Fotoplastikon

A musical theatre showing Polish versions of internationally acclaimed shows.

A bit of a meta-museum, because it did not quite keep in with the times and became a fossizilied monument to old-style museums where you are not expected to experience or touch anything and just read the descriptions on the boards. That said, their collections of artifacts of all kinds of technologies are impressive, ranging from planes and cars to fully-functional scale models of steel mills and coal mines. Plus the purpose-built wing of the socialist Palace of Culture and Science is a splendid locale.

The round building was erected to house a bank branch, which it still does, but quickly became much more than that due to its very central location and large expanse of pavement around it, which makes it a favourite meeting spot for locals. The striking 1960s building suffered a tragedy in 1979, when a gas main exploded right below it, killing 49 people. This event is still remembered in Warsaw, making the rebuilt Rotunda even more symbolic.

Comfortable cinema in the heart of the city.

Warsaw's most recognizable landmark has a controversial history: it was constructed in the 1950s ostensibly as a "gift" from the Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. The gargantuan building is home to various institutions, including three theatres, a multiplex cinema, the Museum of Technology and the Congress Hall (built for Communist Party congresses, but mostly used for entertainment purposes now). An observation deck in the top floor provides (windy) views in all directions, accessible via express elevators.