Top Things to Do in Warsaw Poland During a One Day Visit
If you've read other posts on my blog, you know that my love for Poland knows no bounds. It's one of my favorite countries, and I think it's one of the more underrated destinations in Europe. If you plan to travel to Poland, you'll likely make your way through Warsaw. As the capital and one of the largest transportation hubs in the country, the Warsaw airport is a common layover destination, and the train station can quickly get you to other more remote towns in the mountains or countryside.
Like Krakow, Warsaw feels incredibly welcoming because it is the most similar city to my hometown of Chicago, IL that I've ever visited. Chicago has a very expansive Polish population and, for a long time, had a larger population of Polish people than Warsaw itself. I am proudly part of that community and many people in Warsaw either travel to Chicago often, or have multiple relatives that live there. Because of this, the more modern parts of Warsaw feel a lot like Chicago: urban with lots of cars and tall buildings, while still balancing a lot of greenery and parks every few blocks. However, if you visit for one day in Warsaw, you’ll likely spend most of your time in the Old Town, or Stare Miesto, which has a much different vibe than the rest of the area.
Learn About the Warsaw Uprising
One thing that you’ll definitely learn about, even if only spending one day in Warsaw, is the Warsaw Uprising. The Uprising took place during the year of 1944 in the middle of World War II and is a vital part of the city's history. During this operation, the Polish Underground Resistance worked to liberate the city of Warsaw from German occupation. The Uprising was fought for over two months, even though it was originally planned to only last a few days. Close to 18,000 soldiers died, and over 180,000 civilians were killed during this time. Although the operation wasn't successful, Warsaw continues to honor the fight and those that lost their lives both with the Warsaw Uprising Museum in the center of town and celebrations every year on the anniversary of the operation's beginning on August 1, 1944.
I knew of the Warsaw Uprising from visiting the city many years before and touring the museum. However, we did not realize that when we returned, the one day we would spend in the city was not only August 1, but the 75th anniversary of the Uprising. This made for an even more eventful day. As we exited the train station, we were bombarded by sirens from all directions and shut down streets. Ubers and taxis were an impossibility, so we walked 40 minutes to our hostel. Corners were filled with rallies and protests while the Uprising flag (red and white with the operation's symbol of the anchor) hung from building after building. I highly recommend touring the Museum if you have time to learn more.
Wander through Warsaw's Old Town
Despite the excitement from the Uprising events, Warsaw's Old town was just as I remembered it and is one of the most picturesque parts of the city. Although initially established in the 13th century, much of Warsaw's Old Town was destroyed during World War II and the Invasion of Poland. After the war, the city center was meticulously rebuilt to look like it once did, to the point of reusing the old bricks from the buildings that had previously stood in the town. This created an unusual look to Warsaw's Old Town: a meld of “older-looking" buildings that appear oddly well-preserved because they're actually relatively new. Despite the reconstructed buildings inside, the outside of the Old Town will make you feel as if you're walking into a castle, as it is surrounded by a fortified defensive wall that dates back to medieval times.
Spend an Afternoon in the Old Town Market Square
As you make your way through the cobblestone streets, head to the beautiful Old Town Market Square, the original heart of Warsaw, which was the political hub (and spot for hangings and executions) hundreds of years ago. Now it is home to restaurants, shops, and live music (thankfully, no more hangings). The buildings are full of color and remind me of Gamla Stan, the Old Town of Stockholm, Sweden. Much like the main square of Krakow, Poland, at night this area comes alive and glows from the lights of the restaurant patios. The square is also home to the Historical Museum of Warsaw.
Explore Castle Square, One of the Top Things to Do in Warsaw
Continue walking to see the Royal Castle of Warsaw, located in the larger pedestrian area known as Castle Square. Once the residence of Polish monarchs, the Royal castle now houses artifacts and displays of Warsaw history dating back hundreds of years. As you can tell from the photos, this square is POPPIN’ with locals and tourists lounging, snapping photos, listening to live bands and grabbing electric scooters to get around easily. You’ll also notice the famous column in the center of the square. Erected in 1644, it was built to honor King Sigismund III of Poland. The Presidential Palace is next door to Castle Square, which has been home to the leaders of the country since the 17th century and the Viewing Terrace next to that is another one of the great things to do in Warsaw. Warning, there are A LOT of steps but it’s worth it for 360 degree views.
Eat and Purchase All the Polish Delicacies
Since you're in Poland, make sure you indulge in pierogi, the amazing Polish dumplings filled with cheese, potatoes, meat, or fruit. However, the best dessert item in Warsaw is the waffles, known as Gofry. Unlike in the US, waffles aren't on breakfast menus in Poland; instead, they're loaded up with sweet toppings and eaten as a dessert. I couldn't help myself from getting chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and bananas on mine, but other assorted fruit jellies like cherry or blueberry are also popular.
Much like Krakow, Warsaw is a hub for inexpensive amber pieces. However, since Warsaw is such a larger city, you'll find a much more impressive selection of amber jewelry and figurines in the shops along the cobblestone streets of Old Town.
Even if you’re just stopping for a layover, you can easily spend one day in Warsaw with plenty of activities and things to do. The Old Town alone is the perfect place to wander and get lost while surrounded by gorgeous, colorful buildings. I can’t recommend enough to consider Poland for your next European adventure.
