Europe Euphoria

A far cry from the cold city it was under communist rule, Warsaw is today a pulsing metropolis loved by travellers for its rich culture, vibrant nightlife and friendly locals. Backpackers will be particularly allured by the vast array of budget restaurants, attractions and Warsaw hostels lining the city streets! For first-time visitors to the Polish capital, your best bet is to head straight for the Centrum area, where the majority of restored sightseeing attractions lie juxtaposed with dozens of cheap and cheerful cafes. Before getting caught up in the culture, why not stop off for a quick coffee and croissant at Coffee Heaven in Sródmiescie? Next up, for those keen on a dose of sightseeing, your best bet is to go for a leisurely stroll down the Royal Road. Beginning at Castle Square in Old Town, the route will lead you southward, past a range of major attractions and historic landmarks. On your way, make sure you stop off at the Presidential Palace, a beautifully historic building which has stood on Kraków Suburb Street since 1643. Venture next to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for a lunchtime changing of the guard ceremony, before going for a stroll in the beautiful 17th century Lazienki Park. If you’re lucky, you may just come across a concert taking place in the rose garden near the famous Frederic Chopin monument! Worked up an appetite and keen on sampling some culinary delights? For something sweet and cheap in the Old Town area, check out Pierrogeria restaurant, which offers up a mouthwatering array of traditional Polish pierogi (dumplings). Other local favourites include Folk Gospoda, Chlopskie Jadlo and the more upmarket Restaurant Belvedere in Lazienki Park. With your hunger sated, grab yourself a nightcap at one of the many bars and clubs in Sródmiescie – you’ll find them open and active every night of the week. Local favourites include exclusive Vogue cocktail bar, chilled out Café Kulturalna or the more traditional Jimmy Bradley’s Irish Pub. It’s the perfect end to a full day of action!