Is Warsaw Worth Visiting? 15 Great Reasons and 25 Photos That Say ‘Yes’

You can always find underrated countries and cities (even in Europe) that are actually extremely beautiful. If there’s one place that might not be on your bucket list, it’s Warsaw, Poland. But, is Warsaw worth visiting? I am happy to say that the answer is yes!

Although it has a painful past, nowadays it’s a vibrant Polish city that is more modern than you probably think (but it still preserves its history).

So let’s dive a little deeper into all the reasons to visit Warsaw that will surely make you book a flight right now!

*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. This post may show pop-ups.

*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. I share my personal experience and cannot guarantee yours.

My favorite carb in Warsaw: Pierogi (Polish dumplings) and potato pancakes at Zapiecek (on Nowy Świat 64, although it has other locations).

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Is Warsaw Worth Visiting? Why I Think It Is

It Has a Rich History

Warsaw’s origins date all the way back to the 14th century, and it’s home to more than enough palaces that used to belong to the Polish monarchs, so there’s a lot to explore.

Fast forward, did you know that during World War II, 80% of Warsaw was completely destroyed?

This city has gone through so much during that traumatic time, and you can learn more about it by taking a Jewish history walking tour or visiting the Warsaw Uprising Museum (amongst other activities).

The Communist regime that took place in Poland after World War II is another massive part of Warsaw’s history.

Taking tours like a Communist Warsaw tour and visiting places like the Museum of Life under Communism are excellent ways to learn more about this complex time in Polish history.

The Landmarks and Buildings Are Extremely Beautiful

With stunning modern buildings alongside pre-war architecture, there’s no denying that Warsaw is one good-looking (and interesting) city.

Of course, not every single neighborhood is picture-perfect, but areas like the Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) are an absolute delight to roam thanks to their colorful townhouses, stunning architecture, and historic atmosphere.

While many landmarks were reconstructed, including the Royal Castle, you can also find historic buildings that had survived the war like the pretty Wilanow Palace.

Other important landmarks like the Palace of Culture and Science were built after the war, but believe me, you don’t want to miss any of these beauties.

Intriguing Museums

Did you know that there are more than 50 museums in Warsaw? That’s right! So if that’s something you’re seeking in every city break, Warsaw will be right up your alley.

An absolute must-visit is the POLIN Museum, located where the Warsaw ghetto once stood, which will take you through 1000 years of the history of Polish Jews.

You can also visit fascinating spots like the Copernicus Science Centre, the unusual Neon Museum, the Polish Vodka Museum, the Museum of Fantasy Art, the Zachęta National Gallery of Art, and the Museum of Modern Art.

It Offers Plenty of Other Cultural Activities

Culture lovers, this one’s for you, because there’s more to Warsaw than “just” museums.

It’s also where the famous composer and pianist Frédéric Chopin grew up, so you can explore the museum dedicated to him, enjoy free Chopin concerts, and take a themed walking tour.

If that’s not enough, Warsaw also hosts art exhibitions, film festivals, and many other cultural events throughout the year.

Less Touristy Than Other European Destinations

I’m happy that traveling is more accessible and affordable these days, but many European cities suffer from tourist overload because of that and lose their magic.

Fortunately, Warsaw is still relatively under the radar (though it is getting more and more popular). You should take advantage of this and visit Warsaw while it’s not as touristy as other destinations in Europe.

Gorgeous Parks and Gardens

Even on a city break, you need to find places to relax and enjoy some green scenery, and Warsaw has that covered too.

From big parks like Lazienki Park to the unique University Library Gardens, this city has plenty of beautiful green spaces.

Surprisingly Superb Food

So what is Warsaw like in terms of culinary? I don’t know your perception of Eastern European food, but I didn’t expect Polish food to be that tasty, and I’m glad my prejudice was shattered.

One of the best things to do in Warsaw is to indulge in hearty, warming, and delicious food, from pierogi (Polish dumplings) to potato pancakes with mushroom sauce to all kinds of soups and stews (and even Polish donuts).

Of course, besides traditional restaurants, you can find modern cafes (I really like the chain Green Caffè Nero) and international cuisines.

Surprising Chocolate Scene

Did you know that Poland is in the top ten countries that import cocoa products? I was utterly surprised to discover so many chocolate shops selling pralines, chocolate desserts, and the most delicious hot chocolate.

So if you’re a chocoholic like me, Warsaw is definitely worth visiting. My personal favorite – hot chocolate at E. Wedel Chocolate Lounge.

The Unique Praga District

This out-of-the-box district on the eastern side of the Vistula River makes Warsaw worth a visit all on its own.

While 80% of Warsaw was destroyed during World War II, only 20% of Praga was ruined, so you can see some interesting contrasts between modern and old.

If you want to see a mix of quirky urban art, trendy cafes and restaurants, and pre-war buildings, you’ll love Praga.

Interesting Day Trips

If you’re interested in visiting historical sites outside the city, there’s no shortage of Warsaw to Auschwitz day trips you can take (a place every person should see!).

You can also visit other landmarks and towns like Żelazowa Wola (where Chopin was born), Malbork Castle (one of the largest in the world), Krakow, and Lodz, Poland.

Budget-Friendly

Is Warsaw a good place to visit in terms of budget? Yes! One significant advantage is that you can travel to Warsaw without breaking the bank.

The local currency is called Zloty or PLN, and one EUR is worth about 4.3 PLN while one USD is around 4 PLN.

Prices can go between 12-15 PLN for a cup of coffee, depending on the location of the coffee shop and the type of coffee you order.

As for food, at a Polish restaurant, you’ll probably pay 6-10 PLN for a bowl of soup and 20-35 PLN for the main course.

Museum and landmark fees are 12-25 Zloty, though you can visit many Warsaw sites for free (always or on a certain day), including top Polish landmarks like the Royal Castle in Castle Square.

You can also easily find accommodations for every single budget, from apartments to luxury hotels to hostels in Warsaw.

Last but not least, public transportation is also cheap. Since Warsaw’s Metro only has two lines, buses and trams are popular ways to get around it. Read this full guide about how to get around Warsaw.

Each Season Offers Something Different

It may come as a surprise, but you can visit Warsaw almost all year round.

Visit in spring for the flowers and to celebrate Easter; in summer for the music festivals; and in fall for the foliage.

Late spring, summer, and early fall also offer pleasant weather, but if you’re up for the challenge of surviving the low temperatures of pre-Christmas time, you’ll also discover that Warsaw is one of the best winter city breaks in Europe.

With countless illuminated streets and themed displays, Christmas markets, and ice skating rinks, Warsaw in December will surely entice you.

In addition, Warsaw can be a great European girls’ trip destination.

It’s a Good Shopping Destination

As much as I love to immerse myself in the local culture and history, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with enjoying some shopping time, and Warsaw’s many shopping streets and malls are exactly what I needed.

These include the Westfield Arkadia and Zlote Tarasy, where you’ll find a mix of internationally-known and local brands, from affordable to high-end.

Perfect for a Weekend Getaway

Honestly, you can spend even more than a week exploring this city and taking day trips. But if you only have a few days or even just a weekend, you can still enjoy Warsaw and experience the best of it.

If you’re looking for an alternative European city break destination, Warsaw is a perfect choice.

Suitable for Different Types of Trips

Because this city is so diverse and offers a mix of things to do and see, you can visit it with a group of friends, on a mother-daughter trip, and even on a family trip (many activities are also great for kids).

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Related Posts

Want to see more of Poland? Check out:

• One week in Krakow
• Cafes in Krakow
• Hidden gems in Krakow
• Things to do in Krakow’s Jewish Quarter
• Things to do in Krakow Old Town
• Painted village of Zalipie, a day trip from Krakow
• Things to do in Poznan
• Reasons to visit Poznan

Related posts:

• Is Turin worth visiting
• Is Bari worth visiting
• Is Lecce worth visiting
• Reasons to visit northern Spain
• Reasons to visit Malta
• Reasons to visit Crete
• Reasons to visit Kefalonia
• Reasons to visit Mallorca
• Reasons to visit Madrid

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