tour guides in warsaw poland

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Warsaw Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Warsaw

1. Wander the Old Town

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

2. Explore the Chopin Museum

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

3. See the Royal Castle

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

4. Learn about the Warsaw Uprising

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

5. Wander around the Lazienki Park

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

Other Things to See and Do in Warsaw

1. take a free walking tour.

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

2. Visit the Powazki Cemetery

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

3. Admire St. Anne’s Church

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

4. Tour the Gestapo Headquarters Museum

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

5. Visit the Museum of Modern Art

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

6. Check out the National Museum

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

7. Relax in Multimedia Fountain Park

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

8. Tour the Copernicus Science Center

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

9. Visit the POLIN

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

10. Visit the Palace of Culture and Science

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

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

• Krakow Travel Guide

Warsaw Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Warsaw Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Warsaw Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Warsaw

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

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

How to Get Around Warsaw

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Warsaw

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Warsaw

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 112.

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

Warsaw Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Warsaw Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

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

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

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Clustered around a wiggling bend in the mighty Vistula River, Poland’s capital forms the country’s bustling economic hub. It’s noticeably less historic than its compadres to the north and south, and has undergone massive rebuilding projects since nigh on total destruction during World War Two—a fact that’s left its proud locals to claim it as the forefront of this burgeoning country’s modernistic drive. Consequently, downtown Warsaw is a tooting, traffic sea of New York-esque roadways and cosmopolitan coffee shops, where suited bankers stroll between crowds of beer-drinking locals, and Art Nouveau rises loom over the iconic parks. Don’t miss the Palace of Culture, or the Łazienki gardens, with their glorious monuments and curiously Oriental vibe. Further afield, the exquisite palatial grounds of Wilanów stand a stone’s throw from the Vistula banks, hearkening back to a time when the ditties of Chopin still echoed throughout the town. Eager visitors should also ask their Warsaw tourist guide for tips on the Old Town hub that lingers, reconstructed to the north end of town, and the countless hidden side streets leading away from it, which can be found laden with the baroque rises of the Borch Palace and Collegium Nobilium, and peppered with the crumbling remnants of the infamous ghetto wall.

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Orange umbrella free tour is the first and the best rated regular walking tour in warsaw. we run our tours every day, all year round. you can book one of the tours listed below:, old town free tour, monday-saturday at 10 am, best of warsaw free tour, sat-sun 10:30 am, mon-fri 3 pm, ww2 in warsaw free tour, sunday, monday, wednesday, friday at 1:30 pm, jewish warsaw free tour, saturday, tuesday, thursday at 1:30 pm, treblinka private car tour, 160 eur per group, praga by locals paid tour, from 80 eur per group, private walking tours, tours for organized groups, from 150 eur, free tours in cracow, explore cracow with orange umbrellas, weekly schedule, april – december 2024.

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OUR GUIDES’ RECOMMENDATIONS

People like you orange umbrella tours.

I’ve been on many free walking tours all across Europe and today’s Old Town tour with Goska was by far one of the best I’ve been on! Much better than the one in Krakow I did a few days ago with the main competitor. Goska was a very informative guide and in contrast with other guides, it didn’t sound like she was just going through all her facts and knowledge, but really brought it like if you are visiting the Old Town with a local that is your friend. She also brought pictures to illustrate her stories and added some personal notes. I highly recommend the free tours with Orange Umbrella and very much looking forward to the Jewish Warsaw tour I’m going to join tomorrow.

I love Orange Umbrella! We lived in Warsaw for more than 2 years and often used or recommended these tours to friends and family members. The guides are always locals and friendly. They provide a unique perspective about Warsaw’s history! Definitely recommended! And nice to give a tip at the end for the guide’s good work!

gerberagirl76, Great Britain

Anna and Gawel are very prepared and friendly guides. The tours we have followed (“old town” and “jewesh warsaw”) have made us discover and appreciate the many events, aspects and curiosities of the city to which we are fond of. Walking along the streets with their guide is a real pleasure and a real discovery. We highly recommend it for the quality of the guides and the knowledge you can acquire

We did three tours with them — old town tour with Beata, Jewish heritage tour with Gawel, and alternate Warsaw with Joanna who took us to Praga. They were all amazing, full of wonderful stories about Warsaw. No stop at a cafe or souvenir shop and buy this or that – just content based tour that we really enjoyed. Very smart way to see and learn about Warsaw. And, getting some local tips. Highly recommended!!

For the Warsaw at war free orange umbrella walking tour we had Piotr and he was fabulous. The passion that he spoke of in the pride for him to be Polish made me proud to be in an ancestral country. He let us take our time and gave us a few moments when it was overwhelming and sad like at the ghetto wall. Could’ve listen to him all day. So interesting so passionate about everything that he was teaching us. Read the trip advisor reviews before I went I was so excited to have Piotr. He lived up to their reviews. And exceeded it in some areas. I gave 100 zlotys as a donation. Well worth it thank you Piotr also went on the old town walking tour. Both tours were fabulous and incredible amount to history in these countries that needs to be shared. Polish people are very proud of people and it shows in everything they do.

travellersmith2015, Canada

We did 3 tours with Orange Umbrella. They were all excellent. Our first tour of Old town was with “Kate”. She has a wonderful understanding of her subject matter. Next, we did a tour with Gawel who was very informative. I think that tour was about WWII. And then, we did a tour about the Jews in Warsaw again, with Kate. I highly recommend this tour company. It was recommended to me and I’ll pass on the recommendation.

hikingnana, USA

I’m so glad I decided to do the old town walking tour, Gosia was a fantastic guide. Either you travel alone or in a group these walking tours are really a must do in Warsaw. I learned so many things about the city, its history, the habits and so many more… Everything is totally different when you see it with a local’s eye, I was so excited that I also had the alternative Praga tour, which was great as well! I had so fun! Thanks a lot Gosia and Piotr, keep on doing this excellent work! George from Greece

yiorgos160, Georgia

A ‘must’ for the short-time visitor to the city. My wife and I are sure that all the guides from Orange Umbrella are good at their roles but felt extremely lucky to have had Beata as our guide – she was excellant. The morning tour of the Old Town was so good – with local knowledge plus the history – put-over so well that we joined the later afternoon tour with the same guide. The afternoon tour, titled WWII in Warsaw, maintained thesame high standard. We were extremely grateful. The tours are billed as ‘free’ and they are, but we beieve that a tip at the end should be measured to the satisfaction gained. Well-done Beata. A gem.

DavidB027, Great Britain

Went on several, all amazing! Would recommend 100% if you want to learn and see the city. The guides are great.

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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?

wed 17 apr All Day sat 20 All mazurkas of the world - traditional music and dance festival

Event Details

Events at various locations: Centrum Promocji Kultury Praga Południe, ul. Podskarbińska 2 Ethnographic Museum, ul. Kredytowa 1 Terminal Kultury Gocław, ul. Jana Nowaka-Jeziorańskiego 24 Forteca Kręgliccy, ul. Zakroczymska 12

april 17 (Wednesday) - 20 (Saturday)

Various locations

Calendar GoogleCal

sat 20 apr 12:30 2024 Służewiec Horse Racetrack Season Opening

(Saturday) 12:30

Służewiec Racetrack

ul. Puławska 266

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 12:00 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) 12:00

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

(Sunday) 15:00

mon 06 may 20:00 Chris Botti

(Monday) 20:00

Teatr Wielki - Polish National Opera

Pl. Teatralny 1

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

(Saturday) 18:45

PGE National Stadium

Al. Ks. J. Poniatowskiego 1

fri 07 jun All Day sat 08 Orange Warsaw Festival

june 7 (Friday) - 8 (Saturday)

Służewiec Horse Racetrack

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

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

More events…

Warsaw Quest

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Poland’s Best in 7 Days

This ideal one-week private package is the most comfortable way of connecting visits to Warsaw, Krakow and Zakopane with time to explore all the top cities on your own. Enjoy sightseeing with the best local guides as well other attractions like the Jasna Gora Monastery in Czestochowa, Wieliczka Salt Mine, the Tatra Mountains and Auschwitz Holocaust Memorial.

• Additional information
• private car or quality minibus transport including airport transfers
• private guide service in Warsaw (including transport), Krakow and Zakopane – other languages on request
• tour of the Jasna Gora monastery led by a English-speaking Pauline monk
• funicular rail journey to Gubalowka
• private full-day tour to Auschwitz & Wieliczka (private transport, entrance tickets to guided tours in English in Auschwitz Memorial & Wieliczka Salt Mine)
• all fees and taxes
• accommodation
• alimentation
• services not mentioned above

Arrival to Warsaw

Arrive to Warsaw. Meeting with a driver and transfer to your hotel. Free rest of the day.

Warsaw sightseeing (3 hours)

Meet with one of the best local guides and explore such highlights as The Old Town (the Castle Square – St John’s Cathedral – the Old Town Market Square – the Barbican), Lazienki (the Royal Palace on the Water and the Frederic Chopin Monument), the Royal Route and the former wartime Jewish Ghetto (the Umschlag Platz, the Museum of Polish Jews). Need more Warsaw experiences? On your free day don’t forget to discover Praga district, the most authentic Warsaw area, nowadays becoming famous as an artistic district. Compare it with the business downtown and the area around the House of Parliament.

On the way to Krakow. Czestochowa tour (8 hours)

In the morning continue to Krakow with a stop in Czestochowa. The Monastery of Jasna Gora is home of the miraculous “Black Madonna” painted icon. The mysterious image helped to make Czestochowa one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the world, right after Rome, Lourdes and Fatima. The tour includes the Miraculous Picture Chapel and the Basilica, the 600th-Anniversary Museum, the Arsenal and the Treasury. Arrive to Krakow in late afternoon.

Krakow sightseeing (4hours)

One of the most professional local guides will take you around the magical Old Town: up to the Castle and Cathedral on the Wawel hill . Following the Royal Route, you will see the ancient Jagiellonian university areas and walk through the largest mediaeval square in Europe. While there, stop to visit the oldest shopping mall, the Sukiennice , and the Church of the Virgin Mary (with the magnificent Gothic wooden altar by Wit Stwosz). The tour finishes at the fortified city walls beside the Barbican Gate.

Auschwitz & Wieliczka (11 hours)

During this all-day tour you will visit Nazi death camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau and one of the greatest attractions in Poland, the Wieliczka Salt Mine . Auschwitz is a memorial and museum that all people should visit. It was the largest extermination camp where the Nazis killed about 1,500,000 people here, mainly Jews, but also Poles, Gypsies and members of other nationalities. Wieliczka is the only mine in the world which has been in operation for at least 700 years. The highlights of the place are the underground museum and sculpted chapels made by miners. Both places are included on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Return to Krakow in early evening.

Zakopane tour (9 hours)

Approximately 100km south of Krakow is the country’s capital of winter sports. After arriving in Zakopane, you will take a ride up a funicular railway to the top of Gubalowka Hill to see a stunning view of the Tatra mountains, the most spectacular and highest mountain range in Poland. Afterwards you will walk along Krupowki Street – one of the best-known Polish promenades. This is the central area full of local shops, restaurants and boutiques. It’s also a place where Oscypek can be bought. Oscypek is the traditional smoked sheep cheese, made from a mixture of cow and sheep milk. If you are interested in the old style charm of the Zakopane, the guide will take you through the center of Zakopane along the ‘wooden trail’. Do not forget to taste the regional food there! Return to Krakow in early evening.

Departure from Krakow

Depends on your travel plans, transfer to the Krakow airport or to the train station. End of the services.

STAYPOLAND SPECIALS:

(we will help you select the best value options according to your preferences):

• accommodation, but … let us recommend you the best deal for your budget!
• other meals however … we can help in making the right choice and reservations!
• tours or extra tickets for sights not included in the offer

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE MONUMENTS

• Historic Centre of Warsaw
• Historic Centre of Krakow
• Wieliczka Salt Mines
• Auschwitz-Birkenau

NATIONAL & LANDSCAPE PARKS

Tatra National Park

Following Saint Faustina

• St. Faustina’s birthplace
• Black Madonna of Częstochowa
• Sanctuary of the Divine Mercy

Chopin’s City Break Weekend rates

• complex tour of Warsaw through the pianist’s streets and places
• superb local guides
• visit in ulta-modern Chopin Museum

Chopin Essentials Min. 2 pax

• Warsaw & Zelazowa Wola in one day
• evening with Chopin’s music
• Golub-Dobrzyn & Szafarnia, the magic holiday places with a great music influence

StayPoland tour details

Unesco world heritage monuments, national & landscape parks, not included, customer reviews.

Warsaw Travel Guide

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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 1598 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.

Tailor-made trips for   Poland

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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Warsaw   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Warsaw

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

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Best of Warsaw

Best hotels in warsaw.

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

Best Things to Do in Warsaw

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

Popular Tours

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

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from $ 166.77

Guided Tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau from Warsaw

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Chopin Concerts everyday at the Fryderyk Concert Hall

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from $ 23.74

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.

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Poland Tours & Trips from Warsaw

Find your perfect adventure! We have 17 tours of Poland that start in Warsaw, Poland. The most popular month is June, and tour lengths range between 4 and 16 days.

17 Poland tour packages from Warsaw with 91 reviews

Cultural Poland

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

Grand Tour of Poland

It was a well designed tour, so much to see in a short time. it was wonderful, especially since we had the best tour guide, Anna was exceptional, She was a walking history book. I learned so much about Poland, the land crabs and politics I was so impressed. I started to read more and I will prepare the perogies this month, this was a fun thing we did. Thank you to the restaurant and the waiter who help us through the demonstration.

• Christmas & New Year

Tailor-Made Private Poland Tour with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Pearls of Poland (for couples)

Kuba was extremely knowledgeable and contributed considerably to our understanding and enjoyment of the spots we saw. He was sensitive to my mother's special needs and programmed stops in the tour so she could rest. He also showed up on our final day with special Polish donuts for us to enjoy -- a thoughtful and very sweet gesture. We recommend Kuba highly!

Tailor-Made Private Trip to Southern Poland with Daily Departure

Portrait of Poland

The hotel In Gdansk was awful There were hotels near town that were the same rate and we could have gone into old town after dinner. I didn’t like not having a choice for dinner. We all ate the same. The hotel in Krakow was close to a Shopping center not close to what makes Krakow special. The hotel in Krakow could have been a whole lot better . We spent 3 nights there but we were not close to go to old town after dinner

Highlights of Poland

Well done to our tour guide Justyna and well done to Explore for putting this on in difficult times.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Walking Adventure

Best of Poland (11 Days)

We were shown all around Poland in a very comfortable coach. The hotels were nice and in great locations, making it easy for us to find our own activity if we did not choose to do the optional excursion. Wonderful trip!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Camino de Santiago: the Scenic Portuguese Route

Folklore Poland

Warsaw, Poland

The Polish Dream Tour

Discovering Poland Warsaw, Gdansk, Wroclaw & Kraków (Warsaw to Krakow) (2024)

• Coach / Bus

Heading North End Stockholm

New Year in Poland (Minimum booking of 2 guests)

What people love about poland tours from warsaw.

All places visited were fascinating for different reasons. Piotr was a fountain of knowledge, and very interested in sharing all he knew with us. I don't think he was expecting to have 4 of our group of 7 have some walking difficulties, but he was extremely patient and concerned for everyone's welfare, and adjusted the schedule as needed to accommodate abilities. We all wished that there was more time to spend in different places, but it was a a wonderful overview of all that Poland has to offer. Would definitely travel with Stay Poland again if I get the chance.

I think this tour is just right for covering the best sites in Poland in a week's time. I doubt few travelers know anything about Poland's history. So a brief outline of the essentials at the start of the tour would facilitate understanding in Warsaw and Krakow. Our guides were excellent, but if they had structured their presentations, they would have communicated the details at the sights visited much better. Since we two were the only tourists on this tour in this Covid-marred year, we traveled with a driver (Piotr) who was tops.

Overall, the tour was wonderful. A lot was squeezed into the 7 days. There were a few stops we would like to have spent more time at. The evening included meals were average or below average- it would have been nice to have more local cuisine. Breakfast meals were good; the breakfast buffet at the Regent Warsaw Hotel was excellent. Our tour guide Kasia was very knowledgeable & engaging - she did an excellent job! Really enjoyed her commentary & she was so helpful.

Tours starting from Warsaw

• Warsaw to Krakow tours (9)
• Warsaw to Warsaw tours (7)
• Family from Warsaw (12)
• In-depth Cultural from Warsaw (12)
• Explorer from Warsaw (10)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Polen Rundreisen ab Warschau
• Français: Circuits Pologne au départ de Varsovie
• Español: Circuitos por Polonia desde Varsovia
• Nederlands: Polen Rondreizen die starten in Warschau

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)

12 best things to do in krakow, poland, 9 best things to do in wroclaw, poland.

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• Destinations

Free tours in Warsaw

• Tours in Warsaw

The enduring industrial giant in the east - Warsaw

Poland’s largest city and capital lies by the bank of Vistula River. Once seen as a communist concrete jungle, Warsaw has long found its way out of the darkness and stands today as a major cosmopolitan, a popular tourist destination and an important economic, cultural and political hub.

The city has many unique and captivating tones to it spread over a wide area and having diverse architecture, whether it be medieval castles, communist buildings or modern condominiums. After being rebuilt it boasts many historical landmarks and monuments. The old town is a well-known part of the city that offers many beautiful sights such as the Royal Castle, the Barbican and King Sigismund’s Column, and its charming center features the lively Market Square. The so-called Royal Route throws you right back into the classical art period filled with remarkable palaces that offers many good photo opportunities. Diving into the city’s culture, Warsaw is abundant with affordable local cuisines, has a fascinating jewish background and a fast-growing nightlife scene.

To get the ultimate city experience, freetour.com recommends taking a free walking tour with a local guide to fully immerse oneself into this massive indutrial giant. Whether the goal is to learn more about the city’s tragic history, its Jewish background or simply have good time in the thriving art and club scene, this gritty city is bound to deliver a good time.

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The best free walking tours and paid tours in Warsaw by Walkative guides.

Tours in warsaw pay what you wish tours.

What to see in Warsaw?

Situated on the Vistula River, Warsaw is the capital of Poland and its largest metropolis. It is an important economic, political and cultural centre. It is home to countless museums, theatres and cinemas, and tourists arriving in large numbers may come across a noteworthy monument at every turn – especially in the historic city centre. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. What is worth visiting when you arrive in the Polish capital?

First and foremost, you should visit the Royal Castle. Although it suffered greatly during the Second World War, thanks to the hard work during its reconstruction it can be admired today. Architecture lovers will certainly be interested in the mixture of Gothic, Baroque and Classicist styles that this distinctive building represents. The decoration of the rooms has also been preserved – including works of art by Canaletto, Bacciarelli or Rembrandt. In front of the castle is the Castle Square, where you can find one of Warsaw’s most recognisable landmark: the column of Sigismund III Vasa, measuring over 20 metres.

What to visit during a trip to Warsaw?

If you love places steeped in history, be sure to head to the Old Town. Here you will find the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, where the coronations of Polish rulers used to take place and where Europe’s first constitution (and the second in the world!) was sworn. The remains of many important personalities also rest here – including the last king of Poland, Stanisław August Poniatowski, as well as writer Henryk Sienkiewicz and pianist Ignacy Jan Paderewski. Nearby is the former Jesuit church, whose tower are rising over the Old Town. During a tour of Warsaw’s Old Town , it is also worth taking a look at the beautiful, carefully rebuilt townhouses, some of which have retained their original decorative elements. You will find many of them at the Old Town Square. And don’t forget the Barbican – a part of the city’s defensive walls built in the 16th century.

However, the Polish capital is not only the historic Old Town. It is also worth taking a walk along the Royal Route through Krakowskie Przedmieście, Nowy Świat and Aleje Ujazdowskie. Along these streets you will find many gems of Baroque, Classical and Eclectic architecture. Other important points on the map of Warsaw are the royal residences in Łazienki and Wilanów, the beautiful St. Anne’s Church, the palaces of the Czapski, Potocki and Koniecpolski families, St. Cross Basilica, the Saska Axis and Teatralny Square.

Warsaw is also a place to learn about the tragedy of the Second World War and the Holocaust. Warsaw ghetto created by the Nazis was the biggest one in occupied Europe. Walking around the Polish capital you will find also marks relating to the fight that people of Warsaw took against the Nazis during two uprisings – uprising in the Warsaw ghetto in 1943 and Polish national uprising in 1944.

Helpful guides and articles – Warsaw:

• Milk bars in Warsaw – history & guidebook
• How to get to Warsaw?
• What to do and see in Warsaw – main attractions and places to visit
• 9 movies you should watch before or after visiting Warsaw
• Relax! 10 perfect green areas of Warsaw
• How to get around Warsaw?

Free walking tour – Warsaw with a professional guide

Many people decide to explore the city on their own in fear of chaotic organised tours: too many participants, noise and constant rushing. Unfortunately, in doing so, they deprive themselves of the opportunity to learn about the most interesting parts of history and find the lesser-known sights. Fortunately, there is a free tour of Warsaw with Walkative! This is a tour with a professional guide , ideal for groups of friends, families or couples. You’ll find lots of options for such tours on our website, all you have to do is sign up, there is no entry fee. You can reward the commitment and hard work of your guide with an amount of your own choosing. On the Walkative! website you will find free walking tours in Warsaw and other cities in Central Europe – including Prague, Bratislava, Budapest or Riga. If you decide to take our tour, Warsaw will hide no secrets from you!

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We had just one day in Wroclaw and a decision to join Walkative tours was the right one! These guys are amazing! Their stories are very informative, full of history, legends, funny jokes! They took us to all astonishing places of Wroclaw. Perfect for a day trip to this lovely city! Thank you, Lukasz and Matt for the brilliant tours!

Dawie’s tour was the best theatre in Paris as well as informative!!!! He is great – even in the rain. Do it.

My group really enjoyed the amount of history explained in the tour, it was a nice way to get a lot of information on several of the key sites in the center of Paris in a compact amount of time. Excellent for orientation and background. I would certainly do other tours in the future.

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Survival of the littest.

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Warsaw | Poland

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

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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.

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