After enduring devastation during WWII and several decades of isolation under Communist rule, Poland has successfully rejuvenated itself into one of Eastern Europe’s most prosperous nations and the world’s most rapidly growing tourism destinations. From cosmopolitan cities filled with history to acres of unspoilt countryside, Poland is full of hidden delights visitors are pleasantly surprised to discover.

More than 100 international flights descend upon Warsaw’s Frederic Chopin International Airport, named for Poland’s most renowned composer, on a daily basis. The airport is also a main Poland car hire spot. Touring by cheap hire car in Poland is especially encouraged in order to see everything this country has to offer.

The best place to catch a glimpse of Warsaw’s past glory before the city was destroyed in WWII is by traveling by hire car along the Royal Way, where Warsaw’s historic Lazienki Palace and Royal Castle are located. Warsaw’s lovely and completely rebuilt Old Town district is an ideal place to relax and shop.

Poland is also home to one of Europe’s only surviving wilderness areas, the Bialowieza Forest. A variety of endangered species roam around this designated World Heritage Site. The spectacular Tatra Mountains are surrounded by scenic hiking trails in mild weather, but once the snow falls, the area transforms into a stunning ski area. Even more easily accessible attractions by Poland hire car include Europe’s oldest salt mine in Wieliczka, the Jasna Gora Monastery in Czestochowa, and the birthplace of Copernicus, only two hours’ drive south of Gdansk by Poland rental car.