Things to do & places to visit in Central Poland, Poland

Home to the nation’s capital and biggest city of Warsaw, Central Poland is the entry point for most travelers who arrive in the country by air. Industrial Lodz, the second biggest city, is here too, almost exactly at the country’s middle. Poznan and Torun are also popular with tourists, each boasting very pretty Old Town areas. Kampinos National Park, Poland’s second-largest, covers about 150 square miles. It's within easy reach of Warsaw and is a great site for hiking, cycling and skiing.

Central Poland #2 destination in Poland 2023. The average rating score is 4.45 based on 101.0k traveler reviews, of 150 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Warsaw, current date and time: Saturday, May 04, 2024, 22:51.

Top things to do (27)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

4.5 Old Town (13.9k reviews)
- Rebuilt but still great to see
Historic Walking Areas

After being leveled when the Nazis left, this whole neighborhood of cobblestone Gothic streets and alleyways, baroque palaces, numerous churches and tiered burghers' houses were masterfully reconstructed to reflect the atmosphere of bygone days. See more..
4.5 Łazienki Królewskie w Warszawie (8.666 reviews)
- Words can't describe how beautiful & big this park is
Saturday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Parks

The Royal Łazienki was King Stanisław August’s summer residence, in which a classicist architecture is harmoniously blended with its natural surroundings featuring fabulous gardens See more..
4.5 Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego (7.424 reviews)
- A comprehensive museum telling the history of the 1944 Warsaw Uprisings.
Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums • History Museums

The Warsaw Rising Museum was opened on the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of fighting in Warsaw. The Museum is a tribute of Warsaw’s residents to those who fought and died for independent Poland and its free capital. The exhibition depicts fighting and everyday life during the Rising, keeping occupation terror in the background. Complexity of the international situation at the time of the Rising is portrayed, including the post-war years of the Communist regime and the fate of Insurgents in the People’s Republic of Poland (PRL). With the total area of more than 3000 m2, 800 exhibition items, approximately 1500 photographs, films and sound recordings, history of the days preceding the Rising is told. Visitors are guided through the subsequent stages of the Rising until the time when the Insurgents left Warsaw. Their further fate is also portrayed. See more..
4.5 Rynek Starego Miasta (4.810 reviews)
- Gorgeous year round
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas • Civic Centres

Surrounded by beautiful seventeenth- and eighteenth-century merchants' houses, this lively square is filled with street vendors, cafes, shops, galleries and some of Warsaw's top restaurants. See more..
4.5 POLIN Muzeum Historii Żydów Polskich (4.205 reviews)
- Very interesting museum
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews is the first and only museum dedicated to restoring the memory of the civilization created by Polish Jews in the course of a millennium.Museum's building faces the Monument to the Ghetto Heroes in Warsaw. The Museum completes the memorial complex. At the monument, we honor those who perished by remembering how they died. At the museum, we honor them, and those who came before and after, by remembering how they lived. As a museum of life, POLIN Museum engages with the present and opens out to the future. As an educational and cultural institution, the museum is dedicated to stimulating dialogue in the spirit of mutual understanding and respect. Museum's core exhibition is a journey through the 1000-year history of Polish Jews. Enter this theater of history where the story unfolds in acts and scenes as you walk. Immerse yourself in the story. Encounter those who lived in each period - their words are quoted throughout the exhibition. Enter the scene - a salon, tavern, home, church, synagogue, or schoolroom. There are surprises in drawers you can open, screens and objects you can touch, and much that you can see - artifacts, photographs, documents, and films. Each visit to the museum will be different. There will always be something new to inspire you! See more..
4.5 Copernicus Science Centre (3.085 reviews)
- Very nice science center worth visiting
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Science Museums • Observatories & Planetariums

The Copernicus Science Centre is one of the largest science centres in Europe. Its exhibition is divided into six interdisciplinary parts with over 400 exhibits. Music is combined here with biology, and mathematics with architecture. Science enters the realm of feelings, and the visitors themselves may become the object of observation. See more..
4.5 Old Market Square (2.772 reviews)
- Inspiring Old World Square
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Old Market Square in Poznan is a well friendly and well maintained example of an Old World Town Center. Beautiful architecture and excellent places to visit and eat. At noon the mechanical goats emerge from the tower have been entertaining visitors for hundreds of years. Also has a friendly and helpful Visitor Center. See more..
4.5 Zamek Królewski w Warszawie - Muzeum (2.660 reviews)
- Stunning interior
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Castles • History Museums

The Royal Castle in Warsaw (Polish: Zamek Królewski w Warszawie) is a castle residency that formerly served throughout the centuries as the official residence of the Polish monarchs. Initially the complex served as the residence of the Dukes of Masovia, and since the sixteenth century, the seat of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth: the King and Parliament. In its long history the Royal Castle was repeatedly plundered and devastated by the invading Swedish, Brandenburgian, Prussian and Tsarist armies. Burned and looted by the Nazi Germans following the Invasion of Poland in 1939 and almost completely destroyed in 1944 after the failed Warsaw Uprising, the Castle was completely rebuilt and reconstructed. Reconstruction of the castle carried out in 1971–1984 was led by the Civic Committee, responsible for the reconstruction of Warsaw. In 1980, the Royal Castle, together with the Old Town was registered as a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. See more..
4.5 Castle Square (Plac Zamkowy) (2.447 reviews)
- Very lively
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Located in Old Town, this picturesque open plaza was built in 1821 and features the King Zygmunt III column in its center. See more..
4.5 Nowy Swiat (2.127 reviews)
- Posh street
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Nowy Swiat is considered to be the posh commercial road of Warsaw with lots of shops, connecting the old city with the new center area. Since there are plenty of shops here, you get to have lots of cafes and restaurants too. Several buildings with beautiful architecture can be seen on this street, with nice lighting during the night. See more..
4.5 Museum of King Jan III's Palace at Wilanow (1.814 reviews)
- a must see on Warsaw's map
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums • Art Museums • History Museums

A beautiful palace with even more beautiful gardens. It's a pretty quiet place where you can rest and enjoy beautiful views. I highly recommend it because it is a lifetime experience, and what is also importants it is cheap to get there (at least for students). See more..
4.5 Monument to the Warsaw Uprising Fighters (1.564 reviews)
- Puts things Ito perspective
Monuments & Statues

We did not realise, but the day we visited this monument was the date of the uprising. The monument is well designed, and shows some of the hardship that the Polish people went through, leading to the uprising. It brings into perspective the reasons behind what happened, and later in the day, near our hotel there was a short service to remember what happened at the uprising. We were able to speak to someone who understood English, and was able to explain some of the history behind this. It was moving ma d reminder to me of the sacrifice that Polish people made during and after the second world war. See more..
4.5 The Living Museum of Gingerbread (1.484 reviews)
- Family relax and education
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

The Living Museum of Gingerbreads in Torun is the first so interactive museum in Europe. It has existed since 2006 and it is located at 9 Rabianska street, in the middle of the city center. It all takes place in the Medieval Bakery under the watchful eyes of Gingerbread Master. Visitors prepare dough by themselves and bake their own gingerbreads. Another floor is a manufacturing room from the early 20th century where we teach how to decorate gingerbreads with an icing. We welcome all those who want to learn about the tradition of baking gingerbreads in Torun and its medieval culture. All of this happens in a fantastic atmosphere with a great deal of humor. The visit in our Museum is fun and joy for everyone, no matter what age you are. We welcome visitors daily 10am – 6pm. The last show starts at 5 pm. The show translated in English starts at 2 pm. See more..
4.5 Piotrkowska Street (1.417 reviews)
- Central Street of Lodz
Scenic Walking Areas

Broad amazing street with lots of caffees, shops and sights. The main street of Lodz with an interesting story. It is almost always over-crowded, but it does not lose its charm because of it. This place is a must-visit in the first turn when you come to Lodz. There are a lot of little and interesting monuments. See more..
4.5 Chopin Monument (1.256 reviews)
- Such a soothing and comforting nature escape in the heart of Warsaw. Must visit
Monuments & Statues

What a lovely attraction right the park entrance!! Chopin Monument in Łazienki Park is a prominent structure that you can notice immediately after getting inside the park. There are live musical performances organised here on weekends. Summer evenings here are such a treat for every passer-by. There are musical benches playing Chopin's lovely work! The park is a tremendous beauty and totally worth a lazy stroll alone or with friends. A top attraction in Warsaw that I'd recommend to everyone. Go for it guys See more..
4.5 Grób Nieznanego Żołnierza (1.215 reviews)
- RESPECT!
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues

Humbled by the strength of the Polish people. Tourists should know, that this monument was ruined, and it was part of Saski Palace, destroyed by the Nazi soldiers in 1944. Absolute respect to the miraculous people who were heroes, and helped make Poland what is is today! See more..
4.5 Krakowskie Przedmiescie (1.193 reviews)
- A great avenue to walk in Warsaw to get to the Old Town.
Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas

This 2.5 mile "Road of Kings" leads from The Royal Castle (Old Town) to Wilanow Palace. See more..
4.5 Manufaktura (1.190 reviews)
- Very interesting and unique shopping place in the centre of Lodz
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Shopping Malls

An attraction for tourists, a hangout for Łodz residents, heaven for gourmets and renowned brand lovers, a place full of life and positive energy - Manufaktura has very quickly become the city’s flagship, as recognisable as Piotrkowska Street. Today it is hard to picture Łodz without Manufaktura. With no beach in the summer, no kermis and ice rink in the winter, no concerts in the market square or tasty evenings in local restaurants. Manufaktura means: museums, cinema, theatre, a quarter of a thousand boutiques and stores, playgrounds for the youngest, fitness club, a few dozens restaurants and cafes. But its centre is the over 3 ha large Łodz Women Textile Workers Market Square, which serves as a friendly public space. Here cultural and entertainment events are organised, attracting both residents and tourists. Here the Europe’s longest fountain illuminates the darkness with colours and envelops superbly designed recreational areas in its murmur. See more..
4.5 Town Square - Old Town (1.179 reviews)
- Strange
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Beautiful town. Would recommend anyone to visit this place. Just walking the old streets were a joy. I was there 29th January and Christmas decorations along with a few Christmas trees were still on show. For a strange reason it made the town look even more beautiful. See more..
4.5 Zlote Tarasy (1.077 reviews)
- Amazing architecture, great array of stores. Easily accessible. In city centre.
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Shopping Malls

Nothing you probably cannot find here. Sprawling a wide area bang in the city centre conjoined with the main central train station of Warsaw…provides a delightful experience for shoppers, travelers and strollers alike. Pretty much got all shops ranging from clothing to electronics to lifestyle. The architecture of the mall is the one the catch your eye the most. With panoramic views of the skyline of Warsaw and sunlight filling in the through the glassy, wavy windows, it provides for a pleasant experience. Has a food court upstairs with almost all the big names and what you might want. If you are ever in Warsaw or transiting via train, definitely drop in! See more..
4.5 Pomnik Bohaterów Getta (994 reviews)
- A poignant monument to the Jews that fought back in Warsaw.
Historic Sites • Monuments & Statues

The Monument to the Ghetto Heroes, (Pomnik Bohaterów Getta), commemorates the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943 during WW2 and the German occupation of Poland. The monument is located in the area which was formerly a part of the Warsaw Ghetto, at the spot where the first armed clash of the uprising took place. The monument is built partly of Nazi German materials originally brought to Warsaw in 1942 by Albert Speer for his planned works. The completed monument was formally unveiled in April 1948. The monument can be found very close to the popular POLIN Museum. See more..
4.5 Palace on the Island (937 reviews)
- This is such a beautiful place and a must visit if in Warsaw.
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites

Built by King Stanislaw August Poniatowski during the second half of the 18th century, this neoclassical palace once served as a royal residence that is surrounded with ponds, canals and magnificent park-like grounds. See more..
4.5 Malta Lake (842 reviews)
- Charming
Bodies of Water • Points of Interest & Landmarks

The lake is known for major kayak and rowing events. It was created by damming up the Cybina River and covers an area of 64 hectares. It is situated in the East part of the city. See more..
4.5 Croissant Museum (817 reviews)
- Go for info, come away with calories & a smile!
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

This is great infotainment for the whole family. Though it calls itself a museum, a booking gets you a fabulously funny, informative, and interactive workshop. It is very hands-on, but not intimidating! There are English-language workshops at 14:00 each day, and the day I went, there were visitors from France, Belgium, Israel, and Germany. Apart from getting your hands (or fists) in the dough, and tasting the famous St. Martin's Croissant, there's even a prize if you guess the correct weight (which I did, by some fluke)! See more..
4.5 PGE National Stadium (785 reviews)
- Nation Stadium
Saturday: 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 2-3 hours Arenas & Stadiums • Convention Centers

PGE National Stadium in Warsaw, whose operator is PL.2012 company, is one of the most modern multi-functional facilities in Europe and worldwide. According to 360° strategy, the stadium is vibrant thanks to daily sports, social and business events. In 2014 it became one of the most popular venues in Poland, attracting 1, 8 million guests. In the course of 12 months over 500 sports, business, social, entertaining and cultural events were held at the stadium. The arena was built for the purposes of UEFA EURO 2012™. Since then the stadium has hosted such events as the opening game of FIVB Men’s World Championship Poland 2014, concerts of the world’s biggest stars, COP-19 Climate Summit, the conference organized by European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and even Indoor Windsurfing World Championship. At the stadium stands there are 58 thousand seats. In the arena crown there are 68 exclusive loge seats, exhibition space, a conference centre, which at the same time can serve over 2000 guests. There is also office space with the acreage of almost 16 thousand square meters. PGE National Stadium is open and available for everyone. It is active every day, regardless of the season of the year. It is one of 25 best managed stadiums in Europe. Since 2014 the facility has been profitable. This year it is supposed to make operational profit. See more..
4.5 Park Cytadela (771 reviews)
- Spread of Sights in the Citadel
Parks

The Cytadela park has quite a few surprises. Due to its size, you need time to get to its attractions - fresh air is a definite side benefit. Besides the usual lawns, ponds, flowers and trees, there's a cemetery, tall bell tower, funky sculptures and a military museum. Sure to appeal to the military buffs, these are relics of Poland's Warsaw Pact days, tanks are parked in a public place, while aircraft are placed behind fences. And surprise - about 5km away in the grounds of Poznan University of Technology is a SU-22M4. See more..
4.5 University of Warsaw Library (761 reviews)
- Small piece of heaven
Libraries

The library inside the building can only be accessed by pass holders (probably students). The gardens on the surrounding area of the library can be accessed by anyone. This is a pedestrian area, with easy access from the road. It is a beautiful green garden. The building of the library itself has a unique green aluminum color, matching the colors of the surrounding gardens. See more..
4.5 Hala Koszyki (729 reviews)
- Nice eating and drinking hall with great bars and restaurants
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Shopping Malls

Eighteen fabulous restaurant concepts, eleven fantastic groceries and service premises - Warsaw's Śródmieście regained its lost pearl. Hala Koszyki is the first and the only place of its kind in whole Poland. Now all the best restaurateurs and chefs may feed you with the delicacies from every part of the world under one roof at Hala Koszyki. See more..
4.5 Statue of the Little Insurgent (722 reviews)
- To be seen
Monuments & Statues

A bronze statue commemorates the children who lost their lives in the Warsaw Rising. See more..
4.5 Parish Church of St. Stanislaus (Fara Church) (666 reviews)
- One of the most STUNNING churches I have ever visited. Not to be missed on your visit to Poznan.
Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

This huge parish church is known for its magnificent Baroque ornamentation in the chapels of the Holy Cross, which feature a 16th-century crucifix and the Virgin Mary. See more..