Bring the Family to Warsaw

Though 84 percent of Warsaw was leveled to the ground during World War II, the capital city’s 1.7 million residents rebuilt their home with their hard-working tradition and sense of humor. And though the city has had its share of hardships, Warsaw is filled with experiences the entire family will enjoy.

Back in the 1600s, Warsaw belonged to King Jan III Sobieski, and the Wilanów Palace is considered an impressive example of Baroque style in all of Poland. Keeping with the royal stream of thought, the city’s most elegant houses are found along the Royal Route, which links three royal residences. In addition to the Wilanów Palace, there are the King’s Castle and Łazienki Palace. Another not-to-miss spot is the Palace on the Water, situated on an island within Royal Łazienki Park.

Warsaw is not caught up in the past, however. Views of the new Świętokrzyski Bridge can be seen from Zamkowy Square, and modern office towers rise to take their place among the city’s skyline, centered around the Palace of Culture and Science.

The arts scene is lively in Warsaw, where entertainment options include theater, cabaret, film festivals and concerts by opera singers, pop stars and classical musicians. Speaking of which, one of the world’s most prestigious events, the Chopin International Piano Competition, is held every five years. If you are fans of Chopin, be sure and stop by the Frederic Chopin Monument in Royal Łazienki Park. The city’s love of music is also evident in its International Festival of Contemporary Music, Warsaw Autumn and the Mozart Festival.

Saxon Garden in Warsaw © Artur Bogacki | Dreamstime.com

Plenty of parks can be found within Warsaw, and are terrific spots to enjoy the outdoors within an urban setting. In addition to the open-air theater and children’s playgrounds found within Royal Łazienki Park, King Augustus II the Strong laid out the design of the Saxon Gardens in the 18th century. For a bit more quiet, visit the Ujazdow Park, with a lake and beautiful plants and flowers arrangements that make for an idyllic setting.

In addition to international hotel brands you will quickly recognize when planning your visit, you may want to consider a few independent options as well. The 5-star, Art Deco Rialto Hotel is the first boutique hotel in all of Poland. Across from the Palace of Culture and Science is the Polonia Palace Hotel, one of the city’s oldest hotels, opened in 1913. The boutique hotel is a terrific place to call your home base during a visit. Or, feel like royalty and make reservations at the new Hotel Venecia Palace. About 15 minutes from the city center, the Venecia Palace has plenty of room to run on its large lawn and around its sizable lake.