Warsaw Behind the Scenes - small group tour with hotel pickup

Warsaw , Poland

Warsaw Behind the Scenes - small group tour with hotel pickup

Active

(228 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the authentic Warsaw and feel the spark of the excitement thanks to the retro minibus on this 3 hours small group tour. From the early XXth Century, through WWII and communism to the present, Warsaw is a fascinating place if you give it a try!

Jump into a unique communist-made minibus called Żuk and experience the less touristy parts of Warsaw. Start with a quick historical briefing, then move deeper into the history of Warsaw. Learn about WWII times - Jewish Ghetto, two uprisings and the arrival of the Red Army in 1945; all this happens at Muranów district. Next, take a picturesque ride across the Vistula river to Praga, the only section of Warsaw that survived the apocalypse of the last World War. Compare the pre-WWII city with tremendous projects that the communist government brought into life between 1945 and 1989. Finally, see how the city has changed during the last 30 years of freedom and democracy, and get to know the real Warsaw.

Available options

Warsaw Behind the Scenes - small group tour with hotel pickup

Pickup included

What's included

Professional local guide

Communist retro minibus Żuk

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After the hotel pick-up, your guide introduces you to Warsaw and Poland - this quick historical briefing helps you understand the present through interesting facts from the past.

Stop 2

Next is the Muranów district - the witness of the tragedy of the Jewish Ghetto, created by Nazis in 1940. The first impression is that it is just a regular neighbourhood filled with squared blocks of flats. But there is much more from the past to be discovered with the help of your guide.

Have you seen the Pianist movie? If yes, you must remember the place portrayed in the film: the wooden bridge built near the intersection of Chłodna and Żelazna streets to link two separated parts of the Ghetto. As we can see in photographs, it reached the third floor of the buildings, which allowed the “Aryan” trams, German military transports, and cars to pass beneath it. With the help of the guide and your imagination, find the remains of the scene and compare them with archival photographs.

Stop 4

In the year 1943, when the last part of the Jewish community was about to be deported to the extermination camp, they created the underground resistance and started the insurrection aimed against their oppressors. This fight took three weeks and resulted in the complete demolition of the Jewish district in Warsaw. Today, the guide will uncover the covered layers from the past for you.

Stop 5

Later in World War II, an agreement was reached between the Western Allies and the dictator of the USSR, Stalin; as a result, post-war Poland was about to become a country subordinate to the Soviet Union. The last attempt to avoid this fate was the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, which resulted in the Nazis destroying 85% of Warsaw. Red Army captured the empty city three months after the fall of the insurrection, in January 1945.

Stop 6

The next part is the enigmatic Praga district, located on the Eastern side of the Vistula river. When the minibus crosses the river, one can see picturesque views of the wild riverside. Praga is the only district of Warsaw that survived the apocalypse of WWII - that's why it represents the picture of the pre-WWII city filled with belle-epoque buildings with small and noisy courtyards. Once neglected, it becomes a hip and artistic part of Warsaw, still not affected by commercial tourism.

Stop 7

Back in the central district, your Żuk minibus parks near ex Polish Communist Party headquarters. This regime, settled up in 1945, had a challenging task to cope with - reconstructing Poland's capital city. What's more, since it seemed to be the only chance ever in time, architects decided to remodel Warsaw and make it a more comfortable place to live and work. But unfortunately, they had to cope with the Party, which opted for a Soviet-style city filled with overwhelming buildings and a happy proletariat. Did they make a compromise? Let's check it out!

Stop 8

When workers from "Solidarność" and John Paul II kicked out the communist regime from Poland in 1989, we stepped into the new era of our history - democracy and capitalism. Life has changed completely, and so did the city. Is it possible to link the past and the future? We hope that thanks to our trip you will form your own opinion.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

46 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

182 reviews

5★

177

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The minimum number of people required to launch the tour is 2. A solitary traveller may join the tour if there is another booking for at least 2 people.

Tours with retro minibuses are available only for persons taller than 150 cm (4,9 ft).

Cars are used mainly for transfers between locations where guests have walks with their guide.

Retro minibuses are not equipped with air conditioning, they are equipped with an efficient heating system for wintertime.

Some of the retro minibuses are not equipped with seatbelts (which is legal with classic vintage cars).

Please contact us before booking the tour if you have health issues such as mobility limitations.

About Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is a city of resilience and vibrant culture. Known for its complete reconstruction after WWII, it offers a mix of modern architecture and historic sites, making it a unique destination rich in history and contemporary energy.

Top Attractions

Old Town (Stare Miasto)

The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the city's rich history and stunning architecture. It was meticulously rebuilt after WWII, earning Warsaw the nickname 'The Phoenix City'.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Free to explore, Royal Castle entry fee: 30 PLN

Warsaw Uprising Museum (Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego)

This museum commemorates the 1944 Warsaw Uprising and provides a powerful insight into the city's resilience and history during WWII. The exhibits are interactive and emotionally impactful.

Historical/Museum 2-3 hours 25 PLN

Łazienki Park (Park Łazienkowski)

This vast park is a green oasis in the heart of the city, featuring beautiful gardens, palaces, and ponds. It's perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.

Nature/Historical 2-3 hours Free, Palace entry fee: 20 PLN

Warsaw Zoo (Ogrod Zoologiczny w Warszawie)

One of the largest zoos in Poland, Warsaw Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and is known for its conservation efforts. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.

Nature/Entertainment 2-3 hours 30 PLN

Palace of Culture and Science (Pałac Kultury i Nauki)

This iconic Stalinist skyscraper is a symbol of Warsaw and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. It's a must-visit for its historical significance and stunning vistas.

Architecture/Historical 1-2 hours 25 PLN

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pierogi

Dumplings filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, potatoes, or fruits. They are a staple of Polish cuisine and come in both savory and sweet varieties.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, can be made vegan or gluten-free upon request.

Żurek

A sour rye soup often made with sausage, potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs. It's traditionally served in a bread bowl.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, can be made vegetarian with substitutions.

Bigos

A hearty hunter's stew made with sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, various meats, and mushrooms. It's often considered Poland's national dish.

Dinner Contains meat, can be made vegetarian with substitutions.

Pączki

Deep-fried doughnuts filled with jam, custard, or other sweet fillings. They are a popular treat, especially during Fat Thursday (Tłusty Czwartek).

Dessert Vegetarian, can be made vegan or gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Biking in Łazienki Park Kayaking on the Vistula River Picnicking in Łazienki Park Visiting a traditional Polish spa Attending a classical music concert at the National Philharmonic Exploring the Warsaw Uprising Museum Boating on the ponds in Łazienki Park Ice skating at the Winter Stadium

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous outdoor events. It's ideal for exploring the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Polish
Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
English: Moderately spoken, especially among younger people and in tourist areas

Currency

Polish Złoty (PLN)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution

Warsaw is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas and on public transportation. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid scams
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys

Getting there

By air

Warsaw Chopin Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Warsaw Central Station, Warsaw Wschodnia Station

By bus

Warsaw Zachodnia Bus Station, Warsaw Wschodnia Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It's a great way to get around quickly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Stare Miasto) Praga Wola Śródmieście

Day trips

Łowicz

50 km from Warsaw • Half day to full day

A charming town known for its traditional Polish architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and the famous 'Łowiczki' horse shows. It offers a glimpse into Poland's rural past.

Modlin Fortress

40 km from Warsaw • Half day

A historic 19th-century fortress located on the Narew River, offering a fascinating insight into Poland's military history. The fortress is partially in ruins but is open for exploration and guided tours.

Nieporęt

30 km from Warsaw • Half day

A small town with a rich history, known for its beautiful palace and park complex. The palace is a great example of neoclassical architecture and offers a glimpse into the lives of Polish nobility.

Festivals

Warsaw Autumn Festival • September Warsaw Film Festival • October Christmas Markets • December

Pro tips

Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum for a powerful and emotional insight into the city's history during WWII
Explore the vibrant and artsy Praga district for a glimpse into Warsaw's creative scene and local culture
Take a guided tour of the Warsaw sewer system for a unique and fascinating perspective on the city's history
Try traditional Polish dishes, such as pierogi, żurek, and bigos, at local restaurants or street food vendors
Attend a classical music concert at the National Philharmonic or Teatr Wielki for a world-class cultural experience