Warsaw has a thriving art scene, a complex history and impressive architecture. Despite its large size if you are landing at Chopin Airport it is only seven miles into the old center. The beautiful Old Town has been lovingly restored with elements of Renaissance, Baroque, Gothic and neoclassical architecture evident in its facades. In the Old Town Marketplace you can see the Mermaid Monument, Warsaw's city symbol. The symbol can be found in various places throughout the city, most recently on the clock faces of the Palace of Culture and Science. Though controversial, the Palace of Culture and Science is a must see. This massive Soviet construction in downtown Warsaw now houses offices, a cinema, the Museum of Evolution, the Museum of Technology and a large indoor swimming pool.
Warsaw's stories are told through its variety of compelling museums. Be dazzled by the Neon Museum which researches and restores electro graphic art from the Cold War era. Many of the artists employed to design the signs were also involved in the infamous Polish Poster School. Works from the poster school can be seen in the extensive collection of the Poster Museum in Wilanów which you can reach with your rent a car. It is not a far drive from the center of Warsaw heading south to Wilanów in the direction of The Wilanów Palace. The museum is part of the old palace complex.
If you are over for a weekend break be sure to spend some time digging for finds at the flea market Bazar Olimpia on Sunday morning. Or if it's summer time head go for a Sunday stroll in Royal Łazienki Park where you can often enjoy a free Chopin concert. The park is also a home to Łazienki Palace, a baroque palace surrounded by water.