When we think of cities of romance, certain images tend to spring to mind, usually involving places like Paris, Venice, New York. We think of outdoor dining at little tables on a piazza, drinking a glass of excellent red wine, taking in the city lights at night....
But rarely do we think of Warsaw as the City of Love. Well, let's change that right now!
The people who live here and visit Warsaw know that this city has romantic vibes in spades, from a growing cafe culture, to parks for meandering hand-in-hand, to gorgeous museums and an excellent dining culture. There is so much for a couple on a romantic weekend getaway that it'll be hard to pack it all into one article. But let's give it a try!
Friday Night
Grab a cocktail: Your weekend starts here! Whether you're getting off the plane, or you got out of work a few hours early, you can kick off the romantic weekend with some fancy cocktails (treat yourself!). Warsaw has plenty of gorgeous cocktail bars with low lighting, nice music and chill atmospheres. Try out El Koktel (though make sure to call ahead and reserve a spot). This speak-easy-esq bar has low lighting and comfy booths and - importantly - very good cocktails with unique flavors. This is perfect for quiet, cozy conversations in a romantic space. Alternatively, try The Roots, which is another Warsaw-must, known for its delicious and unique cocktail flavors (and gorgeous presentation) also in a low-lit, cozy space.
Dine out in style: After you've gotten your fill of fancy cocktails in delicate glasses, meander elsewhere for a low-key, but still delicious dinner (after all, you do have a whole weekend ahead of you). We suggest LAS, which is a delicious fusion restaurant tucked away in a little secret garden (meaning you can actually sit among the canopy of trees in the warmer weather!) The food is small but filling and dripping with Korean, Japanese, and Polish flavors. Alternatively, you could try a place like The Alchemist Poznanska, which is somewhere between fun and fancy, with kraken murals on the walls and juicy steaks served on sizzling plates.
Stay somewhere romantic: Of course, you'll need somewhere to stay (if you're visiting) over your romantic weekend, and naturally, we have suggestions there, too! NYX Hotel is a gorgeous, modern space with large glass windows that look out over the bustling center of the city (what's more romantic than taking in the city lights in a spacious hotel room?). Alternatively, stay in the Old Town, at the acclaimed Hotel Verte, which opened recently at the site of two former 17th-Century palaces. It's romantic, chic, and (bonus) right in the middle of what is arguably the most beautiful part of the city.
A Packed Saturday
Treat yourself to a tasty breakfast: It's day 2 of your romantic weekend and what better way to kick it all off than with some tasty eggs, hollandaise sauce, pancakes, pastries, coffee and... need we go on? The breakfast scene in Warsaw is top-notch with places like Bułkę przez Bibułkę, which is a favorite among Warszawians, with delicious egg breakfasts, granola, amazing coffee, and delicate sandwiches. Plus, there are a number of locations around the city so you can take your pick! Alternatively, cozy up with your partner at To Lubię, which is a little cafe tucked away by the Old Town. This is perfect for a light breakfast, followed by some meandering around the Old Town, hand-in-hand.
Have a museum break: After breakfast, treat you and your partner to some culture with one of Warsaw's amazing museums that include art, ethnography, history and more. One of the best is the National Museum, which is situated front and center, by the Poniatówski Bridge. Along with archeological artifacts from ancient Greece and Egypt, this includes paintings from promintent Polish and international artists.
Pamper yourselves: One of the best ways to celebrate your romance - in any city - is with a couples' spa day (or even just a couples' spa hour). And there are plenty of options in Warsaw. The Alchemy Day Spa offers a whole assortment of couples' massages using natural cosmetics, hot stones and even chocolate! If you want separate services, book individual massages or other services at the Thai Bali Spa, which has locations around the city. You can both come out rested and rejuvinated and ready for the next event
Have a fancy dinner: Now, on the main night of your weekend stay, you should treat yourselves to a fancy dinner (how often do you get to do this?) And Warsaw has plenty of options for high-end, small plates meals. Elixir by Dom Wódki is a favorite in the city, with exquisite dishes presented in a modern, elegant way, and plenty of vodka to try! You could also go to U Fukieria, a gorgeous, old and famous establishment with a high-end take on classic Polish food. Plus, a favorite among celebrity visitors to the capital!
The Ultimate Sunday
Start with a coffee: Kraków is known for its cafe culture, but Warsaw is on the rise in that department, with tons of cute little cozy cafes to grab a cup of joe and top off your perfect weekend. Charlotte Chleb I Wino ("bread and wine") is one of the best, with all that French charm, little seats, elegant decor and delicious pastries. Alternatively, Być Może ("maybe") is another delightful spot with all that chic European charm and filling French breakfasts to boot!
Finish it off with a walk: In our minds, there are few things more romantic than a coffee and a stroll in the park, and Warsaw has one of the best parks (ever) right in the middle of it all. Łazienki Park is simply stunning with acres of gardens and green space, duck ponds, swans, peacocks and even live music and plays in the summer! Step inside the gates and you'll feel like you stepped right into a romanic movie (chirping birds and all)!
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