InterContinental Warszawa

The InterContinental Warsaw is one of the tallest hotels in Poland, and at 45 floors, it's one of the highest in Europe. Before construction began, neighbors complained that the new skyscraper would ruin their sunlight and the architect designed a cut-out, allowing light through the building's rectangular shape and creating its most distinctive characteristic. The interior is luxurious without being ostentatious, though the common spaces are a bit bland and lack character. In the lobby, smooth stone walls and polished marble floors are paired with leather seating for a sleek, modern look. The reception desk glows with illuminated panels, creating the room's focal point. Platter, one of the hotel's two on-site restaurants, has black leather chairs and dark brown stained wood walls for a cosmopolitan style, but One Bar, with its mustard, maroon, and pine green leather chairs, doesn't quite seem to match the rest of the building's tone. The pool, which is situated on the 43rd floor, is one of the highest indoor pools in Europe and offers impressive views. The overall style speaks well to business travelers, but also suits touring couples and families.

The InterContinental Hotel Warsaw is close to several of the city's attractions, but it's particularly convenient for business travelers. Warsaw's Financial Center is a two-minute walk from the hotel, and the local Google office is also only two minutes away on foot. The hotel is situated right across the street from the Palace of Culture and Science, a 1950s building that mixes elements of Soviet, Polish, and Art Deco design, and is home to several businesses as well as theaters, libraries, museums, and conference facilities. Other Warsaw attractions are a little farther away: the Old Town as well as Łazienki Park are both about a 10-minute drive or about 15 to 20 minutes on public transportation. Several metro stops are within an eight-minute walk, as is Warszawa Centralna, the main train station. Warsaw's Chopin Airport is a 17-minute drive or 30 minutes on public transportation, while Modlin Aiport is about 40 minutes away by car. 

Rooms here are spacious (starting at 365 square feet) and decorated in a refined contemporary style -- though some guests find them a bit dated and bland. Solid, dark-wood furniture includes headboards, desks, and consoles. Armchairs or loungers upholstered in a soft marigold color provide seating. Beds are twin-, queen-, or king-size with plush mattresses topped with gold-and-navy bed runners. Most rooms have panoramic city views. In-room perks include minibars, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and flat-screen TVs. The Internet can be accessed via wire or Wi-Fi, but costs extra. Bathrooms have marble walls and separate tubs and walk-in showers. Suites offer more space (starting at 732 square feet) and have separate sitting areas with couches, chairs, and coffee tables. Some suites also have Nespresso machines and full kitchenettes. Senior Suites and above have a separate dining area and enough floorspace for entertaining. 

The InterContinental has developed its amenities to appeal to corporate travelers who frequent the Warsaw business district. Three dining options are available on-site, including the Michelin-recognized Platter, which serves innovative Polish dishes such as scallops with smoked aged lard and pierogi with goose and porcini mushrooms. Downtown Steakhouse serves grilled beef from around the world as well as Polish dishes such as sour rye soup with white sausage. Wedel Café offers coffee and sweets. But breakfast isn't included in room rates. The on-site bar serves cocktails and light bites. Room service is available as well. Riverview Wellness Center has cardio and weight-lifting machines, a sauna, and an indoor pools with incredible city views from floor-to-ceiling windows. It's just large enough to do laps and has several poolside loungers where guests can take in the view. The Pearl Beauty Clinic and Spa offers massages and facial treatments as well as beauty styling. For business meetings, 14 conference spaces are available. Event organizers overseeing larger celebrations can use the Opera Ballroom. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel for a surcharge.