The hype
Travelers are obsessed with the pool and location but consistently grumble about the dated room decor and steep parking fees.
Intercontinental Warsaw
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want the best swimming pool view in Warsaw and don't mind a corporate vibe to get it.
Why People Love It
- The 43rd-floor pool is arguably the best hotel pool in Europe
- Dead-center location opposite the Palace of Culture and Science
- Breakfast at Platter by Karol Okrasa is a massive, high-quality spread
Quick Take: A skyscraper icon that trades boutique charm for jaw-dropping views and a pool you'll brag about for years.
Reviewed by @fly_with_shalhevet: I spent my morning swimming on the 43rd floor and the view of the Palace of Culture is insane. It feels like you're floating right above the city center. Definitely the highlight of my Warsaw trip—you have to experience this pool at least once.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are paying for the verticality; the rooms themselves are standard corporate beige and starting to show their age compared to newer nearby rivals like the Nobu or Raffles.
- You are a swimmer or wellness junkie
- You need to be within 5 minutes of Central Station
- You love high-rise city views
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Generally excellent daily service, though rare reports of missed refills (tea/coffee).
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling, though one isolated report of 'small black mold' suggests checking grout in older rooms.
- Maintenance: Good condition, but some furniture in standard rooms feels 'tired' or dated.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, high-quality white linens; towels are fluffy and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Neutral, fresh corporate hotel scent; no lingering smoke smells reported.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway doors slamming
- Elevator dings near the lift bank
Before you book
Good to know
- The pool requires a reservation during busy times; book your slot at check-in.
- The 'hole' in the building isn't just design; it's a legal requirement to let sun hit the apartment block behind it.
- Breakfast is excellent but costs ~115 PLN if not included in your rate.
What to pack
- Swimsuit (non-negotiable, even if you don't swim, you need a photo in that pool)
- Gym gear (the 44th-floor gym has incredible views)
- Formal wear if you plan to dine at Platter
Room Genie
Best picks
- Rooms ending in '11' (e.g., 3411) for the direct Palace of Culture view
- Corner Suites for dual-aspect city panoramas
- Floors 35+ for unobstructed sightlines
Rooms to avoid
- Low floors (under 20) facing the inner courtyard/residential block (darker)
- Rooms near the elevator bank (noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking specifically for the view. Please assign a room ending in '11' or a high-floor corner unit facing the Palace of Culture. I would prefer a floor above the 30th if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool free for guests?
Yes, usually included, but watch out for a potential 1-hour time limit during peak occupancy which has frustrated some recent guests.
Can I open the windows?
No, the windows are fully sealed for safety and climate control.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed for a fee of roughly 100-150 PLN per night plus a deposit.
How much is parking?
Very expensive. Expect to pay around 160-180 PLN ($40+) per day.
Is there a lounge?
Yes, the Club Lounge is on the 41st floor and offers breakfast, snacks, and evening drinks with a view.
How far is the Old Town?
It's about a 25-30 minute walk or a quick 10-minute taxi/Uber ride.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Don't just swim; go up to the 44th floor gym even if you don't work out—the view is actually better than from the pool deck.
- ✨
The 'Classic Palace View' rooms are worth the upgrade cost; the standard city view is fine, but the Palace view is the money shot.
- ✨
If the hotel breakfast is too pricey (115 PLN), walk 5 minutes to 'Charlotte' on Menora Square for a trendy, cheaper French breakfast.
5 things to know before you go
💡The massive 'hole' in the building structure exists solely because local residents sued to ensure their apartments still got sunlight.
💡The pool water can be a bit chilly for some; it's a lap pool, not a bath.
💡You might have to wear a swimming cap if the lifeguard is feeling strict (rules vary).
💡The elevators are incredibly fast (4m/s) but can cause ear-popping.
💡There is a hidden 'buffer floor' used during renovations to keep noise away from guests.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Intercontinental Warsaw is located and what's nearby.