Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is also the country's largest city. It is located midway between the Baltic Sea and the Carpathian Mountains and is the seventh biggest city in the European Union. The city gave its name to many important events and documents, including the Warsaw Pact, the Warsaw Convention, and the Treaty of Warsaw.



The name "Warsaw" has an interesting and charming derivation. It came from an older Polish word, "Warszewa." This older term means "owned by Warsz." Warsz was believed to be a fisherman named Wars and his wife Sawa.

For tourists interested in culture, Warsaw makes an excellent destination. Until World War II, Warsaw's Theatre Square was considered Poland's cultural hub and held many theaters dating back to around 1833. Among these theaters were Teatr Wielki, Rozmaitosci Theatre, and the National Theatre. In the nearby Saxon Garden, the Summer Theatre existed between 1870 and 1939.

Today, there are over 30 major theaters located throughout the city, such as the National Theater and the Grand Theatre in Warsaw. Because of its theatrical culture, Warsaw seems to attract a great deal of young, off-stream directors and performers. The smaller shows they produce are generally shown in some of the city's smaller theaters.

In addition to its many theaters, Warsaw also holds many famous tourist attractions. For example, within the Old Town quarter alone tourists can visit the Royal Castle, King Zygmunt's Column, Square Market, and the Barbican. South of the Old Town quarter lies the Royal Route where tourists can see many classicist palaces, the Warsaw University campus, and the Presidential Palace.

Ten minute's walk from Old Town is Warsaw's oldest public park, the Ogrod Saski where tourists can enjoy a bit of a rest from the city's hustle and bustle. Another quiet place in Warsaw is the Powazki Cemetery, which is one of the most ancient cemeteries in Europe. Within the cemetery are a great deal of sculptures, many of which were created by some of Warsaw's most famous sculptors. Near the Powazki Cemetery is Okopowa Street Jewish Cemetery, one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe.

Tourists interested in seeing Warsaw's many sights will have a choice of several vacation accommodations, including both hotels and holiday apartments.

Examples of hotels in Warsaw, Poland include:

Hotel Jan III Sobieski: This four-star hotel is both modern and luxurious. It is located near the museum area, shopping center, the university, and Old Town. While the beautiful rooms on eight floors will surely please guests, the hotel is actually known for its magnificent cuisine.

Polonia Palace Hotel: 206 stylish rooms are available to accommodate guests of this gorgeous hotel. In addition to its comfortable rooms, the hotel features the Strauss restaurant where guests will enjoy European and traditional Polish cuisine. Also on site is the Bojangles Bar & Lounge with classic swing music in the style of Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and other music legends.

Le Royal Meridien Bristol Hotel: This hotel is considered among the most prestigious in Warsaw. It boasts 205 rooms and was built in 1899. Each room was individually decorated and features traditional furnishings.

Examples of holiday apartments in Warsaw, Poland are:

Rynek Jazz Apartment: This beautiful apartment features a lovely view of Old Town Square. Because of its location, guests will enjoy easy access to museums, shops, and traditional Polish food. The apartment is fully equipped for a comfortable stay.

Apartment Bielany: This apartment is right next to a large park and close to bus transport to the center of the city. Includes a completely equipped kitchen, balcony, cable/satellite television, and Internet access.

Studio Warsaw Center: This studio apartment is situated right on the most well-known street in Warsaw. Features a small kitchen, Internet access, and cable/satellite television. Sleeps two guests in one bedroom.

While there is a great deal to see in the city of Warsaw, there are also plenty of quiet, green places to relax and unwind. Visitors to Warsaw will enjoy fantastic accommodations at a variety of prices to meet anyone's needs