Things to Do in Warsaw

Choose from 11 Fun Things to Do in Warsaw

Life Under Communism Museum (Czar PRL)

Part of the Adventure Warsaw attraction — which runs Communist-themed tours of the city — at the Soho Factory in bohemian, grungy Praga, the Life Under Communism Museum highlights the mundane, cheerless quality of life under the Soviet regime in Poland.

The Poles and the extraordinarily powerful Solidarity freedom movement, led by Lech Wałęsa, voted the Communist system out in the 1989 elections, leading to the break up of the Soviet Union. Although there is no sentimentality in Poland towards the former Communist regime, this clever little museum allows younger generations to glimpse life behind the Iron Curtain as it was for 45 years.

Among the busts of Lenin and Marx are a scattering of Soviet uniforms, Communist-era radios and record player spinning vinyl from little-known Eastern Bloc bands. However, the highlights of the exhibition are the rudimentary rooms kitted out in typical Soviet style with austere furniture — some sourced from the former headquarters of the Polish United Workers’ Party (PZPR) and more donated from the general public. The sparse kitchen has a 1980s’ cooker and fridge; a rather depressing beige bedroom has a simple wooden bed and the walls of a party worker’s office are hung with portraits of Communist leaders. And this privately owned museum just keeps on growing, with the curators appealing for any artifacts that belong to the Communist era to use in their displays.

Practical Info

Soho Factory, 25 Mińska, Praga, Warsaw. Open Mon–Fri 10am 4pm; Sat–Sun 11am–5pm. Admission adult PLN 80; seniors, students & children younger than 18 PLN 5; guided tours PLN 80. Take tram No. 22 from the Centrum (city center) to Gocławska.

25 Mińska, Praga, Warsaw, Mazovia 03-808, Poland

Mon–Fri 10am–4pm; Sat–Sun 11am–5pm

adult PLN 80; seniors, students & children younger than 18 PLN 5; guided tours PLN 80

From $ 42

Vistula River

Running an incredible 654.5 miles (1,053 kilometers) and traversing the entire length of the country, the Vistula River (Wisla) is Poland’s longest river, passing through both Warsaw and Krakow.

The Basics

In Krakow, it’s possible to explore the riverfront on a bike tour or Segway tour, while Vistula River cruises leave from the wharf beneath Wawel Castle and afford magnificent views of the royal castle, the Wawel Dragon Statue, the Church of St. Stanislaus, and the old Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz.

Boat tours also run along the River Vistula in Warsaw, or you can hop off to explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or stroll around the atmospheric Vistula Boulevards.

Things to Know Before You Go

Bring warm clothing if traveling on an open-air boat—it can get chilly, especially in the evening hours.
Some boat cruises are wheelchair accessible.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the many attractions and beautiful scenery you’ll see.

How to Get There

Originating on the slopes of the Beskidy Mountains in Southern Poland, the Vistula winds its way north through Krakow and Warsaw until it tips itself into the Baltic Sea in the Gdansk delta. In both Warsaw and Krakow, the river runs right through the heart of the city, and it’s easy to reach the riverfront on foot from many of the central attractions.

When to Get There

In Warsaw and Krakow, sightseeing cruises typically run between March and October.

Towns Along the Vistula River

In addition to Krakow and Warsaw, towns along the Vistula River include the UNESCO-listed medieval town of Toruń, where Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus was born; Kazimierz Dolny, known for its striking Renaissance architecture; and the hilltop town of Plock. The vast UNESCO-listed Gothic castle of Malbork lies on the Nogat river, the easternmost tributary of the Vistula, and in Gdansk there’s even a museum dedicated entirely to the river.

Poland

From $ 21

St John's Cathedral (Katedra Sw Jana)

This stunning Gothic cathedral in the heart of Warsaw's Old Town is one of the most interesting historical landmarks. Built in the 14th century, St John's Cathedral - or Katedra Sw Jana - is one of the oldest churches in all of Poland, but was completely destroyed during World War II during the Polish Uprising. However, like much of the Old Town, it was reconstructed after the war, true to its original architecture.

In addition to being the site of many historical events, such as the coronation of the last Polish king, the cathedral also houses the beautiful red marble tombs of many Mazowian dukes, and its crypt is the resting place of many celebrated Poles such as Nobel Prize-winning author Henryk Sienklewicz. The Gothic architecture and artwork is some of the most impressive in Warsaw, and is not to be missed.

Practical Info

In the center of Old Town, getting to St. John's couldn't be easier. The 12, 13, 26, and 32 trams will leave you off right next to it at the Stare Miasto stop.

While the cathedral is open daily, they do not allow tourists to enter during mass, so be sure to check the mass schedule on the website when planning your visit.

Świętojańska 8, Warsaw 00-278, Poland

Open Daily

Free

From $ 41

Warsaw Royal Castle (Zamek Krolewski)

Built in the beginning of the 17th century, the Royal Castle of Warsaw - or Zamek Krolewski - marks the entrance to Old Town, and was the official seat of the Polish monarchy up until the beginning of the 19th century, and also housed the Polish Parliament throughout history. Although, like most of Old Town, the castle was destroyed during World War II, it underwent major reconstruction between 1971 and 1984, and is now fully open to the public.

The beautiful brick facade of the castle is bookended by the bulbous spires so common to Polish architecture, and the castle square alone is worth visiting. In addition to the classic Polish architecture, Italian influences are strong, as the palace was designed by an Italian architect. As such, the building is exquisite, and should be on every Warsaw visitor's agenda.

Containing an incredible collection of artwork and art objects, the interior of the castle is a beautiful also houses part of the National Museum, as well as functioning as a frequent meeting place for the Ministry of Culture. The different rooms of the palace are decorated with amazing attention and fealty to the original state, before the war. Be sure to pick out the two Rembrandts that were donated in 1994 by the Countess Karolina Lanckoronska.

Practical Info

The palace is hard to miss coming into Old Town, sitting right on the Vistula River, and can be accessed easily by tram or bus, at either the Stare Miasto or Pl. Kamkowy stops.

The admission price varies depending upon which rooms and collections you wish to see. Entry into the permanent exhibitions is free on Sundays, but tickets are limited, and tour guides are not available. Also, be aware that no visitors are allowed entry one hour before the palace officially closes.

Pl. Zamkowy 4, Warsaw 00-277, Poland

Open Tues - Sat 10am - 4pm, Sun 11am - 4pm, Closed Mondays

Adults: 22PLN

From $ 18

Palace of Culture and Science

The Palace of Culture and Science is the tallest building in Poland, completed in 1955 as a gift to Poland from the Soviet people and Joseph Stalin himself. The building iscalled Pałac Kultury i Nauki in Polish, abbreviated PKiN, and has over 3,000 rooms on its 42 floors, which include offices, institution headquarters and the Polish Academy of Sciences. There is a post office, cinema and swimming pool, as well as museums, libraries and theaters.

The Congress Hall (Sala Kongresowa) and Concert Hall (Sala Koncertowa) are considered the most important of their kind in the country. The former can hold nearly 3,000 people and has been considered the home of Poland’s jazz music scene. Artists such as Bruce Springsteen and the Rolling Stones have performed here.

Not surprisingly, there have been some negative feelings around the building, as many Polish citizens believe it is a symbol of Soviet domination. It was originally known as the Joseph Stalin Palace of Culture and Science, but the dedication was later removed.

The main reason tourists visit the Palace of Culture and Science is for the terrace on the 30th floor. Standing at 114 meters, travelers can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Warsaw from ‘trzydziestka.’

Practical Info

The Palace of culture and Science is open daily from 9am to 8pm and there is a charge to visit the 30th floor terrace.

plac Defilad 1, Warszawa 00-901, Poland

Daily 9am-8pm

From $ 18

Warsaw Jewish Ghetto (Getto Zydowskie)

The haunting monuments and memorials of Warsaw’s former Jewish Ghetto (Getto Zydowskie) tell the story of its tragic past—during World War II, it was the largest Jewish Ghetto in all of Nazi-occupied Europe.

The Basics

Most Warsaw city tours and Old town walking tours make a stop at the Warsaw Jewish Ghetto, visiting sites such as the remains of the Ghetto Wall, the Monument of the Killed and Murdered in the East, the Warsaw Uprising Monument, the Umschlagplatz Monument, and the Monument to the Ghetto Heroes. For a more comprehensive insight, opt for a Jewish history and heritage tour, or pay a visit to the Museum of the History of Polish Jews.

Things to Know Before You Go

Most of the main sites of the Warsaw Ghetto are wheelchair accessible, but there are some narrow lanes and uneven streets to navigate

How to Get There

The Warsaw Ghetto is located at the border of the Old and New Towns and is easy to reach on foot from many of Warsaw’s central attractions. Alternatively, ride the train to Warsaw Central Station or take the tram (1, 22, or 27) to Cm. Zydowski stop.

When to Get There

If you’re exploring Warsaw in the busy summer months, aim for an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid the tour groups. Alternatively, the most moving time to visit is on International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) when an emotional ceremony is held in front of the Monument to the Ghetto Heroes.

The History of the Warsaw Jewish Ghetto

Before World War II, there were over 400,000 Jews living in Warsaw, and by 1942, all members of the Jewish community were forced into the German-constructed ghetto, demarcated by a 10-foot (3-meter) high wall circling around a specified sector of the Jewish district. In addition to being the restrained living quarters of the Jewish community during the Nazi occupation, the Warsaw Ghetto was also the place from which thousands of men, women, and children were dispatched to the Treblinka Concentration camp in the summer of 1942, which, in turn, led to the Ghetto Uprising.

Warsaw, Poland

Open Daily

Free

From $ 41

Praga

Praga is Warsaw’s right-bank area that was once an independent town, from the time of its first mention in 1432. In the late 18th century, it became formally associated with Warsaw as a small settlement. In its early days as a suburb, many buildings were repeatedly destroyed by natural disasters and military battles; the only surviving historical monument from that time is the Church of Our Lady of Loreto.

Although it suffered repeated damage in its early days, Praga managed to resist WWII destruction, and today, it’s considered one of Warsaw’s trendiest neighborhoods, oozing a cool bohemian vibe. Post-industrial buildings have been converted into art galleries, cinemas, and pubs. Also look for pre-war elements like sidewalks, apartments and lampposts.

Praga is quite a departure from the well-traveled tourist spots in Warsaw proper. Its popularity is on the rise, so now is the best time to visit. Don’t miss historic monuments like Agnieszka Osiecka, ode to the Polish poet and journalist who authored over 2,000 songs; Kapela Podwórkowa, a tribute to pre-war cloth-capped buskers and musicians known as The Courtyard Band; and Monument of Kościuszko Division (Pomnik Kościuszkowców), a tribute to the 1st Tadeusz Kościuszko Infantry Division, who tried to help during the Warsaw Uprising in 1944.

Practical Info

Wilenski square is the transportation hub in Praga and is just a short walk from the Slasko Dabrowski Bridge across the Vistula River.

Praga District, Warszawa, Poland

From $ 41

Czestochowa

Sitting on the Warta River in southern Poland, Czestochowa is home to the 14th-century Jasna Gora Monastery, which attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over the world each year. The monastery is home to the Black Madonna painting, a shrine to the Virgin Mary that is credited with many miracles, including saving the monastery from an invasion by the Swedes in the 17th century.

In addition to the monastery, Czestochowa boasts numerous museums, including the Czestochowa Regional Museum and the Museum of Iron Ore Mining. The regional museum consists of several parts: the Town Hall, the Halina Poswiatowska Museum, the Gallery of 19th and 20th-Century Painting and the Archaeological Reserve of Lusatian Culture. The latter is a 2,500-year-old burial ground that also features displays about the Lusatian culture from the Bronze and early Iron Age. Not far from Czestochowa you can also find the ruins of a medieval castle in Olsztyn, a stop along the Trail of Eagles’ Nests tourist route.

Practical Info

Czestochowa sits in between Krakow, Wroclaw and Warsaw, but the nearest airport is at Katowice, from which a shuttle bus runs to Czestochowa a few times a day. The city is also accessible by bus and train from both Warsaw and Krakow, with the bus taking about three hours to each and the train taking about three and a half hours to Warsaw or two hours to Krakow. The bus terminal in Czestochowa is close to the central train station.

Czestochowa, Poland

From $ 35

Warsaw Old Town Square Market

The Old Town Square Market - or Rynek Starego Miasta - is the oldest part of Warsaw, originally constructed in the late 13th century. After being destroyed by the German army, it was restored after World War II to its beautiful prewar charm, lined with 17th and 18th century houses, shops, and restaurants. The historic center of Warsaw, cafe life is at its height with street vendors and performers abound.

Stop to try a local beer or taste traditional Polish fare and admire the incredible architecture all around you. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this area is not to be missed.

Practical Info

Located right on the river in the heart of Warsaw, the Old Town Square Market is a quick walk from the Stare Miasto tram stop, from which the 13, 23, 26, and 32 lines.

Warsaw 00-272, Poland

From $ 40

The Royal Way in Warsaw

Originally used as a communication route, Warsaw's famous Royal Way (or Royal Route) is a beautiful, 2.5 mile-(4 km) long road that goes from the The Royal Palace at Old Town to the Wilanow Palace. Walking this road assures you an incredible view of Polish historical landmarks, including St. Anne's Church, the Tyszkiewicz Palace, the Holy Cross Church, St. Alexander's Church, Lazienki Park, and so much more. An entire day can be spent exploring the monuments and side streets that are considered part of the "Road of Kings", and there are innumerable sights to be seen.

An impressive monument to the Polish composer Chopin sits in the Lazienki park, and during the summer, classical musical concerts are held on the lawn. In addition to being the living quarters of many Polish nobles, including the Polish president, museums, chic shopping, people-watching, and fine eateries are abound on this most beautiful and historic of streets.

Practical Info

The Royal Way begins at the Royal Palace in Old Town and extends out to the Wilanow Palace, making it a perfect guide to a historic tour of Warsaw. Be sure to wear good walking shoes, and remember that the actual Royal Way isn't just one street (Krakowskie Przedmiescie), but also includes a series of connecting streets. A good monument map will ensure that you take in all of interesting sights.

Krakowskie Przedmiescie, Warsaw, Poland

Free

From $ 18

Warsaw Old Town

Almost entirely destroyed during WWII, Warsaw’s historic Old Town underwent an extensive restoration that transformed the area into a vibrant riverfront hub. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the neighborhood boasts striking recreations of 17th- and 18th-century structures, as well as the Warsaw History Museum.

The Basics

A popular day trip destination from Lodz or Krakow, Warsaw Old Town is famous for its ornate buildings, expansive squares, and rich cultural history. Walking, cycling, and Segway tours provide fresh air and a close-up view of city highlights such as the Royal Castle, Grand Market Square, and Palace of Culture and Science. Car and bus tours are also available, including group and private excursions in a retro bus or Fiat car. If you’d rather explore on your own schedule, hop-on hop-off bus tours are a good option.

Things to Know Before You Go

Warsaw is magical at night with illuminated fountains and buildings.
Be sure to sample Poland’s iconic dumplings (pierogi) at a local restaurant.
Warsaw is Poland's city of transformation—a fascinating place for history and culture fans.

How to Get There

Warsaw has two airports—Warsaw Chopin and Warsaw Modlin. The closest airport is Warsaw Chopin, which is roughly 5.5 miles (9 kilometers) from the city center. There is a train link that connects the airport with the city center (Warszawa Centralna station). The public transport system consists of buses, trams, and metro lines—conveniently, they all use the same ticketing system.

When to Get There

There is plenty to see and do in Warsaw throughout the year. When it comes to weather, the best months to visit are between April and October, as Warsaw is typically freezing during winter. If you want to avoid crowds, it’s a good idea to avoid July and August (the peak tourist season).

Where to Eat and Drink in Warsaw Old Town

There are plenty of wonderful restaurants in Warsaw Old Town. If you want to try traditional Polish food with eco-friendly ingredients, be sure to visit Polka. Another Warsaw spot known for its Polish hunting cuisine is Przy Zamku. If you want to try local Polish drinks, Pasieka is an unusual restaurant with mead drinking rooms.

Warsaw, Poland

From $ 18