Poland in 10 Nights

About the destination: The perception of Warsaw as a bleak, concrete wilderness, a desolate landscape of Soviet-era homes, does not align with the reality of this dynamic city over the past 15 years. This metropolis has much more to offer, with numerous attractions, a remarkable cultural scene, and a vibrant nightlife. Warsaw is looking forward, leaving its Soviet history where it belongs - in the past. After World War II, 85% of the city was in ruins, necessitating a significant reconstruction. This successful rebuild was acknowledged in 1980 when UNESCO designated Warsaw's Old Town as a World Heritage Site. Situated in the Mazowieckie province, in central-eastern Poland, the city is bisected unevenly by the Vistula River. Most tourist attractions are on the river's left bank, while the right bank is home to the emerging, stylish district of Prague. The focal point for visitors in Warsaw is the so-called Royal Route (Trakt Królewski), which extends north-south from the New and Old Towns, past the chic Nowy Swiat shops, war-surviving palaces, and the royal Lazienki Park gardens, before reaching the Wilanów Palace, south of the city center. The city also boasts numerous green spaces with lush lakeside parks where rowboats glide on sunny summer days and where visitors can find an abundance of open-air cafes. Free classical music concerts, drawing large crowds, are also held in the parks, a scene far removed from the grim images of Warsaw during the communist era. Today, the city offers an incredible nightlife, with stylishly dressed young locals heading to the city's trendy bars and hip clubs. It's certainly a city that comes alive as the sun sets. While some may argue that Krakow has the beauty, Warsaw possesses the culture, the energy, and the action.

About the destination: Krakow is stunning, a gem among European cities. Since the 9th century, people have been residing and constructing here. The Old Town historic district at the heart of Krakow is actually the medieval city established in 1257. Krakow continues to be the unrivaled architectural capital of Poland and houses one of the oldest universities in Europe. The numerous parks and the Planty, the green belt encircling the city center, make Krakow a fantastic city to visit. The entire old town of Krakow, known as stare miasto, is charming, with every street worth a leisurely walk. At its core is the Rynek Glowny, one of the most stunning market squares in Europe. The Kosciol Mariacki, located in its northeast corner, is a lavishly decorated cathedral, boasting a 500-year-old carved altarpiece. Diagonally across the square stands the solitary town hall tower, which was spared when the rest of the building was demolished in 1820. Positioned on the Wista River is the Wawel Castle, the finest surviving example of Renaissance architecture in Poland. The castle was the royal seat of Poland and is the city's main tourist attraction. The grounds include the palace, a massive Cathedral, and a large garden. The Royal Cathedral, which dominates the Wawel complex, was the coronation site and burial place for nearly all of Poland's monarchs. Constructed in the early 11th century in Romanesque style, its tower provides a magnificent view of Krakow. The beauty of its ancient architecture, the atmosphere of rich culture, art, and literature, and the allure of its numerous cafes, bars, and pubs, always bustling with locals and tourists, make this city one of the world's top tourist destinations.

About the destination: Situated on the Bay of Gdansk and the southern coast of the Baltic Sea, Gdansk is a stunning port city with a rich history. It serves as a major hub for economic activity, science, culture, and is a favored tourist spot. As a port city and a significant member of the Hanseatic League, Gdansk has always maintained connections with foreign nations. Today, Gdansk is the capital of the Pomeranian province and a crucial administrative center. Post WWII, Gdansk was largely in ruins, but the buildings underwent remarkable restorations, making it difficult to distinguish between the original and restored facades. The city's market square, Dlugi Targ, is the town center. The Dwor Artusa, located opposite the Neptune Fountain, was the headquarters of the Hanseatic League; its original 16th-century facade overlooks the square and is currently a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Gdansk. Gdansk is home to the largest Gothic church in Poland: St Mary's Basilica. Dominating Gdansk’s skyline since its completion in 1502, St. Mary's has become one of the city's iconic landmarks. Ascend the steeple for a panoramic view of the city. A visit to the Town Hall tower includes a series of photographs of Gdansk post-war. Ul Mariacka, located behind Mariacki Cathedral, is arguably Gdansk's most beautiful street, showcasing exquisite Hanseatic architecture. For a break from the bustling city, head to Brzezno Park. This small city park is located on the coast, near Nowy Port. On sunny days, visit Stogi Beach, the city’s best. Stogi beach is large, has clean and fine sand, lifeguards, and several food stands and bars. The charming historic old town streets, numerous museums, and excellent access to the popular Baltic coastline make Gdansk a vibrant destination filled with numerous recreational opportunities.