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Guide to Warsaw, Poland
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WarsawWhat was once perhaps the most beautiful city in Central Europe, Warsaw was a ruby in the Polish countryside. The Nazi occupation of the city and much of the outer-lying region changed all of that. The city was nearly leveled, and millions of inhabitants were either displaced or killed. After World War II, the city turned around a bit. Reconstruction ran at full force, and the intricacy of the work around the citys center and busiest and most important districts brought some structures back to their original (albeit reproduced) grandeur and beauty. Though life in Warsaw would never be the same, the city is back to being one of the premier destinations for travelers trekking the European continent. The city center may even be more spectacular today than it was a century earlier, and cultural events and attractions are too numerous to list. This all makes for an exciting city adventure that you will never forget. Visit Warsaw today!
When to go:
Because Poland has the usual climatic conditions of any central-European nation, youll see that its capital city brings travelers throughout the year. Snow, rain, heat, nor humidity deters people from traversing the streets here, but nevertheless, you will see a significant increase in pedestrian and roadway traffic in the months between March and November. You do not want to avoid the crowds, though. We have repeatedly asserted that numerous destinations are best when littered with the least people, but Warsaw is among the few that stand as exceptions. When the city is busiest it is the best, so be sure to fly in when youll be rubbing elbows with thousands of fellow commuters. Events are at their height, and everyone is in a jolly-good mood (except taxi drivers, who despise their greatest competition, walkways!).
Getting there and around:
Warsaws Frederick Chopin Airport is conveniently located just 6 miles (10km) from the city. The terminal is chock-full-of great services, clean facilities, and more than enough shops, bars and restaurants. Also available are a post office, 24-hour banks, and a bureaux de change. Buses are the most-frequently used mode of transportation to and from the airport, and they are a great way to go. However, if you have a particular destination in mind that doesnt run alongside the citys top hotels, youre better off hiring a cab. Radioing taxis may be cheaper, so if youre not short on time before you arrive at the airport, you may want to call ahead!
Warsaw runs a superb variety of transit services, including buses, trams, and a metro system. If you happen to find yourself short on time, you can hop on a bus or tram and be guaranteed quick arrival at your destination. The citys metro system, while useful in certain situations, doesnt quite branch out to all areas of the city. With only a single line running (more to be added as demand increases), you may find it tricky using the system to get from place to place (unless the trains route happens to run exactly where you wish to go).
Attractions:
Warsaws Old Town is undoubtedly its most-frequented area, and for good reason. Most of the buildings are built in 17^th - and 18^th -century fashions, with the Old Market Square as the traditional social center. Merchant houses surround the area with their colorful exteriors, and youll never get tired of the artists and open-air restaurants providing passersby with visual and edible creations.
Also within close proximity to the Market Square is the Historical Museum of Warsaw. You will be both amazed and saddened by the history that is portrayed throughout its halls. From photographs to documentary films, the impact of war could not be more vividly shown.
The Royal Castle is another beautiful spectator-site, and because it was turned into a museum you can roam from room too room viewing portraits and furniture that were the belongings of the king. Watchtowers and medieval walls surround the Old Town, topping off the authentic historic vibe.
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