in front of the Presidential Palace, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a monument dedicated to the soldiers who died fighting for Poland.

Krakowskie Przedmieście is also home to a number of museums, art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening exploring

7. Exploring the Museum of the History of Polish Jews

This museum offers a variety of educational materials about the history of Polish Jews . The museum also has a library and archive where tourists can learn about the past.

This museum’s design will teach you about the Jewish faith and culture in eight galleries, demonstrating that Poland had more Jews than any other country. Nonetheless, the site will weave you into the history of Poland in this way.

It preserves and exhibits a Jewish heritage collection dating back to the Middle Ages. Offering various programs focusing on Jewish history and culture will take you back to the medieval era.

Address: Mordechaja Anielewicza 6, 00-157 Warsaw

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Tuesday 11:00 am to 5:00pm (Times maybe change during winter)

Entrance Fee: Regular 30 PLN

8. The Grandeur of Poland’s Palace of Culture and Science

The Palace of Culture and Science is a prominent building in Warsaw, Poland, and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The building was completed in 1955 and was a gift from the Soviet Union to the people of Poland.

Designed by Soviet architect Lev Rudnev, the Palace of Culture and Science is a striking example of Socialist Realist architecture, characterized by its grand scale and ornate decorations. The building stands at over 230 meters tall and contains a wide range of facilities, including offices, conference rooms, theaters, cinemas, museums, and a swimming pool.

The Palace of Culture and Science has a complex and controversial history. During the Soviet era, it was seen by many Poles as a symbol of Soviet domination and was the subject of much criticism and controversy. After the fall of communism in Poland in 1989, there were calls to demolish the building, but it ultimately remained standing and was instead repurposed for a variety of cultural and commercial uses.

Today, the Palace of Culture and Science is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It houses several museums, including the Museum of Technology and the Museum of Evolution, as well as a number of theaters and cinemas that show both Polish and international films. The building also offers stunning panoramic views of Warsaw from its observation deck, which is located on the 30th floor.

Address: plac Defilad 1, 00-901 Warszawa

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 am to 8:00pm ( Times maybe change during winter)

Entrance Fee: Observation deck PLN 20 ticket & reservation

9 A Look Inside the Stunning Architecture of the Warsaw Holy Cross Church

The Holy Cross Church is a historic Catholic church located in the center of Warsaw, Poland. Originally built in the 17th century, the church has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years, including a major reconstruction in the 18th century that transformed it into a Baroque masterpiece.

The Holy Cross Church is perhaps best known for its association with the composer Frédéric Chopin, who spent much of his life in Poland and is considered one of the country’s greatest cultural icons. Chopin’s heart was interred in the church following his death in 1849, and a plaque in his honor can be found on the church’s exterior. The church also houses a museum dedicated to Chopin, which contains a collection of his personal belongings, manuscripts, and other memorabilia.

Aside from its association with Chopin, the Holy Cross Church is renowned for its stunning interior, which features elaborate Baroque decorations, gilded altars, and intricate frescoes. The church also boasts a remarkable collection of religious art and artifacts, including a reliquary containing the remains of Saint Clement and a 15th-century Gothic crucifix.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, the Holy Cross Church is an active place of worship and serves as a center of spiritual life for Catholics in Warsaw. Daily masses are held in both Polish and English, and the church hosts a variety of religious and cultural events throughout the year.

Address: Krakowskie Przedmieście 3, 00-047 Warszawa

Opening Hours: Daily 06:00 am to 8:00pm ( Times maybe change during winter)

Entrance Fee: Free

10. Unique Experiences at the Warsaw Fountain Park

The Warsaw Fountain Park is a public park located in the Old Town district of Warsaw, Poland. It is also known as the Multimedia Fountain Park, as it features a fountain that is synchronized with music and lighting effects to create a spectacular multimedia display.

The fountain itself is made up of over 300 water jets that can shoot water up to 8 meters high. The jets are synchronized to music and lighting effects, which change according to the theme of the show. The park also includes a large amphitheater for concerts and events, as well as walking paths and green spaces for visitors to enjoy.

The Warsaw Fountain Park is open during the summer months and is free for visitors to enjoy. The multimedia shows typically run in the evenings, with multiple shows per night. The park has become a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique and entertaining experience in the heart of Warsaw’s historic Old Town.

Address: Skwer 1 Dywizji Pancernej WP, 00-221 Warszawa

Opening Hours: 24 hours

11. Check out St. John’s Archcathedral

St. John’s Archcathedral is one of the most popular tourist destinations and is known for its impressive architecture. This imposing structure is one of the city’s most photographed and well-known landmarks.

 It’s also home to some of the city’s most famous Catholics. As the witness of World War II, this archcathedral was renovated and built several times.

It has a unique style and is one of the most prevalent tourist attractions in the city. Take a walk or ride to St. John’s Archcathedral and admire its beautiful architecture. The cathedral is a key tourist spot in the city, and it’s easy to see why.

With its soaring spires and intricate designs, the cathedral is a sight to behold. You’ll find beautiful architecture here, as well as some impressive artwork. Plus, it’s easy to get around, and you are in front of this intergalactic sight.

12. Experience the Heroes of the Warsaw Uprising at the Museum

The Warsaw Uprising Museum is a museum that tells the story of the 1944 Polish uprising against the Nazi occupation.

Founded in 2006 and located in the Warsaw district of Toruń, it has a collection of over 500 items, including artifacts from the uprising and related events.

It commemorates the events that took place during the Warsaw uprising of 1944. It is open to the public and visitors all the time. The uprising was a successful attempt by the Polish people to overthrow their Soviet-backed government.

It was one of the largest and most successful military uprisings in history. It offers a unique insight into life for ordinary people during the struggle for freedom and democracy.

13. St. Anne’s Church Observation

The observation of St. Anne’s Church in Warsaw, adjacent to Poland, is one of the best beautiful places in Warsaw. The church stills stand with pride as one of the oldest churches in Leominster.

It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the town. St. Anne’s Church, located in Burlington, offers an observation deck that is perfect for taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

The deck is open from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m.–3 p.m. on Saturdays, as well as during special events such as festivals or market days.

There are also interpretive signs around it that explain the history and its role in the community- the most incredible thing you’ll ever meet.

14. Spend sometimes in The Jewish Cemetery

The Jewish Cemetery is a burial ground for Jews in the city of Warsaw, Okopawa Street. It is where mourners can visit the graves of family members who have passed away, as well as friends and colleagues who have died before them.

It was built in the early 1800s to accommodate the growing population of Tel Aviv. The cemetery has over 11,000 graves and includes a Holocaust memorial. The cemetery also contains a wealth of Holocaust memorabilia and survivors’ art.

It has been in operation since the first century AD. It is one of the most important tourist attractions in Jerusalem. The cemetery contains many famous Holocaust victims, including Jean-Claude van Damme and Yoko Ono.

Best time to visit Warsaw.

The best time to visit Warsaw is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor events and festivals.

However, if you’re looking to avoid crowds and save money, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy, but it’s also a magical time to visit with Christmas markets and winter sports.

Getting to Warsaw

Warsaw is relatively easy to reach. It has two airports: Chopin Airport and Warsaw Modlin Airport. There are also three rail stations, one for international trains and one for domestic trains. Long-distance buses arrive at Warsaw’s bus stop, Dworzec PKS Warszawa Zachodnia.

You can take anyone. If you prefer cars, there are plenty of options for you to use cars in rent. Rental cars can help you in the process.

Getting around Warsaw

Transport in Warsaw is dominated by trams, buses, and the metro. In the city, there are over 1,500 buses. There are also night buses, which are denoted by the letter N and a two-digit number.

If you want to travel while skipping the less important stops, you can take the Fast Buses, which are denoted by red digits. Tickets are valid for all three modes of transportation (bus, tram, and metro) and can be purchased from RUCH-branded kiosks.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs):

What is warsaw best known for.

Warsaw is best known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural attractions such as the Royal Castle, Old Town Market Square, and the Warsaw Uprising Museum. It is also known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

What must do in Warsaw?

Some of the must-do attractions in Warsaw include visiting the Old Town, exploring the Royal Castle, checking out the Warsaw Uprising Museum, taking a stroll in Lazienki Park, and enjoying the panoramic views from the Palace of Culture and Science. Other popular activities include trying traditional Polish cuisine, visiting the Copernicus Science Centre, and taking a day trip to the nearby town of Zelazowa Wola, the birthplace of composer Frederic Chopin.

What are 2 tourist attractions in Poland?

Two popular tourist attractions in Poland are the historic city of Krakow, known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features underground chambers, lakes, and sculptures made entirely of salt.

Is Warsaw worth visiting?

Warsaw is worth experiencing for its historical legacy and attractions. With its rich history and architecture, Warsaw has something for everyone to enjoy.

Is Warsaw a cheap city?

While you could easily spend a week exploring all that Warsaw has to offer, two days is enough time to see the highlights. With careful planning and prioritizing, you can visit top attractions like the Old Town, Palace of Culture and Science, and Łazienki Park, as well as sample some of the city’s delicious food and drink.

Do they speak English in Warsaw?

Yes, many people in Warsaw speak English, especially those working in the tourism industry. However, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Polish as a sign of respect and to make your interactions with locals more enjoyable. Some popular attractions in Warsaw include the Old Town, the Royal Castle, and the Warsaw Uprising Museum.

How far is it from Warsaw to Auschwitz?

The distance between Warsaw and Auschwitz is approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles). It takes about 4 hours to drive there, or you can take a train or bus which will take around 5-6 hours. It is recommended to book a guided tour in advance if you plan to visit Auschwitz.

Do they use Euro?

No, Poland does not use the Euro. The currency used in Warsaw and throughout Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). It is recommended to exchange currency at a bank or exchange office for the best rates.

Final Words

Warsaw is a city that has been around for centuries, and its history reflects this. Its importance to Poland and the world has made it a destination for tourists and immigrants alike, and its location makes it an ideal city to live in.

I hope this guide help you to get the sneak peak of most favorable attractions in Poland. So, how about plan your next trip to Warsaw now?

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40+ Incredibly Cool Things to Do in Warsaw, Poland

I admit it, I didn’t know what to expect from Warsaw. On the one hand, I remembered it as grey and boring from one day on a bad high school trip years ago; on the other hand, I read about so many amazing places and cool things to do in Warsaw while I was planning my trip.

I’m happy to say that Warsaw is worth visiting , and I think it is a remarkable destination for a city break (you can enjoy it in 2-3 days, but I recommend spending 4 days here), though you can also add it to a longer Central Europe itinerary .

Surprisingly, it’s also an amazing winter break in Europe and a girls’ trip destination ! From museums and historical monuments to bustling modern streets and trendy cafes , this historic city has it all.

It also made me want to visit other cities in Poland like Wroclaw, Gdansk, and Poznan (a total visit-worthy hidden gem ). To help you make the most of your time in this lovely place, here is my epic Warsaw bucket list.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

My favorite carb in Warsaw: Pierogi and potato pancakes at Zapiecek (on Nowy Świat 64, although it has several locations).

Planning a last-minute trip? Check out: Highly-rated accommodations in Warsaw: 1. Warsaw City Center Rooms (budget) 2. Warsaw Heritage Apartment (mid-range) 3. MONDRIAN Luxury Suites UNESCO Old Town (luxury)

Top experiences in Warsaw: 1. Polish dumpling cooking class (with vegetarian and vegan options) 2. Chopin concert in the Royal Castle with a glass of wine 3. Polish food tour

Top day tours from Warsaw: 1. Auschwitz-Birkenau tour with lunch 2. Treblinka day tour 3. Wolf’s Lair day tour

Table of Contents

Cool Things to Do in Warsaw for History and Culture Lovers

Take some unique free tours.

There’s no shortage of fascinating free walking tours to take in Warsaw, including:

• Free tour of the old town , a UNESCO site
• Jewish history of Warsaw free tour (one of my favorites!)
• Free tour of the intriguing Praga district (another experience I loved)
• Communist Warsaw free tour
• WWII free tour

Visit the Wilanow Palace and Gardens

Being one of the few famous landmarks in Warsaw that have survived WWII, you can understand the importance of the Wilanow Palace.

This royal palace was built in the 17th century for King John Sobieski the 3rd, and with every new owner, it was enlarged and redecorated.

Apart from its beautiful yellow front facade and art-packed interiors, the palace also has impressive wide gardens and a lake. I recommend getting there right when it opens so that you can take some pictures before the crowded hours.

If you’re visiting Poland in winter or fall, you can also enjoy the Royal Garden of Light , an event in which the complex is magically decorated with thousands of twinkling lights forming unique displays.

Opening hours and prices: Consult them here . Notice that on Thursdays there’s free admission for a limited number of entries.

If you want to explore the palace with a guide, book a private guided tour here .

Getting there: Buses 116, 180, and 519 go from the city center to the palace.

See Sigismund’s Column and Castle Square

Sigismund’s Column is one of the most important monuments in Warsaw as King Sigismund Vasa the 3rd was the one to move Poland’s capital from Krakow to Warsaw.

The memorial stands in the historic Castle Square, which is one of the most famous squares in the city.

The square has gone through some difficult times throughout Polish history, and during WWII, it was destroyed. Nowadays, it is reconstructed and surrounded by beautiful townhouses.

Tour the Royal Castle

If there’s one thing you cannot miss when you’re in Castle Square, it’s the Royal Castle, which used to be the official residence of the Polich monarchs.

After a long and challenging history including reconstruction after WWII, it is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (as a part of the historic center), making it a Warsaw must-see.

Apart from its gorgeous facades, you can visit the museum inside it, which includes its luxurious rooms and art galleries. Consult prices and opening hours here (note that on Wednesdays, you can enter the castle for free).

You can also book a guided tour of the Royal Castle. Extra tip: The castle also hosts Chopin concerts , which you can book here.

Enjoy the Views From St. Anne’s Church’s Bell Tower

Located near the Royal Castle, head to St. Anne’s Church for some scenic views of Castle Square. If you’re up for the challenge, climb over 145 stairs to get to the bell tower’s balcony and admire the colorful scenery.

The church itself dates back to the 15th century and is one of the few buildings that weren’t completely destroyed during WWII.

Wander Through the Old Town

Fun fact about Poland : It’s home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the Historic Centre of Warsaw is one of them. The Polish capital’s Old Town (Stare Miasto) was reconstructed after WWII while trying to resemble its previous architectural look.

The main thing to see in the Old Town is the Old Town Market Place, one of the most beautiful squares I’ve ever seen.

Each building in the square has a different color and unique embellishments, and with the medieval architecture, the entire area boasts an irresistible charm.

Also, in the square and the colorful streets surrounding it, you’ll find many restaurants, cafes, and shops. Although the area is not that big, take your time and explore this magical piece of history.

To learn more about Warsaw’s Old Town, take a FREE walking tour or book this highly-rated segway tour !

Feel the Powers of the Wishing Bell

Dating back to the 17th century, this bronze bell statue is located in Canon Square in the Old Town. If you want to feel its magical powers and make a wish, I’ve read a few versions of what you need to do.

The basic one says to think about your wish and circle the bell. The second version says that you also need to touch it as you go around it.

My favorite, of course, is the one that states that you need to touch it and jump around it on one leg. If you are looking for unusual things to do in this city, there you have it.

Admire the Warsaw Barbican

Dating back to the 16th century and restored after WWII, the Warsaw Barbican is one of the few remains of the city’s system of fortifications.

Today it’s more of a tourist attraction in Warsaw, but since it looks like it belongs in a fairytale, I’m okay with that.

Visit the Chopin Museum

By Rai from A Rai of Light

The Chopin Museum is an opportunity to get a taste of the life of Poland’s most famous composer, Frédéric Chopin.

This multimedia museum (located within the Ostrogski Palace) houses the collection of Chopin’s work, some of his belongings, his piano, and even a handful of old photographs and letters.

Although lacking organization and information is often presented without context, the museum has a range of interactive activities to better understand his life, work, and travels.

What I particularly enjoyed was the listening room where you can sit and listen to Chopin’s masterpieces.

Consult prices and opening hours here (note that it offers free admission on Wednesdays.

To learn even more about the famous composer, take a guided Chopin tour (that also includes a visit to the museum).

Admire the Krasinski Palace

Also known as the Palace of the Commonwealth, this 17th-century Baroque palace is a non-touristy place in the heart of Warsaw.

The Krasinski Palace’s front facade, along with the surrounding gardens and park, make it a wonderful photo spot in the city.

Tour the Palace on the Isle (Lazienki Palace)

Another landmark from the 17th century that survived WWII is the Palace on the Isle in the famous Lazienki Park. The uses this building has had over the years are a bathing pavilion, a royal summer residence, and barracks.

Nowadays, it is one of the top things to see in Warsaw, and you can either visit the museum inside it or just admire its exterior. Consult prices and opening hours here .

Walk the Royal Route

The Royal Route is a famous route in Warsaw that connects three former royal residences: Royal Castle, Palace on the Isle, and Wilanow Palace.

It includes some of the places I’ve mentioned, but the full route covers 11 km and passes alongside a variety of streets, museums, palaces, and churches. For more info about the full route, read here.

See the Miniature Park at śWiętokrzyski Park

If you like miniatures and architecture, this is the place for you. The goal of this museum is to showcase some of Warsaw’s important buildings that were not restored after the war.

I expected the museum to be a bit bigger, but I still think that the concept is cool and essential to the city’s historic preservation.

Visit the National Museum in Warsaw

Boasting a collection of about 830,000 works of Polish and foreign art, the National Museum in Warsaw is one of the largest and oldest art museums in Poland.

From paintings to sculptures to photographs, there’s so much to see in this impressive museum. Consult opening hours and prices here.

Take a Free Tour of the Praga District

You might not expect this from Warsaw, but it’s home to some spectacular street and urban art. Most of it can be found in the Praga district which is on the other side of the city’s river.

I took this free walking tour to learn about the local street art scene and Praga, and it was extremely interesting because this district was curious and unusual.

I love seeing the alternative side of a city, and Praga ticked that box for me.

Explore More of Praga

As I’ve mentioned, Praga is one of the most intriguing places to see in Warsaw. But did you know that during WWII, 80% of Warsaw was destroyed, but only 20% of Praga was destroyed?

One of the most interesting things about the tour I talked about was seeing the contrast between modern pastel residential buildings and authentic pre-war architecture that has survived.

Old buildings with bullet holes in them alongside new colorful townhouses are not a usual thing to see, so I recommend exploring more of this fascinating area.

Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum

By Kami from My Wanderlust

Warsaw Uprising Museum is one of the most interesting  museums in Warsaw and a must-visit. It’s dedicated to the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, a tragic 63-day event during WWII.

It was one of the most important events in the history of Warsaw when the local people tried to fight the Nazi occupant. The fall of the Uprising led to the total destruction of the city.

You can learn all about the Warsaw Uprising, the events leading to it, and the exact course at the museum.

It’s a very interactive and interesting place, and even if you are not an expert in Polish history, you will surely enjoy your visit. You should also go to the lookout towers that offer nice views of the neighborhood.

Address : Grzybowska 79. Consult prices and opening hours here (free to visit on Mondays).

Visit the Palace of Culture and Science

The Palace of Culture and Science is one of the top sights in Warsaw and a prominent Polish landmark that you can see from many spots in the city.

It is the tallest building in Warsaw and is home to museums, libraries, theatres, and the main tourist information office (and many other cultural facilities).

Besides its impressive exterior, you can buy a ticket to take the lift and see the views of the city from above (or take a guided tour that includes access to the terrace ).

Take a Free Jewish History Walking Tour

I have visited many cities that had a connection to my Jewish heritage (mostly in Spain but also in other countries).

However, a lot of Warsaw’s Jewish history is obviously much more famous and closer to our present time. That’s why taking a walking tour seemed like a must-try free activity in Warsaw .

I took a free walking tour that included several points of interest in Warsaw like the Nozyk Synagogue, the area where the bridge between the Small Ghetto and the Large Ghetto had stood, and the Ghetto Heroes Monument.

The tour talked about centuries of Polish Jewish history (not only the Holocaust), so it was even more informative and intriguing than I had expected.

Get all the details of this free Jewish history walking tour and reserve your spot . You can also book a private Warsaw Ghetto walking tour.

Head to Mila 18

Mila 18 was the address of the main bunker of the Jewish resistance force in the Warsaw Ghetto. During WWII, a few weeks after the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising had started, the bunker was found by the Germans.

Instead of surrendering, the 300 people who were in the bunker decided to end their lives so they could die as heroes and not as victims.

Today, there is a small monument and a commemorative stone in Mila 18, and personally, I think everyone should visit it.

A big part of traveling is getting to know local history and other cultures, and it’s not always happy or easy to deal with. But we need to learn about these things anyway, so we can honor others and step outside of our own bubbles.

Visit the Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews

The POLIN Museum is located where the Warsaw Ghetto used to be, and it showcases the whole history of Jews in Poland.

It is one of the largest museums of Jewish history in Europe, containing eight galleries, each dedicated to a different historical era. It is the last stop of the free walking tour I mentioned, so you can visit it right after.

Skip the lines, and get your ticket to the POLIN Museum in advance , or visit for free on Thursdays.

Take a Free Warsaw in Wwii Tour

80% of Warsaw was completely destroyed during WWII, and much like many other cities in Europe, it is inconceivable what happened here in these six years.

So if you want to dive into that time in history and learn more about Warsaw during WWII, take this free tour .

Wander the Open-Air Tibetan Gallery

Situated in the Wola district, this unique urban art gallery, Galeria Tybetańska, started taking shape after the Dalai Lama visited Warsaw.

It is filled with paintings showcasing the Tibetan struggle to get autonomy from China and is an unusual colorful corner in the city.

Photograph Some Cathedrals

I was pleasantly surprised when I saw some of Warsaw’s religious buildings like St. Florian’s Cathedral, Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Mary Magdalene, and St. John’s Cathedral. If you love architecture, I’m sure you’ll appreciate them as well.

Take a Free Communism Walking Tour

With how modern Warsaw seems today, it’s easy to forget that up until 30 years ago, there was still a communist regime in Poland.

If you want to know what it was like to live under communist rule, hear some intriguing urban legends , and see a few landmarks connected to that time, this tour is for you.

Visit the Neon Museum

Another thing to do in Praga is to visit the Neon Museum. It is dedicated to the preservation of the neon signs of the communist era in Poland.

Here you can see different neon signs from that time that were saved from destruction and learn about their history. Consult prices and opening hours here.

To be honest, it sounds good on paper and looks super cool in the photos, but I thought it would be bigger and a bit more impressive.

Want to see more of Poland? Check out this incredible Krakow itinerary !

Best Things to Do in Warsaw for Foodies

Eat pierogi.

When visiting Poland, eating pierogi is a must! These dumplings from Central and Eastern Europe are filled with all kinds of savory or sweet fillings and served with some toppings like onions.

The famous Polish restaurant Zapiecek (which has several locations in Warsaw) offers a large variety of pierogi, and I highly recommend eating there.

In some cases, the famous establishments are overrated, but I loved the food at Zapiecek so much! With perfect flavors, many vegetarian options, and even sweet pierogi for dessert, I would gladly go back there for one more bite.

Eat at a Milk Bar

Milk bars are traditional Polish diners serving hearty Polish food at ridiculously low prices.

They were first founded in the late 19th century and served only dishes made from dairy, but today, they serve all types of local traditional food.

I tried Rusalka (Florianska 14) in Praga, and it was the perfect comfort food lunch.

Eat Potato Pancakes

Also served as both savory and sweet, potato pancakes are another great Eastern European delight you need to try.

At Zapiecek, I ate them with cream and mushroom sauce, but you can find them in cafes or even some ice cream shops served with berries and whipped cream.

Eat Some Paczki (Polish Donuts)

I didn’t expect to see so many bakeries and patisseries in Warsaw, and one thing that stood out was Polish donuts. They are impossible to miss and are served in almost every bakery and cafe.

Indulge in Hot Chocolate at E. Wedel

I am a total sucker for hot chocolate, and E. Wedel (Szpitalna 8) could not have been a more perfect place to savor a cup.

E. Wedel is actually a well-known company that produces high-quality chocolates and sweet snacks, but they also have chocolate lounges in cities like Warsaw and Krakow.

Apart from the neverending menu (which is impossible to choose from), the cafe itself looks like a palace and is absolutely beautiful!

I would happily go back for another cup of their perfect thick hot chocolate and enticing elegant atmosphere.

Explore Warsaw’s Indoor Food Markets

Warsaw is home to a few indoor markets, including Hala Mirowska (a more traditional market), Hala Gwardii, and Hala Koszyki (which are both quite trendy).

Their buildings are worth visiting just for the architecture, but while you’re there, have a little stroll and grab a bite.

Other Fun Places to Visit in Warsaw

Lazienki park.

After mentioning its most famous monument, it’s impossible not to write about Lazienki Park itself. It is the largest park in Warsaw and is just a beautiful place where you can easily spend a few hours.

The park houses many other monuments like the Chopin statue (on Sundays during the spring and summer, you can enjoy a free Chopin concert near it), but the main ones that also require a ticket are the Palace on the Isle, the Old Orangery, and the Royal Theatre.

Consult their prices and opening hours here .

University of Warsaw Botanic Gardens

Located in the northern part of Lazienki Park, the botanical gardens are a feast for the eyes.

At first sight, it seems like another pretty garden, but after only a few minutes it becomes so much more. With so many different species, some parts look like a colorful house garden, and some look like a giant forest.

It is quite a big place, so don’t rush it and take your time while exploring this stunning site. See prices and opening hours here .

Copernicus Science Center

By Karolina from Lazy Travel Blog

The largest science center in Poland, the Copernicus Science Centre in Warsaw is a place that you should not miss.

Whether you are a full-on geek, a kid-at-heart, or someone who’s never been interested in science, the museum’s stunning exhibits will give you a good show with their concerts and laser shows.

A perfect place to go if you are on a family or a  romantic trip to Warsaw , Copernicus Science Centre is a space where curiosity and love of learning are cultivated with its exhibits and experiments.

Consult prices and opening hours here .

Pinball Museum

If you’re looking for quirky attractions in Warsaw, head to the Interactive Pinball Museum, where you can be a kid again and enjoy more than 80 pinball and arcade machines.

For a fixed one-day entrance fee, you can play as many times as you want without having to use any coins/chips to turn on the machines. Browse the latest opening hours and prices.

University Library Gardens

These gardens on the University of Warsaw Library roof are one of the most beautiful places in Warsaw. The gardens include two sections – the lower part and the upper part where each has different characteristics.

In the gardens, you’ll see ponds, granite sculptures, and many varieties of vegetation, all combined in a mesmerizing decor.

Although the upper part is only open from April to October, the lower part is open all year round. Plus, the entrance is free !

Address:  Dobra 56/66.

Saxon Garden

One of the most famous parks in Warsaw, the Saxon Garden (Ogród Saski) is an unmissable place in the Polish capital.

Dating back to the 17th century (when the royal Saxon Palace was standing next to it), it’s the oldest public park in Warsaw and one of the first in the world.

While some parts of it are prettier than others, it is a nice place for a stroll, and it’s also home to the famous Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a monument dedicated to unidentified fallen soldiers.

The Presidential Palace

Originally built in the 17th century, the Presidential Palace is, as the name suggests, the official residence of Poland’s president.

Though it’s not open to the public, you can admire it on the outside while you stroll along Krakowskie Przedmieście street.

Nowy Swiat Street

Nowy Swiat is one of the main streets in Warsaw. After being almost completely destroyed in WWII, it is now fully reconstructed.

It’s a great area to stroll around since it’s packed with restaurants, cafes, shops, beautiful buildings, and an inviting atmosphere.

Enjoy a Night Out at Pawilony

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Warsaw at night, this is a great one. Pawilony or The Nowy Swiat Pavilions are a group of 25 small bars and pubs located right next to each other.

This unique area offers all kinds of bars (cocktail, shot bars, craft beer pubs, etc.) and a good atmosphere, making it popular all week long.

Website:   pawilonynowyswiat.pl/en/ .

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About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

17 thoughts on “40+ Incredibly Cool Things to Do in Warsaw, Poland”

It is best about Warsaw I have ever read I am Warsaw citizen for over thirty years and I still don’t know some of these places I am very experienced travelled so I can compare Warsaw to many capitals in the world And I know I live in great very quick changing city Thank you very much for great advertisement of Warsaw I am impressed

Thank you, Robert! That means a lot. I’m curious to know what places you didn’t about!

Great article! I loved Warsaw so very much. Old Town, Wilanow Palace, The Warsaw Zoo, and a street art tour of the Praga district were some of the highlights from my trip. Not to mention the food. I loved the milk bars and delicious pierogi!

Thank you! It really is a great destination!

Thanks for the great guide. I recently spent a week in Warsaw and fell in love with the city. From Wilanow Palace to E. Wedel, the city is one of my favorites in Europe.

I’m glad this was helpful! It’s a wonderful city to explore.

Warsaw is now on my bucket travel list for when we can get back on traveling, thanks for sharing your knowledge with us!

You’re welcome, Valentina! I’m sure you’ll love it 🙂

Such a helpful guide to Warsaw! I’ve only been to Krakow but would love to visit Poland again, the food was so good. I never visited a Milk bar but I need to try it.

Thank you! Poland is worth exploring and you’re right about the food 🙂

Amazing post! I only had about 2 days in Warsaw and didn’t get to see near enough of it. But loved the Old Town area and ate some amazing pierogies!

Thanks so much! Pierogis are paradise 🙂 2 days are definitely not enough – I was surprised too by all the things you can do in Warsaw 🙂

wow, very informative. Thank you so much. Your article has helped me a lot for my plan to Warsaw this july.

I’m happy you find it helpful! Enjoy your trip to Warsaw and let me know if you have any questions 🙂

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I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

• 12 Reasons Why You Should...

12 Reasons Why You Should Visit Warsaw at Least Once in Your Lifetime

Warsaw has undergone some rapid changes in the last 20 years since the fall of communism. It has developed into a city for new business, turned into a tourist hub and really proved why this is the true capital city, ahead of previous capitals Gniezno and Kraków. However, Warsaw still sits in the shadow of the more popular tourist destinations of Wrocław , Gdańsk and Kraków , so it’s time to prove that those who neglect Warsaw are missing out on some real gems. These 12 reasons should entice you to visit Warsaw very soon.

Warsaw’s Old Town | © Northern Irishman in Poland

1. Warsaw's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

2. to understand the 1944 warsaw uprising.

3. The views from the Palace of Culture and Science

4. The artistic neighbourhood of Praga

Bar, Cafe, Polish

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To sample Poland’s Wedel chocolate

You may have heard of Swiss and Belgian chocolate, but what about Poland’s finest, Wedel? The Wedel Chocolate Factory offers tours for visitors and there are many shops and cafés throughout Poland where you can sample some of the best-quality chocolate you will ever eat. What’s more, a bar of Wedel chocolate only costs around 2 or 3 złotych.

Zamoyskiego 28/30, 03-801 Warszawa, Poland, +48 22 670 77 00

5. To laze in Łazienki Park

6. to experience the legacy of chopin.

7. To learn about Marie Curie in her home city

Museum, Park

Warsaw has the best bar scene in Eastern Europe

People rave about Prague, Berlin and even Riga, but here among the poky streets of the Polish capital are some truly hidden gems. From a secret bar to bars that don’t look like bars , to wild cocktail bars and swanky wine bars, the city has it all. Head to the Pawilony area for a zone with 12 bars in a compact alleyway or the trendy Nowogradzka Street for its up-and-coming craft beer bars.

Pawilony, Pawilon 12, Nowy Świat 22/28, 00-373 Warszawa, Poland

Nowogradzka Street, Warsaw, Poland Nightlife in Warsaw | © Northern Irishman in Poland

8. To see Poland's Presidential Palace

9. to get your science fix at the copernicus centre.

10. To step inside the world's narrowest house

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Warsaw, Poland

The Best Bars on Nowy Świat (New World) Street, Warsaw

The Best Restaurants on Nowy Świat (New World) Street, Warsaw

Why You Should Visit Warsaw, According to Local Artist and Architect Tytus Brzozowski

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Warsaw, often called the ' Phoenix City ,' endured invasion, destruction, and subjugation. Devastated during World War II, it rose from the ashes through meticulous reconstruction and earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Uncover the compelling history of a city that sacrificed itself for freedom .

Warsaw Travel Guide

• General information
• What to see and do
• Getting there
• Public transportation
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

Why visit Warsaw?

Many visitors are drawn to Warsaw by the compelling desire to immerse themselves in its captivating history . Post-World War II, only 15% of Warsaw remained intact, witnessing Nazi invasion , Jewish repression , the Warsaw Uprising , and communist rule . These profound episodes are vividly portrayed in the city's museums .

Today, Warsaw has transcended its somber past, evolving into a bustling metropolis and the ninth most populous city in Europe . Recognizing its exemplary reconstruction, UNESCO designated Warsaw's historic center as a World Heritage Site , featuring landmarks like the Market Square , Royal Castle , and Barbican .

Moreover, Warsaw bears the indelible imprints of illustrious figures like the scientist  Marie Curie , the astronomer Nicolas Copernicus , and the pianist Frédéric Chopin , enriching the city with a legacy of talent.

Where to start?

Explore the captivating contrast between Warsaw's Old Town and its modern counterpart , with the iconic Palace of Culture and Science standing tall as a symbol of the city's communist history, commissioned by Stalin. The once-communist Praga district has transformed into a trendy, alternative hub, showcasing Warsaw's dynamic evolution.

For a deeper dive into Polish gastronomy , Warsaw offers an ideal opportunity to savor typical products, experience a traditional milk bar, and indulge in the country's renowned product: Polish vodka . Did you know there's even a dedicated museum for this spirit?

If time is limited, prioritize key museums and monuments in Warsaw and gather practical information for your trip , including details on currency , language , entry requirements , and other essential insights.

Still don't have a hotel?

At the following link , you can book hotels of all categories with a minimum price guarantee. Discounts can reach 75%, and payment is made directly at the hotel:

• Hotels in Warsaw - Book online with the minimum price guarantee and save on your trip to Warsaw

top activities

Retro Fiat Self-Drive Tour Go back in time in a classic Fiat 126p , an iconic Polish car, while you explore the Polish capital and learn about its history in a unique way!

Free Walking Tour of Warsaw This free walking tour of Warsaw is the ideal way to begin to discover the capital of Poland. Explore the Royal Castle, the Barbican and the Market Square.

Warsaw Food Tour Embark on a three hour food tour of Warsaw with an expert guide and experience the best of Poland's cuisine just like a local.

Free Walking Tour of Jewish Warsaw From a unique Yiddish theatre to uprisings and the Holocaust: discover the rich cultural heritage and tragic history of Jewish Warsaw on this free walking tour.

Communist Warsaw Free Tour Stroll through communist Warsaw on this free tour and learn all about the Polish capital's most important buildings and its history!

Warsaw at War Free Tour Explore Warsaw while discovering how Varsovians lived during World War II . On this tour, we'll stroll through the streets and see the most important monuments.

Discover the most bohemian and alternative part of Warsaw on this free tour through the Praga district. The perfect opportunity to get to know Polish culture!

Private Tour of Warsaw Discover the best of Warsaw : make the most of your trip to the Polish capital enjoying a tailored private tour with an exclusive English-speaking guide.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Private Day Trip Who has planned a trip to Poland without thinking about going to Auschwitz-Birkenau? With this tour, you'll cross the fences the famous concentration camp.

Pierogi Cooking Class Learn how to make a tasty Polish dumpling or piegori following the steps of an expert with this Pierogi Cooking Class. Enjoy preparing Polish delicacies.

Chopin's Life Walking Tour Did you know that one of the world’s best composers and pianists was born in Warsaw? Discover the life of Fryderyk Chopin on this 3-hour walking tour .

Chopin Piano Concert Be captivated by the  soul-stirring music of Frédéric Chopin ,   one of the most outstanding Polish composers, by attending a piano concert in the heart of Warsaw!

On this guided tour of the Wilanów Palace we'll discover one of the most imposing monuments in Warsaw, the summer residence of the Polish royal family .

Warsaw & Łazienki Park Tour Discover an array of beautiful, historic buildings on our Warsaw & Łazienki Park Tour. We'll explore Marie Curie's birthplace and visit a charming park.

Warsaw Pub Crawl Enjoy a night filled with so much fun, on this pub crawl around Warsaw! Experience all the delights of Polish nightlife on this tour!

Fryderyk Hall Piano Concert Step into a neo-classical concert hall filled with elegant 19th-century decoration and enjoy a piano concert with music by Chopin in Warsaw's Fryderyk Hall. 

Auschwitz Day Trip Visiting the memorial and museum of the  Auschwitz Concentration Camp  is essential in trying to understand the horrors of the Second World War.

Private Tour in a Retro Fiat Tour the capital of Poland in a Polish-made retro Fiat and admire the city as you learn about its tragic history on this exclusive tour .

Poland has beautiful historic cities such as  Toruń , and  Kazimierz Dolny . Discover those iconic places on one of these  private tour from Warsaw.

Warsaw Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Explore the capital of Poland in a comfortable and practical way by hopping on and off our sightseeing buses from any of the numerous stops.

Christmas Cooking Workshop This December , make the Christmas season extra special and ring in the most wonderful time of the year with this Christmas cooking workshop in Warsaw !

Treblinka Memorial Tour Delve into one of the most somber chapters of World War II by paying homage at the Treblinka memorial , a solemn site where over 800,000 Jews lost their lives.

Polish Vodka Tour On this vodka tour around Warsaw , we'll take in the historical charm of this capital city while sampling different types of vodka in local bars.

Majdanek Concentration Camp & Lublin Private Tour Learn about the darkest episodes of the last century at  Majdanek concentration camp and  travel through history while strolling through the old town of Lublin .

City Sightseeing on a Retro Bus Set off on a singular sightseeing tour of Warsaw on a vintage Jelcz 043 bus and discover the most emblematic sights in the Polish capital.

Warsaw Street Art Free Tour Poland's capital city has lots of eye-catching, colorful murals in neighborhoods like Muranów . Discover these and more on our free tour of Warsaw's street art .

Warsaw Christmas Market Tour Get lost in Warsaw's festive charm on this Christmas Market Tour: sweets, lights and decorations adorn the streets and a warm spirit runs through the city.

Our travel guides

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Taylor Tourism: New Data Reveals Singer's Eras Tour Is Driving Interest in Small Towns and ‘Destination Dupes'

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Taylor Swift fans flocked to Liverpool last week for the first of her sold-out "Eras Tour" UK dates , but it wasn't just Liverpool locals in the crowd. Among the more than 55,000 Swifties at Anfield Stadium were fans who had traveled from as far as India, China and the Philippines, in addition to seemingly thousands of people from North America.

While they don't share exact booking data, travel site Expedia says search interest in Liverpool has increased by as much as 875% over last year, likely due to Swift announcing her tour dates in the city. Searches for Warsaw, Poland, meantime, have increased by a whopping 1130%, per Expedia, with bookings tied to Swift's concert there in August. Aside from those top two cities, Swifties drove up Expedia searches for May to August by almost 65% for cities that are part of the singer's 2024 European tour . Call it the "Taylor tourism effect."

In a recent Expedia survey, nearly 70% of respondents said they would be more likely to travel to a concert outside their hometown, especially if it was cheaper . More than 40% said they'd see traveling for a concert as an excuse to visit a new place. That has not only increased bookings on Expedia to lesser-known destinations (think Liverpool over London), it has also become a major driver of those local economies.

It isn't just Swift who is driving business for " tour tourism " - last year saw U.S. fans flocking to Europe for Beyonce's "Renaissance Tour," and unexpected cities on Expedia's list of top tour tourism destinations this year include Kuala Lumpur (where Dua Lipa is playing November); Edmonton (where Avril Lavigne, Zach Bryan and Bruce Springsteen will make stops this year); and Mexico City, which will welcome Jonas Brothers, Niall Horan and The Killers, among others. While hotel prices run into the high-hundreds for major cities like New York and Chicago, Expedia has stays available from $91 in Kuala Lumpur, and $119 in Mexico City and Warsaw, proving these so-called "destination dupes" may provide the best value for concert goers.

The top summer ticket aside from Swift? According to Expedia, it's Justin Timberlake who is leading search interest on the site, with his upcoming concerts in Amsterdam and Munich "driving higher demand" in hotel bookings than Swift. Here in the U.S., Expedia is seeing an increase in bookings for small towns like Hershey, Pennsylvania and Lexington, Kentucky, with travel searches up 1400% and 800% respectively for more affordable stays there tied to Timberlake's dates.

While Expedia is best known for offering accommodations and experiences (think guided tours and sightseeing packages), the site also has sports and concert tickets available as part of its resale marketplace. Tickets to 2024 Eras Tour dates start at $408 as of this writing, all backed by Expedia's money-back guarantee.

As for tips on how to score the best deals to see Swift (and other artists): in addition to searching for the less mainstream destinations mentioned above, Expedia says to consider commuting to the concert rather than staying in the exact city where the show is taking place, which can often shave a few hundred dollars off accommodations. The site also notes that Saturday night is often the most expensive night to stay in a hotel. If an artist is playing multiple dates, try and opt for midweek or Sunday. 

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