Warsaw Hotels

General Information

The capital city of Poland is a major metropolis, with vital economic and political clout and well over 3 million people. Warsaw was almost completely rebuilt after World War II and for decades, was a virtual black sheep in the world of mainstream tourism. After the downfall of the communist regime in Poland in 1989 and with eventual admission into the European Union however, the country, and indeed Warsaw, suddenly became more open and attractive.

The city is a foremost destination to discover, with museums galore, beautiful heritage architecture that spans almost every major period and a dynamic arts and culture scene. As such a complete tourist city, the conundrum in Warsaw is where to start. Try the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town for one, where 700 years of history lines the Vistula river. St. John's Cathedral is the most prominent Old Town landmark and the market place is a wonderful spot to rest weary feet and enjoy a traditional meal at one of several restaurants.

Warsaw History

• Royal Castle – Located in Warsaw Old Town, this castle is the former residence of the Polish monarchs.
• Sigismund’s Column – This 1644 monument is found in Castle Square.
• Saxon Garden – This 15-hectare garden in downtown Warsaw is the city’s oldest public park.
• Powazki Cemetery – One of Europe’s oldest cemeteries and home to sculptures by renowned artists of the 19th century.
• Chopin Statue – This huge bronze statue dedicated to Chopin is found in the Royal Baths Park.

Warsaw Art & Culture

• Wianki Festival – Held on Midsummer’s Night on the banks of the Vistula, this yearly festival boasts a range of cultural events.
• Warsaw Film Festival – This yearly film festival takes place in October each year.
• Antonina Lesniewska Museum of Pharmacy – This museum attracts thousands of pharmacy students from across the globe.
• Historical Museum of Warsaw – This popular museum provides tourists with an insight into Warsaw’s intriguing past.
• Museum of Evolution and Institute of Paleobiology – A must-visit museum for those interested in the natural sciences.

Warsaw Shopping

• Galeria Centrum – One of the largest department stores in Poland.
• Ulica Chmielna – A pedestrian Warsaw street filled with interesting shops.
• Smyk Building – This eye-catching glass department store sells books, clothing, shoes, stationery and much more.
• Sadyba Best Shopping Mall – This large shopping centre is home to many designer fashion stores and a multiplex cinema.
• Cepelia Outlets – This is where authentic Polish handicrafts can be found.

Gay & Lesbian Warsaw

• Le Garage – A Warsaw club renowned for its friendly ambiance and clientele.
• Toro – Another popular Warsaw gay bars that hosts disco parties and shows.
• Fantom Club – A club and sauna that welcomes only men, home to dark rooms and themed parties on weekends.
• Galeria – This little bar regularly hosts drag queen shows.
• Lodi Dodi – A small bar in the city centre, it is home to a cinema and darkroom.

Attractions

• Palace of Culture and Science
• Ostrogski Castle
• Warsaw Uprising Museum
• Zachęta National Gallery of Art
• Historic Centre of Warsaw

Activities

• Warsaw Film Festival
• Warsaw Autumn
• Polish National Opera
• Festival of Old Music
• International Street Arts Festival

Restaurants

• Banja Luka
• Dom Polski
• Flik
• Smaki Warszawy
• Qchnia Artystyczna

Nightlife

• Platinum Club
• The Cologne
• Ultra
• Bar Below
• Ice Bar

Climate

Warsaw enjoys a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons.

• Winter (December to February) -4-2°C
• Spring (March to May) -1-18°C
• Summer (June to August) 11-22°C
• Fall (September to November) 1-17°C