Zachęta Gallery Warsaw
Real art is always contemporary
"Zachęta" means "encouragement", and it was created in the 19th century to support young artists. Nowadays, it's one of the most important contemporary art museums in Poland. Located in a beautiful building from 1900, it is host to temporary modern art exhibitions. The place also organises other events, festivals and parties inside the gallery. It's one of the hottest places in Warsaw's artistic life.
In 1922, the Polish president Gabriel Narutowicz was killed in the gallery watching an exhibition by the artist Eligiusz Niewiadomski. Since then, Zachęta is famous for scandals. In 2000, a member of Polish parliament destroyed a sculpture by Italian artist Maurizio Catellan, which depicted Pope John Paul II struck down by a meteorite. On another occasion, famous Polish actor Daniel Olbrychski used a sword to slash another piece of art - a collection of 164 photos with the faces of actors playing Nazis. He started with destroying the photo of himself.
Check the website of the gallery for the program of current exhibitions and events. On Thursdays entrance is free.
Find your way with 164 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Warsaw
Hałas Vinyl+Coffee
great espresso
"Hałas Vinyl + Coffee" in Warsaw doesn't only serve amazing espresso, it also has... you guessed it. I love this sort of 'dual identity' cafés...
by
Magda
Przedmojska
Kawiarnia Fabryczna
great coffee in Solec
"Kawiarnia Fabryczna" in Warsaw reminds me of a small French bistro where you sit next to the window and can simply gaze at passers-by...
by
Magda
Przedmojska
Wybrzeże Puckie
Great for a stroll
"Wybrzeże Puckie" is one of the nicest walking paths by the river in Warsaw. There is a field of grass, an orchard and there's even wild boar and deer...
by
Magda
Przedmojska
BarKa
Chillin' on the Vistula
"BarKa" Warsaw, a place I would dare translate as "BarGe", sitting on the Vistula. Even though the river is not the prettiest, this bar is helping...
by
Nitzan
Reisner
Las Sobieskiego
Perfect for a Sunday stroll
"Las Sobieskiego" park is the second biggest green space in Warsaw. It has something for everyone: joggers, dog walkers, horse and bike riders.
by
Magda
Przedmojska
Plac Zabaw
Rollin' on the River
"Plac Zabaw" Warsaw is an open-air venue right on the Vistula river. It's 2000m² of space to get some sun and fresh air. I just love the concerts there...
by
Nitzan
Reisner
Veganda
Vivaciously vegan
"Veganda" is one of the newest vegan places to appear on Warsaw's culinary map, and currently it's my absolute favorite! Check out their lunch specials...
by
Nitzan
Reisner
Leonardo Verde
Italy goes vegan
"Leonardo Verde" is an Italian restaurant in Warsaw, with the difference that they also make vegan pizza and gluten-free pasta -- the best I've ever had...
by
Paulina
Stolarczyk
Matcha Bistro & Bar
Matcha is the new coffee
"Matcha Bistro & Bar" in Warsaw is my solution to drinking something other than coffee when going out. This is my new favorite spot for matcha latte!
by
Paulina
Stolarczyk
Blinkee
Motorbikes in Warsaw
"Blinkee" is a new app through which you can rent scooters around Warsaw. It's easy to use and very convenient. It's almost as cheap as renting a bike!
by
Paulina
Stolarczyk
Chopin Airport
For plane spotters!
"Chopin Airport" in Warsaw has a perfect spot for actual plane spotters. Follow this tip and you will have breath-taking views -- guaranteed!
by
Paulina
Stolarczyk
Gdański Bridge
Photo spot
"Gdański Bridge" in Warsaw has two levels: one for cars and another for pedestrians, trams and bikes. I love this place for pictures -- and I'm not alone!
by
Paulina
Stolarczyk
Heading to Warsaw?
164 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Warsaw?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 164 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Warsaw
Get to know our other Spotters from Warsaw
As featured on:
