Looking for the best things to do in Warsaw, Poland? Here’s our list of the top attractions and experiences you shouldn’t miss on your trip to the capital of Poland, perfect for first-time visitors!
Warsaw really is an underrated travel destination. It offers a mix of modern and historic architecture, excellent museums, lovely green spaces, beautiful castles, and delicious cuisine. And it’s much more affordable than many other European capitals.
There’s a lot to do and it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Luckily, you’ve found this guide!
In this post, you’ll discover the best sights and tourist attractions worth your time and money. We’ve included an interactive map of all the activities mentioned, additional attractions for those with more time, details on when and how long to go, and tips for first-time visitors to Warsaw.
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Short on time? Here are our top picks for visiting Warsaw, Poland:
Must-See: Our top 5 highlights for a perfect Warsaw trip include:
1. Take a walking tour through Warsaw’s historic Old Town.
2. Explore Wilanów Palace and its beautiful gardens.
3. Stroll through the futuristic roof gardens of the University of Warsaw Library.
4. Visit at least one of Warsaw’s many well-curated museums (our tip: Warsaw Rising Museum!).
5. See the iconic Palace of Culture and Science.
Where to Stay: Our favourite places to stay in Warsaw are the NYX Hotel Warsaw and Nobu Hotel Warsaw, but there’s no shortage of great options. You can view the full list of Warsaw hotels here.
Tours & Experiences: You can book local tours and tickets for Warsaw attractions through GetYourGuide (the most popular choice in Europe) or Viator.
Saving Money: The WarsawPass can help you save money on attractions & transportation, depending on your itinerary.
Staying Connected in Warsaw: Ubigi eSIM is our go-to eSIM provider for staying connected abroad. Get 10% off your first data plan with our code AWAY10. Learn more in our Ubigi review.
Keep reading for our full guide on the top things to do in Warsaw!
13 Very Best Things to Do in Warsaw, Poland
Below are the absolute best places and must-see attractions you shouldn’t miss on your Warsaw trip. It includes famous historic sites, some hidden gems, and much more.
So, let’s dive into our favourite things to do and see in the Polish capital.
1. Warsaw Old Town (Stare Miasto)
Warsaw’s Old Town is one of the city’s most charming areas and is within walking distance from the city centre. It reminded us a bit of the enchanting old towns of Bruges and Cologne, with its cobbled streets and historic atmosphere.
When you hear “Old Town”, you probably expect a medieval area, right? Not quite. During World War II, over 85% of Warsaw’s 13th-century Old Town was destroyed by the Nazis.
But thanks to a remarkable five-year reconstruction campaign by Polish citizens, the Old Town was meticulously restored to its former glory. We were honestly blown away by the authenticity of the reconstruction.
The area’s cultural and historical significance truly earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1980!
Top tip: We highly recommend taking a walking tour to get a proper introduction to the Old Town. We took this Warsaw Old Town walking tour and learned so much about the tragic yet fascinating history of this incredible city.
Here are our must-see attractions in Warsaw’s historic old town:
Old Town Market Square – This square in the heart of Warsaw’s Old Town is surrounded by colourful townhouses, outdoor cafés, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to people-watch.
Castle Square – This bustling square just outside the Royal Castle is a great spot to soak in the atmosphere of the Old Town.
Royal Castle – Once the residence of Polish monarchs, this castle is a must-visit! Explore the lavishly decorated rooms. Our dedicated section about the Royal Castle has tips for visiting (↓jump to the Royal Castle section).
Warsaw Barbican – This large, 16th-century city wall with towers was reconstructed in the mid-20th century. It’s a great photo spot!
Sigismund’s Column – This column honours King Sigismund III Vasa and is one of Warsaw’s most famous landmarks.
St. John’s Archcathedral – One of Warsaw’s oldest churches. Take a moment to admire the stunning interior and the impressive vaulted ceiling of this Gothic cathedral.
St. Anne’s Church (best viewing spot over Warsaw!) – We tried several spots for panoramic views over the city, including the Palace of Culture and Science. But none compares to the view from St. Anne’s Church bell tower. The climb involved 136 steps, and it’s worth the climb! Just remember to bring cash, as entry is 10 PLN (≈£2 or €2 or US$2), and only cash payments are accepted.
Kanonia Square – This small square is home to the narrowest house in Warsaw and the famous bronze “wishing bell”. Circle the bell three times for good luck – it’s a fun little tradition.
Historical Museum of Warsaw – For those interested in the city’s past, this museum on the Old Town Square offers a comprehensive look at Warsaw’s history.
Mermaid Statue – The Mermaid Statue is a symbol of Warsaw and is a popular spot for photos.
2. Łazienki Park
A must-see in Warsaw is Łazienki Park, the city’s largest park. This green space covers 76 hectares (188 acres), which is about half the size of London’s Hyde Park and one-fifth the size of New York City’s Central Park.
Did you know? During World War II, Łazienki Park was severely damaged, but it was restored after the war. Despite the destruction, many original structures were preserved.
Also known as Royal Łazienki, the park was once the royal garden of King Stanisław II Augustus, who built his summer residence there.
Here are the key landmarks that you shouldn’t miss in Łazienki Park:
- Palace on the Isle – A Neoclassical palace that appears to float on a lake.
- Royal Theatre – An open-air amphitheatre inspired by ancient Greek theatres.
- Old Orangery – Originally used for exotic plants, it’s now an art gallery with sculptures and paintings.
- White Pavilion – An elegant building worth seeing.
- Chopin Monument – A statue dedicated to the famous composer Frédéric Chopin
Top tip: If you visit Warsaw in the summer, don’t miss the Chopin Concerts in the park. They take place every Sunday at noon and 4pm by the Chopin Monument and are free to attend.
Admission and Opening Hours: Most of the park is free to visit daily from 6am-9pm. Some landmarks, like the Palace on the Isle, require a ticket. For detailed ticket information, check the official Łazienki Park website.
3. Warsaw Royal Castle
The Royal Castle served as the primary residence of Polish kings from the 16th to the 18th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located right in the heart of Castle Square in Warsaw’s Old Town, where it can get quite crowded.
From the outside, the Royal Castle appears modest, so we weren’t expecting much. However, once inside, we were amazed by its grand halls, opulent chambers, and beautiful courtyards.
Did you know? The Royal Castle was completely destroyed during World War II but was rebuilt in the 1970s and 80s. The reconstruction used historical documents, photographs, and paintings to restore its original form.
Our Top Tips for Visiting the Royal Castle
- There are seven types of tickets, but we want to highlight two: (1) The Royal Route ticket covers the royal apartment, the presidential rooms, and other rooms on the first floor, and (2) the Golden Ticket covers the Royal Route plus all permanent exhibitions. We chose the Golden Ticket, but the Royal Route ticket is all you need.
- Tickets can be purchased either in advance on the official website (link below) or on-site at the ticket office.
- Entry is free on Wednesdays. You need a free ticket, which you can collect at the ticket office.
- Be sure to pick up the audio guide at the start of your tour. It’s included in your ticket and provides great insights, though we noticed most visitors missed it.
Admission and Opening Hours: The Royal Route ticket (including the royal apartments) costs 60 PLN (≈£12 or €14 or US$15). The Golden Ticket (covering everything from the Royal Route plus all other permanent exhibitions) is 100 PLN (≈£19 or €23 or US$25). The castle is open from 10am-6pm Tuesday through Sunday and is closed on Monday.
4. Warsaw Rising Museum
The Warsaw Rising Museum (sometimes also referred to as “Warsaw Uprising Museum”) is dedicated to the Warsaw Uprising of 1944. It was a pivotal World War II event where Polish resistance fighters attempted to liberate Warsaw from German occupation.
The museum spans four floors and provides an in-depth look into this critical period in the history of Warsaw.
We were particularly impressed by the immersive visuals, which brought the events of the uprising to life. Our favourites included a giant aeroplane and various visual displays that featured powerful clips and imagery from that time.
The subject matter is undeniably challenging and moving – it reflects the harsh realities of the occupation of Nazi Germany and the resilience of the Polish people.
This museum is an essential visit for anyone interested in Polish history or the broader history of Warsaw. While navigating the exhibits can be a bit confusing, especially with so many routes and displays, the content makes it worthwhile!
Our Top Tips for Visiting Warsaw Rising Museum
- Pick up a museum map at the desk just inside the front doors. The museum is huge, and the map will help you navigate the building.
- The museum involves a lot of reading, so we recommend joining a guided tour or using an audio guide. An audio guide costs an additional 10 PLN (≈£2 or €2 or US$3), but in our opinion, it greatly enhances your understanding of the exhibits.
- Arrive early, ideally right when it opens. The Warsaw Rising Museum is the capital’s most popular museum and can get very crowded.
- Admission is free on Mondays, but that’s also the busiest day, even more so than weekends. If possible, visit on a different day for a more relaxed experience.
- Make sure to queue for the 5-minute film “City of Ruins”, which we found to be the highlight of the museum. It’s a 3D digital reconstruction of Warsaw during World War II. To avoid long queues, see this exhibit first before the other displays.
Admission and Opening Hours: Tickets for the Warsaw Rising Museum cost 30 PLN (≈£6 or €7 or US$8), with free entry on Mondays. The museum is open from 8am-6pm on Monday and Wednesday-Friday. On Saturday and Sunday, it operates from 10am-6pm. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
5. Roof Gardens of University of Warsaw Library
The roof gardens of the Warsaw University Library are a hidden gem that is well worth a visit!
The library building has won numerous architectural awards and looks futuristic, almost like something from a sci-fi movie. But the true highlight is the stunning rooftop gardens.
The gardens are divided into two sections: the upper and lower gardens, each featuring distinct plants and flowers.
From the rooftop, you can enjoy beautiful views of Warsaw’s city skyline and the Vistula River.
In fact, this garden is one of the largest roof gardens in Europe. The best part is that entry is free.
Admission and Opening Hours: The roof gardens are free to enter and open daily from 8am-8pm from May to September, and from 8am-6pm in April and October. From November to March, only the lower garden is open, daily from 8am-3pm.
6. Palace of Culture and Science
The Palace of Culture and Science is one of Warsaw’s most iconic landmarks. With its 237 metres (778 feet), it’s Poland’s second tallest building, only surpassed by the Varso Tower in 2022.
The building was a gift from Joseph Stalin to the Polish citizens in 1955, intended to symbolise the Soviet Union’s friendship and support. However, it has become a symbol of both pride and controversy.
While some appreciate its historical significance, others see it as a reminder of Soviet control over Poland.
Did you know? The Palace of Culture and Science houses over 3,000 rooms, including theatres, a cinema, museums, a conference centre, and office spaces.
Despite its controversy, the building is impressive. Whether or not you visit the observation deck, the Palace of Culture and Science is worth seeing, especially at night when it’s beautifully illuminated!
Top tip: While there’s an observation deck on the 30th floor, we don’t think it’s worth visiting. The viewing terrace mainly offers views of Warsaw’s modern commercial areas. Instead, we recommend heading to the viewing platform in the Old Town for more charming views.
Admission and Opening Hours: The viewing terrace on the 30th floor costs 25 PLN (≈£5 or €6 or US$7) and is open daily from 10am-8pm.
7. Polish Vodka Museum
The Polish Vodka Museum is a must-visit if you’re curious about the history and culture of Polish vodka – even if vodka isn’t your favourite tipple.
The museum itself is housed in a restored building that was once part of the Koneser Vodka Distillery, which dates back to the late 19th century.
Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of vodka-related artefacts, including antique bottles, labels, and distilling equipment.
The guided tour starts with a short film about the company’s origins, then takes you through the exhibition, where you’ll learn how vodka was discovered and made. The tour guide will give you plenty of time in each room to interact with the displays and exhibits. At the end of the tour, you’ll even get to enjoy a vodka-tasting session.
We found the tour to be both very informative and interactive. If you want to explore something off the beaten track in Warsaw, this museum is a great choice!
Our Top Tips for Visiting the Polish Vodka Museum
- We strongly recommend booking your tickets online – even the museum encourages it. We saw several visitors who were advised to do so upon arrival.
- There are seven different ticket options, all of which include a guided tour and tastings. We suggest going for the Basic Ticket, which includes a guided tour with three vodka tastings. Just keep in mind that this ticket isn’t available on Fridays and Saturdays. For those days, you’ll need the Premium Ticket, which is slightly pricier but includes four tastings. You can check out all the ticket options on the museum’s official website.
- Tour times vary depending on the day, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule and availability beforehand. We’ve found that some days have two English-speaking tours per hour, while others have only one.
- Don’t forget to head up to the rooftop bar after your tour – it’s gorgeous and offers lovely views!
- The museum is also located in a very lovely area with plenty of restaurants. You could dine in one of them afterwards (which we did!) or grab a bite first, so you don’t have to do the tasting on an empty stomach.
Admission and Opening Hours: The standard ticket for the Polish Vodka Museum costs 70 PLN (≈£14 or €16 or US$18). The museum is open from noon-8pm on Tuesday-Thursday and Sunday, and from noon-9pm on Friday and Saturday. It’s closed on Mondays.
8. Wilanów Palace
One of the best things to do in Warsaw is visiting Wilanów Palace. It’s about 10 km (6 miles) from the city centre, but the trip is totally worth it!
The palace was built in the late 17th century as a summer residence for King Jan III Sobieski. He was the King of Poland and is best known for his victory over the Ottoman Empire at the Battle of Vienna in 1683.
Wilanów Palace has beautiful Baroque architecture, with grand halls and lavish decorations. Inside, you’ll find a remarkable collection of royal portraits, sculptures, and artefacts.
Did you know? Wilanów Palace survived both World War I and World War II largely intact. While Warsaw was heavily damaged during WWII, the palace was spared from significant destruction.
It’s often referred to as the “Polish Versailles“. While the royal residence is impressive, it doesn’t quite match the grandeur of Versailles, which we’ve visited twice.
The gorgeously landscaped gardens surrounding the palace are equally striking. Our favourite parts were the Rose Garden and the Baroque Garden.
Our Top Tips for Visiting Wilanów Palace
- The palace is about 55 minutes by bus or 25 minutes by rideshare or taxi from Old Town. We’d recommend taking an Uber or Bolt, which costs around 45-50 PLN (≈£9-10 or €11-12 or US$12-13).
- Buy your tickets in advance (they can only be purchased on the official website) to avoid long queues, or purchase them on-site.
- The explanations on the signs could be better, so we recommend taking an audioguide or a guided tour of the palace.
- Entry is free on Thursdays! You can collect a free pass at the ticket office or vending machines. But passes are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Admission and Opening Hours: Tickets for Wilanów Palace & Gardens cost 35 PLN (≈£7 or €8 or US$9), with free entry on Thursdays. If you only want to visit the gardens, a ticket is 10 PLN (≈£2 or €2 or US$3). The palace is open daily from 10am-4pm, except Wednesdays, when it stays open until 6pm. The gardens are open daily from 9am-9pm.
9. Vistula Boulevards
Warsaw’s Vistula Boulevards are pedestrian walkways along the western banks of the Vistula River. They stretch for approximately 4.5 kilometres (2.8 miles) and offer scenic views of the river and city skyline.
During the summer, the boulevards host various cultural events, including concerts, festivals, and open-air cinema screenings. However, what we enjoyed most were the picturesque riverside bars, cafés, and food trucks.
As you stroll along the boulevards, keep an eye out for some of Warsaw’s iconic landmarks. Our highlights included the Copernicus Science Centre, the famous Świętokrzyski Bridge (which reminded us a bit of the Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam), and the mermaid statue (a beloved symbol of the city).
The Vistula Boulevards are ideal for a walk or a bike ride on a sunny day!
10. Neon Museum
We’ve visited some quirky museums before, like the Phallological Museum (“Penis Museum”) in Iceland and the Bread Museum in Germany, and the Neon Museum in Warsaw is another unique one that really stood out to us!
The Neon Museum houses the world’s largest collection of Communist-era neon signs. It has fascinating displays about the history of neon signs and their significance to Warsaw.
A quick heads up: The museum doesn’t allow photos with a proper camera (e.g. DSLR or mirrorless camera) without buying a licence, but phone photos are okay.
Though relatively small at 760 square metres (8,180 square feet), it’s worth visiting! It’s located in the Praga district on the eastern side of the Vistula River, so it offers a great chance to explore another part of Warsaw.
Top tip: After your visit, take some time to explore Praga, the up-and-coming district where the Neon Museum is located. You’ll find great restaurants, shops, and street art there.
Admission and Opening Hours: Tickets for the Neon Museum cost 18 PLN (≈£3 or €4 or US$4). The museum is open from noon-6pm Monday-Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sunday.
You can only buy Neon Museum tickets on-site.
11. POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews
We thoroughly enjoyed the fascinating POLIN Museum, which covers 1,000 years of Jewish history in Poland.
It’s a vast museum that’s split into eight galleries, each exploring different periods in Jewish history, from the Middle Ages to contemporary times. Although it takes time to explore, it’s definitely worth it.
The exhibits are excellent, filled with engaging stories, vivid visuals, and interactive displays that bring history to life.
Did you know? Before World War II, Poland had the largest Jewish population in the world.
The museum is located on the site of the former Warsaw Ghetto, which was the largest Jewish ghetto during World War II.
Right in front of the museum, you’ll find the Monument to the Ghetto Heroes, a tribute to those who fought in the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising in 1943.
Our Top Tips for Visiting POLIN
- Visit early (right when it opens) or after 3pm when the crowds are more manageable.
- There’s free admission on Thursdays, but that’s also the busiest day, even busier than weekends. If you can, visit on a different day for a more relaxed experience.
- Pick up an audio guide; it’s well-made and takes about 2.5 hours. It automatically plays relevant tracks as you move through the museum, so you don’t have to do a thing!
- Opt for the larger restaurant inside instead of the café. While the café offers coffee and pastries, the restaurant is more elegant and has better views. Treat yourself to the Jewish dishes on the menu; they’re delicious and reasonably priced.
Admission and Opening Hours: Tickets for the POLIN cost 45 PLN (≈£9 or €11 or US$12), with free entry on Thursdays. The museum is open from 10am-6pm on Monday, Wednesday-Friday, and Sunday. On Saturday, it operates from 10am-8pm. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
You can buy your POLIN ticket here
12. Food Hall Elektrownia Powiśle
We accidentally stumbled across Elektrownia while exploring Warsaw, and it became one of our favourite food halls (alongside other fantastic spots like Mercato Mayfair in London, Chelsea Market in NYC, and Markthal in Rotterdam).
Located in a refurbished power plant, this modern food hall features 19 vendors offering everything from traditional Polish dishes to international cuisine.
What really caught our attention was Elektrownia’s unique character, which beautifully blends the old with the new.
You’ll find elements of the power plant everywhere, including vintage switchboards and control panels. It truly feels like a hidden gem that’s worth your time.
Admission and Opening Hours: The food hall is free to enter. Opening hours are 12pm-10pm from Monday to Thursday, 12pm-11pm on Friday, and 11am-11pm on Saturday and Sunday.
13. Nowy Świat (Historic Street)
One of Warsaw’s most beautiful historic streets is, without a doubt, Nowy Świat, which means “New World” in Polish.
This charming street dates back to the 16th century and is renowned for its stately buildings, numerous restaurants, cafés, and bars. We think it’s a must-see when you’re in Warsaw!
Nowy Świat was originally part of the Royal Route, which connects Warsaw’s Royal Castle with Wilanów Palace.
Top tip: Most of Nowy Świat Street is closed to traffic on weekends, so you can fully enjoy it as a pedestrian-friendly area.
The street has beautifully restored townhouses with Baroque and neoclassical architectural styles. It’s the perfect spot for a stroll in the city.
Did you know? Nowy Świat is famous for its stunning holiday decorations. During Christmas, it’s beautifully illuminated with festive lights, making it one of the most enchanting spots in Warsaw during the holiday season.
Interactive Map: 13 Best Things to Do in Warsaw
To enhance your exploration of Warsaw, we’ve created an interactive map that shows all the top attractions mentioned in this post. Click on the map below to see the spots of these must-see sights.
How to use this map: Access the list of locations by clicking on the top left corner of the map. For a larger view, open the map in a new tab by clicking on the top right corner. Alternatively, save our map to your Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map title.
Other Warsaw Attractions and Experiences
Our “Best Things to Do” city guides always focus on the top experiences we believe are unmissable. However, if you find yourself with extra time during your trip to Warsaw, the following places didn’t quite make our top list but are still worth a visit:
Museum of Life under Communism – If you’re a history buff like us, this museum offers fascinating insights into life under Communist rule in Poland. They’ve recreated apartments typical of the era, complete with authentic items from the period. Just be prepared that it’s a very small, privately-run museum.
Presidential Palace – Serving as the official residence of the Polish President since 1994, this beautiful building complex isn’t open to the public. It’s great for photos, but there’s not much else to do.
Polish National Opera – Located not far from Warsaw’s Old Town, this beautiful opera house was heavily damaged in World War II but restored to its original Neo-Renaissance style. Even if you’re not into opera, the architecture is worth a visit.
Marie Curie Museum – Dedicated to the life and work of Polish physicist and chemist Marie Curie, who pioneered research on radioactivity. Science enthusiasts will find it interesting, though the museum is relatively small.
Warsaw National Museum – The largest museum in Poland that houses a vast collection of Polish art from around the world. It spans a wide range of artistic styles and periods. The museum is worth a visit if you’re a big art fan, though we found the collection solid but not exceptional.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – A war memorial that honours the Polish soldiers who died during World War I and II. Two soldiers guard the monument, and you can see the hourly Changing of the Guard.
Jewish Cemetery – We’re not sure if we would describe it as a forest of tombstones or a cemetery in a forest. There’s a small admission fee, and men must cover their heads. Take a photo of the map near the entrance to help with navigation. Note that the cemetery is closed on Saturdays.
Copernicus Science Centre – This science museum is named after the famous Polish astronomerNicolaus Copernicus. It’s a massive space with plenty of interactive exhibits. It’s ideal for families with kids, but skip this if you’re visiting as a solo adult or couple.
Saxon Gardens – A nice historic park close to the Old Town and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Fryderyk Chopin Museum – If you’re a huge fan of Chopin, this museum dedicated to the composer’s life might be worth a visit. Housed in a stunning Baroque palace, the museum’s information felt a bit disorganised. It presents random facts and pictures without much context. We found Mozart’s Birthplace Museum in Salzburg to be much more engaging.
Złote Tarasy Shopping Mall – One of Warsaw’s most popular shopping centres, and it’s worth visiting even if you’re not planning to shop. We went there to see its stunning architecture: the modern glass roof, designed to resemble waves or flowing water, is quite impressive! And it’s just a short walk from the Palace of Culture and Science, making it easy to include both in your itinerary.
Best Time to Visit Warsaw
Best month to visit Warsaw: May
If we had to choose just one month to visit Warsaw, it’d be May. The comfortable temperatures, below-average crowds, and around eight hours of sunshine create the perfect conditions for exploring the city’s sights and outdoor spaces.
September is also a fantastic time to visit. During this month, you can enjoy mild weather, fewer rainy days, and smaller crowds. April and October are good alternatives, too.
The summer months (June, July, and August) are the busiest, so be prepared for crowded areas like the Old Town and longer wait times at attractions.
How Long to Stay in Warsaw
Perfect duration to visit: 2 days
The ideal duration for your visit to Warsaw depends on your travel preferences and planned activities. We generally recommend 2 full days, which is enough time to experience all the must-see attractions in Poland’s capital, including Wilanów Palace and Łazienki Park.
If you extend your stay to 3-5 days, you’ll have more time to explore its fascinating museums and savour more local cuisine. Plus, you can relax and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Warsaw
Best Areas to Stay in Warsaw
For a convenient stay, we recommend choosing accommodation near the city centre. Warsaw is well-connected and relatively compact, making it easy to walk to must-see landmarks and attractions.
If it’s your first time in Warsaw, consider these top neighbourhoods: Stare Miasto, Śródmieście Północne, Muranów, Powiśle, Mirów, and Praga-Północ.
- Stare Miasto (Old Town) offers a charming atmosphere, historic architecture, and gorgeous cafés.
- Śródmieście Północne is close to many attractions and features a mix of culture and modernity.
- Muranów has lovely green spaces, a peaceful vibe, and easy access to historical sites.
- Powiśle is a trendy area along the river, known for its scenic views, parks, and dining scene.
- Mirów offers a great mix of local life and cultural attractions.
- Praga-Północ is the only neighbourhood we recommend that’s on the other side of the Vistula River, with a unique, artsy vibe and many hip bars and art galleries.
You can see Warsaw’s best districts for first-time visitors in our illustrated map below:
Recommended Hotels in Warsaw
Our top picks in Warsaw are the NYX Hotel Warsaw and Nobu Hotel Warsaw, but there’s no shortage of great options across the city. We were impressed by the wide range of hotels available.
Plus, Warsaw is more affordable than other European capitals, so you can easily find excellent accommodations at fantastic prices.
Here’s a full list of all the hotel options for Warsaw.
Warsaw Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
When visiting Warsaw for the first time, a little planning can go a long way. These practical tips will help you make the most of your time in the city.
- Use Public Transport: While walking is the best way to explore the city, Warsaw’s public transport system is super convenient if you want to rest your feet or save time. Trams, buses, trains, and the metro are all easy to use, with ticket machines at the stations. We opted for the day tickets – just don’t forget to validate the ticket on your first trip!
- Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is appreciated but not expected. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a 10% tip is recommended for good service. For taxis, simply rounding up the fare works just fine.
- Carry Cash for Smaller Purchases: While most places accept credit cards, some smaller shops and cafés might prefer cash. Having some Polish złoty (PLN) with you is always handy. We only needed cash once (to climb the bell tower at St. Anne’s Church – the prettiest view over Warsaw, by the way).
- Try Local Cuisine: Polish food is fantastic, and you can’t leave without sampling some local cuisine. Classics like bigos (hunter’s stew), kielbasa (sausage), and żurek (sour rye soup) are must-tries. But if you can only try one thing, make it pierogi. Head to Zapiecek or Gościniec – their pierogi are sooo tasty!
- Download an Offline Map App: Google Maps is reliable in Warsaw, but downloading the offline version is a great travel tip in case you lose connection. It’s always good to be prepared, especially when exploring new cities.
- Warsaw Pass: Depending on your itinerary, this could be a great thing to save money. It gives you access to various attractions and museums. If you’re planning on seeing a lot of the major sights, it’s worth considering.
- Consider Using an eSIM to Stay Connected: For easy and reliable internet access, an eSIM is the best way to stay connected without fussing with physical SIM cards. We love Ubigi – it’s quick to set up and hassle-free (check out our Ubigi review for more details).
Visiting Warsaw: FAQ
To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled answers to some common questions we’ve been asked about visiting Warsaw.
Is Warsaw a safe city to visit?
Warsaw is generally considered a safe city for travellers. Crime rates are low, particularly in tourist areas. However, it’s wise to stay alert in crowded spots to avoid pickpocketing. Be aware of your surroundings, secure your belongings, and avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.
What is Warsaw most famous for?
Warsaw is best known for its beautifully reconstructed Old Town, which highlights the city’s remarkable resilience after World War II. It also has countless well-curated museums, like the POLIN Museum and the Warsaw Uprising Museum, several parks, and scenic riverside paths along the Vistula River.
Do many people in Warsaw speak English?
Yes, many people in Warsaw speak English, especially the younger generation. You’ll find English-speaking staff in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. However, knowledge of English can vary among locals, so learning a few basic Polish phrases can be helpful.
Is Warsaw budget-friendly for travellers?
Yes, Warsaw is affordable compared to other European capitals. You can find budget-friendly accommodation, transport, food, and activities. According to the 2024 City Cost Barometer, it ranks #10 out of 35 cities for cost-effectiveness, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travellers.
Is Warsaw a walkable city?
Yes, Warsaw is highly walkable due to its compact size, with many attractions easily reachable, especially in the Old Town and city centre. In fact, Warsaw ranked third among cities worldwide in a 2024 study for walkability.
What food is Poland famous for?
Poland is famous for its hearty and flavourful cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include pierogi (dumplings filled with various ingredients), bigos (hunter’s stew made with sauerkraut and meats), kielbasa (sausage), and żurek (sour rye soup). Polish cuisine also features a variety of soups, pastries, and desserts.
Is Uber available in Warsaw?
Yes, Uber operates in Warsaw and is a popular way to get around the city. It’s widely used and offers a reliable alternative to traditional taxis. During our visit, we found Uber prices to be budget-friendly. In addition to Uber, ride-sharing apps like Bolt and Free Now are also available.
Final Thoughts on the Must-See Attractions & Activities in Poland
Warsaw often flies under the radar as a city break destination, but it’s definitely worth visiting! Poland’s capital is full of history, modern energy, and fascinating museums. The beautifully rebuilt Old Town and cultural scene left us thoroughly impressed.
Moreover, the city’s affordability and delicious food make it a great place for travellers. We believe Warsaw is an incredible city and a fantastic option for your next European getaway!
If you want to learn more about the country, check out these fun facts about Poland. And in case you need more inspiration for exploring Europe, check out our guide to the best European cities to visit at least once in your lifetime.