Warsaw is a historically resilient and beautiful city. Poland’s capital, it is a city that speaks of being reborn from the ashes of World War II. Now a city where new and old converge with tourists being exposed to a blend of rich history modern culture and natural beauty. If you are going to travel to Poland and would like to know what to see and do in Warsaw, this guide will assist you in determining the best things to do in Warsaw Poland.
Begin your travels with the famous Mermaid Statue
A wonderful start of discovery of Warsaw is at the Mermaid of Warsaw statue in Powiśle district on the Vistula River. Mermaid is a city symbol and it is cherished by locals as well as travelers. You can have a convenient stroll along the Vistula riverbank from here which is particularly hip in spring and summer. There are cafes parks and bike lanes so it is a lively but quiet place at the same time.
Find Warsaw’s stunning parks
Warsaw is famous for its parks and green spaces. Some of them are most popular, such as Łazienki Park Pola Mokotowskie and Krasiński Garden. Łazienki Park is particularly famous for Palace on the Island peacocks and summer open air Chopin concerts. These parks are ideal to get away from the sightseeing and experience some natural taste of the city.
Find the roof garden of the University Library
Spring to autumn do not skip the rooftop garden on the University of Warsaw Library. It is one of the biggest rooftop gardens in Europe and the views of the city are stunning. It is perfect for taking photos, getting some fresh air and having a glimpse at Warsaw from a different perspective.
Visit Castle Square and the Royal Castle
One of the loveliest and oldest sights of Warsaw, the Castle Square has Sigismund’s Column an impressive monument constructed in 1644 in honor of King Sigismund III Vasa who transferred the capital of the country from Kraków to Warsaw. Besides the column, Royal Castle stands adjacent to it side by side a magnificent red brick palace reconstructed after being devastated by World War II. Now the castle is a museum where you can observe paintings furniture and decorations of Poland’s monarchical past.
Stroll in the Old Town
The Old Town of Warsaw is the city center and is worth visiting if you are visiting the capital. It consists of colorful houses cobblestones and history. Even though it was destroyed in war it was reconstructed with such care and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way on the Old Town you can notice the Gothic St John’s Archcathedral the statue of the Mermaid in the square and the city walls with the Barbican. During the summer months you can enjoy artisan ice cream from special local shops and buy handmade souvenirs.
Walk along the Royal Route
The Royal Route is a beautiful and lengthy street which links Castle Square with Wilanów Palace. Along this route you can enjoy nice townhouses palaces churches and offices of the government. One of the attractions is the Presidential Palace which is the residence of the President of Poland. The Royal Route also features cafes restaurants and boutiques along it so it is perfect for taking a walk shopping or coffee time.
Tour the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
At Piłsudski Square is located the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a humble reminder to soldiers who died while fighting to preserve Poland’s freedom. There, an eternal flame burns and soldiers are always posted at this site. One component of the renewed Saxon Palace the building is undergoing reconstruction and sits adjacent to the Saxon Garden one of the city’s oldest open-air parks.
Appreciate the Palace of Culture and Science
The Palace of Culture and Science is among the most popular landmarks in Warsaw. The skyscraper building was a gift from the Soviet Union and was constructed during the 1950s. It features socialist architecture mixed with Polish design and includes theaters museums offices and even a cinema. Travelers can climb up to the 30th floor to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city from the observation deck.
Find best museums in Warsaw
Warsaw has numerous museums and each of them has something unique to offer. The National Museum is one of the significant ones with Polish and European art collections. The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews gives a comprehensive insight into Jewish life in Poland via contemporary exhibitions and interactive displays. The Warsaw Uprising Museum is highly emotive and moving presenting the city’s struggle during World War II in realistic presentations and sounds. The Museum of Polish Vodka is an unusual and entertaining attraction where you can discover one of Poland’s best-known exports. It is found in the Praga district within the Koneser Center. The Museum of Warsaw in the Old Town reveals the city’s history with more than three hundred thousand exhibits. At the top you can appreciate a view of the Old Town from a viewing platform.
Experience science at the Copernicus Science Centre
As a family traveler or someone who is more of an experiential type, don’t miss the Copernicus Science Centre. You get to experience learning about science by playing around. You are able to carry out experiments handle artifacts and experience the Planetarium. It’s a fun and informative place for everyone.
Go back in time at the Neon Museum
You can also visit the Warsaw Neon Museum, located in the Praga district. It’s a tiny but interesting museum that contains more than one hundred original neon signs from the communist period. They once decorated the city streets and stores, and now they are saved as part of design and historical heritage. It also organizes workshops and events and is extremely popular among fans of vintage fashion.
Last thoughts on visiting Warsaw
Warsaw is a city that blends the past and present in an interesting manner. From historic castles and quaint old town to new museums and tranquil parks there is something to suit all tastes here. If history, art, science or a desire to take in the local culture are on your agenda then you will find it here in Warsaw. Take your time to see all of its sides and you will most certainly leave with memories that will last you an eternity.
