Warsaw is increasingly popular with families — great food, fascinating history, and very affordable. Chopin Airport makes arrival easy. Here's what families need to know.
The airport
Chopin Airport is medium-sized and straightforward. One terminal, clear signage in English. Facilities include:
- Family restrooms with changing tables
- Pharmacy in the arrivals area
- Free luggage trolleys
- Play area in departures (useful for return flights)
- Stroller collection at the oversized baggage belt
Child seats in Poland
Polish law requires child restraints for children under 150 cm (about 10-11 years old). However, taxis are exempt from this requirement. That means:
- Taxis and Uber: No child seats available, and they're not legally required to have them
- Pre-booked transfers: Can provide infant, toddler, and booster seats on request
- Rental cars: Child seats available as an add-on (30-50 PLN/day)
Transport options for families
Train — surprisingly works
The airport train is modern with wide doors, luggage space, and no stairs to the platform (elevator access). If your kids can sit independently and you have manageable luggage, it's a great option:
- 4.40 PLN per person (kids under 4 free)
- 25 minutes to Centralna
- From there, walk or take a short Uber to your hotel
Uber/Bolt — practical for older kids
Door-to-door, 30-55 PLN (€7-13). Works well if kids don't need car seats. Bolt XL gets you a larger car for more luggage space.
Pre-booked transfer — best for young families
- Sedan with child seat: €18-32
- Minivan with child seats: €28-45
- Driver meets you at arrivals, carries bags, seat already installed
- Fixed price, no stress
Getting around Warsaw with kids
Once in the city:
- Metro: Clean, fast, stroller-friendly with elevators at most stations
- Trams: Extensive network, free for kids under 4
- Bolt/Uber: Cheap and abundant
- Walking: The Old Town is compact and pedestrian-friendly
Family destinations from the airport
| Place | Why kids love it | Distance | Transport cost | |---|---|---|---| | Old Town | Historic buildings, squares | 18 km | 40-60 PLN taxi | | Copernicus Science Centre | Interactive science museum | 15 km | 35-50 PLN taxi | | Warsaw Zoo | Animals, playground | 17 km | 40-55 PLN taxi | | Lazienki Park | Peacocks, rowboats | 10 km | 30-40 PLN taxi |
Practical family tips
- Polish zloty: Get some from an ATM at the airport. Avoid the exchange desks in arrivals — their rates are terrible. Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- Winter: Warsaw winters are cold (-5 to -10°C common). Dress kids in layers for the walk between transport and your hotel.
- Strollers in the Old Town: The Old Town has cobblestones. A light, all-terrain stroller works better than a big travel system.
- Food: Polish food is kid-friendly — pierogi (dumplings), nalesniki (crepes), and soups are all child-approved.
- English: Younger Poles speak excellent English. Older taxi drivers might not. Uber/Bolt removes the language barrier.