Warsaw 3-Day Travel Guide – What to see and do in the capital of Poland

The capital of Poland, Warsaw is one of the fastest-growing cities in the European Union, both economically and importance-wise. Often called the “Phoenix City“, Warsaw’s history is deeply marked by the devastation of World War II, when Hitler ordered the city’s near-total destruction following a courageous uprising by its citizens, leaving 85% of its buildings in ruins.

However, after the war ended, local authorities were determined to restore the city to its former glory, meticulously rebuilding the entire Old Town exactly as it was, based on old photographs and paintings. Over time, the cityscape inevitably evolved. First, with the austere gray brutalist blocks, and then, after Poland’s liberation from Soviet influence, with the emergence of modern high-rise buildings and skyscrapers, giving Warsaw the eclectic aesthetic it retains to this day. Although many tend to overlook the capital in favor of the picturesque and historic Krakow, we believe that it is impossible to truly understand the essence of Poland without setting foot in its fascinating, resilient and incredibly intriguing capital.

That being said, we invite you to have a look at our Warsaw 3-day travel guide and discover the best the Polish capital has to offer, including hotels, restaurants, tips to avoid tourist scams and even a detailed list with everything you must see and do in Warsaw in 3 days.

Warsaw 3-Day Travel Guide

How to get to Warsaw – Flights from Ireland

Considering this is the biggest and most important city in Poland, it comes as no surprise that Warsaw is served by no less than 3 international air hubs: the Warsaw Chopin Airport, the Warsaw Modlin Airport and the Warsaw Radom Airport.

As such, if you’re traveling from Ireland, it is possible to fly directly to Warsaw Chopin from Dublin with Aer Lingus. On the other hand, there are flights to Modlin from Dublin and Shannon, both with Ryanair.

How many days do I need to visit Warsaw?

Given the city’s compact historic center and well-developed transportation system, Warsaw is actually a great destination for a weekend getaway. While you may be able to run through all its most prominent tourist attractions in as little as 48 hours, you’d have to rush and wouldn’t really have the chance to take things slowly.

That being said, we recommend spending at least 3 days in Warsaw, just enough time for you to explore the Old Town and walk the Royal Route, visit some of its amazing (and poignant) museums and check out a few parks and palaces in the outskirts. Plus, even if you get to see all of it in just 2 days, you’ll still have an extra 24 hours for a day trip.

Warsaw 3-day travel guide – Best time to visit the city

Considering the city is located in Europe, Spring, Summer and Fall are definitely the most sought-after months when it comes to booking a trip to Warsaw. As a rule of thumb in central Europe though, shoulder-season is often the most pleasant time to visit, as temperatures will still be mild and accommodation prices will not yet be through the roof! As such, we recommend considering the timeframe between April and June, and between September and November.

However, and for those strong-willed enough to face the harsh Polish winter, visiting Warsaw in the winter is also a great idea, as you’ll have the chance to experience the city’s Christmas Market!

Documents needed for your trip to Warsaw

Since Poland is part of the EU, Irish citizens only need to show a valid ID Card in order to be granted access to the country.

Warsaw 3-day travel guide – Withdrawals, banking fees and travel budget

With the Polish Zloty (PLN) as Poland’s official currency, any withdrawal using an Irish bank card might incur in the payment of several different fees. Besides the percentual fee referring to the currency conversion, some Irish banks may also charge a flat commission for withdrawals made outside Ireland. In some instances, you may well end up paying 5%-6% of your original withdrawal in banking fees.

On the other hand, exchanging money before your trip is not a viable solution either. Besides not being any cheaper, it’s also not safe or wise to carry so much money on you during your trip. As such, we recommend using the services of online banking fintech companies such as Revolut, N26 or Monzo.

Although each have their own limitations and fees, they allow you to withdraw a certain amount in foreign currency without any fees involved. And even after that threshold is reached, costs are much smaller when compared to traditional banks.

It’s worth noting that in Warsaw, as in most European countries, electronic payments are extremely common, and the need to withdraw cash is becoming increasingly rare. Nevertheless, if you do need to do so, we recommend using the following banks, which, at the time of writing, do not charge any withdrawal fees:

• Bank Pekao SA
• Santander

On the other hand, if you prefer to carry some cash and exchange it at your destination, here are 3 currency exchange offices in Warsaw with very favorable reviews:

• Dan Exchange – metro Centrum
• Woźniakowski Marcin Currency Exchange – near the Saxon Garden
• EXCHANGE KANTOR WYMIANY WALUT KRUPA – next to the Palace of Culture and Science

Warsaw 3-day travel guide – Common scams and frauds

First and foremost, let me clarify that Warsaw is an incredibly safe destination. With low crime rates and virtually no record of any terrorist attacks, this is the kind of place where you can feel comfortable both during the day and night.

However, and much like you would do in any other big city, using your common-sense is key. That means no taxis whose drivers refuse to start the meter, no accepting help from strangers when you’re using an ATM or trying to buy metro tickets and always keeping an eye out for your stuff when you’re walking through busy areas. We also recommend using an anti-theft bag. Unlike regular bags, anti-theft bags are specifically designed to prevent pickpockets and thieves from easily accessing your belongings. PacSafe is one of the leading brands in this category, producing bags that boast lockable zippers, cut-resistant materials and RFID-blocking fabric that helps protect against those trying to steal your credit card information through contactless technology. We currently use the Lunar, Crossbody and Sling models and can personally attest to their high-quality materials – especially the locking zipper technology, which makes it nearly impossible for anyone to open your bag without you noticing.

Also, since the local currency is different, do not exchange money on the streets. In fact, even at currency exchange offices, it’s a good idea to double-check the amount before completing the transaction, as some places in the city are famous for having hidden fees.

Last, but certainly not least, a word of caution to the LGBTQ+ community. When looking at all these countries in Europe, Warsaw is far from being the most welcoming destination when it comes to sexual minorities. While the former polish government was well-known for its populist speech on the fight against what they perceive as “gender ideology”, trying to associate homosexuality to truly perverse concepts, such as pedophilia, sexual harassment and indoctrination, that POV is still well ingrained in Polish society. As such, we advise you to be more cautious than you would be at home when it comes to PDA’s towards same-sex people.

Where to sleep in Warsaw – Hotels and Accommodation

If you’re looking out for a place to stay on our Warsaw 3-day travel guide then we got your covered!

Similar to most countries/cities that were once on the other side of the Iron Curtain, Warsaw also tends to have a relatively lower cost of living than what we are accustomed to. It is true that the city is not as inexpensive as it used to be (and costs are still on the rise), but it remains an affordable destination.

That being said, here are a few hotel options which have passed our value-for-money test:

• Hostel – Oliwka Hostel
• € – ibis budget Warszawa Centrum
• €€ – ibis Styles Warszawa Centrum
• €€€ – Regent Warsaw Hotel
• €€€€ – Nobu Hotel Warsaw

Warsaw 3-Day Travel Guide – Transportation between the airports and the city

From Warsaw Chopin to the city center

Located less than 10 km apart, the best way to travel between Warsaw Chopin Airport and the city center is by using lines S2 and S3 of the local train system. The station is located inside the airport, so passengers just need to follow the signs. These vehicles run between 06h00 and 23h00, leaving every 30 minutes (for each line). If you take S3, you can get out at Warsaw Central Station (Warszawa Centralna), while with S2 the most central stop would be Śródmieście. Both stations are located next to the Palace of Culture and Science and it takes about 25 minutes to get there. Tickets cost 4,40 PLN and can be purchased from the automatic machines inside the station or through the Jakdojade app.

On the other hand, you may also rely on bus 175, traveling between the airport and Piłsudskiego Square, a 10-minute walk away from the Old Town. Just follow the orange signs to find the bus stop. This route operates from 04h30 to 23h00, with a new bus leaving every 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the time of day. Expect the journey to take at least 30 minutes. Once again, tickets cost 4,40 PLN and you can buy them from the aforementioned app or using the automatic machines next to the bus stop. Lastly, if you happen to land late in the evening, there’s always the bus night service. Composed of line N32, buses leave every 30 minutes from 23h15 to 04h45. In this case, your final stop will be Warsaw Central Station.

From Warsaw Modlin to the city center

On the other hand, if you’re flying with Ryanair, chances are you’ll end up landing in Modlin. Located 50 km away from Warsaw city center, the best way to get there from Modlin Airport is to take the bus, with companies such as Flixbus, Contbus or Terravision operating this route. Depending on which carrier you choose, your final destination will either be Central Station, Warszawa Zachodnia or the Młociny metro stop. Regardless, the trip will take about 1 hour. These services are available from 08h45 to 01h30, leaving every 30 minutes to 2 hours. You can buy your ticket online from any of these websites for around 25 PLN.

Another great option would be to combine a local bus line with the train. Luckily, you don’t have to plan both trips separately, as you can buy a single ticket for both transports through Koleje Mazowieckie. All you have to do is board the bus just outside the arrivals’ terminal and get out at the Modlin Railway Station, where you transfer to the train heading towards Warsaw Central Station. In total, the trip might take around 60 minutes (10 for the bus trip + 10 waiting time for the train + 40 for the train journey). This service runs from 04h40 to midnight and leaves every hour. Tickets cost 25 PLN and can be purchased through the company’s website or on the automatic machines at the airport.

Warsaw 3-Day Travel Guide – Public transportation

Honestly, except for the trip between the airports and the city center (explained above) and for visiting the Wilanów Palace, you’ll hardly have to use the public transportation system in Warsaw. The city center is moderately compact, and while there’s a lot to see and do, it’s perfectly possible to complete most journeys on foot, even when traveling across different districts (Old Town, Royal Route, Centrum and Muranów, for example). Nonetheless, the Polish capital is equipped with a very decent and diverse public transportation network, composed of the metro, trams and buses.

That being said, and if you really need to rely on public transportation, you’ll most likely end up using the metro, so it’s worth having a little overview of how to navigate it.

Warsaw Metro – Maps, Tickets and Fares

Made up of almost 40 stations spread across 2 different lines, the metro system in Warsaw – along with the tram – is essential to the city’s urban mobility. While the metro doesn’t quite reach all of the city’s districts in the outskirts, at least the city center is vastly covered by this mode of transportation, making it easier for visitors and locals alike to travel across tourist attractions and business districts. Plus, the system is integrated into Google Maps, meaning the platform will provide you with real-time information on which line to take and where to catch it to reach your destination.

As for running times, the metro operates every day between 05h00 and 01h00, extending to 03h00 on Friday and Saturday nights.

Moving on to tickets, fares will depend on the journey’s duration and the number of transfers required. On the lower-end, you can buy a Bilet 20-minutowy, which is valid for 20 minutes, for 3,40 PLN. Alternatively, if your trip is a bit longer, get a Bilet jednorazowy przesiadkowy Strefa 1, valid for 75 minutes and costing 4,40 PLN. However, keep in mind this ticket only allows you to travel within Zone 1 (don’t worry, the entire metro network is located inside Zone 1). Finally, if you’re planning on taking a long bus or suburban train journey that crosses the line between Zone 1 and Zone 2, you’ll need a Bilet jednorazowy przesiadkowy Strefa 2 (90 minutes; 7,00 PLN). All tickets can be purchased from the automatic machines located inside the stations or through the MoBILET app. If you use the latter, the digital ticket will be stored on your phone.

Finally, if you plan on using public transportation frequently, it’s worth looking into the daily and multi-day options available:

• 24-hour Pass, Zone 1: 15,00 PLN
• 24-hour Pass, Zones 1+2: 26,00 PLN
• 72-hour Pass, Zone 1: 36,00 PLN
• 72-hour Pass, Zones 1+2: 57,00 PLN
• Weekend Ticket*, Zones 1+2: 24,00 PLN

*valid from Friday 19h00 to Monday 08h00

Warsaw 3-day Travel Guide – Free walking tours

While in Warsaw, you have the option to explore the city with a free walking tour. These tours, led by local guides or tour companies, offer guided visits to the historic center, sharing intriguing stories about each place and providing valuable cultural context. Even though these tours are technically free, it’s customary to show appreciation for the guide’s efforts by leaving a tip at the end. In Warsaw, a reasonable minimum tip would be around 25 PLN.

That being said, here are a few companies that run free walking tours in Warsaw:

• Free Tour Warsaw
• Walkative!
• Orange Umbrella

Warsaw 3-day Travel Guide – Hidden Treasures

With 3 days in Warsaw, and although there is definitely plenty to see, you will have enough time to at least cover the main highlights without having to rush too much, meaning you can add a few off-the-beaten-path sites to your travel plans.

That being said, and because we believe a good traveler must always be able to explore beyond the obvious, we wanted to add a few more obscure places to your list of things to see and do in Warsaw in 3 days:

Praga District: Located on the opposite bank of the Vistula River, Praga is Warsaw’s most alternative district, home to cutting-edge art installations and some of the city’s trendiest bars and restaurants. Interestingly, this neighborhood was regarded as dangerous and a no-go area for many decades.

Chopin’s Heart: Born in a small village less than 50 km away, the legendary composer Frédéric Chopin spent his early years in Warsaw before moving to Paris in his twenties, where he became one of classical music’s most famous personalities. However, he never forgot his Polish roots, requesting that his heart be brought back to Warsaw after his death. His wish was granted, and today his heart rests inside the Holy Cross Church.

Warsaw University Library Garden: Opened in 2002, this is the city’s most innovative green space. Yet, very few visitors actually know about it, which comes as a huge shock considering its close proximity to the Royal Route. Officially one of the largest rooftop gardens in Europe, it’s also a fantastic spot to watch the sunset over the Vistula River.

Warsaw Jewish Cemetery: Housing over 250.000 graves, along with mass graves containing the remains of many who perished in the Warsaw Ghetto, this necropolis is well worth the detour. While its counterpart in Prague is way more famous, the Warsaw Jewish Cemetery is also a powerful reminder of the historical and cultural legacy that Jews left behind in Central Europe.

Hala Koszyki: Renovated and reopened in 2016 after being left semi-abandoned for years, this historic market is now a lively hall filled with restaurants, cafés and creative spaces, standing as a prime example of how old buildings can be revitalized. Plus, it’s also a great place for lovers of urban photography, as the market’s industrial design is filled with little Art Nouveau elements and details.

Warsaw 3-Day Travel Guide – What to See and Do in 72 Hours

The perfect destination for a longer weekend getaway, with a full 72 hours you’ll be able to discover the very best Warsaw has to offer, allowing you just enough time to explore the Old Town and walk along the Royal Route, get acquainted the strong Jewish heritage in Muranów, enjoy a bit of nature in Lazienki Park, find out about the city’s legendary insurrection in the Warsaw Uprising Museum, get to the top of the Palace of Culture and Science and visit the magnificent Wilanów Palace. It may sound like a lot, but it’s totally worth it!

Without further ado, here’s what to see and do in Warsaw in 3 days:

Warsaw 3-Day Travel Guide: Day 1 – Old Town and Muranów

Starting off your trip to Warsaw, your getaway will inevitably start at the heart of the city, home to some of the Polish capital’s most iconic landmarks. However, before diving into the cobbled streets, colorful façades and classical architecture of the Old Town, you’ll first explore the district of Muranów. Known for its multicultural past, Muranów was home to Warsaw’s largest Jewish community and saw part of its area sealed off to form the infamous Warsaw Ghetto during the Nazi invasion. While much of its cultural and historical heritage was lost in the war, it’s still possible to find some traces of its Jewish past, most notably at the Warsaw Jewish Cemetery. Housing over 250.000 graves, along with mass graves containing the remains of many who perished in the ghetto, this necropolis is well worth the detour. While its counterpart in Prague is way more famous, the Warsaw Jewish Cemetery is also a powerful reminder of the historical and cultural legacy that Jews left behind in Central Europe. Moreover, given Muranów’s deep ties to the city’s Jewish community, it’s no surprise that this district was chosen as the site for the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews (45 PLN), a modern and highly interactive museum (winner of the 2016 European Museum of the Year Award) portraying the whole journey of Jewish history in Poland, from the arrival of the very first Jews to the Holocaust and their subsequent cultural revival.

Afterwards, it is then time to visit the famous Old Town of Warsaw, starting with its medieval fortifications that include the Barbican, a fortified gate designed to help defend the city against enemy invasions. Stepping through the Barbican and officially entering the Old Town, you’ll instantly notice just how beautiful this quarter is. However, what you see today is also marked by tragedy. Turns out that during World War II, Warsaw was the stage of the largest civilian uprising against Nazi forces, though the fierce Polish resistance would ultimately end in inevitable defeat. Enraged, Hitler wanted to make an example of the city, ordering all buildings to be purposely burned and destroyed with the ultimate goal of erasing Warsaw from the map. As a result, 85% of Warsaw was reduced to rubble, including the entire Old Town. The rest – as they say – it’s history. Germany lost the war and local authorities underwent a massive effort to bring the city back to its feet, paying special care and attention to their beloved Old Town, which they painstakingly rebuilt using old photographs and paintings. Now that we’ve covered some of the district’s history, the best way to experience it is to wander aimlessly, capturing the beauty of its narrow streets and lovely architecture. Make sure not to miss the breathtaking Old Town Market Square, often considered one of the most beautiful squares in the world.

Other highlights within the city walls include the Statue of the Little Insurgent, the St. John’s Archcathedral, and, the biggest one of all, the Warsaw Royal Castle (60 PLN for the standard visit; free on Wednesdays). Unsurprisingly, the castle was also completely destroyed in the war, only to be later brought back to its former glory. Once the official residence of Polish rulers after the capital was moved here from Krakow, the castle now offers guided tours through its lavish royal apartments, showcasing the opulence in which the Polish Crown lived. Just outside the castle, check out Sigismund’s Column, dedicated precisely to the king who made the decision to relocate the capital to Warsaw. Lastly, to cap off your day on a high note, we recommend visiting St. Anne’s Church (10 PLN) and heading up its tower. After climbing all of its 150 steps, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Warsaw. From here, you’ll see the Royal Route stretching to your left and the colorful Castle Square to your right, with the towering skyscrapers of modern Warsaw in the background. A postcard-perfect view and a fitting end to an amazing first day in the Polish capital!

First day wrap-up:

• Muranów
  • Warsaw Jewish Cemetery
  • POLIN – Museum of the History of Polish Jews
• Old Town
  • Barbican
  • Statue of the Little Insurgent
  • Old Town Market Square
  • John’s Archcathedral
  • Warsaw Royal Castle
  • Sigismund’s Column
  • Anne’s Church (Tower)

Where to eat in Warsaw – Best restaurants in the Old Town and Muranów

• Pyzy, flaki gorące (Polish traditional)
• Restauracja Portretowa (Polish traditional)
• Bar Mleczny Jakby luksusowo (milk bar – traditional Polish cafeteria)
• Gdański Bar Mleczny (milk bar – traditional Polish cafeteria)
• il Punto (Italian)
• Delhi-6 Indian Street Food (Indian)
• Gojo Ethiopian Restaurant (Ethiopian)
• Vegan Ramen Shop Muranów (ramen)
• Falafel Bejrut (falafel)
• Vege Miasto (vegan)

Warsaw 3-Day Travel Guide: Day 2 – The Royal Route

Having visited the Old Town, for your second day in Warsaw you’ll be delving deeper into its city center by walking the iconic Royal Route. Spanning an impressive 11 kilometers, this course links the Royal Castle to Wilanów Palace, following the route traditionally traveled by Polish royalty. While you can definitely walk all 11 km, the most beautiful and historically important sections lie along the boulevards of Krakowskie Przedmieście and Nowy Świat (about 2 km), a stretch that is dotted with several landmarks and tourist attractions. Without further ado, you’ll pick up exactly where you left off the day before – at Sigismund’s Column – which marks the start of Krakowskie Przedmieście. A bit like the Old Town, the architecture along the Royal Route is composed of colorful classical buildings intermixed with well-kept gardens, grand mansions, palaces, and churches, like the Presidential Palace, the Saxon Garden (home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier) and the Holy Cross Church, famous for housing the heart of Frédéric Chopin. Born in a small village less than 50 km away, the legendary composer Frédéric Chopin spent his early years in Warsaw before moving to Paris in his twenties, where he became one of classical music’s most famous personalities. However, he never forgot his Polish roots, requesting that his heart be brought back to Warsaw after his death. His wish was granted, and today his heart rests inside this church.

Without even noticing, Krakowskie Przedmieście will eventually transition into Nowy Świat, though the architecture will keep the same style until you reach St. Alexander’s Church, which stands in the center of a roundabout. Having walked the most beautiful stretches of the Royal Route, you’ll now veer toward the Vistula River to explore some of the most fascinating cultural institutions in Warsaw, starting off with the Chopin Museum (30 PLN), dedicated to the life and music of the legendary composer. Highly interactive, the museum offers a deep dive into Chopin’s creative process and private life, displaying original manuscripts, letters and personal belongings. From one Polish icon to another, your next destination is the Copernicus Science Center (46 PLN), named after the groundbreaking mathematician and astronomer who formulated the heliocentric theory, which challenged the long-held belief that the Earth was at the center of the universe. A visionary far ahead of his time! This state-of-the-art science museum is particularly great if you’re traveling with kids, boasting a planetarium and offering hands-on experiments and demonstrations on physics and astronomy. As the day winds down, you’ll make a final stop at the Warsaw University Library Garden. Opened in 2002, this is the city’s most innovative green space. Yet, very few visitors actually know about it, which comes as a huge shock considering its close proximity to the Royal Route. Officially one of the largest rooftop gardens in Europe, it’s also a fantastic spot to watch the sunset over the Vistula River.

Second day wrap-up:

• Royal Route
  • Krakowskie Przedmieście
  • Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
  • Saxon Garden
  • Presidential Palace
  • Holy Cross Church
  • Nowy Świat
  • Alexander’s Church
• Chopin Museum
• Copernicus Science Center
• Warsaw University Library Garden

Where to eat in Warsaw – Best restaurants along the Royal Route

• Zapiecek (Polish traditional)
• Gosciniec Polskie Pierogi – Nowy Świat (Polish traditional)
• Pierogarnia Syrena Irena (pierogis)
• Bar Mleczny Prasowy Powiśle (milk bar – traditional Polish cafeteria)
• Chmeli Suneli Nowy Świat (Georgian)
• Frida (Mexican)
• Mama Pho (Vietnamese)
• To Lubie (café/breakfast)
• Piekarnia Aromat Browarna (Bakery)
• Elementy Polskie (varied)

Warsaw 3-Day Travel Guide: Day 3 – Centrum, Lazienki Park and Wilanów Palace

Finally, we got to the end of your trip to Warsaw! However, before catching your flight home, you’ll spend your final day exploring Centrum, the city’s bustling business district, followed by the last stretch of the Royal Route leading to the district of Wilanów. An area of towering skyscrapers and modern architecture, Centrum may not have that old-world charm of other city districts, but it still boasts its fair share of must-visit landmarks. Remember when we mentioned the popular insurrection that led Hitler to order the city to be razed to the ground? This was such a pivotal moment in Polish resistance against Nazi occupiers that local authorities created the extraordinary Warsaw Uprising Museum (35 PLN), a world-class exhibition dedicated to the struggle of underground Polish militias against the vastly superior German army, portraying the history behind the uprising and its military strategies through immersive displays and first-hand accounts from fighters and survivors. Hands-down one of the best museums in the city!

By now, it’s impossible not to have noticed the old, massive, Soviet-era building towering over the skyline of Warsaw. Sticking out like a sore thumb amidst all other glitzy skyscrapers, this is none other than the Palace of Culture and Science, officially the tallest building in Poland from 1955 until 2022. Despite standing as one of the city’s most recognizable symbols, a lot of Poles actually hate this building and resent it as a symbol of Soviet oppression, as it was a “gift” from Joseph Stalin. In fact, its style is definitely reminiscent of other massive Soviet skyscrapers, boasting the exact same Art Deco and Gothic architecture/details you’d find in the famous “Seven Sisters” of Moscow. Nonetheless, the Palace of Culture and Science remains a must-see for anyone visiting Warsaw! Besides, you may even take the elevator to the top (28 PLN) and enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Back at street level, you’ll probably be feeling pretty hungry by now, which is why we recommend a strategic stop at Hala Koszyki. Renovated and reopened in 2016 after being left semi-abandoned for years, this historic market is now a lively hall filled with restaurants, cafés and creative spaces, standing as a prime example of how old buildings can be revitalized. Plus, it’s also a great place for lovers of urban photography, as the market’s industrial design is filled with little Art Nouveau elements and details.

With your energy replenished, it’s time to burn some of those calories with a long walk through Lazienki Park, the largest and most breathtaking green space in Warsaw. Spanning 76 hectares, you could easily spend a whole day just breezing past the park, visiting its countless amphitheaters, Asian gardens, palaces, temples, museums, statues and even a castle! Originally part of a royal complex and property of the Polish Crown, the most popular landmark inside Lazienki Park is the stunning Palace on the Isle (or Pałac Łazienkowski), an elegant bathhouse that was built on an island in the middle of a scenic lake. Finally, and before wrapping up your time in Warsaw, you’ll catch a bus (180 or 116) from the park’s entrance to Wilanów Palace, which marks the official end (or start, depending on the direction) of the Royal Route. One of the very few buildings in Warsaw to survive both World Wars, this magnificent baroque palace is now open to visitors, whether you choose to take a quick stroll through its gardens or explore its lavish royal apartments (35 PLN). Despite its history and cultural relevance, not many tourists actually make it here, making it a perfect final stop before saying goodbye to Warsaw!

Third day wrap-up:

• Warsaw Uprising Museum
• Palace of Culture and Science
• Hala Koszyki
• Lazienki Park
  • Palace on the Isle
• Wilanów Palace

Where to eat in Warsaw – Best restaurants in Centrum

• Patelnia Patera (Polish traditional)
• Soul Kitchen (Polish traditional)
• Restauracja Bursztynowa (Polish traditional)
• SETKA – Restauracja Polska (Polish traditional)
• Restauracja Gruby Josek (Polish traditional)
• Bar Bambino (milk bar – traditional Polish cafeteria)
• Mleczarnia Jerozolimska (milk bar – traditional Polish cafeteria)
• Barn Burger (hamburgers)
• Manekin (sweet and savory crepes)
• Hala Koszyki (market)

Got more than 3 days in Warsaw? Then you might want to check out the best day trips from the city

Gdansk: One of the most important cities along the Baltic Sea, Gdansk stands out as a healthy mix of Polish, Germanic and Scandinavian influences, present in both its architecture and culture. Plus, it’s home to two of Poland’s most extraordinary museums: the Museum of the Second World War and the European Solidarity Centre. On a curious sidenote, it was the invasion of Gdansk by Hitler that sparked the outbreak of World War II.

Torún: One of the rare Polish cities to emerge from World War II unscathed, the Old Town of Torún remains as it was centuries ago, with its stunning Market Square as a central point. Besides, the city is also famous for being the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus (there’s a pretty cool museum inside his former home) and for its local university, one of the most respected academic institutions in Poland.

Lublin: Probably the second most underrated destination in all of Poland (behind neighboring Zamosc), Lublin is a charming and picturesque city where you won’t have to deal with hordes of other tourists or inflated prices. Nearby, we recommend visiting the Majdanek Concentration Camp, where you can enter the only surviving gas chamber that isn’t a reconstruction (unlike the chambers you’ll find in other camps – including Auschwitz).

Lodz: Located just 130 km away from Warsaw, Lodz used to be one of the most important industrial centers in Poland until the fall of Communism, when a lot of the factories were left abandoned. However, and instead of letting it fade into obscurity, the population figured out a way to help reinvent their city, turning it into Poland’s creative hub (definitely a trendy place). Expect to find cool street art, repurposed factories transformed into cultural spaces and an alternative atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Poland.

Poznan: Considered the fifth-largest city in the country, Poznan is yet another Polish destination with a lovely Old Town to explore. As per usual, just wandering around is the best way to experience the historic center, though highlights including the Town Hall, the Royal Castle and Ostrów Tumski, an island home to the country’s oldest cathedral, should not be missed. Also, make sure to try their delicious St. Martin’s Croissants, a local delicacy that can only be produced in Poznan!