Warsaw – 12 Highlights of Poland’s Capital

Planning a city trip to Warsaw (Polish: Warszawa), Poland's largest city, and unsure what to explore?
In this guide, we’ll share our top 12 highlights of Warsaw so that you’re fully informed about the city’s main attractions.

You’ll also learn about local dishes to try, tips for getting around, and the best areas to stay, ensuring an unforgettable trip to Warsaw.

1. THE WARSAW OLD TOWN & RYNEK

The Old Town (Polish: Stare Miasto) was almost entirely destroyed during World War II, with around 90% demolished.
Painstakingly rebuilt to its original style until the mid-1960s, it remains the heart of this 1.8 million-strong metropolis, encircled by city walls and bordered by the Vistula River.

As in many Polish cities, the market square (Polish: Rynek) serves as the historical center.
Colorful townhouses, numerous cafés, bars, restaurants, and museums create a charming atmosphere.
Wander through the narrow streets around the Rynek, and let yourself soak in the ambiance.

The mood is especially magical in the evening as the sun sets behind the colorful facades, or in winter when the Christmas market transforms the square into a sea of lights.

2. THE ROYAL CASTLE OF WARSAW

A stone's throw from the market square, the Royal Castle (Polish: Zamek Królewski w Warszawie) was also rebuilt after the war.
Originally the residence of Polish monarchs from the 16th century, it’s now a museum offering insights into royal life.
You’ll also find stunning artworks by Rembrandt, Canaletto, and Matejko in the castle’s royal chambers.

Interested in an audio-guided tour? They’re available daily on the hour between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm for around $9.50 per person.
To secure your preferred time, purchase your ticket in advance online at bilety.zamek-krolewski.pl.

3. THE ROYAL ROUTE – WARSAW’S MAJESTIC STREET

Starting from Castle Square (Polish: Plac Zamkowy) in front of the Royal Castle, the Royal Route stretches 10 kilometers.
This elegant thoroughfare links the Royal Castle with Łazienki Palace and extends to Wilanów Palace on the outskirts.

In the city center, this pedestrian-friendly route combines the streets Krakowskie Przedmieście, Nowy Świat, and Aleje Ujazdowskie.
Along the way, you’ll encounter impressive churches, palaces, monuments, museums, beautiful avenues, the famous Bristol Hotel, and two universities.

The Royal Route is one of Warsaw’s most beautiful streets. A stroll here, whether by day or night, is highly recommended.
When we visited between Christmas and New Year’s, it was enchanting with its stylish holiday lights — a truly unforgettable experience.

4. NOWY ŚWIAT – THE NEW WORLD STREET

Nowy Świat (English: New World Street) is one of the most famous and vibrant sections of the Royal Route in Warsaw.
Completely destroyed during WWII, it was gradually rebuilt and regained its reputation by the late 19th century as one of Warsaw’s most elegant streets — a status it holds to this day.

Lined with countless restaurants, cafés, shops, and hotels, the street comes alive in the evenings, with wide pedestrian walkways adding to the bustling atmosphere.

Fun fact: Warsaw locals call Nowy Świat the city’s longest restaurant, as it probably has more eateries per stretch than any other street.
So if you’re looking for a meal, you’re sure to find something here.

5. THE PALACE OF CULTURE AND SCIENCE

Dominating Warsaw’s skyline, the Palace of Culture and Science (Polish: Pałac Kultury i Nauki, or PKiN), was until recently Poland’s tallest building.
Commissioned by Josef Stalin, this 237-meter-tall structure, reminiscent of Big Ben and the Empire State Building, was a “gift” from the Soviet Union to Poland.
Completed in 1955, it’s now an unmistakable landmark of the city.

Inside this massive building, you’ll find theaters, cinemas, museums, restaurants, and a concert hall. However, the highlight for tourists is the observation deck on the 30th floor.
In seconds, an elevator whisks you up to the deck, where you can enjoy an unforgettable 360-degree view of Warsaw’s city center.

Photo tip: To capture Warsaw bathed in golden light, visit the Palace of Culture at sunset.

The Pałac Kultury i Nauki is open daily from 10:00 am to 8:00 am, and during summer on Fridays and Saturdays until 11:45 pm.

NEW YEAR’S EVE TIP

If you’re spending New Year’s in Warsaw, the largest outdoor celebration typically takes place in Castle Square, but the area around the Palace of Culture and Science also comes alive with festivities and a vibrant atmosphere.

ACCOMMODATION TIP FOR WARSAW

We loved staying at Mennica Residence Apartment in the Mirów district, Warsaw’s modern financial area. In just 10 minutes on foot, we were at the Palace of Culture and Science.
Another plus was the underground garage, sparing us the hassle of parking in the urban jungle.

6. ŁAZIENKI PARK – WARSAW’S GREEN OASIS

Originally the summer residence of King Stanislaw II in the 18th century, today anyone can stroll through Warsaw’s largest park, Łazienki Park.
Named after a bathing pavilion that was built on a small island, the park was transformed from 1772 to 1793 into the Łazienki Palace.

This park is a serene oasis in the bustling capital, featuring three historic palaces (Łazienki Palace, Belvedere Palace, and Myślewicki Palace), an open-air theater, two orangeries, and famous monuments like the Fryderyk Chopin Statue.
You’ll also encounter many squirrels and peacocks roaming around.

In summer, the park hosts concerts and events — often featuring Chopin’s music. In winter, Łazienki Park is magically illuminated, adding a fairy-tale ambiance.

Entry to the park itself is free, but visiting the Łazienki Palace (approx. $5), Myślewicki Palace (approx. $2.50), and the Old Orangery (approx. $4) requires a ticket.
The buildings are open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

7. PRAGA – WARSAW’S AUTHENTIC DISTRICT

You’ll often hear that Praga, located on the other side of the Vistula River, is Warsaw’s most authentic district.
This is because it was not destroyed during World War II, allowing it to preserve its originality, especially when it comes to its buildings.

Why we believe a visit to Praga should definitely be part of any stay in Warsaw. The main street, Ulica Ząbkowska, with its numerous restaurants and small shops, forms the heart of the district. The Soho Factory with the Neon Museum, the Vodka Museum, the Orthodox Church of St. Mary Magdalene, as well as the Warsaw Zoo, are additional attractions in Praga.

Another highlight for us is the Różycki Bazaar on Ząbkowska Street, which reflects the original Warsaw and Poland.
Before the transition, many purchases were made at such traditional Polish markets.
From food to clothing, cigarettes, and alcohol, virtually everything imaginable was and still is sold at these markets.
Certainly, some of the products are not authentic, but that’s just part of the experience. Such markets are now very rare in Poland.
So take your chance and make sure to experience the traditional Różycki Bazaar!

For some, it may seem shocking, but we are particularly fascinated by the brick houses that survived World War II unscathed and today are partly very neglected and run-down.
This is where the “Old Varsovians” live. The district is known for its old buildings being adorned with works by world-famous street artists.
We especially liked the murals “Warsaw Fight Club” at Środkowa 17 and “Goose” at Brzeska 23.

8. WILANÓW PALACE

In southern Warsaw’s Wilanów district, you’ll find Wilanów Palace and its impressive gardens.
Built as a summer residence for King Jan III Sobieski, it marks the end of the Royal Route and is one of the city’s most elegant buildings.

The Wilanów Park provides a peaceful retreat from the city, with a rose garden and a scenic lake.
Inside, you can tour rooms like the library, dining hall, and private chambers of the king, along with antique sculptures from the Potocki family collection.

Wilanów Palace is open from Wednesday to Monday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Entry to the palace interior costs around $5, and the garden costs about $1.50.
Tickets can be purchased at an on-site kiosk using a credit or debit card.

Winter tip: Experience a stunning light show at the palace during the colder months — more details in point 11.

9. WALK ALONG THE VISTULA RIVER

Warsaw’s long and beautifully developed promenade along the Vistula River (Polish: Wisła) is perfect for a relaxing stroll in good weather.

Numerous benches invite you to sit back and enjoy the view. In summer, boat tours are available along the Vistula. Unfortunately, the winter weather was too chilly for us to try this.

10. HALA MIROWSKA MARKET HALL

Those expecting a traditional market hall in Hala Mirowska at Jana Pawla II/Mirowski Square may be surprised.
Inside one of the two almost identical halls is a regular supermarket, while the other hall houses several food vendors. The main market is located outside the halls.

Here you’ll find fresh meat, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, flowers, and Polish specialties. This is a popular spot for locals due to its affordability.
A short visit to Hala Mirowska is highly recommended.

The market hall has a dark history: during the 1944 uprising, the Nazi forces used these halls for mass executions.
Today, a plaque at the entrance commemorates the over 5,000 victims killed here before the halls were destroyed. They were rebuilt between 1950 and 1962 by Warsaw’s citizens.

Hala Mirowska is open Monday to Saturday from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm.

11. FALL & REBIRTH – THE HISTORICAL MONUMENTS OF WARSAW

Devastated by WWII, Warsaw has many monuments dedicated to remembering its tragic past, including the Warsaw Uprising Monument, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Monument to the Fallen and Murdered in the East, and the Ghetto Heroes Monument.

During your time in Warsaw, you’re bound to come across several such memorials.

12. ADDITIONAL WINTER ATTRACTION – THE CHRISTMAS MARKET

If you’re visiting Warsaw between November and December, you can experience the charming Christmas Market (Polish: Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy) around Rynek Square and along the historic city walls.

The market’s cozy holiday atmosphere, lights, aromas of savory and sweet foods, and traditional music draw locals and tourists alike.
You’ll find stalls offering regional specialties like smoked Oscypek cheese, sausages, kebabs, potato pancakes, churros, chimney cakes, and of course, mulled wine.
Besides food, many stalls sell unique gifts and crafts.

The Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy is open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, and until 9:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s closed on December 24 and 25.

INSIDER TIP: THE LIGHT FESTIVALS IN WARSAW

For an additional winter highlight, check out the Royal Garden of Lights at Wilanów Palace, 15 minutes outside the city center by car.
From November to February, the palace gardens are transformed into a magical wonderland with colorful LED-lit sculptures along a scenic 40-minute trail.

The Royal Garden of Lights is open daily from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Tickets cost around $5 and can be purchased on-site.

ADDITIONAL WINTER TIPS FOR EXPLORING WARSAW

• From November to mid-January, Warsaw is adorned with festive winter and Christmas lights.
  Evening walks are ideal for soaking up the glow and the romantic ambiance created by these sparkling decorations.
• Start your day early: In Warsaw, it gets dark quite early during the winter months (around 3:30 pm). This can be challenging if you enjoy outdoor photography.
  We usually explored the city until sunset and then took advantage of the darkness to visit museums or other indoor attractions that don’t require daylight.
• Check opening times: Winter is the off-season, so many attractions operate on reduced hours.
  While most places officially post their hours online (which you can verify on Google), changes can sometimes occur spontaneously.
  To avoid disappointment, it’s wise to double-check opening times on the internet or even call ahead if possible to confirm.

SHOPPING IN WARSAW

Warsaw is perfect for shopping enthusiasts with its abundant malls. The city center boasts three major shopping centers: Złote Tarasy, Arkadia, and Galeria Mokotów.

All malls in Poland remain open on Sundays, unlike in some other countries. If you prefer to avoid large shopping centers but still need essentials, look for Żabka, Biedronka, or Carrefour Express stores, which are almost everywhere and usually open from 06:00 am to 11:00 pm.

GETTING AROUND WARSAW

While Warsaw is large, many attractions are within walking distance. However, you’ll likely need to use public transport like the metro, trams, or buses to explore the whole city.

Tickets for public transport in Zone 1 (city center) are available at kiosks or ticket machines marked “Bilety”.
Options include 75-minute tickets ($1.20), 24-hour tickets ($3.20), or 72-hour tickets ($7.90). Remember to validate your ticket once on board.
Tickets are valid across all public transport types.

Driving in the city center isn’t recommended due to limited parking and traffic congestion. Public transport and walking are often easier and more efficient.

FOOD & DRINK IN WARSAW

Polish cuisine is hearty and delicious. Pierogi top the list of must-try dishes. These stuffed dumplings are usually filled with savory options like cabbage and mushrooms, cheese, or meat, though sweet fillings like strawberries are also popular.

Other traditional dishes include Bigos (sauerkraut stew with meat and sausage), Żurek (sour rye soup with sausage, eggs, and vegetables), Barszcz (beetroot soup), Kotlet Schabowy (similar to German schnitzel), Gołąbki (cabbage rolls in tomato sauce), and Rolada śląska z kluskami (beef roulades with red cabbage and Silesian dumplings).

We recommend Zapiecek, Specjały Regionalne, and Gospoda Kwiaty Polskie for authentic Polish meals.

For desserts, try Pączki (similar to doughnuts) and Sernik (Polish cheesecake).

When it comes to drinks, beer (Polish: Piwo) and vodka are very popular. Żubrówka and Wyborowa are recommended mid-range vodkas, with Żubrówka known for its bison grass flavor.

HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS IN WARSAW

Accommodation options in Warsaw range widely, with hotels, vacation rentals, apartments, hostels, and private rooms, all at great value for money.

We highly recommend Mennica Residence in the Mirów district, close to the Palace of Culture and Science and complete with convenient parking.

Since Warsaw is quite manageable for a capital city, you can comfortably explore its main sights in three to five days.

CURRENCY & PRICES

The national currency in Poland is the Złoty (PLN). You can pay with a debit or credit card in most places (if not almost everywhere). If you're only visiting Poland for a weekend and your bank doesn’t charge fees for foreign transactions, it might be wise to skip currency exchange altogether, helping you avoid leftover cash at the end of your trip.

If you’re staying in Poland longer or prefer using cash, you can exchange money at one of the many currency exchange offices.
However, be sure to check the exchange rate beforehand, as it can vary significantly from one exchange office to another.

Prices in Poland are generally lower, particularly for food, accommodations, cigarettes, and fuel. However, items such as drugstore products, sweets from premium brands like Milka or Lindt, and laundry detergent are often more expensive, sometimes even pricier than in other Western countries.
In our experience, electronics in Poland aren’t significantly cheaper, so you shouldn’t expect major discounts on larger electronic items.

USEFUL LINKS & RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GUIDES FOR YOU

• Discover the best accommodations
• Find affordable flights at skyscanner.com
• Find affordable rental cars at rentalcars.com
• The best Travel Guides for Warsaw
• Unique Excursions to Experience in Warsaw

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Note: This blog post contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, we earn a small commission. There is absolutely no change to the price for you.