| 
Trakt królewski, or Royal Street, is the ancient 4 kilometer road connecting Plac Zamkowy (Castle Square) and the royal residence of Wilanów. From here, we recommend starting your visit for the Weekend in Warsaw.
DAY 1 WEEKEND IN WARSAW
The Park Lazienkowski represents a wonderful start of your tour. By metro, you have to get off at the Politechnika stop; alternatively, several trams stop in the area. Beautiful and central, it is the largest park in all of Warsaw and, probably, among the most beautiful in all of Europe. Much of the beauty was the merit of King Stanislaus Augusto Poniatowski, who became the owner of the park in the 1764. It was the king who transformed the estate into a real complex of gardens, palaces and splendid architecture. In the 80 hectares of the park, in addition to relaxing and strolling, you will see an impressive number of monuments from south to north. A truly incredible and extraordinary list.
Pałac na Wodzie, such as Palace on the water, is the monument, perhaps, more known and famous. It takes its name from the islet in which it stands, right in the middle, it is almost as if it emerged. The building, in neoclassical style, was the summer residence of the King. Inside, then, in the rooms you can visit all the objects that belonged to the royal family. Furniture, watches, paintings, valuables and much more. The palace, seriously damaged during the war, has been well rebuilt. Absolutely unmissable and evocative.
On the southern side, beautiful and evocative, you can see the amphitheater. Built towards the end of the 18th century, on the architectural style of Greek and Roman buildings. Also known as Theater On the Isle, because, like the Palace on the water, it stands on an island. To the north-east, the splendid Myślewicki Palace of the eighteenth century. Beautiful interiors and exteriors, extremely well kept. On the opposite side, Biały Domek or White House, is a splendid villa of the 700 built by Merlini. Here he lived, for some years during his exile, Louis XVIII in the early 800.
As mentioned, the park is a continuous succession of beautiful avenues, buildings and buildings. In the Park, especially in the summer it is spring, you can attend outdoor shows and organized events. In the list not to be missed, the beautiful Old Orangery, of 1788, a magnificent example of court theater, and, still in the area, the monument to Chopin. The wonderful Polish composer was undoubtedly one of the most distinguished citizens of all Warsaw. If you find yourself on Sunday morning, right next to the beautiful sculptural complex dedicated to him, you can attend a concert.
The park is open all year round from morning to evening. The opening times of the buildings inside vary depending on the day and the period. More info on the official website.
TICKETS
To access each structure, a single ticket is required. We pass from the 25,00PLN of the Palazzo sull’acqua, to the 6,00PLN of the White Pavilion. We point out, however, the possibility of buying the convenient PASS daily for 40.00PLN. Thanks to the pass, you can access all the facilities in the park.
Tickets and passes can be purchased at the ticket offices of the Water Palace, or the Old Orangery.
THURSDAY FREE ENTRY!
The sportsmen, the curious and those who were on holiday in Warsaw, perhaps to watch a football match, will be happy to know that the Legia Warsaw has set home here. Marshall Józef Piłsudski’s Municipal Stadium of Legia Warsaw, many known simply as Pepsi Arena, is located right in this wonderful area. If you have tickets for the game in your pocket, you can relax for a few hours in the beautiful park.
The Pepsi Arena has a capacity of 31.800 seats. The most curious will also be able to visit the Muzeum Legii Warszawa, sports museum attached to the Stadium, and the Legia FanClub. For all the info, you can consult the official website from this link.
A few minutes, on the eastern side, stands the splendid Zamek Ujazdowski, Castle erected in 1624 for King Sigismund III Vasa and his son Władysław IV as a summer residence. Destroyed by the Nazis, it was completely rebuilt, and today is home to the Center of Contemporary Art, and cultural institution.
Being your first evening, a lot depends on your energy. Physical and mental. Probably, it will be dinner time. If you want to stay in the area, Stara Kamienika, located in Umeka 8, is really a great solution. It is really a very good restaurant with an excellent quality / price ratio; offers a Polish cuisine revisited in a modern way with all genuine ingredients. The alternatives in the area are not lacking. Especially if you wanted to opt for classic fast-food or kebab.
A few minutes from here, the Klub Hybrydy It is a famous, well-known club in Warsaw, where to enjoy, drink and dance until late at night. Do not miss our guide to locals on Warsaw. Obviously, for those who love peace, the Old Center Old Town it’s really ideal. You can walk through the historic alleyways all lit up before returning to the hotel.
DAY 2 WEEKEND IN WARSAW
In our opinion, on the second day, it represents the crossroads of your holiday. It is certainly the day in which the greatest number of monuments and attractions to be visited are concentrated. Your second day of the weekend in Warsaw can only start from Old Town. Impossible to remain impassive in front of the evocative charm of this wonderful area. An incredible and harmonious succession of splendid churches, architecture, palaces, squares and streets. All this with the romantic river Vistula to frame.
Much of it is the result of incredible work, started after the 1945. The war, in fact, almost completely destroyed everything, leaving only rubble. And it was only thanks to the passion and unconditional love of the varsavies that it was possible to bring the beauties of the city back to its former glory!
In the 1980, UNESCO has declared the Old Center, a World Heritage Site.
The visit Old Town and the neighborhood of Downtown can only start from Old town square. The Old Town Market is a marvelous square, the real beating heart of the Old Center. True vital center of Warsaw until the end of the 18th century; in fact, here, fairs, ceremonies and events took place. Right in the center of the square, where once stood the town hall, destroyed at the beginning of the nineteenth century, is the Warsaw Mermaid. This is a bronze sculpture; legend has it that it is the sister of the little mermaid in Copenhagen!
The square is really beautiful and lively detail. During the Christmas period it is even more animated, in a festival of lights, colors and stalls. The beautiful Kolumna Zygmunta (Column of Sigismund) overlooking the square, is the meeting point of the varsaviani. It was built in 1644 in honor of King Sigismund III Vasa, by his son, and today is one of the symbols of the city.
The Bazylika archikatedralna Świętego Jana Chrzciciela, is the Cathedral of the archdiocese of Warsaw. Like the Royal Castle, it was destroyed during the 40 years, and then rebuilt after the war on the basis of some 600 prints; for this reason, the current aspect is more or less that of the original church. A corridor about 80 meters long, commissioned by Queen Anna Jagiełło, connects the Royal Castle. The Basilica is the oldest place of worship in the city; here, once, the coronation ceremonies and the funeral of the Dukes of Masonia were held. Today, in fact, it is possible to visit the crypt with the tombs of the Dukes of Masonia.
The Cathedral and the Crypt are open every day from Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 to 17:00 and Sunday from 15:00 to 17:00. The ticket costs 5,00€; reduced (students, children, pensioners), 3,00PLN. You can also buy the convenient RODZINNY ticket, that is, the Family ticket; costs 11,00PLN and is valid for two adults and up to three children under 16.
Official Website: http: //www.katedra.mkw.pl/
Not far away, on the southern side, is the beautiful plac Zamkowy. In the square stands out the silhouette of the Royal Castle in Warsaw; it is a historical and national monument as well as a national museum. This, despite the building was completely destroyed by the Nazis, and rebuilt between the years ’70 and’ 80!
It certainly deserves a visit. Beautiful interiors, rooms and environments, with objects of great value. Period furniture, paintings by Rembrandt, the Canaletto room. And, again, the beautiful Throne Room, the King’s apartment. Great historical value; just think that, until the seventeenth century, it was one of the most envied palaces in all of Europe.
Do not miss the multimedia exhibition “The Royal Castle – From Destruction to Reconstruction”. Here, it is shown the whole history of the Catello is its reconstruction. Really interesting. Like, after all, the gardens Kubicki of the Royal Castle, really beautiful and well cared for. Do not miss a visit to the outside of the building on the side facing the Vistula river: really impressive.
TIMETABLES
WINTER, 01 October – 30 April: open every day, from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:00 to 16:00; Sunday, from 11:00 to 16:00. CLOSED MONDAY.
SUMMER, 02 May – 30 September: Monday to Wednesday, from 10:00 to 18:00.
Thursday, from 10:00 to 20:00.
Friday and Saturday, from 10:00 to 16:00.
Sunday, from 11:00 to 18:00
Entry is allowed within one hour of closure.
TICKETS
The ticket for adult costs 20.00PLN; reduced, 10.00PLN. Children up to 16 years Only pay 1,00PLN.
For families with children up to 17 years, the FAMILY TICKET is available which allows access to the castle by paying 14,00PLN per person.
For those interested, the audio guide is available at the price of 17.00€. For groups of at least 4 people, the price drops to 11,00PLN per person. Among the languages, Italian is not missing.
WEDNESDAY ENTRANCE IS FREE.
The ticket, unless otherwise indicated, does not give the right to admission to temporary exhibitions or concerts; generally, another ticket is expected.
For all the info and updates, we invite you to consult the official website from this link. You can also find information on temporary exhibitions.
Adjacent to the Castle, there are two splendid buildings. Pałac Ślubów It is a beautiful building, with well kept gardens and fantastic views of the Vistula River. It is the place chosen by many couples to get married; probably, you’ll find at least one. It is open every day, except Sunday, from 08:00 to 16:00. On the opposite side, Pałacu Pod Blachą is connected to the Castle, and located near the bridge. Here, private events are organized.
Lovers of photography will have the opportunity to admire the splendid area Stara Galeria Związku Polskich Artystów Fotografików. It is also known by the acronym ZPAF. It is a splendid, and little known, photographic art gallery with really interesting temporary exhibitions and fittings. It is located in Plac Zamkowy, 8 number. On the official website, all the practical info.
In the area, you will find numerous bars, cafes, restaurants, pubs ideal for lunch; or at least to recharge your energy.
After passing the Placu Pod Blachą and the Sigismondo Column, do not forget to get on Taras widokowy. This is the Panoramic Terrace of the bell tower of the sixteenth century, the Church of St.Anna. You will have to climb 150 stone steps to reach the summit. The effort, however, will certainly be compensated by the wonderful and evocative sight. You can have an overview of the Old Center and the whole of Warsaw from above. On particularly clear days, the view can also range to very distant places.
The bell tower is, as mentioned, detached from the Church of St.Anna. The latter is one of the most important churches in Poland, one of the few buildings left unscathed by the war. In fact, its appearance is that of the late eighteenth century. Beautiful neoclassical façade and beautiful interiors; you can admire an ancient organ and the richly decorated ceiling.
The Terrace is open every day, from Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 21:00; Saturday and Sunday, from 11:00 to 22:00. It remains closed in case of adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rains or snow. To get on, you need to pay an entry ticket for 5,00PLN.
St.Anna is one of the first and important monuments that meet along the Royal Road we talked about. There are many momunemti who deserve the right attention. In little more than 48 hours available, it is advisable to dwell on those that might interest you the most. Our advice, however, is to travel a few kilometers on foot. It is really an extremely beautiful and suggestive trait, even just for walking.
Pałac Prezydenck, is the Presidential Palace, official residence of the President of the Republic by the 1994. Precedes the splendid complex of the University of Warsaw. Founded in 1816, it is the most prestigious of the whole nation. The Campus is composed of an incredible number of palaces and historic buildings. Among the many, we report Kazimierzowski Palace, which houses the library, dating back to the 1660, as well as, the oldest building in the entire structure. Near the Campus, it is located Świętego Krzyża, the Church of the Holy Cross; it is famous because in its columns the urns with the heart of Chopin and Reymont have been walled up. The Church precedes the bronze statue dedicated to Copernicus, the famous Polish astronomer.
We are in a university area. Who wants to refresh, will be spoiled for choice between bistro, bar, coffee and fast-food. If it’s cold, stop by Starbucks to enjoy something hot.
Photo ©, Adrian Grycuk
Chopin and Warsaw: an indissoluble partnership. It is felt in every corner. And, more than any other, here, thanks to the presence of numerous buildings dedicated to him. Universities, institutes and a fantastic museum. Whether you love music, or not, you can not miss the The Fryderyk Chopin Museum. Beautiful structure, housed in the Ostrogski palace. Really well maintained and well managed. Beautiful gardens. An interesting, technological and multimedia museum; touch screens, super-technological equipment, music games and much more. The museum contains inside, over 7 thousand objects. In the 4 exhibition floors, you will get to know the various stages of the life of the fantastic Polish composer.
OPENING HOURS: open Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:00 to 20:00. CLOSED MONDAY.
TICKETS: integer, 22,00PLN; reduced (students, teachers, veterans, OVS 65), 13,00PLN.
The Normal Group Ticket, is valid for groups of at least 15 people; allows access to each, at the cost of 18,00PLN.
Families can buy the FAMILY TICKET; costs 62,00PLN and allows access to the museum for two adults and up to 4 boys under 18. The document that certifies the parental bond is necessary.
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the structure. FREE ENTRANCE SUNDAY
Info and updates on the official website through this link.
Hardly, you will have time to devote to the National Museum, not far from here. Although it may be the largest museum in all of Warsaw, it undoubtedly suffered from German looting during the war. In fact, he was deprived of much of his collection. Today, it collects objects of Egyptian, Greek and Roman art; Polish painting from the 13th century, a collection of foreign painting; numismatics and decorative arts objects. Often, it hosts interesting temporary exhibitions. For all the info, visit the official website from here.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from the 10:00 to the 18:00. On Thursdays, it is extended to 21:00. CLOSED on Monday. Admission is allowed up to one hour after closing. The full ticket for the museum costs 15.00PLN. Not valid for temporary exhibitions; for the latter, it is a pity to pay a ticket from 10,00PLN.
Pałac Belweder, quietly visited even on the first day of your Warsaw Weekend, closes an extremely busy day. Beautiful building, located at ul. Belwederska 52, once the residence of Marshal Piłsudski and some Polish presidents. Today it is used as the residence of the Heads of State on an official visit to Poland.
Before, or after dinner, do not miss the appointment at the show in Park Fontann, the wonderful musical fountain in Warsaw. More info on our official guide FROM THIS LINK. The show usually starts at 21:30. Obviously, as long as you are in the right time!
For the last night, you just have fun. Drink, dance …. Warsaw will be able to amaze you with its extraordinary nightlife. All the info on our SPECIAL through this link.
DAY 3 WEEKEND IN WARSAW
Your holiday, unfortunately, draws to a close. Surely, it will have been magnificent. For the last day of the weekend in Warsaw, you’ll be spoiled for choice. The Capital has a lot to offer you.
We recommend waking up early to visit the wonderful complex of Wilanow with the Palace and the splendid park. Palace in Wilanów opens in the morning at 09:30; It is located at ul. Stanisława Kostki Potockiego 10 / 16, south of the city. Buses that reach the area are quite numerous. From the Old Center it takes about 40 minutes to get to your destination.
The complex dates back to the late seventeenth and is considered, today, one of the most important examples of Polish Baroque. The original building was then extended over the following years. He is one of the few who survived the devastation of wars, and is an incredible testimony to the beauty and splendor of old Poland. Wilanów Palace is interesting for its luxurious furnishings, and the Polish Portraits Gallery, housed on the first floor.
The gardens of Wilanów that surround the whole palace are truly splendid and evocative; different styles, all united by a maniacal care. Right here, lots of cultural events and quite famous concerts are held.
We recommend stopping no more than a couple of hours. If it were Sunday and you followed our advice to the letter, you should be able to have time for a trip to Grób Nieznanego Żołnierzaa. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located in the central district of Śródmieście, right in the center. Precisely in this splendid and evocative place, the 2 November 1925, the ashes of an unknown soldier were buried; they are located under a colonnade with three arches. The traditional change of the guard takes place every hour. It is, however, just on Sundays, at the 12:00 in point, which begins the most beautiful ceremony is spectacular.
The Teatr Wielki, or the National Theater of the Polish Opera, is located a few minutes from here. It is a beautiful neoclassical building, destroyed and burned in the 40 years, and completely rebuilt in the 1965. The interiors are beautiful and evocative. It is truly a magnificent and prestigious place. Here, the most important and prestigious theatrical pieces are staged throughout the year. Those interested, can take a look to the official site from this link.
The Weekend in Warsaw Guide closes with perhaps the best known building, the Pałacu Kultury i Nauk. It is no coincidence, in fact, that there are three subway stops, a train station, and several bus stops in this area. The Palace of Culture and Science is an impressive building from the Soviet era, the highest in the whole city. It was built in the early ’50, as a gift of Stalin to the Polish people. Today it is almost a city in the city; find a post office, gym, cinema, museums, theaters and libraries. Really incredible. With the elevator you can climb up to the thirtieth floor; from the panoramic terrace you will have a fantastic view of the city, over 110 meters in height!
Obviously, weekend in Warsaw is a simple guide. The advice is only to follow your tastes and interests. Only then will you be sure to spend a fantastic holiday in the Polish capital.