How often do we get to step into a building that lets us see all of Warsaw from above—without the crowds or crazy prices? The Palace of Culture and Science's observation deck, located on the 30th floor, offers just that.
It's one of the city's best-kept open-air secrets, right in the middle of downtown. From the top, we don't just look out—we feel like we're on top of Poland's capital.
How Much Does It Cost?
Let's talk tickets. As of 2025, the prices are:
- Adults: 30 PLN (approx. $7.20 USD)
- Students, youth, and seniors: 25 PLN (approx. $6 USD)
- Children under 3: Free
We can buy tickets at the palace's ground floor ticket office or online to avoid lines—especially useful during tourist season or weekends.
Opening Hours and Best Times to Visit
The observation deck is open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The last elevator ride up is around 7:30 PM.
Best time to visit?
- Golden hour (around sunset, 6:30–7:30 PM in summer) is amazing for photos.
- Weekday mornings (10:00–11:30 AM) offer fewer crowds.
- Try early winter evenings if you want to see the city sparkle in lights.
What Exactly Can We See?
From 114 meters above ground, the open-air terrace gives us a 360-degree view of the city. We can spot:
- The Vistula River cutting across the east.
- The glass towers of Warsaw's business district to the west.
- The red rooftops of Old Town and the Royal Castle to the north.
- Southwards, green parks like Ujazdowski Park and the distant outlines of Łazienki Palace.
The deck is equipped with telescopes for close-up views and informational plaques to help identify key landmarks.
Getting There: Smooth and Easy
The Palace is located at Plac Defilad 1, in the heart of Warsaw. We can get there by:
- Metro Line 1 or 2: Stop at Świętokrzyska Station or Centrum Station (both under 5 minutes’ walk).
- Trams and Buses: Dozens of lines stop near the Palace.
- Walking: From major hotels and shopping areas like Złote Tarasy Mall, it's only a 10-minute walk.
Once inside, signs in English and Polish will lead us to the main lobby, where the ticket counter and elevator entrance are located.
Practical Tips for the Best Experience
Here are some tried-and-true tips for enjoying our visit:
- Avoid peak hours (2:00 PM – 4:30 PM) if we prefer quiet.
- Light bag only – bag checks are in place and large luggage isn't allowed upstairs.
- Bring a good camera or phone with wide-angle lens for the best city shots.
- It gets windy at the top—even in summer, a light jacket can help.
- No shade on the terrace, so sunglasses are useful on sunny days.
Extend the Experience
Why stop at the view? We can combine the visit with other attractions inside the Palace:
- Museum of Technology – great for families
- Theater shows or film screenings
- Restaurants and cafés within walking distance offer local Polish cuisine and international flavors
We recommend spending at least 45 minutes to 1 hour on the terrace—and then heading downstairs to explore more of Warsaw's cultural side.
Are You Ready to Look Down on the City?
The 30th floor of the Palace of Culture and Science offers more than just a high vantage point—it gives us a full picture of Warsaw's charm, energy, and beauty. From here, the streets look like threads weaving together the city's history and modern life. It's calm, it's striking, and it's unforgettable.
So Lykkers, have you ever stood somewhere that made you fall in love with a city all over again? Tell us about your favorite skyline spot—we're always excited to discover new views through your eyes!
Visiting Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw, views from the top!
Video by Walk This Way
