The Ultimate Guide to Warsaw with Kids

Yes, Warsaw is surprisingly wonderful for families with children, offering world-class attractions like the Copernicus Science Centre (450+ interactive exhibits), Warsaw Zoo (12,000 animals), vast Lazienki Park with peacocks and boat rentals, plus stroller-friendly public transport where kids under 7 ride free. The city combines interactive museums, green spaces, and family-friendly restaurants at prices far below other European capitals.

Warsaw might not be the first city that comes to mind for a family vacation, but Poland's capital is surprisingly wonderful for children. From interactive museums to vast green spaces, Warsaw offers countless ways to keep kids entertained while parents explore this fascinating city. Here's your complete guide to visiting Warsaw with children.

Top Attractions for Families

Copernicus Science Centre

Poland's premier science museum is an absolute must-visit. With over 450 interactive exhibits spread across themed galleries, children can explore physics, biology, and technology through hands-on experiments. The planetarium shows are spectacular, though booking in advance is essential.

Age range: 4 and up (dedicated area for toddlers)

Time needed: 3-4 hours minimum

Warsaw Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in Europe, Warsaw Zoo houses over 12,000 animals from 500 species. The grounds are spacious and well-maintained, with plenty of playgrounds scattered throughout.

Tip: Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and more active animals

Lazienki Park

This vast royal park in the city center is perfect for families. Children love feeding the peacocks and squirrels, renting boats on the lake, and running through the manicured gardens. The Palace on the Water is stunning, and free Chopin concerts take place here on summer Sundays.

Old Town

While historic centers can be boring for kids, Warsaw's reconstructed Old Town offers plenty of interest. Street performers entertain crowds in the market square, and the Warsaw Mermaid statue makes for great photos. Stop for ice cream at one of the many cafes.

Parks and Outdoor Spaces

• Pole Mokotowskie: A huge urban park with playgrounds, bike paths, and open fields for running around
• Multimedia Fountain Park: Free evening laser and water shows (May-September)
• Wilanow Palace Gardens: Beautiful baroque gardens with space for children to explore
• Warsaw Beach: Sandy riverfront area along the Vistula, perfect for summer visits

Getting Around with Kids

Warsaw's public transport is stroller-friendly and affordable:

• Metro: Both lines have elevators at every station
• Trams: Low-floor trams are common and easy to board with strollers
• Buses: Extensive network reaching all neighborhoods
• Walking: The city center is compact and walkable

Tip: Children under 7 travel free on public transport

Where to Stay

Choose accommodation based on your family's needs:

• City center: Walking distance to major attractions, but can be noisy
• Mokotow: Quieter residential area with parks, good transport links
• Near Lazienki: Green surroundings with easy access to the park

Consider apartment rentals for more space and kitchen facilities for preparing children's meals.

Dining with Children

Polish restaurants are generally welcoming to families. Look for:

• Milk bars (Bar Mleczny): Affordable, quick service, simple foods kids love
• Pizza restaurants: Universal crowd-pleasers
• Shopping mall food courts: Variety and play areas nearby

Polish foods kids usually like: Pierogi, nalesniki (crepes), kotlet schabowy (schnitzel), and placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes)

Practical Tips

• Weather: Pack layers year-round; summers can be hot, winters very cold
• Changing facilities: Available in malls, museums, and most restaurants
• Pharmacies: Well-stocked and found throughout the city (look for "Apteka")
• Emergency: Dial 112 for emergencies; English is widely understood

Sample Itinerary: 3 Days in Warsaw with Kids

Day 1: Old Town exploration, market square ice cream, Multimedia Fountain show (summer)

Day 2: Copernicus Science Centre (morning), Lazienki Park picnic and peacock feeding (afternoon)

Day 3: Warsaw Zoo, evening walk along the Vistula riverfront

Warsaw surprises many families with its wealth of child-friendly attractions and welcoming atmosphere. The combination of cultural experiences, green spaces, and interactive museums makes it an excellent destination for travelers of all ages.

Related Warsaw Family Guides

• Explore Warsaw - City guide and family services
• Education & Childcare in Warsaw - Schools and daycare options
• Family Activities in Warsaw - Entertainment and recreation
• Add Your Business - List your family service