Should You Visit Warsaw?

Is Warsaw worth visiting?

This city is a good place to visit for one to three days. During our first trip to Warsaw in the spring of 2011, we fell in love with the history and welcoming atmosphere. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in Travel and Leisure's Best Places to Visit in 2024 - Cultural Immersion. Warsaw is the capital and largest city in Poland. It's often overlooked by tourists for other Polish cities, but Warsaw has a unique history and a charming old town. There are parks and squares as well as restaurants that visitors can enjoy.

Warsaw

Reasons to Visit Warsaw

Museums
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.

Nightlife
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.

Historical Sights
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.

Food
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).

Shopping
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.

Authenticity
Warsaw has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Warsaw worth visiting in the Summer?

The high season for travel in Warsaw is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 19°C (65°F).

During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the big city activities, and the historic old town. Also, you can experience the nightlife.

Is Warsaw worth visiting in the Autumn?

The weather in Warsaw can be quite cold during autumn, and averages around 9°C (49°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Warsaw, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. This is a great time of year to take in the beautiful scenery, admire the historic sights, and wander through the museums. Also, you can enjoy the city's energy.

Is Warsaw worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the low season for travel in Warsaw. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Warsaw can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -3°C (27°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to browse through museums, taste delicious cuisine, and browse around the old town. Also, you can check out the nightlife and the big city activities.

Is Warsaw worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Warsaw. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Warsaw can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 9°C (47°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

The city this time of year is absolutely beautiful. Admire the gardens, parks, and fantastic architecture, too. Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. During this season it's fun to experience the shops and boutiques, the famous sights and museums, and the gorgeous scenery. Also, you'll be able to learn about the history of the town and grab some drinks at a bar.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Warsaw

Not As Family-Friendly
While there are some family activities, it's not as child-friendly as other destinations.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Warsaw might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Warsaw here or see if Warsaw is expensive here.

Related

What is Warsaw most famous for?

Warsaw is most famous for its historical position as a cultural and political center. People visit this impressive city for its great museums, nightlife, and historical sights. It is also known for its great food and shopping. It is often described as cultural, historical, under-rated, and diverse.

What is the most famous sight in Warsaw?

The most popular sight in Warsaw is The Old Town Market Square. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Warsaw on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Old Town Market Square and other attractions here.

How touristy is Warsaw? Is it a popular city to visit?

Warsaw is an off-the-beaten-path city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Warsaw for WWII Buffs - private tour with hotel pickup: $131
• Majdanek Concentration Camp & Lublin Full Day Private Tour from Warsaw: $299
• Retro Fiat Self-Drive Undisovered Tour in Warsaw: $53
• Warsaw Must See | Private Walking Tour with guide | 3h: $125
• Warsaw Must See Public Walking Tour • 18 €: $20
• Warsaw Private Walking Tour: $221
• Wolf's Lair & Treblinka Tour in 1 day from Warsaw: $289
• Faces of Warsaw's 3-hour orientation city tour with hotel pick-up: $59

How long should I spend in Warsaw?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Warsaw is one to three days. Since Warsaw has activities such as museums, nightlife, and historical sights, many visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Warsaw? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Warsaw?.