Highlights of Warsaw
Discover the essential highlights of Warsaw on a walking tour that brings the city’s history and character to life. We’ll explore the iconic Palace of Culture and Science, stroll down Nowy Świat and Krakowskie Przedmieście, and visit key landmarks such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Presidential Palace. The tour concludes in the charming Old Town, where you’ll learn how this UNESCO-listed area was rebuilt from ruins. Perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience Warsaw.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Rotunda
- Our meeting point is the Rotunda in central Warsaw, the round glass building located at the intersection of Marszałkowska and Aleje Jerozolimskie, right next to the popular Domy Towarowe Wars Sawa Junior shopping area. It’s one of the easiest places to find in the city center. The area is well-connected, with metro, trams, and buses stopping just a few steps away, so getting here is simple from anywhere in Warsaw.
Palace of Culture and Science
The Palace of Culture and Science is Warsaw’s most iconic - and most controversial landmark. A towering gift from the Soviet Union in the 1950s, it rises above the city skyline like a stone giant, blending socialist realism with unexpected elegance. During the tour, you’ll learn why locals have such mixed feelings about this monumental structure. You’ll learn what’s inside the building, what nicknames Varsovians have given it, and what it looked like 70 years ago. The Palace also has a viewing terrace, which we can include in the tour upon request (please add a minimum of 30 minutes).
Ściana Wschodnia
We’ll pause for a moment at the famous Ściana Wschodnia, one of the iconic communist-era landmarks of Warsaw. We’ll talk about everyday life in the city under communism, and you’ll learn why the opening of the first Polish McDonald’s became such an important event.
Chmielna Street
We’ll stroll down Chmielna Street, which - after its recent revitalization - has once again become a hub of nightlife and a favorite spot among locals. You’ll learn how the character of the street has changed over the years, and you’ll have the chance to try the famous, delicious Polish doughnuts.
Nowy Świat
Nowy Świat is one of the most beautiful streets in the capital. During our walk, you’ll discover its rich history as well as the controversies surrounding its post-war reconstruction. You’ll also see for yourself why this vibrant avenue, lined with cafés and historic townhouses, has become the beating heart of the city for both locals and visitors.
Nicolaus Copernicus Monument
We’ll take our time around the Copernicus Monument, because this area is truly fascinating. There are benches here where you can sit and catch your breath while we dive into the stories of the neighborhood. We’ll start with Nicolaus Copernicus himself—one of history’s greatest astronomers—and you’ll learn how his monument miraculously survived the war. We’ll also talk about Warsaw’s most famous resident, Fryderyk Chopin, and explore just how deeply his life and music were connected to this city.
Church of Holy Cross
Inside the Holy Cross Church rests the heart of Fryderyk Chopin. You’ll learn how it returned to Poland—and whether it truly belonged to the great composer. We’ll step inside the church to see the exact place where the heart is kept. Please note that if a service is taking place during our visit, we will need to respect it.
Tomb of Unknown Soldier
We’ll visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where you’ll learn who is commemorated here and what once stood on this very spot. It’s one of Poland’s most symbolic places—a quiet reminder of the country’s turbulent past and the resilience of its people.
Presidential Palace
This is the place where the head of state actually lives. You’ll find out why the building survived the war and what it housed during the German occupation. You’ll also learn about the complex and turbulent history of the statue of Prince Józef Poniatowski, which stands proudly in front of the Presidential Palace.
Royal Castle Square
We’ll finish our tour in the Old Town. Although it’s hard to believe today, this entire area was almost completely wiped out in 1944. The Royal Castle is one of Warsaw’s most important symbols, and the column with the statue of King Sigismund III Vasa standing in front of it holds a special place in the hearts of locals.
St. John Cathedral
St. John’s Cathedral is the most important church in Warsaw. You’ll learn who is buried here and how the cathedral was destroyed during World War II. You’ll also see the famous track of a German tank, which today is embedded in one of the cathedral’s walls.
Kanonia Bell
Every city has its own “lucky spot,” and in Warsaw it’s the Kanonia Bell. Locals believe that - if you follow a few simple rules - the bell can grant wishes. Want to give it a try?
Old Town Square
The Market Square is the heart of Warsaw’s Old Town, and this is where the Mermaid - Warsaw’s proud symbol - stands guard. You’ll learn why she became the city’s protector and discover the legend that claims even Warsaw’s very name might be connected to her…
Ending Point
Barbican
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- guide fee
- Entrance fee to the Palace of Culture and Science (app. 7 eur, optional -> will make our tour +- 40min longer)
Tour Important Information
This is a walking tour. The total distance is approximately 3.5 km. Along the way, you'll find plenty of benches where you can take a short break (weather permitting). I do not recommend this tour for guests who have difficulty walking.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Taisa O.
Hello! My name is Taisa, and I was born and raised in beautiful Warsaw - the city I’m truly proud to call home. I graduated from the University of Warsaw with a degree in History, and after that, I spent more than 10 years working as a flight attendant, traveling the world and meeting people from all walks of life.
Those years in aviation taught me how to take care of people, pay attention to every detail, and create unforgettable experiences - skills I now bring to my guided tours. After seeing countless cities across the globe, I realized that Warsaw is one of the most fascinating of them all - full of contrasts, stories, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Today, I combine my background in history with my passion for hospitality to show visitors the very best of my hometown. Whether you’re interested in learning about Warsaw’s dramatic past, exploring vibrant local neighborhoods, or simply feeling the city’s modern spirit, I’ll make sure your time here is both insightful and enjoyable.
Join me for a walk through Warsaw, and let me show you my city through the eyes of someone who knows it by heart.
$220/ per group
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