A Weekend in Warsaw: A Sustainable Guide to 48 Hours in Warsaw

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A city filled with music, hip speakeasy bars, and wonderful interactive museums. Warsaw is emerging as one of the top capitals to visit in Europe. Spend a weekend in Warsaw discovering the complex history, mish-mash of architecture while eating a belly full of delicious pierogis (Polish dumplings).

The first time I went to the capital of Poland, Warsaw was back in 2008. I got hopelessly lost, ended up with a fine for crossing the street when the light was red, and had an interesting time finding vegetarian options. Although I carry fond memories of that trip, the overarching feeling was that the city was gray and in dire need of a little TLC.

Fast forward to 2021 and things could not be more different. The remnants of the functional communist architecture still dominate the skyline (Palace of Culture and Science) and the Praga neighborhood remains slightly dodgy.

But aside from that Warsaw has been polished up and is now serving you its culture and history on a silver platter with a large serving of hipster sauce. I spent but a mere 48 hours in Warsaw but frankly, one could spend a week and not visit half of the Warsaw tourist attractions, the city has a lot to offer visitors!


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48 Hours in Warsaw Planning Guide

Warsaw is a large city, and there is plenty to see and do in the city. With some strategic planning, you could spend an amazing weekend in Warsaw. Here are a couple of useful tips to get you on your way.

  • PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Warsaw has a great network of public transportation including a metro, trams and plenty of busses. Ensuring you can get just about anywhere both inside and outside the city. Read up on the various zones and how to purchase tickets.
  • SKIP THE LINE TICKETS: For most activities covered in this Warsaw guide tickets can be purchased online. I strongly recommend you do so to save yourself queuing in endless lines. Websites are in English and usually very mobile-friendly to use.
  • HOP ON HOP OFF BUS: Not the sexiest way to get around town, but perhaps the most practical. Get on and off at 10 stops located in front of the main Warsaw attractions. Tickets are valid for 24 or 48 hours. Buy tickets online
  • VALUE FOR MONEY TOUR: Not sure you want to spend your 48 hours in Warsaw traipsing behind a guide? I get it, me neither. Go for an affordable half-day tour which covers all the main highlights of Warsaw. Check availabilities.
Where to stay in Warsaw
Photo courtesy of H15 Boutique Hotel Warsaw via booking.com

WHERE I STAYED
H15 Boutique Hotel

This former Sovjet Union embassy building is super centrally located, has really great beds (so soft), the friendliest staff, and an impressive breakfast buffet. It is a bit of splurge, but well worth every penny.

The History of Warsaw in a Nutshell

Although the symbol of Warsaw is a beautiful mermaid, it could very well also be a Phoenix. This beautiful and complex city has managed to raise itself from the ashes throughout history. What started off as a small cluster of houses 1400 years ago, turned into a brimming capital of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth in the 16th century, after the then king set fire to his palace in Krakow.

After a short spell as the capital of South Prussia in the 18th century, a heroic liberation by none other than Napoleon a constitutional monarchy was set up under the personal union of Imperial Russia in the early 19th century. As was the case all over Europe, the second half of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century saw both great prosperity and turmoil for Warsaw.

The development of Warsaw came at a cost, Russian authorities closed Polish schools & started a mass building of Russian Orthodox churches, in effect trying to eradicate Polish culture. This in turn led to mass uprisings and protests all the way up to the start of WWI.

Fighting between Russia and Germany took place in the heart of Poland. After a decisive battle on the outskirts of Warsaw, the German army took firm control of Poland. A pattern that would be repeated in WWII when Adolf Hitler drew up plans to destroy Warsaw and make it “the new German city of Warsaw”. What ensued after was the closing of higher education, mass executions, and the Warsaw Uprising of 1944 which eventually led to Adolf Hitler destroying 85% of Warsaw (including the centuries-old charming Old Town and the Warsaw Castle).

After the fall of the Nazi regime, the Soviet troops marched into Warsaw and renamed Poland the Polish People’s Republic and so it would remain until the Iron Curtain came down in 1989.

The fall of the Communist regime gave Warsaw the freedom to start its ascent to become one of the coolest capitals in Europe. Now it’s time to go and explore all the activities in Warsaw!

in Warsaw
Warsaw city center at dawn aerial view

10 Things to Do During a Weekend in Warsaw

Spending a weekend in Warsaw means a packed itinerary with a lot of walking! The city has a lot to offer for those who like a splash of culture, to dabble in street art, and of course the history buff.

This guide will take you through some of the most popular activities in Warsaw, so pick up your sustainable backpack and lace up your sneakers.  Please note, some tours/ activities have expressly been left out due to their impact on the environment (vintage-car tours, …).

Sustainable Tip: Short on time but still want to see the city, invest in a guided tour with an electrical scooter that takes you all around the city in no time flat.

1. Climb up the tower of Saint Anna’s Church and take in the best views of Warsaw

When it comes to views of the center of Warsaw, this one is hard to beat! If the climb up did not take your breath away, the views will! All around you are remnants of the history of Warsaw: Old Town Castle Square, which derives its name from the (rebuilt) Warsaw Castle greets you as you walk onto the viewing platform.

A quarter turn to your right provides sprawling views over the Vistula river and the Praga district. Turn a second time to spot the imposing Palace of Culture and Science a remnant of former Communist times, which is now ironically surrounded by high-rise skyscrapers that make up the business district of downtown Warsaw.

On your way down, make a stop to visit the 18th century Saint Anne Church itself, the most ornate church in Warsaw which escaped destruction during WWII.

Good to know: Going up requires walking up 145 stairs. Not suitable for wheelchairs or people suffering from vertigo.

Address: Krakowskie Przedmieście 68, 00-322 Warszawa, Poland
Entrance Fee: 10 PLN ($2.5)
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Saturday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM


Warsaw weekend
2-days in Warsaw

2. Take a peek inside the University of Technology

The public university of Technology was founded in 1826 and is one of the oldest universities in Poland. Today it has a yearly student body of around 36.000 students. Although not technically an official Warsaw “tourist attraction” e.g. no tours are organized to go inside but if you are in the neighborhood it is well worth popping in to have a look inside the main hall.

The adventurous visitor can take the stairs to the third floor, aside from a few inquisitive glances from the students, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the glass ceiling and the sweeping staircase. It had me wistfully thinking back to my days as a student!

Address: Plac Politechniki 1, 00-661 Warszawa, Poland
Entrance Fee: Free
Opening hours: Daily, try and come during school hours to get a real feel of university life.


Chopin Museum in Warsaw things to do

3. Delve into the life of Frederic Chopin

The famous composer and pianist Frederic Chopin is one of Warsaw’s most distinguished citizens. Born on the outskirts of Warsaw, he lived in the city for 20 years and it was here that at the tender age of 8 years old he held his first concert. Although he died in Paris, his heart is buried in the Holy Cross Church, a small commemorative plaque marks the exact spot.

On the 200th anniversary of Chopin’s birth in 2010, the city of Warsaw inaugurated 15 musical Chopin benches places along the Royal Route in places that were important in Chopin’s life. Simply push the button, sit back and enjoy the melodic composition. Each bench has a different work of Chopin playing.

One of the best museums in Warsaw to gain more insights into the life of Chopin is the Chopin Museum, which is housed in the picturesque Gniński Palace. As with many of the museums in Warsaw, it is interactive and great fun for both young and old. Read Chopin’s correspondence to George Sand (his one true love), take in some of his many drawings, and learn about his untimely death.

TIP FOR CHOPIN LOVERS: Learn more about Chopin with a dedicated tour. Explore the places where Chopin lived, studied, and spent his free time and attend a Chopin concert after your tour. Check prices.

Address: Pałac Gnińskich, Okólnik 1, 00-368 Warszawa, Poland
Entrance Fee: 23 PLN ($5.77)
Opening hours: Daily, try and come during school hours to get a real feel of university life.


4. Get lost in the colorful alleyways around Old Town

Old Town is an exquisite feat of reconstruction! Like Gdansk, it was almost entirely raised to the ground in WWII it is now one of the main attractions of Poland. Reconstruction of the red-bricked, pastel-colored façades and dainty turrets are but a few of the marvels that await you.

Visit Warsaw Castle which now holds an impressive art collection, check to see if the sphere in the hand of the King Sigmund statue(the large statue in the middle of the square) is pointing upwards – if not, get on the first flight out as legend has if it is turned downwards the city is going to fall.

Saunter over to Old Town Market Square through the little mews interconnecting both impressive squares. Make the acquaintance of the Mermaid said to be the best friend of the Little Mermaid of Copenhagen and the symbol of Warsaw. Come a few hours before sunset, when the fairy lights are turned on and the city becomes extraordinarily romantic.

Cozy up with a glass of vodka or tuck into a hearty dish of Pierogi, the perfect way to spend one of the evenings of your 48 hours in Warsaw!

Save time: Want to avoid waiting in line to visit the Royal Castle of Warsaw and curious about the sad history of the Palace? Purchase a skip the line and guided tour package.


5. Visit the Palace of Culture and Science

The omnipresent Palace of Culture and Science towers over the Warsaw Skyline and served – to a certain extent still does so today – as a reminder of Soviet supremacy. Gifted in 1952 by Stalin himself and built to the exact specifications of its seven sister buildings in Moscow, there was no question about it: This palace was meant to impress in scale and size.

It continues to impress tourists; the Palace is one of the most visited Warsaw attractions! Inside you will find a pool, cinema complex, 100 toilets, and one of the best viewing platforms in the city. Head up to the 30th floor in a whirlwind elevator ride which lasts exactly 19 seconds and step out to see Warsaw from above.

Personally, I prefer the views that can be seen from the Saint Anne’s Church Tower, but I was very curious to see the grand scale of the Palace of Culture and Science. The entranceway is absolutely huge and I could not help but wish the walls had ears, oh the stories they could tell! It is one of those iconic European Landmarks that merits a visit.

TIP: Skip the cue and get all the insider information about this communist building. See inside the many opulent rooms and get access to the best views over Warsaw from the viewing deck. Check availabilities.

Location: plac Defilad 1, 00-901 Warszawa, Poland
Entrance Fee: 20 PLN ($5)
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10.00 AM – 8:00 PM


6. Stroll around the Lazienki Gardens

Time to head to one of the most beautiful places in Warsaw, filled with friendly red squirrels, lush 76 hectares of greenery, and more than a few palaces. We only had a quick walk around the main sites, but one could easily spend a full day strolling around, especially if your 48 hours in Warsaw happen to be sunny!

A few of the main places to visit in the park include:

The Palace on the Isle: A former bathhouse that was transformed into a palace during the 18th century for King Stanislaus Augustus. After your visit, continue walking along the banks of the Lazienki river for about 400 meters until you come across the 18th-century classical amphitheater. Inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture it might feel slightly out of place and time. The theatre has withstood the hands of time and still continues to be used as a stage for performances during the summer months.

The Old Orangery: The highlight of the old orangery is the beautiful 18th-century theatre, which accommodated 200 of the King’s most esteemed guests for an evening of fun.

The Myślewicki Palace: This elegant palace holds the name the Myślewice town, which today is all forgotten except in name. The original building dates back to the 18th century and withstood the devastating bombings in WWII, sub sequentially the majority of the richly decorated interior is still intact.

Location: Agrykola 1, 00-460 Warszawa, Poland
Entrance Fee: 
40 PLN ($9.33) – One ticket for all the above attractions. The park itself is free and open 24/7
Opening Hours: The ticket office is open Tuesday to Thursday 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM; Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Fridays are free.


Warsaw University Library Gardens Poland

7. Head up to the Warsaw University Library Gardens

Now this is a library unlike anything you have ever seen before. The library building has been designed in a way that is vaguely reminiscent of the pages of a book, interwoven or taken over by the forces of nature. Read all about what the various elements represent on the university website.

My favorite part of the library was the vast gardens on the rooftop which had a wonderful view of both the city and the Vistula river. Walk around the upper and lower gardens across a maze of different pathways, leaf-covered tunnels, and around the various ponds.

If you love gardens and have some time over you might want to try to squeeze in a visit to the Warsaw Botanical Gardens.

Location: Dobra 56/66, 00-312 Warszawa, Poland
Entrance Fee: 
free
Opening Hours:
8.00 AM-3.00 PM, the upper garden is open from April to October; the lower garden is open all year round.


8. Visit the Neon Museum

One of the coolest museums in Warsaw and what a story it tells! The Cold War and neon signs are not two things one spontaneously associates with each other. Yet, the Neon Museum uncovers how neon signs were meticulously hung along the main axes of large cities in the Eastern Bloc to add a little glamour in the otherwise drab and harsh reality of life under communism. A so-called last attempt to entice the masses with colorful propaganda to save a dying regime.

The best designers of the country pulled out all the spots and went crazy with fonts, characters, colors – one of the few areas where there was relative creative freedom under the communist regime was in the design of neon signs. Once a more alternative museum, it has recently become one of the main Warsaw tourist attractions for kids (both local and tourists).

Location: Soho Factory Mińska 25 Praga District, 03-808 Warszawa, Poland
Entrance Fee: 
15 PLN ($3.8)
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday 12:00 – 6:00 PM; Sunday 12:00-5:00 PM


weekend in Warsaw - Praga neighborhood
Views from the rooftop bar at the Vodka Museum

9. Explore the hip Praga Neighborhood

Geographically Praga is located on the right bank of the Vistula River (Old Town is located on the left bank). It was not until the late 18th century that the city of Praga was incorporated into Warsaw, as a borough.  The slightly more remote location meant that it was spared the majority of the heavy bombing during WWII and came out relatively unscathed.

Traditionally a part of the city that has fared less well economically, and was considered off-limits for tourists. Over the last few years, the Praga neighborhood started attracting local artists who have produced some of the city’s best street art and art museums.

Along with the flurry of artists came pockets of very cool bars and small eateries. Gentrification of the area started and has continued ever since. Slowly but surely this once off-limit area for tourists now very much warrants a visit if you are looking for a more authentic feel of Warsaw.

Good to know: The Neon Museum is also located in the Praga neighborhood as well as the Praga Koneser Center located on the site of the former Warsaw Vodka Factory “Koneser”. This site also houses the Polish Vodka Museum which is well worth a visit if you have the time.


10. Learn about Jewish History and Culture in Warsaw

There is a very important part of the history of Warsaw which is not covered in the recommended activities sections above. If you have some additional time or are looking for alternative things to visit in Warsaw perhaps a tour dedicated to the Jewish heritage of the city could be of interest.

  • JEWISH HISTORY TOURS (CAR): Learn all about the Jewish heritage/history of the city from the backseat of a Fiat 125p on this private tour led by a local.
  • JEWISH HISTORY TOURS (ON FOOT): Learn all about the Jewish history and culture through a licensed guide on this 3-hour walking tour.

Is it Worth Visiting Warsaw On a Guided Tour

Is it worth taking a guided tour in Warsaw? That depends on what you are aiming to get out of your trip. With some careful planning, you can go about visiting Warsaw without so much of a thought of booking a tour. Yet…

I would still consider booking a tour. Let me tell you why.
Warsaw has a lot of history, much of which can be read about on the internet or in any guidebook you purchase. What you cannot replace though is the personal stories, anecdotes, and invaluable tips on places to go served up by a local guide.

Some of my fondest memories from my trip to Warsaw include quizzing our local guide Jakob about just about everything from where to get the best pierogies in Warsaw to what is the best vantage point over the city. A friendship was struck over a mutual love for Polish dumplings!


Old Town of Warsaw 48 Hours in Warsaw
Old Town Warsaw

3 Day Trips from Warsaw

Taking day trips from Warsaw is very hassle-free thanks to the fact that booking trains in Poland can be done easily on the English website of Polish Rail. Personally, I am a big fan of traveling by train as it gives me the chance to connect with locals and watch the scenery not to mention it has a lot lower ecological footprint than private tours.

That being said, I fully understand this is not always within everyone’s comfort zone and have therefore provided both options to take public transport as well as hop on a (small) tour to your destination.

1. Visit the museum at the Wilanów Palace

One of the best places to visit near Warsaw, technically still in Warsaw but on the very outskirts of the city.

Wilanów Palace used to be the summer residence of King Jan III Sobienski after which, in 1805 it was turned into the first Polish museum. The palace survived the WWII bombings and is one of the finest examples of Polish Baroque architecture to be found in Warsaw. Walk around the beautiful gardens and catch a glimpse of the handsome statues before heading inside to discover magnificent frescoes and furniture befitting the royal character of the palace.

How to get to Wilanow Palace from downtown Warsaw:
From Old Town – Bus 116 or 180 (takes 35 minutes)
From Warsaw Central Train Station – Bus 519 or 200 (takes around 30 minutes)
How to get there by Taxi: A Taxi ride should cost around 40 PLN ($10) and takes around 35 minutes to get there

TIME SAVER | Book transport and a dedicated tour of the Wilanów Palace. Transport, guides, and entrance tickets are included in the tour price. Pick-up at your hotel. Check availability.

Location: Stanisława Kostki Potockiego 10/16, 02-958 Warszawa, Poland
Entrance Fee: 
25 PLN ($6) for the palace and 7 PLN ($1.6) for the park
Opening Hours:
9.30 AM-9.00 PM daily


2. Stroll around the former industrial city of Łódź

Łódź (pronounced woodge) is an old manufacturing city in Poland. The city is an eclectic mixture of 19th-century crumbling palaces and red brick former textile factories. The city was once the height of wealth in the 19th century but saw its wealth disappear as Tsarist Russia (the largest export market) came under the grasp of Communism. One by one the factories closed down and the city fell upon hard times under the Iron Curtain.

Now, 30+ years after the fall of the Eastern Bloc the city has managed to reinvent itself. Former factories have turned into interactive museums for kids (EC1), trendy shopping destinations (Manufaktura), or even hip bars & restaurants (OFF Piotrkowska). There is plenty to do and see in Łódź, although still one of the lesser-known places to visit in Poland it is definitely worth a day trip from Warsaw.

Getting to Łódź from Warsaw

We took the direct train from Warsaw (Warszawa Centralna) to Łódź (Łódź Fabryczna). The train ride takes between 90 min and 150 minutes, depending on the type of train you take. Multiple trains run daily and prices range from 30 PLN ($7,5) to 60 PLN ($15). Check the timetables and book your ticket online or directly in the Central Station of Warsaw.

Save time: Try a guided tour from Warsaw to Lodz (and back to your hotel).


3. Auschwitz – Birkenau State Museum

The Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum is one of the historical places to see in Poland to learn about the atrocities committed during WWII by the Nazi regime that ruled Germany. Getting there from Warsaw without a tour requires around 4 hours each way. Book your train tickets online

Getting to Auschwitz- Birkenau from Warsaw

The Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum is around 280 kilometers from Warsaw.
Step one: Take the direct fast train to Krakow Glowny Station from the Central Station of Warsaw. The train ride takes around 2.5h.
Step two: Take a direct train from Krakow Glowny Station to Oswiecim (The Polish name for Auschwitz). This second train ride will take around 1.5h
Step three: Walk 20 minutes from the Oswiecim train station to the camp or take a taxi.

Good to know: Guided tours from Warsaw to Auschwitz are a dime a dozen, they are a bit more expensive but will save you a ton of time.

TOURS VIA TRAIN: Check rates & availabilities
TOURS VIA PRIVATE PICK-UP: Check rates & availabilities

48 hours in Warsaw Food

2 Days in Warsaw: Where to Eat Vegetarian Food

Food in Poland is delicious and inexpensive. Lunch menus traditionally cost around 30 PLN ($7.5).
Another little bit of good news is that finding vegetarian & vegan restaurants in Warsaw is super easy! The less good news is that vegetarian polish food is a lot harder to find as the cuisine is traditionally very meat-heavy.

I have summed up some really good places to try during your 48 hours in Warsaw. They are suitable for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.

  • The hipster restaurantElektrownia Powiśle
    If you are looking for a quick vegetarian-friendly lunch in a historically important location then the former power plant turned shopping mall/food court is the place to be. Head down to -1 to find a host of different restaurants to try. After you are done make sure to keep some time to walk around and see how the architects incorporated the various different items of the power plant into the new design.
    Random fact: The toilets are designed in a very cool way!
  • The eco-conscious restaurantBistro Eden
    Slightly off the beaten path, but well worth a visit. Bistro Eden serves the most mouth-watering vegan food to be found in Warsaw. We had a lovely lunch in their cozily decorated upscale greenhouse in the garden. The restaurant also serves a very good cup of espresso!
  • The local food with a twistĆma
    We came here for lunch and tried all types of dishes (Polish Tapas if you will). A large selection of vegetarian options was available on the menu and my personal favorite had to be the vegetarian buckwheat pierogi! The ambiance is a bit more urban and less romantic. Prices per dish range from $4 to 9$ per small dish. Expect to eat around 3 dishes per person.
  • The romantic date night restaurantSoul Kitchen
    The restaurant is warm and inviting, the staff is a perfect touch of attentive and the food is prepared with a lot of love. The lights are dimmed to create a very cozy atmosphere and the menu changes according to the season with plenty of vegetarian options available. Vegan options are available upon request. Slightly more upscale than the average restaurant in Warsaw (expect to pay 140 PLN ($33) a person without wine for first and main).
Where to eat in Warsaw

Where to Find the Best Pierogis in Warsaw

One cannot come to Poland and not try this iconic dish! Pierogi or Polish dumplings are my all-time favorite Polish dish. I remember when I first came to Poland and I ate Pierogi for 10 days straight…trying a different taste combination every day.

Sadly we had but a few days in Warsaw this time, so I enlisted the help of our local guide to provide you with the top three places to get the best Pierogies in Warsaw. (Kuba if you are reading this, I owe you one!)

  • Karmnik (old town): A modern restaurant in the heart of the old town. The menu contains a variety of items including handmade dumplings (both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available).
  • Przegryz (downtown): The perfect spot to do some people-watching while munching down on some of the city’s best pierogies (vegetarian options available). The menu is diverse and contains other items too if you are not in the mood for pierogi.
  • Zapiecek (chain): There are three locations in Warsaw, each specializing in serving you Pierogi. This chain of restaurants although less authentic than the above-mentioned restaurants does offer the widest variety of flavors of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian pierogies.

Learn how to make Polish Pierogi: Learn how to make one of the most iconic Polish Dishes. + Vegetarian options available on demand.

Two Days in Warsaw Itinerary Map

To help you navigate the various different things to do during your weekend in Warsaw, I plotted them on a map for you. Check out the interactive Google Maps if you want a closer look, or alternatively sneak a peek at the below image. Green pins indicate activities while red pins indicate recommended hotels.

Map of things to do in Warsaw

Where to Stay When Visiting Warsaw

Warsaw has a wealth of hotels accommodating every type of budget. First-time visitors to Warsaw will want to stay in the quaint historical center of Warsaw while visitors looking for a quiet stay might consider the Mokotów district of Warsaw but the coolest and most upcoming neighborhood is without a doubt the Praga district on the other side of the Vistula river.

A Weekend in Warsaw: A Sustainable Guide to 48 Hours in Warsaw
Photo Royal Castle Square Apartment Old town via booking.com

BEST VIEWS & VALUE FOR MONEY:
Royal Castle Square Apartment Old Town

Wake up to the sunrise over Castle Square. Location-wise it does not get much better than that!  This self-catered apartment is spacious and comes with all the modern amenities you need to make for a great weekend in Warsaw.

A Weekend in Warsaw: A Sustainable Guide to 48 Hours in Warsaw
Photo Moxy Warsaw Praga
via booking.com

HIP & SUSTAINABLE: Moxy Warsaw Praga

Moxy is a chain hotel known for its funky designs and good breakfast. This particular location houses the Polish Vodka Museum on the premise and has the city’s trendiest bars and restaurants right at its doorstep.

Travel Tips for Visiting Warsaw For a Weekend

Is a weekend in Warsaw enough?

Visiting Warsaw in 2 days is enough to give you an idea of what the city has to offer. If however, you would like to venture to the outskirts (Wilanow Palace) two days might be a bit short. Personally, I would recommend spending three or four days if you have the additional time. This will ensure you get to enjoy the city, without having to rush from tourist attraction to tourist attraction.

Is Warsaw safe?

Yes, Warsaw is a safe city to visit. There are certain areas around the Praga neighborhood that can be a bit dodgy, be sure to ask your hotel or local host which streets to avoid. Make sure to keep a close eye on your belongings in and around the Historical Old City as it has been known to attract pickpockets.

What is the currency in Poland?

In Poland, you will need to pay with Polish Zloty

Do they speak English in Warsaw?

Not everywhere, but in places frequented by tourists there will usually always be someone around that speak English.

Best time to visit Warsaw?

The beginning of Autumn in Warsaw is a great time to visit. Temperatures are still moderate (18°C) and the days have not started to shorten yet. In addition, this is shoulder season so there will be fewer tourists around.

in Warsaw
Views from the top of the Palace of Culture and Science

 How to Get to Warsaw

Fly into Warsaw

Warsaw has two main airports Chopin Airport and Modlin Airport

CHOPIN AIRPORT

The Chopin Airport is the largest airport in both Warsaw and all of Poland. Located 10 kilometers outside of the city center of Warsaw

MODLIN AIRPORT

Modlin Airport is located around 40 kilometers outside of Warsaw. It is smaller than the Chopin International Airport.

Getting from Chopin Airport to downtown Warsaw

There are various ways to get to Warsaw from the airport:

  • TAXI: Ride time 20 minutes, the cost is PLN 40 ($9.3)
  • BUS: 5 different bus lines head into Warsaw from the Airport the price on average PLN 5 (1.2$)
  • TRAIN: Take the S2 or S30. Purchase Zone 1 ticket, the cost on average PLN 5 (1.2$)
  • PRIVATE TRANSFER: Although convenient this option is significantly more expensive at $35.
    Check availability

Take the train into Warsaw

The city of Warsaw is very well connected to many cities inside of Poland and to other large European cities which makes taking the train to Warsaw a convenient and sustainable option!

  • Train Berlin (HBH) to Warsaw (Centralna): direct; 6 hours; price range between $57 -$95
  • Train Brussels to Warsaw (Centralna): 2 changes; 12 hours; price starting $64
  • Train Amsterdam to Warsaw (Centralna): 1 change, 12 hours; price starting $34
  • Flixbus Budapest to Warsaw (Centralna): direct; 10 – 13 hours; price from $38

Get tickets: Tickets for both Polish Railway and international tickets can be purchased online.

In Conclusion, 48 Hours in Warsaw

The city of Warsaw is well worth a visit for those looking to explore a different side of Europe. In the last few years, the city has undergone a true transformation, actively striving to make the city easier and fun to navigate.

English is widely spoken and locals are eager to help you out should you get lost. I truly hope this Warsaw guide provides useful information and travel inspiration to get out there and explore.


MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR TRAVELING TO EUROPE

POLAND: What to do in Lodz
POLAND: 15 Unmissable things to do in Gdansk
POLAND: 10 Quaint Cafes in Krakow (veggiewayfarer.com)
CROATIA: Take a riveting 7-day road trip through Croatia
BELGIUM: Exploring the various areas to stay in Brussels
BELGIUM: How to spend one day in Brussels
EUROPE: European landmarks to add to your bucket list

A Weekend in Warsaw: A Sustainable Guide to 48 Hours in Warsaw
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A Weekend in Warsaw: A Sustainable Guide to 48 Hours in Warsaw
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Caroline Muller

Thanks for dropping in! With this blog I hope to harness the power of travel to do good in the world. Think connecting with local cultures, sustainable tourism and in-depth guides to known and lesser-known adventures. 

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