Poland’s #2 city, less charmy and more of a big city than Krakow.
Warsaw will forever exist as Krakow’s counterpart. Krakow feels like a giant charmy old town whereas Warsaw feels more like a big city (with an old town part). Krakow feels big yet cozy and fun to walk everywhere. Warsaw feels like a really long walkable street (scooter recommended).
Perhaps Krakow would have more unique touristy things but both have value and are enjoyable to stay. Warsaw can be a 2-day stay, more if you like to relax in this calm (but lively) city vibe.
Where to stay:
- Old town (colorful touristy area) – many historical monuments along with lots of restaurants, bars, shops, people walking around. Very touristy.
- Nowy Swiat (post street) – translates to English as “new world street”, it connects the old city to the new central area. Lots of restaurants, bars, shops, people walking around.
These are the only areas I know and both are good. I probably prefer more of the posh street as it feels more locals and authentic. But anyway, I forgot the names of many things…just walk around these 2 areas and you’ll see many of the most important things IMO.
Hostels:
- New World St. Hostel – I liked it. It’s a place for real backpackers and travelers. Some folks are warm and nice. Others have that Eastern European coldness, not mean but perhaps just not as outwardly friendly as westerners (some also don’t speak English).
- Warsaw Hostel Centrum – good if you want a cheap place but don’t expect a friendly backpacker vibe. It’s run like a big hotel but you’ll find many immigrants living out of here. Shared rooms can feel like a refugee camp with older people neighboring (poorer) countries. They aren’t mean or unpleasant but it does feel weird.
Neighborhoods & Walking areas:
- Old town – typical tourist area with historical monuments and buildings.
- Royal Route – the one main pretty street with lights and pretty shops and things. Hard to miss when you’re in Warsaw.
- Nowy Swiat area – nice shops, restaurants, pubs.
Activities to do:
- Walk around
- Churches
- Museums
I just did walking around and really enjoyed it both day and night. I’m sure there’s more to Warsaw but I was just chilling.
Restaurants & Cafes:
- Zapiecek – there are many good places to eat but I highly recommend this chain. It’s cheap and good and looks authentically Polish (albeit in a touristy way).
Bars & Clubs:
Miscellaneous tips:
Nearby towns:
- Krakow** – oh yeah this is awesome. Go here!
Unfiltered notes: