Poland’s capital is a story of rebirth from a long, turbulent history
Approximate flight time:
2 hours 20 minutes (total distance 956 miles)
Airlines that fly direct:
Ryanair, Wizz Air
No. of Airports in Warsaw:
Warsaw Chopin (WAW), Warsaw Modlin (WMI)
Seasons:
High = June - September; Low = November - March
Currency:
Polish złoty
Arriving at Warsaw Chopin Airport
Warsaw Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Poland. It has one terminal that is well connected to the city centre. You will arrive at Warsaw Chopin if you are flying with Wizz Air.
Taking the train is one of the best ways to travel from Warsaw Airport to the city centre. The train station is clearly signposted from the Arrivals Hall. Trains arrive every 15 minutes and take around 20 minutes to reach the city centre.
An Airport shuttle bus runs several times daily from Warsaw Chopin to Warsaw city centre and there’s also one night-time departure. Alternatively, local bus lines 175, 188 and N32 connect Warsaw Airport to the city centre. Other lines can take you to other destinations in Warsaw. Taxis and car-hire companies are also readily available.
Arriving at Warsaw Modlin Airport
If you’re flying with Ryanair, you will land at Warsaw Modlin Airport, Warsaw’s second airport located around 40km from the city centre. Like Warsaw Chopin, there are plenty of options for onwards travel at Warsaw Modlin Airport.
You can jump in a taxi or book a private shuttle, which will take you to the city centre in around 35-40 minutes. Alternatively, you can board one of the green or yellow shuttle buses that will take you to Modlin Train Station where you can take a train to your chosen destination – this is cheaper than taking a taxi but takes around 50 minutes.
What to expect in Warsaw
Warsaw is the capital and largest city of Poland. Its chequered history, which includes brutal Medieval warfare and occupation during WWII, is reflected in its fascinating neighbourhoods and landmarks, from Gothic churches to tall Soviet Skyscrapers.
But it’s not all about history – Warsaw’s restaurants and entertainment scene is the best in Poland, so there’s something for everyone.
Poland’s native language is Polish, but you will find English is widely spoken in Warsaw.
Poland experiences relatively cold winters and warm summers. The shoulder tourist seasons of March, April and October are a great time to visit Poland with the Spring and Autumnal colours decorating the landscapes and fewer crowds.
Culture in Warsaw
A week doesn’t go by without a fashion design festival, an opening of a sparkly restaurant serving modern, polish cuisine or a trendy cocktail bar popping up in a pre-war apartment building.
Of course, you should spend time learning about the city’s rebirth. Excellent museums interpret its complex story, from the joys of Chopin’s music to the tragedy of the Jewish ghetto. The city’s Old Town is a labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets, ornate tenement
As the capital of the largest country in ‘New Europe’, Warsaw hosts many events throughout the year. From Witch Drowning Ceremonies to Chopin Concerts to International Film Festivals, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy.
One of the best things about travelling to a new country is trying the local cuisine! Pierogis (polish dumplings) are a very traditional dish, served savoury or sweet. Popular fillings include meat, sauerkraut, cottage cheese or seasonal fruit. Placki Ziemniaczane (potato pancakes) are another popular dish. Try them with gravy and a blob of sour cream.