↵Traffic Regulations: Key Points
Signs in Warsaw are similar to those in most European countries and are easily recognizable.
Important traffic rules:
- Headlights must be on at all times – both day and night.
- Vehicles on roundabouts have priority. Those entering must yield.
- Phone conversations require hands-free system.
- Seat belts are mandatory for every person in the vehicle.
- Stepping out of the car at night on highways requires a reflective vest.
Speed limits: within city limits – 50 km/h (60 km/h at night), outside city limits on 2-lane roads – 90 km/h, on 4-lane roads outside the city – 100 km/h, on expressways – 140 km/h.
Children under 150 cm tall and under 12 years old must use a car seat or special restraint device.
Warsaw residents practice a dynamic driving style. They respect right-of-way but expect quick reactions from other road users. If stopped by police, provide your documents and communicate calmly and respectfully.
Gas Stations
Fuel in Warsaw can be paid for with cash or bank cards. Major chains typically accept international cards. Smaller stations may require payment before fueling—it's best to check procedures in advance.
Nearly all gas stations in Warsaw are open 24/7, especially in central districts and along main highways. In rural areas, stations may close overnight or operate on reduced schedules.
Large stations offer additional services: tire inflation and car washes.
Parking in Warsaw
Free parking in central Warsaw is limited and typically available on weekends and holidays. Look for "Parking bezpłatny" signs or pavement markings.
Paid zones are marked with a "P" sign and numbers indicating the rate. Payment is made through parking meters, mobile apps, or SMS.
Parking meters accept coins and bank cards. In both cases, first enter your license plate number. For cash payment, insert coins and press the green button. For card payment, select the time, confirm the action, and tap your card on the terminal.
You don't need to display the printed ticket on your windshield. Payment information is registered in the central system.
Important notes:
- Yellow curb markings prohibit stopping and parking.
- Shopping centers and underground parking facilities in Warsaw offer an alternative to street parking. Rates there are usually fixed.
- For parking right in the city center, look for private parking lots. They cost more than municipal parking but keep your car close to attractions.
How to Book a Car in Warsaw
Renting a car in Warsaw through Localrent takes just a few minutes. The service displays detailed terms for each offer.
Booking steps:
- Specify dates and location. Choose pickup and return city and rental period.
- Apply filters. Narrow down suitable options by filtering cars by transmission type (automatic or manual), deposit amount (or no deposit), specific manufacturer (such as BMW, Skoda, Kia).
- Review vehicle details. Add optional extras if needed. Check the total rental cost.
- Click "Continue," fill in required driver information, and pay a small deposit (15–20% of the total).
- Receive confirmation. A voucher with rental company contacts and pickup details will be sent to your email. Present it when meeting the manager in Warsaw.