Looking for some hands-on experiences for your Warsaw layover with kids? Check out these tips and destination suggestions to make the most of your day!
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“Can we go to Auschwitz?” Thankfully, rather than explain to my 11-year-old son that it was not an appropriate destination for a Warsaw layover with kids, we simply said 9 hours was not enough time. (FYI: You probably need about another 10-15 hours in your layover, depending.)
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Getting Out of the Airport (WAW)
As with any layover of limited time, be sure have your game plan down for getting out of the airport well before you land. Even better it to have the plan in place before you depart. Consult the airport website for more information.
Warsaw’s Chopin airport has several advantages for those wanting to maximize their layover time.
- Luggage Lockers are accessible 24/7 and can be used for up to 72 hours. No need to worry about operating hours or wait times.
- WAW is less than 7 miles (11 km) from the city center and there are multiple transport options. Check out Tip #5 to decide if the bus, taxi, train, or another option is best for you.
- For those not wanting to leave the airport, in addition to dining and shopping, WAW offers an observation deck, lounges (fees/restrictions apply), and children’s play areas.
Attractions for Warsaw Layover with Kids
And yes, you can do all this with a 9 hour layover (and still have time to eat and relax).
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Copernicus Science Centre
According to In Your Pocket City Guide, the Copernicus Science Centre is the “very best in science centre in Europe [and] one of Warsaw’s top tourist attractions”. Most visitors spend about 2-3 hours. This does not include the planetarium or the laboratory workshops (which are only in Polish anyway). Tickets do sell out, so purchase in advance.
This is a very hands-on interactive museum, so depending on your flight schedule, you may want to do this towards the end of the day so your kids can run around and explore. But, you will have to pull them away to ensure you make your flight.
Bonus: The Copernicus Science Centre has free WiFi. You can get some work done while your kids are learning (🤫but don’t tell them that’s what they’re doing).
POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews
Jews have lived in Poland for over 1000 years; some even say the name of the country is derived from the Hebrew “po-lin” meaning “here we shall rest”.
The core exhibit of the museum is presented in a narrative format focusing on the people who make up the history. A joint project of the Association of the Jewish Historical Institute of Poland and the Polish government, the museum presents the diversity and cultural influence of the Jews. The exhibits are well done, audio guides are available in several languages (my son used the Yiddish version), and you could even take a virtual tour or a private guided tour.
The museum is keenly aware that children may be uncomfortable with some of the more tragic aspects that are presented. Therefore, they have put together some suggestions on how to tour the museum with children and have a special family version of the audio guide.
Tickets can be purchased ahead of time, although not necessary. For those interested, the museum also offers genealogical research services.
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Royal Lazienki Gardens
You probably won’t have time to tour the Royal Lazeinki Palace and Museum in addition to some of the other attractions during your Warsaw layover . However, weather permitting, the Lazienki Gardens are definitely worth a visit (picnic in the park?).
Warsaw’s largest park, with its extensive history, is home to thousands of trees, herbs, flowers, birds, animals, etc. However, the former royal hunting grounds is probably best known for its swans and peacocks. Entrance is free and you can walk the paths and enjoy the sculptures and water features while your kids feed the swans and imitate the strutting peacocks.
Old Town
Your kids will undeniably feel as though they are in Europe when walking through Warsaw’s Old Town with its markets and squares. The area was first built up and settled in the 13th Century and destroyed during World War II. It was rebuilt in the mid-20th Century to feel like the 17th and is now a tourist hub. You’ll find boutiques, restaurants, cafes and plenty of shopping. It is a great place to sit and grab a bite or cup of coffee and people watch
Getting Back to the Airport (WAW)
Keep in mind that the best way from the airport into town is not necessarily the best way back. You may not be returning from the same place and you definitely won’t be returning at the same time of day. So, be sure to check the bus and train schedules or consider a rideshare service. If you opted for a tour, they may include airport drop-off–never hurts to ask.
Be sure to allow sufficient time to gather your bags from the lockers and get through security.
What did you do during your Warsaw layover with kids? I’d love to hear what their favorite experience was.
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