Warsaw, Poland

On Monday 10th of September we started our two weeks journey within OWHC Scholarship. During this trip we will discover Young and Modern Life in World Heritage Central European Cities. We began it in Warsaw – filled with history, being an example of the transition from tradition to modernity. Most of the city was destroyed during the Second World War and – after being reconstructed – it’s constantly changing.

We would like to share with you the most interesting alternative places that we discovered and visited during 3 days of our stay in Warsaw that could interest (not only) young travellers:

 Copernicus Science Centre

Exhibitions in Zachęta National Gallery of Art

Concert of Chinese National Music in theatre Teatr Polski

Ząbkowska Street in Praga-North – alternative district on the right bank of the Vistula river

Ząbkowska 9, Take Off! – the art instalation specially designed by Piotr Janowski for the inhabitants of Praga-North, district of Warsaw. The historic tenement house built in 1870 now within 5 days was completely covered with aluminum foil. Regardless of the time of the day and the weather, the facade reflects changing ambient light and shadows. The aluminum foil covers wounds and scars of a destroyed building and uncovers its architectural beauty.

Laisure spots: Hala Koszyki

Hala Koszyki – one of the largest market halls in Warsaw built between XIX and XX century. Completely renovated and reopened in 2016 became one of the most popular hipster places in the city. Retaining its characteristics of a commercial venue, nowadays Hala Koszyki is full of bars, restaurants and stylish boutiques. Old signboard, original ceramic tiles and mezzanine which was built after the war were preserved in the new construction of the former hall.

Laisure spots: Boulevards by Vistula river

Laisure spots: some nice cafes and restaurants (such as Kuchnia Konfliktu run by refugees and imigrants).

Did you know that in 2018 Warsaw was ranked among TOP10 Vegan Cities in the World? We are not vegans but we like good and healthy food. That’s why today we went to Kuchnia Konfliktu. This restaurant is run by refugees and immigrants who share their culture and tastes throughout the meals which they cook for customers. That is a very special place where you can discover different cuisines from all over the world. Highly recommended!

The roof gardens of BUW (University of Warsaw Library)

The most characteristic students’ spot in Polish capital. It’s our most favorite view point in this city!

Next stop of our journey is Kraków. We will be happy to share with you our experience from there soon!

Warm greetings! 
Karolina & Mikołaj