A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Warsaw vs. Windsor for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Warsaw or Windsor?

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 Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a touristy, beautiful, and royal town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums.

Warsaw and Windsor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle


Is there more to do in Warsaw or Windsor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Warsaw. Although Warsaw and Windsor are popular destinations, Warsaw has more sights and attractions for tourists. Warsaw is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Warsaw and is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Warsaw is famous for its historical position as a cultural and political center. It is also well known for The Old Town Market Square.

How is Warsaw different from Windsor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Windsor 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 Windsor?

Warsaw
Windsor

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Warsaw or Windsor.

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 Windsor. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.


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

Warsaw
Windsor

Dining out at restaurants in both Warsaw and Windsor 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 Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Warsaw or Windsor Better for Nightlife?

Warsaw
Windsor

Warsaw is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Warsaw is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Warsaw or Windsor Better for its Old Town?

Warsaw
Windsor

Warsaw is well known for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Windsor?

Warsaw
Windsor

Warsaw is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Warsaw offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Warsaw or Windsor Better for Families?

Warsaw
Windsor

Both Warsaw and Windsor are nice to visit with kids.

Warsaw offers lots of family activities. 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.

Windsor is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Warsaw or Windsor Better for Couples?

Warsaw
Windsor

Windsor is a great town for romance. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Windsor is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Warsaw makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.


Is Warsaw or Windsor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Warsaw
Windsor

Warsaw is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Warsaw or Windsor Better for Students?

Warsaw
Windsor

Warsaw is well known for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Warsaw is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Warsaw
Windsor

Warsaw is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Warsaw can get you around easily. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.


Is Warsaw or Windsor a more walkable city?

Warsaw
Windsor

Windsor is a great town for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

Windsor is very walkable. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Windsor or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Windsor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Warsaw or Windsor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Warsaw than Windsor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Warsaw, and 1-2 days is enough time in Windsor.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Warsaw than Windsor 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 Windsor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Warsaw 1-3 
    Windsor 1-2

One day in Warsaw or Windsor?

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.

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Warsaw or Windsor?

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.

Windsor 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 Windsor?

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 Windsor. 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 Windsor?

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.

Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Windsor or Warsaw?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Warsaw is $93, while the average daily cost in Windsor is $187. 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 Windsor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Warsaw $51
    Windsor $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Warsaw $102
    Windsor $176
Compare Hotels in Warsaw and Windsor

Looking for a hotel in Warsaw or Windsor? 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 Windsor


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 Windsor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Warsaw $4.67
    Windsor $82

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: $65
  • Airport Transfer: Warsaw Airport WAW to Warsaw by Luxury Van: $73
  • Arrival Transfer: Chopin Airport WAW to Warsaw by Van: $71
  • Arrival Transfer: Warsaw Airport WAW to Warsaw by Luxury Van: $73
  • Chopin Airport One–Way Limousine Transfer: $248
  • Indoor Paintball with Hotel Transfers: $55
  • Luxury Warsaw Chopin Airport Transfer by private Minivan car: $89
  • ONEWAY Private Warsaw Chopin Airport(WAW) to/from Warsaw Transfer: $24
  • Premium Warsaw Modlin Airport (WMI) Private Transfer: $87
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Warsaw Chopin Airport: $65
  • Private Departure Transfer: Warsaw Chopin Airport: $58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Warsaw or Windsor?

Prices for flights to both Windsor 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
    Windsor $49
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: $17
  • 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: $92
  • Taste of Poland - Old Town food tour and guided walk in one: $94
  • 4-Hour Polish Food Tour: $109
  • 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

Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    $3.11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Warsaw $7.00
    Windsor $33

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: $3.21
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.28
  • Walking Audio Tour of Wilanów Palace Grounds: $5.20
  • Uncover Historic Marvels of In-App Audio Tour: $5.32
  • Old Town Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Warsaw Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.00
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Smartphone Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews Ticket: $11
  • Warsaw Old Town In-App Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG): $12
  • Traditional Galar Cruise on The Vistula River: $15

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Warsaw $10
    Windsor $9.40

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: $176


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Warsaw and Windsor, we can see that Windsor is more expensive. And not only is Warsaw much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Windsor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Windsor 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 Windsor Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Windsor?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Warsaw and Windsor, 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 Windsor?

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 Windsor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Warsaw as well as Windsor. Many travelers come to Warsaw for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Windsor in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Warsaw is around the same temperature as Windsor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Warsaw in July average around 19°C (65°F), and Windsor averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Warsaw this time of the year. In the summer, Warsaw often gets more sunshine than Windsor. Warsaw gets 353 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Windsor receives 195 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets more rain in July than Windsor. Warsaw gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Warsaw 19°C (65°F) 
    Windsor 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Windsor in the Autumn?

Both Windsor and Warsaw are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Warsaw in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Warsaw is generally cooler than Windsor. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around 9°C (49°F), and Windsor fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Warsaw usually receives more sunshine than Windsor during autumn. Warsaw gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Windsor receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Windsor. Warsaw gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Warsaw 9°C (49°F) 
    Windsor 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Windsor in the Winter?

Both Windsor and Warsaw during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Warsaw for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Windsor because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Windsor can be very cold. Warsaw can be very cold during winter. Warsaw is much colder than Windsor in the winter. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Windsor fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Warsaw often gets less sunshine than Windsor. Warsaw gets 35 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Windsor receives 52 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets less rain in January than Windsor. Warsaw gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Warsaw -3°C (27°F) 
    Windsor 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Windsor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Warsaw and Windsor. The spring months attract visitors to Warsaw because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Windsor this time of year.

In the spring, Warsaw is around the same temperature as Windsor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Warsaw in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Windsor averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In Warsaw, it's very sunny this time of the year. Warsaw usually receives more sunshine than Windsor during spring. Warsaw gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Windsor receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Windsor. Warsaw gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Warsaw 9°C (47°F) 
    Windsor 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Windsor and Warsaw

Warsaw Windsor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb -1°C (30°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Dec -0°C (31°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)