Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is a city that has risen from the ashes of World War II to become a dynamic European metropolis. The city's Old Town, meticulously reconstructed after the war, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to Polish resilience. Walking through its colorful market square feels like stepping back in time, though you'd never guess almost all of it was rebuilt from scratch.

The city offers a fascinating mix of architectural styles. From the Soviet-era Palace of Culture and Science (a gift from Stalin that many locals have mixed feelings about) to the ultra-modern glass skyscrapers in the business district, Warsaw showcases its complex history through its buildings.

Warsaw's food scene is thriving with traditional Polish restaurants serving pierogi and żurek soup alongside trendy international eateries. The city has more green spaces than you might expect with beautiful parks like Łazienki, where you can attend free Chopin concerts in summer.

What makes Warsaw special is how it balances remembrance with forward momentum. Museums like the Warsaw Uprising Museum and POLIN Museum tell important stories about the city's past, while its thriving startup scene and busy nightlife show a city focused firmly on the future.