Warsaw In Your Pocket City Guide_December -January 2025/26

Warsaw

No. 143, December 2025 – January 2026

www.amberwarsaw.pl

www.warsawamber.pl

Jazdów

Lennona

Warsaw

Warsaw is a city of complementary parts: both glossy skyscrapers and quaint, cozy Old Town buildings.

Welcome to Warsaw

Located on the Vistula River at the very crossroads of Central Europe, Warsaw is the 8th most populous city in the European Union (1.8 million people) and a major cultural, political and economic hub.

The city has had a troubled history ever since King Sigismund III Vasa moved his royal court from Kraków, making Warsaw the new Polish capital in 1569. Pillaged by the Swedes in the 17th century, and occupied by Russia for most of the 19th century, Poland was off the map for 123 years before returning in the aftermath of WWI. The interwar period signalled a golden age for Warsaw, as the city developed on par with other great European capitals.

WWII brought new suffering, however. Occupied by Nazi Germany, Warsaw saw its cultural monuments defiled or stolen, and its Jewish population of 350,000 systematically exterminated. With liberation in sight, the Polish population rose up against their German occupiers in August 1944, only for Soviet forces to look on as the Nazis brutally crushed the Uprising and destroyed the city in reprisal. When the fires were extinguished, 150,000 more civilians were dead and German occupation had merely been traded for Soviet oppression, as Poland was pinned under Moscow’s influence for the next four decades, during which Warsaw was rebuilt in communist fashion, earning a reputation as a charmless city of concrete.

But that was then, this is now. A compelling blend of East and West, past and future, today’s Warsaw is a modern metropolis of complex character and rich rewards for those who get to know it. Gone are the gloomy images of yesteryear as the city restlessly evolves, buzzing with energy and optimism. Whether you’re here to explore trendsetting urban culture or UNESCO treasures, world-class dining or luxury boutiques, you’ll hardly be disappointed by all the modern capital has to offer. Enjoy Warsaw!

The Warsaw skyline is iconic and stunning in the winter snow.

How to Use This Guide

Warsaw In Your Pocket is designed to provide you with all of the ideas, tools and information you need to explore the city on your own, stay offline as much as possible, and really connect with the city you’re visiting.

Over here at IYP we still believe that the best way to understand the space you’re in is with a map, and the most immersive way to explore it is on foot. As such, our Sightseeing chapter is organised into geographic areas of interest with detailed district maps to help you navigate them. Selfguided district tours include descriptions of all the most important sites, plus local tips on where to eat and drink in each area. There are also intriguing ‘Crossroads’ moments that allow you to be lured towards alternative adventures, either on foot or via public transport.

Throughout the guide, page references are liberally used to lead you to related info on a topic elsewhere in the guide, while QR codes will take you to our website when we feel there’s more to know than can be expressed in print. Each venue listing includes a map coordinate (E-8, for example) that correlates to the city map on p.2-3. If there’s a specific venue you’re searching for, use the Venue Index in the back of the guide to quickly find it, or simply follow our informed suggestions.

Cover Story

Popular food hall Hala Koszyki has been draped in Christmas lights in time for the holidays. The lights perfectly accent the historic, art nouveau architecture of the former market hall.

Photo: Hala Koszyki.

Publisher & Staff

IYP City Guides Sp. z o.o. Sp.k. ul. Karmelicka 46/51, 31-128 Kraków iyp.com.pl poland@inyourpocket.com

Circulation

12,000 copies published every 2 months

Warsaw IYP Online

Of course, space in our print guide is a finite resource, but if you don’t find what you’re searching for here, we’re confident you’ll find it on our website. Visit warsaw.inyourpocket.com for more info about the capital, and poland.inyourpocket.com to see just how much of the country we cover.

Here is some extra content we wish we had room for in print this issue:

Top Warsaw Museums

Feeling that chill? You can head to a Christmas market, down some warm tea, or curl up with a good book. But it's also the perfect time of year for museums. And we've got you covered.

Take a Day Trip!

When you've done everything in the city this holiday season, here's where you want to go: the cutest, coolest and most historic sites near Warsaw.

The Women of Warsaw

Warsaw has seen a lot of impressive women pass through its city streets -- from artists, to activists, from writers to scientists, feminist history in our city is awash with stories of bravery, strength and creativity. Celebrate these amazing women by reading about some of our favorites.

Editor: Anna Merriman

Sales Consultant: Jarek Śliwiński (+48) 606 749 643

Marketing: Monika Boguszewska-Stopka (+48) 728 879 494

Research: Karolina Adamik

Layout & Maps: Tomáš Haman

Copyright Notice

All content copyright IYP City Guides Sp. z o.o Sp.k. and its partners, unless otherwise stated. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. The brand name In Your Pocket is used under licence from UAB In Your Pocket.

Warsaw Christmas Markets & Winter Holiday Magic

Warsaw is hardly the first city that springs to mind when it comes to festive holiday cheer. The city’s modern skyscrapers and austere socialist architecture don’t exactly inspire visions of sugarplums or fit in amongst the gumdropgabled gingerbread villages of the Hallmark imagination. With climate change dimming the chances of snow, things must be more dreary than ever in December and January…

Okay, let’s slap that notion right out of your head (whap!). In fact, Warsaw is arguably its best self during the holiday season, when decorative lights illuminate the main thoroughfares, open-air holiday markets spring up across town, families and friends come together over well-loved traditions, comfort food feeds the bellies, and the entire city seems to be giddy with mulled wine and glowing with good will. For visitors who may not be intimate participants in all of the season’s predominantly Catholic customs and traditions, there is still much to experience and enjoy, so let’s run you through the highlights.

Holiday Illuminations

It seems that the capital is keenly aware of its reputation as a cold slab of grey post-communist humbug because every December and January it goes to great lengths to brighten itself up. What lengths exactly? Almost 700km according to the city’s own estimation of how far its holiday decorations would stretch if laid out in a line (basically all the way to Vienna!). Around Warsaw they cover about 20km of the city’s streets, illuminating the Old Town and the major thoroughfares of ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście, ul. Nowy Świat and ul. Marszałkowska. As such, the Old Town (p.40),

Warsaw’s Old Town becomes the epitome of the Christmas spirit every year, with twinkly lights, cozy food stalls, and a picturesque ice rink

the Royal Route (p.48), the Botanical Garden, and Wilanów, are the best places to really soak up Warsaw’s winter magic, where the decorations go beyond simple lights on strings but include entire illuminated installations along the way. Best of all, Warsaw keeps its lights on well past Christmas and all throughout January to keep its cold, grey reputation from creeping in until February. See two of the best lights shows below.

Magical Botanical

Illuminated sculptures will take you to underwater depths, forests, meadows overflowing with flowers, and even up to the sky among the clouds and the sun. This beautiful spectacle, located in the Botanical Garden right next to Łazienki Park, is like something out of a dream; large sculptures of tulips, rainbows, jellyfish, birds and many more are lit up in bright lights throughout the garden. Visitors can wander through the garden and see all kinds of neon and illuminated flora and fauna set against the dark of night in an event that can really only be called magical. QOpen daily except Wednesdays: until January 6 16:00-21:00; from January 8 to February 15, 17:00-20:00. Tickets are 47 zł for everyone or 35 zł at a discount and you can warm up with tea and coffee when you arrive.

Wilanów Royal Garden of Light

Each year the gardens around Wilanów Palace also become a colourful and festive wonderland of lights, as literally thousands of tiny LEDs trace the baroque

contours of the sculptures, gardens and plants. One of Warsaw’s most beloved holiday traditions, almost every local family turns out at some point during the long festive season to see these impressive illuminations, and you should too. Some areas of the garden are even programmed to change their lighting in sync with the sounds of Chopin and other music every 15-30mins. If that’s not enough, there’s a lit-up Musical Garden of Dreams which plays music, and this year also features an illuminated 75-meterlong tunnel filled with classical music. There is also a glowing portrait gallery where kids can search for the hidden otter in some of the Wilanów museum’s most famous paintings.

The show opens at 16:00 and goes until 21:00 every day (except Wednesdays) through January 26 (after that, the shows start at 17:00).

In addition to the illuminated gardens, custom animations are projected on the facade of the palace using 3D mapping technology on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings only at exactly 17:00, 17:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00, 19:30. Each show incorporates art, light and enchanting music with bits of history and whimsy, and each 15min show is different. The cost of the whole experience runs from 35-55 zł.

The two Christmas markets this year (Old Town and Plac Defilad) are full of holiday vibes.

Old Town Christmas Market & Ice Rink

In contrast to most Polish cities, which turn their market squares into crammed Christmas fairs this time of year, Warsaw flexes its capital city credentials by turning practically its entire Old Town district into a winter wonderland of festive sights, sounds and smells, illuminated with thousands of decorative lights. Arguably the most magical Christmas market in Poland, the handsome wooden huts of Warsaw’s holiday fair stretch from Plac Zamkowy (F-4, p. 41 ), along ul. Podwale and the city’s old defensive walls, all the way to the Barbican, and then onto the Old Town Square (p. 44 ), which also hosts market stalls and an ice rink around the Warsaw Mermaid.

That’s quite a lot of ground to cover, and along the way you’ll find plenty of unique propositions for presents and gifts, from holiday decorations and handicrafts to toys, sweets and local food products. Also don’t miss trying some traditional Polish dishes, served hot around the market - oscypek (smoked cheese) with cranberries, kiełbasa and kaszanka (black pudding), and roasted nuts to name a few, and make sure you

treat yourself to some grzaniec (hot mulled wine) or mi ó d pitny (mead). Once you’ve exhausted yourself walking around the market stalls, lace up your skates and try to impress the busty onlooker at centre ice. QThe market is open until January 6, noon until 21:30.

Plac Defilad Christmas Market

This year sees a cool -- and even bigger! -- new Christmas market opening right in the heart of the city. From November 28-Jan 1, Plac Defilad (right in front of the Palace of Culture and Science) will get transformed into a bustling Christmas fair. This one has been dubbed a “Winter Village” or “Christmas Fairgrounds” and will include 160 wooden cottages, a 15-meter-high ferris wheel (55/45 zł), a carousel, and a santa house. Plus, tons of crafts! People from all over Poland will be here selling their handmade and homemade goods. There will be winter and Christmas specialties -- from hot mulled wine to gingerbread and beyond -- all over the market, as well as concerts, events, and even film screenings! This is the Christmas market of our dreams!QOpen 11:00-21:00 every day, except Friday and Saturday when it’s open until 22:00.

City Centre Skiing

Poles are crazy about winter sports, but you may have observed that Warsaw is a bit flat. No bother, if you haven’t got a hill, build one! That’s certainly the case with Górka Szczęsliwicka (Szczęśliwicka Hill) which started out as a dumping ground for rubble after World War II, and was later used as a general refuse dump. It was only in the late 1960s that the mound of rubbish was covered with earth to be turned into a park, and it’s featured a ski centre since the 1980s.

Located in the Ochota district, just 5km southwest of the train station, this is the tallest hill in Warsaw, and though it only measures 152m, it’s certainly well-equipped. Modernised in 2020, it features rental facilities, ski lifts and you can even take up skiing/ snowboarding lessons. It’s at ul. Drawska 22 (visit their website at www.gorka-szczesliwicka.com).

QOpen Mon-Fri 11:00 to 19:00; Sat, Sun 10:0018:00. Admission varies based on whether you need equipment and how long you plan to spend, but start at 45 zł for ski equipment rentals and 35 zł for a 1-hour ticket.

Skating at the Old Town ice rink is the ultimate holiday experience.

New Year’s Eve 2025

If you’re in Warsaw for New Year’s Eve and looking for a raucous night to remember forever, you’ll be happy to know that your options are myriad. Known locally as ‘Sylwester’ (like the cat, or the Stallone if you prefer), on the last night of the year every bar, club, restaurant and hotel in town will be hosting a private all-night New Year’s Eve bash. These events are typically ticketed and very expensive, so make sure you’ve planned in advance or you might not get that midnight kiss from a stranger. We recommend just keeping an eye on the events section of our website, where all the new NYE events will be posted as they roll in.

Three Kings Day Parade 2026

Three Kings Day, known as ‘Epiphany’ in most of the west, is observed on January 6th and marks the end of the holiday season in Poland (though carolling continues, and decorations generally stay up until February). A national bank holiday, Three Kings is celebrated with colourful and grand processions in most major Polish cities, in which the three wise men - Kaspar (aka Casper), Melchior and Balthazarmake their way to the nativity to see the baby Jesus. Warsaw, being the capital of course, has the largest Three Kings procession in the world (according to the organisers), and it is indeed something to behold. The procession generally involves the three wise men riding on camelback amidst colourfully costumed courtiers as carols are sung by a massive crowd wearing paper crowns.

In Warsaw the annual holiday procession begins this year at 11:45 at the Copernicus Monument, Nowy Świat 72, before going up Krakowskie Przedmieście to the Castle Square where they will sing Christmas carols until 8 p.m.

Polish Christmas Traditions

This holiday is known for, of course, the lights, the charming little Christmas markets, the taste of warm food amid the cold air....

But what does Christmas actually look like for Poles (and you, if you're lucky enough to be attending a Polish Christmas)?

Well first things first: this is a big holiday in Poland, which is already a very catholic country (so it makese sense). You can expect most, if not all stores, restaurants and bars to be closed on Christmas day. Some small stores like Żabkas, will be open the day before and the day after Christmas, but with

Say It Like a Local

“Wesołych Świąt...” Veh-so-wick Shvee-ont... (Merry Christmas…)

“...i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku!” ...ee Shchen-shlee-vay-go No-vay-go Row-koo! (...and Happy New Year!)

very limited hours. It's a good idea to check the hours before you bank on them being open because for the most part, everything will be closed from Christmas Eve through the day after Christmas.

Quite frankly, our best bet is to plan ahead -- in terms of food, drink and more -- for the full Christmas holiday, which is three days (from December 24-26). With enough food and drinks, you can just hunker down or go out in the park.

Now, for the traditions themselves: the big day in Poland is Christmas Eve. This is when Polish families will gather for a traditional 12-course, fish-heavy meal (absolutely no meat on Christmas Eve!). Expect a lot of śledż, carp (the most traditional), maybe some salmon or white fish, barszcz (sour beet soup) and many many many pierogi. This is the pierogi holiday, and without meat allowed, expect the potatocheese pierogi or the mushroom-sauerkraut (or the increasingly popular spinach and feta, though that's a new addition). Before eating, most families will break a wafer (called opłatek) and share pieces with each other, with a wish for the other person's coming year.

For some families, dinner will be followed by (or preceded by) church and/or caroling, including a midnight mass. But the biggest break from western Christmas is that presents are open at the end of the evening on Christmas Eve, not the next morning.

Christmas Day and the Second Day of Christmas (December 26) are generally much calmer days. Now you can eat meat, and bigos (hunter's stew, which you can find in every Christmas market) is a classic Christmas Day meal. Families might visit each other, sharing cookies and tea. Others will go for long walks in the park (sure, the stores may not be open, but you're likely to see nearly every person in your neighborhood out and about with their families that day!) So tuck into some bigos (or barszcz, if it's Christmas Eve) grab a glass of wine or a mug of tea, and cozy up at home. This is the holiday for spending time warm, inside with friends and family.

Browary Warszawskie Dining, Architecture and the Heartbeat of Warsaw

Browary Warszawskie (Warsaw Breweries) is one of the capital’s most exciting urban renewal achievements — a city within a city, that’s active and bursting with life all year round. The 4.5-hectare area in the heart of Wola that was once a forgotten industrial plot, has been transformed into a fashionable and trendsetting quarter of the city. Now, it’s perfect for living, working and spending your free time amid its vibrant microcosm of culture, gastronomy and nightlife!

Food, Drink and Fun!

Enter Browary Warszawskie’s campus and you’ll be hit with a host of delightful smells, from fresh-baked bread to warm roasted coffee, to the sweet smell of pastries and the savory scent of cooking meat. That’s because nearly 40 of the best cafes, restaurants and dining concepts in the city can be found in and around Browary Warszawskie.

At the apex is Food Hall Browary (p.102) - a casual indoor food market with 15 contemporary food concepts from around the world plus the Central Bar for drinks.

Next door - at the very heart of the complex’s historical legacy and modern revival - Browar

Warszawski (The Warsaw Brewery) offers a super batch of 19 varieties of craft beer brewed in plain view. Plus, a full card of food, from juicy pork knuckle to fresh seafood - again, perfect for big groups. Hungry folks may be on the lookout for somewhere to catch the game on the big screen, in which case their destination should be the ‘fan zone’ NINE’s Restaurant & Sports Bar. Meanwhile Executive Lounge perfectly balances class with a sophisticated menu of cocktails, and tapas, while Baila Show & Dining delivers an exclusive ‘dinner and a show’ in the form of delicious Latin American dishes with eyecatching entertainment!

For food, we recommend starting with a visit to Wyraj, the authentic Slavic food restaurant that’s one of Browary’s shining stars. So shining in fact,

Browary Warszawskie’s atmosphere is full of holiday joy, and their plethora of food options will keep you warm in the cold months.

that it was recognized by the Michelin Guide, which awarded it the coveted BIB Gourmand distinction.

Head over for some fresh dishes at Mediterranean places like Mykonos or Olivos (tasty Greek food), Sobremesa Tapas Bar (delectable Spanish food), or Munja (warm Balkan bites). Bombaj Masala Wola, with tasty Indian food, is a must. In addition to proper meals, there are several gourmet delicatessens, bakeries, cafes and sweet shops, namely: Crazy Butcher, Piccola Italia deli, Good Lood ice cream, Deseo Patisserie & Chocolaterie, Bakery Browary Warszawskie , Dobro & Dobro and Vita Café. Or, for the fish lovers, swing by Czarnomorka, with the largest selection oysters in the city, or Prosushi, which offers light and delectable sushi.

A Beautiful, Artistic Space

Of course, the food is bound to impress. But there are other elements to this space that will also surprise and delight – and make you glad to have a phone camera on hand. With tons of little courtyards and public spaces throughout the brick-lined space, Browary Warszawskie effortlessly blends the contemporary architecture on the interior with a fresh and vibrant exterior.

One of the shining lights of the exterior space is easily the 17-meter-high stairs that lead down to one of Browary’s courtyards – Leżakownia Square. The steps are bright and colorful—painted with a lively mural that serves as the perfect photo backdrop at any time of year. In the summer, find flower garlands and lush green plants all throughout the space. Take note (and a photo) of the stylish neon sign that welcomes visitors to the Browary Warszawskie grounds.

While the blend of modernity, nature and historic architecture is sure to impress (and definitely sure to provide incredible photo ops), it’s also highly functional. Over the restaurants, bars and courtyards sit ample office and residential space, meaning that local residents and office workers can mingle with visitors as they travel, eat and explore through Browary Warszawskie.

Constant Fun at Browary!

The one-off gastro events and informal dining space that is shared is just the tip of the iceberg, as Browary is continuing to keep things super cool with attractions and activities for kids, teens, parents, and seniors, all seven days of the week. In the summer, of course you’ll find tons of options from live food to interactive events, DJs, comedy sets and more. But Browary is one of those unique places that doesn’t just stop with summer happenings. In fact, they have year-round activities and things to do beyond their excellent food and drink options. That includes a fitness club, hair salon and shops!

In the winter months, when it’s a little chilly to sit outside, you can still enjoy the atmospheric winter decorations, which make for a lovely holiday walk (as well as great holiday photos).

There are plenty more things to check out this season on their website and Facebook page – and keep them in mind for the warmer months, too.

A Breath of New Life

As you meander through Browary, it’s also fun to reflect on the history of the space. Formerly the site of the Haberbusch & Schiele Brewery, Browary Warszawskie spent years as a neglected industrial site. The former brewery itself was established in 1846 as the largest brewery in Poland and one of the most prominent around Europe. However after decades of communism in the 20th century, the space fell into neglect. That is until 2017 when Echo Investment, with a team of architects, looked at ways to revitalize the space. Over the course of seven years they turned it into a bustling hub within the capital city – albeit without losing its history. Today parts of the former brewery still exist here, giving it both a modern and vintage charm. Now they still brew some of the best beer in the city – going back to their roots!

Browary Warszawskie

QC-7, ul. Grzybowska 60, MRondo Daszyńskiego, www.browarywarszawskie.com.pl

Some of the best food and drinks in the city are located right in this historic spot.

Winter Magic in Centrum Praskie Koneser

wonderland

When you step into Centrum Praskie Koneser this holiday season, amid the crunch of snow under your feet, the smell of warm food from the restaurants, and the twinkly lights from art fixtures throughout the space, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve walked right into Christmas itself.

The stunning brick complex, right in the heart of Praga (Warsaw’s cultural capital) becomes a verifiable winter wonderland every December. A former vodka factory that has since been revitalized and transformed into a cultural hub of restaurants, bars, shops, art galleries and more, Centrum Praskie Koneser knows how to do Christmas the right way. Lights are strewn through the space, giving off a warm glow; picturesque snowflake-shaped lanterns designed by acclaimed Polish artist Jarosław Koziara are strung in the area. Paths are accented by seasonal pine garlands, pine trees and wreaths, and a large skating rink right in the center of it all makes Centrum Praskie Koneser the ultimate place to be this season.

Magical Winter Events

One of the biggest draws of Centrum Praskie Koneser in winter is the large, atmospheric Praska Ślizgawka ice rink. Located right in the heart of the space, this

yearly ice rink is one of the best in the entire city. The rink, which opens in early December, is partnering this year with Lay’s, and you can get free admittance to the rink with a proof of at least 50 PLN worth of purchases at Koneser that day.

The rink is really a “must stop” but there are plenty of other excellent winter attractions too. We recommend starting with a leisurely stroll through Koneser to look at the decorations. The snowflake lanterns are the perfect backdrop for photo-ops. But one of the best, most wintery aspects of Koneser are the buildings themselves!

Constructed in the late 19th century to hold a vodka factory, Koneser has stunning architectural elements, like neo-Gothic buildings, dark red bricks, a smoke stack, and narrow windows. When it was revitalized in the 21st century, new touches were added like large panes of glass, sleek modern structures, and more. All great for a snowy winter photo!

Koneser transforms into a winter

this season, with an ice rink, twinkly lights and more.

Once you’ve had enough of the outdoors, it’s time to head in and warm up! You’ll find a number of renowned art galleries and museums, including the Museum of Fantastic Art, with paintings by the renowned Polish artists, Zdzisław Beksiński and Jerzy Duda-Gracz, among others.

You’ll also find the must-see Warsaw attraction, ToTuart, which displays beautiful sculptures and paintings and also has an auction house. Don’t forget to stop by Kleks. Magic of Cinema, which was inspired by the world of the well-known Polish children’s film “Academy of Mr. Kleks.” Wander through the interactive space to learn about the process of filmmaking - great for kids and adults alike!

Of course, no trip to Centrum Praskie Koneser is complete without a visit to the Polish Vodka Museum (for adults only), a multimedia experience that starts with the beginnings of vodka production in Poland and details the history of the beloved booze up through the modern day, complete with a tasting at the end.

Warm Up with Mouthwatering Food

Once you’ve taken in the art and culture, you’ll want to warm up your belly! We recommend starting with Koneser Grill, a high-end steak restaurant, and the only establishment in this part of the city to secure a spot on the coveted Michelin Guide. Specifically, it was awarded the Bib Gourmand title for good quality and good value food. For a bite and a nice sip of excellent wine, head over to Figa z Makiem Cheese Box Bar, a delightful wine and snack bar. Or,

what’s better against the cold weather, than warming soup and dumplings? AZIA Restaurants has a major selection of soup options, including delectable and flavor-packed ramen, tom yum, miso and more.

Maybe you’re in the mood to fill up on meat and cheese amid the chill outside - Setki Powodów offers international cuisine in a comfy street-food style with amazing burgers, sandwiches and seafood!

If you are feeling a delectable cocktail, there are plenty of bars, too. Swing by the 3⁄4 Koneser Bar, located in the Polish Vodka Museum, to get a cozy cocktail in a gorgeous, elegant, low-lit space. Snuggle into a seat, sip one of their own signature drinks, and enjoy good conversations with friends.

Gift Ideas Abound

Centrum Praskie Koneser offers more than just a one-day visit – you can stay here and explore everything from food to gifts! The reputed and chic Moxy Warsaw Praga Hotel is high on our list of recommended hotels across the entire city. It offers a spot to kick back, relax and get ready for more shopping and exploring!

Once you’re all freshened up, it’s time for some holiday gift shopping! And there’s no shortage of that at Koneser. For thoughtful, adult-oriented gifts, head to Alembik, a concept store offering luxurious products. Make sure to also check out Probiernia Urbanowicz, which combines a shop with a stylish showroom — a great place to explore specialty items.

Or you can head over to Mydlarnia Cztery Szpaki, one of the best spots in the city for premium beauty products. There you can find many cleansing items like great hand soaps, scrubs and shampoos – it’s allnatural so you can be rest assured that the products you’re buying are healthy and fresh! At MoreMadam, you’ll find a wide selection of Scandinavian designs, which make for excellent gifts.

Another must-visit is TAVEX, an exciting concept store that sells gold and silver, precious metals, and international currencies! Check out their coins, their gold bars, or simply purchase any kind of international currency.

With Centrum Praskie Koneser, you can explore the ultimate winter wonderland, pick up some excellent gifts, relax in a warm and cozy restaurant, and leave with that winter holiday feeling that lasts all season long.

Centrum Praskie Koneser

QK-2, Plac Konesera 8, MDworzec Wileński, www.koneser.eu

Koneser’s Polish Vodka Museum is a must-see when visiting the former factory.

Mandoria A Whimsical, High-Speed Adventure

Mandoria is jam-packed with adventurous attractions, from high-speed coasters to mirror mazes, pirate boat rides and more.

Picture this: a 16th-century Renaissance city, complete with period outfits and architecture. But instead of a historical exhibit, walk in to find 30 exhilarating attractions such as roller coasters, carousels, water boats, a giant slide and a mirror maze. That is Mandoria City of Adventure.

The indoor amusement park perfectly blends the joy of 1500s period costumes (think beautiful, flowy princess dresses with gold sleeves) with the pure adrenaline fun of an amusement park. And this unique place, winner of several awards, is located just a few hours’ train ride outside of Warsaw to the south of Łódź.

Fast Speed, Faster Fun

At its core, Mandoria is the ultimate amusement park for adults and children alike. The year-round park opened in 2021 and immediately garnered tons of attention for its thrilling atmosphere and exciting (and even some calming) rides.

The first thing you’re sure to see is the four roller coasters they have, including their new ride, Aquila, which accelerates to 70km/hour in just three seconds (no, really!) Fun fact about Aquila: it’s the only roller coaster of its kind in the entire world,

designed specifically for Mandoria, that operates fully indoors, meaning you’ll zip and zoom through a truly atmospheric space.

For those who are less into speed, you’ll have no issue. There are spectacular carousels here, like Kilof, which delivers some serious adrenaline thrills with its spinning arms shaped like pickaxes. Or, for the more swashbuckling kids, Galeon, a spinning wooden ship that takes you on a wild voyage. You’ll also find some incredible pirate boats here (including a “shipwrecked” boat you can explore, along with a shooting gallery and a giant slide.

Take your kids through the massive mirror maze and delight as they wind around the different glass panes to find their way out. Not only that, but all the attractions are available just with your ticket to enter. It’s also a great place to keep on your radar for future visits. They’re working on an outdoor section of the park which will span 4 ha in 2026 and plans to include a bobsled-style roller coaster, an interactive, splash-battle

type water attraction, and a 15-meter tube waterslide with inflatable rafts, all set in a medieval village. But it’s not all about the rides…. The atmosphere really helps Mandoria stand out from the rest.

Atmosphere for the Ages

The experience is steeped in the atmosphere of a Renaissance trading town, meaning you’re stepping into a meticulously crafted world. You’ll find women dressed in exquisite period pieces with flowing blue, pink, and red fabric, along with gold accents and hair done just right. But it doesn’t stop there. The Renaissance atmosphere comes from the whole layout of the interior of Mandora. We mentioned before that the entire amusement park is located indoors, which gives the feeling of a lively space, with rides zipping overhead.

Meanwhile, the buildings support that 16th century feel: The whole space is packed with beautiful Renaissance-era structures, colorfully painted and adding to the feeling that you’ve stepped back in time about 500 years.

In the center of the space, find a pool of water, which has several attractions like a shipwreck you can explore or boats that kids can remote control from the shore. They can even take out paddle boats on the water! It’s not simply the buildings or the costumes that create the atmosphere: even the rides and other attractions are all designed like something out of a fairy tale or a story about swashbuckling pirates. And they come with the lore to back it up:

The shooting range allows you to shoot at items in the wreck of an old pirate ship; the play house is

allegedly the property of fashion and luxury lover Kazmir the Great; one of the carousels has you sit in spinning barrels that some say used to store Mandorian wine; another carousel of water boats is run by fisherman Bartek who refuses to go in deep water after accidentally catching a shark!

In short, it’s not just the design of the attractions, but the made-up lore and legend behind each one that gives Mandoria so much of its whimsy. Children will get the feeling that these fairy tales, stories about kings and princesses and pirates, are real and not only that – they get to play among them!

Phew! That’s a lot. And the judges seem to think so, too. In fact, Mandoria has won two distinctions in the European Stars Award in 2025. The award, which recognizes accomplishments in the amusement park industry and is organized by German magazine Kirmes & Park Revue, recognized Mandoria for the Aquila coaster, giving it 3rd place in the category “Best New Roller Coaster”. It was also ranked 6th in Best Regional Park, adding to its status as an emerging destination for thrill seekers.

Aquila was also given the Golden Lollipop by Parkmag.ok, recognized as the Best New Attraction of 2025 and Highly Commended in the “Best Rollercoaster – Limited Budget of the Year” category at the Park World Excellence Awards 2025. And finally, Mandoria was recognized by Brand of the Year and given the distinction of “Best Quality.”

Mandoria City of Adventure

Qul. Miasto Mody 2, Rzgów, tel. (+48) 732 07 18 80, www.mandoria.com. Open 10:00-18:00. Children under 85cm free. T­U­E­

Traditional Polish Dishes

Polish food is famous for being simple, rich and very filling. Below we list the most well-known dishes you simply must try while in town, all of which you should be able to order from any Polish restaurant worth its salt. Smacznego!

Bigos

Barszcz

A nourishing beetroot soup, barszcz may be served with a croquette (‘barszcz z krokietem’), with miniature pierogi floating in it (‘barszcz z uszkami’), or simply as broth in a mug expressly for drinking. A recommended alternative to other beverages, we’d be surprised if you can find a bad cup of barszcz anywhere in Poland, so make sure you return home with barzszcz stains on at least one of your shirts.

Though there’s no standard recipe for this hearty stew, ingredients usually include fresh and pickled cabbage, sausage, onion, mushrooms, garlic, peppercorns, bay leaves, caraway and whatever else is on hand. In fact, metaphorically bigos translates to ‘big mess,’ ‘mish-mash’ or ‘confusion’ in Polish. A Polish restaurant or prospective bride can be fairly measured on the strength of their bigos, so put it to the test.

Golonka

Gołąbki

Translating to ‘little pigeons,’ this favourite dish is like a ‘cabbage enchilada'. Consisting of boiled cabbage leaves filled with rice, onion and typically beef, gołąbki are rolled up and baked or steamed, then served with tomato or mushroom sauce. Polish legend claims that King Kazimierz IV fed his army gołąbki before the Battle of Grunwald, and their unlikely victory attributed to the fortifying meal ever since.

This is ‘pork knuckle’ or ‘ham hock,’ as in the part of a pig’s leg between the knee and ankle. Boiled, braised or roasted, this is the closest the Poles come to barbecue, and is a delicacy. The meat should slip right off the bone, be served with horseradish, and washed down with beer. Generally sold by weight, you might end up with more than you bargained for, but it’s certainly an Instagram opportunity. Go caveman.

Pierogi

Kotlet Schabowy

Typically served with mashed potatoes and pickled cabbage, this is probably the most popular meal in Poland. Essentially a breaded and fried pork chop, ‘kotlet schabowy’ is quite similar to Viennese schnitzel, and a solid bet for a cheap, filling, risk-free meal. If you’re awoken on a weekend by the sound of profuse banging - that’s the sound of the meat being tenderised with a spiky mallet, so best mind your manners.

Poland’s most famous food, you can't leave PL until you’ve had them. These doughy, stuffed dumplings are typically steamed or pan-fried. Traditional fillings include potato, sweet cheese, minced meat, mushrooms and cabbage or seasonal fruits. If you nose around, you’ll find plenty of maverick fillings like chocolate, lentils or even chicken livers; the possibilities are limitless and served literally everywhere.

Żurek

Placki Ziemniaczane

These greasy, fried potato pancakes are very similar to hashbrowns or Jewish latkes (if that means anything to you), and may be served in a variety of ways. Keep it simple with just sour cream (‘placki solo’), or turn it into a hefty meal by ordering them smothered in mushroom sauce or - our favourite - goulash (‘placki po węgiersku’). Highly caloric, they’re also a tried and true hangover cure.

It doesn’t get any more Polish than żurek – a sour soup made from a thick stock of fermented rye flour. Typically chock full of potatoes, sausage and hard-boiled eggs, żurek is most often thickened with cream, and seasoned with marjoram, garlic, salt and pepper. The result is a tasty grayish gruel that any Polish peasant would be proud to polish off. If you’re lucky, you’ll even get it served in a bread bowl.

Drink Like a Local

The Italians have wine, the Spaniards have wine. The French…. also wine. But what does Poland do best when it comes to alcohol? Vodka and beer.

These are the two most popular alcoholic beverages in Poland, and that means that brewers and distillers alike have spent a lot of time honing their crafts. Here’s a rundown of the history of these two popular drinks.

The Long History of Vodka

The name “vodka” (an anglicised version of the Polish “wódka” pronounced “v-ood-kah”) means quite literally “little water.” The origins of the drink date back to the 8th century, when distillation was discovered and the practice began to sweep across Europe. When it comes to vodka itself, the first written record of the drink came out in 1405 in Poland.

Originally, it was used as medicine: it helped treat wounds, numb pain, make perfume. But the consumption of vodka became more popular in the 15th and 16th centuries as it became industrialized across the country, with distilleries opening in Kraków, Gdańsk and Poznań (in fact, the popular Żubrówka vodka dates back to this century).

The popularization of vodka continued at a quick clip in Poland, hitting some bumps along the way

(production slowed during the wars at the beginning of the 20th century). Now, Poland is one of the top three producers of vodka in the world, and produced nearly 100 million liters in 2016 alone.

Vodka Traditions

Poles are proud of their vodka and as a result, there are many traditions surrounding the drink. You may not run into all of them when you visit, but here’s a run-down just in case:

Na zdrowie – say this as you clink glasses and make sure to look your drinking partner in the eye or you’ll have years (some say 7, some say 5) of bad luck.

Christmas vodka – drinking a shot of vodka (sipping, not tossing it back) with some good pickled fish (Śledź) is a classic Christmas tradition. In fact, pickled fish and vodka commonly go together at any time of year.

Wedding shots – After the ceremony, the bride and groom will each get a shot of vodka and they’re supposed to down the shot, toss the glasses behind their backs, and break them. The broken glasses signify good luck in the marriage.

Polish vodka bottles at the Vodka Museum.

Vodka Types

There are many good Polish vodkas but also some classics.

Żubrówka – this is a Polish vodka from the 16th century that is just a classic staple. One popular kind has a sprig of bison grass inside, which makes the drink a little bright and earthy.

Goldwasser – bet you didn’t know this was Polish! This is a classic from the Gdańsk area, and you’ll know it because it has gold flakes floating inside and a slightly cinnamon-y taste.

Chopin – This is just a good vodka. It’s not too sharp, well balanced and it goes great with everything.

Luksusowa – Finally, the people’s vodka. This is good and affordable. This is what people buy to drink with friends on an unassuming Friday night.

Where to get it:

The better question is where not to get vodka in Warsaw? The Polish Vodka Museum (p.66) and the Vodka Museum (p.76) will each take you on a tour through the history of vodka and give you a chance to try some! Klar (G-5) is known for their unique vodka flavors, which are constantly changing as they find new ways to infuse vodka with berries, herbs and spices! Pijalnia wodki i piwa is a chain with plenty of vodka types to sample and enjoy.

Craft Beer Becomes Big

Poland also has a long history with beer that dates back to the middle ages. But it wasn’t until the 18th and 19th centuries that beer became mass produced on an industrial scale. The Tychy Brewery, which produces the extremely popular beer Tyskie, has been around since the 17th century.

The initial styles beloved by Poles were porters (dark beers) and then pale ales (much lighter beers) swiftly began to take over. Like vodka, beer production hit some bumps in the early 20th century but picked up again in the late century.

And that brings us to today – almost. While many of those lager-style beers have reigned in popularity for decades, the past 10 years have seen smaller breweries start getting in on the beer game. Many home brewing operations started making craft beer, and by making smaller batches than

industrial brewers, they were able to focus more on experimenting with non-traditional ingredients and techniques, leading to more interesting flavors.

Craft Beer Types

Pinta – around since 2010, this brewery is one of the most popular craft breweries in all of Poland, and regularly makes hazy IPAs, sour beers, pale ales, pilsners – the works!

Funky Fluid – a Warsaw-based brewery, this is another type of craft beer that’s been gaining more and more popularity over the years for its bold flavors of hoppy, wild and sour beers (and more!)

Trzech Kumpli – brewing since the start of the craft beer craze in about 2014, this brewery makes a lot of dark beers (smoked porters, Irish stouts) as well as light lagers and pilsners.

Piwne Podziemie – one of the smaller craft breweries, but that means they can really focus on their flavorand they deliver! For the beer snobs who have tried every type, this is the beer to grab.

Where to get it:

Well of course you can buy the large-scale, industrial beers (Tyskie, Lech, Żywiec) pretty much anywhere. But for craft beers, you have to know where to go. Pinta has a bar specializing in their beers on Chimelnia Street. Other bars like Jabeerwocky (G-8), Kufle i Kapsle, will also offer great craft beers, Bierhalle, and Browary Warszawskie (p.32) are very popular, too. Plus, don’t miss the beer festivals held in the spring and fall in Warsaw!

Craft Beer Tasting Boards! Photo: Meritt Thomas on

Transport

Travelling around Warsaw by bus, metro and tram is fast, efficient and affordable; driving a car through the centre, on the other hand, can be confusing and frustrating. As such, for visitors the city centre is best navigated by bike, scooter, public transport or taxi/ride share - all of which are explained here. For detailed info about Warsaw’s airports and train stations, visit our website.

Public Transport

Warsaw has an extensive bus and tram system, as well as a good metro system with the M1 line running north-south and M2 running east-west. Over 1,900 buses operate in and around the city, and run 05:00-23:00. After that night buses run on most routes twice every hour. All night buses display the letter N. ‘Fast buses’ (marked with red digits) skip the smaller stops.

Standardised tickets are valid for use on the metro, buses and trams, and can be bought from machines with instructions in English at all metro stations, and some bus and tram stops. Tickets can also be purchased from machines on the actual buses and trams, where you can pay by card, or using exact change only.

A standard single fare costs 4.40zł for 75min, or 3.40zł for a 20min ticket. If you’re travelling to the further reaches of Warsaw you’ll need a 7zł ticket

that covers both zones 1 and 2 (note that the airport is still in Zone 1). Tickets valid for 24 hours, 3 days and a special ‘weekend’ ticket might also be worth considering. Those over 70 ride for free, as do children up until the end of September of the year they turn 7, but you must have photo ID (those who ride free still need a ticket/’wejściówka’ to get through the gates of the metro - find wall dispensers next to the gates and hang on to the ticket for multiple rides). Everyone else pays full fare, unless you have an ISIC card which entitles you to a reduced fare (‘ulgowy’ ticket).

Once you’re through the electronic gates of the metro, you’re ready to ride. For buses and trams, however, there’s one extra step - validating your ticket immediately once you’re on board in the small ‘kasownik’ boxes on trams and buses. Plain clothes ticket inspectors stalk the lines, dishing out hefty fines for those without valid tickets. They often don’t look very official and you are within your rights to request identification.Qwww.ztm.waw.pl

Even in the blistering wind and snow, Warsaw’s trams are reliable. Photo: AdobeStock

Getting Around

WawaBus

WawaBus offers a private transportation service to bring you to and from the airport, your hotel, your dinner reservation... well, pretty much wherever you need to go in Warsaw! Not only that, but the sleek, modern cars and well-experienced drivers ensure that your trips will be as hassle-free, comfortable and enjoyable as possible! The service is on offer for both individual tourists and businesses -- and there's no need to worry about a language barrier. In addition to being prompt and experienced, the drivers each know at least one foreign language. Plus, the service is offered 24/7 so you can relax when it comes to getting to that 6 a.m. flight. QG-8, ul. Dziatwy 14C/12, tel. (+48) 515 00 10 01, www.wawabus.pl/en. Open 24/7.

Traficar Car Share

Want your own car, but just for a short while?

Download the Traficar app, find an empty vehicle, scan the QR code, and you’re in. You can leave the car in any legal parking space within their service zone, and you don't have to pay for gas! Everything is done through their easy-to-use app and it all feels very modern and more importantly... very easy!

In terms of cost versus a taxi, it comes out about the same, but as an alternative to car rental, Traficar is a wonder. You can rent a vehicle for as long as you want at only 4.99zł to start and then 2.09 zł per kilometer, or for 24 hours for only 69zł a day and then 1.19zł per kilometer. You can even drop it off in another city where Traficar operates. As such, this is a great option for day and weekend trips, big shopping trips, or simply picking up friends at the airport. Note that you need to have a valid driver’s license that is recognised in PL.Qwww.traficar.pl. Prices are calculated as 4.99zł to start a journey, plus 1.69zł/km.

Sleek and easy, WawaBus will pick you up wherever you need.

Warsaw Sightseeing

When it comes to Sightseeing, visitors should be sure to experience the dynamic synergy of Warsaw as a modern metropolis that still nurtures its cultural spirit and traditions. To this end, our guide details the capital’s most important districts, walking you through not only the antiquated Old Town (p.40), regal Royal Route (p.48) and the imperial beauty of Łazienki (p.58) and Wilanów (p.63), but also around the soaring, frenetic City Centre (p.31), happening Powiśle (p.55) and scruffy Praga (p.64). If your time is limited, however, here’s a cheat sheet of the city’s most unmissable sights.

Warsaw’s Old Town skyline looks beautiful touched with snow.

8 Essential Sights

1 Plac Zamkowy

More of a triangle than a square, and home to the Royal Castle, this popular plac is where modern Warsaw meets the Old Town.QSee p.41

2 Old Town Square

A window into the ‘once-upon-a-time’ of Warsaw’s golden days, the Old Town is also symbolic of Warsaw’s rise from the ruins of WWII.QSee p.44.

3 Christmas Markets

In addition to its yearly Christmas market at the Barbican (p.12), Warsaw has another market this year on Plac Defilad. Food, fun and even a ferris wheel!QSee p.34.

4 Łazienki Park

Full of incredible art and architecture this massive park and palace complex offers spectacular opportunities for sightseeing.QSee p.58

9 Palace of Culture & Science

Originally commissioned by Stalin as a ‘gift from the Soviet people’, this 237-metre-high structure was Warsaw’s tallest building until 2021, and takes its inspiration from the capitalist worldnamely the Empire State Building. Working around the clock, it took over 5,000 workers - ferried in from the Soviet states and housed in a purpose-built village - just three years to finish the Palace in 1955 With 3,288 rooms inside, the Palace’s purpose was to serve as not just Communist Party headquarters but also as ‘The People’s Castle.’ Now an iconic part of Warsaw’s landscape, the Palace is celebrated by some, while for others it merely represents Russian hegemony.

At present the building hosts several theatres, a cinema, numerous bars, restaurants and cafes, and a tourist info office, as well as the National Museum of Technology and the Museum of Evolution Tours of the interiors are offered hourly in Polish between 10:00 and 15:00, and in English at 16:00. Book tickets online in advance, or skip the tour and head straight to the outdoor viewing terrace on the 30th floor (via elevator) for thrilling panoramic views; tickets available online.

QE-8, Pl. Defilad 1, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 656 76 00, www.pkin.pl. Open 09:00-18:00. Viewing terrace open 10:00-20:00; terrace admission 28/23zł. U

5 Wilanów Palace

The ‘Polish Versailles’ is just one of the many fitting monikers applied to this splendid late 17thcentury royal palace 10km to the south.QSee p.62

6

Highline Warsaw

A stunning view of the entire city is seen here, at the top of the tallest building in the EUQSee p.83.

National Museum

7

With tons of art from the 20th century and beyond, plus great exhibits on ancient Greece and rome, this is a must!QSee p.77

8

Warsaw Rising Museum

Telling the history of the 1944 Warsaw uprising against the Nazis in increadible detail, with stories from actual people, tons of interactive elements, and history upon history. This will leave an impact. QSee p.81

The iconic Palace of Culture & Science is controversial amongst locals, due to its association with Poland’s communist era.

Warsaw ‘City Centre’

Known locally as ‘Śródmieście,’ Warsaw’s City Centre isn’t exactly a district (it comprises several, actually), but more of a catch-all term for the downtown area. Definitions vary, but generally, you know it when you’re in it - wide streets, monumental buildings, billboards, busy crosswalks and little to stand in the way of progress. It’s the modern, fast-paced, forwardlooking part of the city radiating out from the Palace of Culture & Science, and it’s here that you’ll find the majority of the city’s hotels, restaurants and bars, but also government buildings, skyscrapers and places of commerce - the dynamic heart of the contemporary capital.

In terms of tourism, it’s not exactly inviting, so why start here? Well, chances are you’re staying in the City Centre and probably there right now, so let’s get familiar with what’s around before running off to the Old Town (p.40). Despite not being particularly cosy or nostalgic, there are still many points of interest downtown, and nowhere more conveys the modern character of the Polish capital.

Warsaw’s Palace of Culture and Science is a beacon in the middle of the city.

Anielewicza

Pawia

Pawia

Gliniana

Pawia

Dzielna

Smocza

Nowolipki

Chłodna Słupecka

Spi

Nowolipie

Ogrodowa

Grzybowska

Srebrna Dzielna

Platynowa

TarczyńskaDaleka

Nowolipki

Dantyszka Złota

Reja

Places to Explore

1 Plac Piłsudskiego

Used over the centuries for military parades and national celebrations, this is Warsaw’s largest square Named after legendary inter-war Polish leader, Józef Piłsudski; you’ll find a statue of the Marshal guarding his naming rights with a stern gaze nearby. The space has undergone quite a few rebrandings thanks to the changing political landscape, including a stint as ‘Adolf Hitler Platz’ under Nazi occupation. During the era of Partitions, the huge orthodox St. Nevsky Cathedral was built here. Considered a symbol of Russian oppression, it was razed after Poland regained its independence. It was here that in 1979, Polish Pope John Paul II gave an open-air holy mass to 500,000 people, instilling hope in the struggle against the repressive communist system. In 2018, two new monuments were addedboth relating to the tragic and highly politicised Smoleńsk Air Disaster in which a plane carrying 96 members of a Polish government delegation crashed in the Russian forest in 2010; everyone on board perished, including President Lech Kaczyński, whose monument here gazes upon that of the other victims. At the western end of the square you’ll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the broken colonnades of Saxon Palace - the grand structure this square stood in front of until its destruction during WWII. Here, the ashes of unidentified soldiers who died for the Polish cause are interred and an eternal flame is guarded by stone-faced soldiers. If you enjoy a bit of military theatre, you can watch the official changing of the guard every hour, on the hour, 365 days a year. QF-6, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet.

2 Saxon Garden

Plac Piłsudskiego’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier almost serves as an entrance gate into Saski Park, aka Saxon Garden. This historic 15.5ha park is the oldest in the city, and became one of the first public parks in the world when it opened to all in 1727. At that time it was a Baroque garden with the grandiose Saxon Palace playing a role very similar to the Palace of Versailles in Paris’ famous park. Despite its demise during WWI, Saxon Garden still offers several historical points of interest, in addition to lots of benches, plenty of shade and a much-needed escape from the urban din of the capital. The centrepiece of the gardens is a large fountain created in 1855 by renowned Warsaw architect Henryk Marconi. The alleyways running out from it are lined with blooming flowers, ancient trees and neoclassical sculptures. In the northwestern part of the park, you’ll find the Romanesque Water Tower

from 1825 - also designed by Marconi, and modelled on the famous Temple of Vesta in Tivoli.QF-6, Between ul. Marszałkowska and Plac Piłsudskiego, MŚwiętokrzyska.

3 Browary Warszawskie

Once one of Central Europe’s most famous brewing complexes, this 4.5ha area has been revitalised into a trendy urban culture and gastronomy district, densely packed with dozens of restaurants, cafes, bars, bakeries and shops. Mixing bold new architecture with restored historical buildings, post-industrial design with public green spaces, the heart of this ‘city within the city’ is Food Hall Browary - 15 world cuisines at restaurant stalls in the former cellars. The historic Browar Warszawski (Warsaw Brewery) itself has also been revived and is once again producing craft beers (19 different types!) for local hopheads, while other highlights include a sports bar partowned by Robert Lewandowski (Nine’s). The food is delicious and so is the atmosphere.QC-7, ul. Grzybowska 60, MRondo Daszyńskiego, www.browarywarszawskie.com.pl

4 Plac Europejski & Warsaw Spire

One of Warsaw’s newest public spaces, European Square was created by Wirtz International Landscape Architecture as part of the impressive Warsaw Spire - Poland’s 3rd-tallest skyscraper at 220m. Both the square and the office building have won awards for their design. This small square has a lot of features: trees, benches, fountains, reflecting pools, two large murals, an amphitheatre, a unique Art Walk gallery where changing exhibits are displayed, and an iconic 3D Instagram-baiting installation that says ‘Kocham Warszawę’ (I Love Warsaw). Of course there are cafes, bars and food options as well, making this a very unique and worthwhile place to hang out in Warsaw’s business district.QC-7, MRondo Daszyńskiego.

Whether it’s summer or winter, a stroll through Saxon Park is always beautiful.

5 Fabryka Norblina

This former industrial site covering an area of 2ha near Rondo Daszyńskiego was once one of the largest enterprises in the Kingdom of Poland, with a long, complex history that dates back to the 1840s. The Norblin, Buch Brothers and T. Werner Factory (to give its full name) produced a wide range of metal, tin and silver-plated goods - sugar bowls, teapots, cutlery, vases, dishes and more - ranging from the utilitarian to true works of art. Until recently a neglected pearl of post-industrial architecture, massive investment has turned the area into a lively modern urban centre of culture, entertainment, gastronomy and commerce.

Now, find over 24,000m2 of total commercial space open to the public. Visitors will find an impressive museum covering the site’s industrial history, the BioBazar eco (organic) food market and bistro, the KinoGram boutique cinema, an Event Hall with more than 600 square meters of event space, a fitness centre, shops, cafes and more - including a bevy of events. Young families will also find a lot of options here, starting with Smart Kids Planet (p.87), an educational play center for young children to partake in the fun with highly interactive games, activities and more! QC/D -8, ul. Żelazna 51/53, MRondo Daszyńskiego, (+48) 22 318 88 88, zgloszenia@fabrykanorblina.pl, www.fabrykanorblina.pl.

T­E­6

6 Plac Grzybowski

This delightful square connects the city’s past to its present and unites the worlds of commerce, religion, entertainment and art. The main attraction is the 19th century Renaissance All Saints’ Church . From 1941 it was inside the Warsaw Ghetto and Parish Priest Fr. Monsignor Marceli Godlewski helped to house Jews in the rectory and assisted several to escape.

Rebuilt after the war, the entire square has been recently renovated and today features dozens of benches, neatly landscaped grassy areas and even a pond with a waterfal l . Very well lit, it’s a wonderful place to relax or enjoy the many bars and cafes that surround it, day or night. Joining the square is ul. Próżna , the only full street that survived the Jewish Ghetto. It is here in the former heart of the Jewish Warsaw (p. 78 ) that the Singer Jewish Culture Festival takes place each year in late August/early September. The Nożyk Synagogue - the city’s only synagogue to survive the war and still in use today - can also be found close by at ul. Twarda 6. Q E - 7, M Świętokrzyska.

Warsaw City Centre | Sightseeing

7 Plac Defilad

Most people arrive to the Polish capital via Warszawa Centralna train station, which, together with the Palace of Culture (p.29), basically comprises Warsaw City Centre’s ground zero. Plac Defilad is the vast, concrete sprawl around the Palace of Culture, but particularly the east side. As the name ‘Parade Square’ hints, this mostly empty plot was created by communist-era city planners in the 1950s, along with the Palace of Culture. Measuring 24ha, it was until recently the second largest public square in the EU, though no one would have mistaken it for a proper square. For years it’s mostly been parking, but plenty of historical events have taken place here, from PRL propaganda parades, to massive rallies for Pope John Paul II, to Christmas markets, ice rinks and New Year’s Eve concerts. After a long construction period, the new, sleek Museum of Modern Art opened in October 2024, coinciding with the introduction of Plac Centralny (Central Sqaure) - essentially, the central part of Plac Defilad surrounding the museum is being turned into a greener, more pedestrian-friendly space under the new moniker. In December, you'll find an excellent Christmas market here, complete with tons of food and arts stalls, as well as ferris wheel! This is the second major Christmas market in the city, with the first being the annual one in the Old Town (p.12) QF-8, Plac Defilad, MCentrum.

8 Złote Tarasy

There is plenty of great shopping to be had in and around Warsaw, and Złote Tarasy, seated next to the central train station, is no exception with great stores like Sephora, Van Graaf and Zara. But many people actually admire the complex for its ultra modern architecture. It’s a good idea to check out the space, which has a 10,000m glass dome fitted with a special mechanism to both filter sunrays and stop snow from building up. The dome itself is reminiscent of waves, water, balloons -- basically any form without a straight edge. The 1.5 billion zł project was designed by a California-based firm and construction began in 2002. After it was completed in 2004, the design won the firm an award by a famous London-based architecture magazine. QE-8, ul. Złota 59, MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 22 222 22 00, www.zlotetarasy.pl. Open 09:00-22:00; Sun 09:00-21:00.

9 Pasaż Wiecha and the Eastern Wall

Initially, the buzzword for architects in the region was Socialist Realism, a severe style following strict guidelines from a Soviet masterplan. The death of Stalin in 1953 changed all that and architects looked to the west for inspiration. This led to all manner of brutalist monstrosities rising from the ruins left after WWII. One of the most monstrous among them was this massive wall of buildings, which is now

All Saints’ Church in Plac Grzybowski is one of Warsaw’s best bits of architecture. Photo Filip Kwiatkowski

among the oldest department store/retail complexes in Poland. Designed by architect Zbigniew Karpiński and completed in 1969, the buildings were hailed a work of genius, but soon fell into neglect, their reputation changing to that of an enormous eyesore covered in advertising in the early postcommunist era. However, eventually new life was breathed into the complex. Now, find shining glass frontages added to the department stores, and granite floored pedestrian walkways and modern tubular lighting added to the section behind the Jerozolimskie end. Although once entirely dodgy, Pasaż Wiecha - the long space behind the ‘Eastern Wall’ - is today lined with shops and restaurant gardens on both sides, making it an interesting area to explore. It also boasts benches, hammocks, beach chairs and other elements of urban design, and increasingly plays host to events like food fairs. Ironically, the centrepiece of the city’s big 1960s redevelopment plan is now a focal point in the ‘Nowe Centrum Warszawy’ plan, under which this area has become more green and user-friendly for residents. It’s all part of a larger plan to support a lively pedestrian corridor through the city centre from here to ul. Nowy Świat (p.53) via ul. Chmielna.QF-7/8, MCentrum.

10 Plac Pięciu Rogów & ul. Chmielna

This lovely public square opened in July 2022 at the intersection of Bracka, Krucza, Zgody, Szpitalna and Chmielna Streets - hence the name, ‘Five Corner Square.’ Although the new design still features a lot of concrete, 22 maple trees have been added to the space, as well as numerous benches with almost 40 sitting places. Most significantly, the entire area has been opened up and given over to pedestrians, which is a huge improvement over the urban tangle that previously prevailed here. Plac Pięciu Rog ów is basically the centrepiece of redevelopment works throughout this area which are transforming ul. Chmielna into a high street for pedestrians . A great area for exploration: you’ll plenty of cafes, restaurants, bars and intriguing places for relaxing and refuelling. Q G - 7/8, M Centrum, www.plac5rogow.pl .

11 Plac Konstytucji

A wonderful spectacle of socialist realist architecture, Constitution Square was constructed between 1950-52 to be an ‘expression of creative optimism and peaceful work within the socialist system.’ Its real purpose was to serve as a focal point for the frequent state parades, which would go from here down ul. Marszałkowska to Plac Defilad (Parade Square) in front of The Palace of Culture and Science.

housing district to be completed out of the complete and heralded as a big success at the time. Dominated by three monumental street lamps looking like giant tridents, you’ll still see some socialist mosaics here and there, but things get even better along the tail Plac Zbawiciela,

dominated by PRL-era buildings from the 1950s, but still harbours a couple of gems.

the 1920s, that it stands is a marvel, considering it was dynamited by the Nazis during WWII and then

erected in 1910. Upon completion, it was not only one

notably soared over Plac Zbawiciela. A 9m high 26m wide rainbow

controversial for PL's anti-LGBT factions, who repeatedly lit it on fire until it was removed. However, there are

Warsaw University of Technology

at the turn of the 18/19th centuries. This stout,

features an array of architectural embellishments they just don't teach the kids inside anymore: sculptures, sgraffito, to name a few. If you think the exterior is impressive, finagle your way inside to see the pentagonal cloister courtyard with its four stories of arcades, phenomenal staircase and beautiful stained-glass roof - one of the most-photogenic places in Warsaw. The university itself was established in 1826 during the Russian occupation of Polish territory. Today it’s one of the largest technology universities in Central 10, Plac

14 Hala Koszyki

If you're wondering where all the students are, this might be the answer. This is one of Warsaw's handful of marvelous indoor market halls, with food, shopping, art and more! And this is definitely one to check out because it's photogenic, with a phenomenal groundfloor food hall, with everything form dim sum to gelato, burgers, fries and more!

There are plenty of boutique shops and a lot of great events held here. Plus, we can't say enough about the architecture. Built over 100 years ago in the Art Nouveau style, this stunning building originally served as a market hall. It was redeveloped in 2016 to pay homage to its original use (many of the original brick and latticework is still featured prominently here) but with a new, contemporary feel. This is urban revitalisation at its most impressive and photogenic. on p.103 QF-10, ul. Koszykowa 63, MPolitechnika, www.koszyki.com. Open 08:00-01:00.

15 Highline Warsaw (in the VARSO Tower)

Right in the heart of Warsaw sits the highest tower in the EU (seriously!), this place should be your final stop after sightseeing all day. Varso tower consists of three buildings including the main building, which is the tallest in the EU and the 6th tallest in Europe at 310 meters. It was completed in 2022, and surpassed the Palace of Culture and Science as the tallest building in Poland.

To get the full experience, find Highline Warsaw, which allows for 360-degree views of the city thanks to their observation deck on the 53rd floor. Everything you just saw by foot, you can now see from the sky! The tour to the top starts with a speedy panoramic elevator (yet more views!) through an immersive corridor among the clouds. There’s an exhibition about Warsaw and an Experience Room with three films from different eras of the city’s history.

Before you go to the observation deck (or after), head over to the HighGarden Rooftop Lounge (p.105) on the 49th floor, a lush cocktail bar with a terrace and garden, tons of incredible cocktails and local snacks and, of course, those views of the sunset over Warsaw. Right next door is the HighGarden Event Bar, which is a great place for private events. Plus, there’s a boutique selling souveniers and local products on the 46th floor. All in all, a great experience for the end of your sightseeing adventures -- take in the highest building in the EU, and see everything you've seen from the ground, from the sky!QE-8, Varso Tower, Chmielna 69, MRondo ONZ, www.highlinewarsaw.com. Open 10:00-22:00.

Sk y s c r a p e r s

& Viewpoints

Warsaw has plainly stated its ambition to have more skyscrapers than any other city in Europe. The city currently has 32 buildings over 100m high, with more approved for construction, and enough pending approval to potentially bring the total up to 65 in the coming years. Beloved by locals and symbolic of the city’s aspiration to be the most modern capital in Europe, here are some of the most notable towers in town.

Varso: This office complex is the tallest building in the EU at 310m (though the last 80m is a spire). At the top find the HighGarden Rooftop Lounge, with drinks and views of the city p.105 QE-8.

Palace of Culture & Science: Buy a ticket, then head up to the 30th floor of Warsaw’s oldest and second tallest skyscraper (237m) for amazing panoramic views from an actual open-air terrace More on p.29 QE-9.

Warsaw UNIT: Warsaw’s 5th tallest tower (202m) was completed in 2021. Included is the wild new adrenaline attraction Skyfall Warsaw - a vertigo-inducing glass box that dangles outside the building (available to companies and special events)QC-8.

Złota 44: Designed by Daniel Libeskind, this luxury residential tower is one of Wawa’s most beautiful and distinctive skyscrapers, and its 7th tallest (192m).QE-8.

InterContinental Hotel: At 165m, Warsaw’s InterContinental Hotel is one of the tallest 5-star hotels in the world, and features the highest swimming pool in Europe at 150m. Open to non-guests, go have a swim in the clouds.QE-8.

Centrum LIM/Warsaw Presidential Hotel: The Panorama Sky Bar on the 40th floor of this veteran skyscraper (completed 1989) offers a liquid view to the city. Although the drinks are among Wawa’s most expensive, this is one of the city’s most accessible views.QE-9.

Warsaw - THE HUB: Completed in 2020, this complex consists of two 130m buildings and an 86m building. For great views, head up to the bar on the 21st floor - The Roof (p.108).QC-8.

Atlas Tower: 119m tall and completed way back in 1999, the locals think this one looks like a porta-loo, but the 27th floor features one of the best luxury roof clubs in the world, Level 27. The building is also home to the Invisible Exhibition (p.76). QE-9.

VARSO Tower is the tallest building in the EU at 310 meters high and includes the HighGarden Rooftop Lounge (p.105) on top.

The Old Town

Warsaw’s Old Town becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season.

A labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets, ornate tenement facades and picturesque plazas, it’s easy to understand why the Old Town is Warsaw’s top tourist area. A window into the ‘once-upon-a-time’ when Warsaw was a pearl of European architecture, the Old Town was actually entirely rebuilt after WWII. Today it stands as a stunning testament of Varsovians’ great pride in their city, and its rise from the ruins. If you have only one day in Warsaw, you should spend part of it here.

In the devastating aftermath of the Warsaw Uprising (p.80), 85% of the city’s left bank lay in ruin, half of its population had perished, and the Old Town was a smouldering wasteland. To their credit the Capital Reconstruction Bureau immediately started rebuilding the historic centre using pre-war sketches, paintings and photographs. The first phase of reconstruction was completed in 1953, but works continued in the following decades, finally concluding with the opening of the Royal Castle (p.42) in 1984. Although what you see today is not strictly ‘original’ per say, its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List speaks volumes of its authenticity and the effort required to recreate it.

WALKING TOUR

Our Old Town Walking Tour leads you around the oldest part of the city, showing you its most important and interesting points, beginning and ending near Plac Zamkowy (Castle Square) - the traditional entrance to the district.

The prescribed route covers only about 1.5km. If you’re only interested in the exercise, it could take less than 30mins, but ‘if done correctly’ - that is, with a couple of short culture, food and coffee/beer breaks - we reckon it will take at most several hours to complete. Make sure you’ve got a full charge on your phone/camera, comfy shoes and off you go.

1 Plac Zamkowy

Most visits to the Old Town begin on Plac Zamkowy (Castle Square), the busy plaza where Warsaw’s medieval centre (to the north), meets the thoroughfare of its Royal Route (to the south), in the shadow of the Royal Castle. More of a triangle than a square, there isn’t a more popular meeting place in the city, with the steps of King Sigismund’s Column typically besieged by couples, schoolkids and skateboarders. A lot happens here, whether it’s political demonstrations, street performers, or the steady flow of locals and tourists out for a stroll.

As for the famous column, it honours the man who in 1596 moved the Polish capital from Krak ów to Warsaw - King Sigismund III Vasa. 22 metres tall, it was erected in 1664 by his son, Władysław IV. Local legend asserts that Sigismund rattles his sabre whenever Warsaw is in trouble, an occurrence reported during the 1794 Kościuszko Uprising and again during WWII. With the Warsaw Uprising in full swing the column took a direct hit from a tank shell and came crashing down. Amazingly Sigismund survived and was returned to his perch in 1949.

Also note that there is a tourist info office located here at Plac Zamkowy 1/13 (open 9:00-18:00, Sunday 10:00-18:00). so you'll be able to find all the information you need before you explore further.

QF-4, MRatusz Arsenał.

Plac Zamkowy is the epicenter of the Old Town and the perfect spot for photos

Old

2 Royal Castle

The pride of Warsaw, this palace was reconstructed at incredible cost between 1971 and 1984. Much of the furniture was donated by communist-era cohorts such as the GDR and USSR, and much of the money came via generous donations from exiled Poles. Dating back to the 14th century, the castle has been the residence of Polish kings, presidents and the seat of Parliament. Some of the halls are purported to be haunted by a ‘white lady,’ whose ghostly appearance portends disaster.

Those who plonk down for admission (60zł/45zł) will have plenty to see, including the Kings’ apartments and chambers, the Houses of Parliament and the opulent Great Assembly Hall. Additional tickets are required for the Gallery of Masterpieces and the apartments of Prince Józef Poniatowski - aka the ‘Tin-Roofed Palace’

Luckily for families, children under 7 get in for free, while those 7-16 years old have to pay 1zł! Visiting time: 2hrs.QG-4, Pl. Zamkowy 4, tel. (+48) 22 355 51 70, www.zamek-krolewski.pl. Open 10:00-18:00; closed Mon. Admission 60/45zł. Kids & students with valid ID, 1zł for each exhibit; Wed free for all exhibits. U

Old Town Museums

When it was rebuilt, Warsaw implemented a vision of its Old Town as a place of culture. Today it harbours a remarkable number of museums!

Museum of Dollhouses Games and Toys: Over 150 detailed historical dollhouses, plus other minature settings, and old toys! The two permanent exhibits show handcrafted models, costumes and toys, while also demonstrating how tastes and fashions have changed over time. More on p.75 Qul. Podwale 15.

Museum World of Illusion: A nice reward for the kids, the exhibits will fool your eyes and meld your mind just a bit. Colors, lights and illusions! perfect for anyone who wants to learn the extent to which the mind can be easily tricked by the eye. More on p.82 QRynek Starego Miasta 21

Old Town Heritage Interpretation Centre:

This small branch of the Warsaw Museum focuses on the architectural history of the Old Town - its destruction during World War II, the rebuilding efforts thereafter, and circumstances of its eventual entry on the UNESCO World Heritage List. More p.45 Qul. Brzozowa 11/13.

3 Branicki & Szaniawski Palaces

The neighbouring Branicki and Szaniawski Palaces are two stunning noble residences from the last century of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The Szaniawski Palace at ul. Miodowa 8, named after the first noble family residents, was built at the beginning of the 18th century, and was later the residence of the famed Ostrowski family. It was first reworked into its current classical style in 1812. Branicki Palace at number 6 came later in 1740, and aimed to capture the magic of French rococo architecture, in addition to having a horseshoeshaped layout with stunning façades and rooftop windows. When Count Jan Klemens Branicki died in 1771, the estate was inherited by his wife, Izabella Poniatowska, the sister of King Stanisław August Poniatowski and an influential figure of the Enlightenment era in Poland. The palace was a congregation point for many Enlightenmentera creatives of whom Izabella was a patron. Both palaces were destroyed in WWII and reconstructed using Renaissance-era paintings as a reference. These romantic buildings from ‘straight out of a painting’ were brought together in 2022, when the Marriott’s Autograph Collection opened their first Polish property here as the Hotel Verte. This exquisite 5-star accommodation option also features KUK Restaurant. (p.89).QF-4, ul. Miodowa 6-8.

4 Jan Kiliński Monument

This huge monument honours Jan Kiliński, a Warsaw cobbler who became the unlikely hero of the 1794 Kościuszko Uprising. Despite being wounded twice, Kiliński and his troop of peasants captured the Russian Ambassador’s Warsaw residence - an action that ultimately led to his imprisonment in St. Petersburg.

Said to embody the Polish virtues of bravery and patriotism, his statue was erected in 1936 and originally located on Plac Krasińskich. In reprisal for an attack on the Copernicus Monument, Nazi troops

Jan Kiliński Monument

Photo by yasonya Canva Pro

hid Kiliński inside the vaults of the National Museum. Within days, boy scouts had daubed the museum with the graffiti ‘People of Warsaw! I am here, Jan Kiliński.’ After the war the cobbler was returned to his rightful place, before being relocated here in 1959. Kiliński’s comrade and superior Tadeusz Kościuszko himself once lived nearby at Szeroki Dunaj 5; this wide street was formerly home to Warsaw’s fish market, while the narrow street running at a 90-degree angle, Wąski Dunaj, was the town’s Jewish Quarter during the Middle Ages.QF-4, ul. Podwale.

5 Old Town Defensive Ramparts

The first sections of Warsaw’s defensive walls date back to the late 13th century, and by the end of the 14th century they stretched 1,200 meters, enclosing an area of about 8.5ha, and included 8 towers and 4 city gates. The most famous of these now non-existent structures was the Kraków Gate on Plac Zamkowy, and the Marshall’s Tower. Already in the 15th century these defenses were deemed insufficient and a second, lower line of brick walls was built along today’s ul. Podwale at a distance of just 9-14m from the previous walls; a moat was dug in-between and the Barbican was built in 1548 as the final piece of the defenses. As Varsovians were already settling in numbers beyond the city walls, these fortifications quickly became obsolete and from the 17th century they were being demolished or incorporated into tenement buildings. Ironically it was the total destruction of the Old Town that allowed these walls to be rebuilt after WWII and today the space between the two historical brick ramparts forms a pedestrian promenade parallel to ul. Podwale known as ‘Międzymurzę.’ Apart from all the interesting history, there are some incredible modern experiences to be had here. QF-4, Międzymurzę Jana Zachwatowicza.

6 The Little Insurgent Monument

The communist authorities continually thwarted efforts to commemorate the Warsaw Uprising of 1944, though by the early 1980s cracks in their resolve were beginning to show, and this small-butpoignant monument made its debut in 1983. Designed by Jerzy Jarnuszkiewicz and funded by collections undertaken by scouts, the sculpture commemorates the children who had to grow up fast, serving as messengers and frontline troops during the Uprising. With its oversized helmet and rifle, the bronze figure was inspired by the story of 13-year-old corporal Antek, himself killed in action near this spot on August 8, 1944. For history buffs, this is the spot to go, hands (or arms) down.QF-4, ul. Podwale.

7 Warsaw Barbican

Crowning the set of the medieval defensive walls which once protected the northern entrance to the city, this fearsome rotund structure dates from 1548, built by architect Giovanni Battista Venetian on the site of an earlier gate. Despite its intended use, the Barbican was only ever used in one fighting action when on June 30, 1656, during the Swedish deluge, Polish troops attacked to retake the city. In the 18th century, the Barbican was partially demolished with the remains being incorporated into new apartment buildings. It was during the interwar period that restoration work began to return the Barbican to its former glory, but alas, World War II put a hold to works, with it being completely destroyed. Along with the Old Town reconstruction, the fortified

Crossroads!

Continue along the Old Town defensive walls to the Barbican, and on to the Old Town Square?

Or, duck out of the medieval walls and down ul. Kilińskiego, hanging a left on ul. Długa for a short <20min/1.5km walk to the POLIN Museum (D-4, p.79) via the imposing Warsaw Uprising Monument and lovely Krasiński Palace and Gardens (E-4)?

wall and Barbican were restored. In December the Barbican is decked in lights and covered in stalls for the annual Christmas market! A must-see for visitors during the holidays.QF-3/4

8 Old Town Square

Measuring 90 by 73 metres, the Old Town Square is prewar Warsaw’s defining highlight, lined with richly decorated tenements - keep an eye out for the ‘House Under the Lion,’ with frescos by Zofia Stryjeńska (our Polish artistic crush - look up her work) at the southwest corner leading onto ul. Świetojańska.

Today the buildings around the Rynek host numerous cafes, restos, shops and museumsMuseum of Warsaw occupies the entire northern side of the square, Museum World of Illusion (p.82) can be found at number 21, and number 27 is home to Warsaw’s oldest restaurant, U Fukiera (p.101).

Crossroads!

Stay on target with a stroll through the Barbican towards the Old Town Square?

Or take a detour down charming pedestrian thoroughfare ul. Freta, past the Maria Skłodowska-Curie Museum, en route to the New Town Square (350m away)?

The Warsaw Barbican becomes a winter spectacle.

During the 15th century the square was home to Warsaw’s Town Hall, though this was pulled down in 1817 and never replaced. Today, it features Warsaw’s best-loved monument and the city’s defining symbol - Syrenka, aka the Warsaw Mermaid Cast in 1855, this busty vixen’s form graces every bus, tram and coat of arms you’ll find in the capital. During the winter months, expect to find an excellent skating rink here and in the summer, great outdoor dining.QF-4, Rynek Starego Miasta.

9 Museum of Warsaw

Inside 11 conjoined historical tenements on the Old Town Square, this revamped museum’s permanent exhibit, ‘The Things of Warsaw,’ presents the city’s cultural history via 7,000 objects displayed in 22 thematic rooms. Included are portraits, postcards, souvenirs, and other items with representations of the Polish capital. Additionally, a new exhibit Testimonies from the Warsaw Ghetto shines a light on the difficult history of the city's ghetto in the 1940s, told by people who experienced it. Finally, there’s a bookstore, cafe and fabulous viewpoint overlooking the Old Town Square. Well worth a visit! Visiting time: 2-3hrs.QF-4, Rynek Starego Miasta 28-42, www.muzeumwarszawy.pl. Open 9:00-17:00; Thu 9:00-19:00; Sat, Sun 11:00-18:00; closed Mon. Admission 35/25zł; permanent exhibit only 25/18zł; temp. exhibit only 20/15zł; Thu free. U­6

10 Old Town Heritage Interpretation Centre

This focuses on the architectural history of the Old Town, and is the best introduction to the history of Warsaw's reconstruction. The permanent exhibition gives an in-depth look into Warsaw's Old town, before, during and after WWII, which decimated 90% of the neighborhood. Following the destruction of WWII, the Old Town was reconstructed in a pioneering way that combined modern techniques and conservation methods. The museum gives a clear reason for why the reconstruction of the Old Town led to its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Visiting time: 30-60mins.QF-4, ul. Brzozowa 11/13, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 635 34 02, www. ciz.muzeumwarszawy.pl/en/. Open Wed 9.00-17.00; Thu 9.00-18.00; Fri 9.00-17.00; Sat, Sun 11.00-17.00; closed Mon, Tue. Admission 15/10zł; Thu free. Free admission to permanent and temporary exhibitions is available to persons with disabilities (upon presentation of a disability card or certificate) and their accompanying carers. More information about accessibility: https://muzeumwarszawy.pl/lokalizacje/ centrum-interpretacji-zabytku/ U­6

Eat & Drink

Warsaw’s Old Town is full of restaurants and bars, but, as this is literally the most touristy part of the city, the quality varies. When it’s time to take a break, here are a few places that are worth the money and worth seeking out.

U Fukiera: Adhering to tradition with extravagant flair, this famous restaurant on the Old Town Square offers an exceptional dining experience.Qp.101.

Gospoda pod Zygmuntem: This veteran Polish restaurant is as traditional as it gets, with potato pancakes, pierogi, kotlet, and so, so much more. Make sure to stop here for the authentic stuff.Qp.95.

Ciao Napoli: Authentic Neapolitan pizza (the best in town?), fresh seafood and a lovely space make this affordable franchise deservedly popular. Plus, there's outdoor seating! Qp.94

U Barssa: This classy restaurant brings a refreshing refinement to the Market Square with traditional Polish cuisine. Try their signature ‘Duck a la Barssa’ Qp.97.

KUK Restaurant: Located in the decidedly regal 18th-century Branicki-Szaniawski complex, this restaurant blends the tradition of Polish food with contemporary flair.Qp.89

11 Gnojna Góra

Demonstrating how every word sounds exotic when you don’t know the language, Gnojna Góra may sound like another charming stop on your tour. And it is for the views over the Vistula River, but not for the name, which literally translates as Shit Hill (Dung Hill, if you wish to be more polite). For centuries, this was the dumping ground for all of the Old Town’s waste. As you can imagine, it grew over time and the distinctive shape can best be seen from the bottom. At one stage it was actually renowned for its healing properties - people with obscene amounts of money would come here to be buried up to their necks in rubbish in a supposed cure for syphilis (doesn’t work, it turns out). From here head back towards the centre via ul. Dawna, whose trademark blue archway is one of the most picturesque sights in the city, then swerve onto ul. Kanonia.QG-4, ul. Brzozowa.

12 Ul. Kanonia

Once the site of the oldest cemetery in Warsaw, Kanonia Street takes the shape of a small square, at the centre of which is a cracked cathedral bell dating back to 1646. Cast by artisan Daniel Tym (who also made the statue of King Sigismund III atop the famed column), the bell never actually rang at St. John’s Cathedral next to it, but it has developed its own legend: touch the top of the bell while walking its circumference and your wish will come true Across from the bell is one of the world’s most narrow houses at number 20/22. Only 2m across, it was designed to evade property taxes, which in the 18th century (when it was built) were calculated

The blue archway on ul. Dawna is a favourite of both locals and tourists!

based on the width of the facade facing the main street. Also note the covered walkway nearby, which links the Cathedral to the Royal Castle and was built after a failed assassination attempt on Sigismund III. The attacker, who succeeded in striking the King twice with a pickaxe before being overpowered, was subsequently dealt with using the most medieval means imaginable: stretched by four horses, he was quartered with an axe; his body was then burned, and the ashes fired from a musket so as to disperse them in the air. This was all done in public, of course, at the city’s execution place, a few blocks away at the end of ul. Piekaska.QG-4, ul. Kanonia.

13 St. John the Baptist Cathedral

Originally built in the 14th century, St John’s is steeped in history. The last king of Poland, Stanisław August Poniatowski, was crowned and buried here, and in 1791 he also declared the May 3rd Constitution inside the building. The bodies of Henryk Sienkiewicz (writer), Gabriel Narutowicz (Poland’s 1st president) and various Mazovian knights can be seen in the crypt (open Mon-Sat 10:00-17:00, Sun 15:00-17:00, closed during mass; admission 5/3zł). As with most major landmarks, it was left in a heap of ruins during the Warsaw Uprising, before being rebuilt in pseudo-gothic style. On the external wall by the main entrance are fragments of a Borgward IV - a remote-controlled demolition vehicle used by the German army.QF/G-4, ul. Świętojańska 8, www.katedra.mkw.pl. Open 06:00-20:00; Sun 08:0022:00.

Choose Your Adventure!

Circling back to Plac Zamkowy you can either carry on down the Royal Route (turn the page), or circle round the back of the Royal Castle for a walk through the free gardens and down along the riverbank towards Powiśle (p.54).

Ul. Kanonia Wishing Bell. Juan Antonio F. Segal, CC BY 2.0

The Royal Route

Krakowskie Przedmiejsce is lit up with festive lights during the holiday season.

Warsaw’s famed ‘Royal Route’ links the city’s three Royal residences, starting from the Royal Castle (p.42) on Plac Zamkowy, via Łazienki Park’s Palace on the Isle (p.60), en route to Wilanów Palace (p.62) in the district of the same name. Officially covering 11km in length, this main artery through the city takes in a great many of Warsaw’s historical buildings, parks and monuments along the way, making a trip down at least part of the ‘path of the kings’ - be it on foot, by bike, or motorised scooter - a fine opportunity to see the heart and soul of the capital.

WALKING TOUR

In lieu of the full 11km traverse, this walking tour picks up at the end of the Old Town Walking Tour (p.40) on Plac Zamkowy and guides you gently down Warsaw’s two main high streets - ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście and ul. Nowy Świat  - to the ironic/ iconic Palm Tree fittingly at the intersection of Al. Jerozolimskie (Jerusalem Street). An easy 2km/20mins on foot, along the way or very nearby you’ll find many wonderful restaurants, cafes, bars and shops, so use the rest of our guide to plan your pit stops. Once you've exhausted these options, continue on the Royal Route to Łazienki and Wilanów (while resting your feet) should you choose to, or veer off to the center of the city and see the Palace of Culture or grab a good bite to eat.

1 King Sigismund's Column

We'll start at the iconic column in front of the Royal Castle, which effectively begins the transition between Old Town and Royal Route. Built in honour of the man who moved the Polish capital from Kraków to Warsaw - King Sigismund III Vasa - this 22m column was erected back in 1664 by his son, Władysław IV. Local legend asserts that Sigismund rattles his sabre whenever Warsaw is in trouble, an occurrence first reported during the 1794 Kościuszko Uprising and again during WWII. With the Warsaw Uprising in full swing the column took a direct hit from a tank shell and came crashing down. Amazingly Sigismund survived, losing only his sword, and was returned to his new perch in 1949. The remains of the original column can be seen nearby beside the Royal Castle and has become a kind of meeting point for friends, tourists and everyone in between! QF-4, Pl. Zamkowy

2 St. Anne’s Church & Tower

St. Anne’s survived the war with a few scratches and a bombed-out roof, but what the Nazis failed to destroy was very nearly demolished in 1949 when the careless construction of the nearby Trasa W-Z tunnel led to landslides and huge cracks in the floor of the church, which threatened to collapse; it took 400 people two weeks to stabilise the foundations. Interestingly, St. Anne’s also found disaster in the 17th century, when it survived the Swedish Deluge only to be the victim of arson two years later. The classical façade dates from 1788 and the interior holds even more classical and rococo details. The real reason to visit, however, are the splendid views from the tower - worth the 147-step climb (church open 7:00-19:00 weekdays; Sat 9:00-19:00; Sun 9:00-22:00. Tower hours below) 10/7zł. Call +48 22 374 94 84).QG-4, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 68, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 572 55 12 54, www.swanna.waw.pl. Tower open 10:00-18:00; Sat, Sun 11:00-21:00.

3 Adam Mickiewicz Monument

Patriot and poet Adam Mickiewicz (1798-1855) is Poland’s greatest literary hero. Known as the ‘Father of Polish Romanticism,’ his epic poems and dramas served as inspiration for insurrections against the imperial powers that had partitioned Poland out of existence in the late 18th century. Born to an upper class Polish family in what is today Belarus, Mickiewicz attended university in Vilnius, where he began publishing his poems and became involved in political activities against imperial Russia, which now occupied the former territory of the PolishLithuanian Commonwealth. These activities saw him exiled to Russia in 1824, but Mickiewicz was able

The Adam Mickiewicz monument.

Photo by Michał Bednarek Canva Pro

to leverage connections he made in the salons of Moscow and St. Petersburg to escape to the west in 1830, eventually settling in Paris. A champion of freedom, he died during a cholera outbreak in Turkey, while recruiting a Polish legion to fight the Russians in the Crimea in 1855. His body today lies with those of the Polish kings in Kraków’s Wawel Cathedral. To learn more, visit the Adam Mickiewicz Museum of Literature on the Old Town Square (F-4).

This monument was first unveiled in 1898 on the 100th anniversary of Mickiewicz’s birth. Sculpted by Cyprian Godebski, the monument was destroyed by the Nazis, however, after WWII, Polish soldiers recovered Mickiewicz’s head and other demolished parts in Hamburg. Sculptor Jan Szczepkowski was able to produce a copy of the original sculpture, which was unveiled, along with its restored surroundings, in 1950.QG-5, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 21-23, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet.

4 ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście

Krakowskie Przedmieście is easily one of Poland’s most prestigious and well-known streets - the price tag of the rents matches the prestige! The street stretches from the Royal Castle in the Old Town (p.40) until it blends into ul. Nowy Świat. It is along the length of this street, and beyond, that you will easily find our list of things to see along the way - it’s almost impossible to get lost! As you walk along the route, be sure to stop at any of the 15 Chopin Benches. Designed by Professor Jerzy Porębski, they feature a button, when pressed, unleash a 30 second torrent of Chopin. Each bench contains descriptions in EN/PL to the site’s relevance to the composer. This is a delightful walk down one of the prettiest parts of the city. QG-4, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet.

5 Presidential Palace

Guarded by lions and stern-looking soldiers, of all the landmarks that line Krakowskie Przedmieście, none is more important than the Presidential Palace. Construction began in 1643 at the behest of Stanisław Koniecpolski, though was only completed after his death. It then passed into the hands of various aristocratic families, becoming famed for its banquets in the 18th century - the most extravagant of which marked the coronation of Stanisław II August Poniatowski in 1789; over 2 million PLN was spent entertaining the 4,000 guests.

Poniatowski proved to be one of the nation’s most controversial monarchs - and also its last. Among his successes was the Constitution of May 3, 1791 Signed on these very grounds, it was the

2nd such document in the world, after the US Constitution. The large monument in front of the Palace is of the king’s nephew, Józef Poniatowski A Polish general, he defended Warsaw during the Kościuszko Uprising and eventually died in the service of Napoleon.

After 1818 the Palace became the seat of the Viceroy of the Polish Kingdom, entertaining many a visiting Tsar before burning down in 1852. At the beginning of the 20th century an entire wing was demolished to make way for the Hotel Bristol. When Poland regained its independence in 1918, the Palace was commandeered to serve as home for the Prime Minister, and somehow it survived WWII. More momentous events came in 1955 when the Warsaw Pact - the Soviet Union’s answer to NATO - was ratified within its walls. Since 1994 it has served as the official home of the Polish president, which is why you’ll find streams of limos heading in and out.

QG-5, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 46/48, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet.

Crossroads!

Carry on down the Royal Route? Or perhaps hang a right after the Hotel Europejski down ul. Tokarzewskiego-Karaszewicza towards Plac Piłsudskiego (p.32)? Choose the latter to see Warsaw’s largest square and escape the urban hub-bub via the lovely Saxon Garden, a stroll through which leads you into the City Centre and on a path to Hala Gwardii (E-6) and Hala Mirowska (D-6) - two massive indoor markets 15-20mins on foot from where you’re standing.

Bristol Hotel is always a stunning sight.

6 Bristol & Europejski Hotels

Two of the biggest, most famous landmarks on prestigious ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście are former palaces turned luxury hotels today. The first is Hotel Bristol at number 42/44. First built in 1900, a brass plaque outside boasts of its many famous guests: Picasso, Nixon and Dietrich, to name a few. In 1993 it was restored to its pre-war glory and the re-opening ceremony was such a big deal, it was attended by Ms. Margaret Thatcher. Refreshed repeatedly since, it is certainly among the very top hotels in the capital, boasting an interior by world-renowned designer Anita Rosato that blends secessionist and art deco glamour with modern luxury. If you can’t afford to spend the night, you can still drop in to the wonderfully old school Cafe Bristol - a perfect place for coffee or breakfast.

Across the street is the revamped Raffles Hotel Europejski. The first hotel to reopen after WWII, it entered Varsovian folklore in 1967 when a group of young upstarts calling themselves ‘the Rolling Stones’ stayed here, under the watchful eye of the authorities, and had themselves quite a time tipping back vodkas in the hotel bar. In 2018 the hotel was refurbed for the Raffles brand and today it is a stunning luxury space full of contemporary art and custom furnishings. If you want to have your proverbial socks knocked off, explore the building’s many first-rate dining and drinking venues, Though you might not be able to afford anything, you can still wander through Europejski Boutiques - the most exclusive shopping experience in the country.QG-5, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 42/44, 13, MNowy ŚwiatUniwersytet.

7 Chopin Benches

The good city of Warsaw has devised one more way to bring Chopin to the people, and that’s by way of fifteen musical benches that have been placed at key sites connected with his life since 2019. Made of cast iron and polished black granite, these benches feature a button which, when pressed, unleash a thirty second torrent of Chopin. They also come equipped with a route map as well as brief explanations in Polish and English as to the site’s relevance to Chopin. Each one comes inscribed with a QR code – scan it and download the Chopin App to access audioguides, Chopin melodies, facts, figures and photographs. This is, at the very least, a fun little trick to show your friends as you sit down for a much-needed rest while exploring the Old Town and Royal Route!QG-6, MNowy ŚwiatUniwersytet, www.biuro.chopin2010.pl

Everything you need to know about the reconstruction of the Old Town!

Heritage Interpretation Center 11/13 Brzozowa St

www.muzeumwarszawy.pl/en

Education partner of the Museum of Warsaw:

Eat & Drink

Cucina Mia (Sheraton Grand Warsaw): Elegant, traditional Italian dishes bursting with flavor from earthy truffles to Amalfi lemons and fresh Sicilian fish. Qp.94

Gościniec Polskie Pierogi: Immense portions of traditional Polish fare and charming service. What's not to like?.Qp.94.

TheOne Restaurant: With live music, light mediterranean fare, and excellent cocktails, what's not to love?Qp.97

Kufle i Kapsle: A delightful, modern interior with some killer craft beers, and great conversation. A good spot to join with friends on a weekend (or weekday!) night.Qp.106.

8 The University of Warsaw

Carry on further and you’re in Warsaw Universityland, the main campus of which lies beyond the grand gateway of number 26/28. Dating from the 17th century the main building, known as ‘Villa Regia,’ was remodelled and renovated several times before Warsaw Uni was established here in 1816. The university had a tough time under Russian rule; closed in retaliation for the 1830-31 Uprising the uni continued to operate underground, though by 1859 the Tsar calmed down enough to rubber stamp the creation of a School of Medicine. Today, with some 48,000 students on the roll call, the university stands out as the largest and

arguably best in Poland. Notable alumni include former Israeli premier Yitzhak Shamir, writer Witold Gombrowicz, award-winning travel writer Ryszard Kapuściński, the late president Lech Kaczyński and the poet Julian Tuwim. Q G - 6, Krakowskie Przedmieście 26/28, M Nowy Świat-Uniwersytet, www.en.uw.edu.pl

9 Holy Cross Church

No self-respecting Chopin fan (is that you?) can leave Warsaw without first visiting the final resting place of his heart. Smuggled out of Paris in a jar of booze by his sister (true story), Chopin’s heart was brought to the church in accordance with his final wishes in 1882 and is sealed in an urn behind a tablet bearing his likeness, specially carved by Leonardo Marconi.

Although Chopin’s ticker serves as the church’s key draw there are several other notable features and funereal remains to tempt you inside this astonishing Baroque creation. These include another urn with the remains of Nobel Prize-winning author Władysław Reymont, and tablets honouring various Polish icons including poet Juliusz Słowacki and WWII hero Władysław Sikorski. The organ, built in Salzburg in 1925, is also the largest in Warsaw.

Throughout a history that dates back to the 15th century, Holy Cross Church has played a role in Warsaw’s glories and calamities. It was here that the last Polish King forged the Order of the Knights of St Stanislaus, and it was directly outside in 1861 that Russian troops brutally suppressed a patriotic protest. It was this bloodbath that lit the touchpaper for the January Uprising of that year. Devastated during the Warsaw Uprising in 1944, the church was painstakingly rebuilt at the end of the war and is today a feast for the heart, eyes and soul. Masses start at 6:00 a.m. and run daily at designated times. Parish hours are below.QG-6, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 3, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 22 826 89 10, www.swkrzyz.pl. Open 10:00-11:30; 13:00-16:00; Sun 14:00-16:00.

10 Nicolaus Copernicus Monument

The founder of modern astronomy. A sheltered academic, Copernicus made his observations alone, a century before the invention of the telescope. His book De Revolutionibus (1543) posited that the earth rotated on its axis once a day, travelled around the sun once a year, and that man’s place in the cosmos was peripheral. Though obvious today, this was an utterly radical idea at the time. Although those who propagated his ideas were burned at the stake and the Catholic church placed De Revolutionibus on its list of banned books (as late as 1835), there was no

Copernicus monument at the Polish Academy of Sciences.

turning back progress. The modern cosmological view - that our galaxy is one of billions in a vast universe - is this man’s legacy.

The statue itself was unveiled in 1830 and has seen its share of adventure. During WWII the Nazis placed a new plaque here insinuating that the great man was in fact - gasp! - a German. A boy scout named Alek Dawidowski ducked the guards and removed the plaque. Boiling with fury, the Nazis removed the monument, then dynamited a few others for good measure. The statue was recovered after the war, and Dawidowski entered Polish folklore for his bravery. QG-6, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście, MNowy ŚwiatUniwersytet.

11 ul. Nowy Świat

The name of this street means “New World” and it is an apt description; just south of ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście, Nowy Świat has a similar look to the Old Town but instead of museums and history, you’ll find food, beer, live music and a street constantly bursting at the seams with life. Like much of the Old Town, Nowy Swiat was also razed during WWII, but was rebuilt almost immediately following in a neo-classical style, rather than its pre-war Art Nouveau style. Legend (and history) goes that this street was rebuilt based partly on paintings of its pre-war ancestor. Make sure to stop by Karmello for some chocolate nosh and coffee, or A.Blikle for great pastries. If it’s nightlife you’re after, there’s plenty of bars: Dom Whisky Cocktail Bar (open until 4 a.m. all week) will serve all the bright colored drinks you want; across the street, Kufle i Kapsle has a craft beer menu that will make even the snobbiest beer snob happy. We could go on, but there is a lot in the way of eating and drinking and fun. Finish your journey by taking in the towering palm tree 12 at the intersection between Nowy Świat and Al. Jerozolimskie, an art installation that’s a beloved little touch of the tropics in the middle of town. QH-8.

Warsaw’s famed Palm Tree!

Powiśle: Warsaw’s Riverside District

Once a mundane area of apartment blocks and industrial decay, over the past two decades Powiśle has transformed into one of Warsaw’s most intriguing and eclectic areas to explore.

Considering its plum location along the riverside, it’s hard to believe that this large neighbourhood was essentially a cultural dead zone until skyrocketing rent costs in the centre forced Warsaw to reconsider its potential. Now, Powiśle has become a hotspot for everything cool, young and happening in Warsaw, so much so that the city decided to recently open a gorgeous pedestrian bridge tying the Praga (p.64) area east of the river to Powiśle (you can access it via Ul. Karowa in Powiśle or Ul. Okrzei in Praga.) The history of Powiśle's growth is interesting: Warsaw University was the first to pitch a tent in the area, creating a draw since 2002, and the adjacent opening of the Copernicus Science Centre (p.56) in 2009 invited further cultural investments. Then the Metro (2015) helped make it into a popular place for public recreation. The redevelopment of the former Elektrownia Powiśle (p.56) power plant into a space for events, dining and shopping (2020) typifies the high-powered investment taking place here today. Still, Powiśle maintains an authentic local vibe thanks to its balance of both trendsetting gastro spots and boho dives (like the iconic rotund Warszawa Powiśle bar I-7). Roll yourself downhill towards the river from Warsaw’s Old Town or City Centre to discover what’s good in this hood!

What to See

1 Fryderyk Chopin Museum

Warsaw’s Chopin Museum is touted as one of the most high-tech in Europe. Three floors of interactive exhibits cover the composer’s life in every aspect, including a recreation of his Paris drawing room, the last letter he wrote to his family, his death mask, and even an intriguing section on his social circle. In addition, there are dozens of touchscreens, audio-visuals, and musical games, making the museum a highly interactive experience that will keep visitors of all ages engaged. Thirty-minute live concerts take place every Sat and Sun at 12:00, 15:00 and 17:00 (available to all museum visitors). Visitor numbers are restricted, so we suggest reserving tickets online in advance. Located in the famous Ostrogski Palace, the building’s catacombs are said to be home to the legendary Golden Duck - a princess charmed by the Devil before being transformed. Visiting time: 1hr. Q H - 7, ul. Okólnik 1, M Nowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 22 441 62 51, www.muzeum.nifc.pl Open 10:00-18:00; closed Mon. Admission 35/25zł.

The Chopin Museum is the perfect place to escape the chill and listen to delightful music this fall.

2 Powiśle Mermaid Statue

Warsaw’s ‘Syrenka’ - the iconic freshwater warrior mermaid - has been representing the Polish capital since time immemorial. The monument here is the second-most famous statue of the city’s symbol (the first being on the Old Town Square, (p.44), though this one actually overlooks the river the mythical icon is alleged to have dwelled in.

At 2.75 metres tall, the the bronze monument was created by sculptor Ludwika Nitschowa and unveiled in June 1939, just months before the outbreak of WWII; remarkably it stood unscathed in this exact spot throughout the entire war while the rest of Warsaw's left bank was devastated.r. Q I - 6, Bulwar Bohdana GrzymałySiedleckiego (near Most Świętokrzyski), M Centrum Nauki Kopernik.

3 Vistula River Boulevards

Warsaw has modernised and improved its left bank dramatically in the last decade. The Powiśle boulevards flanking the Świętokrzyski Bridge and leading north to the Old Town have seen the most development and are now a popular thoroughfare for walking, running, cycling and skating, as well as bars, cafes and restaurants - particularly in the warmer months - plus parks and leisure spaces.

Even if it's not the depth of summer, this is the perfect place to wander and lounge. The stalls that normally line the banks (selling food and drinks) aren't here during winter, but the views are still topnotch, with great photo ops up and down the river (and plenty of places to jump off and grab a bite). We like to just use these banks as a walking trail in winter. It’s fair to say that Warsaw’s river boulevards are now among the best in Europe.QI-6, Generała George’a Smitha Pattona, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik.

Warszawa Powiśle

Centrum Nauki Kopernik

Eat & Drink

When it’s time for a rest or a feed, there are many worthy venues on and around ul. Solec - one of the main streets in the area, as well as numerous food trucks and barges moored up along the river. Also, Elektrownia Powiśle has an entire food hall inside, so your options are manifold. Here are a few other notable venues in the neighbourhood:

Food Hall Elektrownia Powiśle: Food from around the world! Find something for everyone at the stalls that offer Thai, Italian, American, Mexican and more types of cuisineQp.102.

Champs Sports Bar: The perfect place to watch the game, with a great beer offer and some tasty pub snacksQI-6, ul. Wybrzeze Kosciuszkowskie 43A.

Rozbrat 20: This Michelin-starred restaurant is the ideal date night spot with fresh flavors delivered in expert fashion, and tastes from Poland, France and England. This is food done very well, and meant to impress.Qp.100.

4 Elektrownia Powiśle

Once one of the largest electrical power plants in Europe, Elektrownia Powiśle powered the Polish capital from 1904 to 2001 before it was closed and left to crumble. Purchased by a developer in 2016, the historic industrial site was transformed into a multifunctional, mixed-use urban centre. Covering a massive 50,000m2, much of the site has been converted into offices, apartments and a hotel, but a remaining 15,000m2 in the former boiler and engine buildings comprises commercial space for retail, gastronomy and wellness. Reopened in 2020, today Elektrownia offers four levels of shopping, and is a culinary hotspot with 41 restaurants bars and cafes across the complex (see their Food Hall on p.102). Additionally, there is a 1500m2 Beauty Hall offering over 350 cosmetic treatments from 7 beauty concepts. Events are frequently hosted in the courtyards between the buildings, including a regular farmer’s market, yoga lessons and film screenings. There are plenty of reasons to check out one of Warsaw’s most exciting urban renewal projects.QH/I-6, ul. Dobra 42, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 22 128 56 00, www.elektrowniapowisle.com. Open 11:00-21:00. Food Hall open 12:00-23:00, Fri 12:00-24:00, Sat 11:00-24:00, Sun 11:00-23:00. T­U­6­K

5 Copernicus Science Centre

An example of EU funding being used in a genuinely visionary way, the CSC is the very best science centre in Europe , and one of Warsaw’s top tourist attractions. The fun starts as soon as you encounter the museum’s very own ‘Robothespian’ - an interactive humanoid robot - at the front doors, before exploring several hundred handson exhibits across two floors that will have you actively pressing buttons, answering quizzes, and even exerting yourself physically. In addition to temporary exhibits and the all-ages ‘Experiment Zone,’ there are zones specially designed for the youngest visitors up to teens and adults. Visiting time: 3-4hrs.Q I - 6, ul. Wybrzeże Kościuszkowskie 20, M Centrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 22 596 41 00, www.kopernik.org.pl. Centre Open 09:00-18:00; Fri 09:00-20:00; Sat, Sun 09:00-19:00. Closed 1st Mon of every month. Roof Garden: Closed Nov-April. www. kopernik.org.pl/en/planetarium. Admission 46/32zł; holidays & weekends 48/34zł; planetarium 32/23zł.

U6 Planetarium of the Copernicus Science Centre

A trip to outer space is made simple at the Planetarium of the Copernicus Science Centre , which is tucked behind the giant Copernicus Science Centre (p. 56 ) as its own distinct venue. Visitors can choose different 40-minute films (which require headsets for English and Russian) that are geared towards different age ranges and interests. Inside, the audience is immersed in the solar system thanks to a spherical screen that surrounds the 139 seats on all sides.

Four digital projectors display images of the starry sky (we’re talking 20 million points of light) and simulate space travel to bring planets and moons into view - the whole experience is visually stunning! Before each film, there is a 20-min live show about the skies over Warsaw that change with the seasons. School groups dominate the Planetarium’s seats during daytime hours, therefore, we can’t stress enough that booking in advance is highly recommended. You can enjoy the permanent exhibition “Look: there’s the Earth!” Q H - 5, ul. Wybrzeże Kościuszkowskie 20, M Centrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 22 596 41 00, www.planetarium.kopernik.org.pl . Open 09.00-18.30; Fri 10.00-21.00; Sat 10.00-20.00; Sun 10:00-20:00; Mon 09:00-15:30; Thu 10.00–20.00. Closed the 1st Monday of every month. Admission 32/23zł. Special screenings 47zł. U

7 Kładka na Wiśle (Footbridge)

This long-awaited pedestrian footbridge opened in late March, connecting Praga on the east side of the river with Powiśle on the west. You can access it near Karowa Street in Powiśle (around Mariensztat below). The gorgeous bridge is the longest pedestrian bridge in Poland, and it's is meant for walkers and cyclers alike. In the warmer months, you'll likely find plenty of people meandering, some live music, some people selling ice cream and cotton candy. In the chillier months, make sure to bundle warmly as you cross the 502-metre structure, and enjoy some design features like viewing platforms and rest areas.

The Polish name, Kładka na Wiśle, means "Footbridge on the Vistula River". If you want to connect from the Old Town to Centrum Praskie Koneser (p.65) this bridge is the way!QH-5, Karowa 6.

8 Mariensztat

Cut off from the rest of the Old Town, the northernmost part of Powiśle has its origins in the 18th century when a nobleman received the land as part of a dowry. The area was built in 1762 and named after his wife, with the latter part of the name 'stadt' (changed to 'sztat' after World War II) being added to appease the Saxon king of Poland at the time, King Augustus III. Completely destroyed during the Warsaw Uprising, it was rebuilt after the war using a totally different street plan; the architectural design aimed to evoke a look mixed between 18th century buildings in the Praga district while also incorporating a socialist realist element. the picturesque neighbourhood is full of small parks and winding streets and provides a leafy retreat from the crowds just a short distance away from the heart of the Old Town. In previous centuries, Mariensztat was notorious for its bordellos and bare-knuckle boxing matches, and its main square was once the home of a bustling market - a role today commemorated by a statue of a woman with a chicken and basket of goods, found on ul. Sowa 4. Today, though it looks a little sleepy, Mariensztat ranks as one of Warsaw's most engaging district.QG-4/5, ul. Mariensztat.

Choose Your Adventure!

From Powiśle it’s exceedingly easy to get to Praga (p.64) or the City Centre (p.30) through a lovely (albeit a little long) walk along the river toward the south. Alternatively, head north along the river to return to the Old Town (p.40) or check out New Town’s Multimedia Fountain (F-3), which is a popular attraction for young families; both are about 2km/20mins on foot.

Łazienki Park

KACZYŃSKIEGO

This glorious 17th century park, spread over 74 hectares, is one of Warsaw’s unparalleled highlights, adored year-round by locals and visitors alike. Although it seems as if half of Warsaw spends its fall Sundays here, the park is so vast that it never feels crowded and offers an enchanting opportunity to escape the capital’s modern-day gloom and get lost in its nostalgic past. Don’t mistake Łazienki for a simple city park; it is also a museum complex full of wonderful art and architecture. Don’t miss it.

The full/proper name of today’s park is ‘Łazienki Królewskie,’ which means ‘Royal Baths’ and is derived from the park’s centrepiece, the Palace on the Isle

The palace was originally built in the 17th century as a private bathhouse for Stanisław Herakliusz Lubomirski, owner of the nearby Ujazdowski Castle and much of the surrounding land (and much of Poland, come to mention it). The bathhouse was bought by the last king of Poland, Stanisław August Poniatowski, in 1772 and converted into a private residence.

It was at this time that the grounds were formally laid out as a private garden. Perfect for romantic strolls, family picnics and cultural outings, today the park is packed with gorgeous sculptures and monuments, palatial architecture and priceless art, lovely landscapes of bridges and ponds, plus cafes, restaurants and more. The whole park is a must when visiting the city -- don't miss it!

Tickets & Info

While the park is free, the indoor exhibits require a ticket

Ticket 1: Includes just sites: the Palace on the Isle, the Old Orangery, Myslewski Palace, White Pavilion, Water Tower, Stables, Barracks, and Podchorążówka: 60/30zł.

Ticket 2: Includes just the Cantonal Barracks and the Kubicki Stables, 30/15zł

Ticket 3: All places listed above, plus temporary exhibit, "Royal Garden Life": 90/45zł.

Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere Palace was the residence of Polish presidents from 1918 to 1995 and then again during the presidency of Bronisław Komorowski from 2010-2015 (Presidents Aleksander Kwaśniewski, Lech Kaczyński and current president Andrzej Duda opted to live in the Presidential Palace on ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście) Built in 1694 and thoroughly remodelled in 1818, the building is essentially offlimits to visitors, but an eyeful to behold. A wonder of Neo-Classical design, complete with tympanium and oversized Corinthian columns, the best views and photo ops are fetched from outside the park on Al. Ujazdowskie.QH-12, ul. Belwederska 56.

Chopin Monument

Don’t miss this famous art nouveau sculpture of Warsaw’s favourite son, Fryderyk Chopin. Depicting the composer right here in Łazienki beneath a willow tree, the work by Wacław Szymankowski was erected in 1926. As part of the Nazi campaign against Polish culture it was dynamited by the Germans on May 31, 1940; as the story goes, the following day an unknown patriot placed a placard on the wreckage declaring: ‘I don’t know who destroyed me, but I know why; so I don’t play the funeral march for your leader.’ An original plaster-cast allowed the statue to be revived and this reconstruction was unveiled in 1958. QH-12.

For all exhibits, kids under 7 & students under 26 1zł for all three tickets. Buy tickets from cash desks or machines at the Museum of Hunting & Horsemanship.Q H - 12, M Politechnika, tel. (+48) 22 50 60 024, www.lazienki-krolewskie.pl. Park open daily 06:00-22:00. Indoor exhibitions open from October through April, Tues-Wed 9:0016:00; Thu-Sat 10:00-18:00; Sun 10:00-16:00. Closed Mon and holidays. Łazienki’s iconic Chopin monument.

Mikkego

Photo by Marcin Chodorowski.

Getting There

Any number of buses stop in front of the park’s three main entrances on ‘Al. Ujazdowskie’, including numbers 116 (from Old Town/Nowy Świat) and 180 (from Al. Jerozolimskie, bus stop ‘PKP Powiązki’); get off at the ‘Łazienki Królewskie’ bus stop. Accurate times and routes can be checked online at warsaw.jakdojade.pl

Old Orangery

A good place to start a visit to Łazienki, the Old Orangery is one of two ticket offices and tourist info points in the park. Originally erected in 1785-88 to house exotic trees through the once-harsh Polish winter, the sunny structure also harbours King Stanisław August’s Royal Theatre - one of the few surviving 18th century court theatres in Europe. Constructed out of wood and covered in marblised polychromes, the ground floor is rather modest with simple benches on risers, while the upper level features nine boxes with eight female figures gripping candleholders in between. Interestingly, the space above the boxes has been painted to create the illusion of yet another level, complete with an 18th-century court audience. The theatre is still used today to host chamber concerts. The other important aspect of the Old Orangery is the Royal Sculpture Gallery. Stanisław August collected hundreds of marble and plaster copies of the most famous sculptures from antiquity. Now, 120 of the most important of these casts are uniquely displayed inside the Orangery. Visiting time: 30mins.QI-11.

Palace on the Isle

The Palace on the Island is Łazienki’s raison d’etre and therefore, a true must-visit when you're going to the park. Built as a Baroque bathhouse in 1683, the structure was converted into a Neoclassical residential palace in the late 1700s by King Stanisław August. Located on an island in the middle of a narrow lake, and connected by colonnaded bridges on each side, the façades are unified by giant Corinthian pilasters that link its two floors. Today, almost all of the palace can be visited, including the King’s private rooms. The main reception room, Solomon’s Hall, is decorated in the most extravagant of Baroque styles with a series of paintings depicting the History of Solomon. In 1793, King August converted the palace into the first modern public museum, displaying the most important paintings from his collection. Visiting time: 45-60mins.QI-11.

Myślewicki Palace

Built in the 1770s and 80s, this elegant semi-circular palace was originally conceived as King Stanisław August's primary residence, though it gradually shifted to more diplomatic functions, hosting official state soirees and accommodating foreign ministers. Designed in Early Classicist style, the unique recessed entrance is decorated with mythological sculptures. After a thorough renovation, the building again appears very much as it would have in the late 18th century, and a walk through the interiors - replete with original murals, furniture and art - is worth the short amount of time it takes to see them. Visiting time: 30mins.QJ-11.

The Palace on the Isle looks magical covered in snow.

Museum of Hunting & Horsemanship

Very much as advertised, this museum will appeal to avid hunters and horse lovers, though the latter may have some trouble with all the mounted trophies. If the trophies are too much, you can skip the former Cantonists’ Barracks - built in 1826–1828 and full of hunting arms and taxidermied animals - and head straight to the Kubicki Stables, built 1825–1826 and home to an exhibit of horse-drawn carriages, saddles, harnesses and riding accessories. Visiting time: 1hrQJ-12, ul. Szwoleżerów 9. Admission 30/15zł; kids under 7 free; students under 26, 1zł. Fri free.

Officer Cadets School

A smaller building which served as a kitchen for the Palace on the Island stood here in the 17th century. Eventually it morphed into the Infantry Officer Cadets School in 1822, and it was from here that second lieutenant Piotr Wysocki led an uprising, aided by the young men of the school, which escalated into the nationwide November Uprising of 1830-31. Today the building houses a tourist info centre and ticket office for all of the park’s attractions, as well as some small temporary exhibits Visiting time: 20mins.QJ-11, ul. Agrykola 1, MPolitechnika, tel. (+48) 22 506 00 28, www.lazienki-krolewskie.pl/pl/ architektura/podchorazowka. Open 9.00-16.00; Thu, Fri, Sat 10.00-18.00; Sun 10.00-16.00; closed Mon.

Eat & Drink

Łazienki has several cafes and restaurants, though most of them are very pricey. Head out of the main gates to Plac Unii Lubelskiej (H-12) for more casual options.

Belvedere: Located in the park’s New Orangery, this is one of Warsaw’s most prestigious restaurants and worth the money, but not for families after a day in the park.QI-12.

Być Może: This hip cafe/bistro bakes its own bread, offers all-day breakfast and daily lunch specials, and is perfect whether you’re craving coffee or wine. QH-12, ul. Bagatela 14.

DZiK (Dom Zabawy i Kultury): This old residence offers European cuisine and hosts a wide range of evening events, getting wild on weekends.QI-13, ul. Belwederska 44 A.

Viet's Baguette: This deli offers 21 varieties of banh mi, known as a 'Vietnamese hoagie.' A great place to stop in before you head to the park.QG/H-12, ul. Puławska 7/9.

Rest. Baczewskich: Delightful, highly rated food with an incredible atmosphere, their own smokehouse, and a wide range of liquers. QH-11, ul. Jazdów 1b.

The interior of the Palace on the Isle is a stunning look at royal life.

Wilanów

In the winter, the Wilanów Palace gets the light show treatment, making for a colorful, snow-covered scene.

The ‘Polish Versailles’ is just one of the many fitting monikers applied to this splendid late 17th-century 45ha palace and garden complex 10km south of the centre.

Essential visiting for anyone wishing to understand the former grandeur of the Polish capital, Wilanów is more than just a palace. As one of the few existing remnants of the era when Poland was a vast kingdom stretching from the Baltic to the Black Sea, today it also represents the European splendour and sophistication that was lost and few today associate with Warsaw. The palace, park and surrounding ensemble of buildings also represent the height of Polish Baroque and are collectively one of Poland’s greatest cultural treasures. If the weather’s good and you’ve got time to spare, it’s easy to spend most of a day relaxing and taking in the sites here.

Getting There

10km south of the centre, Wilanów is best reached by bus or taxi, though the latter costs 35-40zł and essentially takes the same amount of time: 25-35mins. All buses stop directly outside the palace gates at the ‘Wilanów’ stop. From Plac Zamkowy (F-4), Pl. Trzech Krzyży (H-8) or Łazienki Park (H-11) take buses 116 or 180. From Warszawa Centralna train station (E-8) take bus 519. For exact times and routes, check warsaw.jakdojade.pl

What to See

Wilanów Park & Gardens

The 45 hectares that make up Wilanów Park developed over the centuries. The park’s present form dates from the extensive and mostly faithful renovations made during the 1950s. Comprising a two-level Baroque garden, a Neo-Renaissance rose garden, a classical English landscape park and the so-called English-Chinese landscape park, recent revitalisation works and archaeological digs discovered several arctefats, including ceramics dating from the 12th century. The park opens daily from 9:00-15:00 in the winter monthsQP-2, ul. St. Kostki Potockiego 10/16, tel. (+48) 22 544 27 00, www. wilanow-palac.pl. Park Admission 10/5zł, Thu free (0zł ticket is still required).

Wilanów Palace Museum

The first museum at Wilanów was opened in 1805 by the palace’s owner at the time, Stanisław Kostka Potocki. The current museum, which takes up a substantial portion of the palace’s interior, comes in two parts. The first is the upstairs Polish Portrait Gallery - comprising room after room of portraits of the rich and the powerful from the 16-19th century.

Next you’ll find yourself downstairs in the Wilanów Palace Residence, featuring residential rooms, suits of armour, Etruscan vases, magnificent frescoes and even a private chapel. Most impressive are the private apartments of King Jan III Sobieski and his wife, while the wings house the apartments of the subsequent owners of the palace. This place is popular for photoshoots so make sure to dress your best for some truly beautiful (and royal) wintery photos in front of the palace. Visit the Wilanów Palace website for info about temporary exhibits and tickets. A ticket also gets you into the park. Visiting time: 2hrs.QP-2, ul. St. Kostki Potockiego 10/16, tel. (+48) 22 544 27 00, www.wilanow-palac.pl Open 10:00–16:00. Last entrance 1hr before closing. Admission (includes park admission) 50/30zł, kids 7-16 1zł, kids under 7 free; Thu free. U

Potocki Mausoleum

An extraordinary piece of funerary art, befitting two of Poland’s most powerful, wealthy and influential families, this tomb in Wilanów Park was dedicated to Stanisław Kostka Potocki and his wife Aleksandra (nee Lubomirska) Potocka by their son Aleksander. Designed in 1834 by Henryk Marconi and built between 1834-1836 by Jakub Tatarkiewicz and Konstanty Hegl, the mausoleum is made entirely of sandstone. Consisting of a Neo-Gothic canopy with lions holding shields bearing the crests of the Potocki and Lubomirski families in each corner, on the sarcophagus itself are the figures of the deceased, and around the sides symbols of their virtues and interests are displayed.QO-2, Wilanów Park.

St. Anne’s Church

A church has stood on this site since the 14th century, when the wooden church of St. Leonard was built here, followed by a wooden Gothic version in the 16th century that stood throughout Sobieski’s day. In 1772 the new brick Church of St. Anne was founded by Prince August Adam Czartoryski based on a design by Jan Kotelnicki. From 1857-1870, Aleksandra’s son August and his wife extended the church based on a NeoRenaissance design by Henri Marconi, including adding the marvellous dome. In the surrounding gardens you will find terracotta shrines marking the Stations of the Cross, while the crypt houses the tombs of the Potocki family. The church suffered damage during both world wars and was used as an internment camp by the Nazis, who looted and damaged it. The bells dating from 1723 and 1777 survived thanks to the bravery of the local people who hid them; today they are housed in the newly built Third Millennium Tower.QO-2, ul. St. Kostki Potockiego 18, tel. (+48) 22 842 18 01, www. parafiawilanow.pl. Open 08:00-17:00; Sun 14:00-18:00.

AL. WILANOWSKA

Wilanów Lake & Island

There’s also a natural lake found behind the Palace. Not only is the lake is open, but during the warmer months, you can actually rent a boat to take out on the water (so save this guide for the spring)! Apart from the beautiful scenery, a trip here will reward you with a glimpse of Enrico Marconi’s strange, Gothicinspired pump room, and an adventure to the island at the centre of the lake reveals a monument to the Polish soldier, Captain Ksawery Burski, who served in the army of the Duchy of Warsaw and gave his life at Wilanów fighting the Austrians at the Battle of Raszyn in 1809.QP-3, ul. S.K. Potockiego 10/16. Hours same as gardens.

Klimczaka

Potocki Mausoleum.

Photo by Fotokon / AdobeStock.

Praga: Warsaw’s Alternative District

TARGOWA

WYB.SZCZECIŃSKIE

‘Gritty’ and ‘boho’ are just two of the terms tossed around to describe Praga, Warsaw’s east riverside district

Once disregarded due to its criminal underclass and imposing tower blocks, today an urban revival makes Praga worth visiting – especially for those looking to get off the tourist trail and see more of the city’s artsy side. The current standard-bearer for cool, folks here prefer their fun improvised and their bars dark. Filled with murals and hip hangouts, you can easily spend a day checking out the vibes of this alternative district across from the Old Town.

Getting to Praga

The easiest way to get to Praga is to take the M2 Metro to ‘Dworzec Wileński’ (eastbound to ‘Trocka’), and you’ll be in the heart of the district. From Warszawa Centralna the 160 bus will take you across the river to the ‘Park Praski’ stop. If you’re in the Old Town simply walk down the steps near the Royal Castle to Al. Solidarności and the ‘Stare Miasto’ stop, taking trams 4, 13, 20, 23 and 26 to ‘Park Praski.’

1 Praga Museum of Warsaw

Located in the oldest surviving residential buildings on Warsaw’s right bank, this modern museum boasts interactive exhibits that tell the story of Praga: its people, history, industry, bazaars and more. The cellars include the Residents’ Stories Archive and two pre-war Jewish prayer rooms with original wall paintings, and there’s even an observation terrace. This is not one of the most well-known museums in Warsaw, but is certainly one of the most interesting. Well worth a visit. Visiting time: 1.5-2hrs.QJ-3, ul. Targowa 50/52, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 22 518 34 30, www.muzeumpragi.pl. Open 09:00-17:00; Thu 11:00-20:00; Sat, Sun 10:00-18:00; closed Mon. Admission 20/15zł, permanent exhibit only 15/10zł, temporary exhibits 10/8zł; Thu free. U

2 ul. Ząbkowska

Nowhere is Praga’s revival better illustrated and its artistic vibe more felt than on Ząbkowska. Originally lined with timber frame houses, a fire in 1868 led to their replacement with tall tenements, all but one surviving WWII. Post-war neglect hit the street so hard that wholesale demolition was seriously considered, but somehow it endured and today many of the buildings have been restored and filled with lively galleries and bars. You’ll know you’ve arrived at Praga’s high street when you discover the explosion of murals and street art near ul. Targowa. Plus, a great thrifting hub -- see the next page for more!QJ-3, ul. Ząbkowska, MDworzec Wileński.

Eat & Drink

Locals will tell you that the best part of Praga isn’t the sightseeing, but the nightlife. The area’s main attraction is a vodka museum after all. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars in and around Centrum Praskie Koneser, along ul. Ząbkowska and ul. Okrzei. Here are some of the best hangouts in Praga:

3/4 Koneser Bar: Head straight to this bar hidden on the 3rd floor of the Polish Vodka Museum to try their delicious alcohol infusions and cocktails, and enjoy beautiful views.Qp.106

Setki Powodów: There are 100 reasons why you should swing by, but one of the main ones is its tantalising food menu (international cuisine) and a kicking live music roster!Qp.96

Yes! Butcher Shop & Bistro: This is meat done very well. Find cuts of all your favorites (ribeye, tomahawk and more) sourced from countries known for their beef. Also the option to dine in or take away. Qp.89.

3 Museum of Printing

This refurbished branch of the Museum of Warsaw boasts a collection of historical printing presses, fonts, bookbinding tools, and other paraphernalia for publishing books and pamphlets of all kinds. Keep an eye out for temporary exhibitions which put printing in its historical context - past exhibitions zoned in on invitations, picture book illustrations, and communist-era underground publishers.

Average visiting time: 30mins.QJ-3, ul. Ząbkowska 23/25, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 22 620 60 42, www.muzeumdrukarstwa.muzeumwarszawy.pl/en/ Open 9:00–17:00; closed Mon. Admission 5/3zł. Thu free.

4 Centrum Praskie Koneser

Once the Koneser Vodka Factory (1897-2007), this large industrial site lay mostly derelict before getting a major revamp in recent years and becoming Centrum Praskie Koneser. Interesting from an architecture and urban renewal standpoint, the complex includes the Polish Vodka Museum, the Museum of Fantastic Art, art galleries and dozens of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops! In the summer, this is the place to spend a day wandering outside, checking out the gorgeous architecture. QK-2, Plac Konesera 2, MDworzec Wileński, www.koneser.eu T­U­E­6­­­­

Thrifting Culture

Praga is known for many things (arts, restaurants, grit) but locals know that one of its best attributes (and open secrets) is its thrifting culture. The neighborhood is a hotbed of thrift stores, charity shops, and second-hand stores, many of which are located around one street! In fact, it’s such a mecca for thrifting, that many Warszawians will devote entire Saturday mornings to Praga thrift stores, buying everything from clothes to furniture, to dishes, art and more. Here’s our suggested starting route. Get off at the Kijowska tram stop, begin on the south end of Ul. Targowa and work your way north!

Jeila Ciucholand:  With two stories and tons of men’s and women’s clothing, this is the perfect starting point. Find staple shirts, skirts, etc for around 10-20 Zł. Plus, some cool home items upstairs!QK-4, ul. Targowa 20B.

Gemma: If there's one thing we can say about this spot, it's that the name is apt! There are many "gems" here, meaning good clothes. It won't break the bank but it won't be cheap either, so come here for key staples that you know will be good quality and last. QK-4, ul. Targowa 15.

Stylówka: We have to say, this is one of our favorites for the simple reason that it's wellorganized, stylish and affordable. You can find amazing shoes, coats, dresses and more, and it's one of the main stops for those who love to thrift along this corridor. QK-4, ul. Targowa 23.

Nash Outlet:  You know those stories where people find a designer piece in a thrift store and they just can't believe their luck? This is the place for that. This tiny store is packed and there are some real gems if you’re patient enough to lookQJ-4, Targowa 35.

Z 2 Ręki: Though this mostly has women’s clothes it’s well worth it: items are chic, modern and totally discredit the stereotype of thrifted clothing as “frumpy.” Plus, thrift store prices!QJ-3, Targowa 59.

Kopalnia: There’s more to visit on Targowa, but let’s jump off for a bit and go to Kopalnia - this store is clothing, but also furniture, books, art, ceramics and so much more. It’s a little more expensive but so well-curated and the items are so nice that a visit is a must (say hi to the owner’s pet turtle while you’re there!).QK-2, ul. Białostocka 9.

5 Polish Vodka Museum

Set inside a former vodka factory, this multimedia museum is visited with a live tour guide or audio guide. The experience takes you from the origins of vodka to modern production, showing you plenty of paraphernalia and treating you to a tasting of this strong spirit. This is a must for anyone interested in the history of Poland's national drink (and for anyone who wants to try a sip). Entries are timed so book in advance Visiting time: 1.5hrs.QK-2, Pl. Konesera 1 (Centrum Praskie Koneser), MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 22 419 31 50, www.muzeumpolskiejwodki.pl. Open 12:00-20:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-21:00; closed Mon. 70zł. 6

6 Warsaw Zoo

Opened in 1928, Warsaw Zoo covers an area of 40 hectares and attracts some 500,000 visitors each year. In total there are 13,000 animals here, across 500 species. Conditions have improved dramatically in recent years, though a visit here will do little to change any opinions you have on locking animals in cages. It was bombed at the beginning of the conflict and by 1945 all the animals had either been killed, deported to the Third Reich, eaten by locals or escaped into the wild. Zoo director, Jan Żabiński, became something of a hero; wounded during the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, he helped save countless lives by sheltering Jewish orphans inside the grounds of the zoo.QH-3, ul. Ratuszowa 1/3, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 22 619 40 41, www.zoo.waw.pl. Open 9:0016:00. Admission 25/20 zł.

7 Saska Kępa - Ul. Francuska

One of the most desirable districts of Warsaw; with property prices staunchly high, the neighbourhood is home to the nouveau riche, the intelligentsia and much of the capital’s art community. Now in the shadow of the National Stadium, the sporting complex plays a major role in bringing visitors to the focal point of the area: ul. Francuska, which hosts trendy bars, cafes, restaurants and mix of boutique and old-school shops - Saska Kępa is as close as Warsaw gets to the ‘Little Village’ areas of London or Paris or Greenwich Village in NYC. As such, it’s a great place to wander around, people watch, take in cafe culture on Francuska, or marvel at the architecture, including majestic 19th century manor houses, superb examples of 1920s and ‘30s modernism, and more. Well worth a good walk around and a stop at a cafe or two before heading to the park or back into the center of the city. QL-6/7/8, ul. Francuska, MDworzec Wileński.

8 Agnieszka Osiecka Monument

Agnieszka Osiecka (1936 - 1997) was a Polish poet and journalist, and the author of over 2,000 songs, many of which were turned into pop hits. She’s also known for a particularly grisly connection to the Swinging Sixties; her first marriage ended in tragedy when her husband, Wojciech Frykowski, became one of those slain by Charles Manson’s family of weirdos in what would turn out to be one of the crimes of the century. The statue is located in Praga Południe aka Saska Kępa, and you’ll often find people lying gifts, flowers and candles at her monument. To round out your visit check out Osiecka’s favourite café, Maska, which stands around the corner from her monument.QL-7, ul. Francuska (corner of ul. Obrońców).

9 Skaryszewski Park

Skaryszewski Park is one of the most beautiful in Warsaw - you’ll find a pleasant 55 hectare site filled with wide alleys originally designed for horsedrawn carriages, man-made hills, waterfalls, lakes and landscaped flowerbeds. Within its manicured grounds are several points of interest, including a monument commemorating Allied pilots who flew missions to supply insurgents fighting in the Warsaw Uprising. The memorial is located at the exact site where B24 bomber was shot down in 1944, killing all but one of the seven crew on board. It’s perfectly acceptable to sprawl out on the grass wherever you like here and have a picnic in the sun. Or, in the winter months, stroll with a coffee or hot chocolate in hand and watch the birds at the pond. This place is always full of activity and relaxation -- the perfect park for new visitors to Warsaw!QL-5/6, Al. Zieleniecka, MStadion Narodowy.

10 PGE National Stadium

Opened January, 2012, PGE Narodowy can hold 58,000 fans. The construction was built using hundreds of 45m pillars driven into the ground to stabilise the 25m of war rubble the stadium sits atop Priced at 1.2 billion PLN, history buffs will note the Socialist era ‘Relay’ statue at the entrance has been preserved in a nod to the site’s heritage – it was here that Stadion Dziesięciolecia (10th Anniversary Stadium) stood, built in the 1950s to mark the anniversary of the end of WWII. Today, this is an exceptional place to watch football or mega-concerts. All tour info on their website. Most tours range 37-43zł Q K- 6, Al. Księcia J. Poniatowskiego 1, M Stadion Narodowy, tel. (+48) 22 295 95 95, rezerwacje@pgenarodowy.pl, www. pgenarodowy.pl

HOME OF THE WORLD’S BEST GRAIN-FED RIBEYE

– awarded by the World Steak Challenge.

Essential Day Trips

Done up in lights for Christmastime, Kraków is a twinkly, cozy delight.

Warsaw is jam-packed with things to do (see, well, all the previous pages in this guide). But sometimes you want a change of scenery. One amazing thing about Warsaw is its access to other areas — being the capital, it’s a kind of hub for travel to major Polish cities and towns. So when you have a day to spare, head on over to Warszawa Centralna and hop on a train! Here are our essential day trips.

Krak ów

First, we recommend going to Kraków. The charming medieval city is like something out of a storybook, with a gorgeous medieval market square that’s lined with restaurants and cafes, a magical castle on a hill, and architecture that will have you stopping every two seconds to take another picture. Plus, this was the only major city not bombed to rubble during WWII, so much of this architecture is original and old We have a Poland In Your Pocket guide to Kraków that we highly recommend checking out. But in brief, we'd say visit Wawel Castle, head to rynek for a bite or a drink, and go down to Kazimierz for some excellent Jewish history, good food and a zapienkana (or two or three).

Clearly, there's tons to see in Kraków but one of the best for a day trip, is the Wieliczka Salt Mine —and we really do mean a day trip. Set aside a whole day for this one. There are multiple tours through these

incredible, cavernous mines, and along the way you can see mining tools, saline lakes, magestic chambers and more. This is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience. We recommend doing the easiest and most popular way to visit: via the traditional 'Tourist Route.' The Wieliczka Salt Mine Tourist Route takes

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is the perfect day trip.

you through 3.5km of the underground mine over the first 3 of its 9 levels, reaching a maximum depth of 135 metres below ground. The whole tour takes about 2 to 3 hours and you'll see a sailine lake, a chapel and more!

How to get there: From Warsaw’s Centralna Station, buy a ticket from PKP Intercity (on their website, intercity.pl or at a ticket window) to Kraków Główny. Train times range from a little over 2 hours to nearly 4 hours depending on the time you go and whether you choose a high-speed train. Prices range: 88 to 260zł per ticket.

Łódź

Next, we highly recommend a visit to Łódź - just one hour away by train! This post-industrial city is booming, with a lovely main street (ul. Piotrkowska) that’s packed with bars, restaurants, and shops. Plus, there are tons of museums, incredible parks, monuments and events all the time.

In addition to just wandering the streets, we recommend a trip to Orientarium Zoo, a massive (and massively popular) zoo with tons of animals from Southeast Asia (35 land species and 180 acquatic species) across three levels. Here, you can see elephants, orangutans, sun bears, macaques, and more in the land section. In the water section, prepare to see sharks, rays, and a gharial crocodile named Kraken. You can participate in daily feedings and you can even do an overnight stay in a shark tunnel! There are also VIP evenings, and workshops. An absolute must.

Another key spot in Łódź is Aquapark Fala — honestly the best waterpark/spa center in the entire country and one of the largest! With 19 water slides (including some incredibly steep ones) and pools

Day Trips from Warsaw

for swimming, it’s great for thrill-seekers and kids. But it’s also great for relaxing. In fact, its wellness center is simply incredible. They offer a Sauna Zone with Finnish and infrared saunas and steam rooms, as well as a tepidarium (a room that lets you relax on a heated bed in silence). There's also a snow cave where you can sit in a cold, snowy room and immediately cool your body down for great health benefits. Also, a salt graduation tower where you can sit in a salt-infused room and reap the health benefits of iodine exposure.

How to get there: Head to Warszawa Centralna and, using PKP Intercity (website or ticket window), get a ticket to Łódź Fabryczna. The ride times are usually a little over an hour, and the cost hovers around the 50 zł range.

A final must-visit, especially for families with kids, is Mandoria City of Adventures, which is an all-indoor Renaissance-era theme park! Along with workers dressed in beautiful period costumes (princess dresses all over!) and lovely 16th-century scenery (castles and old town square buildings), find over 30 attractions here, including Aquila, the only roller coaster of its kind that's fully indoors! Additionally, find paddle boats, water attractions, more roller coasters and spinning rides, a mirror maze and a giant slide.

How to get there: From Warszawa West, use PKP Intercity, get a ticket to Łódź Fabryczna. From there, you can take several buses down south - note that you will likely need to do a transfer between buses. Or you can get an Uber from the train station.

At Mandoria, you can zip around a 16th-century village on an all-indoor rollercoaster!

Ul. Piotrkowska in Łódź is the beating heart of the city.

Art, History & Culture

Warsaw’s combination of these three is what makes it so exciting. Whether you’re an art lover, amateur historian, or tracing your roots, Warsaw’s heady brew of imperial grandeur, prewar glamour, 20th century tragedy, socialist austerity and present-day dynamism makes it unique in Europe and offers much to the visitor. Use this chapter of the guide to discover the capital’s art spaces and current exhibitions, find out about museums ranging from niche to national, and learn about sites related to some of the most important events in Warsaw’s modern history.

The POLIN museum is full of fascinating, beautiful, and at times harrowing, history.

Warsaw’s Best Museums & Art Spaces

Warsaw is the centre of Poland’s contemporary art scene and home to countless pieces of priceless art. While Kraków’s collections skew more historical, Warsaw boasts a great variety of exhibits showcasing younger artists as well as the nation’s masters. When it comes to art tourism, temporary exhibits are often as or more important than permanent collections, so check the current exhibitions on p.72.

1 Fryderyk Chopin Museum

Located in a beautifully-restored palace, this museum uses incredible interactive multimedia displays to illustrate the life of Poland’s most famous composer, without any details missing! QSee p.54

2 National Museum

An incredible museum with some of the best art in the country! Polish painters, international painters and even Ancient Greek and Egyptian Artefacts!QSee p.77.

3 melt museum

A spectacle of light, color, and sound, this museum is a must-visit that uses modern technology to take visitors on a journey that awakens the senses. QSee p.75.

Murals & Street Art

What about art in public spaces? Poland has a long, lauded tradition of graphic art, with Polish print advertising and poster design known internationally for their high artistic quality. With such a knack for graphics, it stands to reason that Poles would have a penchant for street art as well. And they do. In Warsaw both graffiti art and large-scale murals are a common sight, with the city and private businesses even inviting international artists to do installations. You’ll find a particularly high volume of murals on buildings in Praga, Wola and around the City Centre, where the urban landscape is changing most rapidly. Although it’s a dynamic situation, as many murals are installed on buildings that later become designated for demolition, at WIYP we keep a close eye on murals and urban art, marking major works on all of our maps; just look for the spray can icon Not only that, but we’ve meticulously put it all online with exact GPS coordinates, so that your smartphone can do the work of leading you directly to Warsaw’s alternative artistic visions.

Museum of Warsaw

4

The history of Warsaw is fantastically told in this revamped museum based in eleven historic tenement houses. An Old Town must-see for everyone.QSee p.45

5 POLIN

One thousand years of Polish Jewish history is chronicled in this incredibly impressive, popular museum. One of the top spots in the city.QSee p.79.

6 Museum of Dollhouses, Games and Toys

With tons of dolls and toys from around the world and the last century, this museum delights and fascinates -- all with a healthy dose of nostalgia and whimsy.QSee p.75.

Temporary Exhibits

It’s not uncommon for some temporary exhibits to be major events, even overshadowing the permanent collections of local museums. Of the literal hundreds of art events across Warsaw, here are a few picks for the coming months. For more, as well as other events in the capital, head to our website.

26.10 - 31.12 » Artificial Dreams

The highly popular melt museum has introduced a new permanent exhibit that highlights the connection between art and technology, specifically AI. The creators of the exhibition call it a “technoutopia meets cyberpunk vision of the future.” The exhibit, Artificial Dreams takes visitors to unknown realms of the relationship between humans and artificial intelligence through an interactive, highly immersive experience that blends art, light, color, technology and sound to awaken your senses.

You’ll see gorgeous projections, stunning (and sometimes mind-bending) lighting effects, interactive installations and much more. Make sure to book your tickets in advance online because this one sells out fast! QG-7, melt museum, Plac Powstańców 2A, MŚwiętokrzyska, tel. (+48) 534 125 556, 39-59zł, www.meltmuseum.com/en/exhibitions/

14.11 - 31.12 » Fairy Tales – The City of Lost Stories

Warsaw’s own master in the art of immersion -- Art Box Experience -- has been dipping its toes into the world of virtual reality with their new project Art Box Metaverse. And this season has an exciting show on the docket: “Fairy Tales - the City of Lost Stories.” It’s a magical journey that brings you right into the colorful, exciting world of your favorite fairy tales. During the 30-minute screening, you can visit the underwater world of the Little Mermaid, fly on Aladdin’s carpet, travel through a whale with Pinocchio, and meet a fire-breathing dragon. Plus, it doesn’t have to be a solitary experience! You can enjoy it all with family and friends.QD-8, Art Box Metaverse, ul. Żelazna 51/53 (Fabryka Norblina), MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 571 030 480, 4565zł, www.artboxmetaverse.com/en/fairy-tales-thecity-of-lost-stories/

The Museum of Dollhouses, Games and Toys is featuring an incredible exhibit of award-winning art doll portraits of Chopin.

09.09 - 31.12 » Special Exhibition in The Museum of Dollhouses, Games and Toys

This special temporary exhibition at the Dollhouse, Games and Toys Museum in Warsaw, displays awardwinning art doll portraits created by contemporary artists from around the country. In each one, the artist was able to imagine Chopin in the way they wanted to, blending tradition with modern creativity. For viewers of the exhibit, that means you can see the composer through new artistic eyes, garnering not just an understanding of who Chopin was, but how he is remembered by contemporary artists. QF-4, Museum of Dollhouses, Games and Toys, ul. Podwale 15 (entrance in courtyard), MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 797 72 30 29, 42/30 zł, family ticket 120 zł, www.muzeumdomkow.pl/chopin

17.04 - 31.12 » Testimonies from the Warsaw Ghetto

A poignant and important section of the Museum of Warsaw’s main exhibit, Testimonies from the Warsaw Ghetto, opened last year and looks at Warsaw through the period of German occupation in the 1940s. This exhibit presents viewers with daily life in the ghetto from various perspectives including soldiers and resistance members, women and men, amateurs and professionals. The exhibition includes objects recovered during archaeological digs. QF-4 25/18zł, Museum of Warsaw, Rynek Starego Miasta 2842, (+48) 22 277 44 02 www.muzeumwarszawy.pl/en/ wydarzenia/testimonies-from-the-warsaw-ghetto/

21.11 - 03.05 » The Woman Question

This exhibition at the Modern Art Museum in Warsaw sheds light on many of the unsung (or undersung) female artists of history. In a nine-part visual narrative, visitors will be able to see the enduring creativity of women artists over the last 500 years -- a result of nearly 200 works, including paintings by women in the Renaissance and Baroque periods, along with women from the 19th Century. QF-7/8, Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw, ul. Marszałkowska 103, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 596 40 10, 35/25 zł, www.artmuseum.pl/en/exhibitions/the-womanquestion-1550-2025

18.06 - 21.12 » The Summer That Changed Everything. Festival 1955.

This new exhibit at the Warsaw Museum tells the story of a pivotal 1955 festival called the World Festival of Youth and Students, which lasted from July 31 to August 15 of that year and attracted nearly 170 thousand people to Warsaw. Under the slogan For Peace and Friendship, the initial goal of the festival was to show the superiority of socialism

over capitalism. However, it became a carnival of multiculturalism, anticipating political and social changes and, above all, a generational experience. In addition to telling the story of the event itself, this exhibition will outline the social and cultural background of the 1950s.QF-4, Museum of Warsaw, Rynek Starego Miasta 28-42, tel. (+48) 22 277 44 02, 20/15zł, Thursday 1zł, www.muzeumwarszawy.pl/ wystawa/lato-ktore-zmienilo-wszystko-festiwal-1955/

01.01 - 30.12 » Teatr Sabat

Teatr Sabat, the only variety theater in Poland was created on the model of Warsaw musical theaters with cabaret, musicals, and more. Incredibly talented performances from singers, Polish actors and ballet companies all take center stage here. Plus, the classic auditorium concept (a la movie theaters) is gone here - instead you have elegant tables and chances to grab a drink while you watch the show. All created by Małgorzata Potocka, a successful dancer, choreographer and director who has specialized in promoting Polish culture around the world!Qul. Foksal 16, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. +48 (22) 826 23 55, www.teatr-sabat.pl/en/contact. Open Mon 11:00-16:00*; Tue, Wed 10:00-16:00; Thu, Fri 12:0020:00; Sat 13:00-20:00; closed Sun. ticket office opening hours.

Museums

Warsaw boasts some superior museums, ranging from world-class attractions full of multimedia displays, to small institutions covering niche historical events. It’s more than we have space to cover here, but you’ll find them all listed and up-todate on our website. In this guide, some of the city’s most important museums are listed within the district tours of Sightseeing section, while the rest of the best are here. Descriptions focus on each museum’s permanent collection; for current temporary exhibits, see p.72

E.Wedel Chocolate Factory Museum

Discover the secrets of chocolate production and delicacies through a thematic exhibition, interactive displays and workshops for adults and children alike. There are also classes that combine learning and fun for organized groups of children and teenagers. The main exhibition at the museum covers three levels and is divided into a few thematic spaces -- the Ghanaian Space, the Chocolatier’s space, the Confectioner’s space, and the Designer’s Space. Get ready for a whole host of exciting opportunities, including a chance to taste liquid chocolate and roasted cocoa beans, the ability to start the chocolate-making machine and moreAt the end of the tour, you can design your own box for the popular Polish chocolate confection, Ptasie Mleczko!QL-4, aleja Emila Wedla 5, MStadion Narodowy, www.fabrykaczekolady.pl. Open 10:0020:00. 70/55zł.

Katyń Museum

Found in the Warsaw Citadel this museum documents the shocking events of 1940 when 22,000 Polish officers were executed by their Soviet captors in the middle of a Russian forest. The museum has a host of objects, documents and personal effects that have been recovered from the site near Smoleńsk, Russia. The artefacts from the victims and a scrolling list of their names need no explanation, while the multimedia presentation of the extenuating circumstances, the victims’ stories and the entire event’s historical relevancy are well thought-out. Visiting time: 2hrs.QE-1, ul. Jana Jeziorańskiego 4 (entrance from Nowomiejska gate), MDworzec Gdański, tel. (+48) 26 187 83 42, www.muzeumkatynskie.pl. Open 10:00-16:00; closed Mon, Tue. Outdoor exhibition: daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission free. Guided tours (EN, PL) 90-300zł. Audioguides (EN, PL, DE, FR, RU) 15zł. U

Filled with the sweet smell of chocolate along with exciting, interactive exhibits, The Chocolate Factory Museum is a must.

melt museum

This is an art experience like nothing you’ve ever seen! Melt museum offers a fully sensory experience involving lights, color, interactive exhibits, robot dogs, and so so so much more! The museum takes an audiovisual approach to creativity, using a blend of art and ultra-modern technology to offer vibrant imagery and sounds that are meant to awaken all of your senses. The museum hosts popular temporary exhibitions and asks that you book your tickets in advance online (it’s a very popular experience). Once you do, you’ll step inside a mind-bending world of light, color, touch and sound that really highlights what technology can do and how it can affect our perception of our world. Prices depend on the day of the week, so check out the website for details, but most prices range from 39zł to 56zł. Visiting time: 45-60mins. QG-7, Plac Powstańców 2A, MŚwiętokrzyska, tel. (+48) 534 125 556, www.meltmuseum.com. Open 12:00-21:00. Prices are available after clicking on the selected exhibition. Please book your places online in advance. Due to the limited number of places available at a given time, there is no guarantee that tickets will be available for purchase at the venue.

Museum of Dollhouses, Games and Toys

A small, charming museum fittingly located right in Warsaw’s Old Town. Showcasing over 150 highlydetailed historical dollhouses, plus various other minature settings, the museum has four permanent exhibitions on display at its headquarters at 15 Podwale Street; “In the World of Old Dolls’ Houses,” “Sacred Toys,” “Dolls of the World,” and “Games and Polish Toys of the 20th Century.”

A checkroom and restroom are available on site, the main exhibition is adapted to be visited by wheelchair users. Visiting time: 45-60mins.QF-4, ul. Podwale 15 (entrance in courtyard), MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 797 72 30 29, www.muzeumdomkow.pl. Open 09:00-19:00. Tickets 42/30zł; kids under 1m tall, free. U

Museum of Evolution

Warsaw’s Museum of Evolution is a joint effort of the Institute of Paleobiology and the Polish Academy of Sciences with the objective of providing ‘accessible outreach and education aimed at broadening popular knowledge on the evolution of life on Earth’. The rather dated permanent exhibit goes through the entire evolutionary timeline of life on Earth, with the lion’s share lingering on the palaeontological collection, specifically the reconstruction of numerous dinosaur skeletons from the Polish-

Mongolian expeditions to the Gobi Desert led by Zofia Kielan-Jaworowska in the 1960s and 1970s. Although rather academic, this is still a good option for kids dazzled by dinosaurs. Visiting time: 1hr. QE-8, Plac Defilad 1, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 656 66 37, www.muzeumewolucji.pl. Open 08:00-16:00; Sun 09:00-15:00; closed Mon. Admission 20/10zł.

Museum of Life under Communism

If Warsaw’s communist history isn’t vivid enough for you on a walk around the capital, immerse yourself in PRL (Polish People’s Republic) vibes at this private museum. Showing what everyday life was like for locals during the years of Poland’s communist rule, the nostalgic exhibits include a recreation of a typical PRL-era apartment, plus plenty of photos, artefacts and relics that demonstrate the difficulty and absurdity of those times. Bittersweet for older Poles and eye-opening for foreigners, this is a real must-see kind of place. Visiting time: 1hr.QG-10, ul. Piękna 28/34 (corner of Plac Konstytucji and ul. Piękna), MPolitechnika, tel. (+48) 511 04 48 08, www. mzprl.pl. Open 10:00-18:00; Fri 12:00-20:00. Admission 30/20zł. Audioguides free (after getting an app on https://mzprl.pl/audioguide-free-of-charge/?lang=en) in EN, FR, IT & ESP.

Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw

Inside the boxy white building, you’ll find twisting, geometric stairs and large, white gallery spaces. In addition to art from a number of renowned artists around the world, the museum is home to a cinema, workshops and talks, and much more. In one room, find a large fiber work that stretches floor to ceiling by internationally renowned artist Magdalena Abakanowicz. In another, a series of colorful figures lay on the floor. Plus, some incredible modern art temporary exhibitions that are well-worth checking out. Visiting time: 90minQF-7/8, ul. Marszałkowska 103, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 596 40 10, www.artmuseum.pl/en. Open 12:00-20:00; closed Mon. 30/20zł.

Museum of Printing

This refurbished branch of the Museum of Warsaw boasts a collection of historical printing presses, fonts, bookbinding tools, and other paraphernalia for publishing books and pamphlets of all kinds. Keep an eye out for temporary exhibitions which put printing in its historical context - past exhibitions zoned in on invitations, picture book illustrations, and communist-era underground publishers. Average visiting time: 30mins.QJ-3, ul. Ząbkowska 23/25, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 22 620 60 42, www. muzeumdrukarstwa.muzeumwarszawy.pl/en/. Open 9:00–17:00; closed Mon. Admission 5/3zł. Thu free.

Pharmacy Museum

In this reconstructed interior of an interwar pharmacy, find glass vials and beakers, wooden furnishings, period advertisements and vintage pharmaceutical equipment. learn Stories of medicines, poisons, and narcotics, as well as Japanese Kampo medicine, and learn about one of the world’s first female pharmacists – Antonina Leśniewska. A nice but wonderful space, the museum also offers workshops on the healing properties of plants, and gives visitors a chance to make their own scented waters from essential oils!

Visiting time: 45mins.QF-4, ul. Piwna 31/33, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 831 71 79, www.muzeumfarmacji. muzeumwarszawy.pl Open 10:00–18:00; closed Mon, Sun. Last admissino is 30 minutes before closing. Admission 12/8zł. Thu free. U­6

Vodka Museum

Poland’s first-ever vodka museum is a captivating journey through the more than 500-year history of Poland’s cherished national drink. With the world’s largest collection of over 10,000 exhibits, visitors delve into vodka’s origins, production processes, design, and even the traditional etiquette in which vodka is served and consumed. Independently founded by the passionate owners of the renowned restaurant Elixir by Dom Wódki (p.99), the museum seeks to shift the perception of Polish vodka

Invisible Exhibition

A unique experience where seeing impaired guides lead you into their sightless world. On the tour you’ll understand the challenges blind people face daily as you try to write with a Braille typewriter, use kitchen gadgets designed for the sightless, and solve simple puzzles while blindfolded. Next, enter a series of pitch-black rooms that force you to rely on your other senses. You’ll feel the contours of a sculpture to discern what kind of art it is, listen for cars before crossing the street, and the guide will even serve you a drink in the completely dark bar (bring some cash). Truly a fascinating experience. To visit, book online in advance. Tours in English can be arranged, but you must first email them via info@niewidzialna.pl with ‘TOUR IN ENGLISH’ as the subject line. Visiting time: 1hr.

QC-9, Al. Jerozolimskie 123A (Atlas Tower), MRondo Daszyńskiego, www.niewidzialna.pl. Open 10:00-20:00. Admission 45/40zł; Sat, Sun 50/45zł. N

from mere party indulgence to a finely-sipped and respected spirit. Tickets cost 30zł to see the permanent exhibition, whilst an included vodka tasting session is available from 35zł all the way up to 199zł for their VIP Package! Prior reservation is essential for this not-to-be-missed attraction!QF-5, ul. Wierzbowa 11 (entrance from ul. Canaletta), MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 888 600 805, www. muzeumwodki.pl. Open 13:00-19:00; Fri, Sat 13:0020:00; Sun 13:00-19:00; closed Mon. Last entrance 60 minutes before closing. Admission 30zł. X

Warsaw Archdiocese Museum

This Old Town museum showcases over 10,000 items dating from the Middle Ages up to today, and surprises with its wealth of secular art. Split into the Sacred and the Profane, the former includes liturgical objects, paintings and sculptures of Jesus, Mary and the saints, plus personal items of Stefan Wyszyński - former Primate of Poland. The latter includes lots of furniture, clocks, sculpture and paintings. One highlight is entering the ‘Royal Corridor’ (aka the ‘Piekarski Corridor’) that formerly connected the Royal Castle with the Cathedral, and was built to ensure King Sigismund III Vasa’s safe passage between the two following an assassination attempt in 1620. Visiting time: 1hr. Admission prices range from 25/20 zł to 38/28 zł depending on exhibits. QG-4, ul. Dziekania 1, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 621 34 14, www.maw.art.pl. Open 12.00–18.00; Sat, Sun 12:00-16:00; closed Mon. CATHEDRAL CRYPTS Monday- Saturday: 10:00-17:00 Sunday: 15.0017.00 Closed during Mass. Admission 35/25zł. U

Warsaw National Museum

Located inside a huge and decidedly bizarre interwar building, this is Warsaw’s most comprehensive art museum, leading you from the ancient world through the middle ages up to the 19th century. Along the way you’ll see the some of the country’s most priceless works, including 15th century Dutch masters and Botticelli, plus Polish masters like Chełmoński, Matejko and Wyspiański. There’s also the Gallery of Polish Design and the Faras Gallery - the latter of which holds a rare exhibit of medieval Nubian art from the Nile River Valley, plus temporary exhibits. On Fridays between 17:00 and 20:00, there's a 50% discount on all admission (not counting 1zł tickets). Visiting time: 3hrs.QH-8, Al. Jerozolimskie 3, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 22 621 10 31, www.mnw.art.pl. Open 10:00-18:00; Fri 10:00-20:00; closed Mon. Admission 30/15zł for permanent exhibits; kids and students up to 26; 1zł; Tue free. U

Jewish Warsaw

When Nazi Germany invaded Poland in September 1939, Warsaw’s thriving Jewish population numbered approximately 350,000 - only New York City could boast a larger community.

Although anti-Semitism was by no means rare, Poland had been seen as a relative safe haven, and it attracted Jewish settlers forced into flight by more discriminatory regimes elsewhere. By the inter-war years, the Jewish population had made significant contributions to the social, political and cultural fabric of Poland.

As we know, Nazi occupation meant the complete dehumanisation and systematic destruction of Poland’s Jews, who were first forced into ghettos, where they faced violence, starvation and disease, and then deported to Nazi death camps where they were executed. The Warsaw Ghetto was the largest of WWII and occupied much of the City Centre, as you can see by its outline on the maps in this guide. At its height it imprisoned 460,000 Jews in an area of 3.4km2. After more than 254,000 Varsovian Jews were sent to their deaths at Treblinka in the summer of 1942, those remaining began building bunkers and smuggling weapons into the Ghetto in preparation for what would be the war’s largest act of Jewish resistance. Beginning on April 19, 1943, Jewish fighting units engaged German troops in guerilla

warfare within the walls of the Ghetto in a final, doomed act of bravery, defiance and protest against the world’s silence and inaction. When the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising ended 27 days later with the German command’s symbolic detonation of the Great Synagogue, 13,000 Jews had been killed, almost half of them perishing from the fire and smoke as the Nazis burned the Ghetto to the ground, building by building. Of the remaining 50,000 Jews, almost all of them were captured and perished at the Majdanek or Treblinka Nazi death camps.

Following WWII, much of Warsaw’s surviving Jewish population chose to emigrate to the U.S., the British mandate of Palestine (taking an active part in the creation of Israel) and elsewhere. Today Warsaw’s Jewish community is estimated at only about 2,000, but the city’s Jewish heritage remains an essential part of its identity, honoured today by innumerable monuments, memorials, museums and events, foremost among them the POLIN Museum, presenting the history of Polish Jews, and the annual Singer’s Warsaw Festival For a full list of Jewish tourism sites in Warsaw, visit our website

The spectacular wooden synagogue installation at POLIN Museum.

Worth Visiting

Anielewicz Bunker

Only 350m from POLIN, this small mound and memorial marks the site of the large bunker from which the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising was lead by the Jewish Combat Organisation (ŻOB). Located beneath the tenement at the wartime address of ul. Miła 18 (today Miła 2), the bunker was discovered and surrounded by the Nazis on May 8, 1943, with about 300 people hiding inside. Given the chance to surrender, half of the occupants - mostly civilians - gave themselves up, but the ŻOB insurrectionists chose to stay and fight. When the Nazis used gas to force them out, many of the ŻOB fighters chose suicide. 120 fighters died, including ŻOB commander Mordechai Anielewicz and his girlfriend Mira Fuchrer; only about 15 survived (many of whom perished later). The bodies of the dead were never exhumed and covered over with rubble from the surrounding tenements to make this mound after the war. Today two monuments can be found on/near the memorial with inscriptions commemorating their sacrifice.

QD-3, ul. Miła 2, MDworzec Gdański.

Jewish Historical Institute

This amazing historical building that stood next to Warsaw’s Great Synagogue houses the Oneg Shabbat Archive, also known as the Ringelblum Archive - a secretly kept collection of documents, reports, essays, letters and other materials recording exactly what life was like in the Warsaw Ghetto, by those who were experiencing it, as it happened. As the Ghetto came under siege in 1943, the vast archive was secretly buried in three containers in three separate locations. Sadly, only the first two have been recovered, but they represent such extraordinary witness testimony that they were inscribed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World List

In the permanent exhibit you will see the original documents of the archive, the authentic containers and more. If you don’t have the time for POLIN, this is a great alternative. There are also temporary exhibits and an excellent bookshop. Visiting time: 90mins.

QE-5, ul. Tłomackie 3/5, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 827 92 21, www.jhi.pl. Open 10:00-18:00; Fri 10:00-16:00; closed Sat. Last entrance 1h before closing. Admission 15/10zł. Mon free. Guided tour of permanent exhibit (Tue-Fri): 40 zł.

Okopowa Street Jewish Cemetery

A beautiful and poignant place to visit, this is Warsaw’s only active Jewish cemetery. Established in 1806 beyond the city trenches (‘okopy,’ where today’s Okopowa Street runs), the cemetery houses some 200,000 tombs and is the final resting place of many generations of Varsovian Jews, including Ludwik Zamenhof, inventor of the international language Esperanto.QB-5, ul. Okopowa 49/51, tel. (+48) 22 838 26 22, www.cemetery.jewish.org.pl. Open 10:00-17:00; Fri 10:00-15:00; closed Sat. Admission 20zł. N

POLIN Museum

One of the best museums in Poland, POLIN explains a millennium of Polish Jewish history and relations through multimedia displays that earned the 2016 European Museum of the Year award. Located within the former Warsaw Ghetto, the modern building itself is a stunning structure of copper and glass. Inside, each gallery addresses a different era in the history of the Jewish people in PL. Learn about kings, inventors, thinkers and industrialists; about Jewish holidays, customs, religion and culture. While the Holocaust is described in detail, the permanent exhibit is primarily a celebration of 1,000 years of Jewish life in PL. It takes the better part of a day to explore. One combined ticket gets you into permanent and temporary exhibits. The museum is also home to a cafe and an excellent restaurant serving traditional Jewish cuisine (kosher dishes available). In the middle of a green public square, outside, visitors will also see several monuments, including a massive memorial the heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto. Plan ahead because the last entrance to the core exhibit is 2 hours before closing time. Visiting time: 3hrs.QD-4, ul. Anielewicza 6, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 471 03 01, www.polin.pl. Open 10:00-18:00; Sat 10:00-20:00; closed Tue. Admission with audio guide 45/35zł, Thu free. T­U

Okopowa Jewish Cemetery (B-4) in the Wola district. Photo by Fotokon / Adobestock.

Warsaw Uprising

August 1, 1944 . Warsaw, subject to five years of fascist hegemony, rose up in rebellion in what would be the largest uprising in the German occupied territories.

With German morale in ribbons, a retreat from Warsaw in full swing, and the Red Army on the east bank of the Vistula, no time seemed better than the present. Following close contact with the Polish government-in-exile, and assurances of Allied aid, the Home Army (Poland’s wartime military movement a.k.a the ‘Armia Krajowa’ or AK) launched a military strike with the aim of liberating Warsaw and installing an independent government. What ensued was an epic 63-day struggle during which the Home Army faced the full wrath of Hitler’s forces.

17:00 - W-Hour

On orders from General Tadeusz ‘Bor’ Komorowski, 17:00 signalled W-Hour (‘Wybuch’ standing for outbreak), the time when some 40,000 members of the Home Army would simultaneously attack key German positions. Warsaw at the time was held by a garrison of 15,000 Germans, though any numerical supremacy the Poles had was offset by a lack of weaponry. Nonetheless the Germans were caught off guard, and the Poles captured a string of strategic targets, including the Old Town, Prudential Tower and the post office. The first day cost the lives of 2,000 Poles, yet for the first time since occupation the Polish flag fluttered once more over the capital.

Within days German reinforcements poured in, and on August 5th and 6th Nazi troops rampaged through the western Wola district, massacring over 40,000 men, women and children in what would become one of the most savage episodes of the Uprising. It was to prove a mixed first week for the Poles. In liberated areas, cultural life thrived. Better still, the first allied airdrops hinted at the support of the west. As it turned out, this was just papering over the cracks. The Germans, under the command of Erich von dem Bach, replied with heavy artillery, aerial attacks, armoured trains and tanks.

Fantastically ill-equipped, the one thing on the insurgents' side was an almost suicidal fanaticism and belief. Casualties were almost 20 times as high as those inflicted on the Germans, yet the Poles carried on the fight with stoic self-assurance. Airdrops were vital if the uprising was to succeed, though hopes were scuppered with Stalin’s refusal to allow Allied planes landing rights in Soviet-held airports. Instead the RAF set up a new route running from the Italian town of Brindisi to Warsaw, though casualty rates proved high with over 16% of aircraft lost, and the drops often inaccurate. All hopes rested on the Russians.

Polish Home Army soldiers in action, 1944.

After six weeks of inaction Red Army Marshal Rokossovsky finally gave the go-ahead for a Polish force under General Berling to cross the river. The operation was a debacle, with heavy casualties and no headway made. This single attempt at crossing the Wisla was enough; Warsaw was on its own. Already by this time the situation in Warsaw’s Old Town had become untenable, and a daring escape route was hatched through the sewers running under the city. The Germans were now free to focus on wiping out the remaining outposts of resistance, a task undertaken with glee. Abandoned by her allies the Poles were forced to capitulate, some 63 days after they had taken on the Reich.

The Aftermath

Having deposited their weaponry, 11,668 Polish soldiers marched into German captivity. The battle had cost up to 200,000 civilian lives, while military casualties between Germans and Poles would add a further 40,000 to the figure. Remaining inhabitants were exiled (though around 2,000 are believed to have seen the liberation by hiding in the ruins), and the Germans set about obliterating what was left of the city. ‘No stone can remain standing,’ warned Himmler, and what happened next can only be described as the methodical and calculated murder of a city. Buildings of importance to Polish culture were dynamited by teams of engineers, while less historic areas were simply burned to the ground. Modern studies estimate the cost of damage at around $54bn. In human terms Poland lost much more. With the Uprising died a golden generation, the very foundation a new post-war Poland could build on.

Warsaw Rising Museum

Opened in 2004, this remains one of Poland’s best museums. Packed with interactive, multimedia displays, period artefacts, photos, video footage and plenty of sounds effects, this museum is guaranteed to leave a mark on all visitors. Occupying a former tram power station, the 2,000m2 space is split over several levels, leading visitors through the chronological story of the 1944 Uprising - provided they don’t make any wrong turns; it’s a common mistake, and, as such, an audioguide (10zł) is handy. You can also get a guided tour in Polish (150zł) or in another language (250zł). Set aside several hours for the experience. Visitors start by learning about life under Nazi rule, with immersive displays including a clandestine radio station and covert printing press. The mezzanine level features a film detailing the first month of battle, including the opportunity to clamber through a mock sewer. There is also an exact replica of the B24 Allied planes used to make supply drops over the besieged city. The final sections are devoted to the creation of a Soviet puppet state, a hall of remembrance, and a particularly poignant display about the city’s destruction; take time to watch the black and white ‘before and after’ shots of important Warsaw landmarks being systematically obliterated by the Nazis.Near the exit check out the film City of Ruins, a silence-inducing 5min 3D aerial ‘film’ that uses old photos and new tech to recreate the desolation of ‘liberated’ Warsaw in March 1945. A viewing platform and ‘peace garden’ wrap up this experience. Expect 35zł or 40 zł for a group in Polish. Other language tours cost more. Book in advance on the web. Visiting time: 3hrs.QB-7, ul. Grzybowska 79, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 22 539 79 05, www.1944.pl. Open 8:00-18:00; Sat, Sun 10:00-18:00; closed Tue. Admission 35/30zł (kids under 7 free), Mon free. Audioguides in 8 languages 13zł/person. U

The Old Town Market Square in ruins, 1945.

© City of Warsaw

Activities & Experiences

Hey, it doesn’t all have to be exhausting museums and knee-lifts as you explore Poland’s largest city. Check out the local activities below if you’re looking for fun alternatives to traditional sightseeing, ready to try something new, or simply want some rest and relaxation.

Stacja Grawitacja

Smart Kids Planet

Smart Kids Planet is one of the best spots for kids and families in Poland! With 9 thematic zones and with over 50 engaging activities throughout, kids can play and learn as they do different tasks like building construction, shopping for food and fresh produce, learning about sports, and the magic of machinery and production lines, and much more! They'll develop cognitive function and cooperation skills all while having fun (plus there's a rest area for parents!)QD-8, ul. Żelazna 51/53, MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 727 77 08 80, www.smartkidsplanet.pl. Open 9:00-20:00.

Gravity getting you down? Get the bounce back in your step at this huge trampoline park that also features 3D virtual reality gaming by Hologate, a ropes course, obstacle course, basketball and volleyball courts and even a climbing wall with routes for all ages and abilities. Put on anti-slip socks and join the fun. Children ages 3-6 must be accompanied by adults; older kids can be let loose while their parents hang out at the well-stocked cafe.

Qal. Bohaterów Września 12, tel. (+48) 726 13 06 66, www. stacjagrawitacja.pl. Open 10:00-22:00; Sat, Sun 10:00-21:00.

Museum World of Illusion

A strict break from the stuffiness of the Old Town, this fun, colourful museum is exciting and educational for all ages. Enter the Matrix, a mirror room, a vortex, the room of shadows, and an upsidedown room - each and every one out-of-this world! Pefect for groups and pairs -- go discover the extent to which the mind can be tricked by the eye (don't forget to whip out your phone for pics!).QF-4, Rynek Starego Miasta 21, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 501 80 80 06, www.swiatiluzji.pl. Open 09:00-20:00; Sat, Sun 10:00-21:00. Admission 42/32zł.

MK Bowling Entertainment Center

Found inside Galeria Młociny in the northern district of Bielany, this modern entertainment centre is just 2 mins away from the final stop of the M1. Once you’re there, you have the choice of 18 bowling lanes, 9 billiards tables, 4 shuffleboard tables, and 2 electronic dart boads, plus a kitchen that dishes out sandwiches, beer, snacks and more!Call in advance to reserve.Qul. Zgrupowania AK Kampinos 15 (Galeria Młociny, 2nd floor), MMłociny, tel. (+48) 600 80 05 56, www.mkbowling.pl/start-warszawa. Open 12:0022:00; Fri 12:00-24:00; Sat 10:00-24:00; Sun 10:00-22:00.

Highline Warsaw NEW

Atop the highest tower in the EU, this place should be your final stop after sightseeing. Get 360-degree views of the city from their observation deck on the 53rd floor. The tour to the top starts with a speedy panoramic elevator among the clouds. There’s an exhibition about Warsaw and an Experience Room with three films about the city’s history. Also head to the HighGarden Rooftop Lounge on the 49th floor for cocktails.QE-8, Varso Tower, Chmielna 69, MRondo ONZ, tel. (48) 22 162 52 50, www.highlinewarsaw. com. Open 10:00-22:00.

Warsaw Arcade Museum

This is one for nostalgia and fun-lovers alike! This interactive museum of video games is like a time machine back to the 80s and 90s, with tons of classic video games available to everyone, 120 vintage arcade machines and even the history of arcade games and their revolution over the years. Find arcade classics like Pac Man, Mario, Donkey Kong and much much more. Perfect for kids and adults!QAl. Jerozolimskie 200, tel. (+48) 573 999 815, www.warsawarcademuseum.com. Open 14:00-21:00; Fri 14:00-22:00; Sat 11:00-22:00; Sun 11:00-20:00. 60/40zł/1h.

Beauty & Spa

Elektrownia Powiśle’s Beauty Hall provides all kinds of incredible beauty and rejuvenating treatments – from head to toe!

By this point, you’re well aware of how jam-packed Warsaw is. From little cafes to walking paths, to Old Town (p.40), park (p.58) and center city (p.30) sightseeing. But sometimes you just need to take a break from all the exploring and relax, and Warsaw is the place for that, too!

In fact, we think it’s better than many other cities in this department for a number of reasons. A big one is variety. Warsaw spas and beauty centers use different concepts to bring you a relaxing, fun experience that you cannot find anywhere else.

Beauty Hall

Elektrownia Powiśle’s Beauty Hall is an oasis of beauty and relaxation in the heart of Warsaw. The one-ofa-kind concept offers the comfort of holistic beauty in a lovely space. Take advantage of a wide range of face and body treatments in the Beauty Skin clinic, massages and holistic rituals in Balance & Beauty by Marta Bem, and barber and beauty services offered by experienced specialists at the Warsaw House of Lords salon. It is an ideal destination for both a quick treatment during the day and a longer regeneration after work or on the weekend. The Beauty Hall zone is found on level +2 in Elektrownia PowiśleQH/I-6, ul. Dobra 42 (Elektrownia Powiśle), MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 22 128 56 00, www.beautyhall.pl Open 08:00-20:00; Sun 10:00-19:00.

Beer & Wine SPA

What do you get when you combine a love of fine wines and beers, a passion for relaxation, and a beautiful spot for health and well-being? Of course the answer is the Beer and Wine Spa!

Here you can enjoy high-quality spa treatments like goat milk baths, massages and more, along with some of the tastiest beverages you can find in the city. In fact, the two are so intertwined, that you can even get facial treatments from the beer and grape cosmetics line which give your skin deep rejuvination. Or book a whole beer/wine spa package and sip a glass of bubbly while you enjoy top-notch spa treatments.

This is really a true symbol of comfort and relaxation, with the concept based on the idea that good feelings and good well-being go hand-in-hand. Plus, you can enjoy 20% off all treatments during a current promotion! Perfect for couples, singles, friend groups and more.QG-7, plac Powstańców Warszawy 2a, MŚwiętokrzyska, tel. (+48) 662 380 090, www.beerandwinespa.pl. Open 12:00-20:00.

Enel Med

With 30 years of top-tier dental care, Enel Med offers up a whole range of services, like dentistry, specialized treatment (like implantology, prosthetics, orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontology and more), and even cosmetic dentistry and oral hygiene. Plus, if you have a toothache or other oral emergency, you can contact EnelMed - Emergency Service. The team includes over 300 dentists and 150 assistants and hygienists, in clinics located all around Poland (seven in total!) If you’re looking to get some cosmetic or dentistry procedure done while you’re traveling around Poland, this is the place. There are 20 branches around Warsaw, and the hours differ, so make sure to check the website before you go.

Qul. Gilarska 86 C, MZacisze, tel. (+48) 660 307 007, www.enel.pl. Open 07:00-20:00; Sat 08:00-15:00; Sun 08:00-17:00.

Estell Clinic

This spot offers a multitude of different beauty options, from body shaping to dermatology. This is where you come for some top-notch beauty treatments. Some of their most popular offers are skin consultations, body shaping, eye area treatments and more. Suffering from migranes? They can help. Tired of loose skin from weight loss? Here too. Wrinkles, scar removal, dry facial skin... The list goes on (and on and on). It's worth taking a look at their list of offerings because it's far beyond anything we could describe here. These are world-class services at unbeatable prices. If you want a little beautification amid your stay in Warsaw, this is undoubtedly the place for it. Two other locations at Okopowa 58/72 and ul. Burakowska 14, with earlier hours. Check before you go!QF-5, ul. Bielańska 2. MRateusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 431 36 66, www.estell.pl. Open 08:00-21:00; Sat 09:00-18:00; Closed Sun.

From haircuts to makeup, there's a plethora of offers at Beauty Hall Elektrownia Powiśle.

Kids & Families

While Warsaw has plenty of wonders, not every cultural site is going to be engaging for young visitors. The first step to having a successful family vacation is probably to just accept that what you and your kids want to do are not going to be one and the same. That said, there’s common ground to be found in some of Warsaw’s most popular attractions.

Wandering the Old Town (p.40) or Łazienki (p.58) will likely please everyone, as will a walk along the Vistula Boulevards (p.55) - a great outing with plenty of diversions, most obvious of which is the stimulating and educational Copernicus Science Centre (p.56) and Multimedia Fountain Park further north. You’ll also find playgrounds along the river, and in the high season you can take a ferry to the wild side of Wisła and enjoy one of the city’s wild beaches

Although it may sound more like punishment, kids really respond to the interactive exhibits of the highly modern Warsaw Rising Museum (p.81), which features areas designed specifically for young visitors. Some of Warsaw’s more niche museums like the National Ethnographic Museum, Museum of Dollhouses and Photoplasticon are also good choices for families. Of course, Warsaw has plenty of action-packed indoor attractions, too so don’t miss the rainy day recommendations on the previous pages.

E. Wedel Chocolate Factory Museum

This museum is a kid's dream come true! One of the most popular chocolatiers in the country, Wedel, has a large exhibit that lets you discover the secrets of chocolate production and delicacies through a thematic exhibition, interactive displays and workshops for adults and children alike. There are also classes that combine learning and fun for organized groups of children and teenagers. There are three levels in the museum, which teach kids about how chocolate is made -- from picking the beans to storing them -- as well as the techniques for making chocolate. Think Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory come to life!

And of course, what would a chocolate museum be without tastings? There's plenty of that, as well as a great opportunity for kids to design their own boxes for the popular Ptasie Mleczko Wedel chocolate confection!Qaleja Emila Wedla 5, MStadion Narodowy, www.fabrykaczekolady.pl. Open 10:0020:00. 70/55zł.

Stacja Grawitacja (p.82), the high-fun, high jumps, activity center lets you bounce away the winter blues.

Warsaw Photoplasticon

Hidden in a darkened pre-war tenement near the train station, a visit here really is a trip back in time. A popular form of entertainment in the pre-cinema era, a ‘photoplasticon’ is basically a 3D peep show (no, not the saucy kind) where visitors sit in front of a viewing station to see vivid photos as they slowly rotate by. Although photoplasticons were quickly made obsolete by moving pictures, this one, which has been located here since 1905, somehow stayed open, surviving the war and even serving as a meeting point for intellectuals during the communist era. Check online to see what’s loaded into the machine (does it matter?). Visiting time: 20mins.

QF-8, Al. Jerozolimskie 51, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 629 60 78, www.fotoplastikonwarszawski.pl. Open 10:00-18:00; closed Tue. Admission 10/6zł; Thu free.

Smart Kids Planet

Young families visiting Warsaw need not worry about wholesome and constructive fun for the kids! Head along to Fabryka Norblina (p.33) and you will find Smart Kids Planet - the first edutainment centre in Poland, that is, a recreational format that bridges the gap between playrooms and science centres. Divided into 9 thematic zones and with over 50 engaging activities throughout, young minds can journey through many different worlds - building construction, food and fresh produce, sports, the magic of machinery and production lines, and right out into the cosmos with their very own designs coming to life before their eyes! Made for children aged from 0-10, this is certainly not a traditional ‘educational’ environment! Online tickets: 45-95zł; tickets at reception: 49-99zł. Buy for 1-2 hours or a full day. For children aged 0-10 QD-8, ul. Żelazna 51/53 (Fabryka Norblina), MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 727 77 08 80, www.smartkidsplanet.pl. Open 09:00-20:00. U

Warsaw Arcade Museum

This is one for nostalgia and fun-lovers alike! This interactive museum of video games is like a time machine back to the 80s and 90s, with tons of classic video games available to everyone, 120 vintage arcade machines and even the history of arcade games and their evolution over the years. Find arcade classics like Pac Man, Mario, Donkey Kong and much much more. Perfect for a break from the regular tourist attractions, and great for a birthday party, corporate meeting or event, the Warsaw Arcade museum is a must-visit! QAl. Jerozolimskie 200, tel. (+48) 573 999 815, www.warsawarcademuseum.com. Open 14:00-21:00; Fri 14:00-22:00; Sat 11:00-22:00; Sun 11:00-20:00. 60/40zł/1h. THE

Dining in Warsaw

Nowhere is Warsaw’s vibrancy and diversity more apparent than in its progressive culinary scene. What follows are some of the most noteworthy dining establishments in the capital, divided into basic categories with the type of cuisine listed under the venue name; for more options visit our website. In terms of tipping, 10% is standard (easy math). Smacznego!

With 3 locations in Warsaw (and one in Poznan), Yes Butcher! really knows their stuff when it comes to delectable cuts of meat.

Yes Butcher! Shop & Bistro

utensils Steak

Under the helm of experienced chef Michał Gniadek, this shop has three elegant locations in Żoliborz, Mokotów and Saska Kępa (and one in Poznan). The first thing that’s likely to catch your eye is the enormous counter displaying the best this shop has to offer. That’s various cuts of steak (sirloin, striploin, ribeye, tomahawk, T-bone, picanha, hanger, Denver, and flat iron), all from countries known for their beef. They also offer lamb, veal, pork, organic poultry and homemade meals. You can order online and have it shipped to any city in Poland! Or do takeaway. Almost every product can be sampled on-site. Yes Butcher! has won two prestigious awards at the World Steak Challenge gala: including World’s Best Grain-Fed Ribeye and a gold medal of excellence for its ribeye from a Polish Hereford Premium heifer.

QL-8, ul. Wandy 16, MStadion Narodowy, tel. (+48) 798 03 98 69, www.yesbutcher.pl

Open 12:00-22:00; Sun 12:00-20:00. Shop: MondaySaturday: 10:00–22:00 Sunday: 10:00–20:00. €€€. U­S

KUK Restaurant

utensils International

Culinary artistry gets up close and personal with the sophistication and essence of Warsaw’s history, as KUK embraces both a natural and local approach to its menu. Their dishes indulge the taste buds with a range of wholesome ingredients and products, all sourced from trusted crops and seasonal delights just as they were by the discerning foodie class of the Polish Renaissance! KUK is part of the 18thcentury Branicki-Szaniawski complex (p.42). Chef Dawid Bielecki draws inspiration from Polish cuisine, combining classic flavors with a modern approach and local ingredients. It embraces Polish and Varsovian cuisine, presenting it all in a light, fresh way that’s both contemporary and rooted in tradition. Their small plates are perfect for sharing among friends.

QF-4, ul. Miodowa 6/8, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 511 46 46 45, www.hotelverte.com/kuk.

Open 17:00-23:00; Sat 12:00–23:00; Sun 12:00-23:00. Last order: 22:00. €€€€. X­T­U­E­6

Breakfast & Brunch

For some the direction of the day depends on the ability to eat a good breakfast, so we’ve highlighted some of our favourite places in Warsaw that specialise in śniadania (the Polish word for breakfast). Whether you’re an early bird or a late riser, get a good first feed in the places listed here!

AïOLI Bread & Apertivo

With two beloved, and popular, spots in Warsaw, it’s hard to miss AïOLI. And why would you want to? They have some of the best food in the city, with tons of offerings that include great breakfasts. This cozy restaurant, located right in the heart of Warsaw, is a must-visit on your travels. The breakfasts are great here with offerings like English breakfast, focaccia, eggs, a bacon sandwich and an array of great coffee options. There's also excellent, fresh smoothies, bubble tea and iced tea. This is the ultimate place to join friends for a weekend brunch! If you come midday, try the three-course lunch deal and sample some amazing coffees from a local roastery. Don't miss their evening drink offers too! This is far from merely a breakfast and brunch spot! QF-8, ul. Chmielna 26, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 575 737 760, www.aioli.com.pl. Open 09:00-24:00; Fri, Sat 09:0001:00. €€€. X­B­6

Amar Beirut

Amar Beirut, an iconic Lebanese restaurant in the Norblin Factory, is the perfect place to start your day. Breakfast is served on the weekends (08:0012:00) , and features freshly baked manakish, labneh, variety of eggs, cheese, za’atar, and warm oven-fresh bread—paired with tea, fresh juices, or aromatic Lebanese coffee. Plus, guests can listen to live music, take part in the joyful celebrations of national Lebanese holidays, and smoke a hookah filled with high-quality tobacco. Amar Beirut is the embodiment of Lebanese hospitality, with engaging décor and wonderful live music. Stick around after breakfast for the main menu, including hot baked Lebanese breads, authentic falafel, and more.QŻelazna 51/53, MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 799 600 700, www.amarbeirut.pl. Open 12:00-24:00; Fri 12:00-02:00; Sat, Sun 08:00-02:00*. Breakfast is served only on the weekends (08:00-12:00). €€€. B­E­6

Elegant breakfast, right in the heart of the city; Nova Wola feels metropolitan, chic, and above all, dishes up some flavorful food!

Bułkę przez Bibułkę

The interior's shabby chic look fits quite well with the warmth and mood of the place. It's important to highlight the most important aspects of this place, the first being that they serve all-day breakfasts which are damn good! From bagels to soups and sandwiches, it's all there. Furthermore, something for all budgets, 0.5l wine is 24zł from 16:00-21:00 daily, and prosecco 8zł, and tap water is always free! Their other locations are on ul. Zwycięzców 32 in Saska Kępa, ul. Puławska 24 in the Mokotów district, ul. Żurawia 6/12 and in Śródmieście district, Al. Wojska Polskiego 3 in Konstancin. Also a location in Fuzja in Łódż.QG-8, ul. Zgoda 3, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 730 28 55 22, www.bulkeprzezbibulke.pl. Open 07:30-23:00; Sat 08:00-23:00; Sun 08:00-22:00. €. T­B­6

Nova Wola

Located within the elegant Crowne Plaza Hotel, Nova Wola encourages a wholesome start to your day in Warsaw, with a fresh and organic breakfast selection as part of its impressive modern Polish menu offer (p.100). Served mainly for guests of the hotel, the breakfast will run you 110 zł. Whether you opt for the breakfast buffet or à la carte, you’ll find light and healthy options crafted from local and seasonal ingredients. The breakfast menu includes favorites like omelettes with customizable add-ins, shakshouka, brioche with smoked salmon, avocado and fried egg, and oatmeal with coconut milk. For those seeking unique choices, Nova Wola also offers baked sweet potatoes with yogurt, berries, and granola, as well as hummus with roasted vegetables, avocado and egg. Additionally, the restaurant stands out by offering entire pots of coffee!QC-8, Rondo Daszyńskiego 2, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 22 377 38 01, www.novawola.com. Open 06:30-10:30; Sat, Sun 06:30-11:00. €€€€. T­U

Stacja Caffe

Bounce your way on over to some tasty food as you enjoy one of Warsaw’s best activity parks! Located right in the oh-so-popular Stacja Grawitacja trampoline (and more) center is this charming cafe, which serves everything from mozzarella and pesto sandwiches, to egg breakfasts, gnocchi meals and an array of smoothies! It’s the perfect break after a fun day (and a workout!) jumping around the activity center, which includes a trampoline park, a climbing wall, a ropes course, and way more. Fuel up at the cafe and head back out for more fun!Qal. Bohaterów Września 12, tel. (+48) 726 13 06 66, www.stacjagrawitacja.pl/warszawa/bistro/menustacja-caffe/. Open 10:00-22:00; Sat, Sun 10:00-21:00. €. T­6­i

With perfect portions of flavorful, and uber-traditional Lebanese food, Amar Beirut really shines.

The Cool Cat

One of our favourites, The Cool Cat is part Asianfusion bistro, part cocktail dive bar, all Varsovian awesome. If you need evidence that this laidback cult hangout has hipness to spare, they sells jars of their own vegan mayo and kimchi, plus kombucha for 25 zł. In terms of dining in, The Cool Cat specialises in ramen (of course) and serves an iconic bao donut dessert topped with matcha ice cream and caramel miso. They also have weekday lunch specials for only 36zł (12:00-16:00), exceptional coffee, wacky cocktails, craft beer and natural wines. Honestly, there’s no reason not to be here. 2nd location at ul. Marszałkowska 8 (H-12).QI-7, ul. Solec 38, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 574 81 18 16. Open 10:0022:00; Sat 09:30-22:00; Sun 09:30-21:00. €€. T­6

To Lubię

Escape just beyond the medieval confines of the Old Town walls to find this charmingly twee cafe specialising in coffee, cakes, quiche and delicious fruit crumbles. Every day find fluffy cheesecakes, rich chocolate brownies with cherries, meringues with whipped cream and seasonal fruit, and baked apples with crumble topping. If you enjoy Kraków’s cosy cafe culture, this spot is right up that alley, as opposed to the capital’s overabundance of postindustrial spaces with modern, minimal furnishings. When it comes to indulging in aromatic coffee and rich cakes, we’ll take the former. Breakfast is served all day, as well as wraps, lots of matcha products, and some savoury snacks. The name translates to ‘I like this’ and indeed we do.QF-3, ul. Freta 8, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 635 90 23, www.tolubie.pl. Open 09:00-22:00; Mon 10:00-22:00. €. 6

Casual dining

Sometimes you just need a casual and convenient place to relax, enjoy good food, vibes and hospitality. The following venues deliver in that regard. While our listed opening hours seem self-explanatory, be aware that some venues close their doors if business is slow, while others stay open after the kitchen has closed. In such cases, the hours we list are for the kitchen.

AïOLI Cantine Bar Cafe Deli

utensils International

Dominated by two large circular bars—one around the kitchen hung with colanders and racks of prosciutto, the other an actual drink bar ringed with wine glasses—this spot with wooden furnishings, fresh herbs and brick accents is simply delightful. Excellent service further elevates the atmosphere. The exciting, modern menu extends from light tapas and seafood to pasta and more -- and don’t miss their famous homemade aioli sauce. This place absolutely buzzes, aided by breakfast and lunch specials, affordable prices and a kitchen that stays open late. Plus, live music! 2nd location at ul. Chmielna 26 (F-8). QF-7, ul. Świętokrzyska 18, MŚwiętokrzyska, tel. (+48) 518 81 93 02, www.aioli.com.pl/en/home-spot. Open 09:00-24:00; Fri, Sat 09:00-01:00. €€€. T­U­B­6

Symbol & Price Key

utensils Category of Cuisine

C-1 Map Coordinate

E Live music

Banjaluka

utensils Balkan

Head here for monstrous portions of the best Balkan food in town. This central spot, open for nearly 22 years is described by the owners as a “lively, tough grandmother with tattoos, good style and a smile” Choose from all kinds of amazing Balkan food like juicy, well-seasoned meats, stuffed peppers with cheese, and roastbeef u rakija sljivovici (aka filled with plum rakija). And don’t just come here for the food -the experience itself is great, too! Especially because they have live music every evening, along with a colorful, magical outdoor garden in the summer months. QF-7, ul. Szkolna 2/4, MŚwiętokrzyska, tel. (+48) 22 828 10 60, www.banjaluka.pl. Open 16:0000:00; Mon 16:00–23:00; Fri 16:00-01:00; Sat 12:0001:00; Sun 12:00-22:00. €€€. T­E­6

N Credit cards not accepted

M Metro o Year-round garden

T Child-friendly

U Facilities for the disabled

X Smoking room available

6 Animal friendly

€ most mains under 35zł

€€ most mains 35–55zł

€€€ most mains 55–80zł

€€€€ most mains 80–120zł

€€€€€ most mains over 120zł

Beef n’ Pepper’s surf and turf beef tenderloin is just one of the succulent, and perfectly seasoned, dishes on the menu.

Beef n’ Pepper

utensils Steak

Hidden away in a small alleyway alongside the famous Roma Theatre, the exterior may look like you’re about to enter a 1970’s Texas shopping mall, but inside it’s a smart, urban steakhouse and bar. The quality of the cuts here is excellent (28 days wet-aged or 30 days dry-aged) and the fact that they use the finest local meats means the prices are surprisingly reasonable. Seafood and Louisiana Chicken Wings struggle for a look-in as beef rules. In addition to a fine wine list, the slick bar has a brilliant selection of whiskies and bourbons, and there’s live music every Tuesday from 19:00.QF-9, ul. Nowogrodzka 47A, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 785 02 50 25, www.beefandpepper.pl. Open 12:00-24:00. €€€€.

T­U­E­6

Bliski

Wschód Vege Street Food

& Cocktail Bar

utensils Vegetarian & Vegan

If you’re one to think flavor only comes from dishes with meat, let Bliski Wschód dispell that notion right now. This all-vegetarian restaurant packs a flavor punch with meals inspired by cuisines of Lebanon, Turkey, Israel, Tunisia and Egypt. And while you dine on a savory halloumi burger or a crispy bite of falafel, you can admire the gorgeous interior, with delightful design elements that add to the overall atmosphere of the Middle Eastern space. Plus, there are two levels and VIP rooms for smaller parties, so you can plan events or hold get-togethers here! If you like to have shisha, this is also the spot, as it has an extensive sisha menu done in an unusual way.QF-8, ul. Złota 11, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 668 01 69 79. Open 12:00-22:00; Mon 12:00-21:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-23:00; Sun 12:00-21:00. €€. X­T­U­B­6

Browar Warszawski

utensils International

The revamped Warsaw Brewery is one of the largest, most modern brewpubs in the region, producing 18 craft beers on site, from contemporary IPAs to legacy ales from the days of the Haberbusch & Schiele Brewery. Choosing is hard, so try a tasting set. The menu is tailored to complement your liquid meal, and includes a truffle burger, fresh seafood, platters from the Josper grill, plus veggie options, signature cocktails and single malt whiskys. The post-industrial interior has plenty of intimate spaces, and also gives you a peek at the brewing process.QC-7, ul. Haberbuscha i Schielego 2, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 799 00 00 21, www.browarwarszawski.com Open 16:00-00:00; Sat 14:00-00:00; Sun 14:00–22:00. €€€. E

The last secrects of comunist cuisine... 1909

“Czerwony Wieprz” was recommended by The New York Times as the best Polish cuisine restaurant and included in a list of 10 reasons to visit Warsaw.

Czerwony Wieprz Restaurant 68 Żelazna Street, Warsaw Booking: +48 22 850 31 44

Casual | Dining

BursztyNova Restaurant

utensils International BurztyNova Restaurant, tucked right into the heart of Warsaw’s bustling center city belongs to one of the largest dairies in Poland, which produces long-aged cheeses like Bursztyn, Szafir and Rubin (the first longripened cheeses in the country). With a production process that includes milk from local farms, aging from three months to three years, and a three-day brine bath, the creation of these cheeses is an intense, manual undertaking. And the results show in the flavors: robust, strong and delicious tastes that wash over your palate. This restaurant aims to give you the full cheese experience, meaning they have excellent pairings of wine, preserved jams, delicate honeys, and bitter or sweet chocolate. The menu goes on to include recipies that combine cheese in hot dishes, pastas, sauces, appetizers and more. Taste a jucy fall-off-the-bone cut of meat topped with lightly grated cheese, or a bed of perfectly roasted vegetables topped with a light mozzarella, or fresh greens accented with delicate cheese and a rich sauce. It’s all here! QE-6, ul. Królewska 16, MŚwiętokrzyska, tel. (+48) 519 310 110, www.bursztynovarestauracja.pl. Open 12:00-22:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-23:00. €€€. U­B­E­6

Ciao Napoli

utensils Italian

Located a short distance away from the Old Town Square (p.44), Ciao Napoli succeeds in bringing a little piece of Naples to the centre of Warsaw. Offering a selection of antipasti, salads, piadina, panuozzo and desserts, it’s the Neapolitan pizzas, with their fantastic thin and crispy dough, which really distinguish this small family-run franchise. The friendly atmosphere and cosiness of the restaurant also makes an impact, despite its popularity and the fact that its at the heart of one of the capital’s biggest tourist hotspots. That being said, you will leave satisfied, especially when you realise how reasonably priced the whole experience is! Their second location at ul. Piwna 40/42 (F-4) has weekday lunch specials from 12:00-16:00. QF-4, ul. Wąski Dunaj 4/6/8, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 508 69 43 52, www.ciaonapoli.pl. Open 12:0022:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-23:00. €€. T­B­6

Cucina Mia

utensils Italian

Ciucina Mia is both a story and a celebration of Italian cuisine and culture, with excellent, traditional dishes. Taste a wide range of flavors like Amalfi lemons, Umbriaco cheese soaked in red wine, earthy black truffles, salty and savory ham, and fresh mussles and red prawns straight off a Sicilian fishing boat.

In short, the food here is the real Italian deal. The restaurant has even reintroduced a 300-year-old recipe created in a small Italian town. Plus, the flavors are complemented by top-shelf wines and exquisite, rich desserts. And it’s all created by experienced chef Deniele Pampagnin, who boasts an impressive resume that includes restaurants in Mykonos, Ibiza and London, along with Michelin-recognized Chef Lorenzo Robustelli. QH-9, ul. Prusa 2 (Sheraton Grand Warsaw), MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 450 61 00, www.cucinamia.pl. Open 12:00-22:00. €€€. U­B­E

Czerwony Wieprz

utensils Polish

Workers of the world unite around a large choice of well-presented Socialist Bloc cuisine. Deriving its name from a former meeting place for members of the early communist movement, legend has it that even Lenin paid this place a visit in 1909. The interior is based on the style favoured by the 1950’s -1960’s party elite, and the walls are bedecked with memorabilia of the era. Somehow the owners have managed to carefully side swerve tackiness and the whole experience has a lovely, faded and nostalgic glam to it. Immensely popular with locals and tourists alike (including Bruce Willis, Lennox Lewis and the Real Madrid football squad), 2012 saw ‘The Hog’ voted one of the 25 best and most interesting restaurants in the world by the Spanish Trade Leaders’ Club. The restaurant closes at 23:00 daily, except for Sundays when it closes at 22:00.QC-7, ul. Żelazna 68, MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 22 850 31 44, www.czerwonywieprz.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Sun 12:0022:00. €€€. T­U­B

Gościniec Polskie Pierogi

utensils Polish

You can’t visit the capital of Poland without trying some traditional Polish food, right? Gościniec has just that - hearty soups, plump dumplings, potato pancakes and various cutlets - all prepared ‘as they should be’ and at very reasonable prices. You can’t go wrong with pierogi, but we’d personally recommend the pork chops or cabbage rolls stuffed with meat (known locally as gołąbki: go-womp-ki). The drinks on offer are quite funky (cold/hot options), and it’s all served up by friendly staff wearing folk attire. It may feel very kitsch inside, but the food hits the mark and the portions are immense. Additional locations at ul. Nowy Świat 43 (G-7), and deep in the Old Town at ul. Podwale 19 and ul. Piwna 14 (F-4).QG-5, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 29, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 273 69 36, www.gosciniec.waw.pl. Open 11:00-22:00; Fri, Sat 11:00-23:30. €€. T­B­6

Gospoda pod Zygmuntem

utensils Polish

With locations on the happening Nowy Świat street and another near the Old Town Square, this veteran Polish restaurant is as simple and traditional as it gets. A good option for tourists, families and anyone looking for their first foray into Polish cuisine, the modestly-priced, bilingual menu includes photos of almost every dish. There is a lot to choice, from classics like pierogi, potato pancakes with goulash and mushroom soup served in a bread bowl, to old school staples that have dropped off most modern menus like tripe soup and chicken livers with fried onions and baked apples. With a tidy, colourful interior and fast service, the experience is easy, accessible and satisfying. Also at ul.Świętojańska

15QG-7, ul. Nowy Świat 41, MNowy ŚwiatUniwersytet, tel. (+48) 22 428 39 43, www.gospoda. waw.pl. Open 11:00-22:00; Fri, Sat 11:00-23:30. €€. T­B­6

LAS

utensils Polish

Walk off the street and into what feels like the side kitchen to a dreamy like secret garden, with its swing, outside seating, leafy surroundings. Inside, the leafy theme continues - the venue’s name is Polish for ‘forest.’ Here you’ll find a very stunningly modern and hip take on Polish cuisine using seasonal ingredients, and great cocktails to match (returning in the evening is a must when you can chill out with friends). The portions are just right, with very ingenious presentations of fusion foods.QI-7, ul. Solec 44, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 514 76 07 67. Open 15:00-24:00; Sat 12:00-24:00; Sun 12:0023:00; closed Mon. €€. T­B­6

Lokal Vegan Bistro

utensils Vegetarian & Vegan

This humble restaurant run by the ‘Margins’ Social Cooperative has achieved what not long ago was considered by many to be inconceivable: their hearty vegan variations of traditional Polish dishes are as, if not more, delicious than their meat-and-egg-based counterparts. That’s quite an accomplishment in a country that fed itself in ‘milk bars’ not so long ago. Alongside seitan, soy and cabbage ‘cutlets’ on their frequently changing menu, you’ll also find vegan versions of popular dishes from international cuisines, plus a few surprises. Large portions, fresh ingredients and low prices make this a great option for a healthy meal.QG-9, ul. Krucza 23/31, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 517 61 51 22, www.lokalveganbistro.pl. Open 12.00-21.00; Sun 12.00-20.00. €€. T­U­6

is a unique restaurant in the heart of Warsaw, created by SPOMLEK - the Polish Dairy. Welcome to a culinary journey with the best Polish long maturing cheeses. Discover their rich taste in exquisite dishes, original desserts and unique combinations that will delight every gourmet!

BursztyNova Restaurant Warsaw, Królewska 16 (+48) 519 310 110

Casual | Dining

Nar Restaurant

utensils Mediterranean

Nar Restaurant brings authentic Mediterranean food straight from the sunny, stunning land of Turkiye, to a little atmospheric restaurant in Warsaw and offers everything you could want, from breakfast to lunch and dinner! The bold flavors really stand out here: light and flavorful mezze dishes with yogurt and marinated eggplant, juicy bites of grilled lamb and vegetables, perfectly seasoned slices of grilled beef.... The list goes on! For breakfast offers, this spot also shines: think Turkish poached eggs in savory yogurt, zucchini fritters, fried filo pastry sticks and more. Additionally, there are special events on Saturday nights from 19:30, when you can enjoy a special Raki menu alongside some live music which will transport you straight to Turkey. And don’t miss their daily happy hours from 12:00-20:00!QF-9, ul. Żurawia 47/49, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 451 012 922, www.narrestaurant.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Fri, Sat, Sun 10:00-24:00. €€€. B­6­i

PaTaThai Powiśle utensils Thai

At this popular Powiśle restaurant, each dish is a story that’s inspired by every corner of Thailand, from the mountains in the north, to busy city streets, to the idyllic beaches. And the flavors of these exquisite dishes will transport you to each place. Try some juicy duck with crispy caramelized onion or savory and flavorful coconut milk curry. Seafood like grilled salmon in red curry or grilled octopus in a sweet mirin-ginger sauce, along with tofu, chicken and more are all here and all bursting with authentic Thai flavors. Bonus, this spot in Elektrownia Powiśle is a family-friendly place with a separate menu for kids, so you’ll easily find something for everyone. You can even visit with your dog! So for all the dog parents out on a walk and looking to stop for a bite, this is your place. Their drinks are really desirable, too, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. With the former, they’ve paid special attention to incorporating and complementing the flavors of asian liquors like choya, baijiu, and whisky and rum from Thailand, Japan and the Philippines. Try sips like a mango martini, a Thai Ford sour, and more! QH-6, ul. Zajęcza 2b, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 574 11 81 04, www.patathai.pl/lokale/powisle/. Open 12:00-22:00; Thu 12:00-23:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-01:00. €€. 6

PierOgarnia

utensils Polish

Located right in the heart of Warsaw, these are authentic, handmade pierogi done really well. You’ll

find all the classic flavors here, from cheese and potato, to mushroom and cabbage, to meat and of course, spinach. The thing that sets this place apart is the flavor and the locally sourced ingredients. If you’re looking for good, authentic pierogi on your adventures around the city, this is the place to go. Be sure to try dumplings with lentils, with spinach and feta cheese or Chinese dumplings with shrimp. Of course, if you're looking for a good spot to meet locals, have a good conversation, and feel like you're really at home here in Poland, this is the spot, too. This homey atmosphere has everything that a visitor could want to really connect with the local culture in a casual-yet-gorgeous spot (with plenty of fun wall art). QF-8, ul. Złota 11, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 668 01 69 80. Open 12:00–20:00. €€. T­B­6

PRIMITIVO Kuchnia i Wino

utensils Mediterranean

An original take on Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on simplicity that lets the high quality ingredients and expert preparation shine. Plus, the biggest Primitivo wine collection means you can experience the top-shelf wine (with roots in Croatia and Italy) as you enjoy your meal.

The dishes themselves as well as many ingredients come from the Mediterranean basin and other ingredients are locally sourced. Chefs focus on 3-ingredient dishes that allow them to highlight the expert preparation and quality food. The restaurant design itself is also a huge attraction. With muted, earthy tones and wood, stone, ceramic and glass elements in the design, Primitivo is reminiscent not only of the earth and the natural world, but also of some of the most sought-after dining experiences around the globe (this one is for the foodies: the restaurant was modeled after famed Copenhagen restaurant NOMA). All in all, an excellent spot to visit for a date night, friend gathering, or just a treat for yourself!QD-7, ul. Waliców 13, MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 606 444 462, www.primitivo.com.pl. Open 12:0022:00; Thu, Fri, Sat 12:00-23:00. €€€. T­U­B­6

Setki Powodów

utensils International

A fantastic neighbor of Warsaw’s Polish Vodka Museum, Setki Powodów (Hundreds of Reasons) guarantees live music and an impressive food menu, with plenty of things to nosh on as you listen and enjoy a drink. Setki Powodów offers international cuisine in a comfy street-food style with amazing burgers, pastrami sandwiches and seafood. Relax as you taste delectable dishes, listen to live music, and take in surroundings reminiscent of the nearby Neon Museum (this place is well-lit and

beautiful with artistic neon lighting). Consume as you wish, and enjoy the small-but-punchy live music stage in the corner. The proximity to everything Centrum Praskie Koneser has to offer really makes this spot convenient as well as fun. The name means “hundreds of reasons” but there are thousands of reasons to come here.QK-2/3, Pl. Konesera 1 (Centrum Praskie Koneser), MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 22 419 31 54, www.setkipowodow.pl. Open Tue, Wed 12:00-22:00; Thu 12:00-24:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-01:00; Sun 12:00-21:00; closed Mon. €€. U­E

TheOne Warsaw NEW Club & Restaurant

utensils International

The ideal blend of restaurant, cocktail bar and nightclub, all right in the center of Warsaw! Their food offerings are sure to delight with high-quality Mediterranean cuisine in an atmosphere that screams elegance.Try a light carpaccio, a succulent duck breast, flavorful cauliflower steak with chimichurri, and much much more. Putting aside all the entertainment and drinks this place has to offer, the food simply is where it’s at! Plus, the menu is both in English and Polish, so even the newest (Englishspeaking) visitors to Warsaw will have no problem ordering. But of course it doesn’t stop at food! As we mentioned, this spot is perfect for events and full evenings out. It’s also got a creative cocktail bar and a club area, meaning that after you eat some tasty food, you can head down for a refreshing cocktail and a great party accompanied by a top-notch sound system.QF-7, ul. Mazowiecka 2/4, MNowy Świat Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 723 66 77 88, www.theonewarsaw.pl. Open 17:00-00:00; Thu 17:0003:00; Fri, Sat 17:00-05:00; Sun 14:00-22:00; closed Mon. €€€. U

U Barssa

utensils Polish

The Old Town is packed with places to eat, but this is one of the few truly great. As you walk from the market square into the elegant dining room, you will discover a world of luxury, craft and privilege. The signature confit duck with beetroot, fried apples and cranberry sauce, and the sirloin steak with green pepper sauce are just two of the winning dishes on the menu, and we have to mention the outstanding wine list. In the winter (until mid-Feb) they have a stand in the main square of the Old Town with mulled honey, sausages, pajdy with lard, oscypki (smoked cheese) with cranberry, and warm drinks. QF-4, Rynek Starego Miasta 12/14, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 635 24 76, www.ubarssa.pl. Open 11:0022:00; Fri, Sat 11:00-23:00. €€€€. X­T­E­6

Złota 11 Street, Warsaw bliskiwschodvege@gmail co + 48 668 016 979

Fine dining

If you want to splash out on some of Warsaw's finest cuisine, we definitely have you covered - testing the food was our pleasure. Whether you're looking for the right venue to impress a potential client, romantic partner or celebrate any kind of special moment, the following pages will keep you right. Bear in mind that reservations are almost essential in any of these venues.

Amar Beirut

utensils Lebanese

Food, decor, drinks, music, and the general atmosphere all make Amar Beirut the place to be in Warsaw. The iconic Lebanese restaurant in the Norblin Factory, known for its incredible interior and even more incredible culinary offering, was inspired, as the owners say, by a celebration of the joy of life and a fascination with good cuisine. Try all kinds of authentic Lebanese food, like falafel traditional tabbouleh salad, hummus, and juicy grilled meat dishes and desserts. On Thursday through Saturday, the restaurant really comes alave, with live entertainment in the evenings and a captivating dance performance on Saturday nights that blends tradition, art and energy. Q C - 8, Żelazna 51/53, M Rondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 799 600 700, www.amarbeirut.pl Open 12:00-24:00; Fri 12:00-02:00; Sat, Sun 08:00-02:00. €€€€. B­E­6­i

Belvedere

utensils Polish

Located inside the ‘New Orangery’ in the middle of Łazienki Park, Belvedere is one of Warsaw’s most prestigious and romantic restaurants. Essentially a mid-19th century greenhouse, this spectacular venue features floor-to-ceiling windows and is filled with tropical plants, including an over 100-year-old palm tree. Elegant, intimate table settings are placed amongst the indoor foliage, as well as outside, where peacocks wander the grounds. There's a concise menu of fresh seafood, meats and seasonal dishes, and a brunch menu is served Sundays. Consistently listed in the Michelin guide for over a decade, a glance at the prices reveals this is hardly a place to drop in after a day in the park.QI-12, ul. Agrykoli 1 (New Orangery in Łazienki Park, entrance from ul. Parkowa), MPolitechnika, tel. (+48) 606 10 20 02, www.belvedere.com.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Sun 12:0016:30. €€€€. T­B­E

Amar Beirut’s lively, elegant atmosphere, and its fresh, herby dishes, will transport you straight to Lebanon.

Elixir by Dom Wódki

utensils International

Top marks to the masterminds behind this classy establishment, who are officially celebrating their 10th anniversary this year! And it’s no wonder they’ve been at it for so long. Their range of offerings creates the perfect evening experience. At their Vodka Atelier, you can try some 800 vodkas from around Poland and the globe; the range goes from PRL era classics to Polish ‘small batch’ distillers, designer vodkas, and flavoured vodkas. Also offered are six different types of Młody Ziemniak vodka (made from young potatoes) with varieties dating from 2017 (49 zł) to 2022 (25zł). The label of each tells you about the vintage and what the weather and climate were like during its production. The restaurant itself features stunningly presented, contemporary, and takes on Polish classics with a unique food and vodka pairing system, which recommends specific vodkas to complement the ingredients and flavours of each dish!QF-5, ul. Wierzbowa 9/11, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 828 22 11, www.restauracjaelixir.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-24:00; Sun 12:00-22:00. €€€€. T

InAzia

utensils Asian

Take a delicious journey East with chef Marcin Sasin offering an array of dishes from throughout Asia (think Thailand to Singapore, China to Vietnam). Expect elegant dishes bursting with color and adorned with fresh herbs and spices like lemongrass and coriander, as well as an insight into the process thanks to their Omakase-style dinner. That means a special window that allows you to watch the kitchen in action and chat with the chefs, leading to a perfectly tailored menu. Sleek interiors abound, as do fantastic tasting menus. One of the top Asian restaurants you’ll find in the whole city. For 6 courses expect to pay 450 zł per person or for 9 courses, 550 zł per person (along with a 10% service charge).QH-9, ul. Prusa 2 (Sheraton Grand Warsaw), MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 450 67 06, www.restauracjainazia.pl. Open 17:00-23:00; closed Mon, Sun. €€€€. U

Klonn

utensils International

Nature, food and art intersect at this lovely restaurant enviably located metres from Ujazdowski Castle. The owners have brought their knack for design to the artsy, elegant interiors, while the outside seating envelops a 200-year-old tree. Head chef Michał Gniadek, awarded by Michelin and Gault & Millau, creates exquisite dishes out of fresh, seasonal ingredients, many of which are designed for sharing.

The octopus is particularly buttery and delicious, there are dishes for children, and the wine list is truly excellent. Honestly, a visit here is so rewarding, it makes a trip to the nearby museums and parks that much more enticing. Don’t miss it.QH-11, ul. Jazdów 1B, MPolitechnika, tel. (+48) 22 100 63 63, www.klonn.pl. Open 13:00–22:00; Sun 13:00–19:00; closed Mon. €€€. T­B­E­6

Koneser Grill

utensils International

A truly beautiful spot in the heart of Praskie Koneser, this restaurant is rife with good food, good atmosphere and all around good vibes. Working with smoke, aroma and top-quality meats, the expert chefs at this grill use Polish seasoned oak and alder wood to cook up some delicious dishes. Here, you can taste a whole host of different cuts of steak, from rib eye to T-bone (and plenty more), along with non-steak dishes like pasta and delicious appetizers. All served in a gorgeous spot with low lighting, exposed brick, a fireplace, high ceilings and an all-around elegance at every turn. This is definitely a spot that shines - especially when it comes to steak. QK-2, ul. Ząbkowska 29, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 798 185 692, www.konesergrillwarszawa.pl. Open 12:00-22:00; Sun 12:00-20:00; closed Mon. €€€€.

Nova Wola

utensils Polish

Garnering the Grand Award (that is, 5 forks) from the prestigious gastronomic list of Poland 100 Best Restaurants, Nova Wola encapsulates the spirit of central-west Warsaw’s restlessly developing, trendsetting Wola district, and absolutely nails the concept of ‘premium casual’ dining. Residing within the luxury Crowne Plaza Hotel (part of the ‘Warsaw- The HUB’ complex), complete with an industrial chic interior of polished concrete, dark woods, gold furnishings, lots of glass and big city views, it is here that Nova Wola delivers a decidedly

modern take on Polish cuisine. Under Executive Chef Paweł Suchenek’s direction, the menu emphasizes simple plates made with high-quality ingredients sourced from local Polish suppliers and foraged in the wild. Local culinary traditions with contemporary flair offer you a choice of rich soups, premium Polish seasoned beef steaks, fish, and amongst others, a special seasonal menu, with many of the entrees and even soups available in larger portions ideal for sharing. Na zdrowie!QC-8, Rondo Daszyńskiego 2, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 22 377 38 01, www.novawola.com. Open 12:30-22:30. Lunch 12:3016:00; Dinner 17:00-22:30. Breakfast Mon-Fri 6:3010:30; Sat-Sun 06:30-11:00. €€€. T­U

Rozbrat 20

utensils International

For all intents and purposes, faultless. And that almost goes without saying because this is one of the few spots in Warsaw recognized with a star for high quality cooking by the Michelin Guide. A fine dining experience of the old school, though the food has a contemporary twist and packs a seriously sophisticated punch. The menu, overseen by co-owner and chef Bartosz Szymczak draws from Polish cuisine and his heritage, but also from British and French cuisine, given that's what he studied as he was coming up as a young chef. The result is impressive, with a seasonal menu that changes regularly and always draws on fresh ingredients, prepared delicately and packed with flavor. Choose from a set menu with items like foie gras and bluefish tuna, or indulge in a delicate and gorgeous tasting menu. As for the wine list, it needs no introduction: it is one of the best in all of Poland, and the knowledgeable staff will help you choose the best complement to your meal. An indulgence worth going for.QI-9, ul. Rozbrat 20, MPolitechnika, tel. (+48) 690 12 52 70, www.rozbrat20.com.pl. Open 17:00-22:00; Fri, Sat 16:00-22:00; closed Mon, Sun. €€€€. T­6

InAzia has some of Warsaw’s best dishes, presented elegantly and colorfully, and consistently packed with flavor.

U Fukiera

utensils Polish

Warsaw’s oldest and most famous restaurant, with a tradition going all the way back to the 16th century, is truly a must-see. Run under the star stewardship of Magda Gessler (of Polish MasterChef fame), this enchanting establishment’s interior is a work of art, bedecked with oil paintings and ornate antiques, creating a fantastic ambience. It’s easy to feel like you’re a part of history when dining here, and the guestbook - with such haughty names as Naomi Campbell, Henry Kissinger and Sarah Fergusonsuggests that indeed you are. The menu itself is simultaneously classy, traditional and modern, with dishes like chanterelles in a cream sauce, beetroot carpaccio with dill, sirloin with potato dumplings and a pepper sauce, and much much more -- all perfectly prepared, all perfectly Polish. But of course, this is not milk bar Polish food -- this is Polish food at an elegant level. Right on the Old Town Square, enjoy the delicious, gorgeously presented food and soak up the regal atmosphere that has made this spot so beloved (and famous). And don't forget to document your experience with pictures!QF-4, Rynek Starego Miasta 27, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 600 99 99 33, www.ufukiera.pl. Open 12:00-23:00. €€€€. T­6

Wabu Sushi & Japanese Tapas

utensils Japanese

Sometimes stiff formality and pretence go hand in hand with fine dining, and though the food may be great, the overall experience can be a bit awkward or even, ugh...tiring. As such, it’s nice to experience exclusive dining in the Japanese Izakaya style (informal eating). For those wary about the word "informal" in a fine dining context, don't be. That simply means that the food you get will be more "tapas style" and meant for sharing. Coming together over delicious, meticulously prepared bites of fresh fish? What could be better! Wabu is very much a place for all types of people, from businessmen to couples to tourists and even families, so relax and enjoy. The interior is a minimal and elegantly unfussy gem, that blends in nicely with its modern surroundings on Plac Europejski. The menu is extensive and diverse, with sushi classics like soft shell crab and salmon tartare, as well as sashimi, bao buns and even hot dinners like black cod miso. Plus, there's a special menu for kids, and a mighty lunch offer (Mon-Fri 12:00-15:00, soup and 8 pieces of sushi for 49zł). Simple and elegant, minimalist and cozy, Wabu has our hearty endorsement as one of the best sushi spots in the city -- for date nights or bigger groups.QC-7, Plac Europejski 2, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 668 92 59 59, www.wabu.pl. Open 12:00-23:00. €€€€. T­U­6

Food Markets

The popularity of street food and fast gastro concepts has led to an explosion of food markets and indoor dining halls in Warsaw, offering dozens of diverse eating options. Not only a place to slay your hunger, these modern food markets are also trendsetting urban social spaces, featuring bars and hosting events.

Elektrownia Powiśle Food Hall

From the outside, it’s obvious that this former power station (p.56) has been given a new boost of energy following a major overhaul. Elektrownia also contains a whole host of gastro eateries, bars and event spaces. This central food court allows you to choose anything from fries, hot dogs, dim sum dumplings, kebabs, pizza, sushi, curries, Vietnamese, potatoes, fancy pancakes and San Francisco street food. Additionally, there are several more restaurants in the office buildings opposite! You’re spoilt for choice, so let your mood and budget decide (not easy!). Once you’re done dining, check out their five bars, and also keep a regular eye on their events calendar so you don’t miss hip foodie happenings like their ‘Eko Targ’ (Eco Market), selling GMO-free locally-grown produce. QH-6, ul. Dobra 42, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 22 128 56 00, www.elektrowniapowisle.com Open 12:00-23:00; Fri 12:00-24:00; Sat 11:00-24:00; Sun 11:00-23:00. U­6

Food Hall Browary

Occupying a large, brick-walled space in the historic Brewery Cellars, this impressive food hall is arguably the social centre of the Browary Warszawskie district (p.16). With 15 different world cuisines to choose from - ranging from Tuk Tuk's authentic Thai cuisine to Octo, which offer pasta, pizza, seafood and more. there are plenty of enticing options, including special lunch offers.

The focal points are the impressively long Central Bar - well-stocked with beer, fine wine, and cool cocktails courtesy of legendary local bartender Karim Bibars, and the small stage which hosts DJs, bands and a range of thematic events. Grab a seat at a communal table, a plate of good food, and get socialising. From food to great conversation, drinks and music. This spot has it all. QC-7, ul. Haberbuscha i Schielego 2 (Browary Warszawskie), MRondo Daszyńskiego, www.foodhallbrowary.pl. Open 12:00-22:00; Wed, Thu, 12:00-24:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-2:00. 6T

At Elektrownia Powiśle Food Hall, find dishes from around the globe, from Asian to South American and more – there’s something for everyone.

FOOD TOWN - Fabryka Norblina

Inspired by architectural and culinary trends from all over the world, FOOD TOWN in Fabryka Norblina is ideally situated across five picturesque historic halls, spanning a total area of 3,200 sqm. This unique place, characterised by its stunning period architecture, comes together with a soundtrack of live music and an incredible gastronomic offer that will rouse the palate of every guest that passes through. Food Town at the Norblin Factory is the largest catering zone of its kind in Warsaw, with 24 gastrononomic concepts, taking you on a culinary journey through Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the Americas. Stepping aside from the wild gastronomic offer, you'll also discover tantalising alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served in five thematic bars. There's also a stunning ambiance with low lighting, indoor and outdoor options and plenty more. The fifth hall of Fabryka Norblina that coexists alongside Food Hall is dedicated to entertainment and cultural events, taking place across the week – live music, stand-ups and exhibitions. Everything is truly going on here, especially if you want to have a perfect night out!.

QC/D-8, ul. Żelazna 51/53, MRondo Daszyńskiego, www.foodtown.pl. Open Mon, Tue 08:00-22:00; Wed, Thu 08:00-23:00; Fri 08:00-01:00; Sat 09:00-01:00; Sun 09:00-22:00. Bars are open one hour longer. T­U­6

Hala Koszyki

This historic Art Nouveau market hall originally opened in 1906, but was renovated, redeveloped into a modern mixed-use facility full of bars, restaurants, bookstores and designer boutiques, and reopened in 2016. Smashingly popular, drop in to the ground floor dining area to choose from dozens of diverse options, ranging from top-class independent bistros - like Sobremesa Tapas Bar, Port Royal and Zachodni Brzeg - to some of Warsaw’s top name gastro brands, like Ćma and Warszawski Sen. If you want a variety of casual, tasty food, this is the place to go, with everything from fries to burgers to gelato. But there are fancier options to choose from, too (oysters and pizza are easily found and they are a must). This is one of THE places to be seen in the capital - easily accomplished thanks to the open floor plan - sometimes the place is so packed that mere availability and access dictate which places inside that you’re able to patronage. Even if you can’t find a table at any of the cool eateries and bars, we urge you to spend some time taking in this stunning market hall, which also features shops downstairs and space for cultural events upstairs. Beautiful details abound! QF-10, ul. Koszykowa 63, MPolitechnika, www.koszyki.com. Open 08:00-01:00. X­T­U­6

Nightlife in Warsaw

In Warsaw you’re never far from a great night out. If the weather’s warm, simply head to the river. Elsewhere skint students patronise the dive bars of The Pavilions (G-7, courtyards of ul. Nowy Świat 22/28); for a more mature alternative crowd seek out the artsy bars across the river in Praga (p.64); for a lark with the lads, hit the party strip on ul. Mazowiecka (F-6/7). In practice, bars will stay open well past their given hours if business is good, but also bolt the doors early if not. Visit our website to refine your search and see more reviews. Na zdrowie (cheers!)!

At The Roots (p.108), you know you’re always getting top-notch cocktails from some of Warsaw’s best mixologists.

HighGarden Rooftop Lounge

Rooftop Cocktail Bar

Located atop the highest building in the EU, and the tallest skyscraper in Poland, right in the heart of the city, is HighGarden Rooftop Lounge, a bar with soul and flavors and excellent cocktails right in the middle of the sky. Known as the highest cocktail bar in the EU, this place is found on the 49th floor of the VARSO Tower and offers some spectacular views as you sip your drinks. The ambiance is topnotch: a green oasis of plants, and a real garden suspended in the clouds with direct access to an observation deck. This spot is known for signature cocktails and wide range of mocktails along with a menu of great snacks inpsired by local flavors. A must after a long day of wandering around the city! From 10:00, there’s an entrance fee (40-70zł if you pay online or 70zł if you pay on-site -- this includes the entire Highline Warsaw price and amenities. See p.37 for more details.

QE-8, Varso Tower, Chmielna 69, MRondo ONZ, www.highlinewarsaw.com. Open 10:00-00:00. €€. G­UB­E

TheOne Warsaw Club & Restaurant Club

With an incredible sound system and some truly innovative cocktails, TheOne has everything for a great night right in the heart of the city. Sip on delicious concoctions involving lavender and honey, or maple paired with coffee and bourbon. They have all the classics, too, from margaritas to old fashioneds, but no matter what you get, this place makes sure that they’re serving up the best stuff. As you sip on a cocktail in their glamorous, art deco-y interior, you can get ready for a night of dancing because this spot is also a nightclub! There’s completely professional sound and lighting in their club section, along with VIP tables and boxes. Great events are held here with excellent music. Plus, there’s a restaurant section so if you’re really craving some light, well-crafted Mediterranean dishes, this is your spot!

QF-7, ul. Mazowiecka 2/4, MNowy Świat Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 723 66 77 88, www.theonewarsaw.pl

Open 17:00–00:00; Thu 17:00–03:00; Fri, Sat 17:00–05:00; Sun 14:00–22:00; closed Mon. €€€. UE

Bars & Clubs

The atmosphere at Piano Bar is pure classy lounge, excellent for live music, low lighting and stellar cocktails.

3/4 Koneser Bar

Cocktail Bar

If you’re eager to experience Polish vodka the right way (sip, don’t shoot!), go straight to the source. Located on the 3rd floor of the Polish Vodka Museum (p.66), this spectacular bar makes dozens of their own artisanal alcohol infusions - raspberry with rosemary, horseradish, or mango lassi are just a few of their surprising and constantly changing flavours. The current concept is based on the sense of touch and sight, fabrics, colours and texture. The lovely seasonal terrace offers great views of the heart of Praga and you can also try a premium whisky tasting from The Secret Speyside Collection. Na zdrowie!QK-2/3, Pl. Konesera 1 (Centrum Praskie Koneser), MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 22 419 31 52, www.koneserbar.pl. Open 16:00-23:00; Fri, Sat 15:00-01:00; Sun 15:00-23:00; closed Mon. Subject to change. €€. U­B­6

Symbol Key

Kufle i Kapsle

Cocktail Bar

The name ‘Kufle i Kapsle’ means ‘Beer Mugs and Bottlecaps’ and the interior is a perfect blend of European traditional bar design mingling with Polish features, such as the large tiled heater in the back room. 20 taps are on offer and the bottled beer selection has more variety than a Glaswegian glass recycling bin! An interesting selection of bar snacks are also available. In contrast to many other local bars, expect it to be packed and buzzing from around 17:00 (online reservations possible). The atmosphere inside is very vintage-chic and cozy while also somehow being young and hip. Well worth a visit for all ages! 2nd location nearby at ul. Nowy Świat 27 (G-7).QG-8, ul. Nowogrodzka 25, MCentrum, www.kufleikapsle.pl. Open 15:00-02:00; Sat, Sun 14:00-02:00. €€. B­6

MOON Club

A unique, boutique club with a range of house music and an intimate vibe? Sign us up! Club MOON has a very cool offering, with every Saturday - for a select number of 400 club members - major names in the DJ scene will play house music, deep house, afro house, melodic house, disco house, organic and tech house. This is the spot to be with all kinds of well-known artists playing here, including HOT SINCE 82, Damian Lazarus, Catz ‘N Dogz, Claptone, Adam Ten, Carlita, Salome Le Chat, SAMM, Yulia Niko, Francis Mercier, Nick Morgan, Jimmy Jules, LP Giobbi, Krystal Klear and many more.QJ-8, Wioślarska 6, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 533 53 32 23, www.moonwarsaw.pl €€€. Open Sat 23:00-06:00.

MOXO Club

Part cocktail bar, part music club, part delicious restaurant, MOXO is a unique concept right in the center of Warsaw at Fabryka Norblina. And it all beats to the rythym of Nikkei, a type of culture that melds the cuisine, music and drinks of Japan and Peru that resulted from a long history of immigration from Japan to Peru. Find traditional Peruvian drinks like Pisco sours alongside delicious cocktails that use wasabi and sake. In the restaurant, taste sushi alongside traditional Peruvian ceviche. And then there’s the events! With Poland’s largest LED screen, a cutting-edge sound system and amazing musical events in the large, industrialstyle space, MOXO offers a night you won’t forget, especially when it turns into a unique music club every night after dinner.Qul. Żelazna 51/53 (Fabryka Norblina), MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 726 627 627, www.moxo.pl. Open 12:00-01:00; Fri 12:00-03:00; Sat 16:00–03:00; closed Mon, Sun. €€€. X­U­B­E

Pepper Events Club

Making its presence known in the Polish capital’s urban jungle, the anomaly that is Pepper Events adds an exotic flair to the higher-class venues of Warsaw. The unique, sophisticated space includes both a euphoric club scene and a restaurant with an indulgent food menu. That’s all amplified with a stunning year-round garden and cocktail bar of the highest calibre, making it an ideal space for an intimate business meeting, a banquet, a product presentation, a large corporate event or even bachelor/bachelorette parties.QF-9, ul. Nowogrodzka 47A, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 730 06 80 68, www.pepperevents.pl. Open 12:00-24:00. €€€. X­B­

Bars & Clubs | Nightlife

Piano Bar Warsaw Club

With a classy, elegant atmosphere and an eye for calm entertainment, Piano Bar Warsaw has really blown us away! Located right in Fabryka Norblina, this spot effortlessly blends lovely piano music with fresh cocktails, great food and quiet conversation. It gives off a very classy lounge vibe that is perfect for gethering with friends. Whether you immerse yourself in the atmosphere on the ground floor, enjoy the sounds on the first-floor mezzanine, walk up the staircase, relax in the garden or discover a secluded spot, you will experience the full range of musical sensations. Plus, the menu is serves as a great complement to the music. Signature cocktails, prepared by experienced bartenders, take mixology to a whole new level with top-tier ingredients and unique tastes. The wine list is, similarly excellent with a wide range of glasses from all over the world. When it comes to the food menu, you’ll find dishes also from around the world. Many are perfect for sharing in a group while you listen to music, or enjoying as a snack by yourself.QD-8, ul. Żelazna 51/53, MRondo ONZ, tel. +48 533 44 48 88, www.pianobar.com.pl.

Open 17:30-01:00; Fri, Sat 17:30-04:00; Sun 17:00-00:00; closed Mon. €€. B­E

SEN Club

If you’ve come to SEN (PL for ‘dream’) to enjoy the restaurant (18:00-01:00), we give you a humble nod for making a solid choice -- their modern menu created by chef Alon Than is a delight. It's good sushi (try their 'Sen special rolls'), ramen, udon, teriyaki chicken, salmon tartare, gyoza, edamame and more. And it pairs well with the original cocktails, which are some of the best in the city! Although not huge, the panoramic backdrop (the National Stadium and the Poniatowski Bridge can be seen from this spot) pairs up perfectly with the lounge vibe. If you stay until the end, you may very well agree with the venue’s tag line: it was all a dream.QJ-7, ul. Wioślarska 6, MCentrum Nauki Kopernika, tel. (+48) 883 02 50 25, www.senwarsaw.pl. Open Fri&Sat 19:00-06:00; closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun. DINNER & COCKTAILS 19:00-23:00 NIGHTLIFE 23:00-06:00. €€€. X­E

Teatr Sabat

Move aside, New York and Las Vegas! Warsaw has a venue that rivals those in the cities most famous for their theater! Teatr Sabat, the only variety theater in Poland was created on the model of Warsaw musical theaters with cabaret, musicals, and more.

Incredibly talented performances from singers, Polish actors and ballet companies all take center stage here. Plus, the classic auditorium concept (a la movie theaters) is gone here -- instead you have elegant tables and chances to grab a drink while you watch the show.QH-7, ul. Foksal 16,, MNowy ŚwiatUniwersytet, tel. +48 606 12 73 72, www.teatr-sabat.pl Open Mon 11:00-16:00*; Tue, Wed 10:00-16:00; Thu, Fri 12:00-20:00; Sat 13:00-20:00; closed Sun. ticket office opening hours. €€.

The Roof

Rooftop Cocktail Bar

The Roof offers a captivating setting for enjoying drinks, live music, a delightful dinner, or gathering with friends. A truly sky-high experience, the stunning vistas of the city are perfectly complemented by the bar offer, which invites visitors to explore the exciting and diverse selection of cocktails, and unique concoctions that have been curated to reflect the extraordinary essence of Warsaw’s skyline and capture the spirit of the city in every sip. In line with the Crowne Plaza Hotel, the prestigious name that looks after this magical nest, The Roof floor boasts stylish interiors that contribute to its wonderfully sophisticated atmosphere. The sights are further enhanced by a range of acoustic performances and intimate cultural events that are hosted here QC-8, ul. Rondo Daszyńskiego 2, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. +48 881 97 41 44, www.theroofskybar.com. Open 18:00–24:00; Thu, Fri, Sat 18:00-01:00. €€€. U­E

The ROOTS Cocktail Bar & more

Cocktail Bar

The ROOTS has, without a doubt, secured a very special place in the hearts of serious cocktail devotees, both local and international. For starters, the bar is a shrine to the noble art of being a barman/mixologist, for which reason you should definitely check out their intriguing collection of vintage and antique ‘tools of the trade’ – the collection of mixers alone already stands at nearly 100 items! Add to this a library of antiquarian books on the subject of bartending/cocktail mixing and you know you are dealing with some hardcore and very scholarly mixologists. ROOTS is so well-versed in the art of making cocktails, they have enough tricks for two great menus - one featuring classics of the trade and another which presents signature drinks based on seasonal regional flavours. Food is also available in the form of a Polish fusion menu.QF-5, ul. Wierzbowa 11, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 660 333 983, www.theroots.pl. Open 17:00-24:00; Fri 17:00-02:00; Sat 14:00-02:00; closed Mon, Sun. €€. 6

Shopping in Warsaw

Warsaw offers a wide diversity of shopping experiences, from old school markets to luxury boutiques (primarily along ul. Nowy Świat and ul. Mokotowska: G-7, H-8/9) to some of Central Europe’s most modern shopping malls. For visitors, it’s an opportunity to shop exclusive designer brands, catch bargains on known commodities or find forgotten treasures. Happy hunting!

Elektrownia Powiśle is the place to shop until you drop, with brands, styles and gifts for everyone.

Amber & Jewellery

Amber Art Gallery - Silver Line

This gorgeous gallery specialises in luxury handcrafted jewellery of the amber variety, but crystal, silver and gold items can be purchased here too. This is the location of the largest and oldest amber dealer in the city, a family run business going back to 1988, proudly selling amber of Polish origincertified by the International Amber Association. Amber Art Gallery - Silver Line Even heads of State and royalty have been spotted procuring presents here, from Bill Clinton to Japanese princesses (whose thank you letters you can see inside)! Choose from pieces by Polish artisans and top designers, plus high quality jewellery made with other precious stones.QF-4, Rynek Starego Miasta 9/11/13, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 831 69 61, www.warsawamber.pl. Open 10:00-19:00; Sun 10:00-17:00.

Lilou

A phenomenally successful Polish jewellery chain where customers can select their own components to create a unique and personalised piece. The range continues to grow, with the original luxury charm bracelet still the biggest seller. Choose a bracelet type and any number of simple silver or gold plated charms in a variety of shapes, then have it hand-engraved with whatever or whoever means a lot to you. A ‘must-have’ item amongst local celebs and fashionistas. Also at ul. Francuska 27 (L-7), Westfield Arkadia (B/C-2), Westfield Mokotów, Sadyba Best Mall and Centrum Handlowe Janki.QH-9, ul. Mokotowska 63, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 506 19 08 97, www.lilou.pl. Open 11:00-19:00; Sat 11:00-18:00; Sun 11:00-16:00*.

Fashion & Accessories

Le Szapo Hat Shop

This classy hat boutique (whose name is a Polish phonetic pronunciation of the French ‘le chapeau’) brings French flair to Warsaw, offering a range of hats from Panama to fedoras, berets, straw hats and much much more. The brands are primarily from Poland and Italy, but now include their own Le Szapo label headpieces designed right here in Kraków (congrats!). With a retro urbane atmosphere and warm living room vibe created by the welcoming staff, who will gladly help you find the perfect headpiece, you’re sure to leave looking more dapper than you arrived. In case you don’t want to travel with a hatbox, all their stylish stock can also be ordered online. QG-7, ul. Nowy Świat 66, MNowy Świat - Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 577 285 007, www.leszapo.com. Open 11:00-20:00.

Gifts & Souvenirs

E-Manufaktura

We whole heartedly recommend E-Manufaktura, which is not only a shop in Warsaw, but also an online shop for you to look through an extensive catalogue in the comfort of your home. From egg cups, plates, bowls, and all other kitchenware you can think of, you’ll find it here! The famous hand-painted ceramics, Bolesławiec, make up the core of what’s on offer. It doesn’t get more Polish than this. A must-use service. QF-3, ul. Freta 14, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 636 06 84, www.e-manufaktura.com. Open 10:00-18:00.

HELLO! GIFT SHOP

Find a huge range of products that are perfect to take home for friends and family. Roam into the Warsaw Old Town to find these three delightful shops, which sell gifts made in Poland and recalling Polish history and tradition. Find a huge range of products with colorful folk patterns, Polish ceramics and porcelain, even models of Polish cars, T-shirts with fashionable prints, and all kinds of gifts sporting various Warsaw symbols. Check out their second location on ul. Freta 26/28 and their third on ul. Freta 11.QF-4, Piwna 17/19, MRatusz Arsenal. Open 10:0020:00; Fri, Sat 10:00-22:00; Sun 10:00-21:00.

Shopping

Pomaluj.art - Galeria Bolesławiec & Studio Ceramiki

Of all Polish gifts, none are as visually exciting as Bolesławiec pottery. With a mix of cups, plates, bowls and other kitchenware with various colours and designs, you can’t go wrong to buy friends, family, or even yourself one of these classic but quirky items. What’s more, at this location, not only do you get the chance to buy something of your pleasing, but you can join in some workshops (offered Thu-Sat 16:00 or 18:00) to make and paint anything you want in the studio! QF-8, Al. Jerozolimskie 49, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 690 80 01 84, www.pomaluj.art. Open 11:0019:00; closed Sun.

Shopping Malls

Designer Outlet Warszawa

Set inside an impressive collection of buildings evoking the Baroque style of Warsaw’s Old Town, this is a premium outlet mall, with the interior that makes you feel like you’re walking through a fashion high street. Here you’ll find discounts ranging from 30-70% off on brands like Adidas, Boggi Milano, Boss, Calvin Klein, Coccinelle, GAP, Guess, Furla, Karl Lagerfeld, Levi’s, Liu Jo, Longines, Luisa Spagnoli, Michael Kors, Nike, Pinko, Polo Ralph Lauren, Timberland, Tommy Hilfiger and more. Just 30mins from the city centre and 20mins from Chopin Airport, it’s easily reached by car and public transport (use a zone 2 ticket and get off at ‘Energetyczna 01’).Qul. Puławska 42E (Piaseczno), MWilanowska, tel. (+48) 22 737 31 15, www.designeroutletwarszawa.pl. Open 10:00-22:00; Sun 10:00-21:00*.

*Sunday Shopping in PL

In its effort to get people out of shopping malls and into churches, the Polish government has imposed regulations preventing most businesses from opening their doors on Sundays. Of course, there are exceptions, including 7 special Sundays when shops are open each year, and the rules don’t apply to restaurants, bars, cafes, pharmacies, gas stations, kiosks, bakeries, open-air markets, souvenir shops and anywhere the business owner is personally working behind the counter. When you see an asterisk* after the Sunday hours in our guide, that means the venue is closed on Sundays. Upcoming shopping Sundays: Dec 15, 22; Jan 25

Elektrownia Powiśle

When Elektrownia Powiśle (p.56) opened, we can only say we were impressed. The exterior doesn’t look all too big, but once inside you realise it’s much bigger than you’d ever expect! So what’s here? Imagine this as a multifunctional centre, including sooped up shops completely new to Poland (nay, in Central and Eastern Europe even!) such as Urban Outfitters, True Color, Weekday, COS, Elementy, Balagan, Galilu, Chosen By (to name a few), plenty more boutiques, beauty salons, a top floor event space, as well as their awesome gastro and nightlife offer (p.102). This spot really does have it all and a day of shopping followed by an evening of sipping a drink and biting into some excellent international cuisine seems like heaven to us.QH/I-6, ul. Dobra 42, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 22 128 56 00, www.elektrowniapowisle.com. Elektrownia open Mon-Sun 11:00-21:00 Food Hall open Mon-Thu 12:00-23:00, Fri 12:00-24:00, Sat 11:00-24:00, Sun 11:00-23:00 Beauty Hall open Mon-Sat 08:00-20:00, Sun 10:00-19:00.

FACTORY Outlet Annopol

This massive outlet mall is closer than you think! Save up to 70% on premium name brands like Adidas, Nike, Ecco, Medicine, Guess, Under Armour, Pepe Jeans, Converse, Vans, Puma, Tefal, Tommy Hilfiger, Smyk, 4F, RTV Euro AGD and more. The options here are nearly endless and you can find amazing premium wear for such a low price that it’s going to be hard to rationalize NOT buying everything. Plus, you can find food and cafe options here so it’s really a spend-all-day or shop-till-you-drop kind of experience. We recommend taking a day (or at least half a day) to wander, shop, treat yourself to a pastry or two, and get all of those items you can't find at this price anywhere else.Qul. Annopol 2 (Białołęka), tel. (+48) 22 441 90 00, www.annopol. factory.pl. Open 10:00-21:00; Sun 10:00-20:00*.

FACTORY Outlet Ursus

This outlet shopping mall southwest of the city centre is preoccupied with fashion, offering top brand names at 30-70% discounts over regular rack rates, all in a gorgeous, sun-drenched spot! FACTORY Outlet Ursus Recognisable brands include Tommy Hilfiger, Marc’o Polo, BOSS, Nike, Adidas, Guess, Calvin Klein, New Balance, Calzedonia, Lindt, Haribo, Tefal, Ochnik, Wittchen, and many more. And, it needs repeating, these are all at a discount. So you can shop premium clothing, jewelry and more for way less than the normal price!QPl. Czerwca 1976r. 6 (Ursus), tel. (+48) 22 478 22 70, www.ursus.factory.pl Open 10:00-21:00; Sun 10:00-20:00*.

Venue Index

Print space is finite, but the internet is a vast, vacuous void we’ve devoted our lives to filling. If the venue you’re looking for isn’t listed here, you’ll likely find it amongst the hundreds of places in Warsaw listed on our website: warsaw.inyourpocket.com

3/4 Koneser Bar 106

Adam Mickiewicz Monument 49

Agnieszka Osiecka Monument 67

AïOLI Bread & Apertivo 90

AïOLI Cantine Bar Cafe Deli 92

Amar Beirut 90, 98

Amber Art Gallery - Silver Line 111

Anielewicz Bunker 79

Banjaluka 92

Beauty Hall 84

Beef n’ Pepper 93

Beer&Wine SPA 84

Belvedere 98

Belvedere Palace 59

Bliski Wschód Vege Street Food & Cocktail Bar 93

Branicki & Szaniawski Palaces 42

Bristol & Europejski Hotels 51

Browar Warszawski 93

Browary Warszawskie 17, 32

Bułkę przez Bibułkę 91

BursztyNova Restaurant 94

Centrum Praskie Koneser 65

Choose Your Adventure! 52

Chopin Benches 51

Chopin Monument 59

Ciao Napoli 94

Copernicus Science Centre 56

Cucina Mia 94

Czerwony Wieprz 94

Designer Outlet Warszawa 112

Elektrownia Powiśle 56, 112

Elektrownia Powiśle Food Hall 102

Elixir by Dom Wódki 99

E-Manufaktura 111

Enel Med 85

Estell Clinic 85

E. Wedel Chocolate Factory Museum 86

E.Wedel Chocolate Factory Museum 74

Fabryka Norblina 33

FACTORY Outlet Annopol 112

FACTORY Outlet Ursus 112

Food Hall Browary 102

FOOD TOWN - Fabryka Norblina 103

Fryderyk Chopin Museum 54

Gnojna Góra 46

Gościniec Polskie Pierogi 94

Gospoda pod Zygmuntem 95

Hala Koszyki 37, 103

HELLO! GIFT SHOP 111

HighGarden Rooftop Lounge 105

Highline Warsaw 83

Highline Warsaw (VARSO Tower) 37

Holy Cross Church 52

InAzia 99

Invisible Exhibition 76

Jan Kiliński Monument 42

Jewish Historical Institute 79

Katyń Museum 74

King Sigismund's Column 48

Kładka na Wiśle (Footbridge) 57

Klonn 99

Koneser Grill 100

Kufle i Kapsle 106

KUK Restaurant 89

LAS 95

Le Szapo Hat Shop 111 Lilou 111

Lokal Vegan Bistro 95 Mariensztat 57 melt museum 75

MK Bowling Entertainment Center 83

107

107 Museum of Dollhouses, Games and Toys 75 Museum of Evolution 75

of Hunting

Museum of Printing 65, 76

Museum of Warsaw, Main Branch 45

Museum World of Illusion 82

Myślewicki Palace 60

Nar Restaurant 96

Nicolaus Copernicus Monument 52

Nova Wola 91, 100

Officer Cadets School 61

Okopowa Street Jewish Cemetery 79

Old Orangery 60

Old Town Defensive Ramparts 43

Old Town Heritage

Interpretation Centre 45

Old Town Square 44

Palace of Culture & Science 29

Palace on the Isle 60

Pasaż Wiecha 34

PaTaThai Powiśle 96

Pepper Events 107

PGE National Stadium 67

Pharmacy Museum 76

Piano Bar Warsaw 108

PierOgarnia 96

Plac Defilad 34

Plac Europejski & Warsaw Spire 32

Plac Grzybowski 33

Plac Konstytucji 35

Plac Pięciu Rogów & ul. Chmielna 35

Plac Piłsudskiego 32

Plac Zamkowy 41

Plac Zbawiciela 36

Planetarium of the Copernicus Science Centre 56

POLIN Museum 79

Polish Vodka Museum 66

Pomaluj.art - Galeria Bolesławiec & Studio Ceramiki 112

Potocki Mausoleum 63

Powiśle Mermaid Statue 55

Praga Museum of Warsaw 65

Presidential Palace 50

PRIMITIVO Kuchnia i Wino 96

Royal Castle 42

Rozbrat 20 100

Saska Kępa - Ul. Francuska 66

Saxon Garden 32

SEN 108

Setki Powodów

Skaryszewski Park

Smart Kids Planet 82, Stacja Caffe

Stacja Grawitacja

St. Anne's Church

St. Anne's Church & Tower

St. John the Baptist Cathedral

Teatr Sabat 108

The Cool Cat

The Little Insurgent Monument

TheOne Warsaw Club & Restaurant 97, 105

The Roof 108

The ROOTS Cocktail Bar & more 108

The University of Warsaw

To Lubię

Traficar Car Share

U Barssa

U Fukiera 101

Ul. Kanonia

ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście

ul. Nowy Świat

ul. Ząbkowska

Vistula River Boulevards

Vodka Museum

Wabu Sushi & Japanese Tapas 101

Warsaw Arcade Museum 83, Warsaw Archdiocese Museum

Warsaw Barbican

Warsaw National Museum

Warsaw Photoplasticon

Warsaw Rising Museum 81

Warsaw University of Technology 36

Warsaw Zoo 66

WawaBus 27

Wilanów Lake & Island 63

Wilanów Palace Museum 62

Wilanów Park & Gardens 62

Winter Magic in Centrum Praskie Koneser 18

Yes Butcher! Shop & Bistro (Saska Kępa) 89

Złote Tarasy 34

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BEST ENTERTAINMENT IN WARSAW

BEST ENTERTAINMENT IN WARSAW