Exploring Warsaw: A Summer Trip to Poland and Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour

When I heard that Taylor Swift was bringing her Eras Tour to Warsaw, I was thrilled. As a lifelong Swiftie, I quickly booked my tickets and began crafting the perfect getaway plan. What I expected to be just a concert trip turned into a vibrant journey through Poland's rich history, exquisite food, and unique cultural experiences. Join me as I share my adventure in Warsaw, a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau, and a delightful stop in Krakow.

Discovering the Vodka Museum

On our first day in Warsaw, my friend Steven and I visited the Warsaw Vodka Museum, an extraordinary place that explores the significance of vodka in Polish culture.

Housed in a beautifully restored building, the museum offered fascinating insights into vodka production and its role in Polish history. As I strolled through the exhibits, I learned about vodka making techniques and the different regional styles.

The highlight for me was the tasting session. Sampling varieties like Żubrówka, which contains bison grass, and Krupnik, a honey-flavored vodka, was an eye-opening experience. Each variant showcased unique flavors and histories, making it an enjoyable introduction to the heart of Polish traditions.

We also did the VIP experience after our initial tour, which I highly recommend. We got to try signature cocktails at their sky bar. So fun and a great way to kick off the weekend!

The Excitement of the Concert

The concert itself was nothing short of magical. Three of us decided to meet 'in the middle.' Charlotte from Belgium, flew in from the Netherlands, Steven, a fellow American, flew in from Iceland, and me from Tbilisi, Georgia.

We had a few mishaps before the concert, specifically with getting our VIP Bags and finding the right entrance for our tickets, but it worked out in the end. We found our seats, took some photos, and exchanged friendship bracelets with the vast array of fans who traveled worldwide to see Taylor in Poland.

As I stood in the crowd, the energy was palpable. Taylor performed an array of hits, captivating the audience with songs spanning her entire discography. At one point, over 50,000 fans joined me in singing “Shake It Off,” creating a sense of unity that was truly electrifying.

The concert featured stunning visuals, from dazzling light displays to elaborate stage sets. The artistry on display reminded me why music has such a powerful ability to connect people. After the encore, I couldn't wait to dive deeper into the experiences that awaited me in this beautiful city.

Historical Wonders in Warsaw

Once the concert excitement faded, I was eager to explore Warsaw’s historical sites. The city bursts with stunning architecture and compelling stories. Also they have excellent walking and bike paths, and very affordable cab fares. Charlie, Steven and I rented electric scooters several times, because the weather was beautiful, and we had no problems commuting.

We stopped and watched the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before continuing on to Old Town to meet our friend Martin (another fellow American residing in Poland).

The Old Town is a bustling tourism hub, characterized by its cobblestone alleys and medieval buildings that were reconstructed after World War II. At its heart lies Rynek Starego Miasta, a busy square lined with burgher houses and upscale Polish eateries. The combination of history, culture, and cuisine makes the Old Town a must-visit destination for tourists.

One of my must-see attractions was the Royal Castle, located in the heart of the Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage site was meticulously reconstructed after World War II, showcasing resilience and history.

Tasting Traditional Polish Food

After immersing myself in history, I was excited to sample traditional Polish cuisine. We stumbled upon Zapiecek, a cozy restaurant renowned for its pierogi.

We decided to try an assortment of fillings, choosing classics like potato and cheese, along with sauerkraut and mushrooms, and meat filling. Each bite was a comforting explosion of flavor, showcasing the richness of Polish culinary heritage. I also tried some Pork Knuckle and potatoes. We washed it all down with a vodka flight, featuring several flavors of Polish vodka.

After our meal we were stuffed, and Steven had to catch his flight. We walked back to the hotel and helped him get a cab to the airport. Afterwards, we may have taken an afternoon nap after sending him off, and grabbed a small, quiet dinner at one of the many cafeteria style/restaurant markets the city has to offer.

A Somber Reflection: Auschwitz-Birkenau

While reveling in the joys of Warsaw, it was vital for me to acknowledge a darker aspect of history. Charlie and I rented a car and reserved a day trip for a solemn visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, one of the most significant historical sites in the world.

Walking through the grounds felt emotionally heavy, each corner whispering stories of the past. During the Holocaust, more than 1.1 million people lost their lives here, making it a powerful memorial for those who suffered.

I highly recommend booking a guided tour. They're offered in English, Polish, and several other languages. You can book directly through the museum's website or a tour group, but book in advance. The guides provided invaluable context that deepened my understanding of the site and its impact. It was an experience that will resonate with me forever, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit amid profound tragedy.

A Culinary Stop in Krakow

After our day of reflection, I made my way to Krakow for a much-needed comforting dinner. There, I discovered Czarna Kaczka/ Black Duck, an atmospheric eatery in a long-standing tenement house, offering regional dishes, a patio & a bar.

I indulged in stuffed cabbages, filled with beef and rice and topped with a mushroom gravy. It was rich and flavorful, paired perfectly with freshly baked bread. The warm and inviting atmosphere provided a soothing contrast to the weight of my earlier experiences.

As we strolled in the rain through Krakow's enchanting streets illuminated at dusk, the city felt like something out of a fairy tale, closing a profoundly emotional day on a comforting note.

A Lasting Memorable Experience

My trip to Warsaw for Taylor Swift's Eras Tour evolved into so much more than a concert. Exploring a city steeped in history, enjoying mouth-watering Polish cuisine, and reflecting on impactful memories at Auschwitz-Birkenau shaped my journey in ways I never anticipated. It was also nice to see familiar faces, and spend time with my friends. Martin was a fun tour guide and took us to a few cool bars and restaurants during our visit.

Travel broadens our perspectives and deepens our understanding of the cultures that shape our world. I cherish every moment spent in Poland and encourage fellow travelers to experience the joyful highs and poignant lows such destinations offer.

Until next time, happy travels!