Nicu & Cristina in Warsaw 2026

Warsaw, Poland

December 29, 2025 - January 4, 2026
by Chris Scarlat & Olga Skoczylas
Vintage Warsaw
Warsaw, Poland
Holiday Closures

Art Galleries & Museums

Art Galleries & Museums

New MSN - Museum of Modern Art artmuseum.pl

Contemporary Polish and international art. Brand new building opened 2024.

Zacheta National Gallery of Art zacheta.art.pl

Contemporary Polish and international artists. Rotating exhibitions in historic building.

Muzeum Narodowe (National Museum) mnw.art.pl
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Al.

Extensive Polish and European art collections. One of Poland's largest museums.

Royal Castle zamek-krolewski.pl
Stare Miasto 馃搷 Plac

Reconstructed royal residence with Rembrandt paintings. UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Neon Museum neonmuzeum.org
Praga Poludnie 馃搷 Minska

Vintage neon signs from communist-era Poland. Located in Soho Factory complex.

Chopin Museum chopin.museum
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Okolnik

Interactive museum dedicated to Frederic Chopin. Located in Ostrogski Palace.

Pinball Station pinballstation.pl
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Al.

Over 100 pinball machines! Interactive fun for all ages.

Poster Museum at Wilanow postermuseum.pl
Wilanow 馃搷 St.

World's oldest poster museum (1968). 61,000+ posters including Picasso and Warhol.

Activities & Entertainment

Activities & Entertainment

From winter markets to observation decks, Warsaw offers endless entertainment during the festive season.

Winter Special 2025/2026: Christmas markets run until January 6! PLUS the EU's HIGHEST Christmas market at Highline Warsaw (Varso Tower, 49th floor, 230m) runs Dec 1 - Jan 31 with mulled wine, festive lights, and panoramic views!

Design & Architecture

Poster Museum at Wilan贸w postermuseum.pl
Wilan贸w 馃搷 St.

World's oldest poster museum (1968) with 61,000+ posters! Massive collection of Polish Poster School plus works by Picasso and Warhol. Essential for graphic designers and art lovers.

ZODIAK Warsaw Pavilion of Architecture pawilonzodiak.pl
Srodmiescie 馃搷 near

Architecture exhibitions in revitalized 1968 modernist pavilion. Showcases Warsaw's architecture history and Polish post-war modernism. Features vintage ZODIAK neon sign and Maria Leszczy艅ska mosaic.

Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporary Art u-jazdowski.pl
Ujazdow 馃搷 Jazd贸w

Contemporary art in historic castle between 艁azienki and Ujazd贸w Parks. Multiple rotating exhibitions, modern gallery space inside reconstructed castle. Home to Qchnia Artystyczna restaurant. Free entry Thursdays!

Observation Decks & Winter Attractions

Highline Warsaw - EU's Highest Christmas Market! highlinewarsaw.com
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Chmielna

Experience Warsaw from 230 meters (53rd floor of Varso Tower) - EU's highest observation deck! WINTER SPECIAL: EU's HIGHEST CHRISTMAS MARKET (Dec 1-Jan 31) with white trees, festive lights, mulled wine, and breathtaking panorama. 360掳 views, HighGarden Rooftop Lounge with real garden. Tickets 45 PLN online!

Christmas Markets
Stare Miasto 馃搷 Castle

Traditional Christmas markets with mulled wine (grzane wino), hot spiced beer (grzane piwo), local crafts, and festive atmosphere. Castle Square market runs until January 6, Palace of Culture market until January 1.

Royal Garden of Light - Wilan贸w wilanow-palac.pl
Wilan贸w 馃搷 St.

Spectacular winter illumination festival in Wilan贸w Palace Garden. Magical light displays transform the historic baroque gardens into an enchanting winter wonderland. Runs through February 28, 2026.

Multimedia Fountain Park
Powi艣le 馃搷 near

Winter fountain light shows with LED lights dancing to music. Beautiful evening spectacle perfect for cold winter nights. Shows at 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 PM on weekends and holidays. Runs until January 31.

Parks & Green Spaces

Parks & Green Spaces

Magical in winter, especially with snow.

Lazienki Krolewskie (Royal Baths Park) lazienki-krolewskie.pl
Ujazdow 00-460 馃搷 Agrykola 1

Warsaw's largest park (76 hectares). Palace on the Isle, peacocks, Chopin monument. Stunning in winter snow.

Ogrod Saski (Saxon Garden)
Srodmiescie 00-624 馃搷 Marszalkowska 1

Warsaw's oldest public park. Baroque fountains and tree-lined alleys.

Pole Mokotowskie
Mokotow 02-131 馃搷 Rokitnicka 20

Large urban park popular with locals for winter walks and recreation.

Restaurants & Dining

Restaurants & Dining

Warsaw's food scene offers everything from traditional Polish cuisine to cutting-edge international fare.

Holiday Dining
  • January 1: Many restaurants CLOSED or limited hours. Book hotel restaurants or larger venues in advance!
  • New Year's Eve (Dec 31): Reservations absolutely essential!

Polish Cuisine

Warszawska Wschodnia by Mateusz Gessler
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Elevated Polish cuisine with modern creative twists by one of Warsaw's most celebrated chefs. Sophisticated takes on traditional dishes in elegant setting. One of the city's finest dining experiences.

Opas艂y Tom
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Fine dining with modern approach to traditional Polish cuisine. Contemporary interpretations of classic dishes using seasonal local ingredients. Intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions.

Zapiecek zapiecek.eu
Multiple locations (Old Town 馃搷 Nowy

Pierogi specialists serving Poland's famous dumplings with various traditional fillings - from classic meat and potato to creative modern combinations. Authentic Polish comfort food in welcoming atmosphere. Multiple locations across Warsaw.

Restauracja W贸dka Gessler
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Traditional Polish dishes in elegant setting by renowned chef Magda Gessler. Classic recipes executed with precision, complemented by extensive Polish vodka selection. Refined dining experience showcasing Poland's culinary heritage.

Syrena Irena
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Casual pierogi restaurant with great atmosphere and generous portions. Modern take on traditional dumplings in relaxed, friendly setting. Perfect for authentic Polish comfort food without the formality.

Weekend Brunch: Palace of Culture and Science ground floor has an all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast on weekends - great value! Perfect way to start your day in the heart of Warsaw.

International & Contemporary

Qchnia Artystyczna qchnia.pl
Ujazdow 馃搷 Jazd贸w

Modern Polish and international cuisine in contemporary art gallery (U-Jazdowski Castle) with stunning terrace overlooking 艁azienki Park. By chef Marta Gessler since 1992. Perfect for a special meal with park views. Open Tue-Sun 12:00-22:00 (Thu-Sat until 23:00).

Alewino alewino.pl
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Mokotowska

Wine bar and bistro serving modern Polish cuisine with seasonal ingredients. Over 250 natural, organic and biodynamic wines. Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant. Wine shop with rare bottles. Perfect for wine lovers seeking exceptional food pairings.

Peaches Gastro Girls peachesgastrogirls.pl
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Outstanding vegan and vegetarian cuisine with bold global flavors - India, Southeast Asia, Latin America, Chinese accents, Italian classics. One of Warsaw's most exciting and innovative restaurants. Even meat-eaters rave about the creative plant-based dishes.

Sen Warsaw senwarsaw.pl
Powi艣le 馃搷 Vistula

Japanese fusion sushi restaurant by day, transforms into upscale party venue by night with stunning Vistula River views from terrace. Creative sushi and Asian-fusion dishes in sophisticated setting. Perfect for dinner followed by evening entertainment.

Nicoletta
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Authentic Italian cuisine and exceptional pizza. Traditional recipes with quality imported ingredients. Warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxed Italian dinner.

Se帽or Lucas Taqueria
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Authentic Mexican tacos and street food. Fresh, flavorful dishes that capture the spirit of Mexican cuisine. Casual, vibrant atmosphere perfect for quick bites or full meals.

Va Bene Cicchetti
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Venetian small plates (cicchetti) and natural wine in intimate setting. Authentic Venetian tapas-style dining perfect for sharing. Carefully curated wine list complements the sophisticated Italian flavors.

UKI UKI
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Japanese cuisine and sushi crafted with precision and care. Fresh ingredients and traditional techniques create authentic Japanese dining experience in modern Warsaw setting.

Nonna
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Authentic Neapolitan pizza made with traditional methods and imported Italian ingredients. Wood-fired pizzas with perfectly charred crusts and fresh toppings transport you straight to Naples.

Ganon Ramen
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen with rich, creamy pork bone broth. Authentic Japanese ramen perfect for Warsaw's cold winter days. Warm, comforting bowls that satisfy the soul.

Bar Rascal
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Creative small plates paired with exceptional natural wines. Innovative dishes that change with seasons, expertly matched with biodynamic and organic wines. Intimate, sophisticated atmosphere for wine enthusiasts.

Cafes & Coffee

Cafes & Coffee

Warsaw's specialty coffee scene is world-class, perfect for warming up during cold winter days.

Ministerstwo Kawy (Ministry of Coffee)
Multiple 馃搷

Specialty coffee roaster and cafe - among Warsaw's best for coffee enthusiasts. Expert baristas craft exceptional espresso drinks using carefully sourced beans. Perfect for serious coffee lovers seeking quality and knowledge.

Relaks
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Specialty coffee and excellent brunch in cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Perfect neighborhood cafe for relaxing mornings with quality coffee and delicious breakfast options. True to its name - pure relaxation!

Happa to Mame
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Specialty matcha cafe celebrating Japanese tea culture. Authentic ceremonial grade matcha prepared with traditional techniques. Serene, minimalist space perfect for mindful tea drinking and Japanese sweets.

Moya Matcha
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Japanese-style matcha specialist with ceremonial grade tea. High-quality matcha drinks from traditional whisked bowls to modern lattes. Beautiful presentation and authentic Japanese tea experience in heart of Warsaw.

Coffee Desk
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Minimalist specialty coffee bar perfect for coffee purists. Clean lines, focused menu, exceptional coffee executed with precision. No distractions - just outstanding coffee in sleek, modern space.

Caf茅 Blikle blikle.pl
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Nowy

Historic cafe on Nowy 艢wiat, famous for p膮czki (Polish donuts) since 1869. Warsaw institution serving legendary pastries for over 150 years. The original p膮czki filled with rose jam are a must-try piece of Warsaw history!

Wine Bars & Drinks

Wine Bars & Drinks

Warsaw's natural wine scene and speakeasy culture offer sophisticated evening options.

Grono Mokotowska grono.waw.pl
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Mokotowska

Natural wine specialist with over 200 carefully selected wines and knowledgeable, passionate staff. Beautiful design in intimate 30 sq/m space on trendy Mokotowska Street. Perfect for discovering organic and biodynamic wines.

Winem Powi艣le
Powi艣le 馃搷

Natural wine bar in hip Powi艣le district with trendy atmosphere. Curated selection of organic and biodynamic wines in relaxed, stylish setting. Perfect for evening wine exploration in one of Warsaw's coolest neighborhoods.

Superfly Wine
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Natural wines in relaxed, unpretentious setting. Friendly atmosphere where wine knowledge meets casual vibes. Great for both wine connoisseurs and curious beginners exploring natural wine world.

Lalou Wine Concept
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Modern wine bar and shop with carefully curated selection. Sophisticated space combining retail and tasting experiences. Expert staff guide you through interesting wine discoveries from around the world.

Speakeasy Bars

Weles
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Hidden speakeasy bar - ask locals for the secret entrance! Worth the hunt for this clandestine cocktail den. Once inside, enjoy expertly crafted drinks in intimate, mysterious atmosphere. True speakeasy experience!

Shopping

Shopping

Discover unique Polish designers, luxury niche perfumes, and local brands that make Warsaw a shopping destination.

Shopping Closures
  • Sundays (Dec 29, Jan 5): Most shops CLOSED (Sunday trading ban). Only small corner shops open.
  • January 1 & 6: All shops CLOSED (public holidays)
  • December 31: Most close early (~4 PM)
Shopping Districts: Mokotowska Street from Plac Trzech Krzy偶y to Plac Zbawiciela is Warsaw's fashion heart. Intersection of Mokotowska and Koszykowa for boutiques. Oleandr贸w for local designers.

Niche Perfumes & Beauty

Galilu Neoperfumeria galilu.pl
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Mokotowska

Warsaw's premier niche perfume boutique with over 70 luxury brands including A膿sop, Byredo, Diptyque, Le Labo, Fr茅d茅ric Malle, Ex Nihilo, INITIO. Poland's only authorized Diptyque distributor with shop-in-shop concept. Multiple locations across Warsaw.

Mood Scent Bar moodscentbar.com
Powi艣le 馃搷 Tamka

Niche perfumes from around the world - carefully curated selection featuring Serge Lutens, LM Parfums, Comme des Gar莽ons, and many exclusive international brands. Expert staff help you discover your perfect scent in beautiful boutique setting.

Mo61 Perfume Lab mo61.pl
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Mokotowska

Create your own custom perfume with professional perfumers! Unique experience where you design your signature scent from extracts sourced from Grasse, France. Workshop-style sessions in elegant vintage-inspired space. Perfect for gifts or personal fragrance creation.

Polish Brands & Gifts

Chocolate Cafe E. Wedel wedelpijalnie.pl
Multiple locations (Stare Miasto 馃搷 Nowy

Iconic Polish chocolate since 1851! Buy Ptasie mleczko (marshmallow chocolates) and torcik wedlowski as perfect gifts. Historic brand loved by generations of Poles. Beautiful cafe locations where you can enjoy hot chocolate and pastries.

Chylak chylak.com
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Polish minimalist luxury leather bags with international recognition. Clean lines, exceptional craftsmanship, and timeless design. Worn by fashion editors and celebrities worldwide. Made in Poland with pride.

Polish Fashion Designers & Concept Stores

TFH Concept Store tfhconcept.com
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Szpitalna

Warsaw's coolest concept store for fashion, design and art from Central and Eastern Europe! 3 floors of avant-garde clothing, streetwear, design objects, and contemporary art. Features emerging Polish and Eastern European designers. Hosts exhibitions, events. Don't miss the vintage basement!

Mysia 3 Design Mall mysia3.pl
Srodmiescie 馃搷 Mysia

3-floor boutique shopping center in old tenement house! Polish and international designers, fashion, jewelry, art, home decor. Includes SOTE gold jewelry, ethical fashion, Leica camera shop, photography gallery, vintage finds, and third-generation family apothecary with natural skincare. Perfect for unique gifts.

Cloudmine Concept Store
Srodmiescie 馃搷

Broadest "Made in Poland" selection! Emerging Polish designers, ethical fashion, feminist t-shirts, quirky accessories. Features minimalist bodies, dresses, books, illustrations, porcelain, lingerie. Hosts art events and meet-ups with artists. Two floors of contemporary Polish design celebrating local creativity.

Live Music & Nightlife

Live Music & Nightlife

Jazz clubs, underground techno, vinyl stores with DJ nights.

Jazz Clubs

12on14 Jazz Club 12on14jazzclub.pl
Srodmiescie 00-666 馃搷 Noakowskiego 16

Warsaw's premier jazz venue. World-class international acts. One of the best in Central Europe.

Jassmine jassmine.pl
Srodmiescie 00-372 馃搷 Foksal 17

Modern jazz club with great stage and sound. Wine bar atmosphere. Book in advance.

Pardon To Tu pardontotu.pl
Mokotow 馃搷 Al.

Warsaw's LEGENDARY experimental jazz and vinyl club! Avant-garde jazz, free improvisation, eclectic music in intimate setting. Vinyl shop with records on walls you can buy. Host to 600+ concerts since 2011 featuring world's top avant-jazz acts. Eclectic crowd of beatniks, late hours, authentic atmosphere. Perfect for serious music lovers who want substance over spectacle.

Underground Techno

Smolna @smolnawarsaw
Srodmiescie 00-375 馃搷 Smolna 38

Warsaw's premier techno club. 19th-century tenement, industrial-chic, powerful sound system.

Srodmiescie 00-375 馃搷 Aleje Jerozolimskie 6

Legendary underground club open 365 days! Red Room (house) + Black Room (hard techno). After-parties until noon. NO PHOTOS. Cash only after 2 AM.

Vintage, Upcycling & Art Studios

Vintage, Upcycling & Art Studios

Sustainable fashion, second-hand treasures, creative workshops.

Vintage & Second-Hand

MisioVintage @misiovintage
Praga Polnoc 03-736 馃搷 Zabkowska 27/31

Curated vintage from the 60s-90s. Designer pieces and unique finds.

Usta do Ust ustadoust.com
Srodmiescie 00-020 馃搷 Chmielna 20

Premium second-hand boutique. Luxury brands at accessible prices.

Art Studios & Workshops

Art-studio Mara mara-warsztaty.pl
Mokotow 02-512 馃搷 Pulawska 20

Drawing, painting, pottery, macrame workshops. Paint in one session or over several visits.

Fundacja Atelier atelier.org.pl
Srodmiescie 00-679 馃搷 Wilcza 46

Art classes in English! Join anytime Sept-June. Summer Art School in July/August.

New Year's Eve 2025/2026

New Year's Eve 2025/2026

Ring in 2026 in style! Rooftop views to underground techno.

Tips: Book early - popular venues sell out! Public transport runs all night. FREE fireworks at Castle Square at midnight!

Rooftop & Views

Level 27 NYE Party level27.pl
Srodmiescie 00-400 馃搷 Nowy Swiat 6/12

Panoramic city views, champagne toast at midnight, DJ sets. Dress code: Elegant. Starts 9 PM.

Highline Warsaw NYE highlinewarsaw.com
Srodmiescie 00-805 馃搷 Chmielna 89

230m above Warsaw! EU's highest observation deck. 360掳 views, champagne, unbeatable fireworks vista.

Free Public Celebrations

Old Town Fireworks & Concerts
Stare Miasto 00-277 馃搷 Plac Zamkowy

Warsaw's biggest FREE celebration! Live concerts at Castle Square, spectacular midnight fireworks. Arrive early!