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Founded at the beginning of the 14th century,
Warsaw became Poland's capital in 1611. It was one of central
Europe's most beautiful and sophisticated cities until world
war II when the Nazis razed it to the ground. Warsaw's few
historic areas have been carefully reconstructed, but most
buildings are either glass towers built post 1989 or prefabricated
concrete monstrosities built in the communist era. Visitors
to Warsaw are often disappointed as a first impression, but
change their opinion when they realize the city was completely
rebuilt from ruins in just a few decades
 The
city is split by the Vistula River. The western bank houses
the business district, central shopping streets and the Old
Town. Most attractions and tourist facilities, are located
here. The East Bank part of Warsaw is hardly ever visited
by tourists.
The Old Town was rebuilt completely from ruins between 1949
and 1963. The reconstruction was intended to restore the area
to its former glory in it's peak years in the 17th and 18th
centuries. Every fragment found among the ruins was incorporated
in the restoration. In 1945, the Old Town Square consisted
of a few walls rising out of the rubble, today it is a blend
of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. It is atmospheric and
alive with activity and character, and does not give any clue
to it's history. A visit to the Historical Museum of Warsaw
in the Old Town Square is definitely recommended. It documents
Warsaw's history through the earliest days and charts the
period very well through the War and the construction during
the communist years.
Warsaw's most famous boulevard is the Royal Way, running from
the Royal Castle to Lazienki Park and Palace (the royal summer
residence), with churches, palaces, galleries and museums
lining the route. At one point it was one of the grandest
roads in Europe and still makes a pleasant stroll.
 Warsaw
offers a variety of cuisines and you can eat and drink late
into the night. Our restaurants section contains more information
on some of the better known establishments, with selection
of restaurants all over Warsaw serving traditional Polish
and international food.
Cheap accommodation is scattered throughout the city, usually
a long way from the centre, and always lacking in most departments.
There are a couple of hostels near the university though,
and there are some good central places to stay. Check out
our sections on Warsaw Hotels and Poland accommodation. There
is a also small camping ground near the central bus terminal.
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Restaurants
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