Getting Around
Taxis are a comfortable and convenient means of travelling around the city. Stands are marked with taxi signs and are located around train stations, shopping centres and the various high-traffic points throughout the city.
Public Transport
Most places around Warsaw can be reached via public transport, which is inexpensive and fairly efficient. The system consists of buses, trams, local trains and underground, all run by ZTM, the Warsaw Transport Authority. Lines run from about 4.30am to 11.20pm, after which night buses marked 'N' take over.
Walking and Cycling
Warsaw is a great city for strolling, whether around the compact Old Town, along the restaurant-and shop-filled Royal route or through the many grand gardens and beautifully landscaped parks.
Warsaw is not yet a fully bike-friendly city, but a system of bike paths has been recently created along a few major streets, especially in the leafy neighbourhood of Mokotow and along the banks of the Vistula River. Riders are not required by law to wear a helmet, but considering the heavy traffic, it is highly recommended.
Driving
With such an extensive public transport system, there's little incentive to drive in the centre of Warsaw. A car, however, does give you the most flexibility and freedom in travelling further afield.
Make sure to learn the local traffic rules and customs before renting or purchasing a car. In Poland, the maximum speed allowed in built-up areas is 50 km/ h between 5am and 11pm and 60km/h at night; this rises to 90km/ h on main roads, to 110 km/ h on dual carriageways and to 130km/h on motorways. Seatbelts are compulsory for everyone in the car and the use of handheld mobile phones is prohibited. A word of caution: Poland has one of the highest road accident rates in Europe, so be extra careful and vigilant when driving.
An International Drivers Licence (IDL) or a licence issued in any EU country authorises you to drive in Poland for six months from the date you arrive. After this time, you need to take a medical examination and a written test in Polish to determine how well you know your traffic rules. Alternatively, you can obtain a new international licence on your occasional visits home, which will extend the grace period for another six months.
For more detailed information regarding exams and driving courses in English and German, visit Nauka Jazdy driver training website.