The most beautiful places in Warsaw. One day in Warsaw, our impressions. Royal Lazienki Park

The main Polish city of Warsaw is located on the Vistula River. It is the center of development of science, industry and business, as well as the cultural center of the country. For the first time the city was mentioned in the annals of the XIV century. But only in the 16th century this ancient fortress of the Middle Ages received the status of a Royal residence.

For several centuries, Warsaw has been equipped with magnificent palaces, houses, monuments and sculptures.

But during the hostilities during World War II, the city was almost destroyed. And only thanks to the enormous work of architects, builders, restorers, Warsaw was restored. With the help of photographs, drawings, paintings, ancient cultural monuments were restored.

And now the central part of the city is almost the same as it was in the 17th century.

This city is considered an excellent option for a short trip during the weekend. And the prices in Warsaw are not very high.

Consider what sights and places you should see when visiting the city.

City squares.

Palace Square.

First you should walk along the Royal Square, the historical central square of the city. This is the most beautiful square in Warsaw. It serves as the border between the Royal Palace and the old city. From the Royal Square, the Royal Route begins, connecting the Royal Palace and the country residence of King Jan III Sebieski Wilanow. It now houses a branch of the National Museum.

In the center of the square there is a column of Sigismund. In 1644 King Vladislav erected this column in honor of his father Sigismund III Vasa. This is the figure of the king, dressed in knightly attire. In the right hand of the figure is a saber, embodying courage, in the left hand, a cross - a symbol of readiness to fight evil.

Market Square in the Old Town

The most favorite place for tourists and the main attraction of Warsaw is considered to be the Market Square in the Old Town. 8 streets flow to the square located in the very center. The facades of ancient buildings are bizarrely decorated, not similar to each other.

It is relatively quiet here, despite being a square. And the silence can only be broken by the play of a street saxophonist or an organ grinder with a parrot.

Since ancient times, the symbol of the city, decorating the coat of arms of the city, is the little mermaid.

A monument made of bronze in her honor adorns the Market Square. There are also city museums - historical and literary.

Market Square of the New Town.

In 1408 the New Town of Warsaw was founded. And for him at the same time the Market Square was built. Until the 18th century, it was considered the main square of the city. The City Hall, demolished in 1817, was located on the square. A fountain was built on this site.

In 1958, the Cast-Iron Well was installed, which today serves as the main attraction of the Market Square.

The houses here were mostly wooden. But after a fire that occurred in 1607 and destroyed a large number of houses, the city authorities issued a decree to allow the construction of stone houses in the city center. The houses built during that period were destroyed during the Second World War.

Modern houses located on the Market Square are the work of restorers from old drawings and photographs.

City palaces.

Royal Palace.

The most majestic symbol of historical heritage, the main attraction of Warsaw is the Royal Castle.

It was built when the country was ruled by King Sigismund III Vasa, in 1618, on the spot where a wooden fortress stood.

In Warsaw, the castle became the official residence of the king. Here the Constitution was adopted on May 3, 1791. From here, since 1918, the Presidents of the Polish Republic and the temporary heads of the country have ruled the country.

During the hostilities, it was destroyed. Only one arch survived.

The reconstruction of the castle took place until 1988.

Its building is modest and unremarkable from the outside. And inside, the wealth and luxury of palace interiors make an indescribable impression. The most beautiful room is the Throne Room.

The Art Museum, located in the Castle, exhibits works of art that were saved during the war. Here you can see the paintings of such great artists as Bellotto and Rembrandt.

Wilanow Palace.

The national pride of the Polish people and a special attraction of the city is the Wiljanow Palace.

This palace was considered the country residence of King Jan III Sebieski. It combined a French palace, an Italian villa and a park estate.

The palace was destroyed by Russian troops in 1733. Count Stanislav Kostke Pototsky completely restored it, made the entrance to the residence free. Here appeared the paintings of the greatest artists Rubens, Velazquez, Rembrandt.

World War II led to the destruction of the palace. After Warsaw was liberated from the German occupiers, the state began work on its restoration.

The palace for excursions was opened in 1962.

Palace of Science and Culture.

This palace was built by order of Stalin. It was considered a gift from the Soviet Union to fraternal Poland. This is the highest palace not only in Warsaw, but throughout Europe. There are 3000 rooms here. But the most important room is the conference room, which can accommodate 3,000 participants.

Malbork castle.

It is considered one of the largest castles in Europe. It consists of 3 castles - the Upper Castle, the Middle Castle and the Lower Castle. They are connected into one whole by a system of defensive fortifications. During the war it was completely destroyed. After the war, restoration began, which continues to this day.

The splendor of the castle is striking in its beauty and works of art.

The museum, located on its territory, has 23 collections on art, architecture, crafts, and history.

At night, enchanting light and music performances are held in the castle. You can also take a walk in remote halls and corridors with a guide.

City museums.

Barbican.

A semicircular structure designed to protect the city, the Warsaw Barbican was built in 1540. The author of the project was the Venetian architect Giovanni Battista. The walls of the barbican were 14 meters wide and 15 meters high. Did not escape the destruction during the war and the barbican. But later it was completely restored.

Today there is a museum where contemporary artists exhibit their paintings.

Museum of the Polish Army.

Not far from the National Museum is the Museum of the Polish Army. It was founded in 1920. It has the richest collection of military objects. The entire military history of Poland is stored here - from the period when the Kingdom of Poland arose to our time.

Warsaw Museum.

Founded in 1936, it was called the Warsaw Historical Museum and was housed in three buildings on the Old Town Market Square. By decision of the city authorities, after the Second World War ended, 7 restored buildings were added to the three buildings of the museum.

By visiting the modern museum, you can learn the whole history of Warsaw, from the moment it was founded to the present.

Museum of Maria Sklodowska-Curie.

Members of the Polish Chemical Society in 1967 formed a museum about the life and work of the great scientist Maria Skłodowska-Curie. She was the only woman to be awarded the Nobel Prize twice for the greatest scientific discoveries. The centenary of the scientist was the reason for the opening of this museum.

Frederic Chopin Museum.

In memory of the work of the great Polish composer, Frederic Chopin, a museum was founded in Warsaw in 1954. It occupies the premises of the Ostrogsky Palace, which is located in the central part of the city. In 2010, for the celebration of the composer's bicentennial, the reconstruction was completed, which lasted 5 years. The museum has a rich collection that occupies 5 levels of the area for the exhibition.

The museum was created in such a way that each of its visitors can choose the type of excursion according to their interests. Children can visit the capsule room, founded specifically so that they can be transported to Chopin's home, and get to know his music.

Museum of the Warsaw Uprising.

The pride of the inhabitants of Warsaw, the Museum of the Warsaw Uprising was founded in 2004. This is a relatively young museum of the city.

Its opening is dedicated to the uprising of the Polish people against the invaders, which took place in 1944. The rebels wanted to ensure that their state became independent. During the riot, approximately 150 thousand citizens died, and half a million people were expelled from Warsaw.

The old tram depot was used to house the museum. Visiting it, everyone can feel themselves in that time.

Caricature Museum.

The only caricature museum in Europe was opened in Warsaw in 1978. The Polish artist E. Lapiński is considered its founder. This is a very famous museum. Its collections are replenished with works not only by Polish artists, but also by foreign ones.

Churches of the city.

Cathedral of John the Baptist.

The main church of the capital of Poland - the Cathedral of John the Baptist was built in 1930. It was built in the Gothic style. There are tombs inside the cathedral.

Now the cathedral hosts music festivals.

Church of St. Casimir.

The church is located on the Market Square of the New Town of Warsaw. Its construction took place in the 16th century according to a decree issued by King Jan III and Queen Maria Sebieski. The construction of the temple took place under the leadership of Tylman Gamersky. Thanks to him, the church became a real masterpiece of world architecture.

The magnificent view of the church from the outside is decorated with a beautiful garden.

Church of the Holy Cross.

With the construction of a small chapel in 1267, the construction of the Church of the Holy Cross began. The chapel was later completed into a wooden church.

The construction of the church was completed in 1696. The author of the project is Josef Shimono Bellotto. The church was built in the Baroque style.

A little later, a statue of Christ carrying a cross was installed in front of the temple. Several times the church was destroyed. But he was constantly revived.

The Church of the Holy Cross was elevated by Pope John Paul II to the rank of a minor basilica. This event took place in 2002.

Krakow suburb.

The main street of Warsaw is the Krakow suburb. It is a link between the new districts of the city and the Old City. Walking along the avenue, you can see various sights of Warsaw.

City garden.

Saxon garden.

In Warsaw, the Saxon Garden is considered the most delightful park. Founded in the 17th century, the park is the oldest park in the city. It was designed like the French Versailles. The park is home to the opera house Operalnia. Designed by Karl Friedrich Popelmann, the theater was built in 1748. It could accommodate 500 spectators.

Families with children, as well as high Polish society, prefer walks in the Saxon Garden.

City parks.

Prague park.

Previously, the territory of the park was almost 30 hectares, but a little later, part of the territory was given to the Zoological Garden.

Live bears walk in the enclosures here. In the park you can see the iron figure of a giraffe. It was installed as a gift to the children of Warsaw in 1981.

Lazenovsky park.

The largest park in Warsaw is Lazenowski Park. It is located in the central part of the city. The park occupies approximately 76 hectares of land. Tilman van Gameren is considered the founder of Lazienki Park.

A bathing pavilion was built here, after which the park was named.

In the center of the park is a small residence of the king - the Lazenkovsky Palace.

Here you can visit the island amphitheater, art gallery, a small white house.

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Warsaw general information about the city

Warsaw has been the capital of Poland since 1596 (officially since 1791). It is the largest city in the country both in terms of area and population. Warsaw stretches on both banks of the Vistula, which divides the city into two almost equal parts. The city seemed to me more modern than ancient. However, of course, there are also historically significant buildings, most of which you will find in the Old Town (in the Śródmieście - Śródmieście area). Most of the buildings are not original, but were restored, so during the Second World War the city was very badly damaged and then restored for decades, so that current generations have the opportunity to touch the beautiful. In 1980, the historic center of Warsaw was included in the UNESCO cultural heritage list and is under its care.
This part of the city is really beautiful and a must to visit.

Warsaw – Sights of the Old Town

We were very lucky, we lived just in the Old Town, on Freta Street, thanks to which we had the opportunity to see a lot of interesting things on the way to the exhibition. Our apartment was very close to the Barbakan, which used to be a fortified outpost of the city, today a historical monument, which, together with the fortress walls, turrets and arched passages, is one of the favorite tourist places.

Our way to the bus stop also lay through the Old Market Square (Rynek starego miasta) with many magnificent buildings and cozy cafes and the Castle Square. On the triangular Castle Square is the Royal Palace (Zamek Królewski) and in the middle is Sigismund's Column (Kolumna Zygmunta).

In the Royal Palace, you can see the royal chambers, the ballroom, the castle church, etc., as well as visit the art gallery.

There is also a viewing platform on Castle Square from which you can admire fantastic (I believe that they should be) views of Warsaw. Unfortunately, over time, we had quite a problem, so we personally could not make sure that it was really worth climbing the platform.

If you just wander through the streets and lanes of the Old Town, then at every step you come across something beautiful and interesting from an architectural point of view. Among other sights of Warsaw, for example, the Church of St. John the Baptist, the Church of the Jesuits and the Bell of Warsaw are worthy of attention.

Adjacent to the Old Town is the New Town (Nowe Miasto), which also has a lot of interesting things (churches, castles and other interesting things). In my opinion, the Old and New Towns are best "explored" on foot.

In the evening in the New City you can watch the free show "Singing Fountains" (I'm not sure if it is daily, we were there on Saturday evening). The Multimedia Fountain Park is located on the Vistula embankment, in the Podzamcze Park. The show is packed with people, so get there early if you want to get some trump spots. Photos did not turn out 🙁

Warsaw – Other Attractions

What could I recommend for sightseeing in the capital of Poland besides the Old Town?
In my opinion, worthy of a visit and inspection:
– Krakow suburb (Krakowskie Przedmieście)
This street is full of majestic buildings, palaces and monuments.

– New Light Street (Nowy Świat)
There are also many attractions here.

– Frederic Chopin Museum
The Poles are very proud of their famous compatriot, many streets are named after him, as well as the Warsaw airport, there are museums and monuments.

– Square of Marshal Josef Piłsudski (Plac marsz. Józefa Piłsudskiego)

This area is part of the Saxon Axis and was formerly called the Saxon. The Saxon Palace was destroyed during the war. Today, elegant hotels and other magnificent buildings line the perimeter of the square.

You can also visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier here.

Nearby is the Saxon Park (Ogród Saski), its fountains, alleys with benches and shady trees invite you to relax.

– Palace of Culture and Science
This building is one of the symbols of Warsaw and is the tallest building in Poland (together with the spire, its height is 237 meters). They say that the skyscraper can be seen from any corner of the city. I believe this is true. (Of course, we did not have the opportunity to visit all parts of the city, but from where we were, it was not difficult to find the Palace of Culture and Science). The architecture of the Palace of Culture and Science should be familiar to readers, the palace was built in the style of Stalin's skyscrapers in Moscow. This is a gift from the Soviet Union to the Polish people (periodically, during the aggravation of political relations, proposals are made to demolish the building, fortunately, while common sense has prevailed, and the building remains in its place as before). On one of the upper floors there is an observation deck from where you can admire the breathtaking panorama of the whole of Warsaw. Unfortunately, we didn't get there either.

– Krasinski Park (Ogród Krasińskich) and Krasinski Palace (Pałac Krasińskich)
This park is not very big, but picturesque and cozy. The park has alleys with benches, recreation areas, children's playgrounds, green lawns, a pond with ducks and a beautiful palace. Everywhere you can see parents walking with children, people walking dogs, young people sitting on the grass and basking in the first warm rays of the spring sun. Well, I think you understand me, here the locals find their oasis for relaxation.

Of course, the sights of Warsaw are not limited to this list, these are the places in the Polish capital where we were able to personally get to. There are many other interesting things, first of all it is Lazienki (palace and park complex). Well, nothing, there will be another reason to return to Warsaw.

Warsaw – How to get from the airport to the city?

You can get from the airport to the city by bus, train and taxi.
Bus number 175 runs every 20 minutes and goes to the center of Warsaw (journey time is about 30-
35 minutes/direction: Lotnisko Chopina odloty - Dworzec zentralny). The stop is located right in front of the arrivals terminal. Bus tickets can be bought at the ticket machine at the bus stop or directly on the bus.

Suburban trains are abbreviated as SKM (Szybka Kolej Miejska; Internet: www.ztm.waw.pl) and KM (Koleje Mazowieckie; Internet: www.mazowieckie.com.pl). You can get to the station directly from the terminal. It's easy to find if you know where to look (after going through security and getting your luggage, you leave the arrivals area and go right). Lines of different colors are drawn on the floor at the airport to orient passengers, one of which leads to the station. I don't remember the color, but you can ask the police. They just helped us to orient ourselves))). Trains depart approximately every 30 minutes. Tickets are also sold from vending machines.
We took the S2 from the airport to the city (journey time 25 minutes / direction: Lotnisko Chopina - Warszawa Śródmieście), and then transferred to the metro. Our ticket with unlimited transfers cost PLN 4.40 each.
Tip: If you need to get to the center of Warsaw, choose a 75-minute ticket with transfers.

The taxi stop is located at the exit of their airport. I can’t say anything about the cost and quality of services, we didn’t use a taxi in Poland.

Public transport in Warsaw

The public transport network in Warsaw includes metro, buses and trams.

Metro stations are marked with the letter "M":

Public transport in Poland is modern and works without delay. You can check the timetable at the stops. There is one very convenient application Jakdojade.pl, with which you can easily find and choose the right transport. The application can be downloaded for free.

Tickets are sold from vending machines, which are served in Polish, English and German. You can pay with coins, banknotes or a credit card.

There are two zones in Warsaw: zone 1 is the city limits, including the airport, zone 2 is the suburbs. A 20-minute ticket costs PLN 2.20. A ticket with an unlimited number of transfers costs PLN 3.40 for 20 minutes and PLN 4.40 for 75 minutes. These tickets are only valid in zone 1.
Tickets purchased at the bus stop must be validated as soon as you get into the vehicle (for this, there are small yellow machines inside buses and trams). If tickets are bought from a machine on a bus or tram, they do not need to be punched. Inside, ticket machines only accept credit cards for payment (we only came across such).

Where to eat in Warsaw? - What Polish dishes are worth trying?

The capital of Poland offers its visitors a large number of restaurants, cafes, bistros and eateries. There are especially many of them in the city center.
You will find the most advantageous offer in terms of price in milk bars (Bar Mleczny). Today, these establishments have nothing to do with milk and serve mainly Polish cuisine. We found one such bar near our house on Freta Street. It was tasty, but the atmosphere is diner and not very clean.

I really liked the Piwna Kompania establishment, located under the city rampart at Podwale 25 (Podwale 25), the Barbican serves as a landmark:

Very fast service, despite the large number of visitors (the restaurant is wildly popular, in the evening there is a queue of people who want to get inside), very tasty cuisine, a wide selection of Polish dishes and normal prices.

We ordered a special mushroom soup, I have never tried such a yummy:

Two bowls of soup, potato salad, a cup of tea and a glass of juice cost us PLN 51 (about $13 for two). Pretty cheap.

What Polish dishes can I recommend? Be sure to try these traditional Polish dishes: Pierogi (similar to our dumplings, offered with different fillings), Bigos (braised cabbage with meat and sausage), Zrazy (stuffed meat rolls), Żurek (potato soup) , sausages and eggs), Naleśniki / pancakes (pancakes with various fillings or gravies) and Placki ziemniaczane / placki (draniki or just potato pancakes).
I must say that Polish cuisine is generally similar to Russian and Ukrainian, no special unusual. But very tasty and satisfying. Yes, the dishes are simply gigantic, we almost always rolled out of the cafe in koloboks)))

Be sure to visit one of the street cafes in the Old Town. Amazing atmosphere. The prices are a little higher, but it's worth it. The cafe on Freta Street 4/6 serves delicious coffee with ginger. There is also a shop with a huge assortment of coffee. You can try some “new” variety by ordering it in a cafe, and if you like the drink, you can buy it later in the store (in Polish in the crypt)))) You can buy coffee in beans or ask to grind. We took with us a couple of bags of delicious coffee flavored with ginger 😉)

By the way, I ate pancakes not in Warsaw, but in Krakow. (I will write a post about my trip to Krakow very soon.)

How to save money on a hotel or apartment on vacation?

I'm looking on the Rumguru website. It contains absolutely all discounts on hotels and apartments from 30 booking systems, including booking. Often I find very profitable options, it turns out to save from 30 to 80%

How to save on insurance?

You need insurance abroad. Any admission is very expensive and the only way not to pay out of pocket is to choose an insurance policy in advance. For many years we have been making out on the site, which give the best prices for insurance and selection, along with registration, takes only a couple of minutes.

My conclusion: Warsaw is worth a visit. Come and see for yourself. I think that you will like the Polish capital too!!!

Over the seven centuries of existence, Warsaw has experienced several conquests and destruction. The entire historic city center was razed to the ground during World War II. For decades, restorers painstakingly studied documents, old engravings and photographs and literally brick by brick restored the capital of Poland from ruins.

As a brilliant example of restoration, the historic center with its squares, castles and churches was included in the UNESCO heritage list. Nowadays, a tourist, walking along the Market Square and contemplating the powerful royal castle, will hardly guess that these sights are only a few decades old.

The best hotels and hostels at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles/day

What to see and where to go in Warsaw?

The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.

Historic city center. In the 13th century, the first stone of the future Polish capital was laid here. For centuries, life was in full swing around the Old Town - merchants gathered for fairs, itinerant artists staged street performances, crowds of onlookers gathered to stare at the bonfires where witches and sorcerers were burned. Of the historical buildings, almost nothing has survived, only the basement floors and cellars, but the Old Town does not lose its charm from this.

The palace is 10 km away. from the Polish capital. It was erected in the 17th century for King Jan Sobieski and his wife Maria Casimira Louise. At the request of the Queen, during the construction, the creators were guided by the French architectural school (the Baroque style prevails). At the beginning of the 19th century, one of the first art museums in Poland was opened on the territory. During the Nazi occupation, the museum's collections were looted, but then they were returned back to Poland.

An architectural and cultural monument in the center of Warsaw, erected in the 16th-17th centuries by the Lithuanian prince Sigismund. During the Northern War, the castle was plundered by the Swedes and gradually dilapidated. It is noteworthy that in 1829 the Russian emperor Nicholas II was married here to the kingdom of Poland (at that time the Commonwealth was part of the Russian Empire). The modern Royal Castle is a copy of the structure blown up by the Nazis during World War II.

The central square of Warsaw, surrounded by the main attractions. Located within the Old City. In the center of the square there is a memorial column in honor of King Sigismund III Vasa. From Castle Square begins the Royal Route, which leads to the country residence of Jan III. In the Middle Ages, this place was the concentration of city life, all major events took place here.

Another central square, surrounded by houses with multi-colored plaster. Each building is unique, each facade has a different pattern and color. The Market Square was the trading pulse of Warsaw in previous centuries. It was always crowded, lively and fun. Taking a leisurely walk around this place, you can feel the real atmosphere of the Middle Ages.

A powerful fortification of the 16th century in the system of fortifications of the Old City, built according to the project of the Italian master D. Batista. The building did not perform defensive functions. At the base of the barbican tower there is a monument to the Siren. According to legend, in ancient times, the Siren emerged from the river and informed people that a great city would soon appear on the banks. Today, an exhibition gallery is located on the territory of the fort.

Russian fortress of the 19th century, built by order of the imperial authorities after the November Uprising. It housed a prison for political prisoners and rebels. Important historical milestones of the Polish national liberation movement are connected with the fortress. After the occupation of Poland in 1915, the citadel passed into the hands of the Germans. But they were expelled in 1918. The fortress went to the newly formed Polish independent state.

A monument commemorating the fallen Polish patriots during the Warsaw Uprising of 1944. It was officially opened in 1989 on the very spot where the freedom fighters were hiding from the German occupiers. The composition depicts two groups of rebels who seem to rise from the ruins and courageously rush into battle. The monument is one of the most interesting and visited monuments in Warsaw.

The Polish name of the temple is St. John's Church. This is the oldest Catholic church in the capital, which was built in the XII-XIV centuries. Important events have taken place here for centuries: coronations, the conclusion of peace treaties, magnificent funerals of monarchs. The church played the role of the spiritual center of the Polish state. The modern building of the temple is a remake, as the historical building was demolished during the German occupation.

Church of the XVI century, which also could not escape the fate of being destroyed in the Second World War. In the middle of the 19th century, a statue of Jesus carrying the cross stood in front of the temple. The church is notable for the fact that in one of its walls there is an urn with the ashes of Frederic Chopin. In the 20th century, the temple was completely rebuilt, but work on the exterior and interior decoration continued into the 21st century.

The temple was founded by the ruler Jan III and his wife in the 17th century at their own expense. Inside is the tomb of the Polish princess - the daughter of Jan III. The church was built in the style of classicism and baroque with strict observance of geometric proportions according to the project of the architect T. Gamerski. After the bombing, only the garden of the 17th century was preserved. The temple was rebuilt in the middle of the 20th century.

The current cathedral, which arose thanks to the generous funding of Princess Anna Radziwill. Her ashes are buried inside the church. Due to numerous reconstructions, a single style is not traced in the architectural composition, a mixture of elements from different eras prevails. The bell tower of the church is used as an observation deck. According to legend, if a young couple gets married in the Church of St. Anna, then the marriage will be long and prosperous.

Frederic Chopin is a famous Polish composer whose creative path was connected with Warsaw. The exposition of the museum consists of items belonging to the musician. In addition to letters, musical scores and personal items, you can see the piano at which the master worked. In addition to the traditional exhibition, there is a multimedia exposition where you can learn about the details of Chopin's biography.

Museum dedicated to the research and life of the famous female physicist Marie Skłodowska-Curie. Thanks to her research, the table of chemical elements was replenished with two new elements - polonium and radium. The name "polonium" was given to the substance in honor of the motherland of the scientist - Poland. Maria was twice awarded the Nobel Prize. The museum was organized in 1967 through the efforts of her daughter Eva Curie.

Museum dedicated to the Polish Armed Forces. The exposition covers the period from the emergence of the Polish state to the present. The open-air exhibition presents samples of weapons from other countries: artillery pieces, tanks, fighters, armored vehicles. Inside are collections of medieval weapons, armor, banners. The museum houses the cocked hat and saddle of Napoleon Bonaparte.

A scientific interactive museum where visitors are invited to experiment on their own. It is one of the most advanced museums of its kind in Europe. The inner space is divided into several thematic zones, telling about the whole layers of human knowledge. The first permanent exhibition opened in 2010, and after 1.5 years the museum was visited by about 2 million people.

A high-rise building, almost an exact copy of the Stalinist skyscrapers in Moscow. It was erected by the Russian architect L. Rudnev by order of I.V. Stalin, who thus wanted to make a gift to the Polish people. Offices, cinemas, a large conference hall, museums and exhibition galleries are located here. The spire of the building dominates all the buildings in Warsaw and serves as a reference point for tourists who do not know the city.

The former residence of the Elector of Saxony and King August II, an exact copy of the building of the XVII century, which was destroyed during the Second World War. Since 1975, the castle began to be restored from the very foundation, in 1981 the Center for Contemporary Art was opened on its territory. Today, Ujazdowski Castle has become a venue for numerous creative festivals, screenings of auteur films, art salons and photo exhibitions.

Another former residence of Elector Augustus II the Strong. This majestic and picturesque building was called the "palace by the water", since its foundation was set right on the surface of the river. The palace complex consists of the main building, baths, the White House with galleries and pavilions. Inside the main building there is an art gallery, where more than 2 thousand paintings are exhibited.

A picturesque quiet park surrounding the Lazenkovsky Palace. It was created as a nature reserve, but eventually became a public square. Since the beginning of the 19th century, the entrance to the territory was allowed for all people. The park has a monument to F. Chopin - a copy of the monument of 1926, which was destroyed by the Nazis. It is pleasant to walk along the well-groomed park alleys and paths on a fine summer day.

The capital of Poland before the hostilities on its territory was one of the most beautiful Eastern European cities. After the Second World War, the city was destroyed by 85%, which did not prevent it from becoming a serious tourist center rich in unusual locations after a long and painstaking rebuilding. The sights of Warsaw, of course, are mostly newly built buildings, although there is also a historical part.
Now ultra-modern Warsaw impresses visitors with mirrored skyscrapers mixed with multiple representatives of religious architecture. The tragic and difficult history of this city today remains only in the history books and people's memory. And for travelers, Warsaw is a warm and cozy space for a multifaceted vacation, where the study of the historical part plays a significant role.

What sights of Warsaw to see first

The sights of Warsaw, as mentioned earlier, are divided into modern and partially intact after the hostilities, after which they were restored. Due to their large number, tourists should build the most successful routes for exploring the city in advance.
This is especially true for those foreigners who plan to see the sights of Warsaw in one day. The variety of cultural and historical monuments requires careful selection in order to see the pearls of the city in a short time. Below are the best sights of Warsaw, for the inspection of which a day will be enough.

Top 10 main attractions in Warsaw

Sightseeing tours in Warsaw

When the question of how to invest maximum information and impressions in a minimum of time is acute, a convenient online service comes to the rescue. It is here that vacationers will be able to choose interesting sightseeing walks for themselves, which will not only introduce them to the sights of Warsaw, but also teach them to look at such cities differently. After all, the history of the Polish capital really deserves attention. This is an example of courage and self-confidence, which were duly rewarded. Therefore, for tourists who want to learn more, excursions on various topics will be a great addition to their vacation.

Sights of Warsaw and surroundings with photos and descriptions

The main sights of Poland in Warsaw are restored historical buildings that have the same old look, recreated with great difficulty. They were built on the basis of drawings, photographs and old plans, which in itself is a huge achievement of the Poles. There are quite a lot of interesting locations in the city that should be seen by tourists. There are those places that are visited on a “mandatory basis”, while others remain out of close attention. But their diversity allows you to create your own route for each person based on individual desires.

Top 30 attractions in Warsaw

1. Old Town - Stare Miasto

This is the oldest historical district of the city, which is the most visited location. The sights of the Old Town in Warsaw are an opportunity to see those same medieval buildings and squares. In particular, the city walls, the Market Square, the cathedral. These are restored cultural monuments that were badly damaged during the war. However, painstaking work, sifting through the ruins, looking for decorative elements and returning them to their place did their job. Today, the Old Town impresses with its grandeur and allows you to feel the atmosphere of antiquity. It is included in the UNESCO heritage list.

2. Royal Castle

The architectural and historical monument is one of the most visited, because earlier it was the residence of political figures. Today, within the walls of the majestic fortification, there is a museum with a permanent exhibition and temporary exhibitions. This is a reconstructed ensemble, because the war left no trace of the building.
The price of visiting the castle for adults will be 30 Polish zlotys (approximately 530 rubles). Children under 16 can see one of Warsaw's most popular attractions for 1 Polish zloty (about 18 rubles). In summer, the average work schedule is from 10-00 to 18-00, in winter - from 11-00 to 16-00.

3. Park Lazienki

Royal Łazienki is another name for an amazing green park, spread out on an island surrounded by canals. Ujazdowski Castle with a beautiful view of the Vistula, Lazne (bath) and the Hermitage were built here at one time. Of course, the war did not spare this secluded corner either.
But after completion, the park became a place of relaxation and enjoyment of the beauties of nature. Here you can feed squirrels with your hands, listen to music concerts or birdsong. Making noise and walking on lawns, scaring animals and catching fish from ponds is prohibited. Entrance to the park is not paid.

4. Warsaw Uprising Museum

It would seem, how can you create a place that tells about terrible events in such a way as to leave light and pleasant memories of your visit? The Poles succeeded. Modern techniques and special effects reveal all the details of 1944, when the Polish army did its best to overcome the occupation on its own for 63 days.
The museum is open to the public on weekdays from 8:00 to 18:00. On weekends you can visit from 10:00 to 18:00. The day off is Tuesday, and on Sunday the entrance is free. Price on other days: full - 18 zlotys (315 rubles), preferential 14 (245 rubles).

5. Wilanów Palace

Due to its relatively remote location from the center of Warsaw, the Wilanów Palace and Park Ensemble has become an attraction that is almost the only one that survived the war without losing its appearance. The baroque palace was built in 1677 and has managed to preserve the exterior and interior. Today, tourists come here to admire the original furniture, frescoes, portraits and sculptures that this place carefully preserves.
The average opening hours of the museum are from 9:30 to 16:00, on Sundays from 10:30 to 18:00. An hour before closing, visitors are no longer allowed to pass. The cost of visiting for adults is 20 zlotys (350 rubles), preferential categories - 15 (263 rubles), you can enter the park for 5 (87 rubles) and 3 (52 rubles) zlotys, respectively.

6. Museum of the History of Polish Jews

The interactive museum, which occupies a large area, tells about the history of the Jewish people in Poland. It was opened in 2013 on the territory of the former Warsaw Ghetto. The building is decorated in Art Nouveau style and contains a large number of exhibits. Here, moments of the thousand-year history of the Jews are revealed up to the military events, when they suffered an unenviable fate in Warsaw and other cities.
The museum site can be visited as part of a guided tour to learn more and also take an audio guide. Thursday free entry.

7. Market Square

Located in the Old Town, the Market Square has long been the main center of trade and just a great place to meet. It is framed on all sides by quaint multi-colored facades, and now the heart of the city is ready to become a cozy corner for tourists. It is especially beautiful on the square in winter, when a free skating rink opens, and everything around is decorated with elegant Christmas illuminations.
There are many different cafeterias and interesting authentic establishments. You can drink a cup of coffee in the Old Town for the price of 10-15 zlotys (175-262 rubles).

8. Science Center "Copernicus"

In 2010, the amazing Copernicus Science Center opened in Warsaw and since then it has been a must-see for tourists visiting Poland. Its popularity is due to the ability to touch any exhibits, independently conduct experiments and endlessly study the various zones of the center. This landmark of the city of Warsaw is great for visiting with children.
The cost of the premises is 22 PLN (385 rubles) for adults, for students and pensioners - 16 (280 rubles), for schoolchildren - 13 (227 rubles). Children under 2 years old can enter for free.

9. Frederic Chopin Museum

Fans of creativity (especially music) will certainly be happy to visit the expositions dedicated to the world-famous Polish composer. You can see two branches at once: Chopin's house and the Chopin Family's Little Salon. In addition to the exhibition, which presents collections of photographs, documents, manuscripts, notes and much more, visitors will be able to attend musical events here on some days. The museum received five exhibition levels, among which there is even an audio room.
The museum is open from 11:00 to 20:00. There is a children's room. The ticket price is 22 złoty (385 rubles) for an adult, 13 (227 rubles) for a discount, admission is free on Tuesdays.

10. Castle Square

The square is located between the Old Town and the royal palace. It is from the latter that its name is derived. In the center of the square stands the column of King Sigismund, erected on this site as early as 1644. After its destruction during the war period, it had to be restored until 1949. Later it became a pedestrian zone. Zamkovaya Square received its modern appearance already in 1988.
This is a good location for taking beautiful photos, easy walking and spending time in small cafes.

11. Lazenkovsky Palace

The residence of the last Polish king was located right on an artificial island, for which it was also called the Palace on the Water. The decoration is made in the style of early classicism. The building is framed by Lazenkovsky Park and two colonnaded bridges. A wonderful example of an architectural monument of history definitely deserves attention.

12. Column of Sigismund III

The construction appeared on the Warsaw square as early as 1643-1644. The monument itself was made of bronze, and the pedestal was carved from stone. It is set right in front of the Royal Palace. The depicted Polish king supports a large cross with his left hand. In turn, with his right he holds a curved saber. The authentic column was destroyed during 1944 and restored already in 1949. The column was made of granite.

13. Warsaw Citadel

The Russian fortress of the 19th century in the city appeared after the Polish uprising in 1830. Nicholas I erected a structure in order to protect the territory of Russia. The Warsaw citadel is one of the names, the other is Alexandrovskaya. Now a memorial complex is located in the brick building and on the nearby square.

14. Warsaw Zoo

This Warsaw attraction for children is best suited. The huge zoological garden is home to 553 animal species. It was opened in 1926 and has expanded significantly since then. During the war, many animals died, some were deported, and also distributed to zoos in Germany. The pig farm on the territory of the zoo remained active, where hundreds of Jews from the Ghetto were hiding.

15. Saxon garden

A large city park was founded in 1727 and immediately became publicly accessible to all locals. It was created according to the prototype - the Versailles Park, so the baroque is visible in the design. In the 19th century, the garden acquired English features, a fountain and a water tower were built. After the war, the park was significantly damaged, but over time it was restored.

16. Ujazdowski castle

In the park of the same name, the decorated former residence of the Polish King August II is presented. The baroque building was erected in 1659-1665. Unfortunately, in this case, the war played a cruel joke and completely destroyed it. Restoration of the building began already in 1975, and achieved significant success in the reconstruction. Now there is a center for contemporary art.

17. Krakow suburb

A 1 km long avenue connects the old part of the city with the modern center. Walking along the road, tourists will discover many sights of Warsaw. The modernization of this location took place in 2006-2008, and during this time wide sidewalks and a new narrow pavement made of Chinese granite appeared here. From here you can easily get to the Lazienki palace and park ensemble.

18. Palace of Culture and Science

In the capital of Poland, there is a colossal Soviet-style tower - a present to the Poles from the Soviet Union and Stalin personally. The Palace of Culture and Science is still a rather controversial building, which has been repeatedly thought of being destroyed. Now it houses exhibition halls, a cinema, a planetarium and a museum, an office complex and much more. Various events are held in the courtyard. The highest Polish observation deck is open on the 30th floor.

19. Warsaw Barbican

The fortification is part of the fortress walls that were built in the 16th century. The semicircular fortified outpost is one of the very few historical monuments preserved on the territory of Warsaw. The fortification was part of the complex of fortifications that surrounded the capital of Poland. It was restored after the war in 1952-1954.

20. National Museum

The Museum of Art opened in 1862, but received its own building only in 1927-1938. A significant part of the rich collection was taken out by the Germans, and the rest was incinerated during the uprising. It was possible to replenish the museum fund only in 1961-1964, when large-scale excavations were carried out. Now here are collected ancient, oriental, early Christian, modern Polish, decorative and other art, engravings, sculptures, coins, medals, books, photographs and iconography.

21. Museum of Marie Skłodowska-Curie

The expositions are dedicated to an outstanding woman physicist, whose life and work deserve attention. Here are collected family documents, valuables and household items, photographs, laboratory supplies and known minerals with radium. There is no laboratory here. But there is an opportunity to purchase a variety of souvenirs: from postcards to magnets.

22. Museum of the Polish Army

Exhibition halls are located in the same building with the National Museum. Here, exhibits are collected and presented to the public, telling about the history and victories of the Polish military. An extensive collection of armor, regular uniforms of the Polish army, battle paintings, samples of weapons - all this is worth getting acquainted with within the walls of the museum. Most of it is dedicated to the participation of the Polish army in World War II.

23. Church of St. John the Baptist

The Gothic brick cathedral is a functioning Catholic church. Its foundation dates back to 1390, but, like many other sights of Warsaw, the temple was bombed, almost obliterating the building. The interior of the church suffered most of all. Later, the alleged original appearance was recreated.

24. Church of the Holy Cross

The temple was built in the baroque architectural style. The basilica was created in the period 1679-1696, but was destroyed during the hostilities in Poland. The temple was rebuilt already in 1945-1953. In front of the building is a bronze statue of Jesus Christ carrying the cross. The church on the Krakow Suburb Street belongs to the ancient Catholic order - the Lazarists.

25. Church of St. Casimir

The church, erected at the end of the 17th century, was outwardly strikingly different from the reconstructed building. During the fighting, the temple was used as a shelter for the civilian population. After its destruction, restoration lasted 15 years. The organ and bells have been preserved in the cathedral. For the construction, Palladianism was chosen - an early form, the basis of which is the strict adherence to symmetry.

26. Church of St. Anne

The church is located in the historical part of the city and is decorated in neoclassical architectural style. This is one of the oldest buildings in Warsaw, which has undergone many changes and reconstructions. The original appearance of the church has been preserved in archival photographs of the city. Now the temple combines several styles, including high baroque, neo-renaissance, late gothic and others.

27. Monument to the Warsaw Uprising

The well-known structure was erected in 1989 at the site of the entrance to the tunnel system, which was used by the Poles to escape from German troops. The Warsaw Uprising is a tragic chapter in the history of the state. The monument should remind people of the thousands of heroes who gave their lives for their country. It depicts members of the Home Army rising from the ruins.

28. Monument to the heroes of the ghetto

Another attraction in Warsaw, designed to keep the memory of military events, is the Monument to the Heroes of the Ghetto. It is dedicated to the locals who experienced the destruction of the city. This is a stone parallelepiped, where figures of rebels of different ages and genders are carved on one of the sides. On the other, you can see the suffering faces of the elderly and women.

29. Monument to a young rebel

The bronze statue is dedicated to the children who also became part of the 1944 Warsaw Uprising. A small boy in a large helmet with a Polish ribbon and a weapon in his hands does not seem funny - his eyes are full of determination. The monument was erected in the city in 1983. This is another reminder of the terrible events that deprived Polish children of their childhood.

30. Monument to Chopin

The bronze monument is a tribute to the memory of the great composer. It is located in Lazienki park. The stylized composition represents the figure of Chopin sitting under a Mazovian willow. This is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Warsaw. The image is found on printed and souvenir products.

Sights of Warsaw and surroundings on the map

As you can see from the information above, the city is rich in various interesting locations, so I want to see more. But how to cover the maximum number of monuments of culture, history and architecture, if the idea of ordering an excursion does not appeal?
A map of Warsaw with sights in Russian will greatly facilitate the process of drawing up the best routes for travelers to explore the city. It is convenient and practical, besides, you can always peep the road or adjust it for yourself.

The beautiful and mysterious Polish capital is located on the banks of the Vistula River. Warsaw has a long history, which is reflected in its architecture and sights. The first records in the annals about Warsaw date back to the 14th century. Warsaw is one of the most beautiful cities in the European Union. Today the city is under the protection of UNESCO.

Consider the most important and most interesting sights of the Polish capital with photos and descriptions.

The square is included in all tourist guides of Warsaw and is one of the main attractions of the city. It is here that important city events take place, such as parades, rallies, national holidays and concerts. The square is named after Jozef Piłsudski, who played an important role in the restoration of Polish state power. The monument to the politician rises in the center of the square, symbolizing the revival of the Polish State. Interestingly, during the German occupation, this square was named after Adolf Hitler. Further, after the victory over fascism, it was renamed Victory Square, and today it has again returned the name of Pilsudski.

In addition to the monument, here you can lay flowers at the memorial of the Dead Soldier, and see the ruins of the Saxon Palace. This palace underwent several global reconstructions during its life. It was originally built in the Baroque style and was a royal residence. Later, the palace was rebuilt and redesigned several times. In 1944, the palace was destroyed by fascist troops and only three arcades remained from it, under which a memorial to the Dead Soldier was erected.

Restaurant "Dom Polski"

On the map of Warsaw, on French Street, within the walls of a medieval villa, there is a restaurant of traditional cuisine "Polish House". Today the restaurant is one of the most interesting attractions in Warsaw. The gastronomic landmark opened its doors to the first visitors in 1998 and has already been recognized as the restaurant of the year many times. Today, the restaurant has dozens of awards, including a Michelin star, which is awarded only to the best restaurants. This symbol indicates haute cuisine and excellent service. If you come here on a Sunday or Monday, you can enjoy wonderful live Polish music played on cello and violin.

"Polish House" has several cozy rooms where you can sit down for a family lunch or dinner. The restaurant is surrounded by a magnificent greenhouse, with exotic plants, fountains and sculptures. The institution opens daily from 12.00 local time and continues its work until the last guest leaves it. The restaurant's cuisine is represented by traditional Polish meat, poultry and fish dishes.

The Church of the Holy Cross began its history in the distant 1267. In those days, a small chapel was built on the site of the modern temple, which was later rebuilt into a wooden church. The temple was destroyed several times, but always rebuilt. The church acquired its present appearance in 1696. The church was badly damaged during WWII. The church was looted and blown up by the Germans. Unique icons were lost and the altar was destroyed. However, after the war, the temple was completely restored and today, as before, services are held in the temple, weddings are held and children are baptized. The temple is of exceptional importance for the country, and even its altar, restored according to old sketches, now bears the name Altar of the Fatherland.

The unique attraction of the temple is the statue of Jesus Christ, carrying a huge cross. Previously, this monument was made of concrete, but after damage by vandals, it was decided to cast a bronze sculpture. During the war, the Germans removed the statue, but left it in a roadside trench, where it was found by Polish soldiers. The monument was returned and, after the victory over fascism, it was again installed in front of the entrance to the temple.

Stare Miasto is the oldest historical district of Warsaw. Its oldest buildings date back to the 13th century. The area is separated from the rest of the city by medieval walls on one side and a dry river bed on the other. Once in this place, you are instantly transported many centuries ago. Narrow cobbled streets, merchants' shops and, of course, the market square. Wandering around the old city, you can see completely unusual buildings from the Middle Ages. During the Second World War, most of the old city was destroyed, but after it ended, all the ancient architectural monuments were painstakingly restored according to old photographs and drawings.

In the Old Town you can see such interesting sights as the triangular square, the palace square, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the Thin House, the Church of the Jesuit Fathers. The old city as a World Heritage Site is under the protection of UNESCO. Hundreds of thousands of tourists visit this attraction every year. Remarkably, even the restored buildings here look like they really are 300-400 years old.

The Market Square is located in the Old Town of Warsaw. This trading platform throughout the existence of the city played a huge role in the economy of Warsaw. It was here that local and overseas merchants traded, wandering artists came here, and only here artisans could sell the fruits of their labor. The market square is still the center of trade today. Every tourist can buy a lot of souvenirs or serious things here. It is pleasant for tourists to walk around the square, looking into the shops, small restaurants and cafes. A special atmosphere is set by free musicians and artists, they, like several centuries ago, come here to entertain people and earn some money.

Within the old square there are several historical sights that can be visited by the whole family, these are the Museum of Literature, the Museum of History and the statue of the Warsaw Siren. The monument was created in 1855 and cast from zinc. Later it was transferred to different parts of the city, but in 2008 the Siren was cast in bronze and returned to its historical place. The original was given to the city museum. Interestingly, the square is divided into four parts, each of which is named after famous Polish politicians.