11 reasons to visit Warsaw in 2026
Warsaw is a destination that surprises visitors in every season. It blends history with contemporary culture, major events with local atmosphere, and active leisure with moments of true relaxation. From museums and concerts by global stars to sports emotions, walks, runs and cruises on the Vistula River – discover the attractions that make Poland’s capital an ideal choice for a city break or a longer stay.
1. The return of an icon: the reopening of the Poster Museum in Wilanów
In 2026, the Poster Museum in Wilanów – the oldest institution of its kind in the world – will reopen its doors. Did you know that the Polish School of Poster Art is one of the most recognizable brands of 20th-century Polish culture, admired worldwide, and that even Martin Scorsese has praised Polish film posters?
From 14 March, visitors will be able to see an exhibition presenting political, social and cultural posters from the late 19th century to the present day. It is a unique opportunity to look at history and the present through the lens of graphic design – a field in which Poland is internationally renowned.
2. Orange Warsaw Festival and a summer full of concerts
Warsaw is one of the key points on Europe’s concert map. Fans of modern sounds will certainly be drawn to this year’s Orange Warsaw Festival (29–30 May), regarded as one of the most inclusive festivals in Europe.
In addition, the city will host concerts by Bad Bunny (14 July), Pitbull (23 July) and The Weeknd (4–5 August), as well as Foo Fighters (15 June), System of a Down (18–19 July) and Judas Priest (28 July). Warsaw is the perfect place to plan a city break around a specific concert while discovering its many other attractions.
In 2026, sport will move beyond stadiums in Warsaw. Right in the heart of the city, the FIBA 3×3 World Cup (1–7 June) will transform the area around the Palace of Culture and Science into an arena of spectacular plays and intense sporting emotions.
On 29 August the PGE National Stadium will host the Speedway World Cup (2026 BOLL FIM Speedway World Cup), and on 19 October the Harlem Globetrotters will celebrate their 100th anniversary with a spectacular show at Torwar Hall. These events are not only for sports fans, but for anyone who wants to experience a city that thrives on world-class happenings.
4. Run in Warsaw
Discover Warsaw on the run. The Warsaw Marathon (27 September), Warsaw Half Marathon (22 March), Night Praga Half Marathon (5 September) and the evening Warsaw Uprising Run combine sport with exploring the city and its history. You can also take part in the popular urban race “Biegnij Warszawo” (3 October) or the patriotic Independence Run – one of the largest mass running events in Poland, traditionally starting on 11 November at 11:11.
Routes leading through iconic landmarks and the unique atmosphere make each of these events a perfect reason to travel.
5. Warsaw flavours – classics over trends
Warsaw tastes as diverse as it looks. Try authentic local dishes: pierogi, żurek (sour rye soup), Warsaw-style tripe, pyzy dumplings, herring or beef tartare in restaurants around the Old Town, as well as traditional milk bars that have been operating for decades. These are experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
If you visit in summer, be sure to check out rooftop bars and restaurants like the Roof or Ether. For dessert, choose doughnuts from Blikle or Zagoździński, or delicious Wedel chocolate. Warsaw cuisine tells the story of the city through simple dishes, local rituals and places loved not only by tourists, but by Varsovians themselves.
6. Industrial Wola – a new urban trail
Discover the history of a district that has transformed from Warsaw’s industrial back yard into a business hub and one of the city’s most interesting areas. The Factory Trail of Warsaw’s Wola links three popular post-industrial sites: the Norblin Factory Museum, the Railway Museum (Stacja Muzeum) and the Warsaw Gasworks Museum.
It’s a perfect option for those who like to explore cities through themed walks – from former factories and everyday working life to their contemporary functions and preserved industrial relics. The project is scheduled to launch in spring, making 2026 the ideal time to see Wola through a new perspective.
7. The Stanisław Tym Run – a sprint to the top
Stanisław Tym Run, held this year for the tenth time, (May 31) is one of Warsaw’s most original running events. Instead of city streets, participants face a vertical challenge inside the Palace of Culture and Science. Following the footsteps of the hero of the cult Polish film Miś (Teddy bear), runners climb 793 steps to reach the 30th floor.
Its intimate scale, unique atmosphere and raw monumental architecture of the palace make this a race you will remember long after the finish line.
8. Relax on the Vistula – the capital seen from the water
The best way to discover the Vistula River in Warsaw is from the water itself. All year round, you can take a cruise on traditional flat-bottomed boats inspired by historic river vessels. From the deck, you’ll see wild riverbanks with fragments of natural forest, sandy beaches and the city’s landmarks from a completely different perspective.
Even in winter, the experience is surprisingly comfortable – a warm stove heats the interior, creating a cosy contrast with the frosty air outside. This calm, authentic journey through the heart of the capital is available in every season.
9. Highline Warsaw at Varso Tower – breathtaking views
Do you want to see the city from the highest observation deck in the European Union, located 230 metres above the ground? Take the elevator to the 53rd floor of Varso Tower. From here, a 360-degree panorama opens up, offering views of the monumental Palace of Culture and Science, the vibrant city centre, bridges over the Vistula and distant districts.
This spectacular attraction is available all year round, both during the day and after sunset. A few floors below, a cocktail bar awaits, offering equally impressive views.
10. Three royal residences for free in November
Warsaw is the only city in Poland where, throughout November, you can visit three royal residences from different eras free of charge as part of the “Free November” programme.
Start with the Royal Castle, home to Canaletto’s paintings and the Senate Chamber where the famous Constitution of 3 May – the first in Europe and second in the world – was adopted. Continue to the Łazienki Royal Gardens with the Palace on the Isle and its resident peacocks, and finish in baroque Wilanów, the former residence of King Jan III Sobieski, victor over the Ottomans at Vienna in 1683. Discover which of these royal seats you like most.
11. Festive Warsaw – a city of lights, markets and atmosphere
This year, Warsaw will shine with a completely new festive illumination. The Old Town, Castle Square and Krakowskie Przedmieście will glow with fresh decorations. As every year, visitors will also be enchanted by multimedia installations in the city’s botanical gardens, the Wilanów Palace Gardens and the Multimedia Fountain Park.
The Christmas atmosphere is enhanced by festive markets in the Old Town and nearby the Palace of Culture and Science, filled with regional flavours, handicrafts and the scent of mulled wine. Take a walk through illuminated Warsaw and take this winter magic home with you.