A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Warsaw vs. Houston for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Warsaw or Houston?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Warsaw and Houston can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a under-rated, diverse, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Houston

Houston is a diverse, sprawling, and southern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Warsaw and Houston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Warsaw or Houston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston than Warsaw. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Houston is very popular for its music and big city activities, while Warsaw attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Warsaw is famous for its historical position as a cultural and political center. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston.

How is Warsaw different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Houston and Warsaw. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Warsaw or Houston?

Warsaw
Houston

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Warsaw or Houston.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Houston. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.


Is the Food Better in Warsaw or Houston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Warsaw
Houston

Dining out at restaurants in both Warsaw and Houston can be an enjoyable experience.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Warsaw or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Warsaw
Houston

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Warsaw and Houston.

The nightlife in Warsaw has something for everybody. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

Houston offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Warsaw or Houston Better for Music?

Warsaw
Houston

Houston is a city with good options for live music. However, Warsaw is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Warsaw is not a live music destination.


Is Warsaw or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Warsaw
Houston

Warsaw is well known for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Warsaw. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the old town.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Houston?

Warsaw
Houston

If you're looking to go shopping, Warsaw and Houston both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Warsaw. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Warsaw or Houston Better for Families?

Warsaw
Houston

Houston is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Houston is a very family-friendly destination. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Warsaw is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.


Is Warsaw or Houston Better for Couples?

Warsaw
Houston

Both Warsaw and Houston are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Warsaw is a nice destination for couples. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

Houston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Warsaw or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Warsaw
Houston

Warsaw is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of backpackers visit Warsaw. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Warsaw or Houston Better for Students?

Warsaw
Houston

Warsaw is well known for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Warsaw. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.


Is Warsaw or Houston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Warsaw
Houston

Warsaw is well known for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Warsaw can get you to some places easily. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Warsaw or Houston a more walkable city?

Warsaw
Houston

Warsaw and Houston are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Warsaw is generally not a very walkable city. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

Houston is generally not very walkable. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Warsaw Worth Visiting? and Is Houston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Houston or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Warsaw and Houston. In our opinion, Warsaw has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Warsaw than Houston. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Warsaw, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

Families should spend more time in Houston than Warsaw. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Houston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Warsaw than Houston. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Warsaw that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Warsaw than Houston if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Warsaw.


  • How many days in Warsaw or Houston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Warsaw 1-3 
    Houston 2-3

One day in Warsaw or Houston?

In Warsaw, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Houston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Warsaw or Houston?

In Warsaw, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Warsaw has to offer.

Houston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Warsaw or Houston?

Warsaw is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Houston. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Warsaw or Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Warsaw. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Warsaw. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the sprawling big city of Houston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Poland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Houston or Warsaw?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Warsaw is $94, while the average daily cost in Houston is $262. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Warsaw and Houston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Warsaw $52
    Houston $142
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Warsaw $104
    Houston $284
Compare Hotels in Warsaw and Houston

Looking for a hotel in Warsaw or Houston? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Warsaw


Hotels in Houston


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Warsaw Hotel Prices and Houston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Warsaw $4.68
    Houston $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Warsaw

Also for Warsaw, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Transfer (Warsaw ⇄ Krakow): $142
  • Airport Transfer: Warsaw Airport WAW to Warsaw by Business Car: $66
  • Arrival Transfer: Warsaw Airport WAW to Warsaw by Luxury Van: $73
  • Axe Throwing with Hotel Transfers: $82
  • Chopin Airport One–Way Limousine Transfer: $249
  • Departure Transfer: Warsaw to Warsaw Airport WAW by Business Car: $66
  • Extreme Shooting Range with Transfers Warsaw: $92
  • Indoor Paintball with Hotel Transfers: $55
  • Luxury Warsaw Chopin Airport Transfer by private Minivan car: $90
  • Modlin-Warsaw WMI Airport Round-Trip Transfer: $197
  • ONEWAY Private Warsaw Chopin Airport(WAW) to/from Warsaw Transfer: $24
  • Premium Warsaw Modlin Airport (WMI) Private Transfer: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • William P.Hobby Airport (HOU): Transfer to Port of Galveston: $544
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): Transfer to Houston: $349
  • George Bush Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port - Arrival Transfer: $194
  • RoundTrip transfer in private minivan from-to HoustonAirport in Houston Downtown: $176
  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston - Arrival Private Transfer: $168
  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston: $168
  • William P. Hobby Airport to Galveston Port Arrival Transfer: $168
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Round trip transfer in private car from-to Houston Airport in Houston Downtown: $120
  • Departure Private Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH in Luxury SUV: $109
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Business Car: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Warsaw or Houston?

Prices for flights to both Houston and Warsaw change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Warsaw $27
    Houston $35
Typical Food Prices in Warsaw

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Warsaw:


  • Dinner for Two
    $13
  • Lunch for Two
    $10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Warsaw

For Warsaw, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Lunch or Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe with Skip-the-Line: $19
  • Breakfast Market Food Tour in Warsaw: $56
  • Warsaw's No 1 cooking class-Polish dumplings with liqueur tasting: $61
  • Polish Dumplings Cooking Class: $62
  • Traditional Polish Cooking Class in Warsaw: $79
  • Traditional Polish Cooking Class with liquor tasting in Warsaw: $89
  • Polish Food Tour: $93
  • Taste of Poland - Old Town food tour and guided walk in one: $95
  • 4-Hour Polish Food Tour: $110
  • The 10 Tastings of Warsaw With Locals: Private Food Tour : $117
  • EVERYDAY Warsaw Traditional Food Tour with Old Town Sightseeing: $156
  • Traditional Food Tour with Old Town Sightseeing: $156

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Houston.

  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $87
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Montrose Food Tour: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Warsaw $7.02
    Houston $14

Tours and Activities in Warsaw

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Warsaw.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.23
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.31
  • Walking Audio Tour of Wilanów Palace Grounds: $5.20
  • Uncover Historic Marvels of In-App Audio Tour: $5.32
  • Warsaw at War 1939-1945: A Self-guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Warsaw's Old Town A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Old Town Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.45
  • Smartphone Escape Game and Tour: $6.46
  • Museum POLIN "(post)JEWISH..." - Exhibition Ticket: $7.47
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews Ticket: $11

Tours and Activities in Houston

Here are a few actual costs in Houston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Houston Ghosts and Hauntings By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 2 Hours H- Town Tour with 15ft Open Air Party Truck On Wheels: $49
  • 2-Hour Private Sightseeing Cart Tour of Houston and Galveston: $256
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Admission and Shuttle: $80
  • Astroville Private Best of Houston City Driving Tour: $370
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour & NASA Space Center Admission with Shuttle: $80
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Conditioned): $32
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Condtioned): $32
  • Austin & Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Downtown In App Audio Walking Tour: $9.00

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Warsaw $10
    Houston $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Warsaw

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Warsaw:

  • The Original Pub Crawl: $16
  • #1 Pub Crawl Warsaw with Premium Open Bar: $20
  • Pub Crawl with 1-Hour Open Bar: $20
  • Warsaw Wine Tasting Private Tour with Wine Expert: $177

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70
  • Downtown Houston Brewery Bike Tour : $71


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Warsaw and Houston, we can see that Houston is more expensive. And not only is Warsaw much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Warsaw is in Europe and Houston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Warsaw would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Warsaw and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston than you might in Warsaw.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Warsaw Expensive? and Is Houston Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Warsaw. When comparing the sizes of Warsaw and Houston, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Warsaw or Houston?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Warsaw or Houston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Warsaw as well as Houston. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Warsaw this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Warsaw is much colder than Houston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Warsaw in July average around 19°C (65°F), and Houston averages at about 84°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. Warsaw usually gets less rain in July than Houston. Warsaw gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Warsaw 19°C (65°F) 
    Houston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Warsaw or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston and Warsaw are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Warsaw for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Houston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Warsaw is generally much colder than Houston. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around 9°C (49°F), and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. In October, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Houston. Warsaw gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Warsaw 9°C (49°F) 
    Houston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Warsaw or Houston in the Winter?

Both Houston and Warsaw during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Warsaw in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Warsaw can get quite cold in the winter. Warsaw is much colder than Houston in the winter. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Warsaw usually gets less rain in January than Houston. Warsaw gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Warsaw -3°C (27°F) 
    Houston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Warsaw or Houston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Warsaw and Houston. Most visitors come to Warsaw for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Houston because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Warsaw is much colder than Houston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Warsaw in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Houston averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In April, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Houston. Warsaw gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Warsaw 9°C (47°F) 
    Houston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Houston and Warsaw

Warsaw Houston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Feb -1°C (30°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Dec -0°C (31°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)