Getting Around is Easy
How to Behave in Warsaw
Warsaw is an eclectic city (by Polish standards), with a high turnover of residents. Most of this comes from internal migration—people moving here from across the country. It's a city of students and business professionals, the kind of place where, let’s be honest, the belief that "you can only make a career in Poland here" has a kernel of truth.
How to Behave in Warsaw
← Back to ArticlesTo help you navigate this dynamic jungle, here are a few essential rules for behaving "Warsaw-style." Master these, and you’ll significantly lower your chances of being scolded by the locals.
Keep the Rhythm
Warsaw is Poland's biggest city, and to other Poles, it’s seen as fast-paced, dynamic, and always "on the go." Whether it feels moderately busy to you or like the center of the universe, respect the unspoken rules of the Warsaw rhythm:
- The "Warsaw second": This is the brief, yet inevitable, moment between the traffic light turning green and the driver behind you honking their horn. Don’t fight it—it’s tradition.
- Stick to the right side on escalators and leave the left side for those sprinting to their next life-or-death appointment.
- Move efficiently when transferring between public transport. A single moment of daydreaming could earn you some huffing and puffing from stressed-out citizens.
Minimal Smiles and Small Talk
Warsaw isn’t a "city of smiles." If someone tells you that smiling at strangers will make you look intoxicated—or worse, dangerous—they’re exaggerating (mostly). That said, don’t be surprised if you’re met with neutral-to-hostile facial expressions in public. It’s not personal.
Pro tip: If you need to start a conversation, begin with a request or question. This usually melts the icy demeanor and warms people up—temporarily.
The "Where Are You From?" Game
"Where are you from?" is practically a national icebreaker for Warsaw residents. You’ll quickly notice that people in Warsaw tend to fall into two categories: newcomers and those who have been here for generations.
If someone introduces themselves as a "born-and-bred Varsovian," be sure to express polite surprise and admiration for this rare phenomenon. It’s practically an endangered species.
Learn the Basics of the City Layout
Left bank, right bank, and the key neighborhoods—these are essential to know. For a more in-depth guide, check out the section on Where to Live.
Brush Up on Warsaw’s History
Pay particular attention to the Warsaw Uprising. This event is fundamental to understanding the city’s identity. Knowing the extent of the destruction Warsaw endured during World War II is crucial, as is being aware of key moments like the anniversary of the uprising on August 1st at 5:00 PM (known as “W Hour”).
On this day, sirens wail across the city, and everything comes to a standstill for a full minute—traffic, pedestrians, everything. It’s a moving tribute and a moment when the city collectively honors its history.
Learn these essentials, and you’ll blend into Warsaw life with fewer awkward stares and exasperated sighs. Or at least, you’ll know why you’re getting them.
