I admit it, I didn’t know what to expect from Warsaw. On the one hand, I remembered it as grey and boring from one day on a bad high school trip years ago; on the other hand, I read about so many amazing places and cool things to do in Warsaw while I was planning my trip.
I’m happy to say that Warsaw is worth visiting, and I think it is a remarkable destination for a city break (you can enjoy it in 2-3 days, but I recommend spending 4 days here), though you can also add it to a longer Central Europe itinerary.
Surprisingly, it’s also an amazing winter break in Europe and a girls’ trip destination! From museums and historical monuments to bustling modern streets and trendy cafes, this historic city has it all.
It also made me want to visit other cities in Poland like Wroclaw, Gdansk, and Poznan (a total visit-worthy hidden gem). To help you make the most of your time in this lovely place, here is my epic Warsaw bucket list.
*This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
*I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.
My favorite carb in Warsaw: Pierogi and potato pancakes at Zapiecek (on Nowy Świat 64, although it has several locations).
Planning a last-minute trip? Check out:
Highly-rated accommodations in Warsaw:
1. Warsaw City Center Rooms (budget)
2. Warsaw Heritage Apartment (mid-range)
3. MONDRIAN Luxury Suites UNESCO Old Town (luxury)
Top experiences in Warsaw:
1. Polish dumpling cooking class (with vegetarian and vegan options)
2. Chopin concert in the Royal Castle with a glass of wine
3. Polish food tour
Top day tours from Warsaw:
1. Auschwitz-Birkenau tour with lunch
2. Treblinka day tour
3. Wolf’s Lair day tour
Cool Things to Do in Warsaw for History and Culture Lovers
Take Some Unique Free Tours
There’s no shortage of fascinating free walking tours to take in Warsaw, including:
- Free tour of the old town, a UNESCO site
- Jewish history of Warsaw free tour (one of my favorites!)
- Free tour of the intriguing Praga district (another experience I loved)
- Communist Warsaw free tour
- WWII free tour
Visit the Wilanow Palace and Gardens
Being one of the few famous landmarks in Warsaw that have survived WWII, you can understand the importance of the Wilanow Palace.
This royal palace was built in the 17th century for King John Sobieski the 3rd, and with every new owner, it was enlarged and redecorated.
Apart from its beautiful yellow front facade and art-packed interiors, the palace also has impressive wide gardens and a lake. I recommend getting there right when it opens so that you can take some pictures before the crowded hours.
If you’re visiting Poland in winter or fall, you can also enjoy the Royal Garden of Light, an event in which the complex is magically decorated with thousands of twinkling lights forming unique displays.
Opening hours and prices: Consult them here. Notice that on Thursdays there’s free admission for a limited number of entries.
If you want to explore the palace with a guide, book a private guided tour here.
Getting there: Buses 116, 180, and 519 go from the city center to the palace.
See Sigismund’s Column and Castle Square
Sigismund’s Column is one of the most important monuments in Warsaw as King Sigismund Vasa the 3rd was the one to move Poland’s capital from Krakow to Warsaw.
The memorial stands in the historic Castle Square, which is one of the most famous squares in the city.
The square has gone through some difficult times throughout Polish history, and during WWII, it was destroyed. Nowadays, it is reconstructed and surrounded by beautiful townhouses.
Tour the Royal Castle
If there’s one thing you cannot miss when you’re in Castle Square, it’s the Royal Castle, which used to be the official residence of the Polich monarchs.
After a long and challenging history including reconstruction after WWII, it is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (as a part of the historic center), making it a Warsaw must-see.
Apart from its gorgeous facades, you can visit the museum inside it, which includes its luxurious rooms and art galleries. Consult prices and opening hours here (note that on Wednesdays, you can enter the castle for free).
You can also book a guided tour of the Royal Castle.
Extra tip: The castle also hosts Chopin concerts, which you can book here.
Enjoy the Views From St. Anne’s Church’s Bell Tower
Located near the Royal Castle, head to St. Anne’s Church for some scenic views of Castle Square. If you’re up for the challenge, climb over 145 stairs to get to the bell tower’s balcony and admire the colorful scenery.
The church itself dates back to the 15th century and is one of the few buildings that weren’t completely destroyed during WWII.
Wander Through the Old Town
Fun fact about Poland: It’s home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the Historic Centre of Warsaw is one of them. The Polish capital’s Old Town (Stare Miasto) was reconstructed after WWII while trying to resemble its previous architectural look.
The main thing to see in the Old Town is the Old Town Market Place, one of the most beautiful squares I’ve ever seen.
Each building in the square has a different color and unique embellishments, and with the medieval architecture, the entire area boasts an irresistible charm.
Also, in the square and the colorful streets surrounding it, you’ll find many restaurants, cafes, and shops. Although the area is not that big, take your time and explore this magical piece of history.
To learn more about Warsaw’s Old Town, take a FREE walking tour or book this highly-rated segway tour!
Feel the Powers of the Wishing Bell
Dating back to the 17th century, this bronze bell statue is located in Canon Square in the Old Town. If you want to feel its magical powers and make a wish, I’ve read a few versions of what you need to do.
The basic one says to think about your wish and circle the bell. The second version says that you also need to touch it as you go around it.
My favorite, of course, is the one that states that you need to touch it and jump around it on one leg. If you are looking for unusual things to do in this city, there you have it.
Admire the Warsaw Barbican
Dating back to the 16th century and restored after WWII, the Warsaw Barbican is one of the few remains of the city’s system of fortifications.
Today it’s more of a tourist attraction in Warsaw, but since it looks like it belongs in a fairytale, I’m okay with that.
Visit the Chopin Museum
By Rai from A Rai of Light
The Chopin Museum is an opportunity to get a taste of the life of Poland’s most famous composer, Frédéric Chopin.
This multimedia museum (located within the Ostrogski Palace) houses the collection of Chopin’s work, some of his belongings, his piano, and even a handful of old photographs and letters.
Although lacking organization and information is often presented without context, the museum has a range of interactive activities to better understand his life, work, and travels.
What I particularly enjoyed was the listening room where you can sit and listen to Chopin’s masterpieces.
Consult prices and opening hours here (note that it offers free admission on Wednesdays.
To learn even more about the famous composer, take a guided Chopin tour (that also includes a visit to the museum).
Admire the Krasinski Palace
Also known as the Palace of the Commonwealth, this 17th-century Baroque palace is a non-touristy place in the heart of Warsaw.
The Krasinski Palace’s front facade, along with the surrounding gardens and park, make it a wonderful photo spot in the city.
Tour the Palace on the Isle (Lazienki Palace)
Another landmark from the 17th century that survived WWII is the Palace on the Isle in the famous Lazienki Park. The uses this building has had over the years are a bathing pavilion, a royal summer residence, and barracks.
Nowadays, it is one of the top things to see in Warsaw, and you can either visit the museum inside it or just admire its exterior. Consult prices and opening hours here.
Walk the Royal Route
The Royal Route is a famous route in Warsaw that connects three former royal residences: Royal Castle, Palace on the Isle, and Wilanow Palace.
It includes some of the places I’ve mentioned, but the full route covers 11 km and passes alongside a variety of streets, museums, palaces, and churches. For more info about the full route, read here.
See the Miniature Park at śWiętokrzyski Park
If you like miniatures and architecture, this is the place for you. The goal of this museum is to showcase some of Warsaw’s important buildings that were not restored after the war.
I expected the museum to be a bit bigger, but I still think that the concept is cool and essential to the city’s historic preservation.
Visit the National Museum in Warsaw
Boasting a collection of about 830,000 works of Polish and foreign art, the National Museum in Warsaw is one of the largest and oldest art museums in Poland.
From paintings to sculptures to photographs, there’s so much to see in this impressive museum. Consult opening hours and prices here.
Take a Free Tour of the Praga District
You might not expect this from Warsaw, but it’s home to some spectacular street and urban art. Most of it can be found in the Praga district which is on the other side of the city’s river.
I took this free walking tour to learn about the local street art scene and Praga, and it was extremely interesting because this district was curious and unusual.
I love seeing the alternative side of a city, and Praga ticked that box for me.
Explore More of Praga
As I’ve mentioned, Praga is one of the most intriguing places to see in Warsaw. But did you know that during WWII, 80% of Warsaw was destroyed, but only 20% of Praga was destroyed?
One of the most interesting things about the tour I talked about was seeing the contrast between modern pastel residential buildings and authentic pre-war architecture that has survived.
Old buildings with bullet holes in them alongside new colorful townhouses are not a usual thing to see, so I recommend exploring more of this fascinating area.
Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum
By Kami from My Wanderlust
Warsaw Uprising Museum is one of the most interesting museums in Warsaw and a must-visit. It’s dedicated to the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, a tragic 63-day event during WWII.
It was one of the most important events in the history of Warsaw when the local people tried to fight the Nazi occupant. The fall of the Uprising led to the total destruction of the city.
You can learn all about the Warsaw Uprising, the events leading to it, and the exact course at the museum.
It’s a very interactive and interesting place, and even if you are not an expert in Polish history, you will surely enjoy your visit. You should also go to the lookout towers that offer nice views of the neighborhood.
Address: Grzybowska 79. Consult prices and opening hours here (free to visit on Mondays).
Visit the Palace of Culture and Science
The Palace of Culture and Science is one of the top sights in Warsaw and a prominent Polish landmark that you can see from many spots in the city.
It is the tallest building in Warsaw and is home to museums, libraries, theatres, and the main tourist information office (and many other cultural facilities).
Besides its impressive exterior, you can buy a ticket to take the lift and see the views of the city from above (or take a guided tour that includes access to the terrace).
Take a Free Jewish History Walking Tour
I have visited many cities that had a connection to my Jewish heritage (mostly in Spain but also in other countries).
However, a lot of Warsaw’s Jewish history is obviously much more famous and closer to our present time. That’s why taking a walking tour seemed like a must-try free activity in Warsaw.
I took a free walking tour that included several points of interest in Warsaw like the Nozyk Synagogue, the area where the bridge between the Small Ghetto and the Large Ghetto had stood, and the Ghetto Heroes Monument.
The tour talked about centuries of Polish Jewish history (not only the Holocaust), so it was even more informative and intriguing than I had expected.
Get all the details of this free Jewish history walking tour and reserve your spot. You can also book a private Warsaw Ghetto walking tour.
Head to Mila 18
Mila 18 was the address of the main bunker of the Jewish resistance force in the Warsaw Ghetto. During WWII, a few weeks after the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising had started, the bunker was found by the Germans.
Instead of surrendering, the 300 people who were in the bunker decided to end their lives so they could die as heroes and not as victims.
Today, there is a small monument and a commemorative stone in Mila 18, and personally, I think everyone should visit it.
A big part of traveling is getting to know local history and other cultures, and it’s not always happy or easy to deal with. But we need to learn about these things anyway, so we can honor others and step outside of our own bubbles.
Visit the Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews
The POLIN Museum is located where the Warsaw Ghetto used to be, and it showcases the whole history of Jews in Poland.
It is one of the largest museums of Jewish history in Europe, containing eight galleries, each dedicated to a different historical era. It is the last stop of the free walking tour I mentioned, so you can visit it right after.
Skip the lines, and get your ticket to the POLIN Museum in advance, or visit for free on Thursdays.
Take a Free Warsaw in Wwii Tour
80% of Warsaw was completely destroyed during WWII, and much like many other cities in Europe, it is inconceivable what happened here in these six years.
So if you want to dive into that time in history and learn more about Warsaw during WWII, take this free tour.
Wander the Open-Air Tibetan Gallery
Situated in the Wola district, this unique urban art gallery, Galeria Tybetańska, started taking shape after the Dalai Lama visited Warsaw.
It is filled with paintings showcasing the Tibetan struggle to get autonomy from China and is an unusual colorful corner in the city.
Photograph Some Cathedrals
I was pleasantly surprised when I saw some of Warsaw’s religious buildings like St. Florian’s Cathedral, Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Mary Magdalene, and St. John’s Cathedral. If you love architecture, I’m sure you’ll appreciate them as well.
Take a Free Communism Walking Tour
With how modern Warsaw seems today, it’s easy to forget that up until 30 years ago, there was still a communist regime in Poland.
If you want to know what it was like to live under communist rule, hear some intriguing urban legends, and see a few landmarks connected to that time, this tour is for you.
Visit the Neon Museum
Another thing to do in Praga is to visit the Neon Museum. It is dedicated to the preservation of the neon signs of the communist era in Poland.
Here you can see different neon signs from that time that were saved from destruction and learn about their history. Consult prices and opening hours here.
To be honest, it sounds good on paper and looks super cool in the photos, but I thought it would be bigger and a bit more impressive.
Want to see more of Poland? Check out this incredible Krakow itinerary!
Best Things to Do in Warsaw for Foodies
Eat Pierogi
When visiting Poland, eating pierogi is a must! These dumplings from Central and Eastern Europe are filled with all kinds of savory or sweet fillings and served with some toppings like onions.
The famous Polish restaurant Zapiecek (which has several locations in Warsaw) offers a large variety of pierogi, and I highly recommend eating there.
In some cases, the famous establishments are overrated, but I loved the food at Zapiecek so much! With perfect flavors, many vegetarian options, and even sweet pierogi for dessert, I would gladly go back there for one more bite.
Eat at a Milk Bar
Milk bars are traditional Polish diners serving hearty Polish food at ridiculously low prices.
They were first founded in the late 19th century and served only dishes made from dairy, but today, they serve all types of local traditional food.
I tried Rusalka (Florianska 14) in Praga, and it was the perfect comfort food lunch.
Eat Potato Pancakes
Also served as both savory and sweet, potato pancakes are another great Eastern European delight you need to try.
At Zapiecek, I ate them with cream and mushroom sauce, but you can find them in cafes or even some ice cream shops served with berries and whipped cream.
Eat Some Paczki (Polish Donuts)
I didn’t expect to see so many bakeries and patisseries in Warsaw, and one thing that stood out was Polish donuts. They are impossible to miss and are served in almost every bakery and cafe.
Indulge in Hot Chocolate at E. Wedel
I am a total sucker for hot chocolate, and E. Wedel (Szpitalna 8) could not have been a more perfect place to savor a cup.
E. Wedel is actually a well-known company that produces high-quality chocolates and sweet snacks, but they also have chocolate lounges in cities like Warsaw and Krakow.
Apart from the neverending menu (which is impossible to choose from), the cafe itself looks like a palace and is absolutely beautiful!
I would happily go back for another cup of their perfect thick hot chocolate and enticing elegant atmosphere.
Explore Warsaw’s Indoor Food Markets
Warsaw is home to a few indoor markets, including Hala Mirowska (a more traditional market), Hala Gwardii, and Hala Koszyki (which are both quite trendy).
Their buildings are worth visiting just for the architecture, but while you’re there, have a little stroll and grab a bite.
Other Fun Places to Visit in Warsaw
Lazienki Park
After mentioning its most famous monument, it’s impossible not to write about Lazienki Park itself. It is the largest park in Warsaw and is just a beautiful place where you can easily spend a few hours.
The park houses many other monuments like the Chopin statue (on Sundays during the spring and summer, you can enjoy a free Chopin concert near it), but the main ones that also require a ticket are the Palace on the Isle, the Old Orangery, and the Royal Theatre.
Consult their prices and opening hours here.
University of Warsaw Botanic Gardens
Located in the northern part of Lazienki Park, the botanical gardens are a feast for the eyes.
At first sight, it seems like another pretty garden, but after only a few minutes it becomes so much more. With so many different species, some parts look like a colorful house garden, and some look like a giant forest.
It is quite a big place, so don’t rush it and take your time while exploring this stunning site. See prices and opening hours here.
Copernicus Science Center
By Karolina from Lazy Travel Blog
The largest science center in Poland, the Copernicus Science Centre in Warsaw is a place that you should not miss.
Whether you are a full-on geek, a kid-at-heart, or someone who’s never been interested in science, the museum’s stunning exhibits will give you a good show with their concerts and laser shows.
A perfect place to go if you are on a family or a romantic trip to Warsaw, Copernicus Science Centre is a space where curiosity and love of learning are cultivated with its exhibits and experiments.
Consult prices and opening hours here.
Pinball Museum
If you’re looking for quirky attractions in Warsaw, head to the Interactive Pinball Museum, where you can be a kid again and enjoy more than 80 pinball and arcade machines.
For a fixed one-day entrance fee, you can play as many times as you want without having to use any coins/chips to turn on the machines. Browse the latest opening hours and prices.
University Library Gardens
These gardens on the University of Warsaw Library roof are one of the most beautiful places in Warsaw. The gardens include two sections – the lower part and the upper part where each has different characteristics.
In the gardens, you’ll see ponds, granite sculptures, and many varieties of vegetation, all combined in a mesmerizing decor.
Although the upper part is only open from April to October, the lower part is open all year round. Plus, the entrance is free!
Address: Dobra 56/66.
Saxon Garden
One of the most famous parks in Warsaw, the Saxon Garden (Ogród Saski) is an unmissable place in the Polish capital.
Dating back to the 17th century (when the royal Saxon Palace was standing next to it), it’s the oldest public park in Warsaw and one of the first in the world.
While some parts of it are prettier than others, it is a nice place for a stroll, and it’s also home to the famous Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a monument dedicated to unidentified fallen soldiers.
The Presidential Palace
Originally built in the 17th century, the Presidential Palace is, as the name suggests, the official residence of Poland’s president.
Though it’s not open to the public, you can admire it on the outside while you stroll along Krakowskie Przedmieście street.
Nowy Swiat Street
Nowy Swiat is one of the main streets in Warsaw. After being almost completely destroyed in WWII, it is now fully reconstructed.
It’s a great area to stroll around since it’s packed with restaurants, cafes, shops, beautiful buildings, and an inviting atmosphere.
Enjoy a Night Out at Pawilony
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Warsaw at night, this is a great one. Pawilony or The Nowy Swiat Pavilions are a group of 25 small bars and pubs located right next to each other.
This unique area offers all kinds of bars (cocktail, shot bars, craft beer pubs, etc.) and a good atmosphere, making it popular all week long.
Website: pawilonynowyswiat.pl/en/.
You might also love:
- Cafes in Krakow
- Hidden gems in Krakow
- Things to do in Kazimierz, Krakow’s Jewish Quarter
- Day trip from Krakow to the painted village of Zalipie
- 4 days in Vienna
- Free museums in Vienna
- Beautiful European squares
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It is best about Warsaw I have ever read I am Warsaw citizen for over thirty years and I still don’t know some of these places I am very experienced travelled so I can compare Warsaw to many capitals in the world And I know I live in great very quick changing city Thank you very much for great advertisement of Warsaw I am impressed
Thank you, Robert! That means a lot. I’m curious to know what places you didn’t about!
Great article! I loved Warsaw so very much. Old Town, Wilanow Palace, The Warsaw Zoo, and a street art tour of the Praga district were some of the highlights from my trip. Not to mention the food. I loved the milk bars and delicious pierogi!
Thank you! It really is a great destination!
Thanks for the great guide. I recently spent a week in Warsaw and fell in love with the city. From Wilanow Palace to E. Wedel, the city is one of my favorites in Europe.
I’m glad this was helpful! It’s a wonderful city to explore.
Warsaw is now on my bucket travel list for when we can get back on traveling, thanks for sharing your knowledge with us!
You’re welcome, Valentina! I’m sure you’ll love it 🙂
Such a helpful guide to Warsaw! I’ve only been to Krakow but would love to visit Poland again, the food was so good. I never visited a Milk bar but I need to try it.
Thank you! Poland is worth exploring and you’re right about the food 🙂
Amazing post! I only had about 2 days in Warsaw and didn’t get to see near enough of it. But loved the Old Town area and ate some amazing pierogies!
Thanks so much! Pierogis are paradise 🙂 2 days are definitely not enough – I was surprised too by all the things you can do in Warsaw 🙂
wow, very informative. Thank you so much. Your article has helped me a lot for my plan to Warsaw this july.
I’m happy you find it helpful! Enjoy your trip to Warsaw and let me know if you have any questions 🙂