Home to a vast metro population of just under 3 million people, the capital of Poland is one of the most important hubs in the European Union. That alone of course, is no reason to rush to Warsaw anytime soon. When you consider the culture, history, architecture and diversity of the paramount Polish metropolis however, the city merits much more than just a cursory glance.
As a city that rose up in spectacular fashion in the destructive wake of the Second World War and indeed, deleterious effects of Communist Soviet hegemony, Warsaw is a paragon of redevelopment and renewal. With that in mind, here are ten must-see attractions in the capital of beautiful Poland.
The Historic Centre of Warsaw is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a turbulent past. Nazi troops razed all but a few Old Town landmarks in August 1944. While the human cost of the Warsaw Uprising was irreversible, five years of meticulous reconstruction brought the historic district back to life. A walk through the UNESCO gem is a must – the Old Town Market Place is the obvious place to start.
Over 75 hectares of land in downtown Warsaw form one of the most beautiful urban parks in Europe. A link between two phenomenal castles and a key component of the city’s Royal Route, Royal Baths park is Warsaw’s oasis extraordinaire. With too many landmarks to mention, from amphitheaters to villas, palaces to fountains, this is the place to get lost in the city.
The history of the Jews in Warsaw and indeed, Poland, dates back well over a thousand years. The most recent dire chapter is infamous of course but today, a number of landmarks signal the contribution Jews made to the cityscape. Of all the synagogues in Warsaw today however, Nozyk is the only one to survive Nazi Germany intact.
4. Saxon Garden
Warsaw’s Saxon Garden was a pioneer in the early 18th century as one of the first public parks in the world. Built, like so many other gardens and parks, on the site of a royal palace, Saxon took Baroque inspiration from Versailles and features a slew of vital landmarks to the city. Spend a few hours here and enjoy the fine details.
As the home of the Frederic Chopin Society and museum, Ostrogski Castle, or Palace, is a popular attraction in central Warsaw. The late 17th century manor house is a notable piece of architecture and well worth a visit, even for those not familiar with the famous composer and Warsaw native son.
6. Royal Castle
The official residence of the Polish monarchy is impossible to miss. At the entrance of Warsaw’s Old Town, the castle dates back to 1598 and has proven quite resilient over the centuries. Subject to many restoration phases, the castle is a premier national museum and monument.
A cemetery is not always the first tourist attraction that comes to mind. Veteran travelers know of course, that they can provide wonderful history lessons and photo ops. Count Powazki Cemetery in Warsaw as one of the best in Europe. Many of the most famous and powerful figures in Poland’s recent history rest in peace here.
Opposite the Royal Castle on the other end of the Royal Route, Wilanow Palace is one of the most important cultural symbols in Poland. Built in the late 17th century, the massive palace complex is awash with delightful architecture.
9. Palace of Culture and Science
A behemoth landmark of the Soviet era, the massive Palace of Culture and Science is a stark contrast with Baroque and Rococo Warsaw. City natives have always had a love hate relationship with the Communist relic, though Warsaw’s modern skyline provides a more harmonious balance with the titanic office complex. Make time to visit the observation deck on the 30th floor.
10. Krolikarnia
A handsome 18th century palace, rebuilt after the Second World War, Krolikarnia is a terrific attraction in the Mokotow district of Warsaw. Home to many parks and gardens, the borough is a gem. Of note, Krolikarnia contains a museum dedicated to Polish artist, sculptor and Auschwitz survivor Xawery Dunikowski.
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