Located on the eastern edge of Europe, Poland is a country of broad plains and some very remote areas of wilderness. It has a rich and varied history, and its climate varies from cool and damp to warm. There are many amazing things to do in Poland, from visiting the Warsaw Old Town to the Auschwitz Death camp and the Tatra Mountains of the south.
Auschwitz. It is a name that is synonymous with pain, suffering, horror, murder and the Holocaust. It is a name that can fill you with fear instantly, and there are not many people around the globe who don’t know its name. So, is visiting Auschwitz with kids and teens a good idea?
We took our two daughters to Auschwitz-Birkenau after they had asked to visit during our trip to Poland. Both have done lots of reading about WWII, and it was a place they remembered us visiting without them on a previous visit to Poland. It was a decision that took a lot of thought on our behalf and many more hours of talking with them.
Visiting Auschwitz with kids
In this post, we will cover the most frequently asked questions about Auschwitz that we had after we visited Auschwitz with kids and try to answer all you will need to know to support your kids at Auschwitz the best way possible.
Visiting Auschwitz with teens
If visiting Auschwitz with family is something you want to do you need to make sure you have an open conversation with your kids about the visit.
The more you talk about this dark tourism site, the more you will be able to gauge what information they can handle and what you may have to look out for. A visit to Auschwitz is an emotional experience for adults, let alone kids, teens or older children.
Cultural experiences for teenagers are important.
Resources for preparing for your visit to Auschwitz with teenagers
If you are visiting Auschwitz with teenagers, you may find doing some research before you go to be invaluable. We found that talking as a family with our daughters was a great way to prepare them a small amount. Below are some of the resources we used before we visited Auschwitz with kids.
Books on Auschwitz
Our daughters both found teenage-appropriate books in their school libraries. Some were stories from survivors of Auschwitz Death Camp and some general WWII books had references to what happened in the concentration camps during the war.
We found that nonfiction or based-on-people books on Auschwitz aimed at young adults were the best for the girls to read. They contained more information and much more emotion than a fictional book.
Documentaries on Auschwitz
We found many documentaries on Netflix, SBS, ABC, and other channels that were appropriate for them to watch, but we did watch them with the girls. We could answer questions and then talk about what we had seen.
These also gave them a stark look at the horror they would witness.
Some documentaries we watched were:
World War II in colour
The Hitler Youth
We decided not to watch movies like Schindler’s list or Boy in the Striped Pyjama’s with the girls before we left for the visit to the Auschwitz Concentration Camp. They have both decided that they are not ready to watch them now.
Internet searches for Auschwitz
We found that we could easily research any of the information that we wanted on the Internet. However, we also found that there were many confronting and differing views on the subject. Some were not age-appropriate for our daughters, which at times led to heavy conversations.
If you are going to research on the internet, please make sure that you are visiting an accredited site that gives you the correct information for you to discuss with your teens before you visited Auschwitz-Birkenau.
On both times we have made a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau there have not been a lot of more minor children at Auschwitz with family. There were a couple of very small children in prams and a couple in wraps on their parents, but at no time did we see small children wandering around the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.
If you do need to take your younger children, there are not many places for them to wait if a building you want to visit is not appropriate for them to enter as well.
We found that even though it was located near a town, it was an extremely quiet place. You may have to rethink your visit to Auschwitz or maybe even visit on different days if you can and leave your little ones with another parent or family member while you go there.
I found myself completely absorbed in my emotions the first time we went, and I am glad I did not have my young children at Auschwitz with me at that time.
For young children who cannot comprehend what happened there, you may find that they are ok with a visit. There are rooms with shoes, luggage, pots and uniforms, but not many graphic scenes are depicted. If there are, you can quickly identify them and not enter the room with your children. Much of what is on display is people’s belongings, things that belonged to someone who had no idea what was going to happen and that is such a different level of emotion.
Dark tourism destinations can be a confronting
Making a booking to visit Auschwitz
You can book tickets to the Auschwitz Birkenau memorial site on the official website or book various day tours from places such as Krakow and Warsaw. There are so many Auschwitz tour packages available so take your time in selecting what is best for you.
If it is your first visit to Auschwitz, a guide is a fantastic way to learn what actually took place at the concentration camp.
They are generally in groups of 20-30 people, and you are given a headset to wear, and the tour guide speaks into that as you walk through the Auschwitz concentration camp.
Auschwitz ticket prices with tour
3.5 hour guided tour for adults
$23 USD
€ 18.90
3.5 hour guided tour with concession
$19.80
€ 16.67
You can organise a guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau through the website, or if you need to visit Auschwitz from Krakow or another city, you can organise a day trip to Auschwitz that includes a guided tour.
Did we visit Auschwitz with kids on a tour?
We decided not to do this kind of tour with our daughters as visiting Auschwitz is such an emotional journey we were worried that at some point we would have to leave the tour and we did not want to distress or interrupt other people’s experience during the tour.
Organised tours with teenagers at Auschwitz
Visiting Auschwitz without a guide
It concerned me that many people visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial without a guide, and many of the horrors here are lost to them. Some places in the camp need a person to explain to you why it is a significant place and what happened and without a guide at Auschwitz, that can be difficult.
A self-guided tour of Auschwitz we believe is a good option for families with older kids. It gives you the option to go at your child’s pace and you can control some of what they will see.
There are plenty of signs around the camp that will describe what happened in certain places and significant sights. They are very explanatory and are very well written.
In most of the buildings at this dark tourism site, there is a lot of information about what happened at the camp and in certain rooms.
Should I visit Auschwitz with kids?
Only you know your child, what their level of comprehension is about visiting a concentration camp. While we can give you the best of what we did you need to keep in mind you need to do what is right for your family when visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.
The horrors of Auschwitz are on display everywhere
Tips for visitingAuschwitz with teens
We can think of many tips for visiting the Auschwitz Memorial and so many things you can do to prepare. Here are some of our top tips:
Talk about the visit to the concentration camp before and after you go. The more you talk, the more you can see how it is affecting them
Take your time. Don’t plan to rush through, but do plan to leave if you need to as well
Organise dinner or lunch after your visit. We found this a great way to sit and talk about what they had seen after the visit. You may not eat much but it gives you a chance to talk.
Emotions are funny things. Let them express what they feel as much as they can
General top tips for visiting Auschwitz
We found that our visit was highly emotional on both trips to Auschwitz and completely different.
The first time we went was just the two of us, and the second was with our daughters. While both of the visits to Auschwitz were different, some things were the same.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your allocated time, especially if you are driving to Auschwitz. This will give you time to park the car, get through security and find your guide if you are on a tour.
Make sure you have a form of identity for all people you have booked tickets for. The name on the booking must match the name on the ticket, and you need it for the kids as well.
Do not bring anything with you, such as pens, pencils, markers, or large bags. Your bag will be searched on arrival, and any inappropriate items will be removed.
There are places outside of both Auschwitz and Birkenau where you can purchase something to eat and drink, but not within the camp.
Parking at Auschwitz costs 6 euros, and parking at Birkenau costs 8 euros.
Should I visit Auschwitz with kids? – Our opinion
Our visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau with teens is still something we talk about a lot and something that we are asked about a lot. We talked extensively with our daughters about what they would see and witness while we were there.
Mark and I had visited Auschwitz previously, and we were able to use some of that insight to help our daughters with what they would see. I believe this helped us immensely.
Ultimately, you know your children and your teens and only you can decide what they can handle. They will be in a place where millions were murdered, there are pictures, and there are sights that will stay with them.
How did our daughters feel after the visit to Auschwitz?
When I asked the girls what they felt, they said they felt heavy. Heavy hearts, heavy minds and heavy thoughts and I thought it was a very fitting way to explain how being in Auschwitz feels. The ideas that you have make your whole body heavy.
How to visit Auschwitz with kids
There are so many options on how to visit Auschwitz, but it will depend on the amount of time you have and what you believe your kids can handle.
Organised tour to Auschwitz from Kraków
For those who are not confident driving in Poland, this will be the perfect way to get from Kraków to Auschwitz.
Self-driving from Krakow to Auschwitz
This may be the best way if you are confident about driving. This will give you the freedom that you and your children may need with a visit to Auschwitz.
Self-guided day trip from Krakow to Auschwitz
There are also tours to Auschwitz, where the company will guide you to the concentration camp, and from there, you will make your way around the Auschwitz Memorial.
Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp in the summer
The Auschwitz Concentration Camp is a hot place in the summer. The brick buildings will hold a lot of the heat, and other parts are not shaded. It is kept as it was as much as possible, so these modifications would take some things away from how hard this environment would have been for the prisoners held there.
A visit out to Birkenau will be just as hot. There is no shade and minimal places to stop and rest, especially if you are on a tour.
Visiting Auschwitz in winter
The winter at Auschwitz will be just as extreme as the summer months. While there is heating in the buildings at Auschwitz, the camp at Birkenau is open to all elements. You need to ensure you have all the correct clothing to visit Auschwitz in winter.
There are so many things that you need to consider when you plan on visiting the Auschwitz concentration camp. We hope our trips to Auschwitz give you some idea of what to expect and some things to consider before you go.
VisitingAuschwitz from Krakow tips
If you are making a day trip to Auschwitz from Krakow, make sure you can easily reach your tour company’s pick-up point.
Where to stay when visiting Auschwitz
As we were self-driving, we found staying in the nearby town of Oswiecim much easier. We had a hotel room around a 7-minute drive to the camp.
There are plenty of places to stay in Osweim, whether it be a hotel, hostel, or apartment. Make sure you book what your family needs.
We hope this post from us here at Wyld Family Travel has given you some helpful information on what to expect when you are visiting Auschwitz with kids and teenagers. Visiting Auschwitz is a very emotional journey and one that many people find difficult to handle. With this post, we hope we have given you some of the tools you may need if you are visiting Auschwitz with your family.
Travel with teenagers and tweens. Travelling with older kids has just as many issues as travelling with younger kids. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations can be so time-consuming. Use our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides from all over the world for your next family vacation inspiration to make your family vacations with teens epic.
Need more guidance, travel with teens tips and family travel advice from an expert family travel blog? Use our tips, tricks and advice for teen travel page for detailed, first-hand family travel vacation inspiration.
Co-founder and SEO editor here at Wyld Family Travel. Bec has travelled to over 45 countries across 3 continents and is a journey with kids advocate. When Bec is not planning travel, she creates content for our family travel blog or does local community service work. You can find all of Bec’s detailed travel guides here on Wyld Family Travel and on other popular websites such as Lonely Planet.
The capital city of Poland is an under-visited gem of Eastern Europe. Bursting at the seams with history, a mix of modern and communist architecture, wide boulevards and hip neighbourhoods. In this article, we look at the best things to do in Warsaw with teenagers.
Once the home of Polish monarchs, a city rebuilt after the Nazis raised it to the ground, a city of nature and amazing food. There is a multitude of options for families visiting Warsaw with teens.
Know before you go. Our top Warsaw travel tips
Travelling to Warsaw can be such an enriching experience for the whole family. There are so many things to do in Warsaw and having the best place to stay in Warsaw to explore is extremely important. Here we’ve got some information to get you planning your family vacation to the Polish Capital to make it completely hassle-free.
Where to stay in Warsaw with teenagers
Visitors will never be short of options for your accommodation in Warsaw. In Warsaw, you find a range of hotels, apartments and hostels. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families and groups on every budget.
If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or you want to stay in a specific part of the city, we recommend usingTrip Advisor andHotels Combined to find the best prices in Warsaw.
Luxury accommodation in Warsaw: Located in the centre of Warsaw in a historic, knowledgeable building is the H15 Boutique Hotel. This hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant, spa facilities and tour desks. Stay in family-friendly 2-bedroom suites.
Mid-Range: This 2-star Hotel Gordon has parking, free Wi-Fi, cable TV and 24-hour reception. Family rooms for 4 people, An onsite restaurant serving both Polish and international cuisine.
Hostels in Warsaw: Located on the doorstep of the Warsaw Old Town is the Dream Hostel. Featuring rooms with ensuites, a tour desk and a communal area with cooking and laundry facilities. This hostel is highly recommended.
Warsaw apartment alternative for your stay
If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation when you travel with teenagers, then an apartment is the best choice for you on your Warsaw vacation with teens. There are so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options as well. Check out the map below to find the perfect apartment in Warsaw for teenagers on your Warsaw vacation with family.
How to get to Warsaw Poland
The Fredrik Chopin International Airport is located just ### kilometres from the centre of Warsaw. The Warsaw Airport is home to LOT Polish Airlines and is serviced by budget airlines including Easyjet and Ryanair. Book yourflights to Warsawwith CheapOair.
You can catch trains to Warsaw from all over Europe and Poland. High-speed trains run frequently between Warsaw and Krakow in around 2 hours. You can book yourSuper Saver fare tickets book here! with Bahn.de
Flix Bus has buses running daily to Warsaw from destinations inside Poland and International destinations. Search for your bus tickets to Warsaw
Poland has some great Highways for driving, The newer Highways built with E.U assistants are levied with what I would say are heavy tolls. Some local roads do leave a lot to be desired. You can hire a car at any international airport in Poland and Europe. Search your Rental Car today!
How to get around Warsaw
Public transport in Warsaw includes buses, trams (streetcars), Metro, light rail, urban railway and regional rail. ZTM tickets are valid on city and suburban bus lines, as well as trams, and Metro. You can buy tickets at most stops or onboard. Riding on public transport in Warsaw is the best way to get to all the best things to do in Warsaw with teenagers.
Taxis and UBER are available in the city.
Weather in Warsaw
Summer in Warsaw, from June till September, sees an average daytime high of 23°, while nights average 10 degrees. Daytime highs often reach up to 30 °C. Winter is cold and lasts from December to February.
The average high temperature moves little and stays between 1 °C and -1 °C. At night, temperatures drop below freezing, usually getting down to around -5 °C. The shoulder season sees temperatures averaging between 13 and 18 degrees.
International travel to Warsaw Requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance for sure in Canada. Medical care is not cheap and if you want good quality care it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance. The official currency of Poland is the Polish Zloty.
If you use your bank account from home, you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an internation rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about,
For International travellers, travel insurance is a must get a quote through Insurance Masters and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses.
Do you need a visa to visit Poland? The country of Poland may require you to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorisation) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa.
A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can rent a pocket modem that you can pick up at the airport or your hotel, alternatively buy a pocket modem that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet or computer..
Travel accessories for teenagers
For teenagers, travelling can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there are a few things that they need to take into account in order to make the trip as comfortable and safe as possible. One of these is ensuring that they have the necessary travel accessories.
Choose between 24h, 48h or 72-hour options and see Warsaw at your own pace riding freely on public transportation to enjoy hassle-free sightseeing. The Warsaw Pass offers free access to 20 top Warsaw sights including the POLIN Museum, and admire the panorama of Warsaw from the 30th floor of the Palace of Culture and Science. Book your Warsaw Pass today.
The ultimate list of things to do in Warsaw with teenagers
If you are planning to visit the great city of Warsaw, then you have to know the best locations that you have to visit in the city. Here are some of the top places in Warsaw to visit with your teenagers.
Planetarium of the Copernicus Science Centre
The Planetarium of the Copernicus Science Centre will take you on an immersive ride into outer space. The Planetarium offers you the chance to see outer space by viewing any of the four different 40-minute films that are available.
The 40-minute films (which require headsets for English and Russian) are geared towards a variety of interests. The cinema features 4 digital projectors that wrap the movies around you with its spherical screen.
As a bonus before every movie, you are treated to a live 20-minute presentation about the skies over Warsaw.
Wilanów Royal Palace
For those who find Palaces interesting, Wilanow is a great example of how European Royalty lived centuries ago. Teenagers who come from outside of Europe may have never been to a palace before. It will be an interesting cultural experience for your teen.
Guided tours of the Palace are available every day except Thursday. A tour of the Wilanow Palace includes The Kings Library, The Kings Bedroom, The Painting Gallery, and numerous rooms which display furniture pieces from the period of the 1700s.
The well-manicured and designed gardens that surround the Palace are open to the public to visit free of charge. The admission price is 25/20zł, Thursday entry is free, but you must obtain an obligatory ticket.
Audioguides (available in Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish) cost 10zł. Tickets can be purchased online for the royal palace.
Warsaw Old Town
The Warsaw Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has to be one of the best places in Warsaw to visit with teenagers. The Warsaw Old Town was completely flattened during World War 2 by the Nazi Army. Rebuilt today to look the same as it did before the Second World War.
You will find narrow streets, small squares, and the Warsaw Cathedral. A number of museums and plenty of food options await you. Don’t forget to take some pictures in the Old Town Market Square, the most colourful, and photogenic spot in the city.
On some of the buildings in the Old Town, you can still see marks from the shells and the bullets.
Old Town City Center
The Royal Castle in the Old Town
The star attraction of the Warsaw Old Town is the Warsaw Castle. The Castle is situated at the entrance to Warsaw Old Town. The Castle was home to the Kings and Queens of Poland over the years. In 1939 the castle came under bombardment by the Luftwaffe fighter aircraft and was then destroyed by the Nazis after the failed Warsaw Uprising.
Today, the restored and rebuilt Castle takes its place, looking larger than life and welcoming tourists. The castle was rebuilt as close as possible to its original design, the interior was restored by acquiring furniture and decorations from all around Poland.
The basement art Gallery even has 2 Rembrandts donated to the Polish people for the display. There is no better way to learn about Polish Heritage than taking teens on a tour of the Warsaw castle.
Warsaw Hop on hop off bus
The hop on hop off Warsaw tourist bus is a great way to get an overview of the Warsaw attractions. Like all hop on hop of buses, the Warsaw version will whizz you around town.
The real value in some of these tours is the headphone commentary that tells you so much about the towns. You can choose between the Red Line, made up of 11 destination stops and the Blue Line which will take you to 12 destination stops.
Some of the standout stops include The Oldtown, Warsaw Rising Museum, The National Stadium, The Vistula and the Palace of Culture and Science just to name a few. A trip on the Hop on hop off bus features the following
Access to 2 bus tour routes & 20 stops around the city covering the entire city & main sights.
Audio guide commentary in 10 languages. Kid’s commentary in Polish to entertain the little ones.
24hr/48hr/72hr Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with 360º panoramic views of Warsaw.
Extend your ticket to 48 or 72 hours and enjoy great savings!
The Hop-on, hop-off bus is a great way to see all the Warsaw attractions easily and should be on your Warsaw itinerary with teens. You will get headphones with commentary in multiple languages that tell you about the sights of Warsaw. You can buy 24 or 48 hours hop on hop off bus tickets.
PGE National Stadium Tour
The PGE National Stadium dominates the horizon from the Warsaw Old Town. The PGE National Stadium was built in 2012 for the European Football Championship co-hosted by Poland and Ukraine.
Poland teens love their football and for any travelling teenagers who love sport, this has to be one of the best things to do in Warsaw.
The national football stadium.
The National Stadium holds 58,000 and is often packed full when the Polish National team plays Football. The stadium has hosted several of the biggest international acts on the planet, including Guns n’ Roses, Beyonce, Metallica, and Ed Sheran, to name a few concerts (Classical Chopin concerts are held free throughout the city).
Guided tours of the stadium run 7 days a week, 10:00-19:00 every 30 mins (in Polish). English tours are conducted Mon-Fri 12:00, 14:00 and 17:00, and Sat/Sun 12:00, 14:30 and 17:00. French, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish tours take place by prior arrangement.
The stadium is located near the railway station Warszawa Stadion. The stadium is on the S1 and S2 lines of the Warsaw metro.
Warsaw has one major team in the top flight of Polish football. Legia Warszawa was originally formed during WWI as a club for the fighting legions. Legia Warszawa plays their games at the Polish Army Stadium in Warsaw, Poland. Tickets range in price depending on the match (whether a European game, league or cup game). A normal matchday ticket will cost between 30-100zł, and reduced tickets 20-70zł.
Palace of Culture and Science
This building looks somewhat out of place in Warsaw, but it is considered a cultural icon of the city. Built by the Soviets in 1955, it was originally named after Joseph Stalin. Today it is the tallest building in Poland and the 5th tallest building in the European Union.
Today, the building has various uses, including being the home to cinemas, theatres, libraries, sports clubs, and more.
The striking palace of culture and science.
Most families on vacation in Warsaw head here for the observation deck. The Warsaw observation desk is located on the 30th floor and provides amazing panoramic city views in all directions. The terrace at the Palace allows you to look down on all of Warsaw.
*Search the cafeteria on the ground floor for some amazing, affordable Polish food. You will find some amazing food in a great place, and if you are travelling in Warsaw with teens on a budget, this is one of the best things to do in Warsaw with teens to save money!
Pinball Station – Pinball & Arcade Museum
You will not find any PlayStation or Xbox games here just good old-fashioned pinball like we used to have in the old days. The Pinball Station in Warsaw has over 199 machines available to play.
Fun things to do in Warsaw.
You will find vintage machines such as Twilight Zone, FunHouse, Terminator 2, Dirty Harry, Batman Forever, X Files, Star Trek, Lethal Weapon 3, The Addams Family, Road Show or arcades: Mortal Kombat 4, Pac Man, Marvel, Street Fighter, Metal Slug.
Your entry ticket is purchased at the museum and is valid throughout the day. Thanks to this, you can re-enter the museum as often as possible. Fun things to do in Warsaw don’t get any better.
Warsaw Ghost Tour
Every town has a past, and a city like Warsaw, with a long history of Kings, Queens, wars, and tragedies, has plenty of secrets waiting to be told. All this history only means one thing, Warsaw has its share of ghosts and mysteries.
Your guide will keep you entertained and informed with the stories, myths and legends as you walk the streets of Warsaw’s Old Town with a local guide.
Discover hidden secrets and long-forgotten tales about the dark side of Warsaw. It is best to take the tour in the evening, which feeds into the whole tour atmosphere. The stories are entertaining but not overly gruesome.
Get amazing views over the Old Town from the Tower at St Anne’s Church
If you are looking for a great view over the Royal Castle, climbing to the top of the tower will give you awesome views over the Old Town.
There are a few steps, nearly 200 up and back down, but the views you will get will be amazing. Any time of the day is good, but later, when the sun is going down, may be the best time for serious photographers.
These are small but very busy traditional Polish food shops. They were established back in the Soviet Era when food could sometimes be hard to come by. Local women would gather and make dishes from whatever they could get their hands on.
Nowadays they still run the same way providing inexpensive, hearty meals to many in the cities and towns they live in. They are open to anyone but tables are hard to come by, especially at the popular ones. Ask for some great recommendations at your Warsaw accommodation.
Polin Museum
The Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews walks you through the history of the Jewish people in Poland. The Polin Museum is a great learning experience in Warsaw for teenagers. It tells the tale of how the Jewish people settled in Europe and Poland.
It tells of the struggles the Jewish people faced in settling into Europe and highlights their persecution at the hands of the Nazis in WW2 including their deportation to numerous Concentration Camps and the Warsaw Ghetto uprising.
Willow looking knowledgeable
Explore eight different galleries at the Polin Museum. Different Galleries will educate interactively through visual and audio materials, artifacts, and paintings. The Jews have played a large part in what is today’s Polish culture.
The Warsaw Uprising Museum
The Warsaw Uprising Museum is completely dedicated to the Warsaw Uprising of 1944. Here, you will see first-hand testimonies of what happened in the city, pictures of what the city looked like, and the effect the fight of the city had on the occupants.
There are rooms filled with information about key players in the Warsaw Uprising and what they did to free the city. Some people may find some of the information confronting, but at no point did our teenagers believe it was too much for them.
Visit the Barbican
It is a sight to see. The Warsaw Barbican is one of the remaining sections of the Old City fortifications and is one of Warsaw’s top tourist attractions.
Is this the best Instagram spot in Warsaw?
As you approach the Barbican, you can imagine how the city must have felt protected behind these massive walls.
*Right near the Barbican’s entrance is a traditional Polish ‘milkbar.’ These restaurants were developed in the Soviet era. Women would use local, seasonal meals to ensure everyone could eat.
They are a great place to have a traditional, home-cooked meal in Poland and are a must-visit on your Warsaw family vacation.
Things to do in Warsaw with kids – Indulge at E. Wedel’s
If you are looking for a place to sit, relax and indulge in Poland’s oldest chocolate makers, head straight to E Wedels. They know how to make some amazing chocolate treats that have been around for over 160 years.
You can have cake or hot chocolate drinks or pick up some to take away in their gift shop. If your travelling teenagers have a sweet tooth, this has to be one of the top things to do in Warsaw with kids.
The Cosmos Museum
The Cosmos is much like many other museums you will find worldwide in major cities. It is designed for the TikTok and Instagram generations.
This museum is packed with dazzling rooms full of illusions. Light effects, mirrors and more. If your teen loves taking selfies, you must make this one-stop in Warsaw. Book entry tickets today.
See some of the monuments in Warsaw.
Some amazing sculptures around Warsaw have significant historical meanings for Poland. Some have stood the test of time through war and upheaval, and they all carry a great message.
Sigismund Column
This column is located in Castle Square. It is to honour King Sigismund III, who moved the capital from Krakow to Warsaw. While the column is new due to the bombing of Warsaw you can also see the original column located to the right of the castle and monument. The holes in the column are scars from the bullets and shells that hit it.
The Little Insurgent (Mały Powstaniec)
The Little Insurgent Monument is to honour all child soldiers who fought in the Warsaw Uprising. It is a moving statue of a small child with an oversized helmet and boots carrying a weapon.
Segway Tours in Warsaw
There is nothing more fun than zipping around a city on a segway and for teens who travel, this has to be one of the best things to do in Warsaw with kids. A Warsaw Segway tour is a great opportunity to have fun and learn about the city. Segway tours are for the whole family, you will be given instructions and a short amount of practise time before you set off on your adventure. A Segway ride is one of the cool things to do in Warsaw. Book a Warsaw Segway tour today
Warsaw Zoo
Warsaw Zoo was established in 1924 and is currently the largest zoo in Poland, with almost 12,000 animals representing over 500 species, of which 50 are protected by European law. This is one of the best things to do with kids in Warsaw.
The Warsaw Zoo has an area of 40 acres and sees around 1,000,000 visitors annually, making it one of the busiest zoos in Europe. The zoo is open daily from 9:00, with modest prices for adults (30zl) and children (20zl). You can purchase tickets at the entrance or online.
At certain times of the day, you can witness the feeding of Penguins, Gorillas, Seals and more. For younger children, right next to the playground, there is a cable car that will take children and adults for a ride around the zoo. You can easily access the zoo by public transport via the Warsaw Zoo station
The most Instagrammable places in Warsaw
With Instagram and social media playing an important part in the lives of teenagers, we have some great places for Instagram photos in Warsaw. We recommend visiting Warsaw Old Town, Peacocks at the Łazienki Park, St Anne’s Church Observation Deck and Warsaw Barbican for the best Instagram shots in Warsaw.
Axe Throwing in Warsaw
Axe Throwing is a new phenomenon that is sweeping around the world. Warsaw is home to Axe Nation. No experience is required, and participants learn how to throw an axe at a target from expert coaches in a safe environment.
Axe Nation has 5 lanes that can fit up to 40 people at once Axe throwing might be just the family competition that will last in the memories forever. Axe Throwing is one of the awesome things to do in Warsaw.Book your Axe throwing experience today
Take a cooking class in Warsaw
Some teens cook some teens get served, why not take a cooking class on your family vacation? Food plays a huge part in the local culture in the places you visit. Is there one meal that you just love? maybe this is a way to learn how to cook it yourself.
Why not kickstart your kid’s cooking skills with a cooking class? Most places these days have a mix of traditional cooking and fusion meals available for you to learn during a cooking experience. Search and book your Warsaw cooking experience
Shopping in Warsaw
Warsaw is the largest city in Poland. It is also the shopping capital of Poland, with department stores and boutiques lining the streets. The main shopping areas are Nowy Swiat and the Old Town. Below, we will recommend some places for teens in Warsaw to go shopping.
Nowy Swiat is a mile-long stretch of the ‘Royal Route in the centre of the city. Nowy Swiat offers a great selection of shops, from luxury boutiques selling the latest fashions to entertaining souvenir stores selling you trinkets and memories.
Kolo Bazar is a flea market northwest of the centre. You will find an eclectic mix of Russian helmets, Vinyl Records, communist-era fixtures, souvenirs and antiques.
The Warsaw Old Town is home to small streets and lanes. The Old Town has independent shops selling vintage items, and souvenirs. chess sets, maps and Amber jewellery.
Escape rooms in Warsaw
For those new to Escape rooms, this is a quick run down.
An escape room, also known as an “escape game”, is a physical adventure game in which players solve a series of puzzles and riddles using clues, hints, and strategy to complete the objectives at hand.
Escape rooms may consist of a large, single room, or span multiple rooms. Players are given a set time limit to unveil the secret plot which is hidden within the rooms. If your teen likes this stuff it is definitely one of the top things to do in Warsaw with teenagers.
Below you will find some of the best escape rooms in Warsaw.
Things to see in Warsaw – a movie
Watching a movie is popular with teenagers anywhere in the world. Going to the cinema in Warsaw with teenagers is a great evening activity.
You will find state-of-the-art screens and sound at Should Cinemas. Movie theatres in Warsaw come in all shapes and sizes, from multiplex to art-house and Imax cinemas
10 pin bowling in Warsaw
Nothing like a good bit of family competition to get everyone going. 10-pin bowling in Warsaw is a great family activity for all. You will find bowling alleys all over the city for your family to have some fun at. Bowling can make Warsaw for young travellers.
You can find some good bowling alleys in Warsaw below:
Hulakula Leisure Center: There are 28 bowling lanes, pool tables and video games for everyone, there is even a soft toy zone for small kids.
MK Bowling Alley: There are bowling alleys and pool tables. Check the website for bowling discount promotions they have available at https://www.mkbowling.pl/dla-dzieci-warszawa
Fitness is very important to a lot of teenagers these days. Working out is a big part of a healthy lifestyle. Just because one is travelling it does not mean you need to stop working out.
In Warsaw, you can go to several Gyms that sell passes ranging from a day to a week and a month. Day passes start at 9 euros a day. You can find a list of Gyms in Warsaw on the Trainaway fit website
Bike riding in Warsaw
Warsaw bike riding is a popular family activity when travelling with teenagers. Bike riding allows you to experience your location in town or the surrounding areas. You will find bike tours are the best way to go if you want an up-close and personal experience of the city.
You will have a guide to point out all the important attractions or a map to follow. The bike tours will take you on a Warsaw family vacation 2-wheeled adventure. Alternatively, you can find locations that hire bikes and let you explore on your own. Plan aWarsaw bike tourtoday.
Free things to do in Warsaw with teens
Warsaw Offers some of the best free things to do with your teenage family members. These free city of Warsaw activities are perfect for keeping everyone happy and entertained without spending money.
There are also plenty of affordable restaurants and shops where you can shop for souvenirs without breaking the bank. Some of our recommendations for free family activities in Warsaw are as follows.
Roof Garden at the University of Warsaw
Old Town Market Square
The riverside fountain show
Polish Army Museum
Annual events in Warsaw that teens will love
Warsaw is a city with a rich culture and history. Many annual events occur in Warsaw and can be enjoyed by visiting families and teens. Some of these events include:
Orange Warsaw Festival – Held each year in June, the multiple-day music event features international and local artists. In 2023, Ellie Goulding and Kid Leory were just some of the acts.
The Warsaw Film Festival – Held in October 2023, showcases international and local films, documentaries and shorts.
These events help to make Warsaw a vibrant and exciting city to visit on your next family travel vacation.
Day trips from Warsaw
If you have plenty of time when you are visiting Warsaw with kids you may opt to do someday trips from Warsaw. There are so many amazing places in Poland to discover and doing some day trips with teens from Warsaw will help you see more of this amazing country.
Day trips from Warsaw to Poznan.
Poznan
This city is roughly 3 hours west of Warsaw towards the German Border. Poznan has many authentic buildings to be seen. We recommend heading to the Poznan Tourist office on the Old Market Square and grabbing a Royal Mile walking tour brochure.
The independent walking tour takes you to all the sites, such as Poznan Castle, Poznan Cathedral, and the Poznan History Museum.
Things to do in Warsaw for young adults
Warsaw offers an array of activities for young adults. With its vibrant culture, rich history, and dynamic nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in Warsaw for young adults.
Young adults can indulge in Warsaw’s thriving culinary scene, with numerous trendy restaurants and cafes serving traditional Polish dishes and international cuisine.
Warsaw offers outdoor activities such as kayaking on the Vistula River, Karting and Bunjee Jumping for those seeking an adrenaline rush. In the evening, the city truly comes alive with its vibrant nightlife.
Young adults can enjoy an eclectic mix of bars, clubs, and music venues, offering everything from live jazz performances to energetic DJ sets. Warsaw’s bustling clubs such as Level 27 attract locals and tourists, providing a fantastic opportunity to dance the night away and experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
There are some captivating attractions, such as a Pinball Museum, A stadium tour of the National Stadium, shopping on Marszalkowska and Chmielna Street, Vodka tours and cultural experiences, such as the POLN Museum and the Museum of Life under Communism.
All in all, Warsaw is a city that caters to the diverse interests of young adults, with its historical sites, gastronomic delights, outdoor adventures, and pulsating nightlife, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable experience.
War in Poland
Warsaw and Poland have a long history of conflicts and wars. Poland was punished harshly during WW2, with much of the country destroyed and Nazi concentration located within its borders.
The country’s history is a great learning experience for teenagers visiting Poland. Most of the city of Warsaw was destroyed, and the old town centre was flattened. You can take one of many tours that explain the history of Warsaw, or you can visit a concentration camp located outside of Warsaw.
Foods to try in Warsaw with teens
There are many things to do in Warsaw, Poland and eating should be one. Poland is a brilliant place for some amazing food. Most of the meals in Poland are rich hearty, and very filling. You will find everything from Pierogi to Bigos on trips to Warsaw to try.
Eating Pierogi with family in Warsaw.
Pierogi
Polish dumplings are amazing, and they come in a variety of fillings. They are fantastic and filling. Some places do them as a takeaway option, but you can find some great restaurants where you can sit down and have a meal. Places to visit in Warsaw for good Pierogi include Gosciniec Polskie Pierogi.
Zapikanka
It’s one of our favourite Polish street foods. We would forever be grabbing a Zapikanka from the little food stall and wandering the Old Town with one in our hands. They are like a half sub with various toppings and then toasted. It is a great meal on the run.
Gofry
Loaded waffles…yes, please! These are also easily available around the Old Town area. You can get sweet or savoury ones, usually from a little van as a takeaway item. Grab a park bench and enjoy!
Lody
Everyone loves ice cream, and there’s nothing better than ice cream when seeing the sights of Warsaw with kids.
Goulash and potato pancakes
It is another great hearty meal that most restaurants will serve. You will find that the meat is tender, and the potato cakes are great to mop up the leftover sauce.
Rosol
It is one of our favourites when visiting Warsaw in the winter with kids. We would find a little restaurant and have a bowl of Rosol. It is a cheap and filling chicken noodle soup.
Essential tips for Warsaw with teens
Many frequently asked questions about Poland, especially from families travelling with teenagers.
Warsaw is one of the best family city breaks in Europe and place to vacation with teenagers. There are many things to consider when planning your family vacation to Poland. Here is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Warsaw to help you make your family vacation to Poland easy and hassle-free.
Frequently asked questions about Warsaw.
Warsaw is one of Poland’s best family city breaks and places to vacation with teenagers. There are many things to consider when planning your family vacation. Here is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Warsaw to help you make your family holiday easy and hassle-free.
What is the legal drinking age in Poland?
You need to be 18 to drink in Poland legally.
Is Warsaw a safe city for families to visit?
Warsaw, much like other European cities, is considered safe. Violent crime is not a problem, but beware of pick-pocketing and scams.
How do I call the police in Poland?
The 112 emergency number is an all-service number in Poland
Do people speak English in Warsaw?
English is widely spoken, with over a third of Poles speaking English. Younger people are more likely to speak English. You can buy the Langogo language translator for further help.
Can you drink tap water in Warsaw?
The government in Poland guarantees that the tap water quality in Warsaw is safe to drink but many Poles prefer bottled water. An alternative is to buy a filtered water bottle
Is tipping required in Warsaw?
In Poland, tipping is expected for good service in restaurants, especially in touristy areas such as Krakow or Warsaw. A 10-15% tip is enough for good service in Warsaw
What type of power sockets are used in Warsaw?
Poland has two plug types, types C and E. Plug type C is the plug that has two round pins, and plug type E is the plug that has two round pins and a hole for the socket’s male earthing pin. Buy your power adaptor today
Attractions in Warsaw
Where to stay in Warsaw
At the top of the article, we suggested some accommodation choices. If you are looking for a wider variety of choices, please find below an interactive map from Booking.com to find your perfect stay in Warsaw. The best area to stay in Warsaw is near the Old Town.
Are you looking to book flights, hotels, apartments, tours, airport transfers, travel insurance and more? Are you unsure what companies you can trust to book your travel online? We have a resource page full of companies we use and book through for all trips, from a weekend away to long-term travel worldwide. Click here to search our travel resources page.
We hope our article at Wyld Family Travel inspires you to visit Warsaw with teenagers. So many things to do with teenagers in Warsaw will entertain you for your family’s stay in Warsaw.
Travelling with young adults, teens, and tweens has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations, working out a budget, deciding what bags and suitcases to take, travelling essentials, and more can be time-consuming. Planningfamily travel with teenagers and tweens can be stressful, and finding the best travel tips is essential.
Our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides have you covered! With insights from around the globe, these guides will spark inspiration for your next family vacation, making it an epic adventure with your teens.
For more amazing ideas on where to holiday and things to do in Poland, click our Poland Destination Guide page for more brilliant family travel inspiration.
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