Warsaw Old Town | Stare Miasto
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The Polish call the 'Old Town' Stare Miasto or Starówka and this part of Warsaw is easily the most historic location in the city and the most popular of Warsaw's tourist attractions. If you are only in Warsaw for a short trip, then the Old Town is a must-see location.
A visit to the Old Town is worthwhile just to take in the Medieval architecture and the character of the Old Town Market Place with it's abundance of cafés, restaurants and bars. At times, it is difficult to believe that the whole area is in fact a near-total reconstruction as the original was destroyed during the second world war.
One of the first things you will see when you visit Warsaw Old Town is the Castle Square (Plac Zamkowy) if you arrive there from the City Centre. The Old Town houses are quite beautiful and very colourful and you will not fail to notice Zygmunt's Column which looks down over the square.
You will also see the Royal Castle which is located at the entrance to the Old Town.
Attracting millions of visitors each year, the main square is simply charming. You are spoilt for choice with an abundance of cafes, bars, shops and restaurants and plenty of places to sit down, relax with a glass of your favourite tipple and people watch. A favourite attraction to be found in the middle of the square is the Syrenka (Little Mermaid), which is the symbol of Warsaw and appears on the Warsaw coat of arms.
The Old Town is just brimming with history and stunning architecture. Some of the places we recommend that you check out are St John's Cathedral, the Maria Curie Museum and one of the narrowest houses in the world, which can be found at Ulica Kanonia 20/22.
Located just North of the Square is the Barbican, another one of Warsaw's famous historical buildings. Close to the Barbican, you will see remnants of the City's defensive walls and close by you will find the statue of the Little Insurgent, a moving tribute to the part many children played during the Warsaw Uprising.
If you like architecture, history, cobbled streets, and plenty of places to eat, drink and shop - then a trip to the Old Town really should be on your agenda.