About the Event

The Big Migration – On the Road to the Next Generation of Scientific Repositories is an international conference dedicated to the future of research repositories and large-scale migrations to modern digital infrastructures.

The event will take place 12–13 May 2026 in Warsaw (55 Dobra Street), Poland, at the University of Warsaw Library (BUW) and nearby university facilities. The conference brings together repository managers, librarians, research administrators, IT specialists and open-science practitioners from across Central and Eastern Europe and beyond.

The programme combines:

• keynote presentations

• real-world migration case studies

• hands-on technical workshops

• expert panels and technical sessions

Participants will explore topics such as DSpace 8/9 migrations, CRIS integrations, metadata interoperability, AI-enhanced workflows and sustainable repository governance.

Beyond the sessions, the conference provides a space for networking, collaboration and knowledge exchange within the open-science and repository communities.

About the University of Warsaw

The University of Warsaw (UW) is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Central and Eastern Europe. Founded in 1816, the university hosts tens of thousands of students and researchers across multiple faculties and research centres.

The conference venue is located at the University of Warsaw Library (BUW) on Dobra Street, one of the most modern and architecturally distinctive academic libraries in Europe.

BUW is known for:

• its innovative architecture and rooftop gardens

• advanced digital infrastructure

• strong engagement in open science initiatives and research data management

Conference sessions will take place in university facilities located within the university campus and nearby academic buildings designed for international conferences and scientific events.

How to Get to Warsaw

By Air

The easiest way to reach Warsaw is via Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW), Poland’s main international airport, located about 10 km from the city centre.

Direct flights connect Warsaw with most major European cities, including:

• London

• Paris

• Frankfurt

• Amsterdam

• Zurich

• Vienna

• Stockholm

From the airport you can reach the city centre in 20–30 minutes by:

• train (SKM line)

• airport bus

• taxi or rideshare

• airport transfer services

By Train

Warsaw is well connected by international and high-speed rail. Major stations include:

• Warszawa Centralna

• Warszawa Wschodnia

• Warszawa Zachodnia

Direct train connections operate from cities such as Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Budapest.

By Car

Warsaw is accessible via major European highways including:

• A2 motorway (Berlin – Warsaw)

• S8 and S7 express roads

Public parking near the University of Warsaw is limited, so public transport is recommended.

Getting Around Warsaw

Warsaw offers a modern and efficient public transportation system operated by the Warsaw Public Transport Authority (ZTM).

Public Transport Options

Participants can easily move around the city using:

• Metro (2 lines)

• Trams

• Buses

• Urban rail (SKM)

Tickets are valid across all transport modes.

Ticket Options

Common options include:

• 20-minute ticket

• 75-minute ticket

• 24-hour ticket

• 72-hour ticket

Tickets can be purchased via:

• ticket machines

• mobile apps

• public transport kiosks.

From the City Centre to BUW

The University of Warsaw Library is located near the Vistula River and can be reached easily by:

• Metro line M2 (Centrum Nauki Kopernik station)

• several tram and bus lines

• walking from the historic city centre (approx. 15–20 minutes).

Visa Information for Poland

Poland is part of the Schengen Area, which allows free travel between most European countries.

Participants from EU / EEA

Citizens of EU and EEA countries can enter Poland with:

• a valid passport, or

• a national ID card.

No visa is required.

Participants from Non-EU Countries

Participants from many countries can enter Poland visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days) within the Schengen area.

If a visa is required, participants should apply for a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) at the nearest Polish embassy or consulate.

You may need:

• passport

• conference invitation letter

• travel insurance

• proof of accommodation

• proof of financial means.

We recommend starting the visa process at least 6–8 weeks before travel.

Accommodation in Warsaw

Warsaw offers a wide range of hotels and apartments. For convenience, we recommend accommodation near the University of Warsaw Library (BUW) or in the city centre, which provides easy access to the venue by metro or tram.

Below are several recommended hotels located within 10–20 minutes of the conference venue.

Recommended Hotels Near BUW

Premium / Business Hotels

• Sheraton Grand Warsaw – modern business hotel near the city centre and the Vistula river.

• InterContinental Warsaw – iconic skyscraper hotel with city views.

• The Westin Warsaw – comfortable hotel popular for conferences and international events.

Typical prices range from 150–220 EUR per night depending on the season.

Mid-Range Hotels

• Mercure Warszawa Centrum – reliable international hotel brand in the city centre.

• Royal Tulip Warsaw Centre – modern serviced apartments and hotel rooms.

• Ibis Styles Warszawa Centrum

Prices typically range from 100–140 EUR per night.

Budget Options

• Ibis Budget Warszawa Centrum – affordable accommodation near the conference area.

• Moxy Warsaw Praga – modern lifestyle hotel with good public transport connections.

Prices start from 80–110 EUR per night.

Explore Warsaw

Warsaw is a vibrant European capital combining historic architecture with modern urban culture. Within walking distance of the conference venue participants can explore:

• the Vistula River boulevards

• the Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• the Copernicus Science Centre

• the University of Warsaw campus

• numerous museums, restaurants and cultural venues.

The city is known for its lively academic and cultural environment, making it an ideal setting for an international conference focused on innovation and open science.

Weather in Warsaw in May

May is one of the most pleasant months to visit Warsaw. Spring is fully underway, with mild temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring the city.

Typical weather conditions in May:

• Average daytime temperature: 17–22°C

• Evening temperature: 10–14°C

• Weather: mostly mild and sunny with occasional spring showers

Participants are advised to bring:

• light jackets or sweaters for cooler evenings

• comfortable walking shoes

• a small umbrella or rain jacket

Conference venues are fully climate-controlled, but many social activities and city attractions are best enjoyed outdoors.

Currency and Payments in Poland

The official currency in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN).

Payment Methods

Warsaw is a highly modern and cashless-friendly city. Most places accept:

• credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)

• debit cards

• mobile payments such as Apple Pay and Google Pay

Contactless payments are widely used in:

• restaurants

• hotels

• taxis

• public transportation

• shops and cafés

Cash

Although card payments are the norm, it may still be useful to carry a small amount of cash for smaller vendors or markets.

ATMs are widely available throughout the city, especially in the city centre and near the university campus.

Emergency Contacts & Health Information

Warsaw offers a high standard of medical services and emergency assistance.

Emergency Numbers in Poland

The main emergency number is:

• 112 – universal emergency number (police, ambulance, fire brigade)

Additional numbers include:

• 999 – ambulance

• 998 – fire brigade

• 997 – police

Medical Assistance

Hospitals and clinics in Warsaw provide professional medical care, and many doctors speak English. Several international clinics operate in the city centre.

Participants are strongly advised to travel with:

• valid health insurance

• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for EU citizens, if applicable

Pharmacies

Pharmacies (“Apteka”) are widely available across the city. Some operate 24 hours a day.