Poland’s capital is the ideal destination for a cheap European getaway, with so many incredible things to eat and beautiful places to see. There is something for everyone - be it history buffs, foodies, art lovers, or even those simply looking for a budget-friendly weekend. Rising above its tumultuous past, Warsaw is a city on the up, welcoming and easy to adore. This travel guide to the city of Warsaw can help you plan your epic trip there by giving you all the tips and tricks you need to know!
When to visit
While the most popular time to visit Warsaw is during the summer, from June to August, hotel and flight prices tend to be higher as well. Instead, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons from late April-May and September-October, where crowds are much thinner and prices are lower. You will also enjoy milder temperatures. You will get more rain in the spring, but autumn brings with it stunning colours which make for a picturesque backdrop to your trip. There isn’t really a bad time to visit Warsaw, even during Winter, which transforms the city into a magical Winter wonderland. However, snowfall may make for tricky and unpredictable travel conditions.
Average temperatures
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| Temp. (°C) | -1 | -2 | 3 | 8 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 17 | 12 | 8 | 2 | 0 |
Getting To and From Warsaw
Most visitors will arrive at the Frederic Chopin Airport (WAW), located in the southwest portion of the city. Your best option for getting to the city centre from the airport is by train. If you’re taking the train, line S2 is the one to look for, which takes you to Śródmieście station in the city centre and runs twice an hour. The journey should take about 20 minutes and a ticket is PLN 4.40.
Alternatively, buses are another option for travel into the city. Look for bus lines 175 and 188, or N32 (at night) at the bus stops located in front of arrivals at Zone AB and Zone CDE. The cost for a bus trip is the same as the train (PLN 4.40), with your journey time taking approximately 25 minutes.
Getting Around Warsaw
Public Transportation
Public transport is well-developed in Warsaw and a good way to get around the city. Buses and trams are the most common way to get around the city, and Warsaw has recently developed an efficient (though not as extensive) metro system. Tickets are valid for use on all forms of public transport, and prices vary according to how long you want to travel. Starting from PLN3.40 for a 20-minute ticket and moving up to PLN 4.40 for 75-minutes of travel.
If you plan on spending more than a day or two in Warsaw, you also have the option of a 24-hour ticket for PLN 15, a weekend ticket for PLN 24, or a three-day ticket for PLN 36. Regardless of whichever ticket you choose, remember to validate it after entering the tram or bus to avoid getting fined. Tickets can be bought from a series of ticket machines with instructions in English all around the city, at all metro stations, and some bus and tram stops (with English translations printed on tickets).
Taxis
Taxis are a reliable and safe way to get around Warsaw. Fares are charged by the meter, starting from PLN 8, followed by PLN 2.40 per kilometre. Watch out for illegal taxis who do not charge by the meter and will overcharge you, and ensure you are taking an official taxi (they will have the company logo and phone number on the car). To ensure you get a reputable company, have your hotel/hostel call a taxi for you.
Bicycle
310 miles of cycling routes, a bicycle is yet another cheap and easy way to get around Warsaw. For PLN 10, you can register for Vetrulio, a bike-rental company in Warsaw. After you sign up, bike use is free for the first 20 mins, costing PLN 1 for the 1st hour, and PLN 3 for subsequent hourly usage.
Walking
Particularly if you plan to stay within the city centre, and the Old Town, walking is another great way to sightsee. Consider joining a free walking tour to get a lay of the land while learning about the culture, people and history of Poland’s capital.
Walkative and Orange Umbrella both offer free tours in English with a variety of different focuses (such as the Old Town, street art, WWII, and the Communist Era). These tours provide much more insight than any guidebook. Just be sure to tip your guides at the end.
Where to Stay
Warsaw has a variety of accommodation options suited for every budget. From 5-star hotels, Airbnbs and budget-friendly hostels, you can have your pick of accommodation.
Dorms cost 45-55 PLN per night. A private room in a hostel costs at least 150 PLN per night for a double bed. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have kitchens if you want to cook your own food. Check out our guide to the best hostels in Warsaw here.
Airbnb is also available in Warsaw with apartments costing around 185 PLN. This may be a good option if you are travelling in bigger groups.
Where to Eat in Warsaw
Warsaw's dynamic social scene includes a growing foodie community, and you won't struggle to find excellent restaurants during your stay. For authentic Polish food, head to the Zapiecek chain for their legendary pierogi. A visit to a milk bar should also be at the top of your list, not just for the generous and affordable food, but also for their nostalgic charm.
Bucking the trend in most capital cities, eating out in Warsaw is a relatively inexpensive affair. Most 3-course meals will cost you around PLN 25-40 while a beer at the bar costs PLN 10 on average.
Check out our guide to some of Warsaw’s best budget eats [here].
Money-Saving Tips
Warsaw is generally an inexpensive city and you can easily enjoy yourself without busting your budget. That said, there are a few ways you can save money when in Warsaw:
Eat at Milk Bars
Expect filling, cheap and authentic Polish food at these Warsaw staples. A relic from the Communist-era, milk bars can be found all over the city. With menus that change daily, milk bars are a great way to eat out without breaking the bank.
Get the Warsaw Pass
Depending on what you wish to do and the sights you plan to visit, the Warsaw Pass is a great way to save money. Apart from free skip-the-line entry to all the city’s main attractions, the pass also provides you with free public transportation and discounts at select partners.
Single-day passes start at PLN 139, with a two-day pass costing PLN 189 and PLN 229 for a three-day pass.
Watch your drinking
Poland may be one of the cheapest destinations in Europe, but the costs of drinks can easily add up, so watch how much you drink. If you plan to hit the clubs, consider heading to the grocery store to buy your alcohol instead as prices can be more than 50% cheaper.
Use ridesharing applications
Ridesharing apps like BlaBlaCar are a great way to get around the country for cheap. You simply download the app, find someone looking for passengers, and go! Everyone is rated and verified, and it’s usually more convenient (and cheaper) than other forms of transportation. For travel within the city, use Uber. It is cheaper than the local taxis.
Warsaw might have a tumultuous past and gritty exterior, but the city will enchant you with its many charms. With more charm, fewer tourists, and a rich history, this up-and-coming destination is well-worth your time. Start planning your trip to Warsaw now!
