Things To Do
in Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is a vibrant city that beautifully marries history with modernity. After being largely destroyed during World War II, it has undergone a remarkable transformation, with a blend of reconstructed historic sites and contemporary architecture. The city is known for its lively cultural scene, rich history, and stunning parks.

Visitors can experience everything from classical music to contemporary art, making it a diverse destination for all types of travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Warsaw
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Royal Castle, the former residence of Polish kings, and explore its opulent interiors and art collections.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can see the colorful facades, visit the Market Square, and enjoy lunch at a local café.

evening
:

End the day with a leisurely walk along the Vistula Boulevards, where you can enjoy the sunset and perhaps grab dinner at a riverside restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day at the Warsaw Uprising Museum, which details the city's resistance during WWII, followed by a visit to the nearby POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews.

afternoon
:

Head to Łazienki Park, where you can explore the beautiful gardens, see the Palace on the Isle, and relax by the water.

evening
:

Experience Warsaw's nightlife by visiting a few local bars or clubs in the trendy Praga district.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🚇Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel night in a budget hotel$50
🥖Street food snack$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and culture to explore.
  • Vibrant culinary scene with diverse options.
  • Welcoming and friendly locals.
  • Public transport can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Some areas may feel less safe at night.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn.
  • "Dzień dobry" - Good morning
  • "Dziękuję" - Thank you
  • "Przepraszam" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ile to kosztuje?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Warsaw

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Market Square

A picturesque square featuring colorful buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of Warsaw.

Palace of Culture and Science

An iconic skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Vistula Boulevards

A scenic waterfront area ideal for sunset shots and cityscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Warsaw

Warsaw's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Polish dishes and modern gastronomic innovations, making it a haven for food lovers.

Warsaw Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pierogi

Dumplings filled with various ingredients such as potatoes, cheese, meat, or fruit.

Must-Try!

Bigos

A hearty stew made from sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, and different types of meat.

Żurek

A sour rye soup often served with sausage and egg.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hala Koszyki

A vibrant food hall featuring a variety of local and international cuisines.

Street Food in Praga

Explore food trucks and stalls offering local snacks like zapiekanka, a Polish-style baguette.

Climate Guide

Weather

Warsaw experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F), though heatwaves can occur. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and varying precipitation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting; address people by their titles and last names until invited to use first names.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating, and it is polite to finish everything on your plate.

Public Behavior

Maintain a moderate volume in public places and respect personal space.

Safety Guide

Safety

Warsaw is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport.

Tipping in Warsaw

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Warsaw is mild and colorful, with blooming flowers in parks and outdoor events starting to take place.

Summer

Summer can be warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities and festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn brings beautiful foliage and pleasant weather, ideal for walking tours and enjoying the city's parks.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the Christmas markets and festive decorations create a charming atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Warsaw at Night

Warsaw boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with something for everyone. The city features a mix of trendy bars, classic pubs, and nightclubs. The Praga district is known for its edgy art scene and alternative venues, while the city center offers more upscale options. Live music, particularly jazz and electronic, can be found throughout the city, making it a great place to experience local culture after dark.

Hiking in Warsaw

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kampinos National Park

Located just outside of Warsaw, this national park offers numerous hiking trails through forests and wetlands, ideal for nature lovers.

Chopin's Heart Trail

A picturesque trail leading through parks and gardens associated with the famous composer, perfect for a leisurely hike.

Airports

How to reach Warsaw by plane.

Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW)

Located about 10 km from the city center, it is the main international airport serving Warsaw with connections to numerous global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Warsaw is reasonably walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions are within walking distance. The Old Town and the Vistula Boulevards are particularly pedestrian-friendly. However, some areas may require public transport or taxis due to their distance from key sights.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic, especially in urban areas, contributing to the city's vibrant culture and economy.

Students

Warsaw has a large student population, with several universities offering diverse courses, adding to the city's youthful atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Poland, with clubs like Legia Warsaw having a strong following.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys popularity, with several teams competing in the Polish league and attracting enthusiastic fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Warsaw can be congested during peak hours, especially in the city center. Public transportation, including buses, trams, and metro, is extensive and efficient, making it a convenient alternative for getting around. Biking is also becoming more popular, supported by dedicated bike lanes throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Warsaw.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants now offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially in larger establishments.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, but it's advisable to check with staff regarding specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Warsaw has a good healthcare system with several public and private hospitals. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as private healthcare may be costly without it.

Discover Poland

Read more in our Poland 2025 Travel Guide.

Poland Travel Guide