Historic Warsaw
The Polish capital, overshadowed by Krakow, surprises as a diverse city destination. Warsaw – so close and yet so far away. Although Warsaw is one of the closest European capitals to Finns, it is still an unknown travel destination for many.
The Polish capital, Warsaw, is often overshadowed by Krakow as a tourist capital, but for good reason. Old and new live in Warsaw side by side and the city surprises at least the first time with an enchanting mix of history and modernity.
WARSAW AS A DESTINATION
Warsaw’s Old Town is one of the city’s most popular attractions.
The past is part of the charm of Warsaw
Warsaw’s gloomy past cannot be missed when visiting the city, but it is part of the city’s charm. Warsaw was bombed almost to the ground during World War II, but the city has since been rebuilt with astonishing precision.
In recent years, the street scene has been further modernized and this city of millions may surprise the tourist with its authenticity and versatility.
History cannot be avoided
Warsaw is a typical weekend city destination and often a stopover on the way to the rest of Central Europe. The main attractions are the incredibly nicely rebuilt old town, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the four-kilometer-long “Royal Road” leading from the old town to Łazienki Park. Warsaw also has many museums worth seeing, as well as much of World War II and Jewish history.
In addition to sightseeing, Warsaw also offers shopping opportunities, but as a shopping city, it does not quite reach the level of other Central European capitals. However, the price level is still cheaper than in Finland, so you can make good discoveries in Warsaw.
You should bring an umbrella
Warsaw is located in central Poland, so it has a typical continental climate. Summers are warm, but an umbrella is worth taking with you on a trip. In winter, the temperature drops to the frost side. Warsaw is at its best from spring to autumn.
FLIGHTS, ACCOMMODATION AND MOVEMENT IN WARSAW
Atmospheric Warsaw is often overshadowed by Krakow.
Several direct flights daily
Finnair flies direct flights from Helsinki to Warsaw all year round. Flights can be very affordable, ranging from just over a hundred euros. The low-cost airline Wizz Air will also fly direct flights from Turku to Warsaw in the summer of 2020.
You can also get to Warsaw via the Baltics by car or bus, but of course you should book several days. Train connections from the rest of Europe are also good. Warsaw Airport is located about ten kilometers from the city center and is easily accessible by both train and bus.
Hotel prices in other countries more expensive
There are many accommodation options in Warsaw, but prices are often more expensive than in other countries. The most expensive is in the old town. There are many hotels in the vicinity of the train station and there are also several affordable hostels in the city center. Private accommodation can be requested from the tourist information.
In the center of Warsaw you can get around on foot, but if you want, you can take advantage of the well-functioning bus and tram network. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or from the driver. The city also has a simple metro line.
ATTRACTIONS IN WARSAW
The price level in Poland favors Finns, as it guarantees, among other things, cheap dinners in the restaurant and cheaper shopping in Finland.
The old town fascinates tourists
Completely rebuilt after the bombings of World War II, the old town is an actual tourist center and the prices are in line with it. However, the buildings are eye-catchingly beautiful and the skill of the architects and builders can only be admired.
The old town starts from Plac Zamkowy, which is bordered by, among other things, the royal castle, which was originally built in the 13th century. The castle was also bombed and has been magnificently restored to its original appearance. The Royal Palace can be visited for an entrance fee of a couple of euros.
In addition to the many restaurants and small shops in the Old Town, as well as the beautiful Rynek Starego Miasta, there are several museums worth a visit, at least in the Museum of Warsaw. Here you can see an English-language film about the devastation of World War II in the afternoons.
The royal road: through food and shopping to the green oasis
From the Plac Zamkowy Square begins the four-kilometer Royal Road, which runs through Krakowskie Przedmieście, Nowy Świat and Ujazdowskie to Łazienk Park. Along the street you will find, among other things, the famous statue of Copernicus, the Church of the Holy Cross, one of the pillars of which preserves the composer’s greatness Chopin’s heart, the presidential palace and several museums.
Nowy Świat Street in particular has many good and reasonably priced restaurants and bars. There are also many shops on the street and in the hope of good shopping, you should also visit the side streets of Nowy Świat.
Łazienki Park is a green oasis in congested and busy Warsaw. It is worth coming here to breathe for a moment, enjoy the greenery of the park and inspect the palace on the water, which was the home of Stanisław August Poniatowski, the last king of Poland, before he was overthrown in 1792.
THE BEST OF WARSAW
Attractions
- Old Town
- The Royal Road
- Royal Palace
- Numerous fascinating museums from Chopin to the persecution of the Jews
- Wilanów Palace
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