Key attractions
Head to the left bank of the river for Stare Miasto (the old town), which retains most attractions, including that of the World Heritage Royal Castle with its stunning red brick façade and opulent interior. Out of the many museums, visit the Palace of Culture and Science and also be sure to head down to the extensive Lazienki Park, south of here. The Royal Route links the old and new towns, across the river, where skyscrapers of glass showcase Poland’s rise—views of both are had from the Palace of Culture.
Having fun
Warsaw is cultured, with many good theaters in the old town, including the opulent Grand Theater and National Theater. This is also the best area for eating out, with a multitude of ethnic and Italian places and good old fashioned Polish fare in the bar mleczny ‘milk’ bars. The CBD is a little more upper crust and has many Western eateries and bars. Pubs go from cheap watering holes to swanky cocktail lounges with 24-hour drinking and are best had in Chmielna, Nowy Świat, or Trzech Krzyży, all close at hand.
Shopping
Shopping is hit and miss, though prices are good and you’ll find modern malls and top brands here at decent prices. If you are into malls, head towards the train station for Blue City, with its dozens of stores, or Arkadia or Promenada in the new town. These also boast food courts and entertainment in the form of cinemas and even bowling alleys, and often stay open until around 22:00. Otherwise, wander around the main streets of the old town for kitschy souvenirs and boutiques.
Nearby
Kampinoska National Park is the number one side trip from Warsaw, an ancient forest about 20 minutes’ drive to the west of the town and stretching for some 30 miles. Some amazing tracks, trees, and wildlife are resident in here. Beyond the park is Chopin’s birthplace, Żelazowa Wola, a fine house 45 minutes’ drive west. Off to the southeast is the spa town of Konstancin-Jeziorna, while farther south again (two hours from Warsaw) is the cool country town of Kazimierz Dolny.
Near By Destinations
Our recommendations in Warsaw
Radisson Collection Hotel, Warsaw
Located in Warsaw's Srodmiescie neighborhood, Radisson Collection Hotel, Warsaw is in the city center and near a train station. Palace of Culture and Science and Royal Castle are notable landmarks, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Old Town Market Place and Blue City. Check out an event or a game at National Stadium, and consider making time for Warsaw Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed. Our guests appreciate the hotel's central location.
Hilton Warsaw City
Located in Warsaw's Wola neighborhood, Hilton Warsaw Hotel & Convention Centre is in the business district and connected to the convention center. Palace of Culture and Science and Royal Castle are notable landmarks, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Blue City and Old Town Market Place. Check out an event or a game at National Stadium, and consider making time for Warsaw Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed.
Mercure Warszawa Centrum
In the city center, Mercure Warszawa Centrum is in Warsaw's Srodmiescie neighborhood, an area with good shopping. Palace of Culture and Science and Royal Castle are notable landmarks, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Blue City and Old Town Market Place. Check out an event or a game at National Stadium, and consider making time for Warsaw Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed. Our guests appreciate the hotel's central location.
MDM Hotel Warsaw
MDM Hotel City Centre is located in Warsaw's Srodmiescie neighborhood. Palace of Culture and Science and Royal Castle are notable landmarks, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Blue City and Old Town Market Place. Check out an event or a game at National Stadium, and consider making time for Warsaw Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed.
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Hotel Rialto
Located in Warsaw's Srodmiescie neighborhood, Hotel Rialto is in the city center and near a train station. Warsaw Uprising Museum and Copernicus Science Centre are cultural highlights, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Blue City and Old Town Market Place. Check out an event or a game at National Stadium, and consider making time for Warsaw Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed. Our guests appreciate the hotel's location for the sightseeing.
InterContinental Warsaw, an IHG Hotel
Located in Warsaw's Srodmiescie neighborhood, InterContinental Warsaw is in the city center and connected to the convention center. Warsaw Uprising Museum and Copernicus Science Centre are cultural highlights, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Old Town Market Place and Blue City. Check out an event or a game at National Stadium, and consider making time for Warsaw Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed. Our guests love the hotel's central location.
Polonia Palace Hotel
Near a metro station, Polonia Palace Hotel is in Warsaw's Srodmiescie neighborhood, an area with great shopping. Copernicus Science Centre and Warsaw Uprising Museum are cultural highlights, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Old Town Market Place and Blue City. Check out an event or a game at National Stadium, and consider making time for Warsaw Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed. Our guests love the hotel's quiet location.