9 Day Trips From Warsaw: What to see around Warsaw
Whether it’s because you’ve already been to Warsaw before or maybe you’re staying for longer, there might come a time when you’ve seen most of what there is to see in the city. What then?
Never fear, because there happens to be a lot of great things to see around Warsaw! Whether traveling by public transport or hopping in your own car, these spots make for the perfect day trip from Warsaw. Let’s start the adventure!
1. Kampinoski Park Narodowy
The large Kampinoski National Park is a must see for any nature lovers or anyone who simply wants to get out of the city. The UNESCO Reserve has around 350 km of trails perfect for walking or running, and an additional 200km of biking paths. There are also horse paths for anyone interested in taking a ride. Apart from all the natural beauty of the protected flora and fauna, there are also lots of different sites marking historical events in Warsaw’s history. The perfect family-friendly activity near Warsaw.
2. Nieborów and Arkadia
The Radziwiłł Palace in Nieborów and Romantic Park in Arkadia are definitely worth a look if you like pretty things. This museum was once the estate of the Duke Radziwiłł and houses many beautiful 17th-19th century paintings, statues, and pieces of furniture. Don’t forget to take a breathtaking stroll in the 18th century Baroque gardens while you’re there!
3. The Open-Air Museum in Kuligów
Located to the north of Warsaw near the Bug River, the Open Air Museum in Kuligów is a true journey back in time. It depicts village life and crafts from the turn of the XX century in the Mazowsze and Podlasie areas. You can take a look around to see buildings from both the outside and the inside and, if you’re lucky, you can give local crafts a try. A must-see for history lovers and people who have a soft spot for the countryside.
4. Modlin Fortress (Twierdza Modlin)
You might have heard of the airport in Modlin, but this town also holds a fortress that is really worth seeing. Built under the command of Napoleon, this fortress saw battle in all the major wars until it was finally sold into private hands in 2012-13. You can see the fortress both with or without a guide, although you get to see more if you get a guide. Great for families and military or history buffs.
5. Zalew Zegrzyński
The Zegrze Reservoir is located to the north of the capital and a hugely popular area for a day trip from Warsaw. Varsovians flock here to sunbathe on the lake’s sandy beach, swim, go canoeing, kayaking, or boating on the calm waters. It’s very convenient to get to since there is a Warsaw public transport bus that goes there, so you don’t have to take a car or taxi. It can really get crowded in the summer so make sure to come early if you want a good spot.
6. Zamek w Czersku
The Castle of the Mazovian Princes in Czersk is another historical place around Warsaw that takes you back in time. The most interesting thing about this castle is not only the testament to Polish history that it holds, but also the connection between Poland and the rest of Europe that it proves (do you know which famous Italians, Lithuanians, and Anglo-Saxons lived and died here?) Check out the website to see if you’re lucky enough to take part in any of the various cultural events the castle holds during the year.
7. Zamek w Liwie
If castles are your thing, you’ll be happy to hear there’s another castle outside of Warsaw. The castle in Liw dates back to the Middle Ages and now has an impressive collection of weapons and armor on display. The castle also offers cultural events and jousting tournaments so check their website for the most up-to-date information.
8. Żelazowa Wola
This small town that lies to the west of Warsaw is most known for being the birthplace of Poland’s greatest classical composer—Frederic Chopin. You can visit the home he was born in (which is now a museum) and also take a nice walk in the nearby park. If you go in the summer, make sure to save some time to listen to the summer Chopin concerts played by pianists from all over the world.
9. Żyrardów
This XIX-century industrial city is an absolute must-see if you’re traveling west of Warsaw or on the way to Łódź. The town thrived on producing fabric and it still has different looms used throughout the ages that you can see in the local museum. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the meticulously-planned, red brick communities that housed the workers of the mills and factories. You rarely get to see an industrial city as well preserved as this one, making it an absolutely unique day trip outside Warsaw.
Have you taken any of these great day trips from Warsaw? How was it? Are there any additional places around Warsaw you think are worth seeing? Let us know down below!