Warsaw, Poland

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Warsaw, Poland

Welcome to Warsaw!

Warsaw, the capital city of Poland, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and entertainment. From its stunning Old Town to its vibrant neighborhoods, Warsaw has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, art, or food, this guide will help you navigate the city like a local.

Places to Visit

1. Old Town (Stare Miasto)

  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Town is a must-visit destination in Warsaw.
  • Explore the charming streets, historic buildings, and picturesque courtyards.
  • Visit the iconic Royal Castle, the Warsaw Barbican, and the Old Town Market Square.

2. Royal Palace (Zamek Królewski)

  • A beautiful example of Polish Baroque architecture, the Royal Palace is a must-see attraction in Warsaw.
  • Explore the palace’s stunning interior, including the throne room, the grand ballroom, and the state apartments.

3. Warsaw Uprising Museum (Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego)

  • Learn about the city’s turbulent past at this museum dedicated to the Warsaw Uprising.
  • Explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and personal stories from the uprising.

4. Copernicus Science Centre (Centrum Nauki Kopernika)

  • A great destination for families and science enthusiasts alike, the Copernicus Science Centre features interactive exhibits on science and technology.
  • Explore the centre’s many displays, including a planetarium, an aquarium, and a dinosaur exhibit.

5. Praga District

  • One of Warsaw’s most vibrant neighborhoods, Praga is home to a mix of hip cafes, street art, and historic buildings.
  • Explore the district’s charming streets, visit local shops and galleries, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Activities

1. Take a Guided Tour

  • Join a guided tour to explore Warsaw’s history, architecture, and culture.
  • Choose from a range of tours, including walking tours, bus tours, and themed tours (e.g., food or street art).

2. Rent a Bike

  • Rent a bike and explore the city like a local.
  • Warsaw has many bike-friendly streets and parks, making it easy to get around without a car.

3. Visit a Market

  • Visit one of Warsaw’s many markets, such as the Praga Market or the Ogiński Street Market.
  • Explore the stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs.

4. Take a Day Trip

  • Take a day trip from Warsaw to nearby attractions like the historic town of Nieborów, the Żelazowa Wola Museum, or the beautiful parkland of Służew.
  • Use public transportation or rent a car to get to these destinations.

Where to Eat

1. Traditional Polish Cuisine

  • Try traditional Polish dishes like pierogi (dumplings), zapiekanka (an open-faced sandwich topped with mushrooms and cheese), and bigos (a hearty meat stew).
  • Visit restaurants serving traditional cuisine, such as the famous Old Town restaurant “Podwawelski” or the cozy “Żaba”.

2. Modern Polish Cuisine

  • Experience modern Polish cuisine at trendy restaurants like “Terra Vitis”, “Karczma Podczerwiński”, or “Urszula”.
  • Enjoy innovative dishes using local ingredients and international influences.

3. International Cuisine

  • Explore Warsaw’s diverse culinary scene with options for Italian, Chinese, Indian, Mexican, and many more cuisines.
  • Visit restaurants like the popular pizza joint “Pizza 4 U”, the authentic Chinese restaurant “Wu Wei”, or the upscale Indian restaurant “Tandoori Nights”.

Where to Stay

1. Old Town

  • Stay in the historic Old Town, where you can walk to many attractions and enjoy the charming atmosphere.
  • Choose from a range of hotels, including boutique hotels like the “Hotel Bristol Warsaw” or the “Hotel Le Regina”.

2. City Centre

  • Stay in the city centre, which offers easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
  • Select from modern hotels like the “InterContinental Warszawa”, the “Sheraton Grand Warsaw Hotel”, or the “Novotel Warsaw Centrum”.

3. Neighborhoods

  • Explore Warsaw’s vibrant neighborhoods, such as Praga, Służew, or Mokotów.
  • Find unique accommodations like boutique hotels, hostels, or apartments through services like Airbnb.

Things to Know

1. Language

  • Polish is the official language of Poland, but many Warsaw residents speak English, especially among younger generations and in tourist areas.
  • Learn some basic Polish phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the culture.

2. Currency

  • The Polish złoty (PLN) is the local currency, although euros are widely accepted at tourist destinations.
  • Use credit cards or ATMs to exchange money or withdraw cash.

3. Safety

  • Warsaw is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spaces.

Transportation

1. Public Transportation

  • Use the efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines.
  • Buy a Warsaw Card or a single-ride ticket to travel within the city.

2. Walking

  • Explore the city on foot and discover hidden gems and charming streets.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and be mindful of pedestrian traffic.

3. Taxis

  • Use licensed taxis, which can be found at taxi ranks or booked in advance through apps like “Taxify” or “Uber”.
  • Agree on a price before starting your journey to avoid confusion.

Tips

  1. Respect local customs: Learn about Polish traditions and etiquette to make the most of your experience.
  2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during summer months, to stay energized throughout the day.
  3. Be prepared for crowds: Visit popular attractions during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Other Things to Do

  1. Visit the Warsaw Museum (Muzeum Warszawskie): Learn about the city’s history and culture at this museum featuring exhibits on art, architecture, and local life.
  2. Explore the Służew Park: Take a leisurely stroll through this beautiful parkland, which features gardens, ponds, and walking trails.
  3. Attend a festival or event: Experience Warsaw’s vibrant cultural scene by attending festivals like the “Warsaw Film Festival”, the “Warsaw Jazz Festival”, or concerts at the “PGE Narodowy” stadium.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to explore Warsaw, discover its hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories. Enjoy your travels!