poland trip warszawa

Welcome to the Official Tourist Website of Warsaw

Each city has a place that is its showcase and a must-see on any trip. In Warsaw, it’s the Old Town , entered on the UNESCO World Heritage List – it’s where the city’s heart has been beating for centuries. However, when you cross the Vistula River and look at the Old Town from a distance, you are struck by how unusual the panorama of the city is – skyscrapers rise above the red roofs of the Old Town. Historical buildings blend in harmoniously with modern architecture, and the city surprises us by revealing its second face… read more

April 20, 2018

Łazienki Królewskie Museum

Palace of Culture and Science

Museum of King Jan III’s Palace at Wilanów

Warsaw Rising Museum

National Museum

Polin museum of history of polish jews.

Copernicus Science Centre

Chopin Museum

Vistula Boulevards

April 19, 2018

What? Where? When?

sat 27 apr 09:00 sat 16:00 12th season of Żoliborz Breakfast Market

Event Details

SATURDAYS ON  ŻOLIBORZ  9am-4pm al. Wojska Polskiego/corner Śmiała str. SUNDAYS ON MOKOTÓW 10am-5pm Skwer AK Granat Depends on wheather conditions, make sure

(Saturday) 09:00 - 16:00

Targ Śniadaniowy Żoliborz

Aleja Wojska Polskiego 4

Calendar GoogleCal

mon 29 apr 19:00 The Original Harlem Globetrotters World Tour 2024

(Monday) 19:00

Hala Torwar COS

ul. Łazienkowska 6a

wed 01 may 12:00 Special Chopin recitals in Żelazowa Wola

1, 2 and 3 May at 12.00 noon and 3pm. The entrance fee for the concert is included in the ticket to the Park in Żelazowa Wola. Tickets are available

(Wednesday) 12:00

Muzeum Fryderyka Chopina w Żelazowej Woli

Żelezowa Wola 15

sun 05 may 15:00 Sunday Chopin Recitals in Żelazowa Wola

Sunday Chopin Recitals in Żelazowa Wola are an opportunity to listen to the performances of the greatest Polish and international pianists, world-famous professors and the prizewinners of the International Chopin

Sunday Chopin Recitals in Żelazowa Wola are an opportunity to listen to the performances of the greatest Polish and international pianists, world-famous professors and the prizewinners of the International Chopin Competitions. 45-minute piano concerts take place in season from May to the end of September every Sunday at 12.00pm and 3.00pm.

Admission to the recitals is included in the ticket entitling to visit the Park in Żelazowa Wola. The concerts are in the open-air and the places for the public are not numbered.

(Sunday) 15:00

mon 06 may 20:00 Chris Botti

(Monday) 20:00

Teatr Wielki - Polish National Opera

Pl. Teatralny 1

fri 10 may 21:30 Dancing Queen - fountain shows - Multimedia Fountain Park

Warsaw’s fountains have been attracting hundreds of thousands of viewers for years, telling magical stories and urban legends. The spectacular combination of water, images, music and lights creates an

Warsaw’s fountains have been attracting hundreds of thousands of viewers for years, telling magical stories and urban legends. The spectacular combination of water, images, music and lights creates an extraordinary evening spectacle that cannot be missed. The shows have become a permanent part of the cultural landscape of Warsaw, becoming one of the most popular attractions for residents, as well as tourists from Poland and abroad.

This year’s show, titled ” Dancing Queen “, will take viewers back to 1976, when the famous band ABBA visited Warsaw. The Swedish group flew to Poland on the eve of the release of the album “Arrival” to record a concert for Studio 2, an extremely popular Polish television program. A new show in the Multimedia Fountain Park will remind you of this historic event. We hope that the show will delight viewers through spectacular laser projections and dancing fountains to the rhythm of hits that make subsequent generations of listeners dance.

May-July Fridays and Saturdays at 21.30 August  Fridays and Saturdays at 21.00 September Fridays and Saturdays at 20.30 Free admission

(Friday) 21:30

Multimedia Fountain Park

skwer I Dywizji Pancernej

sat 11 may 18:45 2024 Orlen FIM Speedway Grand Prix of Poland

(Saturday) 18:45

PGE National Stadium

Al. Ks. J. Poniatowskiego 1

mon 13 may All Day sun 30 jun 33 The Mozart Festival

May 13 (Monday) - June 30 (Sunday)

Various locations

sat 18 may 19:00 sat 23:45 Long Night of Museums 2024

(Saturday) 19:00 - 23:45

fri 07 jun All Day sat 08 Orange Warsaw Festival

june 7 (Friday) - 8 (Saturday)

Służewiec Horse Racetrack

ul. Puławska 266

wed 03 jul 20:00 PET SHOP BOYS

(Wednesday) 20:00

thu 04 jul (jul 4) 19:00 sun 07 (jul 7) 19:00 Warsaw Summer Jazz Days 2024

4 (Thursday) 19:00 - 7 (Sunday) 19:00

Klub Stodoła

ul. Batorego 10

sun 07 jul 16:00 Metallica

(Sunday) 16:00

PGE Narodowy

wed 10 jul 20:00 James Blunt

fri 26 jul All Day Warsaw Rocks '24 - Scorpions, Europe & others

All Day (Friday)

thu 01 aug All Day sat 03 Taylor Swift - The Eras Tour

august 1 (Thursday) - 3 (Saturday)

sat 24 aug 20:00 Andrea Bocelli

(Saturday) 20:00

fri 06 sep 20:00 DJ BoBo Warszawa- EVOLUT3ON TOUR 2024

(Friday) 20:00

sat 05 oct 18:00 Pat Metheny - Dream Box

Concert at 9pm – SOLD OUT additional concert at  6pm  

Concert at 9pm – SOLD OUT additional concert at  6pm

(Saturday) 18:00

Klub Palladium

ul. Złota 7/9

mon 21 oct 19:00 MET Stars: Aleksandra Kurzak & Robert Alagna - Puccini in Love

National Philharmonic

tue 22 oct 20:00 Branford Marsalis & Friends

(Tuesday) 20:00

Teatr Muzyczny ROMA

Nowogrodzka 49

mon 25 nov 20:00 Jazz Icons: Jan Garbarek feat Trilok Gurtu

JAN GARBAREK saxophon RAINER BRÜNINGHAUS piano YURI DANIEL bass TRILOK

JAN GARBAREK saxophon RAINER BRÜNINGHAUS piano YURI DANIEL bass TRILOK GURTU percussion

More events…

Warsaw Quest

Are you a Mermaid or a Basilisk when you visit a new place? Take the legendary test and find out what kind of a tourist you are. Discover your places in Warsaw.

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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?

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

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:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

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7 Best Things To Do in Warsaw, Poland

Welcome to Warsaw, Poland’s capital, where the old and new come together in one fantastic city. Due to its rough history and massive destruction during WWII, Warsaw is often overlooked as a travel destination. However, the city is very diverse with an old town, hipster area, and urban nightlife. There are many great things to do in Warsaw, so add it to your Poland travel route !

Things To Do in Warsaw in a day

Warsaw is a city where you could spend one or two days discovering all its corners and contrasting neighborhoods, and don’t forget the fantastic food scene!

In order to visit all the things to do in Warsaw within 24 hours, we recommend using trams or scooters like Lime . Lime offers day passes for 25 Polish Zloty. (~ 6 EUR)

Here are all your hotel options in Warsaw.

9 AM – Hala Mirowska Market

Start your morning strolling down the lively Hala Mirowska. An old market in the center of Warsaw with two market buildings and an open-air market between them. Locals do their grocery shopping for the cheapest fruits, veggies, locally produced cheeses, fresh flowers, and so much more! 

Hotels in Warsaw 😴

One of the halls still has visible bullet holes because, during the Second World War, civil executions were done here.

Discover Warsaw in a unique Fiat tour!

10:00 AM – Warsaw University Library Garden

Enter one of the largest rooftop gardens in Europe ! The public gardens on top of the Warsaw University Library are incredibly eye-catching. The different levels offer a panoramic view of the city but also a look down into the library. You will completely forget the fact that you’re in the busy capital city.

Also visit: Poland’s greatest city: Krakow (Things to do)

10:30 AM – Old Town – The Best Place to visit in Warsaw

Warsaw Old Town is a stunning area with pastel-colored houses on the lively Castle Square. During WWII, Warsaw Old Town was almost entirely destroyed, but thankfully it was reconstructed. Discover the many fantastic restaurants, street artists, and cafes inside the old town. 

Warsaw Barbican

One of Warsaw’s few remaining buildings is the Barbican, which nowadays is the gate connecting the old and new parts of the city. Along the barbican are the outer defensive walls, giving Warsaw a completely medieval experience.

See more of Warsaw:  In a bike tour around the city

12:30 PM – Lunch

Take a rest during your busy morning exploring the city and eat in Warsaw’s Old Town at one of these restaurants:

• Sambal restauracja (Indonesian)
• Ciao Napoli (Italian)
• Vegemiasto (Vegan)
• Portretowa (Polish)

Also, see our dinner recommendations .

2:30 PM – Discover Praga, Warsaw’s Hipster Neighborhood

Hop on the scooter or into the tram and cross the bridge towards the Praga district. A district that had no place for tourists until it was revamped into an artistic, hipster area.

For example, visit the Soho Factory, a massive industrial site transformed with creative workspaces, some of the city’s best restaurants, and as well as organic food markets and cultural events.

Tip: Get some drinks or food at Komu Komu!

Neon Museum

Neon is a part of Warsaw’s history. In the 1950s and 60s, traditional signs were traded in massively for neon signs to get Praga, which was still in ruins, out of the darkness. The neon museum, next to Soho Factory, has an incredible collection of neon signs and is highly recommended to visit! 

Street art 

There is street art all over Warsaw ( locations ). However, most of them seem to be in the Praga district. Praga district was a forgotten district during the restoration after WWII. Artists began to color the grey walls, and now some of the most incredible pieces pop up on the side of a building.

5 PM – Palace of Culture and Jerusalem Avenue

At the end of the day, cross the Poniatowski Bridge and stop by Jerusalem Avenue, where Poland’s only palm tree is located. The tree is not real; it is made from steel and designed to bend by the wind. In 2019, the palm appeared ‘dead’; this transformation was part of a new art project to draw attention to air pollution and global climate change.

Continue your way to the Palace of Culture, a building built by Stalin, who wanted to mark his territory by creating a similar building as the one in Moscow. Nowadays, you can go up to the 30th floor for an incredible panoramic view of the city — one of the best things to do in Warsaw.

Also read: Best Things to do in Gdansk, Poland

7 PM – Dinner & Drinks

Close off your 24-hour trip to the newer, urban business part of Warsaw. Around Parkingowa Street is a buzzing nightlife with great little bars and restaurants! Get your dinner at one of the following places and a few drinks afterward!

• BEIRUT hummus & music bar
• Youmiko Vegan Sushi
• Soul Kitchen (Polish)
• Flambeeria (Italian)

Getting there & around

As Poland’s capital, Warsaw has many direct international flights from all over Europe.

There are also good connections by both train and bus. For example, from Amsterdam to Warsaw by train in 14 hours. Or from Prague , it is a 10-hour bus ride. A fantastic way to travel! 

See all buses and trains to Warsaw

Getting Around

Warsaw is a large city, and to do all the things to do in Warsaw, it is advisable to use public transport. The tram, metro, and bus can take you to pretty much any place in the city. 

Tickets are available at the stations, local tobacco shops, and the yellow ticket vending machines.

Alternatively, ride-sharing scooters like Lime are a different way to discover the city. Get your first ride unlocked for free here . Lime offers day passes for 25 Polish Zloty. (~ 6 EUR)

We recommend to rent a car in Poland through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Where to stay in Warsaw

Warsaw’s old town is the best area to stay in to be located to all the historical sites and top things to do in Warsaw. Additionally, search for hotels in the Srodmiescie district .

Tip: We stayed on the newer side of Warsaw, which is also a great spot, at Hotel Metropol .

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Best Things To Do in Gdansk, Poland (2-Day Guide)

9 best things to do in wroclaw, poland, how to visit auschwitz concentration camp in poland.

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Everything you should see and do on a trip to Warsaw

Oct 31, 2019 • 7 min read

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

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

A respect for history

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

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

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

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

Amazing architecture

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

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

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

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

The great outdoors

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

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

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

Art and design

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

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

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

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

Eat, drink and be merry

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

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

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

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

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

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The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Warsaw Itinerary

Last Updated on March 5, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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Mapping out a great 2 to 3 days in Warsaw itinerary is a great addition to any trip to Poland . The capital city is rich in history, culture, and delicious food, but it can be frequently passed by visitors for more stereotypically idyllic cities such as Krakow .

However, the capital of Poland is an incredibly dynamic, vibrant, artistic, and inspiring city that has risen from the ashes and deserves a prime spot on any trip to this Central European nation. With a lot to offer visitors, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip to this interesting European capital.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Warsaw?

As the largest city in Poland, it can be tricky to decide how many days to spend in Warsaw.

If you just have one day to spend in Poland’s capital city, you’ll have enough time to eat delicious Polish comfort food and explore the city’s Old Town and the cultural highlights of Warsaw. With just one day in Warsaw, it’s still worth the visit but I’d recommend more time to explore the city in depth.

2 days offer an ideal timeframe, allowing you to not only experience all the must-see attractions in one day but also delve deeper into the city’s rich culture, history, and distinctive neighborhoods.

3 days is really the perfect amount of time to visit the city if you’re especially interested in getting to know Warsaw on a deeper level or you’re keen to go on a day trip.

Getting To & Around Warsaw

There are two main modes of transportation for arriving in Warsaw, either by air or by train. If you’re arriving by air, you’ll be landing at one of Warsaw’s main airports, either Warsaw Chopin Airport or Warsaw Modlin Airport.

Warsaw Chopin Airport (so-called after famed Polish composer Fryderyk Chopin) is the main airport for Warsaw and is likely the airport where you’ll arrive.

Warsaw city center is conveniently located just 10 km away from Warsaw Chopin Airport and can be reached either by taxi, pre-arranged transfer or public transportation.

If you plan to travel by taxi, Warsaw is an affordable city and depending on your destination within the city, you can expect to pay around 40-50 PLN for the 20-30 minute journey.

If you prefer to travel by public transportation to the city center, the best option is to take the public bus outside the airport terminal. The journey via bus transportation from the airport to the city center typically takes around 30 minutes.

If you’re arriving by train from either another Polish destination such as Gdansk or a different country, you’ll arrive at Warsaw Central Station located in the center of the city.

This is also where you’ll want to go if you’ll be traveling onwards from Warsaw to another destination as the station offers high-speed trains, long-distance trains, and regional trains, connecting Warsaw with various destinations within Poland and beyond. You can view schedules here .

As for getting around Warsaw, the city is incredibly well-connected, with modes of transportation ranging from public transportation to biking, and walking.

The historic Old Town and many of the main tourist attractions are located close to each other, making it possible to explore them on foot. The city center is relatively compact, and you can easily walk from one place to another, enjoying the architecture, parks, and vibrant atmosphere along the way.

While the central areas you’ll be visiting during your Warsaw itinerary are incredibly walkable, if you are staying in a different district or would like to explore other areas of the city, I suggest public transportation.

You’ll find Warsaw has an efficiently wide public transportation system, giving the options of either bus, tram, or metro.

Day passes are available for Warsaw public transport and are a wonderful and cost-efficient way to save money if you plan on traveling a fair amount on public transport during your time in the city.

2 to 3-Day Warsaw Itinerary

Day 1 – warsaw old town, warsaw old town.

There’s no better way to begin any trip to Warsaw than in the city’s Old Town. A contrast to the modern skyline dominated by the Palace of Culture and Science skyscraper, visiting Warsaw’s Old Town is like stepping back in time to the Warsaw that once was.

The Old Town is incredibly unique, as, during World War II, it was destroyed and then rebuilt in an ode to what once was.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a captivating blend of historical architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant colors.

It’s a true delight to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Warsaw as you walk through the narrow alleys, discover hidden courtyards, and visit the numerous museums, churches, and cafés and take in the imposing city walls – known as the Warsaw Barbican.

The Old Town of Warsaw is a true treasure of varied architectural wonders and cultural heritage, giving you a special experience for your time in Warsaw. You can book a walking tour here to learn more about the history.

Royal Castle

A must-visit stop while exploring the Old Town is the Royal Castle of Warsaw located in the heart of the Old Town.

This exquisite palace has been well restored to its former state. complete with ornate furnishings, intricate artwork, and stunning architecture, giving an authentic look into the history of Poland’s Royal Family.

Once the official residence of Polish monarchs, the castle showcases a mix of Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles.

From the castle tower, you will be offered breathtaking panoramic views of the Old Town and the surrounding area of Warsaw, and whether you’re a history buff or not, the view from the castle tower is completely worth the visit. The Warsaw Castle is a true gem of the city, offering visitors a glimpse into Poland’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

Warsaw Castle is typically open Tuesday – Sunday with varying opening hours depending on the time of year, so make sure to check in advance before your visit.

Also make sure to enjoy the vibes and view of Castle Square, where you can take in the column of King Sigismund III that was erected in the 17th Century.

St. John’s Archcathedral

Another point of interest in the Old Town that’s worth visiting is St. John’s Cathedral. This Roman Catholic church, also known as the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, is one of the oldest and most significant churches in Warsaw.

The cathedral features a stunning Gothic architectural style, with intricate details and a grand interior, offering a worthy experience for anyone, whether you’re religious or particularly interested in history and architecture.

Inside, you’ll witness an impressive high altar, beautiful stained glass windows, and historic tombs of notable Polish figures.

St. John’s Cathedral is an important cultural and historical symbol for the country, representing Poland’s rich heritage and religious significance internationally.

If you’re interested in classical music, then you can finish your day with a Chopin concert at the nearby Fryderyk Concert Hall.

Day 2 – A Look Into Warsaw’s Past & Traditional Polish Food

Polish doughnuts for breakfast.

The best way to begin your second day is with delicious Polish doughnuts, or “pączki.”

Polish food is extremely delicious, homemade, hearty, and comforting and the pączki are no different. These delicious fried dough balls are filled with various fillings, from chocolate to custard and jam.

For a tasty experience, I suggest heading to Blikle , a traditional pączki shop located in the historic center of the city frying up incredible doughnuts with various fillings.

Lazienki Royal Park

A great spot to catch some greenery and a lush walk while enjoying your fresh pączki is the Lazienki Royal Park, pretty much what Central Park is to New York City. Warsaw is quite a busy urban city, but you’ll find that there are quite a few green areas, offering a quiet oasis from the busy city center.

The Lazienki Park is a sprawling park spanning 76 hectares that is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and historic architecture. Originally designed in the 18th century as a royal summer residence, the green park offers an inviting blend of both nature and history.

The park has incredibly manicured gardens, serene lakes, charming bridges, and iconic buildings such as the Palace on the Isle, which is located on an island in the middle of a lake.

You’ll find that Lazienki Royal Park is perfect for both tourists and locals alike, giving visitors an authentic look into everyday life for locals.

Warsaw Rising Museum

After spending time at the peaceful Lazienki Royal Park, I recommend a change of pace by heading to the Warsaw Rising Museum, a museum dedicated to preserving the importance and history of the Warsaw Uprising, a major World War II resistance effort against Nazi occupation.

This is not to be confused with the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, which was a resistance of Polish Jews in the city in 1943.

Warsaw is truly a city that has experienced unsurmountable hardship and has risen from the ashes to what it is today. This museum is an ideal way to learn about where Warsaw once was and how it is the strong city that it is today.

The museum offers varying experiences, ranging from interactive exhibits, artifacts, and immersive historical experiences to better understand the Warsaw Uprising.

It’s also worth noting that the museum is incredibly large, dense, and comprehensive, so if you’re looking to get the most out of your visit, make sure to allow at least a few hours for your visit.

For those who would rather learn about Polish Jews, then consider heading to the POLIN Museum instead. This is a museum dedicated to the history of Polish Jews.

Pierogi at Pierogarnia Mandu

After a lengthy and likely heavy pass through the Warsaw Uprising Museum, you’ll likely have built up an appetite. Poland’s cuisine is well-loved internationally, with the most famous Polish food easily being Polish dumplings or pierogi.

For a comforting dinner to wrap up your 2 days in Warsaw, make your way to Pierogarnia Mandu, located in the old town to experience a wide array of different pierogi.

I recommend trying the fried pierogi, baked pierogi, and a sweet option to finish your meal off. There is no doubt that eating your weight in pierogi is one of the best things to do in Warsaw. You can even organise to take a pierogi cooking class or a food tour to learn more about Polish cuisine!

If you want another traditional Polish food experience, then consider heading to one of the city’s Milk Bars – or a low-cost cafeteria-style restaurant serving up hearty local fare.

Day 3 – Day Trip from Warsaw & Warsaw’s Unique Neighborhoods

Day trip to kazimierz dolny.

While the city of Warsaw itself is a wonderful destination to visit, if you’re planning to visit Warsaw in 3 days, you may want a change of scenery, making day 3 the perfect opportunity to embark on a day trip to a nearby area.

A day trip from Warsaw to the town of Kazimierz Dolny makes for a wonderful journey to a quaint town known for its medieval architecture and artistry.

When visiting Kazimierz Dolny, you’ll find yourself enchanted by its charming Old Town, with its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and historic buildings.

The Market Square, like any other Polish town or city, is incredibly picturesque, with its Renaissance-style Town Hall, and from here you’ll find stunning panoramic views from its clock tower.

Other spots worth visiting during a day trip to Kazimierz Dolny, are The Parish Church of St. John the Baptist (a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts), and the Kazimierz Dolny Castle

Spend time walking along the Vistula River, taking in idyllic views from just about every angle and a serene atmosphere thanks to the lack of tourists in the town.

To get from Warsaw to Kazimierz Dolny by public transportation, you have a few options. You can take a train from Warsaw Central Station to Nałęczów and then a taxi to Kazimierz Dolny, or take a direct public bus from Warsaw directly to Kazimierz Dolny.

Praga District

If you decide to stay in Warsaw on your last day in the city rather than going on a day trip, I highly recommend spending the day exploring Warsaw’s neighborhoods that are off the beaten path and giving a glimpse into local life.

My recommendation is to head to the Praga neighborhood, located on the northern side of Warsaw. Praga is a historic neighborhood located on the right bank of the Vistula River in Warsaw and is a vibrant and diverse area known for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic atmosphere.

Once considered a rough and neglected part of the city, Praga has experienced a renaissance in recent years, with its cobblestone streets, pre-war architecture, and industrial heritage drawing all sorts of creative types.

Despite its rough edges, Praga has a unique charm, making it a favorite spot for locals and a unique part of the city to explore for visitors.

Whilst in Praga, make sure to wander the streets of the neighborhood, taking in the unique architecture and street art and taking a look inside some of the open markets and art galleries the area has to offer.

For a great dining experience in Praga, I recommend visiting Stacja Praga , a modern Polish restaurant that serves traditional Polish dishes with a modern twist, set within a historic railway station.

Where to Stay in Warsaw

Hotel Reytan – This 3-star hotel is perfect for mid-range visitors to the Polish capital. There are a number of delightful rooms to choose from, a great location for exploring all Warsaw has to offer and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is comfortable.

Hotel Polonia Palace – Those looking for a luxury accommodation option on their visit to Warsaw will love this sophisticated hotel. There are a range of plush and chic rooms on offer, a great, central location and plenty of high-end amenities on offer for guests.

GO Apartments – These apartments are a good option if you’d like to have your own space while visiting Warsaw. There are a number of different flats available, all fully furnished with everything you may need during your stay.

Oki Doki Old Town Hostel – Budget and solo travelers in Warsaw will love this cool hostel in the Old Town. They offer both dorms and private rooms along with great common areas and a good social atmosphere.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Warsaw hotels!

Warsaw, Poland is a truly unique European destination, offering incredible food, a thriving art scene, and a revitalized culture that can be felt from every corner of the city. Whether you’re seeing Warsaw in 2 days or more, you’re bound for a special trip.

Are you planning on visiting Warsaw? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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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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An epic 2 days in Warsaw itinerary

Planning a trip to Warsaw, Poland? With just 2 days, you can still experience the best this vibrant capital city has to offer. This itinerary is meticulously crafted to maximize your time, ensuring you don’t miss the must-see sights and hidden gems.

Hitting the Highlights: Your 2-Day Warsaw Adventure

What to see around warsaw – polish vodka museum – option 2, navigating the pge national stadium tour: language options and logistics, how many days in warsaw should i spend, what to do in warsaw, poland in 2 days.

A City Reborn: Warsaw’s Rich History

Warsaw boasts a captivating history, transforming from a humble fishing village to a bustling European metropolis. Despite facing near-destruction during World War II, the city rose from the ashes to become a prominent center of culture and politics.

Immerse Yourself in Warsaw’s Charm

Today, Warsaw is a treasure trove of museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks. Pay homage to the legendary composer Frédéric Chopin at the renowned Chopin Museum. Lose yourself in the enchanting Old Town district, a maze of colorful buildings, charming streets, and a lively atmosphere – perfect for adding a touch of nightlife to your 2-day adventure.

Exploring the Old Town: A Must for Every Visitor

No Warsaw itinerary is complete without exploring the Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a unique atmosphere and architectural gems waiting to be discovered.

Planning Your Visit: When to Experience Warsaw’s Best

Poland welcomes visitors year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Warsaw. May and June provide comfortable temperatures in the low 60s (around 16°C), perfect for sightseeing. July and August are ideal for those seeking warmth, with average highs reaching the mid-70s (around 24°C).

Considering a Fall or Winter Getaway?

Fall offers a delightful escape with temperatures dipping into the 50s and 60s (10°C to 16°C), making it a great time to venture beyond Warsaw and explore other regions of Poland. Winter transforms the city into a winter wonderland, but be prepared for colder temperatures and snowfall.

Tailoring Your Trip:

This guide provides a comprehensive framework for your 2-day Warsaw adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a charming European escape, Warsaw has something to offer everyone.

Let’s delve deeper and explore the specific activities you can pack into your action-filled 48 hours in Warsaw!

Planning a trip to Poland:  Getting from Berlin to Warsaw is easy with our detailed guide

Unforgettable Warsaw in 48 Hours: Your Perfect 2-Day Itinerary

Warsaw, a city brimming with history and vibrant energy, is a destination that could captivate you for weeks. This meticulously crafted 2-day itinerary ensures you experience the essence of Warsaw, leaving you eager to return and explore further. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking romance, or a family on an adventure, Warsaw offers something special for everyone.

Planning Your Perfect Warsaw Escape: Budget Tips and Must-See Sights

Warsaw’s captivating energy will leave you wanting to explore for weeks, but this 2-day itinerary ensures you experience the city’s highlights. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Warsaw offers something for everyone, from historical landmarks to vibrant nightlife.

Exploring Warsaw on a Budget: Poland is known for its affordability, but some top attractions might not fit perfectly into a tight 2-day itinerary.

Unlocking Savings with the Warsaw Pass: Consider the Warsaw Pass to maximize your sightseeing experience within your 48 hours in Warsaw. This convenient pass bundles entry to popular attractions like the Museum of the History of Polish Jews and the Fryderyk Chopin Museum, along with breathtaking views from the Palace of Culture and Science observation deck – all at a discounted price.

Choosing Your Pass Duration: The Warsaw Pass is available in 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour options. To get the most value, plan to visit several included attractions during your chosen timeframe.

Warsaw Pass Integration: We’ve conveniently highlighted activities within the itinerary that are included with the Warsaw Pass. Look for these markers to help you decide if the pass aligns with your budget and interests.

Strategic Planning for Savings: While the Warsaw Pass offers significant savings, it requires some strategic planning to ensure you visit enough attractions to justify its cost

BOOK A HOTEL IN WARSAW

With just 48 hours in Warsaw, Poland, you can still experience the best this captivating city has to offer! This itinerary is designed to maximize your time, ensuring you don’t miss the must-see historical sites, trendy cafes, and vibrant local atmosphere.

Gearing Up for Your Warsaw Escape

Whether you’re arriving by plane or car, this guide provides tips for a smooth arrival and settling into your accommodation.

• Day 1 Arrival:  Aim to arrive in Warsaw by afternoon or evening on your first day.
• Travelers by Car:  Consider parking at a secure garage like Podziemny Strzeżony TOWING, conveniently located near the Warsaw Old Town.
• Flying into Warsaw Chopin Airport:  Pre-book a hotel transfer for a hassle-free arrival at your accommodation in one of Warsaw’s charming neighborhoods.

First Impressions: Exploring Your Neighborhood

Once settled in, take a stroll around your area to familiarize yourself with the surroundings and public transportation options for day two. As your appetite builds, indulge in some delicious Polish street food, perhaps trying a traditional Zapiekanka (open-faced toasted bread with toppings).

Day 1 of Warsaw in 2 days

Day 1: Unveiling Warsaw’s Historic Heart

A Coffee Break with History:

Begin your Warsaw adventure with a delightful breakfast at Café Baguette, a charming cafe on the edge of the Old Town. Fuel up on coffee and pastries before delving into the city’s captivating history.

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Royal Grandeur: Exploring the Royal Castle

Warsaw boasts one of its most popular attractions – the Royal Castle. Dating back to the 13th century, this magnificent Baroque-style castle was meticulously reconstructed after its destruction during World War II.

• A Phoenix Reborn:  Explore the castle’s four floors, including the stunning gardens and courtyard.
• A Glimpse into the Past:  Several exhibits showcase fascinating aspects of Polish history.
• Art Aficionado Alert:  Keep an eye out for two original Rembrandt paintings within the castle walls.

Pro Tip for Stunning Photos: Head to the nearby Old Town observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Royal Castle (including a small admission fee).

Strolling Through the Enchanting Old Town:

Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Warsaw – the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Market Square Buzz: Start at the lively Market Square (Rynek Starego Miasta), with its colorful buildings, bustling cafes, and the historical Sigismund’s Column.
• Architectural Gems: Marvel at the magnificent Royal Castle, the iconic St. John’s Archcathedral with its Gothic architecture, and the charming Warsaw Mermaid Statue.
• Hidden Delights: Wander the picturesque cobblestone streets, discovering hidden courtyards and alleyways. Consider a free walking tour for insightful historical narratives.
• Soaking Up the Ambiance: Relax in Kanonia Square, known for its charming houses and the famous Sigismund’s Bell. Take in the beauty of the Old Town Market Place, savoring delicious Polish food and the lively atmosphere.
• A Moment of Reflection: Pay your respects at the Warsaw Uprising Monument, a poignant tribute to the city’s heroes.
• Final Stop: Castle Square: Conclude your Old Town exploration at Castle Square (Plac Zamkowy), offering stunning views of the Royal Castle and the statue of King Sigismund III Vasa.

Planning a trip to Warsaw:  Here are the best areas to stay in

Insider Tip: Many Old Town attractions are included with the Warsaw Pass. Look for the “Warsaw Pass” symbol throughout this itinerary to help you decide if this pass aligns with your budget and interests.

A Culinary Adventure: Savoring Polish Delights

No Warsaw exploration is complete without experiencing its delicious cuisine! Here’s a taste of what awaits your palate:

• Pierogi: These ubiquitous dumplings are a must-try. Filled with savory options like cheese, potato, and meat or sweet options like fruit, they’re a versatile and satisfying dish.
• Bigos: For a hearty meal, delve into Bigos, a hunter’s stew bursting with flavor. Sauerkraut, cabbage, meat, and mushrooms combine for a truly comforting experience.
• Zurek: Explore sour rye soup, a traditional dish often served in a bread bowl. This unique starter is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
• Polish Sausage: From smoky kielbasa to garlicky kabanosy, Polish sausages offer a variety to tempt any palate.
• Potato Pancakes: Don’t miss the quintessential potato pancakes (placki ziemniaczane). Enjoy them crispy and golden, perhaps topped with a dollop of sour cream and goulash.
• Sweet Treats: For a sugar rush, indulge in Polish cheesecake (sernik) or the delectable poppy seed roll (makowiec).

Restaurant Recommendations:

To savor these delectable dishes in an authentic setting, consider these restaurants:

• Gospoda Kwiaty Polskie: This restaurant offers a charming atmosphere and a wide selection of traditional Polish cuisine.
• Zapiecek: A popular chain known for its delicious and affordable pierogi.

Exploring Beyond the Classics:

While these are some highlights, Warsaw’s culinary scene has much more to offer. Venture into local eateries to discover hidden gems and unique regional specialties!

Here are some additional tips for your culinary adventure:

• Look for the “Domowe” Label:  This signifies homemade dishes, a good indicator of authentic flavors.
• Embrace the Milk Bars:  Milk bars (bar mleczny) are budget-friendly local eateries serving traditional fare at affordable prices.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things:  Be adventurous and explore dishes you might not be familiar with. You might discover a new favorite!

Visit Warsaw: Read our brilliant 24 hours in Warsaw post

A Towering Presence: Unveiling the Palace of Culture and Science

Warsaw’s skyline boasts a remarkable landmark – the Palace of Culture and Science. This imposing structure, towering over 230 meters, was a gift from the Soviet Union in the 1950s. While its architectural style might spark debate, it’s undeniably a significant part of Warsaw’s history.

• A Multi-Faceted Marvel: Today, the Palace houses a variety of cultural venues, cinemas, theaters, museums, and even offices and businesses. Some notable institutions include the Polish Academy of Sciences https://pan.pl/en/ , known for its research and scientific achievements, and the interesting Museum of Technology https://nmt.waw.pl/en/ (separate entry fee), showcasing Poland’s technological advancements throughout history.
• Panoramic City Views: (Consider mentioning the Warsaw Pass for free entry here) Don’t miss the opportunity to ascend to the observation deck and soak in breathtaking panoramic views of Warsaw (free entry with the Warsaw Pass). This is a fantastic way to orient yourself and appreciate the city’s layout.
• Fuel Up for Exploration: If you haven’t grabbed lunch yet, a convenient cafe on the ground floor offers delicious Polish meals – a perfect way to recharge before continuing your Warsaw adventure.

Exploring Further:

For a deeper dive into Polish culture or history, consider checking the Palace of Culture and Science’s website https://pkin.pl/en/home/ for any current exhibits or events that might interest you.

B OOK AN APARTMENT IN WARSAW

Stroll along Krakowskie Przedmieście street – option 1

Feeling overwhelmed by sightseeing? Consider a relaxing stroll down Krakowskie Przedmieście, a picturesque avenue stretching from the Royal Castle (Plac Zamkowy) to Nowy Świat Street. This elegant street, once part of the Royal Route, is a fantastic way to soak in Warsaw’s atmosphere.

• A Shopper’s Paradise: Indulge in some retail therapy! Krakowskie Przedmieście boasts an array of shops, from high-end brands like Hermes and HE Concept to convenient stores like Carrefour Express for a quick bite.
• Architectural Delights: Keep an eye out for impressive buildings along the way, including the Warsaw University campus, the magnificent Holy Cross Church, and the Presidential Palace.
• In the Footsteps of Chopin: History buffs can visit the Fryderyk Chopin Museum, housed in the composer’s former residence.

Planning a trip to Poland? Use our guide to the best cities in Poland

Option 2: Uncorking Polish History at the Vodka Museum

Craving a unique experience? Look no further than the Polish Vodka Museum! This fascinating museum delves into the 500-year history of Poland’s national spirit – vodka.

• A Spirited Journey: Explore the production process, traditional consumption habits, and the cultural significance of vodka throughout Polish history. Interactive exhibits and displays bring the story to life, making this a fun and informative experience for all ages.
• A Taste of Tradition: (Consider mentioning separate ticketing for the Vodka Academy) Conclude your museum visit with a delightful tasting at the Vodka Academy (separate ticket required). Compare the flavors of vodkas distilled from rye, wheat, and potatoes – a truly immersive experience!

Continuing Your Warsaw Adventure:

After your exploration, it’s time to refuel! Krakowskie Przedmieście offers a variety of restaurants, but for an authentic Polish experience, consider pierogi – delicious dumplings with savory fillings.

• Pierogi Paradise:  Head to GOŚCINIEC Polskie Pierogi, located near the Old Town end of Krakowskie Przedmieście. This restaurant offers a delectable variety of pierogi at affordable prices – a perfect way to end your Day 2 in Warsaw!

Additional Considerations:

• Plan Your Visit:  The Polish Vodka Museum has opening hours that can vary depending on the season. Check their official website [link to Polish Vodka Museum website] for current hours and consider booking tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

Warsaw After Dark: Unveiling the City’s Nightlife

As the sun sets, Warsaw transforms into a vibrant hub of nightlife! Whether you crave pulsating dance floors or a more relaxed evening, the city caters to all preferences.

• Night Owls Rejoice: Warsaw boasts a thriving disco and club scene, considered one of the most exciting in Europe. Head to the trendy Plac Zbawiciela area or the lively Vistula River bars and clubs for an unforgettable night.
• Melodious Evenings: For a cultural immersion, experience the magic of a Chopin concert. Warsaw, the composer’s birthplace, offers numerous opportunities to hear his music performed live.
• Breathtaking Vistas & Cocktails: For a touch of sophistication, visit the Panorama Sky Bar at the Marriott Warsaw. Sip on handcrafted cocktails while marveling at breathtaking panoramic city views.
• A Night at the Theater: Immerse yourself in the performing arts at the Teatr Wielki, Warsaw’s renowned opera and ballet house. Witness a captivating performance and soak in the theater’s grandeur.
• A Spooky Adventure: For a unique twist, embark on a Warsaw Ghost Tour . Explore the city’s haunted corners and hear chilling tales of its past.

Insider Tip: Many bars and clubs have extended hours, so you can dance the night away!

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Day 2 in Warsaw

For your day 2 in Warsaw itinerary, we have a couple of options depending on whether you want to experience more history, do some sightseeing or even visit the Polish National Stadium if you are a sports lover. Here is day two for your 2 days in Warsaw itinerary.

Exploring Warsaw at Your Pace: The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Ideal for: Sightseers with limited time, families with young children

The hop-on hop-off bus tour is a fantastic option for a comprehensive overview of Warsaw’s major attractions in a single day. Here’s why it might be a perfect fit for your 2-day Warsaw itinerary:

• Convenience at its Finest: With two routes (Red Line: 11 stops, Blue Line: 12 stops) covering the city’s highlights, you can easily hop on and off at points of interest that pique your curiosity.
• A Guided Journey: Enhance your experience with multilingual audio commentary (including Polish commentary for children) that provides historical insights and interesting facts about each stop.
• Flexibility is Key: Choose between 24, 48, or 72-hour tickets, allowing you to tailor your exploration to your timeframe and preferences. Extend your ticket for additional savings if you plan on visiting numerous attractions.
• Panoramic Views: Enjoy unobstructed 360-degree views of Warsaw as you travel between stops – a perfect way to get oriented and identify landmarks you might want to explore further.

Must-See Stops:

The hop-on hop-off bus covers a variety of Warsaw’s gems, including:

• Castle Square:  Witness the magnificent Royal Castle and its surrounding architecture.
• Old Town:  Immerse yourself in the charming cobbled streets, bustling markets, and historical buildings.
• Warsaw Rising Museum:  Learn about the city’s heroic resistance during World War II.
• National Stadium:  Explore this impressive venue that hosted major sporting events.
• Palace of Culture and Science:  Marvel at this iconic landmark and its architectural style.

Planning Your Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour:

• Research the different routes and included stops to plan your itinerary.
• Consider purchasing your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season.
• Download the tour operator’s app for real-time bus tracking and additional information (if available).
• Wear comfortable shoes as you might be doing some walking between hop-off points.

Exploring Beyond the Bus:

The hop-on hop-off bus is a great starting point, but don’t forget to delve deeper into the attractions that spark your interest. Many museums and historical sites offer guided tours or interactive exhibits for a more immersive experience.

By combining the hop-on hop-off bus tour with independent exploration, you can create a well-rounded and enjoyable day exploring Warsaw!

S EARCH MORE WARSAW TOURS ON VIATOR

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Unveiling a Sporting Giant: PGE National Stadium Tour

Calling all sports enthusiasts! If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping addition to your Warsaw itinerary, look no further than the PGE National Stadium Tour. Here’s why this experience shouldn’t be missed:

• A️ Monumental Arena: Dominating the Warsaw skyline, the PGE National Stadium is a sight to behold. Built for the 2012 UEFA European Football Championship, it boasts a seating capacity of 58,000, making it an electrifying venue for major sporting events.
• ⚽️ Walk in the Footsteps of Legends: Imagine the roar of the crowd as you enter the stadium. The tour takes you behind the scenes, allowing you to peek into the players’ locker rooms, the press room, and even the VIP area. Feel the weight of history as you stand on the very pitch where legendary footballers have competed.
• ** More Than Just Football:** While football (soccer) reigns supreme, the PGE National Stadium has also hosted iconic concerts by international artists like Guns N’ Roses, Beyoncé, Metallica, and Ed Sheeran. The tour might even offer a glimpse into the unique logistics of transforming the stadium for such events.

Beyond the Tour:

• Catch a Game: If your schedule aligns, consider purchasing tickets to a Polish National Team football match and experience the stadium’s electrifying atmosphere firsthand!
• Explore the District: The PGE National Stadium is located in a vibrant area. After the tour, grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant or explore nearby parks and museums.

Language Considerations:

While Polish is the primary language for stadium tours, English tours are available throughout the week at designated times:

• Mon-Fri:  12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM
• Sat/Sun:  12:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 5:00 PM

French, German, Italian, Russian, and Spanish tours require advanced booking.

Insider Tip:

• Check the official PGE National Stadium website [ tours.pgenarodowy.p l] (available in English and Polish) for the latest tour schedule, ticket prices, and online booking options. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

Getting There:

The PGE National Stadium boasts a convenient location near the city center:

• Train:  Take the train to Warszawa Stadion station for easy access.
• Metro:  Utilize the Warsaw Metro’s S1 or S2 lines and get off at the stadium stop.

Panoramic Views:

If you’re short on time or prefer not to take the full tour, the stadium offers a viewing point open year-round. This is a fantastic option to capture breathtaking city panoramas, especially if you have the Warsaw Pass for free entry.

A Must-See for Sports Fans:

The PGE National Stadium Tour is an unforgettable experience for any sports enthusiast. Immerse yourself in its history, explore its facilities, and soak in the electrifying atmosphere!

Are you looking for some extra fun in Poland?  Check   out one of these amazing festivals in Poland .

Want to Delve Deeper into Warsaw’s History?

Warsaw boasts numerous museums dedicated to World War II and the city’s fight against Nazi occupation. Here are a few excellent options to consider adding to your 2-day Warsaw itinerary:

• The Warsaw Rising Museum (Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego): This highly-regarded museum chronicles the heroic 1944 Warsaw Uprising, a 63-day struggle against overwhelming German forces. Through multimedia exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories, the museum brings this pivotal event to life.
• POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews (Muzeum Historii Żydów Polskich): This award-winning museum explores the rich and complex history of Polish Jews, from the Middle Ages to the present day. Interactive exhibits delve into Jewish culture, traditions, and the tragic events of the Holocaust.
• The Warsaw Ghetto Museum (Muzeum Getta Warszawskiego): Established in the former Warsaw Ghetto, this museum poignantly tells the story of the Jewish community during the Nazi occupation. Exhibits showcase everyday life in the ghetto, the horrors of persecution, and the courageous resistance efforts.
• Umschlagplatz Monument: This powerful memorial marks the Umschlagplatz, the deportation point from which hundreds of thousands of Jews were sent to concentration camps during World War II. The monument serves as a stark reminder of the city’s tragic past.

These museums offer a window into Warsaw’s wartime experiences and the resilience of its people. Consider your interests and available time when choosing which ones to visit.

Fun things to do in Warsaw

Warsaw is not all severe museums and history. There are so many great things to do in Warsaw it is hard to cover everything for everyone’s tastes. There is some fun to be had on a visit to Warsaw in 2 days trip.

Segway Tours in Warsaw

Nothing is more fun than zipping around a city on a segway in Warsaw. This has to be one of the best things to do in Warsaw. A Warsaw Segway tour is an excellent opportunity to have fun, learn about the city, and see sights such as the Royal Route, Wilanów palace, street art, the beautiful old town.

Segway tours are for the whole family, you will be given instructions and a short amount of practise time before you set off on your adventure. A Segway ride is one of the cool things to do in Warsaw.  Book a Warsaw Segway tour today

Pinball Station – Pinball & Arcade Museum

You will not find any PlayStation or Xbox games here, just good old-fashioned pinball like we used to have in the old days. The Pinball Station in Warsaw has around 200 machines available to play.

You will find vintage machines such as Twilight Zone, FunHouse, Terminator 2, Dirty Harry, Batman Forever, X Files, Star Trek, Lethal Weapon 3, The Addams Family, Road Show or arcades: Mortal Kombat 4, Pac Man, Marvel, Street Fighter, Metal Slug and more

Your entry ticket is purchased at the museum and is valid throughout the day. Thanks to this, you can re-enter the museum as often as possible.

Questions about Warsaw

In this section, we answer some of the most popular questions asked in Google about visiting Warsaw.

What to See in Warsaw in 2 Days?

In two days, you can explore key attractions like the historic Old Town, visit the Royal Castle, take a stroll in Łazienki Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Nowy Świat Street. Don’t miss the Warsaw Uprising Museum for a poignant historical experience.

What Are Some Things to Do with Kids in Warsaw?

Warsaw offers family-friendly activities such as a visit to the Copernicus Science Centre, where kids can engage in interactive exhibits. Explore Wilanów Palace and its beautiful gardens or spend an entertaining day at the Zoo. The Multimedia Fountain Park is also a hit, especially in the evenings.

Are There Free Things to Do in Warsaw?

Absolutely! Enjoy the free walking tour of the Old Town, admire the iconic Palace of Culture and Science from outside, and take a peaceful stroll along the Vistula River. Additionally, entry to Łazienki Park is often free, providing a perfect escape into nature.

What Are Some Things to Do in Warsaw at Night?

Warsaw comes alive at night! Experience the city’s nightlife by exploring the trendy bars in the Praga district or taking a relaxing evening cruise on the Vistula River. Catch a performance at the Grand Theatre or enjoy the colourful lights of the Multimedia Fountain Park.

The ideal duration for your Warsaw visit depends on your preferences and interests. For a comprehensive experience, spending 2 to 3 days allows you to explore key landmarks, delve into the city’s history, and enjoy its cultural offerings. If you have specific attractions in mind or wish to savour a more leisurely pace, extending your stay to 4 or 5 days might be preferable. Ultimately, tailor your visit to align with your interests and desired experiences in this vibrant city.

Warsaw Essentials: Planning Your Polish Adventure

Warsaw, Poland’s vibrant capital, awaits! To ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation, here’s a compilation of essential information:

• Warsaw Chopin Airport:  This well-connected airport, located 10 kilometers from the city center, welcomes both  major airlines and budget carriers  like Easyjet and Ryanair.
• Train:  Warsaw offers excellent  train connections  across Europe and Poland. High-speed trains connect Warsaw and Krakow in just 2 hours.
• Bus:   Flixbus  provides daily connections to Warsaw from various domestic and international destinations.
• Driving:  Poland boasts well-maintained highways, some with tolls. Local roads can vary in quality.  Car rentals  are available at major airports.

Getting Around:

Warsaw offers a comprehensive and affordable public transport system:

• Buses & Trams:  An extensive network efficiently connects various city points.
• Metro:  Navigate the city’s core with ease using the Warsaw Metro.
• ZTM Tickets:  Purchase these tickets for convenient travel on buses, trams, and the Metro. They’re readily available at most stops and on board vehicles.

Taxis and Uber offer ride-hailing alternatives within the city.

Poland uses the Polish Zloty (PLN). Consider using a travel card like Revolut for managing multiple currencies and avoiding high withdrawal fees.

Travel Insurance:

While Poland boasts high-quality healthcare,  travel insurance  is highly recommended. It offers peace of mind in case of unexpected medical situations.

Staying Connected:

Staying connected with Wi-Fi can be challenging while sightseeing. Consider purchasing a local SIM card before your trip to ensure seamless communication throughout your Polish adventure.

Remember, this is just a starting point!  Warsaw has so much more to offer – from historical landmarks to cultural experiences and culinary delights. Be sure to explore further and discover the magic of this captivating city.

We hope this What to See in Warsaw in 2 Days guide helps you plan a trip to Warsaw, Poland, soon. You will not be disappointed by the friendly people, historic old town, Royal Palace World War ii history, unique sites and great food options in Warsaw . Warsaw in two days is definitely doable.

Poland Travel Expert   is your ultimate guide to all things Poland. Your next trip to Poland will not be complete without our detailed Poland guides, Poland itineraries and Poland travel tips.

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Mark Wyld is a Father, husband, traveller, and writer at Poland Travel Expert and other blogs. I have accumulated a wealth of experience over multiple visits to Poland. Thanks to our friends in Poland, we stay connected to the nation’s pulse, ensuring that our content is up to date with our first-hand experience. The information on this website is backed by genuine expertise.

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

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Guided Tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau from Warsaw

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Chopin Concerts everyday at the Fryderyk Concert Hall

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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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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Warsaw | Poland

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Things to know before going to warsaw.

• How To Get to Warsaw

How To Get Around Warsaw

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

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

Currency and Money

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

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

Safety in Warsaw

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

Refugee Situation in Poland

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

How To Get To Warsaw

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Warsaw Old Town

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

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

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

Wander Through the Old Town

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

Lazienki Park

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

Explore Praga Neighborhood

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

Warsaw Ghetto

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

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

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

Museums in Warsaw

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

• The Warsaw Uprising Museum

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

• The Polish Vodka Museum

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

• POLIN Museum History of the Jews

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

• The Neon Museum

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

• Interactive Pinball Museum

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

• Marie (Skłodowska) Curie’s House

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

Tailor-made travel itineraries 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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Must-Visit Attractions in Warsaw, Poland

Whether you’re a classical music freak, science nerd, visual-art aficionado or history buff, Warsaw has a lot to offer. If you’re planning a trip to Poland’s beautiful capital city, check out these places to visit to make the most of your Warsaw sightseeing.

1. old town.

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Included on the Unesco World Heritage list, Warsaw’s Old Town was completely rebuilt after World War II, based mostly on 18th-century paintings by the Italian painter Canaletto. The heart of the area, guarded proudly by the Mermaid of Warsaw, is the Old Town Market Place with its restaurants and cafes. Visitors should also make sure to see the Barbican and St John’s Cathedral, as well as explore the picturesque winding streets.

2. Royal Castle

Architectural Landmark

Built right after the war on the rubble from the completely destroyed Jewish ghetto, Muranów was designed as a memorial, housing estate and representation of the ideology of socialist realism. Walking around the neighbourhood, visitors can see and feel the city’s history outside of pristine museum walls.

5. Warsaw Rising Museum

Museum, Building

6. Fryderyk Chopin Museum

7. Wilanów Palace Museum and Park

8. Warsaw Fotoplastikon

9. Museum of Warsaw

Building, Cinema, Market, Museum, University

10. Zachęta – National Gallery of Art

11. National Museum

12. Palace of Culture and Science

13. POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews

Building, Museum

14. Keret House

15. copernicus science centre.

16. Vistula River

Natural Feature

At the weekend, both sides of the river become a buzzing meeting spot – especially popular among young people. The east side, with its sand and grass, is characterised by a more natural feel and countless campfires, whereas the west side, covered in concrete, attracts people with numerous food trucks and beach bars.

17. Museum of Neon

18. Koneser Vodka Distillery

19. powązki cemetery.

The resting place of some of the most important names in the country’s history, Powązki Cemetery is a real treasure, with impressive sculptures from the Neoclassic period and Secession to contemporary art. Established in 1790 by King Stanisław August Poniatowski, the cemetery’s catacombs house the remains of the King’s family and members of his court. In 1925, the Aleja Zasłużonych (Avenue of Merit), located along the southern wall of the catacombs, became a resting place for accomplished Poles, including Noble Prize-winning writer Władysław Reymond and writer Maria Dąbrowska.

20. State Ethnographic Museum

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Warsaw

Day trips from warsaw.

• Warsaw to Krakow
• Warsaw to Oswiecim
• Warsaw to Lublin
• Warsaw to Lodz
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Likely to Sell Out
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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

2. Private Day Trip From Warsaw: Łowicz Mazovian Countryside

3. Guided Tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau from Warsaw

4. Majdanek Concentration Camp & Lublin Full Day Private Tour from Warsaw

5. Treblinka Death Camp 6 Hour Private Tour from Warsaw

6. Wolf's Lair & Treblinka Tour in 1 day from Warsaw

7. Wolfs Lair and Swieta Lipka Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch

8. Copernicus Trail in Frombork Private Tour from Gdansk by Car

9. Łódź - 1-day tour to the most surprising Polish city (from Warsaw)

10. Warsaw to Auschwitz and Krakow Old Town Full-Day Trip by Car

11. Bialowieza National Park Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch included

12. Wolf’s Lair Private Day Trip from Warsaw

13. Treblinka Concentration Camp, Heartbreaking Tour from Warsaw

14. Lublin and Majdanek Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch

15. Half Day Treblinka Death Camp Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch

16. Private History Tour in Sobibor from Warsaw

17. Auschwitz day tour from Warsaw by private car with lunch

18. Gdansk and Malbork Castle Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch

19. Kazimierz Dolny Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch

20. From Warsaw: half day Polish countryside tour

21. Krakow and Auschwitz Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch

22. Low cost Poland in one week tour - by train with hotels & tours

23. Balloon flight day tour from Warsaw

24. Krakow - Full Day Tour from Warsaw by private car

25. Krakow Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch, Schindler's Factory included

26. In 10 days around Poland - by train, with hotels and local tours

27. Private 3-, 5-, or 7-Hour Warsaw Tour by Car

28. Auschwitz Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch

29. Day tour from Warsaw to Chopin’s birthplace and trough Mazovia's highlights

30. Essential Poland - 7 day budget tour

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20 Great Places to Visit As Day Trips from Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is one of the most interesting cities to visit in Europe (that I’m also lucky to call home). Besides enjoying all the great things to do in Warsaw, you can also use the city as a base to see some of the best places to visit in Poland.

Even if the options are less exciting than in other popular Polish destinations – Krakow , Gdansk , or Wroclaw – there are some great day trips from Warsaw you can take and see some of the best attractions in Poland.

I compiled a list of great Warsaw day trips you can take when visiting the city. Some might seem a bit far away, but with fast train connections (that you can check here ), they are definitely doable and worth visiting. And if you still have any questions about visiting Warsaw, join my Facebook group and ask there.

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Here are the highly-rated hotels, tours, and services recommended for your trip:

Accomodation:

• Hotel Polonia Palace (9.2/10)
• SleepWell Boutique Apartments (9.3/10)
• Hotel Verte (9.3/10)

Tours and activities:

• Private Tour: Warsaw City Sightseeing by Retro Fiat
• One day tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau from Warsaw with private transport
• Warsaw’s No 1 cooking class-Polish dumplings with liqueur tasting

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Airport Transfer: Use Welcome Pickups for a smooth ride from the airport to your accommodation in Warsaw Click here to book the airport transfer.

Insurance: Get insured for your trip to Poland with SafetyWing

Car rental: Compare prices and find the best deals on rental cars in Poland on Discover Cars .

Table of Contents

Best day trips from Warsaw

And now, without any further ado, here are the best day trips from Warsaw (with the distance, best ways to get there, and recommended tours).

Kampinos National Park

On the outskirts of Warsaw, you will find Kampinos National Park, a perfect nature getaway from Warsaw. This is one of the 23 national parks in Poland (and the second-largest one), established in 1959 and holding the title of the UNESCO biosphere reserves since 2000.

Kampinos National Park is a beautiful ancient forest, home to numerous protected species, including elks, lynx, and bison.

The best way to get there is by car. Still, you can also use public transport that will take you to the park’s borders, where you can start a hike on one of many trails to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the place.

Distance from Warsaw: 15 km How to get there: car or bus

Żelazowa Wola

As you might know, Frédéric Chopin – one of the greatest Poles in history – was born not far from Warsaw. Even if you can visit numerous places connected to him in the capital, it is worth going for one of the Warsaw day trips to Żelazowa Wola and see where he was born.

The charming manor house is now home to the museum dedicated to the great composer. However, it is not an original building as that burned down in 1812, two years after Chopin was born. Inside you will find some artifacts from the early 19th century, showing the reality of life back then. Everything is neat, organized, and accompanied by Chopin’s music playing in the background.

The manor house is surrounded by a beautiful park that is best visited in spring when all the trees and flowers bloom or in autumn when leaves change colors.

Distance from Warsaw: 50 km How to get there: car or tour Recommended tours:

• Fryderyk Chopin’s Birthplace Half Day Private Tour from Warsaw
• Birth Place of Frederic Chopin – Żelazowa Wola – 3 Hours
• Frederic Chopin Private Tour in Warsaw and Zelazowa Wola with lunch

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Lublin – one of the most beautiful yet underrated cities in Poland is located only less than two hours away from the capital and is a perfect destination for one of the day trips from Warsaw (although it deserves more time, sometimes a day is all you have).

This is one of the most important places in Polish history, with numerous crucial events happening here over the centuries (such as the union creating the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1569 that was signed in Lublin). With such a long past, you can expect numerous monuments around, and you will find them, but the list of things to do in Lublin is much more extensive.

The city is simply beautiful, and strolling around the old town and its charming, cobbled lanes is a pure pleasure. You will also notice numerous quirks, great street art around , and references to Lublin’s past that wasn’t always easy.

Once you get tired of all the sightseeing, you can sit in one of the many great restaurants and enjoy the local cuisine. This place really is a gem and deserves so much more attention than it gets; be sure to put Lublin in your Poland itinerary!

Distance from Warsaw: 170 km How to get there: car, train, or tour Recommended tours:

• Majdanek Concentration Camp & Lublin Full Day Private Tour from Warsaw
• Lublin and Majdanek concentration camp from Warsaw (1-day tour)
• Lublin and Majdanek Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch

Read more about Lublin:

• 9 Reasons to Visit Lublin, Poland – One of the Best Cities in the Central Europe
• 17 Amazing Things to Do in Lublin, Poland

Kazimierz Dolny

Even if this lovely town is located not far from Lublin, I wouldn’t recommend combining them as one day trip from Warsaw as both places separately offer enough attractions for at least one day.

This small historic town is known as the mecca for artists but is so much more than just its charming, bohemian vibe and picturesque cobbled lanes. With its long history, dating back to the 11th century, and beautiful surroundings, there are so many great things to do in Kazimierz Dolny.

You can see some of the amazing monuments, including impressive townhouses, numerous stunning churches, and the ruins of the castle. You can hike in one of the picturesque gorges surrounding the town. Or you can wander around and enjoy the laid-back vibe. In the meantime, do some shopping as in Kazimierz Dolny, you can find unique handicraft souvenirs.

No matter what you decide to do when visiting Kazimierz Dolny, you are in for a treat as it’s one of the most charming towns in Central Europe that are so easy to fall for.

Distance from Warsaw: 150 km How to get there: car, bus, or tour Recommended tours:

• Kazimierz Dolny Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch
• Full-Day Kazimierz Dolny Private Tour from Warsaw with Guide

Read more about Kazimierz Dolny: Visit Kazimierz Dolny, Poland – the Charming, Historical Town

With numerous daily train connections and a travel time of around one hour and a half, Łódź is one of the most accessible day trips from Warsaw.

For years the city has been misunderstood, but that’s what makes it unique. After the industry collapsed here in the 1990s, Łódź had to reinvent itself, and now this is the alternative and creative center of Poland, with plenty to do and see.

There are some amazing townhouses and palaces (some of which you can visit inside to see stunning interiors), one of the best street art scenes in Poland, and numerous former industrial buildings that serve as cultural institutions now.

Łódź is different from any other city in Poland, which is its advantage. You should consider adding this place to your itinerary, even for a short one-day trip, to see more than beautiful old towns and better understand Poland.

Distance from Warsaw: 130 km How to get there: car, train, or tour Recommended tours:

• Łódź – 1-day tour to the most surprising Polish city (from Warsaw)
• Lodz Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch

Read more about Łódź: Lodz – the alternative and creative center of Poland

Did you know that the largest castle in the world (measured by land area) is located in Poland, only a bit over 2 hours away by train from Warsaw? Malbork Castle, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, used to be the capital of the Teutonic Order and still is considered the largest Gothic fortress in Europe.

The works on it started in 1278, and still today, you can admire the impressive architecture of the place. This is one of a kind castle, and during your visit, your jaw will drop a few times for sure. The whole area is huge, and you will need at least a few hours to see everything Malbork Castle offers.

The most efficient way to get there from Warsaw is by train; the train station is a 15-minute walk away from the castle.

Distance from Warsaw: 310 km How to get there: train or tour Recommended tours:

• Gdansk and Malbork Castle Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch
• The Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork – 1 DAY TRIP FROM WARSAW
• Private Full-Day Tour Malbork UNESCO Site and Castles from Warsaw

Read more about Malbork: Visiting Malbork Castle, Poland – the Largest Castle in the World

One of the best places to visit in Poland and the most important cities on the Baltic Sea shore, it deserves at least a few days of exploration. Still, if you are short on time, you can see the most important Gdansk highlights in one day too.

Gdansk is well-connected by train with Warsaw, with departures at least once an hour and travel time under three hours (on the way, you can admire the impressive structure of Malbork Castle since it’s located next to the railway line). There are so many amazing things to do in Gdansk, but since the Old Town is close to the central train station and many attractions are not far from each other, you can easily enjoy some of the best of what Gdansk has to offer in a day.

Wander around the Old Town and its picturesque streets as well as along the Motlawa riverside to see the most important landmarks of the city: the Town Hall, the Neptune’s Fountain, Artus Court, or the Crane. Step inside one of the beautiful churches and look at the city from above from one of the viewpoints. And visit one of the museums telling the history not only of Gdansk but of the world (did you know that World War 2 and the Solidarity movement started here?).

Gdansk has a lot to offer; even if you only have one busy day here, you will not regret visiting it.

Distance from Warsaw: 340 km How to get there: train or tour Recommended tour: Gdansk and Malbork Castle Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch

Read more about Gdansk: 19 Amazing Things to Do in Gdansk, Poland

This place needs no introduction, but I believe visiting Auschwitz is one of the must things to do in Poland. It’s definitely not an easy place to tour. However, even if you know the history and what happened there, you still should go there, and most likely, this trip will not leave you indifferent. Auschwitz is a bit away from Warsaw, but doable as a day trip.

During your Auschwitz tour, you will visit two parts of the largest Nazi Germany concentration and extermination camp during World War II. First, you will see Auschwitz I, where the infamous gate with the sign “Arbeit macht frei” (meaning “Work Sets You Free”) is located. This is also where you will visit numerous barracks where inmates were kept – now you can see different exhibitions there, showing the reality of Auschwitz and halls with personal belongings taken from arriving prisoners – luggage, shoes, glasses, etc., or hair of Victims. You will learn all about cruel practices here, including medical experiments or torture.

After visiting Auschwitz, you will be taken to Auschwitz II-Birkenau, where around 90% of victims died. This is a vast area where you will walk around and see remnants of the largest killing factory in the world, with ruins of four gas chambers and crematoriums, as well as barracks.

Altogether, the visit to Auschwitz takes around 3,5 hours of the guided tour, after which you will return to Warsaw. The journey back will be a good opportunity to work through your thoughts and impressions of visiting Auschwitz.

Distance from Warsaw: 350 km How to get there: car or tour Recommended tours:

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

Read more about Auschwitz: Visiting Auschwitz – How to Plan the Auschwitz Tour

Krakow is the most popular tourist destination in Poland, and it gets all the attention for a reason. The city is simply stunning and packed with attractions and historical monuments (it was the capital of Poland for a few centuries in medieval times). But even if you have only one day there, you still can see a lot.

There are frequent trains from Warsaw to Krakow, the fastest ones will take you there in under three hours. The train station is located on the edge of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, from where you can start exploring Krakow.

Granted, having only one day in Krakow will keep you busy, but you can see all its highlights: the Old Town with the Main Square, the Wawel Castle, and Kazimierz – the Jewish district. Once you are tired of all the sightseeing, you can sit down in one of the many cafes or restaurants (the best ones are in Kazimierz) and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the place before heading back to Warsaw.

Distance from Warsaw: 290 km How to get there: train, car, or tour Recommended tours:

• Krakow and Wieliczka Small Group Tour from Warsaw with Lunch
• Krakow – Full Day Tour from Warsaw by private car

Read more about Krakow: 37 Amazing Things to Do in Krakow, Poland

Other, less popular, ideas for Warsaw day trips

The places mentioned above are the best and most popular options for day trips from Warsaw. Still, there are numerous smaller destinations that are worth visiting, too, especially if you are looking for more off-the-path places. Here are some of them:

• Żyrardów (50 km away) – in the 19th century, it was a bustling town; today, the city is home to almost 300 monuments, many of them a testimony of the industrial past. Żyrardów and its factory settlement is the only place in Europe where you can see an industrial city’s fully preserved urban complex from the 19th/early 20th centuries.
• Otwock (25 km away) – a former spa town, home to numerous beautiful wooden houses built in a distinctive style – Świdermajer.
• Modlin (40 km away) – dating back to the early 19th century, this is one of the largest and best-preserved fortresses in Poland, located at the confluence of Vistula, Narew, and Wkra rivers.
• Płock (130 km away) – the former capital of Poland (in the years 1079–1138), a pleasant city with numerous historical monuments, such as the Cathedral, Ducal Castle, and more.
• Ethnographic Open-Air Museum in Maurzyce (95 km away) – one of the most colorful museums of that kind in Poland, with over 40 historical buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries
• Baroque Palace in Nieborów and Romantic Park in Arkadia (80 km away)
• Czersk Castle (40 km away) – ruins of the Gothic castle from the 14th century, the seat of the Masovian Dukes.
• Podlasie region (around 200 km away) – known as Poland’s most idyllic and authentic part, with beautiful wooden architecture, small Orthodox churches, and Białowieża National Park, home of the bison.
• Olsztyn (200 km away) – a getaway to the Masurian Lake District, home to the Gothic Castle where Nicolaus Copernicus spent five years working.
• Bialystok (200 km away) – the largest city in north-east Poland, known especially for the stunning Branicki Palace and gardens, with a great street art scene and still visible multicultural past.
• Treblinka (110 km away) – a former Nazi Germany work and extermination camp where almost 800 thousand people lost their lives.

Final thoughts on day trips from Warsaw

As you can see above, you can visit many diverse places on day trips from Warsaw. While some cities, like Krakow, Gdansk, or Lublin, might need a few days of proper exploration, you still can see a lot there in one day only if you have little time in your Poland itinerary. But no matter what you choose, you are in for a treat, as Poland has a lot to offer!

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Warsaw
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Poland here.
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Poland check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Poland too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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Great review . So glad i found your post. This will be our first 8 day trip to Poland. So excited. I am going with my brother. We are 73 and 74 in very good health.

Awesome! I hope you will have a wonderful time in Poland!

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Poland ready to help Ukraine to get military-age men back, minister says

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A Ukrainian court ordered Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky to be taken into custody on Friday pending a corruption investigation focused on allegations he took part in an illegal acquisition of state-owned land worth some $7 million.

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Poland’s president becomes the latest leader to visit Donald Trump as allies eye a possible return

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump walks with Poland’s President Andrzej Duda at Trump Tower in midtown Manhattan in New York on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump meets with Poland’s President Andrzej Duda at Trump Tower in midtown Manhattan in New York on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump greets Poland’s President Andrzej Duda at Trump Tower in midtown Manhattan in New York on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah)

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NEW YORK (AP) — Former President Donald Trump met Wednesday in New York with Polish President Andrzej Duda , the latest in a series of meetings with foreign leaders as Europe braces for the possibility of a second Trump term.

The presumptive Republican nominee hosted Duda at Trump Tower, where the two discussed the war in Ukraine and Duda’s push to boost NATO members’ defense spending, according to a readout from Trump’s campaign. Duda, who has long expressed admiration for Trump, is also a staunch supporter of Ukraine and has encouraged Washington to provide more aid to Kyiv amid Russian’s ongoing invasion . That funding has been held up by Trump allies in Congress.

As he arrived, Trump praised the Polish president, saying, “He’s done a fantastic job and he’s my friend.”

“We had four great years together,” Trump added. “We’re behind Poland all the way.”

Following the almost 2 1/2 hour meeting, Duda said only that it was a “friendly meeting in very nice atmosphere.”

His aide, Wojciech Kolarski, also in attendance, described it as an “excellent meeting” of “two friends who reminisced on the time when for four years they cooperated while holding presidential offices,” a time that was “very fruitful for Polish-U.S. relations.”

Duda is the latest foreign leader to meet with Trump in the weeks since he locked up the Republican nomination. U.S. allies across the world were caught off guard by Trump’s surprise 2016 win, forcing them to scramble to build relationships with a president who often attacked longstanding treaties and alliances they valued. Setting up meetings with him during the 2024 campaign suggests they don’t want to be behind again.

Even as he goes on trial for one of the four criminal indictments against him, Trump and Democratic President Joe Biden are locked in a rematch that most observers expect will be exceedingly close in November.

While some in Poland worried the visit might damage the country’s relationship with Biden, Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn. — a Biden ally and a major voice in his party on foreign affairs — said such meetings make sense.

“The polls are close,” he said. “If I were a foreign leader — and there’s a precedent attached to meeting with candidates who are nominated or on the path to being nominated — I’d probably do it too.”

Murphy noted that former President Barack Obama did a lengthy international tour and met with foreign leaders when he first ran for the White House. So did Mitt Romney, the former Massachusetts governor, who challenged Obama in 2012 and whose trip included a stop in Poland’s capital, Warsaw.

Duda’s visit comes a week after Trump met with British Foreign Secretary David Cameron, another NATO member and key proponent of supporting Ukraine, at the former president’s Florida estate.

In March, Trump hosted Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán , an autocrat who has maintained the closest relationship with Russia among European Union countries. Orbán shared a montage of footage of the visit on his Instagram feed, which included an image of him and his staff meeting with Trump and the former president’s aides in a scene that looked like an official bilateral meeting.

Trump also met briefly in February with Javier Milei, the fiery, right-wing populist president of Argentina who ran a campaign inspired by Trump , complete with red “Make Argentina Great Again” hats. Milei gave Trump an excited hug backstage at the annual Conservative Political Action Conference outside Washington, according to video posted by a Trump campaign aide.

Biden administration officials have been careful not to weigh in publicly on foreign leaders’ meetings with Trump, acknowledging he has a real chance of winning the race.

While some officials have privately expressed frustration with such meetings, they are mindful that any criticism would open the U.S. to charges of hypocrisy because senior American officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, meet frequently with foreign opposition figures at various forums in the United States and abroad.

Security and policy officials monitor the travel plans of foreign officials visiting the U.S., but generally don’t have a say in where they go or with whom they meet, according to an administration official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss protocol.

Trump has been back in his hometown this week for the start of his criminal hush money trial , which has dramatically limited his ability to travel and campaign. While in town, aides have been planning a series of events that began Tuesday evening when Trump, after court adjourned, stopped by a Harlem bodega where a man was killed to rail against crime, and to blast the district attorney who made him the first former president in U.S. history to stand criminal trial.

Duda, a right-wing populist who once proposed naming a military base in his country “Fort Trump,” described the dinner earlier Wednesday as a private get-together between friends at Trump’s former residence while he is in town for meetings at the United Nations, where Duda is to deliver a speech.

“I have been invited by Mr. Donald Trump to his private apartment,” Duda told reporters, saying it was “a normal practice when one country has good relations with another country” to want those relations to be as strong as “possible with the representatives of various sides of the political stage.”

“We know each other as people. Like two, I can say in some way, friends,” said Duda, whose term ends in 2025.

Duda’s visit comes as House Republicans wrangle over a $95 billion foreign aid bill that would provide new funding to Ukraine, including money for the U.S. military to replace depleting weapon supplies. Polish leaders have been urging the House to approve the aid bill and ease domestic concerns.

Many Trump allies in the House are fiercely opposed to aiding Ukraine, even as the country warns that it is struggling amid a fresh Russian offensive . Trump has said he might be open to aid in the form of a loan.

One area where Trump and Duda agree when it comes to the conflict is a desire to push NATO members to increase their defense spending. Duda has called on fellow members of the alliance to raise their spending to 3% of gross domestic product as Russia continues its invasion of Ukraine. That would represent a significant increase from the current commitment of 2% by 2024.

Trump, in a stunning break from U.S. precedent, has long been critical of the Western alliance and has threatened not to defend member nations that do not hit that spending goal. That threat strikes at the heart of the alliance’s Article 5 , which states that any attack against one NATO member will be considered an attack against all.

In February, Trump went even further, recounting that he’d once told leaders that he would “encourage” Russia to “do whatever the hell they want” to members that are — in his words — “delinquent.”

Trump’s campaign said the two discussed the NATO proposal during the meeting. The two also discussed Israel and the Middle East, Trump’s 2017 trip to Warsaw, “and many other topics having to do with getting to world peace,” the campaign said in its readout, which described the men as “great friends.”

The visit was met with mixed reaction in Poland , where fears of Russia run high and Duda’s friendly relationship with Trump has been a source of controversy.

Poland’s centrist Prime Minister Donald Tusk, a political opponent of Duda, was critical of the dinner but expressed hope that Duda would use it as an opportunity “to raise the issue of clearly siding with the Western world, democracy and Europe in this Ukrainian-Russian conflict.”

Scislowska reported from Warsaw. Associated Press writers Matthew Lee, Zeke Miller and Seung Min Kim in Washington contributed to this report.

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Poland's president visits Donald Trump as allies eye a possible return

The Associated Press

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump walks with Poland's President Andrzej Duda at Trump Tower in midtown Manhattan in New York on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Stefan Jeremiah/AP hide caption

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump walks with Poland's President Andrzej Duda at Trump Tower in midtown Manhattan in New York on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

Former President Donald Trump met Wednesday in New York with Polish President Andrzej Duda, the latest in a series of meetings with foreign leaders as Europe braces for the possibility of a second Trump term. The presumptive Republican nominee hosted Duda at Trump Tower, where the two discussed the war in Ukraine and Duda's push to boost NATO members' defense spending, according to a readout from Trump's campaign. Duda, who has long expressed admiration for Trump, is also a staunch supporter of Ukraine and has encouraged Washington to provide more aid to Kyiv amid Russian's ongoing invasion. That funding has been held up by Trump allies in Congress. As he arrived, Trump praised the Polish president, saying, "He's done a fantastic job and he's my friend." "We had four great years together," Trump added. "We're behind Poland all the way." Following the almost 2 1/2 hour meeting, Duda said only that it was a "friendly meeting in very nice atmosphere." His aide, Wojciech Kolarski, also in attendance, described it as an "excellent meeting" of "two friends who reminisced on the time when for four years they cooperated while holding presidential offices," a time that was "very fruitful for Polish-U.S. relations." Duda is the latest foreign leader to meet with Trump in the weeks since he locked up the Republican nomination. U.S. allies across the world were caught off guard by Trump's surprise 2016 win, forcing them to scramble to build relationships with a president who often attacked longstanding treaties and alliances they valued. Setting up meetings with him during the 2024 campaign suggests they don't want to be behind again. Even as he goes on trial for one of the four criminal indictments against him, Trump and Democratic President Joe Biden are locked in a rematch that most observers expect will be exceedingly close in November. While some in Poland worried the visit might damage the country's relationship with Biden, Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn. — a Biden ally and a major voice in his party on foreign affairs — said such meetings make sense. "The polls are close," he said. "If I were a foreign leader — and there's a precedent attached to meeting with candidates who are nominated or on the path to being nominated — I'd probably do it too." Murphy noted that former President Barack Obama did a lengthy international tour and met with foreign leaders when he first ran for the White House. So did Mitt Romney, the former Massachusetts governor, who challenged Obama in 2012 and whose trip included a stop in Poland's capital, Warsaw. Duda's visit comes a week after Trump met with British Foreign Secretary David Cameron, another NATO member and key proponent of supporting Ukraine, at the former president's Florida estate. In March, Trump hosted Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, an autocrat who has maintained the closest relationship with Russia among European Union countries. Orbán shared a montage of footage of the visit on his Instagram feed, which included an image of him and his staff meeting with Trump and the former president's aides in a scene that looked like an official bilateral meeting. Trump also met briefly in February with Javier Milei, the fiery, right-wing populist president of Argentina who ran a campaign inspired by Trump, complete with red "Make Argentina Great Again" hats. Milei gave Trump an excited hug backstage at the annual Conservative Political Action Conference outside Washington, according to video posted by a Trump campaign aide. Biden administration officials have been careful not to weigh in publicly on foreign leaders' meetings with Trump, acknowledging he has a real chance of winning the race. While some officials have privately expressed frustration with such meetings, they are mindful that any criticism would open the U.S. to charges of hypocrisy because senior American officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, meet frequently with foreign opposition figures at various forums in the United States and abroad. Security and policy officials monitor the travel plans of foreign officials visiting the U.S., but generally don't have a say in where they go or with whom they meet, according to an administration official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss protocol.

Now that he's the presumptive nominee, Trump readies next campaign: who will be VP?

Trump has been back in his hometown this week for the start of his criminal hush money trial, which has dramatically limited his ability to travel and campaign. While in town, aides have been planning a series of events that began Tuesday evening when Trump, after court adjourned, stopped by a Harlem bodega where a man was killed to rail against crime, and to blast the district attorney who made him the first former president in U.S. history to stand criminal trial. Duda, a right-wing populist who once proposed naming a military base in his country "Fort Trump," described the dinner earlier Wednesday as a private get-together between friends at Trump's former residence while he is in town for meetings at the United Nations, where Duda is to deliver a speech. "I have been invited by Mr. Donald Trump to his private apartment," Duda told reporters, saying it was "a normal practice when one country has good relations with another country" to want those relations to be as strong as "possible with the representatives of various sides of the political stage." "We know each other as people. Like two, I can say in some way, friends," said Duda, whose term ends in 2025. Duda's visit comes as House Republicans wrangle over a $95 billion foreign aid bill that would provide new funding to Ukraine, including money for the U.S. military to replace depleting weapon supplies. Polish leaders have been urging the House to approve the aid bill and ease domestic concerns. Many Trump allies in the House are fiercely opposed to aiding Ukraine, even as the country warns that it is struggling amid a fresh Russian offensive. Trump has said he might be open to aid in the form of a loan. One area where Trump and Duda agree when it comes to the conflict is a desire to push NATO members to increase their defense spending. Duda has called on fellow members of the alliance to raise their spending to 3% of gross domestic product as Russia continues its invasion of Ukraine. That would represent a significant increase from the current commitment of 2% by 2024. Trump, in a stunning break from U.S. precedent, has long been critical of the Western alliance and has threatened not to defend member nations that do not hit that spending goal. That threat strikes at the heart of the alliance's Article 5, which states that any attack against one NATO member will be considered an attack against all. In February, Trump went even further, recounting that he'd once told leaders that he would "encourage" Russia to "do whatever the hell they want" to members that are — in his words — "delinquent." Trump's campaign said the two discussed the NATO proposal during the meeting. The two also discussed Israel and the Middle East, Trump's 2017 trip to Warsaw, "and many other topics having to do with getting to world peace," the campaign said in its readout, which described the men as "great friends." The visit was met with mixed reaction in Poland, where fears of Russia run high and Duda's friendly relationship with Trump has been a source of controversy. Poland's centrist Prime Minister Donald Tusk, a political opponent of Duda, was critical of the dinner but expressed hope that Duda would use it as an opportunity "to raise the issue of clearly siding with the Western world, democracy and Europe in this Ukrainian-Russian conflict."

• 2024 election
• Andrzej Duda
• Donal Trump

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• Defence and armed forces

PM to announce largest-ever military aid package to Ukraine on visit to Poland

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will announce the largest-ever military aid package to Ukraine on his visit to Poland.

• PM to travel to Poland and Germany to cement security, trade and diplomatic ties with key European allies
• He is expected to announce a £500 million boost for Ukraine and largest-ever provision of vital munitions, including some 400 vehicles, 1,600 munitions and 4 million rounds of ammunition 
• PM to discuss the threat from Russia and UK efforts to support European security with Prime Minister Tusk and the Nato Secretary-General in Warsaw

The Prime Minister will travel to Poland today [Tuesday 23 April] to announce a massive uplift in military support for Ukraine, including £500 million in additional military funding and our largest-ever delivery of vital equipment. 

He will meet Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk to discuss deepening UK-Poland relations, and the leaders will hold talks with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Warsaw on European security and support to Ukraine. The Prime Minister will then travel on to Germany to meet Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin.

Ukraine is facing an existential threat as Russia continues its barbaric invasion, risking the security and stability of all of Europe. 

The £500 million additional funding announced today - which takes us to £3 billion in UK military aid for Ukraine this financial year - will be used to rapidly deliver urgently-needed ammunition, air defence, drones and engineering support. The drones will be procured in the UK and the funds will support a scale-up in domestic defence supply chains.

The Ministry of Defence will also send our largest-ever single package of equipment from the UK, designed to help push back the Russian invasion on land, sea and air. It includes: 

• 60 boats including offshore raiding craft, rigid raiding craft and dive boats as well as maritime guns
• More than 1,600 strike and air defence missiles, as well as additional Storm Shadow long-range precision-guided missiles. 
• More than 400 vehicles, including 160 protected mobility ‘Husky’ vehicles, 162 armoured vehicles and 78 all-terrain vehicles.
• Nearly 4 million rounds of small arms ammunition.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:

 “Defending Ukraine against Russia’s brutal ambitions is vital for our security and for all of Europe. If Putin is allowed to succeed in this war of aggression, he will not stop at the Polish border. 

“I am in Warsaw today to deepen ties with our Polish partners and commit critical new military support for Ukraine’s defence.  Ukraine’s armed forces continue to fight bravely, but they need our support – and they need it now. Today’s package will help ensure Ukraine has what they need to take the fight to Russia.

“The United Kingdom will always play its part at the forefront of European security, defending our national interest and standing by our Nato allies.”

 Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

“This record package of military aid will give President Zelenskyy and his brave nation more of the kit they need to kick Putin out and restore peace and stability in Europe. 

“The UK was the first to provide NLAW missiles, the first to give modern tanks and the first to send long-range missiles. 

“Now, we are going even further. We will never let the world forget the existential battle Ukraine is fighting, and with our enduring support, they will win.”

In his first in-person meeting with new Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, the Prime Minister will also seek to deepen UK-Poland ties across a range of issues. 

Building on existing strong defence and security cooperation, he will offer to deploy an RAF Typhoon Squadron to carry out Nato Air Policing over Poland next year. 

To further boost trade and support UK companies looking to invest in Poland, the Prime Minister will also announce today an intention to triple UK Export Finance funding available for Poland from £5 billion to £15 billion – our most generous offer to a partner country to date. 

Bilateral trade between the UK and Poland has doubled in the last decade to reach £30.6 billion, with 45 million bottles of Scotch whisky bought in Poland last year and UK firms bidding for £5 billion worth of Polish opportunities across energy, defence, healthcare, and infrastructure.

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Update to the UK Export Finance funding figures available for Poland.

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Invasion of Ukraine

• UK visa support for Ukrainian nationals
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• Homes for Ukraine: record your interest
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Poland to join European Sky Shield scheme, following thaw with Berlin

WARSAW, Poland — Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced this week that Poland will join the German-led European Sky Shield Initiative, a continent-wide effort to coordinate nations’ air defense-related purchases and procedures.

The moves amounts to a major policy shift under the new government, as the previous Cabinet of the right-wing Law and Justice party opposed partaking in the initiative due its its frosty relations with Berlin.

“We will cooperate as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative,” Tusk said at an April 16 Cabinet meeting, as quoted in a statement released by his office. “It completely does not bother me that the Germans were the main initiators of this initiative.”

Meanwhile, Polish President Andrzej Duda, who was re-elected in 2020 with the Law and Justice party’s backing, commented on those plans the same day, calling ESSI a “German business project.”

Unveiled by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in August 2022 as a reaction to Russia’s war against Ukraine, the ESSI project initially included 15 NATO members, but more have since joined . In February, Turkey and Greece  announced their intention to join the project, bringing the total number of participating states to 21. To program’s objectives include improving the interoperability of air defense systems and streamlining joint procurement of capacities across the continent.

In Poland’s political system, the president is the supreme commander of the armed forces but does not have the political power to stop the government from joining an international defense program.

Prime Minister Tusk also said that Warsaw is carefully observing the Israeli experiences with air defense, as Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine has accelerated efforts by Poland to develop its capacities within this field.

The ESSI “is functioning with the use of, among others, Israeli” systems, he said. “In the case of Israel, more than 90% of rockets, drones, ballistic missiles have been struck owing to, among others, the Irone Dome. This system works.”

In line with existing investment plans, Poland’s air defense system is to rely on the Wisla mid-range air defense system, which features Patriot batteries, paired with two other layers of air defense. These include the Narew short-range air defense system, based on the Common Anti-air Modular Missiles, or CAMM, as well as iLaunchers from European consortium MBDA, and Pilica+ very-short-range air defense batteries developed by the Polish defense industry.

Jaroslaw Adamowski is the Poland correspondent for Defense News.

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