Poland
From the historic streets of Krakow to the vibrant energy of Warsaw - Poland's rich history, culture, and charm captured my heart.
My Experience
Poland is a traveller’s dream, a country that seamlessly blends rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant city life. It’s a place that sparks curiosity, especially with its remarkable story of resilience after World War II. Admittedly, Poland wasn’t always on my travel radar, but after moving to London and meeting people from all different countries and backgrounds, I felt inspired to hop on a plane and experience this country for myself. Spending three unforgettable days exploring around, savouring traditional Polish cuisine, and connecting with warm and welcoming locals gave me a profound appreciation for all I had been missing from the start. Now, I’m thrilled to share my top recommendations and eagerly look forward to returning one day soon!
Warsaw, the vibrant capital of Poland, beautifully blends its rich history with contemporary life. Rebuilt after the devastation of World War II, the city showcases its resilience through the carefully restored Old Town, which serves as a beacon of hope and determination. In addition to its historical sites, Warsaw boasts a lively cultural atmosphere, bustling cafes, and a diverse culinary scene that promises to enchant every visitor. Whether you are looking for an exciting new adventure or delving into history, Warsaw has something waiting for you.
Must-See Places
Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Let’s kick off by exploring Warsaw’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that blends remarkable historical significance with stunning beauty. Almost entirely destroyed during World War II, it was carefully rebuilt to preserve its cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and landmarks like the Royal Castle. This charming area is a window into Poland’s past, with vibrant culture, inviting cafes, and scenic views at every turn. Exploring the Old Town allows you to experience the resilience and rich heritage of Warsaw, making it an essential part of any visit to the city. Why not join a walking tour to dive deeper into the history of the Old Town, and explore other historic sites around Warsaw? Just remember to stay hydrated, wear comfortable walking shoes, and embrace the joy of being on holiday in such a beautiful country!
Vodka Museum
Next up, if you’re looking to dive into Poland’s rich culture and have a little fun along the way, the Vodka Museum in Warsaw is an absolute must! This isn't your typical museum; it's an engaging, interactive exploration of the history, ingredients, and production of vodka. The museum features five captivating galleries where you'll immerse yourself in the fascinating history of vodka, and wrap up the experience with the highlight – a delightful vodka tasting session! You’ll have the chance to sample three or five different varieties of Polish vodka – a delicious way to experience the tradition firsthand! This fun and flavourful experience is a perfect addition to your Warsaw itinerary and comes highly recommended. The tour lasts around 70 minutes and offers incredible value, with tickets starting at around €19 (EUR) per person.
Unforgettable Moments
Gun Range Shooting Experience
If you’re looking for an unforgettable thrill, this next activity is an absolute game-changer and one of my top highlights from my trip to Poland. It’s a heart-pounding experience unlike anything else I’ve ever tried, and trust me, it’s 100% worth every second. So here it is—gun range shooting! While you can find this experience in other countries, nothing compares to the excitement of challenging yourself in Warsaw. For 1 hour, I had the chance to handle five different firearms, including a pistol, AK-47, assault rifle, shotgun, and submachine gun. The instructors are top-notch, guiding you every step of the way and even snapping photos and videos to capture your adrenaline-packed moments. I highly recommend PM Shooter for this adventure, offering a 1-hour session with prices starting at €65 (EUR), depending on the package you choose. If this thrilling experience sounds like something you’d love to try, be sure to book in advance – you won’t want to miss out on an extra day of pure adrenaline!
Book here →Chopin Piano Show
As most travellers know, exploring new countries can sometimes make it challenging to find truly unique and memorable activities. However, I’m always eager to try something different, and attending the Chopin Piano Show in Warsaw turned out to be a standout experience. This captivating performance pays tribute to Frédéric Chopin, one of Poland’s most celebrated composers and a pioneer of romantic music. The piano show brings his works to life in an intimate setting, often held in historic venues, where the elegance of the past beautifully complements the timeless music. It’s a cultural gem that offers a deep connection to Poland’s artistic heritage and a must-see during your time in Warsaw.
Book here →Food Experiences
Food is one of the best ways to connect with a country’s culture, and in Warsaw, there are a few dishes you absolutely must try. First, pierogi – savoury or sweet dumplings filled with everything from meat and cheese to fruit, are a beloved Polish staple. Then, warm up with a bowl of żurek, a tangy sour rye soup often served with sausage and a hard-boiled egg, perfect for those cooler days. Lastly, don't miss bigos, a rich and hearty hunter's stew made with cabbage, sauerkraut, and various meats, slow-cooked to perfection. These three dishes are the perfect introduction to Polish flavours and will leave you wanting more.
Tips & Recommendations
Top Tips
- •Dont miss out on the delicous local foods
- •Lots of walking and exploring to do!
- •Visit in both winter and summer time
Food Recommendations
- •Pierogi - savory or sweet dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or fruit
- •Żurek - tangy sour rye soup with sausage and hard-boiled egg
- •Bigos - rich hunter's stew slow-cooked with cabbage, sauerkraut, and various meats
What to Pack
- ✓Comfortable walking shoes for extensive Old Town exploration, layers for varibale Polish weather and a camera for exploring
Photo Gallery
City Views
Food Experiences
Gun Shooting Experiences
Local Beer and Food
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
May to September for the best weather and longest days. Late spring (May-June) offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. December is magical for Christmas markets. Avoid January-February as it can be very cold.
Budget
Very affordable! Poland offers excellent value for money compared to Western Europe.Getting Around
Excellent public transport in major cities (trams, buses, metro in Warsaw). Trains connect major cities efficiently and cheaply. Uber and Bolt are widely available and affordable. Consider purchasing city transport passes for unlimited travel.
Language
Polish is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger people, but less so in smaller towns. Learn a few basic Polish phrases - locals really appreciate the effort!
Currency & Costs
Polish Złoty (PLN) - Budget Friendly.
Accommodation
Warsaw beautifully blends history with modernity. The meticulously restored Old Town offers charming stays near historical sites, while the modern skyline area provides contemporary options. Both areas are well-connected with good transport links.
My Rating
Would I return?
Absolutely!
Warsaw is a vibrant and captivating city that beautifully blends history, culture, and modernity, making it an essential destination for any traveller. From its meticulously restored Old Town, to its impressive modern skyline, Warsaw is a city of contrasts that tells a powerful story of resilience and rebirth. Whether you’re immersing yourself in the fascinating Vodka Museum, experiencing the thrill of gun shooting, enjoying a captivating Chopin Piano Show, or indulging in delicious Polish cuisine, Warsaw offers endless experiences that will captivate your senses. It’s undeniable that Warsaw deserves a top spot on your travel bucket list, offering unforgettable experiences and hidden gems waiting to be discovered around every corner. So, pack your bags, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace the journey – Poland is waiting to show you something extraordinary!