Warsaw stopped being held up as an example of grim communist architecture and drab conformity long ago. Nowadays, it’s arguably the best example of a city which has really prospered since the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The city has undergone a major regeneration program: the old grey buildings have been replaced with modern skyscrapers and bold new architecture, and the historic Old Town (the ‘Stare Miasto’) has been given a makeover.

While not as beautiful as Krakow many of the traditional, colorfully fronted buildings have been restored to their former glory, leading to the area being declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Most of the main sites of historical interest are situated in and around the Old Town, within comfortable walking distance of the main square (Rynek Starego Miasta). To the south lies St. John’s Cathedral, one of the many impressively restored city monuments.

Beyond the cathedral sits the imposing bulk of the Royal Castle. The remnants of the old city walls run away in an arc to the north, along with the 16th century Barbican a heavily fortified gateway that divides the Old Town from the New Town (the ‘Nowe Miasto’).

Despite its name, Warsaw's New Town is not exactly full of brand new office blocks and shiny glass buildings. Situated to the west of the Old Town, it’s a grand old quarter filled with several notable gothic churches and generally striking architecture.

Warsaw lies on the banks of the beautiful Wisla River. And, while most of the historic sights are situated on the left bank (to the west), the right bank of the river is home to the increasingly fashionable district of Praga.

The city is blessed with plenty of green areas and open spaces, many of which line the banks of the river. To the south of the city center in Ujazdow, Lazienki Park (the royal gardens in the shadow of the beautiful Wilanow Palace) stretches away attractively.

What really makes Warsaw stand out, though, is the buzz that can be felt in the city. It’s the tangible sense of excitement; the feeling of a city that’s going somewhere, a city that’s only just beginning to fulfill its enormous potential. And that’s quite a draw.