cities to visit eastern europe

16 Best Cities in Eastern Europe

Written by Becca Blond and Diana Bocco Updated Apr 15, 2024

Enigmatic Eastern Europe is home to some of the most fascinating and downright beautiful cities on the continent. Perfect for the intrepid traveler looking to escape the crowds overtaking Western European city counterparts like London, Paris, and Rome, a visit to Eastern Europe's best cities usually means fewer tourists and better value for money.

A trip across Eastern Europe can take you on an adventure that introduces you to ancient and contemporary history, culture, beauty, and a little roughness around some edges. There are medieval walled cities like Dubrovnik on Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, which is also home to beaches and warm turquoise water rivaling what you'd find on Italy's Amalfi Coast or in Greece.

Cobblestoned streets, castles, and enchanting bridges await in Prague, one of the region's most popular and oldest cities. Up-and-coming destinations like Mostar, Bosnia with its picture-perfect old town, and Skopje, North Macedonia with its larger-than-life sculptures and polished streets are places to consider adding to your next itinerary.

What constitutes Eastern Europe is relatively vague, but for this list, we've included countries the United Nations classifies as Eastern Europe.

Plan your travels with our list of the best Eastern European cities.

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia

2. prague, czech republic, 3. krakow, poland, 4. budapest, hungary, 5. bucharest, romania, 6. tallinn, estonia, 7. mostar, bosnia, 8. kotor, montenegro, 9. belgrade, serbia, 10. riga, latvia, 11. skopje, north macedonia, 12. bratislava, slovakia, 13. sofia, bulgaria, 14. český krumlov, czech republic, 15. vilnius, lithuania, 16. warsaw, poland, map of cities in eastern europe.

The minute you set foot in Dubrovnik you'll fall in love. It is that surreal and stunning. A fortified walled city with a fairytale-like Old Town on Croatia's Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik has become massively popular in the last decade, and at times can be uncomfortably crowded (especially on days that cruise ships dock). Regardless, even with the crowds, this isn't an Eastern European city you want to skip, you'll want to see it at least once.

And while Old Town is certainly spectacular, there is more to Dubrovnik outside the walls. On the Adriatic, you'll find a mix of sand and pebble beaches backed by crystal-clear aquamarine waters that are warm enough to swim in. Head to Banje Beach , just steps away from Old Town to start.

Its seaside location also makes it the perfect starting point for day trips and island-hopping, with a number of ferries making their way to the Elafiti Islands , filled with cafés, restaurants offering al-fresco dining, and sea caves waiting to be explored.

With a history that dates back to the 7th century, it's no surprise that many of Dubrovnik's main attractions are historical structures, including the city gates, the Stradium pedestrian street, and the Rector's Palace and Cultural Historical Museum.

If you are a fan of Game of Thrones , Dubrovnik will look familiar as many of its best-known spots, including the old city walls, Fort Lovrijenac, and the Spanish Steps, stood in for Kings Landing on the hit show. Today you can take set-jetting tours to top filming locations.

Dating back to AD 870, Prague is not only one of the most visited cities in Eastern Europe, but also one of the oldest.

Prague is the ideal destination for bargain hunters, with regular flight and train connections from most major cities in Europe, and affordable accommodations. Many of the city's major attractions are also free - you can stroll across Charles Bridge , walk the grounds of the Prague Castle , or see the amazing views over Prague from Petrin Hill without spending a penny.

The city can get very crowded in summer, but this is also a great time to enjoy the outdoor cafés, have a picnic with a view on Kampa Park (home to some very famous and quirky art installations), or catch live music and events on the Naplavka riverbank.

On rainy days, the city's many museums and galleries are a must-see (don't miss the museum dedicated to Prague-native Franz Kafka), and there are also Cold War bunkers, plenty of theaters and concert halls, and the stunning Strahov Library (considered one of the most beautiful in the world) to explore.

The official capital of Poland during the Middle Ages, Krakow still retains its impressive royal look. Krakow was also one of the few Polish cities to make it unscathed through WWII and as a result, its architecture - a fairy-tale mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Art Nouveau, among others - remains intact.

This includes the beautiful historical city walls, St. Florian's Gate, St. Mary's Basilica and the world's largest Gothic altarpiece, and the towering Wawel Castle.

For both historians and movie buffs alike, much of the Oscar-winner movie Schindler's List was filmed here. Oskar Schindler's original enamel factory has been converted into two museums and now holds items from the movie set, including Schindler's desk. Visitors can also tour the former Jewish district of Krakow, the remnants of the Ghetto Wall, and many filming locations.

You can also visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines from Krakow . This former 13th-century working mine is located just outside of town and is considered one of the main tourist attractions in Poland . Krakow is also the starting point for trips out to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial camps .

Hungarian Parliament building in Budapest

With a dramatic skyline and plenty of historic and cultural sights, the capital's charms are undeniable. Also known as the "Pearl of the Danube," Budapest offers great food and a rich history that includes Roman and Turkish influences. You can see that in the thermal baths (especially the very popular Rudas or Szechenyi baths) that are considered a staple of Hungary's culture.

Budapest's most stunning area is Castle Hill , a limestone plateau that overlooks the Danube and is home to the most famous attractions in the city . These include the 13th-century Buda Castle and its underground labyrinth (part of the area's underground cave system), Trinity Square, a subterranean museum holding a WWII hospital and a nuclear bunker, and the Széchenyi National Library.

There are plenty of unique day trips you can take from Budapest , including the town of Eger, famous for its thermal baths and Baroque churches; the large Baroque Royal Palace of Gödöllo; and the Aggtelek National Park and the Baradla Cave, which extend into Slovakia.

The Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest

Romania is one of the cheapest European countries to visit , and the savings stretch to the capital as well. Public transportation is affordable, budget accommodation is plentiful, and many of the main activities in the city - including strolling along Calea Victoriei avenue and relaxing at Cişmigiu, the oldest public gardens in Bucharest - are free of charge or cost very little.

One of Bucharest's main attractions is its 15th-century Old Town, which features many historical buildings but also cobblestone streets lined with cafés; restaurants; and shops selling traditional jewelry, art, and food.

The city architecture is also worth mentioning - it's famous for its impressive, ornate, and sometimes larger-than-life buildings. This includes the Palace of the Parliament; the Byzantine-inspired Stavropoleos Church; and the Romanian Athenaeum, home to the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra.

Other things to do in Bucharest include stopping by Bucharest's own Arch of Triumph and visiting the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum, an open-air museum that chronicles Romania's traditional way of life.

Located right on the coast, with open views over the blue water of the Gulf of Finland, Tallinn is a city that knows how to mix the old and the new very well. Over the past decade, Estonia has become a haven for entrepreneurs, and the growing business center of the city - with its many trendy shopping centers and restaurants - is proof of it.

Tallinn also happens to be one of the most compact capital cities in Eastern Europe, which means you are never more than 15 minutes away from the stunning Old Town. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , Tallinn's walled Old Town is filled with medieval churches, a Gothic Town Hall, impressive towers, and plenty of charming cafés for a quick stop when your feet are starting to complain.

There's still plenty to see and explore outside the center, including the Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour Museum, the pink Toompea Castle, the Russian-inspired Aleksander Nevski Cathedral, and a number of art galleries and small museums.

Although disputed, Estonians claim to be the inventors of marzipan, and the Kalev Chocolate Shop and Workshop is the place to stock up.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Tallinn

With its famed Ottoman-era bridge, blue-green river, cobblestoned streets, and Islamic architecture, Mostar is a hidden gem of Eastern Europe. The city is just a 2.5-hour drive from Dubrovnik, Croatia , and easy to reach by road, although you won't find rail or air access here.

Many still only associate the city with a war zone from the Bosnian Wars of the mid-1990s, but there has been no fighting here for more than 25 years now. Today, Mostar is a safe and charming destination where the people are kind, and the food and lodging are much cheaper than in Croatia.

Mostar is a very compact city that you can easily explore on foot in a single day. Its most famous site is Stari Most (the old bridge) . If you are in for a bit of adventure, you can sign up for the Mostar Bridge Jump through the dive school, located on the right side of the bridge.

The jump is 23 meters, so it isn't for the faint of heart – it's so adrenaline-fueled in fact, that Red Bull held their international cliff diving championships here in September 2023. But the dive school instructors will give you instructions and a wet suit and have you take a practice jump off a 10-meter board downriver before you attempt the actual thing.

If bridge jumping isn't for you, you can watch the action from one of the many cafés lining the side of the river. Other Mostar attractions include shopping in the old bazaar, seeing the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque , or taking a day trip to the nearby Kravica Waterfall , which is stunning.

Set on the edge of a submerged river canyon in the Adriatic that is oft referred to as Europe's southernmost fjord, Kotor is one of Eastern Europe's most beautiful capital cities. It has a Dubrovnik-like vibe to its ancient medieval Old Town surrounded by towering Venetian walls, but crowds are fewer (unless cruise ships are in port), prices lower, and the mountains and bay surrounding it more dramatic.

Take a stroll through the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , with remnants, including its walls, dating back to 1420. The Old Town is quite compact with just one main square that can be explored in a few hours. It has cobblestone streets, a myriad of shops, cafes and restaurants, and a 12-century Romanesque Cathedral of St. Tryphon . Step inside to see its 14 th -century frescos.

You can also walk Kotor's walls, some of which date back to the 9th century for free. If you've just come from Dubrovnik, you'll find these walls are much steeper and higher taking you up 1,350 steps in a 4,000-foot ascent. But the views from St John's Fortress at the top are worth the climb.

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25 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on April 15, 2024

Eastern Europe might not be everyone’s number one travel destination. Communist-era buildings, the conflicts in the 1990s and border disputes in recent years have meant much of the region has been overlooked by potential tourists.

But with its patchwork of pretty, pastel-colored old towns, incredible ancient history, exciting nightlife, and nature from sprawling lakes to swooping mountains, Eastern Europe is a surprising delight. History, culture, nature, ethnicity – all of them mix into an intriguing swirl that’s making this part of Europe an increasingly popular vacation destination.

25. Vilnius

Vilnius is the Lithuanian capital which comes complete with a particularly beautiful old town. This heart of the city boasts Baroque architecture along its cobblestone streets. But you can see more than just Baroque: there’s the Gothic Saint Anne’s Church, the 16th-century Gate of Dawn, and the Neo-Classical Vilnius Cathedral.

Other than being home to Europe’s largest Baroque old town, Vilnius contains an array of bars and cafes hidden down charming alleyways and lining atmospheric courtyards. With a large population of students (over 20,000 of them), after night falls, Vilnius becomes a vibrant destination with flowing beer and live music.

Minsk is the Belarusian capital. Completely destroyed during World War II, the city sadly no longer has much in the way of historical monuments or buildings. With that in mind, much of Minsk is actually made up of Stalinist architecture, such as Independence Square, a sprawling former KGB headquarters, and more recent, very impressive churches.

Nowadays, Minsk is a modern city with cool cafes to chill out in with a coffee, restaurants with international cuisine, and interesting art galleries. It’s a cosmopolitan capital that seems to be moving with the times, with a host of nightclubs and bars to visit in the evenings.

23. High Tatras

This rugged collection of mountains on the border of northern Slovakian is the tallest range in the Carpathian Mountains. Mount Krivan is the highest peak and is a symbol of the Slovak pride, luring many of its countrymen to climb to the summit.

Over a hundred emerald lakes, gushing waterfalls, and Alpine meadows characterize this beautiful region, making it a great place to hike around; in the winter skiers flock to the snow-covered slopes of the High Tatras. Luckily, you can stay in this marvel of nature, thanks to accommodation ranging from lakefront lodgings to more rustic mountainside retreats.

The Bulgarian capital of Sofia sits in the west of the country. Being something of a crossroads for Europe, it has attracted invaders and settlers alike for the past 2,000 years. Its architecture and landmarks reflect the history of the region, including Ottoman mosques, Greek temples, Roman ruins, and Soviet monuments.

Despite its age, Sofia is a surprisingly youthful city with a laid-back atmosphere, where its citizens enjoy relaxing in green parks and strolling along the boulevard. There are plenty of museums and galleries for you to delve into, but on the other hand, nightlife abounds, with a plethora of restaurants and nightclubs.

21. Butrint National Park

Butrint National Park sits in the south of the little-visited Balkan mystery of Albania , just across the sea from Corfu. It’s got just about everything you could want in a national park – lakes, marshes, grassy plains, wetlands, and even archaeological sites. These include the site of Butrint itself; known in Latin as Buthrotum, it’s full of ancient architecture, including a very well preserved Roman-era theatre and a Greek acropolis.

Elsewhere, this park boasts remote, rocky islands; one even features a 15th-century Venetian fortress known as the Ali Pasha Castle. Visitors looking to stay in Butrint should choose one of the few informal, family-run lodgings here.

20. Cesky Krumlov

In the South Bohemia region in the Czech Republic lies Cesky Krumlov. This historic city is a supremely picturesque place to visit; think orange-tiled rooftops and the pretty riverside of the Vltava River, all flanked by green, rolling hills.

Made up of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, the town is overlooked by an impressive 13th-century castle, patchworked with a variety of styles through the ages; there’s also an ornate Baroque theatre to marvel at here.

It’s a town that should not be missed because of its sheer charm and beauty. Come in summer and stay till the sun goes down to watch the energetic city come alive with bars and restaurants.

19. Golden Ring

This is a vast area northeast of Moscow, Russia , that encompasses a handful of historic Russian cities. The medieval towns form a ‘Golden Ring,’ and due to their significance in the early history of Russia and the Rus tribe who founded it, have been labeled open-air museums.

The main towns are Sergiyev Posad, Kostroma, Ivanovo, Vladimir, Suzdal, Yarislavl, Perislavl-Zalessky, and Rostov Veliky. There are significant religious sites such as the 14th-century monastery of Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, grand buildings like Yarislavl, and other churches telling the story of a millennium of Russian Orthodox history.

The Polish capital of Warsaw has had a long, complex history, often marked by war and conflict. It was very much damaged during World War II, for instance, with the old town destroyed. However, it has been lovingly rebuilt to its former medieval glory, with brightly colored townhouses making for a pretty – if slightly artificial – place to wander around.

There’s a mixed bag of architecture across the city, including contemporary cafes and bars to discover. There are plenty of outdoor spaces to enjoy and, with a lot of restaurants and some culinary brilliance going on, it’s an excellent destination for foodies.

17. Lake Balaton

Set in western Hungary , the holiday destination of Lake Balaton is awash with beautiful beaches along its shores, as well as resort towns. Flanked by volcanic hills, it’s the largest lake in Eastern Europe, and is thought of as the ‘Hungarian Inner Sea.’

On the northern shores, you’ll find the town of Szigliget, home to a medieval fortress, and the oldest medieval town in the area – Tihany. This old town features a stunning Baroque abbey as its centerpiece.

If you like wine, you’ll be happy to know that Lake Balaton is famous for its vineyards, which dot the surrounding hills. Windsurfing and sailing are popular during the summer months.

Mostar, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is famous for its Old Bridge over the Neretva River; in fact, the name Mostar derives from mostari, meaning ‘bridge keeper.’ The bridge was built in 1556 under the orders of the occupying Ottomans, but was destroyed 427 years later in 1993 by Croat forces during the Balkan Wars.

Though it’s easily reachable on a day trip from neighboring Croatia, to get the most out of your visit to Mostar, the best thing to do is stay overnight. The crowds of daytrippers trickle away, and the restaurants high above the river along cobbled streets light up.

Situated on the Baltic Sea, Latvia’s capital is a mix of traditional and contemporary lifestyles. It’s an energetic place, where culture combines with the cobblestone streets for an exciting city atmosphere.

You can expect intricate Art Nouveau architecture intermingling with Gothic spires in the city’s beautiful old town, as well as a buzzing central market where you can dive into the city’s gastronomic delights – from cheese and sausage to black bread – perfect for a picnic in one of Riga’s pretty parks. Sip a cool cocktail or a local beer in one of the many pubs when night falls and the fun begins.

The Russian capital is a must-visit destination. It’s home of the Kremlin – the historic castle-turned-presidential complex – Red Square – a symbol of Russia’s power, and Lenin’s Mausoleum, where you can see the former Communist leader lying in situ.

Of course, the captivating and colorful onion domes of Saint Basil’s Cathedral are not to be missed, either. Museums, such as Pushkin State Museum and the State Tretyakov Gallery, allow you to learn more about Moscow, too.

Iconic ballet can be seen at the equally iconic Bolshoi Theatre. For nightlife and bars, head to the Garden Ring District; this is where you will find Moscow’s youthful vibrancy.

13. Lake Ohrid

Straddling the borders of Macedonia and Albania, Lake Ohrid wins not one but two accolades of the natural world: it’s one of the deepest, and also one of the oldest lakes in Europe. Most of the lake falls within Macedonia, making this the best place to base yourself to see the spectacle.

The old town of Ohrid itself, for example, is home to old architecture, family-run lodgings, and a maze of narrow, cobblestone lanes to get lost in. Further south around the lake, Sveti Naum Monastery dates back to 905 AD and is a beautiful building to behold, with views of the surrounding mountains and lake equally stunning.

12. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Huddled in central Croatia , Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for its 16 terraced lakes, all conjoined by waterfalls that spill into a limestone canyon. This lovely area is a playground for people with a sense of adventure, who enjoy hiking amongst fantastic scenery.

You can expect boardwalks and hiking trails that wind through limestone rock formations and cliffs, and around the variegated waters of the lakes. That color change is down to the different mineral content of each lake. It’s no wonder that this sublime area was chosen to be Croatia’s first national park – and that it’s a very popular spot in summer.

11. Belgrade

Belgrade is an old city. The capital of Serbia , its long history involves not only Romans and Slavic tribes, but also Ottomans and Habsburg royals. In more recent times, it was the capital of Yugoslavia.

A proud, bold city, Belgrade – while not always beautiful – has an eclectic energy all of its own, with Soviet blocks next to golden age Art Nouveau buildings; the city’s patchwork history remains. It’s also a lively place to be and one of the most hip capitals of Eastern Europe. Spend time sipping coffee in quirky cafes, stroll along the pedestrianized boulevard Knez Mihailova, and hit up one of the packed bars in the riverside Savamala quarter.

The Ukranian capital is an intriguing place – it’s vibrant, it’s historic, it’s atmospheric. Founded in the 5th century AD, Kyiv is one of Eastern Europe’s oldest cities, and was the center of the federation of Kievan Rus’.

There are plenty of places to soak up the history, like at the Pechersk Lavra complex – an important Orthodox Christian church – as well as the Saint Sophia Cathedral, with its breathtaking interiors and golden domes.

Elsewhere, the Motherland Monument is a dizzying Soviet marvel in concrete. At weekends, Khreschatyk Street is pedestrianized and comes alive with people enjoying their days off.

9. Lake Bled

Slovenia’s spectacular Lake Bled sits in the Julian Alps in the northwest of the country. This dazzling, mirror-like body of water is backed by tree-covered hills and snow-peaked mountains, for one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in Eastern Europe.

Here, there’s Bled Castle sitting high on a cliff above the lake, and Bled Island in the center of the lake, reached by traditional wooden boats called pletna. There are a range of hiking paths around the lake, meandering in and out of woodlands and villages. The town of Bled is a popular place to base yourself to explore the lake, but staying in the capital of Ljubljana puts you in easy reach, too.

8. Budapest

The Hungarian capital that straddles the Danube River – and formerly the capital of the illustrious Austro-Hungarian Empire – Budapest is made up of three cities – Buda, Pest, and Obuda. Pest, in the east, is characterized by its Neo-Gothic spires – in particular, the soaring Parliament Building.

Buda, with its medieval Castle Hill, 13th-century Matthias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion, can trace its history back to the Romans. Obuda is even older: the Roman capital of Pannonia, Aquincum, was established here in 106 AD.

Around the city, enjoy the much-loved thermal baths, spend an evening at the opera, pedal around Margaret Island, and hop around the emblematic ruin bars.

7. Bay of Kotor

A sweeping bay in the eastern Adriatic Sea, the Bay of Kotor – also known as Boka – is situated in southwestern Montenegro . It’s a beautiful spot ringed by jagged green hills and medieval towns, with red-roofed houses spilling down to the coastline. Best explored by car along its winding roads, the region is packed full with incredible sights – from old citadels to islands topped with monasteries.

The bucolic, beautiful Bay of Kotor transcends others in the region – and there’s plenty of chances for seafood and delicious dinners by the sea to complement the scenery. Kotor old town is a Venetian wonder, surrounded by walls with a mountain backdrop that’s well worth using as a base.

The capital of Estonia , Tallinn entices. With its 14-century old town, built as a defense system, when you walk through the impressive medieval Viru Gates, you can feel the history right away.

Parts of Tallinn’s city wall are still walkable, complete with windows where you can glimpse the charming city below; you can also get grand vistas of the city skyline from the Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform atop Toompea Hill.

There are also historic churches such as Saint Olaf’s Church, dating back to the 1200s. Tallinn has a hipster side too: former warehouses comprise Telliskivi Creative City, complete with trendy restaurants, bars, and shops.

5. Transylvania

The central Romanian region of Transylvania is synonymous with stories of Dracula and bloodthirsty vampires. Whilst not entirely true, the area is mythical in terms of its natural beauty; bordered by the Carpathian Mountains, visiting Transylvania is like being transported into a slow-paced, medieval world. The countryside abounds quaint villages and local life between pastures and swathes of hills blanketed by trees.

There are many historic fortresses built by medieval German settlers, including the famous Bran Castle: these daunting spires make up what is popularly known as Dracula’s Castle . Make sure to visit the colorful city of Sighisoara, stacked with Saxon medieval architecture. You should also try out the region’s many thermal springs.

4. Saint Petersburg

The old capital of Imperial Russia, St. Petersburg is the cultural center of the country. It was founded in 1703 by Peter the Great and is home to lavish imperial buildings. Other sights include the Mariinsky Theatre for a world class ballet and opera, the lavish 1880s Church of Spilled Blood, as well as the State Russian Museum, where you can muse over Kandinsky Pieces.

The Hermitage Museum, spread over six buildings including the beautiful Winter Palace, has an incredible collection of antiques to marvel at. St. Petersburg is also a canal city with a Baltic coastline to boot; you can expect great shopping, dining and nightlife.

This southern Polish city, close to the Czech Republic, is a former royal capital. There is a beguiling mix of medieval buildings and modern-day, youthful nightlife to soak up here. Krakow is known not only for its old town – complete with the 13th-century Rynek Glowny, a cafe-lined market square, which is where you’ll find the iconic Cloth Hall, the grandiose centerpiece of the square.

It’s also known for its Old Jewish Quarter, called Kazimierz. Once home to the Jewish community of Krakow, Kazimierz has a new lease of life with boutiques and great restaurants; you can also visit places that appeared in Schindler’s List.

2. Dubrovnik

Set in the south of Croatia on the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is famous for its old town. This walled, medieval part of town was shelled in 1991 during the Balkan Wars, but has been restored to its former glory. Take a walk along the old city walls and be beguiled by the Baroque buildings; enjoy lazy afternoons at streetside restaurants soaking up the splendor of the city.

Map of Places to Visit in Eastern Europe

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The 28 Best Cities to Visit in Eastern Europe

Budva - best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe seems like the place to travel at in the next years and there is always a new reason that arises in the favor of this area. First of all, you can enjoy amazing cultures at a budget-friendly price that will allow you to experience more for less money. You will discover unique cuisines, traditions, and landscapes along the way mixed with modern influences.

A great aspect about Eastern Europeans is that they tend to keep in touch with their history rather than erase it in the name of a contemporaneous lifestyle. So, you will get the chance to visit places that are even hundreds of years old!

This part of the globe is the best combination of fun and valuable, cultural sites that you simply can’t miss. And the following cities are “le crème de la crème” when it comes to Eastern Europe destinations! So, definitely consider these places before booking your next flight!

You can also check this great backpacking guide for Eastern Europe .

Table of Contents

28 Eastern European Cities to Visit

Tallinn, estonia.

contributed by Sharon of Simple & Smarter

Tallinn is a hidden gem tucked away next to Russia with an amazing Old Town and interesting history. The medieval Old Town is one of the most beautiful I have seen. The narrow, cobble-stoned streets are lined with colorful buildings, attractions, shops, and restaurants. Many of the workers in the Old Town look the part and are dressed in old peasant clothes.

The streets can be quite steep with winding staircases going up to towers with great views. It really can feel like you have stepped back in time in this amazingly well preserved Old Town. If you tire of the Old Town (not likely), there are some other interesting attractions as well. You can visit the Hotel Viru and go on a KGB Museum Tour. Here you can learn about how the KGB used to spy on tourists in the city’s (then) one hotel.

It’s also worth visiting Kadriorg Park where you can find many museums and parkland. You can also learn about Tallinn’s history at the Open Air Museum. It’s easy to get around Tallinn with easy-to-use buses and trams. If you are looking for an awesome city to visit in East Europe, Tallinn should definitely be on your list.

Sarajavo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Old Town of Sarajevo -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Betsy of Passing Thru

Sarajevo is probably not the first city in Eastern Europe people think of when planning a visit to the region. But it’s likely to steal your heart, as it did ours. Sarajevo’s location has put it at a historical crossroads from pre-Roman times, making it a marvelous melting pot of ethnic, secular and religious influences and leading it to be known as “the Jerusalem of Europe.”

Nowadays, while remnants of the 1990s war are still very visible, the population is determined to overcome internal economic and political shortcomings with entrepreneurial vision and social tolerance. Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina is far more budget-friendly than in neighboring Croatia or Western Europe.

Visitors to Sarajevo will want to see Latinski Most – the bridge where Archduke Franz Ferdinand met his assassin in a flashpoint that led to WWI, Ottoman-era landmarks in the Bascarsija neighborhood, the 1984 Olympic venues, the Sarajevo Brewery complex, and the neo-Moorish Vijecnic City Hall.

Consider the National Museum (established in 1888) – home to the oldest Sephardic Jewish illuminated document in the world, the Bosniak Institute, and the Sarajevo Tunnel – constructed in 1993 to allow humanitarian aid and human traffic to bypass the siege and arms embargo.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Jessica of My Feet Will Lead Me

Krakow doesn’t usually come to mind when most people think of fairytale towns in Europe, but the old town of Krakow is absolutely magical. One of the oldest cities in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Krakow will take you by surprise with its historical authenticity, stunning medieval architecture, and vibrant energy. The city is considered Poland’s cultural hub which depicts Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque era architecture.

Krakow’s market square is the largest medieval commercial square in Europe. The cobblestoned streets and square are a bustling hub for local shops, restaurants, and beautiful horse drawn carriages. Krakow boasts the Wawel Castle, which is one of the most famous sites in Poland and the symbol of national pride. Mostly spared from German destruction during World War 2, the old city of Krakow is incredibly well preserved, retaining much of it’s 13th and 14th century architecture and fortifications.

Another remarkable site in Krakow is Kazimierz, the 14th-century Jewish quarter. During WW2, the Jewish residents were evacuated to the ghetto and very few survived to return to the neighborhood. After decades of neglect, the neighborhood saw a wave of attention and revitalization following the filming of Schindler’s List in 1993.

Now a trendy, flourishing Jewish neighborhood, Kazimierz is teeming with Jewish shops, cafes, and synagogues. Krakow could easily be the next European “hot spot” for its culture, beauty, affordability, and authenticity.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia, best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Sarah of A Social Nomad

As the capital of Bulgaria Sofia is a great surprise to most visitors. A compact central city with representation from all faiths, incredible ancient foundations with evident Roman ruins alongside Byzantine and communist architecture. There’s a great transport system here, Vitosha, the local mountain can be hiked while being based in the city and there’s a great cosmopolitan food and drink scene.

The city is very affordable and easily reached from other European cities. There are religious buildings from many faiths sitting alongside each other, fantastic festivals throughout the summer, and gorgeous galleries displaying the best art and sculpture.

Much of the central city has pedestrianised areas and a great subway which makes it really easy to negotiate your way around. And it’s a great walking city – from viewing the magnificent old Central Mineral Baths to the communist era buildings of the Largo area to the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral you could spend your entire visit viewing everything from the outside and not spend a penny.

Eating options range from sushi to Italian to traditional Bulgarian “mehana’s” where you’ll fall in love with the best of Bulgarian food and drink in a great way to end your stay here.

Gdansk, Poland

Gdansk in Poland -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by David of Delve into Europe

The northern Polish city of Gdansk has long been one of my favorite cities to visit in Eastern Europe. It’s a city that has had a long, varied, and eventful history. Gdansk was also known as Danzig, and for many centuries was a German city, one of the biggest of the Hanseatic League ports on the Baltic Sea.

It was a Free City until the Nazis annexed it in September 1939, prompting the declaration of World War II. It had been destroyed by 1945 and was rebuilt after the war. More recently it was the birthplace of the Solidarity trade union, the first challenge to the Communist regime in Poland.

All this has left one of the most beautiful and under-rated cities in Europe. It’s hard to think of a street as stunning as the Long Market, with its grand townhouses, the ornate Neptune Fountain and ornate Town Hall tower completing the scene. The waterfront is rather special too, with more beautiful old houses and a remnant of the medieval port, the Gdansk Crane.

But my favourite thing to do in Gdansk was wandering the back streets to the north of the Long Market, where many of the houses could have been transported straight from Amsterdam. The best view of these is from the Town Hall tower, looking down over a fairytale toytown of these magnificent houses, dominated by the vast brick bulk of the Mariacki church. And I can’t wait to go back next year.

Dubrovnik Croatia

Dubrovnik - best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Mary of Calculated Traveller

Fans of the popular television show ‘Game of Thrones’ flock to the walled city of Dubrovnik Croatia in search of familiar scenes of ‘Kings Landing’ but I love Dubrovnik for other reasons. To sit in the shade on a bench with new feline friends at the base of the sloped stone outer walls eating apricot ice cream while watching the boats sail into the harbour.

To climb up the stairs for a stroll along the top of the 80-foot wall for breathtaking views of the Adriatic Seas down below. To sit at an outdoor cafe enjoying a fragrant glass of wine and fresh grilled seafood, your feet resting on stone floors from the Middle Ages. Dubrovnik is a city full of history, architecture, and European flair.

Sighişoara, Romania

Sighisoara best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Andra of Our World to Wander

Eastern Europe has a lot of hidden gems, small cities where you feel as if time has stopped. This is indeed what you will feel like when entering the old walled-town of Sighişoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Romania’s Transylvania.

What makes this charming medieval city stand out is the pebble-paved narrow alleys inside the fortress, where you can walk among colorful houses. The highlight of the old town is the Clock Tower, which dates back to the 13th century and is still accurate.

After you visit the Clock Tower, you can move forward and visit the other no less impressive eight towers of the citadel. Another site that should be on your list in Sighişoara is the Church on the hill. You get to it by climbing the 175 steps of the wooden Scholars’ Stairs dating from 1642.

However, if you don’t feel like sightseeing you can just enjoy the citadel and wander around to admire the three hundred old houses. You will undoubtedly fall in love with this quaint little old town.

Kiev, Ukraine

KIev -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Lisa of the TheHotFlashPacker

Kyiv (or Kiev), Ukraine is a great Eastern European destination. There’s so much to do in the city. The cathedrals of Kyiv define the skyline and are well worth a visit. If you like unusual attractions – there’s an Alice in Wonderland theme park and the Mykola Syadrisky Micro-Miniatures Museum. This museum houses carvings that are so small you need to view them with magnifying glasses and microscopes!

Visit the military park and see captured Russian vehicles and the mighty “Mother Ukraine” statue. The center of the city has some interesting Soviet architecture and plenty of art. The food is great (have some Chicken Kiev in Kyiv!) and there is tasty beer and coffee shops. The best way to get around is the subway – Kyiv has some of the most beautiful metro stations and longest escalators in the world. If you have an extra day, take the most extraordinary day trip ever… to Chernobyl!

You might be interested in: Is it safe to travel to Chernobyl? Everything you need to know.

Piran, Slovenia

piran -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Ellie & Ravi of Soul Travel Blog

We came to Slovenia prepared to be awed by its mountains and forests, but instead, it was another part of Slovenia that stole our hearts: the coast.

Nestled into a rocky bay where the stones meet the turquoise waters, you might be forgiven for thinking you’d stepped into a mini-version of Venice. Inspired by its Italian cousin, Piran is a pretty town on Slovenia’s small coastline that is sure to steal your heart. Sit back and relax over a glass of Slovenian wine as the sun sinks below the horizon and turns the sky red beyond the town’s marina. Climb up the bell tower of St George’s church for views of the city below with its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and ancient walls.

Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Nathan of the Foodie Flashpacker

Bucharest is one of my favorite cities to visit in Eastern Europe. In fact, I’m currently back here for the fifth time now!

The city is large enough so that there’s always something fun and interesting going on but not so large to be intimidating. It’s a great base to see the rest of Eastern Europe from as its well connected by budget airlines. The young people mostly all speak English, it’s an affordable destination and if you want a city break, the countryside is full of wineries and amazing nature.The city itself is full of gorgeous parks and interesting cafes for you to work from.

Also, as it’s an international city, the Bucharest restaurant scene feels never-ending. You can try anything from local dishes to Asian flavors to Italian to high-end dining options all at a fraction of what they’d likely cost you back home.

When planning your visit to Eastern Europe make sure to include time in Bucharest- you won’t be disappointed!

Brasov, Romania

contributed by Elisa of World in Paris

Brasov is a fairy-tale fortified city in the heart of Transylvania, Romania. It is easy to walk, it has beautiful architecture with Saxon influences and many nice cafes to stop for a caffeine break. We were lucky to find an apartment facing the main square so it was nice to see how the city wakes up.

If you want to get the most out of Brasov, we recommend doing the free city tour starting every day from the main square. It is a very entertaining tour which introduces visitors to the history of the city, some fun legends and its main sights like the black church and the white and black towers. In addition, guides are always happy to give some recommendations on good restaurants to explore the local cuisine so you are set for the day.

Brasov is also a good base for exploring other parts of Transylvania like the famous Bran castle or the mountains of Piatra Craiului.

Podgorica, Montenegro

Podgorica -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Eric of Penguin and Pia

For the capital of a country, Podgorica, Montenegro doesn’t get too much credit. We think this should change! Podgorica does actually have things to do and this makes the city a place that we think is worth checking out for yourself. From traditional Balkan cuisine at restaurants like Pod Volat to visiting the museums and wandering the historic old town, the city has a rich history that is to be learned about and explored.

If you’re in Podgorica at night, the city center is buzzing with activity. The bars, pubs, and restaurants open their patios in the warm air and let the night take its course. Whatever kind of fun you’re looking for, you’ll find it out on the town in Podgorica. Oh, and don’t forget about the things you can check out close to the city. Just a short drive away from Podgorica is the “Niagara Falls” of Montenegro – and you won’t want to miss checking out nature at its finest!

Ohrid, FYROM

contributed by Kirstin of The Tinberry Travels

Lake Ohrid is one of the most beautiful spots in the Balkans and sat on the water’s edge in the wonderful Ohrid City, FYROM. The biggest settlement in the region, Ohrid along with its neighboring lake, is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ancient history, diverse and intricate architecture, and plenty of natural beauty on top. Said to have once held 365 places of worship, one for every day of the year, the many churches or Ohrid are the city’s main drawn but there are plenty of things to do in Ohrid .

From boat trips or swimming in the beautiful clear waters to ancient amphitheaters and fortresses on the hill, Ohrid has a good variety of attractions and is fast becoming the new place to go in the Balkans. To get to Ohrid, a number of low-cost airlines fly direct to the small Ohrid airport just outside the city or you can take a three-hour drive from the FYROM’s capital of Skopje.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Mary of A Mary Road

Vilnius , Lithuania is not only another city in East Europe. If you are looking to explore this part of the world, Vilnius is worth a visit. It’s probably one of the cheapest places you can explore taking into account that it is the capital city. Vilnius is full of historical events and culture, the city is very open-minded and LGBTQA friendly.

Exploring around is very easy, you can either walk through the Old Town or hop on a bicycle (which is very affordable to rent for a day or more), to go further out. Vilnius has also a lot of parks around, in Summer, you can sit by the park, watch the locals go through their daily life or simply visit a local market where fresh fruits are being sold. Going to the next city like Kaunas or to the neighboring country is very easy too, and affordable. There are cheap flights in and out of Vilnius within Europe.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

contributed by Stephanie of Sofia Adventures

While Plovdiv in central Bulgaria is an Eastern European city, it doesn’t feel like it. It’s a beautiful, classic town full of ancient Roman architecture, gorgeous Bulgarian Revival houses, and modern street art. If you’re looking for Red Tourism, head elsewhere, because this is Bulgaria’s elegant cultural center. In fact, it’s been named as the European Capital of Culture for 2019, highlighting its place as one of the oldest cities in Europe.

There are eight thousand years of history in this city, but there are also tons of great modern amenities, like fantastic restaurants and fun cafes. You can spend a weekend or a week here because there are so many things to see and do in Plovdiv that you won’t have time to get bored. After checking out the main highlights of the city (I highly recommend the city’s free walking tour), head out to see some of the beautiful monasteries in the region.

Budva, Montenegro

contributed by Michelle of Greedy Gourmet

Located on the Adriatic Sea in Montenegro, is a beautiful town called Budva. Even though some parts of this country are still suffering from the effects of the Cold War, Budva is a thriving tourist destination. Budva is only a 25-minute taxi ride from Tivat Airport, where you can easily hail a cab outside the building or rent a car to get around.

The city is known for its beaches, nightlife, and restaurants but is also rich in history. You can spend the day at the Rustovo Monastery or head up to the Citadel to catch some amazing views. Most tourists come for the beaches and there are plenty to visit, such as Mogren Beach, Royal Beach, and Kamenova Beach.

You absolutely need to eat at Casa Mia , a lovely Italian restaurant. Casa Mia has its own farm, raising their own chickens, ducks, turkeys, and goats which makes them a rare, sustainable restaurant. In addition, you should check out Dukley Beach Lounge. Located right on the water, the views are enough of a reason to visit this restaurant.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Suzanne of The Travelbunny

Budapest is the perfect European city to visit for a long weekend or city break. Full of charm, beautiful buildings, good food, coffee shops, art, history, and quirk there’s a lot you can pack into a few days. The Danube runs through the center of the city splitting it into two distinct districts; Buda and Pest. The 19th century Chain Bridge links hilly Buda’s castle district with flatter Pest.

A funicular runs up Castle Hill to Old Town Buda where you’ll get fabulous views across the River Danube to the stunning Hungarian Parliament building. Fisherman’s Bastion, the 13th century Matthias Church and the famous Gellert thermal baths are all on the Buda side. Cross the Chain Bridge to explore Pest with its trendy ruin bars, ornate coffee shops, the food market, and the grandeur of Heroes Square.

The city is good value for money as it’s not part of the Euro and still uses the Hungarian Forint. You can explore most of the city on foot or by using the metro which is easy to use and the oldest electrified underground railway system in Europe.

Kotor, Montenegro

contributed by Kamila of My Wanderlust

Even before visiting Kotor, I knew I’m gonna love it there. The pictures I’ve seen online looked just amazing and the place seemed too beautiful to be true. But it really does exist and is even more spectacular than I could imagine! By now I’ve been some 5 times there and Kotor for me is the most beautiful place in Europe.

The highlight of every visit is of course the climb to the St. John castle – it is exhausting to walk over a thousand stairs to the top but the view is definitely worth it! But there are so many more things to do there! I love wandering around Kotor Old Town , especially early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s not too crowded, I love walking along Kotor Bay to Dobrota and admire the stunning views and I love visiting the small village of Perast that is just the prettiest. If you decided to visit Kotor I can only suggest doing it off-season as the summer might be just too busy there!

Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Jessica of Longest Bus Rides

There are so many things to do in Wroclaw, Poland that it should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Europe. The historical part of the city is completely walkable, so no need to rent a car. If anything, rent a bicycle. And, it’s very accessible to English speakers, with much of the signage translated to English. It helps that the city was European Union City of the Year in 2014.

Known as the Venice of the North, there are lots of cute bridges (approximately 130, but not all of them are cute) and 12 islands. There is even an island with gardens and historical buildings—visit the Gothic Cathedral at night to see it lit up. St. Mary Magdalene Church has Penitent Bridge, a gangway connecting the towers high over the city. The view is fantastic, although its original purpose is sad–

The synagogue has a free museum regarding Jewish history in the area. On the more humorous side, keep your eyes open for all the gnomes throughout the city. They are small, and it’s always a fun surprise to find one. There’s one right by the entrance to the ancient pub underneath City Hal

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana - city to travel in Eastern Europe

contributed by Kylie of Our Overseas Adventures

Ljublijana is the largest city in Slovenia and one of the new cool capital cities of Eastern Europe. It’s a fabulous city to visit for a few days and it has a wonderful funky vibe. The beautiful Ljubljanica river runs through the center of the old town and wandering along the riverbanks, popping into some of the great cafes lining the route is such a great way to pass the time. The city is often compared to Prague due to its architecture designed by the world-famous Jože Plečnik.

Ljublijana is famous for its bridges, with the Dragon Bridge being the most notable landmark in Ljublijana. Choose one of the four iconic dragons positioned at both ends of the bridge to snap a selfie with! Towering over the city is the 900-year-old Ljubljana Castle, a must-see with some of the best views of the city.

You can take a funicular railway to reach the castle, or walk up one of the paths if you want some exercise. Afterward, head back down into the city and pick one of the many hip bars to relax with a drink and soak in the atmosphere of this gorgeous city.

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

Veliko Tarnovo - places to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Allison of Sofia Adventures

Veliko Tarnovo is one of the most beautiful cities in Bulgaria. As the former capital of Bulgaria, it’s chock full of history, which can be seen in the beautiful Tsaravets fortress, which used to be the seat of power hundreds of years ago. Today, Veliko Tarnovo is full of interesting monuments, delicious restaurants with gorgeous views over the Yantra River, old-fashioned houses built on a hillside, and cafés and bars where you can relax and enjoy a slower pace of life.

You shouldn’t miss Asen’s Monument, the Stambolov bridge, the fortress, the many interesting churches, and a side trip to the nearby village of Arbanasi. Be sure to eat at the original restaurant, Shtastliveca, which is now popular throughout several cities in Bulgaria. Shopska salad can’t be missed when visiting Bulgaria! Veliko Tarnovo is a great addition to Bulgaria itineraries that include larger cities like Plovdiv or Sofia, or as a side trip from Bucharest, or as its own city break!

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb - best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Julianna of The Discoveries of

Zagreb was the city I never expected to fall in love with. A striking blend of centuries of history, cosmopolitan culture, and a laid-back vibe – it was only ever going to end one way. What’s so special about Zagreb? The small walkable center is packed with sights, both old and new, for your itinerary.

The Neo-Gothic Cathedral dominates the skyline but surprises visitors with its modernist carvings inside. Equally enchanting is the much-talked-about Museum of Broken Relationships, which is packed with the sometimes funny, sometimes sad relics of relationships that haven’t quite worked out.

Don’t miss the daily firing of the cannon in Lotrsčak Tower either – at 12 pm sharp the warden fires a cannon (stuffed with paper) over the city. It’s not clear where the tradition came from, but it’s happened daily since 1877.

Be warned, it is very loud! Lotrsčak Tower also happens to boast stellar views out over Zagreb, so it’s a win-win situation. Some people pass through Zagreb, seeing it as a stop on their way to the Plitvice Lakes, or as they zoom to Split and Dubrovnik further south. What a mistake – spend some time here and you’ll see that Zagreb is a small city with a lot to offer.

Sibiu, Romania

Sibiu -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Raluca of Whisper Wanderlust

Sibiu is one of the most beautiful, largest, and most visited cities of Romania. It is located in Transylvania, approximately in the center of the country, making it easily accessible from any point. Being very close to the tallest and most spectacular mountains in the country, I recommend that along with Sibiu, go on a road trip on Transfagarasan, the most scenic road in the country.

Sibiu, thanks to its beauty, became the cultural capital of Europe 10 years ago when countless events took place in the city. Being the largest medieval ensemble in the country, it is a real pleasure to walk through the old center. The cobbled streets, the colorful houses that seem to have eyes on their roofs, the cheerful terraces, and the architecture of the most important buildings will instantly conquer you.

If you arrive in Sibiu, I recommend you to pass the Liars Bridge, admire the Council Tower, the Lutheran Evangelical cathedral, or the Brukenthal Museum, and go on a picnic at Dumbrava Sibiului.

Medulin, Croatia

Medulin -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by LeAnne of Well Traveled Nebraskan

Medulin, Croatia is no longer just the sleepy fishing village it once was. Today, you can find accommodations to fit all budgets along the incredibly stunning Istrian Coast. Whether you are looking for a glitzy all-inclusive resort or to camp right along the beach, we loved Medulin’s various paces of life offered to all kinds of travelers. There was just something about grabbing delicious grilled Croatian food right on the ocean while kicking back with some of the cheapest beer we’ve ever bought that made us fall in love with the area.

However, it was the Kemenjak National Park, just on the outskirts of town that gave us memories to last a lifetime. Purchase a cheap snorkel set from any stand in town and then head to the park where you can swim in crystal clear waters and explore underwater caves. For adventurous souls, join the cliff jumpers leaping from various levels of cliffs into the deep ocean below for an amazingly fun time! And then for any history buffs, geek out at the actual dinosaur tracks, still imprinted in the rocks!

Medulin was the perfect balance of exploration with a touch of relaxation, which makes it a perfect destination for just about any type of traveler!

St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Liza of Tripsget

St. Petersburg is often referred to as the northern capital of Russia and the Venice of the North. In my option, however, it looks more like a mix of Paris, Vienna, Stockholm, and Amsterdam, as each of these cities had a strong influence on the architecture of St. Petersburg back in the 18th century. Nonetheless, St. Petersburg is quite unique and definitely stands out in the region of Eastern Europe with its lavish palaces, huge cathedrals, and gorgeous city center. It might be complicated to visit because of the visa requirements (not if you visit it by ferry), but it’s definitely worth it!

Saranda, Albania

Saranda -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Alex of Swedish Nomad

Saranda is a coastal town in the southern part of the Albanian Riviera. In recent years it has seen a growth in tourism, and it’s the best place to base yourself if you want to explore the Southern parts of Albania. It’s close to Ksamil (the best beaches) and Butrint (Historical site with roman ruins) as well as Syri I Kalter and the northern part of the Riviera.

In Saranda, you also have a larger range of hotels and restaurants to choose from, and it’s easy to get there from nearby Corfu by boat. Corfu has several international flights and the boat ride takes approx 35 minutes and cost 19 Euro.

What makes it one of the best cities to visit in Eastern Europe? It’s a lovely coastal town in Albania, which isn’t too commercial or full of tourists. There is also a beach boulevard where you can enjoy delicious food and cocktails. The prices are reasonable as well, and it’s just easy to get around and explore nearby areas from Saranda. So, you get a city but also the possibility to make a lot of day trips to make the most out of your visit to Albania.

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava -best cities to visit in Eastern Europe

contributed by Christine of Alien Chris

Bratislava , the capital of Slovakia, is a beautiful and friendly city that has a lot to offer its visitors. Here you can enjoy traditional Slovakian food, go for wine tasting in one of their ancient wine cellars, and visit historical sites such as the castle and majestic cathedral.

Strolling around Bratislava’s picturesque narrow streets and stopping for a delicious cup of coffee at one of the city’s cozy cafes is an experience itself. It’s not the typical city break in Europe. But I’m sure you’ll be happily surprised.

Timisoara, Romania

contributed by Clemens of Travellers Archive

The second-largest city in Romania is called Timisoara. It is the cultural center of the Banat. No wonder that the city of Timisoara is also called „Little Vienna“. It is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque cities with a huge number of old baroque buildings and parks. Timisoara was one of the first European cities to receive electricity.

The best way to experience the city is by doing a long walk in the city center and along the Bega River. Discover the baroque art, the cute cobbled streets, the many pretty cafés restaurants. One of the most beautiful sights is the cathedral square with the impressive catholic cathedral and the opera square with the opera being on the opposite side. Also, don’t miss the beautiful rose gardens.

Eastern Europe didn’t get the attention it deserved for many decades when it comes to tourism. But nowadays, the most beautiful cities in the area are spoiled with visitors from all over the globe, eager to discover their treasures. And there is a perspective of developing tourism in Eastern Europe even more from now on.

Each Eastern European city is unique and offers a lot of interesting adventures for foreign tourists. All you need to enjoy the beauty of these places is an open mind and a curiosity that feeds your desire to discover new corners of the world. Be careful to not fall in love with one of these cities, because as interesting as they are, it can definitely happen.

But if you do like a city so much that you want to prolong your stay, you are more than welcome to do so as locals are very hospitable with foreigners that are interested in their culture.

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I love taking photos and I’m glad there are posts like these, it’s so useful. I plan to visit eastern europe in the future.

The 20 Most Charming Places you MUST Visit in Eastern Europe!

As one of my favourite areas to explore not just in Europe but the entire world, I cannot express enough how many beautiful and unique places there are, that you must visit in Eastern Europe. Most if not all of these small towns, villages and cities are completely underrated and many of these places are once in a lifetime, fairytale, picturesque towns to visit. So, what are you waiting for!? Here are the 20 most charming places you must visit in Eastern Europe!

Brașov, Romania

Brașov is a city located in Transylvania, a region of Romania renowned for its castles, eerily foggy skies and charming little towns and villages. Although classified as a city, Brașov feels much more like a small town to be discovered on foot, even when climbing to the infamous “Brasov sign” (a rip off of the Hollywood sign – yup, really!) From here you can explore the beautiful Bran Castle (also known as Dracula’s Castle ) as well as nearby Peles Castle , said to be the most beautiful Eastern Europe castle.

Wroclaw, Poland

Commonly regarded as the prettiest town in Poland, Wroclaw is full of charm every which way you look. The buildings are bright and playful, with friendly locals giving this city a similar small town feel, especially when centring your explorations around the old town itself.

Riga, Latvia

Located further North in the Baltics is the impossibly quaint and charming Riga; the capital of Latvia . This is a city that feels absolutely nothing like most capital cities in Europe, as it is characterised by its cobblestone streets that are at times impossible to navigate (in the best kind of way!)

Sofia, Bulgaria

Another great capital to visit is often referred to as the “Paris of the East”; Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Sofia is said to be one of Europe’s most laid-back capital cities, offering a charming east-meets-west feel with old and new coexisting throughout the city. Though many travellers overlook Sofia en route to Bulgaria’s resort coastal towns, one look at the architecture on offer might persuade you otherwise! (Image Source).

Sibiu, Romania

One of the most surprising cities I visited in Romania was completely by chance, as I was travelling by car from Brasov (Romania) through to Belgrade (Serbia) and stopped in to Sibiu to pick up supplies (every road trip needs snacks!) This city was so full of charm that I was skipping around the streets like a school girl… a true highlight from my Romanian adventures! ( Image source ).

Tunnel of Love, Ukraine

If a picture tells a thousand words, there really is no need to explain the above photo of The Tunnel of Love in Ukraine. The tunnel is located near Klevan (closer to Lviv than Kiev) and stretches an impressive 3 kilometres in length!

Tallinn, Estonia

Located on the Baltic sea a convenient ferry ride from Finland’s Helsinki, Tallinn is a hidden gem. If you find yourself in the Baltics this is by far and large one of the highlight cities to stop at and is incredibly well connected by air, land and sea. As far as sightseeing goes the best way to experience Tallinn is just to stroll without any intentions of seeing or doing anything at all… just stumble across things!

Blagaj, Bosnia & Herzegovina

When I made a visit to Blagaj back in 2014 I expected to stay a few days, but wound up staying a full week in this gorgeous little town, located a 20-30 minute drive outside of better known Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Although there isn’t a whole heap to do (above is the Blagaj Tekke, the town’s biggest attraction, accompanied by the castle hike, these are the two sole attractions), the town is a fantastic chance to slow down and enjoy Eastern European hospitality. I stayed with a family who made me feel so welcome and gave me a great insight into local culture – by way of my stomach mostly!

St Petersburg, Russia

I’m often heard singing the praise of the former Russian capital, St Petersburg , and today will be no exception! I am so incredibly fond of St Petersburg, once a city of tsars and full of endless fascination by way of Russian Royal history! The city is lined with canals much larger than you see in Venice and the streets are full of incredible architecture that will leave you dizzy from straining your neck just to take it all in!

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

This charming little town is perhaps the single place in all of Europe that looks as if it has been ripped completely out of a fairytale book. The terracotta rooftops glisten in the summer sun, whilst in winter it is often covered in a thick blanket of snow (which resulted in me falling over more than once!) If there were just one town I would send you to in Eastern Europe, it would be Cesky Krumlov… a town that forever has a piece of my heart.

Lviv City, Ukraine | World of Wanderlust

Lviv, Ukraine

Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Lviv is unlike anywhere else you will visit in Ukraine. This city is charming and incredibly so… without even trying the city will lure you in and leave you wanting more time here, never less. Be sure to allow at least a few days in Lviv to wander the lush green parks and colourfully lined streets that are just bursting with intriguing architecture!

Budapest, Hungary

There’s no denying that Budapest has become incredibly popular over the past few years or even the past decade, but I still hold the opinion that Budapest is one of the most underrated cities in Europe. Despite its increasing popularity, Budapest has so much more to offer than originally meets the eye – beyond the public bath houses and impressive city views at Fisherman’s Bastion, there is much more to see in the Hungarian capital. Allow yourself at least 4 days to explore this still a somewhat hidden gem.

Skopje, Macedonia

Skopje is another of Europe’s most charming small capital cities. Throughout the ages Skopje has been influenced by a number of different regimes, and today continues to show influence from the Roman Empire, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

Kotor, Montenegro

This is hands down one of the most idyllic settings for a city to be located. Located in the Balkans, the city of Kotor in Montenegro is situated beside a bay and enjoys a much lighter tourist visitation than nearby Dubrovnik, making it a great little gem to discover off the beaten path! ( Image Source ).

Ljubljana, Slovenia

One of my all time favourite capital cities in Europe is the highly underestimated Ljubljana (yup, its a mouthful!) If you have just one day in Ljubljana perhaps en route to the popular Lake Bled, you should still make time for a visit as this is a great city to discover in 3 hours or less due to its size and walkability.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Over the past few years and especially since the inception of Game of Thrones on our television screens, Dubrovnik has become an incredibly popular tourist destination and perhaps could be said to have put Croatia on the map. There is much to discover along the entire coastline of Croatia, though Dubrovnik in all of its old world charm is a logical place to start!

Berat, Albania

Not too long ago in 2008 Berat was dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showing just how much heritage this small city has to preserve! Albania is one of Eastern Europe’s least visited countries, making it another great choice if you’re looking to get off the beaten path. ( Image source ).

Počitelj, Čapljina, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Another standout from my travels in Bosnia & Herzegovina was this gorgeous little town attached to a cliff side, surrounded by lush greenery and glistening in the Spring sunshine. Bosnia & Herzegovina is still very much flying under the radar and will likely become a hot spot in coming years, so be sure to put it on your list and discover it before the crowds come!

Belgrade, Serbia

I never expected I would love Serbia’s capital nearly as much as I did. As a big city, I never expected it to be charming as such, despite many travellers telling me I “had to go there and see for myself”… so I did! Indeed, this is a very charming capital city with a large al fresco dining scene and a great insight into the history of the Former Yugoslavia. (Image source).

Peleș Castle, Romania

Whilst Peles Castle may not be a town or a city, it is a charming little place that deserves its’ very own listing in this article because it is just. that. beautiful. Romania in general is absolutely full of surprises, so if I could recommend just one place you should have on your list in Eastern Europe, Romania would be it!

Over to you! Where are your favourite places in Eastern Europe!?

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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The Ultimate Eastern Europe Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

Fewer travelers head east – t hat’s why you should.

H ead East from Germany, and you’ll find that your Euros are less often accepted. English is not so widely spoken. The streets can appear grittier, with concrete apartment blocks often blocking out the sun. Poland has no Leaning Tower of Pisa, Budapest boasts no colosseum, and the rushing Danube may be less associated with romance than the sedate river Seine. But travel with your eyes open, and you’ll find just as much beauty, history, fun and adventure in the East as others do in the well trodden West.

Average wages behind the historic ‘Iron Curtain’ are still drastically low, which is rough on the locals, but can benefit the intrepid traveler: You’ll find that three course restaurant meal in Sofia, Bulgaria can cost you less than a cocktail in a Parisian bar. So pack a phrase book and dress up warm – we’re heading East!

1 Eastern Europe: An overview
2 Eastern Europe highlights: A sample itinerary
3 The Baltics: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
4 Poland: Gdansk, Warsaw & Krakow
5 Slovakia: Zdiar, The Tatra Mountains
6 Hungary: Budapest
7 Bulgaria: Sofia
8 How much does a trip to Eastern Europe cost?
9 How long do you need to explore Eastern Europe?
10 Getting around
11 Getting there
12 Where to stay
13 When to go
14 Food and drink
15 What to do
16 The Thrifty Gist

Eastern Europe: An overview

The definition of Eastern Europe can be a bit contentious. I moved to Poland a few years ago and have used this country as a base on and off ever since. While the folks back in England and Australia would tend to see Poland as ‘Eastern Europe,’ here locals often insist on ‘Central Europe,’ and looking at a map, they may have a point. However for the purposes of this article, Poland makes the cut. We’re also going to look at Czechia and Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, former Yugoslavia, the Baltics and Ukraine.

To varying degrees, all the countries described fell under the influence of the Soviet Union after the second world war. While most have now transformed into Western leaning democracies, the brutal memory of communism still rings in the ears. Poland and Hungary are sliding ominously towards the far right, and Ukraine’s recent attempt to lurch Westward politically was met with Russian tanks crossing the border into Crimea. While ‘history’ may feel like a thing of the past in London and Rome, here it is still an unfolding story.

Eastern Europe highlights: A sample itinerary

Once you spend a bit of time staring at a map, you’ll realize there’s an awful LOT of Eastern Europe. Not just in the number of countries, but in the size. Ukraine alone could comfortably fit in several Western European nations. Below I’ll sketch a rough itinerary that involves heading due south right from the Baltics into Bulgaria. You can either complete this itinerary fully (as pictured above) – requiring 5-6 weeks – or just do sections of it.

A few things to note is that while most of these countries are in both the European Union and the Schengen Visa Free Zone, there are exceptions – notably Serbia and Ukraine. So be sure to check your visa requirements before venturing out . Also, the below is one hell of a trip and designed to give you a sense of what is available, rather than a definitive prescription – you should, of course, pick and choose. If you wanna head straight to Prague to sample the famed (and cheap) Czech beer before braving the winter streets of Vilnius, then I can’t say I blame you!

The Baltics: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania

So-named because of their position on the Baltic sea, these three small nations are often overlooked by Western travelers. But they shouldn’t be. Let’s have a look at each in turn:

Highlight : Tallinn. With a population of just 1.3 million, Estonia rapidly reinvented itself after the collapse of communism in 1989, and now is counted among one of the most technologically developed nations in the world. It offers digital citizenship to locals and expats, and is considered a digital nomad hub. If Eastern Europe in your mind is crumbling buildings and long queues for groceries, then start with Estonia to dispel those misconceptions. Get to know it like a local with a Welcome to Tallinn walking tour.

Highlight : Riga. The historic center of Riga is a Unesco world heritage site, and the beautifully preserved/restored town square is a great precursor of what you’re to expect as you explore countries like Poland and Czechia further south. Take in the most popular sights with a scenic canal boat cruise .

Highlight : Vilnius. Like Riga, the historic center of Vilnius is a Unesco World Heritage site, best explored with a local guide . Once unified with Poland, Vilnius boasts a proud literary heritage and a rich Jewish history – it was once referred to as the “Jerusalem of Lithuania.”

Poland: Gdansk, Warsaw & Krakow

One of the strongest economies to emerge from the collapse of the Eastern Bloc, Poland’s vibrant present mingles with a history that stretches back over 1000 years, through the glory days of the Poland-Lithuania commonwealth right through to the trauma suffered at the hands of the Nazis and Soviets during the 20th century. I came to this country for a week in 2015, and ended up staying on and off for three years!

Spend your final days with the Baltic Sea at Gdansk, formerly the predominantly German free city of Danzig. Walk along the old docks, or admire the city from a historic boat cruise , and remember the Solidarity movement that, led by Lech Walesa, resulted in the overthrow of communism first in Poland and then, arguably, across the rest of Europe. One of Poland’s most picturesque cities, a late night stroll through the old town and by the riverside will be a treasured memory.

The sight of unimaginable horror during the Second World War as the Soviet Tanks waited for the Nazis to eliminate all Polish resistance before sweeping in and planting the Hammer and Sickle flag over the ruined city, Warsaw’s revival is the stuff of legend. Under the shadow of the imposing Palace of Culture, the historic old town has been painstakingly restored. Visit the POLIN Jewish Museum , and experience some of the finest dining Eastern Europe has to offer among the cities many chic restaurants (Hint: Try Cafe Kafka for lunch).

Poland’s biggest tourist draw, and for good reason. The medieval old square is haunting under the moonlight, as rows of horses and cart stand to attention, ready to take the next visitor for a ride. Outside the city you can venture deep under the earth to explore the Salt Mines, and make a painful, but necessary visit to the Auschwitz Museum .

Detour: Lviv, Ukraine

Take the night train from Krakow due east to experience something truly off the beaten track. Lviv is a great way to dip your toes into the gargantuan country of Ukraine, and give yourself a thrilling few days. Historically Polish and once known by the Hapsburg name, Lemberg, Lviv boasts one of the most adventurous nightlife scenes you’ll ever encounter. From a bar named Masoch (we’ll let you guess the theme) to multi story clubs, hidden restaurants accessible only with a password, rooftop bars where you sit in broken down cars, and ancient crypts beneath the city , a weekend in Lviv will give you enough stories to make your friends jealous for years.

Slovakia: Zdiar, The Tatra Mountains

Hala Gasienicowa, Tatra Mountains, Poland

Back on the road from Poland, we cross into Slovakia. The nation’s capital, Bratislava , is a rougher, smaller version of Prague (covered below) which rewards a fun weekend. But the Tatra mountains that stretch across the Polish border offer one of Slovakia’s most intoxicating delights.

Pro tip: Hit the Polish town of Zakopane just a few clicks from the border for a taste of the local Oscypek mountain cheese, before taking a minibus to the border, walking into Slovakia, and hopping another quick bus to Zdiar, a ski resort town. Stay in the Ginger Monkey Hostel for cosy diggs and to meet fellow travelers.

Detour: Prague, Czechia

It’s a bit out of the way and means a slight tack westward, but Prague, the dynamic capital of Czechia (formerly the Czech Republic, formerly formerly Czechoslovakia) is worth making the trip. Climb the steep hill to Prague Castle , and see the spires and winding streets of the city at your feet. Jostle with buskers on Charles Bridge before settling into one of the cities many cavernous beer halls for a sip (or several) of the unbelievably refreshing locals brews that flow like water and cost half as much!

Hungary: Budapest

Hungary’s mighty capital is growing in stature as a major Eastern European destination, rivaling Prague and Krakow. Divided into two halves, hilly historical Buda and flat, gritty Pest, the glory of the Austro-Hungarian empire, the horrors of the Arrow Cross Fascist regime and communist oppression, and the contemporary hipster revival of the city can all be felt after just a few hours in town. Climb up to the exquisite Royal Palace, drink the night away in a ruin bar (start with the gigantic Szimpla), take in the stunning architecture from a river cruise , soothe your soul in a thermal bath, and burn your taste buds with spicy paprika filled Goulash. For more tips on activities to do in Budapest, check our other guide here .

From here to Sofia you’ll most likely have to choose one of the below routes, which, like different prongs on a fork, all forge their own path to Bulgaria.

Option #1: Serbia: Belgrade

Step out of the European Union and into a scarier, starker version of history in Belgrade. The winding, cobbled streets are beautiful, the old ladies haggle over the price of cucumbers on the street markets, and the clubs rage until dawn. But as with much of Europe, there’s a darker side to history here. You’ll see at the ancient fortifications, in the city’s museums, and in the bullet holes still visible on some older buildings. Take in the top attractions from a sightseeing cruise .

Option #2: Romania: Transfagarasan Highway

Bucharest is a rough and ready capital that will still provide plenty to distract and entertain you. But for me, Romania is a country of rolling green hills, famers on horseback, dark grey clouds and mercifully warm temperatures. Considered one of the best road trips in the world, rent a car and take it carefully over the Transafgarasan Highway (or sit back and relax with a day tour ) for incredible views and, of course, a climb up the steep stairs to Vlad the Impaler’s vertiginous castle (Bran Castle).

Option #3: Croatia: Dubrovnik

Go ahead, be a tourist, give yourself a treat. Famous as the filming location for much of Game of Thrones (with you can visit on dedicated tours ), this seaside city will be sure to rack up the Instagram likes. Don’t want to get caught up in the tourist crowd? Croatia’s warm and picturesque Mediterranean coast can also be experienced from cities like Split, which also boast fresh seafood and, of course, cheap local beer sold in gigantic plastic bottles. Živjeli!

Bulgaria: Sofia

How much does a trip to Eastern Europe cost?

The low cost of living in Eastern Europe constantly amazes me. To take a sample at random, I am writing this article from a cafe in Poznan, Poland. A large local craft beer would cost $2 USD, a latte about the same, and a delicious, high quality hot meal about $6-8. This is typical of Eastern Europe, with countries like Ukraine, Serbia and Bulgaria offering even cheaper rates. The major tourist towns like Prague and Budapest can sting you on accomodation if you don’t book in advance, and always be wary of nightclubs and ‘bars of ill repute’ where scams are known.

Traveling Eastern Europe can realistically be done for as little as $30-50 USD / day , including accomodation, food, beer, transport and attractions.

How long do you need to explore Eastern Europe?

The above itinerary – done properly – would require about 5-6 weeks, but you can of course take as long or as little as you like. Distances can be large and outdated transport infrastructure can mean uncomfortable journeys (hold tight to your wallet on the cheap but dusty overnight train from Belgrade to Budapest. When I did this journey in 2015, I paid just 10 Euro for the ticket including sleeper berth!).

Getting around

While rail passes are highly recommended for travel in Western Europe, in the East they are less necessary. Train travel – even when booked on the day – is outrageously cheap, with $20 being more than enough for almost any internal journey you’re likely to make. For international journeys, consider overnight buses and trains to save on a night’s accommodation. Book in advance if going between major cities – for example, the overnight train from Warsaw to Budapest can get expensive (100 euro +) if booked at the last minute, but if booked in advance, will be a mere fraction of this.

For trains, try Bahn.de
For buses, try FlixBus
For flights, try WizzAir

Getting there

Most cities listed above can easily be accessed with cheap Ryanair flights from London and across Western Europe. Check Skyscanner and select “Whole Month” to visualize the cheapest dates. If traveling from afar, cities like Berlin and Munich in Germany can make convenient hubs. I’ve also found Prague to be a surprisingly affordable final destination when flying all the way from Australia / New Zealand. If coming from Scandinavia, Gdansk in Poland can sometimes be reached for as little as 15 euro.

Where to stay

Cities like Krakow and Budapest boast a thriving youth hostel culture, ideal if you want to meet other travelers and find drinking buddies for the evening. In Budapest I give my warmest recommendation to Carpe Noctem – I practically moved in. Elsewhere, Booking.com can offer cheap short term rentals on apartments, while AirBNB is a slightly more expensive, but more comfortable option for doing the same. Although you may not even consider doing such a thing in Paris or London, don’t be afraid to be bold and check TripAdvisor for a nice hotel – I’ve found 4 or 5 star luxury for under $50 a night across Eastern Europe.

It’s no secret: Eastern Europe gets cold, with subzero temperatures not unheard of from December through to March. This has its compensations – nothing is more beautiful than a medieval town center blanketed in white snow. Christmas means Christmas markets and hot spiced wine served out of large cauldrons, but it’s also when everyone has gone home with their families. My favorite time to travel is September, when it’s still hot, but the main tourist crowds have wrapped up their summer holidays, leaving the streets clear to explore.

Food and drink

Let’s start with drink! Beer is literally cheaper than bottled water in most countries described above. Look for the local brews, but be careful – in this part of the world, beer packs a punch, and 9% alcohol volume brews are not uncommon. Vodka is available in millions of different flavors – try Zubrowka in Poland, and local fruit spirits such as the potent Sliwowica (plum spirit) are easy to find. In Hungary, try sweet and rich Tokaj wine. Eastern European cuisine tends to be heavy – food to soak up the vodka and prepare you for a long winter. Pierogi (polish dumplings) make for a hearty meal, as does Hungary’s goulash, Prague’s many manifestations of pork, and Lithuania’s rich, dark rye bread. Look out for Milk Bars in Poland for cheap meals shoulder to shoulder with students and vagabonds. Supermarket chains like Lidl and Tesco can provide you cheap groceries basically everywhere you will go.

Every city you visit will have a museum testifying to ancient glories and more recent horrors. Budapest boasts thermal baths, Poland has its salt mines, Slovakia has mountains and Prague – well, Prague has beer and a lot more besides, and pretty much everywhere has a fair share of castles! But the best thing to do is simply to wander, walk the cobbled streets with your eyes open, look at the people, and try and learn a few snatches of the local languages. Walking tours are available in most major cities – see Viator for what’s available in your destination.

The Thrifty Gist

Eastern Europe can be challenging, but it boasts a wealth of attractions and an unbelievably low cost of living, making it a dream destination for the adventurous budget traveler
Highlights include the Baltic countries, Poland, Lviv, The Tatras Mountains, Prague, Budapest, Romania, Belgrade, Dubrovnik and Sofia
Travel by overnight train or bus to save on a night’s accommodation. With the exception of a few major routes, fares are constantly low
Germany next door can serve as an easy hub to access Eastern Europe, but cheap flights with companies like WizzAir can get you pretty much anywhere
Stay in hostels to meet travelers and for a party vibe, use Booking.com and AirBNB for comfortable private accommodation, and search TripAdvisor for great deals of high quality hotels
December is beautiful, but cold, and with a lot of places likely to be closed. September offers warm weather, but not too many tourists
Drink beer, brave the local flavored vodka, and eat the hearty rich meals with a focus on meat, potatoes and bread. Yes, you’ll likely come home a few kilos heavier!
Eastern Europe is rich in history and has seen the conflicts of several empires. Enjoy the historic old town squares, castles, and museums, but mostly just walk the fascinating streets and listen to the stories of the people you encounter.

I like that you talked about museums in every city where we will see the ancient glories and horrors of their history. I would love to visit museums when my husband and I book a European travel tour for next year. It will be for my birthday to finally push through with my dream trip, and I can definitely enjoy the visit if I can learn about their history as well.

I love how detailed your blog is. Very helpful and informative. 🙂 So, I recently visited Krakow and was blown away by how charming and picturesque it is. The old town is just so charming and there’s a really lively nightlife scene. Overall, I had a really amazing time in Krakow and would definitely recommend it to others.

Thanks Jane—couldn’t agree more, Krakow is amazing!

“Sofia is most notable for its clash of influences, the Cyrillic writing system and Orthodox religion from Russia…” That is WRONG. Bulgaria created the Cyrillic writing system and Russia adopted it… Please fix that 🙂

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17 best places to visit in eastern europe.

When you’re planning a trip to Europe , most of the places you initially think of visiting are in Western Europe: Paris, London, Rome, Barcelona, and the list goes on. But we sometimes forget that there is a whole other side of the continent waiting to be explored!

There are dozens of amazing places to visit in Eastern Europe, too. Over the past few years, we’ve been exploring Eastern Europe quite a bit and we’ve found it to be a huge melting pot of cultures, languages, and people, with amazing food, incredible wine, and great things to explore.

12 Best Places To Visit In Eastern Europe

⇒ Want to plan a trip to Croatia? Check out our Croatia travel guide , our 4-day Dubrovnik itinerary , the top things to do in Zagreb and what to do in Pula to get started.

In fact, Eastern Europe is so full of amazing architecture, landmarks, cuisine, and sites to see that you definitely don’t want to leave it off your bucket list.

We’ve included in this list seventeen of the top places we have enjoyed traveling to. Check out our list below for some inspiration!

Table of Contents

17 of the Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe

1. prague, czechia (czech republic).

Whether it’s for its medieval architecture, its Bohemian culture, or because it’s the beer-drinking capital of the world, there’s something for every kind of traveler in Prague.

There’s a good reason everyone loves this city. The Old Town is beautiful, with so many places to walk and admire. The castle towers over everything and the Vltava River flows through it all.

Charles bridge is probably the most iconic landmark in Czechia and one of the most recognizable bridges in the whole of Europe . This old bridge stands over the Vltava river in Prague, running for over five hundred meters, connecting two halves of this amazing city.

It is one of the most amazing examples of medieval gothic architecture in Prague and is also home to a few urban legends including convicts, crosses, and pacts with the Devil himself.

Start exploring in Old Town Square, where you’ll be welcomed by the medieval Astronomical Clock that will have everyone staring up on the hour, Gothic churches, bell towers, and colorful building facades. Maybe take a walking tour, which is really the best way to get acquainted with the city.

Tour you might enjoy: Best of Prague: City Walking Tour, Boat Cruise, and Typical Czech Lunch

2. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a city in Croatia that sits on the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic sea, making it one of the best seaside cities to visit in Eastern Europe.

The architecture here is a treat to the eye. It’s even nicknamed ‘the Pearl of the Adriatic’ due to the white sandstones used for building. There’s no better way to admire the city than walking atop the medieval city walls that still encapsulate the old town.

Not only is Dubrovnik a gorgeous place to visit, it’s also a pretty affordable destination for those wanting a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Just make sure you go there on the shoulder season and be mindful of how many cruise ships are in port, as the city can really become flooded with tourists.

So, there’s a lot to see and do in this coastal city in Croatia . Check out our full guide to the beaches, restaurants, activities, and tours to take from Dubrovnik.

Tour you might enjoy: Exclusive: ‘Game of Thrones’ Walking Tour of Dubrovnik

3. Budapest, Hungary

One of the best-known capital cities in eastern Europe is Budapest , which is home to many amazing sites and attractions, like the Budapest Opera House – an amazing piece of new-Renaissance architecture modeled after the Vienna Opera House.

The city sits along the Danube River, which provides a scenic backdrop to the major attractions, like the neo-Gothic Parliament building, the former Royal Palace, Fishermen’s Bastion, and the gothic Matthias Church. The very moving memorial to Holocaust victims, the Shoes on the Danube, can also be observed along the promenade.

Budapest is also known for its unique ruin bars which are created inside abandoned buildings. And there’s a robust coffeehouse culture as well.

We like to explore the Hungary wine regions outside of Budapest as well. There are a lot of great wine regions to visit, especially the sweet dessert wines of Tokaj .

Tour you might enjoy: 1-Hour&30-min Budapest Evening or Night Sightseeing Cruise & Unlimited Prosecco

4. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled in Slovenia is one of the most picturesque destinations to visit in Eastern Europe. It’s a great place to go to get away from the big city and enjoy a coastal getaway.

Perfect for honeymooners, backpackers, hikers, and more, you can visit this gorgeous lake and take in the stunning views while participating in all kinds of activities, like hiking, biking, and sightseeing. In the middle of this 2-kilometer lake is an islet with a church, and a medieval castle clinging to a nearby cliff.

With all the outdoor activities, the gorgeous hotels you can stay in, the medieval castle, and the many restaurants and cafes, Lake Bled is a great destination for a 2-4 day trip.

Due to its amazing scenery, Lake Bled is super popular with tourists, so make sure you book your flights and hotel well in advance. It’s not the most straightforward place to get to, so expect a few transfers as well.

Tour you might enjoy: Rafting in Bled

5. Hvar Island, Croatia

Hvar island can be found in the Adriatic sea and is one of the best summer resorts on the continent. From Mediterranean culture to Renaissance-era cathedrals, there’s something for everyone on this stunning island.

Take a walk through the lavender fields or visit one of the secluded beaches – you can truly relax and unwind on this luxurious island!

Tour you might enjoy: BLUE CAVE & 5 islands tour from Hvar

6. Transylvania, Romania

Deep within Transylvania, Romania , a tall, medieval structure looms over the tops of the forest that surrounds it.

Although the locals know it to be a fortress and a modern-day museum, this castle is also known as Dracula’s Castle! Its actual name is Bran Castle, and it is said to be the inspiration for the castle seen in the famous Bram Stoker novel Dracula.

Although the inspiration for Dracula himself (Vlad The Impaler) is said never to have set foot in this castle, thousands of visitors still come to Bran Castle to learn more about one of literature’s most iconic characters.

Tour you might enjoy: Peles Castle , Bran Castle , Rasnov Fortress,Sinaia Monastery Tour from Brasov

7. Bucegi Natural Park, Romania

For hikers and those who love to visit some of the natural wonders of the world, Bucegi Natural Park in Romania is filled with plenty of natural scenery and amazing environments to visit.

This park is filled with limestone slopes, alpine rivers, dry grasslands, and beech forests. It’s a gorgeous place to get lost in and here you can wander for hours and feel completely cut off from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

As a result, many visit these natural reserves and protected areas within the park just for somewhere to unwind.

The two most iconic landmarks found within the park are two natural stone formations known as the Babele and Sphinx.

These massive stones are visited every single year by thousands of tourists due to their uncanny resemblance to the Sphinx of Giza and traditional mushrooms.

Don’t want to walk? Then just hop on a cable car and spend the whole day enjoying the view from the crest of the Bucegi mountains!

8. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Back in Croatia, one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions is Plitvice Lakes National Park . It was granted its UNESCO World Heritage status way back in 1979 and is home to a long chain of terraced lakes, all joined by various waterfalls.

You can walk along the many hiking trails or walkways to enjoy the stunning scenery on offer, circle around this limestone canyon, or even take a trip out onto the water in one of the many boat tours on offer.

If hiking and nature are your thing, then Plitvice Lakes is definitely the ideal place to go in eastern Europe.

Tour you might enjoy: Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket

9. Vilnius, Lithuania

The capital of Lithuania, Vilnius is one of the most beautiful cities in the world due to its mixture of medieval and baroque architecture. It contains one of the largest surviving medieval quarters in Europe, which for us is reason enough to visit.

This is easily one of the most diverse cities when it comes to architectural eras and styles, from the neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral to the gothic St. Anne’s Church and the 16th-century Gate of Dawn.

It’s the ideal city to explore to try out all the food and art on offer, drink some of the fantastic beer, go bar hopping, and soak in all the sightseeing you can.

Tour you might enjoy: Full-Day The Hill of Crosses Tour from Vilnius

10. Bratislava, Slovakia

One of my favorite Eastern European cities for a long weekend break in Bratislava . It has a similar feel to other cities, like Budapest, especially as it also lies along the Danube river, but it’s much smaller and easier to get around. It also has a very nice pedestrian-only, 18th-century old town with a lot of charm.

Start off with a visit to the reconstructed Bratislava Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking the old town and the Danube, visit St. Elizabeth’s Church (aka the Blue Church), and spend plenty of time wandering around the old town, where you’ll see monuments like the Old Town Hall, St. Michael’s Gate, and the whimsical Cumil – a bronze statue of a man hanging out the top of a manhole.

If you can manage to dodge all the Stag parties, you’ll have a fantastic time in this city. The reason so many Europeans and Brits come to this city for their parties is the abundance of great bars and nightclubs. Beer is also exceptionally cheap.

Tour you might enjoy: Bratislava Foodie Tour

11. Belgrade, Serbia

The capital of Serbia, Belgrade is full of wonders and has a lot to offer. First of all, there is the most amazing Belgrade Fortress named Kalemegdan that was built in 535 BC and it can offer you a nice view of the city and some great historic landmarks.

Next take a stroll down Skadarlija, a pedestrian old street that is always brimming with activity. You’ll notice the architecture is a bit eclectic, with plenty of bulky Communist building blocks, while there is the contrast of art nouveau buildings. Stop at cafes, do some people watching, and stay for the nightlife.

Belgrade is famous for its nightlife and is often called the city that never sleeps. The most famous clubs are Freestyler and Mr. Stefan Braun . However, the clubs placed at the Sava and Danube rivers are becoming more and more popular. We’ll just mention some of them like Dragstor, Blaywatch and Acapulco.

Serbian is also known for its “kafanas“ – bars where you can enjoy and have fun listening to traditional live music. Skadarlija has some famous kafanas.

This area is also a great place to try delicious Serbian food. Visit the restaurant Tri Šešira (Three Hats) built-in 1864. It’s a traditional restaurant that offers as much history as it does great food. Make sure to try some great steaks and unforgettable kaymak.

Tour you might enjoy: Belgrade Sunset Cruise

12. Perast, Montenegro

Perast is only 20 minutes away from Kotor – another city you should definitely explore if you have the time – and Perast is a quaint waterfront town. This place is declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is quite a small town with less than 400 inhabitants.

Once called “The city of ghosts” now is very popular among foreign tourists. With scenic views over two small islands and beautifully restored stone villas, it’s no wonder that one of the world’s biggest hotel groups Iberostar opened its hotel in a restored 18th-century palace.

There are only a few museums, cafes, and winding streets, but the food is great! Make sure to try the famous Perast cake made of almonds. Enjoy the scenery and peacefulness of this town.

Tour you might enjoy: Kotor Cruise: Perast, Our Lady of The Rocks, Mamula, Blue Cave, Porto Montenegro

13. Kavarna, Bulgaria

Kavarna is a small port town, situated on the Black Sea to the Eastern and Southern sides. There are magnificent cliffs combined with relaxing beaches. Also, there are fissures and caves to be explored as well, but if you’re not up to it, you can simply enjoy the tranquil landscapes.

What is more, Kavarna is an ancient town in Bulgaria, but after a severe earthquake part of it was drawn into the sea. Luckily, in Roman times it was rebuilt 3km inland. Today, Kavarna offers a lot to see and experience.

There are plenty of restaurants with local food and drinks that you should taste, and there is even a Fish Festival during the summer, offering you the best products of the sea.

Plus, if you like golfing, you can easily play and enjoy this sport on one of the world’s best golf courses .

14. The Skull Tower Of Nis, Serbia

For those who love to indulge in the history of all the places they visit, the Skull Tower of Nis is definitely a destination for you.

Located in the city of Nis in Serbia, there is a large stone structure built with the embedded human skulls of Serbian rebels during the early 1800s.

The tower was dismantled in the 1860s but was restored after the Ottomans withdrew from Serbia. Now, the tower is over four meters high and is thought to contain over 50 individual human skulls.

Although this landmark may be too grisly or morbid for some, those with a passion for history are sure to be fascinated by this.

Skull Tower is said to attract somewhere between 30,000 to 50,000 visitors every single year, making it one of the most visited sites in Serbia – so join the masses and take a trip to Serbia to see it yourself.

Tour you might enjoy: Nis Sightseeing Tour

15. Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Polish Historic Monument of the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

This excavated mine has been transformed into an amazing attraction that doubles as a museum for the site’s history as a salt mine in the most stunning way possible.

There are dozens of statues and artwork carved out of rock salt, some of which were created by the previous miners themselves. There is also a two-mile tour of the corridors, chapels, and underground lake that dives deep, deep below the surface. You could spend hours lost in this amazing monument.

Tour you might enjoy: Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow

16. Auschwitz, Poland

Getaways don’t always have to be vacations. There are a lot of ways to educate ourselves and learn about various cultures and histories while on a trip, as well.

One of the most important museums to visit is the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum in Poland. This museum was originally a concentration and extermination camp run by Nazis during the Nazi occupation of Poland between 1939 to 1945.

The museum acts as a memorial for those who lost their lives (a reported 1.1 million people in total) during the Holocaust. It’s a poignant and moving place to see, so you can really understand the atrocities that took place.

Although Auschwitz may not be your first ideal ‘vacation’ spot, there’s no denying that this is one of the most important places in Europe (perhaps even the world) and by visiting this museum, you can learn more about the tragic events that took place there and pay your respects to victims that died there.

Tour you might find interesting: Auschwitz & Birkenau: Live-Guided Tour with Transportation and Hotel Pickup

17. Novi Sad, Serbia

This city of Serbia is situated a bit more to the North and it is the capital of the province of Vojvodina. This is mainly a student city, but it has a lot to offer to the tourists as well.

If you’re a history buff, you can visit Petrovaradin Fortress , right across the Danube river, or have a great time in one of the many museums Novi Sad has. Also, you can take a stroll down the Danube river on the quay and simply enjoy watching people and the steady flows of the river.

What is more, if you visit Novi Sad during the summer, you can enjoy one of the biggest festivals in Europe – Exit – and witness a truly festive atmosphere.

Tour you might enjoy: From Belgrade: Novi Sad and Karlovci Sremski Wine Tasting

Final Thoughts

So, those were our recommendations for the best places to visit in eastern Europe. Take a look over our picks and find out which place is the ideal vacation spot for you!

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Best places to travel in Eastern Europe

If you immediately think of Paris , Barcelona and other overwhelmingly popular western destinations when you hear the word “Europe,” we’re here to make a case for the absolutely stunning cities across Eastern Europe. ✈️ Many of these spots still fly relatively under the radar, so you could be on the forefront of experiencing the newest hot spots in travel. We’ve rounded up some of the best places for a “hot Europe summer”… any time of the year. 🔥😉

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Slovenia : Ljubljana
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Hungary : Budapest
Turkey : Istanbul
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Poland : Warsaw, Krakow
Latvia : Riga

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What is the best time of year to go to eastern europe.

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19 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe You Won’t Want to Miss

Home » Blog » Travel » 19 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe You Won’t Want to Miss

Eastern Europe is vastly underrated.

With hip and affordable cities, unspoiled landscapes and countryside villages that rarely see tourists, this region deserves a lot more hype than it gets. But if that means fewer crowds and more reasonable prices, I guess we’re okay that it’s still a bit under the radar.

Last summer, we spent an amazing 2 months traversing through 10 countries in Eastern Europe – eating delicious food, sharing stories with new friends, and soaking up more of the region’s history than we ever learned in school.

With the spotlight often shining on Western Europe, something people forget about the countries to the east, which is a shame. There is so much to do, see and experience in Eastern Europe, and think this region deserves some of the spotlight.

We’re rounded up a list of Eastern Europe highlights that ranges from “hidden gems” that you’ve never heard of (until now!), to cute towns, dreamy waterfalls and can’t-miss experiences in some of Eastern Europe’s most exciting cities.

Whether you have extended travel plans and are road tripping through the Balkans or just have a short time to see a couple cities in Eastern Europe, this highlight list has something for every traveler!

Is Eastern Europe really worth visiting?

Well, we certainly think so! This region is full of rich culture, unspoiled nature, mouthwatering food, and some of the best cities to visit in Europe. But if you need more convincing, check out this article where we explain in detail why we think you should go to Eastern Europe now!

Note: There are many different definitions of which countries constitute “Eastern Europe” . This list includes several countries in the Balkans, and the east part of Southern Europe. We simply use the phrase “Eastern Europe” to refer to the east part of this continent.

1. Journey to the magical Rila Monastery in the mountains

Where: Rila Mountain, Bulgaria

Rila Monastery Bulgaria Eastern Europe Highlights

Rila Monastery is no ordinary church. Set in an idyllic mountain valley 73 miles (117 km) south of Sofia, this stunning Eastern Orthodox monastery is well worth a visit. Listen to birds chirp as you wander the forested grounds, and be sure to take a careful look at the highly-detailed frescos. They serve almost as comic strips and tell (sometimes graphic, sometimes funny) stories from biblical literature.

After you’ve explored to your heart’s content, head to the restaurant that sits on the nearby river and serves up fresh river trout, local soups and the region’s popular shopska salad. On most days, there’s also a stand serving up fresh caramel donuts. Yes, please!

Planning a trip to Europe? Find out the best time to visit Europe based on seasonal weather patterns in each region and your personal travel style.

2. Wander the little-known town of Veliko Tarnovo

Where: Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

Veliko Tarnovo Bulgaria Eastern Europe Highlights

Filled with rich history and the crossroads of many cultures, you’ll fall in love with the stunning riverside town of Veliko Tarnovo. For a memorable night, grab a beer and watch the sun set behind Castle Tsarevets. And be sure to stay past dusk for the impressive light show.

3. Explore the castles of Transylvania

Where: Brasov, Romania

Peles Castle Brassov Romania Eastern Europe Highlights

Two of the most popular castles in Transylvania are near the picturesque Romanian town of Brasov (worthy of a visit on its own!). These two castles are about as different as an orange and a carrot. Same color, but that’s where the similarities end. If you have the time, we think it’s worth visiting both.

Peles Castle (pictured above) : Peles is over the top. It’s everything you expect from a king with more money and ego than he knows what to do with. It is pretty fascinating walking through each differently themed room.

Bran Castle: Less impressive than Peles Castle for sure, what Bran lacks in opulence, it makes up for in rustic charm. Ignore the Dracula souvenir shops near the entrance and wander through the quaint castle.

Next Read: The Eco-Friendly Travel Gear to bring to Europe that will save you money and help save the environment.

4. Bicycle through the Romanian countryside

Where: Sibiu, Romania

Bike Romanian Countryside Sibiu Eastern Europe Highlights

The Romanian countryside is seriously beautiful. And one of the best parts about it (in our opinion) is that this country is still relatively new to tourism. There are plenty of villages that see few tourists and landscape that hasn’t been marred by developers.

One of the easiest areas to explore rural life is just outside of Sibiu, a small and stunning town in central Romania. Pack a picnic lunch (can you tell we LOVE picnics?!), rent a bike, and head southwest out of town and pedal in a clockwise loop that takes you through the villages of Rășinari, Gura Râului and Poplaca (46 km/28 miles)

5. Get a history lesson in Sarajevo

Where: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo Under the Seige Tour Eastern Europe Highlights

The city of Sarajevo was at the edge of complete and utter destruction in the 1990’s. But some 20 years later, this Bosnian capital has been largely restored and is a fascinating stop on any Eastern European itinerary.

While in Sarajevo, the popular “Under the Seige” tour is a great way to see some of the city’s most important sites, including war tunnels that are thought to have saved thousands of innocent people as well as the iconic Olympic bobsled track that was destroyed during the military seige.

This powerful tour is chock-full of history and will help you understand the country’s painful recent history.

6. Don’t miss Mostar’s incredible day tour

Where: Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar Day Tour Eastern Europe Highlights

We actually heard about this tour before we even thought of going to Eastern Europe. In fact, on our tour, nearly everyone had heard of it from a friend or family member who persuaded them to sign up.

It’s one of those tips travelers pass down, and once you’ve been on this tour, you feel the need to tell others about it. So consider yourself in on the secret.

This tour is an entire day and is part sightseeing, part history lesson, part adventure and part food tasting. On this tour, expect to swim in a waterfall, sample a traditional (meat-heavy, but delicious) lunch, explore a tiny walled village, sip Bosnian coffee (an experience in itself!) in a local’s home, and visit a monastery at the foot of a cave.

Oh, and sprinkle in a heavy dose of history and witty banter for a 10-hour experience you won’t soon forget.

7. Watch the sunset (or sunrise!) from the Kotor Fortress

Where: Kotor, Montenegro

Montenegro Kotor Fortress Sunset Eastern Europe Highlights

When in Kotor, a hike up to the fortress is a must. The view from above is spectacular. There are two ways up to the top, one is the main paved road that your hotel will point you to, and the other is a little lesser known, but more of an adventure.

We recommend walking up the lesser-known path because you’ll pass by a little restaurant serving homemade goat cheese. Stop for a dairy fix and enjoy the spectacular views. From this little restaurant, you’re nearly there.

8. Hike to an ice cave in the summer

Where: Žabljak, Montenegro

Montenegro Zabljak hike Eastern Europe Highlights

This day-hike will make you feel as if you’ve been plopped onto the set of a movie – think the mountain scenes in Sound of Music. Pack a picnic lunch and wander through wildflower meadows and up gentle mountain passes.

One of the more popular hikes in the region brings you to an ice cave that even in July boasts frigid temperatures and icicles.

9. Bike around Korčula – Croatia’s most beautiful island

Where: Korčula, Croatia

Korčula Island Croatia bike Eastern Europe Highlights

Bicycle is the perfect way to explore this stunning Croatian island. Cruise on dirt roads through vineyards and parks and past beaches. Stop at your leisure to enjoy a glass of local wine or to take a dip in Mediterranean waters. And refuel with a picnic lunch of local fruits, freshly baked bread and cheese.

Tip: There are many spots to take a swim that aren’t marked as beaches. You might have to do a little off-road exploring, but you’ll have the place all to yourself!

10. Go chasing waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes

Where: Plitvice Lakes National Park , Croatia

Plitvice Lakes Croatia Eastern Europe Highlights

We couldn’t make a list of highlights of the region without including this otherworldly beauty. Follow the boardwalks past waterfalls that’ll make you pinch yourself just to be sure this is real life.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is the stuff dreams are made of, but be prepared for company. Lots of it. This park is so popular, in fact, that if you’re visiting during peak season, you’ll likely be walking behind lines of other tourists.

Tip for avoiding crowds: Visit the most popular spots early in the day or in the later afternoon when the lighting is better and the crowds have thinned. In the meantime, venture off the well-trodden path a bit for a better chance of solitude.

11. Get lost in the street art of Zagreb, Croatia

Where: Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb Croatia Street Art Eastern Europe Highlights

The cool metropolitan city of Zagreb feels worlds different than Croatia’s coastal towns, and has a very welcoming and accessible vibe. Wander the streets and markets, pop into one of the many cute coffee shops, and get lost in alleyways on a mission to find some of the city’s famed street art.

Tip: The free walking tour in Zagreb is a good way to see the city and some of its best murals without getting lost.

12. Watch a movie under the stars in a castle courtyard

Where: Ljubliana, Slovenia

Castle Movie Ljubljana Slovenia Eastern Europe Highlights

Each summer, the Ljublijana Castle features an open-air cinema in its courtyard. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds. Gather beneath the stars among locals and other visitors as you enjoy a film and an ambiance unparalleled by any other theater. For more information about movies and dates, check out this website .

13. Whitewater kayak in one of Europe’s most unspoiled river valleys

Where: Bovec, Slovenia

Whitewater kayaking Bovec Slovenia Eastern Europe Highlights

This gorgeous mountain town features a river with water so clear, you’ll be tempted to take a drink. (And the water is so clean that drinking from it is encouraged!) The most thrilling adventure to be had on the River Soca is by donning a wetsuit and helmet and trying your skills at whitewater kayaking. It’s more difficult than it sounds, but flipping over in the turquoise-clear waters is part of the fun!

14. Photograph picture-perfect Bled Island

Where: Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled is unapologetically touristy, and for good reason. This picture perfect lake is flanked by the Julian Alps, an adorable city center and a cliffside castle.

But its most iconic feature is the island that draws visitors from all over the world. The wonderful thing about Bled is that it is stunning at all times of the year. We’d love to return and get a glimpse in the autumn or winter.

The best view of the island can be had by making a short hike up a trail called Ojstrica, on the southwest side of the lake. If you are a morning person, sunrise at this viewpoint is said to be fantastic!

Tip: While in Bled, try the famous Bled Cake! Mmmm!

15. Bar crawl to Budapest’s famous ruin bars

Where: Budapest, Hungary

Szimpla Kert Ruin Pub Budapest Eastern Europe Highlight

A visit to Budapest is not complete without raising a glass (or three!) at one of the city’s famed “ruin pubs”. Located in the old Jewish Quarter, these once abandoned lots and buildings have been transformed into eclectic bars and clubs have are breathing life into this neighborhood.

The “ruin pub” trend started in 2000 with the opening of Szimpla Kert. Still the most famous of all ruin pubs, many more have opened in years since and are frequented by both locals and travelers alike.

For a perfect night out in Budapest , hop around from pub to pub. They each have unique qualities and a vibe entirely their own.

End your pub crawl at Szimpla, which is the most popular for good reason. Bust a move to techno beats or enjoy a string quartet in the same venue. And the drinks are as varied as the music selection – from a local wine bar to a tap featuring craft beer to hand-shaken cocktails, it’s hard to dislike the king of all ruin pubs.

Note: While there are several organized Ruin Pub tours, there is no need to go with a tour group and pay the entrance fee. You can easily hop from bar to bar on your own. We gathered a group from our hostel and did our own version!

16. Soak in thermal baths in Budapest

Eastern Europe Bucket List Széchenyi Thermal Baths

When in Budapest , soaking in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths is definitely an experience to be had. This century-old complex boasts 18 indoor and outdoor pools of different temperatures and mineral makeups, and is one of the largest natural hot spring baths in all of Europe.

There are smaller, lesser-known baths all around the city worth checking out as well, but these are the largest and most famous.

Keep your expectations in check, and you’ll have a good (and memorable!) time. 1) It will be busy – going during off-peak times will mean less crowds, but you certainly won’t be the only one. 2) Don’t expect impeccable cleanliness. Some of the water is murky (due to minerals, etc.), but we also saw some things like band-aids and hair floating. Just a heads up. 3) You can bring your own picnic lunch inside or you can purchase food and beverages from on-site facilities.

Tip: If you’re looking for a unique party, you may consider coming to the baths at night for the famous “Sparty” (spa + party… get it?!). We heard all sorts of mixed reviews – from “best party ever!” to “nasty-dirty-orygy” – but one thing they all had in common was that it was quite the experience. Not really our cup ‘o tea, but to each their own!

17. Bask in the beauty of Český Krumlov

Where: Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

In addition to Veliko Tarnovo, this is another cute town to make the list. It is by no means unknown or “off the beaten path”, but it is adorable all the same. Wander the castle grounds, explore the magnificent gardens and watch the afternoon pass by from one of the many cafe patios. There’s no bad way to spend the day in this fairytale town.

18. Explore an underground salt cathedral

Where: Krakow, Poland

Salt Mines Krakow Eastern Europe Highlight

Even if you’re not much for tours, the Wieliczka Salt Mines just outside of Krakow are pretty dang cool. You’ll start by descending flight after flight of stairs, down, down down… 443 feet (135 meters) below the ground, to be exact. (Don’t worry – you will take an elevator back up after the tour finishes!)

You’ll be led through a maze of cool, damp tunnels that make up less than 2% of this massive mine. Along the way, you’ll get an in-depth history lesson and the tour culminates at a mind-blowing salt cathedral, where all the statues and artwork are carved out of – you guessed it – salt!

19. Take a hike in Poland’s stunning mountains

Where: Zakopane, Poland

Zakopane Poland Hiking Eastern Europe Highlights

Just 2 hours from Krakow, Zakopane is a popular getaway for Poles. Do as the locals do, and spend a little time in this cute mountain town. The hike to Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy Lake is popular, and for good reason.

The chalet at the Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy Lake is always busy with people eagerly looking for a post-hike beer or grub. Even though it might be packed, the lines move quickly and the raspberry smoothie and apple pie are well worth the wait.

Tip: You can’t go to Zakopane without tasting Oscypek, the famous smoked cheese. If you’re like us, you’ll do a lot more than just tasting, and you may quadruple your dairy intake while in Zakopane!

Want more information on Eastern Europe?

We have tons of resources for you on popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations in the region. For more on Eastern Europe, find out the reasons why we think you should visit Eastern Europe now and read some of our favorite articles below.

Best Things to Do in Zakopane, Poland

Best of Montenegro: What to See and Do

Cheap (and Free!) Things to Do in Prague

Top Places to Travel in Bulgaria: The Ultimate Guide

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We want to hear from you!

What Eastern European adventure sounds most intriguing to you? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Comments (16) on “ 19 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe You Won’t Want to Miss ”

It is a beautiful compilation. Europe is one of the most exotic destinations in the world. I am a big adventure enthusiast and would like to try these sports at least once in my lifetime. Thanks a lot for this list!

Hi Gauravi! Thank you so much for your kind words! Eastern Europe is amazing and I can’t wait to get back there someday!

Albania is the type of country you can visit in every season. From the beautiful Albanian alps to the wonderful beaches you can plan your trip in every season and the experience is guaranteed unforgettable.

This is very really unique helpful information. keep it up. Thank you so much!

very nice info, if you wanna book cheap hotels in Bali just click https://hotel.discount

What a post! I’ve been planning an Eastern Europe trip soon and so glad I found this, thank you 🙂 Ice cave and salt cathedral sounds so badass ha

I think Warsaw is really underestimated city. It has its own unique style, especially when it comes to nightlife. The places I really recommend are Pawilony when you can hop in for a quick beer in one of numerous bars and Nowy Orlean club which is the best place for the whole night party or business meeting.

So excited to find your blog! The first thing I tried to add to my itinerary was the the tour of Mostar but there is no link. (unless I’m totally missing it… quite possible) I googled and there are lots of tours, is it the T-tours one? People rave about it online. Guide is Emir. Thanks! Love your journey.

Thanks so much, Tracey! Oops, looks like we should add that link! We did the tour through our hostel, Hostel Majdas (link to the FB page is below). We had heard a TON of travelers rave about this place, and we loved it as well. The owner is super sweet and her son is the one who led our tour. I have heard good things about other tour companies in Mostar too, so I’m sure whatever you choose will be great! It is such an interesting area and the countryside is gorgeous!! They take you to some really amazing hidden spots too!

Happy travels, we truly LOVED Bosnia and would love to return someday to explore more!

https://www.facebook.com/HostelMajdasMostar/

My husband & I plan to tour Eastern Europe and don’t know where to start. I’m glad I came across this article. Love all the useful informations. By the way, how to travel to all this places? We are worry about transportation.

Hey there Ann! Glad you like the article! There are tons of ways to get around Europe: trains, buses, car sharing. Everything is connected very well so I don’t think you’ll have a problem. If you’re wondering about a certain route, let us know in the comments below and we’ll try our best to help you out! Cheers!

I’m just back from several trips to Eastern Europe and two countries that stood out for me were Serbia and Moldova – not hugely visited but each with something very special. In Serbia I’d recommend the incredible architecture of Subotica, and in Moldova there’s a breakaway province called Transnistria where at first sight the USSR is alive and well.

On a vacation to Europe is my dream destinations, and while reading this I get information and useful tips, thank you en.balijetaime.com

Yes, there are so many wonderful countries to explore!

I loooove this article! I’m a seasoned traveler but haven’t given Eastern Europe much thought. Thanks for making my overwhelming list of must-see places that much longer.. haha!

For some reason it wasn’t really on our radar either (besides the "typical" Eastern Euro destinations like Croatia and Hungary. But oh, so worth it! I’m glad it has sparked your wanderlust for this part of the world.

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25 Places In Eastern Europe...

25 Places in Eastern Europe You Must See at Least Once in Your Life

The Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest

For travellers looking to explore past Paris, Barcelona, and London, Eastern Europe offers stylish capital cities with world-class museums, breathtaking natural beauty, and well-preserved architectural gems dating back to medieval times. Whether it’s your first time travelling to Eastern Europe or your 50th, here are Culture Trip’s suggestions for the 25 places you must see at least once in your life.

1. wieliczka salt mine, poland.

Natural Feature

Wieliczka Salt Mine, The Chapel of St. Kinga, Cracow, Poland UNESCO. Image shot 2016. Exact date unknown.

2. Hungarian Parliament Building, Hungary

Architectural Landmark, Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building , also known as the Parliament of Budapest, is the largest building in Hungary, and one of the largest Parliament buildings in the world. The symmetrical facade of the exterior is designed in the Gothic Revival style, but the inside is just as impressive. Book your tour in advance to avoid waiting in long lines.

Tatra Mountains, Slovakia

Slovakia ’s Low and High Tatras offer the best hiking and skiing in the country. Numerous mountain lodges provide respite to hikers in the summer and skiers in the winter. The scenic views are breathtaking, and the prices for accommodation and food are a fraction of what you would find in the Alps or Dolomites .

Low Tatras, Nízke Tatry, 032 11 Lazisko, Slovakia High Tatras, Slovakia

3. Bran Castle, Romania

Archaeological site, Building, Museum, Historical Landmark

A view of the scary Bran Castle, Brasov County, Romania

Valley of the Beautiful Women

After exploring the castle ruins in Eger, Hungary , take a bus a short distance away to the Valley of the Beautiful Women. While finding beautiful women here is certainly likely, what you’ll also find is many wine cellars, offering regional red and white wines by the glass and bottle. Taste-test as many as you like, and leave some room in your suitcase; at 3 to 15 Euros for most bottles, you’ll want to carry home more than just one.

4. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Boardwalk through the waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia.

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Possibly the most picturesque town in the Czech Republic; certainly worth the train or bus trip from Prague . First, take a walking tour of this small, quaint town, and then find a seat at one of the many outstanding local breweries.

Timisoara city centre, Romania

Modern cafés and restaurants with budget-friendly prices line the picturesque and pedestrian-only Timisoara city centre. Consider taking a bike tour to learn more about the history of this Romanian treasure, which will shine as the European Capital of Culture in 2021.

Lake Balaton, Hungary

The “Hungarian Sea” is packed with Hungarians on holiday during the summer months of July and August. Join them at a relaxing lake resort, or at one of the large festivals which takes place by the lake each summer, such as the legendary Balaton Sound or the eclectic Samsara yoga and trance music festival.

Banska Stiavnica, Slovakia

In south-central Slovakia, this historic UNESCO World Heritage town used to make money from mining. Today, visitors can still take a tour of the old mine shafts, and admire the 16th-century churches, Renaissance palaces, and regal medieval castle in the well-preserved town centre.

5. Lake Skadar National Park, Albania/Montenegro

Brno, czech republic.

The Czech Republic’s second largest city offers Baroque churches, world-class museums, a gorgeous Christmas market, and a a more local feel than Prague. Sip a coffee at one of the many trendy hipster cafés taking the city by storm, then walk up the hill to tour the medieval Špilberk Castle which stands guard over the city.

Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, Brno

Debrecen, Hungary

Hungary’s major university city in the east has been welcoming more and more tourists thanks to budget airlines such as Wizz Air. You can find great coffee at Volt Egyszer café and a variety of Hungarian beers, wines, and spirits at Roncs bar , a ruin pub in the city centre. Go to the top of the Nagytemplom church for a lovely view of the city.

Nagytemplom, Debrecen, Kossuth tér 1, 4026 Hungary, +36 52 614 160

Volt Egyszer café, Debrecen, Piac u. 16, 4024 Hungary, +36 52 218 105

Roncsbar, Debrecen, Csapó u. 27, 4024 Hungary, +36 52 688 050

Maramures, Romania

Visiting the villages in the Maramures region of northwestern Romania feels like stepping back in time. Visitors can admire the unique wooden churches and carved wooden gates. Several guided tours offer travellers the opportunity to learn about the architecture, folk traditions, and culture of this off-the-beaten-path destination.

Wooden architecture in the Maramures region, Romania.

Slovak Paradise national park, Slovakia

Slovakia offers so many natural paradises for hikers, but what is really special about Slovak Paradise national park is the ladders, wooden walkways, chains, and canyons you can navigate as you hike through one of the most beautiful nature areas in Eastern Europe.

Old Town, Lviv, Ukraine

Lviv’s Old Town’s buildings are most famous for their intriguing fusion of Eastern European architectural styles with Italian and German influences. The Old Town has been included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1998, including the High Castle, several stunning churches, and the bustling Market Square.

Sighisoara, Romania

This tiny town in Transylvania is famous as the site of Vlad the Impaler ’s childhood home. Vlad the Impaler later became the inspiration for the world famous Count Dracula, so Dracula fans flock here to see where he grew up. Sighisoara might have a dark spot in its past, but is now a perfectly pretty pastel town within old medieval walls on a small hill; dotted with lovely cafés, restaurants, and boutique hotels.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Lithuania’s capital city is famous for its Baroque architecture and the medieval Old Town. The city is also host to several interesting museums, including the sobering, but must-visit Museum of Genocide Victims .

Tkalčića Street, Zagreb

Croatia’s capital is home to a delightful street packed with fabulous cafés and restaurants serving food and drink at all hours of the day and night. In the morning, enjoy a coffee at Sjedi 5 . In the evenings, relax over a locally brewed beer at Pivnica Mali Medo pub. Stroll around and admire the old buildings full of history which now serve as the primary meeting places for residents of Zagreb and tourists alike. Sjedi 5, Ul. Ivana Tkalčića 84, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 97 696 6988

Pivnica Mali Medo, Ul. Ivana Tkalčića 36, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4929 613

6. The Skull Tower of Nis, Serbia

7. Auschwitz, Poland

Memorial, Museum

A watchtower in concentration camp Auschwitz Birkenau Polen, March 12, 2019

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana might be a capital city, but it doesn’t feel like one. The fairytale capital of Slovenia is presided over by its medieval castle on a hill, and the winding river, which cuts through the city centre, is perfect for taking a SUP Tour to learn all about the history of this magical place.

Kayak or SUP to see Ljubljana from the water.

Tokaj region, Hungary

In the northern part of Hungary and southern part of Slovakia, you will find one of the most underrated wine regions in Europe – Tokaj. Although Tokaj wines are well-known in Eastern Europe, they are not frequently exported to the west. Head there now to visit the gorgeous vineyards and sample Tokaj’s best before the crowds.

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10 of the Most Beautiful Cities in Eastern Europe

Dreaming of roaming ancient castles from the middle ages? Want to walk down colorful cobbled streets and be engulfed in the history? Looking for cities with old world charm and a story that spans ages?

In this post, we check out the most beautiful cities in Eastern Europe. From Gothic cathedrals and Baroque palaces to beautiful seaside castles and Renaissance era trading posts, not only are these some of the most beautiful places in Eastern Europe but many are also some of the most beautiful cities in the world.

The Most Beautiful Cities in Eastern Europe

If you don’t add at least one of these beauties to your travel bucket list, you don’t know what you’re missing. These are arguably the best eastern European cities to visit, whether you’re taking a relaxed European train tour , or enjoying Europe’s most scenic road trips .

Prague, Czech Republic

The long history of the Czech capital, Prague, goes back to the Paleolithic age. Romanesque chapels, Baroque palaces, Gothic cathedrals, cubist and Art Nouveau constructions are all provide an eclectic and spectacular setting for your visit.

The city of Prague is also renowned for its beer and its culinary specialties. There are dozens of cozy pubs that serve their own brews, and the roast duck and the fried pork knuckles are said to be unforgettable in Prague.

Beyond food and buildings, there are hundreds of things to do and see in Prague , including visiting the Astronomical Clock, Church of Our Lady before Týn, the Charles Bridge, or even the Sex Machines Museum, Beer museum, or Apple museum.

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar is a gem, even among all of these beautiful Eastern Europe cities. The lovely, clear Neretva River runs through the city, with the rebuilt, 4 centuries old bridge, the Stari Most as the town jewel. Sadly, both the bridge and town were heavily damaged during the Bosnian War, but have been carefully rebuilt since.

Mostar itself is home to narrow, cobbled streets and winding pedestrian friendly pathways. Just 40 km outside of town lies the stunning Kravice Waterfalls , which is worth a day trip in itself, especially during the hot summers.

Belgrade, Serbia

The Serbian capital, Belgrade, is at the crossroads of old European charm and modern convenience.

Skyscrapers dominate some parts of the city, but Old Town (Stari Grad) is full of stunning 19th century architecture and has some lovely side streets. There’s also the imposingly beautiful Belgrade Fortress flanking the Sava and Danube River as well as the giant Church of Saint Sava which can be found near the center.

Ohrid, Macedonia

Situated on the hilly shores of Lake Ohrid, this small resort city is chock full of picturesque churches, gorgeous houses and enough monuments to keep you wandering for days. Found in the southwest corner of the Republic of Macedonia, cobbled streets lead down to the lake where you’ll find classic restaurants, trendy cafes and a nice beach where you can spend warm summer days swimming in the clear waters.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

One of the most beautiful cities in the entire Mediterranean region, Dubrovnik is located in the center of the dramatic, often rugged and always spectacular Dalmatian Coast. Some buildings in the Old Town of Dubrovnik are more than half a millennium old, with the city’s walls being not only among the oldest, but also among the most efficient fortification systems created in Medieval Times – the Walls of Dubrovnik were never breached by enemy attacks during the Middle Ages.

The city’s position on the Adriatic coast adds the possibility to explore the crystal waters and to do some island hopping as well. While you are exploring, you can easily pop into one of the small, family-owned local eateries and try some of the best fish and sea food dishes in the Mediterranean.

Krakow, Poland

Having escaped the worst of the bombings during World War 2, this southern Poland city near the Czech border, contains some of the best preserved medieval buildings and classic Jewish quarters in eastern Europe. Krakow, the former Polish capital, is often regarded as Poland’s prettiest city and contains some amazing sights such as the Wawel Royal Castle and the beautiful 14th century Gothic church, St. Mary’s Basilica.

The 10 acre Rynek Glowny (Main Market Square) is one of the biggest squares in Europe and includes Cloth Hall, a trading post from the Renaissance era. The city itself is packed full of galleries as well as delicious pubs and restaurants.

Budapest, Hungary

Divided by the mighty Danube River, the Hungarian capital, Budapest, combines architectural styles from various ages that delight the eye and leave you staring in all directions. With Celtic and then Roman origins, Budapest has maintained its standing as a world class city for centuries and rightfully deserves to be on this list of the best cities to visit in Eastern Europe.

After spending the day wandering the older, beautifully preserved and quite hilly Buda side or exploring the unique vibe and world class museums of the flatter Pest side, you can take a break in one of the city’s many spectacular natural geothermal baths, then replenish your energies in one of the great, yet affordable restaurants that serve world-class dishes. If you like going out after hours, Budapest has an exciting nightlife as well.

Kiev, Ukraine

The capital city of Ukraine , Kiev is known for its colorful religious architecture as much as it’s amazing history museums. The center of Ukrainian culture, Kiev is full of theaters, ancient ruins, modern buildings and secular monuments.

The 11th century Kiev Monastery of the Caves, or Kiev Pechersk Lavra as it’s rightfully called, is a hugely popular pilgrimage site filled with gold domed churches lined with catacombs filled with the burial chambers of Orthodox monks as well as gold objects from ancient Scythian times. For gorgeous views of the city below, check out the Museum of the Great Patriotic War, which is topped by the massive Motherland Statue and can be seen from most places in the capital.

Want to see more about the Ukraine, check out this post we wrote last year.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

The largest city in Slovenia, as well the country’s capital, Ljubljana is known for it’s amazing green spaces and young and energetic university population. The old city area, divided from it’s commercial district via the meandering Ljubljana River, is home to many museums and art exhibits as well as several popular outdoor cafes along the waterfront.

With a blend of Baroque, Renaissance and Art Nouveau buildings, Ljubljana’s old town contains the Tivoli City Park, the largest park in Slovenia and hosts everything from crumbling statues of Stalin to a duck pond, playground and mansions. No matter the reason, it’s worth a visit.

Brasov, Romania

Often called the gem of the Balkans, Brasov, situated in the central part of Romania, fringed by the snow-capped peaks of the Carpathian Mountains, has a spectacular skyline and an even more spectacular urban vibe. The central square, surrounded by impressive Gothic buildings, is lined with cozy cafes and great restaurants where you can enjoy hearty and savory dishes before exploring the many attractions in the city and in the surrounding mountain area.

Intrigued by one of these captivating best cities in Eastern Europe? Plan to add it to your travel bucket list or want to share your love for a particular Eastern Europe city?

Let us know in the comments below. We love to hear your thoughts on places we’ve seen and even more of the best places to visit in Eastern Europe.

Want to learn more?

Check out these awesome books available on Amazon.

Rick Steves Eastern Europe – see it on Amazon

Eastern Europe!: Everything You Need to Know About the History (and More) of a Region that Shaped Our World and Still Does

Thanks a lot for sharing this perfect article.I really, really appreciate your time and efforts for writing such a quality article.

It’s a great list about visiting the Eastern European countries. I loved the brief information and photos. Inspiring for me. Thank you for the useful article.

Happy to see Mostar on this list! I only had two days there, but I fell in LOVE with that city. It’s absolutely stunning, and has such a charming vibe.

Great post! 🙂

LOVE this post. I’ve been to Europe 3 times now, but not yet to anyyy of the countries mentioned in this post though. Going to Eastern Europe has always been my dream, but after this post…😍 I’m sold! Can I go like now Lol

Thank you very much for sharing these beautiful places in Eastern Europe! Such a great list! I should start to add them to my bucket list. Prague, Krakow, Brasov and Budapest are so beautiful as seen on your photos.

I love all of these! Awesome post! Thanks for writing it! I am going to save this post in my list. It is wonderful to read your personal recommendation.

Thanks for the awesome photos and suggested sites to see in Eastern Europe. My very first trip to Europe was to visit a couple of these cities (Prague and Budapest) and I’ve since been to Slovenia and Croatia … but thanks to you have more places to see. I just shared this on Flipboard and will share on Twitter, Pinterest and G+, too. Thanks!

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The Ultimate 2-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary: 6 Great Routes

Last Updated on January 3, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect Eastern Europe itinerary when you only have a finite number of days or weeks to play around with can be a head-spinning and frustrating undertaking. It’s only until you sit down and pull out a map (or, more realistically, open up Google Maps) that you realise how vast this region of the continent is and how much there really is to see.

Do you want to head to the Central European favourites like Budapest or Prague ? Do you venture up north and explore the charms of the Baltic states? Or do you head southeast and devote your time to one country like Romania or Bulgaria?

So if you’re in the process of planning a trip to Eastern Europe and are a bit stuck on what the optimal route is for you, then look no further.

Table of Contents

Which countries are in Eastern Europe?

For those who haven’t travelled extensively around the region, it may not seem like the term “Eastern Europe” is even that loaded, however, you will soon learn that it is not so much a term that defines a region and can be far more political and cultural than meets the eyes.

Many people will jump to thinking that the term “Eastern Europe” refers to the Warsaw Pact countries or the countries that were under Communist rule from WWII up until the early 1990s. This typically includes the countries in former Yugoslavia and anything east of Germany or Austria (excluding Greece and Turkey).

Where things can get complicated is that many residents of certain countries don’t like to be referred to as Eastern European. For instance, the countries of Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia and Slovenia often would prefer to be referred to as Central Europe – and geographically, that is where they are.

And the countries of Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia and Bulgaria are best referred to as the Balkans. And Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania? They’re the Baltics.

So which countries are actually in Eastern Europe? It’s still complicated, however, you’re generally safe to assume that countries like Romania, Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus and Russia are all in Eastern Europe.

I would also go so far as to consider the countries of Georgia, Armenia and even Azerbaijan all the way in the South Caucasus as a part of Eastern Europe. I say this because, although geographically they may rest in what is technically Asia, culturally they are far more European.

So, as you can see, Eastern Europe is generally quite a vague term that encompasses a number of vastly different regions and nations. However, it is also one of our absolute favourite regions to travel in the entire world and visiting anywhere in this vast corner of Europe is sure to spark your wanderlust.

How to get around Eastern Europe

Depending on which area of Eastern Europe you intend to travel to, the best way to get around will vary. However, what’s good is that, especially if you only plan to visit major cities, it’s very easy to get around most areas relying only on the train or bus. Just what form of public transit will depend on where you are.

If you plan to do the classic “Eastern Europe” itinerary (ie Central Europe) and hit top cities like Budapest, Prague, or Krakow, then you can easily get around while relying on the train.

Train connections in Central Europe are frequent, reliable and relatively affordable — especially if booked in advance through platforms like Omio. You can click here to view schedules.

It can be popular to plan to use night trains to save on accommodation or time in transit, but keep in mind that these can book out quite early in high seasons and they can be quite expensive, depending on where you’d like to go.

If you want to save some money, you will find that the bus is a cheaper option and offers just as many routes. Companies like FlixBus offer numerous routes between cities at affordable price and buses are generally fairly comfortable and reliable. There are also overnight bus routes, but this is quite a tiring and uncomfortable way to travel.

If you happen to be travelling in the Balkans or Baltics, you are going to have to forget about any visions you had about taking the train. Rail routes are few and far between and where they may exist, they will be painfully slow, exceptionally outdated, and rather uncomfortable.

The vast majority of the Balkans and Baltics aren’t actually on a rail network, anyhow, so your best bet is going to be taking the bus if you’re relying on public transit.

In the Baltics, there is a wonderful bus company called Lux Express that is arguably going to be the nicest bus that you will ever encounter. They are comfortable, have wifi and entertainment systems and serve most major routes throughout the Baltics and even into Poland and Russia. You can book bus tickets for the Baltics here.

In the Balkans, FlixBus operates in some countries, but there are far more bus companies available and finding out the schedules can be tricky depending on where you are. Your best bet is to check out the bus timetables at the station when you arrive so you have an idea because information on the internet may be incomplete or incorrect.

If you don’t want to rely on public transit, then you can always rent a car when travelling in Eastern Europe. This will allow you to have more flexibility with your itinerary and not be at the mercy of erratic timetables and long bus or train journeys.

However, please make sure to double-check that the rental company will allow you to cross borders and that the car is provided with the adequate insurance in order to do this.

The rental company should handle this and it isn’t the consumer’s responsibility, but do make sure that you are properly equipped before starting your Eastern Europe travel itinerary.

If you want to rent a car while travelling in Eastern Europe, we recommend using RentalCars.com to find the best deals on a car hire.

Finally, it’s worth making sure you have travel insurance for your Eastern Europe trip. If you’re travelling on a budget and are only after travel medical insurance it’s worth checking out SafetyWing’s nomad insurance.

How long to spend in Eastern Europe

So how many days or weeks should you dedicate to your itinerary through Eastern Europe? With the region encompassing so many countries and sub-regions, it can feel like there is never enough time to see everything and deciding the ideal trip length can seem incredibly overwhelming.

The first thing that you need to understand is that it is impossible to see everything in a limited period of time and if you try to cram in too much, you are going to spend the vast majority of your time in transit between cities and destinations rather than actually enjoying and exploring the destination itself.

We always encourage slow travel and that doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to take numerous weeks off in order to travel to Eastern Europe, it just means that you should absolutely spend a bit longer in each destination that you visit. So, if you only have time for a one-week itinerary, then we would suggest limiting your trip to just two cities.

If you want to see a good portion of the region you’ve decided to visit while still not taking a tonne of time off work or away from home, then we think that planning for two weeks is the ideal amount of time. Within a fortnight, you can get a good taste of whichever region you plan to visit and really experience some diverse and dynamic destinations.

Obviously, if you have longer and are looking to spend 3 weeks in Eastern Europe, then you can very much find a multitude of ways that you could fill your time.

3 weeks really is optimal to begin to dig deeper and get a bit off the beaten path and to see some cities and towns away from the major capitals. This will give you a broader idea of the general culture of whichever country or region you are visiting and help you gain a better understanding of the area.

There are always options if you have longer than 2 or 3 weeks in Eastern Europe as there are a myriad of regions and countries that you could visit.

You also could take the opportunity to base yourself for a longer period of time in a particular city and explore more of the surrounding area via day trips and even venture off the beaten tourist path in the city itself.

The possibilities are endless in Eastern Europe no matter how long you’re able to spend, just make sure that you can do each destination justice by spending enough time there.

For the purposes of this article, all of these itineraries are meant to be for about 2 weeks. If you’re looking for a one-week or 10-day Eastern Europe itinerary, then just take away one or two destinations mentioned as they interest you. Again, it’s best to keep in mind that it is impossible to pack everything in just a short time period.

Second, as mentioned earlier, there are lots of different regions that encompass greater Eastern Europe and we’ve put together itineraries for each of these.

If you want more information once you’ve decided where it is that you want to in Eastern Europe, we have dedicated itineraries for Central Europe , the Balkans , the Baltics , and even the Caucasus if you are feeling intrepid.

Central Europe Routes

Central Europe is what most people are looking for when they think to plan an itinerary for Eastern Europe. Filled with some of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe and packed with interesting culture and fascinating history, this region is sure to delight all those who venture there.

Classic Central Europe Route

This two-week itinerary will take you past some of the most popular and beautiful places to visit in what many believe to be “Eastern Europe”. This route starts in Budapest and ends in Prague, but you can easily reverse it if it makes the most sense to you.

Budapest – The capital of Hungary is an excellent place to start any trip to Eastern Europe. It is something of the gateway to Eastern Europe and a great jumping-off point to visiting Central Europe, the Balkans, or Romania.

Budapest is one of the most beautiful and dynamic cities in all of Europe and you’re sure to fall in love with it instantly with it’s incredibly picturesque skyline set along the mighty Danube River. Plan to spend about 4-5 days in Budapest to really do the city justice before moving onto your next destination.

Vienna – Though not technically Eastern Europe, Vienna is an essential addition to an itinerary of this sort. Austria’s grand capital is a lovely place to explore for about 3-4 days and it is highly recommended that you take a day trip to the nearby capital of Slovakia, Bratislava .

Brno/Olomouc – Spend 2 days exploring one of Czechia’s other cities and while Olomouc is a personal favourite of ours, Brno is a more direct stop and also offers another great perspective of the Czech Republic beyond the capital city.

Prague – No itinerary of this sort would be complete without including the Czech Republic’s inimitable capital of Prague . The city is very popular, however, there are lots of places to visit within it that are off the beaten path. Plan to spend about 3-4 days in the city itself and then give yourself more time to go on a day trip or two.

Have More Time? If you have a bit more time to dedicate to this itinerary, please consider exploring more the Czech Republic . There is so much to see in this incredible country beyond Prague – and very few international visitors tend to dig deeper and explore the country.

If you want to get out in nature and see some of the countryside, then head to the Jeseniky Mountains or Bohemian Switzerland National Park, or if you want to experience some more Czech cities, it can be worth it to head to Brno or even industrial Ostrava . For smaller towns and cities, head to Karlovy Vary , Cesky Krumlov or Pilsen.

The beautiful city of Olomouc , Czech Republic

Alternative Central European Route

If you’re still after a Central European route but want to visit more countries, consider spending a bit of time in Poland rather than Czechia.

Budapest – Again, start your itinerary in Budapest and plan to spend 4 days exploring this incredibly beautiful city. There is so much to see and do in Budapest that you’re sure not to be bored.

Vienna – From Budapest, head onto Vienna for 3 days and make sure to do a day trip to Bratislava in order to see another amazing Central European city.

Prague – Plan to spend at least 3 nights and two full days exploring Prague, taking in the city’s top sites and learning about its vast and complex history. Also, Prague has some of the best beer in the world at some incredibly affordable prices!

Wroclaw – From Prague, head over to spend a day in the charming city of Wroclaw , Poland. This lesser-visited city is dotted with interesting sites to see and full of endearing quirks — including a myriad of little dwarf statues that can be spotted throughout the city!

Krakow – End your itinerary in Poland’s second-largest city of Krakow . This city is filled with history, both heartbreaking and fascinating, and it is worth taking the time to explore that along with it’s beautiful Old Town.

It is also possible to take a day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine or to Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp Museum. You could even take a day trip to the Tatra Mountains, if that suits your fancy.

Have More Time? If you have more time to devote to this itinerary, consider exploring more of Poland, including heading to the capital of Warsaw or to some smaller cities like Poznan or Gdansk , where you may find fewer crowds than in cities like Krakow and, in the latter city, even enjoy a beautiful Baltic beach. You could also combine this itinerary easily with a route through the Baltic countries if you have around 4-5 weeks to play around with.

Baltics Routes

The Baltics are one of Europe’s most underrated regions but also happen to contain some of the most charming spots in all of Eastern Europe. Filled with fairy-tale-like cities, incredible cuisine and fascinating history, this is how you should spend two weeks in the Baltics.

Classic Baltic Route

If you’re interested in dipping your toe into the Baltic countries and just want to get a feel, then this two-week route through the capitals is a great option for you.

Warsaw – Poland’s capital is one of the easiest places to begin this route. Plan to spend about 2 days exploring this historic city while taking in its refurbished Old Town and visiting some of the great museums.

Vilnius – The capital of Lithuania has been subjected to some great marketing campaigns, however, it still doesn’t get nearly the amount of visitors that it deserves.

Home to one of Europe’s largest old towns, a great cafe culture, and its own “independent republic,” plan to spend about 3 days in Vilnius to get the most out of the city and maybe take a day trip.

Riga – Next, head up to Latvia’s cosmopolitan capital of Riga. There is so much that Riga has to offer, but it is a real joy for architecture geeks — boasting one of the best collections of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe. Riga also has a lovely Old Town, great restaurants, and an incredible Central Market. Plan to spend 2-3 days in Riga to get the most out of the city.

Tallinn – The Estonian capital may well be the most beautiful city in the entirety of Europe (move over Paris or Seville!) however, very few visitors give it the time it deserves.

The medieval old town packs a significant amount of charm, but there is so much more to see in Tallinn that it’s worth spending at least 3 or 4 days to really do Estonia’s capital justice.

Alternative Baltics Route

If you are looking for an itinerary through the Baltics that allows you to really dig deep into the region, then this route commencing in Vilnius and ending in Tallinn is a great option for you.

Vilnius – Start your trip in Lithuania’s capital and plan to spend 2-3 days here exploring the top sites, going for a day trip, and enjoying the laid-back nature before moving on.

Kaunas – Lithuania’s second-largest city can be seen in about one full day, but it is still very much worth exploring. Kaunas boasts a lovely old town, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, fantastic street art, fascinating museums, and an imposing medieval castle making it a can’t-miss stop in Lithuania.

Riga – Now it’s time to visit Latvia’s beautiful capital city. Take the time to enjoy its cosmopolitan energy, enjoy the cuisine, and maybe take a day trip to the seaside town of Jurmala located just outside of the city.

Tartu – Estonia’s second-largest city is far too often ignored by visitors to the Baltic, but it really shouldn’t. There are lots of things to do in Tartu that can easily occupy one or two full days including exploring the old town, visiting museums, enjoying its art scene, and indulging in some of the city’s fantastic restaurants.

Tallinn – End your itinerary in Tallinn, trying to spend at least three days enjoying this incredible city. Tallinn is so cool and dynamic and has so many layers that you are sure to be charmed and itching to explore more.

Have More Time? If you have more time to dedicate to the Baltics, there are so many more places that you could visit. Consider heading to the coast of Lithuania and exploring the city of Klaipeda and the beautiful Curonian Spit . Or, head to the seaside town of Liepaja, Latvia and take in its laid-back charms.

Alternatively, you could head to the Estonian seaside in cities like Parnu or Haapsalu or, even more offbeat, head to some of its countless islands – like peaceful Saaremaa . And though it’s definitely not Eastern Europe, many people like to continue onto Finland and the Nordics from Tallinn.

Klaipeda, Lithuania is a great stop on a trip in the Baltics

Southeastern Europe Route

If you would rather head southeast when planning your Eastern Europe travel itinerary, then these are the routes for you. Heading into the Balkans is a great choice if you want to experience a number of different cultures and learn about a different history than you would in other areas of Eastern Europe.

Central Balkans Route

This itinerary begins in Budapest and takes you through some south-central European capitals.

Budapest – There are few cities better to commence an Eastern European route in than Budapest. For this 2-week itinerary, plan to spend 4-5 days in the Hungarian capital.

Belgrade – Belgrade is a gritty, lively, energetic and dynamic city that is just so cool it is sure to take you by surprise. Known for its incredible nightlife, Belgrade is also packed with history, culture and interesting things to do that you could easily occupy yourself for the recommended 3 days in Serbia’s capital .

Zagreb – Croatia’s oft-overlooked capital is normally put on the back burner for those more eager to head to the country’s coast, however, it is worth spending a day or two exploring . There are also numerous great day trip opportunities — please try to get to Plitvice Lakes, it’s breathtakingly beautiful — from Zagreb, as well.

Ljubljana – End this itinerary for Eastern Europe in Slovenia’s capital of Ljubljana. This beautiful city is so incredibly charming that it is a strong contender for the most beautiful city in Eastern Europe (Tallinn has some competition).

Plan to spend 2 or 3 days in Ljubljana , giving yourself longer if you’re interested in going for a day trip to Lake Bled , Lake Bohinj , lovely Maribor or even the seaside village of Piran.

Classic Balkans Route

If you’re after a more classic Balkans route for your trip to Eastern Europe but only have two weeks to do it in, then plan to begin your trip in Belgrade. The central Balkans are fairly off the beaten path compared to the rest of the places on this list, however, they pack so much that it’s worth exploring.

Belgrade – Begin your trip in Belgrade, Serbia taking in all of the eclectic sites the city has to offer, experiencing its inimitable energy and learning about its vast and complex history – there are tons of walking tours here where you can learn all about this city. 3-4 days in Belgrade should be sufficient, but one can always spend more.

Sarajevo – Next, head to Bosnia & Herzegovina’s incredible capital of Sarajevo. One of the most fascinating cities to visit in this part of the world, Sarajevo has an absolutely heartbreak history that is very much worth learning about in a number of the city’s excellent museums.

Take the time to learn about its not-so-modern history, as well, enjoy the historic city centre, and take its east-meets-west vibes at this cultural crossroads. You need about 2-3 days in Sarajevo to really do the city justice.

Mostar – From Sarajevo, head south to the beautiful city of Mostar. Far too often visited only as a day trip, Mostar is best experienced over two days to really learn about this city and its complex history.

Kotor – To round out this two-week itinerary, head to the Montenegrin port city of Kotor. This city is quite popular amongst tourists — especially as a cruise ship port — but it’s definitely worth spending 2-3 full days here to get to know the city and take some day trips to the surrounding area.

Have More Time? If you have more time to spend in the Balkans, your opportunities really are endless — one could easily spend months on end in this region alone and still feel as if they’ve only scratched the surface.

From Kotor, one could easily head into Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia and onto Greece, if you want to stay further south. Or, you could head west of Kotor to Dubrovnik and explore more of Croatia.

Alternatively, you could continue on east into Bulgaria, which deserves at least a week or two to explore on its own. Planning a Bulgaria itinerary on top of this Eastern European route is a fantastic idea.

If you end up in Bulgaria and have a lot of time to play around with, then it would also make sense to head into Romania.

Again, Romania is a massive country and visitor could easily dedicate two full weeks solely to this country – take time to see sites like Bran Castle, explore the vibrant capital of Bucharest and wander through the towns and cities in Transylvania.

Booking Accommodation in Eastern Europe

Once you’ve figured out your itinerary and where you want to go in Eastern Europe, the next step is booking accommodation. Luckily, there are so many options out there to book the best places to stay that cater to all tastes and budgets.

If you’re planning on backpacking in Eastern Europe, are on a tight budget, or are just looking for some great social opportunities, then hostels are going to be your best bet. We like to search for and book hostels online through Hostelworld , which is excellent to find the best hostels and keep all of your bookings in place.

If you’re looking for a broad array of accommodation options at great prices, then you can’t go wrong with Booking.com . This is our platform of choice when we are booking traditional hotels and B&Bs and even, sometimes, whole apartments!

And finally, if you’re looking for a private apartment rental or would like to save some money while staying in a private room in a local’s home, we recommend booking your stay through Airbnb. There are countless properties available on the platform all over Eastern Europe that will ensure you have a unique and authentic place to rest your head.

There are countless options when planning the ultimate Eastern Europe itinerary and it can seem overwhelming when confronted with all of them to figure out where to go. However, this region has so much to offer that no matter where in it you end up visit, you’re sure to have an incredible time!

Are you visiting Eastern Europe? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, woderful detailing of East Europe tours. Can you please help me to figure out my trip with inclusion of Budapest, Vienna, Prague, Croatia.we wish to travel by rental car. We are planning to visit these places in November 2023 , a trip for 10 days. please suggest. Dr, Neera Mittal

I sincerely hope that in 2022, I shall be able to visit eastern Europe which I have been planning for last three years! Your writings are very informative and absorbing. Please continue your excellent efforts of writing such pieces. Thanks a lot. PS: Add some information also about expenses of different categories, if possible.

Thanks for your comment and I hope that you’re able to go on your trip this year!

Amazing info, thanks. I will put together a trip for a month. I plan to surprise my daughter in Prague where she goes to Uni. Appreciate all your hard work and easy reading style. Stay healthy and happy! <3

Thanks so much for your comment and kind words, Lynn! Hope that you and your daughter have a great trip 🙂

Hello, this was a great explanation of what eastern europe really is, and some excellent itineraries for central europe, baltics, and balkans. But after you defined eastern europe to include Romania, Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus and Russia, you left out an itinerary for that very thing. Do you have such a guide? Thank you.

Hi Kyle, unfortunately, we don’t have a lot of information about those countries (yet!). All of those places are definitely on our list though so hoping to change that in the future

The Best Eastern European Cities to Visit

List of top Eastern European cities to visit . This list ranks the most popular cities of Eastern Europe for destinations. Though today Eastern Europe vaguely defines the region that comprises the geographical eastern part of Europe, Eastern Europe was also a term to define the European countries and their boundaries under Soviet Communist power during World War II.

Eastern Europe's fascinating history draws visitors to its top cities each year. Unlike its Western counterparts, Eastern European cities are often more affordable and less touristed yet still rich in history and culture that's as authentic as it gets. Moscow, Prague and Warsaw are among the top most visited cities of the region. Eastern Europe offers many attractions that are off the beaten path, providing a truer glimpse into the traditions that were once repressed by Communist regimes.

Is it safe to travel in Eastern Europe? Today, Eastern Europe is popular among backpackers, students and budget travelers and the increased tourism continues to help strengthen the safety of traveling throughout the region. Russia, Poland and the Czech Republic are top Eastern European countries to visit among travelers.

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Eastern Europe
Places/Travel

GENERAL TRAVEL

Where to Go in Eastern Europe as a Solo Traveler

Polly Rittenberg is a traveler, content creator, and film historian. Growing up in Brooklyn, New ...

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While Eastern Europe is a region that may not be as familiar to travelers as other parts of Europe, it’s a gem of a location, just waiting to be discovered. If you are adventurous enough to explore this part of the world, you will be greatly rewarded with breathtaking landscapes and distinctive cuisines. Are you already wondering where to go in Eastern Europe first?

Trust us—you might be underestimating Eastern Europe.

It’s a region that’s definitely off the beaten path for most Americans who like to stick to well-known destinations in Western Europe (which is, of course, a wonderful region as well!), but if you like going to unique countries that are not very popular, you must hop on a plane to Eastern Europe.

Many destinations here are budget-friendly, and it’s unlikely you will find many of their beautiful capital cities and small villages overrun with tourists. Eastern Europe is tailor-made for the traveler who likes to immerse themselves in the local culture and meet that country’s citizens.

Is Eastern Europe safe?

Anyone who has taken a high school history class that’s covered the 20th century knows that Eastern Europe has a tumultuous history. Despite its recent history, that should not be a reason to avoid traveling to Eastern Europe.

Traveling through this region is as safe as more well-known European locales. Obviously, you should still practice a normal amount of caution that you would in any other destination when you’re traveling (like keeping track of your belongings and being aware of your surroundings), but you’ll be as safe in Eastern Europe as anywhere else.

Occasionally there’s more of a language barrier than in more popular cities like Rome, but the best way to travel through Eastern Europe is to try and reach out to the surrounding friendly locals who will go above and beyond to help you in your travels—even if they do not completely understand your language.

Talk to our Online Advisor (for FREE!) and get matched with travel programs in Europe

Where to go in eastern europe.

Need pro Eastern Europe travel tips? Our first one is to peruse the list of top destinations in this region!

There’s no shortage of cool cities to check out.

Why? Poland is probably one of the better-known Eastern European countries and for good reason: It’s very easy to get around and each corner of the country has interesting cultural facets. If you love breathtaking castles and engaging cities, Poland is a must-visit, especially for your first entrance into Eastern Europe.

Poland’s capital city Warsaw is very modern, but still has touches of its pre-war style. Despite being smaller than Warsaw, Krakow is a very popular city with travelers.

When? If you enjoy sightseeing, traveling to Poland between June and August is the perfect time of year to visit. The warm summer weather is perfect for spending hours walking along the country’s rambling, historic streets.

Recommended programs in Poland:

USAC POLAND: Kraków-Holocaust, European & Political Studies
AFS Poland Global Prep: Exploring the City and Countryside

Why? While the first thought many people might think of when they hear Hungary is its capital city Budapest , there is so much more to explore in this beautiful Eastern European country. You should definitely start out your Hungarian adventure in Budapest just to look at the city’s mesmerizing architecture.

Budapest’s parliament building is truly a major sight to behold. One of the better Eastern Europe travel tips is to go and relax in one of Hungary’s many thermal baths. You will find many throughout the country. If you like quieter locations, Pecs is a gem of a Hungarian city with beautiful ruins and gorgeous scenery.

When? Autumn is a lovely time of year to visit Hungary. The weather is brisk, but you will avoid the large summer crowds that descend on the country in July and August.

Recommended programs in Hungary:

AFS Hungary Global Prep: Inclusion and Equality in Hungary
Traveling For-Credit Summer Internships in Europe

You’ll love Dubrovnik in Croatia.

Why? Croatia has exploded as a popular destination for travelers thanks to television shows like Game of Thrones. Whether or not you’re a fan of the show, Croatia is well-worth a visit. With it’s beautiful coastline, Croatia attracts tourists with their many cruise line ports and beautiful beaches for those who love nothing more than resting and getting a bit of sun.

Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most popular city for travelers, with its combination of a walled fortress and ocean views. If you like Roman architecture, Split is a wonderful Croatian city to visit. For any foodie travelers, Croatian cuisine and their local wine will quickly become your new favorite.

When? Croatia is incredibly crowded in the summer because of its beautiful beaches and islands, but if you visit in September , you will still have the warm summer temperatures, but without so many Game of Thrones-loving tourists congesting the streets of Dubrovnik.

Recommended programs in Croatia:

Human Rights and Peace Studies in the Balkans
Croatia - Bottlenose Dolphin Conservation

4. Slovenia

Why? Tiny, but mighty, Slovenia is another Eastern European country on the rise in popularity with travelers. Its capital city Ljubljana has a beautiful and charming old town that is popular year-round.

Slovenia is a particularly great destination if you’re a lover of the great outdoors. From its beautiful lakes to its mountain peaks, you will find many excellent outdoor activities. Lake Bled is an excellent destination if you want to see a beautiful blue lake and expressive snow-capped mountains.

When? Slovenia is best for travelers during the summer months when the weather is more consistent than throughout the rest of the year. Despite the summer holidays, it is still relatively uncrowded, even compared to some other destinations in Eastern Europe.

Recommended programs in Slovenia:

Get Paid to Teach English Abroad in Slovenia with a TEFL/TESOL Certification
Explore Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Czech Republic & Greek Islands

5. Bulgaria

Why? While Bulgaria is not a very popular country with travelers yet, that will change—and soon. The country is full of natural beauty and outstanding landmarks. Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city, is a great place to start your Bulgarian adventure.

If you want to branch out and see more of the country, definitely take a few days to explore its Black Sea coastline. If you’re a big fan of architecture, another great historic city to investigate is Plovdiv.

When? Summer is a wonderful time to visit Bulgaria. However, if you love to ski, Bulgaria’s winter ski resorts are gorgeous and more than worth the trip, particularly between December and March.

Recommended programs in Bulgaria:

Join the Fresco-Hunting Expedition in Bulgaria
Isla - Live Learn Intern in Bulgaria

Never considered Ukraine? Head to Kyiv!

Why? While Ukraine is still feeling the effects from its Soviet-era past, the country is trying to move forward with its independence and assert itself as a major, budget-friendly destination. It still has a long way to go, but if you’re a traveler who likes to visit destinations before they are popular, Ukraine should be the next Eastern European country you visit.

In some ways, visiting Ukraine feels like traveling back to the past, particularly when you look at the country’s architecture and ancient churches.

When? Winters are very cold in Ukraine, so if you want the warmest weather all day and night, traveling to Ukraine in the summer is the best. Spring and autumn are also very nice, but it can be cold at night.

Recommended programs in Ukraine:

Eurasian Regional Language Program (ERLP)
Eurolingua One-to-One Language Homestay Immersion Worldwide

7. Czech Republic

Why? While the Czech Republic might be best known to travelers for its capital city Prague , anyone who ventures outside of the city can attest that there is much more to the Czech Republic than solely Prague.

Prague is definitely still worth a visit, especially if you love experimenting with different types of beer and soaking up a beautiful culture. Throughout the country, you will find a large vast of beautiful castles. For those who do not mind skeletons, visiting Kutna Hora is a must-see: Its gothic church is decorated with thousands of skeletons.

When? Visiting the Czech Republic in the spring is best, particularly because of the absence of large crowds; plus, the weather is quite mild.

Recommended programs in the Czech Republic:

Future-Focused Study Abroad: IFSA in the Czech Republic
The Language House TEFL - Join our Community & Teach Abroad

8. Macedonia

Why? Macedonia is a beautiful Eastern European country, but is also one of the least-visited countries in Eastern Europe. There are only two airports in the whole country (located in the capital Skopje, and Ohrid) so it can be difficult to get to, but once you do, the best way to explore the country is by bus.

The country is small enough that you can get around to different local destinations in relatively little time. The country’s landscape is largely covered by mountains and offers plenty of breathtaking views, especially for those who love to practice their photography skills while they’re traveling.

When? Macedonia has a very pleasant climate so it’s wonderful to visit during the less crowded summer months .

Recommended programs in Macedonia:

Get Paid to Teach English Abroad in Macedonia with a TEFL/TESOL Certification
Balkan Language Initiative

6 best ways to travel Eastern Europe

You can’t go wrong with how you choose to travel Eastern Europe.

Ready to dive in and make your Eastern European adventure happen? Check out the best experiences to make your travels abroad as meaningful as they are fun!

Study . Trying to fill a summer or semester with unique experiences and new memories? Or maybe you just want to try something new? Head to Eastern Europe to gain college credit or cool skills.
Intern . Whether you’re a student, recent grad, or looking for a career change, you can find competitive and valuable internships throughout Eastern Europe, across a wide array of fields and specializations.
Gap Year . Find yourself! Everyone dreams of a gap year in Europe—until they see the price tag. Head to Eastern Europe to have once-in-a-lifetime adventure without breaking the bank.
TEFL Certification . Eastern Europe has become a beacon for travelers who want to gain hard skills in TEFL. Prague has become especially popular, but you can find dozens of amazing courses across the region.
Adventure . Do something you can tell your grandkids about. Eastern Europe may not scream adventure right off the bat, but when you consider the relatively unknown and unexplored beaches and mountains, it begins to make a lot of sense.
Language Schools . Polish, Croatian, Russian...there are a ton of nuanced languages in Eastern Europe. And where better to learn them than where they grew?

Grab these Eastern Europe travel tips and have a great time!

When you next find yourself daydreaming about an upcoming international trip, absolutely consider checking out Eastern Europe. The beautiful scenery, unique cuisines, and lower travel costs will surely entice you to return to this part of the world over and over again.

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15 Hidden Gems in Europe That You Must Travel To

Posted: March 24, 2024 | Last updated: March 24, 2024

<p>Are you bored of visiting the same places again and again? If yes, I suggest you travel to these hidden gems in Europe that will take your breath away. These 15 astonishingly beautiful destinations are just pure love. Let’s delve into this blog to know about them. </p>

Are you bored of visiting the same places again and again? If yes, I suggest you travel to these hidden gems in Europe that will take your breath away. These 15 astonishingly beautiful destinations are just pure love. Let’s delve into this blog to know about them.

<p>Matera, an ancient city in Southern Italy known as ‘the underground city,’ features unique houses carved into rocks, which were lived in up until the 1950s. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Matera has lost its reputation as ‘Italy’s shame’ to become a remarkable tourist destination. </p><p>Visitors can explore its historic streets, marvel at the ancient cave dwellings, and even stay in modern hotels converted from these caves, offering an unparalleled experience. The transformation of Matera from a place of neglect to a symbol of cultural and architectural wonder showcases the city’s rich history and resilience.</p>

1. Matera, Italy

Matera, an ancient city in Southern Italy known as ‘the underground city,’ features unique houses carved into rocks, which were lived in up until the 1950s. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Matera has lost its reputation as ‘Italy’s shame’ to become a remarkable tourist destination.

Visitors can explore its historic streets, marvel at the ancient cave dwellings, and even stay in modern hotels converted from these caves, offering an unparalleled experience. The transformation of Matera from a place of neglect to a symbol of cultural and architectural wonder showcases the city’s rich history and resilience.

<p>Asturias, situated on the northwestern tip of Spain, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage with its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, quaint villages, and historic architecture. Despite its charm, many travelers overlook Asturias in favor of more well-trodden Spanish destinations like Madrid, Malaga, or Alicante. Those who venture into Asturias are rewarded with unique experiences such as Playa de Gulpiyuri, a hidden inland beach accessible only via secret tunnels, and a host of small fishing villages where the seafood ranks among Spain’s finest. </p><p>Asturias represents an undiscovered gem, providing an escape for those seeking stunning landscapes and a taste of Spain’s rich maritime heritage.</p>

2. Asturias, Spain

Asturias, situated on the northwestern tip of Spain, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage with its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, quaint villages, and historic architecture. Despite its charm, many travelers overlook Asturias in favor of more well-trodden Spanish destinations like Madrid, Malaga, or Alicante. Those who venture into Asturias are rewarded with unique experiences such as Playa de Gulpiyuri, a hidden inland beach accessible only via secret tunnels, and a host of small fishing villages where the seafood ranks among Spain’s finest.

Asturias represents an undiscovered gem, providing an escape for those seeking stunning landscapes and a taste of Spain’s rich maritime heritage.

<p>Olomouc, a hidden gem in the Czech Republic, offers a slice of Prague’s romantic charm without the crowds. Just a train ride east of Prague, this city attracts visitors with its beautiful main square, adorned with pastel-colored facades reminiscent of a storybook setting. The centerpiece is the UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column, an exquisite example of baroque architecture. </p><p>Thanks to its significant student population, Olomouc is vibrant, ensuring an energetic atmosphere and lively nightlife. It’s a perfect spot for enjoying the local culture, including tasting some of the country’s finest beers. Olomouc is an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Czech experience.</p>

3. Olomouc, Czechia

Olomouc, a hidden gem in the Czech Republic, offers a slice of Prague’s romantic charm without the crowds. Just a train ride east of Prague, this city attracts visitors with its beautiful main square, adorned with pastel-colored facades reminiscent of a storybook setting. The centerpiece is the UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column, an exquisite example of baroque architecture.

Thanks to its significant student population, Olomouc is vibrant, ensuring an energetic atmosphere and lively nightlife. It’s a perfect spot for enjoying the local culture, including tasting some of the country’s finest beers. Olomouc is an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Czech experience.

<p>Derry goes unnoticed next to Belfast despite being just a short journey away. This city stands out as one of Europe’s most distinctive destinations, offering a mix of history, charming pubs, and striking murals that paint a picture of its complex past, particularly during the Civil War period known as The Troubles. </p><p>Located approximately 70 miles northwest of Belfast, Derry is accessible within two hours by train or even quicker by car, taking only about 1.5 hours. It’s a city that invites exploration, promising a deep dive into Northern Ireland’s tumultuous history and vibrant culture.</p>

4. Derry, Northern Ireland

Derry goes unnoticed next to Belfast despite being just a short journey away. This city stands out as one of Europe’s most distinctive destinations, offering a mix of history, charming pubs, and striking murals that paint a picture of its complex past, particularly during the Civil War period known as The Troubles.

Located approximately 70 miles northwest of Belfast, Derry is accessible within two hours by train or even quicker by car, taking only about 1.5 hours. It’s a city that invites exploration, promising a deep dive into Northern Ireland’s tumultuous history and vibrant culture.

<p>Kalamata, the capital of Greece’s Messinia region, is a hidden gem often bypassed by tourists. This seaside city boasts an unexpected cultural richness, curled up among stunning beaches and close to Greece’s notable historical sites like Sparta, ancient Olympia, and the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae. </p><p>Despite its proximity to Athens, accessible by a short drive or flight, Kalamata remains under the radar, overshadowed by the fame of other Greek destinations. Its combination of cultural depth, historical significance, and natural beauty makes Kalamata a must-visit for those looking to explore beyond the well-trodden tourist paths of Greece.</p>

5. Kalamata, Greece

Kalamata, the capital of Greece’s Messinia region, is a hidden gem often bypassed by tourists. This seaside city boasts an unexpected cultural richness, curled up among stunning beaches and close to Greece’s notable historical sites like Sparta, ancient Olympia, and the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae.

Despite its proximity to Athens, accessible by a short drive or flight, Kalamata remains under the radar, overshadowed by the fame of other Greek destinations. Its combination of cultural depth, historical significance, and natural beauty makes Kalamata a must-visit for those looking to explore beyond the well-trodden tourist paths of Greece.

<p>While many travelers flock to Dublin for its rich nightlife or to iconic filming locations and Cork’s allure, the Boyne Valley in County Meath remains a lesser-known treasure of Ireland. A convenient drive from Dublin, this area is the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, boasting landscapes steeped in mythology. </p><p>The Boyne Valley is distinguished by its significant heritage, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Brú na Bóinne, featuring the ancient Newgrange and Knowth. Additionally, it houses Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman castle in Trim. Despite gaining popularity, the Boyne Valley holds its status as Ireland’s hidden gem, offering a deep dive into the country’s rich history and mythical beauty, making it a must-visit for those seeking the essence of Ireland’s ancient past.</p>

6. County Meath, Ireland

While many travelers flock to Dublin for its rich nightlife or to iconic filming locations and Cork’s allure, the Boyne Valley in County Meath remains a lesser-known treasure of Ireland. A convenient drive from Dublin, this area is the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, boasting landscapes steeped in mythology.

The Boyne Valley is distinguished by its significant heritage, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Brú na Bóinne, featuring the ancient Newgrange and Knowth. Additionally, it houses Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman castle in Trim. Despite gaining popularity, the Boyne Valley holds its status as Ireland’s hidden gem, offering a deep dive into the country’s rich history and mythical beauty, making it a must-visit for those seeking the essence of Ireland’s ancient past.

<p>Despite its roots as the cradle of FIAT and its significance in the Italian film sector, Turin remains overshadowed by the charm of Rome, Florence, and Venice. Its most renowned treasure, the Shroud of Turin, attracts both the faithful and the curious, making it an essential stop for any tourist. Turin’s charm extends beyond its relics and history, presenting a sensory feast. </p><p>Wander through streets flanked by erstwhile royal residences, under vast porticos, and across grandiose squares. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a Bicerin, a delightful local blend of espresso and hot chocolate, symbolizing Turin’s rich culinary and cultural fabric. This underappreciated city marries historical intrigue with gastronomic delight, offering a unique Italian experience.</p>

7. Turin, Italy

Despite its roots as the cradle of FIAT and its significance in the Italian film sector, Turin remains overshadowed by the charm of Rome, Florence, and Venice. Its most renowned treasure, the Shroud of Turin, attracts both the faithful and the curious, making it an essential stop for any tourist. Turin’s charm extends beyond its relics and history, presenting a sensory feast.

Wander through streets flanked by erstwhile royal residences, under vast porticos, and across grandiose squares. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a Bicerin, a delightful local blend of espresso and hot chocolate, symbolizing Turin’s rich culinary and cultural fabric. This underappreciated city marries historical intrigue with gastronomic delight, offering a unique Italian experience.

<p>In Austria’s Tirol, Wilder Kaiser emerges as an untouched jewel, overshadowed by famed locales such as Vienna. This area, a cornerstone of natural splendor within the Kaisergebirge mountains, offers unparalleled skiing and adventure pursuits. </p><p>Among Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes, its landscapes feature acclaimed ski destinations and the nation’s most exquisite mountain lakes. Encircling the Kitzbühel Alps, the quaint villages of Ellmau, Going, Scheffau, and Söll enhance the region’s allure, presenting a peaceful retreat for enthusiasts of the outdoors seeking to escape the typical tourist paths.</p>

8. Wilder Kaiser Region, Austria

In Austria’s Tirol, Wilder Kaiser emerges as an untouched jewel, overshadowed by famed locales such as Vienna. This area, a cornerstone of natural splendor within the Kaisergebirge mountains, offers unparalleled skiing and adventure pursuits.

Among Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes, its landscapes feature acclaimed ski destinations and the nation’s most exquisite mountain lakes. Encircling the Kitzbühel Alps, the quaint villages of Ellmau, Going, Scheffau, and Söll enhance the region’s allure, presenting a peaceful retreat for enthusiasts of the outdoors seeking to escape the typical tourist paths.

<p>If you want a real taste of British culture, skip the London crowds and head to Bath. This charming city is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also home to stunning Roman baths and the cutest tea shops. It’s an ideal spot for a weekend escape, just a 1.5-hour train ride from London. </p><p>While you’re there, don’t miss the Roman Baths, which date back to 70 AD and are incredibly well-preserved. They’re a window into ancient history, complete with a museum that offers insights into Roman daily life. Trust me, Bath is a slice of British history and culture that’s absolutely worth exploring.</p>

9. Bath, United Kingdom

If you want a real taste of British culture, skip the London crowds and head to Bath. This charming city is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also home to stunning Roman baths and the cutest tea shops. It’s an ideal spot for a weekend escape, just a 1.5-hour train ride from London.

While you’re there, don’t miss the Roman Baths, which date back to 70 AD and are incredibly well-preserved. They’re a window into ancient history, complete with a museum that offers insights into Roman daily life. Trust me, Bath is a slice of British history and culture that’s absolutely worth exploring.

<p>Despite what you might hear, Kosovo is bouncing back from its past conflicts and is super welcoming to tourists these days. And if you’re heading that way, you can’t miss Prizren. It’s like the crown jewel of the place—a UNESCO World Heritage Site sitting pretty at the base of the Sharr Mountains. It’s a perfect mix of Ottoman architecture and Kosovan vibes. Just walking through those cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time. And you’ve got to check out the old Arab fortress. What are the views over the town from up there? Stunning. Trust me, it’s a must-visit.</p>

10. Prizren, Kosovo

Despite what you might hear, Kosovo is bouncing back from its past conflicts and is super welcoming to tourists these days. And if you’re heading that way, you can’t miss Prizren. It’s like the crown jewel of the place—a UNESCO World Heritage Site sitting pretty at the base of the Sharr Mountains. It’s a perfect mix of Ottoman architecture and Kosovan vibes. Just walking through those cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time. And you’ve got to check out the old Arab fortress. What are the views over the town from up there? Stunning. Trust me, it’s a must-visit.

<p>The Faroe Islands are where it’s at for a real off-the-beaten-path adventure. Imagine a spot halfway between Norway and Iceland, bursting with raw nature and Nordic charm. Picture quaint villages, winding roads through lush landscapes, and cliffs that dive straight into the Atlantic. </p><p>In Tórshavn, the capital, you have this cozy historic center with cobbled streets and turf-roofed houses serving unique dishes like fermented mutton. And if you’re into the Northern Lights, this place is a quiet alternative to the usual spots. The folklore here is fascinating, with stories of Vikings and hidden people. Getting here is a bit pricey, but it is worth it for the tranquility and unique vibes.</p>

11. Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands are where it’s at for a real off-the-beaten-path adventure. Imagine a spot halfway between Norway and Iceland, bursting with raw nature and Nordic charm. Picture quaint villages, winding roads through lush landscapes, and cliffs that dive straight into the Atlantic.

In Tórshavn, the capital, you have this cozy historic center with cobbled streets and turf-roofed houses serving unique dishes like fermented mutton. And if you’re into the Northern Lights, this place is a quiet alternative to the usual spots. The folklore here is fascinating, with stories of Vikings and hidden people. Getting here is a bit pricey, but it is worth it for the tranquility and unique vibes.

<p>Batumi, a vibrant town on the Black Sea coast of Georgia, is experiencing rapid growth and transformation. Known for its unique blend of architectural styles, from ancient to contemporary, Batumi offers an eclectic and fascinating vibe. The town is adorned with lush green parks, bustling casinos, and inviting beaches, making it a diverse and enjoyable destination for visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring its architectural wonders, relaxing in nature, trying your luck at a casino, or soaking up the sun on the beach, Batumi promises a memorable experience for all types of travelers.</p>

12. Batumi, Georgia

Batumi, a vibrant town on the Black Sea coast of Georgia, is experiencing rapid growth and transformation. Known for its unique blend of architectural styles, from ancient to contemporary, Batumi offers an eclectic and fascinating vibe. The town is adorned with lush green parks, bustling casinos, and inviting beaches, making it a diverse and enjoyable destination for visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring its architectural wonders, relaxing in nature, trying your luck at a casino, or soaking up the sun on the beach, Batumi promises a memorable experience for all types of travelers.

<p>Torrevieja, nestled on the Costa Blanca in Spain, is a charming seaside town celebrated for its pristine white sandy beaches and delightful Mediterranean climate. The region’s unique feature, the pink lagoons of Las Salinas Natural Park, adds a vibrant touch to the coastal landscape. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring bustling markets, participating in lively festivals, and indulging in various water sports activities. Torrevieja promises a memorable experience for all the travelers. </p>

13. Torrevieja, Spain

Torrevieja, nestled on the Costa Blanca in Spain, is a charming seaside town celebrated for its pristine white sandy beaches and delightful Mediterranean climate. The region’s unique feature, the pink lagoons of Las Salinas Natural Park, adds a vibrant touch to the coastal landscape. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring bustling markets, participating in lively festivals, and indulging in various water sports activities. Torrevieja promises a memorable experience for all the travelers.

<p>Located atop dramatic hills, Plovdiv offers a bohemian retreat from bustling Sofia—Meander through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, exploring quaint cafes and vibrant galleries. Immerse yourself in history by touring enchanting Ottoman-era mansions, then ascend Nebet Tepe for a breathtaking sunset vista. This undiscovered gem of Europe captivates with its eclectic charm and stunning panoramas, leaving visitors enchanted and yearning for more.</p>

14. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Located atop dramatic hills, Plovdiv offers a bohemian retreat from bustling Sofia—Meander through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, exploring quaint cafes and vibrant galleries. Immerse yourself in history by touring enchanting Ottoman-era mansions, then ascend Nebet Tepe for a breathtaking sunset vista. This undiscovered gem of Europe captivates with its eclectic charm and stunning panoramas, leaving visitors enchanted and yearning for more.

<p>Rio Marina is a must-visit destination for its captivating natural beauty and historical charm. Nestled on the stunning island of Elba in Italy, this picturesque town boasts colorful buildings against the backdrop of azure waters and lush greenery. Visitors can immerse themselves in the island’s rich history by exploring ancient mining sites and museums while enjoying the idyllic beaches and nearby scenic hiking trails. With its unique atmosphere and breathtaking vistas, Rio Marina offers a memorable experience showcasing the best Italian coastal living.</p>

15. Rio Marina, Italy

Rio Marina is a must-visit destination for its captivating natural beauty and historical charm. Nestled on the stunning island of Elba in Italy, this picturesque town boasts colorful buildings against the backdrop of azure waters and lush greenery. Visitors can immerse themselves in the island’s rich history by exploring ancient mining sites and museums while enjoying the idyllic beaches and nearby scenic hiking trails. With its unique atmosphere and breathtaking vistas, Rio Marina offers a memorable experience showcasing the best Italian coastal living.

<p>Discovering hidden gems in Europe offers a truly enriching travel experience, unveiling lesser-known destinations brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. From the tranquil shores of Rio Marina to the bohemian allure of Plovdiv, these off-the-beaten-path treasures promise unforgettable adventures and authentic encounters, making them must-visit destinations for any traveler.</p>

Discovering New Places With Amazing Sights

Discovering hidden gems in Europe offers a truly enriching travel experience, unveiling lesser-known destinations brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. From the tranquil shores of Rio Marina to the bohemian allure of Plovdiv, these off-the-beaten-path treasures promise unforgettable adventures and authentic encounters, making them must-visit destinations for any traveler.

<p>The Mediterranean, renowned for its azure seas and rich cultures, often leads travelers to its famous locales. Yet, behind these well-known destinations lie hidden gems of unique charm and untold beauty. In 2024, it’s time to venture off the beaten path and explore these lesser-known Mediterranean wonders. This article introduces 14 places where authentic experiences and breathtaking landscapes await the curious traveler. Join us on a journey to uncover the true essence of the Mediterranean through these secret destinations.</p><p><a href="https://thefrugalexpat.com/underrated-destinations-to-visit-on-the-mediterranean/">13 Underrated Destinations to Visit on the Mediterranean in 2024</a></p>

13 Underrated Destinations to Visit on the Mediterranean in 2024

The Mediterranean, renowned for its azure seas and rich cultures, often leads travelers to its famous locales. Yet, behind these well-known destinations lie hidden gems of unique charm and untold beauty. In 2024, it’s time to venture off the beaten path and explore these lesser-known Mediterranean wonders. This article introduces 14 places where authentic experiences and breathtaking landscapes await the curious traveler. Join us on a journey to uncover the true essence of the Mediterranean through these secret destinations.

<p>These 12 underrated cities are like pages from a forgotten diary, each narrating a unique story that awaits the curious traveler. From the cobblestone streets echoing centuries-old tales to the vibrant cultural scenes that pulsate with modern life, these alluring destinations promise an adventure unlike any other. Let’s unveil Eastern Europe’s most underrated cities.</p><p><a href="https://thefrugalexpat.com/underrated-cities-to-visit-in-eastern-europe/">12 Underrated Cities To Visit in Eastern Europe That You Should Visit</a></p>

12 Underrated Cities To Visit in Eastern Europe That You Should Visit

These 12 underrated cities are like pages from a forgotten diary, each narrating a unique story that awaits the curious traveler. From the cobblestone streets echoing centuries-old tales to the vibrant cultural scenes that pulsate with modern life, these alluring destinations promise an adventure unlike any other. Let’s unveil Eastern Europe’s most underrated cities.

<p>The U.S.A. has unique places to see and add to your bucket list. Many places get overlooked as you fill out your travel plans. If you are looking for new places to check out, these 13 charming towns should be on your bucket list. Let’s take a look at these lovely towns. </p><p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/13-charming-towns-in-the-usa-that-you-should-put-on-your-bucket-list/ss-BB1koS4L?disableErrorRedirect=true&infiniteContentCount=0">13 Charming Towns in the U.S.A. That You Should Put on Your Bucket List</a></p>

13 Charming Towns in the U.S.A. That You Should Put on Your Bucket List

The U.S.A. has unique places to see and add to your bucket list. Many places get overlooked as you fill out your travel plans. If you are looking for new places to check out, these 13 charming towns should be on your bucket list. Let’s take a look at these lovely towns.

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Macron explains at what point he'd send troops to Ukraine; children injured in guided bomb attack

A Russian ballistic missile struck a postal depot in the Ukrainian port of Odesa and injured 14 people. Meanwhile, drone attacks have targeted Russian energy infrastructure, according to officials. Listen to a Daily podcast on whether the UK should send troops to Ukraine as you scroll.

Thursday 2 May 2024 16:20, UK

Macron explains at what point he would send troops to Ukraine
Six children among injured in Russian strike
'Large fire' in Ukrainian port city after missile strike
Drone attacks 'damage Russian energy infrastructure'
Russia claims victory over Ukrainian village - reports
Analysis: Will US aid help turn tide on Russia?
Your questions answered: Why can't Ukraine destroy key Crimean bridge?
Listen to the Sky News Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts
Live reporting by Lauren Russell

That's it from our live coverage for today - thanks for following along.

Before we go, here is a quick reminder of today's updates:

French President Emmanuel Macron said he would consider sending troops to Ukraine if Russian troops broke through the frontline
Ukrainian workers picked through the ruins of a postal depot destroyed in a Russian attack yesterday, which set off a large fire
At least six children and an adult were injured in a Russian guided bomb attack in Kharkiv
Sweden saw a surge in cyber attacks as it moved towards NATO membership, analysis found
Russia said it had seized control of the village of Berdychi in eastern Ukraine.

The Ukraine war is unlikely to end anytime soon, the top US intelligence official has predicted.

Avril Haines, director of national intelligence, said that Vladimir Putin sees domestic and international developments going in his favour, making it likely he will press on with actions in Ukraine.

"Putin's increasingly aggressive tactics against Ukraine, such as strikes on Ukraine's electricity infrastructure, are intended to impress Ukraine that continuing to fight will only increase the damage to Ukraine and offer no plausible path to victory," she said.

"These aggressive tactics are likely to continue and the war is unlikely to end anytime soon."

It comes as the White House said it remains "deeply concerned" that it is not seeing China make any changes with helping Russia's military - after concerns raised by US secretary of state Antony Blinken.

During a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and senior Chinese officials last week, Mr Blinken said: "Fuelling Russia's defence industrial base not only threatens Ukrainian security, it threatens European security.

"Russia would struggle to sustain its assault on Ukraine without China's support."

Mr Blinken did not elaborate on how the US would address the matter if China continues to help Russia, but today White House spokesperson John Kirby said imposing further sanctions on Russia and North Korea is not off the table.

Sweden's succession to NATO prompted a surge in Russia-linked cyber attacks that not only targeted the Swedish nation but also other countries including the US and Ukraine, according to new analysis.

NetScout says it observed a "massive shift" in distributed-denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks as Sweden worked towards joining the alliance after over two centuries of neutrality.

Note: DDoS refers to when attackers flood a server or network with excessive traffic that it is unable to process fast enough.

NetScout says Swedish government infrastructure was targeted in such an attack in May 2023, with the attacks "strengthening" throughout last year and into 2024 as the country achieved NATO succession after a nearly two-year wait, the firm said.

There was an "onslaught" in February when Sweden's foreign minister hinted at Hungary dropping its objection to Stockholm becoming part of NATO, it said.

Attacks peaked on 4 March this year, three days before Sweden officially joined the alliance, with 2,275 recorded in a single day.

An investigation by NetScout found that the "likely culprits" of the DDoS attacks were Russia-supporting cyber groups which it described as "politically motivated".

Russia-linked groups have been behind a number of cyber attacks since the war began. One of the most dramatic saw services provided by Ukraine's biggest telecoms operator knocked out for days for some 24 million users.

At least six children and one adult have been injured after Russian guided bombs hit Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region.

The bombs struck civilian infrastructure and private houses, injuring at least six children and one adult, local officials said.

Houses and civilian infrastructure in the town of Derhachi - a frequent site of Russian aerial strikes - was damaged due to the strike.

"Two of the children received minor injuries to their limbs, and four - moderate injuries," regional governor Oleh Synehubov said on Telegram.

Kharkiv, which lies about 30km from the border with Russia, and the surrounding region have long been targeted by Russian attacks but the strikes have become more intense in recent months, hitting civilian and energy infrastructure.

Moscow denies deliberately targeting civilians.

Ukrainian troops on the frontline have said ammunition shortages mean it is a "luxury" if they shoot 30 shells a day.

A commander manning a US-supplied M777 howitzer artillery gun close to Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region said the number of shells fired daily was sometimes in single digits.

Parts of the Ukrainian military are swiftly running out of ammunition or simply do not have the shells they need to suppress Russian attacks that have recently ramped up, particularly in the east.

"If we compare it with the beginning [of the full-scale invasion], when we fired up to 100 shells a day, then now, when we fire 30 shells it's a luxury," commander Oleksandr Kozachenko said.

Russian attacks 'unpredictable'

Ukrainian officials believe that Moscow wants to seize the eastern city of Chasiv Yar by 9 May, when the Russians celebrate Victory Day.

If they succeed, it would place some of the largest Ukrainian-held cities in the Donetsk region within artillery range, according to military analysts from Black Bird Group - a group of volunteers in Finland.

Troops describe Russian attacks in the region as steady but often unpredictable.

Mr Kozachenko and his unit are now waiting for a fresh influx of ammunition from the US aid package that was approved last week.

French President Emmanuel Macron has said he would consider sending troops to Ukraine if Russian troops broke through the frontline.

The president said it would also be a possibility if Ukraine turned to the French government for help - but stressed that currently there is no consensus between Ukraine and France on this issue.

Speaking to The Economist, Mr Macron said: "I have a clear strategic goal: Russia cannot win in Ukraine. If Russia wins in Ukraine, there will be no security in Europe."

He called Russia "a threat to the security of Europeans" and France would have to "in any case" ask itself the question of sending its troops if they went ahead with a further offensive.

It is the second time Mr Macron discussed sending troops to Ukraine after saying "we cannot exclude anything," in a meeting of Kyiv's partner countries back in February.

It's been around a year since Ukraine was in final preparations for its much-touted spring counteroffensive against Russia.

The aim was to breach Russian lines and recapture large swathes of occupied territory. But despite a surge in military support from the West, the counteroffensive did not live up to expectations and Ukraine failed to push back Russian forces.

Our military analyst, Sean Bell , says Ukraine has provided an "incredibly robust defence" since then, but a long delay by US Congress in passing a multi-billion dollar aid package for Kyiv has "taken its toll".

"Ukraine has lost ground on the frontline and Russia has momentum, which has impacted Ukrainian morale and cost lives," he explains.

So will the US decision to provide $60bn of military aid turn the tide in Ukraine's favour? This is among the topics discussed by Bell in this week's Red Matrix podcast .

Russia could make advances this summer

Momentum is vital in warfare, Bell says, and Russia has plenty of this after capitalising on Ukraine's much-publicised shortage of weapons to target its energy infrastructure, cities and the frontline.

Despite heavy Russian casualties, Bell says Vladimir Putin will want to seize the window of opportunity to inflict more losses on Ukraine "before US military aid can be brought to bear".

"Many military analysts believe that Russian advances in key sectors of the frontline look likely to be repeated this summer as there is increasing evidence that Russia is preparing for a large-scale summer offensive," he says.

Putin's long game

Mr Putin is preparing for a long war which will eventually see Western support for Ukraine wane, Bell says.

"Russia has more soldiers, has tripled the size of its defence industrial base to create a sustainable supply of weapons... and can fund the war through huge and sustainable oil revenues," he explains.

Ukraine, meanwhile, is "critically dependent" on Western aid.

Despite the contrast in military might, Bell doesn't anticipate a strategic Russian breakthrough - with Moscow's battlefield success "not a foregone conclusion".

He points to recent comments from Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who said Western allies can defend Ukraine in the same way they defended Israel from a recent Iranian attack.

"Why not afford Ukraine the same level of support?" says Bell.

Western hesitation emboldens Putin

The West "has the military might to stop Russia's invasion in its tracks", says Bell, but has so far been deterred by escalating Russian rhetoric.

But longer it "tolerates" Russia's actions, the more emboldened Mr Putin will become, making him a "more dangerous threat to the West in the coming years", he adds.

Regardless of the US's huge military aid package for Ukraine, Mr Zelenskyy and his forces look to be in for a "very difficult spring and summer", Bell says.

This weekend (Sunday 5 May) Ukrainians will celebrate Easter.

As part of the religious holiday Easter cakes will be sent to troops on the frontline.

Some Ukrainian soldiers attended a church service in Kyiv where all the cakes were blessed by clergymen before being sent to those fighting.

More than 900 packages worth almost 3m hryvnias (£60,000) were destroyed in a Russian missile strike on a postal depot last night.

Earlier we reported that 14 people had been injured after the strike in the city of Odesa.

Regional governor Oleh Kiper said a large fire had also broken out as a result.

In a post on Facebook , the postal company said there were a total of 904 packages waiting to be delivered in the warehouse that was destroyed.

"Not only our depot and branch was destroyed by the Russian rocket, but also 15.5 tons of your orders from online stores with clothing, appliances, kids toys, treats for pets, medicines, parcels with care for family members," it wrote.

It said it had started to call affected customers who will receive a full refund.

Russia used more than 300 missiles, around 300 Shahed-type drones and over 3,200 guided bombs to attack Ukraine in April, according to Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Writing on the Telegram messaging app, Mr Zelenskyy said cities and communities around the country "suffer every day and every night from this deliberate and vile terror".

He added that only the "force of Ukraine's air defences, the force of the soldiers who hold the frontline and the force of the unity of the world" can stop Russian aggression.

Mr Zelenskyy has continually asked allies for more air defence systems to protect against Russian strikes - especially Patriot air defence launch systems or the French SAMP/T system.

Both the US and Germany have agreed to send Patriot defence systems, which White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at the start of the week should reach the frontlines "soon".

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IMAGES

The 28 Best Cities to visit in Eastern Europe
The 28 Best Cities to visit in Eastern Europe
14 Best Cities in Eastern Europe
3 Most Beautiful Cities in Eastern Europe For Independent Travel
The 18 Best Cities to Visit in Eastern Europe
The 18 Best Cities to Visit in Eastern Europe

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You need to Visit Eastern Europe!
25 Best Places to Visit in Europe
Top 10 European Cities To Visit In 2024
Discover must-visit cities: Top 5 in Eastern Europe
Eastern Europe Places to visit
Dedication To Travel

COMMENTS

20 Best Eastern Europe Travel Spots
Karlovy Vary. #20 in Best Eastern Europe Travel Spots. Less than 80 miles northwest of Prague, Karlovy Vary appeals to anyone looking for a rejuvenating vacation. The Czech Republic's famous spa ...
The 18 Best Cities to Visit in Eastern Europe
5. Riga, Latvia. Riga has become another "quick visit" city for travellers in the Baltics, thanks to its' cheap airlines connecting many travel routes from East to West and vice versa. Riga is a city worthy of at least two full days to explore and has a lot of charm on offer, especially in the Spring/Summer time. 6.
16 Best Cities in Eastern Europe
Enigmatic Eastern Europe is home to some of the most fascinating and downright beautiful cities on the continent. Perfect for the intrepid traveler looking to escape the crowds overtaking Western European city counterparts like London, Paris, and Rome, a visit to Eastern Europe's best cities usually means fewer tourists and better value for money.
25 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe
9. Lake Bled. Slovenia's spectacular Lake Bled sits in the Julian Alps in the northwest of the country. This dazzling, mirror-like body of water is backed by tree-covered hills and snow-peaked mountains, for one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in Eastern Europe.
20 Best Cities In Eastern Europe For A Memorable Vacation
11. Bucharest, Romania. Saru Robert / Unsplash. The capital of Romania, Bucharest, is another city you should visit in Eastern Europe. With its thriving food scene, one of Europe's fastest internet connections, and a one-year digital nomad visa available, it's a perfect spot for digital nomads.
12 Most Beautiful Places in Eastern Europe To Visit: Dreamy
As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Plitvice stands as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Eastern Europe. Beyond its aquatic allure, the park is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including bears, wolves, and a myriad of bird species. 10. Moscow, Russia.
30 Best Places To Visit In Eastern Europe
Your Eastern Europe Travel Guide: 10 Ways in 10 Cities To Enjoy! 1. Prague, Czech Republic (from USD 205.93) The capital city of Czech Republic, Prague, is rightfully counted alongside Paris as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
The 28 Best Cities to visit in Eastern Europe
Budapest is the perfect European city to visit for a long weekend or city break. Full of charm, beautiful buildings, good food, coffee shops, art, history, and quirk there's a lot you can pack into a few days. The Danube runs through the center of the city splitting it into two distinct districts; Buda and Pest.
The 20 Most Charming Places you MUST Visit in Eastern Europe!
Sofia, Bulgaria. Another great capital to visit is often referred to as the "Paris of the East"; Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Sofia is said to be one of Europe's most laid-back capital cities, offering a charming east-meets-west feel with old and new coexisting throughout the city. Though many travellers overlook Sofia en route to ...
The Ultimate Eastern Europe Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
Eastern Europe can be challenging, but it boasts a wealth of attractions and an unbelievably low cost of living, making it a dream destination for the adventurous budget traveler. Highlights include the Baltic countries, Poland, Lviv, The Tatras Mountains, Prague, Budapest, Romania, Belgrade, Dubrovnik and Sofia.
17 Best Places To Visit In Eastern Europe
Tour you might enjoy: 1-Hour&30-min Budapest Evening or Night Sightseeing Cruise & Unlimited Prosecco. 4. Lake Bled, Slovenia. Lake Bled in Slovenia is one of the most picturesque destinations to visit in Eastern Europe. It's a great place to go to get away from the big city and enjoy a coastal getaway.
Eastern Europe travel
Sustainable Travel. A futuristic station will make Eastern Europe more accessible than ever. Nov 27, 2019 • 1 min read. Zaha Hadid Architects has won an open international contest to design a major new rail terminal in Tallinn, Estonia.
The Ultimate Eastern Europe Travel Guide
Best places to travel in Eastern Europe. If you immediately think of Paris, Barcelona and other overwhelmingly popular western destinations when you hear the word "Europe," we're here to make a case for the absolutely stunning cities across Eastern Europe. ️ Many of these spots still fly relatively under the radar, so you could be on the forefront of experiencing the newest hot spots ...
19 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe You Won't Want to Miss
This list includes several countries in the Balkans, and the east part of Southern Europe. We simply use the phrase "Eastern Europe" to refer to the east part of this continent. 1. Journey to the magical Rila Monastery in the mountains. Where: Rila Mountain, Bulgaria. Rila Monastery is no ordinary church.
20 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe
Krakow, Poland. Best Places to Stay. Krakow has become an increasingly popular place on a Eastern Europe itinerary including highlights like fantastic architecture from Gothic to Renaissance that were kept incredibly well intact after WWII, the regal Wawel Castle and the atmospheric Jewish quarter of Kazimieriz.
25 Places In Eastern Europe You Must See At Least Once In Your Life
Go to the top of the Nagytemplom church for a lovely view of the city. Nagytemplom, Debrecen, Kossuth tér 1, 4026 Hungary, +36 52 614 160. Volt Egyszer café, Debrecen, Piac u. 16, 4024 Hungary, +36 52 218 105. Roncsbar, Debrecen, Csapó u. 27, 4024 Hungary, +36 52 688 050.
25 Amazing Eastern Europen Cities You Have To Visit
Tourism is definitely starting to build in this corner of the world. Here are 25 amazing places you should visit in Eastern Europe. 1. Bucharest, Romania. Bucharest, the capital of Romania is a dynamic modern city with a wildly sensational history. Nicknamed "little Paris" in the early 1900's Bucharest really plays the part with hip cafes ...
15 Best Cities in Eastern Europe for Travelers 2024
5. Kyiv, Ukraine. Located in Eastern Europe, Kyiv is the capital city of Ukraine and has a rich history. The city is well-known for its Soviet architecture and is home to many museums and art galleries. Kyiv is a beautiful, modern city that makes good use of its beautiful architectural landmarks.
10 of the Most Beautiful Cities in Eastern Europe
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mostar is a gem, even among all of these beautiful Eastern Europe cities. The lovely, clear Neretva River runs through the city, with the rebuilt, 4 centuries old bridge, the Stari Most as the town jewel. Sadly, both the bridge and town were heavily damaged during the Bosnian War, but have been carefully rebuilt ...
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Central Balkans Route. This itinerary begins in Budapest and takes you through some south-central European capitals. Budapest - There are few cities better to commence an Eastern European route in than Budapest. For this 2-week itinerary, plan to spend 4-5 days in the Hungarian capital.
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Best time to visit Brasov. June, July and August. 6.Varna, Bulgaria. In the years after the end of World War II, Varna has turned into the most attractive tourist centre in Eastern Europe, and is perhaps the number one summer tourist destination for tourists from this part of Europe. Today the city is well-known as the Eastern European Riviera.
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List of top Eastern European cities to visit.This list ranks the most popular cities of Eastern Europe for destinations. Though today Eastern Europe vaguely defines the region that comprises the geographical eastern part of Europe, Eastern Europe was also a term to define the European countries and their boundaries under Soviet Communist power during World War II.
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If you love breathtaking castles and engaging cities, Poland is a must-visit, especially for your first entrance into Eastern Europe. Poland's capital city Warsaw is very modern, but still has touches of its pre-war style. Despite being smaller than Warsaw, Krakow is a very popular city with travelers.
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12 Underrated Cities To Visit in Eastern Europe That You Should Visit These 12 underrated cities are like pages from a forgotten diary, each narrating a unique story that awaits the curious traveler.
Ukraine-Russia war latest: 'Huge fire breaks out' in port city after
Moscow is heavily focusing on the eastern region, where it claims to have captured several towns and villages. In these pictures, Ukrainian soldiers fire a howitzer at Russian positions.

16 Best Cities in Eastern Europe

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia

More on Czech Republic

25 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe

25. Vilnius

23. High Tatras

21. Butrint National Park

20. Cesky Krumlov

19. Golden Ring

17. Lake Balaton

13. Lake Ohrid

12. Plitvice Lakes National Park

11. Belgrade

9. Lake Bled

8. Budapest

7. Bay of Kotor

5. Transylvania

4. Saint Petersburg

2. Dubrovnik

Map of Places to Visit in Eastern Europe

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The 28 Best Cities to Visit in Eastern Europe

28 Eastern European Cities to Visit

Sarajavo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Krakow, Poland

Sofia, Bulgaria

Gdansk, Poland

Dubrovnik Croatia

Sighişoara, Romania

Kiev, Ukraine

Piran, Slovenia

Bucharest, Romania

Brasov, Romania

Podgorica, Montenegro

Ohrid, FYROM

Vilnius, Lithuania

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Budva, Montenegro

Budapest, Hungary

Kotor, Montenegro

Wroclaw, Poland

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

Zagreb, Croatia

Sibiu, Romania

Medulin, Croatia

St. Petersburg, Russia

Saranda, Albania

Bratislava, Slovakia

Timisoara, Romania

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The 20 Most Charming Places you MUST Visit in Eastern Europe!

Brașov, Romania

Wroclaw, Poland

Riga, Latvia

Sofia, Bulgaria

Sibiu, Romania

Tunnel of Love, Ukraine

Tallinn, Estonia

Blagaj, Bosnia & Herzegovina

St Petersburg, Russia

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Lviv, Ukraine

Budapest, Hungary

Skopje, Macedonia

Kotor, Montenegro

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Berat, Albania