Warsaw in Winter: 20 Amazing Things to Do (2026 Update)
Warsaw in winter can be surprisingly charming β especially when the first snow settles over the Old Town and festive lights take over the streets. Christmas markets, ice rinks, and cozy cafΓ©s fill the city with warmth and life, even on the coldest days.
Sure, the weather might be gray and biting, but there are still plenty of things to do in Warsaw in winter that make the trip worthwhile β from discovering its dramatic history to finding comfort in a mug of hot chocolate while wandering its streets.
If you’re wondering what to do in Warsaw in December, expect a mix of local traditions and modern city vibes. The Christmas season begins in late November, when lights start going up and markets open across the city, and lasts until early January.
This Warsaw travel guide β freshly updated for the 2026 winter season β gathers the best winter experiences, cozy spots, and practical tips based on my own visits.
Whether you’re here for the lights, the history, or the food, Warsaw is full of character and quiet beauty that’s easy to miss at first glance, but deeply rewarding once you slow down to notice it.
In case you’re planning a more extended trip around the country, I’ve also put together a detailed guide on traveling in Poland in winter β complete with seasonal tips, what to expect weather-wise, and ideas for where to go beyond Warsaw.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy something through themβat no extra cost to you. It helps support my blog and lets me share real, first-hand travel tips. Learn more
β Download this guide as a mobile app
Is Warsaw worth visiting in winter and beyond?
Warsaw isn’t the kind of city that wins you over instantly β it takes time to appreciate its contrasts. The capital is a place where pre-war elegance, royal palaces, green parks, Soviet remnants, and sleek modern skyscrapers all coexist.
Visiting Warsaw at this time of the year shows the city at its most authentic: quieter, moodier, and free from the crowds that usually fill its streets in summer.
Like many cities in Poland, Warsaw is layered with history and resilience. If GdaΕsk marks the symbolic starting point of World War II, Warsaw became its epicenter of tragedy and later, rebirth. The war almost destroyed the city; its elegant boulevards and townhouses were reduced to rubble.
Warsaw Old Town was rebuilt from ruins and later recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s small but beautiful, especially when dusted with snow and lit up for Christmas.
While December is all about lights, markets, and festive food, the rest of the winter is ideal for exploring at your own pace. The city’s museums tell powerful stories β from the Warsaw Uprising to everyday life under Communism β and many are perfect for chilly afternoons.
Additionally, you can wander through parks, pop into a milk bar for a homestyle comfort Polish food, or take a break from sightseeing with a creamy cup of Polish-style hot chocolate.
I’ll be honest β Warsaw wasn’t an instant favorite for me. Perhaps it was the grey skies or the city’s modern feel that didn’t immediately resonate with me. However, the more I explored, the more I appreciated it and began to see the city’s character beyond its surface.
That’s precisely why it’s worth giving Warsaw a chance β to see it for yourself and decide what kind of city it is to you.
Plan Your Trip Like A Pro
The best time to visit Warsaw in winter
Warsaw winter usually starts in December and lingers until the end of February. The city turns gray and quiet, with cold winds and frequent snowfalls adding to its moody charm. Although it’s not the most cheerful weather, if you enjoy exploring cities without crowds, this is one of the best times to be here.
December is cold, often with sleet or rain, and temperatures range between -2.8Β°C (27Β°F) and 1.9Β°C (35Β°F). Still, this is when the city feels the most alive.
Streets light up for the holidays, the Old Town turns festive, and there’s no shortage of things to do in Warsaw in December β from sipping mulled wine at the Christmas markets to wandering through the WilanΓ³w light garden.
January is the coldest period of the year, with average temperatures around -1.8 Β°C (29Β°F). Expect gray skies, limited sunshine, and plenty of snow.
It’s a great month to focus on indoor experiences (museums, cafΓ©s, and galleries) if you’re wondering what to do in Warsaw in January when the city slows down after the holidays.
By February, the snow begins to melt and the days slowly get longer. Average temperatures rise slightly to about 1.9Β°C (35Β°F), though nights can still drop below zero.
Even so, it still feels like proper winter in Warsaw, and there are fewer tourists than ever. It’s the perfect time to discover local life and enjoy Warsaw winter activities without the queues or crowds.
Traveling during this time also means you’ll find better hotel deals, quieter streets, and no lines at top attractions.
However, if you plan a trip earlier in the season, one of the best things to do in Warsaw in November is to coincide your travels with the opening of the Christmas markets.
The city starts putting up its Christmas lights and decorations around mid-November, and the first markets and outdoor ice rinks usually open later in the month. It’s a great time to catch the festive atmosphere before the main holiday crowds arrive in December.
If you’re wondering how winter compares to other seasons, check my best time to visit Poland guide β it breaks down weather, crowds, and festivals by season.
How many days to spend in Warsaw in winter
Days during winter in Warsaw are short, with very little sunshine and early sunsets, so it’s best to plan your sightseeing accordingly. How long you stay really depends on what you want to do here.
We spent two full days here, focusing primarily on outdoor sights and city walks, and included a few museums in our Warsaw itinerary.If you plan to visit several exhibitions, tour the palaces, and explore the royal gardens, extend your stay to three or four days.
That gives you enough time to explore at a comfortable pace, warm up with traditional Polish food, and still see the main attractions without rushing.
20 amazing things to do in Warsaw in winter
Many Warsaw tourist attractions stay open year-round, so even in the colder months, there’s plenty to explore.
Museums, palaces, and parks all welcome visitors in winter β the only difference you’ll notice might be shorter opening hours or slightly lower entrance fees.
That said, some places take on a completely different charm under snow or festive lights, making this season a surprisingly rewarding time to visit.
Tour the WilanΓ³w Palace and Park
WilanΓ³w Palace is one of the few royal residences that survived both World Wars and the turbulent years of Poland’s partitions. It’s among the country’s most important historical monuments, offering a glance into Poland’s royal heritage.
Inside the Palace, you’ll find lavishly decorated halls, stunning ceiling frescoes, and royal apartments filled with original furniture and portraits of Polish kings.
Walking through the King’s and Queen’s bedrooms, the galleries, and the grand library feels like stepping into another era, making it one of the best things to do in Warsaw.
After the tour, make sure to wander through the Palace’s vast 45-hectare garden. Depending on your time, you can explore several themed parks β the Baroque, Rose, South, and North Landscape Parks β as well as the Orangery and Morysin Nature Reserve nearby.
The WilanΓ³w Palace courtyard itself is beautiful year-round, but it truly transforms during winter. As dusk falls, the palace gardens come alive with the Royal Garden of Light installation β thousands of colorful lights synchronized to classical music, making it one of those places to visit in Warsaw at night.
- Opening hours: Palace – Wednesday to Monday, 10 am – 4 pm. Closed on Tuesdays and public holidays. | Park – daily year-round, but closing time changes according to the season. More info
- Entrance fee: Palace – 50 PLN for adults | Park – 10 PLN for adults | FREE on Thursdays for both the Park and the Palace, but tickets are limited and must be reserved online. Get your tickets here
Recommended tours of WilanΓ³w Palace:
Walk around the Εazienki Royal Park
Spread across 76 hectares, Εazienki Royal Park is the largest and one of the most beautiful green spaces in Warsaw. Located along the Royal Route that connects WilanΓ³w Palace to the Royal Castle in the Old Town, it’s one of those attractions that’s worth visiting in every season β and it feels exceptionally peaceful during the winter months.
Initially built in the 17th century as a bathing park for a nobleman, Εazienki was redesigned a century later by Poland’s last King, StanisΕaw August Poniatowski, who filled it with elegant villas, palaces, and monuments.
The Park is full of life even in colder months β cheeky squirrels that aren’t afraid to get close, and ponds where you’ll spot ducks and swans gliding through the mist.
On milder winter days, you can easily spend hours wandering its pathways, discovering hidden pavilions, royal theaters, and charming architectural details.
If you’re looking for calm, open-air places to visit in Warsaw in winter, this Park is the perfect escape from the city’s busier streets.
- Opening hours: Gardens – Mon to Sun from 6 am to 9 pm | Museums within the gardens vary by building and season. More info
- Entrance fee: Gardens – FREE | Adults – 50-60 PLN for a combo ticket to various buildings | FREE on Fridays, no reservations needed for individual visits. More info here, but it’s in Polish, so use a translator.
Explore Warsaw Old Town
Warsaw’s charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city’s historic heart, is a compact yet vibrant area with beautiful details: colorful merchant houses like the ones you see in Gdansk or Poznan, cobblestone streets, the lively Market Square, and several of the most essential sights, all within walking distance.
Although the Old Town appears centuries old, much of what you see was rebuilt after World War II to resemble its original 17th-century appearance.
Museum of Warsaw
Located right on the Market Square, the Museum of Warsaw is a great place to start your education about the city. Its leading exhibition tells the story of the city through thousands of objects β everyday items, artworks, and personal belongings of Warsaw’s residents.
One of the most interesting displays, “The Data of Warsaw,” visualizes key events that have shaped the city.
- Opening hours: Varies by day of the week.
- Entrance fee: Adults – 25 PLN. Additionally, offer combo tickets for both core and temporary exhibitions. All detailed info here
St. Anne’s Church and Bell Tower
Next to Castle Square, St. Anne’s Church stands as one of Warsaw’s most significant religious landmarks. Its Neoclassical exterior conceals a richly decorated interior that has been carefully preserved since the 18th century.
Climb the Bell Tower for one of the most stunning panoramic views of the Old Town β the Royal Castle, Sigismund’s Column, and the red rooftops look especially striking when dusted with snow.
The Royal Castle
The centerpiece of the Old Town, the Royal Castle, served as the residence of Polish monarchs for centuries. When Warsaw replaced KrakΓ³w as the country’s capital in the early 1600s, the Parliament was also moved here.
Today, the castle serves as a museum, having been fully restored after the war to reflect its 17th-century grandeur. Inside, you can visit the royal chambers, the Houses of Parliament, and admire an impressive art collection that includes two original paintings by Rembrandt.
- Opening hours: Varies by day of the week, building, and season. Closed on Mondays.
- Entrance fee: Adults – from 60 PLN, depending on the building. FREE on Wednesdays to Royal Apartments, Parliament Chambers, and the Tin-Roofed Palace for a limited number. All detailed info here
Canon Square and the Wishing Bell
A short walk from the castle brings you to Canon Square, home to the famous 17th-century Wishing Bell. Local legends say that if you circle it while making a wish β some say on one foot β your dream will come true. The story behind it is a tragic love tale, adding a touch of folklore to your stroll through Old Town.
St. John’s Archcathedral
Just around the corner stands St. John’s Archcathedral, a striking Brick Gothic church and one of Warsaw’s three main cathedrals β and the only one with the title of “archcathedral.” Inside, you’ll find royal tombs, sculptures, and beautifully restored details that survived the city’s turbulent past.
Recommended tours in Warsaw Old Town:
Pass through the Barbican
The Barbican is a semicircular defensive fortification that once protected the city. It marks the spot where the Old Town ends and the New Town begins.
After exploring the Old Town’s main sights, walk through this beautiful red-brick gate and continue toward the New Town, with its Market Square dating back to the 15th century.
Like most of Warsaw, this part of the city was destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt to resemble its original look.
As you wander through, make sure to stroll along Freta Street β it’s the main thoroughfare here, lined with cafΓ©s and colorful townhouses that show a quieter side of central Warsaw.
Sip mulled beer or wine while exploring Christmas markets
In winter, Warsaw turns into a fairytale, glowing with colorful lights, festive stalls, and the scent of mulled wine in the air. Evenings are the most magical β the streets sparkle with decorations, and every corner hums with holiday cheer.
The most impressive displays are along the Royal Route, around the Old Town, and in front of the towering Christmas tree on Castle Square.
The central Christmas Market in Warsaw 2025 is scheduled to take place from November 21 to January 6 around Castle Square. Another festive market will be held at Plac Defilad (Parade Square) at the Palace of Culture and Science from November 28 to January 1.
As you wander, warm up with a cup of mulled wine or try something more local β grzane piwo, or hot spiced beer. Both are staples of the season and pair perfectly with a cold evening stroll.
The stalls also offer traditional food, such as pierogi, sausages, osypek (smoked cheese), Makowiec (poppy seed roll), and Zapiekanka (open pizza-like sandwich), among others.
Local artisans showcase their handmade crafts, including knitted scarves, local chocolates, and traditional gingerbread cookies.
Admire the “gift of the Soviet people for the Poles”
The Palace of Culture and Science dominates Warsaw’s skyline β a massive, 237-meter-tall structure that can be seen from almost anywhere in the city center.
Built in 1955 as a “gift of the Soviet people for the Poles,” it remains one of the city’s most recognizable and controversial landmarks and a prime example of Soviet architecture.
The building houses theaters, museums, offices, and even the Polish Academy of Sciences. Its design was inspired by Moscow’s “Seven Sisters” skyscrapers, showcasing the same monumental Stalinist style.
For years, it also held the record for the tallest clock tower in the world until it was overtaken by one in Tokyo.
You can take the elevator up to the observation deck on the 30th floor for panoramic city views. Personally, I wasn’t overly impressed β the view didn’t quite justify the ticket price β but it’s still worth seeing in person to form your own opinion.
If the observation deck alone doesn’t appeal to you but you’d like to see the building’s interior and learn about its history, you can join a guided tour of the Palace of Culture and Science.
It takes you through its grand halls and Soviet-era design details while sharing stories about how and why it was built. The tour also includes access to the observation deck, allowing you to enjoy the views at the end.
- Opening hours: daily, from 10 am to 8 pm.
- Entrance fee: Adults – 28 PLN. All the info here
Wander through the Praga district
Across the Vistula River lies Praga, one of Warsaw’s most distinctive neighborhoods with a history of its own. Until 1791, it was an independent town with its own city charter, separated from the rest of Warsaw by the river.
Back then, the area was filled with wooden houses and workshops, and the only connection to the city was by privately operated ferries. It wasn’t until the late 18th century that a bridge finally linked Praga to the capital.
Unlike central Warsaw, Praga was largely spared from destruction during World War II and the postwar reconstruction period, which means many of its pre-war buildings and courtyards still stand today.
For decades, though, it carried a rough reputation β foreigners were often advised to avoid it because of crime and poverty.
These days, Praga is experiencing a revival. It’s become one of the most interesting areas to explore if you want to see a rawer, more local side of Warsaw.
The mix of crumbling facades, vibrant murals, and creative spaces gives it a gritty charm that feels very different from the polished city center. Parts of the district still have that pre-war atmosphere β so much so that scenes for the movie The Pianist were filmed here.
Among its highlights are the Praga Museum of Warsaw, which tells the story of the neighborhood’s past, and the Koneser Center, a former vodka factory transformed into a lively complex featuring cafΓ©s, bars, galleries, and even the Vodka Museum (see below).
Recommended tours in the Praga neighborhood:
Hunt down some street art and murals
Street art in Warsaw is scattered throughout the city center, with a particularly dense concentration in the Praga neighborhood on the east bank of the Vistula. When I research the city, I typically use Street Art Cities to identify the pieces I like the most.
Unfortunately, on our Warsaw trip, we only managed to track down a few due to snow and rain:
- Stalowa 50 street is home to Ania, one of Praga’s most photographed murals.
- MaΕa 8 features the symbolic mural Temple by Daniel Chazme.
- WrzesiΕska 6 features The Player, a larger-than-life character painted on the side of a classic Praga building.
- Εrodkowa 17 is home to the dramatic Warsaw Fight Club mural.
- Lubelska Street celebrates a colorful mural of E. Wedel, one of Poland’s oldest chocolate brands.
See how Poland beautified its Soviet brutalist buildings in the Cold War era
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Warsaw, don’t skip the Neon Museum. This quirky space showcases a vibrant collection of restored neon signs that once illuminated the streets of Warsaw and other Polish cities during the Cold War era.
The museum’s founders have spent years tracking down and preserving these original electro-graphic designs, turning what was once commercial signage into a fascinating glimpse of Poland’s mid-20th-century visual culture.
Beyond the colorful signs themselves, each piece comes with an information board that explains when and where it was created, which business it belonged to, and how it was rescued or restored.
The first display even tells the story of how the collection started β from a private passion project to a full-fledged museum.
What makes the Neon Museum so interesting is how these bright, playful designs contrast with the gray brutalist architecture of their time. It’s a vivid example of how art and advertising once brought color and creativity to everyday life in a socialist state.
- Opening hours: Sun-Mon, from 11 am to 6 pm; Fri-Sat, from 11 am to 7 pm.
- Entrance fee: Adults – 25 PLN.
Drive around Warsaw in retro cars
One of the most fun and alternative things to do in Warsaw is exploring the city in colorful Soviet-era cars.
Several local companies offer nostalgic tours in vintage Nysa vans, Jelcz buses, and iconic Fiat 125p cars β all of which were produced during the communist era in Poland.
Each tour offers a slightly different experience, from exploring offbeat neighborhoods and hidden courtyards to diving into Warsaw’s communist history. And if you’d rather get behind the wheel yourself, some companies even let you drive these retro vehicles on your own.
Recommended retro car tours in Warsaw:
Eat at the oldest milk bar
A bar mleczny, or milk bar, is a canteen-style cafeteria from the Communist era that served traditional Polish food at government-subsidized prices.
Initially, these spots focused on dairy-based dishes β which explains the name β but over time, they expanded to include hearty homestyle meals.
One of the oldest and most beloved milk bars in Warsaw is Prasowy, which has been operating since 1954. Inside, you’ll find a blend of old and new: red-and-white checkered tabletops, vintage dΓ©cor from the Eastern Bloc days, and simple modern touches that make the place feel cozy rather than dated.
The staff speaks a little English, but it’s a good idea to check the menu online before visiting β the display inside can be a bit confusing if you’re unfamiliar with Polish dish names. Everything is freshly made, filling, and very affordable.
Another great spot is Mleczarnia Jerozolimska, located at 20 ΕwiΔtokrzyska Street. It serves a slightly different lunch menu but keeps the same no-frills charm and wallet-friendly prices.
Enjoy a guided tour at the Vodka Museum
One of the most fun ways to spend a winter evening in Warsaw is by mixing culture with a little bit of tasting, and the Polish Vodka Museum offers precisely that.
Set inside the beautifully restored Koneser Vodka Factory in the Praga district, this museum brings together history, craftsmanship, and a touch of Polish humor.
The 70-minute guided tour takes you through the story of Poland’s national drink β how vodka is made, what makes it distinct from other countries’ versions, and how it has become such an essential part of Polish culture.
Along the way, you’ll see vintage bottles, old production tools, and clever multimedia exhibits that keep things fun and light.
At the end, there’s a short tasting session where you can sample different varieties of Polish vodka and learn how to recognize their subtle differences.
- Opening hours: Tue-Thur and Sun 12 pm – 8 pm; Fri-Sat 12 pm – 9 pm. Closed on Mondays.
- Entrance fee: starts from 70 PLN, depending on the package. Buy tickets in advance at GetYourGuide or Tiqets, which include tastings. If you want to try more Polish vodkas, book this 4-Hour Polish Food Tour or this Polish Vodka Tasting.
Warm up with the tastiest hot chocolate
Poland makes some of the best hot chocolate I’ve ever had β rich and velvety. So when the temperatures drop, one of the best ways to warm up is with a steaming cup of this local favorite.
The legendary E. Wedel Company has been crafting chocolate and sweets since 1851 and remains a true Polish institution. Their flagship cafΓ©, located at 8 Szpitalna Streetβ marked by its vintage neon sign β still stands where the original chocolate factory opened in 1894.
You can sip their signature hot chocolate on the go or settle into one of their stylish cafΓ©s scattered around the city. The menu also includes sandwiches, cakes, and desserts, but the real star is that thick, indulgent chocolate drink.
You can also pick up edible souvenirs β tins of drinking chocolate mix, boxes of Ptasie Mleczko (soft chocolate-covered milk soufflΓ© or meringue), and other unique treats that make great gifts or cozy reminders of your Warsaw winter trip.
See how people lived during the Communist era
If you’re curious about daily life behind the Iron Curtain, the Museum of Life Under Communism is a fascinating stop. Its goal is to show younger generations β and anyone unfamiliar with Soviet influence β what life was like during those years.
Inside, you’ll find a nostalgic collection of household items, magazines, fashion pieces, and family photos from the Communist period. There’s even a complete reconstruction of a typical apartment from the era, along with a kindergarten corner and a retro cafΓ© where you can grab a coffee surrounded by vintage dΓ©cor.
Although I grew up in a post-Communist country, Georgia myself, I found it surprisingly moving to see familiar objects and scenes from everyday life displayed here.
- Opening hours: Mon-Thur, from 10 am to 6 pm; Fri from 12 pm – 8 pm. Sat-Sun, from 10 am to 6 pm.
- Entrance fee: Adults – 30 PLN. All the info here
Find old and new neon lights in Warsaw
After visiting the Neon Museum, I began to notice neon signs everywhere β old, new, and sometimes half-faded, yet still glowing in the night. It quickly turned into a fun little treasure hunt, with Oto joining in and pointing out the items as we walked through the city.
You’ll find beautiful examples of Warsaw’s neon art scattered around both sides of the river, often on pre-war facades or modern buildings, as they attempt to bring back that vintage charm.
Some of the best spots to look for them include: ul. MarszaΕkowska, ul. ΕwiΔtokrzyska, ul. Krakowskie PrzedmieΕcie, and ul. Chmielna
Tour the grounds of the Baroque Palace in Warsaw
The elegant Krasinski Palace, also known as the Palace of the Commonwealth, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture in the heart of Warsaw. Set within Krasinski Square and surrounded by peaceful gardens, the Palace was originally built between 1677 and 1683 for the Krasinski family.
Like much of Warsaw, it was almost completely destroyed during World War II and carefully reconstructed in the mid-20th century to restore its original grandeur.
- Opening hours: Wed-Mon from 11 am to 7 pm
- Entrance fee: FREE. More info
Learn about the history of Jews and how they settled in Europe
The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews is one of the most fascinating museums in Warsaw β a must for anyone interested in understanding the city’s deeper history.
Named the European Museum of the Year in 2016, it tells the story of Jewish life in Poland over a thousand years, from early settlement through the tragic events of the Holocaust.
Built on the site of the former Warsaw Ghetto, the museum uses immersive multimedia displays to guide visitors chronologically through centuries of Jewish culture, faith, and everyday life.
Exhibits include personal stories, restored artifacts, and large-scale reconstructions that make the experience both educational and deeply emotional.
Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the museum fully β it’s extensive, thoughtfully curated, and deserves unhurried attention. There’s also a quiet resting area and cafΓ© if you need a short break before continuing.
- Opening hours: Sun-Mon, from 10 am to 6 pm. Closed on Tuesdays. NOTE: The last entrance to the main exhibition is 2 hours before closing.
- Entrance fee: Adults – 45 PLN; Free on Thursdays. Buy tickets here
Don’t miss the Warsaw Ghetto boundary marker
Just a short walk from the POLIN Museum, on ΕwiΔtojerska Street, lies one of the city’s most understated yet powerful historical spots β the Warsaw Ghetto boundary marker.
There’s no large monument or sign to guide you, so keep your eyes on the pavement to spot the line marking where the ghetto wall once stood.
The Warsaw Ghetto was the largest Nazi ghetto during World War II, where around 460,000 Jews were imprisoned within just 3.4 square kilometers.
Living conditions were horrific β overcrowded, starving, and ravaged by disease. From here, thousands were deported to concentration camps across the country. Many others perished inside the ghetto itself, victims of shootings, starvation, or illness.
After the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising briefly disrupted the deportations in 1943, the Germans destroyed what remained of the ghetto, erasing almost every trace.
Visit the exact spot where Jews were deported to concentration camps
Another nearby site deeply tied to this history is the Umschlagplatz, located on Stawki Street. During the war, this was the German collection point where trains departed carrying thousands of Jews from the ghetto to Nazi death camps.
In 1942 alone, around 265,000 Jews were deported from here to Treblinka, one of the deadliest extermination camps, followed by Auschwitz-Birkenau. The memorial that stands on the site today was erected in 1988 to honor those who were taken.
Learn how to make Polish dumplings
No visit to Warsaw is complete without trying pierogi β Poland’s beloved dumplings. But instead of just eating them, why not learn how to make them yourself?
In this hands-on pierogi cooking class, you’ll prepare the dough, fill it with traditional sweet or savory fillings, and learn a few tricks that locals swear by.
Along the way, the host shares stories about how pierogi became a staple of Polish celebrations and family gatherings.
Once you’ve folded, boiled, and plated your dumplings, you’ll sit down to enjoy them β your well-earned meal after all the effort. And if you book an evening class, the experience often ends with a complimentary drink or two, making it a cozy and fun way to spend a winter evening.
Planning your Warsaw winter trip
Before you go, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your time. From what to pack to how to move around the city, this section covers everything you need to plan a smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable visit.
Top tips for visiting Warsaw in winter
Wake up early: The biggest challenge of planning a trip in winter is the short daylight. The sun sets around 4 pm, so start your days early to make the most of natural light for sightseeing and save indoor visits, such as museums and cafΓ©s, for later in the day.
Check opening hours: Most museums and attractions in Warsaw remain open in December, though some may adjust their opening hours for the holiday season.
Major museums β such as the POLIN Museum, Royal Castle, and WilanΓ³w Palace β typically close only on December 24th and 25th. A few more minor spots may also close on New Year’s Eve or have shorter working hours between Christmas and New Year.
Some museums also have short opening hours in winter or have earlier last-entry times. Always double-check before visiting β for example, the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews stops ticket sales and entrance two hours before the posted closing time.
Pack smart for the weather: Winter in Warsaw can be unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating between snow, rain, and wind. Dressing warmly in layers is key, especially if you’ll be outdoors for most of the day.
Here are my tried-and-tested essentials for what to wear in Warsaw in winter:
- Backpack or suitcase? We both travel with backpacks instead of suitcases β mine is a 55L Osprey Farpoint, and Oto uses the North Face Cobra 60. Both fit as carry-on luggage on most budget airlines. β Read my detailed Osprey review
- Daypack or purse: I use the CITYC 2-in-1 Backpack by Driibe (15% off with code FEDORA15). It’s designed for city travel β lightweight, organized, and stylish. β Here’s my full review
- Scarf: Always pack a soft, warm scarf. I never travel without one, and it doubles as an extra layer on cold buses or planes.
- Hat: A warm beanie or wide-brim fedora β whichever suits your style.
- Winter jacket: Choose one with a hood for sleet and windy days.
- Mittens or gloves: Although not a huge fan of gloves, they are handy for long outdoor walks.
- Thermal clothes: Leggings or base layers help if you prefer lighter outerwear.
- Umbrella or packable raincoat: I prefe raincoats that are useful for rainy spells.
- Water bottle: Tap water is generally safe to drink in Poland, so consider bringing a reusable bottle, such as my Stojo collapsible one, to save money and reduce waste. We also throw in collapsible cups for our hot drinks.
How to get to Warsaw
Visiting Warsaw is relatively easy as it is well-connected to almost every European country and the rest of Poland.
Warsaw Chopin Airport is the primary airport serving international and domestic flights. Warsaw Modlin operates for low-cost airlines. I always check tickets at Skyscanner.
If you are already in the country, traveling by train to Warsaw from various Polish cities is the fastest and most convenient public transportation option. It has frequent connections to major cities, such as Krakow, Gdansk, Poznan, and Wroclaw, among others.
Buses also run through the major cities, but depending on the traffic, it can take longer.
Where to stay in Warsaw
Warsaw offers a wide range of accommodation options. Whether you like staying in hostels, budget-friendly hotels, or apartments, the city has it all, and here are my recommendations on where to stay in Warsaw.
Our choice: ClickTheFlat Wilcza Street Apart Rooms β A large shared apartment near the city center and Warszawa Centralna train station. Basic but convenient, with private rooms and shared bathrooms. The only downside: a small kitchen area with uncomfortable bar seating.
Budget-friendly hotels: Hotel Tulip Residences Warsaw Targowa β Located in Praga, close to main attractions, with clean, modern rooms and optional kitchenettes. Alternatively, consider Safestay Warsaw β In the heart of the city, offering both private and dorm rooms, a minimalist design, and a friendly bar area.
Mid-range stays: NYX Hotel Warsaw by Leonardo Hotels β Stylish, moderately priced, with workspaces in every room. Alternatively, view GO Apartments β a bright, pet-friendly aparthotel near the center, ideal for longer stays with a full kitchen.
Hostel: KapsuΕa Hostel Warszawa β Capsule-style privacy at a great price, close to major sights.
Boutique & luxury hotels: PURO Warszawa Centrum β Chic and modern, with a restaurant, bar, and sauna, or H15 Boutique Hotel β Five-star comfort inside a historic building that once housed the Soviet embassy.
β Check the other hotels in Warsaw
How to get around Warsaw
Warsaw’s public transport network is efficient and affordable, covering buses, trams, the metro, and SKM suburban trains.
The city center is compact, so you can explore the Old Town and nearby streets on foot. We only used the public transport for attractions further out, such as the WilanΓ³w Palace or Εazienki Park.
Before using public transport, it is essential to know that Warsaw has two zones, so ensure you purchase the correct tickets. Don’t forget to validate it as soon as you board or enter the metro/bus/tram. (If purchased inside the tram or bus, they’re pre-validated.)
To be on the safe side, buy the tickets that are valid for both zones. For detailed information on tickets and zone boundaries, check out this page.
Warsaw public transport tickets start from 20 minutes for 3.40 PLN and go up to 3-day passes for 36 PLN. Check the prices and types here.
Tickets are sold at kiosks, some convenience stores, and ticket machines at major stops and stations. Not every stop has a machine, so buy a few extra in advance to avoid hassle. This page lists where you can purchase tickets.