Evening Warsaw - pub and history tour with hotel pickup

Warsaw , Poland

Evening Warsaw - pub and history tour with hotel pickup

Active

(17 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

Combine less formal city sightseeing with visits to Warsaw’s pubs on this 3 hours night tour with a communist minibus. Be introduced to Warsaw, go where locals go, and drink what they drink. Hear exciting anecdotes, learn something about Warsaw and enjoy your night! Three vodka shots are included in the tour price.

The concept of this tour is to join city sightseeing with getting to know Warsaw’s nightlife and drinks - it’s a perfect combination for those who don’t have time for, or don’t want to do, the daytime tours. With a communist minibus, the guide takes you through the last 70 years of Warsaw's history and its drinks. It’s a period of tremendous changes: post-WWII outbreak of communism, dark and often funny ‘60s and ‘70s, the resurrection of democracy in the ’90s and fantastic development in the last twenty years. Thanks to open-air pubs, you may spend more time outside on a warm night.

Available options

Evening Warsaw - pub and history tour with hotel pickup

Pickup included

What's included

Professional English speaking local guide

Three vodka shots

Transport in retro Communist era minibus

Detailed itinerary

It’s good to have a decent start - the guide takes you to the Grzybowski square. It represents Warsaw in a nutshell- the city that changed dramatically during the XX Century, witnessed two World wars, two totalitarian systems, and, finally, incredible recovery and growth thanks to uniting Europe in the early XXI Century.

Stop 2

We do not want to take you to the mainstream pubs - we expect something more than that. So the first vodka shot happens at Pavilions, a group of over twenty neighbouring pubs, most of which have been set up by the student’s community in abandoned small stores and artisans workshops. It is a small community of individuals who collectively hold a strong position on Warsaw’s cultural and party map.

After the first round of drinks, you are prepared to learn a bit more about communism in Poland. Your Żuk minibus is parked in front of the communist party headquarters, the exceptional structure that looks like a bank HQ, although it was filled with the people who barely graduated primary schools. Then, after 1989, the re-born Warsaw Stock Exchange entered the place - the history once again sneered at the past.

Stop 4

It’s time to take a ride across the city and over the Vistula river to Paga, the only complete and original pre-WWII district of Warsaw. It used to be a derelict and not a friendly place back in the days, thanks to the lack of investments, production of illegal alcohol and all kinds of businesses related to the black market. Luckily, the last 15 years have been a time of revival; non-mainstream culture came over the Praga, independent pubs, bars and restaurants have filled the streets and brought them back to life.

Stop 5

One of the independent pubs at Praga is a perfect spot for the second vodka shot. The place might be a bit weird; it might be filled with local strangers - but for sure, you will not find a place like that in the city centre.

It is worth visiting Vistula riverside bars for the third drink in the summertime. Did you know that drinking in public is illegal in Poland? Well, that upsets us too. Nevertheless, lawyers found a loophole and proved that the riverside is not a public space since it’s a part of the river bottom, and you’re free to drink there whatever you want. Brilliant solution! After the summer season, your guide takes you to one of the bars in the central districts of Warsaw.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age of tour participant is 18 years.

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

Please contact the Tour Operator if you have food intolerance, allergies or other health issues such as mobility limitations.

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).

Minimum participants for first booking is 4

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