underground passage at Rondo ONZ station on Warsaw metro line M2

Rondo Onz Metro Station

Rondo ONZ Metro Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide in Warsaw, Poland

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: History and Significance

Rondo ONZ Metro Station, located beneath the United Nations Roundabout in central Warsaw, is a vital transit hub linking the districts of Wola and Śródmieście. Opened in 2015 as part of Metro Line M2, this station is more than a transportation node—it’s a showcase of Warsaw’s commitment to urban renewal, architectural innovation, and internationalism. Designed by Andrzej M. Chołdzyński and featuring vibrant murals by Wojciech Fangor, Rondo ONZ bridges Warsaw’s historical evolution with its modern aspirations, making it an essential stop for both commuters and visitors.

The station’s strategic location offers seamless connections to major commercial, cultural, and historical landmarks, including the Warsaw Spire, Złote Tarasy shopping center, Palace of Culture and Science, and nearby remnants of the Warsaw Ghetto wall. With comprehensive accessibility features and integrated tram and bus links, Rondo ONZ stands as a model of urban mobility and inclusivity.

For further details, see Wikipedia, Tripomatic, and Hardenfelt.

Historical Development
Visiting Information
Architectural and Artistic Features
Connectivity and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Final Tips
Sources and Further Reading

Historical Development

Early Ambitions and Delays

Plans for a Warsaw metro date back to 1918, motivated by the city’s rapid growth and need for efficient transport. Initial construction attempts in the 1920s and 1930s were halted by the Great Depression and World War II (Warsaw Metro History). Post-war efforts in the 1950s and 1960s were stalled by economic and political shifts, with real progress on the metro coming only in the late 20th century.

Planning and Construction

The central section of the east-west Metro Line M2, including Rondo ONZ, was designed by Andrzej M. Chołdzyński, with technical input from Metroprojekt and art by Wojciech Fangor (Tripomatic). Construction began following the award of the contract in 2009, and the station’s structure was completed using the efficient cut-and-cover method (Wikipedia PL).

Key Milestones

2011–2014: Construction, interior finishing, and infrastructure restoration.
March 8, 2015: Official opening as part of the M2 line inauguration (Wikipedia PL).

Visiting Information

Operational Hours

Metro Station: Daily, approximately 5:00 AM to midnight.
Monument and Roundabout: Open and accessible 24/7.

Tickets and Fares

Purchase Options: Ticket machines in the station, staffed counters, and mobile apps.
Pricing: Single-ride tickets start at approx. 4.40 PLN; day passes and multi-ride options are available.

Accessibility

The station is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and clear signage for all users. There are 11 entrances distributed around the roundabout, ensuring convenient entry from all directions.

Architectural and Artistic Features

Rondo ONZ Metro Station is a standout in Warsaw’s public infrastructure. Its single-level, elongated design maximizes passenger flow and visibility (ArchDaily). The dominant color palette of white and light green creates a sense of openness and cleanliness, while natural and artificial lighting enhance the modern atmosphere.

A highlight is Wojciech Fangor’s abstract murals, which echo the circular motif of the roundabout above and underscore the station’s role as a hub of connectivity (Tripomatic).

Connectivity and Accessibility

Multimodal Transit Hub

Rondo ONZ is a key interchange point for:

Metro: Line M2 (east-west axis; connection between Bemowo and Targówek) (Wikipedia).
Trams: Lines 11, 17, 33, and more (Moovit).
Buses: Routes including 157, 178, 180, 190, 517.
Nearby Rail: Warszawa Centralna station is within walking distance, offering regional and international connections.

The area’s design prioritizes easy transfers and user-friendly navigation (Mapametro).

Nearby Attractions

Palace of Culture and Science: Warsaw’s iconic skyscraper with panoramic city views.
Złote Tarasy: Shopping and entertainment complex.
Warsaw Spire and Rondo 1: Landmark office towers.
Warsaw Uprising Museum: Accessible via tram or metro.
Historic Warsaw Ghetto wall fragments: Short walk from the station.
Hala Mirowska: Historic market hall dating to 1902.

These sites are easily accessible on foot or via public transport, making Rondo ONZ an ideal starting point for exploration (Hardenfelt).

Travel Tips

Avoid Rush Hours: For a comfortable visit, avoid 7:30–9:00 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM on weekdays.
Validate Tickets: Always validate your ticket before entering the metro or boarding trams/buses.
Family-Friendly: The station features a children’s play area, rare in metro stations.
Photography: Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photos.
Guided Tours: While not offered regularly, occasional tours are announced on the Warsaw Metro website or at tourist centers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Rondo ONZ Metro Station’s hours?
A: 5:00 AM to midnight daily.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: At station machines, counters, or via mobile apps.

Q: Is the station accessible?
A: Yes, it features elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and clear signage.

Q: What attractions are nearby?
A: Palace of Culture and Science, Złote Tarasy, Warsaw Ghetto wall, Hala Mirowska, and more.

Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Occasionally by Warsaw Metro or through city walking tours.

Summary and Final Tips

Rondo ONZ Metro Station exemplifies Warsaw’s fusion of historical legacy, modern architecture, and efficient public transit. Its comprehensive accessibility, multimodal connections, proximity to major attractions, and unique artistic elements make it a must-visit for travelers and daily commuters alike. As Warsaw’s urban core continues to evolve, Rondo ONZ remains a pivotal gateway to exploring the city’s vibrant past and dynamic future.