What to see in Warsaw in 1 day
Poland’s capital is one of the most charming cities, particularly in the way it has managed to preserve the essence of its old quarter, combining it with green spaces and elegant palaces. The centre, Stare Miasto, has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO thanks to its colourful cottages that were faithfully rebuilt after what is known as the Warsaw Uprising in 1944.
At that time, the city was home to Europe’s largest Jewish ghetto, crammed with around 400,000 people, and of which traces still remain in the form of walls, synagogues, cemeteries and museums.
But apart from the walls, castles and historic areas, visitors should not forget to enjoy the Vistula, the river that lends form and personality to Warsaw, and on whose banks stands the emblem of the entire city and the leading character in a magical legend: the Mermaid, who also appears in the centre of the Polish capital’s shield.
The Vistula promenade has become an enormous recreation area for cyclists and pedestrians alike; it has special lights and a very popular terrace cum viewing point.
Itinerary day 1
10.00 - 10.30 a.m.
The Palace of Culture and Science
This 231-metre-tall skyscraper was a gift from Stalin to the city during the period when it was under Russian control, and consideration had been given to demolishing it. A terrace on its 30th floor affords panoramic views over Warsaw.
10.45 - 11.45 a.m.
Łazienki Royal Park
In this huge park stands the Palace on the Isle, where the last king of Poland would bring together poets and scientists to discuss important subjects. Today it houses a museum of royal collections, and is a favourite place for Poles to go for a stroll.
11.45 a.m. - 1.00 p.m.
Royal Route
This is the route lined with palaces, universities and churches which the monarchs travelled along to go to their summer palaces. We can follow it in the opposite direction, as it contains three historic residences of the Polish royal family: the Royal Castle, The Łazienki Royal Park and Wilanów Palace.
1.15 - 2.45 p.m.
Zapiecek Restaurant
This is one of the best places to try pierogi, a kind of Polish dumpling filled with meat, cheese and spinach, salmon, wild mushrooms, etc. They can be eaten fried or steamed, and there are also sweet versions made with cinnamon and apple compote.
3.00 - 4.00 p.m.
The Royal Castle
It is worth taking a quick look around the apartments of this astounding palace, which was home to the former rulers of Poland. Its treasures include paintings by Rembrandt and Canaletto, also known as Bernardo Bellotto. There is a charge for admission.
4.00 - 6.00 p.m.
Stare Miasto
The Old Town is Warsaw’s most attractive district, thanks to its colourful houses. Essential attractions include the Castle Square and the Sigismund column, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and the Market Place, where you will find the Mermaid.
6.15 - 6.45 p.m.
The City Walls and the New Town
Beyond the city walls and the Barbican lies the New Town, with the Field cathedral of the Polish Army, Krasinki Palace, the monument to the Warsaw Uprising and the Marie Curie House-Museum, among other historic dwellings and monuments.
6.45 - 7.15 p.m.
The Wedel Chocolate Lounge
This is one of the most traditional places to relax with a hot chocolate and a sweet treat. Everyone knows this historic establishment near the Marie Curie Museum.
7.15 - 8.00 p.m.
The Jewish Ghetto
Europe’s largest Jewish Ghetto which, in its time, housed over 400,000 people who suffered the horrors of the Second World War. A fragment of the wall remains standing, along with the cemetery, the Jewish Museum and the Uprising Museum.
8.15 -10.00 p.m.
Kieliszki na Próżnej restaurant
Recommended by the Michelin Guide for its value for money, this bistro also has a very interesting wine list and a gastronomic menu that includes both typical and unusual Polish dishes. It is the perfect place to round off our day in Warsaw.