On April 12th, 2024 Dave Matthews Band will play their 2nd show ever in Warsaw, Poland. The show will be at the COS Torwar arena, which holds less than 5,000 people.
If you’re traveling for this show, here is a list of the top things to do in Warsaw, Poland!
Walk along the Royal Route: This regal route, stretching from Krakowskie Przedmieście Street to Wilanow Palace, boasts architectural gems and significant landmarks. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history as you walk past the Royal Castle, Sigismund’s Column, and the Holy Cross Church.
Explore the Warsaw Old Town (Stare Miasto): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Warsaw Old Town is a must-visit. Witness the architectural marvel of the Rynek Starego Miasta (Old Town Market Square), lined with colorful buildings and bustling cafes. Be sure to climb the Sigismund’s Column for breathtaking panoramic views.
Delve into history at the Warsaw Uprising Museum: This poignant museum chronicles the Warsaw Uprising of 1944, a heroic but ultimately unsuccessful uprising by Polish resistance fighters against Nazi Germany. Through exhibits, multimedia presentations, and personal stories, the museum offers a powerful look at this pivotal moment in Polish history.
Pay your respects at the Warsaw Ghetto Memorial: This somber memorial commemorates the Warsaw Ghetto, the largest Jewish ghetto in Nazi-occupied Europe. The memorial features a series of bronze sculptures and walls with the names of the victims.
Discover Jewish Warsaw at POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews: This award-winning museum offers a comprehensive exploration of Jewish life in Poland, from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum’s interactive exhibits and thought-provoking displays shed light on the rich cultural heritage and tragic history of Polish Jews.
Relax and unwind in Lazienki Royal Baths Park: Escape the city bustle and wander through the serene Lazienki Royal Baths Park. Explore the beautiful gardens, spot wildlife like peacocks, and be captivated by the architectural wonder of the Palace on the Isle. Be sure to catch a free Chopin piano recital outdoors during the summer months.
Witness the grandeur of the Royal Castle: This magnificent 17th-century castle served as the official residence of Polish monarchs for centuries. Take a guided tour to marvel at the opulent State Rooms, historical artifacts, and stunning art collections.
Learn about science at the Copernicus Science Center: This interactive science museum is a paradise for curious minds of all ages. Engage in hands-on exhibits, explore the human body, travel through space in a planetarium, and delve into various scientific disciplines in a fun and interactive way.
Take a stroll down Krakowskie Przedmieście: This elegant street is lined with historical buildings, upscale shops, and charming cafes. Admire the Polish Academy of Sciences, the Presidential Palace, and Adam Mickiewicz Monument as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Explore the Praga district: Cross the Vistula River to discover the Praga district, known for its bohemian charm, local pubs, and unique street art scene. Be sure to check out the Koneser complex, a revitalized vodka distillery with trendy bars, restaurants, and cultural spaces.
Go on a day trip to Wilanow Palace: Escape the city center and explore the magnificent Wilanow Palace, also known as the “Polish Versailles.” Be mesmerized by the Baroque architecture, stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, and learn about the lives of Polish royalty who once resided here.
Catch a performance at the National Theatre: Immerse yourself in the performing arts at the National Theatre, one of Poland’s most prestigious cultural institutions. Enjoy a ballet, opera, or drama performance in the stunning neoclassical theater building.
Wander through the Warsaw Botanical Garden: Escape the urban jungle and find serenity in the Warsaw Botanical Garden. Explore diverse plant collections from around the world, relax by the ponds, and admire the greenhouses showcasing exotic flora.
Learn about the dark days of communism at the Museum of Modern Art: While the POLIN Museum focuses on Jewish history, the Museum of Modern Art
Indulge in a traditional Polish meal: Polish cuisine is hearty and delicious, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Be sure to try some pierogi (dumplings), kielbasa (sausage), bigos (hunter’s stew), and żurek (sour rye soup). Don’t forget to end your meal with a slice of delicious Polish cheesecake!
Take a Chopin concert under the stars: Warsaw is the birthplace of the famous composer Frederic Chopin, and his music is celebrated throughout the city. During the summer months, you can enjoy free outdoor Chopin piano recitals in Lazienki Royal Baths Park or other venues around Warsaw.
Explore Warsaw by tram: A great way to see the city and get a feel for local life is to take a ride on a Warsaw tram. Trams are a convenient and affordable way to get around, and they run frequently throughout the city.
Go on a ghost tour: For a spooky and unique experience, take a ghost tour of Warsaw. These tours will take you to some of the city’s most haunted places and tell you stories about the city’s dark past.
Visit the Neon Museum: The Neon Museum is a great place to learn about the history of neon signs in Poland. The museum has a collection of restored neon signs from the communist era, as well as some more recent ones.
Shop for souvenirs at the Warsaw Flea Market: If you’re looking for unique souvenirs to take home from Warsaw, be sure to check out the Warsaw Flea Market. The market is open on Sundays and is a great place to find everything from antiques and collectibles to handmade crafts and clothing.
In terms of food, Warsaw offers a delightful mix of traditional Polish fare, international cuisine, and trendy new takes on classics. Here’s a look at some must-try eats and drinks in this vibrant city:
Polish staples:
- Pierogi: These ubiquitous dumplings come in a dizzying array of fillings, from savory (meat, sauerkraut, mushrooms) to sweet (fruit, cheese). They’re typically boiled, pan-fried, or deep-fried, and often served with melted butter, sour cream, or onions.
- Kielbasa: No exploration of Polish cuisine is complete without kielbasa, a flavorful sausage available in various types like smoked, garlicky, or forest mushroom infused. It’s enjoyed on its own, grilled, baked, or simmered in stews.
- Bigos: A hearty hunter’s stew traditionally prepared with sauerkraut, cabbage, different types of meat (sausage, pork), prunes, and spices. It’s a delicious way to experience a symphony of savory flavors in one bowl.
- Zurek (Sour Rye Soup): This tangy soup is a delightful starter, often served in a rye bread bowl. The base is fermented rye flour (sourdough starter) flavored with sausage, vegetables, and sometimes boiled egg.
- Polish Cheesecake: End your meal on a sweet note with a slice of creamy and decadent Polish cheesecake. Unlike its New York-style counterpart, this cheesecake is lighter and often flavored with lemon zest or vanilla.
Drinks:
- Kompot: This refreshing drink is a staple on Polish tables, made from stewed fruits (often dried) like apples, plums, or cherries. It’s enjoyed hot or cold.
- Kawa: Coffee culture is strong in Poland, and you’ll find numerous cafes serving up aromatic brews. Try a “kawa po turecku” (Turkish-style coffee) for a strong and thick concoction.
- Polish Beer: Poland boasts a long and rich brewing tradition. Sample local brews from established brands like Tyskie, Lech, or Warka, or explore the offerings of trendy microbreweries.
- Wódka (Vodka): Poland is synonymous with vodka, and Warsaw offers a chance to taste this spirit neat, in cocktails, or flavored varieties like cherry or bison grass.
If you’re looking for a tour to see the most of Warsaw, here are some of the highest rated tours in Warsaw, Poland:
Electric Scooter Tour: Old Town Tour – 1,5-Hour of Magic!
Warsaw Morning, Guided, Panoramic View, public city tour with hotel pick up
#1 Pub Crawl Warsaw with Premium Open Bar
Private Historical Tour of Warsaw by a Retro Fiat with Pickup
