Warsaw In Your Pocket City Guide_ October-November 2023

Fall in Warsaw is worth it for the golden parks alone! Photo by Julia Filirovska/Canva (p.10)

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 (1.9 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!

Warsaw’s autumn foliage by the Palace of Culture and Science (p.21). Photo: Adobestock

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

Autumn in the Krasiński Garden (E-4), featuring the 17th-century Krasiński Palace - once the residence of the prominent Polish noble family of the same name. Photo by Aleksander Głowacki (alex.snaps.colours)

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:

Warsaw Day Trips

Read through our entire guide, done it all and still looking for more? Of course not, but the surrounding region still offers many sites worth exploring, from national parks to spa towns.

PAŹDZIERNIK – October in Poland

Harvest season brings pumpkins and a whole array of forest mushrooms bring out the foraging spirit in Poland! WATCH OUR VIDEO to learn more!

SAINTS AND SOULS Halloween in Poland

The US variation of Halloween has found its way into the pop cultural romps of many other countries. In Poland, however, the original format of these traditions continue to resist! WATCH OUR VIDEO for more!

Editor: Anna Merriman; Editor in chief: Garrett Van Reed

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

Events & 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 (Bernardinu 9-4, Vilnius, LT, tel. (+370-5) 212 29 76).

The Coziest Autumn in Warsaw

After an unusually late summer, the chill has finally hit the air and that means one thing: autumn is here. Well, to be more specific, in Warsaw it means many things: excursions in the park, curling up in a cafe, mushrooms galore, golden foliage, delicious sour soups, and warm beer (try it!).

Warsaw is the place to be, especially if you want to have the coziest autumn possible. And we have the definitive guide on how to do it, whether you only have a few days in the capital city, or the whole season.

Get Comfy in a Cafe

Warsaw is often overlooked when it comes to cafe culture, but it shouldn't be, especially in the chillier months. There are plenty of places all over the city to snuggle up with a book and a warm drink as the crisp fall weather hits. If you’re in the Old Town, check out nearby Cafe Bristol  (G-5), which combines chic and fancy with a comfortable and cozy atmosphere.

Another in the area is To Lubię (F-3), which offers tasty pastries and cappuccinos in a medieval-esq

space (fitting that it’s in the Old Town!) With wood floors and cushioned seats by the window, this is the place to seek refuge when it gets just a little too chilly. Or travel a little south and go to Słodki Słony (G-10), which abounds with colorful decor and delicious pastries, cakes and more, all packed into a small, warm little cafe that gives off serious English countryside vibes.

Enjoy the Golden Foliage

Poles are proud of what they call the ‘Golden Polish Autumn’ (złota polska jesień) - a period of sunny and warm weather which often coincides with leaves changing colours. If you’re lucky enough to be here during this phenomenon, it’s off to the leafiest parts of the capital: its many parks. Łazienki (p.50), which stretches 76 hectares and includes tons of winding

The Old Town hits peak coziness with autumn’s golden foliage. Photo by ewg3D/Canva

paths, ponds full of swans and ducks (that you can feed), statues and even a few palaces. Stop by Ministerstwo Kawy (H-12) (the Ministry of Coffee in English) or the park’s own IT Cafe (I-10) and grab a beverage to sip while you take in the colors.

Another favorite is Skaryszewski Park (L-5/6) just over the river in Praga. This one is a little more wild than Łazienki, but no less picturesque, with a canal, duck ponds and lots of benches for reading a book. In this case, you can stop by Francuska 30 (L-7) or Green Caffe Nero (L-7) for a cafe before the park.

Of course, there are many other green spaces, including Pole Mokotowskie (E-12), Wilanów Park and Gardens (p.54) or, if you’re willing to make an afternoon or day-trip to the north, the Kampinos Forest National Park

Have Some Mushrooms!

It’s difficult to overstate how much Poles like their mushrooms. The country has been the world’s top mushroom exporter since 2007, and come fall, Poles head to forests en masse, baskets in hand, to hunt for their favourite edible fungi. Polish forests are a treasure trove, with over 1000 edible varieties (and many poisonous ones). Favorites include the stately porcini mushrooms, slippery jacks, saffron milk cups, bay boletes and bright yellow chanterelles, which pair nicely with scrambled eggs. Once picked, the mushrooms can be dried, marinated in vinegar or immediately find their way into home-cooked meals.

If you have a car or are willing to take a long train ride, you could certainly get out of the city and pick your own, but to save time (and for your own safety) it might just be better to stay in the city and get your mushroom fix at a Polish restaurant.

Specjały Regionalne (G-7) on Nowy Świat serves up locally sourced Polish food including bigos with wild mushrooms from the forest, pierogi with wild mushrooms, and much more. Or U Fukiera (F-4), which is the oldest restaurant in the city and offers a candle lit dining experience with stellar Polish food (lots of dumplings, cabbage rolls and more with mushrooms).

Maybe a Milk Bar is more your speed, in which case try Bar Bambino (G-9), Bar Mleczny Familijny (G7) or Bar Prasowy (G-11), all of which serve tasty mushroom dishes (mushroom gravy over dumplings is a must!)

Grab a Warm Drink

More botanically-inclined Poles also take advantage of other seasonal offerings, making herbal teas, pickles, jams and strong alcoholic infusions called nalewki, which they insist have medicinal properties. Nalewki can be made from almost anything, and popular autumnal choices are the vividly-coloured berries of rowan, hawthorn, dogwood and seabuckthorn trees and shrubs. These berries are picked, cleaned, submerged in watered-down rectified alcohol with a good helping of sugar, and left to ferment. While this is mostly a domestic endeavour, you might be able to find nalewki in some Warsaw bars, and we would encourage you to give them a try.

If you’re more into piwo (Polish for “beer”) we recommend giving grzane piwo a try. Essentially it’s a frothing hot pint spiced with artificial ginger syrup, clove, cinnamon and other mulling spices, and no matter how you like the taste, you have to admit it screams autumn. Others may prefer grzane wino – or sweet mulled wine – which is a little more popular and easily found served outside on Nowy Świat (p.44) and in the Old Town (p.32) near the end of the season (as the weather turns from crisp to cold).

There’s plenty more to do for autumn (more eating, drinking and exploring), but we recommend starting with these suggestions to really kick your season off right.

Mulled wine is a staple in Warsaw in late autumn.

Photo by Immagini di Pierluigi Palazzi/Canva

Designer Outlet Warszawa Shopping in style

This one is for the fashion lovers: just south of Warsaw, in the historic town of Piaseczno, is a retail gem called Designer Outlet Warszawa. The complex is, at face-value, simply gorgeous to look at – and that’s before you even enter the 23,000-square-meter space.

Though it was built in 2005, you wouldn’t guess it from the style. The building has a pastel-colored facade with little baroque-style details reminiscent of buildings in the Old Town (p.32). The effect is that the whole place looks like you’ve stepped into a magical little city of its own.

Inside, you’ll find an airy, light space designed to feel like you’re outdoors, complete with two-story interior buildings and tons of windows. Nice touches include sleek stone floors, tons of greenery, lamp posts with hanging potted plants, and of course, cafés, restaurants, and shopping. You’re inside, but it feels like you’re meandering down a little avenue in Paris or Rome.

But the thing about this spot? The prices are much better than anything you would find in Paris or Rome. It’s the largest premium outlet in the entire country,

offering 130 different designer brands at anywhere from 30% to 70% off.

All of that has led to Designer Outlet Warszawa’s stellar reputation; it was awarded Best Performing Fashion Outlet Project by the Central Eastern European Retail Awards in 2023, a 2022 award for Project of the Year - Retail Expansion from the CEE Retail Award and Maketplace.

All Your Designer Needs!

If you want to break away from the center of the city for an afternoon and get some shopping in, this is the place to go.

There’s an array of designer shops here—many of them exclusive to this very complex, including the

Shoppers visit the bright, cheery and chic Designer Outlet Warszawa

country’s only Polo Ralph Lauren and Hour Passion shops (along with other luxury watch brands: Longines, Rado, and Certina). You’ll also find the only outlet in Poland for Armani, Coccinelle, Furla, Högl, Luisa Spagnoli, Michael Kors, Pandora, Swarovski, Tous, and Twinset.

It’s also the flagship outlet of Boss and Tommy Hilfiger, and offers other premium brands like Calvin Klein, Gant, Guess, Lacoste, KARL LAGERFELD, Marc O’Polo and many premium Italian brands as well.

It’s not just fashion; Designer Outlet Warszawa offers plenty of other shops too. Swing by The Cosmetics Company Store or Pretty London for makeup and skincare, or Hairpoint for top-tier hair products.

There are even plenty of offerings for home goods supplies at prices you likely won’t find elsewhere. Want a new pot-and-pan set? Swing by Le Creuset. Are you in the market for high-end ceramics? Villeroy&Boch, which has been a homeware institution since the 1700s, has you covered.

Simply put, Designer Outlet Warszawa is a shop-tillyou-drop kind of place.

And if you’re ready to drop, well there’s plenty of options to take a break – without even leaving the mall!

If you need a pick-me-up, swing by the Green Caffè Nero for a coffee, tea or flaky pastry. The popular cafe has comfy leather seats and little tables, offering a cozy café experience in the midst of a bustling retail hub. If you want some variety, there’s also Vita Cafe, with exposed brick walls and contemporary hanging light fixtures; this is where you come for your pączki fix (traditional jelly-filled Polish donuts).

Getting There

Though the space is located outside the center of Warsaw, it’s basically a straight-shot from the middle of the city, and very easy to get to.

By car:

Take al. Niepodległości south all the way to Energetyczna, where you take a left. It’s about a 35-45-minute drive from the center, depending on the time of day. (An Uber will run you about 60 zł or 13 Euro).

By public transport:

Take the number 4 or 10 tram south from centrum (we advise buying a 75-minute ticket) to the Aleja Lotników stop, then transfer to the 709. Get off at Energetyczna 01. The ride will take about an hour.

Or, if it’s a full meal you’re after, stop by Los Santos Bar, the brick-and-mortar version of a long-beloved food truck, which has an array of international foods including juicy burgers, nachos, burritos, chicken strips and more.

Parents will be relieved to find a lot of family-friendly amenities, too, from changing rooms to strollers, to lockable cabinets.

An Historic Market Town

It’s fitting that this market is located in this particular town because Piaseczno has a long history as a retail and market hub.

The town is one of the oldest in the Masovia region, and, starting in the 1500s, it was known for its fairs and markets. That status was bolstered in the 19th century when a road was built from the center of Warsaw through Piaseczno. In the 20th century, a railway line further cemented the town’s position as a retail hub by bringing even more visitors.

The modern renaissance of Piaseczno started in the 1990s, with the opening of the first Auchan hypermarket in Poland. Since then, Piaseczno has seen a boom in population, and is beloved by visitors and locals alike as the place to go for shopping.

Qul. Puławska 42E (Piaseczno), MWilanowska, tel. (+48) 22 737 31 15, www.designeroutletwarszawa.pl. Open 10:00-22:00; Sunday 10:00-21:00*. T­U

Centrum Praskie Koneser A Praga-Północ Gem

Tucked away in the popular Praga-Północ neighborhood is a bustling creativity and gastronomy center that includes restaurants, museums, bars, cafes, galleries, shopping, and much more. And it’s all located in a complex of 100-year-old neo-Gothic buildings that used to house a famed vodka factory.

Called Centrum Praskie Koneser, this spot is one of the few places in Warsaw not razed during World War II, which means that this collection of buildings is teeming with history.

The red brick complex was opened in 1897 as a factory to house the famous Koneser Vodka operations, though other famous vodkas came out of this space as well (including Żubrówka, Luksusowa and more).

Vodka production continued at the factory through much of the 20th century, with a major boom in the first half of the century, when the factory employed over 400 people and produced 250,000 bottles of vodka a day.

After production ended in 2007, developers could tell the set of buildings not only had a lot of history, they had promise, too. That’s thanks to the gorgeous

blend of industrial and neo-Gothic architecture throughout the complex. The buildings are made of dark red brick and boast rib-vault ceilings, smoke stacks and narrow windows.

When developers began repurposing the space for an entertainment, food and shopping center – which opened in 2018 – they leaned into the existing architecture, highlighting it with contemporary industrial elements. Now, among the 19th century buildings, you’ll find sleek glass structures, string lights and pops of greenery that underscore the beauty of the original space.

Eat & Drink the Day Away

One of the best aspects of Centrum Praskie Koneser is the sheer number of bars and restaurants, starting with Koneser Grill, a high-end steak restaurant and

Centrum Praskie Koneser is bursting at the seams with things to do: events, food, shopping and much more.

the only establishment in this part of the city to secure a spot on the coveted Michelin Guide.

If you’re looking for variety, try Bombaj Masala, which offers seriously good Indian food, or Concept Food & Wine, which has comfort food with a modern twist (and some gorgeous plating). Of course, swing by Społdzielnia Koneser for everything from burgers to pizza and more, or Azia Restaurants for any Asian food you can imagine (ramen and dim sum-lovers, this is your spot).

If you want good, original and authentic Italian cuisine, stop by recently opened L’Osteria (p.75), which serves up tasty pizzas, homemade pasta and a traditional Italian flair. Setki Powodów (p.92) has delicious food along with unique cocktails you won’t find elsewhere -- all in a space decorated with neon signs and filled regularly with live music. Speaking of drinks, swing by the ¾ Koneser Bar (p.92), located in the Vodka Museum, which offers a number of unique and artisanal alcohol infusions.There’s also the 24-hour Moxy Bar, with bright lighting and fun little decorative details (pink flamingo drawings abound). There is no shortage of fun ways to relax!

Shopping, Spa, Studio Art & more!

You can come here for more than just food and drinks! This place is bursting at the seams with activities, from shopping, to relaxing, to eating and more. If you’re traveling, you can even get a hotel room here at the reputed Moxy Warsaw Praga Hotel

Once here, swing by the Minimal Line Studio, which offers well-priced minimalist art. If it’s cosmetics you’re in the mood for, head over to Mydlarnia Cztery Szpaki, which makes natural handmade soaps and shampoos. Or stop by The s:HEirt, a concept clothing store offering a wide range of classic clothes that – in their words – never go out of style.

There’s a lot in the way of self-pampering, too. Several salons are located in the space, as well as Ambassade Biologique Recherche, a spa-like spot that offers facial, body and hair treatments amid Parisian-style decor. There’s also Eyebar, where you can get face massages along with professional makeup, eyebrow work and mani/pedis.

For those who are more interested in roaming museums for the day, Centrum Praskie Koneser is also the spot. You’ll find a number of renowned art

Getting There

Centrum Praskie Koneser is just over the river from the center of town, and it couldn’t really be easier to get to

From the Centralna Train Station, hop on the 7 tram and get off at Kijowska 06 or get on the 25 tram and get off at Ząbkowska. From the Rondo ONZ metro station, take the M2 heading east and get off at Wileński.

The complex is a 5min walk from all stops.QK-2, Plac Konesera 2, MDworzec Wileński, www.koneser.eu.

galleries, from Leonarda, an urban art concept store, to Art Sułek Space, which has sculptures and paintings in a gallery run by Polish artist Marek Sułek. There’s even ToTuart, a gallery that displays beautiful sculptures and paintings and also has an auction house!

Spend tons of time in the Museum of Fantastic Art (p.64), which frequently features art from Polish artists that have not yet been publicly displayed. Or check out the The Magic Mind Museum, where children and adults alike can learn about the art of illusion. Of course, no trip to Koneser is complete without a visit to the Polish Vodka Museum (p.57), 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. Check out a variety of vodka bottles, buy some gifts and of course, try some during the vodka tasting (better to leave this visit for the end of the day).

Setki Powodów brings the neon aesthetic, the tasty drinks and the overall good vibes to Centrum Praskie Koneser

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!

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.

Bigos

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.

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.

Golonka

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.

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.

Pierogi

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.

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.

Żurek

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.

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, 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.

Warsaw is Poland’s most navigable city by far. | Photo by Adam Borkowski.

Car & Bike Share

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. 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 24 hours for only 89zł and 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 3.99zł to start a journey, plus 1.79zł/km; 0.15zł/min when parked (0.01/min 23:00-07:00).

Veturilo Public Bike

Warsaw has cemented its big-city credentials with a fleet of 3,000+ bikes (including electric-assisted bikes and tandems) at over 300 stations. Veturilo is ridiculously easy: once you’ve registered online and paid the initial 10zł fee, you can visit any of the stations, select your ride, scan the bike’s QR code and you’re off! For standard bikes the first 20mins are free, and from there you pay 1zł for 21-60 minutes, 3zł for the second hour, 5zł for the third, and 7zł for each hour after that up to 12 hours; electric bikes are more expensive. When you’re done, pop your bike back into the stand at any of the stations, or if the stands are full, confirm your return via the station’s machine and use the bike chain to secure it to another bike. Qwww.veturilo.waw.pl. Available from March 1 to November 30.

Useful Transport Tools

Jakdojade

Warsaw’s public transit network is relatively easy to use, but the key to unlocking it is the warszawa. jakdojade.pl site and web app. Let the app access your location and it’ll determine the most efficient way to get to your destination - whether it be bus, tram, metro or train, which isn’t always obvioususing live data. A huge help for navigating your way around, you can also buy and validate tickets in the app.

E-podroznik.pl

This site can also help you get from point A to point B within Warsaw, but is really invaluable when it comes to planning the journey to your next destination, whether within Poland or abroad, by bus or train. Use e-podroznik.pl to easily search bus and train connections and timetables, compare prices and even buy tickets in one of seven languages. There’s also a free mobile app (Android only).

Ride Share & Taxis

You’ll be happy to know that some of the ride share apps already on your phone will work in Warsaw, including Uber, Bolt and Free Now In fact, ride share services and taxi services are almost indistinguishable in the capital, with drivers typically operating on multiple platforms at the same time. Note, however, that ride share providers don’t have the same permissions as licensed cabbies and may not be able to take you as close to your destination, or get you there as directly. If you want to make sure you’re getting an actual taxi, try iTaxi (itaxi.pl), or call the Glob Cab Taxi at +48 1-9668 or +48 666 00 9668i.

Scooter Rental

Although agitating to some, electric motorised scooters are everywhere across Warsaw, and provide a cheap, easy, efficient and environmentally-friendly way to get around. To get started, you need an e-scooter app on your phone (create an account and add your personal data and payment details). The firms with the most current coverage in the capital are Lime, Bolt, Blinkee and CityBee. Spare yourself the wrath of locals by using your scooter responsibly; don’t ride through congested areas and when you’ve finished your ride, park it out of the way without blocking the sidewalk.

Warsaw’s trams can take you almost anywhere in the city

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.32), regal Royal Route (p.40) and the imperial beauty of Łazienki (p.50) and Wilanów (p.54), but also around the soaring, frenetic City Centre (p.22), happening Powiśle (p.46) and scruffy Praga (p.56). If your time is limited, however, here’s a cheat sheet of the city’s most unmissable sights.

The intersection between Nowy Świat (p.44) and Al. Jerozolimskie.

Photo by Drone In Warsaw / Canva Pro.

9 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.33

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.37.

3 Vistula Boulevards

Warsaw’s left-bank boulevards are a favourite haunt of the locals - go and see why - walk, ride, or just chill on the riverside steps. Wow.QSee p.47.

4 Łazienki Park

Full of incredible art and architecture this massive park and palace complex offers spectacular opportunities for sightseeing or simply relaxing.QSee p.50

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 25/20zł. 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.54

POLIN Museum

6

1000 years of Jewish history in Poland is chronicled in this excellent museum where the Jewish Ghetto stood during WWII.QSee p.67.

7 Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporary Art

One of Poland’s most prestigious art centres with a packed program of exhibitions, performances, film screenings and artist residencies!QSee p. 63.

8 Warsaw Rising Museum

Chronicling the heroism and tragedy of the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, this modern museum packed with multimedia displays is one of PL’s best.QSee p.69

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, you’re already in it, aren’t you? Chances are you’re staying in the City Centre, so let’s get familiar with what’s around before running off to the Old Town (p.32), shall we? Despite not being particularly cosy or nostalgic, there are still many points of interest and nowhere more conveys the modern character of the Polish capital.

Follow us as we help you find the hay in this needlestack, Photo by @alexsnapscolours.

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 added - both 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. Other curiosities include a sundial from 1863, a memorial honouring Varsovians killed during WWII, and a statue of Stefan Starzyński - the city’s mayor at the outbreak of WWII, who later to became a victim of Dachau concentration camp. It’s also worth noting the beautiful Renaissance palace on the southern side of the park, which holds Zachęta - Warsaw’s premier space for contemporary art (p.64).QF-6, Between ul. Marszałkowska and Plac Piłsudskiego, MŚwiętokrzyska.

3 Hala Mirowska & Hala Gwardii

Major Warsaw landmarks, these two massive brick market halls were constructed between 1899 and 1901 on the instruction of Russian mayor Nikolai Bibikov. Together they functioned as Warsaw’s largest market until the outbreak of the Warsaw Uprising. Though ravaged by fire, the buildings survivedcheck out the bullet scars still visible on the corner of Pl. Mirowski and Jana Pawła II. A bus depot in the post-war years, Hala Mirowska resumed its original purpose in the 1950s. Today it feels a bit like a trip back, thanks to the outmoded shops, and lines of country folk selling jars of mushrooms out of their vans. The outdoor produce market is absolutely worth it, however, and full of fresh greens coming in from the countryside. Meanwhile, Hala Gwardii (open Fri-Sun only), has been turned into a trendy food hall, though it’s a bit grittier than the capital’s similar enterprises. The dichotomy is unique as this place strains to modernise, but stays true to its roots.QD-6, Pl. Mirowski 1, MRondo ONZ. Hala Mirowski: Open 07:00-20:00; Sat 07:00-18:00; closed Sun. Hala Gwardii: Fri & Sat 11:00-1:00 Sun 10:00-21:30; closed weekdays.

Aerial view of Plac Piłsudskiego bordering Saxon Garden.

Photo by Tom Black / AdobeStock.

4 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 Browary - 13 contemporary gastro concepts in the former cellars (p.88). The historic 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 part-owned by Robert Lewandowski (Nine’s). There's always something brewing at Browary, so check online for events. ul. Grzybowska 60, MRondo Daszyńskiego, www. browarywarszawskie.com.pl.

5 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 ‘ Warszawę’ (I Love Warsaw). What’s more, there’s something happening year-round, including an ice rink in winter. 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.

info & tickets at ww.smartkidsplanet.pl

Brand new attraction for children in Warsaw!

place will take children on a journey to a small planet of great explorers A world of limitless imagination, cosmic adventures and sporting excitement " Anna Lewandowska - IG @annalewandowska

Stair mural at Browary Warszawskie

Photo by Aleksander Malachowski

6 Fabryka Norblina

The latest of several highly successful urban renewal projects in Warsaw, arguably the most diverse and exciting, and, without a doubt, the most rewarded! 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. Over 24,000m2 of total commercial space open to the public, visitors will find an impressive museum covering the site’s industrial history - including exhibits of unique plated goods and historical machinery, the largest, most complete Apple Computer Museum (p.71) in the world, the BioBazar eco (organic) food market and bistro, the KinoGram boutique cinema, ArtBox Experience, a fitness centre, shops, cafes and more - including a bevy of events. To top it all off, a trendy

indoor Food Town lives at the heart of the space, with 23 gastronomy concepts from around the globe, and 5 bars to add to the service! Additionally, Hala Gimlet, is an everyday live music space, featuring bands, DJs and jazz sessions. Young families should also take note of Smart Kids Planet (p.73), an educational play center for young children to partake in the fun. This truly is the astounding cutting edge of Warsaw’s urban culture, so check it out.QC/D-8, ul. Żelazna 51/53, MRondo Daszyńskiego, www. fabrykanorblina.pl. T­E­6

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 waterfall. 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 remained derelict, however, in recent years, one side was restored to its pre-war splendour, while the second side awaits revival. It is here in the former heart of the Jewish Warsaw (p.66) 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.QE-7, MŚwiętokrzyska.

7 Plac Grzybowski

All Saints’ Church in Plac Grzybowski. Photo by ewg3D / Canva Pro

Fabryka Norblina

8 Pasaż Wiecha

Like the trough behind a cresting wave, this ‘passage’ runs parallel to ul. Marszałkowska in the shadow of the Wars Sawa Junior departments stores, otherwise know as the ‘Eastern Wall.’ One of the most monstrous projects completed in communist Warsaw, this massive wall of buildings is among the oldest department store/retail complexes in Poland, a role it still plays today. 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. In more recent times, the buildings have been modernised with shining glass frontages, granite walkways and proper lighting. 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, which will see this immediate area redeveloped once again in the near future, becoming more green and user-friendly for residents. It’s all part of a larger plan to create a lively pedestrian corridor through the city centre from here to ul. Nowy Świat (p.44) via ul. Chmielna. Start a wander east down the latter from here to see how far the city has progressed so far. QF-7/8, MCentrum.

9 Plac Pięciu Rogów & ul. Chmielna

Warsaw’s newest 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 Rogów is basically the centrepiece of redevelopment works throughout this area which have reduced car traffic and parking spaces, widened sidewalks, added greenery, and are transforming ul. Chmielna into a high street for pedestrians connecting ul. Nowy Świat and the Royal Route (p.40) to the Palace of Culture (p.21). A great area for exploration, around the square you’ll plenty of cool cafes, restaurants, bars and intriguing places for relaxing and refuelling.

QG-7/8, MCentrum, www.plac5rogow.pl.

10 Plac Zbawiciela

In the aftermath of WWII, this star-shaped roundabout became dominated by PRL-era buildings from the 1950s, but still harbours a couple gems. The first is the conspicuous Church of the Holiest Saviour, from which the square takes its name (Saviour Square). Built in neo-Renaissance style in the 1920s, that it stands is a marvel, considering it was dynamited by the Nazis during WWII and then tagged for demolition by the communists.

The other pre-war building here is the handsome Jasieńczyk-Jabłoński tenement (Mokotowska 12), erected in 1910. Upon completion, it was not only one of the most modern, but also the tallest residential building in Warsaw (38 m).

From 2012–2015, Julita Wójcik’s “Rainbow” art installation notably soared over Plac Zbawiciela. A 9m-high 26m-wide rainbow made of plastic flowers, the piece proved too controversial for PL’s anti-LGBT factions, who repeatedly lit it on fire until it was removed. Though there have been plans to replace it with a fireproof version, the current political climate doesn’t seem conducive to its return. That aside, Saviour Square today is quite the progressive meeting place for students, artists and activists who favour the hip bars here like Plan B (Al. Wyzwolenia 18) and Charlotte (Al. Wyzwolenia 18/2U).QG-10, MPolitechnika.

11 Warsaw University of Technology

Known locally as Politechnika Warszawska, this is one of the largest universities of technology in Central Europe, with over 36,000 students. The uni's historic main building is an absolute wonder of neo-baroque architecture designed by Stefan Szyller at the turn of the 18/19th centuries. Stout, sturdy and with unique rounded corners, the two-story building survived WWII bombing and was quickly retouched after the war. Its magnificent facade features an array of architectural embellishments they just don't teach the kids inside anymore: sculptures, bas-reliefs, frescoes and 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.QF-10, Plac Politechniki 1, MPolitechnika. Open 08:00-18:00.

12 Hala Koszyki

If you're wondering where all the students are, this might be the answer. One of Warsaw's marvellous indoor market halls, Hala Koszyki is photogenic in its own right and features a phenomenal groundfloor food hall, plus boutique shops, cultural spaces and regular events. Worth dropping in even if you aren't hungry, this is urban revitalisation at its most impressive. See more p.89 QF-10, ul. Koszykowa 63, MPolitechnika, www.koszyki.com. Open 08:00-01:00.

Inside the Warsaw University of Technology.

AUTUMN IN NORBLIN FACTORY

S k 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 25 buildings over 100m high, with another 10 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 neomodern office complex is the tallest building in the EU at 310m (though the last 80m is a spire). An observation deck at 230m will open in 2024. 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.21 QE-9.

Warsaw UNIT: Warsaw’s 5th tallest tower (202m) was completed in 2021. Opening soon on the 46th floor will be a Skybar and the wild new adrenaline attraction Skyfall Warsaw - a vertigo-inducing glass box that dangles outside the building and suddenly tilts 15 degrees forward!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/The Marriott: The Marriott’s 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.95).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.62). QE-9.

Warsaw Spire - PL’s 3rd-tallest skyscraper (p.25). Photo by Adrian Grycuk.

The Old Town

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.68), 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.34) 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.

Plac Zamkowy and the Royal Castle, as seen from ul. Senatorska; photo by Filip Kwiatowski.

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.

The famous column here honours the man who, in 1596, moved the Polish capital from Kraków to Warsaw - King Sigismund III Vasa. It is 22 metres tall, and 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 new perch in 1949. The remains of the original column can be seen nearby beside the Royal Castle.

Also note that there is a tourist info office located here at Plac Zamkowy 1/13 (open 10:00-18:00, Sun 10:00-16:00).QF-4, MRatusz Arsenał.

The ‘Grand Apartment’ of the Royal Castle.

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 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 (40/30zł) and the apartments of Prince Józef Poniatowski - aka the ‘TinRoofed Palace’ (open Wed, Sat, Sun only, 10:00-17:00; 30/20zł). There’s a free exhibition detailing the castle’s resurrection after WWII rendered the place a pile of rubble, and if you aren’t in the mood to explore the interiors at all, you must at least check out the gloriously free Royal Gardens behind the castle (open 10:00-18:00). Visiting time: 2hrs.QG-4, Pl. Zamkowy 4, tel. (+48) 22 355 51 70, www.zamek-krolewski.pl. Open 10:00-17:00; closed Mon. Admission 50/40zł. Kids & students with valid ID, 1zł for each exhibit; Wed free for all exhibits. U

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 by Maciej Majewski (p.84).QF-4, ul. Miodowa 6-8.

The courtyard of the joint Branicki-Szaniawski Palace complex. Photo by Projekt MIEJSCA.

4 Jan Kiliński Monument

This huge monument honours Jan Kiliński, a Warsaw cobbler who became the unlikely 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 reprisal for an attack on the Copernicus Monument, Nazi troops 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 nonexistent structures was the Kraków Gate on Plac Zamkowy, and the Marshall’s Tower - the highest point in the defensive structures - near the corner of ul. Krzywe Koło and ul. Brzozowa. 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.’ Along this pleasant route you’ll find many historical plaques and monuments, but you won’t see much of the Old Town centre, as the view is obscured by the high inner wall.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 smallbut-poignant 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.QF-4, ul. Podwale.

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.67) via the imposing Warsaw Uprising Monument and lovely Krasiński Palace and Gardens (E-4)?

7 Warsaw Barbican

Crowning the medieval defensive walls which once protected the northern entrance to the city, this fearsome rotund structure dates from 1548, and was built by architect Giovanni Battista Venetian on the site of an earlier city gate. Despite its intended use, the Barbican was only ever used in one fighting action when in 1656, during the Swedish deluge, Polish troops attacked to retake the city. In the 18th century, the Barbican was partially demolished and incorporated into new apartment buildings. As part of the Old Town’s reconstruction after WWII, the Barbican was restored. Today it serves as a bridge between the Old and New Town, and is also the hangout of choice for teenage drinkers, buskers and artists selling their wares.QF-3/4.

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 (p.63), en route to the New Town Square (350m away)?

Sepia tones of autumn around the Barbican and Defensive Walls.

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 our favourite, the ‘House Under the Lion,’ which features 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, souvenir shops and museums - Museum of Warsaw occupies the entire northern side of the square, World of Illusion (p.71) can be found at number 21, and number 27 is home to Warsaw’s oldest, most prestigious restaurant, U Fukiera (p.86).

During the 15th century the centre of 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.QF-4, Rynek Starego Miasta.

9 Museum of Warsaw, Main Branch

Found 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 over 21 thematic rooms. Included are portraits, postcards, souvenirs, and other items with representations of the Polish capital, all of which contribute to a better understanding of the events that have shaped the Warsaw we know today. The history of the buildings themselves, which retain many original elements, is also presented, and there’s a bookstore, cafe and fabulous viewpoint overlooking the Old Town Square. 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

Warsaw’s Old Town Square

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.86.

KUK Restaurant by Maciej Majewski: Located in an 18th-century palace, discover KUK’s creative approach to haute Polish cuisine, with ‘neobistro’ styling and locally sourced seasonal products.Qp.84.

Ciao Napoli: Authentic Neapolitan pizza (the best in town?), fresh seafood and happy hour specials make this affordable franchise deservedly popular.Qp.79

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.83.

Bar & Books: Open after 18:00, this sophisticated, dimly-lit cocktail and whiskey bar occasionally hosts live music on weekends.Qul. Wąski Dunaj 20.

10 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.

11

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.

12 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 07:0022:00.

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.46).

Making a wish at ul. Kanonia

The Royal Route

Warsaw’s famed ‘Royal Route’ links the city’s three Royal residences, starting from the Royal Castle (p.34) on Plac Zamkowy, via Łazienki Park’s Palace on the Island (p.52), en route to Wilanów Palace (p.54) 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.32) 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 with 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. In the ‘Choose Your Adventure’ box at the end of the tour (p.44), you’ll find info on how to continue on the Royal Route to Łazienki and Wilanów (while resting your feet) should you choose to, or advice on how to veer off towards other interests.

1 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. Intriguingly, St. Anne’s also survived war to find disaster around the corner 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 (open 10:00-21:00; Sat, Sun 11:00-22:00; 10/7zł).QG-4, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 68, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 826 89 91, www.swanna.waw.pl. Open 07:00-18:30; Sat 15:00-18:30; Sun 10:00-21:00.

Dawn breaks like a burning flame on ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście.

2 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 Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. These activities saw him exiled to Russia in 1824, but Mickiewicz was able 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 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.

3 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. Rebuilt and frequently remodelled, 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 (currently Andrzej Duda), which is why you’ll find streams of limos heading in and out, and square-jawed soldiers with weapons eyeing anyone who strays too close.QG-5, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 46/48, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet.

4 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 (no. 13). The first hotel to re-open 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 refurbished 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, including EPOKA restaurant. 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.

Crossroads!

Carry on down the Royal Route? Or perhaps hang a right after the Hotel Europejski down ul. Tokarzewskiego-Karaszewicza towards Plac Piłsudskiego (p.24)? 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 and Hala Mirowska (p.24) - two massive indoor markets 15-20mins on foot from where you’re standing.

The Bristol Luxury Hotel.

5 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.QG-6, Krakowskie Przedmieście 26/28, MNowy ŚwiatUniwersytet, www.en.uw.edu.pl.

6 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, filled with elaborate decorative details that make dropping inside worthwhile.QG-6, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 3, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, www.swkrzyz.pl. Open 10:00-11:30, 13:00-16:00; Sun 14:00-16:00.

Eat & Drink

Syrena Irena: Dive into modern Polish food done well. Order a variety of pierogi and customize your order with exciting toppings in this chic spot. Qp.82

Tehran: Experience the specialties (mutton, lamb) and exotic flavours (mint, rose, saffron) of Iran in this colourful eatery that exudes good energy located off of ul. Nowy Swiat.Qp.82.

Tokyo Sushi: A great pit stop on Nowy Świat, drop in for a great value on their huge menu of sushi rolls, salads, ramen and hot dishes.Qp.75

Gościniec Polskie Pierogi: Immense portions of traditional Polish fare and charming service. What's not to like?.Qp.80.

Choose Your Adventure!

From the Palm Tree, Warsaw’s ‘Royal Route’ continues another 10km before it ultimately ends at Wilanów Palace - the 17th-century residence of King Jan III Sobieski. While a walking tour of the remaining 10km isn’t realistic or especially rewarding, Łazienki (p.50) and Wilanów (p.54) are both required for getting a broader sense of Warsaw’s former glory as the grand capital of a vast and wealthy commonwealth stretching from the Baltic to the Black Sea. You can easily get to either from the Foksal 01 bus stop on ul. Nowy Świat. To get to Łazienki Park, hop on bus 116 or 180 and get off three stops later at ‘Łazienki Królewskie.’ For Wilanów, take the same numbers, or catch the direct E-2 bus; get off at ‘Wilanów.’ Use jakdojade.pl for live public transit connections.

If your’re not worn out, heading 300m down charming ul. Ordynacka (G-7) leads you direct to the Chopin Museum, where you’ll connect with our Powiśle district tour (p.46).

Alternatively, head west down pedestrianised ul. Chmielna - past many a bar and restaurant - to reach the Palace of Culture (p.21) in about 10mins.

Of course you can always backtrack to the Metro to make a shortcut to the River Boulevards (p.47) or onward to Praga (p.56). Decisions!

7 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 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.

8 ul. Nowy Świat

The name of this street means 'New World' and it is an apt description; just south of Krakowskie Przedmieście, Nowy Swiat 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 in a neo-classical style, rather than its pre-war Art Nouveau style. Admire the architecture as you make your way south down the street (which becomes a pedestrian walkway on the weekends), making sure to stop by Karmello for some chocolate nosh and coffee, or Oto! Sushi for some seriously delicious (and fresh!) California rolls. La Cantina has you covered for light and tasty Italian food. If it’s nightlife you’re after, there are plenty of bars: Cocktail Bar Max & Dom Whiskey serves bright-colored drinks until 5am, while across the street Kufle I Kapsle has a craft beer menu that will make even the snobbiest beer snob happy. Finish your journey by taking in the towering Palm Tree 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.

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 City Centre forced Warsaw’s students, artists, activists and small business owners to reconsider its potential. Warsaw University was the first to pitch a tent in the area, creating a real draw since 2002 with their lovely Library Rooftop Gardens (open from April until end of October), and the adjacent opening of the prestigious Copernicus Science Centre in 2009 invited further cultural investments (like the Museum of Modern Art), while also creating strong impetus for the city to connect the area via Metro (2015) and finally clean up and modernise the left bank river boulevards into a popular place for public recreation (completed in 2017). The massive redevelopment of the former Elektrownia Powiśle power plant into a space for events, dining and shopping (opened in 2020) typifies the high-powered investment taking place here today, but despite increasing gentrification, Powiśle still maintains an authentic local vibe thanks to its balance of both trendsetting gastro spots and boho dives (like the iconic Warszawa Powiśle bar). 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/pl/muzeum/ wizyta-informacje. Open 10:00-18:00; closed Mon. Admission 25/15zł. U

Aerial view of Powiśle, with Elektrownia Powiśle (p.48) at its heart.

2 Powiśle Mermaid Statue

Feisty, beautiful and busty, Warsaw’s ‘Syrenka’ - the iconic freshwater warrior mermaid - has been representing the Polish capital since time immemorial. The monument here is the secondmost famous statue of the city’s symbol (the first being on the Old Town Square, p.37), though this one actually overlooks the river the mythical icon is alleged to have dwelled in. 2.75 metres tall, 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.QI-6, Bulwar Bohdana GrzymałySiedleckiego (near Most Świętokrzyski), MCentrum 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 not only a popular thoroughfare for walking, running, cycling and skating, but also brimming with bars, cafes and restaurants - particularly in the warmer monthsplus parks and leisure spaces. The area just north of the bridge has also become a cultural corridor and tourist lure thanks to a clutch of top attractions: the Copernicus Science Centre, Museum on the Vistula and the University Library Gardens (open April to October), as well as the Multimedia Fountain Park further north (F-3). It’s fair to say that Warsaw’s river boulevards are now among the best in Europe and as endemic to the identity and character of the capital as those in London or Paris, so don’t miss having a stroll along the water while in town.QI-6, Generała George’a Smitha Pattona, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik.

The Vistula Boulevards in front of Copernicus Science Centre

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:

DYM: Stylised with a fusion, classical French elegance and contemporary street art. Dine on Middle-Eastern cuisine harmonized with the classics of international, original cocktails, shishas, and other works of alchemy!Qp.80.

Nadwiślański Świt: A cult restobar in the former lobby of a 1960s hotel near the river, serving modern European dishes, lunch specials, craft beer, cocktails and retro vibes.QI-6, Wybrzeże Kościuszkowskie 31/33.

Prime Cut: New York classics with a European flair. Relish the finest steaks, fresh seafood, and seasonal vegetables, not to mention the indulgence of freshly baked bread from their own bakery! Qp.85

Tres Toros:  The “Little Spain” of Powiśle. Explore a tantalising tapas menu, sweet desserts, and a curated selection of wines and cocktails!Qp.83.

SAM Powiśle: A bakery and bistro that produces its own bread for their menu of stacked bagles, sandwiches, French toast and more. An excellent breakfast option in Powiśle!Qp.81

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, it was only a matter of time before 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. In keeping with current revitalisation trends, the postindustrial plot deftly mixes original architecture and design details with modern trends and convenience, including glass exterior elevators, 30m chimneys and original switchboards.

Reopened in 2020, today Elektrownia offers four levels of shopping, 19 sit-down restaurants across the complex, plus their Food Hall (p.88) with an additional 22 international food concepts and 5 bars. Additionally, there is a 1500m2 Beauty Hall offering over 450 cosmetic treatments from 8 beauty & wellness centers. Events are frequently hosted in the courtyards between the buildings, including a regular farmer’s market, yoga lessons and film screenings, and there’s also a multimedia fountain. Whatever your proclivity, there are plenty of reasons to check out one of Warsaw’s most exciting and successful urban renewal projects.QH/I-6,

they will be our SLAVES! …Uh, that is (ahem)…Welcome, children, to Copernicus Science Centre!” Photo courtesy of museum.

5 Copernicus Science Centre

A rare 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. Not only will you learn an awful lot, but you’ll have a blast doing so. 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 hands-on 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. Check out the free rooftop garden (open until Oct 31), and don’t miss the Planetarium (separate hours and ticket). Visiting time: 3-4hrs.

QI-6, ul. Wybrzeże Kościuszkowskie 20, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 22 596 41 00, www. kopernik.org.pl. Open 09:00-18:00; Fri 09:00-20:00; Sat, Sun 09:00-19:00; closed 1st Mon of every month. Planetarium open 10:00-20:00; Mon 09:00-15:30; TueWed 09:00-18:30; Sun 10:00-19:30. Admission 40/28zł; holidays & weekends 42/29zł, planetarium 28/20zł. U

6 Museum on the Vistula

The Museum on the Vistula is a branch of the Warsaw Museum of Modern Art, and the current site of all the institution’s exhibitions while their new headquarters is being built on Plac Defilad (scheduled to open in 2024). Located on top of the Wisła’s riverside terraces, the eye-catching large white box of a building is actually a pavilion that was designed by Austrian architect Adolf Krischanitz and housed the Kunsthalle in Berlin from 2008-10. In 2017 it arrived in Warsaw with the caveat that the exterior be covered in artwork. Sławomir Pawszak won the contest for decorating the facade, and his colourful scribblings have adorned it since it opened. Inside you’ll find provocative exhibitions by international artists that challenge our notions on the nature of art, as well as the Paloma cafe/bistro and a bookstore. Check out MoMA’s website for current/future exhibitions.QH-5, ul. Wybrzeże Kościuszkowskie 22, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 22 596 40 10, www.artmuseum. pl. Open 12:00-19:00; Fri 12:00-20:00; Sat 11:00-20:00; Sun 11:00-18:00; closed Mon. Admission 15/5zł, kids under 7 free.

7 Warsaw University Library Rooftop Gardens

Traditionally speaking, rooftops are the preserve of chimney sweeps, superheroes and Santa, but visit the Warsaw University Library (BUW) building and that opinion will quickly change. Topping off the bizarre oxidised green building is a lovely two-level rooftop garden filled with bridges, streams and sculptures that covers an entire hectare; there’s even a fishpond and a stone fountain mixed in among the oak trees and Japanese spirea. Designed by Irena Bajerska and opened back in 2002, the garden affords panoramic views of lower left-bank Warsaw and across the river to Praga. This is a great place to stop and rest in the heart of the city, take a picnic and sit amongst the groups of students taking time out from studying. While you’re there, we also highly recommend visiting the BUW Gallery to see some fantastic Polish poster art (open 13:00-18:00, Sat 13:00-17:00, closed Sun; admission free) It's worth stopping by this one in October! QH-5, ul. Dobra 56/66, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, www.buw.uw.edu.pl. Rooftop Gardens open until Oct. 31, 08:00-18:00; closed from Nov. 1. Library open Mon-Sat 08:00-22:00, Sun 15:00-20:00. Admission free.

Choose Your Adventure!

From Powiśle it’s exceedingly easy to get to Praga (p.56) or the City Centre (p.22) via the handy riverside ‘Centrum Nauki Kopernik’ M2 Metro station. Alternatively, walk north along the river to return to the Old Town (p.32) 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.

Auburn autumn views from the University Rooftop Gardens.

Photo by: rognar/Canva

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 and best-known attraction, the Palace on the Island. 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 (thus taking the name Palace on the Island). 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. With so much to see and explore, don’t be surprised to find yourself spending most of a day here

Tickets & Info

While the park is free to explore, Łazienki’s indoor exhibits require a paid ticket. There are two ticket options:

Ticket 1: includes Palace on the Island, the Old Orangery, Myślewicki Palace, White Pavilion, and Water Tower. (the latter two are closed from October to May) 40/20zł, kids & students 1zł.

Ticket 2: same as Ticket 1, plus the Museum of Hunting & Horsemanship. 50/25zł, kids & students 1zł.

Buy tickets from cash desks or machines at the Old Orangery or Museum of Hunting & Horsemanship. All exhibits have the same hours, except the Museum of Hunting & Horsemanship.

Q H - 12, M Politechnika, tel. (+48) 22 50 60 024, www.lazienki-krolewskie.pl. Park open 06:0022:00. Indoor attractions open 10:00-16:00; Thurs & Fri Sat 10:00-18:00; Sun 12:00-20:00. Closed

Mon.

Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere Palace was the residence of Polish presidents from 1918 to 1995 and then once 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 (p.42). 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 acclaimed 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.

Zaruskiego

Mikkego

Zwierzyniecka

Warsaw’s iconic Chopin monument.

Photo by vodolej / AdobeStock.

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 Powiśle’); 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 point 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, above the balcony boxes keen observers will notice the painted 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. From the very beginning of his reign, Stanisław August collected hundreds of marble and plaster copies of the most famous sculptures from antiquity. 120 of the most important of these casts are uniquely displayed inside the Orangery, against a painted backdrop by court artist Johann Christian Kamsetzer designed to give the visitor the feeling of a stroll through an alley of statues in an Italian garden. Visiting time: 30mins.QI-11.

White Pavilion

This small villa was built in 1774, and was the first building King Stanisław August had erected on the grounds. Originally meant to be his summer residence, evidence suggests that the King's sisters actually took up lodging here more than he did. Escaping WWII unscathed, the villa largely retains its original layout, lushly painted decor and period furnishings, and boasts a unique two-level roof terrace. On the ground floor the Gallery of Prints displays selections from Ovid's 'Metamorphoses' - part of the King's personal collection of 4300 prints, from which only about half survive today. Visiting time: 20mins.

QI-11.

Palace on the Island

The Palace on the Island is Łazienki’s raison d’etre Originally built as a Baroque bathhouse in 1683, the iconic 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 and are crowned by a balustrade that bears mythological figures. Today, almost all of the palace can be visited, including the King’s private rooms, which appear in their original context, and the extravagant Baroque reception hall A major patron of the arts, in 1793 King Stanisław August converted the palace into the first modern public museum, displaying the most important paintings from his collection of 2,289 works. Today, 140 of these canvases are on display as the Royal Picture Gallery, and arranged as they would have been in the years 1793-1795. Visiting time: 45-60mins.

QI-11.

Open only until the end of November, get inside to see the immaculate interiors of the White Pavilion while you can.

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.

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 so, 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; the Stables also host the Royal Weaving Workshop - featuring 19th-century Jacquard looms, ornamental fabrics, old fabric patterns and more. Visiting time: 1hr.QJ-12, ul. Szwoleżerów 9. Open 10:00-16:00; Thu, Fri 10:00-18:00; Sat 12:00-20:00; closed Mon. Admission 16/8zł; kids under 7 free; students under 26, 1zł. Fri free.

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 16 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.

The Cool Cat TR: Inclusive and veganfriendly, this bistro has brunch, bao and ramen, cocktails, natural wines and more. Q H-12, ul. Marszałkowska 8.

Fit for a king: Myślewicki Palace in autumn; photo by Paweł Czarnecki.

Wilanów

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 according to the particular fancies of its owners. 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 artefacts, including ceramics dating from the 12th century. QP-2, ul. St. Kostki Potockiego 10/16, tel. (+48) 22 544 27 00, www. wilanow-palac.pl. Open 09:00-16:00. From Nov 2nd palace and park open till 15:00. 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

Wilanów Palace and its surrounding gardens in Autumn! Photo by Drone in Warsaw / Adobestock

of the rich and the powerful from the 16-19th century. If portraits are your thing you will find this very interesting, though the lack of descriptions is frustrating.

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. Visit the Wilanów Palace website for info about current temporary exhibits and to buy tickets. 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. From Nov 2nd palace and park open till 15:00. Museum closed on Tuesdays from Oct 31. Admission (includes park admission) 35/28zł, 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. Czartoryski’s granddaughter, Aleksandra Lubomirska Potocka, decorated the church with art in the period 1799-1831, the most precious of which is the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary in the main altar. From 1857-1870, Aleksandra’s son August and his wife extended the church based on a Neo-Renaissance 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; Fri, Sat 08:00-12:00; Sun 14:00-18:00.

Potocki Mausoleum.

Photo by Cristofor / AdobeStock.

‘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 here is easy: just take M2 Metro to MDworzec

Wileński

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. 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 09:00-18:00; 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.QJ-3, ul. Ząbkowska, MDworzec Wileński.

3 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 (p.14). Interesting from an architecture standpoint, the complex includes a tourist info point, the Polish Vodka Museum, the Museum of Fantastic Art, several art galleries and dozens of restaurants, cafes and bars, plus shops and services amongst the apartments and offices (including Google headquarters). Host to frequent events and fairs, the premises are well worth exploring.QK-2, Plac Konesera 2, MDworzec Wileński, www.koneser.eu. U­

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 a few of the most emblematic hangouts in the ‘hood.

L'Osteria Warszawa Koneser: Recently opened and ready to serve delicious, authentic pizzas and pasta in a chic, modern atmosphere. Qp.75.

3/4 Koneser Bar: Skip the museum and head straight to this bar hidden on the 3rd floor of the Vodka Museum to try their delicious alcohol infusions and cocktails, and enjoy beautiful views. Qp.92

Setki Powodów: There are 100 reasons why you should swing by, including its retro-neon chic, cocktails, a tantalising food menu and a kicking live music roster!Qp.92.

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 methods, showing you plenty of paraphernalia and treating you to a tasting of this strong spirit so deeply tied to Polish history. Entries are timed (PL and EN tours hourly) and it’s wise to look at all the tour options online and 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 12:0020:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-21:00; closed Mon. 60zł. 6

4 Neon Museum

Yet another old industrial space turned cultural hub is Soho Factory, the biggest draw of which is no doubt the illuminating (non-pun intended) Neon Museum. The passionate curators of this private museum have collected hundreds of Communist-era neon signs, saving them from oblivion in the process. One of Warsaw’s most photogenic places. Visiting time: 30mins.QM-4, ul. Mińska 25, Soho Factory, Building 55, MStadion Narodowy, tel. (+48) 665 71 16 35, www.neonmuzeum.org. Open 12:00-18:00; Sun 11:00-17:00; closed Tue. Admission 16/13zł, kids under 6 admission free. U­6

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.

An original flask from one of the Chevau-legérs – the soldiers who fought for Napoleon on horseback – now displayed at Vodka Museum (p.64)

Warsaw’s Most Exciting Art Spaces

Warsaw is the centre of Poland’s contemporary art scene and home to countless pieces of priceless art. While Krak ów’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.60.

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.46

2 Warsaw National Museum

Polish and European masters, Polish design, ancient African art and 5 decades of painting can all be found inside the exhibits of this stately museum. QSee p.64.

3 Museum on the Vistula

Warsaw’s MoMA, right on the riverside in an eye-catching pavilion. Inside are provocative contemporary art exhibits by international artists. QSee p.49.

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.

4 Ujazdowski Castle

Contemporary art in a rebuilt palace. One of PL’s most prestigious and provocative art centres, with an extensive program of exhibits, performances, film screenings and more.QSee p.63

5 Neon Museum

A small, but brilliantly illuminating and highly photogenic museum, displaying hundreds of historical neon signs from Warsaw’s past.QSee p.57.

6 Museum of Fantastic Art

Celebrating Polish fantasy/surrealist art, with names like Beksiński, Duda-Gracz, Wałkuski, as well as the extremely-talented successive generation of creatives. Many works here have never been exhibited publicly until now! QSee p.64.

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.

25.08 - 29.10 » Adolf Ryszka | Space Carries

Until 04.11; 07.11 - 04.02 » Chopin’s Letters

a Shadow

The work of renowned Polish post-war sculptor, Adolf Ryszka, who worked with themes and styles of antiquity, mannerism, surrealism, existentialism and the concept of the body. QF-6, Zachęta National Gallery of Art, Pl. Małachowskiego 3, MNowy ŚwiatUniwersytet, tel. (+48) 22 556 96 00, www.zacheta.art.pl/pl/ wystawy/adolf-ryszka-przestrzen-niesie-cien. Open 12:00 -20:00; closed Mon. Admission 20/10zł.

| A Special Exhibition This special show presents Fryderyk Chopin’s letters from the period when he lived at Place d’Orléans in Paris. This exhibition gives a window into Chopin’s closest surroundings in the mid-19th century, when he began to realize his individuality as an artist. QH-7, Fryderyk Chopin Museum, ul. Okólnik 1, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 22 441 62 51, www. muzeum.nifc.pl. Admission 25/15zł.

02.06 - 31.05 » Childhood

An exhibition that presents viewers with the lives of 6 children born every 30 years over the last century, and considers how the ideas and behaviors of childhood have adapted.QF-6, National Ethnographic Museum, ul. Kredytowa 1, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 22 827 76 41, www.ethnomuseum.pl/wystawy/ dziecinstwo. Open 11:00-19:00; Thu 11:00-17:00; Sat, Sun 12:00-18:00; closed Mon. Admission 19/10zł.

11.08 - 10.12 » Odd Nerdrum | Painter of the North A retrospective of Norwegian painter Odd Nerdrum, whose work draws on the likes of Rembrandt and Caravaggio. This exhibition features 35 striking paintings, showing the painter’s rebellious, mythical and at times, apocalyptic, world.QI-10, Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporary Art, ul. Jazdów 2, MPolitechnika, tel. (+48) 22 628 12 71, www.u-jazdowski.pl. Open 11:0019:00, Thu 12:00-20:00; closed Mon. Tickets 10/5zł.

‘Odd Nerdrum | Painter of the North’ exhibiting at the Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporary Art (p.64).

Around Us a Sea of Fire

The Fate of Jewish Civilians During the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising

A powerful and emotional exhibition, organized in cooperation with the Holocaust Research Center, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising and the heroism and tragedy of the capital’s Jewish civilians that defied the enemy until the very end.

The Warsaw Ghetto Uprising is often associated with the capital’s remaining Jewish population heroically taking up arms against the occupying Germans in 1943. Whilst such brave actions were certainly made, we mustn’t forget, however, that the individuals that sat quietly in hidden shelters, in direct defiance of their occupier’s orders, were people who should be considered in the same heroic light as their brothers and sisters in arms. It’s these two types of individuals that are revealed in this exhibition at Warsaw’s POLIN Museum (p.67). ‘Around Us a Sea of Fire’ is divided into two halves. The first - In a bunker - aims to recreate the daily ‘physical’ reality of being confined to a bunker, the conditions that these people lived in, and the experience of living through the immolation of the Warsaw Ghetto. Balancing these aspects out are the relationships of people who shared close quarters, as well as their feelings and emotions, and the dichotomy between fear, panic, hopelessness, and abandonment, inversely partnered by the need for love and intimacy, the urge to act and take responsibility for others. The second half of the exhibition - In the face of death - is devoted to the time in history that the events of 1943 took place, the themes of which still remain in

question in today’s world - How do we behave in the face of death? Where is the line between struggling to survive and surrendering? What do people feel when they are excluded from society and experience indifference or disdain? How do we oppose evil, and how do we combat it? Do we feel ashamed when we witness the suffering of others? This exhibition has been realised through the testimonies of Jews who hid in the bunkers both in the ghetto area as well as on the “Aryan” side of occupied Warsaw. Because of the Ghetto’s destruction, written words have acquired a particularly important role in the exhibition, conveying the feelings and experiences of their authors, as well as constituting a unique testimony. In many cases, they are the only tangible trace left of individuals who perished in the ghetto.

“Around

Us a Sea of Fire. The

Fate of Jewish Civilians During the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising” is exhibiting at Warsaw’s POLIN Museum from 18.04.2023 until 08.01.2024.QD-4, POLIN Museum, ul. Anielewicza 6, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 471 03 01, Admission 30/25zł., www.polin.pl.

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.60

Archdiocese Museum

This Old Town Museum showcases over 20,000 items 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 Wyszyńskiformer Primate of Poland. The latter includes lots of furniture, clocks, sculpture and paintings, including works by famous artists such as Malczewski, Hofman and even Beksiński. One highlight is entering the ‘Royal 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.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. Admission 30/22zł. U

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, tel. (+48) 504 32 44 44, www.niewidzialna.pl. Open 10:0020:00. Admission 35/31zł; Sat, Sun 39/34zł. N

The mesmerising interior of the Fryderyk Chopin Museum and its interactive multimedia exhibition (p.46).

Katyń Museum

Found in the Warsaw Citadel - a massive 19th century fortress - 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. Multimedia presentations of the extenuating circumstances, the victims’ stories and the entire event’s historical relevancy. are well thoughtout and thoroughly moving. 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. Admission free. Guided tours (EN, PL) 90-300zł. Audioguides (EN, PL, DE, FR, RU) 15zł. U

Maria Skłodowska-Curie Museum

Located in the renovated building she was born in, this charming museum pays homage to the life and work of the two-time Nobel Prize-winning physicist and chemist, Maria Skłodowska AKA Marie Curie, whose many accomplishments include the discovery of the chemical element polonium (named after the country of her birth). Comprising five rooms, visitors will learn about her family and early life, see a recreation of her Parisian laboratory, plus many personal effects, including her private letters and scientific instruments. Of particular interest is an elephant, gifted by US President Herbert Hoover, which Skłodowska-Curie received during her 1929 visit to the White House - the purpose of which was to secure $50,000 for the purchase of a gram of radium for the fledgling Radium Institute in Warsaw. Visiting time: 1hr.

QF-3, ul. Freta 16, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 831 80 92, www.mmsc.waw.pl. Open 12:00-18:00; closed Mon, Sun. Admission 11/6zł, Tue free. U

Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporary Art

Completed in a Baroque style in 1730, Ujazdowski was gutted by fire during WWII and torn down by communist authorities, who built a military theatre on the site. Fortunately, the castle rebuilt to its original design in the 1970s. Today, several large exhibition halls showcase a rotating collection of the very best contemporary art; find a wild mix of the good, the bad and the ugly, by leading Polish and international artists. The castle also houses a very good bookshop, a fantastic cinema (U-Jazdowski Kino) and a top-notch restaurant/café, plus it’s surrounded by a lovely park. Visiting time: 2hrs.QI-10, ul. Jazdów 2, MPolitechnika, tel. (+48) 22 628 12 71, www.ujazdowski.pl. Open 11:00-19:00; Thu 11:00-20:00; closed Mon. Admission 16/8zł to all exhibits; 2 exhibits 12/6zł; 1 exhibit 10/5zł; project room 5zł; students 1zł; Thu free. U

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.84), the museum seeks to shift the perception of Polish vodka from mere party indulgence to a finely-sipped and respected spirit. Showcasing intriguing artifacts like a Napoleonic soldier’s vodka-filled canteen and 1920s/30s bottles that were sent to the U.S. during prohibition, the museum offers an enlightening and enjoyable experience, and paying a little extra gets you in on a vodka tasting session. Tickets cost 25zł to see the permanent exhibition, whilst an included vodka tasting session is available from 45zł (Hits of the PRL) all the way up to 195zł 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 13:00-20:00; Sun 13:0019:00; closed Mon. Last entrance 1hr before closing. Admission 25zł.

Warsaw National Museum

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. Visiting time: 3hrs.QH-8, Al. Jerozolimskie 3, MNowy ŚwiatUniwersytet, tel. (+48) 22 621 10 31, www.mnw.art.pl. Open 10:00-18:00; Fri 10:00-20:00; closed Mon. Admission 25/10zł for permanent exhibits; kids and students up to 26, 1zł; Tue free. U

Zachęta National Gallery of Art

One of the leading galleries in Poland, with a focus on the contemporary. Located in a beautiful Renaissance-style palace in the centre of Warsaw, just across from the Saxon Garden, the setting itself is worth a visit. What makes Zachęta more of a gallery than museum is that there is no core permenant exhibition on display, but rather top-notch temporary exhibits showcasing the best in Polish and international contemporary art. As a result you get leading-edge art in an old European environment. Visiting time 60-90mins.QF-6, Pl. Małachowskiego 3, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 22 556 96 00, www. zacheta.art.pl. Open 12:00-20:00; closed Mon. Admission 20/10zł, family ticket 25zł, students 2zł; Thu free. U­6

Museum of Fantastic Art

The first gallery solely devoted to the internationally-renowned world of Polish fantasy/ surrealist art. Residing within the grounds of Centrum Praskie Koneser (p.14) in Warsaw’s Praga district, the Museum of Fantastic Art features the likes of Zdzisław Beksiński, Jerzy Duda-Gracz, and Wiesław Wałkuski, as well as the extremely-talented newer generation of artists who have drawn upon the legacy of their predecessors to push the boundaries even further and bring an impressive new quality to this unique artistic circle. Most of the works of art on display have never been presented to the public before, which is yet another reason why this exhibition is a must-visit for art lovers in Warsaw!

QK-3, ul. Ząbkowska 31, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 798 82 27 65, www.muzeumsztukifantastycznej.pl. Open 11:00-20:00. Admission 40/30zł. U­

©

Zdzislaw

Beksiński | CN

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 (p.02, p.23). 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 occupantsmostly 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 09:00-18:00; Tue 09:00-20:00; Fri 09:00-16:00; Sun 10:00-18:00; closed Sat. Last entrance 1h before closing. Admission 15/10zł. Mon free.

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, from the 10th century to the tragic events of the 20th. While the Holocaust is described in detail, the permanent exhibit is primarily a celebration of 1,000 years of Jewish life in PL. Exhaustive and fascinating, it takes the better part of a day to explore. The temporary exhibits are of such quality that they require their own ticket, and 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 the museum visitors will also see several monuments, including a massive memorial the heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto. See website for more details! 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, temporary exhibition only 30/25zł, audioguide 10zł, 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 audiguide is handy (follow the numbers even if you don’t have one). Crowded on weekends, weekdays are the best time to visit, and you should 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 (open weather permitting) and ‘peace garden’ wrap up this high impact experience. Visiting time: 3hrs.QB-7, ul. Grzybowska 79, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 22 539 79 05, www.1944.pl. Open 08:00-18:00; Sat, Sun 10:00-18:00; closed Tue. Admission 30/25zł (kids under 7 free), Mon free. Audioguides in 27 languages 10zł/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.

Hulakula Leisure Centre

This modern indoor family entertainment centre has it all. Strut you stuff on one of their 28 10-pin bowling lanes, break balls on one of 8 LEO Black King billiard tables, or go old-school with their classic arcade games, pinball machines and air hockey tables. There’s a soft-toy toddler zone, plush castle maze playground for older kids, restaurant, bar, seasonal grill and even DJ parties after the kids go home.Qul. Jagiellońska 82B, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 669 00 10 01, www.hulakula. com.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Wed 12:00-01:00; Thu 12:00-02:00; Fri 12:00-03:00; Sat 10:00-03:00; Sun 10:00-23:00. U

Stacja Grawitacja

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.

Thai Bali Spa

Thai Bali Spa continues a 2000-year-old tradition of massage therapy which aids in keeping the mind, body and soul healthy. Choose from traditional, oriental massages that use appropriate lighting, plus music, smell and touch to put you in a state of deep relaxation and tranquility. The skilled massage therapists - all of whom hail from Thailand or Bali - will have you feeling fresh and rejuvenated in no time. Also at ul. Grzybowska 3 (E-7).QG-7, ul. Nowy Świat 48, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 663 55 11 22, www.thaibalispa.pl. Open 11:00-20:00.

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 metro line ‘Metro Młociny’. Once you’re there, you have the choice of 12 bowling lanes, 3 billiards tables, and a table shuffleboard, plus a bar that also dishes out Neapolitanstyle pizza! 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.

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, make sure your phone is fully charged so you don’t miss these photo-ops, and go discover the extent to which the mind can be tricked by the eye.QF-4, Rynek Starego Miasta 21, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 501 80 80 06, www.swiatiluzji.pl. Open 10:00-21:00; Sat, Sun 10:00-21:00. Admission 40/30zł. 6

Apple Museum Poland

Put together from the collection of passionate enthusiast Jacek Łupina, this is the most complete collection of Apple computer products in the world with 1,900 exhibits. For the museum’s younger visitors, there is a fantastic Game Room, with modern and vintage games to play. The story of Apple has never been told in such an accessible and immersive way! QD-8, Żelazna 51/53 (Fabryka Norblina), MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 730 00 12 55, www.applemuzeumpolska.pl. Open 12:00-20:00; Sat, Sun 10:00-20:00; closed Mon. Admission 45/30zł; Sat, Sun 55/40zł. ­U­6

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.32) or Łazienki (p.50) will likely please everyone, as will a walk along the Vistula Boulevards (p.47) - a great outing with plenty of diversions, most obvious of which is the stimulating and educational Copernicus Science Centre (p.49), but also the University Library Rooftop Gardens (p.49) 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 - (check the map on p.2).

Although it may sound more like punishment, kids really respond to the interactive exhibits of the highly modern Warsaw Rising Museum (p.69), which features areas designed specifically for young visitors. Some of Warsaw’s more niche museums like the NBP Money Centre (G-7), Museum of Dollhouses (F-4) and Photoplasticon (F-8) are also good choices for families. Of course, Warsaw has plenty of indoor attractions (p.62), and other great recommendations on the previous two pages!

Panoramic viewpoints are also a winner with kids, so in addition to those at the Rising Museum and University Gardens, check out St. Anne’s tower (p.40) near Plac Zamkowy, and the viewing terrace on the 30th floor of the Palace of Culture & Science (p.21).

Warsaw Photoplasticon

Hidden in a darkened pre-war tenement near the train station, here you can experience a ‘photoplasticon’, a vintage-era 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. This centre 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?) from their collection of over 7,000 stereoscopic images of times, places and people long gone. 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.

In addition to bouncy floors, Stacja Grawitacja (p.70) also boasts the best 3D VR gaming experience in Poland!

Warsaw Zoo

Opened in 1928, the 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. We promise, it's a much more upbeat experience now, with animals that children will love to see!QH-3, ul. Ratuszowa 1/3, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 22 619 40 41, www.zoo.waw.pl. Open 09:0017:00; from Nov. 1 09:00-16:00. Admission 35/25zł.

Smart Kids Planet

Young families visiting Warsaw need not worry about wholesome and constructive fun for the kids! Head along to Fabryka Norblina (p.26) 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. And it does so seamlessly. It is divided into 9 thematic zones and with over 50 engaging activities throughout, meaning 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!

Smart Kids Planet is a world of limitless imagination and exploration, whilst at the same time working with a far more important ulterior motive - the development of their competencies for the future, learning how to cooperate, becoming ecologically conscious and, perhaps most importantly, using and becoming familiar with the latest in our fastmoving universe of technologies. Made for children aged from 0-10, this is certainly not a traditional ‘educational’ environment, and that is by no means a bad thing. This is a place for children to learn and grow intellectually while having fun! Smart Kids Planet is also smart for parents too, with 3 rest zones for mums and dads, a cafe with a kids menu, and the Smart Kids Store (p.102) where different products allow for the educational fun to be continued at home! 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

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!

At Elixir (p.84) you can dine in style and sample some vodka while you do!

Tokyo Sushi

utensils Japanese

Located right on Nowy Świat (with a lovely seasonal terrace, plus additional locales in the Blue City and Galeria Mokotów shopping malls), Tokyo Sushi is a great place to take a break from shopping or sightseeing for a healthy and filling lunch. The menu is absolutely exhaustive, encompassing almost any kind and combination of sushi you could desire, plus soups, salads, sashimi, gunkan, tartar, hot dishes with rice and 650ml bowls of ramen. If you can’t decide what you want, simply grab what looks good (everything?!) from the ready-made sushi rolls and salads going by on the conveyor; each is colour-coded by price from 8-15zł. Popular with the local business lunch crowd, there are many value deals to be had in the afternoon - including weekends - and the sheer volume of food being served ensures that all the ingredients are exceptionally fresh.

QG-7, ul. Nowy Świat 50, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 22 657 15 89, www.tokyosushi.com.pl. Open 11:00-23:00. €€€. T­6

L’Osteria

utensils Italian

This chic little bistro suits the vibe of the surrounding Centrum Praskie Koneser complex, serving up traditional Italian food with style. And we have to say, it is good. This food has high-quality ingredients made in the traditional Italian way (no corner-cutting here!). Try some pizza with hand-made dough and a variety of authentic Italian ingredients, from prosciutto funghi to quattro formaggi, as well as other beloved favorites (BBQ chicken, anyone?) If you’re more in a pasta mood, L’Osteria offers up some delicious dishes, combining fresh ingredients like garlic, basil, spinach, cream and more (including plenty of dishes for cheese-lovers). If, after a day of shopping and pampering at Centrum Praskie Koneser, you are ready to eat real, authentic Italian food, this is the place you should park yourself - preferably with a glass of wine or some fresh-brewed coffee.

QK-2, Plac Konesera 10A, MDworzec Wileński tel. (+48) 22 166 10 88, www.losteria.net/pl. Open 11:00-23:00; Fri, Sat 11:00-24:00; Sun 10:00-21:00. €€€.

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 Cantine

Converting communist-era commercial space into an appealing gastro destination is no easy feat, but Aioli’s colourful urban canteen aesthetic does the trick with aplomb. The exciting, modern menu extends from light tapas and seafood to pizza, burgers and steaks, and the cocktails are highly popular with day drinkers on social media. This place absolutely buzzes, aided by breakfast and lunch specials, affordable prices and a kitchen that stays open late for their urbanite clientele, who help this trendsetting spot blur the lines between bar, bistro and brunch spot. 2nd location at ul. Chmielna 26 (F-8). Q F - 7, ul. Świętokrzyska 18, M Świętokrzyska, tel. (+48) 518 81 93 02, www.aiolicantine.com. Open 09:00-24:00; Fri, Sat 09:00-01:00. €€€. T­U­o­6

Nova Wola

Located within the elegant Crowne Plaza Hotel, Nova Wola encourages a lovely start to your day in Warsaw, with a fresh and organic breakfast selection as part of its impressive modern Polish menu offer. 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, avocado toast and oatmeal. For those seeking unique choices, there are baked sweet potatoes with yogurt, berries, and granola, as well as hummus with vegetables, avocado and egg. Additionally, the restaurant stands out by offering entire pots of coffee, ensuring you have ample caffeine to energize yourself for he day ahead. Read on p.85.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

Panattoni Cafe’s scrumptious breakfast offer includes aromatic coffee and phenomenal savoury waffles!

Panattoni Café

A delightful addition to Warsaw’s coffee scene, Panattoni Cafe is the perfect combination of aromatic coffee, mouthwatering dishes, and phenomenal desserts. While stylish and modern, the interior design and layout of this space has maintained a cozy atmosphere. Start with a coffee and the cafe's fresh batch of desserts. Or, If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, try their creamy vegetable soups and refreshing salads, packed with dizzying flavours. Their exceptional savoury waffles are a must-try, as are dishes like shakshuka, avocado waffles, and baked feta topped with honey and herbs. For the evening crowd, there is an enticing selection of original cocktails and craft beer. There's something for everyone! Q C - 7, ul. Krochmalna 58 (Browary Warszawskie), tel. (+48) 663 33 77 88, www.panattonicafe.com. Open 08:3020:30. €€. T­U­6

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. If you enjoy Krak ów’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 and some savoury snacks. In winter this is a great spot for wrapping up in a blanket and drinking some hot cocoa or warm mead. 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. €. 6

ROXX Warsaw

On weekends this upscale restaurant becomes the ultimate brunch haven! Classic egg breakfasts are served in just about any way you want, whether it be Florentine, Benedict or Royale, served with brioche, scrambled with truffles, soft- or hard-boiled. Hot and cold sandwiches include an irresistible Croque Monsieur or Croque Madame, a shrimp and mango sandwich that is tantalizingly adorned with chili mayonnaise and chives, and more. Elsewhere, there is an delectable array of freshly-baked goods, including croissants with jam and chocolate. Their loaded waffles are a fluffy paradise, crowned with seasonal fruits and vanilla cream. My goodness, it’s hard to know where to start! Read more on p.85 QG-8, ul. Żurawia 6/12, tel. (+48) 22 420 32 23, www. roxx.pl. Breakfast served Sat & Sun only, 09:00-14:00.

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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.

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 whisky and bourbon, and there’s live music every Tuesday from 19:00. Kitchen closes one hour before closing time!QF-9, ul. Nowogrodzka 47A, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 785 02 50 25, www.beefandpepper.pl. Open 12:00-24:00. €€€€. T­U­E­6

Symbol & Price Key

Bierhalle

utensils International

Inspired by the brewhouses of Bavaria, Bierhalle is an original concept that combines original beer produced on-site with mouthwatering cuisine brought to the table by talented and traditionallyfrocked waitstaff. A popular franchise all over Poland, guests will get to try several flavours of delicious ale (served in enormous steins), and see also see the brewing process in action. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from homemade dumplings to oven-baked pork knuckle, grilled salmon, chicken salads and much, much more. Also at Galeria Północna.QC-2, Al. Jana Pawła II 82 (Arkadia), MDworzec Gdański, tel. (+48) 601 67 79 62, www. bierhalle.pl. Open 12:00-22:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-23:00; Sun 12:00-20:00. €€€. T­U­o­

€ most mains under 35zł

€€ most mains 35–55zł

€€€ most mains 55–80zł

€€€€ most mains 80–120zł

€€€€€ most mains over 120zł

Eat to your heart’s desire (and then some!) at The Alchemist Grzybowska (p.83)

Browar Warszawski

utensils International

The revamped Warsaw Brewery is one of the largest, most modern brewpubs in the region, producing 19 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 whiskeys. The post-industrial interior has plenty of intimate spaces, and also gives you a peak at the brewing process. All around a top venue for drinks, dining and making the rounds.QC-7, ul. Haberbuscha i Schielego 2, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 799 00 00 21, www. browarwarszawski.com. Open 14:00-24:00; Sun 14:0022:00. €€€. E

Ciao Napoli

utensils Italian

Located a short distance away from the Old Town Square (p.37), Ciao Napoli succeeds in bringing a little piece of Naples to the centre of Warsaw. Offering a selection of antipasti, salads, piadina 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! By the way, if your visiting this summer, keep an eye out for their special seasonal menu! 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 12:00-22:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-23:00. €€. T­o­6

Clash Restaurant & Bar at NYX Hotel Warsaw

utensils International

Making a hotel more than just a place for its sleepover guests, NYX has created an inviting firstfloor space where urban art and culture collide, and anyone can drop in. With an open floor plan that features traditional dining areas flowing into more casual zones with sofas and armchairs, The Clash’s unique visual aesthetic includes retro and modern furnishings, elegant place settings and gold cutlery, plus edgy photography and street art installations. Dine on a unique fusion of Polish-Israeli cuisine, order a signature cocktail, or challenge their bar

staff to make you a custom drink. Take advantage of Happy Hour specials from 17:00-19:00, and don’t be surprised to hear live bands or a DJ dialling up the vibes (check their FB to see what’s on).QD/E-8, ul. Chmielna 71, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 346 29 00, www.leonardo-hotels.com/nyx-hotel-warsaw. Open 14:30-23:00. €€€.

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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. It is immensely popular with locals and tourists alike (including Bruce Willis, Lennox Lewis and the Real Madrid football squad), and 2012 saw this restaurant voted one of the 25 best and most interesting restaurants in the world by the Spanish Trade Leaders’ Club. Simply put, this is a must-go for travelers and long-term residents alike! Keep their lunch menu in mind, on offer from Mon to Fri, 12:0016:00. Kitchen is open till 22:30.QC-7, ul. Żelazna 68, MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 22 850 31 44, www. czerwonywieprz.pl. Open 12:00-24:00. €€€. T­U­o

DYM

utensils Middle Eastern

Visit Elektrownia Powiśle (p.48) for an unforgettable journey through the world of Middle Eastern cuisine, combined with barbecue dishes and well-known international classics. The traditional water pipes and original cocktails conspire to create a mystical, alchemic aura, while the incredible interior crosses French elegance with contemporary street art. Each corner shares a unique story, enhancing the dining experience, and making DYM an immersive culinaryart phenomenon.Qul. Dobra 42, tel. (+48) 786 64 78 41, www.elektrowniapowisle.com. Open 12:00-24:00; Wed, Thu 12:00-01:00; Fri 12:00-03:00; Sat 15:00-03:00; Sun 15:00-24:00. €€. o

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 cutlet 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 41 (G-7), and 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 11:00-23:00. €€. T­o­6

Gospoda pod Zygmuntem

utensils Polish

Located directly between the Royal Castle and 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 of choice, from classics like pierogi (15 types), 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.

QF-4, ul. Świętojańska 15, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 428 39 43, www.gospoda.waw.pl. Open 11:00-22:00; Fri 11:00-23:00. €€. T­o­6

There's likely no better place in Warsaw to enjoy traditional golanka (pork knuckle) than Czerwony Wieprz.

MOMU

utensils Polish

MOMU has reshaped its image entirely and almost literally rebuilt its kitchen around an imported American Southern smoker. Now they specialise in grilled and smoked meats, fish, fruit and even cheeses. Their smoker is fed daily by fresh aromatic wood from the Łomianki forest outside Warsaw. The smoked theme carries over to the cocktail menu as the skilful bartenders whip up creative cocktails using savoury and spicy smoked ingredients (their wine, beer and whiskey selection is also sublime). The slightly austere white brick interiors are compensated for by the kitchen's colourful creations. The staff are casual, quick and eager to make your visit a memorable one, as are the musicians performing live on Fri & Sat nights from 20:00-22:00.QF-5, ul. Wierzbowa 9/11 (entrance from Pl. Teatralny), MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 506 10 00 01, www.momu.pl. Open 13:00-23:00; Fri, Sat 13:00-24:00. €€€. T­o­E­6­

Namaste India

utensils Indian

What began as a modest Indian-owned grocery store almost two decades ago has developed into multiple full-service restaurants. This - the expanded original location - remains the consensus best Indian food in the capital, just ask anyone who lives here. The prices are set so low you can’t help but wonder what’s the catch - there isn’t one; we’ve tried the entire menu and it’s all delicious. Consider ringing ahead for takeaway because waiting times can be torture and ask about booking their private room for parties and meetings.QG-8, ul. Nowogrodzka 15, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 357 09 39, www.namasteindia.pl. Open 11:0023:00; Sun 12:00-22:00. €€. T

SAM Powiśle

utensils International

At this stellar bakery/bistro it all starts with their own artisanal bread, which forms the basis for many of their breakfast options (served all day), including stacked bagels, sandwiches, French toast and more. But SAM offers a wide menu of delicious, diverse and healthy dishes apart from just breakfast. Stop by for many vegetarian/vegan and gluten-free options, plus vitaminrich juice cocktails. Everything that SAM offers is all natural and made from scratch. With such strong credentials, and a location next to the University Library, you can bet it’s popular, so don’t be surprised by slow service at peak times; the full house of hipsters lets you know it’s worth the wait. Also at ul. Twarda 4 (Plac Grzybowski, E-7).QH-6, ul. Lipowa 7A, MCentrum Nauki Kopernik, tel. (+48) 600 80 60 84, www.sam.info.pl. Open 08:00-22:00; Sat, Sun 09:0022:00. €€. T­U­6

Specjały Regionalne

utensils Polish

Famed for their ecological, locally-sourced ingredients, the reasonably-sized portions and affordable prices have long made this an ideal place to sample a range traditional Polish dishes, and their deli allows you to take many of their flavours home with you. They also regularly host events, including folk music concerts, presentations on Polish history, special food and alcohol tastings, and pierogi workshops; contact them to reserve. Also at ul. Gagarina 4 and ul. Dąbrowskiego 3 (Mokotów), and ul. Płochocińska 195 (Białołęka), with multiple shops and delis across Warsaw.QG-7, ul. Nowy Świat 44, tel. (+48) 662 25 42 15, www.specjalyregionalne.pl. Open 11:30-22:30; Fri, Sat 11:30-23:30. €€. X­T­­6­

Syrena Irena

utensils Polish

Polish food abounds in Warsaw -- you can get pierogi all over the place. But when it comes to really good, really modern Polish food, you have to know where to look and Syrena Irena is the place to start. By focusing on making really excellent handcrafted pierogi, the chefs of this iconic space have honed their craft to a science. On the menu find a variety of pierogi you won’t find elsewhere—cabbage and

Vegan & Vegetarian

dill, sour cheese and orange, white sausage and marjoram—and then customize that order with any number of toppings from caramalized onion to “mermaid sauce.” This spot has a ton of little modern touches, from the art to the neon signs to the high ceilings. Bring your camera!QKrakowskie Przedmieście 4/6, tel. (+48) 535 851 991. Open 12:0020:00; Thu, Fri, Sat 12:00-22:00. ­U­o­6­

Tehran Restaurant

utensils Middle Eastern Experience new tastes and celebrate Warsaw’s multiculturalism in Tehran, an authentic Persian restaurant. This popular diner has won the adoration of locals with their beautiful, large portions of exotic Iranian specialities. The menu features lots of grilled mutton and lamb, halal kebab and eggplant paste, flavoured with mint, rose, pomegranate and saffron (don’t miss the Persian ice cream ). Vegan, halal and kosher restrictions can be easily accommodated, and to top it all off the proprieters are just the nicest people; you can’t suppress the good vibes. For the full effect, do your digesting with a traditional shisha pipe and a cocktail.QG-7, ul. Gałczyńskiego 9, MNowy Świat - Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 537 10 02 51, www.tehran-kuchniaperska.pl. Open 12:30-22:00; Fri, Sat 12:30-22:30. Kitchen open until 21:00. €€€. ­6

As the capital of a country that traditionally feasts on meat, and smears lard on bread as a snack, you might be surprised to learn that in 2021 National Geographic named Warsaw the top city for vegans in the world

Lokal Vegan Bistro

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, but it’s also a great place to connect with Warsaw’s activist communities.QG-9, ul. Krucza 23/31, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 517 61 51 22, www. lokalveganbistro.pl. Open 12:00-21:00; Sun 12:0020:00. €€. T­U­6

Tel Aviv Urban Food

Opened in 2010, Tel Aviv was one of the first strictly vegan restaurants in PL, earning a cult following and launching a franchise that now has several locations around the capital. This - their original foray into Middle Eastern-inspired vegan street food - remains a popular bastion of foodie culture and social consciousness. Drop in early for sweet baghrir (Maghreb pancakes), take advantage of their generous weekday lunch offer from 12:00-16:00, munch on mezze, inhale their hummus and uncork with some wine. There’s also a decent kids’ menu. Doing well to show that vegan cuisine can be rich, exotic and visually stunning, this place has earned its accolades. Note that though they are open later, the kitchen closes at 22:00 (23:00 on Fri, Sat). However, if they have a lot of customers, they will typically be open later.QF-9, ul. Poznańska 11, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 621 11 28, www.telaviv.pl. Open 10:00-23:00; Fri, Sat 10:0000:00; Sun 10:00-23:00. €€. T­o­6

The Alchemist

utensils International

The Alchemist is a Warsaw staple, known for their award-winning food (Gault & Millau 2020). While you can get gourmet interpretations of Polish standards, fresh seafood and bar classics like burgers and fish & chips, their specialty is juicy steaks served on hot lava plates. The presentation is as sleek and pleasing as the interior design. Perfect for a business lunch, after-work drink, social gathering, romantic date... well, we can’t think of any occasion we wouldn’t want to come here. At Pl. Piłsudskiego 3 (F-5) until October 22, when the Piłsudskiego location will move to ul. Poznańska 16 (F-9) and reopen November 3.QF-5, ul. Piłsudskiego 3, tel. (+48) 22 628 00 23, www.thealchemist.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-24:00. €€€. T­U­6

Tres Toros

utensils Spanish

Affectionately known as ‘Little Spain’, Tres Toros in Powiśle brings you into the vibrant world of classic Iberian cuisine. At the heart of the menu is a wonderful array of tapas, featuring cured meats, cheeses, traditional Spanish tortillas and more. Elsewhere, you can explore the rich tastes of la plancha dishes, or the chefs’ masterful rendition of traditional Spanish paella. The ambiance extends to the garden overlooking the square of Elektrownia Powiśle (p.48). All in all, exceptional taste, beautiful surroundings, and a truly unique atmosphere makes Tres Toros a must.Qul. Dobra 42, tel. (+48) 666 55 57 65. Open 12:00-23:00; ; Mon 12:00-22:00; Fri 12:0024:00; Sat 12:00-18:00; Sun 12:00-21:00. €€. T­U­6

U Barssa utensils Polish

The Old Town is packed with places to eat, but this is one of the truly great spots. As you walk from the market square into the elegant dining room, you will discover a world of luxury, craft and privilege. The signature duck baked with beetroot, fried apples and cranberry sauce, and the Angus steak with green pepper are just two of the winning dishes on the menu, and that's just the beginning! We also have to mention the outstanding wine list. This is where the wine lovers feel at home with a wealth of delicious options to choose from. The restaurant also has a huge garden, so call ahead to reserve your space in this charming place. Perfect for friend gatherings, formal dinners and more,QF-4, Rynek Starego Miasta 12/14, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 635 24 76, www.ubarssa.pl. Open 10:00-23:00. €€€€.

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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.

Elixir

utensils Polish

by Dom Wódki

Top marks to the masterminds behind this classy establishment. 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 takes on Polish classics with a unique food and vodka pairing system. This spot is an Absolut (pardon the pun!) top-spot and a truly unique venue on Warsaw’s culinary map. Check out their lunch offer from Mon-Fri 12:0016:00. Kitchen open until 22:20QF-5, ul. Wierzbowa 9/11, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 22 828 22 11, www. domwodki.pl. Open 12:00-24:00. €€€€. T

KUK Restaurant by Maciej Majewski

utensils Polish

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. KUK is part of the 18th-century BranickiSzaniawski complex (p.34), now home to the glorious Hotel Verte. The restaurant matches both it and the Polish capital’s vibrance. Chef Maciej Majewski challenges the term ‘restaurant’ for his passion project - for him, it’s a celebration of time and cuisine, where imagination knows no bounds, and exceptional dishes are a testament to that philosophy. He embraces the ‘neobistro’ style of dining with a haute cuisine approach. The result is an imaginative and open-minded approach to one-of-a-kind culinary compositions, presented to you, in an array of small, yet numerous and delightful portions!Qul. Miodowa 6/8, MNowy ŚwiatUniwersytet, tel. (+48) 511 46 46 45, www.hotelverte. com/kuk. Open 12:00-23:00. €€€€. X­T­U­E­6

KUK Restaurant by Maciej Majewski - Imaginative Polish cuisine enjoyed in a beautifully-rennovated historic interior!

Nova Wola

utensils Polish

Garnering the Grand Award (that is, 5 forks) from the prestigious gastronomic list of Poland 100 Best Restaurants, Nova Wola absolutely nails the concept of ‘premium casual’ dining. Located in the luxury Crowne Plaza Hotel, Nova Wola has an industrial chic interior of polished concrete, dark wood, gold furnishings, and big city views. The menu emphasizes simple plates made with high-quality ingredients 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 a special seasonal menu. This upscale approach with a relaxed, sociable atmosphere makes Nova Wola ideal for any event; make an evening reservation for over 5 people and get a complementary bottle of Ostoya vodka; na zdrowie! Read about Nova Wola’s breakfast on p.76

QC-8, Rondo Daszyńskiego 2, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 22 377 38 01, www.novawola.com. Open 12:30-16:00, 17:00-22:30. €€€. T­U

Prime Cut

utensils International

True culinary innovation exists at Prime Cut, with a unique fusion of New York classics and European flair and a passion for simple yet exquisitely prepared dishes that boast the finest quality ingredients that ensure every bite is a testament to good taste. One of several gastronomic concepts located in Elektrownia Powiśle (p.48), you will enjoy the finest steaks, fresh seafood, and seasonal vegetables. The elegant ambiance, featuring VIP rooms, is perfect for business gatherings or social occasions, while the Cigar Room offers a timeless haven for aficionados to enjoy the world’s finest cigars amidst a rich tapestry of history. Also located at ul. Twarda 18 (E-7).QI-6, ul. Wybrzeże Kościuszkowskie 43B, tel. (+48) 730 30 00 65, www.primecut.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Fri 12:00-24:00, Sat 14:00-24:00; Sun 14:00-22:00. €€€. X­T­U

ROXX Warsaw utensils European

A culinary gem located in the heart of the capital, this exceptional restaurant, with its surprising flavors, extensive menu, and diverse selection of wines and original cocktails, sets itself apart. ROXX features a menu of iconic pan-European dishes infused with a modern twist, and the addition of a romantic cafe and stylish bar, all within a luxurious art-deco style interior. The imaginative culinary offer is complemented by a carefully-curated liquor list so all your food and drink needs are met. The year-round heated terrace allows guests to enjoy the enchanting

surroundings. Whether you’re indulging in their delicious weekend breakfasts or a romantic dinner, ROXX promises a unique experience with live music and delightful ambiance - a must-visit in Warsaw’s culinary scene. Read about ROXX's breakfast offer on p.77 QG-8, ul. Żurawia 6/12, tel. (+48) 22 420 32 23, www.roxx.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Fri 09:00-24:00, Sat 09:00-01:00; Sun 09:00-22:00. €€€€. E­6

Rozbrat 20

utensils International

For all intents and purposes, faultless. A fine dining experience of the old school, though the food has a contemporary twist and packs a seriously sophisticated punch. The menu is seasonal and changes regularly. 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, tel. (+48) 690 12 52 70, www.rozbrat20.com.pl. Open 12:00-15:30;17:30-22:00; Sat 14:00-22:00; closed Mon, Sun. €€€€. T­6

STIXX Bar & Grill

utensils International

With a prime-cut menu and stunning views of the capital skyline, there’s a reason why STIXX Bar & Grill is considered the premier destination for unforgettable dining experiences and corporate events in Warsaw! This high-flyin’ restaurant is blessed with a international team of skilled chefs, ready to take you on a culinary adventure around the world. Find a mouthwatering array of Wagyu beef, tuna tartare, moules in white wine, Foie Gras, Pad Thai, and STIXX’s dry-aged, tender, and crispy seasoned beef steaks! Weekend DJ sets and a year-round terrace with stunning views of Warsaw perfect the experience!QC-7, Pl. Europejski 4A, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 22 340 40 40, www.stixx.pl. Open 17:00-24:00; Fri, Sat 17:00-02:00; closed Sun. €€€€€. o­E

Strefa Restaurant & Bar

utensils International

Nestled within a meticulously restored pre-war tenement house, Strefa effortlessly combines the finest of the gastronomic arts with an elegant decor, and a warm, inviting ambiance. The menu masterfully blends contemporary culinary trends with traditional flavors, offering a diverse array of global cuisine with a Polish twist. Renowned for its expertise in fish and seafood dishes, Strefa’s exceptional culinary creations are complemented by an extensive wine selection curated by top sommeliers. Moreover, the restaurant’s bar features

a superb collection of world-class spirits. From its award-winning exterior to the stylishly modern interiors, every detail at Strefa exudes sophistication and elegance.QE-7, ul. Próżna 9, MŚwiętokrzyska, tel. (+48) 22 255 08 50, www.restauracjastrefa.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Sun 12:00-20:00. €€€€. T­U­o­6

Thai Thai utensils Thai

The Thai Thai kitchen team stick firmly to tradition, and the spectacular results have earned a Thai Select certificate. Black walls with Thai designs and gold archways create a calming environment. The dining area also offers several more private spaces, great for business meetings or intimate dinner dates. Business lunch is served Mon-Fri 12:00-16:00 for 45zł. Thai Thai’s Kitchen is open until 22:30 and the restaurant closes at 23:00 on weekdays (it closes at 22:00 on Sundays)! QF-5, Pl. Teatralny 3, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 601 81 82 83, www.thaithai.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Sun 12:00-22:00. €€€. X­T

U Fukiera utensils Polish

Warsaw’s oldest and most famous restaurant, with a tradition going all the way back to the 16th century. 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. It’s easy to feel like you’re a part of history when dining here, and the guestbook - with such names as Naomi Campbell and Sarah Ferguson - suggests that indeed you are. Right on the Old Town Square, enjoy the delicious, perfectly-presented food and soak up the regal atmosphere.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

It’s nice to experience exclusive dining in the Japanese Izakaya style (informal eating). 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, and includes a special menu for kids, and a mighty lunch offer (Mon-Fri 12:0015:00, soup and 8 pieces of sushi for 49zł). Simple and elegant, Wabu has our hearty endorsement.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.48) has been given a new boost of energy following a major overhaul. Going beyond an upscale urban shopping mall, 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, waffles 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. Zajęcza

2B, 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.25). With 13 different contemporary food concepts to choose from - ranging from Silk & Spicy’s authentic Thai cuisine to Dziurka od Klucza’s new panozzo sandwich venture, ‘a’Panu occo?!’ - there are plenty of enticing options, including special breakfast and 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 and get socialising.QC-7, ul. Haberbuscha i Schielego 2 (Browary Warszawskie), MRondo Daszyńskiego, www.foodhallbrowary.pl. Open 12:00-22:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-24:00.

Elektrownia Powiśle’s beloved food hall offers a variety of international cuisines and plenty of drink options.

FOOD TOWN - Fabryka Norblina

Anchoring Fabryka Norblina (p.26) is Food Town - a massive 3200sqm indoor gastronomy market featuring 23 diverse culinary concepts and no less than 5 (6 in warm weather) atmospheric bars. You can globetrot from India (grab tacos and margs) to Italy (authentic pizzas made with ingredients from Italy) to China (savory bao buns and light salads). Not only that, but in terms of design, this is the showpiece of Warsaw’s most impressive urban revitalisation project to date. Buzzing with energy that spills out into the central courtyard, but also a covered passage in case of rain or cold, Food Town hosts events seven days a week - everything from stand-up to fashion shows to trade fairs. DJs and live bands regularly play both in the courtyards and at Gimlet Live Hall - a separate 290sqm performance space that's the perfect spot for a social gathering. Even as the weather gets chillier, this place is still a must, with both indoor and outdoor dining options. Duck in for a cozy meal or sit out in the sun with a beer. No matter what, you can stop by any time for a quick bite, slow sit-down meal, craft cocktail or entertainment.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. 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. Don’t forget to look up, down and sideways as beautiful details abound!QF-10, ul. Koszykowa 63, MPolitechnika, www.koszyki.com. Open 08:00-01:00. X­T­U­6

Hala Koszyki’s phenomenal urban dining offer - international restaurants, bars cafés and more!

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.56); 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!)!

Shake up your night (excuse the pun) with a cocktail at The Roots! (p.96)

Enklawa Art & Music Club Club

A living legend of the Polish capital that always has a finger on the pulse, Enklawa, located in the very heart of Warsaw, has spent the last 20 years hosting some of the city’s wildest cult dance parties, and, even today, it continues to provide a calendar of hotly-pursued events. Starting on Wednesdays and operating over four nights of the week, this classy premises exudes style and modernity, and its spacious rooms are brought to life every evening with the highest quality sound and lighting systems on offer. With a diverse music cycle that keeps both locals and visitors coming back to be in a space of non-stop good vibes, there’s a reason why Enklawa tops the list as one of Warsaw’s most popular clubs. Don’t believe the hype? Stop by some time and we’ll see you on the dance floor!

QF-6, ul. Mazowiecka 12, MNowy Świat-Uniwersytet, tel. (+48) 606 31 11 17, www.enklawa.com.

Open Wed, Thu 22:00-04:00; Fri, Sat 22:00-06:00; closed Mon, Tue, Sun. X­U­E

The Alchemist Grzybowska Cocktail Bar

If you're in the market for craft beer, delicious and funky cocktails you won't find elsewhere (as well as the classics you already love), and an atmosphere that can't be beat, then The Alchemist is up your alley. This spot is the second of two popular Alchemist venues (p.83) and we can promise this is one worth stopping by with friends on a Friday night (or really any night). Inside you'll find an eclectic venue with wild wall murals, plants, and a fun, relaxed vibe. Kick back with one of their premium craft cocktails - the list includes everything from the pineapple/vodka "Witcher Elixer" to the rum-forward "Kraken Manhattan" or choose your own from the extensive liquor list. Of course, there is great food here to enjoy with your drink, including classic pub grub like burgers and and fries, and nicer dishes like filet mignon and bruschetta. This is the perfect evening out!

QE-7, ul. Grzybowska 5A, MSwiętokrzyska, tel. (+48) 22 628 00 23, www.thealchemist.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-24:00. o­6

Bars & Clubs

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.57), this spectacular bar makes dozens of their own artisanal alcohol infusions - earl grey, beetroot and lemoncake are just a few of their surprising and constantly changing flavours. Sip them straight or in delicious modern cocktails inside the refined post-industrial interior that transports you back to Warsaw’s interwar glory days. The lovely seasonal terrace offers great views of the heart of Praga and they also host live music from time to time. Na zdrowie!QK-2/3, Pl. Konesera 1, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 22 419 31 52, www.koneserbar.com/. Open 16:00-24:00; Fri, Sat 16:00-02:00; closed Mon. Subject to change. U­o­6

Symbol Key

Setki Powodów

Cocktail Bar

A recent (and very exciting addition) to Warsaw’s Polish Vodka Museum (p.57), Setki Powodów (Hundreds of Reasons) guarantees musical feasts, dishes out of this world, drinks poured from the stick, and an almost-constant program of grooving live music - indie rock, jazz, hip hop, experimental, and much more! Furnished in a style reminiscent of the nearby Neon Museum (p.57), this Praga nightspot shows off a concise list of cocktails, flanked by a string of other ‘reasons’ to come here. Consume as you wish, and enjoy the small-but-punchy live music stage in the corner.QK-2/3, Pl. Konesera 1 (Centrum Praskie Koneser), MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 511 69 29 63, www.muzeumpolskiejwodki.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

Enklawa is where Warsaw finds its rhythm. (p.91)

Bierhalle

Microbrewery

An industrial motif prevails in Bierhalle, with giant tailor-made brewing vats, brickwork and pipes springing from every corner. This is a beer-llover's paradise. The beer is brewed on-site, and presented in frothy steins. Our favourite is the pils, and it tastes even better when you ask for a dash of one of many syrups, from banana to caramel, to be added to your brew. Domestic sad cases rejoice - bottles, barrels even, of beer are available for takeaway. Openings times on Trading Ban Sundays (p.104) will be 12:00-21:00. Also located at Galeria Północna shopping centre.QC-2, Al. Jana Pawła II 82 (Arkadia), MDworzec Gdański, tel. (+48) 601 67 79 62, www.bierhalle.pl. Open 12:00-22:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-23:00; Sun 12:00-20:00. U­

El Koktel

Cocktail Bar

Moody and elegant, this sophisticated cocktail bar serves signature drinks with performative flair. The imaginative menu of classic and modern mixed drinks changes seasonally; during our recent visit the sci-fi/space exploration theme featured delicious drinks with names like ‘Enter the Void’ and ‘Gold Digger’ and the range of unique ingredients included nutella liqueur, agave nectar, bison grass absinthe and pomegranate tincture. These alcohol alchemists even make their own flavoured gin (cleverly named ‘Gin Dobry’), which you simply must sample by ordering a classic G&T. Also on the menu: wine, craft beer, and antipasti boards. Ring the doorbell to be admitted.QG-7, ul. Wojciecha Górskiego 9, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 507 45 64 47. Open 18:00-24:00; Fri, Sat 18:00-01:00; closed Mon. o­6

Hard Rock Cafe

Cocktail Bar

Sure you don’t need to see Freddie Mercury’s red leather pants to enjoy a night out, but it certainly doesn’t hurt. The Hard Rock Cafe’s large downstairs bar area is jumping at night even when live rock shows aren’t on the agenda. The endless bar mixes up a long list of colourful cocktails for a heavily ex-pat crowd taking in paraphernalia like a well-worn Bee Gees guitar and a black leather outfit that formerly clung to Madonna’s early 90s frame. Of course, there's also delicious food galore, including burgers, fries and traditional American flair. Grab lunch from 12:00 to 15:00 from Monday to Friday. And, of course, there’s live music - Wednesdays from 18:30 to 20:00 and Fridays, 20:00 to 21:30. Check their social channels for special events!QE-8, ul. Złota 59 (Złote Tarasy), MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 222 07 00, www. hardrockcafe.com. Open 09:00-24:00. 6

Hulakula Club

Entertainment centre by both day and night, but once the kids are getting tucked in, Hulakula drops its family-friendly daytime disposition for party vibes. Although unusual, the idea to also use this huge entertainment centre as an after-hours hangout place is absolutely brilliant and the fun is irrepressible as this place turns into a different kind of rumpus room. Of course, there are still the bowling alleys and games and plenty of fun things to do, but with an adult-focus at night (meaning more drinking, more music) it becomes the perfect place to go with your friends and blow off some steam. DJs often play weekends, and it’s worth checking their calendar for other concerts and events.QJ-4, ul. Jagiellońska 82B, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 669 00 10 01, www. hulakula.com.pl. Open 12:00-23:00; Wed 12:00-01:00; Thu 12:00-02:00; Fri 12:00-03:00; Sat 10:00-03:00; Sun 10:00-23:00. X­T­U­o­E­

Le Cabaret Jazz Bistro Jazz

A favourite for jazz, burlesque shows and live musical adventures in Warsaw, Le Cabaret Jazz Bistro's smallbut-charming garden space on Nowogrodzka has an unbeatable atmosphere, lined with old tenement houses and complemented by a free-spirited soundtrack! Browse their tapas-style collection that includes both hot and cold appetizers, such as herring in a sherry marinade, oyster mushroom ceviche, tuna marinated in ponzu and gin, and roasted eggplant rolls. Founder Marcin Wachowicz has been included in the Top 50 best restaurateurs in Poland as recognized by Forbes & FOR 2023, giving you some idea of the level of hospitality put into this place. Highly recommended for a great evening out in Warsaw.QG-8, ul. Nowogrodzka 4, MCentrum, tel. +48 536 97 64 03. Open 12:00-23:00; Thu, Fri, Sat 12:0000:00. €€. T­U­E­6

Myata Lounge

Cocktail Bar

Relaxed & business-appropriate during the day, Myata’s sleek, modern interior full of plush love seats is the scene of weekend parties and awesome live music that absolutely no one in Warsaw can match in quite the same way. Backed up by an exquisite European food menu, high-quality shishas, and an enticing list of classic and original cocktails, the clientele skews sexy Slav, and it’s these regulars that make the place special. We all appreciate that crowd who would rather go hard than go home, and Myata is the beating heart of that very scene. It’s a few-fucks-given kinda vibe that only the young and

beautiful can pull off, and they do it here. The menu ranges from wasabi shrimp and teriyaki salmon to burgers, and they offer almost 300(!) flavours of shisha. There’s live music every Sunday from 21:00 and also Guinness on draught, but you’ll find most of the fairer sex sipping signature cocktails. If you were hoping Warsaw would be a bit more Wild, Wild East, check this place out.QG-8, ul. Żurawia 6, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 534 72 73 25, www.myatawarszawa.tilda.ws. Open 12:00-01:00; Fri 12:00-04:00; Sat 14:00-04:00; Sun 14:00-01:00. X­E

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 atmosphere of its sophisticated and versatile interior coupled with a stunning year-round garden is perfectly complemented by a cocktail bar of the highest calibre. As you enjoy a drink, also make sure to grab a bite-they have an excellent array of food. And, with space to seat 75 people, it's an ideal space for an intimate business meeting, a banquet, a product presentation, a large corporate event, or any other night you can dream up QF-9, ul. Nowogrodzka 47A, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 730 06 80 68, www. pepperevents.pl. Open 12:00-24:00. ­o­E­

Teatro Cubano Warsaw Club

What’s that warm Caribbean breeze blowing through the centre of Warsaw? Must the blast of fresh air emanating from this sultry, rhythmic Cuban lounge and dance club. With giant palms flanking the entrance, as you enter you are enveloped by the joyful vibes and vibrant blues and yellows of this huge, spacious club with high ceilings and a massive bar at its centre, behind which is the large stage which regularly hosts international touring acts and DJs mixing Latino and pop music. Attracting a young, international crowd of students, locals and travellers, diversity is something PL could use more of, and this boisterous club embraces it. Stop by!QF-5, ul. Fredry 6, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 538 19 44 94, www. teatrocubano.com. Open 22:00-03:00; Thu 22:00-04:00; Fri, Sat 22:00-05:00. X­E

The Roof Cocktail Bar

Perched on the 21st floor of Warsaw - the HUB, with an enchanting outdoor terrace and panoramic views of Warsaw’s city centre, The Roof offers a captivating setting for enjoying drinks, live music, a delightful dinner. The stunning vistas of the city are perfectly

complemented by the bar, which invites visitors to explore the exciting selection of cocktails, and unique concoctions that have been curated to reflect the essence of Warsaw’s skyline and capture the spirit of the city in every sip. The Roof floor boasts stylish interiors that contribute to its sophisticated atmosphere. The sights are further enhanced by a range of acoustic performances and intimate cultural events that are hosted here. Savour enticing cocktails while taking in the breathtaking views!Qul. Rondo Daszyńskiego 2, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. +48 881 97 41 44, www.theroofskybar.com. Open 18:00-01:00.

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The ROOTS Cocktail Bar & more

Cocktail Bar

The ROOTS has 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 (the collection of mixers alone already stands at nearly 100 items!) Add to this a library of books on the subject of bartending/cocktail mixing and you know you are dealing with some hardcore and very scholarly mixologists. There are also 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, which is intriguing enough to at least take a peak at. Quite brilliant!QF-5, ul.

Wierzbowa 11, MRatusz Arsenał, tel. (+48) 660 333 983, www.therootsbar.com. Open 17:00-24:00; Fri 17:00-02:00; Sat 14:00–02:00; closed Mon, Sun. 6

UPPER DECK Wine & Cocktail Bar

Cocktail Bar

Sophisticated and contemporary, Upper Deck lives up on the perch of Warsaw’s historic food hall, Hala Koszyki, and offers a delightful experience for those seeking original cocktails and exceptional wines. With an impressive selection of over 70 different labels available at attractive prices, it’s the perfect destination for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Self-described as having a 'jazz soul,' live music is an important part of the atmosphere, especially the kind that anchors around double basses and saxophones. Not only does that complement your cocktaildrinking experience, it also makes for an enchanting overall atmosphere. The entire establishment can be reserved for gatherings of 40-90 people, making it an ideal choice for hosting all kinds of events. This one is a must! Located on the mezzanine.QF-10, ul.

Koszykowa 63 (Hala Koszyki), tel. (+48) 507 66 39 75. Open 14:00-23:00; Thu 14:00-24:00; Fri, Sat 14:00-01:00; Sun 15:00-22:00. E­

Adult Entertainment

If you’re in Warsaw and simply have your mind set on going to a strip club, we advise you to stick to our recommendations, which are vetted and centrally-located. When it comes to these types of establishments, we’ve heard reports of 8,000zł being spent willingly in one club listed here, and another of 8,000 sterling being spent unwillingly in one we don’t list. As ever, we urge you to be mindful, mind your manners, deal only in cash, don’t let anyone order drinks for you, and generally keep your wits about you. A good rule of thumb is to avoid street solicitation of any kind, especially if it comes in the form of a sweet girl with an umbrella inviting you to a club for a ‘drink’; also don’t get roped into buying a drink unless you know its price and can afford it. If you’re going to the club of your choice by taxi, make sure the driver takes you to the correct club, and not one miles away with whom they have a partnership. Employ good common sense and we’re confident you’ll have a night to remember, not regret.

Playhouse Gentleman’s Club

This smart gentlemen’s club, located in a chunky communist era building on al. Solidarności, has sustained their success with a classy approach to showing off the female form in luxurious surroundings. Their reputation in this market has even gone international, with influential website AskMen.com voting them the ‘Best Strip Club in the World’ back in 2013. Three floors covering over 800m2, four bars, three VIP rooms, an in-house ATM and 57 sizzling hot women make Playhouse THE place to visit for the discerning gent with a penchant for the erotic. Payment methods accepted: cash, card, Bitcoin and Paypal.QD-5, Al. Solidarności 82A, MRatusz Arsenał, www.playhouse.pl. Open 21:0005:00. X

Sogo Club

The largest of all the strip clubs in Warsaw at a size of 1200m2. Sogo is ridiculously easy to get to from any part of Warsaw. Simply head to the beginning of ul. Nowy Świat (G-8, at the Palm Tree) and you’ll see the brightly-lit building in the distance. The place consists of three levels: the main hall containing two bars and hundreds of seats, the VIP rooms, and even conference facilities. Should you want more privacy, the Gold Club option provides private rooms with a dedicated lounge bar and washroom facilities. The club has their customers’ desires in mind and will stay open longer if you feel you simply cannot leave by 05:00.QH-7/8, Al. Jerozolimskie 6, MCentrum, www.sogoclub.pl. Open 20:00-05:00. X

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!

Poland’s iconic Bolesławiec ceramics, available at the official store, Zakłady Ceramiczne Bolesławiec (p.102).

Alcohol & Tobacco

Alembik

If you’ve just come out of the Polish Vodka Museum in Centrum Praskie Koneser (p.14) with a new appreciation for Poland’s national drink, then right around the corner, in the same building, you will find Alembik, a small but impressively stocked shop where you can purchase your very own vodkas. Here you will find Polish brands such as Luksusowa and Wyborowa, but not only, as they also sell premium whiskeys, cognacs, rums, gins and champagnes. For those with deeper pockets, there is also the opportunity to shop in private in their cosy 2nd room, where you can also enjoy tasting some exclusive products. Classy.QK-2/3, Plac Konesera 1, MDworzec Wileński, tel. (+48) 513 28 92 60, www. alembik.com.pl. Open 12:00-20:00; Fri, Sat 12:00-21:00; closed Sun.

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 origin - certified by the International Amber Association. 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 ‘musthave’ item amongst local celebs and fashionistas. Also at ul. Francuska 27 (L-7), Westfield Arkadia (B/C-2), Galeria Mokotów and Sadyba Best Mall QH-9, ul. Mokotowska 63, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 506 19 08 97, www.lilouparis.com. Open 11:00-19:00; Sat 11:00-18:00; Sun 11:00-16:00*.

Fashion & Accessories

Victoria’s Secret

This boutique certainly needs no introduction. Even if you know nothing of fashion, you’ve no doubt heard of Victoria’s Secret, the brand that has become synonymous with stylish lingerie and glitzy angelwinged fashion shows. Warsaw, it seems, is delighted to have Poland’s only VS stores, and although previously their only boutiques in the city were on the smaller scale of grand, focusing mainly on accessories & perfumes, the new store in the city centre’s Złote Tarasy shopping mall is much bigger than before (now including Victoria’s Secret PINK), but the opening of Poland’s first VS flagship store in Westfield Arkadia Shopping Mall, with the full selection of clothing, including their lingerie, perfumes and accessories has gone down well with fashion bloggers and Varsovians alike! In Arkadia, you can’t miss it - it’s located right at the front entrance!QC-2, Al. Jana Pawła II 82 (Arkadia), MDworzec Gdański, tel. (+48) 22 323 72 33, www. victoriassecret.pl. Open 10:00-22:00; Sun 10:00-22:00*.

Food & Sweets

E. Wedel Chocolate Lounge “Old-Fashioned Shop”

The reason everyone at Czekolady Wedel looks like they’re in a daze is because this is the mothership of chocolate cafes, ground zero for all things dark, milk and achingly sweet. Wedel is the country’s longest established chocolate manufacturer and one of the best known brands in Poland. A true Polish legend that’s been operating since Karol Wedel first opened a chocolate factory in ul. Szpitalna in 1851. In here you’ll be able to find all manner of chocolate treats, whether

for yourself or as a gift for someone. Be careful when entering: chocolate comas are inevitable. Try their other city centre location on Krakowskie Przedmieście 45.QG-7, ul. Szpitalna 8, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 22 827 29 16, www.wedelpijalnie.pl. Open 09:00-22:00; Sun 09:00-21:00.

Gifts & Souvenirs E-Manufaktura

It’s sometimes hard to find that perfect gift from Poland to take back home with you. We understand the problem, and it may be the case you get home, only to regret not having bought that sweet little tea cup you had your eye on. Now this is why 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.emanufaktura.com. Open 10:00-18:00.

Pomaluj.art - Galeria Bolesławiec & Studio Ceramiki

Of all Polish gifts, none are as visually exciting as Bolesławiec pottery. At Pomaluj.art you not only get the chance to buy gifts, but you can join workshops (offered Tue-Sat 14:00-20:00) to make and paint anything you want in the studio! The staff speak English and will teach you the history of Bolesławiec pottery during your session! Show the Warsaw In Your Pocket guide or map to receive an 8% discount!QF-8, Al. Jerozolimskie 49, MCentrum, tel. (+48) 690 80 01 84, www.pomaluj.art. Open 11:00-19:00; closed Sun.

Rock Shop & Old Vinyls

Your typical ‘Rock Shop’ also sells a plethora of Hard Rock Cafe merchandise - tees, sweatshirts, beanies, pendants, collectable pins, and even some home items (like glassware). However, as you can probably guess by the name, this particular one is also a second-hand record shop! For those who miss the old days of flipping through the racks, or even younger collectors who have recently gotten into vinyl, this is a must-visit in Warsaw. Just for the record (no pun intended), this is a standalone shop. If you’re chasing food, drink, and live music, head along to the Hard Rock Cafe in Złote Tarasy (ul. Złota 59) next to the central train station.QF/G-4, ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 83, tel. (+48) 502 91 17 33, www.hardrockcafe. com. Open 11:00-21:00.

The spirit of rock ‘n’ roll is alive and well at Rock Shop & Old Vinyl!

Shopping Smart Kids Store

Smart Kids Store is an extension of the innovative educational center Smart Kids Planet (p.73), and a one-stop-shop that offers a wide range of products and services related to children’s education and development. The wide selection of educational toys and games, include interactive and STEMbased toys, puzzles, and games that are designed to support children’s cognitive development and encourage problem-solving and critical thinking skills. The shop also offers a variety of art and craft supplies, which are perfect for encouraging children’s creativity and imagination. You can also find wide range of educational books, workbooks, and activity books, including storybooks, picture books, and non-fiction books in various languages, which are perfect for encouraging children to read and develop their language skills. Additionally, there’s variety of educational software and apps, which can be used to supplement children’s learning at home!QD-8, ul. Żelazna 51/53 (Fabryka Norblina), MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 727 77 08 80, www.smartkidsplanet.pl. Open 11:00-20:00; Sat, Sun 10:00-20:00.

Zakłady Ceramiczne Bolesławiec

The official store of Bolesławiec in Warsaw is an ideal place for buying traditional, high-quality, handdecorated ceramics. A wide selection of dishes, accessories and decorative elements can be found here - as beautiful as they are durable and functional. Each element is hand-formed and then decorated with a unique stamping technique. Attention to detail, the characteristic shade of cobalt, and deep roots in tradition have made Bolesławiec ceramics known not only in Poland but all over the world. This particular store is located in the centre of Warsaw, at the Rondo ONZ metro station, 800m from the central station and the Palace of Culture & Science.QD-7, ul. Prosta 2/14, MRondo ONZ, tel. (+48) 22 624 84 08, www.zakladyboleslawiec.com. Open 10:00-18:00; Sat 09:00-16:00; 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, Armani, Boss, Calvin Klein, Coccinelle, Gant, 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’). Read more on p.12.Qul. Puławska 42E (Piaseczno), MWilanowska, tel. (+48) 22 737 31 15, www.designeroutletwarszawa.pl. Open 10:00-22:00; Sun 10:00-21:00*.

Dom Mody KLIF

Klif has been attracting fashion lovers for over 20 years, with locations across Poland. If you think you’ve seen this all before, however, you’re mistaken. This is the capital, after all, and the quality of brands is exceptionally high, not to mention the stunning showrooms inside. Shop top tags like MaxMara, Elisabetta Franchi, PennyBlack, Michael Kors, Karl Lagerfeld and DM Moda, as well as respected mainstream brands like Olsen and S’Portofino. Another draw is the convenient location - roll in by tram, bus or car. What’s more, anyone can use the services of the pro stylists at FASHION STUDIO.QB-4, ul. Okopowa 58/72, MRondo Daszyńskiego, tel. (+48) 535 41 14 58, www.klif. pl. Open 09:00-21:00; Sun 10:00-20:00*. Eurospar open Mon-Sat 08:30-22:00; Sun 09:00-20:00*.

Designer Outlet’s lamped-out thoroughfare!

Elektrownia Powiśle

When Elektrownia Powiśle (p.48) 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? Frankly, tons. 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, Paprocki & Brzozowski, Balagan, Galilu, Chosen By, Gasanova and Converse (to name a few), plenty more boutiques, beauty salons, a top floor event space, as well as their awesome gastro and nightlife

*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.

offer (p.88). You can shop until you drop, then pick yourself up with some great food .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 Sun-Thu 12:00-23:00, Fri 12:0024:00, Sat 11:00-24:00 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, Marc'o Polo, Converse, Vans, Puma, Tefal, Tommy Hilfiger, Smyk, 4F, RTV Euro AGD and more. To get there take Metro M2 from ‘Świętokrzyska’ to ‘Bródno’ and then change to tram no. 1, 3, 4 or 25 and get off at ‘Toruńska’ or ‘Annopol’. Check jakdojade.pl for live timetables.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. 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. One of the only such outlet centres in Europe, you can get there quickly by car via the S8 route or Nowolazurowa street. You can also reach it about 30mins by train or bus; check jakdojade.pl for accurate, up-to-theminute connections.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*.

Wola Park

A fantastic shopping and entertainment centre in the Wola district, just west of Warsaw’s Old Town and City Centre, with more than 200 stores and service points on offer. Among these, you’ll find an Auchan hypermarket, Multikino, as well as H&M, Zara, Etam, Kazar, Homla, Tatuum, and even IKEA! Other services and amenities include a 3,000-capacity FREE parking area, a petrol station, an urban bike station, and the possibility of renting cargo bikes and charging electric cars. Get to Wola Park by bus 167, 171, 190, 249, 523 and by metro to M2-Ulrychów.

Qul. Górczewska 124, MKsięcia Janusza, tel. (+48) 22 533 40 00, www.wolapark.pl. Open 10:00-22:00; Sun 10:00-20:00*.

Factory Outlet Ursus offers designer brands in a sleek airy space!

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