Welcome to Warsaw! I really did not know what to expect when we visited Warsaw. However, we were very pleasantly surprised to find a very beautiful city with so much to explore. The Old Town of Warsaw is stunning.

While Krakow usually gets all the attention, I think you will enjoy visiting Warsaw.

Warsaw, the capital of Poland, was rebuilt after being almost completely destroyed during WWII. It is now a very dynamic modern city. Gothic churches stand alongside modern skyscrapers, and lush parks provide a wonderful city to walk through. The city's rich history, vibrant culture, and architectural diversity make it a fascinating destination for travelers and photographers.

Let's dive into my guide to exploring and photographing this vibrant city.

Where to Stay in Warsaw

Staying in the heart of Warsaw, Śródmieście, offers easy access to major attractions, dining, and vibrant nightlife. Here are some top hotel options:

Luxury Hotels

1. Raffles Europejski Warsaw -

   • A historic hotel blending classic elegance with modern luxury, located near the Old Town.

2. Hotel Bristol, a Luxury Collection Hotel -

   • A landmark hotel offering refined accommodations and excellent service, just steps from the Presidential Palace. This is the hotel we chose, and the location was just perfect.

3. InterContinental Warsaw -

   • A contemporary hotel with stunning views of the city skyline, located close to the Palace of Culture and Science.

Mid-Level Hotels

1. Novotel Warszawa Centrum -

   • It is a comfortable and centrally located hotel with modern amenities and great city views.

2. Mercure Warszawa Grand - Website

   • A stylish hotel offering convenience and comfort in the heart of Warsaw.

3. Polonia Palace Hotel -

   • A historic hotel with elegant rooms and a prime location opposite the Warsaw Central Railway Station.

How Long Should I Stay?

To fully experience Warsaw, plan to stay at least 2-3 days. This will give you enough time to explore major attractions, enjoy local cuisine, and discover hidden gems.

Best Time of Year to Visit

The best time to visit Warsaw is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. Summer is also beautiful but can be busier with tourists.

Getting Around the City

Warsaw has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro. Uber and Bolt are also available and widely used. For photographers, renting a bike or taking leisurely walks can be the best way to explore and capture the city's charm.

Where to Eat

Warsaw's culinary scene is diverse and delicious. I did not know what to expect foodwise in Warsaw, but every meal we had was amazing. We especially enjoyed the cafes.

There are at least 2 dishes you should try in Poland. Bigos, Poland’s national dish, is a rich and tasty dish made of meat and cabbage, often cooked in a bread bowl. While Pierogi dumplings, sweet and savory, are a traditional Polish favorite.

Here are some top dining options:

1. Atelier Amaro -

   • A Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Polish cuisine with a creative twist.

2. U Fukiera -

   • Located in the Old Town, this restaurant serves traditional Polish dishes in a historic setting.

3. Senses Restaurant - Website

   • Another Michelin-starred venue, known for its innovative tasting menus and elegant ambiance.

4. Hala Koszyki - Website

   • A vibrant food hall with a variety of eateries offering international and Polish cuisines.

5. Stary Dom - Website

   • A classic restaurant known for its hearty Polish fare and warm atmosphere.

Coffee Shops

The coffee shops and cafes in Warsaw are a must-visit. We were blown away by the quality of the coffee and baked goods, especially the Apple pies. Pastries and cakes are very popular. So you can expect to find many cafes with beautifully decorated sweet treats on display.

1. Relax Café Bar - Website

   • A cozy spot with excellent coffee and a relaxed vibe, perfect for a break between photo shoots.

2. Ministerstwo Kawy - Website

   • A popular café known for its high-quality coffee and friendly atmosphere.

3. Kawiarnia Kafka - Website

   • Located near the University of Warsaw, this café is ideal for enjoying a good book with your coffee.

Photography Gear to Bring

• Camera Bodies: Canon EOS R5, Sony A7R IV, or Nikon Z7 II etc.

• Lenses:

  • Wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for architecture and cityscapes.

  • Standard zoom lens (24-70mm) for versatile street photography.

  • Telephoto lens (70-200mm) for detailed shots and distant subjects.

• Tripod: Essential for night photography and long exposures.

• Filters: Polarizing filter for reducing reflections and enhancing colors, ND filter for long exposures during the day.

• Extra Batteries and Memory Cards: Ensure you have enough power and storage for all your shoots.

Best Photography Locations in Warsaw

I spent most of my time in Warsaw photographing the Old Town Center, which is very colorful and picturesque. It’s great that it is so easy to walk around the area and take photos. Here are some of my favorite spots.

skwer ks. Jana Twardowskiego -

Situated in the heart of Warsaw, the square is easily accessible and close to many of the city's attractions. Skwer ks. Jana Twardowskiego is a charming square. Named after the beloved Polish priest and poet, Father Jan Twardowski, this peaceful spot is a tribute to his life and work.

It’s a convenient stop on your way to exploring Old Town

Nearby, you’ll find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops. We really enjoyed visiting the cafes of Warsaw.

The Presidential Palace

The Presidential Palace, known in Polish as "Pałac Prezydencki," is not only the official residence of the President of Poland but also a monument steeped in rich history. Its Neoclassical architecture, elegant interiors, and historical significance make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Makieta Starówki Warszawskiej Square

Makieta Starówki Warszawskiej, or Warsaw's Old Town. The heart of Warsaw's Old Town, the Market Square, is beautiful. The colorful facades of the surrounding townhouses and the charming cafes. This bustling square is fantastic for Street Photography.

Sigismund's Column

Sigismund's Column, or Kolumna Zygmunta in Polish. Erected in 1644, it was one of the first secular monuments in the form of a column in Europe. The column honors King Sigismund III Vasa, whose decision to relocate the capital to Warsaw marked the beginning of the city's prominence as Poland's political and cultural center.

Old Town Market Square -

Old Town Market Square, or Rynek Starego Miasta in Polish, is the centerpiece of Warsaw’s Old Town. This vibrant square, with its colorful facades, bustling cafes, and rich history, is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Polish capital.

If you can only visit one spot, this would be where you should go

The square is surrounded by picturesque townhouses, each adorned with colorful facades and intricate details that reflect the architectural styles of different periods. The houses were meticulously rebuilt after the war, using old photographs and paintings as references to restore them to their former glory.

Royal Castle - (PLAC ZAMKOWY)

The Royal Castle, or Zamek Królewski, is another must-visit landmark for anyone exploring Warsaw. Situated at the entrance to the Old Town. You will see tons of people hanging around in this area.

Originally built in the 14th century, the Royal Castle has undergone numerous expansions and reconstructions.

The castle is a stunning example of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, meticulously restored after its destruction in the war.

Its grand facade, elegant interiors, and expansive courtyards invite visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of Poland’s royal history.

Łazienki Park -

Łazienki Park is Warsaw's largest park, covering 76 hectares of gardens, palaces, and monuments. Originally designed in the 17th century as a baths park for the noble Stanisław Herakliusz Lubomirski, it was later transformed into a royal garden by King Stanisław August Poniatowski. Today, it serves as a tranquil retreat for locals and tourists alike, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Festivals and Holidays

• Warsaw Film Festival (October): A major event showcasing international films.

• Wianki (June): A summer solstice festival with concerts and fireworks along the Vistula River.

• Christmas Markets (December): Beautifully decorated stalls offering festive treats and crafts, providing great photo opportunities.

Wrapping up

Warsaw is a true gem. Although travelers often overlook it, I highly recommend visiting. There is a lot to photograph, and the food is delicious.

Don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more travel and photography guides!

If you enjoyed this guide to Warsaw, you can check out my other Photography and Travel Guides at this link.