Explore Warsaw: Royal Route, UNESCO Old Town & Iconic Landmarks

Follow the footsteps of medieval royals and historical figures along the Royal Route, leading to the Old Town. With a wealth of significant monuments, including the 15th-century St. Anna’s Church, the oldest university of Warsaw, the historic Hotel Bristol, and stunning sculptural monuments revealing Warsaw’s rich history, the main artery of Warsaw offers you a chance to travel through the rich history and relive the Old Age of Warsaw.

Of all the magnificent landmarks dotted throughout the wide open thoroughfare, spend some time marveling at the majestic 17th-century Presidential Palace, Warsaw’s largest palace and the current residence of Poland’s president, and learning about the 19th-century stay of Napoleon.

At the end of the glittering road, the emblematic Column of Sigismund, the king who moved the capital of Poland to Warsaw, beckons you to explore his atmospheric Old Town. The column dominating the charming Castle Square, located at the southern gateway to the Old Town, is the best spot for great souvenir photos with backdrops of the Old Town and the Royal Road.

Continue to discover the vast courtyard inside the majestic 14th-century Royal Castle, prominently standing on the eastern side of the square. Surrounded by its stunning buildings, anyone seems to hear the echo of Poland’s first parliament meeting in the 16th century and the solemn atmosphere of the Russian and German invasion that took place here during WWI.

Just a stone’s throw away is the 14th-century Basilica of St. John the Baptist, etched with historical stories, including the coronation and burial of the last king, the founding of the Constitution, and the mysterious covered walkway that links with the Royal Castle. On its external wall, you will see the fragments of the tank used to destroy the church by the Nazis. The church was reconstructed in a unique pseudo-gothic style, adding to its character and resilience.

Next, stop by Market Square, the heart of the Old Town beating with the rhythm of its rich culture. The medieval market which hosted everything from festivals to executions has transformed into a beautiful showcase of 17th-century architecture and the favourite meeting point where tourists and locals love to hang out in delightful outdoor cafés and restaurants. Don’t forget to take photos with the “little mermaid” monument which appears on the city’s coat of arms.

The tour ends with a stroll around the enchanting-looking Warsaw Barbican, the city’s symbol of beauty born from destruction. The medieval military structure crowning the defensive city walls provides visitors with moving stories of reconstructing the city from the ashes of war and a testimony to Warsaw’s resilience.