Lively Winter in Warsaw

illuminated streets of Warsaw on Christmas

Christmas illuminations in Warsaw

An absolute winter must-do in Warsaw is a scenic walk along the illuminated streets of the UNESCO Heritage-listed Old Town. The Royal Route – formed by Nowy Świat and Krakowskie Przedmieście leading up to the Castle Square – is also beautifully decorated with lights, 3D mapping, and playful installations. A warming-up stop for a mulled wine or a hot cup of ‘barszcz’ (beetroot soup) and a traditional ‘oscypek’ (grilled sheep cheese) can be made at the Christmas market near the Barbican, just off the Castle Square or at the Old Town Market Square – surrounded by illuminated facades of colorful tenement houses. Ice skating in these surroundings will be the ultimate ‘winter in Warsaw’ experience.

Warsaw’s spectacular street illuminations are well worth a wait – usually switched on the first weekend following December 6th – to much joy for both children and grown-ups.

Christmas markets near the Old Town can be enjoyed from November 26th until January 6th – when Warsaw also sees the traditional Parade of Three Kings.

Many of Warsaw’s historical gardens, e.g., Royal Łazienki Park, Royal Wilanów Palace, and Warsaw University Botanical Gardens, have their own illuminations and audio-visual shows.

Culture in Warsaw

An intimate Chopin music concert accompanied by a glass of sparkling wine in an atmospheric Old Town venue will top off a perfect wintry evening.

Opera, ballet, and classical music lovers will also be satisfied with the winter repertoire, which can be found in the events calendar on www.warsawcitybreak.com.

Winter is also a perfect time to explore Warsaw’s numerous museums.

A memorable stay in a historic hotel

Make your stay even more memorable by choosing a historic boutique hotel in the Polish capital. The festive atmosphere, surrounding illuminations, and fabulous seasonal cuisine will make it even more special. Check https://warsawcitybreak.com/historical_hotels_warsaw/ for inspirations.

Traditional cuisine

Christmas is the perfect time to explore the comforts of traditional Polish cuisine. Staples such as cabbage and mushroom-filled pierogi or beetroot borscht can be enjoyed all year round, but only when the temperatures drop can they be appreciated the most. At Christmas time,' barszcz' gets a particular serving of 'uszka'– ravioli-shaped, delicate dumplings with mushroom filling.

Look out for local delicacies in recommended restaurants or try your own hand at the pierogi-making at a culinary workshop: https://warsawcitybreak.com/where-to-eat/

Source material: Warsaw Tourism Organization