Warsaw: attractions, restaurants, itineraries

Warsaw

For a long time, Warsaw has been known as the "Eastern Paris," primarily because its incredibly picturesque city center somehow resembles a fairy-tale place. Warsaw is the very heart of the Polish Republic. The large number of Warsaw's attractions attracts more and more tourists every year. This city can be visited at any time of the year; it is equally magnificent during the velvety autumn and blooming spring, as well as during the warm summer. But if you're after unique experiences, head here in winter! Precisely in winter, on the eve of Christmas and New Year's, Warsaw becomes mysterious and mesmerizing!

When to go?

Warsaw is located in an area with a moderately continental climate, which means you can visit it with equal success at any time of the year. However, occasionally in winter, there can be quite severe frosts, and in the summer period, temperatures can rise to 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) and even higher. Therefore, the end of spring and the beginning of autumn are considered the optimal times to visit, especially since the maximum amount of rainfall occurs in July. Nevertheless, on the eve of Christmas, one can also have a wonderful time, as in almost any other European city.

What to buy?

Arguably, the symbol of Warsaw is the Mermaid, or the Mermaid with a Sword, several versions of which are installed around the city. A smaller replica can easily be purchased in almost any souvenir shop in the Polish capital.

Ceramic products are very popular among tourists. In the south of Poland lies the ancient city of Bolesławiec, where the production of ceramics and porcelain began back in the twelfth century. Bolesławiec's blue and white pottery is highly valued all over the world. Such ceramics can be purchased in some Warsaw stores.

Warsaw's Christmas decorations, known for their high quality, are famous far beyond Poland's borders. Usually, they are released in unique, author's editions, making it virtually impossible to find similar ones.

You can also buy a salt lamp – a small souvenir made from salt mined in the Wieliczka mine. If you're looking for a more practical souvenir, Goral slippers – soft, comfortable home footwear made from pure sheep’s wool and decorated with colorful embroidery, might be a good choice. Art galleries offer a multitude of other products made from wood, ceramic, glass, and leather, which are sure to impress any visitor to Warsaw.

What to try?

In Poland, the food is both plentiful and delicious, so the portions in cafes and restaurants are quite large. Visitors to Warsaw will likely enjoy "żurek" – a soup served in a round loaf of bread, as well as roasted duck, known for its unique flavor. Equally interesting is the taste of "bigos" – a distinctive stew made from a mixture of sauerkraut and fresh cabbage, with added pork, pork belly, and smoked sausage, seasoned with tomatoes, prunes, mushrooms, and various spices.

With white bread, a traditional Warsaw dish called "flaki" is served, which is a soup made from pork and beef tripe. Among beverages, it’s worth trying warmed beer with spices, sometimes this drink is consumed with honey.

Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw

When to go?

What to buy?

What to try?