Eastern Europe has long been known as a budget holiday destination, and a recent survey has confirmed this by revealing that Poland provides the best-value five-star hotel accommodation in Europe.
The research, compiled by Hotels.com, placed the Polish capital Warsaw in the ten most-affordable luxury hotels list.
In 2011 average room prices in Warsaw’s five-star hotels were just £84, better value than other Eastern European capitals such as Budapest (£105) and Tallinn in Estonia (£112).
“Britons looking for a taste of the high life but working to a budget don’t have to travel far to find some great deals,” said Nigel Pocklington, chief marketing officer at Hotels.com.
“Eastern European capitals in particular offered excellent value in 2011, despite some substantial price rises as demand for rooms increased from bargain-savvy visitors.”
The news came as budget airline Ryanair announced that it will now be flying passengers between Edinburgh and Szczecin, in Poland, on a twice weekly service.
“There’s a lot you can do that doesn’t cost much, because it’s such a great walking city with loads to look at as you stroll; a fantastic castle, a beautiful Old Town undamaged by war, a great bar scene,” said Tim Richards a Lonely Planet Poland Krakow author, said of Krakow.
There are plenty of destinations that make Poland such a great holiday choice. So where should you visit when you go?
Bieszczady Mountains
This lush mountain range has extraordinary wildlife and picturesque landscapes, and gives travellers a chance to really go off the beaten track.
Warsaw
This vibrant city has several must see tourist attractions, including the imposing Palace Of Culture And Science, the beautiful Old Town, the Royal Route, and the Chopin museum.
Masurian Lakes
This collection of 3,000 lakes is ideal for sailing fans, fishermen, hikers and cyclists alike, or any holidaymakers who like a bit of tranquility.
(Images: RaNo, Shalom Alechem, Andreabosek)