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Long neglected by visitors to Poland, Warsaw is undergoing a major transformation. Architecturally eclectic, the city can be enjoyed from different angles, depending on where you are. Traditional Poland can be seen on the cobblestones of the Old Town, while the city of tomorrow can be seen in the new museums. Culturally in full expansion, the city offers vestiges of all ages, despite its harsh history and near-demolition by the Nazis. Europe's largest Jewish city was decimated, dismantled and laid to waste... The banks of the Vistula have seen many conflicts unfold near Poland's capital, even a mermaid! She has become a legend and the city's protector. A city of myths and legends, adorned with numerous parks, Warsaw is the ideal place for a cultural and historical getaway at a reasonable price.
1. Wilanów Palace
piotr WIERZBOWSKI
Built between 1677 and 1679 by order of King Jan III Sobieski, this palace was intended as a resting place for the royal family. The new hamlet was named Villa Nova, which in time became known as Wilanów. Nicknamed the "Polish Versailles", in reference to the king's French wife Marie, this palace is one of the few vestiges to have survived Nazism and Communism. Colorful and pleasant, it is one of Poland's most important cultural sites, thanks to its architectural beauty and the exhibitions and concerts it hosts. The interior of the Palace is home to one of Poland's oldest museums, where the country's royal and artistic history is gracefully illustrated.
What to book: We recommend this private tour of Wilanow Palace and Gardens, which will enable you to discover the history of one of Warsaw's most beautiful architectural monuments.
2. Warsaw's Royal Castle
aurélien CANIN
This castle has a tumultuous history! It was even dynamited by the Nazis in 1944. Rebuilt as it was, it is now one of Poland's most visited monuments. The interior rooms are all magnificently decorated, but it's undoubtedly the throne room that will leave you breathless. The centerpiece is the back of the throne, which is made up of over 86 white eagles in silver wire! Incredible! The reconstruction of this work of art was made possible by the discovery of a silver eagle that had survived the multiple destructions wrought by the Nazis. The Cabinet de Marbre is also a delightful place to linger. In addition to its rich decoration, here you can rub shoulders with the original portraits of the Kings of Poland that were hidden away before the Germans invaded.
Activities to book: Discover the legends behind Warsaw's royal residence by booking this guided tour of Warsaw's Royal Castle.
3. What to do in Warsaw Visit the Copernicus Science City
andrea NERI
Here's a place in the capital that really deserves a visit! The Copernicus Science City is one of Europe's most innovative in its category! With its educational mission, its aim is toarouse your curiosity and encourage you to discover the world and, why not, create debates on current scientific topics. The mysteries of human beings and science are at your fingertips, thanks to interactive devices. The most incredible of these are the fire tornado, the earthquake simulator and the magic carpet from Arabian Nights. Inside the museum, you'll also find a Planetarium with a 16-metre dome screen showing images from telescopes. A real must-see!
The Warsaw tour to book : discover Warsaw by booking this multi-stop bus tour. You'll make stops at the city's must-see sights, including the Royal Palace, Old Town, Market Square and many more.
4. Warsaw's Chopin Museum
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Paying homage to one of Poland's best-known sons, Warsaw's Chopin Museum features a wealth of detailed material on Chopin's life. Indeed, videos and recordings are superimposed to create a cacophony that can sometimes be rather confusing for a museum dedicated to a musical genius... In spite of this detail, the museum is quite well designed, with a wealth of juicy illustrated anecdotes about Chopin's life. In the basement, a listening room features high-quality recordings of Chopin. A pleasant, musical experience well worth the detour for its content and scenography!
The activity to book: Chopin fan? Book this private tour of Warsaw's Old Town on the theme of Chopin including tickets for the Chopin Museum and a one-hour concert of Chopin's music.
5. What to do in Warsaw Visit the Basilica of St. John the Baptist
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Once again, this building was dynamited by the Nazis during the Second World War. TheBasilica of St. John the Baptist, which was later rebuilt identically, is the oldest and most important church in Poland. Indeed, many kings of Cologne were crowned here, and its crypt houses the tombs of illustrious Polish figures such as Stanislaw August Poniatowski, the last king of Poland, and Jan Paderewski, a musician and important political figure. Today, the basilica is one of the world's centers of sacred music. Organ concerts are even held here in summer!
6. Stroll through the Old Town Market Square
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This small square is the heart of the Old Town. The houses that surround it are shimmering with beautiful facades. Each has its own story to tell. Another must-see on the square is the statue of the Mermaid, symbol of Warsaw and guardian of the city according to an old legend. The north side is considered the most beautiful part of the square, with its marble-framed houses, fittings and niches: take a look around and tell us all about it! In any case, whatever the season, you'll enjoy strolling, lunching and 'living' Warsaw.
Activities to book: Would you like to discover Warsaw and its history with a guide? We recommend you book this private walking tour of the Old Town and New Town. You'll see the Grand Theater and Opera House, the Royal Palace, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and much more.
You might also be interested in What to do and see in Krakow The 13 must-sees
7. Visit the Royal Lazienki Palace
piotr WIERZBOWSKI
This beautifully landscaped ensemble of parks and palaces is one of Poland's jewels. With its aristocratic ambience, this place gives us a glimpse of the great Poland of yesteryear. Bordered by water, it's no coincidence that this place bears the Polish name Lazienki, which means "bathroom". In summer and winter alike, you'll see Warsaw's inhabitants enjoying their Sunday stroll in this place, home to the territory's biggest carp! You'll soon realize that the main attraction here, in addition to the magnificent monuments, is the majestic peacock! The park is teeming with them. Another animal is the squirrel, which will even take food right out of your hand! As for the stone buildings, most of them are remarkable, as evidenced by the Palace on the Water, one of Warsaw's symbols!
Travelers' favorite activity: Enjoy Warsaw on a 3-hour bike tour that will take you to all the city's must-see sights by booking your Warsaw bike tourhere.
8. Warsaw Uprising Museum
piotr WIERZBOWSKI
This museum was built to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the uprising. It is a place of national remembrance, glorifying the national heroes who stood up to the Nazis. Interactive, the museum's discourse is highly patriotic and sentimental, allowing visitors to understand the bond that unites Poles with history, nation and religion. The entire exhibition is based on numerous multimedia documents and objects, including photos and lists, accompanied by background music. A museum that may not appeal to everyone, but is a must-see for anyone seeking an in-depth understanding of Polish history.
9. What to do in Warsaw Cemeteries
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Le Petit Futé warns you: if you haven't been to a cemetery in Poland on a religious holiday, you won't be able to boast that you know the country inside out! Why not? Because every Sunday around midday, these places dedicated to the dead become livelier than downtown Warsaw! In the Catholic municipal cemetery, you can sometimes witness a magnificent spectacle of multiple candles on the graves. Moving and poetic, Poland's capital has cemeteries of all denominations juxtaposed side by side. Proof of the city's cosmopolitan past!
Popular activity to book: Discover Warsaw in an unusual way by booking an evening cruise on the Vistula River. A memorable experience whatever the weather!
10. The Museum of the History of Polish Jews
Essential for understanding the history of the Jews and of Poland, this museum is simply splendid and wonderfully documented. Housed in a magnificent building, it traces the 1,000-year history that unites the Jewish and Polish peoples. Indeed, before 1939, over 3,000,000 Jews lived in Poland, forming the largest Jewish community in the world. The exhibition, spread over 8 rooms, is captivating. It is a true symbol, paying tribute to this community and telling its story through an exhibition spread over 8 rooms.
Book your ticket now: take advantage of our partner's rates by booking here your ticket to the Museum of the History of Polish Jews.
You may also be interested in: 8 destinations to discover Eastern Europe
11. A bird's eye view of the city from the Palace of Culture and Science
You can't miss it! Climbing up to the 30th floor of this Soviet-style building is well worth it to admire the Polish capital from another angle and enjoy a magnificent view of the whole of Warsaw. The Palace of Culture is also the ideal place to enjoy a 180-degree panoramic sunset over the whole city, making it a must-see in Warsaw. Upstairs, around the panoramic terrace, you'll also find an interesting exhibition on the city.
The ticket to book: discover Warsaw's Palace of Culture and Science on this guided tour and enjoy exclusive access to the panoramic terrace.
12. The Poster Museum: an unusual visit to Warsaw
This rather unique museum focuses on the art of the poster, with many highly regarded Polish examples. It had its heyday during the golden years of Polish cinema (of which Łódź is the capital). The museum boasts a collection of around 55,000 postersfrom all over the world, including 36,000 Polish ones. The museum organizes the International Poster Biennial, as well as numerous thematic exhibitions. We highly recommend this visit during your stay in the Polish capital.
13. Go back in time at Fotoplastikon
Tucked away in a courtyard, the Fotoplastikon is an excellent introduction to Warsaw. This original, playful museum takes visitors on a 20-minute journey through turn-of-the-century Warsaw. Sitting on wooden stools in front of small binoculars, you can admire images of the city since 1901, accompanied by classical music and the crackling of a phonograph. It all adds to the magic of the place. Entirely period and miraculously untouched by war, this is one of the last working stereoscopes in Europe.
14. The Contemporary Art Centre at Ujazdów Castle
Built in the 17th century, this Baroque castle belonged to S.-A. Poniatowski, who transformed it into a royal residence in 1766. Later, it was used as barracks and a military hospital. Partially destroyed during the Second World War, it was demolished in 1954 and rebuilt in 1970. Since 1981, it has been home to the excellent Centre for Contemporary Art (Centrum Sztuki Współczesnej Zamek Ujazdowski). It's one of the city's finest museums. We highly recommend it.
15. What to do in Warsaw Admire the Krasinski Palace
This 18th-century Baroque palace, built by the powerful Krasiński family, is one of the city's finest and largest Baroque palaces. It became the property of the Republic in 1764, serving as the seat of administrative power, the Treasury and later the Supreme Court. Today, it houses the special collections of the National Library. The palace itself is not open to tourists, but nearby you'll find a magnificent garden open to the public, particularly pleasant in fine weather.
16. Zachęta National Art Gallery: Poland's most renowned
This is Poland's most renowned contemporary art gallery. It boasts a rich collection of post-war Polish art, including some 600 permanent paintings and 2,600 varied graphic works. Thanks to its temporary exhibitions, the gallery has made a name for itself internationally, while continuing to promote young Polish talent. The gallery also functions as a cultural center and houses an excellent restaurant, the Po Prostu Art Bistro.
17. See a show at Warsaw's National Theatre
Built in the 19th century to the designs of Italian architect Antonio Corazzi, this is one of Europe's largest theaters, with an opera hall seating almost 2,000 people. During the siege of Warsaw in 1939, it was bombed and almost completely destroyed by fire. Only the façade survived. A small museum is dedicated to it, exploring the history of theater in Poland. You can even visit it before a performance if you're planning to attend one.
Where to stay in Warsaw
Warsaw offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.
The City Center (Śródmieście)is ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action. Here you'll find numerous luxury hotels, boutiques, restaurants and tourist attractions. Prices may be higher, but the convenience is unrivalled. The Old Town (Stare Miasto) is a charming choice for those who appreciate history and architecture. Here you'll find boutique hotels, vacation apartments and youth hostels. It's a lively, picturesque district, perfect for strolling and cultural visits. Praga is a district in the process of transformation, known for its bohemian atmosphere and numerous bars and restaurants. It's a great option for those looking for affordable accommodation and a more local experience. Finally, Mokotów is a residential and business district, ideal for business travelers or those seeking a quieter stay. Here you'll find modern hotels and vacation apartments at reasonable prices.
Here are our favorite accommodations in Warsaw:
- The hotel with the best view: Novotel Warszawa Centrum
Bookable herethe Novotel Warszawa Centrum is located close to Warsaw's central train and metro stations. It offers easy access to Warsaw's attractions. With its attentive service and central location, it's an excellent choice for a stay in Warsaw. Plus: you'll enjoypanoramic views of Warsaw from the rooms on the upper floors.
- Best value: the Sofitel Warsaw Victoria
With its superb location overlooking the Saxon Garden, the Sofitel Warsaw Victoria bookable herethe Sofitel Warsaw Victoria is a safe bet for any traveler to Warsaw. The buffet breakfast features homemade products. On-site, the Brasserie Moderne restaurant serves exquisite French and Polish cuisine. There's also a cocktail bar, the Victoria Lounge.
- The ideal hotel for a business trip: Mercure Warszawa Centrum
Located in the heart of Warsaw's business center, just a stone's throw from the Zlote Tarasy shopping mall (Warsaw's largest), this hotel combines Polish hospitality with international high standards. Numerous fully-equipped conference rooms are also available for meetings and seminars. Tempted? Click here to book your stay!
What to do in Warsaw in the evening?
Warsaw offers a multitude of evening activities and entertainment to suit all tastes. Here are a few suggestions for enjoying the city after sunset:
- Dining out
Warsaw has a vibrant culinary scene with a variety of restaurants offering local and international cuisines. Try traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi or bigos at restaurants like "Polska Rozana" or "Zapiecek".
- Bars and clubs
Warsaw's nightlife is lively and diverse. Explore Praga's trendy bars, such as "W Oparach Absurdu" or "Hydrozagadka", or head to downtown clubs like "Level 27" to dance the night away.
Activity to book: Experience a Warsaw bar crawl with a guide who will introduce you to unforgettable Polish nightlife. Explore the best bars and enjoy drinks, challenges, fun games and club entry by booking your Warsaw bar tourhere.
- Theater and opera
Warsaw is famous for its theaters and operas. Attend a performance at the National Theater or National Opera for an unforgettable cultural evening.
The activity to book: Enter the enchanting world of Teatr Sabat, Poland's only revue theater by booking your show at the Sabat Theater right here. Małgorzata Potocka, the author of these unforgettable shows is internationally recognized and acclaimed.
- Concerts and shows
Warsaw regularly hosts concerts and performances of music, dance and theater. Check the programs of venues like the "Stodola" or the "Palladium" to see what's on.
Activities to book: We particularly recommend this Chopin concert at a historic venue in the Old Town. You'll enjoy a nocturnal recital of Fryderyk Chopin's most famous compositions in his native city.
Discover also the most popular things to do in Warsaw:
