must visit eastern european cities

The 18 Best Cities to Visit in Eastern Europe

I was in my early twenties when I first travelled to cities in Eastern Europe. Since then, the cities I visited have become some of my favourite destinations across the continent. There’s just something so magical about getting off the beaten path and going somewhere new. Travelling to cities that shock and excite you. And that is entirely why I’m here to share with you my favourite cities in Eastern Europe to help you book an adventure of your own!

1. Budapest, Hungary

Stealing hearts now more than ever, Budapest has become one of the most popular cities in Eastern Europe and for good reason. Many moons ago (okay maybe only 7 years give or take), the city of Budapest was one of Europe’s best kept secrets and indeed one of its’ most underrated cities. Nowadays Budapest has become a must visit for travellers looking to venture East from Central European countries like Germany, Austria and Slovenia, especially so if you’re hoping for an escape from the €.

Read more: 20 Places you must see in Budapest

2. Dubrovnik, Croatia

A hot favourite, Dubrovnik has become one of Europe’s most sought after cities to visit. It is undeniably one of the most popular cities in Eastern Europe – but this hasn’t always been the case. This city on the coast of Croatia is a summer worth crossing an ocean for, so whatever direction you’re coming from – be sure to give yourself plenty of time to unwind!

Read more: 10 Things you Must Do in Croatia

St Petersburg Russia | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

3. St Petersburg, Russia

Of all the cities I’ve explored in Europe, St Petersburg is the one I was most excited for and boy did it not disappoint. Having studied Russian history at university I was determined to see the legacy of Peter the Great – both in introducing Eastern Europe to Western culture and customs, as well as the architecture, art and of course a visit to the palatial summer residence to visit the royal gardens in all their playful glory.

Read more: A Quick Guide to St Petersburg, Russia

Tallinn Photo Diary | World of Wanderlust

4. Tallinn, Estonia

The capital of Estonia – Tallinn – has become a staple stopover for visitors to Helsinki who are looking to enjoy the Baltics briefly in a one or two day stopover. This fairytale capital city has one of Europe’s most well-preserved Old Towns, with the likes of Unicorn juice still available for purchase at the local pharmacy. Sold!

Read more: The Top 10 Things to do in Tallinn, Estonia

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. Prague, Czech Republic

My visits to Prague have been plentiful – thanks in part to a short stint living in Berlin, but mostly to an undying love affair with this fascinating city. Blending a range of architectures (mostly Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque), this city is a world in itself. Expect a handful of magical encounters and quirky boutiques selling figurines as mysterious as the encounters on the street. This is quite a fun city to explore!

7. Krakow, Poland

Krakow is a city many of us long to visit – not only for its charm and beauty, but also the dark past of nearby Auschwitz and Birkenau that allow visitors to pay respects, stop and learn the details of the Holocaust. The city itself is vibrant and buzzing with students, giving it a unique appeal for young travellers looking to mix in with locals and enjoy all the city has to offer.

8. Bratislava, Slovakia

Conveniently located on the direct train route between Vienna and Budapest, Bratislava is another great city to stopover for a day or two, especially if you’re looking for something a little more out of the ordinary and away from the crowds.

Read more: The 20 Most Breathtaking Places to Visit in Europe

9. Brasov, Romania

Brasov is one of Romania’s most visited cities thanks to its convenient location as the gateway to the most recognisable castles in the country: Bran Castle (also known as Dracula’s Castle) and Peles Castle. The city itself deserves a day or two to explore, though you could very happily perch yourself on an Air BnB balcony for a handful of days to enjoy a slower pace as your dollar will inevitably stretch farther when converting to the Romanian leu.

Read more: 8 Places you Must Visit in Romania

10. Warsaw, Poland

The capital of Poland has a turbulent past, however an ongoing effort to preserve the city’s Old Town in all of its glory makes this one of Eastern Europe’s prettiest capitals – a title of which it so often does receive (but very much deserves!) Poland still remains on the zloty, making it one of the more affordable countries to visit in Europe, allowing you to spend a while longer and stretch your dollar further.

11. Belgrade, Serbia

The capital of Serbia has a way of capturing hearts, especially in the warmer months when diners take their lunches and dinners al fresco, in balmy evenings that see much of the city’s inhabitants surface for an all round social affair. The city is also one of the most affordable cities to visit on the list and as such is a great spot to stop for a while and enjoy life like a local (Aussies: also note that Serbia is not included in your Schengen visa allowance of 90 days!)

Lviv City, Ukraine | World of Wanderlust

12. Lviv, Ukraine

Venturing further East, Lviv is located a short journey onwards from the Polish border and is Ukraine’s seventh largest city, making it the perfect size to explore over a few days. The architecture is a marvel in itself, with influences from nearby Poland, Austro-Hungarian heritage and a unique mix between Eastern, Central and Western European styles.

13. Sibiu, Romania

Romania is one of Europe’s most underrated countries to visit and home to some of the most epic landscapes you will see the world over. Mountains, valleys and impressive castles await, with Sibiu being one of the best cities to base yourself to explore the nearby region. Located in the region of Transylvania, Sibiu is one of the gateways to the castles in the nearby region. Be sure not to miss Bran Castle (also known as Dracula’s castle) and Peles Castle (the filming location for the recent film A Christmas Prince ).

14. Moscow, Russia

The Russian capital is as fascinating in real life as you could imagine, even if you let your mind get creative. Visiting historic sites, churches and of course the Kremlin will require at least four days on the ground to experience it all. Even if you’re staying centrally, be sure to venture underground to Moscow’s metro stations as they are considered some of the most extravagant and opulent in the world.

Read more: Where to Eat, Play and Stay in Moscow

15. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

As our regular readers will already know, Cesky Krumlov is a WOW favourite and hands down one of the prettiest small cities in all of Europe. Just a few hours bus ride south of Prague, there really is no way you can visit Czech Republic without stopping by “Krumlov” as it is fondly known to locals.

Read more: The cutest town: A Guide to Visiting Cesky Krumlov

16. Wroclaw, Poland

Another favourite for Poland is Wroclaw – the largest city in Western Europe and easily accessible by road from Germany if you are venturing East from there. With intricate and beautifully presented town houses, this city is as pretty as a postcard and it is little wonder it has earned its place as one of Poland’s prettiest pit stops.

Read more: Is this the prettiest town in Europe? Why you must visit Wroclaw

17. Gdansk, Poland

If you haven’t had enough of Poland quite yet then venture onwards to Gdansk, a port city on the Baltic coast. The Old Town has been reconstructed post WWII but has noticeably managed to maintain its appeal and old world charm.

18. Kiev, Ukraine

Finally, the capital of Ukraine would still have to be one of our most favourite cities in Eastern Europe and still one of the most underrated (how we are still unsure!?) There is endless history to be discovered and an ever-changing future for the country with Kiev at the heart of it. Be sure to allow at least four days on the ground to explore the city of Kiev – the sheer geographic size of the city is astounding!

Over to you! Where are your favourite cities in Eastern Europe? Follow me on Instagram for more inspiration!

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.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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These are the best cities to travel ….

Thank you for sharing such amazing content.

Beautiful photos and interesting comments, butI don’t think the citizens of Bratislava (an hour away from Vienna) would thank you for saying they’re in Eastern Europe! Geographical quirks in Europe can be very misleading for non-Europeans too: such as Kirkenes in Norway being further east than Istanbul!

Very informative… Thank you!!!!

I’m happy to have found this amazing article and I very much enjoyed reading it. I am a British-Hungarian citizen. If you allow me to point out a little error, then it is about Hungary’s geographical categorisation. Hungary is not in Eastern Europe, nor is the Czech Republic. These two are as much Central European as Austria itself. According to the official map of Central Europe, Hungary and the Czech Republic are in this area. Hungary also has a famous university called Central-European University in its capital Budapest. . In a strategical and economic point of view Hungary is the … Read more »

A few snapshots from Island life in Koh Samui 🥹🌴 just shared my blog posts from this trip in Thailand and now craving mango sticky rice pudding, the kindness and hospitality of Thai people and those buffet breakfast spreads (the kinda ones that keep you full til dinner). My stay at @fskohsamui was like something out of a story book. Especially that last photo - that night was one to remember 🫶🏼 #kohsamui #thailand #travel #travelblog #thailandtravel

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Best eastern europe travel spots.

Eastern European countries are often overlooked in favor of popular Western European destinations, but they really shouldn't be. With rich history, gorgeous architecture and a variety of cultures, Eastern Europe offers a wealth of destinations to explore – and at a much lower price point. U.S. News considered attractions, amenities and more to determine the best places to visit in Eastern Europe. Don't forget to vote below for your favorite locations to help influence next year's list. As you're planning your trip abroad, it's best to consider international travel insurance for added protection. (Note: Some destinations were not considered in this ranking due to the Russia-Ukraine war.)

Transylvania

Tatra mountains, ceský krumlov, lake balaton, karlovy vary.

From Prague Castle to the Old Town Square to the famous Charles Bridge, Czechia's capital offers history and architecture that rivals any European city. Visit top sights like St. Vitus Cathedral and the Astronomical Clock at Old Town Hall, then wander through the Jewish Quarter to see the historic synagogues and one of the oldest surviving Jewish cemeteries of its kind. Prague is also about 60 miles northeast of Pilsen, the birthplace of Pilsner-style beer, so you'll find pints in bars on every corner.

The magic of Budapest lies in is its stunning historical architecture. You'll find fairy-tale-like structures, such as the neo-Gothic Fisherman's Bastion, the medieval Buda Castle, the neo-Renaissance St. Stephen's Basilica and the second-largest synagogue in the world, the Moorish Revival Dohány Street Synagogue. Plus, the "City of Spas" sits on top of 118 thermal springs and features several thermal baths, including the Széchenyi Baths and the Gellért Thermal Bath, making it an excellent destination for a relaxing vacation. Another bonus: Prices for lodging in this Hungarian city are a fraction of what you'll pay in cities like Rome and Paris.

With its sparkling blue water and ancient sights and streets, the seaside Croatian city of Split mixes stunning scenery with old-world charm. Visitors can stroll up and down Old Town's cobblestone streets, passing by fourth-century sights like the Cathedral of St. Domnius and Diocletian's Palace as they go. The palace, which was originally built to be the Roman emperor Diocletian's retirement home, is now one of the liveliest places in the city, with restaurants, bars and shops.

While you won't find any vampires here, a trip to Transylvania will make you feel like you've stepped inside a fictional land. Sitting in the shadow of the Carpathian Mountains, this region in Romania is best known for its dramatic scenery and medieval fortresses, churches and castles, including Bran Castle, Bram Stoker's inspiration for Count Dracula's home. Transylvania is also where you'll find some of Romania's most charming cities, such as Brasov and Sibiu. If you need a break from the area's rich history, check out the Turda Salt Mine, an underground amusement park built within a former salt mine.

Another gem in Croatia, this coastal city has gained popularity with travelers in recent years thanks to its picturesque location on the Adriatic Sea, its UNESCO-sanctioned Old City and its seafood-centric cuisine. For amazing photo ops, take a cable car up to the summit of Mount Srd for a bird's-eye view of the city and the nearby island of Lokrum. "Game of Thrones" fans will likely recognize many of Dubrovnik's sights, as much of the show was filmed here.

Bulgaria's capital and largest city makes an excellent vacation spot for travelers looking for a laid-back, affordable Eastern European trip. As one of Europe's oldest capital cities, Sofia has a rich history and culture, which visitors can learn about at the National History Museum, the Sofia History Museum and the Museum of Socialist Art. Another can't-miss attraction is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of Bulgaria's most famous (and eye-catching) landmarks. After sightseeing and museum hopping, vacationers can make their way to Borisova Gradina park to relax.

Estonia's capital city might not fit your typical idea of a vacation destination, but dig a little deeper and you'll be delighted by the beautiful Russian Orthodox architecture found at St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the pink Toompea Castle (where parliament meets) and the regal Kadriorg Palace, which houses the Kadriorg Art Museum. Other can't-miss sights in Tallinn include the lower Old Town area and Lahemaa National Park, located roughly 30 miles northeast of the city. Before leaving, make sure you try some of the delicious chocolates made by Kalev Chocolate Shop, the oldest confectionary in Estonia.

A true fishing port, as well as a popular summer retreat, Rovinj, Croatia, is located on the western coast of the Istria peninsula in the Adriatic Sea. The town and its 14 surrounding islands, including the popular St. Catherine and Red islands, are scattered with picturesque sandy and pebbly beaches throughout. But with Rovinj's small size and big appeal, it can get crowded (and quickly) during peak travel season in late spring and summer, so you'll want to finalize your vacation plans at least a few months in advance.

Montenegro is less than 6,000 square miles (or slightly smaller than the size of Connecticut), but what this destination lacks in size it more than makes up for in charm. Medieval towns, magnificent mountains, breathtaking beaches and charismatic locals await you in this Balkan country. Wander past the red-roofed stone churches and romantic squares in Kotor, or view some of Montenegro's natural wonders, such as the startlingly blue Mediterranean waters surrounding Sveti Stefan and Tara Canyon, the second-deepest canyon in the world.

Many of Bucharest's tourist attractions offer insight into the city's communist history, including the Palace of Parliament, which features 1,100 rooms and is billed as the second-largest administrative building in the world. Visit the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant and the open-air National Museum of the Village Dimitrie Gusti to gain insight into the history of the Romanian people. Then, explore the charming Old Town area and enjoy Bucharest's impressive gastronomic offerings, which include a mix of traditional hearty dishes and modern international staples.

Bratislava is often called "the Beauty on the Danube" – and it's easy to see why. The Slovakian capital, a popular river cruise destination, is full of stunning architectural sights, including the art nouveau Blue Church, the Baroque Bratislava Castle and the Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral. What's more, Bratislava features all kinds of quirky bronze statues (think: a man in a manhole and a Napoleon army soldier hunched over a bench) scattered throughout the city. When the sun goes down, head to a bar, pub or club to get a taste of the city's superb nightlife scene.

This Lithuanian capital wows with its Baroque architecture, but it doesn't stay stuck in the past. Vilnius' Old Town offers an interesting mix of the old and the new, with cobblestone streets that lead to boutiques and trendy restaurants (head to Paupys Market for some of the most noteworthy spots). Be sure to take in the beautiful architecture of the Gates of Dawn shrine and the Church of St. Anne, and for panoramic city vistas, climb to Gediminas' Tower or take a ride to the revolving observation platform at the top of the Vilnius Television Tower.

You might be surprised to learn that of all of the destinations in Europe, the capital city of Slovenia is often considered one of the greenest cities on the continent. But once you get an eyeful of its expansive green spaces and car-free city center, it's easy to see why. Stroll through the charming Old Town, snap photos of sights like Ljubljana Castle and grab a bite at one of the many picturesque cafes that line the Ljubljanica river. If you're planning a winter visit, don't miss Ljubljana's Christmas market, when Old Town's Prešeren Square dazzles with lights and a towering tree.

This city on Poland's Baltic coast was made for scenic strolls. Admire the colorful architecture and Gothic Town Hall (all rebuilt after World War II) on Dlugi Targ Street, Gdansk's main thoroughfare, or peruse the galleries and jewelers on Mariacka Street. While in Old Town, visit St. Mary's Church, an immense Gothic structure. And you'd be remiss to skip a walk along the embankment of the Motlawa River, where you'll find a medieval crane and charming restaurants. Beyond its beautiful facades, Gdansk has an engrossing history that can be explored in museums like the European Solidarity Centre and the Museum of the Second World War.

Located in central Latvia on the gulf with the same name, Riga offers colorful, art nouveau architecture and a pedestrian-friendly Old Town. Take a tour of the House of the Black Heads before strolling through the picturesque Town Hall Square. Also save time for savoring authentic Latvian fare at a restaurant or Riga Central Market, one of the largest markets in Europe. And for a unique take on local history, head outside the city to the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia, where you'll find 118 historical buildings that reflect Latvian culture through the ages.

Eastern Europe isn't only home to grand cities with magnificent architecture. Destinations like Latvia's Jurmala, the largest resort area in the Baltics, are ideal for a relaxing getaway. Jurmala's white sand beach stretches for more than 15 miles along the coast. Visitors can also cool off at Livu Akvaparks, the largest indoor water park in Latvia and one of the largest in Northern Europe. Away from the water, Jomas Street – Jurmala's main pedestrian thoroughfare – is a terrific place to take a leisurely stroll and grab a souvenir or bite to eat.

This mountain range on the Poland-Slovakia border is a popular destination for both winter and summer recreation. When snow hits the Tatras mid-December through April, Zakopane, Poland (about 70 miles south of Krakow) is the place to be for easy access to ski resorts, thermal springs and quaint wooden architecture. In warmer months (June through September), visitors hit trails that lead to peaks, valleys and high-lying lakes that rival the beauty of the Alps. During these months, the Slovakian side typically has fewer crowds and more dramatic scenery, though it's not as easily accessible.

?eský Krumlov, located in southwest Czech Republic, has preserved its medieval architecture and layout, making it a unique time capsule with storybook appeal. Most visitors make a beeline for its most imposing attraction –?eský Krumlov Castle. The castle complex, which consists of 40 buildings and palaces and spans roughly 17 acres, offers a glimpse into noble life dating back to the 14th century. Can't-miss sights include intricate palace interiors, an ornate Baroque theater, a bear moat, gardens and a tower with expansive views. Across the Vltava River, the winding streets of ?eský Krumlov's Old Town lend more stunning architecture, as well as pubs and shops.

Hungary's Lake Balaton, one of Europe's largest lakes, makes for an easy, relaxing day trip from Budapest. In summer, the lake's warm temperatures and shallow water make it a great place for swimming and sailing, while in winter, the lake's frozen surface gets thick enough for ice skating. A bike ride around the lake is also a must, as is exploring the lake's surrounding towns, which come alive with festivals throughout the summer. When travelers are ready to unwind, they can visit one of Lake Balaton's vineyards to sip a refreshing glass of white wine.

Less than 80 miles northwest of Prague, Karlovy Vary appeals to anyone looking for a rejuvenating vacation. The Czech Republic's famous spa town has no shortage of incredible wellness facilities that offer a range of treatments. When you're not busy relaxing, take some time to explore and see local sights like the Church of St. Mary Magdalene and the Mill Colonnade. You'll likely come across a few thermal springs while walking around. If so, take a drink from one of these springs; they're said to have healing properties. While you're here, treat yourself to a stay at one of the renowned luxury hotels in the area.

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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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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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1 thought on “The 28 Best Cities to Visit in Eastern Europe”

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.

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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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!

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

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Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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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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Must-see attractions in Eastern Europe

High angle of Dubrovnik's old town and coastal region.

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Klis Fortress

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St Dominus Cathedral belfry, Diocletian's Palace .

Cathedral of St Domnius

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St Sophia's Cathedral

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Solovetsky Transfiguration Monastery

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Kamyanets-Podilsky Fortress

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Peleş Castle

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Visoki Dečani Monastery

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Moscow Kremlin

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Merry Cemetery

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Beautiful Cities In Eastern Europe...

Beautiful Cities in Eastern Europe You Must Visit at Least Once in Your Lifetime

Schlössle Hotel occupies a medieval merchant’s house in the Old Town of Tallinn

Travel Writer

While central Europe attracts hordes of tourists year round, some less-discovered eastern European cities have gained ground over the last decade – no surprise when you consider their unmatched beauty.

Medieval fortifications, Renaissance palazzos , cute stone houses and shimmering lakes will give you more than enough reasons to visit the following eastern European cities. Check out our list, complete with recommendations of the most appealing hotels to choose – bookable on Culture Trip.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague Castle is just one of the highlights of a visit to the Czech capital

Some think of Prague as an eastern European city; others see it as central European. Either way, it is one the most visited capitals in Europe. Having experienced numerous overthrows, invasions and natural disasters over the years, Prague has a wealth of fascinating stories to tell; these are almost whispered through the walls of the medieval castles, baroque palaces, gothic cathedrals and eerie catacombs that blend harmoniously with the cosmopolitan, artistic side of the city. Among the attractive highlights of Prague are the 16-arch Charles Bridge, the elaborate Astronomical Clock and the dreamy Prague Castle.

1. Le Palais Art Hotel Prague

Boutique Hotel, Independent Hotel

Bottles of wine in a wine cooler on the rooftop dining area at Le Palais Art Hotel Prague, with umbrellas covering the tables and chairs

This lavish hotel, built in 1897, retains its belle époque allure with tiled floors and grand chandeliers, combined with touches of art – the ceilings are adorned with pieces by 19th-century Czech painter Luděk Marold. Make sure to indulge in a full-body peel at the wellness centre.

Budapest, Hungary

The capital of Hungary is divided into two halves by the Danube, and both Buda and Pest guarantee a unique travelling experience. Dating as far back as the Palaeolithic period, it’s no wonder Budapest displays some of the most diverse architecture in eastern Europe. Roman, neogothic, Renaissance and Ottoman buildings and palaces – among them the imposing Buda Castle and the fairytale Fisherman’s Bastion – give way to picture-perfect thermal baths that appear to be taken straight out of a Wes Anderson film. For a rainbow-coloured Instagram story, pass by the pretty bars of the Jewish Quarter.

Where to stay

2. párisi udvar hotel budapest.

Hotel, Luxury

A bed and sitting area in a stylish hotel room at Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest

Housed within a revamped shopping arcade dating to 1817, Párisi Udvar offers the most luxurious stay in the city. The art nouveau architecture and hexagonal structure of the building give it a fairytale air. Don’t forget to order something sweet from the patisserie in the plush glass-domed atrium.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Another capital worth visiting is Ljubljana, capital of Slovenia. Found between the Mediterranean Sea and the Alps, Ljubljana gets the best of both worlds, featuring verdant peaks and lush parks that interweave with beautiful lakes. Take the time to enjoy a picnic inside Tivoli Park, the largest park in Slovenia, or under the shade of the picturesque Ljubljana Castle. Adorable bridges passing over the Ljubljanica river will lead you to baroque, Renaissance and art nouveau buildings – many of them designed by architect Jože Plečnik. Don’t miss the colourful Metelkova Mesto, a cultural centre hosting music and arts events.

3. Vander Urbani Resort

Resort, Hotel

Riga, Latvia

Art nouveau and wooden buildings are sure to win your heart in this Baltic gem. The pedestrian-only Old Town of Riga brims with pastel-coloured houses, museums, restaurants and bars that line the cobbled streets – with the Miera Iela quarter at the centre of the fun. Delve into the city’s past through 118 historical buildings housed at the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia, right before you hit Riga Central Market, the largest in Europe, for a local treat. NOASS has the most superb views of the town; this cultural centre floats on a platform in the Daugava river and looks just like a moored ship.

4. Grand Poet Hotel

Chain Hotel, Spa Hotel

Paying homage to 19th-century Latvian poet Rainis, this spirited hotel has ultra-modern interiors with boho chic details, including zigzag carpets and patterned floors. The spa is as well equipped as they come, with two types of sauna, a jacuzzi, a steam room and an aroma room.

Lviv, Ukraine

Dubbed the Little Paris of Eastern Europe, Lviv is a foodie’s paradise and an important history and culture hub, packed with museums, art galleries and magnificent cathedrals. Here, you’ll marvel at architectural gems such as the 19th-century Potocki Palace, a fine example of French classicism, and the 18th-century Lychakiv Cemetery featuring around 500 sculptures of different styles. At the central Market Square, each building has a distinct courtyard revealing its past. The most romantic has to be the Italian Courtyard; part of an elegant Renaissance palazzo, it now holds jazz and classical concerts.

5. Citadel Inn Hotel and Resort

A brick exterior of the Citadel Inn Hotel & Resort, with green vines hugging the brick walls and bushes outside the entrance

The impressive red-brick exterior of this charming property echoes the building’s former identity as a fortification in the 19th century. Inside, you can enjoy modern amenities such as a 24-hour sauna and gym, and delectable Ukrainian and European dishes at the on-site restaurant.

Tallinn, Estonia

The Estonian capital, Tallinn, is bursting with photogenic streets and squares

Photogenic streets and squares bursting with ancient churches and multicoloured houses are a big part of the natural charm of Tallinn . The essence of the Estonian capital lies in the Old Town, which is surrounded by medieval walls dotted with majestic towers. Its star is St Olaf’s Church, with a high bell tower that has seen its fair share of lightning strikes. Locals wandering around in medieval attire will transport you to the 15th century; but don’t be alarmed, it’s just another day in Tallinn. Enter modern-day Tallinn through the hip industrial warehouses-turned-boutiques, music venues and cafes at the Telliskivi Creative City complex.

6. Schlössle Hotel

Kraków, Poland

This southern Polish wonder near the Czech border will appeal to history buffs and hipsters. From Wawel Royal Castle – a blend of gothic, Renaissance, rococo and romanesque architecture – which takes us back to 1600s Poland, to the bustling Market Square that houses the Sukiennice, the oldest shopping centre in the world, Kraków is a gorgeous portal to the past. Dare to take part in a medieval pageant or a jousting contest at the Barbican, one of the few remnants of Krakow’s fortifications. And if you’re looking to return to the 21st century, a night out at a cool beer joint in the Jewish Quarter will do.

7. Balthazar Design Hotel

Boutique Hotel

This refurbished property dating to the 1870s mixes modern design with traditional Polish details. The art deco floors echo the boutique hotels of New York and London, yet the regal furnishings still feel like Kraków at its most sophisticated.

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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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9 incredible places to see in Eastern Europe

The countries in Europe's far east are ripe with undiscovered gems, from untouched wilderness and age-old wonders to picturesque beaches and genuinely cool cultural capitals. Here are nine must-see places in Eastern Europe that will inspire wanderlust—and, perhaps, your next trip.

Riga, Latvia

With the largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in the world, the Latvian capital is a culture buff’s dream. You can see nearly 800 examples of the style, from Jugendstil structures adorned with goddesses and gargoyles to pastel facades with gingerbread trim, on a walking tour of the cobblestoned lanes in Old Town. Soak up some of that atmosphere three blocks away at the conveniently located Hotel Bergs , a 38-room hotel housed within two 1895 structures that are a stone’s throw from some of Riga’s trendiest restaurants and coffee shops. Don’t miss Innocent Café , a neighborhood favorite just around the corner.

The Albanian Riviera

A beach between Vlora and Saranda in Albania

Blink and you might mistake the umbrella-studded strands of Albania’s Ionian shoreline for the South of France or Italy’s Amalfi coast, with one key difference: the so-called Albanian Riviera remains an under-the-radar destination for beach fiends looking to skip the crowds—and hefty price tags. Start your tour in Sarandë , the region’s unofficial capital, which is home to a 16th-century castle and fifth-century synagogue as well as a beautiful beach. Next, venture to lesser-known hideaways like Ksamil , near the Greek border; Borsh , a quiet swath backed by hills littered with olive groves; and the village of Himarë , where Jal beach’s Soleil Village offers views of turquoise waters and the Mediterranean-style beach resort Folie Marine .

Dubrovnik, Croatia

There’s a good chance you’ve already seen the stone alleys and medieval fortifications of Dubrovnik on the small screen: the walled city is a stand-in for King’s Landing on Game of Thrones. In person, the sites are even more breathtaking. Old Town is full of shops that sell traditional lace and embroidery crafts, but if you’re looking for a break from the bustle, head to Trsteno Arboretum , a Renaissance garden that houses exotic plants and trees. Rest your aching feet at Hotel Excelsior , a grand dame that has hosted the likes of Queen Elizabeth II and Elizabeth Taylor and claims a private beach overlooking the Adriatic.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

A 40-minute drive through scenic switchbacks takes you from the cobblestone lanes of Ljubljana to the craggy shores of Lake Bled, a serene retreat that looks straight out of a fairytale. Backed by the Julian Alps , the setting is the portrait of Tyrolean splendor, with a medieval castle hugging the cliffs and a picturesque church on a tiny island at its center. Honeymooners and romantics make Vila Bled Hotel their base, but there’s also plenty for adventurous types to enjoy. Put on your hiking boots to wander the forested trails in Triglav National Park , or view Slovenia’s largest waterfall at Vintgar Gorge .

Kraków, Poland

Often overlooked for Warsaw, Poland’s second city is also one of its oldest, with a historic center that rivals many in Western Europe. St. Mary’s Gothic basilica looms over the continent’s largest square, as well as atmospheric cobblestone streets and medieval structures that date to the 13th century. Walk south to see the Italian Renaissance paintings at Wawel Castle , the former royal residence that was converted into a museum in the 1930s. Just outside town, the Wieliczka Salt Mines features subterranean lakes and quirky salt sculptures, while the ruins of Auschwitz and Plaszów serve as reminders of the country’s Holocaust history.

The Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Aerial view of Plitvice National Park in Croatia

Croatia’s oldest national park is also one of its most stunning, a collection of 16 pristine waterfalls that cascade into a series of emerald lakes and pools. Wooden walkways let you explore them all—go in the fall to avoid rubbing elbows with the park’s 15,000 visitors—as well as hike through the dense forest that surrounds the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s an easy day trip from Zagreb , the Croatian capital, where you’ll find the Esplanade hotel , an Art Deco gem that was built in 1925 and has hosted the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Sophia Loren, and Orson Welles. Drop your bags, then head to the buzzing restaurants and cafés on Tkalčića Street.

Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

While Croatia has claimed all of the tourism glory over the last decade, the pink-sand beaches and ancient villages of Montenegro have gone virtually unnoticed. Head to the Bay of Kotor to see some of the country’s best sights, from primeval mountains and forests to cobalt waters and a bevy of postcard-perfect architecture. At the foot of Mount Lovcen, Kotor is a 2,000-year-old town with traditional terracotta roofs, centuries-old Venetian palazzos, and historic walls. A 15-minute drive north, tiny Perast adds to that list impressive ruins and churches, two of which are located on islands just off the coast. And flashy Tivat is an old naval base that was recently converted into a yacht-studded marina straight out of Monaco —with the people-watching to match.

Hungary's Wine Country

While European wine enthusiasts continue to make pilgrimages to the meccas of Italy, France, and Spain, in-the-know oenophiles now add Hungary’s grape-producing regions to their itinerary. Just a two-hour train ride from Budapest, Eger is a tiny village with cobblestone streets and a 13th-century castle, but it’s also known for producing dark red Egri Bikavér (bull’s blood). Sample local favorites in the cellars that dot the nearby Valley of the Beautiful Women before dropping your bags at Grof Degenfeld Castle Hotel and venturing farther east on your way to Tokaj , an area known for its sweet azsu wines.

Tatra Mountains, Slovakia

If steep prices have shut you out of the Alps or Dolomites this ski season, consider the less-trammeled slopes of Slovakia’s Tatra Mountains, in the Carpathian range. True, it will never rival the glitzy boltholes of Gstaad or Megève, but Jasna , a small resort in the Low Tatras, features modern lifts, well-groomed terrain, and 26 miles of trails fringed with snow-capped pines, not to mention open runs free of gaggles of tourists. You’ll find something closer to the Tyrolean ideal at Grandhotel Kempinski , in the Stary Smokovec section of the High Tatras. Visitors who prefer the summer months have their run of alpine meadows, caves, and ancient pine forests in four of Slovakia’s nine national parks.

This article originally appeared on Jetsetter.com

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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 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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Cluj-Napoca

Eastern Europe
Places/Travel

Most Beautiful Cities in Eastern Europe to Visit

Posted on April 25, 2021 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on December 11, 2023

Eastern European countries are often overlooked by tourists for more popular European destinations and they are missing some of the best destinations in Europe and some of its prettiest cities.

Filled with history, culture, and gorgeous sights, Eastern Europe is full of hidden gems. Travel bloggers share their favorite cities to visit during a trip to Europe, from sunny destinations to small towns lost in the mountains and everything in between. Get ready to add to your bucket list and discover epic European cities with our top 20 of the most beautiful cities in eastern Europe.

Travel tip – Before any international travel, make sure you have good travel insurance .

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Split – Croatia

By Jürgen & Martina from Places of Juma

One of the prettiest towns ever is the breathtaking beautiful harbor town Split in Croatia . Why? First of all, Split is rich in cultural and historical heritage, has countless impressive attractions and places to discover. There are lots of opportunities for exciting activities and unforgettable excursions.

One of the highlights here is definitely Split Old Town , which insiders often refer to as one of the most beautiful towns in Croatia. In any case, don`t miss the Diocletian’s Palace , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Split’s main attraction. Another must-see in Split is the picturesque harbor promenade , also called the Riva, and the impressive Cathedral of Saint Domnius in the center.

But that’s not all! Split is also one of the sunniest places in Croatia. Perfect for all who love to soak up in the sun, relax on the beach and get some nice tan! Located in the Adriatic Sea, most of them are pebble beaches, with crystal-clear water and surrounded by fragrant pine forests.

If you want to treat yourself, check out Murum Heritage Hotel , one of the top-rated hotels in Split, offering charming rooms in a historic building, right in the heart of the Old Town. For a more affordable option, check out Golden Gate Dream Rooms.

Šibenik, Croatia

By Lindsey from The Purposely Lost

Located on a small peninsula surrounded by a natural harbor, Šibenik, Croatia, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It’s considered the oldest Croatian city and the third-largest in the country. The city is easily accessible from other major cities using the country’s bus or train system.

With its charming, historic architecture and beautiful scenery, there are many things to do in Šibenik . You’ll find many twisting streets and staircases among the old buildings when you walk through the Old Town. The city center is known as the Square of the Republic of Croatia, and this is where you’ll find many of the historic civic buildings; vehicles are not permitted.

Šibenik also has a beautiful coastline Riva that you can walk along. Once you reach the end, you’ll find the city’s public beach. But the best views of the city are from one of the fortresses. Šibenik has three important fortresses–two above the city on the hillside and one floating out in the harbor. All are open to the public to visit, and you’ll find exceptional landscapes of the city from every angle.

For places to stay, check out the Heritage Hotel Life Palace or the Xboutique , both located in the old town.

Tbilisi – Georgia

By Megan from Packing Up The Pieces

Tbilisi, Georgia is one of Europe’s prettiest cities with a unique fusion of East meets West. Tbilisi offers a wide range of unique activities for any type of traveler . Get lost along the charming cobblestone streets of Old Town, soak in a traditional sulfur bath, browse a flea market for old Soviet relics, step back in time in an Orthodox Church, or participate in a “supra” by eating incredible authentic dishes and sipping on wine with the locals.

One of the best areas to stay in Tbilisi is across the Mtkvari River in the hip Fabrika Hostel . This building was previously an old sewing factory. Now, this neighborhood houses funky street art, hip eateries, coffeehouses, and lovely river views.

From Tbilisi, there’s a wide range of day trips to go on like visiting the famous Kakheti wine region, or exploring the old capital city of Mtskheta. Head north along the Georgian Military Highway to the mountain town of Kazbegi to gaze upon the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church. There are a handful of worthwhile and eclectic pit-stops along the way.

During any time of the year, there is something to do in the lively city of Tbilisi. Outdoor enthusiasts should plan to visit Tbilisi towards the end of spring into the early fall. The diverse mountains of the Caucasus region are a hiker’s delight and are easy to reach from Tbilisi via public transportation.

Bratislava – Slovakia

By Rachel from Average Lives

Bratislava is the vibrant capital of Slovakia, and although it has a small population and is not as famous as its neighbors, it is full of exciting things to do.

The Old Town is inviting and charming and is the perfect place to begin your exploration of the city. The narrow and cobbled streets, the famous statues, and Roland’s Fountain are the highlights. One thing that you will love about Bratislava is the Blue Church because of the contrast with the Soviet architecture that surrounds it.

Overlooking the city is the grand Bratislava Castle , with its fabulous grounds and gardens. It is also where you will find one of the best views overlooking the city. You can head to the UFO on the SNP Bridge to take in the spectacular views. Other exciting things to do are walking along the Danube, visiting the Grassalkovich Palace , and discovering the 14 war bunkers.

Bratislava is a year-round destination, and you will have a unique experience depending on what time of year you visit. Summer temperatures can reach over 30°C, whereas, in winter, the temperature can go below -5°C. The bonus of winter is that you can experience the Bratislava Christmas Markets . It is a tradition that goes back to the Middle Ages and will make your trip to Bratislava memorable.

Kiev, Ukraine

By Suzanne from Meandering Wild

Kiev, or Kyiv as it is known locally, is the capital of Ukraine and can be reached with direct flights from most European cities. The airport is a short taxi ride from the city center, but once there, the whole city can be explored on foot.

Kiev is best known for its stunning churches and cathedrals which are seen across the city. The most prominent is the green and white St Andrew’s church that is on the hill overlooking the city. Behind this is the UNESCO-listed Saint Sophia Cathedral which has a pretty blue bell tower and the stunning and ornate cathedral behind.

A little further out of the center of the city is the Pechersk Lavra , a monastery that was formed in 1051 in caves dug by the original monks. This beautiful monastery is close to the Motherland Monument , a huge metal structure that is part of the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War . From here, there are far-reaching views across the city.

A visit to Kiev would not be complete without taking time to understand the Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster that occurred outside the city in 1986. There is a small museum in the city or day trips are possible to visit the exclusion zone and understand the impact on the local people.

The Staro hotel in the historic Podil district is a nice alternative to big chain hotels and is close to local restaurants.

Tallinn – Estonia

By Daniel and Ilona from Top Travel Sights

With its medieval Old Town, Tallinn is one of the prettiest cities you can visit in Eastern Europe. Here, you can easily spend a day or two walking through the city center and exploring the cobble-stone alleys.

St Catherine’s Passage is especially beautiful, with its many arches above the road. Handicraft workshops line the street, and you can go inside to watch the artist at work.

One of the best things to do in Tallinn is to walk up to Toompea Hill . From here, you have an excellent view of the red roofs of the Old Town, and on clear days you can even see the Baltic Sea.

Up on Toompea Hill, you will also find Alexander Nevsky Cathedral , one of the most beautiful churches in Tallinn.

If you want to visit any of the medieval houses, head to the Great Guild Hall . Inside, you can explore the Estonian History Museum and learn more about the history of both Tallinn and Estonia.

You can visit Tallinn at any time of the year. Summer is lovely, and you will be able to sit outside in one of the many cafes. But Tallinn is also worth a visit in winter when snow covers the red roofs, and you can experience Christmas cheer at the Christmas market.

For visiting Tallinn, you should stay at Romeo Family Uus Apartments . These apartments are comfortable and well-equipped and located right in the Old Town.

Budapest – Hungary

By Or from My Path in the World

It’s no wonder why so many people think that Budapest is one of the prettiest cities in Eastern Europe. It’s not just the landmarks that are impressive but each and every ordinary residential building with its unique architectural features makes you want to stop and admire it.

Not only is this city budget-friendly, but you can visit it throughout the year. In spring and summer, you’ll enjoy some amazing festivals, in fall, the foliage will win you over, and in winter, the magic arrives with all the Christmas markets and decorated streets.

You can easily spend a week (or even more) in this city because it has so much to offer, but if you only have 3-4 days in Budapest , there are quite a few places that you have to visit. These include the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, the Jewish Quarter, and the Hungarian National Museum.

Other fun things to do in Budapest are taking unique walking tours (like street art or Jewish heritage tours), devouring some delicious Hungarian cakes at the city’s cutest cafes, having a picnic on Margaret Island , watching the sunset from Gellért Hill , relaxing a thermal bath , and taking day trips to the nearby towns of Szentendre and Esztergom .

Piran – Slovenia

From Dean and Laynni at Routinely Nomadic

There are many beautiful coastal cities in Eastern Europe but few are as visually dramatic as lovely little Piran , located on the Mediterranean Gulf of Trieste. Slovenia has just 47 kilometers of coastline but takes full advantage in this classic Venetian city with its photogenic red-roofed architecture, impressive Bell Tower, and wonderful Church of St. George .

Tartini Square is a delight, lined with fabulous restaurants featuring exceptional views of the working fishing vessels in the harbor. You can explore inside both the Bell Tower and church.

There are several beaches within easy walking distance of the center of town, some good hiking trails, and endless opportunities to wander among the narrow alleys of the Old Town. And, of course, every visitor to Piran should climb up the Walls of Piran (a true bargain at just €2) to enjoy some spectacular, panoramic views.

Piran is lovely any time of year but really comes alive in summer when families flock to the beaches and everyone enjoys lazy strolls along the scenic promenade. Located just 1.5 hours from Ljubljana by car (and just 40 minutes from Trieste, Italy), Piran is an essential stop on any Slovenian holiday.

Bled – Slovenia

By Tom & Zi from Craving Adventure

Bled is a tiny mountain village hugging an alpine lake, nestled away in the Slovenian Alps, and while you might never have heard of the village before, you’ve definitely seen pictures of the lake. In the middle of this mesmerizingly blue lake sits a tiny island with a shiny white church on top. To complete the fairy-tale picture, there is a castle perched upon the rock high above the lake watching over all of this jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery.

The best things to do in Bled are to take a traditional Pletna boat to the island in the lake, to go for a stroll around the lake, to visit the castle, and to walk up to one of the viewpoints overlooking the valley and the lake.

Bled is a 40-minute drive (50 kilometers) from Slovenia’s capital city Ljubljana, and Bled can also be reached by bus or train. If you’re looking to stay overnight (which you should!) then have a look at Vila Bled . This beautiful villa is located right on the shore of the lake. It used to be former president Tito’s summer residence and it is the epitome of luxury.

Ljubljana – Slovenia

Most Beautiful Cities in Eastern Europe to Visit

By Tjaša from The Travel Momento

The dragon city is the capital of a small central European country called Slovenia. Its lively atmosphere and charm have placed it among the most popular European destinations year-round.

The most popular months are from April to mid-September, with the peak time during the summer when the temperatures can get over 30°C.

The best way to start exploring the city is at its main square, Prešeren Square . Named after the most famous Slovene poet, it features a monument in his honor and magnificent buildings. Here is where locals meet and enjoy the lively atmosphere alongside the river. Crossing it, you would step into one of the iconic bridges divided into three bridges. Tromostovje , as it’s called, was designed by legendary architect Jože Plenik.

Further into the old town, you can admire the Town Hall , the famous place for concerts Križanke , Kongresni square featuring the Slovenian Philharmonic, the University of Ljubljana , and Ursuline Church .

Everywhere you go, you will be surrounded by the 900-year-old castle on the hill, offering magnificent views over Ljubljana. Climb up or take a cable car to surprise yourself with a combo of coffee, sun, and the views. Once back down, you can explore art in the National Gallery or at the Modern Gallery , watch a performance at SNG opera and ballet or relax in central Tivoli park.

For all shopaholics, the city won’t disappoint you. From big shopping malls to local boutiques, it has you covered.

When visiting Ljubljana for a weekend or longer, you can stay in one of many hotels within walking distance from the old town (luxury: Intercontinental, Antiq Palace Hotel ; moderate price: Hotel Slon , Hotel Park , Hotel Cubo ; budget: Celica Hostel ).

Prague – Czech Republic

By Veronika from Travel Geekery

Prague is just THE most charming city in the world. You’ve surely seen images of the picture-perfect Prague Castle with the magnificent medieval Charles Bridge leading up to it. Prague’s nickname – the city of a hundred spires – only confirms its beauty.

Any first visit to Prague should include plenty of sightseeing. The whole historical center is extremely picturesque and inviting for a stroll any time of day. The Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, the Old Town Square with the Astronomical Clock are only a few of the top sights unique to Prague that shouldn’t be missed.

Prague can be visited any time of the year – it’s beautiful year-round. In summer there’s usually a swarm of tourists. Prague winter can be especially charming, especially leading up to Christmas. If you prefer smaller crowds and don’t mind the weather, November, January or February are great months to visit.

As for hotels, e.g. the Mosaic House is a great place to stay offering a wide range of rooms – from shared hostel-like ones to luxury apartments, one can find anything. Plus, the vibe is always great.

Telč – Czech Republic

By Adriana from Czech the World

Telč is a small fairytale-like town in the Vysočina region. Telč’s main square is part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites and it is one of the beautiful places to visit in the Czech Republic . Imagine colorful historic houses with high gables and arcades build in a Renaissance and Baroque style where you can find lovely cafes, galleries, or little shops.

Don’t forget to visit the 17th-century Renaissance château with an English-style park, one of the gems of Moravian Renaissance architecture. The château‘s façade is decorated with beautiful sgraffito technique, which can be found also on other buildings in town. In general, houses and buildings in Telč are characterized by a diversity of decorative elements.

Besides the romantic walks around the historical center, there are other activities you can do in your free time like cycling, rope courses, nearby steam mill, technical museum, reconstructed Telč underground, and more .

The most popular time to visit Telč is in the summer months when the weather is nice, but Telč can be visited at any time of the year.

You can stay in of the lovely historical houses at the main square, at the Chornitzeruv dum . The easiest way to get to Telč from Prague is by train or bus (you can look up the fastest connection at idos.cz ).

Related article – The best destinations in Europe for couples

Sibiu – Romania

By Jade from Traveling Transylvania

No European city contains quite the same charm as Sibiu, Romania. Sibiu is arguably the prettiest city in the region of Transylvania, boasting cotton candy-hued buildings, green parks, and secret stair passages, all set against the backdrop of the Carpathian Mountains.

Sibiu was the European Capital of Culture in 2007, with good reason. There are beautiful places to explore and many things to do in Sibiu .

The city’s Old Town consists of three main squares, each interconnected by hidden tunnels and cobbled streets. The Old Town is home to museums, boutiques, restaurants, and a large sprinkler system that children can play in during the warmer months. Head to Astra for an amazing outdoor ethnographic museum experience.

If you’re visiting Sibiu in the winter, there are plenty of ski resort options in the vicinity. The spring and summer provide lovely weather for hiking.

The food in Sibiu is exceptional, and reasonably priced. Try sarmale de post (vegan-friendly cabbage rolls, Romania’s national dish). At the year-round outdoor terraces, you can take in the fairytale beauty that is this magical Transylvanian city.

There are a number of hotels and hostels available, the most iconic being the Imparatul Romanilor Hotel, with rooms starting around $35 per night.

Sibiu has an International airport – alternatively, you could take the 5-hour bus or train from Bucharest. Or, set out on a long(ish) rail adventure and embark on the 10-hour train from Budapest.

Brasov – Romania

By Sean from Living Out Lau

No list of the prettiest Eastern European cities would be complete without a mention of Brasov, a historic Transylvanian city , filled with charming cobblestone streets, quaint buildings, and friendly locals.

Its historic center sees some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces such as the Black Church and Centru Vechi . However, what separates Brasov from any ordinary pretty city in Europe is the nature that dots this small idyllic city. In the middle of the city is Mount Tampa, a 960-meter tall peak that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and offers 360-views of the surrounding landscapes.

Located closely to this Romanian city are many of the country’s best attractions, such as the famous Bran Castle where the tales of Dracula originates from, the Transfagarasan Highway (deemed as the best driving road in the world), and Peles Castle (one of the most extravagant castles in Europe).

The best time to visit Brasov is the summer, but visitors must book everything in advance because of the summer crowds. Autumn and spring are also decent times to visit but might be too cold for some visitors.

Kaunas – Lithuania

By Jakub from Tymrazem

When thinking about traveling to Lithuania, most people will think of Vilnius. The country’s capital offers a lot to tourists, but what about visiting the previous one? Kaunas has lost its status as the capital of the country but hasn’t lost its charm!

Kaunas is a city located near the Nemunas and the Neris river. It’s not a touristic city but it definitely is a destination worth visiting. The city itself has a lot to offer, and its surroundings are also full of beautiful places.

Once you are there, head to the tourist information center – the staff is very nice and useful.

If you are interested in the interwar modernism style, you’ll love the city, with beautiful buildings waiting for you at every step! You can also visit a couple of museums like the Museum of Devils, Pharmacy, or the museum of Folk Instruments. Make sure to visit the market square and take a long promenade there, exploring the stalls and doing some shopping. Sugihara’s House and its amazing history are also worth experiencing.

The city is also known for its colorful street art you’ll find at every corner.

Kaunas is also a perfect place for foodies! You will surely find something for yourself among the huge number of restaurants. Be sure to try the local cuisine! If you like tasting high-proof alcohol, be sure to plan time for a visit to the Stumbras Museum . The company produces many types of vodka which you can try on-site.

Kaunas is a good place for a weekend trip, you can plan to spend two days there and expect to see all the sights. Hotel Kaunas is a nice hotel to stay at, right in the city center.

St Petersburg – Russia

By Anna de Nord from Travel Cultura

St Petersburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Russia. Millions of tourists from all over the world come to St Petersburg each year. So why is the city so attractive?

St Petersburg is famous for its historical heritage and multiple cultural events. You might want to visit palaces where Russian emperors lived. Do not miss the Winter Palace (which is now the Hermitage Museum), Catherine Palace with the world-famous Amber Room, and the palace and the parks in Peterhof.

If you come to St Petersburg in summer, you will surely be fascinated by the White nights. It is the period when the night lasts only for a few hours. You can go outside at 9 p.m and see the sun shining.

The White nights are great for romantic walks along the embankments of the Neva River . There is also another option to discover St Petersburg — a boat tour on rivers and canals . It is so pleasant to explore the city while relaxing on a comfortable boat and sipping coffee!

Summer is the best time to visit St Petersburg for all those who love outdoor activities. However, you won’t be disappointed if you come to celebrate New Year in the city. Besides, the city’s attractions, theatres, and museums are less crowded in winter.

While in St Petersburg, do not skip local restaurants and cafés. There are plenty of them on Nevsky Prospect , the main street of the city.

Ohrid – Macedonia

By Kami from My Wanderlust

Ohrid, North Macedonia, is one of the most charming and beautiful towns you will find not only in the Balkans but in Europe. Located on the shore of Lake Ohrid, this is a perfect place to visit whether you are looking for a cultural, relaxing, or active holiday.

With its history dating back to ancient times, you can expect to find numerous centuries-old monuments in the town. Ohrid is known for its numerous churches and it is said that there used to be 365 churches in the town, one for each day of the year. Today the most popular one is the Church of Saint John at Kaneo , standing at the edge of the high cliff above the lake – you can’t leave Ohrid without taking picture of this iconic spot.

But there are more things to do in Ohrid ! Wander around the charming old town and admire the typical architecture of the region, shop at the bazaar, go for a boat cruise on the lake or simply relax in the beautiful surrounding.

If you get hungry there are many restaurants serving local food – Macedonia has some great vegetarian dishes to try, like tavce gravce (baked beans).

Gdansk – Poland

By Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers

One of the most underrated and stunning cities in Europe is the Polish city of Gdansk. But its beauty doesn’t come without a dark and dramatic history. The city was ground zero for the second World War and most of the old town has been rebuilt from scratch to resemble the original city. And they did an amazing job! The charming pastel houses line up the streets hiding historical museums with important artifacts.

For the best views of Gdansk, climb the tower of the Town Hall . One of the most memorable things to do in Gdansk is to take a pirate ship aka tall ship through the Motlawa River to Westerplatte where the first shots were shot during the war. Visit the Museum of the Second World War and if you haven’t visited a concentration camp, you should take the trip to Stutthof Concentration Camp . An extremely strong experience, but it also gives an understanding of the horrors that the Second World War actually was.

Gdansk is easy to get to by plane from other European countries but is also easily accessible by train and bus as one of the bigger cities in Poland. Craft Beer Central Hotel is a great place to stay in the heart of the city for a mid-range budget.

Warsaw – Poland

Ljubljana one of the most beautiful cities in Europe

By Charu from Travel With CG

Warsaw, the capital and the largest city of Poland, is easily one of the prettiest places to see in Eastern Europe. Home to Instagrammable buildings, royal palaces, expanding public gardens, and chic cafes; there is a lot that you can see and do when visiting this Eastern European gem.

One of the must-do things to do while traveling to Warsaw is to take part in a f ree walking tour of the city’s historic Old Town . Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is an area that has seen a lot through history and risen above it. You can find museums of different kinds, charming cafes, and a beautiful market square situated on the cobbled streets here.

Not to forget, the entire Old Town of Warsaw is one of the most colorful places in the city. You can wander around its photogenic alleyways to discover charming sights or even go up the viewing terrace of St. Anne’s church for an incredible bird’s eye perspective.

The best time to discover this underrated destination in Europe is summer . The period between June to August experiences beautiful weather with infrequent rainfall. But if you are looking to avoid peak tourist season in Warsaw, then the months of September and October are also great, with beautiful autumn colors appearing all around.

Like it? Save it for later – Most Beautiful Cities in Eastern Europe:

13 Must Visit Destinations In Eastern Europe

Exploring Europe is a rite of passage for most students and under 35’s; however, all too often, many travellers end up hopping between major hubs such as London, Paris and Rome to name just a few.

For many, the thought of Eastern Europe conjures up images of war-torn and dangerous cities with inhospitable residents; instead, what you’ll find, are idyllic coastlines, picturesque mountains, captivating architecture, a buzzing nightlife and exceptionally warm and welcoming locals who are proud to show off their local cities and culture.

When you visit some of the Eastern Europe destinations below, you’ll discover fascinating cities with just as much grandeur as their Western European counterparts – and at a fraction of the cost!

1. Split, Croatia

Split is one of Croatia’s largest and most vibrant cities. The city centre is shaped by the beautiful Diocletian’s Palace. Unlike Roman ruins in other parts of Europe, this roman fortress isn’t so much a tourist attraction as it is an integral part of the town centre. You can visit Split on Sail Croatia’s Navigator Cruises .

2. Kravice, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Welcome to one of Bosnia’s secret paradise spots! Spectacular waterfalls cascade into a natural plunge pool, perfect for a refreshing dip. Kravice is a great introduction to the natural beauty of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

3. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar, with its famous arched stone bridge and Turkish Old Town, is a unique melting pot of cultures and traditions. Explore the local shops and hit the nightlife, including the Ali Baba’s cavern club!

4. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Photo credit: Mountain Leon

The capital of Bosnia-Herzegovina and the home of the 1984 Winter Olympics, Sarajevo has much to take in. Discover the city’s poignant history, from the start of World War One to the horrors of the Balkan War. Explore the market places of the Turkish Quarter, as well as the unique Sarajevo nightlife of this vibrant and friendly city.

5. Belgrade, Serbia

The largest city in Serbia, Belgrade boasts a blend of culture, history and great nightlife. Stroll through the shops of Knez Mihailova, explore the Kalemegdan Citadel and party on the amazing ‘floating clubs’ on the Danube river!

6. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the capital of Hungary and is famous for its nightlife, cuisine and hot springs. Party at the Széchenyi Baths, check out the hip ‘ruins bars’ and sample the goulash in this vibrant city.

7. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

View this post on Instagram Czechia // Courtesy of @vetrana #instravel . . . . . #travel #ceskykrumlov #castle #czechia #czechrepublic #travelphotography #explore #beautifuldestinations A post shared by ✈️Travel 🌅 Holiday 🌍 Explore (@instravel) on Oct 17, 2019 at 9:28am PDT

Explore the city on our walking tour as we climb up Krumlov’s unusually large Castle to give you an overview of the town. The entrance to the castle even has bears below! Indulge in a cup of tea or two in one of the many tea houses famous here, then finish the night off with a beer or three and enjoy some Czech hospitality at the beer house.

8. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled is a popular tourist destination in northwestern Slovenia. Take a boat ride to the church on the island and don’t miss Bled Castle, perched high above the lake.

9. Prague, Czech Republic

View this post on Instagram Charles Bridge by night 💙 . . Photo by @bryanlimy . . #prague #instaprague #pragueworld #wonderful_prague #TopPraguePhoto #VisitCzechRepublic #visitcz #europe_vacations #map_of_europe #TopEuropePhoto #living_europe #stayandwander #earthfocus #streets_vision #travelanddestinations #bestcitybreaks #ig_europe #youmustsee #dfds A post shared by DFDS UK (@dfdsuk) on Oct 27, 2019 at 1:00pm PDT

The romantic city of Prague is a must visit. Stroll through the streets of the old town and explore some of the best culture and cuisine that Czech has to offer.

10. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Plitvice is the prize jewel in Croatia’s impressive array of National Parks and is rated one of the top natural attractions in Europe. With its turquoise lakes – all linked by a series of beautiful cascades and waterfalls – it’s easy to understand why.

11. Kotor, Montenegro

This historically rich town was first mentioned in 168BC and has been ruled under several different empires in its time. Climb up approximately 1350 stairs to Kotor’s Castle of San Giovanni (Castle of St John) and see the beautiful view of Kotor and it’s waterside surroundings.

12. Kalambaka, Greece

Tour one of the cliff-top monasteries and hike around to one of the hundreds of beautiful viewpoints. This area is truly spectacular as you feel as though you stepped back in time to prehistoric ages! Explore the quaint village of Kalambaka tucked just underneath the six monasteries of Meteora.

13. Salzburg, Austria

View this post on Instagram On the #makartsteg #bridge looking over towards #hohensalzburg #fortress #lovelocks #love #padlock #hohensalzburgcastle #castle #view #visitsalzburg #visitaustria #austria #europe #traveleurope #travel #tourist #tourism #traveller #travelphotography #holiday #travelblogger #traveling #traveltheworld #salzach #river #salzachriver #iloveyou #ichliebedich #salzburg A post shared by Fiona Cuthill (@fionafiddler) on Oct 25, 2019 at 9:02am PDT

Salzburg – home of the once great Mozart and the filming location of ‘The Sound of Music’, the hills will truly come alive as you explore this beautiful Austrian city. Go to the Hohensalzburg Castle, one of the biggest castles in Europe sitting ontop of a hill overlooking the old town.

Like what you see? Head over to the Our Tours page to see the tours we offer.

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7 of the best destinations in Eastern Europe for an affordable city break

Here are the region’s top budget cities, where you’ll find culture, romance and beautiful old towns for less, article bookmarked.

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The skylines of Eastern Europe are filled with Gothic and Baroque architecture

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Planning a European city break on a budget? It’s time to bypass the big hitters like Paris , Rome and Copenhagen in the west – your money stretches further in the cities of the east.

This fact might not be a new one, but as prices hike in the most beloved urban hubs, consistently low costs for transport, accommodation and meals in eastern destinations mean thrifty travellers should be taking short stays across the Balkans and Baltics more seriously.

With buzzing nightlife scenes, Soviet echoes in the fortified old towns and traditional–meets–modern restaurants serving regional delicacies, cost-effective cultural endeavours scatter the streets and there’s even the option for travel by climate-conscious sleeper trains.

From Bucharest to Belgrade, these cities are rich in sightseeing, history and active pursuits in every season. Here are some of Eastern Europe’s most affordable capitals for a cheap city break.

Bucharest, Romania

In the pre-communist era, the Romania ’s capital was hailed as the ‘Paris of the East’ for its romantic French architecture, and bargain Bucharest certainly offers a different side of Romania than Transylvania’s verdant vampire valleys. Explore the old town, a hub of dining and energetic nightlife complete with busts of Vlad the Impaler, take in the sheer scale of the mammoth Palace of the Parliament – one of the largest buildings in the world – and attend orthodox mass complete with an acapella choir at the Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral to see Bucharest at its best.

To truly soak in the city, Europe’s biggest spa Therme also welcomes visitors for the ultimate budget spa break – picture everything from themed saunas to clay mask and scrub rituals. A one-day pass with access to all areas costs just £29 between Monday to Thursday, and is well worth the pennies.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia, the spirited Bulgarian capital, makes for an economical city break – and it’s best explored on foot. Amid relics of the Communist era, including the green-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, red-brick Ottoman mosques and broad avenues, the Balkan nation has outstanding value for all things sightseeing and even skiing. The nearby peaks of Vitosha, rising to almost 2,300m, have been developed for bargain ski weekends on the slopes in winter and hiking holidays come spring.

With impressive prices on rakia , a type of traditional, homemade fruit brandy, in underground drinking dens built for cheap boozing and affordable accommodation even within the central maze of museums and galleries, the palatable capital is practically built for long weekends. The icing on the cake? Sofia is a great base for exploring the cultural treasure of Boyana and the ornate murals of the Unesco-listed Boyana Church.

Belgrade, Serbia

With a rough charm, bohemian quarters and a Habsburg influence, Belgrade , the Serbian capital, stands where the Danube meets the Sava River. Kalemegdan fortress and park is the historical heart of the city – think restaurants, museums, towers and gates from the Ottoman period – and the neo-Byzantine domes of Sveti Sava temple and art nouveau architecture dominate the Belgrade skyline.

Stari Grad old town is largely pedestrianised and it’s not hard to find budget bites in the grilled meat classics including roast suckling pig and Balkan-style burgers. Summertime in Usce brings pleasure boats to the Sava, Belgrade Beer Festival to the floating bars and restaurants known as splavovi and a huge Book Fair flips through the region in October. Head to the Hasburg suburb of Zemun for swimming pontoons, Austrian-style church spires and ochre cottages or climb to the top of Gardos Tower for Danbue views.

Zagreb, Croatia

An underrated, compact city with early 20th-century grandeur – Croatia ’s capital, Zagreb . Sat beneath Mount Medvednica, the upper town, Gornji Grad, is a maze of medieval cobbles spanning the two hills of Kaptol and Gradec accessible via a 66m funicular. If architecture’s your thing, the 108m twin spires of the Gothic Zagreb Cathedral, Lotrščak Tower, where the Gric cannon fires every day at noon, and the mustard Croatian National Theatre, host of ballet, opera and theatre performances, are sure to delight.

Eccentric exhibits fill the Museum of Illusions, Mushroom Museum and the Museum of Broken Relationships while cheap boutiques, bars and restaurants dot Tkalčića Street and the famous Trznica Dolac farmers market is a hit for traditional treats. A trio of leafy parks nicknamed the Green Horseshoe and Lake Jarun south of the city are ideal for kicking back and cooling off for free in summer. Come at Christmas for Zagreb’s celebrated Advent market or indulge in the café culture of Zagreb’s lively districts for the ultimate caffeine fix.

Budapest, Hungary

The Hungarian capital has a recognised value for money when bedding down on a budget. Culturally quirky Budapest is a rainbow of pompous architectural splendours, grand concert halls and laid-back ‘ruin’ bars - derelict buildings turned hip aperitif haunts. With the crowded skyline of Pest to the east and romantic Buda castle district to the west, bridges crossing the River Danube – a dream for a boozy boat trip past the lit-up parliament (Orszghaz) – link the two.

Travel for cheap on trundling trams between the Royal Palace, home to the Hungarian National Gallery, mass at the neo-Gothic 13th century Matthias Church and Dohány Street Synagogue, Europe’s largest synagogue. The Budapest Card offers 48 hours of free public transport, guided walking tours, admission to St. Lukács Thermal Bath and free entry to the Pálinka Experience Museum from €49 (£42). Hungry for Hungarian dishes? There is affordable chicken paprikash, some serious schnitzel and sausage, or even bread and beer picnics on Margaret Island.

Gdansk, Poland

A gem on Poland ’s Baltic Coast, Gdansk should be as popular with international tourists as it is with domestic holidaymakers. The destination – alongside spa-scattered Sopot and Gdynia – is primed for visitors, with its golden-gated old town and marvellous marina. Buzzy cafe nightlife with extensive craft beer menus thrives in the tavernas ofUlica Piwna‘Beer Street’, and waterfront foodie tours feature fresh cod, pierogi dumplings and soup in bread bowls; something to look forward to after days shopping for amber jewellery from artisan shops on the Dluga main street.

The historic birthplace of the anti-communist Solidarity movement also has an unmissable Museum of the Second World War (the opening shots were fired here) and, with its own Globe Shakespeare Theatre, cost-effective culture is plenty.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn , the Estonian capital, with its preserved medieval centre and Soviet legacy is much more than a pocket-sized Prague and often, a far better price. With a palette of pastel cafes, the cheap city is a digital nomad hotspot come rain or shine, and active pursuits are in no short supply when a screen break is needed, from surfing off Pirita Beach to hiking the Jagala Waterfall.

Fortified inner city Toompea and Unesco-listed delights (including a Baroque palace, Lutheran spires and the onion domes of the orthodox Nevsky Cathedral) contribute to Tallinn’s fairy tale image. Head atop the city’s walls for the best panoramas and deploy a 48-hour ‘Tallinn Card’ to see all the main sights and museums for just €63 (£54). Aside from its historical pedigree, the buzzing student village Kalamaja is the place to go for delicious meals, and the Kalma Saun offers an authentic Baltic sauna experience for some Estonian relaxation.

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World Wild Schooling

12 Least Safe European Cities for US Travelers

Posted: April 28, 2024 | Last updated: April 28, 2024

<p>Although consistently ranked as the safest continent for tourists, Europe still experiences criminal activities, many of which are targeted against tourists. From petty crimes and scams to violent attacks, it is always safe to be extremely alert when traveling to these 12 European cities.</p>

Although consistently ranked as the safest continent for tourists, Europe still experiences criminal activities, many of which are targeted against tourists. From petty crimes and scams to violent attacks, it is always safe to be extremely alert when traveling to these 12 European cities.

<p><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/things-to-do-in-barcelona/">Barcelona</a> is a loved destination for tourists from around the world. Unfortunately, being a tourist hotspot has also made it a hub for petty crimes. The city is known for pickpocketing and scams in tourist areas such as Las Ramblas and public transport.</p><p>Tourists must be vigilant lest they lose items like cards, phones, and other valuables. Also, you want to be on the watch out for the violent anti-tourism protests that occasionally happen in Barcelona.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/overrated-tourist-traps/">Tourist Traps to Avoid</a></p>

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a loved destination for tourists from around the world. Unfortunately, being a tourist hotspot has also made it a hub for petty crimes. The city is known for pickpocketing and scams in tourist areas such as Las Ramblas and public transport.

Tourists must be vigilant lest they lose items like cards, phones, and other valuables. Also, you want to be on the watch out for the violent anti-tourism protests that occasionally happen in Barcelona.

Rome, Italy

Rome is a bustling city, which makes it a center for petty crimes. Tourists should be wary of pickpockets, scammers, and unlicensed street vendors, especially around major attractions like the Colosseum, Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain.

Item and bag snatching is also common in Rome, so be sure to have a more secure grip when holding your valuables. Also, keep an eye on your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night or taking unlicensed taxi services, as your holiday could quickly become a nightmare.

Paris, France

Paris is not entirely about love and light; the city is also a hotbed of pickpocketing, especially around tourist hotspots such as the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and the Champs Elysees. Be wary of skilled scammers, too. The scams often start innocently as people asking you for directions or asking you to sign petitions, and yes, small children are actively involved in it.

To be safe, avoid talking to strangers. You may want to interact with locals, but what will likely happen is you will get distracted as an accomplice helps themselves to your valuables. Finally, be wary of popular Parisian demonstrations and sometimes violent protests.

Read also: Most Beautiful European Cities

<p>Like in other big cities in Western Europe, pickpocketing is common in Amsterdam, especially in busy areas such as the Dam Square and the Red Light District. Tourists are typically the target of such petty crimes; be on the watch. Also, if you are exploring by bicycle, you need to be a little more keen on securing it, as bike theft is also common.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/trendy-spots-in-europe/">Trendy Spots of Europe</a></p>

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Like in other big cities in Western Europe, pickpocketing is common in Amsterdam, especially in busy areas such as the Dam Square and the Red Light District. Tourists are typically the target of such petty crimes; be on the watch. Also, if you are exploring by bicycle, you need to be a little more keen on securing it, as bike theft is also common.

Naples, Italy

Naples is a hub for organized crime. The city is home to the Mafia group Camorra, which is known to set up organized criminal activities. Many smaller gangs under the Camorra umbrella occasionally break into the city. Such attacks always result in the loss of lives and property.

Besides, Naples’s unemployment rate is pretty high, making it easier for youngsters to be recruited into gangs or engage in petty crimes. You should also avoid leaving valuables in your car because they will likely get stolen. Lastly, avoid walking alone at night at all costs; you may get mugged or assaulted.

Read also: Retirement Destinations in Europe

<p>London has been ranked Europe’s second most vulnerable city for credit card fraud. 1 in 6 business travelers fall victim to credit card fraud; have your guard up when making any transactions in London.</p><p>Besides, there has been an increase in knife-related violence in London. Avoid being in shady neighborhoods, especially at night. One such neighborhood is East End, which is known for gang activities and drug dealing. For your safety, stay away from such areas.</p><p>Drink-spiking was recently reported to be at an “epidemic level” in the UK. While it is important never to leave your drinks unattended no matter your destination, your guards should be high up in London’s nightclubs.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/european-countries-with-nature/">European Countries Perfect for Nature Lovers</a></p>

London has been ranked Europe’s second most vulnerable city for credit card fraud. 1 in 6 business travelers fall victim to credit card fraud; have your guard up when making any transactions in London.

Besides, there has been an increase in knife-related violence in London. Avoid being in shady neighborhoods, especially at night. One such neighborhood is East End, which is known for gang activities and drug dealing. For your safety, stay away from such areas.

Drink-spiking was recently reported to be at an “epidemic level” in the UK. While it is important never to leave your drinks unattended no matter your destination, your guards should be high up in London’s nightclubs.

Read also: European Countries Perfect for Nature Lovers

<p>As difficult as this may sound, a recent study found Ireland to be Europe’s credit card fraud capital. The study found that 88 out of 1000 residents have been victims of credit card fraud and have actively sought ways to resolve it. When visiting, you want to steer clear of neighborhoods that experience higher crime rates, such as North Inner City, Sheriff Street, and certain parts of Ballymun and Finglas.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/european-cities-with-rich-cultural-heritage/">European Cities With Rich Cultural Heritage</a></p>

Ireland, Dublin

As difficult as this may sound, a recent study found Ireland to be Europe’s credit card fraud capital. The study found that 88 out of 1000 residents have been victims of credit card fraud and have actively sought ways to resolve it. When visiting, you want to steer clear of neighborhoods that experience higher crime rates, such as North Inner City, Sheriff Street, and certain parts of Ballymun and Finglas.

Read also: European Cities With Rich Cultural Heritage

<p>Always be on the lookout as you soak in the history and charm of the <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/athens/">Greek capital</a>. Pickpocketing and theft, especially in crowded tourist areas like the Acropolis and Monastiraki, are unfortunate realities you must be cautious about. You also want to avoid contact with strangers, such as those offering to help carry your luggage or offering you friendship bracelets.</p><p>Although uncommon, some tourists have been pickpocketed also in sketchy <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/where-to-stay-in-athens/">neighborhoods</a> such as Omonia and Victoria Square. Taxi scams are also common in Athens. Make sure that you ride with reputable companies to enhance your safety.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/hidden-gems-in-southern-europe/">Hidden Gems in Southern Europe</a></p>

Athens, Greece

Always be on the lookout as you soak in the history and charm of the Greek capital . Pickpocketing and theft, especially in crowded tourist areas like the Acropolis and Monastiraki, are unfortunate realities you must be cautious about. You also want to avoid contact with strangers, such as those offering to help carry your luggage or offering you friendship bracelets.

Although uncommon, some tourists have been pickpocketed also in sketchy neighborhoods such as Omonia and Victoria Square. Taxi scams are also common in Athens. Make sure that you ride with reputable companies to enhance your safety.

Read also: Hidden Gems in Southern Europe

<p>Mugging and theft risks are high in Istanbul. Many tourists have lost their passports in public or by leaving them in their hotel rooms. While it is a genuinely charming city to visit and experience, ensure your valuables are safely secured or by your side. </p><p>For a long time, Turkey has had political conflicts with the ethnic Kurds, which has fueled a lot of unrest and threats of attacks in the city. Besides, civil wars in neighboring Syria have been attributed to the rise of radical extremist groups in the city.</p><p>While there are many other safety concerns, it is essential to know that Istanbul is not the best for solo female travelers. There have been many cases of sexual assault, especially at night.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/european-cities-for-cherry-blossoms/">European Cities for Cherry Blossoms</a></p>

Istanbul, Turkey

Mugging and theft risks are high in Istanbul. Many tourists have lost their passports in public or by leaving them in their hotel rooms. While it is a genuinely charming city to visit and experience, ensure your valuables are safely secured or by your side.

For a long time, Turkey has had political conflicts with the ethnic Kurds, which has fueled a lot of unrest and threats of attacks in the city. Besides, civil wars in neighboring Syria have been attributed to the rise of radical extremist groups in the city.

While there are many other safety concerns, it is essential to know that Istanbul is not the best for solo female travelers. There have been many cases of sexual assault, especially at night.

Read also: European Cities for Cherry Blossoms

<p>Shkoder is a top tourist destination for its timeless beauty and for being the gateway to the charming Albania countryside. Unfortunately, the crime rates in the city are pretty bad. It has been listed as one of the most dangerous cities to live in and travel to. The city is known for human trafficking, drug smuggling, loan sharks, and extortion. Keep a keener eye on your drinks when out, as spiking is quite common in Shkoder.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/top-european-destinations-for-food-tour/">Foodie Destinations in Europe</a></p>

Shkodër, Albania

Shkoder is a top tourist destination for its timeless beauty and for being the gateway to the charming Albania countryside. Unfortunately, the crime rates in the city are pretty bad. It has been listed as one of the most dangerous cities to live in and travel to. The city is known for human trafficking, drug smuggling, loan sharks, and extortion. Keep a keener eye on your drinks when out, as spiking is quite common in Shkoder.

Read also: Foodie Destinations in Europe

<p>Marseille, the second-largest city in France and one of the must-visits in Southern France is known for increased violent gang crime and especially gun violence. Violence has been on the rise since the 1990s, and authorities have been attributing it to the sharp increase in the immigrant population and drug gangs in the city. The crime rates in Marseille have been rated to be five times higher than the national average.</p><p>Two drug gangs, “Yoda” and “DZ Mafia,” have been competing to get control of the drug market; with this, there have been cases of “killing to scare.” While Marseille has so much to offer tourists, avoiding the Northern districts, including the 16th, 5th, 14th, and 3rd arrondissements, is recommended. Law enforcement has been having trouble getting a writ in these parts of the city, which has increased homicide and gang violence.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/picturesque-european-countrysides/">Scenic European Countryside</a></p>

Marseille, France

Marseille, the second-largest city in France and one of the must-visits in Southern France is known for increased violent gang crime and especially gun violence. Violence has been on the rise since the 1990s, and authorities have been attributing it to the sharp increase in the immigrant population and drug gangs in the city. The crime rates in Marseille have been rated to be five times higher than the national average.

Two drug gangs, “Yoda” and “DZ Mafia,” have been competing to get control of the drug market; with this, there have been cases of “killing to scare.” While Marseille has so much to offer tourists, avoiding the Northern districts, including the 16th, 5th, 14th, and 3rd arrondissements, is recommended. Law enforcement has been having trouble getting a writ in these parts of the city, which has increased homicide and gang violence.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Tourism in Bulgaria has been on the rise, especially for budget travelers looking to enjoy pristine beaches and stunning landscapes. Despite having much to offer, criminal activities are rampant, with most happening in Sofia, the capital city.

The most common crimes to watch out for include ATM skimming, mugging, and car theft. When visiting, steer clear or be extra vigilant in Maria Louiza Boulevard, Vitosha Boulevard, Pirotska, and the areas around Halite; these have been known to be hotspots for petty crimes such as pickpocketing.

Read also: Gorgeous Small Towns in Europe

<p>This Kefalonia town is a flower-filled Greek delight. It’s enclosed by the azure waters of the Mediterranean on three sides and features a pretty pebble beach. Dipping into the local tavernas for a drink or to enjoy <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-traditional-greek-foods-to-try-in-greece/">delicious Greek food</a> is de rigueur, and Venetian-built Assos Castle is also well worth a look. It is also one of the most <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/landmarks-in-greece/">famous landmarks of Greece</a>.</p><p>Read also:</p><ul> <li><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-greek-islands-for-beaches/">Best Greek Islands for Beaches Ranked</a></li> <li><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-time-to-visit-greece-travel-tips-from-a-local/">Best Time to Visit Greece</a></li> <li><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/day-trips-from-athens/">Best Day Trips from Athens</a></li> </ul>

Stunning Small Towns in Europe to Visit in Your Lifetime

Add these charming European small towns to your bucket list.

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<p>While the Portuguese capital is popular, it doesn’t have visitor numbers as high as European cities like Paris, <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-things-to-do-in-rome/">Rome</a>, or <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/barcelona-with-kids/">Barcelona</a>. Head to hilly Lisbon by the sea for pastel-painted buildings, historic structures like majestic São Jorge Castle, and a museum packed with ceramic tiles. You’ll also find beautiful beaches outside the city, making them ideal day trip destinations.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read more: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/things-to-do-in-lisbon/">Best Things To Do in Lisbon</a></p>

Must-Visit European Cities for Your Bucket List

Turn your wanderlust into reality with our list of must-visit European cities .

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<p>Another of Italy’s best-kept secrets is Sirmione. This 13th-century fortress town sits by Lake Garda and is blessed by natural spa waters. It also boasts a magnificent castle, and wandering through the twisting, narrow lanes of the town is a pleasing pastime. </p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/underrated-places-in-the-mediterranean/">Underrated Places in the Mediterranean</a></p>

Hidden European Gems

Explore off-the-beaten-path gems in Europe for a truly authentic experience.

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<p>If you’re seeking cheap breaks, Eastern European cities offer some of the best bargains on the planet! Whether Spain, Greece, and Turkey appeal more, or you’d prefer to head to Bulgaria, Serbia, or Romania, here are the top places to expect to pay low prices. </p>

Best Budget-Friendly European Cities

Stretch your travel budget in these cost-effective European cities .

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<p>The charms of <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/europe/france/">France</a> are no secret, but you might not know that you can visit the country visa-free as an American. France is home to pristine beaches, freshly baked bread, and several historic buildings that are great for foreigners from abroad. Several vibrant orchards are waiting to be explored in Northern France.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/european-destinations-for-a-romantic-getaway/">Romantic European Destinations</a></p>

European Cities for a Spring Getaway

Make your spring unforgettable with these European city trips .

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<p>Colmar in the Alsace region resembles a village pulled from a dreamy fairy tale with its well-preserved medieval architecture, colorful half-timbered houses, wooden floral boxes, and flower-lined canals. This small town full of Alsatian allure is perfect for any history and art lover who would love to look deeper into medieval architecture, museums, and cultural landmarks. While Colmar already has more than enough for tourists to indulge in, do not miss the boat rides in the “Petite Venise” canals.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/must-visit-european-cities/">Must-Visit European Cities</a></p>

Small Towns Across the Globe That Are Straight Out of a Fairy Tale

Step into a world of beautiful small towns where cobblestone streets lead to timeless wonders.

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<p>Get off the beaten path by taking a trip to the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. Lovely villages and small towns, seemingly untouched by time, await. The bay by the Adriatic Sea is a UNESCO-listed area and is steeped in maritime heritage.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/underrated-places-in-the-mediterranean/">Underrated Places in the Mediterranean</a></p>

Unique Places for Your European Bucket List

Make your travel dreams come true with these wonderfully unique places in Europe .

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‘Kharkiv Is Unbreakable’: A Battered City Carries On

For residents of Ukraine’s second-largest city, daily Russian attacks have escalated fears but have not brought life to a standstill.

People walking past a damaged building in Kharkiv, Ukraine, a city under near-daily assault. Credit...

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By Marc Santora

Photographs by Tyler Hicks

Marc Santora and Tyler Hicks reported from Kharkiv, Ukraine, last week.

April 24, 2024

The espresso machine was warming up and Liliia Korneva was counting cash at the coffee shop in Kharkiv where she works when a powerful Russian bomb detonated nearby, sending up a deafening explosion and knocking her to the floor.

“I can’t describe in words how it felt, it was terrifying,” said Ms. Korneva, 20. She was not hurt, though the courtyard where the bomb fell was destroyed and a man riding a bicycle nearby was killed, according to city officials.

Just a day later, the cafe was open again. Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second largest city, is open for business, too, despite a sustained bombing campaign that is among the most devastating of the entire war and growing fears that Russia might launch a renewed offensive aimed at taking the city.

Russian attacks have destroyed all three major power stations, but residents continue to live and work with only a few, often unpredictable, hours of electricity each day. More than 100 schools have been damaged or destroyed but classes go on, deep underground in subway stations. Dozens of fire and paramedic stations have been blown up, putting first responders in daily jeopardy but failing to deter them from their jobs.

Two soldiers in camouflage with a silver pickup truck. One soldier is standing next to the truck with his arm resting on it. The other is standing on the open tailgate with a weapon trained on the skies.

“When a rocket hits, within three to four hours, all the glass is cleaned up, all the central roads are cleared,” said Andrii Dronov, the 39-year-old deputy chief of the Kharkiv Fire Department. “By morning, it looks like nothing happened and there were no explosions.”

As the attacks intensify, though, there are real questions about how much longer Kharkiv, 25 miles from the Russian border, can hold on without more robust air defenses. Since March, Russia has been bombarding it for the first time with one of the deadliest weapons in its arsenal: powerful guided bombs known as glide bombs, dropped from warplanes, that deliver hundreds of pounds of explosives in a single blast.

“It’s a strategy to intimidate people, a strategy to make people leave their homes, to make people evacuate,” Kharkiv’s mayor, Ihor Terekhov, said during a recent interview, conducted at a secret location since his office is a target. “It’s the destruction of the city itself.”

Since January, Ukrainian officials said, more missiles have struck Kharkiv, currently home to 1.3 million people, than at any time since the first months of the war. The Ukrainian authorities have ordered the mandatory evacuation of villages to the east of the city as violence along the border escalates.

Russia’s foreign minister, Sergey V. Lavrov, last week became the highest ranking Kremlin official to signal that Moscow has designs on seizing Kharkiv, saying it “plays an important role” in President Vladimir V. Putin’s stated desire to create a “sanitary zone” along the Russian border. Military analysts have noted a marked increase in military activity in the area.

It remains unknown if Russia is seriously considering an attack from the north. It may simply be trying to stretch Ukrainian troops by forcing them to bolster defenses along a new front in the north, while also seeking to stoke public panic in Kharkiv.

For city residents, the speculation only adds to the anxiety of living under daily bombardment. They watched on Monday as Russia struck the city’s main television tower with a missile in broad daylight, sending the top of the nearly 800-foot-tall main mast crashing to the ground in a cloud of dust and twisted metal.

But the major cause of alarm these days is the glide bombs, which are big bombs that Moscow has in abundance, outfitted with wings and guidance systems. The Russians have recently modified the bombs to fly more than 60 miles, putting Kharkiv and other population centers within range for the first time.

At least 15 guided bombs have targeted Kharkiv in the past three weeks, Ukrainian officials said.

Dwindling supplies of air defense weapons have made Ukrainian towns and cities more vulnerable in recent weeks, a situation Kyiv hopes will begin to be remedied by the $60 billion military assistance package that President Biden is expected to sign this week.

In the meantime, residents try to maintain a sense of order to cope with the chaos and uncertainty of war. The crater in the courtyard outside Ms. Korneva’s coffee shop, for instance, has been filled, shattered windows boarded up, splintered trees cut down and a playground repaired. She is making espressos again, albeit for fewer clients.

Last week, New York Times journalists traveled around the city with paramedics and firefighters, observing daily life and talking to residents and local officials. Widely ranging emotions were evident. There is no simple way to explain what it feels like to live every day with the threat of death, when a missile fired from Russia can strike anywhere in the city in less than a minute.

“No one knows if they will see the morning,” the mayor said. “But despite everything, we live, we work, and we love our city very much.”

There is no exodus from Kharkiv like that in the first weeks of the war, when artillery thundered day and night and the population — two million before the war — fell to 300,000. After the Russians were driven out of most of the Kharkiv region during Kyiv’s counteroffensive in the fall of 2022, more than one million people returned, local officials say.

“I felt a strong homesickness,” said Anna Ivanova, 19, a student who fled to Finland but returned after the Russians were driven back. “Here, I had my plans, dreams and aspirations.”

A rocket recently smashed into the house of her mother’s friend. Rather than flee, the friend moved in with her mother, and they have no plans to leave. “I’ll use a well-worn phrase,” Ms. Ivanova said. “Kharkiv is unbreakable, although people are visibly exhausted.”

Amil Nasirov, the 29-year-old lead singer of a popular band called Kurgan & Agregat, said, “It’s terrifying to live, to enjoy life.”

You hear the explosions at night, he said, then you look at what was hit in the light of day. “And you think, it’s nearby, not far from me, like 700-800 meters away,” he said, “and you think, ‘Wow, this is insane.’”

He had just attended a premiere of a new Ukrainian film — “Rock, Paper, Grenade,” a coming-of-age story in 1990s Ukraine — before a sold-out audience. The mall where the film was screened was ravaged by a missile strike in March 2022. Rebuilt and now powered by generators, it was bustling with families on a recent Sunday afternoon.

Aside from the wail of air alarms, which are constant and often ignored, it could have been any plaza in any peaceful European city.

“The most horrifying thing is that people get used to it,” Mr. Nasirov said. “Shelling starting from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. What is this? And why should we get used to it?”

The most extensive destruction remains in the northeastern neighborhood of Saltivka, where the front line briefly settled in the war’s early days. The shattered apartment blocks serve as evidence of the devastation Russian ground forces inflicted before pulling back.

But almost no corner of Kharkiv has been spared violence.

The boulevards in the old city center are lined with a mesmerizing tapestry of architectural styles, where 18th-century neoclassical design is intertwined with Soviet-era constructivist buildings that eschewed decorative designs. Now, elaborate facades are pockmarked with shrapnel. Stark concrete buildings are scorched by fire. One house can stand largely untouched, while a building next door is demolished.

Dina Chmuzh, a local artist, paints the words of Ukrainian poets past and present on the wooden boards that now cover so many blasted out windows. She likened the boards to a kind of armor. “The city seems to be trying to shield itself,” she said.

Ms. Chmuzh said that knowing the history of Kharkiv could bolster the population’s resolve. The city was a center of the Ukrainian nationalist movement in the early 20th century and also the site of bloody campaigns by Stalin to snuff out the desire for independence.

“Even when you feel you can’t endure it anymore, you can still draw strength endlessly, even through this pain,” she said.

Liubov Sholudko contributed reporting from Kharkiv.

Marc Santora has been reporting from Ukraine since the beginning of the war with Russia. He was previously based in London as an international news editor focused on breaking news events and earlier the bureau chief for East and Central Europe, based in Warsaw. He has also reported extensively from Iraq and Africa. More about Marc Santora

Tyler Hicks is a senior photographer for The Times. In 2014, he won the Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Photography for his coverage of the Westgate Mall massacre in Nairobi, Kenya. More about Tyler Hicks

Ukraine-Russia war latest: North Korea says US move in Ukraine is causing 'concern'

There is concern within the international community about the US supplying long-range missiles to Ukraine, North Korea has said. Listen to a Daily podcast on whether the UK should send troops to Ukraine as you scroll.

Monday 29 April 2024 12:34, UK

Big picture : What you need to know as a new week begins
Telegram 'blocks bots that oppose Russian invasion of Ukraine'
North Korea expresses 'concern' over US sending long-range missiles to Ukraine
Explained : Why is Chasiv Yar the next target for Russia?
Your questions answered: Will Ukraine launch another spring offensive?
Listen to the Sky News Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts
Live reporting by Andy Hayes

Ukrainian servicemen have been saying goodbye to their visiting partners at the railway station in Kramatorsk, eastern Ukraine.

The men were on a short break from frontline duty.

Russia's defence ministry says its forces have taken control of the village of Semenivka in the eastern Donetsk region.

Yesterday, the ministry announced the capture of another village, Novobakhmutivka.

Ocheretyne, also near by, has been a focal point of fighting in recent days.

Ukraine's top general, speaking on Sunday, said fighting had intensified in the east of the country, with troops falling back in three areas.

Oleksandr Syrskyi said Russian troops had achieved "certain tactical successes" in the villages of Berdychi, Semenivka and Novomykhailivka.

Ukraine has confirmed that chatbots used by its security agencies on Telegram have been restored after being temporarily blocked.

We reported earlier (6.56am post) that Kyiv's security service described their blocking as "unreasonable".

Now, Ukraine's Centre for Strategic Communication has said three affected bots, used by Ukraine's SBU security service, the GUR and digital ministry for the war effort, had been restored.

A Telegram spokesperson said they were "temporarily disabled due to a false positive but have since been reinstated".

The number of civilians killed or injured in Ukraine in March was 604, according to the UN, which has a human rights monitoring team in the country.

The figure is 20% higher than February's.

The UK defence ministry, highlighting the numbers in its daily intelligence update, said 57 children were reported killed in March, "double the previous month".

Their deaths have been "attributed directly to Russian use of aerial munitions", the MoD said.

Civilian deaths in general are attributed to "missile and aerial-munitions strikes throughout Ukraine and increased bombardment at the frontlines".

The UN's report highlights an increase in coordinated strikes on critical Ukrainian infrastructure, with 20 sites "destroyed or damaged".

In total, there have been 31,366 civilian casualties in Ukraine since 24 February 2022, the MoD said (including areas Russia is controlling).

Of those, 10,810 were killed and 20,556 were wounded.

We reported earlier in our big picture post (6.27am post) that Oleksandr Pivnenko, who commands Ukraine's National Guard, is not ruling out a Russian attempt to target Kharkiv - Ukraine's second-largest city.

Kharkiv has been the focus of recent air attacks.

The US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) thinktank assesses that the Russian military "lacks the forces necessary to seize the city".

But the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, has said the threat of an invasion is causing Ukraine to allocate additional resources to defend the city - weakening forces elsewhere.

The ISW said: "Syrskyi noted that Ukrainian forces have recently improved their positions near Synkivka (east of Kharkiv)."

The Russians' "combat effectiveness" can be questioned because of their "inability to seize Synkivka despite repeated mass infantry and mechanized assaults", the ISW said.

It went on: "ISW continues to assess that a potential future Russian offensive to seize Kharkiv City would be an extremely ambitious undertaking that would pose significant challenges to Russian forces, particularly since Russian forces will be facing better-equipped Ukrainian forces following the arrival of US military assistance."

Telegram has reportedly restored some blocked Ukrainian bots.

They include those of the security service and ministry of digital transformation, the Kyiv Post said on X.

As we reported earlier (6.56am post) the security service said Telegram had "unreasonably" blocked bots that "opposed Russia's military aggression against Ukraine".

Three men who are entrepreneurs in their day jobs have been assembling drones in a home kitchen in Kyiv.

Denys, Yaw and Eugene send the tiny aircraft on to the Ukrainian armed forces.

There is concern within the international community about the US supplying long-range missiles to Ukraine, North Korea has said.

As we report in our big picture post (6.27am post) Kyiv has used long-range ballistic missiles from the US against Russia twice this month, according to NBC News.

"The US has secretly supplied long-range missiles to Ukraine, sparking off uneasiness and concern of the international community," North Korea's defence ministry said.

"The US can never defeat the heroic Russian army and people with any latest weaponry or military support," it added, according to state news agency KCNA.

Professor Michael Clarke, Sky News's military analyst, has said North Korea is supplying weapons to Russia - facilitated by China.

Official bots that oppose the Russian invasion of Ukraine have been blocked by the Telegram messaging app, Ukraine's military spy agency has claimed.

Ukraine's own bot was included, GUR added.

"Today, the management of the Telegram platform unreasonably blocked a number of official bots that opposed Russia's military aggression against Ukraine, including the main intelligence bot," GUR said in a statement posted on Telegram.

"Despite the blocking of our bot, your personal data is safe."

A bot is a piece of software that can run on its own, mimicking conversations or collecting content.

Telegram, which is based in Dubai, was founded by Russian-born Pavel Durov, who left Russia in 2014 after he refused to comply with government demands to shut down opposition groups on another social media platform.

Since the Ukraine war began in February 2022, both Ukraine and Russia have used the app to share updates.

Almost all major media outlets, government departments and public figures in both countries have channels on Telegram.

Telegram's press service did not immediately reply to a request for comment, Reuters said.

The big news last week was the US passing its $61bn (£48.1bn) aid package for Ukraine after months of delay.

Republicans in the House of Representatives - who, spurred on by Donald Trump and his supporters, had wanted more money for internal border security - finally approved the package and it was officially signed into law on Wednesday.

Joe Biden said it had been a "difficult path" but America eventually "rose to the moment".

Long-range missiles from US already in use in Ukraine

The initial package of aid will include long-range missiles, the US confirmed - but then it emerged that such missiles had already been provided in "secret".

Kyiv has used long-range ballistic missiles from the US against Russia twice this month, according to NBC News.

Three US officials told Sky News's partner network on Wednesday that Ukraine first used the Army Tactical Missile System - dubbed ATACMS - on 17 April.

It has a range of about 187 miles.

Long-range weaponry has previously been held back for fear it would be used in attacks inside Russia - and concerns over the potential for NATO missiles landing there to provoke a wider escalation.

Why was the bill finally approved?

The change of heart from House Republicans came after a meeting between the Republican speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, and Donald Trump, whose supporters have been vocal in their opposition to aid for Ukraine.

IMAGES

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COMMENTS

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.
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 ...
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.
16 Best Cities in Eastern Europe
5. Bucharest, Romania 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 ...
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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.
25 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe (+Map)
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.
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.
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.
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Some think of Prague as an eastern European city; others see it as central European. Either way, it is one the most visited capitals in Europe. Having experienced numerous overthrows, invasions and natural disasters over the years, Prague has a wealth of fascinating stories to tell; these are almost whispered through the walls of the medieval castles, baroque palaces, gothic cathedrals and ...
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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.
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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.
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Kraków, Poland. Often overlooked for Warsaw, Poland's second city is also one of its oldest, with a historic center that rivals many in Western Europe. St. Mary's Gothic basilica looms over the continent's largest square, as well as atmospheric cobblestone streets and medieval structures that date to the 13th century.
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'Kharkiv Is Unbreakable': A Battered City Carries On
For residents of Ukraine's second-largest city, daily Russian attacks have escalated fears but have not brought life to a standstill. People walking past a damaged building in Kharkiv, Ukraine ...
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Ukraine has confirmed that chatbots used by its security agencies on Telegram have been restored after being temporarily blocked. We reported earlier (6.56am post) that Kyiv's security service ...

The 18 Best Cities to Visit in Eastern Europe

1. Budapest, Hungary

2. Dubrovnik, Croatia

3. St Petersburg, Russia

4. Tallinn, Estonia

5. Riga, Latvia

6. Prague, Czech Republic

7. Krakow, Poland

8. Bratislava, Slovakia

9. Brasov, Romania

10. Warsaw, Poland

11. Belgrade, Serbia

12. Lviv, Ukraine

13. Sibiu, Romania

14. Moscow, Russia

15. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

16. Wroclaw, Poland

17. Gdansk, Poland

18. Kiev, Ukraine

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Sofia, Bulgaria

Gdansk, Poland

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Sighişoara, Romania

Kiev, Ukraine

Piran, Slovenia

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Ohrid, FYROM

Vilnius, Lithuania

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Budva, Montenegro

Budapest, Hungary

Kotor, Montenegro

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Ljubljana, Slovenia

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25 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe

25. Vilnius