Discover the city

Warsaw has a lot to offer – whether you’re into culture, history, food, nature, or simply enjoy wandering around, there’s always something to discover. This is our subjective and incomplete list of ideas – just a few things we think are worth trying, visiting, or experiencing. See what calls out to you – and enjoy exploring!

Discover the classics and some hidden gems

Take in the view from the top of the Palace of Culture and Science, the city’s most iconic building. Follow the Royal Route, lined with historic churches, the Presidential Palace, and the University of Warsaw and stroll through the Old Town, carefully rebuilt after World War II. Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum to understand a key part of the city’s story, and stop by the Maria Skłodowska-Curie Museum to learn more about one of Poland’s most famous scientists.

Cross the river to discover Praga, one of the few districts that kept its original architecture. Walk the backstreets, look for murals and courtyard shrines, and enjoy local cafés and alternative art spaces.

Curious about why wooden Finnish houses ended up in Warsaw? Visit the Jazdów neighbourhood – a peaceful, green enclave in the city center. Originally built as temporary housing after WWII, it’s now a unique space for community projects and cultural events.

Relax in nature and discover Warsaw’s green side

Warsaw is one of the greenest capitals in Europe – full of beautiful parks, several city forests, and even wild riverside areas. In Łazienki Park, you can meet peacocks and squirrels, or relax in the Botanical Garden. Pole Mokotowskie is one of the locals’ favourite picnic spots, and it’s just a 10-minute walk from IBB!

Don’t miss the rooftop garden at the Warsaw University Library – a unique green hideaway with views over the river. On the other side of the Vistula, explore the wilder riverbanks or rent a kayak to see the city from the water (available in summer months).

Need a quick break from the city? Head to one of Warsaw’s city forests, like Las Kabacki or Las Bielański – both perfect for a peaceful walk, jog, or short hike, and easily accessible by public transport. For a full day in nature, visit Kampinos National Park – the second largest in Poland.

Take part in Warsaw’s cultural life

Warsaw offers a wide range of cultural events and art spaces, many of them accessible even without speaking much Polish.

Discover contemporary art at Zachęta National Gallery or the Museum of Modern Art. In May, join the Night of Museums (Noc Muzeów) – when dozens of museums and cultural institutions stay open late with free entry (a great experience if you don’t mind the crowds!). Enjoy live jazz in the Old Town during summer weekends or explore international cinema at the Warsaw Film Festival (October) or Millennium Docs Against Gravity (May).

For something more local, check out your nearest Dom Kultury (Cultural Centre) – like OKO in Ochota – which often hosts workshops, exhibitions, and neighbourhood events.

Get the local experience

Spend time by the Vistula River – in spring and summer, the boulevards come alive with bars, cafés, food trucks, and open-air events. Watch the sunset from a sandy riverside beach or one of the footbridges.

Try a classic milk bar (bar mleczny) for traditional Polish food at low prices – like pierogi or tomato soup. Bar Bambino or Bar Prasowy can good places to start.

On November 1st (All Saints’ Day), visit Powązki Cemetery – a historic site that becomes beautifully lit with thousands of candles, offering a moving glimpse into Polish culture.

In winter, enjoy seasonal traditions: skate at one of the city’s public ice rinks – like those near the Old Town or Palace of Culture – and enjoy the festive light displays in the city centre. Don’t miss the Royal Garden of Light at Wilanów Palace, with its magical illuminated installations.

Want to discover more?

These websites are great sources of tips, inspiration, and up-to-date information about what’s happening in the city: