The incredible city of Warsaw is full of fascinating sights from characteristic architecture to modern art to remnants from communist times. Poland as a whole is one of my children's favorite European countries and each time I visit the capital of Poland, I am reminded why we all love it so much. The first time I went I was a bit reluctant, not knowing what to expect but I quickly fell in love with the Polish people, the rich history and even the Polish food. While many visitors flock to the meticulously reconstructed Warsaw Old Town or the iconic Palace of Culture and Science, there's a wealth of lesser-known attractions and experiences that offer a deeper, more authentic insight into the city's character.
If you are interested in the more popular tourist destinations consider this article where I talk about all the must sees of Warsaw such as the royal residence of Wilanów palace, Lazienki park, castle square and all the beautiful historic buildings of old town. If museums are your thing, take a look at this article where I talk about the best museums in Poland including the Chopin museum, the Warsaw uprising museum, the Polin museum of the history of Polish Jews or the Copernicus Science Centre.
This guide will take you off the beaten path to explore some of my favorite things that are a little bit more unique and lesser known - some of the more unusual things to do in Warsaw.
Unusual things to do in Warsaw
Neon Museum
A great place to start on this tour of unique destinations in Warsaw is the Neon Museum, located in the trendy Praga district. This one-of-a-kind museum celebrates the vibrant neon signs that once lit up Poland's cities during the Cold War era. In the 1950s and 1960s, neon signs became a symbol of modernization and a way for the communist government of the Soviet Union to add color and light to otherwise gray cityscapes.
The museum, housed in a former factory building, has a permanent exhibition of hundreds of neon signs rescued from across Poland. As you wander through the dimly lit space, you'll stroll by vintage signs advertising everything from bookstores and cinemas to hotels and restaurants. Each sign tells a story of Poland's past, with many featuring distinctive typography and artistic designs that reflect the period's aesthetic.
Highlights of the collection include the iconic mermaid sign from a Warsaw milk bar, the enormous "Berlin" cinema sign, and the whimsical "Dancing Peacock" from a now-closed restaurant. The museum also offers facts about the craftsmanship behind neon sign-making, with displays on the technical aspects of neon production and restoration.
For photography enthusiasts, the Neon Museum offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning, colorful images. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon or evening because you can fully appreciate the magical glow of these restored signs. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events, so check their schedule for special programs during your visit.
Former Power Stations
Warsaw's landscape is dotted with remnants of its industrial past, and several former power stations have been given new life as cultural and entertainment venues. These repurposed industrial spaces offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's history while showcasing contemporary art, music, and great food.
One standout example is the Elektrownia Powiśle, a revitalized power plant complex in the Powiśle district. Built in the early 20th century, this Art Nouveau structure once supplied electricity to much of Warsaw. Today, it's a bustling mixed-use development that retains many of its original industrial features. Visitors can explore the Food Hall, housed in the former boiler room, where exposed brick walls and towering ceilings create a unique ambiance for enjoying diverse culinary offerings. The complex also includes boutique shops, a gym, and office spaces, all seamlessly integrated into the historic structure.
The Jewish Cemetery
For a more somber but moving and historically significant sight, visit the Warsaw Jewish Cemetery. Located just west of the historic old town, the cemetery was established in 1806 and covers an area of 33 hectares. It is one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe and a powerful reminder of Warsaw's once-thriving Jewish community which constituted about a third of the population of the city. During the German occupation of WWII, about 250,000 Jews living in Warsaw were rounded up to be sent to the ghetto and later deported to concentration camps.
As you enter through the black iron gate on Okopowa Street, you will notice the large size and solemnity of the area. The cemetery contains over 250,000 marked graves, as well as mass graves of victims from the Warsaw Ghetto. Walking through the grounds, there is a diverse array of tombstones, from simple markers to elaborate mausoleums, which is a reflection of different periods and styles of Jewish culture.
Popular graves include those of Ludwik Zamenhof, the creator of Esperanto, and Isaac Bashevis Singer, the Nobel Prize-winning author. The cemetery also contains sections devoted to victims of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising and Holocaust survivors who were later buried here.
Many of the tombstones feature intricate carvings and Hebrew inscriptions, telling stories of the deceased and their families. The cemetery's overgrown sections, where nature has reclaimed parts of the grounds, create a haunting but beautiful atmosphere. These areas remind us that there are not many surviving family members of the Jewish community to tend to the graves.
The cemetery has free admission. Visitors should be aware that the cemetery is an active burial ground and a place of great religious significance. Dress modestly and behave respectfully. Men are required to wear head coverings, which can be borrowed at the entrance. Guided tours are available and highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical and cultural significance of this sacred place.
Milk Bars
For a truly authentic Warsaw experience, and one of my favorite pastimes when in Poland, head to a milk bar (bar mleczny). These cafeteria-style eateries are a remnant of Poland's communist era, when they provided affordable meals to workers. Today, they offer a chance to sample traditional Polish comfort food at incredibly low prices.
Despite their name, milk bars serve much more than dairy products. The menu typically includes hearty soups, pierogi (dumplings), kotlet schabowy (pork cutlet), and various potato and vegetable dishes. The food is simple, filling, and authentically Polish. Make sure to try the potato pancakes, the nalesniki (crepes) and the glamki (cabbage rolls).
One of the most famous milk bars in Warsaw is Bar Mleczny Prasowy, located in the heart of Warsaw near the city centre. Founded in 1954, it has retained much of its original character despite a recent renovation. The interior features a mix of vintage and modern elements, creating a charming retro atmosphere. Join the queue, peruse the menu board, and place your order at the counter. Don't worry if you don't speak Polish; many milk bars now have English menus or helpful staff.
Another popular option is Bar Bambino, which has been serving hungry locals and tourists since 1956. Its classic blue-and-white tiled interior transports diners back in time. Try their famous leniwe (lazy pierogi) or gołąbki (stuffed cabbage rolls) for a taste of authentic Polish home cooking.
Milk bars offer more than just a meal; they provide a window into everyday life in Warsaw, both past and present. You'll see a cross-section of society here, from students and pensioners to office workers and curious tourists, all enjoying affordable, no-frills Polish cuisine.
The Fotoplastikon
For a truly unique visual experience, visit the Fotoplastikon, a rare surviving stereoscopic theater located in the city center. This device, invented in the late 19th century, allows viewers to see three-dimensional images of old Warsaw and other locations around the world.
The Fotoplastikon consists of a large drum-like structure with viewing stations arranged around its circumference. Visitors peer through special lenses to see a series of stereoscopic photographs that create the illusion of depth. The images change every few seconds, accompanied by period music that enhances the nostalgic atmosphere.
The Warsaw Fotoplastikon is the oldest in the world that is still in operation at its original location. It now houses a collection of over 3,000 stereoscopic photographs, including many rare images of pre-war Warsaw. Watching these images come to life in 3D offers a unique and immersive way to experience the history of Warsaw.
The Fotoplastikon is more than just a historical curiosity as it has played various roles throughout Warsaw's history. During the Nazi occupation, it served as a meeting point for the Polish resistance. In the communist era, it offered citizens a rare glimpse of the world beyond the Iron Curtain.
Today, the Fotoplastikon continues to intrigue visitors with its interesting blend of technology and nostalgia. Special exhibitions are held regularly, featuring themed collections of images from different periods and locations.
Praga District
While much of central Warsaw was rebuilt after World War II, the Praga district on the east bank of the Vistula River retained much of its pre-war character. Once considered a rough neighborhood, Praga has emerged as Warsaw's artistic and cultural hub, offering visitors a grittier, more authentic Warsaw experience.
Start your exploration at the Praga Museum, housed in a former tenement house. The museum offers insight into the district's history and the daily lives of its inhabitants over the centuries. Don't miss the recreated pre-war apartments and the exhibit on Praga's Jewish heritage.
As you wander Praga's streets, keep an eye out for street art and murals. The district is known for its vibrant artistic scene, and many buildings serve as canvases for local and international artists. The mural "Wars and Sawa," depicting the legendary founders of Warsaw, is particularly impressive.
To experience some of Praga's creative energy, visit the Soho Factory, a revitalized industrial complex that now houses art galleries, design studios, and hip cafes. The Polish Vodka Museum, located in a former 19th-century distillery building within the complex, offers an interactive journey through the history and production of Poland's national spirit.
End your Praga adventure at Saska Kępa, a charming neighborhood known for its modernist architecture and café culture. Ulica Francuska (French Street) is lined with restaurants and boutiques and is the perfect place to enjoy the area's laid-back atmosphere.
The Palm Tree of Jerusalem Avenue
One of Warsaw's most unexpected sights is the artificial palm tree standing at the busy intersection of Jerusalem Avenue and Nowy Świat Street. This 15-meter-tall art installation, officially titled "Greetings from Jerusalem Avenue," was created by artist Joanna Rajkowska in 2002.
The palm tree, which seems out of place in the middle of Poland, serves as a thought-provoking symbol with multiple layers of meaning. It references the street's name, recalling a time when Polish kings dreamed of conquering Jerusalem. It also alludes to Warsaw's small Jewish community and the city's multicultural past. While on a trip to Jerusalem, the artist noticed all the palm trees and wanted to bring one to Warsaw to as a way to honor the Jewish population as well as bring some cheer to the city. It is constructed in a way that it can bend and sway with the breeze.
Initially intended as a temporary installation, the palm has become a beloved Warsaw landmark. It has served as a backdrop for political demonstrations, art festivals, and countless tourist photos. The palm's presence transforms the busy intersection into a place of whimsy and reflection.
The Wedel Chocolate Shop and cafe
For a delicious dose of history, visit the Wedel Chocolate Shop on Szpitalna Street. Founded in 1851, E. Wedel is Poland's oldest chocolate brand, and this flagship store and café offers a glimpse into Warsaw's confectionery heritage.
The interior of the shop, with its dark wood paneling, vintage furnishings, and old photographs, takes you back to the early 20th century. The highlight is the café area, where you can indulge in Wedel's famous hot chocolate, so thick it's almost pudding-like, along with an array of cakes, pralines, and other sweet treats.
Don't miss the opportunity to watch chocolatiers at work through the glass partition, crafting elaborate chocolate sculptures and bonbons. The shop also offers a range of beautifully packaged chocolates and pralines, making for perfect souvenirs or gifts. Workshops are also available if you want to try your hand at making chocolates yourself.
The Wedel Old Chocolate Shop is more than just a café; it's a living piece of Warsaw's cultural history. During World War II, it was one of the few places where Poles and Germans could mix socially. Today, it continues to be a beloved institution, blending nostalgia with contemporary chocolate-making techniques.
Sometimes the best way to get to know a city is by venturing beyond the typical tourist sites and this is certainly true for Warsaw. By doing this, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for Polish history, Warsaw's resilience, creativity, and ongoing transformation. While I would definitely suggest seeing the more common tourist sites such as the gorgeous old town market square, łazienki park and more, each of the more unique things mentioned contributes to a deeper understanding of Poland's capital city.
Whether you're captivated by the glow of vintage neons, moved by the echoes of history in a Jewish cemetery, or simply enjoying a hearty meal in a timeless milk bar, the Polish capital of Warsaw offers countless opportunities for unique and memorable experiences.
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