6 best things to do in Warsaw in winter
Last updated on January 30th, 2026.
The sun had already begun to set as our flight landed in Warsaw — it had just turned 3.10pm.
I’d no expectations when we landed in the Polish capital in winter, but I’d expected the cold.
With temperatures already in the minus, we planned to find fun things to do in Warsaw in winter, but mainly indoors.
It’s safe to say that I’m not a fan of the extreme cold.
We don’t really gel, not to mention it takes me forever to put on the many layers of clothing. However, knowing what to pack for Poland in winter made the world of difference, and helped us to enjoy our trip.
Visiting Warsaw in winter puts you in the mood for the upcoming festive season. While you can’t completely avoid outdoor activities, there are many things to do in Warsaw where you can remain toasty indoors.
6 best things to do in Warsaw in winter
1. Visit the Warsaw Christmas market
The Warsaw Christmas market starts around the last week of November.
Dates can vary, but in recent years, this is the time of year it begins. You can find the main market in Castle Square in the Old Town, among the backdrop of the historic center.
At this time, you’ll also see the grand Christmas tree in the square, with its sparkling decorations beckoning its visitors.
It’s much smaller than its popular counterparts in Prague or Vienna, which in my opinion, isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
With temperatures hitting -8 in the evening, we didn’t spend too long browsing the stalls from fear of getting frostbite.
The stalls sell everything from traditional Polish snacks and mulled wine, to Christmas gifts and stocking fillers. Also, with a good exchange rate with the Polish currency (Zloty), we bought several items for ourselves and the family.
Delicious things to eat and drink
Along with the main Christmas market, there are also others worth checking out.
For food and drink, head to the Old Town Market Place, where you can indulge in some authentic Polish kielbasa. Alternatively, visit the Catholic church courtyard market near the Castle Square entrance and invest in some quality winter accessories.
All in all, we really enjoyed visiting the Warsaw Christmas market. It's one of the best free things to do in Warsaw in winter.
Although it was uncomfortably cold, the festive atmosphere surrounding the market is worth seeing. However, if you prefer your markets on the crowded and bigger, side, then it’s probably not for you.
WATCH: visiting the Warsaw Christmas market
2. Explore the Warsaw Royal Castle
A very short walk from the Warsaw Christmas market is the Warsaw Royal Castle. Once home to the Polish monarchs, the castle has had many visitors, including the Prussians and the Tsarists.
After being occupied by the Tsar during the Imperial Russian administration, the biggest devastation occurred during World War II. Nazi Germany invaded Poland in 1939, leaving the German Governor-General to turn the castle into his residence.
In 1944, the Warsaw Uprising took place. The Polish underground resistance tried liberating the city from Nazi rule but were defeated after a battle lasting 63 days. In reprisal, the Germans torched the city, destroying everything in their path, including the castle.
The castle today
The castle was rebuilt and reconstructed from 1971 to 1984, with the surviving fragments registered as historical monuments. Today, the castle’s a UNESCO heritage world site, and also a must see in Warsaw.
If visiting in November, you’ll be happy to read that entrance to the castle is free. We were pleasantly surprised when we found out, and learned that other attractions are also free in November.
Along with the chance to keep warm, the castle provides an in-depth look into the city’s historic past. The rooms of the castle, though reconstructed, show off the baroque style and opulence of the aristocratic period.
One of the best things to do in Warsaw in winter don't miss a chance to visit its Royal Palace.
Map: 6 things to do in Warsaw in winter
3. Admire Warsaw from above
Try as you might, but it’s very hard to miss the Palace of Culture and Science building in Warsaw. Standing at 778ft tall (237m), it also holds the title of being the tallest building in Poland.
The building was a gift from Stalin and built to rival the skyscrapers found in the USA. At first glance, it’s quite confusing as to what the building's used for, as it appears to have several functions.
After asking some locals, we discovered that it’s home to a cinema, as well as a theater and science institutions.
Head to the top
Inside, signs of the former Soviet regime are evident, especially when you look up. There’s not much to do inside, unless you speak or understand Polish, but you can visit the observation deck.
Located on the 30th floor, the observation deck’s also the place to see far-reaching views of Warsaw.
Naturally, I’d recommend visiting on a clear day — sunny if you’re lucky like we were. During the warmer months, there are several deck chairs around where you can lap up the views.
Winter’s another story of course, and given the altitude, the wind’s less forgiving at that height. You do need to purchase tickets beforehand, but it’s reasonable at zł20 ($4.76/€4.48/£3.89).
4. Discover Wilanów Palace
A last-minute attraction that we visited in Warsaw was Wilanów Palace. We decided to see this historic palace for ourselves on the suggestion of our hotel.
Unlike the royal castle, Wilanów Palace is a little further from the center. After around 20 minutes in our Uber, we arrived at the palace’s grounds.
In the right place
On first glance, we weren’t sure as to whether we were dropped off in the right area. Wilanów Palace is surrounded by both residential homes and vast parkland.
Eventually, we spotted the entrance leading to the estate. Beneath clear blue skies and plenty of bright sunshine, the colors of the 17th century estate beckoned us in.
Originally built for King John III Sobieski, Wilanów Palace merges baroque architectural style with Polish building traditions.
Most notably, the palace has survived both World Wars. It’s a lavish reminder of Poland’s former past and definitely worth a visit.
Today, Wilanów Palace is a museum, housing plenty of colorful frescoes painted by prominent artists of the time.
To the back of the palace is a sculpture garden. It was first cultivated in an Italian baroque style before later taking on French influences.
Entrance to Wilanów Palace costs zł7 ($1.67/€1.57/£1.36). I advise buying your ticket online, so you can skip the line and waltz right on through.
One of the best things to do in Warsaw in winter, you can snuggle up inside while learning about the history.
5. Get cozy at Warsaw's milk bars
We discovered a unique dining experience in Warsaw that kills 3 birds with one stone.
Traditional, hearty and cheap, Warsaw’s milk bars are an epicurean experience unlike any other. The first one opened in 1896 selling basic dairy-based products, hence where it took its name.
One of the best things to do in Warsaw in winter, come here to get warm and to eat Polish comfort food.
Where it began
During the communist era, the government subsidized milk bars, using them as workplace canteens. After the end of communism, many milk bars went out of business, and with it, a one-of-its-kind type of institution.
In recent years, a retro revival of Warsaw’s milk bars has resulted in people flocking once again to its doors. Leave any fine dining expectations at the door, as this is comfort, wholesome food at its best.
Prasowy
One of the most notable milk bars in Warsaw is Prasowy.
Food, alongside a hearty portion of nostalgia is served up at this self-service eatery. Expect creamy mash potatoes, a filling meat dish, and warming soups. Better yet, you can eat a wholesome 2-course meal for under £5 ($7/€7).
There’s an English menu by the door, and usually a server at the counter that speaks English. The meal option also comes with a free drink — a glass of blackcurrant squash. Needless to say, it’s one local foodie experience you cannot miss when in Warsaw.
6. Stop hunger pangs at Hala Koszyki
While Hala Koszyki is known as a shopping center, for me, its main attraction is its food court. Ideal for escaping the Warsaw winter weather, it’s a modern style building with plenty to satisfy hungry gastronomes.
Alongside Polish cuisine, you can fill your belly on international dishes and vegetarian and vegan food. When in Warsaw, we couldn’t miss out on trying the traditional Kielbasa sausage and fries with pickles, and you shouldn’t either.
Above all, Hala Koszyki is the place where families and friends gather. Whether over a coffee, or a platter of tapas, it’s the energy of the place that keeps drawing people back.
Where to sleep in Warsaw
Boutique hotels in Warsaw are on the rise and going out of their way to impress. Boutique by name, boutique by nature, H15 Boutique Hotel is my pick for Warsaw.
This 5-star hotel is located in a chic area of the city, with plenty of independent restaurants and bars. The hotel’s also within walking distance of the Palace of Culture and Science and Warsaw New Town. Suites are generous, stylish and comfortable, and the service is impeccable.
For a hotel on the luxury side, you can do no wrong by booking a stay at Raffles Europejeski. Inviting décor and attention to detail, plus a jaw-dropping spa, awaits at this Warsaw luxury hotel.
What are your thoughts on things to do in Warsaw in winter? Does it look like somewhere you’d like to visit? Drop me a comment below; I’d love to hear from you.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
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I love Warsaw, but I’ve only been in spring. Your pictures make me want to see the city in winter. Wilanow Palace looks positively gorgeous.
It's so pretty in winter I highly recommend it!
We have not yet visited Poland and I thought of planning a summer visit. But I can see there is lots to see and do on a visit to Warsaw in the winter. Christmas Markets and great food would be a wonderful draw. Visiting a milk bar would be a new experience for us. We sure would not miss a tour of the inside of the Royal Palace.
The milk bars are amazing and so cheap, it's insane! And the Royal Palace is stunning 😀
This might be a double comment. It’s at this point I’m wondering if I was in Warsaw. Royal Palace? Milk bars? Missed those. Twas a while ago though. Didn’t miss those Polish sausages though. So good.
You missed the royal palace John?! That's usually the number one thing that most visitor go to see. And yes, the Polish sausages are very good!
For a date, only Bubbles at Pilsudski Square, and if your girlfriend is not from Warsaw, then in this way, you will show her this cool side of this city.
Thanks Nick for the tip, that sounds like a fun date place 😀
The best restaurant in Warsaw, no doubt Akademia, why, go, try and the question disappears. Amazing dishes, the chef is an artist, cheap !!! As for European prices it's great to eat, a large selection of liquors and this amazing decor.
Thanks for the recommendation Thomas! If we're ever back, I promise we'll give it a try 🙂
The reindeers look beautiful. Warsaw seems to be a perfect place for Christmas !!!! and the Royal palace is surely worth spending your time ..so luxurious !!!!
You have truly managed your vacation well !!!
It's pretty magical if not super cold! Hope you visit for yourself one day
Thank you s much for sharing this, absolutely love this post 😀
Welcome!
Thanks for this post! I went to Tallinn this year for Christmas Markets and loved them! What was your favorite polish dish you tried?? Could you see the main highlights in Warsaw in around 2 full day? Or, do you recommend 3? H15 Boutique Hotel looks amazing! I love boutique hotels.
Thanks Linnea for the comment! We loved Warsaw, would like to visit Tallinn this year too. I like the pierogis best, and the milk bars are tasty too. 2 full days and 3 nights is good, but I think you can squeeze it into 2 days if you need to. H15 is amazing! Read my review, it's wonderful 😀
This shows you had a lovely time during the Christmas festival. Have not been to Warsaw but with these experiences of yours am definitely adding it to my Bucket list.
We did! Hope you get to visit one day
Absolutely enjoy reading your sharing here, wish I can enjoy winter too, happy new year 2019, cheers
Thanks
This place looks so amazing. I would love to visit especially around the holidays.
I highly recommend it, just stay warm!
Thanks for sharing! Warsaw is high on my list of places I really want to see. Hopefully I'll get a chance to go later this month!
Me too, it's a great city
Oh wow! This is lovely! Looks like you had a really nice time
We did, it's a great city
It is so cold there but I would like to visit one time because I like cold weather so much.
Then you'll really love it!
You did a wonderful job of sharing fun things even those on a budget can enjoy in Warsaw. The holidays are a great time to see cities around the world.
Thank you! It's a great city to explore during the winter
This really makes me wish that I could visit Warsaw! These pictures are beautiful and the activities look so fun.
You should visit! It's a great city 🙂
i would love to visit market square.....especially if they hold a night market.....i love the stroll and hunt for bargain along the way...and experience Christmas as local would...you cover amazing places here.......
Thank you, hope you get to visit for yourself!
I wonder how the milk bars taste like. I'm actually quite interested with all the food your posted here.
Honestly, it's good, and very cheap!
I hate the cold and the cold hates me, but it would be worth it to see these sights.
Trust me, it's worth it!
Been to Warsaw a few years back and always felt I didn't fully realize it's potential. Keeping this post for the future 🙂
Perfect! It's a city that keeps growing in charm
I never heard about this place. You have gathered wonderful info and pictures. Hope I will visit one day.
Thank you! So do I
I really appreciate you giving a historical background of Warsaw. I keep seeing posts from holiday markets around Europe and it looks so great! Maybe next year? Ps I’m not best friends with the cold weather either!
You definitely should! We have a great choice of Christmas markets in Europe, start planning!
I love the cold so it sounds ideal to me. I love how you've included so many photos, and the history behind it.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it
I'm not a fan of the cold either, but your tips for visiting Warsaw in the winter definitely make it seem attractive. Well worth the chill!
Glad you agree, it's a lovely city to explore!
I had never thought about visiting Warsaw. I enjoyed all of the information that you provided though. I think I would want to visit around Christmas as well to see all of their festivities
I highly recommend it! Christmas is a pretty time to visit
Poland is often overlooked as a travel destination of choice. It’s a good thing for you because you won’t experience a crazy amount of tourists like in Italy, France or London.
It's very true! We could really enjoy every part of the city
Warsaw has always been in my bucket list. I'm happy to see helpful articles that trigger my enthusiasm to visit it. 🙂
Perfect! Glad you enjoyed it!
Warsaw is in top of my list to be honest, so this the helpful staff visiting museums and traveling in winter is the best
Glad you enjoyed it, I hope you visit soon
I’ve spent a lot of time in Warsaw through work so have visited most of these. The Milk Bars are new to me though, on the list for my next visit.
Great Phil, hope you get to visit the next time you're back!
OMG I really love winter ? and I would love to visit Warsaw one day and visit all these amazing places you've shared in the pictures they look mesmerising ?
Then you really have to visit Warsaw, they do winter really well!
I love the royal palace of Warsaw. Interesting how it is both a castle and a palace. The shopping center also looks cool. Some really good picks for Polish winters.
Thank you, I couldn't agree more!
Like you, I'm someone who generally doesn't like the cold, so good to be reminded that it's very cold at this time of year in Warsaw. But the Christmas market sounds delightful, so worth braving the cold a little to browse the stalls there. I also want to see both the Royal Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science, with that amazing observation deck. I hadn't heard about the milk bars of Warsaw before, so am squirrelling that tip away for when we finall visit.
Perfect Kavita! As a foodie, I'm sure you'd be interested to try the milk bars. It's not fancy food, but it's really tasty!
I don't do cold either, I prefer to follow the sun. Warsaw does look interesting though and maybe I could change my mind and travel in Winter. Christmas markets and mulled wine...uummm.
Yes! It's a great combination, just be sure to wrap up warm!
Ah Lisa! Stop teasing me with these Christmas market posts!!!! LOL! I love them all and nothing wrong with the smaller, cuter ones like this one. They are all stunning to me. Even mulled wine didn't keep you warm enough? That Baltic cheese stall looks ridiculously good. I can't eat a lot of cheese due to the dairy but whenever I see a stall like that, I cave in and suffer later! Hah!
Lol sorry Amy! I really want to share the best things to do during winter, and glad you enjoyed reading it!
I can't think of anything more beautiful than Europe in winter and Warsaw is proof to that. I've never been in Poland and hope to visit Warsaw sometimes soon. I've heard the city is beautiful at any time of year, but it surely looks charming at Christmas time. That Warsaw Christmas market is so inviting and so is the Warsaw Royal Palace.
We had such a great time! And it's not the first choice for many, but travelers should really consider it!
Hope you visit one day too!
I’ve only been to visit Krakow but Warsaw has always interested me. I actually quite enjoy visiting cold places but -8 is a bit of a struggle! I’ll have to get round to planning a trip - I’ll be adding milk bars to the list
The milk bars are so cheap, and very filling too! I'm sure you'll like it
Warsaw is defnitely one of the favorite cities I visited in septemBer .. the history and the courage with which this city is built is commendable . Although my stay was super short as I rushed to other countries but christmas in this pretty city could be defnitely be on the cards in future ..well written. . reminds me I need to script soon about it.
Glad you enjoyed it too!
Wow! I would love to visit the Baltic Cheese stall. Made crave for some grapes, good wine and cheese..
I did not realize there is so much to do and see in Warsaw. We'll check the possibility of visiting soon. We have never been there before. Thank you so much for this detailed post. Appreciate it.
There are definitely many sights to see! It's cold but a nice city to visit
Of course I would like to visit Warsaw. Polish Christmas markets would be the highlight. The Royal Palace and the observation deck cannot be missed. And then comes the food... That Parsowy food I would so much like to try.
Polish food's actually very good - but there's a lot of meat. You can eat as many pierogis as you want, they're veggie 😀
Warsaw looks so festive during the holidays! Will need to bookmark this for future trip there. Thanks for this useful post!
You're welcome, glad you enjoyed it 😀
I’m also not a fan of the cold so I find you very brave to go to Warsaw in November! On the other hand, with free admission to a lot of places in November, I’m certainly tempted to go now! The milk bars sound like a great experience and there are lots of indoor places to enjoy. I will likely take a quick look at the markets but it will make me enjoy being inside so much more!
A quick look's enough, especially as there's no pushing and shoving from other visitors! I'm glad we actually went in late November - it was quite an experience!
What a wonderful place Warsaw is to visit! Thank you for sharing the beautiful photos and great places to visit.
You're welcome!
Sunsetting at 3:10 PM. That's something. The Warsaw winter is made even more beautiful by a blanket of snow. It looks like there are all kind of hearty eats to help fend off that winter chill. There is always the off chance that Ed will be transferred to Poland so this might be our life someday.
Oh wow! That's some transfer, hope you can handle those temperatures! It's a great city and the people are so friendly too
Warsaw looks adorable - especially those Christmas markets. Can easily see how it rivals more popular, larger cities. Thanks for the tips 🙂
You're welcome! Glad you enjoyed it
This is a fantastic list of things to do! If I ever traveled here, I'd be so excited to do some of these things in winter.
Thank you! So glad you enjoyed reading it!
I loved Warsaw! I would love to return around Christmas time to go to the market! Have to say I am not a winter girl myself and the below zero weather isn’t overly appealing lol You have a great list of other activities that are must dos all year round!
Thank you! It's nice to meet someone who really enjoyed it too! We had a great time, despite the freezing temperatures!
The Christmas Market, milk bars, and Hala Koszyki look like they would be fun to visit. Looks yummy! I would love to visit the palace too. I like visiting historic homes.
It's really a great city to see! And the food choices are plentiful too
Looks like there is a lot to do in Warsaw in the winter. I would so visit the Palace.
It's a great city to see!
I love Christmas markets! So far my favorite one is in Köln but I would love to visit the one in Warsaw's ?
This one's worth seeing especially if you like your Christmas markets on the less busy side!
While it could be cold in winter. And -8! The snow and cold gives a feative vibe and nice atmosphere. So yeah, it might not have to be Prague or Vienna and looks like you had a great time in Poland.
it really is! As long as you're wrapped up, you'll be fine!
We've heard so many wonderful things about visiting Warsaw. It does look like a fab get away for Christmas - and so rich in culture. Those milk bars sound very intriguing.
The food's so good, and unbelievably cheap too! Highly recommended
I love Warsaw and I was in the country this summer but I had never visited it during the winter holidays. I love the indoor and outdoor activities you listed. Maybe next year I can visit the Warsaw Christmas market. I'll definitely like to see the Warsaw Royal Castle
Thanks Archana! We really loved our time there, and the castle is so interesting, even though it's had a sad history
-8 degrees? Wow, that's cold! But Warsaw looks pretty amazing in the winter, especially with those winter markets. I'd love to visit them, for the last 2 years I've been travelling to cold European countries to experience authentic Christmas (it just doesn't feel like Christmas in 25 degrees in Dubai lol) and I've been to Austria last year, Hungary this year and I am really considering Poland for next year! Nice to know that you get my favourite mulled wine in Poland also 😉
You do, and it's cheaper too! Even though I'm not a fan of the cold, I do prefer it during Christmas and winter in general. Just as long as it doesn't last too long lol!
What a lovely mix of indoor and outdoor activities. The atmosphere looks lovely in Warsaw during this time of the year. I saw a lot of amazing posts about Christmas in Warsaw in the last couple of weeks and I think I'll be heading there next winter 🙂
Great! You'll have a wonderful time for sure
It sounds that you've enjoyed a lot in visiting Warsaw and it such really a festive place to go on this holiday aside from that I also want taste their tasty food.
The food's delicious! And very filling, you've been warned...!
Poland is next up on my Euro Trip destinations for sure. My friend visited Krakow and Warsaw earlier this year and she was all ga ga about it, and how its completely different from other popular destinations like Prague, Vienna or Budapest.And now this post. Its like the world is telling me to take a trip to Warsaw to explore the city at leisure.
Great Arnav! I agree with your friend; it's so unexplored, but with just as plenty charm as those other cities
I need to hide this post from Darcee or she will make me buy a plane ticket immediately to Warsaw! This is because she desperately wants to go to a Christmas Market and would love the Warsaw Palace too. Personally I HATE THE COLE. But I too would like to walk around the Warsaw Christmas market especially in the Catholic Church area plus I would love to see the Warsaw Palace but its sad that the Nazis burned the original one to the ground. Such a hard and sad history there.
Lol you better hide it Eric! We had a wonderful time, but yes, both struggled with the cold! The city has a very sad history, but it's amazing to see its resilience too 🙂
Ooh I would like to eat at Prasowy! I always try to eat at some local or traditional places when I travel and this sounds like a great place to get a hearty meal for a very reasonable cost.
It's so cheap it's insane. But tasty, and very filling too!
So this looks like such a Christmassy place! I love it so much. That xmas market looks like so much fun. And the castle looks just incredible. What a fun time!
Thank you! It's very festive in Warsaw, but there are other activities to do there too 🙂
I love how you've included indoor and outdoor activities. We're an outdoorsy family and we like to explore our surroundings. Will bookmark this for our trip to Warsaw.
Wonderful! Warsaw's a really oudoorsy place and great for the family too