We moved to Warsaw in 2020. Previously, we lived in a village in southern Poland for several years, and even before that, we were in Szekesfehervar, Hungary. Even earlier, we were in Prague, Czech Republic. Although I once thought it would be nice to try living in the Polish capital, I had forgotten about it for years.
Today, I will share what might be helpful for those who are considering a move. But I will also talk about my feelings towards the city and simply about how it is to live in Warsaw.
It’s been over two years since then, and I’ve updated this post with my thoughts and experiences. After this time, I can say much more, and as it turns out, we not only moved to Warsaw but also came to like this city. In this post, I will tell you not only about the advantages of living in the capital, but also what I don’t like about it.
Table of Contents
Living in Warsaw
What’s it like living in Warsaw? I think the move in 2020 didn’t bring as many changes as the previous year or 2022. The reason is clear – we couldn’t go to restaurants, many places were closed, and socializing was limited. Nonetheless, there was still a significant change in life, a change in perspective, which I love because it allows for gaining distance. Distance from oneself, from others, from life.
How is it living in Warsaw? It’s comfortable because you can order everything to your home. It’s interesting because there’s so much to see. It’s delicious because you can try cuisine from various corners of the world. Moreover, it’s great because there are many more professional opportunities. Many times, living in Warsaw has allowed me to meet people, establish contacts, make new acquaintances, and even friendships.
Do I like Warsaw?
I do! In general, among Polish cities, I like the “bigger” ones, like Łódź or Warsaw, for living. Of course, I love my dear Opole, but the traffic jams there are disproportionate to its size.
However, I remember when I came to Warsaw with my ex-boyfriend for a tour. At that time, the capital overwhelmed me. More than 10 years have passed since then, and I’ve been to Warsaw many times – sometimes for work, sometimes for the weekend, sometimes for visits. Gradually, I grew fond of this city.
Nevertheless, at first, I slowly got used to the city buzz because living in the countryside for several years made me feel a bit out of place. I know I wouldn’t want to live in the city center because I prefer my peaceful neighborhood.
Exploring Warsaw: A Guide to Things to Do in the Capital
There are so many things to do that it was initially the most challenging for me. What to choose – going out, to a restaurant, to the park, or to a museum?
In Warsaw, there are so many things to do, and there’s something interesting to see, watch, and eat every day. You don’t need to plan much; it’s worth going to something spontaneously. For example, I attended a book signing by Katarzyna Nosowska when she released a new book. I didn’t buy her book, but I went with a friend. It was nice, really, but there was a bit too much prosecco, and after four carafes, I asked for a dedication for Gosia. Another plus is that it’s nice to be anonymous in the city because at least no one here knows me. Or so I think ?
See also:
Things To Do in Warsaw – TOP Attractions & Activities
Free Museums in Warsaw – List and Free Days
Warsaw for Free. 10 BEST Free Things to Do
Where to Stay in Warsaw? Hotels and Apartments in the Polish Capital
The Best Museums To Visit in Warsaw
Living in Warsaw. Which district in Warsaw is the best?
In reality, it depends on what we expect from our daily life. Urban atmosphere, modern buildings, a sense of “elitism,” the old Warsaw feel, or the feeling of being in a small town?
We found our first apartment in Ochota, in a regular block mostly inhabited by older ladies. There were so many older people that I pondered on aging, the end of life, and death. And even though Ochota hides much more because it’s the most populous district in Warsaw, I learned that I prefer to live elsewhere. I simply don’t like crowds and prefer less populated areas. I like parks, forests (Łazienki Królewskie – who doesn’t love them?).
Apart from the district, the neighborhood is essential because city districts are simply large. ?
Also, pay attention to transportation – for us, it was crucial to leave Warsaw quickly towards Radom. So, we ended up in Ursus, which may not sound prestigious but is peaceful (at least in our area), nice, and, importantly, we have a garden where birds fly to, and squirrels come.
What don’t I like about Warsaw?
Definitely, the weather! When in Opole, where I lived before, the sun shone for a week, in Warsaw at the same time, it was cloudy, or to be more precise: it was so dark that I wondered if it was still Poland. However, Opole, like Lower Silesia, is located in the south of the country, so probably, for people from other parts of the country, Warsaw’s weather will be similar ?
Moreover, in 2022, prices in Poland rose significantly, and unfortunately, Warsaw was not spared. In two years, the cost of living in the capital increased by about 40%, taking into account rent, food, commuting, and more. Renting in Warsaw in 2022 cost around 3,000-4,000 PLN for a two-bedroom apartment. Now it’s even more exspensive.
Is it worth living in Warsaw?
If you’re considering it, then yes, it’s worth it! You’ll never know if you don’t try. I moved here “for a trial,” and it’s just great. After two years and months, I’m satisfied, and believe me, I’m not easily satisfied. However, the aforementioned high cost of living in Poland has become quite significant.
I’ll answer another question that many of you might be asking and sometimes it’s awkward to ask:
Am I suitable for living in Warsaw?
This question is not random because the number of my phobias (including the metro) definitely makes life more challenging. You can live without the metro; besides, Warsaw has a suburban railway, but I don’t always feel like using it. So, instead of fighting what terrifies me, I decided to let it go. I try to use the bus, tram, or taxi. So, if you’re in a similar situation, don’t worry. Moving changes us, often for the better ? When I lived in Mersin, Turkey, I had to do many things I wouldn’t have suspected myself of, such as running across a 4-lane road to catch a bus. Don’t worry ahead of time – it doesn’t bring anything good.
I’ve created all the headings in the form of questions so that you can find your way to me and ask if anything has changed.
