If you’ve not been to Poland before, try basing yourself in Cracow for a first visit. The country’s former capital, this beautiful, romantic city has much to offer the culture-hungry tourist, whatever time of year you choose to visit.

If you’re not sure how best to get there, British Airways (ba.com) offer direct flights from London very reasonably, and you could do a lot worse than select one of the BA recommended hotels (I’ve never had a bad one yet). After a short flight, Cracow centre is only about a half hour taxi ride away.

Arriving at the Chopin Hotel can be a bit of a culture shock until you get through the door. Its imposing stark grey concrete exterior is every inch a Soviet souvenir, but the standard of both rooms and restaurant is absolutely superb.