As the European Union continues its expansion, the eastern countries of Europe are slowly being integrated. The Cold War is over, and the entire region is shifting direction and countries are now looking to determine their own destinies. This means some adventurous and untouristy travel destinations for those willing to take a chance on their comfort and safety levels.
What is it?: A culturally rich region with medieval towns, vast forests, and diverse landscapes, including countries like Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, and Ukraine.
Affordability: Very affordable - Eastern Europe offers great value for money, with low costs for accommodation, food, and activities.
Safety: Generally safe - Most countries are safe for tourists, though some areas in Ukraine and Russia may have higher risks due to political instability.
Popularity: Growing in popularity - Known for historical sites, UNESCO heritage, and emerging destinations like Budapest, Prague, and Kraków.
Tourist Infrastructure: Well-developed - Modern services and good public transport in major cities, though rural areas may be less developed.
Weather: Continental - Cold winters and warm summers, with variations by region, and ideal travel times in spring and autumn.
Best Time to Go: April to October - Best for pleasant weather, outdoor activities, and cultural festivals.
Known For: Medieval castles, ancient ruins, World War history, Soviet architecture, beautiful cities, cultural festivals, and local wines.
Top Destinations: Prague • Budapest • Kraków • Warsaw • Tallinn • Lviv • Vilnius • Belgrade • Sofia • Riga • Moscow • Saint Petersburg
- Armenia: A mountainous country rich in monasteries, ancient history, and hearty cuisine, with a growing tourism scene centered around Yerevan and Lake Sevan.
- Azerbaijan: Known for its mix of modern and medieval in Baku, mud volcanoes, and Caspian Sea coastline, though political tensions can affect travel.
- Belarus: Features Soviet-era architecture, grand fortresses, and forested national parks, but remains off the beaten path due to strict visa rules and limited infrastructure.
- Bulgaria: Offers Black Sea beaches, medieval towns, and affordable skiing in the Balkans, making it a favorite for budget-conscious travelers.
- Czech Republic: Famous for Prague’s Gothic beauty, medieval towns, and hearty beer culture, though major tourist spots can be very crowded.
- Georgia: A rising star for tourism, offering the Caucasus Mountains, ancient churches, wine country, and welcoming hospitality.
- Hungary: Best known for Budapest’s spas, ruin bars, and architecture, along with scenic countryside towns like Eger and Lake Balaton.
- Moldova: One of Europe’s least-visited countries, with sprawling vineyards, Orthodox monasteries, and Soviet nostalgia, ideal for intrepid travelers.
- Poland: Rich in history from Kraków to Gdańsk, with a mix of medieval cities, sobering WWII sites, and affordable mountains and lakes.
- Romania: A land of castles, medieval villages, and the Carpathian Mountains, famous for Transylvania and lesser-known coastal resorts.
- Russia: Offers iconic cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg, vast wilderness, and rich cultural heritage, but visas, bureaucracy, and political tensions complicate visits.
- Slovakia: A compact country with medieval towns, scenic hiking trails in the Tatras, and plenty of castles, popular for outdoor adventurers.
- Ukraine: Before recent conflicts, known for Kyiv’s golden domes, Lviv’s European charm, and the Carpathian Mountains; currently, travel remains unsafe in many areas.
Eastern Europe is a region of medieval cities, rugged landscapes, and rich traditions. Poland offers historic towns and moving memories in places like Kraków and Warsaw. Hungary’s Budapest charms with thermal baths and grand architecture, while Romania’s castles and the forests of Transylvania feel steeped in legend. The Baltic states, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, blend old-world charm with modern energy. Ukraine’s wide plains and historic cities like Lviv reveal deep resilience. Bulgaria and Serbia combine mountain scenery with lively cities and layered histories. Eastern Europe feels authentic, complex, and full of stories, both old and new.
Eastern Europe is a region where medieval towns, grand castles, forests, and layered histories come together, often without the tourist crowds found farther west. It stretches from the Baltic states down through Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and into parts of the Balkans. Travelers come to wander cobbled streets in Tallinn, explore baroque squares in Prague, hike through the Carpathian Mountains, or soak in ancient thermal baths in Budapest. Eastern Europe feels rich, gritty, and deeply textured, where history is on every corner and landscapes shift from mountains to plains to rugged coastlines.
There’s a wide range of culture, religion and corruption among the countries of Eastern Europe. New EU members Romania and Bulgaria have shed their mafia images to join the club, though they remain slightly risky. Transylvania, the land of Dracula, lies among the sublime mountains of Romania, and Belgrade is one of the rising stars of the post-Soviet era capitals.
Indeed, the shadow of the Soviet Union hangs over most of Eastern Europe. Ukraine and Georgia broke ranks to the public dismay of Russia, but they are now gaining notice as interesting cultural destinations. Kiev is regarded as the new face of Eastern European chic, and Georgia produces some of the best wine outside of France.
Smaller countries like Moldova remain a bit of a mystery for most travelers. They are still in the process of creating themselves, but if you’re looking for somewhere completely off the beaten track, these rugged backwater countries are easily accessible from mainstream Europe. Soviet influences can be seen in Belarus, as in the rest of these nations, but the level of corruption varies widely.
Many of these ex-Soviet republics are run by crooked dictators posing as presidents, and have a lawlessness that can prove dangerous to travelers. Armenia and Azerbaijan feel more Asian than European, but are fascinating cultural spots that have histories stretching back millennia. Here the climate can be severe in the mountains but mild along the Black Sea, where new spas and resorts continue to spring up.
The Baltic States are one of the fastest developing regions of Eastern Europe. The Dalmatian Coast of Croatia is on course to become a hot spot and if it continues to expand its infrastructure, the Baltics may end up becoming a major travel destination to rival neighbors like Hungary and Turkey.
Traveling in Eastern Europe is very affordable, especially compared to Western Europe. You’ll find hostels, family-run guesthouses, boutique hotels, and even luxury stays that cost a fraction of their western counterparts. Food is hearty and comforting: expect pierogi, goulash, cabbage rolls, roast meats, and fresh breads. Western food is widely available in cities but local cuisine dominates smaller towns.
Getting around is easy. Trains, long-distance buses, and budget flights connect most cities and countries, while car rentals give more freedom in rural areas. English is spoken widely in tourist zones, especially among younger generations, but learning a few words of Polish, Czech, Hungarian, or Romanian goes a long way. Eastern Europe is safe, though petty theft can happen in touristy areas, just like anywhere.
Families: Eastern Europe is affordable, safe, and packed with kid-friendly cities, castles, and outdoor activities. Prague, Budapest, Krakow, and the Bulgarian Black Sea coast are excellent for family travel. Infrastructure is good, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Couples: Romantic cities, mountain retreats, and quiet beaches make Eastern Europe ideal for couples. Stroll medieval streets in Tallinn, relax in thermal spas in Budapest, sail around Montenegro’s coast, or enjoy wine country in Moldova.
Backpackers: Eastern Europe is a dream for backpackers , cheap hostels, affordable trains and buses, and vibrant city scenes. Classic routes run through Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Lesser-known spots reward the curious.
Digital Nomads: Cities like Tallinn, Tbilisi, Budapest, and Belgrade offer fast internet, coworking spaces, and good value. Cost of living is lower than Western Europe, making it attractive for long-term nomads. Some areas still face bureaucratic hurdles for visas.
Luxury Travelers: High-end hotels, boutique stays, and luxury river cruises exist, especially in Prague, Budapest, and Dubrovnik. Montenegro and Slovenia offer upscale seaside resorts. However, the luxury market is smaller and less polished compared to Western Europe.
Foodies: Eastern European cuisine is hearty and varied , pierogi in Poland, goulash in Hungary, cevapi in Serbia, and banitsa in Bulgaria. Georgia and Moldova boast rich wine and food cultures. Food scenes are evolving fast in bigger cities.
Beach Bunnies: While not tropical, Eastern Europe has strong beach options , Bulgaria’s Sunny Beach, Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, and Albania’s Riviera offer warm summers and beautiful coastlines. Facilities vary, but the summer scene is lively and affordable.
Nature Buffs: Eastern Europe has incredible natural beauty , the Carpathians, the Balkans, and countless lakes, forests, and rivers. Hike in Slovakia’s High Tatras, explore Romania’s Transfăgărășan Highway, or raft down Montenegro’s Tara River Canyon.
History Buffs: Centuries of layered history , medieval castles, Ottoman architecture, Soviet monuments, and ancient churches. Explore Krakow, Prague, Vilnius, and Lviv for deep historical exploration, from medieval eras to Cold War scars.
Culture Vultures: Eastern Europe’s cultural life is rich and accessible , classical music in Vienna and Budapest, folk festivals in Romania and Macedonia, modern art in Warsaw, and theater in Belgrade. Living traditions and contemporary arts thrive side-by-side.
Adventure Seekers: Adventure activities are abundant and affordable , hiking, skiing, rafting, and paragliding. The High Tatras, Carpathians, and Balkans offer great trekking and winter sports. Infrastructure can be lighter in remote areas, adding to the adventure vibe.
Solo Travelers: Eastern Europe is excellent for solo travelers , safe, affordable, and social. Hostels, city tours, and organized day trips make it easy to connect. Prague, Krakow, Budapest, and Lviv are standout solo-friendly cities.
Party Animals: Some of Europe’s best nightlife is in the East , ruin bars in Budapest, clubs in Belgrade, beach parties in Bulgaria, and street festivals across the Balkans. Beer and club scenes are lively, affordable, and welcoming to foreigners.
Wildlife Watchers: Wildlife exists but requires effort to find , bears and wolves in the Carpathians, lynx in the Balkans, and diverse birdlife along the Danube Delta. Nature reserves offer eco-tourism, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.
LGBTQ+: Progress is uneven. Estonia and Slovenia are more open, while Poland, Hungary, and parts of the Balkans can be conservative. Urban centers like Belgrade, Prague, and Budapest have LGBTQ+ scenes, but rural areas remain cautious.
Why Go to Eastern Europe?
- Medieval Towns and Castles: Wander walled cities like Tallinn, explore Gothic architecture in Kraków, and visit fairy-tale castles like Bran Castle in Romania.
- Nature and Outdoor Adventures: Hike the Tatras in Slovakia, trek in the Carpathians, or kayak along the rivers of Bulgaria.
- Historic Cities with Deep Stories: Discover WWII and Cold War histories in places like Warsaw, Budapest, and Bucharest.
- Thermal Baths and Spas: Soak in historic thermal baths like Széchenyi Baths in Budapest or spa towns like Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic.
- Rich Folk Traditions and Festivals: Experience colorful Easter festivals, traditional music, and centuries-old dances still celebrated today.
- Affordable Travel: Enjoy great food, transport, accommodation, and attractions for a fraction of what you’d spend in Western Europe.
- Underrated Coastlines: Swim in the Black Sea off Bulgaria or explore the rugged shores of Romania’s Danube Delta.
Who Might Not Enjoy Eastern Europe?
Eastern Europe, including countries like Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Serbia, Albania, and others, offers fascinating history, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes. However, certain travelers may find aspects of the region challenging:
-
Luxury-Only Travelers in Remote Areas: Major cities like Warsaw, Bucharest, and Belgrade offer luxury hotels and modern amenities, but rural areas and small towns often have simpler accommodations and more modest service standards.
-
Visitors Expecting English Everywhere: English is widely spoken in tourist centers, but outside major cities and tourist sites, language barriers are common. Basic knowledge of local phrases or patience with translation apps is often needed.
-
Travelers Wanting Highly Polished Tourism Infrastructure: Tourism has grown rapidly, but public transport systems, signage, and services can still feel less polished or organized than in Western Europe.
-
Strict Vegetarians or Vegans: Traditional diets often revolve around meat, dairy, and bread. While vegetarian and vegan options are expanding in urban areas, they can be scarce in rural towns and smaller eateries.
-
Tourists Hoping for Warm Weather Year-Round: Winters are cold and can be harsh, especially in countries like Ukraine, Poland, and Romania. Snow, freezing temperatures, and gray skies dominate from November to March.
-
People Sensitive to Post-Communist Aesthetics: Some visitors may find the lingering Soviet-era architecture, bureaucratic systems, or visible economic disparities less charming compared to Western Europe’s polished tourist zones.
-
Travelers Expecting Fast, Seamless Transport Everywhere: While trains and buses connect most cities, schedules can be slow, routes limited, and older vehicles common, especially in less-touristed areas.
-
Visitors Wanting Big Shopping Malls and Global Chains in Every Town: Major cities have modern malls and international brands, but smaller towns often have only local markets and shops with limited selections.
-
Tourists Wanting a Party Atmosphere Outside Big Cities: Cities like Belgrade, Kraków, and Sofia have lively nightlife, but rural areas tend to be very quiet after dark with little entertainment.
What’s Cool
Beautiful and affordable historic cities like Prague, Kraków, and Tallinn, rich cultural heritage blending Slavic, Baltic, and Balkan traditions, stunning architecture from medieval castles to Soviet relics, vibrant local music, dance, and festival scenes, hearty and flavorful cuisine like pierogi, goulash, and cevapi, welcoming and resilient locals, incredible hiking, skiing, and nature in places like the Carpathians and Tatras, fascinating Cold War history sites, lively markets and old towns, growing craft beer and wine scenes, easy train and bus connections, authentic off-the-beaten-path experiences without heavy tourist crowds.
What’s Not
Language barriers outside major cities (English less common in rural areas), occasionally outdated or confusing infrastructure, political tensions in some countries, bureaucratic border crossings outside the EU zone, cash-based economies in many places, variable service standards in restaurants and hotels, cold and harsh winters, petty crime and scams targeting tourists in some cities, heavy drinking culture in certain areas, public transport can be slow or overcrowded, conservative social attitudes in some regions, inconsistent WiFi quality outside capitals.
Eastern Europe stretches from the Baltic Sea in the north to the Black Sea in the south and eastward into the Caucasus Mountains. This diverse region blends medieval cities, Soviet history, dramatic landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions. It’s an area where modern Europe meets older cultural layers and where travelers find a mix of the familiar and the unexpected.
The geography covers lowland plains, rolling hills, mountains like the Carpathians and Caucasus, and long coastlines along the Black and Baltic Seas. Climate varies from humid continental with cold winters and warm summers to milder coastal zones near the Black Sea.
Travel infrastructure is generally good, with extensive train and bus networks. Costs are lower than in Western Europe, and tourism is growing, though some language barriers remain outside major cities.
Armenia
Armenia is a mountainous country packed with ancient monasteries, rugged landscapes, and strong national pride. Travelers come for the medieval churches perched on cliffs, the sweeping views of Mount Ararat, and the friendly welcome. The food is hearty, the culture is deep, and the pace is slow. It’s easy to combine with Georgia for an extended Caucasus trip.
- Yerevan: A lively pink-stone capital with museums, cafes, and Soviet-era charm.
- Lake Sevan: A large alpine lake surrounded by beaches and monasteries.
- Dilijan: Nicknamed the “Switzerland of Armenia,” known for forests and hiking.
- Tatev Monastery: A remote clifftop monastery reached by a dramatic cable car ride.
- Garni Temple: A rare Greco-Roman structure amid Armenia’s Christian landscape.
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is where Europe and Asia blend, with futuristic cities, medieval fortresses, and fiery natural phenomena. Travelers explore the modern skyline of Baku, mud volcanoes, and remote mountain villages. It’s more developed than many expect but still feels adventurous outside the capital.
- Baku: A city of flame-shaped skyscrapers, old town walls, and waterfront promenades.
- Sheki: A historic Silk Road town with ancient caravanserais and palaces.
- Quba: A gateway to mountain villages and Jewish communities.
- Gobustan: A national park famous for ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes.
- Lankaran: A subtropical region near the Caspian Sea with tea plantations.
Belarus
Belarus is slowly opening up after years of isolation. While still politically controlled, the country offers clean cities, deep forests, castles, and Soviet monuments. Tourism remains low-key, and travelers should be prepared for a few bureaucratic hurdles.
- Minsk: A surprisingly modern and clean capital with museums and Soviet architecture.
- Brest: A border city with WWII memorials and the massive Brest Fortress.
- Mir Castle: A fairytale-like UNESCO-listed fortress.
- Nesvizh: Home to an impressive palace complex and parks.
- Belovezhskaya Pushcha: A primeval forest shared with Poland, home to European bison.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is an underrated gem with ancient ruins, lively cities, mountains, and Black Sea beaches. Travelers come for hiking in the Rila Mountains, wandering medieval monasteries, and relaxing on the coast. Costs are low compared to Western Europe, and the infrastructure is decent.
- Sofia: A capital full of Roman ruins, Orthodox churches, and youthful energy.
- Plovdiv: One of Europe’s oldest cities, with Roman theaters and a colorful old town.
- Veliko Tarnovo: A medieval hill town with a dramatic fortress.
- Bansko: A ski resort town that’s also popular for hiking in summer.
- Varna: A beach city on the Black Sea with lively nightlife and parks.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic, often just called Czechia, is famous for its fairy-tale cities, castles, and beer culture. Beyond Prague, travelers find charming small towns, forests, and historic spas. The country is compact and easy to explore by train or bus.
- Prague: A perfectly preserved medieval city with castles, bridges, and cobblestones.
- Český Krumlov: A storybook town with a beautiful castle and riverside cafes.
- Karlovy Vary: A historic spa town famous for healing waters and film festivals.
- Kutná Hora: Home to the eerie Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church).
- Brno: A lively university town with modernist architecture and nightlife.
Georgia
Georgia feels different from anywhere else, blending Orthodox Christian traditions, mountain landscapes, ancient wine culture, and Soviet history. Visitors trek in the Caucasus Mountains, explore stone churches, and feast on hearty food and wine. Travel is easy, safe, and very affordable.
- Tbilisi: A colorful, bohemian capital with a mix of old churches and funky modern art.
- Kazbegi: A mountain village famous for the Gergeti Trinity Church.
- Kutaisi: A relaxed city near ancient monasteries and natural wonders.
- Svaneti: A remote, rugged region of towers and mountain villages.
- Batumi: A Black Sea resort city with beaches and quirky modern architecture.
Hungary
Hungary combines grand imperial cities, countryside vineyards, and thermal baths. It’s a great destination for history lovers, foodies, and spa enthusiasts. Prices are affordable compared to Western Europe, and the transport network is efficient.
- Budapest: A stunning capital split by the Danube, with historic baths and vibrant nightlife.
- Eger: A baroque town famous for wine and Ottoman-era monuments.
- Pécs: A cultural hub with Roman ruins and Ottoman mosques.
- Lake Balaton: Central Europe’s largest lake, popular for summer escapes.
- Debrecen: A historic city known for its Protestant Great Church and festivals.
Moldova
Moldova is one of Europe’s least-visited countries, offering a quiet rural experience, vast vineyards, and Soviet nostalgia. It’s best for travelers who enjoy low-key exploration and slow travel.
- Chișinău: A leafy capital with Soviet architecture and lively markets.
- Orheiul Vechi: An archaeological site with cave monasteries and dramatic landscapes.
- Cricova: A sprawling underground wine city with endless tunnels of aging wine.
- Tiraspol: Capital of the breakaway region of Transnistria, a Soviet time capsule.
- Soroca: A historic town known for its medieval fortress.
Poland
Poland combines lively cities, poignant history, medieval architecture, and outdoor adventure. Travelers visit Gothic old towns, Holocaust memorials, mountains, and Baltic beaches. Prices are moderate, and infrastructure is excellent.
- Warsaw: A rebuilt capital with a mix of old-world charm and modern skyscrapers.
- Kraków: A stunning medieval city, gateway to Auschwitz and the Tatra Mountains.
- Gdańsk: A historic Hanseatic port city on the Baltic coast.
- Wrocław: A picturesque city known for its bridges and colorful squares.
- Zakopane: A mountain town popular for hiking and skiing.
Romania
Romania offers medieval towns, forested mountains, and legends of Dracula. Visitors explore the Carpathian Mountains, painted monasteries, and castles. Prices are low, and independent travel is easy.
- Bucharest: A dynamic capital with grand boulevards and a growing arts scene.
- Brașov: A medieval town surrounded by mountains, close to Dracula’s Castle.
- Sibiu: A well-preserved city known for its towers and colorful old town.
- Sighișoara: A beautifully preserved medieval citadel.
- Constanța: A Black Sea port with Roman ruins and seaside resorts.
Russia
Russia is vast and diverse, with imperial cities, vast tundras, and deep cultural traditions. Travelers visit the architectural wonders of Moscow and Saint Petersburg, the Golden Ring towns, or venture east along the Trans-Siberian Railway. Visas are required, and travel can be logistically demanding but rewarding.
- Moscow: A grand city with the Kremlin, Red Square, and monumental architecture.
- Saint Petersburg: Russia’s cultural capital, full of palaces, canals, and museums.
- Vladivostok: A far eastern port city at the end of the Trans-Siberian Railway.
- Kazan: A Tatar city blending Islamic and Russian Orthodox influences.
- Lake Baikal: The world’s deepest lake, ideal for adventure travel.
Slovakia
Slovakia is a small country packed with mountains, medieval castles, and scenic villages. It’s less touristy than neighboring countries but offers great hiking, winter sports, and historic towns.
- Bratislava: A relaxed capital along the Danube with a small but charming old town.
- High Tatras: A stunning mountain range for hiking, skiing, and mountain lakes.
- Košice: An artsy city with a beautiful main square and Gothic cathedral.
- Banská Štiavnica: A UNESCO-listed old mining town surrounded by hills.
- Spiš Castle: One of Europe’s largest castle complexes.
Ukraine
Before recent conflicts, Ukraine offered a vast and varied landscape of lively cities, Carpathian villages, Black Sea resorts, and grand Orthodox cathedrals. Future travel will depend on political stability, but the country has rich traditions, hospitable people, and dramatic scenery.
- Kyiv: The capital with golden-domed churches and a thriving arts scene.
- Lviv: A beautiful Western city with a strong Central European feel.
- Odesa: A Black Sea port city known for beaches and grand architecture.
- Chernivtsi: A university town with Austro-Hungarian influences.
- Carpathian Mountains: A region of hiking, skiing, and traditional Hutsul culture.
Highlights
Destinations
-
Armenia: Armenia, located in the South Caucasus region, is known for its mountainous landscapes and ancient history. Travelers can explore Yerevan, the capital city, with its Soviet-era architecture and lively cultural scene. Major sights include the ancient temple of Garni, the Geghard Monastery, and the scenic Lake Sevan, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.
-
Azerbaijan: Azerbaijan, situated at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, offers a mix of modern and ancient attractions. The capital city, Baku, features the Flame Towers, the medieval Old City, and the futuristic Heydar Aliyev Center. Visitors can also explore the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape and the picturesque Caspian Sea coastline.
-
Belarus: Belarus, a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, is characterized by its vast forests, lakes, and historical landmarks. Minsk, the capital, boasts impressive Soviet-era architecture, cultural institutions, and sprawling parks. Key attractions include the historic Mir Castle, the Brest Fortress, and the picturesque town of Nesvizh with its grand palace.
-
Bulgaria: Bulgaria, located in Southeastern Europe, is known for its diverse landscapes, from the Black Sea coastline to the Balkan Mountains. Sofia, the capital, offers a mix of ancient history and modern attractions, including the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Vitosha Mountain. Travelers can also explore the historic town of Plovdiv, the Rila Monastery, and the beautiful beaches of the Black Sea.
-
Czech Republic: The Czech Republic, in Central Europe, is famous for its medieval architecture, charming towns, and historical culture. Prague, the capital, is renowned for its stunning Old Town, Prague Castle, and Charles Bridge. Visitors can also enjoy the spa town of Karlovy Vary, the historic city of Český Krumlov, and the scenic beauty of the Bohemian and Moravian landscapes.
-
Georgia: Georgia, nestled in the Caucasus region, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Tbilisi, the capital, is known for its diverse architecture, sulfur baths, and nightlife. Key attractions include the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe, the wine region of Kakheti, and the stunning landscapes of the Svaneti region.
-
Hungary: Hungary, located in Central Europe, is famous for its historic cities, thermal baths, and cultural heritage. Budapest, the capital, is known for its grand architecture, the Danube River, and the iconic Parliament Building. Visitors can also explore the charming town of Eger, the scenic Lake Balaton, and the historic castles and vineyards of the Tokaj wine region.
-
Moldova: Moldova, a small country in Eastern Europe, is known for its picturesque countryside, vineyards, and historic monasteries. Chisinau, the capital, features Soviet-era architecture and nice parks. Key attractions include the ancient Orheiul Vechi monastery complex, the Milestii Mici wine cellars, and the scenic Dniester River.
-
Poland: Poland, in Central Europe, offers a rich history, vibrant cities, and beautiful landscapes. Warsaw, the capital, showcases a mix of modern and historic architecture, including the Royal Castle and the Warsaw Uprising Museum. Kraków is famous for its medieval Old Town, Wawel Castle, and nearby Auschwitz-Birkenau. Other highlights include the Tatra Mountains and the historic city of Gdańsk.
-
Romania: Romania, located in Southeastern Europe, is known for its diverse landscapes, medieval castles, and folklore. Bucharest, the capital, features grand architecture and good nightlife, with highlights like the Palace of the Parliament and the Old Town. Visitors can explore the Transylvanian region, home to Bran Castle, the medieval town of Sighisoara, and the scenic Carpathian Mountains.
-
Russia: Russia, the largest country in the world, spans Eastern Europe and northern Asia, offering a vast array of experiences. Moscow, the capital, is famous for the Kremlin, Red Square, and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Saint Petersburg boasts the Hermitage Museum, the Winter Palace, and beautiful canals. Travelers can also explore the Trans-Siberian Railway, the historic cities of the Golden Ring, and the natural wonders of Lake Baikal.
-
Slovakia: Slovakia, in Central Europe, is known for its dramatic landscapes, medieval castles, and charming towns. Bratislava, the capital, features a historic Old Town, the Bratislava Castle, and the UFO Bridge. Visitors can explore the Tatra Mountains, the ancient Spis Castle, and the picturesque town of Banská Štiavnica.
-
Ukraine: Ukraine, located in Eastern Europe, offers a rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and diverse landscapes. Kyiv, the capital, is known for its golden-domed churches, including Saint Sophia’s Cathedral and the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra. Key attractions include the historic city of Lviv, the coastal city of Odessa, and the scenic Carpathian Mountains.