Filled with restaurants, souvenir shops, gofry stations, and bars, this historic city centre is sure to keep you on your feet. Destroyed after World War II, Warsaw’s Old Town was reconstructed until the mid- 1960s. Make sure to get lost in the alleys and winding streets- you’ll find yourself being transported into a pre-war decade filled with cobblestones, music, and delicious treats. Be sure to grab a beer in the Old Town Market Place, see some astounding paintings in the Royal Castle, and walk along Old Town’s medieval city wall to see some original pieces of Warsaw including the Little Insurgent statue (paying homage to the children who fought in the Warsaw Uprising).

Things to see in Old Town:

Old Town Market Square: This is the center of Warsaw Old Town and one of Warsaw’s largest tourist attractions. This is a great place to do your souvenir shopping during the day—from amber to original art, this is where you’ll find those special trinkets to bring home and show all your friends. If you’re looking for some authentic Polish cuisine while you people watch, we suggest you sit outside under the umbrellas at either U Fukiera or Kuchnia Warszawska and indulge in the beef tartare, lard (don’t knock it till you try it), and pierogi! Don’t have time to sit but need a quick snack? Try one of the many famous Polish fast food booths which sell zapiekanki (toasted baguette with melted cheese, mushrooms, and topped with ketchup). Make sure to take in the Mermaid of Warsaw (Syrenka Warszawska), featured in the center of Old Town Market Square. She’s a symbol of Warsaw and is featured on the city’s coat of arms—legend has it she visited the banks of Warsaw and was captured by a rich merchant. A group of fishermen heard her cries for help and saved her—ever since, armed with a sword and shield, the Mermaid has stood ready to defend her city and people (some say she’s even Copenhagen’s the Little Mermaid’s sister and that they went their separate ways from the Baltic Sea!). If you’re looking for a night cap, we recommend the Podwale Bar and Books—it’s a wonderful multiple story jazz and cigar bar, serving up delicious cocktails, live music, and an eclectic menu.

Castle Square: Here you can find the famous Zygmunt column which marks the beginning of Warsaw’s Old Town. This column commemorates Poland’s King Zygmunt III Waza for moving Poland’s capital from Krakow to Warsaw in 1596. It faces the Royal Castle which formerly served as the home of Poland’s past kings. It now functions as a national museum and hosts many international leaders. If you plan on visiting the Royal Castle, set aside at least 2 hours— there is A LOT to see but we’re sure you won’t regret it!

Taras Widokowy (Viewing Platform): Head up 147 steps to get a fantastic view of the edge of Old Town, Castle Square, and the Royal Castle!

Stop by the equivalent of the Polish White House if you have a chance! It sits near the top of the path into Old Town and next to the Bristol Hotel and across from the Raffles Hotel.

Located in Pilsudski Square, this tomb is a monument for those unidentified Polish soldiers killed in battle. It’s located in the largest square in Warsaw and right next to the Saxon Garden. Saxon Garden was opened in 1727 as one of the first public parks in the world. Take a stroll through this park and take in all 18th century beauty.

Take a walk and experience this breathtaking park! Łazienki Park is the largest park in Warsaw and has plenty to offer, from an amphitheatre, to palaces, to the delicious Belvedere restaurant (where we celebrated my sister's wedding), this park guarantees you a memorable walk filled with water works and beautiful foliage. Be sure to check out the Chopin Monument on a Sunday to enjoy a free piano concert! Walking distance nearby is the Belvedere Palace, a building which from 1989 to 1994 served as the official residence of Polish presidents. Looks familiar? You may recognize it as the building featured on the Belvedere vodka bottles!

This is the tallest building in Warsaw gifted by the Soviet Union in 1955 (as you can imagine, there are many mixed feelings about this building). That being said, if you want a beautiful panoramic view of Warsaw, head to the observation terrace on the 30th floor!

This is a great place to go for some beach fun! Visit the largest and longest river in Poland and check out some bars on the bank either during the day or at night. You’ll be sure to have a great time and take in some views and live music!

This museum fully opened in 2014 and documents the history of the Jews in Poland. Exhibitions range from artifacts from 1272 to the Holocaust. Highly recommended for those who want to learn about the history of Poland! Near the museum you will also find the Jewish Ghetto Memorial, commemorating those who fought and died in the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943.

This museum documents the Warsaw Uprising, a military effort led by the Polish underground resistance in an attempt to liberate Warsaw from German occupation in 1944. The uprising lasted over 60 days with little to no help from outside forces. Unfortunately, the uprising failed, and it is estimated that over 16,000 members of the Polish resistance were killed, and a large portion of Warsaw destroyed. This museum allows visitors to interact with the memories of those who fought in the uprising. From pre-war telephones that allow you to hear from the survivors to replicas of the sewers that the resistance used to get around, this museum will give you a sense of the bravery and honor behind the Warsaw Uprising. If you’re interested in the Warsaw Uprising, you should also check out the Warsaw Uprising Monument. This monument is located at the entrance of what used to be a canal used by the Polish resistance to fight the German soldiers.

Now serving as a museum, this palace was once home to many notable Polish families. Originally built in the 17th century for King John Sobieski III, this estate now houses a large art collection from around the world for your sightseeing pleasure. The Wilanow Palace is about a 30-minute drive from Old Town and admission is free on Thursdays! You’ll most likely spend a couple of hours at the Palace so bring comfortable shoes!