Warsaw’s Old Town is more than just the Royal Castle, though its grandeur and meticulously reconstructed interiors (some parts surprisingly young!) are a must-see. Climb the 147 steps of St. Anne’s Church for breathtaking views, touch the patched-up bell on ul. Kanonia for good luck, or find the ZPAF photo gallery’s tranquil backyard with daily Chopin concerts. Dawna Street offers a charming passage and a romantic viewpoint with a story of its own. Take a ride on the escalator beneath the Old Town, a communist-era marvel, and learn about the city’s protector, the mermaid at the Museum of Warsaw on the Rynek (Old Town Square). Touch the original base of Zygmunt’s Column for good luck – a symbol of resilience after being toppled in WWII. Legends abound too, from the heartbroken prince transformed into a stone bear outside the Jesuit Monastery to the tale of the Pigeon Lady who defied wartime hardships to feed the city’s birds. This is just a taste of the magic waiting to be discovered in Warsaw’s Old Town.
Warsaw’s Old Town is generally a must for visitors and hard to ignore for Varsovians. Here are a few places we consider top spots to eat and drink when you are tired of pierogi and gofry.
Opened in December 2021, Kawiarnia Patio features a retro-styled interior and a stunning covered patio with bright columns and stone flooring. The in-house baked bread and pastries are unbeatable, and the meticulously chosen coffee is divine. An oasis off the beaten tourist path in Old Town Warsaw.
ul. piwna 40/42, IG.com/kawiarnia_patio
There’s nothing quite like sampling Polish craft beer during the summer in Warsaw, especially when you can sit in the Old Town Square. Kawiarnia Same Fusy offers the best selection in a prime location. If you need more of a pick-me-up, they specialize in teas from around the world and have celestial carrot cake.
Rynek Starego Miasta 40, samefusy.pl
Half Bar & Kitchen boasts friendly service and a menu overflowing with great options. Their potato pancakes with salmon and creme fraiche are a revelation. Their schnitzel and tartare are top-notch too, perfect for comparing to any you’ve had before. Take a look at their instagram to begin feasting with your eyes. A must-try for both Old Town and New Town explorers.
Podwale 19, IG.com/half.warsaw
If you have the energy for more exploring then head through the gates of the Barbikon on the edge of Old Town into New Town. Must sees include the Maria Skłodowska-Curie Museum (ulica Freta 16) and the Multimedia Park Fountain.
Journey past the Barbican into New Town for Ukrainian star. Żyto’s borscht will redefine the dish for life. Forget watery bowls – theirs is a rich, soul-warming concoction that’ll knock your socks off. Meat lovers rejoice – their dishes are juicy and succulent. And for a sweet finale, the Kyiv cake is a calorie-worthy explosion of flavor. You’re welcome
ul. Freta 29/31, IG.com/zyto.rest
Fuel up for your daily adventure with a delicious breakfast at Mon Nom in the New Town. This popular spot offers a unique atmosphere attracting a young crowd. Their menu features breakfast classics alongside creative twists perfect for sharing and exploring flavors. Salty miso butter! This pretty much sums up the place for me.
Długa 6, IG.com/monnom_warszawa
