Past is present in dynamic Warsaw

Standing at 230.5 meters and with more than 3,000 rooms, it is the highest building in Poland, and the highest clock tower in the world. The palace is a landmark visible from almost any location in Warsaw, making it an unmissable site for tourists.

The tower was built between 1952 and 1955. It was a gift of the former Soviet Union to Poland offered by Joseph Stalin himself.

The biggest attraction in the grand building for tourists and residents is the "trzydziestka", a large terrace on the 30th floor of the tower with a height of 114 meters, where you can admire the gorgeous panorama of Warsaw. Visitors can observe the city in detail by inserting 10 zlotys ($2.50) into the telescopes erected on the terrace.

If you are a nature lover, Lazienki Park is a lovely place for a stroll in every season, even in the cold winter. You may be excited to meet lots of red squirrels on the footpaths, in the grass or climbing a tree. They are so tame and close to people that some may jump onto people's knees to ask for a few nuts.

Occupying 76 hectares of the city center, it is the largest park in Warsaw. It was the royal summer residence with a summer palace, amphitheatre, orangery and pavilions. So you will feel rather pleased to stumble across those architectural attractions scattered throughout the park as you wander.

Walking in the park is a way of experiencing history and to feel the splendor of the city's old days. Chopin concerts are given every Sunday from 12 amto 4 pm. On warm summer evenings not only the benches are filled, but the audience lay on the grass listening to the strains of Chopin's compositions.

There is no shortage of accommodation options and there are a wide choice of restaurant sandbars in Warsaw. The city's nightlife is also on the rebound. There are a large variety of museums, galleries and other tourist attractions, and there is always something happening throughout the year.

If you go

Getting there: Warsaw is 6,916 km from Beijing. Many flights connect Warsaw and Beijing. Air China and LOT Polish Airlines provide nonstop fights between the two cities. The flying time is nearly 10 hours. You could also choose transfer flights offered by other airline companies. There are also transfer flights between Shanghai and Warsaw.

Getting around in Warsaw: If you need a rental car during your stay in Warsaw, there are many rental car companies with offices located within the Warsaw Frederic Chopin Airport. Europcar, Sixt, Argus, and Budget are just a few. If you want to cut costs, there are several city buses that make stops at the airport. Taxis are also available and should cost about 40 zloty ($11). Public transport in Warsaw is convenient and cheap, serving the city with buses, tram-ways, and metro.