3 Days in Warsaw – Plan the Best Warsaw Itinerary

If you have ever dreamt of wandering in a city full of history, culture, and modernity, then your dream spot is going to be Warsaw, Poland’s capital city. And this is the 3 days in Warsaw itinerary you’re looking for!

You’re just 3 days short of soaking in some rich history, great nightlife, and lip-smacking sight of delicious Polish cuisine. Whether you’re a lover of history, always happy to bag that last museum ticket, or a culture enthusiast, there’s no better guide to the 3-day trip of Warsaw.

Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s get right into it.

3 Days in Warsaw Itinerary – Overview

Okay, first things first. Let’s address the essentials you should know before planning a trip to Warsaw in three days or more—where is Warsaw, when is the best time to visit it, and so on.

Where is Warsaw?

Warsaw is the capital city of Poland and is located in the easternmost part of the country. It stands on the banks of the Vistula River and has a rich history, bustling cultural scene, and is a rapidly developing urban city.

Warsaw offers a wonderful city break – blending castles, culture, and history with vibrant modern urban sights. It is perfect for a few days away, but a week will fill your vacation with a mix of a variety of experiences.

How to Get to Warsaw?

Warsaw is especially easy to tour by air or train. All you will need to do is land at Warsaw Chopin Airport, the main international gateway and served by several global airlines. Upon arrival, you can grab your bags and get to the city center by using a taxi, bus, or train.

However, if you’d rather take the train, the Warsaw Central Train Station (Warszawa Centralna) is well-connected to different Polish and European cities. It couldn’t get easier! If you plan a day rich in history, you can also get to Treblinka from Warsaw Central train station.

Is Warsaw Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! As for those who appreciate an entertaining city getaway, yearn for an extensive heritage trail, or just want to savor authentic Polish culinary offerings without having to venture far from the comfort of their accommodation, Warsaw suits all well.

Given its amazing sites, there is no way that you can be bored in this beautiful city. From The Old Town (Stare Miasto) to Palac Kultury i Nauki – you will definitely find somewhere to go.

Are 3 Days in Warsaw Enough?

Totally. With 3 days in Warsaw, you can learn its rich history, uncover hidden gems, and get a taste of its nightlife.

Walk the Royal Route, tour the Old Town, explore the Warsaw Rising Museum, and snap a pic with the mermaid statue at Market Square. Three days in Warsaw is just right to see what the city has to offer.

What is the Best Time to Visit Warsaw?

The best months to visit Warsaw are from late May to September, in the summer and early fall, when the temperatures are still pleasant.

Alternatively, you could visit in October when the weather is still decent, and fewer tourists are in town, allowing you to save some money on hotels and not have to wait for the attractions around town.

How to Get Around Warsaw?

Getting around Warsaw is easy and convenient, especially on foot. Many of the city’s top attractions are within walking distance of each other, so you can explore the city at your own pace.

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3-Day Warsaw Itinerary

Now that you have a little more information about Warsaw, let’s go through this itinerary day by day. Spoiler alert: You’ll have an amazing time in town!

Warsaw Itinerary Day 1

Let your three-day Warsaw trip start out on the most beautiful street in the city if you are into this sort of thing (note: we are really into this sort of thing) – and end in the well-preserved historical center.

Morning: Visit the Royal Castle

Kick off your day with a royal touch at the Royal Castle in the heart of Old Town, right on Castle Square.

This magnificent castle, built in 1619, was home to Polish monarchs for centuries and today continues to play that role in contemporary Polish functions. If you walk toward the castle, your jaw will drop as it comes into view.

Take some photos, and then get inside – there’s so much more to see. It’s a grand tour through the private rooms, lavished with frescoes, stucco, and priceless art. There’s no way you can miss out on the Thrown Room and the Great Assembly Hall both.

This castle has a great history, and it went through something darker in 1940.

Almost eradicated during World War II, the great castle was reconstructed after war brick by brick by April 1962 and has been restored far beyond its former glory. You can wander through the sumptuously decorated staterooms where the Polish royalty lived and held court.

With works by famous European artists, the castle boasts an impressive collection of art (note: not famous European artists) that you won’t want to overlook.

If you really want to get a feel for what this opulent building was like when the royals lived here, take the guided tour with one of the knowledgeable guides who will give you background on the castle and how people once lived there.

Morning: Roam Around the Old Town

Now it’s time to roam around Warsaw’s Old Town. The area has expanded with the Old Town extending to greater parts afterward.

While you’re in the old town, check out the view and the Wishing Bell in Plac Kanonia and the Mermaid statue on Market Square. Go with an organized Walking Tour to avoid disappointment, especially when learning about Warsaw’s history!

The entire area of Warsaw’s Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – was beautifully restored to its former glory after being razed during the Second World War, and today, it stands as a testament to the resolve and spirit of Polish people.

Even with the modern changes, the old town kept its historical spirit that will take you on a trip back in time. The old town is a great introduction to the city and a reminder of its past. Cobblestone streets packed with history, architecture, cafés with colorful chairs, and fresh street artists. Poland has a good street art scene that’s worth discovering.

The heart of the Old Town is Old Town Market Square, where you will find the famous Warsaw symbol, the Mermaid Statue Skansan. Beautiful pastel townhouses, now housing shops, restaurants, and museums, line the square.

The best way to explore is with a tour guide, and I highly recommend the excellent tour below, which not only includes the major tourist spots but it’s also cheap! One of the best Warsaw tours.

Morning: Krasinski Palace Gardens

Next door to the tower is the Krasinski Palace Gardens. Construction of this present Baroque palace, designed by Tylman van Gameren, began between 1677 and 1683. It was largely destroyed during WWII but soon afterward was meticulously rebuilt.

The gardens – another beautiful park in Warsaw that you should not skip – are the focal point of the palace, which once served as the home of the mighty Krasinski clan.

You can’t actually get inside the palace, but the picturesque gardens are open all day. These lovely gardens with manicured lawns, colorful flower beds, and shady groves offer a tranquil haven from the city’s hustle and bustle. Don’t miss the colorful modern sculptures of the Pegasus near the entrance on Ul Miodowa.

These modern sculptures contrast sharply with the classic ambiance of the Palace. The gardens are a popular venue for outdoor performances, with free cultural events like concerts taking place often.

Lunch at Bazyliszek Restaurant

It’s lunchtime! Order some duck pierogi (or sausage) from Bazyliszek Restaurant! The prices are reasonable though skewing a little high but the food is tasty and the ambiance in Old Town is worth considering.

Bazyliszek Restaurant is a beautifully restored historic building on the Old Town Market Square that serves traditional Polish cuisine. The cozy dining room is perfect for a cold winter day.

The menu features classic dishes such as zurek (a soup made with fermented rye flour), served with sausage and boiled egg, crispy potato pancakes with sour cream, or beefsteak tartare.

Duck pierogi, a traditional Polish dumpling, is in high demand. The dough, rolled thin and baked till the sides are slightly crisped, is stuffed with duck meat. Delicious. The pork knuckle is another must-eat dish; soft, juicy, and seasoned a slightly tangy, accompanied by sauerkraut with slices of potato.

Have a Polish dock or bottled beer with your meal, there’s plenty in their store. Meanwhile, the friendly service and chatty atmosphere mean Bazyliszek is an excellent space in which to prop up your feet for a breather before returning to your 3-day Warsaw itinerary.

Afternoon: Walk Along the Royal Route

Along the Royal Road are Jessszylel and Lazienki, and, also Wilanow Palace, all past residences of Poland rexes. This route is best known throughout the city.

The Presidential Palace, the grounds of Warsaw University, and numerous magnificent churches and townhouses line Krakowskie Przedmiecie and Nowy Świat.

The Route then proceeds along the scenic and leafy Aleje Ujazdowskie, where many offices and government buildings are located. Wilanów Palace is where the traditional path concludes.

As part of the Great Lighting, thousands of lights are strung along the Road every winter, making it an absolute must-see.

Honestly, this is one of the nicest places to take a stroll at, and it calls for a great afternoon out so don’t miss your chance!

Afternoon: Visit Lazienki Park and Royal Lazienki Museum

Go to Łazienki Park, Warsaw’s largest park, with its well-groomed gardens, monuments, and palaces.

The main feature here is the Palace on the Water, a beautiful 18th-century palace built for King Stanislaus II Augustus. It lies literally on the water surrounded by an ornamental lake, just teaming with swans and ducks, which is very postcard-y and “Warsaw all in one.”

Inside the palace, there are beautifully decorated rooms, and there is a museum that shows the art and history of the Polish monarchy. I suggest take your time and check out different parts of the park: French garden, Chinese garden and Rose garden.

Lazienki Park also holds the Chopin Monument, which memorializes Poland’s favorite composer. There are free piano concerts here in the park by the monument all summer Sundays long, a tradition that is decades old.

While you’re here, make sure to visit Łazienki Palace.

It’s worth noting that there are multiple sections inside the palace (including the Old Orangery, Myślewicki Palace, and Palace on the Isle), and the entry fee depends on the ones you want to visit. I recommend seeing all sections, and in this case, the entrance fee is 80PLN per person.

That being said, if you visit on a Friday, admission is free, which is great!

Afternoon: Take a Polish Food Tour

This is something hardly anyone thinks about when visiting Warsaw, but three reasons make it a must-do.

On this Polish food tour, you have the chance to try out the best Polish dishes — as many as 10 – and your happy plate is right here. There’s also a Vodka tasting part and you get to try the bold bottle of Vodka as your opportunity in hand or on-the-other-hand.

You also have a chance to socialize with other travelers… so much more fun than you’d imagine!

Soon, I’ll give more tips on where you should and shouldn’t eat up in the Warsaw itinerary, but this one is the best start to your adventure, and that’s why I highly recommend it. Check it out here below!

Evening: See a Chopin Concert in Warsaw Old Town

End your day with a Chopin concert found within the Gothic Royal Castle in Old Town. Hear various Chopin masterpieces through different artists’ eyes.

Concerts are put on at different historic venues across town, but the most atmospheric spot is one wing of the Gothic Royal Castle on Old Town Square. The performances are held in an intimate setting, providing a close connection between the audience and performers to create an all-encompassing experience.

While each concert showcases different pianists and their unique play on Chopin’s work, the music by Frederic Chopin — one of Poland’s most acclaimed composers — is incredibly emotional and will lead to an unforgettable and moving evening.

You are in for a treat because a traditional Polish honey wine comes with the ticket price. The concert venue is a fine spot for post-concert meetings and chats with the musicians about their visions of Chopin’s art.

Sound like a perfect end to your first day in Warsaw?

Warsaw Itinerary Day 2

Today is our second day in Warsaw, which covers a bit of sightseeing but mostly delves into the city’s museums and takes you off the beaten path. Here are some cool things to do on day 2.

Morning: Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum

Let’s start off with a quick visit to the Warsaw Uprising Museum. The Warsaw Uprising Museum is a touching memorial to those who fought for Poland’s independence in World War II.

Housed in a former tram power plant, the museum has more than a thousand exhibits, including weapons, photographs and personal belongings of the insurgents.

The museum offers an immersive, guided tour of life during and after the Uprising. Make sure to get an audio-guide for 10 Zloty to enjoy the museum.

As you tour the museum, it will provide you with background and context that will make your visit more meaningful and informative.

One of the highlights of the museum is a replica of a B-24 Liberator, the kind of bomber that dropped supplies to the insurgents. Another must-see is the underground maze that the insurgents used to move around the city undetected.

Nearby is Freedom Park, a memorial to the over 10,000 insurgents who gave their lives in the uprising. The park includes a wall of remembrance and a striking monument of a young insurgent soldier.

Morning: Sightseeing at the Palace of Culture and Science

The imposing Palace of Culture and Science in the middle of Warsaw is a striking reminder of the Soviet era.
This massive edifice offers a blend of entertainment options that range from an IMAX theater to bars and museums.

A view from the terrace is the main thing that attracts people the most. You buy tickets to the top floor (30 PLN), and once you’re there, the view is amazing to have a seagull view of the city.

Lunch at Zapiecek

A well-known and tasty restaurant in Warsaw, Zapiecek is for authentic Polish diners. The menu features a wide variety of traditional dishes,

The traditional Polish menu is very true to the cuisine, which includes all the best dishes, from pierogi (dumplings) to bigos (hunter’s stew).

One of the standout dishes is the potato pancakes with meat, served with a side of sour cream. The pancakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a savory filling that is sure to satisfy your hunger.

If you’re looking for something lighter, try the seasonal salad with blue cheese, which is fresh and flavorful. Zapiecek also caters to those with dietary restrictions, offering gluten-free options and vegetarian dishes.

The portions are generous, so you might want to share if you’re not too hungry. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic atmosphere with wooden tables and traditional Polish decor.

Afternoon: Warsaw Barbican and City Walls

Walk along the city wall to the Warsaw Barbican, a surviving part of the medieval fortifications. The Barbican was built in 1540; it was demolished during WWII but rebuilt in the 1950s.

It has, in large part, been preserved and is such a unique sight in Warsaw. The Warsaw Barbican is remarkable for its historical structure. It was established in 1540 and served as a part of the fortifications.

This structure was designed by an Italian architect named Jan Baptist the Venetian and ended up replacing an Eastern gate situated on Nowomiejska Street. The barbican is known to be a semicircular bastion with 3 stories and situated next to a spacious moat.

As Poland’s capital was razed to the ground following the war, so were the Barbicans. They were subsequently rebuilt in the 1950s according to prints dating from the Seventeenth century.

Of course, while you’re here, make sure to visit the Barbican Museum too. The entry fee is only 12 PLN, about $3, and you’ll learn a lot more than you think. Despite most tourists walking by, only a few visit, and you’ll see plenty of war archive photos before and after the reconstruction, which is really interesting.

After the museum, you can visit Old Town and see the Market Place, which is such a charming place with historical buildings, cafes, and stores. It’s surely worth coming here again on day 2 to enjoy the city’s true spirit.

Afternoon: Shopping at the Złote Tarasy Mall

After a morning exploring the beautiful Old Town, Złote Tarasy is the perfect place for some retail therapy!

This high-end shopping mall is well located in the middle of Warsaw and includes 200 stores, from prestigious to global brands, that shoppers will run into when they head into the mall.

The moment you enter the mall, Złote Tarasy lets you escape with its sleek contemporary design, flooded in natural light by a glass roof, and it is like an open sky that feels very welcoming at any time.

You’ll have time to flip through the various outlets, and don’t forget to check out a few Polish brands that are available here in the Złote Tarasy.

Second, if you’re feeling peckish, stop for a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the mall. They serve Polish cuisine along with some of the international favorites. That’s good food all around.

Simply put, it makes the perfect afternoon break!

Evening: Join a Pub Crawl in Warsaw

Join the city’s best pub crawl in Warsaw to end the day, bringing you face-to-face with the town’s amazing nightlife and its passionate local guides.

The tour starts with a 1-hour long open bar and a free cocktail on entry. It’s a great moment to bond with the rest of the group, compete in some fun drinking games, or loosen your tongue so that you can socialize more.

From there, you will head to three other venues with free entry and a free shot on arrival. And after that, follow your guide to three more popular bars, enjoying a complimentary welcome shot at each.

And last but not least, you’ll get VIP access to a premier nightclub in Warsaw. This pub crawl offers a perfect blend of fun, camaraderie, and an authentic Warsaw party experience.

Warsaw Itinerary Day 3

You will definitely need more than three days to explore Warsaw. However, if you only have three days here, this is the best way to spend the last day of your Warsaw itinerary!

Visit the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews

The Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews is the first place that the government, a local government, and a non-government organization worked together to create.

The museum is a unique cultural one about Jewish life in Poland over a period of a thousand years.

Polin is also a place where people can meet and discuss the past and present of Jewish community, Jewish history, and memories that pertain to the past but also the future of Jews in Poland – and people who are engaged against stereotypes and xenophobia today.

What else is there to say: Be open-minded, tolerant, and truthful. Last but not least, the exhibition at the POLIN Museum promotes the greatest possible understanding of a given cultural group.

It should be mentioned that the POLIN National Museum can be very crowded, especially in summer. Therefore, I highly recommend purchasing your Museum ticket online prior to your visit. The entry fee is only 45 PLN and it includes an audioguide when booking online, so make sure to check it out before coming.

Lunch at Podwale 25 Kompania Piwna

The last lunch you’ll want to have in town is at Podwale 25 Kompania Piwna, and you’ll love your meal!

The food is loved for its great taste and size; this includes iconic dishes such as soup, potato pancakes, and many others. The dishes are rather large, which is another thing to mention (I could not finish my plate)

Starting from the staff’s kindness, providing complimentary beverages, and overall warmth, you’ll easily understand why it’s so popular.

Located in the bustling Old Town of Warsaw one must be prepared to stand in line, but it’s entirely worth it because of the quality and price of service.

Afternoon: Visit the Wilanow Palace

There seems to be no end to the number of palaces in and around Warsaw. But Wilanów Palace Warsaw is the most beautiful and sprawling one to date, a beautiful work of art by King Jan III.

It’s painted all down there, with one single perfect shade of lemon, with classical architecture and color. It’s a bit further out, but well worth the trip.

Go back to the time when Poland was ruled by royalties and feel like a queen walking in the rose garden. Here’s what you need to know about the Wilanów Palace in Warsaw at some point in time during your visit.

In case you want a private, comprehensive tour of the Wilanow Palace, which I highly recommend to learn everything about it, check out this one, with an expert guide.

Relax at the Vistula River

The Vistula River was used as a major roadway in the pre-history period. Grain was brought to Gdansk, and goods and sand were taken to the other side of the city in wooden boats.

Now all this is history but nowadays, you can relax on the bank or take a cruise to admire the city from the river, which is a good way to get to know old traditions.

In the summer, there are different possibilities – You can get catamarans, gondolas, and kayaks, as well as traditional boats that will hold twenty people on board.

You can also rent a motorboat, a yacht if you like, and that will make the last night of these 3 days in Warsaw even better.

My personal favorite is the river cruise, and in case you decide to take one, I recommend prebooking it online as they always sell out, especially during the summer.

Things to Know Before Visiting Warsaw

Language: Most of the locals speak Polish, the national language. Young people in Warsaw and other tourist destinations speak English which is why you might manage to get along without knowing Polish.

Currency: Poland’s currency is Złoty. It’s very easy for Warsaw’s money exchange to be as common as in the rest of Europe. Banks exchange currency, as well as the money changers at the airport (Kantor), which can be used for foreign exchange. Alternatively, most stores in town accept cards, which is convenient.

Transport: Warsaw and most of Poland are easy to get around. However, if you would rather not walk, you can easily get a bus, tram, metro, or Uber in Warsaw.

Safety: Poland is a pretty safe place to visit, but always keep an eye on your belongings, especially if drinking at night.

Best Day Tours from Warsaw

These tours below will certainly make your visit to Warsaw even better, and I highly recommend checking them out to make the most of your time in town.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Full-Day Tour by Car

This comprehensive day tour departs Warsaw to visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. It is a 13-hour trip that includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.

A local guide will walk you through the camp for a step-by-step tour of Auschwitz concentration camp; the heartbreaking story of the Holocaust, gas chambers, and camp barracks await you there.

It might be heavy but it’s crucial to learn Poland’s history. Auschwitz from Warsaw it’s really worth every second of it, and you’ll want to check the tour here below.

Majdanek Concentration Camp & Lublin Full Day Tour

On this private tour, you will start with two major sites…. Majdanek Concentration Camp and the historic city of Lublin.

Majdanek was a German Nazi concentration camp in Lublin. It has since been converted to a memorial site so that we may never forget.

Come explore the Majdanek, the buildings built and used by prisoners, gas chambers, and the Monument providing a symbolic resting place for the some 78,000 Jews ‘from all over Europe’ who died gasping out their final breaths under its terrible machine designed for mass murder.

After that, we’ll take a visit to Lublin. Although ancient, Lublin is a richer city with even deeper roots and a past that continues to feed its present.

This tour combines Majdanek’s history with Lublin’s charm, making for an enriching day you’ll never forget.

Wolf’s Lair Private Day Trip from Warsaw

Take a day trip to Hitler’s main World War II Headquarters, the difficult-to-access site in the Puszcza Piska forest.

The trip ensures there’s a car for the job there and back as well as lunch for the day out. Visit the remains of the bunkers that were used by Hitler and key Nazi officials, offering insight into the reality of the war.

The tour also includes stops at other important sites like Mamerki bunkers, the Swieta Lipka Sanctuary, and Castle Reszel, offering a broader perspective on the region’s wartime history.

Where to Stay in Warsaw

Last but not least, let’s talk about the accommodation options in this stunning tourist destination, whether you travel on a budget or looking for a premium property.

Luxury: The Westin Warsaw

The Westin Warsaw, centrally located, offers rooms with the Heavenly Bed and panoramic city views. It features a glass elevator, Fusion Restaurant, and JP’s Café & Bar.

Amenities include free internet, a fitness center, sauna, and massage services. Nearby are Saxon Garden, theatres, and museums, with the Old Town less than 2 km away.

Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Warsaw City Centre

Holiday Inn Warsaw City Centre provides rooms with modern amenities and free full board for children under 12. It has a restaurant, fitness center, bar, and lounge.

Services include a 24-hour front desk and room service. Attractions like Warsaw Uprising Museum and Złote Tarasy Shopping Centre are close by.

Budget: Oliwka Hostel

Oliwka Hostel, in central Warsaw, is near Zacheta National Art Gallery and Palace of Culture and Science. It offers a shared kitchen and lounge, with English, Polish, Russian, and Ukrainian spoken at reception.

Attractions like Warsaw University and Grand Theatre are nearby.

Final Thoughts: Warsaw in 3 Days

I hope that this guide has given you a lot of ideas for things to do in Warsaw. Even the quickest routes through Poland include a stop in Warsaw, which is highly recommended.

Learn about the old town’s history, try some traditional Polish delicacies, and overall, have a great time in town.

I hope this ultimate Warsaw itinerary was useful and I hope you’ll enjoy your travels around Poland!