Modern Warsaw is often referred to as 'The Phoenix City' because, like the magnificent bird of mythology, the city rose from the ashes of its wartime devastation. Like so much of Poland, Warsaw was virtually obliterated during the Second World War, but 20 years later it was rebuilt as the modern capital of the country and the ninth largest city in the European Union.

Fortunately not all of Poland was razed in 1944 and the cultural heart of the country continued to beat strongly. Krakow, the old capital city, escaped wartime damage and this beautiful medieval city is one of Poland's greatest attractions. It is only a couple of hours by train from Warsaw and a day trip to Krakow is a must for the culture-loving visitor.

No longer a communist country, Poland is proud of its cultural heritage and Warsaw especially boasts many museums, galleries and heritage sites, as well as thirty major theatres known for their avant-garde performances. This makes Warsaw a popular tourist attraction and, with so many places to sleep for cheap in Warsaw a visit can be managed on the smallest budget. Indeed Warsaw has been judged as one of the cheapest and best cultural destinations for visitors.

In the centre of the city lies Ostrogski Castle, an impressive Baroque-style building housing the Chopin museum. Carefully rebuilt by Mieczyslaw Kuzma between 1949 and 1954, the castle dates back to the seventeenth century. According to legend, the castle houses fabulous treasures hidden in the caves beneath its grounds and a golden duck will one day appear to the right person and lead him to the treasure.

Other attractions to see in the old town are Zygmunt's Column, one of the oldest secular monuments of northern Europe; the old town market square, bustling with cafes, restaurants and shops and from which little side streets yield up many examples of medieval architecture. The city walls, the Barbican and St John's Cathedral are all fascinating sights in this culturally rich and welcoming city.