Poland’s capital has far more to offer than its unfortunate grey image resulting from major destruction in World War II. The Old Town has been carefully restored to resemble its former glory. Filled with history, fascinating sights and a good choice of international and traditional restaurants and bars.
Poland’s capital is a superb choice for a short break. Not only will you unravel a compelling history of a city which has witnessed so much, but you will also feel a warm welcome from the locals and be surprised at what exceptional value for money you get on a Warsaw city break.
What to See
There is much to see and learn in Warsaw. An absolute must is a visit to the Stare Miasto (Old Town). Although completely obliterated during the war, the area has been painstakingly reconstructed with the look and feel of the city prior to its destruction, even using the original bricks where possible. The Rynek Starego Miasta (Market Square) dates back to the 13th century and has a lively atmosphere and a choice of cafes, bars and restaurants to just sit, relax and watch the world go by. You might want to continue with a visit to the Jewish Cemetery. It is amongst the largest in the world and has become the final resting place of rabbis, intellectuals as well as local people. Another popular attraction is the park-palace complex of Lazienki Park, the largest park in Warsaw, which links the Royal Castle, itself a national monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the beautiful Wilanow palace, nicknamed the Polish Versailles. The park also contains its own Palace on the Water, a roman inspired amphitheatre and the Little White House. For many film fans and historians a trip to Warsaw will include a visit to the Jewish Ghetto where they will be able to retrace the steps of the composer and pianist Wladsylaw Szpilman, whose story was told in Roman Polanski’s film, The Pianist. Music lovers may want to remember one of the city’s most famous residents and the Fryderyk Chopin Museum dedicated to his life is housed at the Ostrogski Palace. A visit to Warsaw’s former Gestapo HQ museum is a stark reminder of man’s capacity for cruelty, and a telling reminder of Poland’s recent history.
Where to Stay
Warsaw is a large city so expect to do some walking whilst here. The 3 star Mercure Fryderyk Chopin is a well rated hotel located in the heart the city centre and makes a good base for your stay. The hotel also boasts an attractive coffee shop serving freshly baked cakes throughout the day an elegant gourmet restaurant, brasserie and a small in-house gym and sauna. If you prefer a 4 star, we recommend the Jan III Sobieski Hotel. Adding a touch of luxury doesn’t cost as much as you might think in Warsaw. We have excellent rates with a number of 5 star hotels across the city centre allowing you to enjoy your break in style. Amongst our favourite 5 stars are the InterContinental and the Sofitel.
What to Eat
Bigos is a traditional stew of cabbage, mushroom and meat. The famous Pierogi are made of dough and usually contain cheese, potatoes, onions, and/or meat and are served hot boiled or fried with sour cream, although these days you can find pierogi containing just about any filling savoury or sweet you care to mention.
When to Go
The weather is typically cold winters and warm summers but each season is a different experience and Warsaw is great to visit whenever you choose.
Getting There
We can offer direct flights to Warsaw from 11 UK and Irish airports, including Cork, Doncaster/Sheffield, Liverpool and Glasgow Prestwick. A Warsaw city break also works really well when combined with a city break to Krakow due to the excellent rail connection between the cities. Call our city break team for more information on tailor making your own multi centre Warsaw and Krakow holiday.