Warsaw, Poland’s bustling capital, is a city steeped in rich history, vibrant culture, and modern marvels. It’s a perfect destination for a weekend city escape or even a one-week trip. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, Warsaw has something special for you. Here’s an expanded guide to some of this fascinating city’s best things to do.
Explore the Old Town
There is no better place to experience the city’s energy than in the Old Town! The cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and historical landmarks make it a must-visit area. Strolling around the enchanting streets and picturesque plazas is surely one of the best things to do in Warsaw!
Old Town or Stare Miasto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After its destruction during World War II, the Old Town was meticulously reconstructed, representing Warsaw’s resilience and dedication to preserving its cultural heritage. The heart of the Old Town is the Market Square (Rynek Starego Miasta), filled with charming cafes, restaurants, and small shops. As you wander through, you’ll notice the mesmerizing Mermaid Statue, the city’s symbol, which holds a legendary tale.
Don’t miss:
- Plac Zamkowy. Most visits to the Old Town begin here. It’s a place where the Royal Castle connects with the Royal Route. It’s more of a triangle than a square but always filled with people giving the place a vibrant atmosphere.
- St. John’s Arch Cathedral. Visit this historic cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Warsaw, known for its striking Gothic architecture and significant role in Poland’s history.
Visit the Royal Castle
Positioned at the entrance of the Old Town, the Royal Castle (Zamek Królewski) is an exquisite reminder of Poland’s royal history. Dating back to the 14th century, the Castle has been the residence of Polish kings, and presidents and the Seat of Parliament. The castle now operates as a museum, showcasing royal apartments, art collections, and historical exhibitions. once the residence of Polish monarchs. Explore its opulent interiors, including the stunning Great Assembly Hall and the impressive Throne Room.
My top tip: Look for free admission days to save on entrance fees.
Walk down the “Path of the Kings”
Walking along the Famous Royal Route in Warsaw is one of the mandatory things to do in Warsaw! It is a link between the Royal Castle at the Royal Square, via Lazienki Park’s Place to the Wilanow Palace. Officially covering 11 km, this main city’s artery takes in many of Warsaw’s historical buildings, parks, and churches! Making a trip down at least part of the “path of the kings” is a perfect opportunity to see the soul and heart of the capital.
Don’t miss:
- Presidential Palace. Guarded by lions and stern-looking soldiers, it’s the most important building in Krakowskie Przedmiescie Street.
- Holy Cross Church. No Chopin fan can leave Warsaw without visiting the final resting place of his heart. From the 15th century, when it was built, The Church played also a significant role in Warsaw’s history.
Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum
Warsaw is an amazing city full of culture, with many museums, galleries, and performance arts to explore. If you’re into history, you absolutely can’t miss the Warsaw Uprising Museum. It’s a powerful experience that takes you back to the 1944 uprising against Nazi occupation, with interactive exhibits, personal stories, and artifacts that bring history to life. Don’t forget to grab the audio guide – it’s so helpful and comes with a map of the museum, making it super easy to get around. The exhibition shows the fighting and everyday life during the Rising, while still honoring the city’s resilience.
Stroll around the Lazienki Park
If I had to pick my favorite place in Warsaw, it would be Lazienki Park! It’s not just historically fascinating, it’s also incredibly beautiful. You can take a stroll among impressive buildings, trees, flowers, birds, and ponds. The park is home to picturesque lakes, grand buildings, and beautiful gardens, and the best part is that it’s all free. You can enjoy the diverse flora and fauna, including peacocks, squirrels, and various bird species.
The well-kept gardens offer a peaceful setting for a relaxing walk or a picnic. Don’t miss the stunning Palace on the Isle, an 18th-century royal residence situated on an artificial island. The palace’s lavish interiors and beautiful surroundings make it a park’s highlight. You can even take a gondolier ride on the lake!
My tip: Don’t forget to visit the Chopin statue, located in the park next to the main entrance. You can also attend a free Chopin concert next to the iconic monument dedicated to the famed Polish composer. These concerts, held on Sundays from May to September, are a beloved local tradition.
Enjoy the view from the Palace of Culture and Science
The Palace of Culture and Science is a must-see in Warsaw. It’s right next to the Main Train Station and it’s the tallest building in Poland with 42 floors. Although it was a gift from the Soviet Union in the 1950s, it’s now home to theaters, a cinema, museums, and a cool viewing terrace on the 30th floor where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Warsaw. Even if you’re not a fan of Soviet architecture, catching a sunset from the 30th floor is one of the best things to do in Warsaw!
The viewing terrace offers a fantastic 360-degree view of the city. You can grab tickets online for about €6 each or at the ticket booth by the elevators. Since Warsaw doesn’t have many tall buildings, the platform gives you great views of the city and more. Plus, there are interesting facts about the city and important people, telescopes for better views, and guidance on the platform edges to help you identify what you’re looking at.
Wander around the Saxon Garden
Did you know that Warsaw is home to many beautiful parks and green spaces that provide a welcome respite from the summer heat? One of the most charming spots is Saxon Garden, located near the Place of Science. The entrance to Saski Park and the Saxon Garden is marked by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
This historic park holds the distinction of being the city’s oldest, having opened as one of the first public parks in the 18th century. Back then, it was a Baroque Garden with the magnificent Saxon Palace as its centerpiece. The park features a stunning fountain from the 19th century, with pathways adorned by lush trees, flowers, and neoclassical sculptures. You’ll also find a lovely water tower and a pond. Take a moment to relax on one of the many benches and treat yourself to some delicious ice cream while you’re there!
Discover Praga district
Located on the other side of the Vistula River, exploring the Praga neighborhood is surely one of the best things to do in Warsaw! Known for its bohemian vibe, Praga is a district that has undergone significant revitalization. Once disregarded as a criminal underclass area, the urban revival made this area worth visiting. Especially, if you are interested in the city’s artsy side! Filled with murals and hip hangouts, you can easily spend a day checking out the vibe of this alternative district. Explore its street art, visit alternative theaters, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Praga Highlights:
- Praga Museum of Warsaw. Located in the oldest surviving residential building in Warsaw, this modern museum boasts interactive exhibits that tell the story of Praga: its people, history, industry, bazaars, and more.
- Ul. Zabkowska. You know You have arrived at Parga High Street when you discover the explosion of murals and street art! Don’t forget to take photos!
- When you are there, do not skip visiting the Polish Vodka Museum. In the end, trying out vodka in Warsaw is a must-do thing, right?
Explore Warsaw’s Riverside district – Powisle
Once a dull area of apartment blocks and industrial decay, Powiśle has transformed into one of Warsaw’s most intriguing and vibrant areas to explore. The area has become so popular in the last two decades that the city decided to build a bridge connecting the Praga district with Vistula Boulevards.
Vistula Boulevards is a beachfront located right next to the Vistula River. The scenic views and lively atmosphere make it a perfect spot for relaxation or a stroll. In the summer, the riverside comes alive with beach bars, outdoor concerts, and bustling food markets. It’s the ideal spot to relax and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
What to see in Powisle:
- Frederik Chopin Museum. The fact that the Cjopin was living in Warsaw, buying a ticket to see the Composer’s life, or even listening to his concert in this museum is somehow a mandatory thing. Surprisingly, this museum was touted as one of the most high-tech in Europe!
- Beach Bars. Unwind at one of the trendy beach bars, such as La Playa or Pomost 511, where you can sip cocktails and enjoy live music with a view of the river. Seasonal events and festivals, including outdoor concerts, food festivals, and cultural performances take place along the riverbanks.
Discover Wilanów Palace
Step back in time to Wilanów Palace, often referred to as the “Polish Versailles.” This baroque royal residence is set amid beautiful gardens and offers a glimpse into Poland’s aristocratic past. The palace’s museum boasts an impressive collection of art, antiques, and period furniture. The palace, park, and surrounding ensemble of buildings represent the height of Polish Baroque and are one of Poland’s greatest cultural treasures.
If the weather is good and you have time to spare, it’s easy to spend most of the day relaxing and taking in the sights here. Admire the stunning baroque architecture of the palace, with its ornate facades and intricate detailing. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Warsaw!
Highlights:
Wilanow Park and Gardens. The 45 hectares of the Park were renovated many times over the centuries. There is a natural lake behind the Palace, where seasonal gondolas and rowing boats can be hired for leisurely trips on the water.
St. Anne’s Church. The church has stood in that place since the 14th century with the bells from the 18th century.
How to get to Wilanów Palace?
10 km south of the center, Wilanow is best reached by bus or taxi. The ride takes around 30 min ad the bus stops directly outside the Palace gates. For exact times, bus lines, and routes visit warsaw.Jakdojade.pl
Discover Graffiti and Murals in Warsaw
Warsaw has become a vibrant canvas for some of the most striking and thought-provoking murals in Europe. This exciting mural art scene began to flourish after the communist era, reflecting the city’s shift towards modernity and freedom of expression. As you stroll through districts like Praga and Wola, you’ll come across walls adorned with intricate artworks that tell stories of resilience, history, and hope. These murals are not just beautiful decorations, but also social commentaries, often touching on themes of political change, cultural identity, and Warsaw’s eventful past. With renowned local and international artists contributing to this colorful landscape, Warsaw has become a must-visit destination for street art enthusiasts.
Indulge in Polish Cuisine
Polish food is all about being simple, rich, and filling. When in Warsaw, you’ll find a delightful mix of traditional Polish dishes and modern gastronomy to satisfy your taste buds. Don’t miss out on trying pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter’s stew), and zapiekanka (Polish-style pizza). The culinary scene in Warsaw is always changing, with contemporary restaurants putting a modern spin on classic dishes.
Food to try in Warsaw:
Pierogi is the Polish version of dumplings! Try these delicious dumplings stuffed with a variety of fillings, such as cheese and potatoes, meat, or seasonal fruits.
Zurek – doesn’t get more polish than this! This sour soup made of fermented rye flour is a staple in the Polish cuisine. Typically enriched with potatoes, sausage, and hard-boiled egg is a perfect meal in any season. If you are lucky, you will get it served in a bread bowl (check out the restaurants in the Old Town).
Golabki. The dish is so similar meal to the sarma in Serbia, although the taste is lighter and on the sour side. Consisting of cabbage leaves and filled with rice and minced beef mear, golabki is usually served with tomato and mushroom sauce.
My tip: Visit a traditional “milk bar” (bar mleczny) for a taste of authentic, home-style Polish cooking at an affordable price. These Soviet-era canteens serve hearty dishes like żurek and kotlet schabowy (breaded pork cutlet).
Explore food markets
If you’re a food lover, checking out food markets is definitely one of the coolest things to do in Warsaw. What’s cool about them is that they’re often located in halls in old factories and residential buildings. This, combined with the wide variety of food options, creates a lively and exciting atmosphere that makes the whole experience even more fun!
Food Halls to check out:
Elektrownia Powisle Food Hall. From the outside, you can tell that this former power station has been given a fresh new look. Beyond just being a regular mall, Elektrownia is home to a bunch of great eateries, bars, and event spaces. If you’re in the mood for some delicious food, you’ll find it here!
Food Hall Browary. Taking up a big, brick-walled space in the historic Brewery Cellars, this awesome food hall is the heart of the Browary Warszawskie District. The main attraction is a long Central Bar filled with a great selection of beer, wine, and cocktails!
Drink like a local
What’s the most popular drink in Poland? Vodka and beer of course! A long history of brewers and distillers honing their craft makes if not drinking then only trying out the two drinks one of the best things to do in Warsaw!
The origins of vodka date back to the 8th century when the distillation was discovered and it was used mainly as a medicine back then. A popular Zubrowka vodka dates back to the 15th century!
Type of Vodka to try: Zubrowka, Goldwasser, Chopin… You can try them all in The Polish Vodka Museum.
Craft Beer Types: Pinta, Funky fluid, Piwne Podziemnie.
Enjoy Warsaw’s Nightlife
As the sun sets, Warsaw’s nightlife comes alive. The city boasts a diverse array of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Whether you prefer a chic rooftop bar with skyline views, a cozy pub with craft beers, or a pulsating nightclub, Warsaw has something to suit every taste. If the weather is great, simply head to the river. The students patronize the dive bars of the Pavilions. For a more mature crowd, see out the artsy bars across the river in Parga. In practice, bars will stay open well past their given hours if business is good.
Clubs to visit: Enklawa Art & Music Club, The Alchemist Grzybowska…
Bars to visit: Aura Bar, Cuda, El Koktel…
Warsaw is a city of contrasts and surprises, where the old seamlessly blends with the new. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern attractions make it a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, the best things to do in Warsaw promise to leave you with unforgettable memories.
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