Kanonia (Canon Square) Warsaw
Warsaw's Wishing Bell in Kanonia Square: touch, wish, and walk around for good luck. A charming, magical stop in the historic Old Town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Kanonia (Canon Square) Warsaw
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Warsaw's Wishing Bell in Kanonia Square: touch, wish, and walk around for good luck. A charming, magical stop in the historic Old Town.
"A delightful and memorable moment, adding a touch of magic to your stroll through the historic Old Town."
✨ Make a Wish!
Touch the bell and walk around it 3 times for your wish to come true. :sparkles:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Kanonia Square is a picturesque, less crowded spot for great photos. :camera:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Warsaw's Wishing Bell
Kanonia Square
Touch this 17th-century bronze bell, make a wish, and walk around it three times for good luck. A touch of magic in the Old Town!
Kanonia Square Charm
Kanonia Square
A peaceful, cobblestoned gem offering a perfect photo opportunity away from the main tourist crowds.
Planning Your Visit
The Magic of the Wishing Bell
Old Town Charm & Beyond
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Make a Wish!
Touch the bell and walk around it 3 times for your wish to come true. :sparkles:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Kanonia Square is a picturesque, less crowded spot for great photos. :camera:
📍 Hidden Gem
Tucked away behind St. John's Cathedral, it's a delightful surprise. :gem:
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine with a visit to the Old Town and New Town for a complete experience. :walking:
Must visit places in Warsaw’s old town
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Make a Wish!
Touch the bell and walk around it 3 times for your wish to come true. :sparkles:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Kanonia Square is a picturesque, less crowded spot for great photos. :camera:
📍 Hidden Gem
Tucked away behind St. John's Cathedral, it's a delightful surprise. :gem:
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine with a visit to the Old Town and New Town for a complete experience. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Kanonia Square's Wishing Bell a charming and magical addition to Warsaw's Old Town. While not a major attraction, its legend and picturesque setting offer a delightful, quick stop for a wish and a photo. It's praised for its peaceful atmosphere and unique local tradition.
"Tucked away in the quiet and picturesque Kanonia Square, just a few steps behind St. John's Cathedral, you'll find Warsaw's lovely Wishing Bell. This beautiful 17th-century bronze bell has a wonderful legend attached to it: touch the bell and walk around it three times while making a wish, and it is said to come true.
It’s not a major monument, but its charm is undeniable. The experience is simple, fun, and adds a touch of magic to your stroll through the historic Old Town. The square itself is a peaceful, cobblestoned gem, offering a perfect photo opportunity away from the more crowded main squares.
Whether you believe in the legend or not, participating in this local tradition is a delightful and memorable moment. A highly recommended quick stop for anyone exploring Warsaw!"
Luca Brizzi
"The Old Town has been a wonderful experience."
Lionel Greenberg
"By the other comments says to turn 3 rounds and make 3 wishes thank you bell"
Cayla Yong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kanonia Square is located in the heart of Warsaw's Old Town, just behind St. John's Cathedral. You can easily reach it by walking from other Old Town attractions. Public transport options include trams and buses that stop near the Old Town area.
Yes, Kanonia Square is easily accessible on foot within the Old Town. The cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Walking is the best way to explore the Old Town and its hidden gems like Kanonia Square. Consider a guided walking tour to learn more about the history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kanonia Square and the Wishing Bell are free to visit. They are public spaces within Warsaw's Old Town.
Kanonia Square is always accessible as it's an outdoor public space. The Wishing Bell can be visited at any time, though it's best enjoyed during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee to see or interact with the Wishing Bell. It's a traditional custom for visitors to participate in.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for photography. Weekday mornings are also great for fewer people in your shots.
The Wishing Bell itself is a focal point, but the entire square with its historic buildings and cobblestones provides a charming backdrop. Look for unique angles and perspectives.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the Wishing Bell and the surrounding square. It's a popular spot for capturing the essence of Warsaw's Old Town.
🎫 🌟 Local Traditions
The legend states that if you touch the bell and walk around it three times while making a wish, your wish will come true.
Simply approach the bell, touch it, and then walk around it three times, focusing on your wish. It's a simple yet magical local custom.
While not a massive monument, the Wishing Bell is a beloved local tradition and a charming addition to the Old Town experience, offering a unique cultural interaction.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as the Old Town streets are uneven. Consider a short, engaging tour of the Old Town that includes the Wishing Bell to keep younger attention spans interested. The nearby Copernicus Science Centre is also a fantastic option for families looking for more interactive fun.
📸 Photographers
Best times for photography are during the golden hour in the late afternoon for warm light, or early mornings to capture the square with minimal people. The contrast between the ancient bell and the surrounding buildings is particularly striking. Don't forget to explore the narrow streets leading to and from the square for more atmospheric shots.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
Recommendation: Pair your visit with an exploration of the Royal Castle and the Warsaw Uprising Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the city's complex past. The Old Town itself, meticulously rebuilt after WWII, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to Polish resilience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Wishing Bell
The experience is simple, accessible, and adds a touch of whimsy to any exploration of Warsaw's historic Old Town. It's a moment of quiet reflection and hopeful anticipation, offering a unique cultural interaction that resonates with both locals and tourists alike. Whether you're a believer or simply enjoy participating in local customs, the Wishing Bell provides a memorable and charming interlude.
While it might not be a grand monument, its charm is undeniable. The square itself is a peaceful, cobblestoned haven, providing a perfect backdrop for photos away from the bustling main squares. It’s a testament to how even small traditions can create lasting memories and add a special layer to the travel experience.
Exploring Kanonia Square and its Surroundings
Beyond the immediate charm of Kanonia Square, the surrounding Old Town offers a wealth of historical sites and vibrant streets. Visitors are encouraged to wander through the Barbican and into the New Town, which, despite its name, is the second oldest part of the city. Streets like Freta lead to the New Town Market Square, offering further exploration and discovery.
Many travelers recommend exploring beyond the most famous landmarks to find these hidden gems. The Old Town is compact enough to be explored on foot, allowing for spontaneous discoveries and a deeper appreciation of Warsaw's resilience and beauty. Combining a visit to Kanonia Square with a broader exploration of the Old and New Towns provides a comprehensive and rewarding experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit