Things to do in Warsaw

Join the resistance and learn of life in occupied Poland

One of the most popular and important attractions in Poland, Warsaw Uprising Museum (tel: +48 22 539 7905; www.1944.pl) is unflinching in its retelling of the desperation under Nazi occupation. Learn of the resistance fighters’ 1944 uprising and witness Warsaw’s landmarks being obliterated in response, a sobering and essential visit.

Get sand between your toes on an inland hike

Easily accessible from Warsaw, Kampinos National Park boasts the largest inland sand dunes in Europe. You may have sand between your toes but hiking boots are recommended when walking the park’s abundant trails through pine forests alive with beavers, lynx and elk.

Explore Warsaw's beautiful bombed out buildings

The destruction of Warsaw’s famous landmarks is a sad consequence of WWI but the likes of the restored Royal Castle (tel: +48 223 555 170; www.zamek-krolewski.pl) give an insight into the city’s former splendour. Inside, the Great Assembly Hall is wholly impressive as are the National Hall’s original artworks.

Hit the slopes in the middle of summer

For skiing and snowboarding addicts, CSN Szczesliwice’s (tel: +48 733 755 571; http://gorka-szczesliwicka.com/) 225m-long (738ft) all-season slope means you can do your thing even in July. Non-skiers should ride the Alpine Coaster; the exciting gravity-powered roller coaster boasts excellent views - if you can keep your eyes open.

Splash and skate at Warsaw's water park

In summer, cool off at Park Wodny Moczydło (tel: +48 22 598 9400; http://aktywnawarszawa.waw.pl), an enormous water park in the western district of Wola with indoors and outdoors pools and waterslides. In winter, the pools are turned into giant ice-skating rinks with skates are available for rent.

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