Warsaw

A cultural transformation is underway in the Polish capital and a string of new hotels are leading the charge, from design-minded urban pads to revamped grande dames

- By Nicola Trup. Photographs by Getty Images, Piotr Gesicki, Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, Aga Bilska

Warsaw has come a long way. The city was almost destroyed during the Second World War, and the communist regime that followed resulted in a divisive aesthetic. But Poland’s capital has truly polished itself up in recent decades: the controversial, communist-era Palace of Culture and Science has become a cultural (and drinking) destination once again, and the west bank of the Vistula River has been regenerated to create a lush waterside boulevard and boarding point for several floating bars. The past decade has seen Warsaw’s accommodation scene blossom, too, from the launch of the city’s first boutique style properties to the arrival of high-end international brands and the renovation of iconic luxury landmarks. And while most of these are to be found in and around Śródmieście (the city centre), the arty east side of the Vistula now has its very own hip hotel, too — with more bound to follow.

Best for gourmets

NOBU HOTEL WARSAW

One of the Polish capital’s newest hotels, Nobu is also one of Warsaw’s hottest tables, serving up the Japanese-style cuisine with which founder Nobu Matsuhisa made his name. Choose from sushi, sashimi, tempura, tataki and more — or leave it up to the chef with the omakase tasting menu. End the night with a sake or Polish vodka in the bar before heading up to one of the rooms, which are just as tempting as the food. Here, concrete walls and wood panelling are complemented by softlighting, vintage furniture and modern artwork, plus — in some cases — floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over Sródmiescie.

ROOMS: From PLN1,130 (£208), B&B. warsaw.nobuhotels.com

Best for high-flyers