Warsaw

Overview

Much of Warsaw's historic architecture was built during the late 16th century but was destroyed in World War II. The reconstruction that took place, shortly after the war, was done through a series of historic paintings that depicted the old buildings, Polish architects, historians, and conservators. The final reconstruction took place between the late 40’s and 50’s. Today, Warsaw prevails as a beautiful example of how old world meets new. The city also offers up a thriving art scene and vibrant nightlife, with several restaurants, clubs, shops, and communal green spaces waiting to be discovered. 

What to See

Old Town - Located within the district of Śródmieście is the oldest section of Warsaw, where most of the reconstruction took place during the 1950s, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The settlement that Old Town stands on originally dates to the 13th century. Old Town is also where the Royal Castle and the Royal Route of Warsaw can be found. 

Royal Castle of Warsaw – This castle once served as residence of the Polish monarchs and the site where Poland’s Constitution of May 3 was passed, a document for freedom and political equality. This was a first for Europe and only the second to be passed in the world. The Royal Castle of Warsaw was also destroyed during WWII but has since been reconstructed. Today it serves as a national historical monument and state museum. Entrance to the castle can be found within Old Town.

Łazienki – There are approximately 95 parks in Warsaw that can be explored, of which Łazienki is the largest. It was designed in the 17th century and a theater was later added to its grounds. Łazienki serves as a popular site for festivals, concerts, arts, and cultural celebrations, such as the Chopin Concerts. Go for a relaxing stroll, enjoy a picnic, or seek out its latest festival. 

POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews – The museum stands in the same location as the Warsaw Ghetto, which existed pre-WWII, and showcases the history of the Polish Jews within 8 different galleries. From the early Jewish settlers and farmers to the Jewish communities post-war, the museum is a multimedia exploration and personal look into the Jewish lives that once resided in Poland. 

When to Go

The best time to visit Warsaw is from May - September, when the weather is warm and pleasant. This is also the time when Warsaw’s festivals are at their peak, with some of the more popular being the Chopin Summer Concerts (May-September), Midsummer's Eve (June), the International Street Art Festival (June-July), Warsaw Summer Jazz Days (July), and the International Festival Jazz in Old Town (July-August). Warsaw’s winter temperatures (December – February) can range between 25°F and 42°F.

Praga

The city's hippest neighborhood, located on the right bank of the Vistula River, largely survived the Nazi invasion of Poland; therefore, Praga looks most like the Warsaw of pre-WWII. Today, it is a Bohemian enclave of art nouveau buildings, art galleries, cafes and clubs.