A long layover in Warsaw is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Warsaw Chopin Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 70 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of WAW:
- Can you legally enter Poland? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 70-minute journey each way by SKM/KM Trains, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the PLN. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some PLN in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Warsaw
If you head into Warsaw, here are two things worth checking out:
Warsaw Old Town Market Place is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Palace of Culture and Science Observation Deck is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at WAW, check out Fantazja Executive Lounge (Non-Schengen) or WAW Observation Deck to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
For food in Warsaw, local travelers recommend Zapiecek Polskie Pierogarnie (Old Town). If you have time for a second stop, Restauracja Stara Kamienica is another popular pick.
Back at WAW, Meltemi Bar & Restaurant is the go-to. Espresso Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
The Best Way Into Warsaw from WAW
The most straightforward way into Warsaw is the SKM/KM Trains, which takes about 70 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 90 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the SKM/KM Trains is usually the smarter call.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Warsaw layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$7 |
| Meal | ~$13 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$30 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Warsaw.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage is available at The Left Luggage Office is located near the General Aviation Terminal, a short walk from the main terminal.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Warsaw.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at WAW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Warsaw or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at WAW include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Poland also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Warsaw doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 70 minutes from WAW, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.