The name Radziwiłł Palace refers here to two historic sites: the residence on Krakowskie Przedmieście in Warsaw, now the Presidential Palace, and the Baroque palace and estate in Nieborów. Together, they reflect Poland’s architectural, aristocratic, cultural and political history. Visiting information and historical background are available from the Presidential Palace Warsaw Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide and Radziwiłł Palace in Warsaw: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights.
History
Warsaw: the Presidential Palace
Prominently situated on Krakowskie Przedmieście along the Royal Route, the Warsaw palace was built in 1643 for Crown Great Hetman Stanisław Koniecpolski. Designed by Constantino Tencalla, it originally had a Baroque appearance. The Radziwiłł family acquired it in 1674. Later renovations introduced Neoclassical elements, particularly under Karol Stanisław Radziwiłł I and architect Chrystian Piotr Aigner in the 19th century.
The palace witnessed the drafting of the Constitution of 3 May 1791, described as Europe’s first modern constitution, and the signing of the Warsaw Pact in 1955. Since 1994, it has served as the official seat of the President of Poland. Further information is available from the Presidential Palace Warsaw Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide and Radziwiłł Palace in Warsaw: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights.
Nieborów Palace
About 55 km southwest of Warsaw, Nieborów Palace was built between 1690 and 1696 by Tylman van Gameren for Archbishop Michał Radziejowski. It began as a Baroque residence and was acquired by the Radziwiłł family in 1771. Over nearly two centuries, they modernized the estate, combining Baroque and Neoclassical elements, and developed the nearby Arkadia Park, a romantic English landscape garden created by Princess Helena Radziwiłł. See the Nieborów Palace Official Site.
The palace remained largely intact through the World Wars. After its nationalization in 1945, it was transformed into a museum. Today, it presents original interiors, art collections and the history of Poland’s noble families.
What to see
Warsaw
The palace’s Neoclassical façade and surrounding grounds can be viewed from Krakowskie Przedmieście. Photo spots include the façade, Prince Józef Poniatowski’s equestrian statue and the ornate gates.
Nieborów
- Exterior A symmetrical Baroque façade, high mansard roof and central avant-corps.
- Interiors Decorated salons, a marble staircase and a historic library with rare manuscripts. The lower hall has intricate oak panelling and period furnishings.
- Collections Paintings, sculptures, decorative arts and original Radziwiłł family artifacts. See the Nieborów Palace Official Site.
- Majolica Workshop Established in 1881 by Michał Piotr Radziwiłł, the workshop produced artistic ceramics and contributed to the development of Polish applied arts.
- Gardens Formal French-style parterres and an expansive English landscape park. Nearby Arkadia Park has romantic follies, classical ruins and ornamental lakes; see Fodor’s Travel.
Practical visiting information
Warsaw: Presidential Palace
- Interior access The palace is not open to the public because it is an official government building.
- Exterior viewing The façade and grounds can be admired and photographed from Krakowskie Przedmieście at any time. No tickets are required.
- Tours and virtual visits Guided walking tours along the Royal Route provide commentary from outside. Virtual tours and multimedia presentations are available through official tourism portals and the Presidential Palace website.
- Accessibility The grounds and adjacent sidewalks are accessible for visitors with disabilities.
- Transport The Nowy Świat-Uniwersytet metro station (Line M2), along with numerous bus and tram lines, provides access.
- Address Krakowskie Przedmieście 46/48, 00-071 Warsaw.
- Facilities There are no public restrooms or café at the palace; amenities are nearby.
- Security and photography Security protocols apply during ceremonies and events. Photography is permitted outside but restricted during official functions.
Nieborów Palace
- Opening hours
- April–October: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- November–March: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Closed Mondays and public holidays
- Ticket prices
- Adults: 25 PLN
- Students/Seniors: 15 PLN
- Children under 7: Free
- Tickets and tours Tickets can be purchased onsite or via the official website. Guided tours cost extra; advance booking is recommended. Tours are available in multiple languages.
- Accessibility Partial; some historic areas have limited access. Assistance is available upon request.
- Address and location Nieborów, near Łowicz, about 55 km from Warsaw.
- Transport About 1 hour by car from Warsaw, with parking available. Regional trains to Nieborów followed by a taxi are another option.
- Facilities Restrooms, a cloakroom and a gift shop are available. Accommodation is available in Nieborów and Łowicz.
- Events Cultural events, thematic guided tours and workshops take place throughout the year.
Tips
- For the Warsaw palace, daylight and evenings, when it is illuminated, are suggested times to visit.
- For Nieborów, spring and early autumn offer garden colors and mild weather.
- Consult official websites for updates on visiting hours, events and travel information, or download the Audiala app.
Nearby places
Warsaw
- Royal Castle Former seat of Polish monarchs, now a museum.
- St. Anne’s Church Has an observation deck with panoramic views.
- University of Warsaw A historic campus with notable architecture.
- Warsaw Old Town A UNESCO World Heritage Site with rebuilt medieval streets and squares.
Nieborów
Arkadia Park and the historic town of Łowicz are nearby.
FAQ
Warsaw: Presidential Palace
Can I visit the palace interior? No. Interior access is restricted.
Are tickets required to see the exterior? No tickets are needed.
Are guided tours available? Yes. External tours are included in many city walking tours.
Is the area accessible? Yes. The surroundings are accessible for visitors.
Nieborów Palace
Are guided tours available? Yes. Tours are available in multiple languages.
Is the palace accessible? Partially. Contact staff about specific needs.
What are the must-see features? The marble staircase, salons, library, gardens and Arkadia Park.
How do I buy tickets? Onsite or online via the official website.