The rebuilding of Warsaw after World War Two, and the fact that it escaped the brunt of the recent worldwide economic downturn, means that there’s a freshness and vibrancy to the city, with plenty of investment. Where once there was rubble, now there is beauty. Whether you want to explore Polish history, simply soak up some culture or stroll in a gorgeous park, you’ll find it all in Warsaw.
From the Royal Castle to revival
There was a Royal Castle in Warsaw in the 14th century and, while it took on many different shapes and uses as the Russians came and went, it was completely destroyed by the Germans during World War Two.
The current version is a detailed and lavish recreation with rooms decorated in styles from different centuries. Highlights are the Throne Room and the Canaletto Room, the latter boasting over 20 of the artist’s works.
It’s a focus for much national pride – which can’t be said for the Palace of Culture and Science, about which many locals are ambivalent at best. This was built during Soviet Occupation as a gift of friendship from Stalin, and is the tallest building in all of Poland.
It now contains museums and cinemas, along with a 30th floor observation deck that is a must-see. From here you can look out at the more modern Warsaw growing beneath you – from the stunning glass roof of the Zlote Tarasy shopping mall to the quirky Neon Museum, which gathers vintage neon signs erected during the Communist years.
Occupation and liberation
Poles are keenly aware of their history, and there are several museums dedicated to events surrounding World War Two. The Warsaw Rising Museum charts the brave but ill-fated uprising against Nazi occupation in 1944 – it’s brilliantly curated and gives a glimpse into the courage of the locals during this period.
The Museum of the History of Polish Jews, opened in 2014, covers 1,000 years of Jewish history in the country, including the dark days of World War Two. The Okopowa Street Jewish Cemetery is also an interesting place to visit, dating back over 200 years and full of ornate tombs.
Warsaw for your waistline
Food in Warsaw is hearty and tailored toward meat eaters. However, it’s also a very international city, so you’ll find something for all tastes here, from burgers to sushi. While new restaurants shrug off the past, other stick to it.
Czerwony Wieprz – the Inn under the Red Hog – goes for a somewhat ironic take on the Communist era when it was a place where party bigwigs dined. The food, however, is still up to scratch – the menu includes wild boar marinated in juniper, borscht and dumplings.
Zapiecek is also highly regarded for that irresistible Polish specialty – pierogi. These filled dumplings come in plenty of classic savory options such as potato and cottage cheese. Look out for dessert versions too, in a place where the décor aims to evoke homely Polish hospitality of the past.
With much more to see – including the Chopin Museum, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,Wilanow Palace andLazienki Park – car rental in Warsaw is the best way to make the most of your visit.