Roam the gilded halls and pretty gardens at this sumptuous palace, one of just a few Warsaw landmarks to survive World War II intact.
Leave behind bustling Warsaw and retreat to the lavish Wilanów Palace. Wander through the opulent rooms and revel in the splendour of a different era. Admire the classic decorations, striking tiled floors and priceless art and statues.
This royal residence was built in the late 17th century. Inspired by the grandeur of Louis XIV’s palace, it is often referred to as the “Polish Versailles.” Once inhabited by monarchs and nobles, the palace now functions as a museum. As one of only a few historic buildings in Warsaw to have survived both world wars, the complex is especially cherished.
Enter through the antique gates to see the ornate yellow-and-white exterior of the palace, which overlooks a neat lawn. Wilanów Palace is one of those buildings that contains so much detail in its construction that you could examine it for hours and still discover something new.
Explore the royal apartments on the first floor to see how Polish aristocrats lived. Imagine yourself as a royal, draped in finery, attending a small recital in the concert hall. Venture to the second floor to find the Gallery of the Polish Portrait containing paintings and effigies of prominent Poles. Multimedia exhibitions and films reveal more about the lives of the people who lived here, most notable among them being King Jan III Sobieski. Use your smartphone to scan QR codes in the palace and to load additional information onto your phone.
Take a long relaxing walk through the palace’s expansive grounds, which include Italian-inspired gardens and a lake. These gardens bloom gorgeously in the warmer months and are full of colourful roses.
Wilanów Palace is around 8 miles (13 km) from Warsaw’s Old Town. Get here by bus or drive and make use of the free parking nearby. The palace is closed on Tuesdays. Go on Thursdays to avail of free entry.