Situated on the site of the former Warsaw Ghetto, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews explores the thousand-year history of Polish Jews. Across eight galleries, visitors can learn about the early Jewish settlers in Poland, as well as the Holocaust and post-war years. © Jacek Kadaj | Dreamstime.com

One of the few remaining relics of a network of fortifications that once surrounded the city, Warsaw Barbican dates back to the mid-16th century. Largely destroyed during World War II, the reconstructed structure is a popular attraction. © Olgacov | Dreamstime.com

Also known as Baths Palace, Lazienki Palace is a classicist palace built in 1683. Throughout its history, the palace has served as private quarters and bathhouses for nobles and barracks for German soldiers in World War II. The palace is open today for tours. © Daniel M. Cisilino | Dreamstime.com

Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, lies in the heart of Warsaw, the oldest part of the city. With buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, Old Town features iconic structures and places like the Royal Castle, Barbica, city walls and squares, and St. John’s Cathedral. The site itself dates back to the medieval period, and Old Town was almost completely destroyed in World War II. © Scanrail | Dreamstime.com

This fascinating statue, dubbed the Mermaid of Warsaw, represents Warsaw’s coat of arms, which can be traced back to 1390. The statue also points to many legends about the mermaid. This specific statue can be found in the middle of Warsaw’s Old Town, but there’s other mermaid statues and carvings found throughout the city, too. © Krivinis | Dreamstime.com

Warsaw Zoo is one of the most popular zoos in Poland and home to more than 11,000 animals across more than 500 species. Exhibits include elephants, Hippopotamus House, a shark aquarium and Ape House. Fun fact: The Zookeeper’s Wife (a book later adapted into a film) is based on the zoo founder’s family’s activities during World War II. © Udra11 | Dreamstime.com