Warsaw: Travel Guide
Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is a city rich in history, culture and modernity. Situated along the Vistula River, Warsaw has a population of around 1.8 million and is the political, economic and cultural heart of the country.
Although the city suffered severe destruction during World War II, it has been impeccably reconstructed to its former glory, such as its historic center, the “Old Town” (Stare Miasto), now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Warsaw is also an important cultural center, and from an economic point of view, it is the main engine of Poland, hosting numerous international companies, banks and financial institutions.
Warsaw combines its fascinating history with a vibrant nightlife, innovative cuisine and a growing art scene, making it a must-see destination for visitors from all over the world. Whether you are in the area for a few days or for a more in-depth visit, here are some tips on what to see and do in the Polish capital.
General informations
How to get there:
- By plane: Warsaw Chopin Airport is the city’s main airport and is located about 10 km from the center. It is well connected with direct flights from many European cities. Further from the center but about 30-40 minutes away, Warsaw Modlin Airport is one of the main hubs of the low-cost airline Ryanair and connects many European cities to the Polish capital at low cost;
- By train: Warsaw is easily accessible by train from other Polish cities and nearby capitals such as Berlin and Prague. The main station is Warszawa Centralna. Whether you decide to visit Warsaw on a tour of Eastern Europe, the train will be the right choice for you.
- By bus: Several international companies offer cheap connections to Warsaw.
When to go:
Spring (April-June): Mild and pleasant weather, ideal for visiting the city without the summer crowds.
Summer (July-August): Long and warm days, perfect for outdoor events, although it can be more crowded.
Autumn (September-October): Romantic atmosphere with autumn colors and still pleasant temperatures.
Winter (November-March): Bitter cold and possible snow, but the city has a special charm with the Christmas decorations. But watch out for the cold!
Getting Around:
Public Transport: Metro, trams and buses cover the entire city. Tickets are cheap and available from automatic machines.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps: Uber and Bolt are widely used and cheaper than traditional taxis.
Walking or Cycling: The city center is easily explored on foot or by bike.
Currency: The Polish złoty (PLN) is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
What to see
Many of the city’s main attractions are located in the Old Town (Stare Miasto). Rebuilt after World War II, it is a charming place with the Market Square and the Royal Castle. The Market Square (Rynek Starego Miasta) is the beating heart of the Old Town, surrounded by colorful Renaissance and Baroque buildings. Here you will find cozy cafes and the famous statue of the Little Mermaid of Warsaw, the symbol of the city. A few steps away is the Royal Castle (Zamek Królewski), located at the end of the Royal Route, one of the symbols of the city. The castle was the residence of the Polish monarchs. Inside you can admire sumptuous rooms and works of art of great value. One of the most fascinating places in the old town is the Warsaw Barbican, part of the ancient fortifications from which you can admire a formidable life over the whole city walking around the walls. Another attraction not to be missed is the Cathedral of St. John, one of the oldest Gothic buildings in Warsaw which houses the tombs of important Polish historical figures. The old town is directly connected to Wilanów Palace by the Royal Road (Trakt Królewski). This long street is dotted with churches, palaces and monuments, including the University Palace and the Church of the Holy Cross where Chopin’s heart is said to be kept.
Museum lovers cannot miss the Warsaw Historical Museum with exhibitions that tell the story of the city’s evolution through the centuries as well as the Warsaw Uprising Museum, a moving experience to understand the history of the Polish resistance. The history of Polish Jews is instead collected in the POLIN museum, a stone’s throw from the ghetto, almost completely destroyed, the scene of bloody and terrible events of the last century.
Leaving the historic center of the city you reach the iconic Palace of Culture and Science. Going up to the panoramic terrace for a breathtaking view of the city is one of the unmissable stops on a trip to Warsaw. Around the Palace is the modern district made up of skyscrapers and futuristic shopping centers that blend well with the nearby classical architecture of the rest of the city.
For a bit of relaxation in the green, Warsaw offers numerous parks that offer quiet retreats and picturesque scenery. Among them is the Łazienki Królewskie (Łazienki Royal Park), the most famous in Warsaw. It is home to the Palace on the Water, beautiful gardens, ponds and monuments, including the famous statue of Fryderyk Chopin. Another must-see park is the Ogród Saski (Saxon Garden), one of Warsaw’s oldest parks in the city center. It is known for its decorative fountains, tree-lined avenues and the famous Monument to the Unknown Soldier.
Further away from the center, Warsaw’s Praga district is one of the most charming and authentic areas of the Polish capital. Situated on the eastern bank of the Vistula River, Praga has a rich and complex history that distinguishes it from the more modern and post-World War II rebuilt city center. Unlike the rest of Warsaw, Praga has managed to preserve many of the original buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries, as it was less damaged during the war. This gives the neighborhood a unique atmosphere, with cobblestone streets, hidden courtyards, and artistic murals that tell the story of the city and its cultural revival. The neighborhood is also known for its historic churches, such as the Cathedral of St. Michael the Archangel and St. Florian, and the famous Warsaw Zoo. Walking through its streets, you can feel the authenticity and resilience of a community that has reinvented itself without losing its roots.
Where and what to eat
A trip to Warsaw is a must-do for a foodie experience, sampling some of the local specialties. Here are some suggestions on what to eat and where to go:
- Pierogi – Traditional Polish dumplings filled with meat, potatoes, and cheese or fruit. Where to try: “Zapiecek” is a local chain known for its handmade pierogi.
- Żurek – Sour soup made from fermented rye with sausage and hard-boiled egg. Where to try: “U Fukiera”, one of the city’s oldest restaurants, offers a delicious version.
- Bigos – Stew made from sauerkraut, meat, and sausage. Where to try: “Gospoda Kwiaty Polskie” is known for its flavorful bigos.
- Placki ziemniaczane – Potato pancakes served with sour cream. Where to go: “Bar Bambino”, a traditional mleczny bar, serves some amazing ones.
- Dessert – Pączki – Polish donuts filled with jam. Where to buy: “Cukiernia Blikle” has been famous for its pączki since 1869.
Enjoy your meal in Warsaw!
